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Are you sitting there thinking how much you would love to travel, but can’t afford it? There are always bills to pay, and the cost of living has put travel out of many people’s reach. I know that feeling! But if you think outside the box, there are ways to travel the world and have adventures for just a fraction of the cost.

As an experienced traveller on a tight budget, I have learnt how to see this beautiful world without breaking the bank. Cruising, driving, flying, bus or travelling by train, I don’t mind how I get there or where I go, as long as I can afford it and I will enjoy it.

Below are several different ways to travel the world on a budget, or maybe even for free. In some cases, you might get paid for the pleasure!

International Courier

Would you like to visit Singapore, Shanghai, Los Angeles, Delhi, Dubai, Paris, or Barcelona? These are just a few of the places that ‘hand couriers’ take letters, confidential documents or small parcels for clients. 

Sometimes letters or parcels are so important that the client is looking for a courier to personally accompany a consignment door-to-door, offering a worldwide courier service for clients.

All flights, accommodation, food, expenses are paid and there are several companies that pay the courier too. This can be an excellent way to see the world if you are reliable, trustworthy and flexible.

Look up Absolutely, Speedel, Priority Freight, or type in “on board courier services” to look for other such companies.

Chaperone

Many airlines do not allow children under 12 to travel on their own. Sometimes film makers, private schools, extended family, etc. require a chaperone (sometimes called a Flying Nanny or Travel Nanny) for a child to be looked after and safely escorted from one destination to another. 

This can be a really interesting way to travel as you will be accompanied by the child (probably one way) so will need to be responsible at all times.

The destinations are varied but often from the UK include North America, Dubai, India and China. You will receive all expenses, plus a fee for your time.

Pet flight nannies are also a viable option if you love animals. Look up “Pet Nanny” online to learn more.

Monastery Hopper

I have stayed at a Buddhist monastery several times but had no idea that ‘Monastery Hopping’ existed! Since then, I have met many people who travel all over the world, providing a few hours’ work, in return for bed and board. There are monasteries in England, Ireland, Portugal, Canada, Italy, Thailand, Switzerland, India and many more. Most of them have few, or no, staff so rely on volunteers.

I have always had my own room with a communal shower, but sometimes you may be sharing your room with others. You usually work for about 3 or 4 hours a day, taking care of Monks (and sometimes nuns). This may include cooking, cleaning, gardening, driving, etc. There are no age restrictions, but you will need to be fit enough to do your tasks.

You will, of course, need to respect their culture and traditions, and will probably be invited to pujas (prayers) and ceremonies, which are beautiful and interesting. You may also have the opportunity to practice meditation and yoga.

It is a wonderful way for budget travel as you will meet so many interesting people and learn so much. Staying at monasteries is one of my favourite things in all my travels. And I have some truly wonderful memories. I have never known such kindness, warmth and generosity of spirit in my life.

Places can be competitive and there are times of the year when monasteries may be closed for retreats or events, so it is essential to email/phone before arriving.

Travel/Blog Writer/Influencer

Imagine travelling the world, writing about it, getting all your expenses for free and maybe even getting paid for what you do! It may seem a little too good to be true and, it can be very competitive, but it is entirely possible.

If you love travelling and can write about your adventures and experiences, you could write for travel magazines around the world, start a YouTube channel/Instagram or start a blog.

People love to hear about travelling, especially if you are going off the beaten track or doing something unusual. Perhaps going on a safari, cycling around a country, taking a tuk-tuk, travelling by train or sailing the oceans.

Home Swap

If you don’t mind someone staying in your home, you could consider home swapping as a budget travel option. This is where a person (or people) stay at your home while you stay at theirs. It is a great way to travel authentically, because you really are seeing the world from a local’s perspective.

You create a listing, introduce yourself and upload a few photos of your own home. When this is done, you browse the site for places to stay that interest you, and then communicate with the owner to see if they want to arrange a mutual exchange.

There are several companies that can arrange this for you, and you generally pay an annual subscription. Always do your research thoroughly and make sure your home is fully insured. 

These are just a few options for travelling without breaking the bank. 🙂 I am sure you could think of many more!

Let’s Have a Conversation:

What does budget travel mean to you? Have you tried any off-the-beaten-path options? Which ones would you repeat and recommend?

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Traveling with pets can be a delightful experience, but finding the right accommodations can be a challenge. Thankfully, many hotels across the USA are not only welcoming to pets but also offer special amenities for your furry friends. 

Here are 10 pet-friendly hotels in the USA that ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for both you and your pet.

1. Kimpton Hotels – There are no size or weight restrictions and no extra fees for bringing your pet along. 
2. Loews Hotels – Loews Hotels offer a program called “Loews Loves Pets.” 
3. Fairmont Hotels & Resorts – Many Fairmont locations, such as the Fairmont Copley Plaza in Boston, offer pet-friendly rooms and services.
4. Aloft Hotels – Aloft Hotels’ “Arf Program” offers pet beds, bowls, and complimentary doggie bags.
5. The Liberty Hotel, Boston – With its “Liberty Loves Pets” program, pets are greeted with personalized welcome amenities, including treats, bowls, and pet beds.

Continue reading for the complete list of pet-friendly hotels in the USA.

How to Find Out if a Hotel Is Pet-Friendly

Check the Hotel’s Website

Start by visiting the hotel’s official website. Most hotels have a dedicated section for their pet policy, often under the “Amenities” or “FAQs” sections. Look for details on any restrictions, additional fees, and amenities offered for pets.

Call the Hotel Directly

A quick phone call to the hotel’s front desk can provide you with up-to-date and specific information. Ask about their pet policy, any size or breed restrictions, fees, and available pet amenities. This also allows you to ask about any recent changes that might not be updated on the website.

Read Online Reviews

Websites like TripAdvisor, Yelp, and Google Reviews can be valuable resources. Look for reviews from other pet owners who have stayed at the hotel. These reviews often provide insights into how accommodating the hotel is for pets and any potential issues you might encounter.

Use Pet-Friendly Travel Websites

Websites such as BringFido, Petswelcome, and DogFriendly specialize in pet-friendly travel accommodations. These sites allow you to search for hotels that welcome pets and often include detailed information about the pet policies and amenities.

Check Booking Websites

When using booking platforms like Booking.com, Expedia, or Hotels.com, use the filter options to select “pet-friendly” accommodations. These platforms usually provide details on the pet policy, including any additional charges.

Look for Pet-Friendly Symbols

Many hotels display a pet-friendly symbol on their marketing materials, website, and booking pages. This symbol indicates that pets are welcome and that the hotel has facilities or services catering to pets.

Review the Hotel’s Social Media

Check the hotel’s social media pages, such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Hotels often post about their pet-friendly policies and showcase photos of pets enjoying their stay. This can give you a sense of how pet-friendly the hotel truly is.

Consider the Hotel Chain

Some hotel chains are known for their pet-friendly policies. For example, Kimpton Hotels, Loews Hotels, and many others have established reputations for welcoming pets. Knowing which chains are generally pet-friendly can simplify your search.

Ask for Recommendations

If you’re part of a pet-owner community or online group, ask for recommendations. Fellow pet owners can provide personal experiences and suggest hotels that are truly accommodating to pets.

Check for Nearby Pet Amenities

In addition to the hotel’s policy, consider the surrounding area. Look for nearby pet parks, walking trails, and pet-friendly restaurants. A hotel in a pet-friendly neighborhood can enhance your overall experience.

Understand the Rules and Fees

Make sure you understand all the rules and fees associated with bringing your pet. Some hotels have specific rules regarding pet size, breed restrictions, and whether pets can be left unattended in the room. Knowing these details in advance can help you avoid surprises.

Confirm Your Reservation

Once you’ve found a pet-friendly hotel, confirm your reservation by mentioning that you’ll be bringing a pet. This ensures that the hotel is aware and can prepare for your arrival, making the check-in process smoother.

By following these steps, you can find a hotel that will welcome both you and your pet, ensuring a pleasant and stress-free stay.

Pet-Friendly Hotels Across the USA

Traveling with your pet doesn’t mean compromising on comfort and luxury. These 10 hotels across the USA go above and beyond to ensure that both you and your furry companion have an unforgettable stay. 

Kimpton Hotels

With locations across the country, Kimpton Hotels are known for their exceptional pet-friendly policies. There are no size or weight restrictions and no extra fees for bringing your pet along. 

Many locations offer pet beds, bowls, and even a Director of Pet Relations to make your pet feel at home.

Loews Hotels

Loews Hotels offer a program called “Loews Loves Pets,” which includes gourmet room service menus for cats and dogs, specialized bedding, leashes, collars, litter boxes, and more. Their staff can provide maps of local dog-walking routes, pet-friendly restaurants, and parks.

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts

Many Fairmont locations, such as the Fairmont Copley Plaza in Boston, offer pet-friendly rooms and services. They often provide pet beds, food, and water bowls, and some locations even have pet mascots to greet guests.

Fairmont welcomes pets up to 25 pounds for a one-time fee of $150. Pets must be leashed at all times and cannot be left unattended in the room. Guests are responsible for any damage caused by their pets.

Aloft Hotels

Aloft Hotels’ “Arf Program” offers pet beds, bowls, and complimentary doggie bags. Their pet policy is straightforward, ensuring your pet feels as comfortable as you do during your stay.

The Liberty Hotel, Boston

This historic hotel provides a luxurious experience for both you and your pet. With its “Liberty Loves Pets” program, pets are greeted with personalized welcome amenities, including treats, bowls, and pet beds. The hotel is conveniently located near the Boston Common, perfect for walks.

The W Hotel, Scottsdale

This vibrant hotel offers a “Pets Are Welcome” (PAW) program, ensuring your furry friend has all the comforts of home, including a bed, bowls, and a special treat at check-in. The hotel’s central location allows for easy access to pet-friendly parks and dining options.

The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch

Located in Colorado, this luxury mountain resort offers a “Bachelor’s Pack” program, including a dog bed, bowls, and treats. The resort’s extensive grounds provide plenty of space for your pet to explore.

The St. Regis Aspen Resort

This resort offers a “Pet Pampering” program, including pet beds, bowls, and a selection of treats. The nearby hiking trails and open spaces are perfect for outdoor adventures with your pet.

The Kimpton Hotel Monaco, Denver

The Kimpton Hotel Monaco in Denver provides a warm welcome to pets of all sizes. They offer pet beds, bowls, and mats, along with a nightly wine reception where pets are welcome.

Hotel del Coronado, San Diego

This iconic beachfront hotel offers a “Del Dogs & Cats” program, which includes gourmet room service menus for pets, specialized bedding, and walking routes. The hotel’s proximity to the dog-friendly Coronado Beach makes it an ideal destination for pet owners.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Do you travel with your pet? What hotels have you been to with your pet? Tell us about it in the comments below.

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As a body confidence coach and fitness presenter, one thing that I know for sure is that we have to find ways to do and enjoy the things that we love doing. For me, this is movement. I trained as a dancer and fitness presenter in my early life and have been teaching fitness related workouts and classes all through my life, for which I am so grateful.

However, I also have chronic Arthritis in my feet, toes, spine and fingers. At one point I thought that I would never walk again, let alone dance. However, our bodies are truly amazing and over the years, I have learnt how to adapt my movements so that I can still love and enjoy all the things that make me feel fit, happy and fabulous!

I hope you enjoy this lovely chair workout for the upper body. It is for every body, no matter what size, shape or age you are. I don’t use weights in this workout; however, please feel free to add in some weights to make the workout as challenging as you need.

As with all movement classes, please make sure that you wear comfortable clothing, drink plenty of water to re-hydrate and that you do not have an injury or any other medical condition which would make exercising hard for you.

My Top Tips for a Fabulous Movement Class

Set Aside Time for You!

Don’t allow distractions during your workout session. Turn off your phone and make sure you won’t be disturbed.

Greet and Check Your Body

Say “hello” to your body before you do the class and check in with how your body feels. Notice your energy levels and if this is the right time to do the workout. Get to know when your body likes to work out. Some people love to exercise in the early morning whilst for others, it may be later on in the day.

Set an Intention for the Class

This may be something like, “I intend to feel good and have more energy.” Or, “My intention is to focus on my posture and enjoy every moment of this workout.” This helps the mind to engage with your body in a more meaningful way and promote a positive mind and body relationship.

Choose Appropriate Clothes

Wear comfortable clothing that you can move and stretch easily in. Tight waistbands may make you feel constricted so choose clothes that love your body.

Personalize the Workout

Adapt any movement that feels challenging to do. For example, lower the arms if moving them over your head feels uncomfortable.

Watch for Signs from Your Body

Stop if any movement causes you pain or discomfort. Always listen to your body and respond with kind attention. Remember, this is your beautiful body, and the key is to show your body that you care.

Exercise Out of Love for Your Body

Learn to love the feeling that movement gives you. For me, exercising is all about loving our bodies and showing ourselves that we care.

Adapt Your Moves to Feel Awesome

The real secret to being able to move better and with more joy is being able to constantly adapt to where you are and how you feel. Each day of our life is different. No two days are ever the same so why should our body, energy or ability be? Spend a little time tuning in to how your body feels at the start of every day. Become aware of your energy levels and always adapt your movements to suit how you are feeling.

The Workout at a Glance

For those of you who want to have a readout of the exercises in the workout video, here is a list in order of the movements. Enjoy! For beginners, it is great to start with around eight repetitions of the movement and increase as you desire. Start with doing one set of each movement and progress to two or three sets.

Warm Up

Sit with your spine long and feet flat on the floor. Raise both shoulders up towards the ears in a gentle fluid movement and lower gently. Repeat. Then raise both arms above the head and lower to the sides. Breathe in as you raise the arms and exhale as you lower the arms.

Bicep Curls

Keep your elbows in to your sides and your hands in a gentle fist. Raise and lower your lower arms bringing your hands to your shoulders and down again to the starting position.

Lateral Arm Raises

Take both arms out to the sides and raise to just above shoulder height or wherever you find comfortable. Keep the movement strong and defined.

Alternate Bicep Curls

Repeat the first bicep movement only this time do it with alternating arms.

Lateral Pull Downs

Raise both arms above the head and pull your arms down in a wide action to the sides. Make this movement strong and powerful.

Open Your Heart

Sit tall in your chair and raise both arms forward and front to shoulder height. Then, gently, pull your elbows back, squeezing your shoulder blades together. (Imagine that they are kissing each other). Bring the arms forward once more and lower back to the starting position. Repeat.

Single Arm Reaches

Place one hand on your upper thigh. Reach the other arm high into the air and fully stretch, right up to your fingertips. Repeat eight times (or more) and change arms.

Chest Flies

Bring both arms out to the sides and bend the elbows. Elbows should be in line with your shoulders if possible. Keeping the elbows lifted, squeeze both arms in together bringing your elbows in as close as you can in front of you. Open the arms out again to the side and repeat. As you are doing this movement, see if you can create a feeling of resistance as you bring the arms together.

Cross Pulls

Bring both arms up and go diagonally across your body. Join your hands together and keep them clasped all of the way through the exercise. Bring both arms down in a single movement, bringing them across your body to the opposite hip. Repeat eight times on the right and eight on the left.

Triceps Extensions

Inhale and bring one hand behind your head with your fingers pointing down your spine. Gently raise the arm upwards as you exhale. Lower the arm back down trying to keep your elbow pointing towards the sky. If this position is uncomfortable to hold, try supporting the underneath of the arm with your other hand. Repeat 8 times on one side and then switch to the other.

Complete the workout by raising and lowering the shoulders. Take one arm across your body and scoop the other arm underneath as you stretch the arm across your body. Hold for at least 10 seconds. Repeat on the other side.

Remember to Thank Your Body

Feeling good about ourselves means that we cultivate a loving, kind and compassionate relationship with our body, mind, heart and soul. A lovely practice is to thank your body at the end of each workout and gently remind yourself how blessed you are. Our bodies do so much for us and allow us to experience the joys of life in so many different ways. From being able to hug those we love to being able to read, sing, paint, dance, walk, watch a breathtaking sunset or simply curl up with our favourite beverage.

If you would love more workouts, body confidence tips and inspiration for feeling fabulous please follow me on Instagram @romancingyourbody. I would love to have your company and you would be most welcome.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

What relationship do you maintain with your body? Do you love it, hate it, or something else? Why do you usually exercise? Do you do it because you love your body or for some other reason?

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I don’t know about you, but there have been different times when I’ve looked around my home and felt overwhelmed by the sheer clutter. Perhaps work kept me so busy that my house took a back seat in my list of priorities. This neglect has somehow turned into a level of hoarding.

One day, you look around and realise that something needs to be done to get your home organised again. So, how do you begin?

First, it’s essential to understand hoarding. Hoarding is a condition characterised by the excessive accumulation of items and the difficulty of discarding them, leading to cluttered and often unusable living spaces. I’ve outlined five different levels of hoarding, ranging from mild to severe.

Most people will fall into the first two levels. However, seeking additional support and professional help is advisable to navigate the decluttering process effectively if you identify with the higher levels.

Regardless of your level, once you take the first step toward a clutter-free home, you’ll feel instant relief and a sense of achievement. This blog covers 12 clutter-busting tips for result-oriented hoarders.

Implementing these strategies will transform your living space into an organised, serene oasis. This will alleviate your anxiety and create a more peaceful and enjoyable environment for you and your loved ones. With a decluttered home, you’ll find it easier to relax, focus, and appreciate the beauty of your surroundings.

Levels of Hoarding

Level 1:  Mild Hoarding

• No noticeable odours.
• All doors and stairs are reachable.
• There is some mess, but all rooms are accessible.

Level 2:  Moderate Hoarding

• One or more exits are blocked.
• Occasional use of one or a few rooms.
• Light to moderate odours.
• Insect or rodent infestations.

Level 3: Significant Hoarding

• One room is unusable at all.
• Difficulty entering necessary locations, like the kitchen or bathroom.
• Strong odours.
• Structural damage to the home.

Level 4: Severe Hoarding

• Multiple rooms are unusable.
• Major structural damage.
• Widespread pest infestation.
• Dangerous collections of items.

Level 5: Extreme Hoarding

• All or most of the rooms are unusable.
• Severe structural damage.
• Extensive pest infestations.

12 Decluttering Tips for Hoarders

Tip #1: Go Small

Take it slow with a small, achievable area like one drawer or shelf. Finishing something small often motivates you to tackle a bigger space.

Tip #2: Maintain Clarity in Mind and Be Focused on Clear Objectives

Always make it clear within your head what the goal of initiating this decluttering session will be, and those objectives must be easily achievable. Setting goals helps you stay on task, whether clearing out a particular room or reducing the items.

Tip #3: Use the Four-Box Method

Label four boxes as “Keep,” “Donate,” “Sell”, and “Trash.” As you go, put the items into their corresponding box to make your decision-making easier later.

Tip #4: Follow the One-Year Rule

If you haven’t used something within the last year – chances are, you don’t need it.

Tip #5: Seek Professional Help

Know when to get a professional organiser who specialises in hoarding cases. These individuals can provide structured guidance and empathy surrounding this ordeal.

Tip #6: Limit Duplicate Items

Keep only one of each item type. Multiple items serving the same purpose can clutter your space unnecessarily.

Tip #7: Design Your Decluttering Plan Schedule

Set aside regular time slots for decluttering sessions. 

Tip #8: Go Paperless

Scan all your important documents and save them in digital format. This will reduce the number of pieces of paper around your office and make placing and retrieving them easier.

Tip #9: Get Help from a Friend or Family Member

Having someone to help you can be morally supportive, allow you to make decisions, and allow you to have fun.

Tip #10: Do One-In, One-Out

For every new item you acquire, make it a responsibility to discard one old one. This ensures balance and prevents new things from becoming clutter in a few months.

Tip #11: Detach Emotionally

Consider the things that do not affect your emotions or general mood. This way you can make a rational and enlightened decision about what to keep.

Tip #12: Reward Yourself

Each milestone made is worth a little celebration. Positive reinforcement helps you stay focused and eliminate the unnecessary.

Conclusion

Hoarding is a complex disorder that can have crippling effects, interfering with the quality of your life through severe clutter and disorganisation. If we can break this down by learning the five levels of hoarding, we can better rate ourselves and find methods that work and support us.

When our house is tidy, there are benefits beyond physical cleanliness. A little order can make a big difference in mental health – decreasing stress and lowering levels of anxiety, creating an environment that is calm and conducive to relaxation and productivity. Additionally, when we declutter and resourcefully use our home space, it becomes a place for friends to visit.

In doing so, we create a way to be surrounded by organised, simple, essential items that contribute to peace and order and help improve our overall well-being. Bask in the clutter-free life that will take months to achieve but make significant changes that will last a lifetime.

Also read DOWNSIZING YOUR HOME AS A 60+ WOMAN: FACING THE DISCOMFORT OF UNCERTAINTY.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

What level hoarder are you? Have you been at a higher level? How did you bring yourself to your current hoarding state? What tips have you followed on your decluttering journey?

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