A reusable water bottle is essential for travel – whether it’s for a short hiking trip, a long-haul flight, or something in between. Today, many airports allow travelers to fill up their water bottles at refill stations after clearing customs, helping them stay hydrated while reducing single-use plastics.
There’s a huge range of reusable water bottles in the market, coming in all sizes, weights, materials, and colors. We tried several stainless steel water bottles from Super Sparrow to see how they stacked up.
This water bottle can hold a generous 51 ounces (oz) / 1500 milliliters (ml), perfect for quenching the most insatiable of thirsts. While the material is not stainless steel, it is made from a 100% toxin-free, US-imported Tritan Co-polyester plastic, that is free from harmful BPA chemicals. The transparent design is very useful to see how much water you’ve consumed, and how much water you need to refill.
The pinhole above the main opening allows air to escape ensuring a steady flow with the typically bubble release that you get from most water bottles.
While the bottle has hand grips for where you would hold the bottle to drink it, the grips are designed on the other side. What this means is if you use the grips, you’re holding it in at a 90-degree angle to then drink from the nozzle. It’s a minor feature flaw, but it means that the grips go unused.
Something else to be conscious of is the small pinhole above the main opening. If you don't have this lined up so it's vertically above when you take a sip it will leak water on you.
USE PROMO CODE GETBACKPACKING
Holding 25oz / 750ml, this bottle is perfect for a quick day trip. The water bottle comes with 2 straws that you can stick underneath the lid to sip from, but you can also do without this and still easily sip without these straws. This series has a ton of fun patterns – I was drawn to the cheerful pineapple yellow design – and there are also bright and colorful birds, flowers, and fruit style options. This is a great lightweight yet robust water bottle that is easy to carry around.
So far, so good! I personally am used to the wide mouth versus the straw design for drinking water bottles, so it would be great if Super Sparrow could also extend the pattern design series to its wide mouth options for those who prefer this.
USE PROMO CODE GETBACKPACKING
This bottle holds 25oz/750ml, a good option for a day trip. Available in a range of solid colors, this bottle, like the ultra-light stainless steel water bottle above, comes with two straws that you can stick under the sport cap to quickly drink from without removing the cap. The main difference with this bottle is that it is perfect for anyone who can’t decide whether they want a sport cap (drinking from a straw), or a loop cap (twisting the lid open to drink).
Rather than stick to only one option, why not do both? This is also the perfect bottle combination for someone who wants to carry hot and cold fluids.
No complaints so far! The dual cap options are a welcome inclusion so you can choose which to use, depending on your activity. The immense range of colors only means that you could spend a lot of time weighing up your options ahead of purchase… Am I more a “lavender” or a “jade” color water bottle person?
USE PROMO CODE GETBACKPACKING
Reusable water bottles have become increasingly popular not only as a more eco-friendly option, but as a more cost-effective and convenient must-have while traveling. Super Sparrow is a fantastic option as its bottles don’t contain Bisphenol A (BPA), a chemical compound that can be found in many everyday products such as shatterproof windows and eyewear, which has also been linked to a range of health issues.
As long-time reusable water bottle drinkers, we found that the water in these bottles seemed to taste better, and hope that these bottles will continue to hold up over a long period of time. We also really liked the extensive options they have – there are standard mouth, wide mouth, straw top, and mugs and tumblers, with sizes ranging from 12oz/350ml to 51oz/1500ml – which should satisfy everyone’s thirst.
An Arctic expedition promises the thrill of a lifetime, and not surprisingly, features on many people’s travel bucket lists. From the magical Northern lights to the unique Arctic wildlife, it’s a memorable travel opportunity not many get to experience.
But do you know what to expect on an arctic expedition? Discover all you have to look forward to, and look out for, in this concise guide.
You’ll need travel documents, just like any other trip. Not every Arctic expedition is the same. You may go through different countries, and therefore you’ll need not only your passport but perhaps also visas.
This depends on your particular expedition package, as well as your nationality. Be sure to check these requirements before you leave.
You’ll also probably have to make one or more transfer flights to get to the point of departure and to get back home after your trip. Some expeditions include these transfers, but not all. Be certain that you allow enough time between transfers and the start of your trip. A delayed flight could make you miss the ship!
It’s going to be cold. Very cold. You’re expecting that, and will probably pack your winter sweaters. But this is a whole other level of cold. Pack for extreme cold and rugged terrain, You’ll probably be advised about what to pack when you book your trip. But here are some good basics to include.
Include thermal wear, wool beanies (they keep you warm, but are still breathable), wool socks, gloves and scarf, good quality waterproof hiking boots, and comfortable trousers. And break in those hiking boots before you go. The last thing you want is blisters while trekking through ice and snow.
What do you need waterproof hiking boots for? You’ll not only be viewing the scenery from the icebreaker ship, but also doing some exploring. You’ll need boots with tread that won’t slip on ice or snow, too. Most Arctic yours provide rubber boots and all provide life jackets.
You may get seasick, at least at first. If you have never been on the open ocean before and aren’t sure if you’ll get seasick, just assume that you will.
Err on the side of caution and get some seasickness medication from your local drugstore before you go. Don’t worry too much about it, though. While unpleasant, seasickness is usually fleeting.
Even if you are not new to being on the water, this is not your average boat trip, and you may still be struck down by a bout of queasiness. Seasickness bands are available from many sports stores. Or get some natural remedies like ginger to take with you on the trip.
Believe it or not, you can get sunburned on an Arctic expedition!
And that’s not the only skin-related concern. The extreme cold can also play havoc with exposed skin, especially delicate facial skin.
To prevent damage to your skin from sunburn, windburn, and the cold, pack plenty of moisturizer with a high SPF, and extra sunscreen. And don’t forget some chapstick for your lips, too.
You need to be fit. An Arctic expedition is not for the faint-hearted. You need to be able to withstand extreme weather and heavy-duty trekking through harsh conditions.
We’re not talking triathlon-fit here, although that would certainly be a plus. But you’ll need to have a basic fitness level at least, to enjoy the more demanding aspects of your trip. You’re sure to do some more strenuous hiking than you’re used to.
This may be the chance to use those hiking essentials you never knew you needed before. But if you suffer from any medical condition, are overweight, or have physical impairments, discuss your plans with your doctor before booking your trip.
Taking selfies can be hazardous. Yes, you’ll surely want to take some epic selfies and photos of the breathtaking scenery. You’ll also spot wildlife unique to the Arctic zones, and be tempted to capture an Instagram-worthy pic or two.
But pack a waterproof camera cover, and don’t lean out over ship rails to take photos. When you get off the ship to do some trekking, be responsible. Stay with the group. Don’t go wandering off in search of awesome photo opportunities.
You may run into the local wildlife that is camera-shy at best, and aggressive at worst. No selfie with a bear is worth it. Ever.
Yes, snow blindness is a ‘thing’. It’s caused by UV rays that are reflected off the snow and ice. Both professional and experienced amateur skiers know all about it when they go all over the world in search of the best ski spots. That’s why they wear protective goggles.
But snow blindness is even more likely at the poles. To prevent eye injury with the correct eye protection. You can protect your eyes with sunglasses or, preferably, specialized goggles that have polycarbonate lenses.
This will keep flying snow and debris out of your eyes, and protect them from snow blindness as well. Fortunately, snow blindness is not permanent. Its effects last between 24 and 48 hours. But it’ll put a serious damper on your trip. So take the necessary precautions.
Barcelona is a Roman-founded city that dates back to the 1st century BC. It is rich in cultural heritage and is also the main biotechnology hub in Spain, which has consistently drawn visitors from all walks of life into the City.
It is estimated that annually Barcelona records the in-flow of about 23 million visitors and tourists into the country. With a staggering number of over 150,000 visitors daily.
This article focuses on the advantages and also tourist attractions that have contributed to Barcelona's success as a vacation destination.
Barcelona has a lot of advantages that have given it an edge over other countries such as great culinary skills. However, the two advantages listed below are on top of the list.
One of the most common concerns that people have when traveling to other countries is being met with hostility. This is in stark contrast to the atmosphere created by the people of Barcelona.
Barcelonians are known for being friendly, receptive, and eager to welcome visitors into their city.
Barcelona has some of the best hotels and rental apartments in the world for both short-term and long-term stays. These apartments are spacious and comfortable, with a reliable wifi connection, making them ideal for short-term rental for digital nomads.
Holiday apartments in Barcelona are easily accessible and cost-effective due to their low cost. This makes it easy to book a Barcelona holiday apartment for your next trip.
Barcelona is said to have one of the top tourist attractions in the world. Below is a list of some of the top, most sought-after sites in Barcelona.
The famous FC Barcelona football club is based here. Camp Nou is the stadium where talented and skilled football players have been able to showcase their abilities.
The stadium can accommodate approximately 100,000 people at one time and has rightfully earned the title of one of the world's largest stadiums. Lionel Messi, Ronaldinho, Diego Maradona, and Christiano Ronaldo have all played there.
Camp Nou also houses a museum dedicated to the history of the Barcelona football team. From their trophies to their players and all of their matches, Camp Nou makes sure you never forget this memory.
The Casa Batllo is a tall structure in the heart of Barcelona. It is regarded as one of the greatest works of the famous architect Antoni Gaudi.
It is well-known for its distinctive design, which has earned it the nickname house of bones or house of dragons. Casa Batllo has also been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
One of Barcelona's most popular and visited sites is the Sagrada Familia, also known as the Holy Cathedral. It is yet another masterpiece by Antoni Gaudi.
The cathedral's design is a fusion of arts, nature, late Gothic architecture, and modern Catalan design. This structure stands out as a one-of-a-kind and iconic structure in Barcelona.
The Picasso museum is home to over 4000 works of art by the famous painter Pablo Picasso. The museum is located in Barcelona's La Ribera district.
The Picasso Museum provides insight into Pablo Picasso's life as well as different periods in Barcelona's history.
One of the works by Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi in Barcelona included in the UNESCO list of world heritage sites is Parc Güell. It was built between 1900 and 1914. From 1984 to 1993, it was restored by José Antonio Martnez Lapea and Elas Torres.
The 17-hectare Guell Park is filled with undulating forms, tree-like columns, animal sculptures and geometric shapes. Most of the area is decorated with mosaics made of small pieces of colored pottery.
Finally, with its stunning beaches and never-ending nightlife, Barcelona gives you the feeling of being at home away from home.
For many of us, the opportunity to uproot our lives and establish a new one in a far-flung locale is now within reach.
The post-pandemic era has resulted in the complete rewriting of how employment works. Many large businesses now offer their employees the option of working remotely, and some countries even provide "digital nomad" visas for those who want to live and work in the EU but who are not citizens.
There are many reasons why people are quick to choose to work remotely from another country. In America, the cost of living is getting extremely high, especially compared to some smaller European cities. Plus, the creation of the digital nomad visa can’t be overlooked. Let’s take a look at these five fantastic cities in Europe. We hope that one of them becomes your future home, at least for a couple of months!
Beautiful medieval architecture, top-tier cultural institutions, lakes, rivers, and mountains that demand to be explored make Switzerland's capital an ideal place to live.
Coworking places like DasProvisorium, which focuses on gastronomy and sustainability, and WestHive, located in the grungy, post-industrial Zuri-West neighborhood, are popular among Zurich's young, vibrant freelancing community.
Switzerland isn't exactly cheap, but if you want to be in a progressive, high-octane city with some of Europe's most creative and collaborative freelancers and digital nomads and yet be able to jump into the lake after work, then it's worth it.
Since Cologne is Germany's fourth-largest city and a favorite among expatriates, it's no wonder it ranks well among the continent's top locations for becoming a digital nomad in Europe. Cologne is widely known for its worldwide events, such as the Cologne Carnival in November and Summer Jam Fest on the outskirts of Fühlinger See.
Digital nomads on a tighter budget may find success in Zagreb, the capital of Croatia. Thanks to its affordable cost of living and high quality of life indicators like healthcare and internet connectivity, this place is perfect for ex-pats. Anyone working remotely who values affordability without sacrificing access to cultural activities and the outdoors will find Zagreb an ideal location.
Zagreb has fast WiFi, so you won't have difficulty keeping connected there. The rent is cheap, but make sure not to use Airbnb, as it’s more expensive than the local providers.
In case of medical emergencies while abroad, it is recommended to get health insurance in advance. In case of medical emergencies while abroad, it is recommended to get health insurance in advance from out-of-pocket maximum vs deductible. Plus, most people understand English, but if you can learn some Croatian phrases, it would help immensely.
Zagreb is home to a wide range of attractions, from world-class museums and historical sites to delectable dining and lively nightlife.
Croatia has a well-connected public transportation system, and tourists can even use buses to get to nearby towns and cities. If you're looking for even more flexibility, consider using a bike-share program.
For a variety of reasons, this city in southern Spain is considered one of Europe's best for digital nomads. The locals are pleasant and cheery, so the atmosphere is always wonderful. In addition to its low cost of living, this city also offers its residents a wealth of enjoyable post-work activities. The fantastic climate is another major plus.
Krakow, which has been inhabited continuously since the 7th century and is now a major intellectual and cultural center, is also one of Poland's most significant economic centers. Krakow is a great place to do some remote work since it caters to both cultural vultures and party animals.
The Internet is really fast in Krakow, so you won’t have any connectivity issues.
In comparison to other major European cities, Krakow's monthly cost of living is cheap, and it's often considered to be one of the most affordable places to live. The weather in Krakow is pleasant throughout the year, though winters can be quite cold.
One of the most ideal European cities for remote workers is Slovenia's capital, Ljubljana.
Ljubljana has a coffee culture that rivals any in the world. The city is cheap since it is somewhat off the usual route and has a green area that accounts for over 75% of the metropolitan area. Therefore, if you’re looking for a cozy little city to live, which is both/affordable and picturesque, Ljubljana should be on your radar.
If you're like most people out there who love spending time outdoors camping. It's a great way to run away from the usual hustle and bustle and enjoy the peace and quiet space. But what if there was an easy way to make your camping trips extra fun? You can do so by adding solar-powered devices to your gear, as you don't want to be stuck without power in the middle of the woods. To help you get started, here are six must-have solar-powered devices for your next camping trip.
When you're out in the wilderness, away from any power source, it's crucial to have the means to keep your devices charged. That's where a solar-powered charging station comes in handy. This charger relies on solar panels to convert sunlight into electrical energy, which you can then use to charge your devices. Unlike traditional chargers, solar-powered chargers don't rely on a power outlet, making them an excellent option for camping trips or other situations when you don’t have access to an outlet.
Solar-powered charging stations come in various sizes, so you can choose one that's right for your needs. When shopping for lightweight portable power stations, look for models with multiple USB ports that can charge larger devices, such as laptops. The market is flooded with options, so do your research and choose one that's high-quality and reliable.
Traditional flashlights might be inconvenient because of the constant requirement for batteries or charging. Solar-powered flashlights and lanterns address this issue by charging their internal batteries with solar panels. These devices are ideal for camping because they don't require extra parts (such as batteries) and can easily be charged during the day in preparation for nighttime use. Another benefit of solar-powered lights is that they often have multiple settings, such as low, medium, high, and even strobe or SOS signals in an emergency. As a result, they not only eliminate the need for spare batteries but also provide versatility in their operation.
There are plenty of exciting activities to engage in during the day while camping, but what about keeping your food and drinks cool during the hot summer months? Remember, electricity isn't always available when you're out in the woods. That's where a solar-powered cooler comes into play. These coolers use solar panels to power cooling fans, keeping your food and drinks nice and chilled without electricity. Some models even have the option to charge devices, making them a versatile addition to your camping essentials. So, next time you go on a camping trip, consider bringing along a solar cooler to keep all your snacks and beverages chilled.
After a day of hiking or fishing under the scorching sun, nothing feels better than a warm shower. Unfortunately, many camp settings do not have access to hot water. But with a solar shower, you can efficiently heat water and enjoy a refreshing bath outdoors. Just hang the bag in direct sunlight for some time, and voila! You have yourself a hot shower without using any gas or electricity. These bags are also great for washing off sandy feet or dirty dishes.
They say that good music is food for the soul. Now that you're camping, does the lack of electricity mean you can no longer listen to music? Not anymore! With solar-powered portable speakers, you can have jam sessions in the great outdoors. These devices usually come equipped with a solar panel on top to charge the battery, and some options even have Bluetooth capability for wireless music streaming. The portability feature makes it easy to bring along on hikes or beach trips.
If you're an avid camper, you know that one of the essentials is to have gear that allows you to prepare healthy meals. After all, when you're out in the wilderness, you need all the energy you can get. One piece of gear that every camper should purchase is a solar oven or cooker. Solar cookers use the sun's power to cook food and are a great way to make healthy meals. With a solar cooker, you can bake, boil, or fry foods without fuel. Plus, solar cookers are environmentally friendly and easy to use. So, if you’re looking for ways to make healthy meals while camping, pack your solar cooker with you.
Camping doesn't have to be a hassle when powering your devices. These six solar-powered products, from lights to charging stations, make outdoor adventures a breeze and environmentally friendly. So next time you plan your camping trip, add these items to your gear list. Happy camping!
Over the years, the number of people who have gone hiking has grown. Maybe it’s the feeling of exhaustion people get after being isolated for a long time, or maybe it’s just a desire to try something new.
In 2020, about 57.81 million people in the United States participated in hiking. That’s a 14% increase from the previous year and a 56% increase from 10 years ago. Nevertheless, hiking and backpacking are becoming increasingly popular because of the health benefits they give.
One can become more physically fit as these activities help build muscles and promote bone density. They can also strengthen one’s cardiovascular and respiratory systems. More than improving physical well-being, hiking, and backpacking are excellent for one’s mental health.
Communing with nature gives a person a sense of connection and purpose. It can help boost one’s mood, reduce stress, improve sleep, and inspire creativity. To help you begin your hiking and backpacking plans, here’s a list of essentials to pack you didn’t know you needed:
Maybe you’re feeling so stressed with life’s responsibilities that you forget to connect with your inner core or spirituality. While in the quietness of the woods, you can peacefully write down your plans.
You can also create a list of all the things you’d like to accomplish in the coming years. In addition, you can write down the things that bother you and make you anxious. This way, you can pour your thoughts down on paper and what your heart feels without any distractions.
Bring a journal and your trusted mechanical pencil with you the next time you go hiking to start your journey toward self-reflection and self-healing.
At night, a more sustainable option than lighting a fire is to bring a solar light that you can recharge during the day when the sun is bright. This is also great for overcast days you didn’t anticipate. The woods can be very dark even during daytime under the heavy canopy of trees. In addition, a solar light can be a helpful accessory that adds an extra layer of protection whenever you’re hiking.
It would be best if you had your devices up and running, especially for emergencies. It would help if you had a solar charger so your devices won’t run out of juice. A charger that doesn’t need electricity but uses the heat of the sun to store power is something ingenious and a lifesaver for many hikers and campers.
A compact mattress you can inflate when you’re ready to sleep at night would be a great camping companion. Having an inflatable mattress that’s the size of a 20 oz bottle when not in use and a pump that you can pack inside your bag offers convenience for hikers. It can also give you the most comfortable sleep under the starry night skies.
Glow-in-the-dark ropes have many uses. They illuminate the path at night, so campers don’t trip and injure themselves. Moreover, if someone gets lost in the woods at night, these ropes make it easier to find and track them.
Meanwhile, glow-in-the-dark ropes were initially created for the marines and other hazardous industries. Over time, they made their way into the essential gears of many hiking and camping enthusiasts. Significantly, this tool potentially increases the safety of those who camp in the woods.
Coffee on a wonderful dewy morning? To say that coffee is a must for campers is an understatement. Hikers and campers need their morning fuel for their breakfast and to pump some energy into their bloodstreams. A portable French press can provide an excellent cup of coffee to wake sleepy campers with its earthy aroma and bold flavors.
Just bring your ground coffee beans and pour some hot water into your French press. Wait for four minutes to finish the brew, and you’ll be up and about in no time.
Getting away momentarily and spending some time in nature can do wonders for your mental and emotional well-being. However, don’t forget to bring the essential things that can make your activity more worthwhile and meaningful.
Hiking can do wonders for your overall health. Once you’ve returned, you’ll be able to express more of who you are to others you meet. Meanwhile, if it takes some quiet time to get your thoughts together, take advantage of the time you’ll be saving for yourself.
Whether you’re moving for work or leisure, transporting your car overseas takes a lot of planning. Shipping your car overseas can take anywhere between 30 to 40 days on average. The destination you’re moving to and the shipping method you choose are the primary factors to consider.
You can either book a shipping container solo for the transit or share a container with other vehicles traveling to the same destination. Both methods affect the timeline for an international move. This is because auto transport companies often wait for the containers to fill up first.
Additionally, car shipping requires you to put together essential documents, such as:
Here’s everything you need to know about how auto transport companies provide international shipping. The following article will help you estimate how much time it takes to transport a car overseas.
Shipping your car via airplane is the fastest way to transport a vehicle. You can send your vehicle straight to its destination by shipping it on a cargo plane.
Car owners looking for convenience prefer air transit because it ensures their vehicles receive the highest level of care. But air cargo is also not the most eco-friendly option either, releasing carbon dioxide ten times more than ships or trucks. As a response to such environmental concerns, many aviation companies are looking for alternative, sustainable options for air travel. This plan includes using sustainable air-fuel and aircraft design to improve efficiency during travel.
When calculating the cost of air travel, moving your car from one state to the other in the U.S. is cheaper compared to international shipping. You can request the auto transport agency to send you a quote and a list of services they’re willing to offer. Once you know the cost, you can compare it with other auto shipping companies in your area.
Another option you can consider is shipping the car by sea. This method is cheaper but slower compared to air freight. This type of auto shipping depends on the selected route. For instance, if you were shipping your car from the U.S. to New Zealand, the approximate time would be around 45 to 60 days.
For the most accurate assessment, you should connect with the auto transport company. When opting for international sea freight, decide on the method of transportation.
Referred to as “car carriers”, this form of shipping focuses on automobile transport. It is one of the cheapest ways to move your car overseas. The vessel contains ramps or inclined to cut cargo damage during loading and unloading. The design of the vessel is for carrying wheeled cargoes (from two to four-wheelers) of every weight and size.
This form of shipping loads your vehicle into an enclosed container. Whether you’re shipping a single vehicle or many, container-carrying vessels are safe, reliable, and all the more convenient. This type of shipping allows you to pack your car with personal items and get those shipped alongside your vehicle.
For instance, a standard 20-foot container can accommodate one or two mid-sized vehicles. Shipping charges in this case are higher compared to roll-on and roll-off shipping. With the car secured in a container, it remains safe against debris, bad weather, and other logistical issues that can arise during a long haul.
International vehicle transport requires you to plan and fix a budget first. Sometimes, the cost of transporting your vehicle can amount to the same as the cost of buying a new car. If not, the basic factors that affect the shipping price are:
Depending on the destination, your auto transport agency will first map out the most convenient route for shipping. They will oversee the handling and crunching of the overheads of logistical processes.
In the end, choose the method that benefits your time and budget. As a recommendation, using container shipping is the best way to ship your vehicle overseas since it’s fast, safe, and completely reliable.
What is it like living on a sailboat during a global pandemic? This is never a question I never thought I would be able to answer until the year 2020 came, and everything changed. Outside Watch, is the story of Jennifer(my wife) and I, going from being two airline pilots to full-time sailors. We no longer spend most of our time at FL410, but instead at sea level.
We will spend this new, scary, and exciting chapter of our lives exploring the world by sea. I have been making videos for several years and want to document our journey by video as we take on this new challenge. My wife and I also have a website with a blog and cruising guide.
If you enjoy our vlog and blog and are planning to visit any of the locations we have been to or want some wanderlust, you can see where we anchored, provisioned, wined, and dined. This is going to be a work in progress as we visit more locations.
Outside Watch episode #1 shows how our lives changed so rapidly and how now our days are filled with sailing, swimming, drinking, diving, dining, and boat work. We completed a few upgrades on Skylark including solar panels and davits, celebrated our 8th wedding anniversary with a ‘fancy Italian’ onboard theme night and discovered some of the clearest water we have experienced in Thailand!
Want to know more about Chris and Jen and their adventures? Read more in our interview below and connect with them on their Youtube channel or blog.
Jennifer and I are 30 and 28 respectively, so we didn’t think we would have such an opportunity thrown at us so young. We have been so focused on growing an airline career since we began flying lessons at 15 and flying for airlines at 18. Along with flying, traveling is our number one passion, and we traveled all around the world, jet-setting to nearly 100 countries and all seven continents. Together we challenged ourselves to climb mountains, paraglide, scuba dive, and charter sailboats in exotic locations.
The excitement of the fast-paced lifestyle and splitting ourselves between multiple hobbies and countries began to taper off. We craved a new challenge. We decided a sailboat would offer a new style of travel that appealed to us in so many ways. With our own sailboat, we would be able to visit places inaccessible during short charters and force us to slow down our travel pace. We would also learn many new skills along the way and grow through the experiences. After a few years of dreaming, saving, and searching for the ideal boat for us, we purchased Skylark.
When we bought Skylark in October 2019, we were First Officers on the Boeing 787. We were planning to commute to Skylark and travel around the world on our days off, leaving her at marinas while we worked. Then Covid-19 happened. Our plans for sailing part-time while working quickly turned into 100% sailing and 0% working.
We have found all of these travel restrictions to make travel more difficult but not impossible. We have had to change our plans many times to comply with the restrictions, but are looking forward to the excitement of cruising which includes visiting new places, meeting new friends, and living in the moment. Let’s go!
The digital age is an age of convenience and this is quite true of international money transfers as well. Gone are the days when you needed to physically visit a bank to make a transfer. These days you can do it online from right where you are, be it over the internet or using your smartphone.
There are several advantages that money transfer companies can offer over traditional banks. In this article, we’ll take a look at how travelers and digital nomads can benefit from using modern transfer companies:
Online international money transfer companies like Transferwise can leverage the live exchange rate when compared with banks that use traditional methods. They can use a variety of tools that can pre-decide the minimum and maximum exchange rate and allow one to go for a preferred rate rather than accept what is offered. You are thus insured against exchange rate fluctuation to quite an extent.
Unlike banks, online money transfer companies like WorldRemit don’t surprise their customers with hidden fees, the way that banks do. WorldRemit fees for making an international money transfer, for example, will be typically lower than a bank.
Money transfer companies typically provide a far wider choice of currency pairs than banks. That means you can easily transfer money in the currency of your choice to the destination of your choice. That frees up people to transfer money wherever they want without having to follow any convoluted exchange mechanism.
Unlike banks you can transfer money 24×7 by way of an online transfer, providing you with not only tremendous flexibility, but also leverage with regard to the exchange rates. That gives you a lot more control over your international money transfers than you would get with a bank.
Online international money transfers can be easily tracked. The status of your transaction is visible to you right through all the stages. The online international transfer facility is available round the clock enabling you to transfer when you want, yet know exactly what the status of your transaction is.
The customer service offered by international money transfer providers is way better than what banks have to offer. This is because they use modern technology to keep themselves up to date with what their customers want. These companies have committed teams to address all issues solely dedicated to transferring money online. They can be easily reached over the phone, live messenger or email.
This is an altogether different experience from what banks offer with their confusing and rule-bound approach to customer service. Given a choice, anybody would like to deal with people who are fair, transparent and approachable as most online international money transfer companies are.
With the world digitizing and the financial technology sector leading the charge, online money transfer has already become the norm, rather than the exception. The digitally connected world is a world of efficiency, speed, and lower costs. With technology advancing at an exponential rate the speed, convenience and safety of international money transfers will be improving while the cost of the transfers will continually fall.
The great thing about digital technology is that it is not impacted by the weather, epidemics, or any kind of exigency. Besides, it allows travelers and digital nomads to fulfill their transactional needs at any point, in any timezone. The ability to make money transfers via your smartphone is a wonderful example of what technology can achieve.
Travelers around the globe can take advantage of modern transfer services in various ways. Using online providers will drastically reduce the costs, and lower the transfer times and any receiver can obtain their money using a smartphone, reducing the need of finding a bank in an unknown location. Alternatively, digital nomads exploring the world but keeping their businesses running can fulfill their business needs at any time in any timezone. Many providers offer business transactions to facilitate any business needs.
There are several outstanding global online money transfer companies that one can choose from. These include brands like TransferWise, WorldRemit, TransferGo, Azimo, CurrencyFair, Money Gram, InstaReM, PayPal, Zoom, OFX and many many more. If you are someone who needs to frequently transfer money internationally, you are spoiled for choice, when it comes to some outstanding companies lining up to serve you. It makes eminent sense for you to make the most of it.
Wagner and Liany Nogueira are a Brazilian couple who moved halfway across the world to live in Bhutan! Both of them are well educated with Wagner holding a Ph.D. in Meteorology and Liany working as a pharmacist.
Since the second half of 2017, they gave up their jobs in Brazil to start a new life in Bhutan. They’ve been living there for over 8 months and plan to remain for the next 5 years.
Wagner became a school teacher and Liany became a tour assistant in the land of the thunder dragon. They have started to travel around Bhutan and begun exploring the many great things Bhutan has to offer. Funnily enough, they are one of the very few foreigners who can really call Bhutan their permanent home.
Want to know more about Wagner & Liany and their adventures? Read more in our interview below and connect with them on their Facebook page or blog Mochilão a Dois.
BT: You left everything to live in Bhutan, which we think is awesome! Why Bhutan? What attracted you there?
Wagner & Liany: With the surge of social media, it is becoming very difficult to find some mystery in the world. Bhutan is one of the places left where places remain untouched and unvisited up to this day. It made our life very difficult, but in retrospect, it was really nice to be unable to find a lot of information about the country in order to make our decision. We came to a country not knowing much about it, apart from that it is very closed off from the outside world, we would live in the Himalayas and I would be a teacher. Everything else, we discovered when we arrived. What attracted me to Bhutan the most was just how difficult it is to come here. It is a very expensive country to visit, they are still very reluctant to hire Westerners to work here, as we might interfere with the local culture a little too much. If you have been given the opportunity to come to one of the most remote places on Earth, the difficult thing is not to say yes, but to say no!
BT: Bhutan is a relatively remote destination, off the beaten path, if you will. Why do you think our backpacking community should be giving it a look when planning their next trip?
Wagner & Liany: Bhutan is, indeed, a place off the beaten track. It receives around 150 thousand tourists per year, which helps keep the country’s wilderness unexplored and pristine. Nevertheless, this is changing very fast. It is like a trip to Cuba. If you went to Cuba 10 years ago, you’d see an unexplored country, still very much set in its ways. If you travel to Cuba now, seeing how often it is appearing in social media, it is losing its charm to make way for uncontrolled tourism, as friends have shared with me.
In order to maintain its identity and attempt to keep the country as wild as possible, it is expensive to come here. The country charges a daily fee of US$250 per day (US$200 off-season), from which US$63 goes directly to the maintenance of national parks and reforestation. This fee covers everything: 3-star accommodation, food, driver, and a guide (the guide is non-negotiable).
Our backpacking community should be looking into coming to Bhutan because its “wildness” will not last much longer. In the next 10 years, you will not see the real Bhutan anymore, unfortunately. Come, and come soon! The investment is big, but the rewards are huge!
BT: What did you find the most challenging about moving your life to a new country? Any tips for dealing with challenges, for those backpackers also looking to make a major move?
Wagner & Liany: Bhutan is the fourth country I [Wagner] have lived in. I have lived in Brazil, Ireland, and England in the past.
Moving is never easy. Saying “bye” at the airport, either if you are leaving or someone is leaving, is never easy. Making a big move has many rewards, but it has many drawbacks too. The most important thing is to be aware and mindful that it will not be easy. It will be difficult as hell, particularly in the beginning and, the older you are, the more difficult it is. You will miss friends’ weddings, family funerals, the birth of new family members, graduations, etc, but you will also gain fantastic new friends, acquire a new language, experience different cultures, explore the country and its surroundings, and have many wonderful unexpected experiences.
One example: I teach students who are not financially privileged. They could not buy you a gift for a special occasion, or just to make you feel better. I build a greenhouse outside my wooden shack so that I could have some food that does not grow at 3200m above sea level.
Not too long ago, my uncle passed away in Brazil and, as you can imagine, we were unable to attend his funeral. I did not attend work for a couple of days. Knowing about this, some of my students turned up at my house with bags of soil that they dug themselves so that it would help me with my greenhouse. They walked 1km to my house with bags of soil on their backs, so that it would make me feel better. Guess what? It did! You will become a collection of stories like this when you get out of your comfort zone and throw yourself into the world.
Does it outweigh everything you’ll miss? It depends on who you are! Will you regret it? Perhaps! But from my experiences, it is better to regret having done something than wonder for the rest of your life what could have been. This becomes much easier when you have an understanding and supportive partner.
BT: What have you learned about each other from this move? Any thoughts on the positive and not-so-positive sides of traveling with a partner?
Wagner & Liany: The dynamics of a relationship changes after you get married. We were in a long-distance relationship for some time. After we married, soon after we moved to Bhutan. Interference from family is drastically diminished, so we have to rely on each other for everything. We spend a lot of time together and we have to learn to live in a very small space. There is no place in our house where we do not see each other or hear each other. We are as isolated as the age of information allows us to be. This has been a fantastic experience, as we have to learn and adapt very quickly to our “common way”.
We have traveled by ourselves in the past. I [Wagner] have visited 47 countries. Most of my trips were done on my own, mostly around Europe and South America. Liany has also traveled by herself. The most positive thing is to know that it is not because we are married that our solo traveler's life is dead. This would not work for us. Our holidays do not coincide all the time, so we have the freedom to explore the world on our own, should we need to. This has not happened a lot lately, but we have very similar travel styles. We like to camp, and hike, we mostly stay in shared dorms in hostels and we have no problem with it. It is difficult to find a travel companion with almost exact similar tastes as you, but we are as close as it gets.
Traveling with a partner, in our case, barely changed the dynamics from our solo backpacker days. Another positive is that we can share the responsibilities of planning our trips, but Liany usually does a lot more, I must confess. The not-so-positive is that, as well as our tastes, match, they do not always do.
Compromises have to be made as for destinations, which volcanoes to hike up, our top destinations do not always match. As we are living in Bhutan, that reduces our options and so, we decided to explore Asian countries during our time here. We always plan 2-3 different destinations, budget, weigh the pros and cons of each place and come to an agreement. None of us get exactly what we want, but we are always happy with the final decision. While traveling, sometimes when one wants to rest, the other does not, when one wants to hire a bike, the other wants to walk. Partners are not always in sync, but that is a fact of life, and we have to deal with it as well as we can.
