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O.K., so the $700 Billion Federal Bailout itself didn’t instill much confidence. May I say, “Duh!” There are many reasons but foremost, it’s because the Bailout (I mean “Rescue”) Plan didn’t do squat to address the underlying crisis in the housing market. The Democrats’ response to the Fed’s initial 3-Page draft of the Bailout Plan, contained the modification to Chapter 13 which I briefly discussed in my last article. The GOP dismissed it as creating too great a risk for mortgage lenders who would fear lending if a borrower could use the bankruptcy system to reduce the interest and/or principal of the mortgage. Well, after 20 years as a bankruptcy trustee and practitioner, I think the idea of modifying our bankruptcy laws in this crisis needs a prompt and thorough rehearing!
 
For example, Chapter 12 of the Bankruptcy Code was enacted in 1986, on a temporary basis, specifically to deal with financially distressed family farmers during an extended period of high interest rates and tight credit. The primary purpose of this legislation was to give family farmers facing bankruptcy a chance to reorganize their debts and keep their farms. Today, we are witnessing an emergency similar to the farm-crisis of the 1980’s – but with respect to Mr. NASCAR-voter and Mrs. Hockey-mom down the block. In August of 2008, there over 300,000 foreclosure filings nationwide – a 12% increase over July and a 27% increase over August, 2007.   
 
I propose recreating a new Chapter 10 Bankruptcy specifically designed for homeowners seeking to avoid foreclosure. Similar to Chapters 12 and 13 in many ways,  new Chapter 10 would operate as follows:  Debts would be classified as being either “secured”, “priority”, or “unsecured”. Secured debts are those for which the creditor has the right to pursue specific pledged property upon default, such as a home mortgage or a security interest in a vehicle. Priority debts are those granted special status by the bankruptcy law, such as most taxes and the costs of the bankruptcy proceeding. Unsecured debts include just about every other kind of debt. Within 90 days of filing, the debtor would propose a reorganization plan lasting at least five years.  Under this plan, the debtor would pay all projected “disposable income” over the term of the plan to a trustee, who distributes the funds to creditors. 

“Disposable income” is defined as income which is not reasonably necessary for the maintenance or support of the debtor or his/her dependents, court-ordered support payments and for the payment of expenditures necessary for the continuation, preservation, and of the debtor’s business, if self-employed. The payments would have to be sufficient to pay all priority creditors in full. However, as long as the “disposable income” requirement were met, unsecured creditors would have to receive only as much as they would if the debtor’s nonexempt assets were liquidated under chapter 7.  This could be as much a 100%, or as little as nothing!  

Secured creditors would have to be paid at least as much as the value of the collateral pledged for the debt. In the case of home mortgage loans maturing beyond the five year plan period, payments would continue until maturity or sale. During that period, the mortgage principal could be reduced to reflect the value of the property at confirmation of the plan, and to reduce interest rates as well to an affordable level, provided that at the time of sale, the lender would be entitled to receive a graduated percentage of any appreciation in value up to the amount of the reduction in the mortgage and interest confirmed in the plan. In this key respect, Chapter 10 would be different than other bankruptcy procedures because the lender would actually retain a participatory interest. 

Would lenders still make these mortgage loans if this law were enacted? Of course they would!  Chapter 13 already allows debtors to modify junior liens (second mortgages) on their principal residence where there is no value to support the lien, and to modify even first-mortgage loans on second homes and investment property. Chapter 12 currently allows first mortgage loans to be modified on a farmstead. So why delay?
           
The operational mechanisms for this approach, as well as a considerable body of case law, already exist. Moreover, no one is going to rush into this process without a legitimate need because, after all, it’s still bankruptcy with all the other attendant negatives. For our economy today, however, it would provide a logical and workable means of deterring foreclosures and stabilizing home prices. 

Source by Mel Hoffman

When you’re involved with a man there’s one question that often pops into your mind and that’s what is he really feeling for you. Not all men are the great communicators we wish they were and it can be difficult to know if his feelings reflect our feelings. When you are wondering about what’s going on in his heart and mind consider the 10 signs that he’s in love with you. Recognizing these can help you determine what he’s really feeling, even if he’s not expressing it clearly.

1. The most obvious of the 10 signs that he’s in love with you is his desire to spend time with you. When a man is head over heels he’ll find reasons to see the woman he adores. Even if it’s for a mere five minutes at the end of the day, he’ll make the time.
2. On a similar note if he often texts, calls or emails you, he’s got you on his mind. This is another sign that his feelings are pretty intense.
3. Men are known to be very visual which is why they can’t seem to resist looking when a pretty girl walks by. One of the 10 signs he’s in love with you will be that his interest in others won’t be as piqued. If you two are out together he’ll generally focus mostly on you if he’s in love with you.
4. He’ll also be willing to agree to an exclusive arrangement if he’s falling for you. Don’t be at all surprised if he’s the one to suggest it. If he wants you all to himself, that’s another very positive sign.
5. If he constantly wants to hold your hand, kiss you and touch you take that as a sign that he’s falling deeper for you. Although many men aren’t comfortable displaying their affection in public, you may notice him reaching for your hand more often.
6. He’ll also want to pamper you. He may ask if you’ve eaten dinner yet or if you need anything when he calls. This shows he has genuine concern for your well being which always makes a woman feel incredibly special. It’s also another of the clear signs that he’s wild about you.
7. Inviting you to meet the people closest to him is one of the 10 signs he’s in love with you. If he wants you to meet his best friend, or his family take that as a step in the right direction. Men typically don’t just bring any girl home with them to meet mom and dad. You should feel honored and touched.
8. Some men are glued to their television sets at the same time each week to watch their favorite sports team in action. If he wants to do something with you instead of hanging out on the couch, this is great news. He’s putting your interests and needs ahead of his, which shows he cares deeply for you.
9. He’ll also be interested in your opinion if he’s in love. He’ll want you to choose activities for the two of you. This shows that he wants you to be happy, another sign that he’s developing strong feelings for you. It also shows that he values your opinion.
10. The last of the signs that a man is in love with you involves him talking about the future. If he suddenly starts talking about where he sees himself in a few years and if he suggests how great it would be to have children with you, he’s fallen in love with you. Listen carefully to everything he says, often his words will reveal exactly what he’s feeling, even if he doesn’t say those three little words directly.

Source by Gillian Reynolds

There’s a new wave of homebuyers coming, and as REALTORS®, you need to recognize them and learn how to communicate with them because you need them as much as they need you. Based on my professional and personal experience, I believe demographics will drive the next wave of homebuyers, both in Wisconsin and nationally, and that wave will be coming soon.

I’m no real estate expert, but I do know something about demographics and the mood of the public. My company, Kennedy Communications of Madison, is an advertising and media partner with the Wisconsin REALTORS® Association. Together, we’re responsible for the placement of all those television and radio ads you’ve been seeing and hearing over the past year by the National Association of REALTORS® and the WRA. Doing this work has given me a ring-side seat to understanding the market and consumer trends. Based on this, I believe there is a building wave of young buyers about to enter the marketplace, and when they do, they will play a major role in the housing boom to come.

Distinguishing the Millennials

The NAR/WRA ad campaign emphasizes the point that every market is different and buyers and sellers alike should ignore the national news about the slumping housing market, and instead, ask a REALTOR about your particular marketplace and your particular housing needs. That’s good advice since there is no more a “national housing market” than there is a “national weather outlook.” Every area is different.

I’ve passed along that advice to every person I know between the ages of 24 and 29 who has a job. My daughter and three employees have followed my advice in the last year and are absolutely giddy at the quality of the homes they now own. Two other employees are currently searching and will soon close on their new homes.

Why do I single out this group of young people? First of all, they are part of the largest generation in America’s history, and they are now reaching the traditional age for buying their first home. As they enter this market, the prospects of finding a good home at a good price couldn’t be better. Marketers call them the “millennials,” the 16 to 29 year olds in this country who number 85 million and represent 28 percent of America’s population. That means that every year, for a period of 18 years, five million of them leave college, start careers and start families.

It is the biggest generation of kids ever. In Wisconsin alone, that means 80,000 young adults will come of age every year. If they look to buy now, they will find home prices and interest rates at historically affordable rates. That combination of lots of buyers and a low interest rate, as well as healthy inventories for lots of choices, should be blowing the doors off every real estate office in the state.

Unfortunately, this good news is being lost because the news pundits and popular media have been blathering on for the last year about a weak economy, falling home values and so-called “huge spikes” in foreclosures. The fact is eight out of ten Wisconsin families are unaffected by these numbers, with only three percent of Wisconsinites saying their mortgage rates have increased, only 14 percent saying the value of their home has decreased, and just one percent reporting they’ve experienced a foreclosure. Moreover, the limited “bad news” is just so irrelevant to long-term personal net worth and other personal and community benefits of homeownership, that once you crunch the numbers it’s clear every person in the state should be a housing bargain hunter.

Push Financial Benefits

So how do we convince 80,000 millennials to buy a home when the news media is awash in bad news? Two things will sell these young people on buying a home.

First, is income tax deductibility. It can easily be overlooked for first-time homebuyers. Many of these folks have never had the opportunity to itemize deductions and thus do not understand the positive impact mortgage interest deductibility can have on housing affordability. Deductions for mortgage interest and property tax can be as high as two mortgage payments every year.

Many first-time homebuyers look at what they are paying in rent, and if a home payment is higher per month, they assume a home is too expensive. Income tax deductibility has huge advantages. This deduction not only generates economic growth, it drives personal financial planning. We need to make sure every young adult is aware of the deduction and how it will help them, as well as our communities, state and nation.

Second, once we solve the millennials’ misperception of the real cost of owning a home, shopping is the next step in the process. There are now 60,000 homes for sale in Wisconsin and more than 80,000 young people entering the home buying market this year. Many young adults talk about “cute houses” with “great yards” in “good” neighborhoods. Today’s market offers both historically low interest rates and a selection of homes with features for just about any taste. When young adults finally find their dream home, there’s no going back to the thought of apartment living. The emotional attachment they get from walking through a home they love is one of the strongest forces driving homeownership.

New Buyers, New Marketing

So how do you reach them? Your first instinct may be to think web banners and e-mails. While these traditional (interesting to be using the word traditional in referring to the web) approaches are good, there are even better ways to reach this audience. Take the few examples below:

Market to social networks. Consider the power of Facebook, LinkedIn or MySpace. According to a 2008 study by Ofcom, 35 percent of registered social network users are between the ages of 18-34.* Don’t be shy. Create a personal profile. Then blog. Avoid making a huge sales pitch. You want to engage your audience. Keep it conversational. Blog about client success stories, tips and tricks, and ways to educate young homeowners on the real estate market.

Consider cell phone text messaging. This group is regularly sending instant text messages to each other. Ask your clients how they would like to receive correspondence from you. Don’t assume they want text messages unless they agree to it, and if they do agree, do not overuse. People’s cell phones are very personal. Some REALTORS are even promoting text shortcodes on their real estate signs so customers can inquire about specific properties any time of the day or night.

Take to the airwaves. Team up with a local DJ and develop a good radio talk show to explain why younger people should buy a house early.

Understand their culture. Check out some of the Web sites and TV shows that are popular with Gen Y. You must know the perceptions of these young clients: online social hubs like YouTube and MySpace, and real estate shows on cable. They’re huge real estate reality TV show fans.

Relating to this generation is also important. Know the shows they like, such as ‘Buy Me,’ ‘Designed to Sell,’ ‘Flip that House’ and ‘House Hunters.’ They will talk about these shows.

Advertise listings on Craigslist. This online classifieds Web site is hugely popular with all buyers and sellers, but especially with the Web-savvy Gen Y set.

Don’t try to upsell. Be sincere with younger buyers. Don’t promise something you can’t deliver. Do not try to up-sell. Find the home they want within their price range. They will love you.

Know what they like. Younger buyers tend to want a home that’s close to work; near a park (to walk the dog); and within walking distance to shopping, the gym, and local bars and restaurants. Easy home maintenance is also high on their list. So craft a sales approach that’s in sync with this.

Have a great Web site. Ensure that it is friendly and warm, and information packed.

Use a smart phone or PDA, anything that gives an instant response. An e-mail or text is like a ringing phone, be ready to answer it promptly. Your ability to respond immediately is key, but don’t be pushy.

Source by Bill Kennedy

Quick! Who was the first president of the United States?

If you said “George Washington,” go the end of the line. He was the 12th – 15th if you count the first three presidents of the Continental Congress of 13 colonies.

Presidents of the Continental Congress were Peyton Randolph, Henry Middleton and John Hancock, but the colonies were under nominal control of King George III. The Declaration of Independence of July 2, 1776 (public announcement July 4) speaks of “These United Colonies.”

Shortly after the Declaration, Congress passed Articles of Confederation under which they waged a successful revolution against Britain.

During this difficult period, four patriots served as “president.” John Hancock – the third Continental Congress president — became the first Confederation president. Following him were Henry Laurens, John Jay, and Samuel Huntington.

However, the Confederation was not ratified by all 13 states until March l, 1781, at which time the Continental Congress ceased to exist. Huntington continued as Confederation president until he resigned in July 1781 thus, technically, he was the first president of the United States.

Thomas McKean of Delaware was elected “President of the United States in Congress Assembled” in July 1781. Lord Cornwallis surrendered to the United Confederate States Oct. 19, 1781.

Thereafter, the Confederacy presidents in Congress Assembled were John Hanson, Elias Boudinot, Thomas Mifflin, Richard Henry Lee, John Hancock, Nathaniel Gorham, Arthur St. Clair, and Cyrus Griffin.

The loose confederation of autonomous states were unable to pay the bills incurred during the Revolution and squabbled over taxes and inter-state tariffs. A “federal” constitution welding the disparate states into a nation was adopted Sept 17, 1787.

George Washington was elected President of the United States under our present Constitution by a vote of citizens in 1789. He served two terms but refused another. The Constitution was ratified with a Bill of Rights on Dec. 15, 1791.

Wanted Man

Several early presidents are particularly noteworthy. Leading the list might be John Hancock. He was president three times – Continental Congress, Confederation and Congress Assembled.

Though wealthy, be was a populist who believed strongly in the ability of the common man. He supported the Boston Tea Party and decried the Boston Massacre.

He is best remembered as the first signer – in bold letters — of the Declaration of Independence.

The Crown had delivered a decree from England in early 1776 offering a large reward for Hancock’s capture. Nevertheless, he announced as he affixed his signature: “The British ministry can read that name without spectacles; let them double their reward!”

Strangely the Declaration Broadside presented to King George III contained only the names of President John Hancock and Secretary Charles Thomson. Names of the other signers were not published until 1777.

It is certain that if the Americans had lost the ensuing war, Knox and Thomson would have lost their heads.

First President

Samuel Huntington was a self-taught attorney in Connecticut – as were most colonial jurists – and a member of the Superior Court. He was elected to the General Assembly and a member of the revolutionary Council of Safety.

He joined the Sons of Liberty in opposition to the Stamp Act. Passage of the Coercive Acts in 1774 — in retaliation to the Boston Tea Party — led Huntington into active opposition to the Crown.

Huntington signed the Declaration of Independence and in 1779 was elected president of the Continental Congress. While holding that office in 1781, the Articles of Confederation were ratified which adopted the name “United States.”

In that position, he was successful in getting the states to meet their quotas of men and provisions.

Huntington retired from the Confederation to accept the governorship of Connecticut. Thus, he presided over adoption by that state of the federal Constitution in 1788.

Imprisoned In Tower

Henry Laurens was elected a delegate to the Continental Congress in 1776. The following year he succeeded John Hancock as president. He served through 1778.

He was appointed minister to Holland in 1779 to negotiate a treaty. He sailed on the packet “Mercury” which was captured by the British 28-gun frigate “Vestal” off New Newfoundland.

Laurens threw his papers overboard, but they were recovered and disclosed his mission. The refusal of Holland to punish its minister — who had suggested the treaty – led to war between Britain and Holland.

Laurens was taken to London, examined before the Privy Council and imprisoned in the infamous Tower on “suspicion of high treason.” His already failing health deteriorated markedly for 15 months without medical attention.

The former president of the Confederation obtained a pencil and carried on a communication with American newspapers through a trusted friend.

Laurens twice refused offers of pardon if he would cooperate with the British ministry.

His son John, a colonial Minute Man, was sent to Paris in 1781 to negotiate a loan with France. Senior Laurens was informed that his prison sentence would be “less vigorous” if he persuaded John to give up the French negotiations.

Father Laurens declared his son was a man who would never sacrifice honor, even to save his father’s life. John was killed a few months later in a skirmish with British troops in South Carolina.

Laurens petitioned the House of Commons in December 1782 for more liberty in prison. Soon afterward, he was exchanged for Lord Cornwallis and was commissioned by Congress to be one of the ministers to negotiate peace.

He went to Paris with John Jay and Benjamin Franklin and signed the treaty understanding Nov. 30, 1782.

Henry Laurens retired to his plantation, “Mepkin,” near Charleston. He was named a presidential elector for South Carolina — casting a vote for his old friend George Washington as constitutional president of the United States of America.

Citizen Laurens died Dec. 8, 1792, at age 62. He concluded his will with a startling request for that time:

“I solemnly enjoin it on my son, as an indispensable duty, that as soon as he conveniently can, after my decease, he cause my body to be wrapped in twelve yards of tow-cloth and burned until it be entirely consumed, and then, collecting my bones, deposit them wherever he may think proper.”

The cremation was the first in this country. His ashes are interred on his former estate in Berkley County.

Source by Lindsey Williams

Are you looking for the convenience of having your own personal computer at your fingertips during “travel season” this year? The good news is that this option is readily available and at the right price too!

This year it’s not only the humans that have lost weight for beach season, but also the most recent and inexpensive breed of slimmed-down personal computers…the mini laptop.

This new breed of extremely small and lightweight (2 pounds or so) laptop has emerged and conquered the market just in time for summer travel. Called “mobile internet devices” and also known as mini laptops, mini notebooks, mini notes or netbooks, these lightweight laptops are all but naked…undressed of all superfluous features. And starting at around $400 they are distinctly cheaper than other mobile PC’s.

My personal favorite, the Acer Aspire One, stuffs quite a bit into a slim, petite and very appealing package. It is 9.8 x 6.7 x 1.14 inches, yet it holds a decent processor (as well as 2G of memory) and a relatively large 8.9 inch display. It also sports a great keyboard and to top things off it is available in several fashionable colors, the favorite so far being pink!

Another option, just slightly more expensive, is the higher-end HP 2133 Mini-Note PC. It is recommended for students and light business users. The finely spaced keys and clear 8.9 inch screen show that the designer actually envisioned adult usership without any finger cramping or eye strain! AND it comes in a rugged metal casing which helps you avoid feeling like a kid whipping out some plastic toy.

For the chic, bold and tech passionate woman out there, Vivienne Tam, in collaboration with HP created the “designer” PC mini notebook, the Vivienne Tam HP Clutch. With a peony floral print on top of a red background it’s feminine design is a blend of Asian and Western cultures. Vivienne Tam not only designed the mini PC but also it’s accessories and packaging. This product, with it’s 10 inch screen comes with an embroidered red sleeve.

Even though mini laptops are a blessing for light and frequent travelers, and are a less expensive option than a full size laptop, you should use care when selecting the right one for you. Do some research before you purchase.

Make sure you are happy with the operating system, that it has sufficient hard drive space and memory, the keyboard is easy to use and that  the screen is large enough so it won’t scrunch the display.

Extras like USB ports (there are three on the Acer Aspire One for instance), media slots, built in cameras, microphones, wi-fi and speakers are all perks!

So, all in all, you won’t need to forgo access to your computer needs while you are travelling this year.

Source by Karla Deacon

It seems as though you cannot pick up a newspaper or watch the evening news in South Florida without hearing the subject of red light traffic cameras being raised yet again. To say that this is a hot-button issue in nearly every metropolitan area is a serious understatement.

The most recent issue is the City Commission of Fort Lauderdale’s refusal to remove its red light traffic cameras even amid legal struggles and financial concerns. This comes on the heels of the cameras being suspended on March 6 because a Broward County judge declared that the city’s red light camera usage violates Florida state law. In spite of this ruling, the usage of these cameras is still strongly supported by the administration and law enforcement officials.

One such administrator, Mayor Jack Seiler, stated, “The commission still supports the red light camera program. These red light cameras save lives. Based on the court rulings, the system needs to be tweaked. At the end of the day, you’ll see some red light camera program in place.”

The city currently has 32 cameras located at 20 different intersections and, based upon the mayor’s statements, this isn’t likely to change any time soon. Although the commissioners have yet to vote on the matter, earlier this month they were quite outspoken at a City Hall meeting about their intentions to keep the cameras in place, although dormant, until the legal issues can be overcome.

At this same meeting the commissioners also agreed upon a strategy that lets American Traffic Solution (ATS), the Arizona company that installs, maintains, and monitors most of the red light traffic cameras, to incur any legal fees that arise from these cameras as well as the logistics required to seek appeals.

Complicating Ft. Lauderdale’s hardball stance on the matter, two Broward County judges recently dismissed 24,000 red-light traffic camera tickets. These traffic violation videos were reviewed by American Traffic Solutions (ATS) prior to them being submitted to official law enforcement agencies here in Florida for them to be ticketed. This defies state law which mandates only law officials can determine if a violation has occurred and then issue the traffic ticket.

The Fourth District Court of Appeal in West Palm Beach refused an appeal by Hollywood that the city filed as a reaction to an October ruling. This ruling determined that by using ATS, the city had inappropriately relinquished power to a non-law enforcement entity of citing red light runners, a power which is normally entrusted solely to law enforcement.

That city is appealing the ruling to the Florida Supreme Court. In the interim, Hollywood is no longer handing out these types of traffic citations, but they hope to tweak their program so that they can continue to use it, but it is no longer at odds with state laws.

As I have stated previously, this is a money-making endeavor for both ATS and the municipalities that use these red light traffic cameras. You will hear much denial from proponents of their use such as Mayor Seiler who was quoted as saying, “This was never about our budget. This was never about our bottom line. This is about saving lives.”

Yet it costs Fort Lauderdale $4,250 per month for each camera. That remains the same even when the cameras are not operational; however, City Manager, Lee Feldman makes the argument to commissioners that, “We are losing dollars.”

Unlike the city manager, the mayor stands firmly on the point that ATS should not charge the city until the cameras can resume their function. After all, they are not really “doing” anything at the moment.

“They should let us out of that obligation immediately,” he said. “We are using the system they suggested we use. It was ruled illegal by a judge, and it’s their system, not ours. I don’t mind leaving the cameras in place while we go through the legal process, but we should not be paying for them during that process.”

I suppose it is a matter of wait and see as to whether or not ATS will do the honorable thing or continue to bill Ft. Lauderdale for their very existence. With those 32 cameras in place which are currently doing absolutely nothing, if ATS does choose to continue to bill the city, that will result in pure profit of $136,000 per month just to have them there. Hopefully, the anticipated commissioners’ vote on April 7 to amend their contract with ATS will staunch the outflow of tax dollars that seems to be occurring on an arbitrary basis.

Surprisingly, there are some residents that feel that these red light traffic cameras are worth the cost of the cameras and the controversy that surrounds them. Local resident Charlie King recently supported the commissioners in their efforts to keep the cameras in place, even if they are not working.

“You should leave these cameras up, even if it’s for the placebo effect,” King said. “The system saves lives. Everyone knows that.”

Not everyone agrees with King. Many residents and organizations who have conducted studies feel like that may have decreased some types of accidents, but increased other kinds of accidents. This increase is often blamed on the shortened cycle of the yellow light, as well as panic setting in when you are starting to proceed or execute a turn then suddenly have the light change quickly. Stop? Go? Stopping in the intersection? This kind of indecision can be lethal when driving.

If you happen to be one of the thousands of drivers who are effected by these red light traffic citations, give us a call at 954-967-9888 for a free consultation. We are focused on getting the use of these cameras repealed and have much experience at handling red light camera traffic tickets.

Source by Jason Diamond

Today, taking a cheap cruise doesn’t mean having to do without certain luxuries associated with cruise ship travel. In fact, these days, the term cheap basically means getting all the optional extras at a bargain price.

The good news for prospective cruise travellers is these bargain holiday deals are happening all the time and if you follow some basic guidelines, then your next high seas adventure could be just around the corner.

Finding Cheap Cruise Deals

If you are working on a budget then consider travelling during off peak times. These are the high demand periods when cruise lines don’t have any problems filling their passenger quotas and are less inclined to “slash” prices. Summer is a season when people are very much in holiday mode and more likely to want to travel. Concentrating on periods such as the end of summer and beginning of fall will more likely get you a cheap cruise deal that fits well within your budget.

It’s these times when companies are keen to fill their cabins so they offer incentives such as lower prices. The good news for you is that despite the cheaper fares, the quality of the cruise holiday is in no way diminished.

Planning Your Cheap Cruise

Some careful planning is required when looking for a cheap cruise. Obviously, consulting a travel expert is the natural inclination for most people and always a good option. However, more experienced travellers have used the internet to great effect in recent years.

There are no shortage of cruising websites to sift through online, all with the aim of providing you with as much information as possible to make an informed decision. One of the best features online is the alert features offered by some of these sites. Look for newsletter offers; you sign up for a regular newsletter at varying intervals and receive the latest bargain offers. Some sites even provide price alert features which means you enter details such as how much you want to spend, where you want to go and when you want to travel.

Cruise Line Updates

Cruise companies also offer services such as regular updates. As with third party websites, companies also provide information services which will keep you updated about impending offers. The point to remember is cruise lines in most cases will do their best, within reason, to get you on their ships because setting off from port with many empty cabins simply doesn’t make good business sense.

There are more cruise ships on the water today therefore more cabins to fill. Bigger ships and more competition for passengers among companies means better deals for you. Just remember, create a budget, sign up for price alerts, avoid high season travel and be flexible with your travel schedule and you’ll be surprised at the number of cheap cruise deals you’ll have to choose from.

Source by Dean Caporella

If you’re tired of the same old usually crowded tourist destinations in the Mediterranean and the Caribbean, like Spain and the Dominican Republic or Cancun, there are other more secluded and special places to explore in tropical idyllic islands like St Lucia. Famous for being the Caribbean’s number one romantic destination, having featured in U.S. reality show, The Bachelor, St Lucia holidays could be a great alternative to families seeking great holiday getaways, ensuring fun activities for everyone and uncrowded resorts, without spending a fortune. Although slightly more expensive than Dominican Republic holidays, St Lucia can certainly work out to be an affordable holiday destination if you know where to book and how to fish for the best deals.

Going on a holiday is one of the best parts of the year, that is, of course, if you managed to save up enough money to make it worth your while and head somewhere amazing and exotic where you can treat your family to an exciting break that will also allow for great quality time spent with each family member.

You can go anywhere in the world but you if you need to find a truly spectacular setting that can still be affordable while helping you create lots of fond memories, then St Lucia might be one of your greatest options and one worth adding to your bucket list. Exotic and warm, tropical and romantic, St Lucia is the perfect place for your next holiday if you’re after uncrowded beaches, amazing scenery, unforgettable sunsets and great entertainment options for the little ones.

You can get great deals of you carefully plan your St Lucian getaway, but there are a lot of web pages to flick through and scan before you settle on that final deal that you know it’s going to offer the best value for money. Just make sure you skim through plenty of websites and comparison sites before you make that final decision and go ahead with the booking. When you’re absolutely sure and convinced you’re going to be getting the best deal for you and your family then waste no time and book in a hurry because special travel deals are often limited and many offers expire soon (as they are subject to availability, and when one deal is too good to be true, you can bet many people will be just as enticed to book it which many mean limited availability and seats filling up quickly).

For the best deal on family St Lucia holidays stay at the wonderful four-star all inclusive Coconut Bay Resort and Spa, one of the most affordable resorts in the Caribbean island while still offering plenty of luxury and entertainment for the whole family. Offering a selection of deluxe amenities for young and old, this resort offers a fantastic Cocoland Kids Club for the little ones and plenty of land and water sports, as well as fun activities, games and facilities, all included in the rate price.

For the ultimate money-saving deal the time to book your holiday at the above-mentioned hotel is now as they are currently running a spa special offer where those booking a Deluxe Ocean Harmony or Premium Ocean Harmony room will get a complimentary spa treatment per person per day at the resort’s Kai Mer Spa, a fantastic sweet deal for the parents!

St Lucia holidays are perfect for couples and families because there is something for everyone to do. It is also a great destination for single people looking to have a good time. No matter what you are looking for in your next holiday, St Lucia will make your holiday the best it can be. Don’t spend your precious holiday time on a mundane trip to the crowded Costa Dorada in Spain or the buzzing Cancun full or rowdy teenagers and students when you can go on a St Lucia holiday for a great price. No doubt you will have the time of your life in St Lucia and your family will more than thank you.

Source by Susan Crown

The simple answer is YES. Clients can make changes once they purchase travel insurance. It is usual for insurance companies to allow their customers to make necessary changes after a successful buy. However, there are cases when some companies become selective in what details they allow for modifications.

Oftentimes, people avail of insurance after buying their travel tickets. But as humans, we make mistakes, and these mistakes need to be rectified right away. Sometimes, alterations are inevitable, especially when you extend your trip or another person is joining the travel. With that in mind, what are the common alterations we can make on our travel insurance policy?

Personal Details

Of course, personal details are the most important information in the travel insurance policy. If you have misspelled your name, you want to change your name, or you want to modify your address, then you need to update the details of your insurance.

If by any chance, you move to another country, you need to contact your insurance company right away. They need to know your new country of residence so that you’ll know whether your coverage is still valid or not. It goes the same with medical conditions. Your insurance company needs to update your medical details if there are any changes.

Travel Areas

This is applicable for annual multiple travel insurance and single travel insurance (for only one destination). If you have indicated specific travel areas in your insurance, and you decide to add more places, then don’t forget to give your insurance company the heads up. It helps ensure your security wherever you are in the world.

But make sure that you make the changes before going on your trip as the travel insurance takes place when you are already traveling. And you also need to take note of additional charges for the changes.

Trip Extension

Another case is the extension of your trip. For instance, you have purchased annual, multiple travel insurance, but you want to extend the length of your trip, you can alter your insurance. You have the chance to select insurance policies covering a longer duration. But be careful. You may incur additional charges for the trip extension. Always ask first before making the purchase.

Additional Persons

Sometimes, some of our family members want to travel also, so we have to think about their safety and security while away from home. In connection to that, insurance companies have made it easy for you to add your family members to your travel insurance policy. As long as they live in the same address as you, you are assured that they are included in your insurance coverage.

Coverage Extension

If you have purchased an insurance policy for single trips, you can extend your travel while you are still on holiday. The most important thing you have to do is contact your insurance provider before your policy expires, and the period outside your country of residence isn’t over 18 months. Otherwise, you’ll have to repurchase a new travel insurance policy.

Without a doubt, insurance providers want you to enjoy your travels without anything to worry about. So, if you have any changes to make on your insurance policies, be sure to get in touch with them right away. They are always available to help you anytime.

Source by Neil Clymer