Tripper App Review – Travel App of the Month April 2014

Posted on April 24, 2014 by worldwideinsure

Tripper App Review – Travel App of the Month April 2014

As much as we love technology, we can’t help but feel that sometimes what we really need is a holiday helper – a real person we can pop in our pocket and pull out when we get in a muddle.

Well, guess what… this concept really exists! Meet Tripper, the app that provides you with live help at the push of a button!

Tripper App

Tripper App Highlights

If you’re travelling to China or Japan on your holidays, Tripper is the must-have accessory for your trip.  Tripper connects you instantly to a live English-speaking personal assistant on the end of the phone who can coach you on issues related to interpretation and translation.

  • Tripper services are available 24/7
  • No pre-planning required
  • Tripper app connects predominantly via 3G and Wi-Fi
  • There are no hidden costs to incur

 

Ultimately, Tripper saves you a lot of stress, confusion, and embarrassment!

 

As well as the use of these fantastic services, there are added benefits to the Tripper app too! Tripper’s super-smart team of translators are also provided with all the best local knowledge and up-to-date information about (amongst many things):

  • Transportation
  • Emergencies
  • Entertainment
  • Food
  • Best local hotel deals

The in-app internet connection also allows for the exchange of photos and GPS to and from Tripper, making information easier to access and share.

Tripper App Travel Assistance

Free Help 24/7! What’s Not To Love About Tripper?

Not all of us can entertain the luxury of a personal assistant abroad, so the introduction of Tripper has been revolutionary! Tripper is the essential app item to have on-hand when you’re travelling through China or Japan, because nothing is more daunting than being in a foreign country and having to cope with an unexpected situation without knowing the language.

Free, accessible help and advice in seconds – what’s not to love? Try Tripper for yourself and relieve yourself of the language and location stress a holiday often brings. Happy travels!

Download for Android and Apple at http://www.trip-per.com

 

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Travel Advice For Volunteers Abroad

Posted on April 17, 2014 by worldwideinsure

Travel Advice For Volunteers Abroad

For some of us, a holiday is a treat that we can’t always justify, but luckily there’s a solution to the moral dilemma of sunning it abroad – volunteering! Offering your help to those in another country is a fantastic way to explore new places, experience a different way of life, and give a helping hand to those a little less fortunate than yourself. If you’re thinking of taking a volunteering trip, here are some handy bits of advice to get you on your way.

Make sure you’re immunised


Wherever it is you’re looking to jet off to, you’ll need to make sure you have ample protection against any diseases that might be catchable while you’re there. Check out our comprehensive guide to getting yourself vaccinated.

Check your locations


It’s important to be as clued-up as possible when it comes to travelling, so be sure to check the conditions of where you’re staying. Depending on the weather, you’ll want to pack a certain selection of clothing to suit, and you might want to check variables such as the terrain and the daylight hours to figure out what sort of footwear would be appropriate, and whether you’ll need to bring additional items such as a visor or a torch, depending on when you’re working.

Consider your role


Are you volunteering as a teacher? Building houses in the jungle? Rescuing sea animals? Think about what you’re doing and what you’ll need – most likely, some comfortable clothing that you don’t mind getting ruined! Remember to make sure all of your shoes are broken in, you have plenty of plasters and the like, and don’t bother packing your nail varnish!

Be prepared


You’ll need to keep a savvy head when working abroad, so make sure you’re organised. Bring a plastic wallet or something similar to store your documents in a safe, dry place, and make sure you have all of the phone numbers and information you could need when you’re away. If you’re planning on using your phone, contact your provider to arrange a suitable plan that will cover the costs of your calls and texts back home.

Don’t put yourself at risk


Taking your time to volunteer is a good deed, and you don’t have to feel pressured into doing anything you aren’t comfortable with. Make sure you keep yourself clean and address any wounds in a proper manner, be mindful of the food and drink you’re consuming, and feel free to say NO to anything you think puts you in danger. If you’ve taken all of the precautionary steps prior to travelling, and follow your head when you’re away, you shouldn’t have any problems – but it’s a good idea to take out some travel insurance to cover any costs that come from the unexpected.

From all of us here at Worldwide Insure, we wish you a happy and safe trip!

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20 Essential Travel Tips You Need To Know

Posted on April 10, 2014 by worldwideinsure

There is an art to travelling well, and it can take a lifetime to learn all the tips and tricks that make traversing this planet a little easier. To help you out, we have gathered together the top 20 tips that will make travelling a total cinch.

 

1. Don’t fold your clothes, roll them – this prevents creasing and it also means you can fit more in because you pack more tightly.

2. Hide some cash – an empty lip balm stick is a great place as it is unlikely to be stolen should you get mugged.

3. Pick up maps as soon as you arrive at the airport or station – free maps are available at most terminals and stations – pick them up while you can , you’ll need them later!

Lost in Times Square by Kevin Dooley

Lost in Times Square by Kevin Dooley

4. Scan and email important documents – having electronic copies of passports, travel insurance documents, tickets and travel plans in your inbox will make life a lot easier if you lose the originals.

5. Learn language basics – “yes”, “no”, “hello”, “goodbye”, “please” and “thank you”, little words that will get you a long way when you are abroad – it pays to be polite wherever you go.

6. Pack a needle and thread – with limited belongings, it is good to be able to mend a wardrobe malfunction.

7. Tell your bank you are going away – sometimes banks will block a UK card if it is being used abroad in case it has been stolen. Not very helpful if it hasn’t and you are trying to pay for food, transport or accommodation!

8. Wear warm socks on the plane – cosy toes make it easier to sleep, and air con on aeroplanes means that cold tootsies are guaranteed.

9. Pack plastic bags for dirty clothes – this will keep your clean clothes fresher for longer, and make unpacking easier.

10. Take hand sanitizer and baby wipes – this will mean that you can keep clean if you find that you are delayed on your journey in a place that has questionable facilities.

11. Call your phone network provider before you leave – you may want to make sure you can call and text abroad, you’ll also want to know how much that might cost. Beware of roaming data use – this can cost more than a holiday itself if you aren’t careful!

12. Take tissues – works wonders for a snotty nose, but ultra useful should you find you are sans toilet roll.

13. Pack ear plugs and an eye mask – you will be grateful if you need to squeeze in some sleep after delays or during a long journey on public transport.

14. Get travel insurance even if you are only travelling within the EU – relying on your European Health Insurance Card is not enough, find out why you really need travel insurance in EU countries, then to go to the best place on the planet to get travel insurance (from us of course!).

15. Pack spares in your hand luggage – make sure you have essential toiletries and a change of clothes, if your luggage gets lost you will be most glad.

16. Take a first aid kit – painkillers, tummy settlers, plasters and antiseptic, whatever you know you might need to help you feel better if you get ill, or keep you in one piece until you find medical help.

17. Think about safe sex and sanitary needs – some countries don’t sell tampons, so ladies, pack some just in case; and it should go without saying that condoms should be a firm fixture in your wash bag whether you intend on indulging in carnal delights or not.

18. Avoid jetlag – stay awake until it gets dark on the first day. Your body clock will adjust better if you are out in the daylight when you arrive, and you avoid taking a nap during the first day.

19. Brush up on local laws and etiquette before you leave – with the world wide web at your disposal there is no excuse for not knowing the local laws and customs of where you are going. Ignorance could end up costing you a lot if you don’t!

Laying down the law of the land by Kristina D.C. Hoeppner

Laying down the law of the land by Kristina D.C. Hoeppner

20. Check your passport a few weeks before you travel – there is nothing worse than finding out the day before you travel that your passport has expired. Believe me, I know!

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Easter Holiday Ideas for Sun Seekers

Posted on April 3, 2014 by worldwideinsure

Easter Holiday Ideas for Sun Seekers

The weather may be warm in the UK right now, but if you are a dedicated sun seeker, you might be in search of warmer climates over the Easter break – especially as the British Bank Holiday has a reputation unto itself! If you were wondering where in the world it might be hot and sunny in April, this is the definitive list of desirable destinations!

Europe

Head south! With temperatures in the low 20s and as much as 6 hours of daylight to squeeze in sunbathing, water sports or whatever else takes your fancy – southern Europe is an excellent idea at this time of year.

Spain – We recently wrote about a city break to Barcelona. Located on the south coast of Spain, you can expect plenty of sun and fun rolled into one.

Malta – Great if you want to squeeze in some sightseeing as well as soak up some sun. There is also a growing trend for tourists taking medical holidays here.

Ggantija temples gozo

Malta temples – Ggantija temples gozo by Ronny Siegel

 

 

 

 

 

Sardinia – Beat the crowds by visiting this gorgeous island off the coast of Italy now. In the summer months it is packed to the rafters with tourists.

Middle East

This part of the world is unbearably hot in the summer, and often dogged by unpleasant weather in the winter. That means that springtime is the perfect time to travel to the Middle East. Expect temperatures to be in the high 20s to early 30s and the days to be as long as 13 hours.

Turkey – Antalya is the best place to be at this time of the year. Lots of sun, long days, plenty of beach and a great deal of culture too.

Egypt – Take in the sights at Giza, head for a city break in Cairo or make your way to the Red Sea where you can surf, scuba dive and sunbathe, and stay in dedicated resorts.

Morocco – Marrakech is hot, exotic and luxurious. Spas, shopping and golf excursions curiously mix with the tradition and fantasy of Arabian life.

 

Essaouira by Patrick Nouhailler

Essaouira by Patrick Nouhailler

Caribbean

A perfect part of the planet which is at its best in the springtime. Temperatures are a balmy average of 31 degrees and there are around 12 hours of daylight to spend lapping up the luxury of a Caribbean break at these top destinations.

Jamaica – Great food, stunning scenery and of course the home of a laid back vibe. If you are fond of outdoor activities Jamaica also offers a selection of fun things to do such as hiking, snorkelling, kite surfing, scuba diving and horse riding.

Dunn Falls Jamaica

Dunn Falls Jamaica by Ricardo Mangual

Barbados – The dream sunshine break? Sun, sand, sea and a reggae soundtrack. Barbados is a great place to party at night and kick back and relax during the day.

Tobago – This is the ultimate beach retreat. There is no place better on the planet to feel the stress melt away while you sit on a beach with a cold cocktail in hand.

 

This is a fab list of favourite destinations, but a word of warning if you are heading to any of them over the Easter holidays – Don’t take your Easter eggs – they WILL melt!

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Tipping Bird – Travel App of the Month

Posted on March 27, 2014 by worldwideinsure

Tipping Bird – Travel App of the Month March 2014!

What if one simple app could save you all of the embarrassment in the world? Well – good news, it can! Okay, it might not stop you tripping over in front of you partner’s parents, but it will at least advise you on how to politely tip the service at different locations around the globe.

Meet Tipping Bird – your restaurant companion from here on in.

So What Does Tipping Bird Do?

This crafty accompaniment to your app collection handily helps you add a gratuity of an acceptable amount depending on what country you’re dining in. We know what you’re thinking – isn’t a 10% tip pretty customary? Nope!

In the USA the average tip is around 19%, in the Dominican Republic you’ll be disgraced if you don’t put down 10%, 6% will suffice in Norway, and for the generous folk of Iceland, a tip is not necessary at all. In fact, in many locations worldwide, incorrect tipping is a topic that leads to great tension and offence.  Thankfully Tipping Bird is here to guide you on what percentage of the bill is the right amount to put down.

One small piece of advice – check your bill to see if a gratuity is already included in the expected payment. Overpaying can be just as offensive in some cultures as underpaying.

Additional Features

As well as sparing you red-cheeks-aplenty in restaurant situations, this app also handily covers the etiquette of taxis, bars, hotel maids and porters, and even organised tours.

Tipping Bird Reviews

Most reviews give it a full five stars, stating that it has accurate and up-to-date information that is helpful in an array of locations and situations. Some users, however, have reported that it’s a little buggy, and it doesn’t include every country on the map so make sure it’s relevant to your travels before installing.

WARNING: ANDROID ONLY!

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.jeremydw.tippingbird 

 

C:\Users\victoria.spall\Desktop\tipping_bird_logo.png

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Dangerous Holiday Destinations – Should You Still Travel?

Posted on March 20, 2014 by worldwideinsure

Dangerous Destinations – Should You Stay or Should You Go Anyway?

What do you do when disaster strikes your holiday destination – change your travel plans, or go anyway? It is a sensitive question, but one that has faced far too many holidaymakers over the years.

In the event of a natural disaster, or when political turmoil is affecting a country, it makes going on holiday seems a rather frivolous affair and rather less important in the grand scheme of things than it was at first. As such, you might find yourself wondering if it is still right to take that yearned-for vacation.

gaza 01 – by stitchingkifal

If you are facing a moral dilemma like this at the moment – here are 5 questions you should ask yourself before you make your mind up.

Personal Safety

This is a number one priority and it might seem like a bit of a no-brainer, but is it safe enough? The best way to find out is to view the official Government site on travel advice. This gives a clear outline of what the dangers are, where they are and whether you should be reconsidering your travel plans. Bear in in mind that travel warnings related to personal safety can affect your travel insurance, so be sure to check with your travel insurance provider before departure if you decide to go.

Unwelcome guests

You also need to ask yourself – will I be welcome at my destination? Some travel experts suggest turning to social media to find out if your hosts will welcome you. Is the country promoting tourism? Are travel companies offering deals? These could be signs that whatever incident has happened is well behind them and that the country is trying to improve its lot by getting tourists back! Alternatively, there may be clear social signals that tourists will not be tolerated.

A relaxing break vs. an essential trip

The reasons for your travel are also a deciding factor. Are you going on holiday for a relaxing break? If the answer is yes, but there is still tension or turmoil at your destination, then you may well prefer to postpone your holiday until another time. If your trip is not essential, your presence may be considered inappropriate.

Checking your insurance and weighing up the options

Finally, you should check what your travel insurance covers. If you decide not to travel, can you get your money back? Although the decision whether to travel or not may be a moral one, you might find that in the face of losing a hefty chunk of savings, you’ll risk the journey anyway. Do make sure with your insurance provider that you will still be covered – but better still, make sure that you choose travel insurance that will protect you in the event of a disaster at your destination.

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Immunisation Advice For First Time Travellers

Posted on March 13, 2014 by worldwideinsure

If you are about to embark on your first holiday of a lifetime, you’ll probably be wrapped up in the excitement (and nerves!) that travelling brings – there’s so much to look forward to! But, despite the adventurous buzz, it is essential that you do not overlook the formalities of travelling abroad.

One of the most important things you need to do before you go away is ensure you’re safe and healthy for your travels – which means finding out if you need to get yourself immunised. To help you make sense amidst the excitement, we’ve put together some top tips for making sure you’re prepared for the journey ahead.

Do Your Research

The vaccinations that you might require differ depending on what country you’re visiting. Each location will leave you susceptible to a specific set of illnesses, so it’s very important to know what dangers are presented in each place so you can be properly immunised and avoid coming down with anything nasty. Some vaccinations are fairly standard – hepatitis, rabies, and tuberculosis, for example, are necessary in many locations. You’ll also find that some vaccinations are free on the NHS because they are considered high risk if they were to come back into the country, so you can get shots for diseases such as cholera and typhoid usually at no cost to yourself.

Think About Your Circumstances

Being prepared doesn’t just mean thinking about the country you’re going to – there are lots of variables to consider when undergoing immunisation. For example, some diseases are more common during different seasons. Also consider aspects such as your age and general health, whether you’re likely to encounter animals, and what sort of holiday you’re going for. If you’re likely to engage in aid work or enter a medical environment, you’ll probably need additional vaccines.

Time it Well

If you’re taking a lengthy trip abroad, chances are you’re going to encounter several different environments that require varying vaccinations. In short, this means lots of jabs! To avoid any unnecessary side effects – or just a very sore arm – try to spread them out.

Be Mindful of Advice

Just because someone says you don’t have to show proof of a certain vaccination, it certainly doesn’t mean you don’t need to get it. Establishments such as travel agents or embassies might tell you that you don’t need certification of a jab, but if you’ve been told you’re at risk of the disease it prevents – get it!

Secure Proof

Remember that you will be asked to show proof at the borders that you have had the appropriate vaccinations, so keep your certificates safe and available.

Be Aware of Side Effects

As with any medicine, there is always the chance that during immunisation you’ll experience some ill effects. Try to avoid getting your jabs last minute, because you won’t be able to travel if you aren’t well – and if you are worried about the effects you’re feeling, do not hesitate to seek medical advice.

Being prepared is the best way to ensure you eventually have the most fun possible on your travels, so read up, jab up, and go have a good time! Au revoir!

Even with the right immunasions in place, there is still a risk of illness when travelling abroad. Make sure you have adequate cover by contacting our travel insurance advisors.

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5 Fab Things To Do In Barcelona! Travel Guide

Posted on March 6, 2014 by worldwideinsure

5 Fab Things To Do In Barcelona!

If you fancy jetting off on a weekend city break, then Barcelona is a hot spot of culture, fun, frolics and of course fiestas! Uniting beach with the buzz of city life, you’ll find plenty of great things to do on your break. Here are our top recommendations.

 1: Find Your Feet

There is no better way to explore the vibe of Barcelona than on foot. This way you get to take in the wonderful architecture, smell the fabulous food on offer and of course breathe in the laid back atmosphere that this cosmopolitan city exudes.  If you find your feet getting a little tired, then there are plenty of places to catch the metro. Just make sure that you pick up a city map before you lose your bearings!

2. Amble Along Las Rambla

Las Rambla is a pedestrianized tree-lined avenue that runs through the old town. Stretching from Playa Catalunya down to the seafront, it is just over a kilometre long – perfect for a gentle stroll. Bear in mind that it is a place that attracts lots of tourists, which unfortunately means that pickpockets like the area too. Expect to see lots of street performers, great to watch while you stop and enjoy the food and drink at one of the many cafes and bars.

3. Go To Park Guell

Also known as Gaudi Park to tourists, Park Guell is a magnificent feat of creativity where modernist architecture mixes with the incredible décor. The park was originally intended as a private development for the wealthier residents of Barcelona – unfortunately the venture was a commercial failure. Allow a good couple of hours to explore the area. There is plenty to see without having to pay to get into the main development area – but it is well worth it if you do!

Park Guell, Barcelona

Park Guell, Barcelona Park by George M. Groutas

4. See A Bit More Gaudi at Sagrada Familia

From the top of Park Guell, you’ll be able to see the Sagrada Familia – Basilica and Expiatory Church of the Holy Family, rising out of the city like a monolith. Your next challenge is to get to it by foot to marvel at the architectural talents involved! The walk should be about half an hour, at a leisurely pace of course – but make sure you have your map. The buildings are quite imposing in the city, and believe it or not, you will soon lose sight of this towering giant! The Basilica was designed by Gaudi, and believe it or not building work started in 1882, and it is still in progress!

5. Taste The Delights of Tapas and Sangria

A trip to Spain surely isn’t complete until you have tucked into some tapas and quenched your thirst with Sangria! There are loads of places to sit and eat – indoors and outdoors, all year round. In the cooler months restaurants in the plazas bring out an army of patio heaters to make dining al fresco a pure pleasure. Your biggest struggle will be deciding where to go and eat!

Barcelona – Tapas Bar

Barcelona – Tapas Bar by Adam Wyles

Festival Fever – a short note

The Catalans love to party, and during some months you’ll find there is more than a festival a week! When you book a Barcelona break, bear in mind that festivals often mean bank holidays, and if a weekend is going to be a long one, then many people in Barcelona take most of the week off anyway. Great if you want to party, not so great if you are going for a spot of retail therapy.

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Fog of World Travel App Of The Month

Posted on February 27, 2014 by worldwideinsure

Fog of World Travel App Of The Month Feb 2014!

Travellers, Explorers, World Conquerors… an app has arrived that is sure to heighten the experience of every adventure you set out upon! Meet Fog of World, the travel companion you’ll be glad you found!

What does it do?

In short, Fog of World is a GPS system that gradually uncovers different areas of the globe as you explore them! The map is covered in a thick layer of virtual fog, and with your phone in pocket you can see in one quick sweep how much of the world you’ve explored thus far. Whether it’s for your own personal gain or because your competitive nature can’t help but compare with friends, you’ll find this app immensely satisfying.

Additional features

In addition to a map of the world displaying your path, you can also see your achievements in more detail. The app cleverly displays progress bars for each continent so you can monitor how much of each location is left to be travelled! If you’re keen to know in greater depth exactly how much of a conqueror you truly are, you can view the continents one-by-one and see the km2 that you still have left to see, plus a flag checklist of your successfully visited countries. The map also uncovers itself road by road, so if you aren’t planning any lengthy adventures you can still check out your progress locally.

If, like the rest of us, you can’t help showing off to friends and family with postcards and holiday pictures, then you’ll also love the Achievements feature! Fog of World caringly monitors your travel progress and awards badges within the app for certain milestones, such as ‘Flying Man’ once you have visited five countries, and “Europe Star” for the dedicated Europe visitor who makes a whopping ten trips.

Fog of World Reviews

There are some impressive accolades for this wonderful travel app, although some users have commented on the fact that it takes up rather a lot more battery power than desired as the GPS system runs in the background.

“We don’t remember the last time we’ve run into an app that is as interesting as Fog of World” – Kevin Smith, Business Insider.

“This Fog of World app might be the funnest app I’ve seen in a long time” – Casey Chan, Gizmodo.

“Fog of World turns moving through your city and your world into a game of exploration. Just watch your battery! 8/10” – Paula DuPont, appstorm.

http://en.fogofworld.com/

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The Cheapest Ways to Take Out Your Holiday Cash

Posted on February 20, 2014 by worldwideinsure

 

Organising holiday money is something of an after-thought for many of us, while others sort out spending money weeks in advance. But either way, you could well be paying too much to get hold of your cash. Help is at hand, however, with these top tips for side-stepping or at least reducing transaction fees.

50 Euros Going Down The Drain By Images Money

 

  • Consider a specialist credit card that does not add a percentage-based fee on to currency exchange rates. While these cards can slash your ATM fees, you should make sure you pay any funds back in full each month, thereby side-stepping high interest charges. Set up a Direct Debit to ensure this happens. Card issuers really want you to use the card in the UK where bigger ATM fees are levied – so don’t!

 

  • Beware debit cards: relying on your debit card while abroad is lazy and could cost you a great deal! High withdrawal fees, load fees, minimum charges and spending penalties all add up. Some cards are much worse than others, so check your card’s fees before you even think about using it overseas.

 

  • Consider getting a pre-paid credit card. These cards give you all the power of a real credit card but offer complete control over your cash – since it is all yours. Lower ATM fees are another plus point. In addition, you only need to load the amount you require from your current account, protecting your main funds from card-cloning/fraud. If you have a poor credit rating a pre-paid card could be ideal.

 

  • Euros for debit cards, pounds for specialist cards! Holidaying on the European mainland? When using your card in a shop, if you’re asked whether you want to pay in pounds or euros, always choose euros. Opting for pounds will trigger a bad exchange rate. However, a specialist credit card will offer a great exchange rate for GBP, so if you have one, say ‘pounds’!

 

  • Take note of ATM fees. These can vary from bank to bank, so it’s a good idea to find out which is cheapest. Some ATM networks are free, so research your destination country before you set off. For example, the Bank of Canadia in Cambodia offers free withdrawals.

 

  • Give foreign exchange offices a wide berth. These offer poor exchange rates, especially in airports. If you must use their services, you may get a better rate if you order in advance.

 

  • Buying cash with a card? Avoid using your credit card – your issuer will charge a fee. In this case, your debit card is the way to go, since such fees are prohibited with this card type.
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