Travel
2017: The Year You Make Travel Happen

One of the most common New Year’s resolutions people make is to travel more. It’s right up there with eating better and going to the gym more.
And, like so many other resolutions, this one starts with the best of intentions and motivations but often fails.
When asked why, most people make up some reason involving time and money. They ran out of time, life got in the way, they forgot to ask for time off, work got too busy, they never saved enough, couldn’t find a cheap ticket, yada, yada, yada.
Tomorrow is the day to hit the gym, give up pizza, read more, or find that cheap trip to Paris.
But, when you dive deeper, you usually find people don’t follow through because they are too afraid to commit. They half-checked flights, looked up some hotels, and maybe even went to a bookstore to buy a guidebook. But when it came down to purchasing the trip, they hemmed and hawed and said, “Let me think about it a little. Maybe tomorrow.”
After all, change is hard. Getting out of your comfort zone is hard. It takes dedicated mental energy.
Turning a dream into a reality can elicit a sort of “ohh f%%k, this is happening” moment. There’s always a mix of excitement and fear. “Yes!” to doing it but also an “uhh, what did I get myself into?” feeling.
The second you buy your plane ticket, there’s no going back. You’re going. You’re locked in.
Soon you’ll be in a place you know nothing about, where you know no one, and (maybe) don’t speak the language.
The reality of that stops more people than you think from hitting “Book Now” because they aren’t sure they are “ready.”
Now, I know that you, dear reader, have a sense of adventure. You’re reading this blog, right? This is probably not your problem.
But time and/or money? These things probably worry you.
Someone literally asked me in an email last week: “Why do people still think travel is expensive?!”
When I read that, I screamed at my computer, arms flailing, yelling “Right? Why indeed? That is such a good question! I still can’t figure it out! It drives me insane!”
With all the blogs, magazines, apps, travel hacking websites, and deal sites out there, you would think the persistent myth that travel is expensive would have started to fade away by now. But it is still there. It’s hard to get rid of for the millions of people who grew up in the age of “travel = expensive hotel/resort vacation.” For the other millions in countries that are just getting the purchasing power to think about overseas travel, travel is very much still a luxury.
And luxury is synonymous with expensive.
However, there are travel deals all the time if you know where to look. 2016 saw some incredible cheap fares, and 2017 is shaping up to be no different. (There are some crazy $400 USD round-trip flights to Europe right now.) Additionally, the sharing economy has only grown in recent years, allowing you to bypass the old travel gatekeepers, and connect with locals for a cheaper trip.
So today, I’m going to get you somewhere in the world. I’m going to show you the secret to finding a cheap vacation so you can start 2017 off right and not back out of your resolution. Ready?
First, go to one of these websites: The Flight Deal, Holiday Pirates, or Secret Flying. Look for a cheap flight to a place you want to go to.
Second, book a flight. Lock yourself into a trip. Don’t worry about anything else. I promise you everything will work out. You can worry about a hotel, what to pack, day-to-day expenses, time off, what to do, etc., later. Those things don’t matter and there are many ways to cut those expenses! Worry about the logistics later.
Third, well, that’s all there is to it. There is no third.
Once you make the commitment by buying a flight, the rest is easy. Over and over again, I hear from travelers, “I was so worried about my trip. I built it up in my head so much and began to fret about all the ‘what ifs,’ but once I got on the road, it all fell into place and I wondered why I was ever worried at all.”
I know it seems scary to take the leap, especially when you are on your own. I know it can be unnerving to run out of your comfort zone. It’s basically this cartoon below, right?
Best description of the 20 seconds of courage challenge that @SteveKamb talks about. #20secondchallenge #nerdfitness pic.twitter.com/ItkkanqGNd
— Krissy Valentine (@WannabeFitGrl) December 20, 2016
The simple act of hitting “go” takes mental work!
But I’m here for you. This site is a virtual hand. I’m here to take the leap with you together. To be there to reassure you along the way, take away your fears, answer any of your questions, and provide support. (Plus, we have a whole community of people to help you too!)
How I’m Going to Help Make 2017 the Year of Travel
Today, I’m bringing back the case study project. I’m going to take five readers and help them plan their trip from start to finish. I’m going to help them each step of the way (as much as they need me to) and use their examples to show again that you don’t need to be rich to travel – or that you just aren’t limited to cheaper, developing countries.
To be one of those readers, you simply need to book a flight within 24 hours of this blog post going up. The first five people to do that and send me proof are in. It doesn’t matter where in the world you are, where you are going, or for how long. SPOTS ARE FULL! THANKS FOR APPLYING!
Just email a screenshot of where you are going, as well as the following information: your name, phone number, and age; a short bio; the ideal budget for your trip; and anything else I need to know. (Please keep it to no more than two paragraphs.)
There are no fees or strings attached. I’ll work with you via email, phone, and Skype to create a plan and help you stick to it so you can travel sooner than you planned and for less money.
I’ll feature these case studies on the blog when they are done as a way to help and inspire others (so you have to be OK with sharing your story on the website).
If you want to go somewhere but have always been a bit too afraid to pull the trigger, do so today, and let me help guide you out the door.
I will take your hand and we will leap together.
– Matt
P.S. – Looking for another way to kick start your new year? Over at the forums, we are doing our quarterly Travel Action Challenge, where you win prizes (like a $100 USD Amazon.com gift card) !
P.P.S. – If you would like to help underprivileged students travel more, we’re currently fundraising for a group of students to go volunteer in Ecuador. Help us reach our goal, change someone’s life by exposing them to the world of travel, and get some travel swag in the process. It’s a trip win!
Travel
Should You Stay in a Hotel or Apartment in Maui for the Best Beach Experience?

Maui’s shores are a siren’s call to sun-kissed travelers chasing the ultimate tropical escape. Choosing where to stay, hotel or apartment, can shape your experience. So, you’re trying to decide on the perfect tropical getaway – we’ve got the lowdown to help you make an informed choice.
Hotels: Convenience and Amenities Galore
Hotels are often the go-to choice for vacationers. No need to travel far – sought-after beaches, trendy restaurants, and heart-pumping activities are all close by. Resorts in Maui often have beachfront locations, allowing you to step out of your room and onto the sand. On-site perks are the norm, with residents often enjoying poolside relaxation, spa treatments, gourmet meals, and even personal concierge attention. For those who want a fuss-free experience, hotels deliver convenience in spades.
If you’re traveling with kids, hotels often have family-friendly programs and activities. Plus, daily housekeeping means you can leave the cleaning to someone else and focus on soaking up the sun.
However, hotels come with drawbacks. Dreaming of a luxurious getaway with sand between your toes? Be prepared to open your wallet wide, because oceanfront resorts are going to set you back a pretty penny. Resort fees and parking charges can quickly add up. Additionally, you may have less space than an apartment, making it feel cramped if you’re traveling with a group or planning a longer stay.
Apartments: Space, Flexibility, and a Local Feel
Staying in an apartment or vacation rental offers a more home-like experience. You’ll typically have a kitchen, which is perfect if you want to save money by cooking your own meals. What families and groups love about apartments is the bonus space that lets them live life to the fullest. Imagine waking up, brewing a fresh pot of coffee, and enjoying it on your private lanai while overlooking the ocean.
Another perk is the local vibe. Many rentals are nestled in residential areas, giving you a chance to experience Maui beyond the tourist hotspots. If you prefer a quieter setting or want to explore hidden beaches, an apartment might suit your style.
Sometimes hotels will have beach chairs and beach umbrellas on deck for guests. But if you are someone who does want those amenities while at the beach, Maui based beach gear rental company, Beach2U Rentals, offers beach chairs, umbrellas, snorkel gear, and more.
But apartments aren’t without their downsides. You’ll likely miss out on the convenience of hotel amenities. No room service, no daily housekeeping, and no concierge to book your snorkeling tour. Additionally, some rentals may lack direct beach access, requiring a drive or a bit of a walk.
Pros and Cons Comparison
Hotels:
- Pros: On-site amenities, beachfront access, daily housekeeping, kid-friendly programs.
- Cons: Expensive, smaller spaces, added fees.
Apartments:
- Pros: More space, kitchen for cooking, local atmosphere, budget-friendly for groups.
- Cons: Fewer amenities, no daily cleaning, variable proximity to beaches.
Finding the right choice – what’s your priority?
Your travel personality – are you a slow-and-steady or fast-and-furious kind of traveler – makes all the difference. If you want convenience, pampering, and easy access to everything, a hotel may be your best bet. However, if you value space, flexibility, and a quieter vibe, an apartment will give you more bang for your buck.
For shorter stays, hotels might make sense. For a more relaxed vibe and a little extra wiggle room in your wallet, opt for an apartment on your next extended vacation or group adventure. Weigh your budget, likes, and travel buddies carefully – it’ll make all the difference in your final choice.
Whichever you choose, Maui’s beaches won’t disappoint. A day on Kāʻanapali Beach is an exercise in relaxation – waves lapping at your feet, the sound of the sea creating a soothing melody. And when you head to Honolua Bay, nature’s drama unfolds – waves crashing, sea spray shimmering – an explosion of beauty that leaves you breathless, words failing you.
Final Thoughts
Hotels and apartments both have their charm. Think about what matters most to you: convenience or space, pampering or independence. Savor the idea of claiming a beachside paradise all your own, where powdery sands and shimmering waters await – a true Maui experience you’ll cherish forever!
Information Technology
The Lifeline for Business Travelers: Remote IT Support on the Go

Business travel is a necessary component of modern commerce, connecting professionals with opportunities and partnerships around the world. Yet, as much as travel has been simplified by technology, it also introduces challenges, particularly when it comes to staying digitally connected. Remote IT support has become a vital lifeline for business travelers, ensuring seamless operations even when problems arise far from the office.
Digital tools and reliable networks are the backbone of business productivity, but they are not immune to issues. Whether it’s a laptop that refuses to connect to a hotel’s Wi-Fi, a software update causing unexpected glitches, or access to critical business systems being blocked, the need for quick IT solutions is universal. For business travelers, the stakes are higher; delays caused by technical hiccups can mean missed deadlines, unproductive meetings, or even lost deals. Remote IT support addresses these challenges, offering a safety net that keeps professionals focused on their objectives.
Remote IT support provides immediate assistance for technical issues without requiring in-person intervention. Whether through email, phone, chat, or screen-sharing tools, support technicians can diagnose and resolve problems quickly. This accessibility is particularly valuable for business travelers who may find themselves in time zones where their company’s in-house IT team is unavailable. Outsourced IT support services often operate 24/7, bridging this gap and ensuring help is always within reach.
The ability to access a global IT network has revolutionized business travel. Before remote IT solutions were widely available, travelers often had to rely on local resources or endure delays waiting for assistance from their home office. Today, issues like software crashes or device malfunctions can be addressed instantly, no matter where the user is located. This convenience allows businesses to maintain productivity and minimize downtime, giving traveling employees the confidence to navigate their responsibilities with fewer worries.
One of the most common challenges for business travelers is connectivity. The reliance on Wi-Fi and mobile networks makes accessing secure and reliable connections essential. Yet, public networks at airports, hotels, and cafes can be notoriously problematic. Remote IT support teams can troubleshoot connectivity issues, recommend secure alternatives, and even set up virtual private networks (VPNs) to safeguard sensitive data. By ensuring secure communication channels, IT support enables business travelers to work without compromising security or efficiency.
Device maintenance and updates are another critical area where remote IT support proves invaluable. Travelers often delay software updates or system patches due to time constraints or limited connectivity, inadvertently exposing their devices to vulnerabilities. Remote IT teams can manage these updates proactively, ensuring systems remain up to date without disrupting the user’s workflow. This service not only enhances security but also prevents potential compatibility issues that could arise from outdated software.
Cybersecurity is a growing concern for business travelers, who are prime targets for cyberattacks due to their reliance on external networks. Phishing attempts, malware infections, and data breaches are all risks that increase when traveling. Remote IT support plays a vital role in mitigating these threats by providing real-time monitoring, detecting suspicious activity, and implementing countermeasures. Additionally, IT teams can educate travelers on best practices, such as avoiding unsecured networks and recognizing phishing attempts, further strengthening their defenses.
Remote IT support also contributes to operational efficiency by resolving technical issues quickly and minimizing downtime. For example, if a traveler’s laptop crashes moments before an important presentation, a remote IT technician can guide them through troubleshooting steps or provide a workaround solution. This rapid response reduces stress and helps travelers remain productive, even in high-pressure situations.
The benefits of remote IT support extend beyond troubleshooting. Proactive IT services ensure that devices are optimized for performance before the trip begins. Technicians can configure devices to sync with cloud-based systems, test compatibility with key software, and ensure data backups are in place. These measures prepare travelers for potential challenges, creating a seamless transition from the office to the road.
For businesses, investing in remote IT support offers a significant return on investment. The cost of downtime, missed opportunities, or even reputational damage caused by IT failures can far exceed the cost of providing robust support services. Furthermore, remote IT solutions reduce the need for expensive on-site support or emergency repairs, offering a scalable and efficient alternative. This is particularly important for organizations with frequent travelers or a global workforce, where maintaining consistent support across different locations is critical.
As remote work continues to blur the lines between home, office, and travel, the need for comprehensive IT support is only growing. Business travelers now expect the same level of technical reliability on the road as they do at their desks. Companies that prioritize remote IT support not only enhance productivity but also demonstrate their commitment to employee success and satisfaction.
Remote IT support is also evolving to keep pace with new technologies. Artificial intelligence and machine learning are being integrated into support systems, enabling faster diagnostics and more personalized assistance. Predictive analytics can identify potential issues before they occur, allowing IT teams to address them proactively. These advancements make remote IT support even more effective, providing business travelers with a level of reliability that was once unimaginable.
For business travelers, the modern workplace is wherever they happen to be. Remote IT support ensures that this workplace remains fully functional, no matter the challenges. By resolving technical issues, securing data, and enhancing connectivity, remote IT services empower professionals to stay focused on their goals, making business travel a smoother and more productive experience.
Finance
Balancing the Books: Mastering Travel Expense Bookkeeping for Financial Success

Travel expenses are a necessary part of doing business, whether it’s attending conferences, meeting clients, or scouting new opportunities. While these costs can yield substantial returns, failing to manage them effectively can wreak havoc on your company’s finances. Proper bookkeeping for travel expenses ensures financial clarity, compliance with tax laws, and the ability to identify areas for cost optimization.
Travel expense management is a detailed process that benefits from professional oversight. Many businesses turn to specialized bookkeeping services to ensure accurate record-keeping and compliance. These services handle everything from tracking receipts to reconciling credit card statements, freeing up business owners to focus on growth and strategy.
Before diving into the bookkeeping process, it’s crucial to understand what qualifies as a legitimate travel expense. Common deductible travel expenses include airfare, hotel accommodations, meals, transportation, and incidentals like parking fees or Wi-Fi charges. These must be directly related to business purposes to qualify for deductions or reimbursement. For instance, a client meeting in another city would justify airfare and lodging, but extending the trip for personal leisure would render those additional costs ineligible. Keeping clear boundaries between business and personal travel expenses is essential for accurate reporting.
Proper bookkeeping for travel expenses benefits businesses in several ways. Governments worldwide allow deductions for legitimate travel expenses, but they also enforce strict documentation requirements. Failing to provide accurate records can result in lost deductions or, worse, penalties during an audit. Detailed expense tracking helps businesses identify spending trends and areas where costs can be cut. For example, noticing frequent last-minute bookings might prompt a policy encouraging early reservations for discounts. For businesses with traveling staff, maintaining clear records ensures employees are reimbursed promptly and fairly, fostering trust and morale. Meticulous record-keeping also deters fraudulent expense claims by creating an audit trail for every transaction.
Spreadsheets may suffice for very small businesses, but larger organizations should consider using specialized expense management software. Tools like Expensify, Concur, or QuickBooks allow employees to upload receipts, categorize expenses, and generate reports seamlessly. A clear travel policy reduces confusion and prevents disputes. This policy should outline what expenses are covered, spending limits, and the documentation required for reimbursement. For instance, setting a per diem for meals eliminates ambiguity around dining costs. Gone are the days of shoeboxes filled with crumpled paper receipts. Encourage employees to photograph receipts immediately after a purchase and upload them to your expense management system. This minimizes the risk of lost documentation and streamlines bookkeeping.
Break down expenses into categories such as transportation, lodging, meals, and miscellaneous. This not only makes reporting easier but also provides insights into where the bulk of your travel budget is going. Match credit card transactions with submitted receipts to ensure accuracy. Any discrepancies should be flagged and resolved promptly to prevent errors from snowballing over time. For businesses that provide travel advances, keeping track of these amounts is critical. Employees should submit expense reports detailing how the advance was used, along with receipts. Any unused funds should be returned or reconciled.
Technology is a game-changer in travel expense management. Expense management apps can integrate with accounting software, automating processes that were once manual and time-consuming. Artificial intelligence (AI) tools can even analyze spending patterns to recommend cost-saving measures or flag potential fraud. For instance, some apps automatically categorize expenses by scanning receipt details, while others generate real-time reports showing how much each department is spending on travel. These tools not only save time but also ensure consistency and accuracy.
Travel expenses can yield significant tax deductions, but compliance is critical. The IRS and other tax authorities require detailed records, including the date, amount, and nature of the expense, the business purpose of the trip, and receipts for all expenses exceeding a specified threshold. Keeping an organized system makes it easier to compile this information during tax season. Many businesses rely on bookkeeping services to navigate these requirements and maximize deductions.
Mixing business and personal expenses is a common pitfall. A business dinner at a high-end restaurant may be deductible, but tacking on personal drinks afterward is not. Maintain strict boundaries and separate accounts where possible. Neglecting small expenses, like a $5 coffee, might seem insignificant, but these small costs add up over time. Tracking every expense ensures accurate reporting and provides a full picture of spending. As travel costs and tax regulations change, businesses should revisit their travel policies regularly. Keeping policies up to date prevents misunderstandings and ensures compliance.
Bookkeeping for travel expenses is more than a chore—it’s a vital part of running a financially healthy and compliant business. By implementing clear policies, leveraging technology, and maintaining meticulous records, businesses can ensure their travel spending contributes to growth rather than becoming a financial drain. Professional bookkeeping services can further streamline the process, offering expert support to keep finances on track.
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