Month: July 2010

Top Three Mistakes When Booking A Vacation Apartment

Paris vacation rentals can be tricky to navigate, but the payoff is huge. Whether you are on a budget traveler who cannot afford the double-whammy cost of hotels and restaurants, or a luxury traveler who wants seclusion and over-the-top grandeur, you’ll get more space and privacy for your money by booking a rental property.

Convenience is probably the biggest advantage of a Paris vacation rental, you can come and go as you please and do what you like, when you like. An apartment rental is one of the most comfortable lodging options that can be availed for enjoying your vacation.

Besides more space and privacy, vacation rentals offer you a wide range of amenities without attacking your wallet. It’s you and your family enjoying a Paris pied-a-terre, your favorite snack from the refrigerator when you want it. You can impress family and friends with your culinary talent when restaurants and dining out becomes mundane, not to mention less nutritious and way more costly!

Fatal Mistake #1 Reserving last minute
Paris is the #1 visited destination in the world. It is safe to assume that premium vacation apartments are booked months and sometimes even a year in advance during peak season. The saying, “The early bird gets the worm” is especially applicable here.

The longer you postpone your vacation rental booking, the tighter the selection and higher the risk of losing prime vacation rental apartments since there are a limited number of top notch vacation apartments in select Paris neighborhoods.

The highly coveted 2 bed/2 bath or 3 bedroom/ 2 bath in St.Germain des Pres or Le Marais are booked way in advance especially during peak season June, Easter, September, October, Christmas and New Ys week. It not unusual to book, a year or six months in advance to secure these favorable dates. Actually it is strongly recommended to book as far in ahead as possible.

Those who begin their quest two to three months prior to their arrival are considered last minute bookings which are traditionally difficult and it is extraordinarily time consuming to find a suitable vacation apartment. Do not depend on cancellations and postponements which are rare since owners do not look kindly at refunding deposits or rental monies applied. The only way to insure the vacation rental apartment of your dreams is to book far advance.

Fatal Mistake #2 Know your deal breakers
One of the best ways to ensure that you choose the Paris vacation rental that is best for you is by examining and vocalizing your vacation apartment wants and needs. A clear cut idea about the type of vacation apartment, amenities, and any special requirement is crucial to securing the correct vacation apartment for your lifestyle.

You will want to closely examine your vacation style, namely who you are traveling with or what the purpose of your vacation is. Who you are traveling with will most likely play a huge role in choosing a Paris vacation rental. The size of your traveling party will not only determine how big of a rental you need, it may also have an impact on the type of rental apartment you choose.

For instance, families on vacations together may be better suited in a townhouse or a private house, instead of a vacation apartment. What you want to get out of your vacation is another one of the many factors that you will want to take into consideration.

For instance, if you are booking a romantic getaway or a honeymoon, you may want to choose a vacation apartment with a romantic ambiance. Appearances have been known to create romance. You can easily tell if a Paris vacation rental is elegant and luxurious in nature by closely examining pictures.

What you will need to do, while staying in a vacation rental, is also important to consider. For instance, if you are taking an extended vacation, you may need to do laundry or you may wish to eat in your Paris vacation apartment, to reduce expenses. Since you are on vacation and should enjoy yourself, you will want to take the simplest approach possible.

For example, if you need to do laundry, make sure that your vacation rental comes equipped with a washer and dryer. To reduce the amount of time spent cleaning up, consider vacation rentals featuring a dishwasher.

While it is important that you focus on your vacation rental needs, it is also key that you spotlight items on your wish list. For instance, do you want to have a Paris vacation rental that features a swimming pool in the apartment (yes, they do exist), a sauna, cable television, or internet access?

If so, it is important that you request these desires and refrain from securing your reservation until you have weighed your deal breakers.

It is also important that you examine your wants in terms of location. Would you prefer to roll out of bed and be sandwiched by numerous bistros and cafes or would you prefer a quiet residential street,

In keeping with location, it is also important to examine what you want to do, while on your Paris vacation. This can help you choose the Paris vacation rental that is most convenient. For instance, if you are planning on walking everywhere than you want to be in an arrondissement that is close to all the attractions that interest you.

On the other hand, if you know that you will be utilizing the metro, map out the metro stops of the places that you want a visit and reserve an apartment that has a metro line with easy access to those locations.

If you are sensitive to noise, ask about the surrounding buildings. Is the vacation apartment next door or on top of bustling bar or restaurant? Is there a lot of street traffic on your block? This is the ideal

Unfortunately vacation apartment features that you deem essential might be irrelevant to the apartment, do not assume anything. Paris has a different standard of luxury, a different attitude towards life and most importantly a totally different culture.

Parisians do not even think about air conditioning. Most Americans cannot live without air conditioning.

Do you have allergies? If so, think twice about booking an apartment centuries old. Are you willing and able to trek up stairs or is an elevator essential? Are you claustrophobic than maybe a typical Parisian elevator is not for you.

The traditional elevators take a bit of getting use it is important to know this beforehand. Do not expect your booking agent or apartment owner to share these minute apartment details. It is your obligation to be an educated consumer and make sure that the vacation rental will suit your lifestyle.

Should the bedrooms be located on opposite sides of the apartment or next to each other? Do you need airport transfers? Is a stocked refrigerator essential? How often do you want maid service?

When you rent a vacation apartment, you are on your own. Is your French strong enough to secure restaurant reservations and book day trips? Do you want to spend a couple of hours figuring out where the nearest market and metro is or would you like a bit of hand holding?

A professional concierge willing to offer his Parisian expertise may be ideal for you. It does not hurt to inquire with your agency or apartment owners. Not all agencies offer these additional services but it does not hurt to ask prior to booking your apartment. You maybe able to find an all in one agency that will cater to all your needs.

Fatal Mistake #3 Email is good but speaking to a human is better
First-time visitors have little idea of the scale of the Paris area and the quest for a vacation apartment can be more than a little daunting. It is made even more confusing by the vast choice of vacation rentals available and the lack of clear details on the location and apartment.

We know that this has resulted in some guests turning this into a job instead of an opportunity to familiarize themselves with the city and pick the brains of the agencies and owners. Look for agents and owners that will gladly answer all of your questions. Let them know that you have visited Paris since 1982 and pick their brains or what to expect in the different neighborhoods.

The pictures on the web sites usually present the vacation apartment very well but how recent are the photos? Many of the vacation rentals will have heavy wear since they are professional vacation apartments welcoming guests on a non-stop basis. While speaking with the owner or agency does not guarantee quality, yet it does give you the opportunity to ask if the photos on the site truly represent the condition of the vacation rental today.

I know there are many guests who never speak to anyone and solely rely on email correspondence when booking their vacation rental. Successful vacation apartment hunting has one primary tool, the telephone. When you are investing in an experience such as renting a vacation apartment, it is recommended to begin your dialogue with an email but make an attempt to get to know the apartment owner or agency that you are dealing with.

You can email agents and apartment owners, but you can not easily determine whether you like the person you aredealing with via typed messages. Gauge the responses of the agent or apartment owner, and trust your gut. If you feel like you are being pressured, you are. And if you don’t like the person you’re talking to, chances are you’re not going to like the vacation apartments he/she represent. Trust your intuition.

If you don’t get a good feeling, chances are the entire process will be thorny. If the customer service via phone and email is lacking, do you really think it is going to get exceedingly better when you arrive in Paris? Is it better to have a solid mid-range vacation apartment with an attentive and thorough agent or apartment owner or a fabulous vacation apartment with an apartment owner or agent with an attitude? Only you can make that call, but know beforehand, how you are willing to play.

It’s strongly suggested to build a friendly rapport with your agency or apartment owner. You may need last minute assistance or a special favor and it’s always easier to deal with someone that you like and likes you.

Why you do or dont really need a travel agent

You don’t really need a travel agent because traveling is no brain surgery and you can pretty much research it all by yourself. A travel agent is just there to help out business growth and to benefit the vacation business more than benefiting you. Travel agent is costly and they might pressure you into something that you don’t want.

When planning a vacation you just need to do some research about the place that you’re going to and buy your tickets and book your hotel. There is no complexity to the process at all. However, when you travel to another country and you’re going with a traveling company then they might assign you an agent to organize your trip, in this case, it might be appropriate for you to take on an agent. If you’re flying on your own without a traveling company then you should take all the danger to yourself, after all you’re an adult with great intelligence and you can handle a little vacation.

If you’re familiar with your travel destination then you should proceed without a traveling agent. Why would you need them for? A travel agent would add on every little cost they can so they have a chance to earn some extra money for the company. Remember, that travel companies are out there to make money and not to help you to the tiny bit. I know from experience that every time you take on an agent of any sort to help you out they would add on so much other package that would cost a fortune. The one thing that I have against traveling agents are the cost and the packages that they try to persuade you to buy and you might end up buying if you’re an inexperience consumer.

Travel agents are sales people and they sell as much as they can to you. You should avoid them at all cost. Most of us know the world so well by the time we have the money to travel the world and thus we don’t really need people to baby sit us. If you have any uncertainty, you can always research more on-line. The world is just a click away.

Travel company trick you into thinking that you really need a travel agent for a well plan trip and you just need to remember that it’s just a sales gimmick. Travel agents lie and lie. They can be your worst nightmare just like a sales man. Nowadays there’s a lot of companies and especially the traveling companies trying to add every package that they can to your file. They literally want you to spend your entire year traveling and think that you don’t have anything else to do in your life. Traveling companies like to take advantage of traveling tourists because they know that people love to travel and it’s the number one thing that people have to do before they die.

Manchester Airport Parking Explained – Top Advice On How to Save Time and Money From a Seasoned Traveller

Manchester Airport is home to 95 tour operators offering passengers over 300 domestic and international destinations. Manchester Ringway International Airport handles nearly 20 million passengers per year, so it’s hardly surprising that finding the right Manchester Airport parking to suit your needs can be such a nightmare time consuming and expensive. However, the key to finding the right parking for your needs, at the right price, is now divulged for your reading pleasure…

There are various Manchester Airport parking options available to passengers travelling through the Airport depending on budget, length of stay and level of service required. Determining which Manchester Airport parking option will best suit your needs is the first step:

* Standard Manchester Airport Parking
Manchester short term parking is perfect for collecting or dropping off passengers, or for short trips. Any cars left unattended in the set down or pick up areas, will be towed away by the police and a release fee will be incurred. Therefore, if you need to leave your car unattended, motorists must park in the Manchester short stay car parks available at each Terminal.

* Business Manchester Airport Parking
For travellers that need fast access through from parking to the airport can use the premier Park service. A car parking space will be pre-allocated, and on arrival, a staff member will have the booking details, take the car keys and park the car on your behalf. On your return, the car will be ready and waiting.

* Manchester Long Term Parking
For passengers travelling away for more than a few days, Manchester long term parking is recommended. This is where the minefield begins. There are a huge number of different options available for Manchester Airport parking, and many companies competing for your business. The long stay car parks are serviced by regular shuttle bus services to the terminal buildings, running from every 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the car park you choose. Passengers using this option must leave plenty of time as the transfer to the airport takes from 30 to 50 minutes. Keep reading for tips on how to make your Manchester Airport parking decision and get the best price.

* Meet and Greet Manchester Airport Parking
If you find bus transfers and off-site Manchester Airport parking a hassle, meet and greet Manchester Airport Parking offers customers a convenient valet service. Amongst many benefits, travellers can check-in within minutes of arriving at the airport and drive away minutes after clearing customs. A selection of meet and greet Manchester Airport Parking is available including standard valet service, undercover chauffeured parking or chauffeured parking with a wash and vacuum.

* Disabled Parking at Manchester Airport
The blue badge scheme applies to car parks only as there is no waiting outside the terminal buildings themselves. All short stay car parks have dedicated parking bays for blue badge holders so ensure you take your badge with you. All long stay car parks have disabled parking bays situated near the entrances or reception office, however, to arrange long term parking closer to the terminal in the short stay car parks, passengers should call 0161 489 3732. Extra charges may apply and you will need to have your travel details and blue badge number handy.

Now we’ve looked at all the options, ‘how do I make sure I get the best quote to save me money?’, I hear you ask…

* Choose the best option for your needs: Whether this be standard or business Manchester Airport parking, Manchester long term parking, meet and greet or disabled parking
* Pre-book: Booking Manchester Airport parking in advance will secure your parking space
* Discounts: Online bookings will normally reward you with a further discount
* Save time, find the right price and compare your options: Use an online Manchester airport parking price checker to make sure you are not paying over the odds. A price checker enables you to compare parking prices online.

The best Manchester airport parking price checker that I have found to compare Manchester airport car parking is available on the Manchester Airport information site:

* Truly Independent – so they get the best deals on parking prices and pass them on to you
* Better Rates – the Company goes direct to the Manchester Airport parking operators so they can negotiate better rates
* Monitor Competitors – to ensure they offer you the best prices
* Information in one screen shot so you can instantly see the best option and price for your needs
* Book online traipsing around for the best Manchester Airport parking is a thing of the past!

So next time you travel away, just follow the Manchester Airport parking tips in this simple guide, and you’re away – more relaxed and with a few extra pennies in your pocket.

Dining out and understanding your restaurant billing in Italy

One of the most appreciated aspects of Italian culture is Italian cuisine, which is, without exaggeration, succulently scrumptious. Dining out in Italy is truly the gastronomist’s and epicurean’s opportunity to gorge and indulge in the haute couture of fine cuisine and delicate tastes.

But Italian cuisine is not just a pastiche of pasta and pizza; it is a creative collection of regional dishes that are characterized by various European and Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences. The secret to the freshness of Italian food is the culinary tradition’s emphasis on fresh, locally grown, seasonal produce.

The unification of Italy diffused many popular dishes throughout Italy and abroad, however, regions remain fiercely loyal to their locally produced specialties. To truly taste Italian culture, you must venture off the beaten path and sample regional, local cooking, which is, in essence, authentic Italian cooking.

As someone of Italian heritage, here is some practical information about dining establishments in Italy, and some tips to help you pay your bill after you have polished off your pizza.

WHEN IN ITALY, EAT AS THE ITALIANS DO

A traditional and formal Italian meal can continue for hours and consists of an antipasto (appetizer), sometimes served with an aperitivo (aperitif drink), followed by a primo piatto, generally a pasta, risotto or soup course, followed by a secondo piatto, a heartier meat or fish course. The second course is generally served with a contorno (side dish) and/or a salad, which is eaten with the main course, or directly afterwards. The dolce (dessert) and fruit selection with cheeses follow the salad. The caffe (coffee), and digestivo (digestive drink) conclude the meal.

However, do not feel pressured to follow the traditional multi-course meal, which is becoming rarer nowadays. Although the food choices on the menu are presented in this order, simply order whatever you feel comfortable eating.

WHERE TO WINE AND DINE

Depending on the dining experience you crave (and how hungry you are!), there are many different dining establishments in Italy.

Ristoranti

Restaurants are found all over Italy, and vary in ambiance. They may be upscale and elegant or low-key and causal. Most offer popular selections and regional specialties, and tend to be slightly more expensive than family run establishments. Many offer a menu turistico(tourist menu), that combines a complete meal into one fixed price.

Which is more important when it comes to health food: Taste or nutrition?

Once a certain food is labeled as “healthy”, nutrition is the most important thing to consider. It is true that most people won’t want to eat anything (nutritious or not) if it tastes bad, but there are many “health foods” available that are more focused on taste than nutritional content. Any food that is overly processed isn’t really a health food, and you want to be sure to look at things such as fat, calories, salt and sugar content. These things are often slipped into foods without notice, and the consumer thinks they are being healthy…little do they know, they are filling their bodies with junk. Even foods such as canned vegetables and soup can be loaded with more than a healthy amount of sodium, despite the fact that they are “healthy” and taste good. Salads are the poster-child of health food, yet if they aren’t made carefully they can have as much fat and calories as a fast-food meal; nearly enough for an entire day!

Many fast-food restaurants advertise their food as being healthy, yet consumers should use common sense before buying into this story. Obviously a salad or grilled chicken sandwich at a fast-food joint would be more healthy than their other options, yet much less healthy than food you would eat at a better restaurant or at home. If you are in a pinch go ahead and order the best fast-food option available. Also, these options are ok as an occasional treat, if you really enjoy them. You just need to be careful about how often you eat these foods. On a daily basis, it is much better to think ahead, and be prepared by taking packed lunches with you to school or work.

The best way to be sure you are eating nutritional food is to cook your own food, at home. By using lots of vegetables, fruits, whole grains and lean proteins, you can cook nutritionally balanced meals. By learning to healthfully flavor your food, you can eat things that taste incredible while controlling fat and sodium. Many people have trouble learning to cook a variety of foods that are both healthy and balanced, while not eating the same foods all of the time. With all of the cooking shows on TV, and the websites and cookbooks available, any person can develop a passion for nutritious food that is far better than the “health foods” available to buy. Some great sources for food education and inspiration that you can use at your own pace are Rachel Ray (TV, magazine and cookbooks), Barefoot Contessa and Giada deLaurentiis on Food Network. allrecipes.com and vegetariantimes.com (and their magazine)are great readable sources. Health and exercise magazines include recipes, as well as most other magazines. Keep your eyes open for new and exciting ways to combine ingredients, and you will be eating the true health food!

Great Law of Attraction Money Affirmations and Tips

Sometimes finding a perfect affirmation, just for you, can be a little hard. Here are some great money abundance affirmations that we have used in the past or that other Law of Attraction practitioners have e-mailed to us.

The Universe is unlimited. There is more than enough abundance for everyone in this world. When you start intentionally applying the Law of Attraction, a great affirmation is necessary, and feeling confident in your affirmation is imperative. You want to be able to feel and believe it to be absolutely true. Many people have a mindset of “lack.” A good money affirmation can help jump the hurdle of thinking from a space of “lack.”

You’ll also want to find an affirmation that feels attainable. If you choose an affirmation that your logical mind can’t even fathom could happen, then it won’t happen because the Universe will pick up on that thought and feeling. You can start with something small and when that feels attainable take another step toward a larger affirmation. When you take these baby steps your logical mind will become used to the idea of having everything you want, and you will become comfortable with your affirmation.

When you have discovered the money affirmation that works best for you, you’ll want to focus on and say it at least five times a day. Make sure to give your affirmation the attention that it deserves. Close your eyes and feel the words leave your lips. Treat the words like a sacred incantation; that when you speak the words, the Universe drops everything and rushes exactly what you are affirming to you.

Make sure that you do not ‘outgrow’ your affirmation. When you feel like the original affirmation just isn’t doing it for you, change to something that reflects your growing positive thoughts and feelings. And when your affirmation has completely aligned with the Universe, you’ll want to bump it up a notch to reflect your newfound life.

Perhaps these affirmations will ring true with you.

Law of Attraction Money Affirmation 1: I create my own reality and I have unlimited prosperity.

Law of Attraction Money Affirmation 2: Financial abundance comes to me easily.

Law of Attraction Money Affirmation 3: Large amounts of money come to me quickly and easily from multitudes of sources now.

Law of Attraction Money Affirmation 4: I always have abundant amounts of money; more coming in than going out.

Law of Attraction Money Affirmation 5: Unlimited possibilities and resources reveal themselves to me now.

Law of Attraction Money Affirmation 6: I am comfortable having money.

Law of Attraction Money Affirmation 7: Money is good and I deserve money.

Law of Attraction Money Affirmation 8: I feel successful and I am successful.

Law of Attraction Money Affirmation 9: I have more money than I ever dreamed was possible.

Law of Attraction Money Affirmation 10: I expect only the best from my financial situation and the Universe provides just that or better.

Law of Attraction Money Affirmation 11: I have a constant stream of money abundance in my life.

Law of Attraction Money Affirmation 12: I have my ideal life.

Law of Attraction Money Affirmation 13: I am able to think and feel in unlimited ways.

Law of Attraction Money Affirmation 14: I have all the answers within myself and I implement them.

Law of Attraction Money Affirmation 15: I am financially free.

These are just a few affirmations to get you started. Enjoy creating and making affirmations a part of your life. Affirmations are one of the wonderful tools to use in attracting all you desire through the Law of Attraction.

Youth Hostels in Japan

Regulations and membership
It is possible to stay at a youth hostel even if you aren’t a member, but it will cost you approximately 600 yen more per night at the privately owned ones (the government run youth hostels charge you the same regardless of whether you are a member or not). At the privately run youth hostels, if you are staying more than 5 days you are better off becoming a member because as a non-member it will cost you 3,600 yen for 6 days. In fact, if you stay for 6 nights as a non-member you automatically receive a member’s card.

Membership prices vary according to age. If you are over 19 it is 2,500 yen with an annual renewal fee of 2,000 yen. If you are under 19 it is 1,500 yen and an annual renewal fee of 1,000 yen. You must be over 4 years old to use the Youth Hostels. To become a member is fairly easy to do by going to one of the youth hostels prefectural offices. If you are already a member of a youth hostel in your own country you can use that membership. There are 60 locations in Tokyo and 800 in Japan where you can register. When you go there you are required to have a license or something which identifies you such as a health insurance card. Once you become a member it entitles you to receive discounts (usually 10-20%) on train travel, plane fares, museums and other public facilities. You can also get cheap rent-a-car from Orix (10%) or Nissan rent-a-car (5%).

Rooms
Most bunk bed rooms are in western style, but there are some rooms with Tatami Mats. Although youth hostels are gender separated, private rooms can also be made available to families or groups.

Pricing
Average pricing for accommodation at a Youth hostel with 2 square meals is about 4,500 yen/day, although pricing varies between 3,000 yen to 5,000 yen per night. If you pay 5,000 yen you can often get a room with a bath.

Rules
When you stay at a youth hostel in Japan you are required to clean your own table and put your sheets on the bed. Although the food is pretty good the prices are comparatively low.

Reservations
You can book a room 90 days in advance by phone. Generally, cancellation fees don’t apply if you cancel at least 4-6 days in advance. If you cancel one day prior to your stay it costs 50% of the accommodation fee.

Alternatives to Youth Hostels
In addition to youth hostels, there are youth guest houses which are a grade up from youth hostels which are explained in a separate article. Youth Guest Houses are a great alternative for people who don’t want to ‘rough it’ and for those travelling in groups who are looking for decent accommodation. According to some industry insiders, one reason why youth guest houses have come about is because the number of people using youth hostels dropped in recent years. According to one of the youth guest hostel owners there used to be over 600 youth hostels with over 600,000 members but now there are only about 350 youth hostels with 100,000 members. This drop is possibly due to the poor state of the facilities and comparatively low standard of service.

Cheap Flights – Realising Underprivileged People’s Dream to Fly

Everyone wants to go for a holiday far from the hustle and bustle of life. It is very much true that life becomes a mess without breaks. One has to perform his duties, meet deadlines at work and also manage home. There are untold hardships in life. One can only overcome them by simply accessing some or the other amusements. The best way is to find out some time to travel to distant places of the world and remain in a solitude state so as to find peace. The user finds an excellent means to reach these places by means of cheap flights.

Cheap flights are easily available and make air travel more exciting than never before. This travellers can save a lot of time and make a return trip in the conditioned time that is available for their tour. Many air-plane operators have their own plans and make travelling all the more exciting with the marvellous holiday packages.

It has become a norm to avail cheap flight tickets and a number of options are kept open for tourists who wish to travel without hassles. A number of airlines are available to choose from. The traveller just has to sign into their websites in order to know the various offers and options available for cheap travel. It is a new norm to experience fantastic trips with low cost airlines. This is the means by which the traveller can overcome the lapses of traditional means of travel. People now can easily move up to the open sky and fly high. The cheap flights help people to leave all their worries behind and fly high in the open sky.

Many sort of rumours have been affecting the travel market for a long long time. People used to belief that cheap flights are not available and travellers have to pay a lot if they wish to fly. Such, misconceptions are being nullified by the advertising and branding done by the various airlines. So, the best way to plan a grand trip is to simply buy tickets and fly to reach out to a destination. People should verify this by simply logging on to the websites and searching for the various options of cheap flights for travelling to distant places of the world.

It takes a few seconds to apply for travelling to a destination by means of cheap flights. Tickets are issued immediately once a person applies for the tickets. There are several travel packages kept at ones disposal. The one that suits a person’s requirements can be easily applied for. The range of such travel tickets is so high that one finds it extremely difficult as which one to choose from. Moreover, money can be saved by booking in advance. There may be many options but one can bargain to choose from the various low cost flight tickets.

The risks involved in flying cannot be totally nullified. But, nowadays pilots and crew members are well trained and the technology too has become very sophisticated. So, even if one is flying at a Cheap airline tickets cost, still travellers are assured safe and secure journey. The crew members are competent to take good care of ones comfort. To complement this air travel, travellers are given proper nourishment in the form of packages of food and a comfortable journey. Many among these travellers who are first timers get to experience the joy of flying. The trip is everlasting in the mind of people who travel. It makes the entire episode of holidaying memorable.

How to Find an Apartment in Tel Aviv – What to Check When Searching for an Apartment to Buy or Rent in Tel Aviv- Dorit Shanan

Why? How much? How? Move it!

“Why?” “How much?” and “How?” are the first questions that we should ask ourselves when we begin to search for an apartment in Tel Aviv. There are numerous considerations; therefore, a deep understanding of our needs will help us to find the right apartment. This article relates to the issues involved in purchasing an apartment, but is also relevant to rentals.

Purchasing an apartment for investment purposes is different than buying an apartment you intend to live in. First of all, one must ask how worthwhile the investment is, what the yields are over the short- and long-term, or to do a cost-benefit analysis. The process of buying an apartment you wish to live in, which is what I will focus on in this article, involves personal questions, dealing more with needs – the questions of “Why?” “How much?” and “How?”

Why?

The answer to this question will guide us in the right direction, thereby preventing us from chasing after the wrong apartment and thus avoiding bitter disappointment.

1. The need to move to a different area – proximity to the office / schools / centers of activity and more

2. The need for more space

3. The need for an elevator

4. The need for parking

5. The need for quieter surroundings

6. Uncomfortable surroundings, noise, annoying neighbors, and other disturbances

7. Upgrade in standard of living

How much?

What is our budget? Make a detailed list of resources that you have at your disposal:

· Loans

· Payment of an existing mortgage

· Taking an additional mortgage

· Future expected income – gifts, an inheritance, bonuses, a raise in salary

· Take into consideration an additional 10% in costs to cover various bank commissions, lawyer fees, real estate agent commissions, taxes (such as purchasing tax), plus other unexpected expenses

How?

What are the regions in Tel Aviv worth considering in your opinion? Make a list of at least three options and rank them in order of preference. Explain why you chose each option, and list the criteria for choosing each option. This will make it easier for you to choose among the different options.

It is very possible that during your search you will discover that moving from area ‘A’ to area ‘B’ leaves you with enough money for other “upgrades”, such as an elevator, parking, or the ability to buy on a better floor in a tall building. It may turn out that buying in a different area allows you to buy a larger apartment, or to install the kitchen you have always dreamed about.

If the neighborhoods are not familiar or are new to you, then visit the area, walk around the public areas from which it is possible to learn about the character of the neighborhood – stores, local groceries, synagogues (if it is of interest), kindergartens, cafes, etc. You can also inquire with friends and family who may live in the area.

Increasing one’s living space is one of the most widespread reasons for moving to a new apartment. Perhaps the family has expanded, you move in with your partner, you begin to work from home, or for whatever reason your current home is not big enough.

Define the minimum size you are looking for in an apartment – how many bedrooms you need. The home office should be defined separately – this can always be located in different spaces. In older Tel Aviv houses built in the Bauhaus style for example, there is usually space that is not reflected in the number of rooms, or the rooms themselves are particularly large and thus can be rearranged. As an alternative, set the minimum net area you need, rather than the number of rooms.

One of the important considerations in the architectural designs of an apartment is clarifying in just which spaces you live today. Usually, the addition of a child to a family demands the addition of more than one room. In this event, an increase of 15 – 20 square meters over the existing space is required.

Checking the market in Tel Aviv – does the current supply in the market meet the needs that you have defined for yourself, or is your budget appropriate for the market? In the event that you need a 4-5 room apartment with an elevator and one or two parking spaces, then you may have to look in one of the more northern neighborhoods of Tel Aviv (Bavli, Kochav Ha’tzafon, Lamed, Ramat Aviv, Azorei Chen), where there is a larger selection, and in accordance with the price.

Move it !!!

The information published in newspapers and Tel Aviv home listings does not list all the information you need. Get off your comfortable couch and go see apartments!

Again – “How?”

We have listed a number of articles that answer the main concerns that you have noted. Now you only need to learn the language of the market (what is “renovated”, “well-kept”, “maintained”, “needs renovations”, “magnificent”, “quiet”, etc.). This will help you in your “real” work and in dealing with real estate agencies throughout the process. Update yourself and learn the market prices, and the inventory of available apartments. At this point, you are acting as an “anthropologist” critiquing the situation, you are still not buying. Visit between five and ten apartments (if indeed the supply in the market allows this).

Tip – After visiting approximately five apartments or so in Tel Aviv, you may not remember exactly what you have seen in each apartment. All the sights and information become confusing and intertwine into a beautiful, colorful collage. At this stage it is essential to list exactly which apartments you saw, also the ones you chose NOT to see, each detail, marking date and prices, or attach the information that you downloaded from the Internet and add your comments. It is important to mark down which real estate agent showed you which apartment (the easiest way – attach the business card of the agent to the apartment page) in order to prevent duplication and to know where to return to if you want, and mainly where not to return to. And remember – don’t go anywhere without this list!

When you feel that you are ready, go to Tel Aviv real estate agents. It is recommended to go to agents whom you have heard about, who have been recommended to you, and who work in areas that you are focusing on. If you cannot find an agent through these means, turn to newspaper home listings and work only with those agents with whom you feel comfortable, who is credible, and who understand your needs. Let them know your profile as a guideline, if there are clear limits, then say so, but there is no need to enter into details, sometimes an apartment that is not very high up for example, may have the most exposure to greenery and a nice view. There are surprises. Therefore, you should focus on the three or four most important criteria for you: space / elevator / quiet / parking / neighborhood, etc.

What happens when the budget does not match the Tel Aviv market conditions?

Do I have the ability to increase the budget? Additional loans? A larger mortgage? Selling another asset?

If ‘No’

Does moving into area “B” or “C” on your list of preferred neighborhoods in Tel Aviv allow you to find an apartment that matches your demands? For example, a budget for a three room apartment in central Tel Aviv could allow for an upgrade including an elevator, extra space, or parking in the Bavli neighborhood. Sometimes a slight shifting of locations allows for more. Check the advantages and disadvantages in moving between the different neighborhood options that you listed, what is so essential about choosing one specific area?

If you absolutely must live in the chosen area, then what demand, which is not at the top of your list of criteria, can you compromise on — parking / elevator / a less quiet area / space / the condition of the apartment / the condition of the building / others? Sometimes the difference between an apartment that includes parking and one that does not is significant, and with that difference you can find some other arrangement that is easy and cheaper in a nearby parking lot for many years. Of course, an apartment located on a loud or quiet street also changes the price of an apartment. The price difference between an apartment on a quiet street and an apartment at the end of a road (number one or two) can reach thousands of dollars. This is similar to the price difference seen when moving closer or further away from the center of Tel Aviv.

On the main traffic arteries of Tel Aviv – Ibn Gvirol, Arlozorov, Jabotinsky, Dizingof, Ben-Yehuda, Pinkas, etc. – you can find particularly large apartments at attractive prices. These apartments may surprise you, especially the apartments that face the back. You may discover that such apartments overlook a large, green courtyard, making you forget you are in the center of city. The apartments on the front side of the building generally have balconies that block out the noise of the street, and their bedrooms are deeper into the building, with no windows overlooking the street. Here it is important to remember that “what you perceive from afar is not always what you see from up close”. Even so, you must take into consideration the difficulty you may have in selling the apartment when the time comes, since these apartments often take longer to sell.

Good Luck!

Written by Dorit Shanan

Dorit Shanan, – Central & North Tel aviv

dorit@tovado.com

TOVADO.Com

972+(0)3+5277712

Are You Looking For A Cheap Car Rental Service?

In today’s world of competitive marketing and cutthroat competition, a customer can’t really predict whether the deal he/she is closing will benefit her or not, most of the time most, consumers, just go on with the deal just to avoid all the hassle of inquiring for more economic alternatives, or discounts.

This also applies to car rentals, nowadays, it’s hard to call anything a cheap car rental, with the inflation rate of products, continuing gas price increase it’s hard to keep product prices down, so here are a few tips to keep your car rentals cheap, even if every other factor is making it expensive.

1. Reserve your cheap car rental internet sites instead of over the counter ones. Internet sites, offer internet only discounts which could very beneficial for you, cheap car rentals can be achieved by being witty, put discounts like these to your advantage and you’re sure to save a lot.

2. One way to get cheap car rentals is to try to get the most out of your rental. Most car rentals require you to fill the tank when you return it, so on your way to returning the rented car, fill it up with the cheapest type of gas you could find, you’ll save more than when they make you pay for the gas at an inflated rate.

3. If you can, always rent at only one Car Company, companies give you cheap car rentals for frequently renting their cars, discounts, coupons and sometimes even miles.

4. Ask the car rentals if you can exchange your flyers miles for car rental miles. This is especially useful when your flyer’s miles is about to expire, instead of just letting it go to waste, get a cheap car rental for it.

5. For a cheap car rental, try to make reservations as early as possible, car rental; companies give discounts for customers who reserve early.

6. To get your rental cheaper, pick up your car early in the morning, just as the shop is opening, so that there will be a shortage on the cheap car rentals, at this point, the renters may give you a free or a marked down upgrade.

7. Look for packages like hotels and rental packages or if you want a cheaper car rental find a package that includes air fare, car rental and hotel stay, these packages give you great discounts on all three, so if you’re planning to do all, I suggest you get a package deal to get the most out of your money.

8. To get a cheap car rental at your own, price, find rent-at-your-own-price internet sites that look for the best possible deal with the budget that you’ve given them, but be careful with this, review the company’s history first before you get into it, or make sure that there are no other cheaper means before you close the deal, remember, once you make a reservation, you can’t cancel it.

9. If you’re going to use the car for more than five days try to find weekly rates from car rentals, with weekly rates, the sixth and seventh day are almost always discounted, so look for this when you’re out for a cheap car rental.

10. Instead of picking up your rental at the airport, save money by picking it up at the shop, this’ll reduce airport surcharges.