The GypsyNesters

Saving Big Bucks on Big Adventures

One stumbling block people encounter when planning to travel is the amount of cash they think they need. Experienced travelers will tell you not as much as you think… CONTINUE READING >>

One of the biggest stumbling blocks that people encounter when planning to travel is the amount of free cash they think they need.

Experienced travelers will tell you that you don’t need as much as you think if you plan it well. There is a big difference between going on a holiday and participating in all the tourist attractions or traveling for a while in the same location.

For a short vacation or holiday, you tend to pack heavy, book lush hotels, and spend a lot of cash on tickets to see things. With traveling, the focus is on experiencing the culture and getting stuck into the surroundings.

On vacations, you’re more likely to eat out every day, which is a huge cost – but when you’re staying a while, you’ll find yourself looking for local markets and cooking your own food.

So, where are the key areas where you can save plenty of cash?

Saving & Research

It can be challenging to set money aside unless you have a sizeable disposable income – or are a natural saver. To save money, make sure you are maximizing your coupon and voucher use on everyday items. Every time you save something, set it aside into your saving pot.

Regular life dictates that you will probably need some everyday home items, too, in which case NetVoucherCodes.co.uk can take the hard work out of finding things at a reduced price – including travel!

Have savings goals, and use everything you save to add towards it. It is a good idea to add a further 300 on top of your savings for emergencies.

It pays dividends to research the area that you are going to. Here are some of the cheapest places that you can visit:

- Laos
- Vietnam
- Cambodia
- Indonesia
- The Philippines

Tip: Check out our favorite places to travel that don’t regularly make the tourist guides: Our Favorite (Lesser-Known) Cities on Each Continent

Eat out less

Cover this point in more detail because you might be surprised just how big the difference is between eating out and staying home to cook. When you are on a short break or 2-3 days, the cost of eating out feels like a luxury – and it is. By day 4+, eating out starts to cost more than almost anything else you do.

Keep in mind that some countries have notoriously cheap, delicious meals in carts along the street, and restaurants, Sri Lanka, China, Malaysia, and more all offer incredible cheap food.

It is still beneficial to you to carry fruit and water everywhere you go, though.

Traveling long term – opt for eating out as little as possible.

Tip: When you arrive at your location, open Google maps, look for the supermarket with a high rating, and check for food markets.

Hostel vs. Hotel vs. Airbnb

Hostels are no longer grotty spaces crammed with people and in a back street of a bad neighborhood. No, instead, hostels have changed in a big way in the last 15 years – some of them rival the costs of a hotel.

Airbnbs are often one of the best ideas and come at a much friendlier price for the same amount of days.

Hostels offer a way to meet people that hotels and Airbnb don’t cater to; the public areas seem to have a better vibe and more people around. If there are any amenities in the hostel, they will be in the community area – things like coffee machines. Hostels also offer a more cultural experience, and the people running them are more than happy to help you out.

You can choose to have a shared hostel room (and it is by far cheaper), or you can opt for private rooms, which are still affordable but offer more privacy.

Hotels are the pricier way to stay, and if you have the budget, great. If not, you need to make sure you look for coupon deals, special rates, and out-of-peak season. There is a lot to be said for a great hotel, but most of the time, you have one small room, and it can feel a little disconnected from the area.

Airbnbs usually put you straight into a neighborhood, rather than in the middle of the city like a hotel and a hostel. This can be an adventure in itself – experiencing the community while being in it.

In the end, the hostels will likely win out when it comes to budgeting.

Find the Free

There are plenty of free things to do in every city, which are usually regular annual events for the residents. You’ll find big parks, swimming areas, outdoor concerts, fairs and more. It’s your job to dedicate time to finding them before you arrive.

Most places have local websites that can give you the dates and locations for everything. Once you have your city or country in mind, head to Google and type ‘free things to do in <insert city>.’

Start making a note of where everything is in relation to where you will be staying.

And when it comes to activities, remember that taking photos is free, and that can be much better than splurging on shopping trips just to pass the time.

Ditch cabs

Many taxi firms can spot a traveler or a tourist with no problems and will often increase the prices – or take the long way on the meter. Of course, not all taxi services are like this. If you want to take a taxi around the city, only book them through your hotel and ask what the price should be before you head out.

The best way to travel around is by foot on public transport. In many European countries, hiring a bike can be the fastest and best way to get around – the Netherlands, Denmark, Belgium, and Slovenia are some of the best cycling. Many have bike rental companies or stands where you can rent and replace them when you’re done.

If you don’t want to cycle or walk, public transport in most countries is well organized and can take you where you need to go.

Google maps can usually ensure that you get the right bus, train, or metro-tram at the right time for where you are heading. Sometimes it is worth buying a travel card to make sure that you can use all transport.

Make Friends

If you are in an Airbnb or a hostel, making friends is much easier. However, there are still ways that you can meet people that can show you or tell you where the non-tourist trap prices are.

Before you jet off to your new location, check your social media for friends and family that might have connections in that location.

You never know how that might impact your trip – perhaps you will make new friends for life, enjoy a home-cooked meal, or have a guide for a few hours in the day.

Meeting people can add so much to your experience that you might find yourself extending your travel time.

Buy Local

There will be countless supermarkets of all sizes, and some of them will be smaller independent ones. Remember that a critical part of traveling is to give something back to the area. When you buy at a smaller independent grocer, you are putting money into the local economy.

If you are faced with a range of new and exotic fresh fruits and vegetables, don’t be afraid to get out your Google Translate or translation book and ask for some advice or help about what to buy. Often locals will love to tell you all of the best foods and will want to give you a sample of things.

Shopping seasonal will also help massively keep the costs down – and if you are away for a while, don’t be tempted to find the essential stores – they are expensive, and you don’t need to spend that money.

Rules

Every country will have a list of rules, and some of those rules will come with fines if you don’t adhere to them. One of the things to watch out for if you have rented a car is that if you are used to miles per hour, and when you are driving in kilometers per hour, the difference is something you need to take into account so that you don’t get a speeding ticket.

In some countries, like Argentina, you need to keep the daylights on the vehicle as you drive; if you are caught without them, you will get a fine. You might be surprised just how many people get a fine for that.

Cash

If you keep using your regular bank card, you will stack up fees between 2-3% per use, and it mounts up. Instead, opt to have an account that is designed to tackle multiple different currencies. Wise, formerly Transferwise, is a great option.

There are also credit card options that don’t charge travel fees and don’t have any foreign transaction fees either.

Are you looking for more tips about how you can get more from travel? Going Gypsy: One Couple’s Adventure from Empty Nest to No Nest at All

We are happy to present this collaborative post to offer valuable information to our readers.

An Empty Nest Couples Tip: Do Something Completely New Together

Like most couples, we entered the empty nest phase of our lives pretty much the same way we entered the world, starry-eyed and clueless.

An anxiety-inducing mixture of excitement and terror.

We had our big now what? moment and stumbled ahead, knowing that we had to do something to reconnect as the couple that fell in love all those years ago…
CONTINUE READING >>

Like most couples, we entered the empty nest phase of our lives pretty much the same way we entered the world, starry-eyed and clueless.

An anxiety-inducing mixture of excitement and terror.

We had our big now what? moment and stumbled ahead, knowing that we had to do something to reconnect as the couple that fell in love all those years ago.

We couldn’t just pretend there wasn’t a big space where the kids had been in our day-to-day lives.

Not just the time spent running hither and yon — to school, practices, plays, dance, ball games, and the like – but the social interaction of those activities all instantly disappeared as well. Poof.

Six years down the road, we seem to have learned a few things – we like to call it breaking the empty nest rules, but we have also been reasonably successful at making the empty nest work.

While we would never advocate that everyone do things as drastically as we did – sell everything and hit the highway on an endless road trip – we have discovered something that we think will work across the board…

Learning to tango in Buenos Aires

Do something completely new together

This doesn’t mean taking up each other’s hobbies — although that can be nice too — it means something totally new, something neither of you has experienced.

It doesn’t hurt to get out of your comfort zone a bit, either.

For us, this was traveling to places neither of us had ever been. But, it could mean moving somewhere new, too, like to some luxurious oceanfront homes.

Seeing awesome sights for the first time, together. Learning about new cultures, together. Trying new unique, exotic, and sometimes downright weird foods, together.

We always have something to talk about, laugh about, and learn about through each other’s perspective.

But traveling certainly isn’t the only way to accomplish this, there are all sorts of opportunities much closer to home.

David as Jesus in Jesus Christ Superstar – Veronica scored a part in the chorus where she got to play a prostitute, a harem girl and a leper – talk about jumping out of her comfort zone!

As our nest was emptying, but before we sold it, we both took part in a community theater production of Jesus Christ Superstar.

This was a fantastic way to come together as a couple, helping each other rehearse, working toward a common goal, and feeling pretty darn proud when we pulled it off in the performances.

There are plenty of other places to jump in, like volunteering. No doubt any number of organizations could use some help from a couple with the experience and wisdom of a few years under their belts. (For great volunteering ideas, click here)

Making what turned out to be the world’s worst sushi!
Everyone else in the class nailed it, though.

Or going back to school. Certainly there’s an educational institution nearby that offers classes in subjects new and interesting to both spouses.

It could be learning a new language, cooking, creative writing, or philosophy. (We personally LOVE cooking classes!)

The options are nearly endless.

How about taking up a new sport? We’re not talking about going along on hubby’s next golf date, or to the next Pilates class with the wife.

That’s not new to both and will probably go about as well as our skiing fiasco. Besides, if you’re anything like us, golf usually makes us feel like killing somebody (or at the very least, going home to roll something relaxing from Carolina Hemp Cafe). Not good for empty nest bonding. (What doesn’t work: Trying to teach your spouse to ski!)

But if neither spouse has ever ridden a horse, sailed a boat, hiked in the mountains, biked along the sea shore, or even gone skiing or played a round golf, then experiencing that for the first time, together, can have an amazing effect on a marriage.

It’s almost like dating again.

David & Veronica, GypsyNester.com

YOUR TURN: Are you game for any of these ideas? What has worked/not worked for you? Did we miss anything?

Why is Religion Important?

Various religious traditions have played a vital role in the evolution of society. Here is a discussion about how religion has benefited the world… CONTINUE READING >>

Religion has been an important aspect in the human right from the time of creation. Various religious traditions have played a vital role in the evolution of society. Since it was introduced to the society, the majority of people adhere to the religion for spiritual nourishment. Here is a discussion about how religion has benefited the world.

Every religion has been instrumental to mankind in one way or the other. For instance, paganism played a role in increasing the light of beauty in a man, the largeness and height of his life.

Christianity offered him some vision of divine love and charity while Buddhism taught him to be wise, gentle and pure. Judaism and Islam have shown him how to be faithfully faithful and devoted to God, while Hinduism has exposed him to the prime and most profound spiritual possibilities.

Religion has always been an important tool for intolerance and fundamentalism.

Teachings of goodwill and the golden rule

In every religion, there are teachings of goodwill to its people. The golden rule of religious teachings teaches the importance of treating others as we would love to be treated. Two verses from the Bible cites Jesus in advocating the Golden Rule.

The book of Mathew 7:12 tells us to do others what we would like them to do to us.

While the votaries of religion tend to over overlook this principle, the religion must propagate the ethical teachings to prevent more conflict and division in the world. The religious moral like the Golden Rule offers the foundation for promoting better human behavior.

The positive effects of religion in the society

There has always been some kind of religion connected to mankind, and many people can’t lead normal lives without religion being in the picture. To many people, their only hope is found in religion.

But why is religion so significant to some individuals? Why do we need religion this much? Does religion have any significance in society? Go through this article to find out.

Is there any positive effect of the religion on our society?

The truth is that there are numerous positive impacts of religion in the community. The religion provides countless benefits that assist the society to be as we see it now. This can be seen very clearly in the guidance and support offered by groups such as the Christian Business Sisterhood.

Religion can decently be a vehicle for good morals and force of change that can help many individuals with their daily issues.

Here are some of the positive effects of religion in the society

The first advantage of religion is that it brings together the group of people who think in the same way and who have the same beliefs. This gives a feeling of being part of a bigger thing than yourself and knowing that you will get help from other believers any time you are in need.

This is something that is so powerful that cannot be recreated by other social aspects in the society. Furthermore, people who believe in religion tend to be happier than those who don’t belong to any religion. This is because religious people believe that they will get a reward in their afterlife. While we can’t tell of the afterlife thing is real, the truth is that people who believe in religion are happier souls, and this increase the happiness in the entire population.

Another advantage of religion is bringing many missionary missions to the developing countries to help the children that need help. With the help of these missions, the kids have access to food, water, shelter, and education.

Many critiques claim that religious people help out only because they want to spread their faith to places where their religion is not known. While the claims might be factual or not, the fact is that they are assisting those who need help. Religion has prevented some people from becoming thieves, murders, rapist, and many evil behaviors. This is because they are afraid of the possibility that they might be cast to hell for all the delinquencies that have been doing in their lives.

Religions have played a vital role in helping people deal with difficult situations in their lives. Many religious people claim that they would not be able to handle hard situations or keep from getting depressed after tragic events they have experienced if they didn’t find solace in a religion. Plus, with services like this one offering Online Christian Counseling, people can connect with professionals who share their faith and will be able to provide guidance that is in line with the morals and beliefs of their particular religion.

Additionally, religion offers the greatest help to individuals who addicted to drug usage. Religious institutions like churches had established many communes whereby they are striving to assist people who are trapped in the usage of hard drugs.

In most cases, the churches can rehabilitate the drug addicts so that they can recover. Some will claim that they are only transforming the victims from one addiction to another. As for me, this is a good course since addition for the religion is better than addiction for drugs.

Leaders in all religious instructions are required to recruit young people both men and women in the society to serve in different capacities in the ministry. They can also be hired in a Christian business such as the Catholic faith store. Before they are absorbed into the church, the recruits must pass through special training to know what they are supposed to do. They are taught how to be responsible people in society. This has helped in reducing the number of idle youths in society hence reducing the crime rate and prostitution.

Religion is a force for good that has played a vital role in the betterment of society. For this reason, we must cherish the positive impacts of the religion in the community. However, we should know that when religion is left on wrong hands, it can turn out to be a real force of evil that can bring disasters to society. The good thing is that not so many individuals are prone to that habit. As you can see, religion has numerous positive impacts on the community, and the most encouraging thing is that we love them.

We are happy to present this collaborative post to offer valuable information to our readers.

Moving Magic: Decluttering Your Life For A Fresh Start

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the clutter that’s crept into your life? Whether it’s physical items, digital overload, or mental baggage, a cluttered environment can stifle your ability to think clearly and live freely. Moving Magic: Decluttering Your Life for a Fresh Start offers you the perfect opportunity to clear out the old and make space for new possibilities. By the end of this guide, you’ll be equipped to transform your living space, streamline your digital presence, and lighten your mental load.

Tackling the Tangibles: Simplify Your Surroundings

Start with the physical clutter in your home. Begin in one room, perhaps the one that causes you the most stress or where you spend a lot of time. Assess each item critically: Have you used it in the last year? Does it bring you joy or utility? If not, it might be time to say goodbye. Consider donating items that are still in good condition to charity shops, selling them online, or recycling them responsibly. If there are items you want to clear out but don’t want to let go of completely, then consider self-storage options to help clear some space in your home while keeping your possessions safe and secure.

Divide the task into manageable chunks. Dedicate a set number of hours each week to decluttering, and you’ll soon see progress without feeling overwhelmed. The key is consistency. Keep a donation box accessible during the entire process so you can easily place items in it as soon as you decide they no longer serve you.

Digital Declutter: Clear Your Cyber Clutter

With the importance of the digital world in our modern lives, decluttering your life also means tidying up your digital space. Start with your emails: unsubscribe from newsletters that no longer interest you and set up folders to manage what you keep. Tackle your social media by unfollowing accounts that don’t add positive value to your day or align with your current interests.

Review the apps on your phone and computer. Uninstall those you haven’t used in months. This not only frees up space but also reduces distractions, making your digital tools more purposeful and less overwhelming.

Mental Clarity: Declutter Your Mind

Mental clutter can be the most daunting to tackle because it’s not as visible as the piles of stuff in your spare room or the files on your desktop. Start by jotting down your thoughts in a journal. This can help you to identify what’s truly bothering you. Practice mindfulness or meditation to help manage stress and focus on the present.

Set boundaries to preserve your mental space and reduce the chances of developing burnout. Learn to say no to commitments that don’t align with your priorities or that overstretch your energy. Remember, your time and well-being are precious. If you’re feeling exhausted and overwhelmed and you feel it’s affecting your mental health, you can talk to your GP about the potential medications you could take to help as well as counselling sessions to help reduce stress and develop healthy coping strategies.

Maintaining the Magic: Keep Clutter at Bay

Once you’ve decluttered, it’s crucial to prevent clutter from creeping back into your life. Implement systems that encourage order. For example, follow a one-in-one-out rule: for every new item you bring into your home, ensure one item leaves. Regularly review areas prone to accumulating clutter, like junk drawers or digital desktops, to keep them tidy.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Newfound Freedom

By decluttering your physical, digital, and mental spaces, you’ve not only created a more pleasant environment but also freed up energy and attention for the pursuits that truly matter to you. With less clutter in the way, you’ll find it easier to focus, make decisions, and enjoy a lighter, more fulfilling life. Embrace this fresh start and the many opportunities it brings. After all, the magic is in moving forward unburdened.

Security and Fair Play: How Mobile Casinos Ensure a Safe Gaming Experience

Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to mobile casinos, knowing that your safety and fairness are prioritized allows you to focus on the excitement and entertainment that mobile casino games offer… CONTINUE READING >>

As mobile casinos become increasingly popular, ensuring a safe and fair gaming environment is paramount. Players need to trust that their personal and financial information is secure, and that the games they play are fair. Mobile casinos employ a variety of measures to maintain security and fairness, including encryption technologies, random number generators (RNGs), and licensing by reputable authorities. In this blog, we will explore these measures in detail, providing a comprehensive understanding of how mobile casinos ensure a safe gaming experience. Additionally, we will mention the convenience of pay by mobile casino options, which further enhance security and ease of use.

Encryption and Data Protection

Secure Socket Layer (SSL) Encryption

One of the most critical aspects of security in mobile casinos is the use of Secure Socket Layer (SSL) encryption. SSL encryption ensures that all data transmitted between the player’s device and the casino’s servers is encrypted and secure. This technology prevents unauthorized access and protects sensitive information, such as personal details and financial transactions, from being intercepted by cybercriminals.

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Many mobile casinos implement two-factor authentication (2FA) to add an extra layer of security. 2FA requires players to verify their identity using two different methods, typically a password and a code sent to their mobile device. This additional step ensures that even if a player’s password is compromised, unauthorized access to their account is still prevented.

Regular Security Audits

Reputable mobile casinos undergo regular security audits conducted by independent organizations. These audits assess the casino’s security measures and ensure that they comply with industry standards. Regular audits help identify potential vulnerabilities and ensure that the casino maintains a high level of security.

Fair Play and Random Number Generators (RNGs)

Random Number Generators (RNGs)

Fair play is a cornerstone of any reputable mobile casino. To ensure that games are fair and outcomes are random, mobile casinos use Random Number Generators (RNGs). RNGs are algorithms that generate random sequences of numbers, which determine the outcomes of games such as slots, roulette, and blackjack. Independent testing agencies, such as eCOGRA and iTech Labs, certify these RNGs to ensure their accuracy and fairness.

Game Fairness Certification

In addition to certifying RNGs, independent testing agencies also certify the fairness of individual games. This certification process involves rigorous testing to ensure that the games operate as advertised and provide fair chances of winning. Mobile casinos that display certifications from reputable agencies give players confidence in the fairness of their games.

Transparent Payout Percentages

Many reputable mobile casinos publish the payout percentages of their games. Payout percentages indicate the average amount of money that players can expect to win back over time. Transparent payout percentages help players make informed decisions about which games to play and reinforce the casino’s commitment to fair play.

Licensing and Regulation

Reputable Licensing Authorities

Licensing by reputable authorities is a crucial aspect of ensuring security and fairness in mobile casinos. Regulatory bodies such as the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA), the UK Gambling Commission, and the Kahnawake Gaming Commission enforce strict standards for licensing. Casinos licensed by these authorities must adhere to stringent regulations regarding security, fairness, and responsible gambling.

Compliance and Oversight

Licensed mobile casinos are subject to ongoing compliance checks and oversight by regulatory authorities. These checks ensure that the casinos continue to meet the required standards and operate fairly. Non-compliance can result in hefty fines or the revocation of the casino’s license, providing a strong incentive for casinos to maintain high standards.

Dispute Resolution

Regulatory authorities also provide mechanisms for dispute resolution. If a player has a dispute with a licensed mobile casino, they can seek assistance from the regulatory body. This provides an additional layer of protection for players and ensures that their concerns are addressed fairly and impartially.

The Convenience and Security of Pay by Mobile Casino Options

The pay by mobile casino option has become increasingly popular due to its convenience and security. This payment method allows players to deposit funds directly from their mobile phone bill or prepaid balance. Since it doesn’t require sharing sensitive financial information, it adds an extra layer of security. Additionally, transactions are quick and straightforward, making it easier for players to manage their gaming budgets and enjoy a seamless gaming experience.

Conclusion

Mobile casinos have implemented robust measures to ensure a safe and fair gaming experience for their players. From SSL encryption and two-factor authentication to RNGs and independent game certifications, these measures protect players’ information and guarantee fair play. Licensing by reputable authorities further ensures compliance with stringent standards and provides oversight and dispute resolution mechanisms. The pay by mobile casino option adds convenience and enhances security, making it an attractive choice for many players.

By understanding these security and fairness measures, players can make informed decisions and enjoy a safe and enjoyable gaming experience on their mobile devices. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to mobile casinos, knowing that your safety and fairness are prioritized allows you to focus on the excitement and entertainment that mobile casino games offer.

CBD Packaging Types: Choosing the Right Type for Your Product

Secondary packaging, also known as outer packaging, plays a crucial role in protecting and presenting CBD products during transportation, storage, and display. Choosing the right secondary packaging type can enhance the product’s visibility, branding, and overall appeal to consumers. Here are some common secondary packaging types for CBD products:

1. Boxes:

- - Boxes are one of the most popular secondary packaging options for CBD products.
  - They offer excellent protection against external factors such as moisture, light, and physical damage.
  - CBD Boxes can be made from various materials, including cardboard, rigid paperboard, or even luxury materials like wood or metal for premium products.
  - They provide ample space for branding, product information, and regulatory labeling.

2. Folding Cartons:

- - Folding cartons are cost-effective and versatile secondary packaging solutions.
  - They are made from paperboard or cardboard and can be easily printed with vibrant graphics and branding elements.
  - Folding cartons are suitable for various CBD products, including tinctures, capsules, gummies, and topicals.
  - They offer moderate protection against external factors and can be designed with additional features like windows or inserts.

3. Pouches and Bags:

- - Pouches and mylar bags are lightweight and flexible secondary packaging options.
  - They are commonly made from materials like plastic, foil, or paper, providing a barrier against moisture, light, and air.
  - Pouches and bags are suitable for CBD products like flower, pre-rolls, and edibles.
  - They can be resealable and offer branding opportunities through printing or labeling.

4. Tubes:

- - Tubes are often used as secondary packaging for CBD topicals, such as creams, balms, and ointments.
  - They can be made from materials like cardboard, plastic, or metal, offering varying levels of protection and premium appeal.
  - Tubes are cylindrical in shape, making them easy to handle and display on retail shelves.
  - They can be printed with branding and product information for enhanced visibility.

5. Clamshells and Blister Packs:

- - Clamshells and blister packs are commonly used for CBD capsules, gummies, and other edible products.
  - They provide excellent product visibility and tamper-evident packaging.
  - Clamshells are typically made of plastic or recycled materials, while blister packs feature a combination of plastic and paperboard.
  - These packaging types allow for easy display and product inspection by consumers.

When selecting secondary packaging for your CBD products, consider factors such as product protection requirements, branding goals, sustainability, and compliance with relevant regulations. Additionally, ensure that the secondary packaging complements the primary packaging and enhances the overall product presentation and appeal to consumers.

Exploring the Lost City: A Journey Through Machu Picchu with Sparrow Explorer

Just about every traveler that we have ever met has a bucket list. And almost every one of those lists includes Machu Picchu…
CONTINUE READING >>

Just about every traveler that we have ever met has a bucket list. You know, a sort of index of all of the places they want to visit before kicking the bucket. And we would also say that almost every one of those lists includes Machu Picchu.

And for good reason, it is absolutely every bit as astounding as you can possibly imagine. This is one of those places that photos can’t fully capture, you really need to see it in person to absorb the entire ambiance.

That’s one reason why we say if you are going to take all of the time and effort to visit one of the world’s greatest bucket list items, and one of the world’s most incredible historic sites, then we feel like it is most certainly worth it to spring for one of the Machu Picchu Tours.

Having an expert to guide you is an invaluable benefit when exploring the expansive ruins. There are several reasons for this, not the least of which is that you don’t want to miss any of the most essential aspects of the ancient city.

For example, without a guide we never would have found an amazing pair of carved boulders, one that is aligned with the constellation The Southern Cross, and the other, called Intihuatana, that is orientated with the sun and often referred to as the hitching post for the sun.

We also would have almost certainly missed the small reflecting pools on the floor of one of the rooms. These two carved stone basins perfectly reflect the sky through a window when the viewer stands on some small rocks that mark the proper spot. It is believed that these were used for star gazing.

Another big advantage of a tour is that you don’t want to waste any time. Your guide knows right where to go so there is no wandering aimlessly around and ultimately missing something that might be very important, like those wonderful star gazing pools.

And of course, even with a tour, there is always the chance to explore a bit on your own. We found that just being still and absorbing the atmosphere of our surroundings was one of the most memorable experiences of our visit. Oh, that and cavorting with the llamas.

But we think that perhaps the best part of taking a tour is that there is so much more to see in the Sacred Valley than just the Machu Picchu site. With that in mind, you may want to look into a Machu Picchu Tour Package that includes some of the other major attractions in the area.

We highly recommend taking the marvelous narrow gauge train to the town of Aguas Calientes that sits just below Machu Picchu. This can be included in many of the tours. Or, for the more adventurous, hiking the Inca Trail is also an option.

The town of Ollantaytambo is along the train route and certainly worth a visit. It was built as a royal estate, it became a bustling agricultural center and then, during the Spanish conquest, served as a fortress for the Inca resistance. It was here that we learned about the remarkable farming innovations of the Inca, such as cutting tiers into the mountainsides for planting and developing multiple types of crops for growing at various altitudes.

One more ruin that we feel you shouldn’t miss is Sacsayhuaman. The odd name is pronounced very much like “sexy woman,” and we love it for the amazing stone work. It was built as a citadel, starting in the year 1100, to serve as as a refuge for the Inca in case of attack.

But as we said, the stones are the stars here. Some of the expertly carved and placed blocks weigh in at as much as 200 tons. Our guide gave us an excellent explanation on how the builders used the force of gravity to set the stones into each other and strengthen the structure.

Seeing all of these sites gave us such a better understanding of Machu Picchu and boy are we glad we had an expert guide to show it all to us.

So now our question is, can somewhere we’ve already been still be on our bucket list?