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Month: September 2022

TOUR

Macau to allow package tours and e-visas from November

by Tracy J. Chu

Macau is to allow package tours and e-visas from November in a major boon for the troubled gaming industry in the special administrative region.

Macau chief executive Ho Iat-Seng announced the news at a Saturday press conference as part of a package of reforms intended to drive economic growth almost three-years since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, which has devastated the land-based gaming sector in the former Portuguese colony.

The chief executive said that he predicted that the number of daily visitors to Macau should rise to 40,000 as a result of these measures.  

While it is possible for mainland visitors to enter the city on individual exit-visas, the sanctioning of group and online visas will aim to streamline the visitation system for Chinese guests.

The city however has not yet followed Hong Kong’s lead in scrapping the mandatory seven-day hotel quarantine rules for international visitors, which remains a major impediment to recovery in international visitation numbers.  

The new rules will first apply to Guangdong, then to Zhejiang, Jiangsu, Fujian and Shanghai. Visitors from these four provinces and city represented a majority of mainland journeys before the arrival of the pandemic.

There is a designed “circuit-breaker” mechanism to the visa policy, which will automatically suspend the online visas again in the case of a new Covid-19 outbreak.   

Ho said that the topic of economic recovery in Macau has been on the central government agenda, with Chinese Communist Party (CCP) central committee member Han Zheng hosting a video conference in Beijing to discuss options for the special administrative region.

The package of policy initiatives also includes infrastructure spending, economic diversification and business support.

The new measures have been announced in the context of the ongoing public tender licence process, which has heated up in recent weeks with the

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TRAVELLING

What Are Bilt Rewards Points Worth in 2022?

by Tracy J. Chu

Insider’s experts choose the best products and services to help make smart decisions with your money (here’s how). In some cases, we receive a commission from our our partners, however, our opinions are our own. Terms apply to offers listed on this page.

Despite being a newcomer among transferable points programs, Bilt Rewards offers some of the most valuable travel rewards you can earn. These points carry high upside thanks to Bilt’s lucrative roster of transfer partners, including two hotel programs and 12 airline programs, as well as a high floor of value when you redeem for travel directly with Bilt.

Insider’s Featured Cash Back Credit Cards

Chevron icon It indicates an expandable section or menu, or sometimes previous / next navigation options.
Chevron icon It indicates an expandable section or menu, or sometimes previous / next navigation options.

Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.

$200 cash rewards bonus after spending $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months from account opening

Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases.

$200 cash back after spending $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening

5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate. 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®. 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.

$200 after spending $500 on purchases in the first three months from account opening

As a result, Bilt Rewards points have an average redemption value of 1.65 cents per point in Personal Finance Insider’s most recent valuations. Read on to learn which redemption options you

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TOUR

Classic Egypt Tour Packages Will Give You The Best Memphistour

by Tracy J. Chu

Introduction

If you’re looking for a traditional Egypt tour package that will offer you a unique and unforgettable experience, look no further than the Memphistour. This company is known for its high-quality tours and is considered one of the best in the business. With departures from Cairo and Luxor, this company provides customers with a fantastic view of ancient Egypt without leaving their comfortable hotel. Whether it’s its stunning pyramids or ancient tombs, nothing can resist being in Ancient Egypt. Whether you’re looking for a classic Egypt tour package or something more modern and innovative, there’s no doubt that a trip to Ancient Egypt is a must-do in any traveler’s repertoire.

 

How to book a classic Egypt tour package?

 

Book classic Egypt tour packages if you’re looking for a perfect way to experience ancient Egypt. These packages give you access to all the best attractions, including city tours and isolated temples. One popular method is to take time to the main historical sites. Here are some tips on how to book classic Egypt tour packages.

  • Research different tour providers to find one that suits your needs. Make sure to read reviews and compare prices.
  • Once you’ve found a tour provider, book your tour and pay in full. This will usually guarantee your spot on time.
  • Pack your bags and get ready for an adventure! A classic Egypt tour package will typically include visits to the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Temple of Hatshepsut, and the Valley of the Kings.

Some of the inclusions in a classic Egypt tour package?

 

If you’re looking for a classic Egypt tour package that will take you away on a memorable experience,

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ADVENTURE

Overlanding the Incredible Trails of Baja Sur

by Tracy J. Chu

Using our 2002 Toyota Tacoma with a 3.4-liter V-6, we embarked on a Baja overland adventure through one of the last frontiers on the North American continent. Read on for our account.  

We awoke to the cries of coyotes in the distance as the sun illuminated the eastern horizon. Rekindling the campfire and pouring a cuppa joe, we thought about our previous afternoon’s debacle deep in the Sierra La Giganta. We had followed a thin red line on the map in an attempt to locate a backway to San Ignacio but our ’02 Toyota Tacoma 4×4 ended up pointed at the dead-end of a precipitous arroyo shelf road. Cautiously retreating, our decision to travel solo was at the forefront. But this was Baja Sur, La Frontera, the land of Spanish missions and conquistadors, and what is a south-of-the-border adventure without an occasional infusion of adrenalin?

The trail from Las Barillas to La Paz is a narrow two-track above the Sea of Cortés.

Although most visitors witness the peninsula from 30,000 feet while en route to the tequila-soaked tourist hub of Cabo San Lucas, one must put tires to terra firma to experience the nuances of this magical place. We had departed San Jose del Cabo 10 days earlier in our Tacoma to search out Baja’s hidden gems, savor its culinary delights, and explore the depths of its storied chronicle. This would only be done by turning off the tarmac and taking a left, or right, on its endless backroads.

If you get away from the tourist routes it is easy to find a secluded spot to pitch your tent.

Age of Discovery

The discovery of much of the New World was well-documented, but written records of Baja California’s earliest contact with Europeans

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TRAVELLING

Oklahomans travel to Florida to assist in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian

by Tracy J. Chu

florida-assist-with-storm-aftermath/RNCQ5HVMV5B6FCECARJM4UYX24/” data-ylk=”slk:The local Red Cross” class=”link “The local Red Cross has already hit the road to go help residents in Florida impacted by Hurricane Ian.

“We’re constantly managing things like the fleet to make sure that the vehicles are in top shape ready to go. we have supply trailers that are being stocked and restocked all the time to make sure that they’re ready to get pulled out to a hurricane like this,” said Matt Trotter, Regional Communications Director for the Red Cross of Kansas and Oklahoma.

As Hurricane Ian slams into Florida, the Red Cross is working with partners there to shelter and support those impacted by the massive storm.

“We have our emergency response vehicle right here that is ready is to go down to Florida if it’s needed and that’ll be used to deliver supplies and meals to people in communities impacted by the hurricane,” Trotter said.

One Red Cross volunteer from Claremore is helping with shelter operations and is already on the road. “As hurricane Ian comes in, and local officials decide whether they need these evacuation shelters where people go to ride out the hurricane or if we need something longer term for people to stay in for a few nights,” said Trotter.

Another from southwestern Oklahoma will assist remotely by doing mapping work, to track where the storm does the most damage. Several others are on standby.

“We’re just getting ready for whatever needs to happen,” he said.

Trotter said more than two-thousand red cross workers could be in the area by the weekend.

“They’ll go at a moment’s notice to Florida,” he said.

For information on how you can help, visit redcross.org, call 800-red-cross, or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.

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VACATION

Pet-Friendly Hotels For Your Next Family Vacation

by Tracy J. Chu

Summertime is slowly wrapping up. However, families are still finding time to vacation before the warmer months conclude. If you’re a pet owner, chances are you don’t want to leave your furry friend behind. No matter where you’re traveling, you’ll probably find a few pet-friendly hotels. Specially curated with your pet in mind, these hotels provided basic amenities that cater to both you and your pet. From exclusive, pet-only suites to room service menus, pet-friendly hotels are a must when traveling with a man’s best friend.

There are many things to consider when picking a pet-friendly hotel. You should think about the individual needs of your pets, how many pets you’ll be traveling with, and which hotel charges extra for pet stays. Once you evaluate your needs, take some time to thoroughly research pet-friendly hotels in the destination to find the right fit for you. Here’s a list of some of TN’s favorite pet-friendly hotels to help you narrow down your search.

Royal Palms Resort & Spa – Phoenix

pet-friendly hotels

Photo Courtesy of the Royal Palms Resort & Spa.

If you decide to stay at the Royal Palms Resort & Spa in Phoenix, your furry friends are in for a treat. Upon arrival, dog friends are greeted with a custom dog treat just for them. They also have dog beds, bowl mats, water bottles, and bowls. Pet owners also what away with some valuable canine health and wellness information. On special holidays like National Dog Day, the resort also offers doggy pools, splash pads, and accessories for fun in the sun. 

Skyline Lodge – Highlands, North Carolina

pet-friendly hotels

Photo Courtesy of Helena Lopes.

Next time you’re visiting near Highlands, NC with your dogs, make sure to stay at Skyline Lodge. The property has unmatched hospitality when it

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TOUR

See Ireland in private chauffeur tours from Specialized Travel Services

by Tracy J. Chu

Specialized Travel Services offers luxurious, private chauffeur tours all around Ireland that you and your travel partners can customize to your liking.

Specialized Travel Services has been creating memorable Irish experiences since 1974. Now is the time to harness their decades of experience to create the Irish vacation of your dreams while maintaining the highest levels of comfort. 

Stay in five Irish castles on the 8-Day Private Chauffeur Vacation

Explore the Castles of Ireland on this luxurious 8-day tour with an itinerary that can be tailored to suit your preferences.

With this package, you can stay in five of Ireland’s most exquisite castles, including Kilkea Castle in Co. Kildare, Dromoland Castle in Co. Clare, Ashford Castle in Co. Mayo, Lough Eske Castle in Co. Donegal, and Cabra Castle in Co. Cavan.

While you will be staying in deluxe accommodation, your dedicated, private chauffeur, who will serve as your local expert throughout your visit, will guide you through some of Ireland’s most scenic spots, such as the Rock of Cashel, the Cliffs of Moher, The Burren, Galway Bay, Connemara, Killary Fjord, Mullaghmore, and Slieve League Cliffs.

History buffs can peer into Ireland’s past with stops in Kilkenny City, Bunratty Village, Westport Town, Donegal Town, and the Belleek Factory & Visitor Centre.

The Castles of Ireland 8-day private chauffeur vacation will help you discover Ireland in luxury and utmost style.

Lough Eske Castle in Co Donegal.
3Gallery

Lough Eske Castle in Co Donegal.

See the best of Ireland on the 9-Day Private Chauffeur Vacation

Discover Ireland in all its shades of green and glory on this 9-day adventure. This package is a perfect introduction to the very best of Ireland and some of its main highlights.

Included in this tour is deluxe hotel accommodation in Kilkenny City, Cork City, Killarney, Galway City, and Dublin City

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ADVENTURE

I went bungee jumping in the adventure capital of the world. Here are 7 mistakes I made.

by Tracy J. Chu

  • In June, I went bungee jumping in the adventure capital of the world: Queenstown, New Zealand.

  • The adrenaline rush was indescribable and worth every penny, but I did make a few mistakes.

  • I shouldn’t have had a big breakfast before my jump and next time I’ll remember to take Advil beforehand.

From skiing to skydiving, Queenstown, New Zealand, is known as the adventure capital of the world — and I experienced its thrill firsthand when I visited the city in June.

I waited in a floating platform for my turn to jump.

I waited in a floating platform for my turn to jump.Monica Humphries/Insider

Queenstown, New Zealand, is filled with adventure. The city’s visitors can choose from countless adrenaline-inducing activities ranging from skydiving to heli-skiing to paragliding, and it’s been named the adventure capital of the world by outlets like National Geographic and Conde Nasté Traveler.

With just three nights to explore the city, the pressure was high to find something thrilling.

And after scouring experiences, I landed on bungee jumping. I figured the activity would spark both fear and excitement, and I hoped it would push my limits to the test.

In search of an adrenaline rush, I decided to do the highest bungee jump in New Zealand — the Nevis Bungy Jump. While it was the most intense adrenaline rush of my life, I made a few easily avoidable mistakes.

Jumpers are carted off the the platform where they'll jump.

Jumpers are carted off to the platform where they’ll jump.Monica Humphries/Insider

In search of a thrill, I figured that if I was going to jump, I might as well jump from as high as I possibly could.

So I booked the AJ Hackett Nevis Bungy Jump, the highest jump in New Zealand and one of the highest in the world, according to its website. The jump starts at $155 per person and includes a complimentary

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TRAVELLING

Democrats Go On Offense Against GOP Election Deniers Looking To Run Elections

by Tracy J. Chu

Two groups affiliated with the Democratic Party announced a multimillion-dollar ad campaign Tuesday targeting Republican candidates for secretary of state running on election fraud lies promoted by former President Donald Trump.

Safe Accessible Fair Elections and End Citizens United announced $11 million in advertising spending to defeat GOP candidates Kim Crockett in Minnesota, Kristina Karamo in Michigan and Jim Marchant in Nevada.

Safe Accessible Fair Elections — the independent expenditure arm of the Democratic Association of Secretaries of State, or DASS — is spending in all three races. End Citizens United, a political action committee focused on campaign finance reform, is spending against Karamo and Marchant.

DASS also announced that it would contribute between $10 million and $14 million to state party committees in Arizona and Georgia backing two candidates for secretary of state, Adrian Fontes and Bee Nguyen.

This is the first big advertising campaign by DASS and End Citizens United in 2022. Both groups aim to defend incumbent Democratic secretaries of state in November’s midterms and keep GOP election deniers from taking control in key presidential battleground states.

Crockett, Karamo and Marchant were all endorsed by Trump and support his myth that the 2020 presidential election was stolen. Since the secretary of state acts as the top election official in Minnesota, Michigan and Nevada, putting an election denier in this position could lead to the undermining of future races.

“Secretaries of State are supposed to ensure safe and accessible elections and instead we have extreme MAGA candidates on the ballot focused on culture wars, rigging elections for their political allies, and radical attacks on our freedoms like ending women’s right to make their own health care decisions,” said Tiffany Muller, the president of End Citizens United, in a statement.

“They pose a dangerous threat to our democracy and

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VACATION

Carolyn Hax: Lax grandparents want to take 5-year-old on vacation

by Tracy J. Chu

Adapted from an online discussion.

Dear Carolyn: My parents want to take my 5-year-old son on a vacation with them. This would be at least partly to give me and my husband a break (we also have 2-year-old twins), so we would stay behind.

I would really love to just say yes, but I am struggling with the idea of their being in charge for five to seven days straight. They would never knowingly put my son in danger, but they are typical grandparents, meaning they do not enforce rules. He can eat whatever he wants, stay up as late as he wants, refuse to follow directions, no limits on screen time (amount or content). All of that is okay for even the occasional overnight, but I get very anxious thinking about a whole week where he is 500 miles away being indulged the whole time. (And we are not that strict — for example, we follow the American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines on screen time.) Also, they might say they are going to enforce certain rules but then don’t. He once came home without having brushed his teeth.

But saying no might deny three people I love a really lovely experience together.

Do I need to just relax and say yes? Is there a way not to feel like a negligent parent?

Anxious: If I were confident he’d be safe, then I’d do it. The difference between a junk-food overnight and a week of junk food won’t have meaningful effect — whereas the effect of grandparent bonding can be lifelong.

That said, failing to limit screen content does open the door to harm, by degrees, so weigh that risk and your options for minimizing it, if any.

Plus his reentry into your rule structure promises to be

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