Photo by Suzy Hazelwood from Pexels Paying for a bowl of noodles, a train ticket, or a local beer on the road isn't going to be as simple as pulling out your Visa or Amex card and waving it in front of the cashier. When traveling outside of your own country, it's best to bring cash with you, since using a credit or debit card will almost always result in a surcharge. And it's going to need a lot more forethought than your typical "simply popping to the ATM" lifestyle. The first thing I want to know is: Where are you going? In our guide to traveling with money, ATMs, banks, and chip and PIN machines are broken down into areas based on how accessible they are. Here, you can find out how to get the most out of your next adventure, whether it's a cross-country rail trip across Europe or a skydiving over the Atlantic.

UK, much of Europe, and all of Australia and New Zealand provide easy money

The same laws apply while visiting Europe, Australia, and New Zealand as they do in the United Kingdom. The first few days in a new country may be a challenge, so it's always a good idea to carry some local cash on you. This is particularly true if you don't yet have access to an ATM. Your tour is bound to include local shops, marketplaces, and pubs and restaurants that do not take debit or credit cards. It's important to know that American Express isn't as commonly recognized as other credit cards like Visa and Mastercard. Keep your Visa and Mastercards separate so that you don't lose them at the same time. In case of an emergency, it's a good idea to have one credit card in your hostel or hotel room. Instead of carrying huge sums of cash, it is safer to withdraw money from an ATM on a regular basis. While it is handy to get cash from an ATM, most banks impose a fee when you use your card outside of your country of residence. Don't forget to notify your bank where you're going so that they don't block your card.

Take a cue from the United States and Canada

Despite the fact that debit and credit cards are commonly accepted in the United States and Canada, you'll still need cash for tipping everyone from taxi drivers and hotel porters to waiters and bartenders in this country. Obtain some US or Canadian currency before you go, so that you'll be prepared to leave a gratuity when you arrive. Keep a supply of one-dollar notes on hand at all times by splitting bigger bills into smaller denominations. Keep in mind that valet parking costs $5 and that porters often charge $1 per bag.

Preparation is key: consider North and South Africa as well as Japan and Korea

In remote locations (or even smaller towns and cities), even if ATMs are widely available, you may discover that just a few banks accept international cards and that there are no ATMs. Also, smaller restaurants and businesses may not take credit or debit cards as readily as you are accustomed to. Get your finances in order ahead of time so you don't have to scramble at the last minute. If you're going on a long journey, don't bring all of your money with you at the start. As a result, plan to withdraw greater quantities from an ATM in a major city or at a railway or airport terminal, where ATMs are both more prevalent and more likely to take international cards.

Most of South America, Southeast Asia, and Africa are cash-based societies

You may be surprised to learn that even the most upscale hotels in these regions don't take credit or debit cards. Traveling across borders necessitates paying for visas in cash, so don't take it for granted that an ATM will be close. It's no surprise therefore that the US dollar is often regarded as a reserve currency in many of these nations. You may even locate hotel prices in dollars in Vietnam, for example. If the US dollar is widely recognized, bring both dollars and the local money with you when you go. Ensure that all banknotes, even those with smaller denominations like $10 and $20, are free of stains and blemishes before handing them out. $100 notes won't be much use while staying at a motel for $20 and eating a meal for $2 in these places. Due to the fact that you may have to pay for everything in cash, you'll need to put in much more effort up front. Assume that all costs will be paid for in cash, and order the currency you need in advance so that you won't have to hunt down an ATM upon your arrival in the destination country. Plan to replace your cash every week if you're going on a longer journey and look up where you can locate an ATM online (usually in major towns and airports). Vietnam and Cuba are examples of nations with closed currencies. This means that outside of the place of origin, the money is not freely accessible. If you're flying in, prepare to use an ATM at the airport and bring US cash with you at all times.

Photo by Oziel Gómez from Pexels How do you feel after a walk in the woods or an outdoor adventure? If so, how often do you find yourself feeling less tense, calmer, and more focused? If that's the case, it's not a mere accident. Even if you've never gone hiking before, you may still be curious in what it has to offer. Hiking has several physical and mental advantages. Weight reduction and decreased depression are examples of long-term advantages that may not be apparent at first (such as lower blood pressure and stress levels and increased attention).

Benefits to Physical Health

Since hiking is a cardiovascular activity, it has the potential to have a positive impact on heart health as well as blood pressure and glucose levels. Hiking strengthens the leg muscles, improves core stability, and improves balancing abilities. It takes greater balance and core strength to negotiate the steeper terrain when the terrain is more complex and the climbing effort is higher. In order to keep you from falling forward as you're going up (such your quadriceps, glutes, hamstrings, and calves), you'll need to use a lot of your bigger leg muscles. As a result of the increased effort done by the smaller stabilizer muscles while walking on uneven ground, overall stability and balance are improved. Hiking may be done by everyone, regardless of age or ability, since the difficulty of a trek can be adjusted to suit the needs of the person hiking, from an easy neighborhood hiking route to a demanding journey up a mountain. The more difficult the path is, the greater the potential benefit to your cardiovascular system.

The Advantages of a Healthy Mind

According to research, people who hike in mountainous places with altitude changes may experience sensations of valence (pleasure), exhilaration (or happiness), and tranquility shortly thereafter. Stress-related reactions, such as decreased levels of cortisol (a stress hormone) in saliva, were reduced after trekking outside, according to one research. Time spent outside, according to Stanford University researchers, lessens rumination, or the habitual ruminations on unpleasant feelings. Spending time in nature has been shown to promote mental health and offer urban dwellers with the respite they need to lessen negative thinking patterns, according to the same research. When it comes to rumination and withdrawal, the subgenual prefrontal cortex (sgPFC) is one of the parts of the brain that is related to both healthy persons and those with depression. Aside from these advantages, being in nature reduces anxiety and enhances cognitive and emotional well-being. Stress and blood pressure levels have been demonstrated to drop when people spend time outside, whether in a natural setting or a man-made one.

A Step-by-Step Guide

The benefits of being outside are well-documented, but what can you do to start reaping these benefits? To begin, use shorter treks on familiar paths close to your home to ease you into the activity. Footwear with a thicker sole provides a more secure foothold on potentially slippery and uneven terrain (hiking-specific footwear is ideal). Ankle injuries and falls may also be avoided by wearing proper hiking shoes (and when you may have less leg strength and overall stability). To avoid blisters, these shoes should have been worn in for some time. Wear suitable clothing and bring plenty of fluids and food (even if you don't believe you'll be outdoors for long). Wear sunscreen even on overcast days to protect yourself from the sun's harmful rays. Use a map or an app on your smartphone to get a sense of your intended path. Even better, trek with a buddy to make the experience more pleasurable and strengthen your sense of community (which is also important for positive mental health). Having someone know where you'll be trekking in the event of an emergency is also essential. Tell us where you're going, how long you estimate it to take you, and when you plan to be back.

Try it Out!

When you're on a hiking trip, take a minute to disconnect from technology and concentrate your attention on your surroundings, which may help bring you a sense of calm into your day.

Photo by Polina Tankilevitch from Pexels Like many individuals, you may only have restricted access to gyms and few possibilities for exercise partners other from those who live in your home. The natural air movement, however, has been demonstrated to make exercising outside a safer alternative. These socially isolating exercises are simple to do without any equipment in a park and are perfect for those warmer springtime days. For additional motivation and support, you may even ask your friends to join you. (Just hold off on the hugs and high fives until a time when it's safe.) Warm up for at least three to five minutes before you begin by engaging in your preferred aerobic exercises or going for a quick jog or stroll outdoors. If you don't have access to any cardio equipment, jog for a minute while doing two sets of the following exercises: 1. Ten bodyweight squats (squat to a park bench) 2. 3 to 5 dogs facing down (hinging forward from the hips toward the ground while keeping your back neutral) 3. Around five soiled dogs per side. 4. 5 elbow-instep lunges per side

The Circuit

You have 30 seconds to complete each exercise with the most repetitions or distance possible. After the 30 seconds are over, pause for 10-15 seconds before starting the following activity. Continue until you have finished all seven moves. Before moving on to the next round after finishing each round (all seven exercises), take a one- to three-minute break. 1. Grizzly Crawl (go for maximum distance and mix it up by going backwards at the 15-second mark to get back to the start) 2. Different Legs Push Off (find a step, set of stairs or an elevated surface like a rock to perform this on) 3. Push-ups (modify to a bent knee push-up like this one) 4. Elevated glute bridge bicycle crunches (body weight may be tough enough; no need for weights) 5. Rotation of the high plank T-spine (modify to your knees) 6. Walking Lunges (continue walking; this round is nearly over!) Before repeating this sequence for three to four rounds, take a one to three minute break.

Plyo Power

This exercise may be added to the previous circuit for an added difficulty or used as a cardio warm-up before a strength exercise of your choosing. This exercise contains advanced motions that need greater full-body force, so make sure you warm up correctly. Perform as many repetitions as you can for 15 seconds for each exercise. After the 15 seconds are over, take a 10- to 15-second break before starting the subsequent activity. Depending on how tired you are, repeat this set of motions three to four times. 1. Straight-ahead jumps 2. Alpine Climbers 3. The toes (tap onto a stair, step or a stable rock) 4. Jump and Reach After taking a minimum of a minute's rest, repeat this sequence three to four more times. You have at least one minute of recovery coming up between rounds, so try to be as intense as you can during each action throughout these workouts. After completing these exercises, be sure to perform some light walking to get your heart rate down to a recovery zone before you lay down to rest. Keeping your body active is one of the finest things you can do for your general health. So invite your buddies to join you for this exercise in the park by grabbing them metaphorically, not practically.

Photo by Christina Morillo from Pexels Imagine this: You had an excellent job interview at your ideal firm. After engaging discussion and thoughtful questions, you're completely crushing the interview and have the recruiter in your pocket until you hear that one, dreaded question: "What are your compensation expectations?" Many of us still avoid having open conversations about money, including matters such as rent, child care, spending patterns, etc., despite the rise in knowledge tools and public dialogue around pay fairness. The process of applying for jobs is similar, and candidates—especially women—often experience anxiety when discussing pay. We want to seem interested in the job for more than just the money when interviewing, but in fact, we still have expenses to pay. It used to make me anxious when they asked, "How much can we pay you?" I had no idea how to respond, how much was proper to request, or if doing so would exclude me from consideration for the post. Then, a few years ago, one of my mentors offered me one of the finest pieces of interview advice: It's more important for me to ask the right questions than it is for them to ask the right ones. I no longer feel nervous when the pay discussion comes up during a job application. As an alternative, I state something like, "What is the allocated wage range for this position?"

The Risk

It no longer falls on me to provide a precise number, especially when it comes to my current salary (Keep in mind that in some cities and states, it's actually against the law to even inquire about someone's current salary during the interview process). Instead, asking the company what salary range they have budgeted flips the script while giving me useful insight into the company and interviewer. The cost of living is continually growing, thus your wage should too, even if your present compensation is an excellent starting point for a desired pay range. I didn't inquire about the firms' allocated compensation range when I initially started working there. Before accepting the offer for my first job out of college, I didn't engage in any negotiations at all, but looking back, I wish I had. I placed myself in a situation where I may leave money on the table by failing to inquire what the budget each firm was given. I just costed myself at least $15,000 if I went into an interview and told the hiring manager I'm looking for a post that pays $50,000 to $60,000 but the organization's budget is $75,000 instead. On the other hand, if I request a six-figure salary but the company is only willing to pay up to $75,000, I need to have an open and sincere discussion with myself about my value, my personal budget, a potential pay cut, and any additional benefits that might help to close the gap between my expectations and the budgeted reality. When you ask a recruiting manager what they are working with, there are two possible responses: they may either inform you or give it back to you. The first scenario is clearly desirable and might serve as a positive sign that the business is up forward, truthful, and acting in good faith. You have a choice if an interviewer dodges the question or offers a nebulous response such, "It depends on the applicant." You have two options for your response: you can postpone it with a statement like "I'd love to learn more about the job before choosing a suitable wage," or you may provide a range that actually fits your needs, which involves a little more effort on your part. You should go into every level of an interview knowing your value and what you're willing to give up. It can be worth taking a wage reduction and rearranging your present budget for a dream job with excellent perks and a clear route to your professional ambitions. But whether you're trying to save money for a certain purpose or are just trying to pay your rent, you may have to pass up an opportunity if it doesn't fit your criteria. You must decide where your ultimate wage range falls, even if I personally strongly support pushing for a higher compensation. The worst they can say is no; the only risk is the money you stand to lose.

The Benefit

While it could take some getting used to, it is definitely worthwhile to ask about the wage range during an interview. If a hiring manager is honest with you and tells you the wage range they're working with, you'll have all the information you need to decide whether to accept the offered range, negotiate your offer, or stop the interview process if the firm can't provide you what you're looking for. In one specific interview, I inquired about the pay budget early on, and the interviewer offered me a range of figures that, although generally a little lower than I had expected, I could still work with the higher end. I made the decision to go through with the recruiting process, and I ultimately received an offer that was at the absolute bottom of the range I was aware the company had to work with. With this knowledge and a better understanding of my value, I grabbed the chance to push for more and successfully negotiated a higher wage. You won't run the danger of leaving money on the table if you have the whole picture. As the saying goes, "ask and you shall get," but how can you ask the correct questions about your career or yourself if you don't know what you're dealing with? I don't really want to consider the many thousands of dollars I could have overlooked in prior positions, but it has been beneficial to learn from past errors. Never be hesitant to ask questions other than compensation while preparing for an interview. Yes, they are evaluating you to see whether you would be a good match for the team and culture of the organization. However, the job search is a two-way street, and you deserve a position that meets your demands, both material and non-material.

Photo by Bich Tran from Pexels You are not alone if you often feel as if money is on your mind. In light of the fact that funds play a significant role in life and that the topic of money may be confusing, stressful, and emotionally charged for even the most centered and zen among us, it may seem impossible to maintain mindfulness while managing finances. But the fact is that having money and being thoughtful go hand in hand. The capacity to be totally present in the moment is referred to as mindfulness. If you handle money mindfully, as opposed to mindlessly going through the motions, you'll make better financial judgments since you'll be more conscious of your financial condition and what you're saving and spending. In the end, the secret to improving your finances is to link mindfulness with money. Read on to discover how.

Practice mindfulness each day.

Don't just speak the talk; walk the walk, as they say in the ancient phrase. You must include regular mindfulness practices into your life if you want to link mindfulness with money. Meditation, deep breathing, journaling, and reading spiritual health books like You Can Heal Your Life by Louise L. Hay or The Book of Awakening by Mark Nepo are a few examples of these techniques. Applying the principles of mindfulness to finances will be much simpler if you regularly practice mindfulness. This will enable you to open yourself up to all it has to offer, including insight into yourself, behavioral patterns, clarity on situations and your beliefs surrounding them, and a whole lot of self-growth. Beginners should start with writing and deep breathing techniques before progressing to meditation and journaling. Don't be afraid to delve deeply when you're writing in your journal since it's a fantastic method to learn more about yourself. You may want to have a look at a book on spiritual wellbeing if you want to learn about mindfulness from a different angle. These books often include activities for the readers at the conclusion of each chapter, which is a fantastic way to push oneself intellectually. To begin started, you might also think about using a health app like Headspace or BetterSleep or a guided meditation by a wise person like Tara Brach. It's important to keep in mind that different people respond better to different mindfulness routines and practices, so allow yourself time to try them all out and be open to combining various elements to discover what works best for you.

Sit down and discuss money in an open and sincere manner.

Rumi, an ancient Persian poet, utilizes the metaphor of your body, mind, and spirit as the guest home for emotions to enter in his poem "The Guest House." Rumi invites us to bring in these feelings—whatever they may be—and take the time to sit and chat with them in the same manner that you would a friend, neighbor, or family instead of becoming upset, putting them down, or pushing them away. You may eventually wish them farewell and go your own ways after a time. This similar concept may be used to address the subject of money. Set aside some time to have an open dialogue with yourself about money. Invite it in for a cup of coffee or a glass of wine, and attempt to uncover any sentiments or assumptions you may have about it. Even though this could be challenging, tackling it head-on will help you see how you might or might not be preventing yourself from manifesting financial success. Work through and come to terms with your emotions; if necessary, write about them in a diary. In order to link mindfulness and money and to have a better connection with it, which will result in financial success, it is essential to develop this self-awareness.

Be honest with yourself about your financial condition and your goals for it.

Practicing mindfulness does not entail having a rose-colored perspective on reality. It entails being present with oneself and all of your feelings, whether positive and negative, and addressing them without criticizing or shaming yourself. It's important to face reality rather than maintain a false sense of security, so it's time to be honest about your present financial condition and your goals for improving it. Maybe your financial condition isn't what you expected it to be at your age, but does anyone's life ever actually go according to plan? Avoid dwelling on the past or making a long list of what you would have done differently if you had the opportunity. Instead, consider the lessons you've picked up along the journey and how you may use them to make improvements to your present circumstances moving ahead. Examining your finances and your mentality in this manner is incredibly conscientious. Break old habits that are no longer helpful to you—repeating unsuccessful behavior will only prevent you from achieving success—and replace them with new ones that will help you reach your financial objectives.

Make the commitment to be more frugal with your money.

Even if self-awareness is a natural byproduct of mindfulness, you should still make a commitment to yourself to be more attentive of your expenditures. Your financial awareness will develop and you'll be able to make wiser financial decisions if you hold yourself responsible and keep track of when and how much you spend. Additionally, it's an excellent strategy to stop making those wasteful impulsive purchases that we've all engaged in at one time or another. The creation of a budgeting plan and the monitoring of your funds are two excellent approaches to increase your awareness of your expenditures. By keeping track of your spending, you'll be able to see where and how much of your money is spent, as well as get better understanding of your spending habits and potential savings opportunities. Having a predetermined spending strategy to adhere to may be the smart choice for individuals who have trouble conserving money or are prone to making impulsive expenditures. You might also try concentrating on spending your "fun" money on significant purchases that will leave enduring memories (think: nice dinner, vacation, etc.).

Stop worrying

More often than not, trying to control or grasp onto things too tightly backfires because all you're doing is closing off the door to bigger and greater things. Choose to stop worrying about money and let go of the past. Obviously, you need to ensure that you have enough to survive, but try not to let money control your life. There comes a moment when we must say farewell to certain things, as the poetry "The Guest House" explains. Even though it could be challenging, letting go and making room for something greater and larger to enter your life can be tremendously liberating and uplifting. Implement all of the aforementioned advice into your everyday life while having faith in your ability to manage money. Everything in life takes time, and when you're ready, the appropriate riches will come your way. Always keep in mind that what is intended for you will find a way. Make sure you're positioning yourself on a deliberate, purposeful, and a ton of fun route to financial success till then.

Photo by Pixabay on Pexels In the glistening Ionian and Aegean seas, Greece boasts well over 200 inhabited islands of different sizes and forms. You thus have a ton of options when making travel plans. Nick Edwards, a former resident and author of the Rough Guide to Greece, selects his top five Greek islands for travel.

Crete is the best Greek island for archaeology.

Crete, the biggest island in Greece, offers a variety of experiences. Crete is home to the impressive White Mountains, miles of beautiful beaches, the charming Samaria Gorge, and a number of intriguing towns, including the island's capital, Iraklion. However, for anybody who is interested in archaeology, it is the ideal location to combine the benefits of an island with a wide selection of historic artifacts that equal those on the mainland. Already feeltempted? Discover Crete's top beaches. The most important ancient monument on the island, Knossos, is just five kilometers outside of Iraklion. It is home to the magnificent, second-millennium BC Minoan palace, where King Minos once housed the mythical Minotaur. The palace's interconnecting hallways and apartments have a really complex arrangement, and much of it has been kept quite well. Here, you may awe at magnificent historical artwork like the well-known dolphin fresco. The best archaeological museum in the nation is located in Iraklion and has a variety of remarkable Minoan artifacts. Malia Palace is a fantastic remnant from the same period and is located east along the shore. The Palace of Phaestos, which offers a magnificent hillside setting and view of Mount Psiloritis, and the lesser ruins at Ayia Triada are additional prominent Minoan sights close to the south shore. The destroyed capital of a Roman province that included Crete and a portion of north Africa may be found in the same area at Gortys. The Dhiktean Cave and Palace of Zakros are two further historic monuments nearby. Attracted to the thought of Crete? You may go from Heraklion to Platanias along the Crete coast with Rough Guides Tailor-Made Trips. What's best? The itinerary may be completely altered to meet your requirements. Start exploring Crete and discover the finest locations to stay.

Milos is the ideal Greek island for beaches.

Milos is regarded by the majority of beach enthusiasts as the greatest beach in the most well-known Cyclades, despite being one of the less well-known Cyclades. The fact that it is a horseshoe-shaped volcanic island with an astonishing 75 beaches and is just 20 kilometers wide may not be all that unexpected. Except during the busiest times of the year, Milos is seldom congested and provides a wide range of lodging and dining options. Sandy Paleohóri, one of the nicest beaches on the south coast, is warmed subtly by thermal currents and connected by a tunnel through the rock to a second strand that is enclosed by colorful cliffs. A number of coves adorn the headland that includes the northern towns of Adhámas and Plaka. Tamarisks provide shelter along the expansive sandy beach at Pollonia in the northeast. The most unspoiled beaches, such as Triadhes, Ammoudharaki, and Kleftiko, which can only be reached by boat, are found on the mountainous west coast.

Pátmos is the best Greek island for spirituality.

The little island of Pátmos is said to be one of the most significant islands in Greece because of the importance of religion there. It is believed to be the location where St. John camped out and saw the visions that he later described to his student Prohoros in the Revelation, the last book of the New Testament. Early in the morning, hike to the cave where this occurred. Currently, a church from the eleventh century houses it. The greatest possibility of having the space to yourself is here, where you may even be able to lay your head in the saint's niche. Even the most jaded cynics might feel enlightened by looking out to sea and the nearby islands. Another monastery from the eleventh century, Ayiou Ioannou Theologou, is located higher up the hill and offers even more stunning views. It is also home to a community of monks. Visitors cannot access much of the sturdy building, but the church is lovely. The museum also showcases some glitzy Orthodox relics, gloomy medieval icons, and ancient parchment manuscripts. It goes without saying that there are some lovely sandy beaches and a variety of secular attractions to keep a tourist busy back at sea level.

Lefkada is the best Greek island for ocean activities.

Near its southern point, the medium-sized island of Lefkada is home to one of Europe's biggest windsurfing facilities, and the island's city is bordered by a glistening new harbor. Because of this, it attracts those who like being on the sea. Because a causeway connects it to the mainland, it also benefits from convenient accessibility. On its western shore, keep an eye out for magnificent mountain scenery and some of the Ionian Sea's most beautiful beaches. Lefkada Town is also a lovely, cultural location with several lovely historic churches. Yachties come here in droves for the excellent marina amenities, the large dry dock at Vlyho, and the simplicity of anchoring at the several bays around the east coast, including Dessimi, Rouda, and Syvota. While Nydri itself has the normal selection of activities, the outlying islands in front of the main resort provide for suitable sailing area as well. Young people gather on the bay that spans from Vassiliki to Pondi at the southernmost point of Lefkada. They benefit from the favorable wind patterns and shallow water that make windsurfing possible. You could easily count hundreds of colorful sails flying in the wind at any one moment.

Lésvos is the best Greek island for experiencing a variety of things.

Unexpectedly, not many people go to Lésvos, which is the third-largest island in the Aegean Sea after Crete and Evvia. Mytilini is a sizable town with a pretty opulent seashore, a sizable fortification, a number of fascinating museums, and a wide variety of dining and drinking establishments. Molyvos (also known as Mithymna) and Ayiassos are two notable examples of minor towns with impressive architecture. The former is perched atop an impressive castle on a point along the north shore. The latter features a maze of alleys centered on a gorgeous central church and spans a valley in a mountain. Around the island, there are many more stunning monasteries. There are several top-notch beaches along the coast. None compare to Vatera's 9 kilometers of pebble and sand beaches on the south coast. However, geological characteristics extend beyond only rock and sand. A birdwatcher's paradise, the vast, shallow Gulf of Kalloni has salt marshes. A petrified forest may be found in the west, while thermal springs can be found across the eastern portion. There are quite a few notable distilleries, like Varvayianni and Samara, which produce Greece's best-rated ouzo. However, the island also produces top-notch olive products and wines like Methymneos. As the birthplace of the poets Sappho, Aesop, and more lately Elytis, Lésvos has a significant cultural component that dates back to ancient times. Theriade and Theophilos, two 20th-century painters, were also born there, and the island now honors them with museums. Sappho wrote a lot of sensual poetry that was directed towards other women (quite a thing for the sixth century). At the bustling Skala Eresou, which welcomes tourists from all over the globe, her legacy is still upheld.

Photo by Ben Mack on Pexels At the age of 22, I took my first vacation by myself. It wasn't something I'd really thought about or had a burning desire to do growing up going on mission trips with 30+ high school kids (who were probably fairly annoying). But it was my time abroad in London where I found inspiration. In the past, the phrase "one is the loneliest number that you'll ever know" would gloomily loop in my thoughts whenever I considered traveling alone. But after meeting a young woman of similar age who like to travel alone and hearing her tales of amazing experiences and fascinating people, the record scratched and the music abruptly switched to the line, "I-n-d-e-p-e-n-d-e-n-t do you know what it mean?" Heyyy. Maybe I can pull this off. I was welcomed into the world of solo travel, a fast expanding movement with women at the forefront, by that new mindset and that first trip to Italy. If traveling is the greatest way to learn, then traveling alone is like taking an intense crash course. Anyone in her 20s who is capable of traveling alone ought to do so. Along with the trinkets you'll collect along the road, you'll learn some essential life lessons.

1. When you travel alone, the most essential voice of all is amplified: your own.

What activities do you wish to engage in? What piques your interest? What would you want to eat, hear, or discover? What does your spirit need? How does your body feel? We too frequently allow other people's voices and opinions to overpower our own. Particularly as women, this may become our default operating system. Being openly egotistical while traveling alone is the ideal way to make room for spontaneity and the delightful element of surprise. Knowing your own desires better enables you to identify and fight for your needs on a daily basis. When you can lovingly put yourself first, you'll be better able to look after the people you care about.

2. When you're by yourself, you quickly learn how to rely on yourself before turning to others for assistance

There is no better way to gain self-assurance than to get lost in a foreign country halfway across the globe at night on the wrong side of the city and then calmly plan your way back to where you belong. Not that I have any firsthand knowledge or anything... When traveling with others, it's simple to assume that they have the necessary information, such as maps and plans. But when you're the only one around, you quickly learn to rely on yourself before turning to others for help. To be clear, I'm not advocating that you rely entirely on yourself. No, there are times when assistance is required, and it's important to have the humility to request it. But the key is to recognize the distinctions. When the only people in your immediate vicinity are strangers or hazy acquaintances, you are more likely to try to solve problems on your own, which is a learning experience. Learn to start by looking inside since you likely already have the solution. That insight fosters a feeling of empowerment that permeates all facets of your life.

3. Look around you with an open mind and see what you can learn from the people and cultures there

When traveling with friends or a partner, it's simple to get preoccupied with the individual seated across from you and overlook the chance to engage in conversation with your fellow passengers. Traveling alone might sometimes be lonely. However, the scenario entirely changes if you choose to transform the early discomfort of self-sufficiency into an opportunity to connect with someone. Who knows, you could make a friend for life or just a trip companion. There is still a chance to learn something new and meet someone intriguing, even if the interaction ends there. Even if you may never see one other again, knowing this does not imply the relationship was wasted; on the contrary. Enjoy your connection as it is at the time.

4. Give up on your restrictions

Our traveling partners are often our strongest supporters, encouraging us to try new things like the excursion, the strange mystery meal, or even jumping out of the aircraft. Although the final one is not my preferred experience, I am not familiar with your circumstances. While your fellow passengers could push you, they can also provide comfort. Perhaps you're keeping yourself from engaging in a particular experience because you think the other person won't like it. Perhaps you haven't questioned your hesitation because those around you haven't, and it may be supported by fear. These issues become apparent when traveling alone. It also reveals how resilient and strong you really are. You have an exponential growth potential, and going it alone gives you the freedom to go lean into your limitations.

5. Purchase the pass. It might mark a turning point in your life

Every time you try to coordinate with more people, time or money will always be an issue. Although I've traveled with some wonderful people, I would still venture to say that the ideal travel companion does not exist. similar ones? Absolutely. But you are the ideal partner for yourself. It goes without saying that when you have a party of two, and even more so as your small group expands, your priorities change. But if you can, schedule some time just for you. It might only be a day trip. It's alright. And perhaps you shouldn't, my single ladies who are searching for that special someone. The moment may have come. You don't want to look back and regret not traveling to the places or fulfilling your lifelong ambitions because you were preoccupied with waiting for other people to fit into your schedule. Purchase the pass. You might miss out on a pivotal opportunity in your journey if someone else is unable to attend. Don't ponder the past. You can find out by going. A solo trip isn't intended to be one size fits all, just like any other kind of travel. Perhaps you'd be more comfortable in a meetup group for lone travelers. You could also just take a few extra days to do your own thing if you have a travel companion who can accompany you on some of the journey. My preferred method of solo travel is to visit friends who reside in amazing locations around the globe and discover their cities while they are at work. The best of both worlds: a solo trip with a dinner date every evening. Whatever you choose, don't let the stereotype of what traveling alone looks like prevent you from taking the trip. Do your research, be sensible, safe, and aware that there are some places where women should never travel alone. But there are a ton more that will provide interesting and educational adventures. Decide to go your own way and see what you can discover.

Photo by Adrienn from Pexels Do you cross time zones? Amazing. Starting your vacation with jet lag? Not really amazing. While there are many benefits to traveling and seeing the world, nothing can ruin your trip like the dreaded jet lag. Who wants to have digestive issues while on vacation, struggle to stay awake or sleep, and feel worn out and irritable? Although there will be an adjustment period when you switch time zones, jet lag doesn't have to ruin your trip, so we asked health and nutrition experts for their best advice on how to prevent and manage it. Happy travels!

What is jet lag?

The Mayo Clinic describes it as "a temporary sleep problem that can affect anyone who travels quickly across multiple time zones" and is sometimes referred to as "jet lag disorder." The signs and symptoms include: Having trouble concentrating or functioning, waking up too early, experiencing extreme fatigue, and having an irregular appetite general unwell feelings and mood swings The severity of the symptoms can vary, but they usually get worse the further you travel. For instance, adjusting to a location that is an hour or two off is different from traveling across continents where the time zone changes by half a day. Thankfully, you don't have to just put up with it. There are a few things you can do to avoid and manage jet lag, regardless of how far away your destination is.

Ways to avoid jet lag

Before takeoff

You may attempt to get your circadian rhythm in shape a few days before to your vacation by altering your bedtimes in an effort to prevent jet lag. Ani Baran, a certified acupuncturist and proprietor of the NJ Acupuncture Center in Jersey City, New Jersey, said that each person has a unique internal circadian clock that instinctively signals when it is time to eat or sleep. Problems might arise when your regular routine is disrupted. Try going to bed an hour sooner or later than normal the night before your flight, depending on whether the time zone of your destination is ahead of or behind the one you are currently in. Before you go, change your watch to the new time as a mental reminder. Baran also emphasizes the importance of preparing for your journey with a healthy diet and drink. This makes sure that your body has an enough supply of vitamins and minerals to aid with the time shift. Acupuncture, according to Baran, may also be used to both prevent and cure the negative effects. According to conventional Chinese medicine, the equilibrium of your qi, or energy, affects how well you sleep. According to Baran, acupuncture may help keep your circadian cycle in control by ensuring that the flow of qi is adjusted before, during, and after flight.

Throughout the flight

Limit your coffee intake and consume plenty of water throughout your flight. A little coffee is OK, but according to Vanessa Rissetto, registered dietitian and co-founder of Culina Health, "you don't need to become jacked on caffeine to stay up." That is a guaranteed recipe for failure. Instead, she emphasized the need of staying hydrated, which helps lessen the bloating that often occurs during travel and prevent constipation—a typical side effect of changing time zones. Key is also to pay attention to your body. It's typically not a good idea to stay up late on an overnight travel in the hopes of having already acclimated when you arrival. Sleep if you're tired—fighting through excessive exhaustion will just make matters worse.

After the flight

The Mayo Clinic advises that you attempt to start working on the local timetable as soon as you arrive after the trip. If it's daylight where you are going, fight the impulse to take a sleep and instead walk outdoors and enjoy the fresh air. Go to bed at the same time as the natives if you arrived in the evening. You should also limit your intake of sweets to help with jet lag symptoms. Sugar might interfere with your sleep, especially if you are already sensitive to it, according to Rissetto. You could feel drowsy after a "sugar crash," but as soon as you go to sleep, "your body will attempt to process all the sugar you ate, and that might keep you awake," the expert warned. So limit your intake of sweets when you drink water. If you are already jet-lagged, Rissetto advised choosing nutrient-dense meals to make sure your body is receiving what it needs. "Consider protein, healthy fats, and soups that are rich with vegetables." In other words, be kind with your body while it adjusts! Baran also advised massage treatment as a technique to help the body return to its normal rhythm—as if you needed another justification. She explained that massages work by gently yet manually activating acupuncture sites, which may help reset the internal circadian clock. Additionally, massage therapists may target specific body regions to promote blood and lymph flow and ease sore muscles after travel. And patience is your final recourse if all other options have failed. Although everyone is unique, Rissetto and Baran concur that most individuals will naturally acclimatize in two days or less.

Photo by Karolina Grabowska on Pexels When it comes to spending money, summer comes in second only to the winter vacations in terms of the total cost of goods and services. Upon reflection, this makes perfect sense. After all, the day trips and late nights, celebrations and vacations of summer rapidly pile up. All of us are at risk of getting caught up in this season's frenetic enthusiasm and failing to see how it affects our wallets. Even if summer is just around the corner, you don't have to worry about anything. Getting the most out of summer doesn't have to cost a fortune if you plan beforehand. Make sure your wallet is ready for the summer by reading on!

1. Make a financial inventory

The first step in making sure you have enough money for the summer is figuring out what you have to work with. Take stock of your present financial status by calculating your overall living expenditures, any debt you're paying down, and the amount you're saving or investing in a savings or investment account. Once you've calculated that amount, deduct it from your monthly take-home pay. A rough estimate of how much money you'll have to spend this summer is provided. As a last step, take a look at your spending habits by examining your credit card statements, bank accounts, and receipts. You'll be able to see exactly where your money is going with these charts, and you can then utilize that information to devise new strategies for spending it wisely this summer.

2. Begin making tiny lifestyle adjustments today

Find ways to reduce your spending and save money for the time being by reviewing your costs. As a bookworm, take use of your local library; you may borrow almost every book ever written, save hundreds of dollars, and see your tax money at work. Most libraries now provide e-books and audio books in addition to their traditional paperbacks and hardcovers. You'll be able to go out on the town more often if you make tiny modifications now and throughout the summer. Even something as easy as giving up your gym membership in favor of walking or running may have a significant impact, as can cutting down on eating out in favor of preparing more of your meals at home.

3. Keeping tabs on your money and debt repayments is a good habit to get into

If you don't want to have to go into your emergency fund to pay for your summer vacation, now is the time to figure out how much you have saved. From there, establish a ceiling (say, $8k) below which you will not spend any of your savings. It's not necessary for you to meet your baseline, but having one will assist guarantee that you're making regular contributions to your savings and not wasting that money on unnecessary purchases. Whatever amount you choose, be sure it's enough to cover three to six months' worth of costs in the event of an unexpected emergency. It may be tough to sleep at night with debt hovering over you, so if there is any little debt you can pay off today, do so to ease some of that stress and allow for greater flexibility in your spending. If you have a lot of debt to pay off, a debt payment software may help you get your finances in order before the summer months arrive. When it comes to paying off credit card debt, Tally is the best choice, while ChangEd is the best alternative for individuals with student loan debt. As you can see from these two instances, it's critical that you do your homework and study before joining up for anything.

4. Take a spending fast

Spending cleanses may be a great way to strengthen your budgeting abilities and save up some more money before summer. Do not spend money on anything except basics at this period. A spending detox is a great technique to drive yourself to develop better monetary habits without even realizing it. Unnecessary purchases will be brought to your attention as a result of this exercise. This is a win-win situation for everyone involved.

5. Take a look at the notes you've made thus far.

For example, birthdays, cookouts, weddings, showers, and so on and so forth are all examples of future events and festivities. Doing this ahead of time can help you avoid any last-minute financial shocks and make budgeting your summer budget a lot simpler. A general estimate of how much each event will cost may be calculated once you know what you have scheduled. What are the upcoming occasions for which you'll need to purchase presents, and how much money do you have to spend? What are the costs of food and beverages at any gatherings you plan to attend? Organizing your finances now will make budgeting simpler and offer you a clearer understanding of what you'll need to spend in the long run.

6. Replace your previous summer budget with a new one.

In the same way that trends in beauty and fashion are always changing, so are finances. Once you've accomplished the aforementioned stages, you're ready to start working on your summer budget. Budgeting apps like Goodbudget and Mint may be used to replace your present system or you can do it manually using a spreadsheet or template. The following are essentials to include in your summer budget: 1. sufficient funds to cover day-to-day costs of life 2. Efforts to save money and pay off debt 3. The expenditures of any upcoming festivities or events that are being planned. 4. A little sum that may be set aside for unanticipated events, like as a night out on the town.

7. Make a vision board for your summertime activities.

Create a vision board with fun, low-cost summer activities to help you manifest the summer of your dreams. In the summertime, look for any scheduled summer activities in your area or in any neighboring towns to see if there are any that you can attend. Quite a few of these sorts of gatherings are either free or very low in cost. You may also get into the summer vibe by visiting public beaches, parks, or hiking trails. However, despite the pleasant weather, you don't have to be out and about all the time. As a matter of fact, there are several methods to truly enjoy the summer from the comfort of your home. There is nothing more soothing than spending time in one's own home during this season. The weather is warming up, and it's the perfect time to bring out the charcuterie board and a bottle of rosé. Watch the sun set with a bottle of champagne and some pizza, or go stargazing with your special someone. As long as the weather is good, there are many possibilities. Creating a summer vision board full of exciting and budget-friendly activities and ideas can help you avoid overpaying and offer you a resource to go to for inspiration all season long. Let your hair down and have fun with your ideas throughout the summer, when you're more likely to be careless and carefree. Don't forget that having a great time and creating lasting memories don't have to come at a financial expense.

Photo by energepic.com on Pexels Have you ever thought, "Why do I detest working? " Is it me, the things I do, or something else different? According to studies, individuals are getting less satisfied with their personal and professional lives. According to the General Social Survey, Americans generally rate their level of happiness as 2.18, which is only a little bit more than "very happy," on a scale of 1 to 3, where 1 equals "not too happy" and 3 equals "very happy." Although to some people it doesn't seem too awful, it is seen to be a substantial fall from the levels of happiness seen in the early 1990s. Further investigation of the data reveals that accessing social media, listening to music alone, and spending time online are all associated with sadness. It's interesting to note that each of these activities may be accessed on your computer or mobile device. The fact that most individuals engage in all of these activities while at work is an additional intriguing feature. Here are three questions to consider in order to determine why you detest your work and what you can do to change your situation:

1. Do You Only Focus on the Negative?

I can speak for myself when I say that the podcasts I listened to made me detest working. I began to doubt my own dedication as I listened to other business owners discuss their journeys and the success they encountered. Is living my ideal life important to me, or was it simply something I wanted to speak about? The same is applicable to those who use social media or music to pass the time. You begin comparing your life to others' as soon as you become aware of their achievements and feelings. You start to feel inferior when you see someone going on vacation, buying a new car, or adding to their family. You may have seen that while engaging in these activities, you tend to think about the aspects of your work that you dislike. For me, it bothered me because it prevented me from beginning my own company. It may be the same for you or it might be something entirely different. However, you will need to concentrate on the things you enjoy if you want to start appreciating your job again. By putting your attention on the good, you give yourself permission to recall why you first accepted the position. When confronted with challenging circumstances, keep in mind that the compensation was 10% greater than the pay at your last position. Concentrate on that area of your profession if you accepted the position due to its closeness to your house or the possibility of a work-life balance. You will only come to resent working more if you keep reminding yourself of the things about your job that you don't enjoy. When you dwell on the bad, you can think to yourself: 1. why do I continue working here? 2. Do I really need to cope with this foolishness 3. why is my career stagnating 4. why do the worst individuals keep being promoted? The response is often that you feel trapped in some manner. You detest working, but you detest the thought of not working even more. Each of us has the fear of failure. But avoiding failure will almost always result in regret.

2. Do You Still Work for a Disinterested Employer?

Whether you love or despise your job depends largely on who you work for and the culture they help foster. According to studies, 92 percent of workers are more inclined to stay with their current employment.  Consider for a minute that 92% of individuals do not love their employment. 92% of individuals are dissatisfied with their pay or opportunities for growth in their careers, yet they are more inclined to remain in their current positions. Simply said, empathy is the capacity to comprehend and identify with another person's experiences. But since everyone wants to be accepted and valued, empathy is crucial to determining if you dislike working. It is good to have someone who wants to support you in achieving your goals when you share your hopes and aspirations with your supervisor. It's comforting to know people care, even if their efforts are not always effective. According to a recent Gallup study, 37% of workers would think about leaving their present position if their new one permitted them to work remotely part-time.  There are several benefits to working from home, which is why so many professionals find it appealing. If you have a family, working from home may provide you the freedom to handle family issues more successfully. Working from home might help you avoid waiting in rush hour every morning and evening if you reside in a city with heavy traffic. If you weren't forced to sit in rush-hour traffic every day, wouldn't you dislike work less? Empathy makes workers feel appreciated. It feels nice when you reveal worries or troubles and someone is eager to ease your suffering. Again, the outcome may not necessarily be as significant as just feeling appreciated when someone inquired about your well-being. Despite the fact that they could be dealing with the same office politics in other areas, making someone feel appreciated at work is a certain approach to make sure they like what they do. I advise you to start volunteering and assisting others if you discover that your workplace lacks empathy. Helping others pushes you to think about other people's needs, which is a wonderful approach to keep you from disliking your job. Additionally, you will be able to interact with colleagues if you volunteer via office-sponsored activities. These connections may give your professional life a depth that makes it more enjoyable for you. This may be an excellent time to create a volunteer program at your firm if there isn't one now. Along with giving you the chance to manage a project that you are enthusiastic about, this is a fantastic opportunity for you to demonstrate the firm your leadership skills. You will be able to position yourself for future jobs inside the business as you develop relationships via these chances.

3. Do You Really Not Do What You Love?

Doing more of what you love and less of what you dislike is the formula for changing "I hate working" into "I love working." Finding your passion is not always simple. You most likely broke up with your first love when you were a teenager. Once you reached adulthood, you reasoned that all of your choices should be based on your responsibility as an adult. Even while many individuals find this appealing, this is ultimately the reason why so many people despise their jobs. They are acting in a manner that they believe other people are acting. The issue is that they are experiencing the same outcomes as everyone else. Take a time to consider your ideal work if you want to alter your outcomes. As many details as you can about what makes this position your ideal job should be included. This might be anything, such as the location, pay, duties, or industry. Next, spend a few seconds to make a note of any similarities between your present position and your ideal career. Although it may not seem feasible, you will discover that your present work and your ideal career actually have certain similarities. After making a note of the similarities, check to see whether your present job offers any opportunity for you to accomplish more of what you like. This can include switching departments, observing other teams, or just refocusing on your existing function. See if you can change your schedule such that it is 60% administrative work and 40% client interactions if your employment requires 60% client interactions and 40% administrative work but you do not love working with clients. It is crucial to discuss your ideal job with your manager to see if they can help you turn that goal into reality. If you find that some of the duties you wish to take on are outside your scope of expertise, collaborate with your manager to develop a strategy that bridges the gap. Reach out to someone in your network if you believe your boss may not be the right person to assist you in expanding your skill set. This can be an acquaintance from a former job or a colleague.

Conclusions

Developing your existing position into your ideal position will enable you to resume enjoying your work. Even while it may not happen right away, if you make a commitment to changing just a few aspects of your attitude and behavior, you will soon discover that you have the power to transform hatred into satisfaction and love.