Buddget Hotels in Nairobi | Nairobi Budget Hotels

1. Iqbal Hotel of -Nairobi Kenya inexpensive Hotels

The Iqbal Nairobi hotel has retained its fame among budget travelers until today. This Nairobi Kenya hotel is still possibly the best place in the area to meet fellow budget travelers. There is hot water available only you may have to wake up early to be able to use it. A Neighbouring church with 7am service will make sure you do not oversleep and miss your rig.

There is a secure hotel store room where you can leave your excess gear for Kshs 40 storage fee per day. The Nairobi Kenya hotel is very secure and oftenly, taxis to other joints in town can be arranged at a fee by the watchman. The reduced price range at this Nairobi Kenya budget hotel is Kshs 400/600/960 for s/d/triple.

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2. New Kenya Lodge –in Nairobi Kenya Budget & cost effective Hotels

This Nairobi Kenya budget hotel is another long standing traveler’s joint located on river road. The staff is very friendly and they have a sociable lounge area. Hot water may be available in the evenings. They have a very helpful notice board and the hotel also runs its own safaris. The price range is Kshs 300 for a double with shared or private bathrooms.

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3. Hotel Africana –in Nairobi Kenya reasonable & Budget Hotels

The Africana hotel in Nairobi Kenya has very clean and bright rooms. The Africana hotel is better looked after than many places of its class. It has a common TV room and a roof garden offering a bird’s eye view of the busy streets.

The well catered but rather plain coffee house restaurant specializes in Indian food. Prices include breakfast, although you can opt out if you have other ideas. Economy Budget hotel prices here are Kshs 600/800/1000/1500 for s/d/tw/tri.

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4. Wilton Gateway Hotel-in Nairobi Kenya Reduced Budget Hotels

The Wilton gateway Nairobi Kenya hotel is a decent and comfortable hotel popular with Kenyan salesmen. Breakfast is offered at Kshs 100 per person. The gateway pub below claims its beers are still sold at the 1990’s prices.

This may explain the slight evening noise factor due to heavy patronage. Budget inexpensive hotel prices here are Kshs 700/1000/1300 for s/d/tw.

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5. Eva May Lodge -in Nairobi Kenya Budget Hotels

This is a decent Nairobi guest house with the only downside being that the standard doesn’t really do justice to the lovely sounding name. It is located at the junction of River & Duruma roads. The Nairobi hotel rooms are small but decent enough and averagely reasonable.

Breakfast is included in your room rates. Hot water is more or less guaranteed with an instant water heater attachment when the water and electricity feel like matching their deal. The Low priced Budget hotel prices here are Kshs 700/1000/1300 for s/d/tw.

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6. Terrace hotel-in Nairobi Kenya Budget Hotels

This budget hotel in Nairobi Kenya is located at Ronald Ngala Street and is one of the few value- for-your-money deals you will get at these price ranges.

The budget Nairobi hotel wears its age as a badge of honour and compares very favorably to some of the claustrophobia inducing establishments around it. Their budget good deal price ranges are Kshs 500/800 for the s/d.

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7. YMCA -in Nairobi Kenya Budget Hotels

The YMCA is a guest house located on the foot of Nairobi upper hill section and is therefore away from the noise and activity of the central district. Though it may not convince the village people the YMCA guest house in Nairobi is OK place with a range of rooms.

Their prices however just manage to make it within the budget category. The YMCA Nairobi has just done some much needed renovations and is now looking more appealing and comfortable to the eye. Good deal hotel prices here are Kshs 940/1480 for an s/d and shared rooms at 690/1180.

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An Examination of the Real Estate Market in Costa Rica

Many have decided that it is time to examine the real estate market in other countries,
and to begin looking for a good place to vacation or retire This article examines the
booming real estate market in Costa Rica which is often called the "Jewel of Central
America".

Costa Rica appears to have everything anyone could ever want in a solid real estate
market, a good stable economy, excellent weather, welcoming people, safety from
major crimes, beach and mountain areas to choose from, and a low cost of living,
along with the fact that it is only a few flying hours from the United States.

Beginning with the upper Nicoya Peninsula area where a large part of the building
and construction is occurring, you will find nice sandy beaches around Playa Hermosa,
Flamingo, and some others, with many upscale hotels and resorts. The close proximity
to the international airport in Liberia is one of the major factors in the rapid growth of
this area.

Further down the peninsula almost midway is Playa Samara where growth is now
beginning to occur in earnest. From Samara down to Mal Pais on the lower
peninsula, growth is not occurring rapidly due to the non-existence of good roads.
However on the lower peninsula there is a ferry that runs from Puntarenas on the
mainland to Paquera which allows access to the lower beaches around Tambor,
Montezuma, and Mal Pais which many world class surfers have found.

Land values have soared in these areas over the past several years, and it is
now difficult to find land near the ocean at a reasonable price compared to the
rest of the country. The Caribbean coastal areas although not as popular as the
Pacific areas are also gaining in popularity. The difficulty in travel to this side
of the country, the deluges from hurricanes, and the difference in the makeup
of the social structure occupying these coastal areas has hampered rapid
development of the area, but there are some beginnings now occurring.

There are two international airports in Costa Rica, one near San Jose the Capital,
the other in Liberia. The nearness to these international airports make these two
areas the most popular. The southern region of Costa Rica is difficult to reach because
of the poor road systems which take a long time to negotiate, and the lack of an
international airport. There is talk of an airport being constructed somewhere near
the Osa peninsula on the Pacific coast, but as yet there are no definite plans
to my knowledge.

The difficult travel to this area prohibits the rapid development of the southern region
which is occurring in other parts of Costa Rica. Although there are some very nice
areas around San Isidro de General, Tinamaste, and further south which have been
populated by some Americans, the poor road systems, distance from the international
airport, and other factors have limited the growth in this area.

Along the coastal areas from Jaco down to Quepos there has been much activity
in building and construction of hotels, resorts, and communities, and there is a new
highway already under construction directly from San Jose to the coast. Further down
around Quepos there are also many resorts and hotels due primarily to the nearness of
Manuel Antonio Park which is a very large tourist attraction.

Those desiring coastal properties will find that the best access at present to the
beach areas will be in the upper Nicoya peninsula near the international airport
in Liberia. However, expect to pay premium prices for these properties, and suffer
the consequences of over development of the area for a considerable time, because
building and construction has overrun the infrastructure with limited water and
electric in the area.

The beach areas along the central Pacific coast also offer many possibilities at a
lower cost than that of the upper peninsula and will perhaps remain so until the
highway from San Jose to the coast is finished which will bring the international
airport near San Jose much closer to the coast in terms of travel time.

One of the most popular regions of Costa Rica for some Americans is the central
valley around San Jose including Escazu, Heredia, and Alajuela, which is due in
large part to the close proximity to cultural areas of San Jose, the international
airport, gated communities and condominiums, and the shopping districts.

Further north and west of San Jose you will find Grecia, Sarchi, and Naranjo, and
even further in the western central valley, the towns of Palmares and San Ramon
which has excellent weather and a growing community of Americans.

For those who like it cool year round there is Zarcero which is north, northwest of
San Jose which is sometimes called "little Switzerland" because of the cool
weather, many dairy cattle, and mountainous areas.

So what of the prospects of safe investment in Costa Rica real estate. Many believe
that Costa Rica represents one of, if not the best of all investments in Central America
due to the cultural nature of the people, the safety, strong democratic government,
and a stable economy. At present there are over 60,000 foreign families, most of them
American now retired in Costa Rica and there are strong ties between the U.S. and
Costa Rica, with a free trade agreement looming on the horizon.

With all of this, is it no wonder that so many of the "baby boomer" generation are now
investing in and choosing to make their vacation and retirement homes in Costa Rica.
As has been said, you have only to visit it once and you will fall in love with it.

Increase Your Prices

Your Fast Start Guide to Marketing Your Business Issue 5

Increase Your Prices

Quite simply this is one of the easiest and quickest ways to improve your cash flow. It makes sense doesn't it? Increase you prices and you'll make more money. But, many one business owners are reluctant to, and even scared of raising their prices. But they needn't be. Your customers aren't going to leave you in droves if you raise your prices. Some of them probably will. But you know what? A lot of businesses would be better off losing around 20% of their customers! A shocking statement I know, but we'll look at this in more detail later on in this chapter. Time after time, I have seen, and many other consultants have seen business owners raise their prices by 50% overnight and have almost no effect on the number of transactions. And in fact, depending on your profit margin, and how much you raise your prices, you could afford to lose 50% or more of your customers and still make the same money you're making now. And, with 50% less customers, you can give the remaining 50% the best customer service that money can buy, therefore justifying your price increase.

Why You Shouldn't Be Competing On Price Anyway

If you feel that the only way that you can compete is on price, your business is in trouble. For a start, studies show that 6% of people shop on price alone. That means that 94% of buyers are also interested in quality, guarantees, convenience and other factors. Price may be a factor, but it's not the only factor. In the last chapter on conversion rate, you saw how one business wrote their quote on the back of a business card. The other sent out a nice "proposal letter" that spelled out in great detail exactly how they took care of all the worries and concerns their customers had. And even though they were actually $10,000 more expensive, they still got the job. Why? Because they focused on their customers needs and wants first. And they made sure they had a system in place to tell their customers all about it. They gave their customers powerful reasons why they should buy from them. And when you are buying a big ticket item like a house extension, major equipment upgrade, new bulldozer or a new car, peace or mind is everything.

If you can show your customers how you take care of everything for them, that you are taking all the risk, not them, then your sales will take off. Make sure you use testimonials and guarantees. Find out all of the major fears that your customers have about buying from you. The major fears and dissatisfactions that people have with your industry. And then show how you take care of those problems for your customers. For example, if you're a tradesman, I can tell you straight out the two biggest fears and concerns people have about using a tradesman. Firstly, tradesmen never turn up on time. There is nothing worse than waiting around all day for a tradesman who just doesn't even bother to turn up, or turns up 5 hours late without bothering to call. And meanwhile you're missing work and your boss is ready to fire you. If there is anyone reading this manual who hasn't had this experience, then you're in a lucky minority. And secondly, tradesmen tramp mud right through your house, or leave a big pile of plaster dust or sawdust all over your lounge room and expensive stereo without making any effort to clean up after themselves.

So, if you're a tradesman and you're reading this, take note. Truth be told it's probably only a fairly small percentage of tradesmen who are like this, but it's the perception that people have of tradesmen. You see, people have either had a bad experience themselves with a tradesman, or they know somebody who has. Now, tradesmen in major capital cities get away with this, because there is always another job to go to. And that's fine. But they could send their profits through the roof by providing a better level of service. Now, you might be the best tradesman there is; you turn up on time and you always clean up after yourself. But don't assume your customers know this. You've got to tell them. Because if there is someone else out there who tells 'em, that's who they're going to call. Not you.

Making Your Business Unique

So, instead of competing on price, you're now competing on service and extra value. You're the tradesman who always turns up on time, and always cleans up after themselves. Your ad headline now says "At last... A Plumber/Electrician/Painter/etc Who Turns Up On Time and Cleans Up After Themselves". And later in your ad you go on to say "In fact, if we're late, you'll get $50 off". Now, let's say that you urgently need a plumber, would you call the guy whose ad promises all of that? Or would you call the guy whose ad just says "Bill Smith's Plumbing"? There's no comparison really. The reason you would call the guy who promises to turn up on time is that straight off the bat he's taken care of your two biggest worries. Not only that, he guarantees it or you get $50 off. The price he charges isn't really going to be an issue for you. Above all else you just don't want to have to wait around all day, or clean up a big mess afterwards. As far as you were concerned, you have finally found a tradesman who has thought of the customer. He's put your needs first. And you'd be quite happy to pay a bit more for this level of service, wouldn't you? What's more, do you think you might tell your friends and family about this guy? I reckon you would. This plumber has made himself different, he has made himself stand out. And as a result, he would have no trouble charging more than the other guys. A lot more.

If you are a tradesman, focus on what your customer wants. Guarantee that you will be there on time, and try an ad just like the one above. (You have permission to use this example in your ad). It would make a perfect Yellow Pages headline for your business. Now, you might be thinking "That would never work". No? I once heard Winston Marsh, one of Australia's top marketers speak. He told a story of working with a plumber to create a new ad and marketing campaign. He used almost exactly the same words as above. The plumbers' reaction was "I'll go broke". But you know what? After 3 years or so the plumber sold his business and retired with more than 60 vans working for him!

That is how big a difference this sort of marketing can make.

The Power Of A U.S.P.

Now, if you're not a tradesman, then I hope you got the point of being different, being unique. Because no matter what business you are in, you should be trying to be as unique in your field as the tradesman who guarantees he'll be there on time. You may be wondering what U.S.P. means. It stands for unique selling proposition. What's unique about your business? Why should anyone choose to do business with you instead of anyone else? You see, if you can't answer that question, you don't have a U.S.P. for your business. Take this or leave it, but all of the world's top marketer's say you might as well quit right now if you don't have a U.S.P. for your business. It's that important.

So, in the example we just looked at, our plumber had created a U.S.P. for his business. He guaranteed that he would be there on time and that he would clean up after himself. Let's go back to the story of the guy with the 60 vans. Imagine he's about to hire someone. Can you see how his U.S.P. would have a major impact on who he hired? He'd want someone punctual, reliable, organized and efficient. In other words his U.S.P. would be like a mission statement for his business. It would guide every major decision and action that he took. A famous U.S.P. is for M&M's - "They melt in your mouth, not in your hands". Domino's Pizza was struggling until they came up with their U.S.P. - "Piping hot pizza delivered to your door in 30 minutes or it's free". That U.S.P. took them to a billion dollar business. What's your U.S.P. going to be? Are you going to stand out because of service, convenience, price advantage, outrageous guarantees, quality, reliability and so on? Your U.S.P. should be short, snappy, to the point and easily understood by your target market.

We used the example of tradesmen because it was easy for everyone to relate to. Let's take another industry that has a common perception among people. For the moment let's say you're now a used car salesmen. As you know, they make jokes about used car salesmen. People will tend to see you as shonks, charlatans, crooks, rip off merchants and sharks. You're going to have to work hard to gain their trust. It doesn't matter that probably 90% of the industry are honest and hard working. It's the perception that people have of you. If you've ever been to a car yard, one is pretty much the same as another. Maybe they're honest, maybe they're not. But, let's pretend for a moment that you are an honest used car salesmen. You really want to look after your customers. So, why not tell them? Why not back it up with an outrageous guarantee? You see, if all your advertising and marketing says "We offer you an unlimited k/m 12 month warranty on all cars sold, and the best trade in deals in Perth. If you are unhappy with your car for any reason in the first 20 days, bring it back for a full refund, no questions asked". If anyone was even remotely suspicious that you were going to rip them off, you've just blown their concerns out of the water. You're taking all the risk, not them. If you can't see how this would have used car buyers flocking to you, you're probably wasting your time reading this manual. In Jay Abraham's excellent book "Getting Everything You Can Out Of All You've Got" he mentioned a car dealer who doubled his business simply by offering a guarantee like this.

The point is you've got to make your business stand out. You've got to communicate to people the benefits of choosing to do business with you. And that won't happen with your average, everyday, run of the mill type business. I mean when was the last time that you had a really great experience while dealing with a business? Can't remember exactly? And that's my whole point. Because if you are the one who can deliver a great experience to your customers in your chosen field, they'll pick you every time. And they'll tell all their friends and family about you as well. And the way to do this is to come up with a U.S.P. for your business. Something that is unique about the way you do things. Something that immediately lets your customers know that your are different, you are trustworthy, you are reliable, you pack so much extra value into your product or service that they can't help to choose you.

One of the easiest ways to come up with a U.S.P. for your business is to have a short, sharp, snappy saying. Domino's Pizza said "Piping hot pizza delivered to your door in 30 minutes or it's free". It's straight to the point. You know exactly what you are going to get. Bear in mind that today home delivered pizza is not so special, but back when Domino's came up with this U.S.P. it was absolutely unheard of. In fact, the very reason that home delivered pizza is so common today is because of Domino's. Their U.S.P. revolutionized the pizza industry. Now, you don't have to revolutionize your industry, although you can if you want, but you want something that lets people know why they should do business with you.

If I were to ask you what do you do, you'd probably say "I'm an accountant", or "I'm a dentist", or "I'm a landscape gardener". And you know what? Unless I'm in the market right there and then for a landscape gardener or a dentist, I'm just going to think "Well that's nice" and leave it at that. But what if you told me "I help people to turn their backyards into a lush, tropical oasis, a soothing, peaceful sanctuary with fountains and pools and cool, green plants". Now, I'm impressed. Now, I'm interested. Don't you think that's a lot more exciting than just telling me "I'm a landscape gardener"? If you can't come up with a U.S.P. like this one, there is another way to do it. Mal Emery (just in case you don't know he's one of Australia's top marketers) has a formula for coming up with a U.S.P. It's pretty hard to improve on his method, so here it is. (Let's go back to our friend the plumber who turns up on time). When people ask "What do you do?" here's what you say from now on. "Well, you know when your toilet blocks up and you just have to be at an important meeting, and you can't wait around all day for a plumber, well what we do is guarantee that we'll be there on time, and make sure that we leave your house cleaner than when we came in. And, if we are late, we'll give you a $50 discount off the price". So the formula goes like this.

"You know when (insert a common problem or frustration that customers have with your industry), well what we do is (spell out how you will solve the problem, or your price advantage, or your over the top guarantee etc etc)". Now, isn't that better than saying "I'm a plumber"? And, once you have come up with a winning U.S.P. for your business, use it in all of your marketing efforts. Let it be the guide to all of your actions in the marketplace.

Add Massive Value

Remember the aim of this is to raise your prices. And once you learn to stop competing on price, you will see that it's pretty easy to do. Just to clarify the issue, there is a big difference between competing on price and having a competitive price advantage. Competing on price means that your one and only strategy is to discount. You aim to undercut your competitors, and to always be as cheap as possible. If you're doing this in your business, stop it now. It's such hard work, someone will always be cheaper than you are and you will always be scrabbling to make your money. Instead, make your business stand out by adding extra value, great service, using a powerful U.S.P. and then charge accordingly.

Having a competitive price advantage is another thing altogether. For instance, many second hand car dealers are faced with numerous "scratches and dings" on their cars. If you were about to shell out $20,000 on a late model "Club Sport" with a large scratch in the driver's door, you would want the scratch fixed up before you agree to buy. If the dealer sends the car to a panel beater, he may pay as much as $300 to get the door repainted, and then there is always the problem of colour matching. However there are a number of businesses out there that can fix most scratches without repainting, and the car doesn't have to leave the lot. And there are no colour matching problems. Now, they do the job for about $100 -$150 depending on how many scratches there are. They have a competitive price advantage over the panel beater, and still make a 70% - 90% profit on their work. Can you understand the difference between the two ideas?

Back to adding value. Let's use our old friend the plumber who turns up on time as an example. Not only does he turn up on time or you get a $50 discount, he also cleans up after himself. And, while he's in your house he also replaces any tap washers that are on the way out. And, when he leaves, he gives you a $100 voucher towards setting up a water saving automatic watering system for your garden. The question is would you be happy with this level of service? I reckon you would. In fact, I'm sure that you'd be so happy you'd tell all of your friends and family, and you'd probably get him back to do your watering system as well. But here's the point. What has he really given you?

We'll break it down and have a look. Because what you want to do is provide as much value in your business as our imaginary friend the plumber. Firstly, he has focused on the two biggest problems that people always seem to have with tradesmen. He promises that he'll be there on time (and backs it up with $50 off if he's late), and then he promises to clean up after himself. Straight away he appears different from all of the other plumbers. He is unique. And price wouldn't really be an issue for his customers. But the important thing is what has that cost him? Absolutely nothing at all. It's just plain, common sense good marketing to put your customer's needs first. Obviously he'd need to be organized, and he might need to spend 20 minutes or so cleaning up at the end of each job, but it wouldn't cost him any money. Just a little bit of time. And then while he's there he also replaces any tap washers that are leaking or on the way out at no cost to you. By now, you'd be going "Wow, this guy gives fantastic service and great value for money". Once again, the important thing is what has it cost him? Very, very little. Tap washers are about $1 or $2 retail, and probably cost about $0.50c or less for a plumber. Even if he had to replace 10 washers, and that's very unlikely, the raw cost to our friend is only $5. And a little bit more of his time. After he's finished the job, he then sets to and vacuums not just the area where he worked, but the whole house! Now, when your wife gets home, what do you think will happen? "Thank you for doing the vacuuming honey" she will say. "Oh, it wasn't me, it was the plumber" says you. "The plumber?" says your wife. "Yeah, the plumber" you reply. Now, do you think your wife is going to tell all her friends about the plumber who vacuumed her entire house? You bet she will. More work coming his way.

For the moment, let's get back to what he's doing. When he is ready to leave, he gives you a $100 voucher towards an automatic watering system for your garden. By now, you're absolutely floored, you can't believe how good this guy is. And when you show your wife the $100 voucher, she's already so impressed by the fact he vacuumed the whole house that there's a good chance she will call him up to install an automatic watering system. What did this actually cost our friend the plumber? Once again, pretty much nothing at all except for his time. And maybe $0.20c to print up the voucher. But what about the $100 you ask? Well, he can factor it into the cost of the job, or simply take $100 off the price. To begin with, having service like this, our friend charges a lot more than the normal plumber, and his customers don't even notice at all. So he gets a $1500 watering system job and has to discount by $100. So what? All for zero marketing cost. He'd take it every day of the week, and so should you. What's more, our friend is even smarter than we think. You see, he's got a whole lot of vouchers printed up with $500 off the price of guttering, $1500 off the price of replacing all the old copper pipes, $300 off the price of a new hot water system and so on. He simply takes notice (maybe while he's doing the vacuuming) of what other work could be done in the house he's in. Then he gives them the right voucher or maybe even two with a 30 - 60 day use by date stamped on it. You can bet that heaps of people would take him up on his offers. Once again, the cost to our friend is virtually zero. Yet the perceived value to his customers is very high. It seems as if they are getting great service, with a whole heap of extras thrown in.

The whole point of this little story is that you don't have to give a free Rolls Royce away every day of the week to add value. You can easily give the perception of great value by focusing very strongly on what your customers want and need. Then give them more of it, more than they expected. Go the extra mile like our friend the plumber, and you can double your prices overnight and your customers will barely even notice. It's all about adding value to your product or service. In a world of boring, mundane, run of the mill businesses with lousy customer service that all seem the same, dare to be different. Stand out; put some energy, enthusiasm and fun into your business. Be dynamic and be different. Look after your customers like and give them so much value that they will be raving about you and your business to all of their friends and family. And remember, a lot of the value that you add doesn't have to cost you money. It's all about perception, it's all about what your customers think of you. If you provide "knock your socks off' service, backed up with a quality product, then price doesn't matter so much anymore. You see, no one is offended at the price of a Rolls Royce or a Mercedes. You may not be able to afford one, but you're not offended by the price. Because it's all about the prestige, the mystique and the quality. It's all about the perception that the marketplace has. And what you want to do is create a certain perception around your business. That you are the best in your industry, that you go the extra mile, that you're more reliable, that your service is second to none, that you've thought of absolutely everything for your customers. Some of these ideas may not apply to your business, but they are the sort of things that will get your customers raving about you and your business. Put them in place now and put up your prices.

You've now seen that you shouldn't be competing on price. Never be a discounter. It's just too much hard work, and someone will always come along who can do it cheaper than you. And, because the only reason your customers do business with you is that you're cheaper, they will go elsewhere. You've done nothing to be different or stand out other than being cheaper, and your customers will have no loyalty to you or your business whatsoever. Add value and put your prices up now.

Start looking for ways that you can add value for your customers. If you have a customer list, ask them what they want, what they liked about your product or service, what they didn't like and so on. Then do more of what they like, give them more of what they want. You can also look for related but non competing businesses that you can do special deals with. If you are an accountant who deals only with business owners, and you know a really good financial advisor, then you can get him to give your customers a free consultation worth $100. Why would he do that? Because he knows that it costs him about $100 dollars to get a new customer in the door anyway, so apart from his time, it doesn't cost him anything. He will get clients that he never would have had, some of whom will stay with him for years. Of course he'll be more than happy to do it and of course your customers will be happy too. And of course, in return the financial advisor would give his clients a $100 consultation from you. By giving some of your time, you may get a client who will stay with you for years and years. You both win, and your customers win. They feel that they're getting more value from your business. If you were an accountant you could also do the same deal with an insurance broker, a business coach or advisor, an advertising agency and so on. So, what sort of businesses could you do this with in your real life business? Just make sure that they are a related industry. If you sell baby clothes, you wouldn't want to do a deal with an explosives company, there's just no relationship between the two. But you could do a deal with a nappy service, or a childcare centre. Get the picture? This can be one of the easiest ways to add massive value to your business. You could get 4 or 5 vouchers or discounts from different businesses so that on your initial sale of let's say $150, you give the customer $750 worth of vouchers and discounts, as well as your great service and/or product. Now can you see how you could charge $150 while all your competitors charge $75? And you'd still get all the business? Make a list now of businesses in your local area that you can work with. You may have to explain to them how it works, but once they get the idea, they'll be only too happy to work with you.

Online Business

The year is ending and so are a lot of old tired ideas. One of those tired ideas is that an online business doesn't help the country's economy and it's too difficult to run. Let's get real. If you have a chance to reach billions of potential customers, wouldn't you want that? And how about helping your own economy as well as helping others save money for a change?

Building your own online business is easier than you think especially with all the help available on the net itself. First up, you need a domain. That will cost you less than ten dollars, a very cheap start to a huge world of e-commerce. You can get a domain at Domain.com and this is renewable every year. Once you get a suitable domain that reflects your shop and business, you will then need a hosting plan.

There are plenty of free ones around but do note that with the promise of zero fees there are also plenty of strings and limitations attached. Plus no one likes to browse a shop laden with banners and pop ups. It's annoying and it's bound to chase away the most budding customers.

You can get a good hosting plan for about 5-8 US dollars and this is a monthly payment. Yup, it definitely beats the price of a shop rental. The host I use for my shop is Imageleet and so far they've been great. There are plenty of other hosts that are just as good.

If you are a first timer, don't sign up for a hosting plan for one whole year or more. Although this is fine if you trust them, at times a hosting site can be disappointing. Having an online shop means you are subjected to down times and possible data loss. Sign up on a monthly plan instead so that if after a few months you feel that they are not up to par, then you can move on and find another hosting plan. I went through at least 3 hosting plans before finding one that I can totally rely on. Also some hosting companies might give you a hard time in giving you a refund if you decide to cancel on them after signing up for 1 year. You should always periodically back up your shop data to minimize tears of exasperation if an online catastrophe happens.

Now after getting yourself cozy with a hosting company, and with a domain in your pocket, you are set to go to the next step of your e-commerce adventure. And that is to conquer the scary shopping cart. Again I have gone through at least 3 shopping carts. OS Commerce was a mite too complex. Mal's Ecommerce was quite good, but after some time, I needed a more high end shopping cart that would allow me to have more control over my site. I found this in Zen Cart. It took me a couple of weeks to learn how to use Zen Cart and PHP. Even though I have no website design or developing background, I have to admit it was pretty straightforward. Plus the forums were immensely helpful for every small problem or question you might have.

There are plenty of Zen Cart templates designed by great people provided. With plenty of great modules and add ons, it became a great project to not just turn my shop into a working portal but to make it as aesthetically pleasing as possible. I tried a couple of templates before landing on the template that suited me. With a couple of tweaks and customization, my site was able to look pretty alright. Now before this turn into a pitch for Zen Cart, let me go through the most important points when it comes to designing and maintaining an online shop.

1. Honesty and transparency

I believe that every business should be based on honesty and transparency. There should be no hidden cost, hidden taxes or hidden policies. Whatever you have, you should always post it on your site. Be it return policies or payment policies, write it up all up. Do you want to make a quick buck or do you prefer a long term flow of cash? Run your business honestly and you will have customers return again and again. Tell your product as it is. Don't hide details just because you think it won't sell. Customers appreciate buying what they can understand. With the economy being so low at this point, people are more worried about spending money. Do your part in letting them know exactly what you're selling to them.

2. Membership

Your shopping cart should allow your customers to sign up and keep their addresses with your shop so that if they come again, all their information is already there. This is a huge time saver and it will keep your customers from losing patience. Who wants to fill up long forms again and again? The point of online shopping is the convenience of it all.

3. Testimonials

As you get customers and purchases, don't be afraid to ask for feedback. This benefits you in 2 ways. First you can publish their positive testimonials on your website. This helps new customers to decide whether they should trust you or not. Secondly you should never stop improving yourself and the only way to do it is if you give your customers an avenue to say what they want.

4. Blogging

This is another avenue for both you and the customer to interact. A place where you can post and they can comment. It's a place where you can announce your news, learn more and gain not just customers but friends.

5. Newsletter

Here you can take advantage of another way to reach to your customers. You can email them your shop updates, new products and exclusive contests. This helps to remind customers that you are still around if they need anything. But please, no spamming and if a customer asks to be unsubscribed, respect their decision and remove them from your mailing list. There is nothing worse than spamming in a business.

6. Contact page

Most importantly, be approachable! Let them know they can reach you at a phone number, email address and a mailing address. Nothing says shifty like a business that has no phone number or an email address. Would you trust the shop if you can't contact them? Last but not least with your online shop up and running, you can start on another invigorating part of the project. Internet marketing! That's a whole new ball game. I'll write another article about that soon.

Contentment and Appreciation

Often times when we hear the word contentment we shiver at its seeming limitations. We have been told throughout our lives to be happy with what we've got only when what I really want is either not available, unattainable or out of my reach. I have been taught to appreciate that which I have and in a sense "make do". Attached to it was a definite consciousness of lack. And I have therefore learned to dislike the idea as one of settling. However, when I begin to see the power that lies within contentment and the joy which permeates the ability to appreciate I am then empowered to live a life of blessing, enriched with a constant happiness.

Dis-content is neither a state of happiness nor peace. A lack of appreciation will always yield sorrow. Let me begin to appreciate the fullness of my life. Look at all the treasures I already have instead of what is lacking.

At whichever store my thoughts are spent, that will be the quality of my purchase. If I shop at the store of discontent...

With regard to relationship and connection, let me begin to appreciate the goodness in others. When I see the defects and shortcomings in others, I accumulate the very same. My shopping cart is full of that which will cause only discontent and sorrow. Let me instead shop at a more elevated store. I will shop at the store of appreciating that which is lovely in another. By so doing my cart becomes full of that which will create happiness not only in my life but in the lives of others as well.

When you go to the mall, you don't buy from every store. You have set certain standards about where you will shop. You set standards for your children as well. Similarly, I must begin to be conscious about where I allow my thoughts to be spent. When I go to the nursery I buy sweet smelling flowers. I tend not to buy flowers that smell like a trapped skunk. Even though they do exist and are for sale. I discriminate and choose that which will give me happiness to be around. For me, sitting in a garden or a room with a bouquet of skunk flowers would not create happiness. So I purchase the latter.

Sometimes we think that "I didn't know", or "I had no control over it... the other one was responsible" etc. But if I were to sit quietly and have an honest discussion with myself I would realize that I was always the one driving the cart, and also it was indeed I who chose what to put in it. It's time to stop playing the victim and claim your birthright as a self- sovereign.

When I lay in my hospital bed, unable to move my limbs on my right side, I remained quite appreciative that I could move my left side. Though my speech was slurred and rather unattractive to the ear and at times unintelligible, I remained appreciative that I could communicate at all. This was the game I played with myself. The game of remaining happy; the game of appreciation.

As my physicality improved and I returned to my home, I went in the swimming pool, which now became a stand around and take three steps pool. If I tried to swim, I sank. So standing and walking was about it. I remember very clearly being greatful that I could stand in the pool at all. At about that same time, Christopher Reeve had had his riding accident. He couldn't move at all. I remember thinking that he would've given anything to be able to stand in a pool on his own. You see, I could have been discontent saying "Oh darn now I can't even swim". But instead I appreciated the fact that I could enjoy the pool at all. I still had fun and enjoyed the cool water.

Every day I receive "Thought for the Day" on my computer. Today's thought for the day was "The more I develop the habit of noticing goodness, the more my own sense of wellbeing rises". That about sums it up.

Today someone sent me a slide show in my e-mail. It was about appreciation. Side by side photos of western children and third world children. The western children; plump and with toys and computers etc, the third world children mal nourished and without basic necessities. It showed that we aren't happy if we don't receive the exact brand of shoes we wanted; contrasted with a picture of children wearing smashed plastic soda bottles strung with string for straps. It showed us not wanting to eat our veggies; contrasted with the empty bowls of emaciated children. It showed our children complaining about going to school, sitting in front of state of the art computers; contrasted with children squatting to write their numbers in the dusty road. And our children bored of the same games; contrasted with children sitting in filth playing next to a skull with pebbles. I have never seen worse pictures.

There was one in particular which struck me hard. A small boy was holding an even smaller boy. The first appeared to be about six years old, the second between one and two. The six year old was facing the camera and so the one he was holding had his back to us. Every single bone in that child's naked body was piercing through his skin. He was quite literally bones with the thinnest layer of skin stretched over them. There were bones showing that I was not even aware we had in our bodies! His rump was non existent. No fullness at all. Strange looking bones were all this child had to sit on. It made me instantly un-easy and painful. And you know that not only does he not come with his own cushion to sit on, but there are no soft sofas either. This child sits on the cold, hard ground with his bones protruding!

I could not see the face of that one, but his one inch arms were lovingly wrapped around the six year olds neck. I remember looking at the picture with mercy and noticing that "And yet he smiles!" The older boy had a lovely smile across his face. He appeared to be happy and yes content. The caption that went with this picture read "Are you still complaining?" It added "Observe around you and be thankful for all you have in this transitory lifetime." "We are fortunate; we have much more than we need to be content... let us complain less and give more."

I have met some children like these on my outreach trips in India. A local doctor, Dr. Vinay Laxmi ventures out to the poorest of remote villages and offers her services to these children. When I visit, I often accompany her, bringing thrift store clothes and small toys. The one thing which has never been lost to me is all the smiles, the happy faces which are literally everywhere. These children never need to be told to smile for the camera. They are always smiling! They have nothing and yet are always smiling! We have so much and seem to always be discontent. We always want more and when I get that I want something else.

If I wish to be happy, I must begin to appreciate what I already have and develop a sense of contentment. This feeling of always wanting, wanting, wanting will never subside on its own. I must use my intellect and think. I have so much. I must look around at all I do have and cease complaining about what I don't have. Would you go to the supermarket, fill up your cart to the overflowing with all your favorite foods and then complain that you left all that other stuff on the store shelves? There are billions of items on those shelves not only don't you need them all, you don't want them all! Similarly, it's this very same sense of false desire which has us under its illusory spell.

Being content is simply a matter of slowing down and realizing I already have all that I need or want. Peace, love, purity, extreme happiness and inner power have always been mine. I can never nor ever have been separated from it. It has just been covered over with surplus. That which we sought because we thought it would bring happiness has created exactly the opposite effect. It has hidden my natural happiness and wellbeing away. It has been buried so deep under many years of wrong choices that by this time I even doubt it ever having existed.

The time is now upon me to reclaim what is mine. To live as I was meant to live; to think as I was endowed to think, and to embody my divinity.

Cheap Surfboards the way to go

So, you've decided you're going to start surfing. Nice work! But before you can start shredding waves you're going to need a board. You've probably read bits and pieces about how you should start out riding a big tank of a board. Listen to this wisdom! I know you want to get your mitts on one of those sleek, small, performance boards but seriously, you need to walk before you can run. Getting a big board basically means that you'll have more foam under you. You'll float better. You'll paddle into waves more easily. You'll learn faster, and develop a far better style, than if you jump straight onto a shortboard. Choose a board that's at least a foot taller than you, and that has some solid volume, and you'll be cruising in no time.

Where are you going get your board from? Well, there are a number of options open to you. Second hand boards are always appealing; after all, they're always a good few skins cheaper than buying new, and this often makes a decision a lot easier, especially if getting hold of a surfboard cheaply is your main priority. Don't put price before quality though; you'll need a board that is going to help you to progress, not hold you back. And stick to buying that big board; it's all too easy to cave in and buy any old shape, but that extra volume really is essential when you're starting out.

What else should you look for in a board? Well, you want something that you can ride straight away. Avoid open dings (damage on the surface of the board). These make your ride leak, adding weight, and damage the foam inside. You'll also have to shell out on repairs, which can quickly add up if your board is fairly 'dinged up'. You'll spot these simply by glancing over the deck and rails, but a good tip is to lift the board up somewhere quiet and give it a shake. If you can hear water in there, give it a miss. And don't get sidetracked by stickers. You may, at first, think that that big Quiksilver decal looks awesome, but you won't be so loved up when it peels off, revealing a gaping hole. Treat stickers with caution, they're a best friend for someone trying to hide damage.

You also want to spend a bit of time checking over the tail of a board, especially if a pad is fitted. Again, these can hide some of the worst blow outs, and having a good press down there is really important. In fact, have a good feel of the whole board. A board with plenty of life in it will feel solid when pressed firmly. If your fingers sink into the deck, pass. And don't be afraid of funny looks; having a good squeeze is a step closer to glory!

Private sellers are another option. You might find an advert in the paper, or on sites dedicated to second hand boards like surfboardshack.com and boardhunt.com . Some sound advice is only to use these if you've got someone with you who knows about boards. It's easy to be misled by a seller who talks the talk, so run over the pointers above when you're checking out the board. Also, be wary of auction sites; it's all too easy for pictures to be photoshopped or damage to be blamed on a courier. Don't be afraid of asking for extra pictures, and if you can't pick the board up in person, skip it.

Probably your best bet is to pay a visit to your local surf shop. Most have a selection of second hand boards, and because the shop staff have checked these over, you're far less likely to get burned. Plus, if these guys do a good job, you're likely to stick with them in the future. As a result, they'll be eager to help you find that magic first board.

Surf shops are always a great place to go if you're buying new, too. Most of the people that work in them are surfers themselves, so you'll benefit from their personal knowledge and experience. Tell them your height, weight and expectations (be honest and realistic!) and they'll advise you accordingly.

Once you consider the potential difficulties associated with buying a board second hand, buying new can seem like a pretty good idea. What's more, with modern advances in shaping technology and materials, there are literally hundreds of boards out there that perform brilliantly and provide astonishing value for money. And, if you choose wisely, you'll find that you won't be forced to sell your board as soon as you progress. The reality is that a good mini mal or high volume board will be a welcome long term addition to any quiver, something you'll turn to on days when the surf is small, even if you eventually want to ride a shortboard.

What's more, when buying new you can negotiate some really good discounts. You should be able to save 10% just by asking (seriously, don't be shy) and if you work hard at it, you might be able to get a bag, leash or fins thrown in too, which you're probably going to have to shell out on if you go down the second hand path. That cheap used board doesn't seem like such a bargain now, does it?

Ultimately, spending those extra few notes on buying new will give you total piece of mind. You won't have any doubts about whether your board is ready to surf, or whether you've got a board that suits your size and shape, and you'll find that you only have to concentrate on one thing; surfing. And when you think about it, a year down the line, chances are you will have wasted the cash you saved by buying used anyway! So buy the best you can afford. Your surfing will thank you for it!

Need some more advice about beginner's boards?

Check out the words of wisdom at Surfing Waves or Surfing Guide. Surfing Guide also has a directory of shapers who are definitely worth checking out.

Shopping Malls Mallorca Propery Market update

Demand for property from throughout Europe continued throughout 2007, and most property professionals on the island reported steady interest and sales, with increased activity at the upper end of the market especially. Prices continue to rise, although at a reduced pace, as sellers are being more realistic in their asking prices.

Improving marina facilities throughout the island, continual restoration projects in the countryside to maintain historic buildings and walls make Mallorca one of the Mediterranean's most sought after places to own property. Mallorca's foreign community - one of the largest in Spain - continues to thrive. Tourism is the mainstay of the island along with property and is continuing to become more diverse and upmarket, attracting visitors from all over the world. There are now many more five star hotels and with 24 UK and 21 German airports providing flights to Palma, the island's convenient location and popularity looks unlikely to diminish in the foreseeable future.

PALMA

The island's political and cultural capital is where 40% of Mallorca's population lives and enjoys an average daily temperature of 21.4 degrees and 7 hours of sunshine per day throughout the year. It is the largest medieval old town in Europe with numerous famous buildings, fashionable shops, narrow streets, tapas bars and enough restaurants to satisfy everyone's palate. It is dominated by the Gaudi influenced Cathedral and an eclectic mix of art galleries from the contemporary Es Baluard to the historic Palau March.

Open plazas and avenidas give way to waterfront marinas lined with super yachts. There are two yacht clubs, including the largest and most prestigious on the island, which hosts the Copa d'el Rei each year. The Spanish Royal family holiday each August on the island at their summer palace on the outskirts of the city and regularly compete in several regattas.

A new look to Palma's sea front has begun, with a new convention centre taking centre stage of a EUR40+ million regeneration project at the eastern end of the Paseo Maritimo, close to the fashionable marina of Portixol and opposite Palma's main beach. It will become a major business destination, offering an auditorium, conference halls as well as a new five star hotel, cafes, gym, restaurants and bars.

Shortcuts Property Search report property demand in Palma is primarily for older refurbished buildings, particularly around the Cathedral area of Calatrava and the areas of La Llonja and Santa Catalina. Many of the city's old palaces and villas are currently being totally renovated with the addition of lifts and modern facilities. The faded areas of Portixol and Terreno are also being rediscovered and gentrified - Portixiol is now a very fashionable and chic area. Foreign buyers in particular are looking for property which offers good outside living in the form of lofts, penthouses and courtyards and these inevitably command premium prices.

Santa Catalina

This old fisherman's neighbourhood has become a lively restaurant area with its popular market at its centre. It is a district that borders the contemporary art museum of Es Baluard and the waterfront of the Paseo Maritimo. Prices range from EUR2,000 to EUR3,500 per m2.

Calatrava

The historical heart of Palma surrounds the Cathedral and includes the notable churches of Santa Eulalia and San Francisco. Calatrava consists of quiet narrow streets of historical buildings with restricted access and parking. Prices range from EUR4,000 to EUR9,000 per m2.

La Llonja

This quarter borders the Born on its eastern side and the Paseo Maritimo and up to Es Baluard, the contemporary art museum. It is also a lively area with restaurants and bars particularly around Plaça La Llonja itself. A number of small and exclusive boutique hotels have opened in this area attracting a fashionable following. Prices range from EUR3,500m2.

Portixol/ Es Molinar

Portixol has a small marina, beach and a wide sea front promenade and has become an expensive and chic area. Slightly further along the coast Es Molinar and Cuidad Jardin offer a less expensive alternative. The planned redevelopment of the sea front at the eastern end of the Paseo Maritimo where the access road to Portixol and Es Molinar is located will ensure the area will maintain prices of EUR3,000 m2 and upwards.

Son Vida

Palma's most exclusive residential area has two superb golf courses and two five star hotels. It has spectacular views of Palma and the bay and offers its residents privacy and security, which gives Son Vida an imposing air. Easy access to Palma and the airport make it a perfect location for many buyers. There is strong demand for both existing and new build property here with property starting at EUR1.5million.

SOUTH WEST MALLORCA

As you leave Palma heading west towards Andratx, you pass the village of Genova with its numerous restaurants and approach the areas of Bendinat, Costa D'en Blanes and Portals Nous with its lively marina of Puerto Portals and some of Mallorca's most exclusive eating and shopping.

Real estate here is of a high standard with several urbanisations developed around the Bendinat golf course and Shortcuts Property Search report constant interest in this area. The tunnel link of Bendinat to the main Palma/Andratx motorway has made Palma only 10 minutes away and further served to emphasise this area as a prime location for both permanent and holiday residence.

Apartment prices can go beyond EUR4,500 per m2, but these are well constructed and managed, and have top quality finishes. Old Bendinat has a number of exclusive frontline residences with direct sea access which change hands for well over EUR6,000,000.

The marina of Puerto Portals with its renowned restaurants, bars and exclusive shops attracts an international group of people all year round. The proximity of several golf courses, excellent sailing and a wealth of sports activities make this a very sought after location. There are many apartments that overlook the marina that vary considerably in price, and can represent good investment with refurbishment potential. Overlooking Portals Nous and Puerto Portals is the urbanisation of Costa d'en Blanes where sea view villas command upwards of EUR1.3m million.

Moving further west along the coast, Santa Ponsa is set in beautiful coastal countryside and surrounded by three golf courses. The large urbanisation of Nova Santa Ponsa has been carefully planned to avoid high density building with surrounding green areas and protected green zones. Port Adriano just along the coast is an interesting area to watch - work has started on the improvement of the marina to create berths for super yachts. The expansion design is being led by Phillipe Starck. This will undoubtedly mean more restaurants, facilities and of course, higher property prices.

Beyond Santa Ponsa is Camp de Mar, with a golf course and five star hotel, along with a number of quality developments. This is an area which complements Andratx and Puerto Andratx, just around the bay. In fact, Puerto Andratx must rank as one of the most popular locations in the South West and consequently is one of the highest priced regions. The slopes of the hills surrounding Puerto Andratx are home to many exclusive villas, mansions and apartments, many with spectacular views to the sea, marina and mountains.

A popular yachting port, Puerto Andratx is a working harbour with a flourishing fishing fleet, which adds great charm and character. There are a number of locations around Andratx, including La Mola, Montport, Cala Marmacen and Cala Llamp. There are also exclusive apartment developments with cliff top sea views where prices currently range from EUR4,500 to EUR6,000 m2 depending on location and outlook. Sea view villas start at around the EUR1.8m mark. Building land is rapidly becoming hard to find and as building slows down in the future, supply will be further reduced.

Moving inland the villages of Es Capdella and Calvia enjoy the proximity of the coast and Palma, but without the tourism that coastal locations tend to attract. Fincas and village houses in these areas carry a certain premium as the locations are in high demand from both the foreign and domestic markets.

NORTH WEST COAST AND THE NORTH

Buyers in search of a more rural and traditional side of Mallorca with the most dramatic landscape often gravitate to the North West and north of the island. Dominated by the Tramuntana mountain range stretching from Andratx in the south to Pollensa in the north, the villages of Deia, Valldemossa, Soller, Puerto Soller and Fornalutx will come high on the list of interesting locations to consider.

The protected area of the Tramuntana Mountains ensures that new properties are rare and demand for existing fincas and village houses are constantly high at Shortcuts Property Search. The most notable change in the North West is evident in Puerto Soller, which has undergone a face lift as a new tunnel has re-routed traffic away from the harbour, so now the promenade is open only to pedestrians and a few local cars. New hotels and restaurants have begun to spearhead the port's renaissance and two and three bedroomed village and edge of village properties are commanding prices of EUR550,000 plus. Traditional stone faced fincas can be found for EUR700,000 whilst renovated fincas with sea views are on the market for anything upwards of EUR1.4m.

Continuing up along the west coast are Pollença, Puerto PollenÂa, Formentor and Alcudia. The property market in this area is dynamic and has long been popular with the British market. Village houses, modern apartments and fincas are all in high demand and the extension of the motorway from Palma, which now by-passes Inca, has significantly shortened drive times from the airport and Palma.

The town of PollenÂa with its famous Monte Calvario steps is a much-desired location now the refurbished village square is cut off from traffic. The town boasts a number of musical and art festivals during the year and its growing number of restaurants and galleries give it an artistic atmosphere. It is a lovely place to relax and watch life pass by.

In the Pollensa area there are a number of fincas with land of twenty hectares or more. The valleys of Vall d'en March, Vall de Colonia and Vall de Can Aixartell are sought after for their idyllic locations and mountain views - yet within a few minutes of beaches and the town. A new luxury villa development overlooks the Pollensa golf course.

Another area of interest is the villa urbanisation of La Font, close to PollenÂa. It sits on a hill and the beaches of Cala San Vicente and Puerto Pollensa are just minutes away. Apartments tend to be concentrated on Puerto Pollensa and vary considerably. New apartments are from around EUR450,000 with communal gardens and pool.

The second phase of the Puerto Pollensa ring road is scheduled to open in the summer of 2008. This new road will divert traffic heading for Alcudia away from the sea front to the east of the marina. This will reduce the congestion in the main town centre and along the promenade.

Alcudia has a number of popular urbanisations, including the recently modernised Bon Aire, Mal Pas and Baccares overlooking Pollensa Bay. The small yacht haven of Puerto Cocodrillo is interesting near the golf course with views over the sea in Aucanada. Finally, the exclusive Formentor area retains its exclusivity with very few properties ever on the open market. The natural landscape with white sandy beaches gives this spectacular peninsular a great deal of charm.

OTHER COASTAL AREAS

Shortcuts Property Search predicts the North East and eastern coastline will see the most change in the foreseeable future as improved infrastructure has meant they are more accessible and new development in the South West slows. There are several good new developments offering quality affordable homes close to the sea and within easy walking distance to restaurants and shops.

The improved Palma to Manacor road will make the villages of Arta and Capdepera and the residential areas of Costa de Canyamel and Costa de los Pinos, located between beautiful mountains and beaches in the north east, easier to get to and therefore more popular.

Prices are more reasonable and if you appreciate open spaces, stunning scenery and sandy beaches and are happy to be an hour from the airport, then this area is a good place to explore.

Those wishing to experience Mallorca away from mass tourism will quickly feel at home in this part of the island. The main towns of Manacor, Felanitx, Santanyi and Campos all offer shopping, culture and many good restaurants. The Vall D'or golf course and marinas of Cala D'or, Porto Petro, Porto Colom and Porto Cristo also have a variety of leisure activities.

The surrounding areas of Vall D'or, Cas Concos, Calonge, S'Horta, Es Caritxo and S'Alqueria Blanca offer many quality-reformed fincas. The best locations offer proximity to golf, sea views and natural peace and quiet and attract high spending clients seeking privacy and seclusion. Property prices range from EUR250,000 to over EUR4 million. Land is increasingly difficult to find and areas north east of these villages are taking over.

INLAND AREAS

Villages within a twenty minute drive of Palma form a sort of rustic belt that surrounds the cities outskirts. Buyers here want a more rural country feel but easy access to Palma, golf and of course the sea.

Establishments, Puigpunyent, Santa Maria, Alaro, Bunyola and Binissalem are poular village locations, as are Sencelles and Santa Eugenia. Llucmajor to the east of Palma is now by-passed by the improved PM602 and is beginning to see property prices rise. Heading north, the extended Inca motorway is putting the villages of Campanet, Buger, Sa Pobla and Muro more firmly on the property buyers' map as journey times are reduced.

Shortcuts Property Search notes that prices for older properties in need of renovation in these areas - which had been neglected for years - are being driven up as availability reduces.

LOOKING FORWARD INTO 2008

Mallorca is one of the most popular hubs for super yachts in the Mediterranean. The island is planning to expand eight of its thirty two harbours and marinas and this is spearheaded by the EUR40million++ expansion of Port Adriano near Santa Ponsa and Sol de Mallorca and the planned redevelopment of Palma's seafront at its eastern end. Moorings around the island will increase by 25% and in 2009 Palma will begin work to equip the port to accept 'mega' cruise ships, further increasing its popularity as an important cruise ship destination point.

The old and ugly power station in Alcudia is to be converted into an arts and science museum - a major boost for the area. Also the bay of Can Pastilla will be undergoing a massive regeneration and upgrading, property here will definitely benefit as a result.

A new five star hotel is being developed near Llucmajor by the Hilton group, another boost to an area growing in popularity with the British.

Sea view and frontline properties will remain excellent investments in Shortcuts Property Search opinion as the authorities tighten up already stringent building regulations. Plots for construction particularly in the South West are in even shorter supply and there are fewer developments in construction than in previous years - reducing the choice of off-plan purchase.

Unlike other parts of Spain, where speculative building has led to over supply, the market here is more robust and in certain sectors there continues to be a shortage of good quality property available.

Whilst the market will perhaps not enjoy the high level growth and demand of the last few years, it is expected that it will remain steady with prices predicted to increase 7-10% in quality locations. As the slow down in construction deepens on the mainland, the building moratorium on the island is also predicted to slow construction down here over the next 12 months.

Best Cheap Hotel avaiable through the Net

Whether you are going on a holiday tour, business tour or education trip, you will need to stay at any hotel. Thus, choosing a perfect hotel is an important feature of your journey that will help you enjoy a comfortable holiday tour. Well, if you are looking for the best cheap hotel available through net, you don't need to face any hassle. You can find several cheap hotel options through net as there is a wide range of hotels on online world that meet the needs of people belonging to any group.

It is not a difficult to find the best hotel available through net because there are various websites that help you find suitable option that meets your requirements in an easy going way. If you are going to book the best cheap hotel available through net, you need to mind some points that will help you enjoy perfect holidays.

While booking the best cheap hotel available through net, you must check the reliability of the hotel. You can read the reviews of the previous customers who have ever stayed there. It is quite necessary that will help you to understand the atmosphere of that hotel that you are going to book. Sometimes, it so happens that you book a hotel considering it best and cheapest hotel but you don't satisfy with its amenities and services and then, you have to quit the hotel.

Another important thing that you must keep in your mind while booking the best cheap hotel through online is that you should not pay entire money one time. In fact, you should pay for one day or two and if you feel comfortable there, you can pay for some other days. In case, you don't feel any satisfaction with the particular hotel, you can shift yourself in another hotel.

In fact, if you book best cheap hotel through online way, you can enjoy several discounts that are offered by the hotels. In addition, you must not compromise with the sanitary and other essential facilities that are necessary for your journey.

The big problem that people face in booking the best cheap hotel available through net is that sometimes, these hotels have hidden fees that can create problems for you and disturb your budget. Thus, you should clear everything before booking a hotel in advance! Enjoy perfect holiday tour though booking hotel through net!

Staying a Cheap Hotel

The hospitality and tourism sector is booming with the recent hike in the number of tourists. Touring has become very expensive, thanks to the exotic hotels and its facilities. But this cutthroat competition amongst the airlines and the hotels is bringing down the cost to a certain extent. Nowadays, people are not just making trips for fun, but also for professional purposes. An individual always tries to save as much as possible on a trip by cutting down on unnecessary expenditure.

One can always opt for cheap hotels to save a few bucks during the trips. Generally people have an idea that cheap hotels have dingy little attics for rooms and epitomize lack of hygiene. But if one visits a cheap hotel, this myth will be busted. Cheap hotels are nothing but decent hotels with quality service and standard facilities. The only difference is that cheap hotels are pocket-friendly. The lower price tags help in saving some of the tourist's money. This bit of extra cash can be used in shopping or in binging on foreign cuisine.

With Internet accessibility at our fingertips, finding the different cheap hotels in different cities has been rendered easy. Search engines will give the tourist a list of all the cheap hotels in various parts of the world at a glance. One can choose any kind of accommodation based on one's needs and budget. In this age, no one will be disappointed. There are various kinds of hotels that cater to people of different classes of the society. The offers of various hotels can be checked, and the hotel that gives that maximum number of amenities in the minimum cost.

Cheap hotels have all the required facilities like a television set, delicious food, excellent service and good rooms. They are clean and have an impressive ambience. These basic facilities are available at a surprisingly low rate. But if one is looking for the five star facilities like Jacuzzi and spa, cheap hotels is not an option. Cheat hotels allow the visitor to enjoy the bare necessities of life at a reasonable rate. One can have hotel reservations in discount hotels or book rooms in expensive hotels in off-seasons. Some of these expensive hotels give special discounts in certain seasons. These discounts will help in saving a lot of money, as well as give a chance to live in the best of hotels. Off-season tours are also profitable.

For getting to know about the cheapest hotels, one can get in touch with travel agencies. They often have tie-ups with cheap hotels of other hotels that give a special discount to visitors booking hotels through specific travel agents. Various airlines, too, have associations with cheap hotels. Websites of various hotels sometimes offer lucrative deals, which should not be missed.

The quality of the service and food in the cheap hotels are not sub-standard. They are equally delicious and impressive. These cheap hotels offer such low rates as it attracts more tourists than the expensive ones. It is like getting special offers and discounts throughout the year.

Cheap Hotels - Not a Dream anymore

Cheap Hotels - Not a Dream Anymore

The hospitality industry is growing at a rapid pace and every effort is being made to lure customers. Each hotel tries to provide the best amenities and services to its customers, keeping the price at a minimum. This has led to many cheap hotels coming up at different locations around the world.

The best part of these cheap hotels is that they try to provide the best amenities within your budget to make your stay comfortable and pleasant. While the five star hotels flaunt extravaganza by providing lavish amenities, the cheap hotels tries to compensate these by exuding great hospitality and care to the guests in addition to the amenities that they provide. Many cheap hotels also include breakfast and meals in their charges, thus making your stay a cost saving proposition. Some cheap hotels provide car rental services to its guests so that they do not have to look for the vehicle to go to their destinations.

Another point of importance is that these cheap hotels are situated in prime locations along with five star hotels. Hence, one can easily stay at these hotels, do their daily business, and return to their hotel the same day. All the major tourist spots could be visited while staying at these hotels.

In addition, if you are planning to stay for a single day, it makes no sense to put up at expensive hotels, when these cheap hotels are there that offer the same kind of amenities to you. In the deal, you save a lot of money. However, if you cannot resist the lure of expensive hotels, you can check out their off-season charges, which is definitely going to be cheaper than their normal price.

You can visit the Internet that can provide you with information about the cheap hotels as you check out from the comfort of your room. The hotels providing cheap accommodation have links with different travel agencies through which they try to get clients for their hotels. Hence visiting the websites of these travel agencies is a great way to find information about cheap hotels in the place that you are planning to visit. Another advantage of online hotel reservations is that the hotels give good discounts to the clients. This is part of their promotional tactics. If you are planning for hotels booking at the last minute, it is wiser to check out the online websites to find a cheap hotel of your choice.

Nowadays, finding a cheap hotel online is a very simple task. All you need to do is to type 'cheap hotel' and the name of the place you are planning to visit in the space provided in the search engines like Google or Yahoo. The moment you press enter, you get a whole list of names of cheap hotels and discount hotels on the screen. You can get to know about Hotels in Europe or in any part of the world. Before booking any room in some hotel, make sure about the authenticity of the sites.

Cheap Hotels Booking - The Best Way To Enjoy The Vacation

Cheap Hotels Booking - The Best Way To Enjoy The Vacation

The rapid growth of earth cutback has plus affected the travel and going to places of interest industry, positively. The end result of this growth comes as an progress in the scheme and services of the hospitality industry earth extensive. To provide unsurpassed facilities to the customers according to their financial plan, a star scheme is by and large used, to making their reservation. Taking part in this rating scheme customer can persuade reduced hotels booking to luxury hotels booking, as for each his\her demand. Unfortunately, the star scheme is not uniform in support of all hotels. It has altered criteria in altered countries and cities.

Online booking service is the unsurpassed way to paperback a inn in a few destination in the earth. With this online booking service customer can paperback inn in a few type next to a few city in the earth like luxury or reduced Dallas hotels booking or reduced Houston Hotels Booking. Many lovely agencies provide the reservation competence online. Taking part in online booking you can save ample amount of money due to the take off duty presented to the agencies, by the hotels. These online agencies as a rule promote to consensus with many hotels. The hotels provide generous discounts to the agencies and in return these agencies promote to bar booking in support of the hotels. The discounts provided by the hotels are approved on to the customers.

The procedure to promote to an online luxury or reduced inn booking is very down-to-earth. The customer be supposed to take an authentic inn booking agency amongst the many other agencies advertising on the internet. Now in go along with step operate through the make a list of altered hotels open in a actual city. The sites contain names, services, taxes, tariff and all other allied in a row of the hotels. Once customer selects the inn, he\she needs to dedicate important in a row, such as customer's choose, type of quarters, list refer, check-in and Check-out dates, timing and a few other further wishes, to the inn. Before final conformation of the luxury or reduced inn booking, it is weighty to check with the purpose of all details are correct or not. Once booking is fixed, group your bags in support of pleasure or problem stumble to your destination on your due dates.

Cheap Hotels in London is a Priority of London Tourism Department

Cheap Hotels In London Is A Priority Of London Tourism Department

London is the finest one example of cross culture and civilization. Every year thousands of people with different purposes come to London city. There are many must see sights in London like Buckingham palace, the houses of parliament, the tower of London, the millennium wheel, Greenwich observatory and Madame Tussaud's wax museum. Some other centers of attraction for the tourist in London are art galleries and off course city's night life. But, staying in London may not be a cup of tea for everyone. Perhaps, it is the most expensive city in the world. But think again, because one may be wrong with this opinion. There are many cheap hotels in London which are providing the best services.

Basically the term 'cheap' depends upon financial condition of individual. Someone may afford five or seven star hotels. But, those visitors who can not afford, they have alternate in form of cheap hotels which do not have any star tag but they may be ten times or even more than ten times cheaper than the five or seven star hotels. Such hotels are mostly situated in Bayswater, Victoria and King Cross districts of London. Victoria and Bayswater are very close to central London so these are traditionally favorite area of cost conscious tourists.

Travelers must be very conscious while choosing the cheap hotels in London. They should not forget that roses always come with thorns. It may be a very expensive time to spend the night in any cheap hotels. For instance, King Cross district has poor reputation. Hence, one must avoid this location.

Cheap hotels used to scale themselves as three or four star hotels although they don't provide such facilities. Hence, one should not always go with the star tags. Security issue is also a major concern with cheap hotels. So, visitors must be carefully about their belongings while staying in cheap hotels. These hotels may promise the nutritious and delicious breakfast with the cheapest price but one must know that it may not be as per the expectation. Quantity and quality criteria are not defined here. Cleanliness is also a very crucial factor while choosing a cheap hotel. Mostly, it has been seen that reasonably priced hotels do not provide clean toilet and bathroom. Hence one should try to check at least clean linens and carpeting on the floor.

Wise travelers must know to check travel certificates before selecting the places. Some sites are also available on the net which show customer's feedback about cheap hotels. Hence one must visit such sites and have some ideas about the cheap hotels.

London is already known as the most expensive destination and 2012 Olympic may leap it towards a new height which may be bad for the reputation of London city. Hence all eyes are looking towards cheap hotels and their management. The good thing is that culture, media and sport departments have unveiled multi agency strategy entitled: "Winning - A Tourism Strategy for 2012 and Beyond". Hence, it will definitely control the high price of hotels and promote cheap hotels.