How Much Will You Pay To See Landmarks During Lockdown?

30 May 2020

It’s a very strange time we’re living in, our daily lives have been turned upside down, our social lives are non-existent and our priorities have completely changed. Just one of the impacts of this crisis is the housing market, with property buyers unable to view new homes and sellers unable to shift houses.

With buyers now spending a substantial amount of time inside their homes, we realize now more than ever what is important to us when it comes to making an offer. Practical aspects such as nearby schools, ground rent, and full searches to determine if possessory title insurance from LawSure could soon be replaced with priorities such as space for a home office, nearby parks and exercise routes, and a garden that can safely allow social distancing when buying a new home.

For some of us feeling isolated, we are taking comfort in the views our homes can benefit from, whether this is a beach, mountain, or famous landmark. While others are now wishing they had put more thought into what their windows look out to.

With the summer holidays approaching and the idea of enjoying these warmer months like we once did diminishing, we curiously look into how much we would have to pay to benefit from a property that allows us to see some of the UK’s favourite landmarks.

Do you think it’s worth paying this much to be one of the exclusive few who can still enjoy these sights, even in lockdown?

1. Big Ben

Big Ben

If you want a private view of the world’s most famous clock tower, it certainly will cost you. Just under £30 million will provide you with a secluded roof terrace on top of your property where you can enjoy the ringing of Big Ben morning, noon, and night.

Built-in 1859, the tower has been an iconic part of London’s skyline for over two centuries and is a hot tourist spot of holiday photos. You can spend as much time as you please taking selfies of Big Ben if you are willing to pay the premium price.

However, you do also get seven bedrooms, an indoor pool, snooker room, home cinema, and countless other entertainment rooms. If you can afford this epic lifestyle, you’ll probably find something more fun to do during lockdown than staring across the horizon.

2. The Tower of London

Even for those with little knowledge of London know about The Tower of London. Depicted in countless period dramas for its grisly history of executions and the main target of modern-day villains for attempting to steal the crown jewels, it’s as famous as the royal family.

The last execution was performed in 1941, this was by firing squad and thankfully not the infamous guillotine.

While £30 for an adult admission ticket may seem steep, wait until you hear how much it costs to live nearby.

An apartment on the opposite side of the river bank recently sold for £9,500,000 and came with a private riverside terrace that allows spectacular views of the iconic London skyline.

3. Windsor Castle

So far the above properties may have two of the most iconic landmarks in England but during the lockdown, they are lacking the one attraction that brings millions of tourists to the UK every year.

The royal family, more specifically Queen Elizabeth II brings a substantial amount of revenue to businesses across the UK, but at the moment, she isn’t even in London.

Her majesty is spending quarantine in Windsor Castle, the favourite of her many homes. You can purchase a home of the same streets as the gates to the castle for just under £1.5 million.

You may think it is a bargain as you’ll be rubbing shoulder with royalty and can even boast that you share the same postcode. However, this price only gets you a small terrace house with a very modest garden and no parking.

A high price to pay when you’ll probably be shunned away if you ask your royal neighbour if you can borrow a cup of sugar.

4. Edinburgh Castle

Castles sweep the countryside in the UK and Edinburgh Castle is certainly one of the most iconic.

From a fortress to a prison in the 1700s and now a tourist attraction, the castle has certainly had its fair share of uses.

The most famous event that takes place today is the New Year’s Eve firework display that attracts over a million visitors from all over the world. If you love the idea of an epic firework display but loath large crowds of people, you could always purchase a nearby property to benefit from a private viewing.

Firstly, you’ll need £1,388,500, this will get you an apartment overlooking the castle with a balcony for that perfect view.

Although for that price, we might just settle to watching them on TV instead.

Ben Nevis

Staying in Scotland, Ben Nevis is the tallest summit in the UK and is located in the picturesque Highlands. The average house price in this area is £200,000, not bad right?

While many properties are at this mark, they don’t sit at the base of this impressive mountain. If you want to witness this every day, you’ll be looking at £600,000.

The valley is vast enough for you to get a little more for your money though, the houses are significantly larger than most in the area and your £600k will get you eight bedrooms.

Blackpool Tower

Try to think of a classic British beach holiday and you’ll immediately think of Blackpool. The iconic arcades, donkeys and nightlife are famous as the quintessential English summer holiday.

Teamed with Blackpool Tower and you couldn’t get a more postcard-perfect spot. As a built-up area, there are plenty of homes that you can see the tower from, especially as it’s grand height.

Blackpool Tower was once the tallest structure in the UK, standing at 158m. It’s not dwarfed by the current record holder, The Shard, at 310m.

If you want to always feel like it’s summer, it will cost £100,000.

So do you think it’s worth forking out this kind of cash to be able to feel like a tourist on holiday every day? Or are you happy to save those pennies and wait until the lockdown is lifted and pay general admission? Perhaps your window skyline is so tiring, any chance in scenery would be a good one, no matter what you can see!

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7 Must-Visit Attractions In Bali You Can’t-Miss

Bali is a popular tourist destination in Indonesia that offers a unique blend of stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and exciting activities. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a beach bum, or a spiritual person, Bali has something to offer everyone. To make the most out of your Bali trip, be sure to visit these must-visit attractions that you can't miss this summer: Ubud Rice Terraces Located in the heart of Ubud, the rice terraces offer a stunning view of the lush green paddies surrounded by towering trees. These terraces are a part of the traditional Balinese irrigation system called Subak and have been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can take a walk along the paths that weave through the terraces and experience the tranquil beauty of this area. You can also learn about the traditional farming methods used in Bali and the important role of rice in Balinese culture. Tanah Lot Temple The iconic Tanah Lot Temple is a must-visit attraction in Bali, especially during sunset when the temple is illuminated by the orange glow of the sun. The temple is situated on a rock in the middle of the sea and can only be accessed during low tide. Visitors can explore the temple, take a dip in the natural tidal pools, and watch the mesmerizing waves crash against the rocks. This temple is also considered one of the seven directional temples in Bali, which are believed to protect the island from evil spirits. Uluwatu Temple Uluwatu Temple is another temple located on a cliff overlooking the ocean, offering breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. This temple is a spiritual and cultural hub in Bali, with daily traditional dances and ceremonies taking place in its open-air theater. Visitors can watch these dances, learn about the Balinese culture and religion, and experience the peaceful atmosphere of the temple. Uluwatu is also a popular spot for surfing, with some of the best surf spots in Bali located nearby. Mount Batur For adventure seekers, a visit to Mount Batur is a must. This active volcano is located in the central highlands of Bali and offers a challenging but rewarding hike to its summit. The hike takes about 2-3 hours and is best done in the early morning to reach the summit in time for sunrise. The view from the top is breathtaking, with the sun rising over the clouds and the crater lake surrounded by towering peaks. A visit to Mount Batur is a unique and unforgettable experience that should not be missed. Ubud Monkey Forest The Ubud Monkey Forest is a nature reserve and Hindu temple complex located in the heart of Ubud. The forest is home to hundreds of long-tailed macaques and provides a unique opportunity to observe these primates in their natural habitat. Visitors can walk along the paths that wind through the forest, surrounded by lush vegetation and towering trees. The temple complex within the forest is also a fascinating place to visit, with beautiful architecture and carvings that showcase the rich culture and spirituality of Bali. Jimbaran Bay Jimbaran Bay is a stunning beach located in the south of Bali and is famous for its seafood. Visitors can spend a day lounging on the white sand beach, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and watching the sunset over the Indian Ocean. In the evening, the beach transforms into a dining paradise, with dozens of seafood restaurants serving up the freshest catch of the day. Visitors can enjoy a delicious seafood dinner while watching the stars twinkle above and the waves gently lapping the shore. Seminyak Beach Seminyak Beach is one of Bali's most popular and picturesque beaches. Located on the west coast of the island, the beach is known for its soft white sand, clear waters, and world-class surf. Visitors can relax on the beach, go surfing, or visit the numerous beach clubs and cafes that line the shore. In conclusion, Bali is a breathtaking destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, culture, and activities. From exploring the lush rice terraces and iconic temples to hiking an active volcano and lounging on beautiful beaches, Bali has something to offer everyone. With its stunning scenery, rich culture, and exciting activities, a Bali trip is sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a beach bum, or a spiritual person, be sure to visit these must-visit attractions in Bali that you can't miss for an unforgettable experience. Additional: Luxury travel on a budget: Is it possible? The Dos And Don’ts Of Corporate Travel Planning What to visit in Canada? Know all the Requirements You Need to Travel

Want To Become A Travel Agent? Here Are The Steps You Need To Take!

There's a reason why the question "how to become a travel agent" has been trending on Google for a while now. Becoming a travel agent offers a flexible work schedule and environment, lots of travel opportunities, and an introduction to a welcoming global industry. Some find this surprising in 2023. Most people thought that using a travel agent was no longer necessary after the internet became widely accessible. But despite the disappearance of the pun-filled brick-and-mortar agencies in strip malls, the field is growing. People can now make money from trip planning more easily than ever before. Either as a full-time business or as a side gig thanks to new software options. However, demand is also increasing. Travel agents experienced a tonne of business when people started traveling again following the pandemic. And that trend hasn't stopped. In order to ensure a smooth trip, travelers have been turning to professional trip planners when travel is complicated. For better or worse, travel has remained convoluted and disorganized, with new regulations coming into effect. Such as the requirement for Americans to pay a fee in order to visit Europe in 2024. There are also airline strikes, and problems with staffing. More than ever, it's tempting to give someone else all of the minutiae. Another classic motivator for people entering the field is a passion for travel. In any case, becoming a travel agent can be a fulfilling career path with some enjoyable benefits. Here's what you need to know about how to become a travel agent. How To Become A Travel Agent? Even though you might be strong in math, we advise taking a technical course with extensive process knowledge. You would gain more knowledge about choosing locations, designing customized packages, managing time-sensitive itineraries, corresponding with hotels (ideally three, four, and five stars), and renting a car from such a course. Pursuing such a course could benefit you both immediately and over time, especially if it is taught by seasoned professionals. These individuals are proficient specialists who can assist you in comprehending the subtleties of the job and provide you with a competitive edge as a trained and seasoned travel agent. Educational Requirements A person can become a travel agent without having to complete any educational requirements, and there are numerous online programs available for certification. Individuals can choose to begin without any official certification. They could also finish a certification program with a recognized tourism body. Or they can pursue a 4-year degree in travel and tourism management. Obtaining a degree, however, is not necessary for individuals aspiring to work as travel agents. Tourism certificates come in handy, but so do prior experience in hospitality, marketing, or even event management. Your career as a travel agent will depend on your concept of destinations, itinerary planning, booking software, and sales. It depends on your situation how much time you need to devote to training before you can work as a full-fledged travel agent. After high school, you have the option of starting your career right away. Or you could devote one to four years to obtaining a certificate, associate's degree, or bachelor's degree in tourism. Of course, you could also leave a similar position and pursue a career as a travel agent using your background as, for example, a destination wedding planner. Logistics Of Becoming A Travel Agent It's likely that becoming a travel agent will require launching your own company. Positively, it needs comparatively little overhead. For instance, you want to start a small business and open a yoga studio. You will need to pay yoga instructors and staff for their services, rent a location, handle permits, purchase supplies, and create a website. But there aren't nearly as many upfront costs for starting a travel agency business. And you can work from your living room. You will need to consider the kind of business you wish to start. Would you like to form an LLC or incorporate? Incorporate requires the most work and is frequently the most costly. Being an LLC can help protect you as a business entity without incurring as many costs. So it's a good happy medium. Typically, small business owners form an LLC to safeguard their assets. If you are sued as an LLC, you cannot have your savings, home, or vehicle taken from you. However, your business assets may be sued. Should you decide to continue operating as a sole proprietor, you effectively function as an independent contractor or freelancer. This doesn't involve any costs or paperwork. It is not impossible to be both an LLC and an independent contractor. It's wise to work as a part of a larger host agency when you're first starting as a travel agent. That is if you want to be an independent contractor. You can eventually become the owner of a franchise for a travel agency. One good reason to incorporate would be the potential for increased overhead associated with being a franchise owner. You should be aware that filing taxes as an independent contractor won't be as simple as for a full-time employee. You may want to begin recording your business expenses since you might be eligible for a write-off. Additionally, your employer may not provide you with benefits like health insurance. Consider having a conversation with an experienced travel agent as you prepare for your new career to ask them the following practical questions: From what source do they obtain health insurance? How do they monitor their earnings and outlays? Do they file their taxes with an accountant? You can also talk about the benefits and drawbacks of working for a larger agency during your meeting with the travel agent. Use social media, such as Instagram or LinkedIn, to connect with other travel agents if you have no idea how to do it. Things To Keep In Mind Delivering specific outcomes, like the following, is something you should constantly consider doing as a licensed and certified online travel agent: Expanding Your Clientele: Without a sizable number of regular, paying clients, no business can thrive. Therefore, to raise your cost-to-quality ratio, you should offer great services at minimum prices. What You Make (Or Get in Commissions): Being avaricious is not the same as being ambitious. Should you purposefully recommend a "lesser" location to your clients to receive a higher commission, they might discover it and damage your online reputation. Increasing Your Knowledge: As time goes on, you should concentrate on becoming a better version of yourself. Additionally, you should remain vigilant and take prompt action if you discover any problems, particularly after the client has departed for the trip. How Much Will You Earn? The number of trips that a travel agent successfully books for their clients determines how much money they make. Since the entire business model is commission-based, agents receive a portion of the total cost of the trip they plan. In addition to their commission, many travel advisors decide to charge a flat-rate planning fee. However, it's important to strike a balance because charging a high planning fee could drive away prospective customers. For those who can develop a strong clientele and excellent industry connections, a successful career could be in sight. Your place of residence can have an impact on your income as well. Wrapping Up Becoming a travel agent makes sense for a few reasons, particularly if you travel frequently. While completing training and applying for accreditation requires time and work, the rewards of becoming a travel advisor can be substantial. This holds true whether you are making travel arrangements for yourself or have amassed a clientele. Either way, money can be saved and obtained. We hope you have found the answer to "how to become a travel agent." If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Learn More About: What Is A Commercial Leasing Agent? Choosing The Best Photographer for Your Event 6 Common Myths busted for the insurance agent exam Real Estate Agents In Dubai: Your Gateway To The Luxurious Property Market

World Unlocked: Amex Gold Vs. Chase Sapphire Preferred – Which Is Better?

International travel is a popular contender in people’s bucket lists. Revenge travel post-pandemic has motivated several individuals to list countries they want to visit before they die. While immersing yourself in a different culture and enriching your wisdom with knowledge from other nations is exciting, it also comes with heavy financial considerations. Travel expenses transcend flight tickets and hotel accommodations, though these take up a considerable part of the budget. The other crucial concerns that must be prioritized are food expenses, land transportation, activities, and even souvenirs. When traveling interstate, these may require a meager and fixed amount you can easily budget. Traveling to another country with their unique currency is a different story. Some factors, including conversion rate and transaction fees, must be accounted for, especially when using credit cards. Using credit cards offers convenience, but their foreign transaction fees can eat into your budget, typically charging 3% of the purchase amount in foreign currency. Thus, the best way to optimize your travel expenses is to use credit cards designed for travel. They usually come with zero transaction fees for foreign currencies. In this article, we will compare the two crème de la crème among all these no foreign transaction fees credit cards – Amex Gold vs Chase Sapphire Preferred – and evaluate how they fare with their overall suitability for international travel. The American Express Gold Card: A Culinary Approach to Travel Coming in as a heavyweight contender in the premium credit card arena is the Amex Gold Credit Card. When traveling is a hobby you do only on special occasions, Amex Gold can give you so much more for your ordinary days. It shines with its generous 4x bonus reward points on your restaurant visits, takeout sprees, and everyday groceries. On your travel days, Amex Gold also proves to be a reliable companion for your travel expenditures – especially for your gastronomic excursions. The whole American Express network has global recognition, with its card widely accepted worldwide. Using your card for your dining will even award you 4x bonus points and a 3x reward for flight tickets. Beyond the global acceptance and generous award points, this travel credit card also offers a suite of premium travel benefits. From travel insurance, points transfer with their travel partners, and even a $100 credit for a minimum 2-night stay on their hotel collection to having access to their Global Assist® Hotline. Their Global Assist® Hotline lets you enjoy your travel with peace of mind, knowing you will have safeguards for emergency situations. Their assistance covers a range of needs, including medical referrals, legal aid, and even lost passport replacement. Here’s a link to a complete guide to all of Amex Gold credit card benefits: https://fortune.com/recommends/credit-cards/american-express-gold-card-review With this solid range of convenience in your hands, it is only fitting that this credit card comes with a hefty annual fee and high APR for a pay-over-time feature. If you look forward to lounge access for your pre-travel experience, you will also be in for a big disappointment, as the Amex Gold card does not provide any lounge access. The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card: A Versatile Traveler’s Ally Another premium travel card is the Chase Sapphire Preferred, enjoyed by many cardholders for its flexibility and generous travel rewards program. With their Ultimate Rewards Portal, you can earn 5x bonus points for your flights, hotel rooms, and other travel experiences. On some promotional periods, they even offer 5x bonus points on select theme park tickets available to purchase through the portal, including Universal Studios, Legoland, SeaWorld, etc. This is especially suitable for traveling families or those who enjoy theme park activities. Nevertheless, on your off-travel days, you can still enjoy other perks, such as their 3x bonus points offer for online grocery purchases, subscriptions to streaming platforms, and even on your restaurant indulgence. Currently, the credit card also offers 5x bonus points on your Lyft rides, so be sure to maximize your commute. The real perk that comes with the Chase Sapphire is its flexibility with transferring points. Their 1:1 transfer partners make all your earned bonus points worth the incurred expenses. Suppose your favorite hotel line is offering a great deal on premium suites with their hotels on a desired destination. They are offering it for a minimal price of 30,000 points plus applicable taxes and fees. With Chase Sapphire Preferred, you can convert your Ultimate Rewards Points into the rewards program of that hotel line to pounce on that great offer. Find their comprehensive list of transfer partners in this article. These great rewards also come with a price of $95 annual fee. They also do not offer any intro APR for new cardholders. Nevertheless, these financial sacrifices can be valuable with all the travel conveniences the card offers, which unfortunately can also be earned only when you book through their portal. Overall, transaction fee concerns, although entirely erased by these cards, are just one aspect that completes the complexities of international travel. The overall cost-benefit analysis must be made on the basis of the card’s rewards program, annual fees, and other travel-related perks. The choice of a suitable credit card must be weighed on the basis of personal preferences, travel habits, and financial goals. Read Also: Tips For Planning An Ideal Holiday Getaway Tips To Help You Learn A New Language In A New Country