Super Travel Insurance  

Title:
Sailing on the Costa del Sol

Word Count:
2062

Summary:
This article looks at the anchorages, harbours and marinas a sailor will come across when sailing off the Costa del Sol, the stretch of Andalucian coast commencing at theUnited Kingdom colony of Gibraltar and running eastward as far as Cabo de Gata. Also included is some general information on: Bureaucracy, the boat and crew, currents, tides and the weather.

Keywords:
Cruising Guide, Harbours, Harbors, Marinas, Moorings, Anchorages

Article Body:
Spain is part of the European Union and all EU and American nationals can visit the country for a period of no longer than 90 days solely with a passport. EU national can apply for a residency permit if they wish to extend their stay. Non EU nationals can apply for a further 90 day extension. These regulations do not appear to be enforced as far as the yachtsman living aboard is concerned. It is advisable to clear customs if entering Spain for the first time. The vessel’s registration papers and the passports of crew members will be required. A certificate of competence, evidence of the boat’s VAT status, a crew list with passport details, the radio license and a certificate of insurance may also be required. A VAT (Value Added Tax) paid or exempt yacht can apply for a “permiso aduanero” . This allows for an indefinite stay in the country and can be helpful when importing yacht spares from other EU countries. Boats registered outside the EU on which VAT has not been paid may be imported into the EU for a period not exceeding six months in any twelve, after that VAT becomes due. This period can often be extended by prior arrangement with the local custom authorities. There is a legal requirement for foreign vessels to fly their own national maritime flag together with the courtesy flag of Spain.

It is worth considering the following equipment when cruising this area. An SSB radio is useful for obtaining weather forecasts. It is very hot in the summer and ventilation is important. It may be worth fitting extra hatches and a wind scoop over the fore hatch will help a lot. An awning or biminy, covering the cockpit, to provide shelter from the sun is a must. A cockpit table is useful as eating outside during the summer months is one of the pleasures of cruising. Mosquitoes can be a problem and many boats screen all openings while others rely on mosquito coils, insecticides and repellents. Sunburn is the other hazard cruisers should be aware of, the sun can be deceptively strong while the boat is underway, plenty of cream and a hat will go along way to avoid the misery of sunstroke.

There is a constant east going current of between 1 and 2 knots flowing through the straight of Gibraltar and between the Costa del Sol and the north African coast. There is some tide to be considered at the western end of the region, Gibraltar sees 1 metre at most. This diminishes the further east traveled. The weather is affected by several systems and is consequently difficult to predict. There is an old saying that in the summer months nine days of light winds will be followed by a full blown gale that is inaccurate. A wind from the northwest is known as the “tramotana”. It can be dangerous because it can arrive and reach gale force in as little as 15 minutes. It often lasts for 3 days and can blow in excess of a week. The wind from the east, the “levante” can also blow for several days at gale force. Annual rainfall at Gibraltar is 760mm. The Costa del Sol will experience about 4 days a month of fog. Summer temperatures can exceed 35 degrees C and the winter months see around 15 degrees.

The remainder of this article looks principally at the harbours of the Costa del Sol. There are also numerous anchorages bbut only a few of the notable ones are mentioned here.

Marina Bay is largest of Gibraltar’s three marinas with 350 berths. Most berthing is stern/bow to. Larger yachts can lie alongside. Water and electricity on the pontoons. Within the complex you will find a chandlers, launderette and a good selection of restaurants and bars. There is an indoor market less than 5 minutes walk from the marina. Queensway Marina is much quieter than Gibraltar’s other two marinas. Security is excellent with all the pontoons being gated. Within the complex you will find several restaurants and bars.
Gibraltar itself was ceded from the Spanish to the British in the early 18th century and for most of it’s history since that time Spain has been trying to get it back. There is evidence of this wherever you go on the rock. The rock itself is honeycombed with tunnels constructed at one time or another for the purposes of adding to the defences of Gibraltar. Many of the older tunnels are open to the public and feature exhibitions of how life was for the soldiers of the day. Many of the tunnels are most definitely not open to the public and there is considerable speculation as to what might be seen in these. You can see Rosia Bay where Admiral Lord Nelson’s body was bought ashore from HMS Victory following his famous victory over a combined French and Spanish fleet at the Battle of Trafalgar. Nelson’s body was returned to Britain for a hero’s funeral but many of the seamen who died alongside him in the battle are buried on the rock at the Trafalgar cemetery. Take a cable car ride to the top of the rock, stunning views of Spain and across the straights to Morocco. Up here you will also find the famous colony of Barbary apes. Rumor has it that only when the apes are no more will the British leave the Rock. A rumor taken seriously by Winston Churchill, the Prime Minister of Britain during the Second World War, who on learning of their dwindling population ordered more to be bought to the Rock from Africa.

Puerto de Sotogrande is an attractive marina complex surrounded by apartments, shops, bars and restaurants. The overall design has been inspired by Portofino. There are
sandy beaches to either side of the marina and golf, riding, tennis and squash courts nearby. One of the most expensive marinas on this part of the coast.

One of my favorites is Puerto de la Duquessa. Not too big and not to noisy. The marina is surrounded by apartments, shops, restaurants and bars. The marina offers free medical care to it’s users. There are sandy beaches either side of the marina. The village of Sabinillas is 5 minutes walk to the north. Another bus will take you to the village of Casares which clings to the side of a mountain. Marbella, popular with the rich and famous is another bus journey away. Don’t expect to see the famous on the bus though, they are the ones in the Ferraris. Hire a car and drive up to the picturesque town of Ronda.

Puerto de Estapona is a medium sized marina with the usual development of restaurants and bars.

Puerto de Jose Banus, the marina of the rich and famous and the prices reflect this. Whitewashed, Andalucian style building surround the marina, hosting boutiques, bars, restaurants and night clubs. There are several Yacht Charter and Yacht Brokerage operations within the marina complex. Marbella is 15 minutes away by car or bus. Good beach to the west of the marina which belongs to the hotel and allows berth holders access. This can be arranged at the control tower. Many golf courses in the area.

The small marina at Puerto de Marbella is surrounded by tourist developments. The marina can be noisy at night during the summer months. Wind from the east, south and southwest can produce a heavy swell within the harbour. Be prepared to double up on lines. Beaches on either side of the marina but these get very crowded during the summer months. The town itself is well worth exploring. Don’t miss the famous Orange Square which can be found at the heart of the city centre.

Puerto de Cabopino is a pleasant, small harbour surrounded by Andalucian style houses which makes a nice change from the normal high rise developments. Good shelter within the harbour. Limited space for transient yachts and it is recommended that you call ahead to confirm there is a berth available. Marina charges are on the high side. Cabopino beach, with it’s fine sand is reckoned to be one of the best on the Costa del Sol

Good shelter can be found at Puerto de Fuengirola. The nearby town is both noisy and very busy during the summer months. All provisions can be obtained in the town. There are good beaches on either side of the marina but these get very crowded during the summer months.

Puerto de Benalmadena is a huge marina with over 150,000 square metres of water. There is good shelter with the only swell being experienced in a W gale. Whilst the surrounding area is the usual overpowering high rise blacks the marina itself is quite attractive. It was named best marina in the world in both 1995 and 1998. There are over 200 commercial premises including boutiques, night clubs and the usual numerous restaurants and bars. There is also a sea life centre. There are good beaches on either side of the marina. Malaga airport is just 8 km away.

Puerto de Malaga is the major commercial and fishing port of the Costa del Sol. The only facilities for yachts are at the Real Club Mediterraneo de Malaga and there is little room for visitors. Malaga, known as the “City of Flowers” is both interesting and charming. It can be reached on foot from the port.

The small harbour of Puerto del Candado is found 3.5 miles E of Malaga. Suitable for vessels drawing 2m or less. With strong winds from the W – SW considerable swell builds up and the harbour becomes uncomfortable. Harbour charges are low

Puerto de Puerto Caleta de Velez is a quiet fishing harbour 22 miles to east of Malaga. There are beaches on either side of the marina.

The anchorages of Fondeadero de Neja and Cala de Miel are both worth a visit. Cala de Miel has a fresh water spring.

Marina del Este is a purpose built marina set amongst a huge housing development in a beautiful area. Wind from NE – E produces a limited amount of swell within the marina. Harbour charges are high in the summer months. There is a small beach close to the harbour and a pool at the yacht club. There are prehistoric caves to be seen at Nerja. The city of Granada and the famous Alhambra can be seen in a days trip. As can the Alpahurras valley, with it’s charming villages, towered over by the magnificent Sierra Nevada.

Once a small fishing port, Puerto de Motril has developed into a commercial port serving the inland city of Granada. Beaches on either side of the harbour.

The harbour of Puerto de Adra was founded by the Phoenicians and has been in use ever since. Today it is both a commercial and fishing port. The continual movement of the fishing boats makes for much disturbance. Facilities are limited. Harbour charges are high. Beaches on either side of the harbour. Adra town is small and has little in the way of development for tourism.

Puerto de Almerimar, a very large marina with the capacity for over 1,000 boats. Excellent shelter from everything but strong SW winds when some swell can build up towards the entrance of the harbour. Prices are low. Astonishingly so compared to some other marinas on the Costa del Sol. Sandy beaches on either side of the marina. This part of the coast is covered with plastic greenhouses, it has to be seen to be appreciated both for the vast number of acres under cover and it’s ugliness.

Puerto de Roquetas del Mar is a small fishing harbour. Strong winds from the SE – NE make the harbour uncomfortable.

Good shelter can be found at Puerto de del Aguadulce except with wind from the ESE which can cause some swell making conditions uncomfortable. The marina can cater for some 150 boats. The complex includes a swimming pool and squash court. Sandy beaches to the S with waters clean enough to merit a blue CE flag. Two 18 hole golf courses.

The Puerto de Almeria is a commercial & fishing port. Yachts use the Club de Mar del Almeria. There are several large rusty industrial structures close by a dominating the view and giving the place a rather grim feel. Overall the shelter is good but strong winds from the E produce swell that makes it uncomfortable within the marina. The Alcazaba inAlmeria, a Moorish castle, is well worth a visit.

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When planning a Spain vacation, one of the wonderful aspects for you to look forward to is the choice that youll have when it comes down to attractions and entertainment. Not only that, spending your holidays in and travelling through Spain is very rewarding, allowing you to enjoy much vivid Spanish culture, near perfect weather, a full history, and abundant beauty in the surroundings. Yes, I know that this sounds like the ideal vacation. It very well just may be.

Spain has become a popular place for people to spend their holidays, or vacations, depending where your from simply because of the diverse culture and exciting experience. The county gives you many great choices between areas like the Costa Blanca, The Costa Del Sol, and other towns in between such as Valencia, Alicante, Benidorm, Granada, Madrid of course, and Murcia. These all offer such an wide diversity of attractions, beaches to relax, entertainment for both couples and the entire family, as well a historical sights that will influence your life.

There are so many different and unique places to visit in Spain that youll surely have no trouble finding the one that a perfect fit for you and your travelling companions.

The towns allow for much history in the form of museums, historical monuments all throughtout, and beautiful structures that show off the architecture of the land. Not only that but its consistently easy to find rich Spanish culture of this country, which hosts many exciting festivals and events throughout the year, which will allow you to learn about the different ways of life and the local traditions.

Of course a vacation is hardly a vacation without being able to soak up the rays and enjoy relaxing times on the beach, and Spain definitely offers no shortage of these areas. Youll find a huge array of forms of entertainment, as well as a hopping nightlife, and recreational activities such as golf and surfing. This is why Spain is nearly the perfect place to find nearly anything that you could be looking for.

Price, and finding deals is always a concern considering that the more money that you save on airfare and hotel, is more money that you can enjoy as spending money while youre on your vacation. So finding those deals on flights and hotel is not that hard, especially these days with the Internet as a tool. Not only are flights, and hotels a part of your considerations, youll also be thinking about insurance, as well as car rental and car services. All of these can be done on the cheap if you do your homework correctly, which often times means getting a professional to help you.

Be sure to look for package deals that bundle all of these things together, which will eliminate much of the running around and hassle that you often are faced with when planning a vacation.

Either way, no matter which part of Spain you choose to visit, odds are that youll soon be going back to experience this country again and again.

Not sure where to go for vacation? Well, Spain could be the perfect destination if you are looking for fantastic attractions, interesting sights, vibrant entertainment and night life, history, Spanish culture and recreation such as golfing, swimming and hiking, to name a few. The only problem you may face is the selection of great destinations from which to choose. You may have a hard time deciding where to go. Spain has so much to offer in terms of culture, interesting history, great adventure, fun and relaxation. A detailed map of Spain may help you make a decision as far as which part of Spain you want to visit. Regardless of your destination choice, you are sure to have a vacation of a lifetime with a full itinerary. Whether you are traveling alone, as a couple, with a group or as a family, you will find plenty for everyone to do and enjoy making Spain one of the most ideal vacation destinations. One way to help decide on a destination is to consider what sights you want to see, what recreational activities or hobbies you enjoy and any other preferences such as the beach or the breathtaking scenery of the countryside. For instance, if it is the beach you love, one of Spains popular coastal cities such as Alicante or Benidorm may be a great choice for you. Benidorm is particularly popular for its vibrant night life. If you want the hustle and bustle of the city and love museums and galleries, Madrid or Barcelona could be the perfect place for you. If you want to more deeply experience the Spanish culture, you may want to focus on one of the many smaller, quaint towns or villas found in both the countryside and along the Mediterranean coastline.

Another great aspect of vacationing in Spain is that you can find some affordable prices on flights and hotel accommodations. You can enjoy your vacation without the worry of overextending your finances and budget. The Internet is a great place to start your search, particularly on the many travel websites available which can offer great deals on hotels, flights and even health insurance. You can compare prices and packages at your convenience and in the comfort of your own home or office, as well as make the reservations. Ease of planning your vacation without hassle and inconvenience is, definitely, a great way to start your vacation even before arriving in Spain.

Vacationing in Mexico is something that many individuals, families, and couples do. If you are interested in or you are planning on visiting Mexico, you may have to find ways to travel. Unless you are staying at a beach resort, spa resort, or golf resort, it is likely that you will want to get out and see everything that Mexico has to offer. If you plan on traveling while on vacation in Mexico, you have a number of different options.

Perhaps, the most preferred method of travel is driving. Most individuals fly into Mexico; however, some drive. If you drive into Mexico, it is likely that you would want to use you own car to travel. Driving in Mexico is not as hard as many people expect. The main thing that you need to be concerned with is the documents and insurance that is needed to drive in Mexico.

If you are planning on using your car to travel in or around Mexico, you will have to file for a vehicle import permit. These permits can be obtained before you leave for Mexico or your can obtain them as soon as you arrive. Vehicle import permits are important because without one you could be incarcerated, fined, or have your vehicle impounded.

In addition in acquiring a vehicle import permit, you will also need to have car insurance. Unfortunately, too many individuals believe that their current car insurance policy will cover their Mexico vacation. In most cases, this is not true. To obtain car insurance while in Mexico, you will have to find a Mexican auto insurance company or one that operates on an international level. When first scheduling your Mexico vacation, it is advised that you obtain auto insurance for your trip.

As previously mentioned, not all travelers enter Mexico by driving themselves. If you choose to fly into Mexico, you can still use road travel to get around. A large number of tourist make the decision to rent a car. In Mexico, car rentals are a cheap and fairly easy way to travel.

Similar to car rental policies in the Untied States, you must be at least twenty-five years old to rent a vehicle. Other requirements may include, but are not limited to, having a valid drivers license and a current auto insurance policy. As with driving your own vehicle, you may need to obtain auto insurance from a company in Mexico.

Traveling by train, in Mexico, can be an amazing experience. In addition to getting to your destination, you will find that a train ride is a great way to see all that Mexico has to offer. Traditional train rides can take you from one destination to another. In addition to traditional train rides, you will find that Mexico offers a number of train tours. Similar to boat tours, these tours are a great way for you to sightsee while traveling to another part of the country.

In addition to car rentals, driving yourself, or taking the train, you can also travel around Mexico by taking the bus. In many areas of Mexico, traveling by bus comes highly recommend. Buses depart from popular Mexico vacation destinations, often, on an hourly basis. Buses are available throughout Mexico, even in vacation destinations that are not as well-known or popular. No matter where you are located, it should be possible for you catch a bus.

Traveling by car, bus, or train is often viewed as the only ways to travel around Mexico. It may also be possible for you to travel by boat. The only downside to traveling by boat is that you are presented with a limited number of travel options. If you are interested in traveling from one coastal city to the next, boat travel may be a great way to get to your next destination.

Whichever method of travel you select, you should be able to get to your next stop. By selecting the proper method of travel, you may be able to see amazing historical sites along the way.

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Word Count 672

>02/`bjbj.3$$$$$$$$$hQ$$$$$$$$”$$$$>F03b$$$$$$$$x$$$3$$$$$$Golf Accessories To Help You TravelIf you are a die-hard golfer, you no doubt enjoy traveling to golf courses all around the world to practice your skills in places that are a little less familiar than the golf courses you usually spend your time at. When you travel to other parts of the country (or even other parts of the world) to play golf, you may have a hard time getting everything there easily and intact, and keeping everything sane for the whole time you are there. If you buy a few golf accessories beforehand, you can make things a lot less stressful on yourself. Here I will outline some of the things that will make your trip much easier.First, you should purchase some sort of carrying case for your golf clubs. Having your expensive clubs smashed is never pleasant, and it is even worse when you planned your entire week around them. If you are flying to your destination then this tip will be particularly true. Buy a carrying case that will be strong enough and stiff enough to resist any crushing power that might attempt to smash your golf clubs. You can buy these strong bags at some golf stores, or online. Make sure that the one you buy is reinforced with some sort of metal material that will prevent it from caving in. You should put the case to the test before you rely on it to protect your clubs.Another great way to keep your clubs safe is to purchase an ID tag to keep with your clubs. Include all of your contact information on it, as well as your cell phone number or the number of the hotel you are staying at. If you somehow lose your clubs in transit, it is a good idea to have them marked in a way that someone could return them to you if they were so inclined. There are still quite a few good Samaritans out there, so dont give up all hope if something gets lost. You can make this tag yourself out of an index card, or you can buy an official one from a store. Fill it out with the most current information possible.You should also include a few of the accessories that you usually take for granted. Include extra tees and golf balls, just in case you lose your main ones for some reason, or you cant find the kinds you like at your destination. Small items like that have a particular tendency to get lost in luggage, so having extra will ensure that you have some once you get there. Spread them across a few different bags so that you always have a backup. It may seem extreme to do this, but you would be surprised at how frustrating it can be to have no golf balls or tees when you get to a new area.If you are worried about losing your bag along the way, there is an option you might not have considered. There are many overnight shipping services created particularly for golfers that do not trust the airlines. One of the most popular ones, ShipGolf, will deliver your clubs to your hotel the very next morning. Of course they come with insurance so that if even the shipping service loses them you will be compensated. These can be a good choice if you have particularly expensive clubs.Golf trips are a lot like the actual game that is played. The whole thing might be going according to plan, but then right near the end a really horrible shot ends up disrupting your mental flow. After that, it is almost impossible to get back in to line. This same thing applies to a golf trip overall Therefore it is good to be prepared for anything that might occur. As long as you are prepared, an undesirable event wont cause the rest of your trip to be ruined.PPPPPWord count 660hWYhv^h_Thd,h_Th_T$%

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If you are a die-hard golfer, you no doubt enjoy traveling to golf courses all around the world to practice your skills in places that are a little less familiar than the golf courses you usually spend your time at. When you travel to other parts of the country (or even other parts of the world) to play golf, you may have a hard time getting everything there easily and intact, and keeping everything sane for the whole time you are there. If you buy a few golf accessories beforehand, you can make things a lot less stressful on yourself. Here I will outline some of the things that will make your trip much easier.

First, you should purchase some sort of carrying case for your golf clubs. Having your expensive clubs smashed is never pleasant, and it is even worse when you planned your entire week around them. If you are flying to your destination then this tip will be particularly true. Buy a carrying case that will be strong enough and stiff enough to resist any crushing power that might attempt to smash your golf clubs. You can buy these strong bags at some golf stores, or online. Make sure that the one you buy is reinforced with some sort of metal material that will prevent it from caving in. You should put the case to the test before you rely on it to protect your clubs.

Another great way to keep your clubs safe is to purchase an ID tag to keep with your clubs. Include all of your contact information on it, as well as your cell phone number or the number of the hotel you are staying at. If you somehow lose your clubs in transit, it is a good idea to have them marked in a way that someone could return them to you if they were so inclined. There are still quite a few good Samaritans out there, so dont give up all hope if something gets lost. You can make this tag yourself out of an index card, or you can buy an official one from a store. Fill it out with the most current information possible.

You should also include a few of the accessories that you usually take for granted. Include extra tees and golf balls, just in case you lose your main ones for some reason, or you cant find the kinds you like at your destination. Small items like that have a particular tendency to get lost in luggage, so having extra will ensure that you have some once you get there. Spread them across a few different bags so that you always have a backup. It may seem extreme to do this, but you would be surprised at how frustrating it can be to have no golf balls or tees when you get to a new area.

If you are worried about losing your bag along the way, there is an option you might not have considered. There are many overnight shipping services created particularly for golfers that do not trust the airlines. One of the most popular ones, ShipGolf, will deliver your clubs to your hotel the very next morning. Of course they come with insurance so that if even the shipping service loses them you will be compensated. These can be a good choice if you have particularly expensive clubs.

Golf trips are a lot like the actual game that is played. The whole thing might be going according to plan, but then right near the end a really horrible shot ends up disrupting your mental flow. After that, it is almost impossible to get back in to line. This same thing applies to a golf trip overall Therefore it is good to be prepared for anything that might occur. As long as you are prepared, an undesirable event wont cause the rest of your trip to be ruined.

PPPPP

Word count 660

4 Simple Steps To Get Out Of Debt – And Stay Out

Step One: Plan for the Unexpected Big Time Bill

The first step arises from debt from a one-time large expense – something that is too large to be paid for with your monthly paycheck, or by saving for a few months.

Many of these debts are investments in either an asset that will appreciate over time, or a income stream that will be greater over time. The most common example is the purchase of a home. Very few people are able to save enough money to purchase their home outright, or pay for their entire home out of a few paychecks. We use a mortgage to pay for the home after-the-fact, and to enjoy home ownership in the meanwhile. Another example is investment in education. Many people cannot afford to pay for college tuition outright – so we take out loans, planning that our future income stream will enable us to be able to afford to pay for the education after-the-fact.

The more insidious type of one-time large expense is the expense that is not an investment. The emergency, unexpected, unplanned-for bill – extreme medical bills, disability, failure of a business, a lawsuit judgment, or long-time unemployment. These bills can put a family under – forcing them to either sell assets, move out of their home, or declare bankruptcy, because they will never be able to pay off the debt with their income.

One way to combat this danger is to set aside three to six months of your living expenses in a special savings account – an Emergency Fund — to be used for the emergency, unexpected expense. This money is sacred, only for a family emergency. The Emergency Fund will save your family from potential tragedy and help you create a secure future.

Action Step #1: Open a special savings account to be your Emergency Fund. Set aside money each paycheck or month to fund this account.

Step Two: Think Out of the Budget Box

Instead of worrying about budgets, this step is the flip side of cash flow problems – income.

We know when we have a debt problem. We may stop opening bills, stop answering the phone. We may even try to create budgets, reduce our expenses, cancel cable, live at the basic minimum, to try to stop the bleeding.

But sometimes, overspending is not the problem. It is underearning.

You may just not earn enough to afford to live your life. I’m not talking about living an extravagant lifestyle, or even a “nice” lifestyle – but the basic necessities of life – housing, automobile, phone, insurance, groceries, gas, clothing – may add up to too much, given your income. This is especially common in expensive places to live, like the Silicon Valley.

The first step in dealing with this problem is to stop feeling guilty. You are not a bad person, who spends irresponsibly. You are someone who needs to acknowledge that you need, want, and deserve more income.

Instead of being frozen in guilt, start to take action on creating more income. You may not need to do something radical – you may just need to ramp up what you are already doing, or look for hidden treasure already in your life.

Put together a proposal for your boss, to describe how the company would be better if you got a raise. Create a new information product to generate passive income for your business. Search your basement for items you can auction on e-bay. Teach a class on scrapbooking, or changing the oil in your car. Have a garage sale to generate some quick cash, and reduce the clutter in your life.

Whatever you do, the important idea is to start today.

Action Step #2: Brainstorm 5 ways you will earn more income now – such as – ask for a raise, look for a new job, start a small business, sell a new product, auction old items on e-bay, rent out a room, teach a skill, or have a garage sale.

Step Three: Planning for the Big Stuff

This step is about the debts that sneak up on us. You may be able to pay for your bills and regular expenses each month — but what happens if the car breaks down? The property tax bill arrives? Your quarterly’s are due? Christmas? Baby announcement? Wedding invite? The family or high school reunion? The big family vacation you all deserve?

Are you able to pay for those non-monthly expenses out of your paycheck or your small business profits? Or, do those items go on a credit card?

Automobile repair, gifts, taxes, and travel are all examples of expenses that are non-monthly, but are expected. We know they are coming, but not necessarily when, or how much. These expenses should not be going on a credit card – you should save for them ahead of time, so you do not pay a bank 10-20+% a year for the privilege of paying for your expenses after-the-fact.

Go through your bills, receipts, and cards for the last year, or the last few years, and figure out how much you spend on each of these categories each year, on average. If you don’t have those records, make a realistic estimate. Divide that annual amount by 12. That’s how much you should set aside each month for your irregular expenses.

Action Step #3: Open a special savings account for at least one non-regular expense: either auto repairs, taxes, travel, or gifts. Save a fixed amount each month in that savings account, so when bills are due, you already have the money!

Step Four: Plug The Holes

Step four is about how to prevent your family from going into debt, by planning for your expenses ahead of time. This step we come to the most insidious problem, and the most difficult to conquer – overspending.

Do you know where your money goes each month? How much are all of your bills? How much are you spending on Dining Out? Drinks Out? Gas? Target & Costco? Clothes? Personal care (i.e., massage, pedicures)? Recreation – movies, golf, Netflix? Toys (both for the kids, and for yourselves)? Do you really know?

Do you spend your money in accordance to your values and priorities? Is there one, or more areas, where you are spending money not because you particularly need, or even enjoy, that product or service – but because you are not paying attention, or because you are compensating for another problem in your life by habitually spending money in that area?

Commonly, we see this in clothes, toys for kids, recreation, high-tech gadgets, and dining out – easy for relatively small expenditures, made each day or week, to add up to hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars each month. Spending without thinking will derail you from ever being able to achieve your most important life goals. Especially if you are spending more than your income, month after month.

Instead of being frozen in guilt, do something about it. Look over your habits for the last few months, and pick the most obvious problem area, where you “go” when you are stressed, bored, or unhappy. Do you buy CDs? Shop online? Get a new pair of shoes? Start in one category, and create good habits and rules for yourself in that area – then carry those personal rules over to the rest of your expenses.

Action Step #4: Create a Cash-Only account for your problem category. Withdraw your budgeted monthly amount in cash on the first day of the month, and place the cash in an envelope – when the envelope is empty, you’re done!

Business Jetblue From American Express Ideal For Jetblue Flyers

Business JetBlue Credit card is the outcome of the joint efforts of American Express and JetBlue airlines. If you are one of those who frequently avail the services of the JetBlue Airways, then you have an ideal credit card in Business JetBlue from American Express.

You can extract the maximum benefits out of Business JetBlue Card from American Express only if you have enough credit to make monthly payments on time. So, those of you who can afford to pay in full each month after the introductory rate expires (to evade finance charges), can well benefit from the remarkable reward program of Business JetBlue Credit Card from American Express.

Highlights Of The Reward Program

To get detailed information about the reward program of Business JetBlue from American Express go through the following:

The rewards program awards you a dollar for each dollar you spend on the card. You will receive additional 2 points (award dollars) for each dollar you spend on JetBlue flights, car rentals, wireless phone charges, gas, office supplies and equipment. Also, earn double award dollars for what you spend at movie theaters, concerts, golf courses, restaurants and other places of entertainment.

A 5% discount will be given to you on any JetBlue flight in addition to other rewards program points and savings.

Your first purchase will reap 5000 bonus award points. (Your statement credit should be at least $50).

Here it would be necessary to highlight that 200 award-dollars amount to one TrueBlue point and 100 TrueBlue points earn you a one round-trip flight in JetBlue.

Other Features

Take a look at some of the other features of Business JetBlue from American Express, which might concern you:

The Business JetBlue card has annual fee of $40, a quite reasonable fee as compared to other airline reward cards.

Though the average interest rates are high, you will be able to save money on free reward flights if you are able to pay your monthly balance in full.

Your rewards will not expire as long as you earn points or there is some redemption activity in your account within a 1-year period. The TrueBlue awards expire after 1 year of issuance.

Through the OPEN Savings program, you can also avail automatic discounts at leading merchants.

Special Benefits From The Card

Business JetBlue from American Express allows a lot of additional benefits you would love to have such as special Internet account related services, entrance to the OPEN Savings Network, Automatic bill payment and account alerts, extended warranty for purchases, Auto rental insurance, Purchase protection, insurance for Travel accident, Emergency card replacement, various travel and emergency assistance services.

The Business JetBlue from American Express is a joint venture of JetBlue Airlines and the American Express. It is convenient for you if you frequently fly on the JetBlue Airways, and would like to earn rewards, which are compatible with your current TrueBlue points.

Just be sure to make the monthly payments on time, if you seriously want to get rid of the high interest rates. This credit card has a comparatively higher interest rate than normally charged by other cards, but in return, it promises you host of benefits.

Benefits Of The Card

Business JetBlue from American Express offers 5% discounts on any JetBlue flight together with other reward program savings and points. For every dollar you spend, you obtain award dollars. You can also earn double award dollars at concerts, golf courses, restaurants, movie theatres and other fun venues. For each dollar spent on JetBlue flights, car rentals, wireless phone charges, gas, office supplies and equipment, you will get two award dollars. What is most interesting is that there is no limit to the amount of award dollars that can be earned!

The Business JetBlue from American Express has an annual fee of $40, which is a reasonable rate when compared to the other airline reward-card fees.

You will get 5000 bonus award dollars after your first purchase, only that your credit statement should read a $50 credit. (One TrueBlue point equals 200 award dollars and 100 TrueBlue points together will fetch you a round-trip flight.)

You can have access to the usual cardholder benefits. The card has a low annual fee. The above the average interests of the card are well compensated with free reward flights. Therefore, you can save money and you will only need to pay your full monthly balance. You can redeem your points any time and there is no question of invalidity.

You will also be provided with the OPEN Business Savings automatically. For this facility, you need not be enrolled in any program or are not required to submit your points for discounts. The Business JetBlue from American Express makes it easier for the business owners to save for traveling, hotels and FedEx.

The Rewards expiration period of the credit card is of 1 year. As long as the redemption activity takes place within a year, the points will not expire. The TrueBlue awards expire a year after their issuance. This one-year period is actually applicable to all the points, reward programs and rebates.

Other Perks

The Business JetBlue from American Express is different from the other airline rewards cards. Other than offering a low annual fee, the card also offers you various travel and emergency assistant service benefits, various Internet account related services, access to the OPEN Savings Network, extended warranty services, discounts on products and services at participating merchants and retailers, travel accident insurance and purchase protection.