GPS Fleet Vehicle Tracking

Increased financial pressures, world economic downturn and austerity measures are all leading to companies taking a serious look at their operating costs and practices for savings. One area that can lead to greater control and increase cost control, especially with larger businesses, is through GPS vehicle tracking.
Through the use of GPS vehicle tracking, the monitoring of the precise locations of a company's fleet vehicles can make it easier to allocate resources effectively. GPS vehicle management records a number of vehicle parameters that can be used to organise cost effective delivery routes, economical distribution of workloads based on a vehicles proximity to jobs and the analysing of a driver's habits, speeds and journeys to make more efficient use of time.
Many GPS vehicle tracking systems include live vehicle tracking which makes response times quicker and allows Fleet Managers the luxury of knowing exactly where their resources are at any one time. Live GPS trackers are particularly useful for companies and services where response times are critical or essential for customer satisfaction. Health service providers, where patient care is of vital importance, or taxi services when customers demand a fast response are all aided by the installation of a vehicle-tracking network.
GPS vehicle management systems allow for the monitoring of multiple resources simultaneously and produce up to the minute data so that Fleet Managers can instantly respond to circumstances. Whether that be a life threatening emergency or a change in customer demand, for instance when a theatre turns out or an airplane lands, it gives controllers the opportunity to react immediately.
Modern GPS vehicle trackers are able to record a number of such parameters as speed, direction, location and status. The Fleet Manager can discover when a vehicle is stationary, if it moves and whether it enters or leaves predetermined geographical zones. For instance if plant machinery leaves a building site, or a parked vehicle suddenly moves, the controller can be alerted to the fact that there is an abnormal situation occurring. These security facilities can warn of theft but also aid in tracking down the stolen vehicle as well.
Companies have found that with these safety features and the cost savings on fuel and maintenance made possible by monitoring vehicle performance and usage are good for business. The fitting of GPS management systems means more efficient allocation of tasks and leads to less workforce stress, while the controllers are able to guide drivers around problem areas or towards difficult destinations, this all leads to a more productive, customer focused service and increased business.

Benefits of a Keyless Remote for Your Car

Your car would be as precious to you as your other long-term investments. Necessary safety measures should be taken to keep it safe from being stolen. Keyless remotes are one of the latest devices used to ensure the safety of vehicles. Some of the features of keyless remotes are discussed in the article.
Today automobile manufacturers compete in bringing vehicles with the latest technology devices in it. Advanced features like satellite radio, GPS system, computer diagnostic system and many other devices are being used to make driving a better experience. A keyless remote is such an invention which has helped in keeping your car safe. This remote is also called a "smart key" or an "intelligent key".
A keyless remote is designed to allow or deny access to a vehicle. It functions like normal keys without any physical contact. You can lock/unlock the door of your car by just pressing a button. One of the benefits of this remote is that it works from quite a distance. Some features of this remote system, which makes it different from normal car keys, are discussed below.
Functions: This remote system depends on two components - a remote key and a receiver installed in the vehicle. The remote key has an inbuilt chip in it with a unique code that matches with the code installed in the receiver of the vehicle. When a button on the remote is pressed to perform a function, the chip inside the remote sends radio waves to the device in the car at a specific frequency. If this code matches with the code of the device in the car, this device allows the function to be performed. In case of any mismatch in these codes, the vehicle would not respond.
Convenience: A keyless remote makes it easier for a person to use the car. For instance, if you come to the car with both your hands loaded with bags after shopping, you can easily open the car's trunk with the press of a button which makes it much easier to put the bags in the car. The same task would've taken double the time if there was no keyless remote for the car.
Safety: A keyless remote keeps the car safe from theft. The car's engine cannot be started with a different remote and the code inside the remote cannot be copied as well. This completely eliminates every possible chance of the car being stolen. The only risk is when you lose the remote and the thief gets the same remote. In most of today's modern cars, alarm systems are installed in cars which start buzzing if the car is tried to open in a wrongful manner.
Benefits: A keyless remote enables you to set the car's temperature even before entering it. This feature is useful during extreme climatic conditions. It is also easy to locate a car which is parked in a fully packed parking lot. When a button on the remote is clicked, the car flashes its headlights and produces a distinct beep which makes it easier to find the car.
All modern cars come with keyless entry systems which ensure the safety of the cars as well as the convenience of the driver. Using a keyless remote for a car has also become something related to style. Keyless entry systems are available in the market at affordable prices which can be installed by a professional locksmith.

Airline Manufacturing Price Wars - Or Is It Just A Little Free-Market Competition?

Well, it appears that airliner sales have been slowing down, but the competition has been heating up. No one can really say what the actual price of all the airliners being sold happened to be, because they change between various deals, options, models, financing, quantity, and frequent sales. Okay so let's go ahead and talk about this for second shall we?
There was an interesting comment by the CEO of Airbus not too long ago, one which, I as a free-market capitalist cringed, because it appeared that Airbus very much enjoys its duopoly on the global airliner market that has with Boeing. Apparently Airbus feels that it deserves to compete in this way, and it hopes it can continue. Still, there's a big difference between monopolies, duopolies, cartels, and good old free-market competition.
Market Watch reported on July 16, 2012 "Airbus CEO says Boeing starting price war: report," which stated that the Airbus CEO said the Boeing Company was;
"instigating a price war to drum up interest in its short-haul 737 Max airliner against Airbus' hit A320neo," and said Boeing was attempting to gain market share, but "If their aircraft was better, they need not do that."
Now then, no offense to the Airbus CEO, but it's called competition, and may the best company win. And even if it is true that the Boeing Company is competing for price, aka in socialist terms; A Price War, then Airbus ought to realize that generally speaking the first mover to lower prices generally preempts and wins the price war, "so anyone wanting to short Airbus stock, now would be a smart time to do that," I recently joked to a friend.
Now then, I understand where all this comes from because I also realize that much of the European Union thinks along the lines of socialist, and labor parties. Airbus wants to make a profit, and pay high wages, and compete against the rest of the world while having the prices fixed so that everyone can make money. That's all good and wonderful for the airliner manufacturing industry, but what about all the customers, clients, and airlines by those Jets?
Are these customers not entitled to the best price, should they stop shopping around, and should Airbus and Boeing really be engaged in maintaining high prices, while keeping all the competition out of the industry? Are they asking for more collusion, and a continuation of this duopoly? It appears obvious to me that the Chinese want to into the market with their Comac C919, and that the Russians would like to help their airliner manufacturers Tupolev and Sukhoi do the same. What about Brazil and Canada with Embraer and Bombardier?
Look, if Boeing doesn't compete on price, quality, and service - yes, all three, then eventually those other airline manufacturers will find a slot to break into the industry in a big way. So at this point Airbus needs to increase production, lower costs, get their labor unions thinking straight, and deliver those airliners they've taken orders for and promised to their customers for the very best price they can. It's called competition, and it's good for America, it's good for Europe, and it's good for the world. It's time that Airbus dealt with it. Please consider all this and think on it.

Lance Winslow has launched a new provocative eBook on Airline Travel Topics.

The Business Traveller - Tips for Motels

For the weary business traveller a Motel can be a 'home away from home.' After spending hours on the road and in meetings, a motel provides a place where they can relax and unwind. That is why it is important a Motel provides the service and the small luxuries to make a business guests' stay comfortable and hopefully memorable.
When booking Motel accommodation a discerning business traveller will look for:

• internet connection
• work space
• clean, comfortable and quiet rooms
• a TV
• breakfast facilities
• central location
• parking
• corporate rates.

Wireless internet connection is vital for today's business. Most Motels are able to provide this service, some will even provide a set amount of Data for free. Internet access not only enables the business traveller to work, but also gives them the freedom of staying connected to their friends and family in the evenings, when they may need it most.
Internet access is also essential for Motels that have conference and/or meeting rooms. Technology such as video conferencing, interactive training, and online product demonstrations, all require business guests to access high-speed internet. Printing facilities should also be provided by reception, as with fax, and where possible a projector.
A small work space is also important for the business traveller. Where possible a Motel should provide a desk and chair, or similar set-up, to enable a business guest to use their laptop and spread out documents as needed.
Besides the obvious work needs, a business traveller values a clean and comfortable Motel room. Updating or refurbishing rooms every 5 to 10 years is an effective way to keep your Motel looking modern and fresh. Even small changes such as new bedspreads and curtains can make a difference in how a guest will perceive your Motel. A quiet Motel is also an advantage, no guests want to hear the room next door or traffic/city noise at night. The quietest Motels are usually built with solid brick/stone walls and are away from main roads and night spots.
A TV with access to many channels, or even free DVD's provided by the Motel, are other examples of how you can satisfy a weary traveller. Also providing small luxuries such as tea and coffee, milk, and toiletries, enables the business traveller to relax and feel more at home. Extras such as room service breakfast or breakfast facilities, are of even greater benefit when you have business guests staying.
Location is also key to the business guest. Centrally located Motels are excellent, especially if you can direct the guest to a good restaurant or bar within walking distance. Usually businesspeople have been on the road all day and do not feel like travelling at night to find a place to eat or drink.
Another facility that makes life easier for business guest is ground level parking, preferably outside the guests room. This is especially important for businesspeople who carry goods with them.
Lastly, Motel reception has to be friendly and organised, especially when business travellers are tired. And don't forget to provide the great corporate rate to the business savvy guest, that and loyalty cards/vouchers are a great way to keep the business guests coming back.

Wendy specialises in the accommodation sector of the Tourism Industry in New Zealand. Wendy currently owns Catellis of Taupo which is a multiple Award-winning motel and conference centre in one of New Zealand's most popular tourist destinations. Catelli's of Taupo specialise in hosting business travellers and offer discounted corporate rates. A member of the Host Accommodation Group, Catelli's provides flexibility and service that busy or tired business people need The Business Traveller - Tips for Motels

Travel Bucket List - Do You Have One?

They have become increasingly popular these days. Especially as people write down their dreams to better visualize them and have them become reality. But to make them come true, we need income.
Now, we all have our different reasons for creating residual income. Some of us don't like our jobs. Others want to spend more time with their families, while others want the freedom that money can allow us.
I will admit that I want 'all the above'.
But, ever since I was young, I have had the travel bug.

As a kid growing up in London, I remember my Gran going to Hawaii and thinking it was the end of the earth. I was so jealous and could not envisage that I would ever get to America. I used to read about it and make lists of the cities in America I would visit when I got older.
Well, fast-forward 25 years and I have back-packed around the whorl, been to 45 states in America, lived in Australia and now spent 12 years in Japan.
I guess I have never really stopped traveling.
But I want more? Am I greedy? Maybe, but a while back, I compiled my travel bucket list and made my top 5 places to visit. And I will get there, and be earning while I am there. That I promise you!
Do you have a Travel Bucket List?
Here is my top 5:
5. Madagascar (travel bucket list)
I always remember Madagascar being so far way from everywhere. A place where no-one I know has been. But it is not all Lemurs. Madagascar has some of the least explored, beautiful beaches on earth. Give me this over Bora Bora any day. Real paradise... although I would not mind Bora Bora either.
4. Norway (travel bucket list)
The Fjords in Norway are famed for their spectacular beauty. In a world where pollution casts a grey cloud (literally) over many wonderful places, the Fjords remind me of how fresh and pure nature should be.
Crystal blue fresh water, abundant nature and calmness personified. I would love to cruise along thee serene fjords and contemplate life.
Now I live in Japan, they seem further away than ever but one day, I will take my wife here.
3. Patagonia (travel bucket list)
Ever since my fascination with other countries and places began, Patagonia to me has seemed like the end of the world. A mystical place, like in Lord of the Rings when the Elves set sail from Middle Earth. What awaited them we do not know. It is the same here. The beauty is striking.
The land so pure, unforgiving and yet majestic in its beauty. The picture below says it all. Patagonia, the end of the world
Do you have a Travel Bucket List?
2. The Galapagos Islands (travel bucket list)
When my wife and I married, I was toying with the idea of going on honeymoon here. In the end, it was too far and too expensive to get there from Japan. It still fascinates me and is number 2 on my travel bucket list.
Now I know the image is mainly the giant tortoises, but there is so much more weird and wonderful wildlife to be seen. The diving is also some of the best in the world I have heard.
1. Bhutan- The Last Shangri-LA (travel bucket list)
For as long as I can remember, Bhutan has been my number 1. Maybe it is like Tibet as Tibet should have been. The last Shangri-la. I would simply love to do a 2 or 3 week trekking expedition. The views, from what i have seen are breathtaking. The below photo shows Bhutan's most famous temple, precariously perched on a mountainside. This is the pinnacle of my travel bucket list.
So that is it.
What does it have to do with a blog on network marketing? Well, that is my vehicle to achieve the finances to grasp and live my dream.
And the best part, I get to do it while helping others achieve their dreams and go to the places on their travel bucket list.

I am a father, husband and marketer who enjoys helping people to achieve their financial goals while leveraging their time.

Business Travel - Drive Your Own Luxury Car or Rent One

I have a good friend who has a very nice Maserati which he leases, as he uses it for business. Of course, he also travels to nearby states each year to speak with his distributors, but he doesn't take his luxury car because he doesn't want to put all those miles on it, or subject it to some of the locations he will travel to. Therefore, he rents a car instead. Since he has so many stops all together, it doesn't make sense to fly to each location, and he also needs to take samples with him, and a variety of other things.
Okay so, does this make sense, should you drive your own luxury car on a business trip which might last several weeks to many states? It's hard to say what your exact situation is, but I'd like you to please consider three items;
1. Costs
2. Add-On Extras
3. Business Associates Perception
You must consider the cost of renting the vehicle versus the cost of putting that wear and tear on your own car. Chances are you'd be better off with a rent a car. Still, if you are going to rent a car, there are things you need to know such as; what are the extra add-on costs?
I had recently talk to a gentleman who owns a body shop, and he told me that every time one of his clients would go to rent a vehicle at the local rental car agency to rent a car, the rental salesperson would try to sell them extra insurance in case of sandblasting because out here in the desert the wind can whip up occasionally causing paint damage. This is a very common extra add-on, one which you might want to think twice about, but you need to understand the risks.
On August 5, 2012 the LA Times had an interesting article titled "Puzzled by Damage Claim" by Catherine Hamm, where a reader writes in to explain a horror story of a rent-a-car company that charged them for hail damage which occurred after the car had actually been returned, and signed off as received.
Even if something isn't your fault, and there is damage to the car, sometimes the rental agency will try to pin it on you. I suppose the same occurs if you drive a luxury car and are leasing that car, and go to turn it in. What you might consider normal wear and tear, they might charge you for as part of the lease agreement. Whatever decision you eventually make, you need to go in with your eyes open on this. Therefore I ask that you please consider it all.

What Are the Attributing Factors of Freight Shipping Quotes?

Nowadays, geographical barriers are no more a problem in business sector as globalization has made multi-country trade possible. In order to be successful in multi-country trade, besides creating a product, a company should also focus on safe transport of goods in a timely manner. Safe and timely delivery is crucial to advance the reputation of a business.
In order to keep up the reputation of the company, every business has to spend a great deal of time and effort to ascertain the best way to freight their goods. For this, a company needs reliable vendors and international shipping companies. Freight shipping companies come in handy to serve individuals and businesses to ship items in a speedy and accurate manner.
There are countless Freight Transportation Services out there and it is vital to choose one that is affordable and at the same time meets your requirements.
Freight quote plays a vital role in cutting down the expenses and thereby increase the profits of a business. Advancement of communication technology has enabled one to link with anyone in the world with a few mouse clicks. Getting freight quote online is not only easy but can also save money and time. The key factors that can attribute a good freight quote are budget and timing.
There are plenty of things one should take care of in order to get a freight quote, as there are a number of paper works to be done. Even though getting a freight quote seems to be a daunting task, in reality it is not so. Let's see the factors that determine freight quote.
There are many factors that can affect freight shipping rates. To get a quote, you should provide details such as its destination, its dimension, weight, mode of transport, time of delivery etc. By providing more accurate details, you can get more accurate quotes.
Packaging and Weight are important factors that affect the cost of shipping. The mass of shipping material depends on choosing a packaging material. Proper packing to avoid damage is vital. Ensure to choose a package material that not only ensures secure packaging but also can ship the product without wasting empty space. Besides weight, fragility also influences the cost of shipping as fragile items have to be handled with special care and thereby increase the shipping cost.Ensure to make exact measurement and weight of the shipping item should include packing materials, bubble wrap, strap etc. Exact weight of the item is necessary to receive the most accurate freight quote.
Another vital factor that determines Freight Shipping Quotes is a mode of transportation. There are three modes of transportation namely land, sea and air. Overland transportation is the most economical option. However, it is time consuming and timely delivery is not assured. It is an ideal mode for short distance needs. Sea transport is the most preferred one. Airways is the fastest mode and can assure prompt delivery. But, it is expensive.

Why Jet Lag Free Travel Is A Competitive Advantage In A Global Economy

In the opening comments of one of his self help programs Brian Tracey reminds us that we are all in a race. A race most people are unaware they are participants of. Thomas Friedman in his best selling book The World is Flat spells out the nature of the race as Globalisation. The profound effect globalisation has had on business culture, business practice and subsequently business frequent flying brings home the point emphatically. It's like Bob Sugar tells his newest signing in Jerry Maguire "your global now, worldwide". Competition has truly gone global and this is true in almost every facet of 21st century life. In this competitive landscape every entity or person with global reach or in global travel needs all the advantages they can muster in order to prevail. Global business travel as a feature of doing business all over the world is one area where untapped efficiencies lie. Too many businesses send their best people halfway across the world to represent them only to have them turn up jet lagged and fatigued. If that is not bad enough these are the same companies and people who spend a lot of money time and resources recruiting the best they can find. What a way to look after your investment! This article makes the case that healthy flying is a requirement for successful business in a global economy, it is no longer acceptable to book a business class seat and hope for the best on arrival.
Pre-Globalisation you probably had as much competition, but you were unaware of them and they you. Now you know who you are up against and worse, you now have others who were not natural competitors who now are. Or if you are in the service industry the demands for your services are more frequent and intense than before. The bottom line is it now takes more of your resources to satisfy and keep your enterprise going. Do you have an endless pool of resources? If not it is better to learn the art of being resourceful. The art of being resourceful when it come to global travel and frequent flying is something that tends to be learnt by default if at all. It's time to take an objective look at the issue and implement a sustainable scientific based approach to the problem. It is time to end the fuzzy headed approach which leads to loss of business, less than favourable impressions or the inability to function at the expected or required level. These travel "faux pas" are leading to million dollar losses in revenue and productivity.
AirPlus International a global corporate payment provider teamed up with Optima-Life, a physiological research company to pilot a study of frequent fliers against a control group of non fliers. AirPlus International employees agreed to wear a sophisticated heart rate monitor which measured heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV).
The results showed frequent fliers are less likely to be fully recovered from the exertions of flying with knock on effects relating to health and well being.
The major finding was that stress recovery was less than optimal in the frequent flier group compared to the control group. The control group had a recovery percentage of 26% while the frequent fliers only had a 14% recovery rate. In sleep which is a good monitor for recovery capacity the control group had an average of 7hr and 2mins while the fliers could only manage 6hr 41mins. As sleep debt is cumulative this is important to note.
The overall conclusion was that these negative figures impact levels of tolerance, communication skills, engagement, concentration, mental acuity and could be a forerunner of health problems.
While the study goes into more detail I would like to focus on what it highlights about stress, and the attention it brings to what it calls intrinsic and extrinsic factors (for now I'll only touch on intrinsic factors). It is no secret that we are more stressed than ever before, I would argue that we know we are stressed but we haven't found ways of dealing with stress that suit our lifestyle as it relates to healthy flying. This is where the rubber hits the road. Mastering this one area will have appreciable benefits in all aspects of our lives.
To date the ineffective strategies employed by business travellers have ranged from sleeping pills to uppers and downers, melatonin, caffeine, alcohol and more. The problem with these items is that they provide temporary relief while borrowing from our reserves and never giving it back. Thus a downward spiral of that ultimate resource, you, is effected over time. In a business it looks a bit different, the workforce is sent out there and they perform but it takes more and more effort until the workers are less motivated and reach corporate burnout. They stop enjoying the mission and purpose of your company and decide to strike out on their own. The outcome could have been different in all instances if forward thinking strategies were employed.
For the farsighted companies who have an idea of the scale of the challenge a robust private health policy is sometimes in place. However all of these policies tend to be palliative rather than pre-emptive. Shutting the stable door after the horse has bolted is not a good strategy to keep your best people performing at their best. Business and individuals need to provide and create an environment to take joint responsibility for getting better results in this area.
The catalogue of disasters costing business and brands dear reaches back with some high profile and stunning examples of what is at stake. In the escalation of events preceding the 1956 Suez Canal crisis Secretary of State Dulles is known to have blamed jet lag for some of the decisions taken in the course of events. More recently Gen. David Patraeus as commander of the International Security Assistance Force operating in the Middle East collapsed while giving testimony to the US Senate Select Committee, blaming dehydration and jet lag. The freed Burmese dissident Aung San Suu Kyi also demonstrated the extremes of how air travel can affect health by collapsing while travelling to Switzerland after release from house arrest.
The AirPlus study draws attention to intrinsic and extrinsic factor fliers should take notice of in order to travel well and arrive well to execute business. The most important of these are the intrinsic environmental factors. Not paying attention to these factors is what led to the strife Gen. Patraeus and Aung San Suu Kyi encountered. These intrinsic factors are the most powerful tools you have to ensure a favourable outcome to your journey. While there may have been no more than a little damage to the Patraeus and Suu Kyi brands it is not always the case for Business.
I champion a quote from the AirPlus study, it says " First class or business class travel is probably not best used across the board but instead it should be used tactically depending on the purpose of the trip". The reason to champion this comment is that too many corporate fliers are lulled into the false security that travelling first or business is the sum total of what they can do to ensure they arrive well. Nice but not true, the world has moved on and there are many tools and considerations fliers have to make to fly well.
To date too few fliers or corporations are aware of this new landscape and therefore lose a competitive advantage, to paraphrase a teacher of mine "the competition is more intense than before and the window of opportunity is briefer than before". Whoever is able to capitalise on this advantage reaps the rewards, for now it looks like most fliers and businesses are still behind the curve.

Take Advantage of Charter Bus Services for Your Employees

You are in town for a conference. There's a corporate picnic. Regardless of what the event is, you want to make it easy for everyone to get to where they need to go. You could make everyone take their own car, but that may mean that you have to pay mileage and maybe even parking fees for all of your employees - and that can add up to a considerable amount of money. The easier solution is to simply take advantage of charter bus services for all of your employees - and they will thank you for it.
It's important to consider how everyone is getting to the rendezvous point. In many instances, you cannot expect your employees all to get in their cars and drive somewhere. Beyond having to pay for mileage, parking and anything else associated with all of your employees driving their cars, it's simply a lot to ask of everyone. You don't want people backing out of a conference, picnic or something else just because you are asking them to drive.
With charter bus services booked, you will be responsible for getting everyone to where you want them. This makes it easier on your employees and everyone can simply meet at the office at a time that you choose so that the charter bus can pick everyone up and take them to the destination. When you're the one providing the transportation, you will get more people attending because they don't have to worry about how to get there.
If you want to reward your employees in some way, a charter bus can be great, too. This allows you to have wine, beer, or any other liquid libations at the event without then sending all of your employees back in their cars to drive home. With charter bus services, you get a designated driver as well as a chauffeur - and you really can't ask for more than that.
Don't be cheap with your employees. They work hard for you all year round. It doesn't matter where you want them to go. It can be a business function or a reward. Either way, do you really want to make them get in the car and drive? Following directions and driving to a new location can be stressful. The cost of charter bus services can be more affordable than you think, especially if you do some comparison shopping. This way you can arrange travel for a minimal cost and give your employees a break for a change.
How you ultimately play your cards with different events will determine whether employees are happy with the company they work for or not. When you use charter bus services, you can secure your employees more effectively because you show you care. More people would rather get on a charter bus and not have to worry about the wear and tear on their vehicle than they would getting some company logo-ed swag. This means you have to think about how you spend corporate dollars - and take advantage of a bus when you can.

As We All Know Traveling Can Be Very Infectious

The attraction to wander Earth's continents to see different, interesting and beautiful places is overwhelming. Most of us can only dream of visiting all 7 continents. There is of course ways to do it without having to save hundreds of thousands of dollars but one in particular makes absolute sense. Find people willing to share their world. That's right, find people in the locations you are traveling to before you leave. On average people make friends with about 20 people at school and best friends with 5. So with 7 billion inhabitants on this planet of ours how hard could it be to find someone willing to show you around the place they call home?
So let's look at a few ways social websites can help you travel the world easier:
1. Become an Au pair. You find a family in a country that you want to visit and who requires someone to look after their kids. For a pre-agreed number of hours during the week you take care of the children in return for a bedroom, food and some cash. Depending on the country you may pocket $150 - $200 (USD). It is a fantastic way to experience not only the sites of another country but also the culture of the family you live with. I am sure some of you however are thinking "I don't really want to look after kids". Worldsharer.com has addressed that concern and has families and singles that have a spare room but are not necessarily looking for a babysitter. That takes us to our next point;
2. Find a family or person with a spare room and who need some help around the house. It might be you can help with cleaning or gardening or maybe just a personal assistant. Whatever it might be that you can do some families are happy to swap your help for their spare room.
3. Find a flatmate. Many people looking for a paying flatmate are happy to have people from other countries. It can be a cheap alternative to a hotel room if you intend to stay a while.
4. Become an exchange student. Do some time in a school in another country and save money by staying with a host family.
5. Stay in a youth hostel. They don't adorn 5 stars but most are comfortable, social and cheap. Great value for money.
6. Find a friend before you leave. You may have your accommodation already sorted but would love someone to show you around or just hang out with. Again, with sites like Worldsharer.com, that has become so much easier.
So if you are serious about making the most of your travels then find a tour guide before you leave. Who knows, you might just find some friends for life.

6 Strategies To Boost Fuel Efficiency On The Road

As an owner-operator you are keenly aware of even small changes in the cost of fuel, and finding ways to maximize fuel efficiency is always a good strategy. The more that you can save on fuel costs the more profit you will make and the lower the cost of doing business will be. This may also give you the edge in bidding on contracts since you have lower overhead which, in turn, can drop your bid price and earn you additional business.
In an interesting study prepared by the Trucker's Report the following statistics made crystal clear the need to maximize fuel efficiency to boost profitability:
• It costs an average of $180,000 per year to keep a commercial truck in the United Sates on the road.
• The average cost of diesel fuel for a typical truck in the USA is $70,000.
• The cost per mile of operating a commercial truck is approximately $1.38.
• The average trucker fills up the truck with 20,500 gallons of fuel per year while the typical car uses just 500.
There are several different options that you can easily implement to reduce your fuel costs on a routine basis. These six strategies are effective when used individually, but they become major cost savers when used together. To see the results of a bit of effort on your part start logging your fuel use prior to implementing the strategies and then as you build in fuel-saving ideas to your daily routine.
1. Overall Vehicle Maintenance
Overall vehicle maintenance is number one on the list because it is one of the most important factors in how efficient the truck will run. If your vehicle is running rough and not well maintained you are going to waste energy and power and ultimately use more fuel. Routinely checking the engine for any signs of leaks, damage or problems is important, as is checking the oil and fluid levels.
You can easily do this on your own and have a mechanic check the vehicle on a routine basis as well. Generally if you have a good working relationship with the mechanic or shop this is a minor cost every couple of months that can end up saving you hundreds in fuel not to mention issues with breakdowns.
Tire air pressure needs to be correctly maintained as well. Over-inflating or under-inflating tires is unsafe, lowers your control over the truck and trailer, plus it also increases fuel consumption.
2. Idling and Parking
Believe it or not simply idling your truck results in fuel consumption of about a gallon of diesel for every hour idling. While this may not seem like a lot if you idle your truck a couple of hours a day for a week that is at least 14 gallons of fuel. At $3.50 per gallon that is a total of $50 per week or $2600 per year.
Parking in the shade and out of wind and weather also helps in reducing the impact of heat and cold on the fuel and the vehicle when idling or when warming up and cooling down.
3. Plan Your Route And Turn Right
You cannot avoid left turns in traffic completely, but whenever possible try to plan your route to include right turns rather than across traffic lefts. That extra couple of minutes sitting there waiting for a clear opportunity to turn increases your idling time per day, decreasing fuel efficiency.
In addition left turns mean you have to fully gear down, stop and then gear up during and after the turn, each step which is fuel inefficient.
4. Aerodynamic Designs Reduces Wind Resistance
Many new styles of rigs have gone from the traditional square, boxy and classic shapes to the more streamlined curved lines. This change is not just for appearance, smooth, curved lines decrease wind resistance and help with fuel efficiency.
Make sure all deflectors are correctly located to push the wind up and over the highest point of the load. This takes just a few minutes to check and is easy to do by looking at the angle of the deflector and the high point of the load.
5. Minimize Gearing Up and Down
When at all possible limit the number of times that you have to gear up or down since this is a high fuel usage point for the engine. Instead try to adjust speed well out from having to slow down significantly or come to a complete stop. The more than you have to fully stop and start the more fuel you will use. While you may not be able to prevent this in busy traffic areas, choosing the time of day you hit these areas can really help.
6. Drive A Fuel Efficient Speed
Driving at a steady pace of 60 to 65 miles per hour may not get you to your destination as fast as driving 70 or 75, which may be the posted speed, but it is going to leave you with more fuel in your tank when you reach your destination.
Higher rates of speed also add to the costs of vehicle maintenance, tire replacement and wear and tear on the truck and trailer. Driving a bit slower is also safer, making it a good option on virtually any roadway.
Making a few simple changes to the way you drive will help cut your fuel costs. These strategies can become a part of your daily driving routine that will add up to thousands of dollars in fuel savings per year.

Winter Driving Safety Tips For Big Rig Drivers

Driving a truck means working in all types of weather conditions. With strange weather patterns spreading snow and ice even in the southern states it is important, as fall and winter approaches, to take some time to plan for winter driving conditions and brush up on ideas to stay safe on icy, wet and snowy roads.
The key to winter driving for truckers, as for any other type of driver, is to make sure to be prepared. The good news is that there are now a number of apps for smartphones as well as automatic notification programs that can alert you to problematic winter driving conditions and bad weather miles before you reach the area. This not only lets you prepare for the difficult roads but it also may allow you to plan alternate routes that keep you out of the worst of the weather.
Tip 1: Know Your Limitations
Just because you are driving a truck that has a legal weight of over 40 tons and measures 70-80 feet from end of the trailer to front of the cab, it doesn't mean you can across any type of road safely. Ice, snow and combinations of ice and snow can lead to treacherous conditions even on straight, flat roadways. Combine this with curves, hills, stops and turns and you have a definite recipe for disaster.
If you are unsure of the road conditions or feel completely out of control in the vehicle stop and pull over. This could be because of heavy snowfall, blizzard conditions or clear visibility but terrible road conditions. It could also be due to concerns about black ice on the road that is impossible to see until you are into a skid. Trying to simply drive your way through is never the answer as stress, tension and mental fatigue will all play a part in making your drive even more dangerous in these types of conditions.
Tip 2: Know Your Route
In the winter it is not advisable to try a new route. It is far better to stay with a familiar route where you know where the chain-up areas are as well as where you can safely pull over to get out of traffic. Knowing your route means you also know where rest areas are located, where parking is available for rigs, and also where fuel stations and restaurants are that are trucker friendly.
If you have to take a new route be sure to study the route using a navigation program. Most of the trucker specific travel apps for route planning have very detailed information and are much better than a standard mapping app or program. Many of these also provide the option for travelers and truckers to post current weather conditions, road closures or road conditions that are usually more up to date than anything you will hear on the news or through radio reports. Keep your CB on and listen to the chatter, other truckers will be a great resource as to road conditions and weather issues.
Tip 3: Check Your Truck Each Day
Winter inspections before heading out are cold and not much fun, but they are essential for you stay safe on the road. Be sure to check each tire, you don't want to have to deal with changing a flat in the snow and ice. Not only is this difficult to do but you are at greater risk of being injured or, in a worst case scenario, being hit by a vehicle that simply couldn't see you in the snow.
Check all airlines and brakes and make sure everything is working and all tires are turning. Sometimes if the truck is parked overnight and the brakes freeze all it takes is backing the truck up to correct the problem.
Lights, including those on the trailer sides and top, should all be working. Each bulb adds to the ease of visibility for your truck for other drivers. Always carry a few spare bulbs for all lights on the truck and trailer and change them out as needed.
You should also make sure your chains are ready for the season and in good repair. Chains are a relatively low cost way to add grip to your tires, especially when traveling through the mountains or in snowy conditions on less travelled roads.
Tip 4: Have The Right Winter Gear
Plan to have the gear you need to stay warm, frostbite free, and able to work on your vehicle should the need arise. Most winter gear is very compact and easy to store in a small space. With the various thermal materials available you have a good selection to suit the type of conditions you think you may encounter.
You should have on the truck with you a good pair of winter boots. These should have a solid sole that has lots of traction if you have to get out on icy roads. In addition look for a winter parka that has reflective material or consider a reflective vest in a large size that will go over your outside coat. Warm hats, several pairs of gloves and a full balaclava are all must have items in your winter kit. Also pack several pairs of warm full length socks so you can switch out wet socks and gloves as needed.
Make sure you have road flares and signs as well as a good flashlight and lots of extra batteries. If you have a sleeper make sure you have power, food and a heater that will work off of your inverter. Always travel with your diesel tank full and make sure to use anti-gel with each fueling, don't wait for problems before adding.