(NewsUSA) – Whether traveling for business or pleasure, most people will take at least one road trip this year, and when they do, they’ll be looking for value.
To help get the most out of your next trip, here are five insider secrets from travel expert and life-long hotelier, Rajiv Bhatia, head of roadside hotel chain Knights Inn.
1. Book Your Hotel Direct. Shopping around is always a good idea, and it seems like new websites pop up every day to help travelers do just that. That’s great for comparing offerings, but when you’ve made your choice, book directly with the hotel or brand. More often than not, you’ll be offered a lower price as well as a best-rate guarantee.
2. Pass on Car Rental Insurance. Rather than paying the insurance that car rental companies provide for a fee, check your personal policy. Often, your plan will include a travel clause that you may not be aware of, saving you as much as $30 a day. To save even more, don’t worry about the size of the rental car you are reserving and go with the smallest size offered. The most compact cars usually get overbooked and sell out fast, often leading to a free upgrade.
3. Don’t Pay for What’s Free. Spend your money on fun, not on hotel Internet fees and expensive breakfasts. Stick with hotels that offer these amenities at no cost.
4. Slow Down on the Highway. Savor the journey to your destination; it doesn’t pay to rush. Driving in excess of 60 miles per hour will waste gas and money. For every five miles over, you car can lose as much as 23 percent fuel efficiency.
5. Brand Loyalty Pays. Hotel loyalty programs let travelers earn points for their stays, points that can be redeemed for gift cards, free nights and more. When you stay with competing brands, it’s likely you won’t earn enough points for rewards. Stay with only one brand or its affiliates and watch your point balance grow. Like having choices when you travel? Try Wyndham Rewards, it’s the largest hotel loyalty program in the world, with 14 brands and over 6,500 hotels.
Insider Secrets to an Affordable Road Trip
5 Study Tips to Curb Exam-Preparation Stress
(NewsUSA) – For college students, the stress of exams is an anxiety-filled final hurdle to overcome before fully relaxing and enjoying the long-deserved break. These exams can be intimidating — especially for freshmen with an advanced workload — which is why stress management is key.
Use these five stress-relief tips to help ease exam-taking tensions as casual study time becomes cram time.
* Watch a funny movie. There’s nothing like comic relief and laughter to get your mind off that chemistry final. Need an idea for a great college-aged comedy? Check out “The Pool Boys,” available on DVD, Blu-Ray, streaming and digital download from Seven Arts.
The DVD and Blu-Ray include special features that you can save for further study breaks, including interviews and commentary. For a preview, check out the trailer (rated R) at www.ThePoolBoysMovie.com.
* Hit the gym. Try to schedule regular workouts around your blocks of exam studying time to help keep stress in check. If you are on a sports team, you may still have practices during exam time, but if not, make plans with teammates to do some conditioning. Go for a run, shoot hoops or lift some weights.
If you’re on your own for exercise and the weather outside is frightful, try an indoor dance or yoga class, or an exercise video or DVD that you can do in your room.
* Have a snack. It’s hard to concentrate if your stomach is growling, but hold off on the celebratory drinks until after exams are over. Instead, have some energy-boosting snacks on hand while studying, such as trail mix or energy bars. Stay hydrated, too.
* Get some air. Does your exam stress mean hours in the library or lab? Go out and walk around the building, or around the block. Clearing your head and getting your eyes away from the screen can work wonders.
* Avoid all-nighters. Sometimes an all-night study session is inevitable, but don’t underestimate the value of sleep in keeping exam stress under control. If you have multiple exams in the same week, several days with little sleep will leave you even more stressed.
Don’t overdo the caffeine, and try to plan your sleep as you plan your exam study schedule. If you are a night person who studies more effectively from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m., make that work for you, but factor in a mid-morning nap the next day.
Tax Breaks for the Students in Your Family
(NewsUSA) – College costs may have entered nosebleed territory, but at least Uncle Sam is there waving a hanky in the form of juicy tax credits and deductions for those smart enough to claim them.
If you’ve been footing those education bills, either for yourself or your child, the latest College Board statistics shouldn’t be a shocker: In-state tuition and fees at four-year public colleges rose an average of 8.3 percent last year — to $8,244 — even as the economy sputtered.
“That’s a terrible upfront burden for many families,” says Elaine Smith, master tax advisor at H&R Block (www.hrblock.com), the giant tax preparation firm. “But at least there are several breaks built into the tax code that could even mean the difference between whether you owe taxes or are due a refund.”
What breaks? Read on:
* American Opportunity Tax Credit. This is the Gold Standard for those who qualify. Meaning, it’s a dollar-for-dollar tax offset of up to $2,500, per student year, for up to four years of undergraduate education. “One of the best things about it is that up to $1,000 of the credit is ‘refundable,’” notes Smith. “So you could wind up getting a refund for that amount if no taxes are otherwise due.”
Biggest cautions: You must be enrolled at least half-time in a degree program to claim it, and — like all these breaks — the benefit starts to phase out once you reach a certain adjusted gross income (AGI).
* Lifetime Learning Credit. Eligibility standards for this one are broader, even if it’s less generous than the AOTC. Pursuers of both college and graduate degrees — as well as those taking classes to improve job skills — potentially stand to benefit from a tax credit up to $2,000. Biggest caution: The credit can only be claimed once per tax return, regardless of the number of students taking courses.
* Student-Loan Interest Deduction. If you’re self-financing, congrats — and skip this one. If not, we’re talking up to $2,500 per year. Biggest caution: Only debt from graduate and undergraduate programs qualifies.
* Tuition and Fees Deduction. There’s a built-in caution to this $4,000 deduction: You can’t claim it and the Lifetime Learning Credit for the same student, so do the math to see which works best.
Of course, if the “M” word — math — scares you as much as the looming April 17 filing deadline, consult a professional like those at H&R Block, which offers in-person services at its retail offices nationwide as well as the only face-to-face online preparation through Block LiveSM.
One last tip: For those wondering whether scholarship income awarded for room and board is tax-exempt, the answer, alas, is no.
5 No-Fail Gift Ideas for Men
(NewsUSA) – Most young men hate to shop, and shopping for men can be a chore, too. Choosing the perfect present for a dad’s or brother’s birthday can be tricky. After all, you don’t want a gift that is going to be tucked away in a closet or garage, never to see the light of day. Never fear. This list of five no-fail gift ideas for guys is sure to make your present a winner.
* Comedies by night. What young man can resist a funny, slightly raunchy comedy? Add a few friends and some snacks, and the guys are set for an evening. Many movies old and new will fit the bill, such as “The Pool Boys,” available in digital download from iTunes, plus DVD and Blu-Ray release from Seven Arts Pictures. The DVD’s special features include interviews and commentary, making it a great gift for the movie buff who likes the behind-the-scenes scoop. Want a preview? Check out the trailer (rated R) at www.ThePoolBoysMovie.com.
* Sports by day. Depending on your relationship with the guy in question, buying workout clothes could be difficult and you can bet he could use some new stuff for the gym or pickup basketball night. If you feel confident about size and style, a moisture-wicking shirt is a sure thing. Not so sure on size? Go with a gift card for a sports store or website.
* Food always pleases. What do men want? Food. If you’re perplexed for a birthday gift for a young man, grab a giant tin of popcorn, pretzels or peanuts. If you’re lucky, they will remember to reuse the tin.
* Gadgets spark excitement. Think of gadgets that match your guy’s interests. Is he a frequent flyer? How about a watch with a built-in GPS? A survivalist? Check out solar- or crank-up flashlights/radios/chargers, so the smart phone will still work when the power goes out.
* Books and magazines recharge his mind. These days, men might be reading on a Nook or Kindle, but don’t underestimate the written word when it comes to a gift. Add credit to an e-book account, and your guy can download the latest Stephen King or Tom Clancy, or discover a new author. Alternatively, consider a gift subscription to a magazine that matches his interests, such as Bicycling magazine for the avid cyclist. That way, he’ll have something to flip through while the smart phone is recharging.
Free Tax Extension Filing Helps Avoid Costly Last-Minute Errors
(NewsUSA) – Now even chronic procrastinators have no excuse for giving the IRS more money than absolutely required.
Last year, more than 10 million taxpayers applied for an extension on filing their tax returns — thus not only sparing themselves from having to fork over a monthly 5 percent penalty for missing the IRS’ dreaded deadline but also potentially avoiding making costly mistakes in a mad dash to comply.
“Rushing can cause last-minute filers to forget necessary paperwork and miss out on claiming key tax credits and deductions,” says Elaine Smith, master tax advisor at H&R Block, the giant tax preparation firm.
So with this year’s April 17 filing deadline looming, it’s a big deal that participating offices at H&R Block (www.hrblock.com) will be offering free tax-extension filing from April 1 right through to D-Day for taxpayers. An extension buys an extra six months — until October 15 — to get those returns in.
Ah, but don’t completely stop sweating just yet.
Just because you file for an automatic extension doesn’t mean the IRS calls a time-out on any taxes due. (The U.S. national debt is $15 trillion-and-counting, and the money’s got to come from somewhere.) Those who fail to pay up at the same time they submit Form 4868 face being hit with both late payment fees and interest on what’s owed.
“It’s definitely not a way to keep more of your own money in your pocket,” says Smith.
With the tax code having gotten so complex over the years, it’s easy to see why the extra six months would be needed. How many parents of special-needs children know, for instance, that the money they pay for their kid’s supplementary classes or programs is considered a deductible expense if recommended by a doctor? Or that unemployment benefits must be reported as taxable income?
That’s why it helps to consult a professional like those at H&R Block, which offers guaranteed in-person services at its retail offices nationwide as well as the only face-to-face online tax preparation through Block LiveSM.
One last thing: For those wondering why this year’s filing deadline is April 17, that’s because the normal cut-off date — April 15 — falls on a Sunday, and that Monday is Emancipation Day in the nation’s capital.
Knowing the Value of an MBA
(NewsUSA) – As the economy begins to improve, all industries will require the expertise of management professionals to help sustain financial growth and prepare for new organizational structure.
Many recent grads and working professionals consider earning a master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA) to set themselves apart. According to the Corporate Recruiters Survey from the Graduate Management Admission Council (2011), 67 percent of employers expect to hire recently graduated management talent in 2012, and they plan to hire in increasing numbers.
It is important to remember, however, that there are no guarantees; it is important to determine the true value of an MBA in each unique career field.
Don’t Wait for Symptoms, Ask About PAD Now
(NewsUSA) – One out of every 20 Americans over age 50 is diagnosed with Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD). The worst part of this reality is that most people with PAD don’t experience any symptoms. PAD is dangerous, especially when there are no warning signs.Peripheral Arterial Disease is a progressive disease commonly called clogged arteries in the legs, poor circulation or a hardening of the arteries.People have PAD when the arteries in their legs become narrowed or clogged with fatty deposits, or plaque. The buildup of plaque causes the arteries to harden and narrow, which is called atherosclerosis. This reduces blood flow to the legs and feet.The severity of the disease depends on how early it’s diagnosed as well as pre-existing health issues. PAD’s primary symptom is an intermittent cramping of leg muscles during walks or hikes. For some, the pain may feel more like numbness, weakness or heaviness. Whether or not you have symptoms, having PAD means that you’re at a higher risk for heart attack, stroke and even death.Many people don’t get tested for PAD because they have no symptoms and never feel a thing. The good news is that proper treatment saves lives. If you’re over 50, talk to your health care provider about getting tested for PAD.The test for PAD is called the "ABI" or ankle-brachial index. It’s a comparison of blood pressure measurements taken at the arms and ankles. It can also assess the severity of the disease.Despite the presence or lack of symptoms, individuals are their own first line of defense. When face time with actual doctors is limited, it’s helpful to have a list of prepared questions on hand.The Vascular Disease Foundation (VDF), a non-profit dedicated to public awareness and education regarding vascular health, has compiled some questions to ask doctors about PAD:* Does my medical history raise my risk for PAD?* What can I do to reduce my blood sugar level if it’s too high or if I have diabetes?* What do you recommend to quit smoking?For more information, or to get a free Heart and Sole kit, go to www.vdf.org or 1-866-PADINFO (1-866-723-4636).
Social Change: A New Year’s Resolution for 2012
(NewsUSA) – Political unrest, environmental crises and economic challenges on a global scale practically defined 2011. The Arab Spring ousted three iron-fisted rulers, a deadly earthquake led to mass radiation exposure in Japan and Occupy Wall Street emerged to be a historical, internationally united protest. The year 2011 seized the idea of social change and ran with it.
Will that momentum continue throughout 2012? All signs point to yes, and Walden University’s recent Social Change Impact Report confirms the trend. The results indicate the importance of social change and reveal that people are taking action now and will continue to do so in the future. The survey shows that more than nine in 10 Americans (92 percent) have taken action to engage in positive social change in the past year and that more than half of them are committed to engaging in future positive change as individuals acting on their own or in informal groups.
“Around the world, people are ‘thinking globally and acting locally,’” notes Jonathan Kaplan, president of Walden University. “People have a strong belief in their own power to effect positive social change and make a difference.”
The Social Change Impact Report also states that nearly nine in 10 adults in the U.S. (88 percent) believe the best way to have an impact on the world is to make change at the local level. At a time when many families and organizations are vulnerable, and fewer resources are available to support the socioeconomic challenges that exist, individuals now more than ever have the opportunity to make a difference in their communities and beyond.
Walden University offers five practical tips to encourage citizens to participate in 2012.
1. Think about what kind of positive social change you want to effect.
2. Assess what specific skills or expertise you can offer to help address a particular need.
3. Connect your passion and skills with your commitment to serve.
4. Research ways your workplace can get involved in the community.
5. Use a resource that can match you with an organization that needs your skills.
To see more details from the Social Change Impact Report, visit WaldenU.edu/impactreport, and for volunteer opportunities, visit WaldenU.edu/servicenetwork.
Enchant People the "Apple Way" for Career Success
(NewsUSA) – Many of us have career dreams we aspire to achieve, but often we are left feeling daunted by how to turn those dreams into reality.
Whether your goal is to land your ideal job upon graduating from college or earn that promotion you have been eyeing in your current job, it’s vital to have the support of those around you for your cause.
Garnering the support of others is possible but takes effort, according to Guy Kawasaki, best-selling author and former chief evangelist for Apple Computer. He calls this process “enchantment.”
Kawasaki’s latest book, “Enchantment: The Art of Changing Hearts, Minds and Actions,” explains how one can attain and utilize enchantment to convince people to dream the same dream that you do.
“Enchantment is more than simply manipulating others to help get your way,” says Kawasaki. “The goal is long-lasting support that can be mutually beneficial — not a one-time sale or transaction.”
“To achieve enchantment, individuals must build a strong foundation to implement it,” says Kawasaki. “That foundation is built on three pillars: likability, trustworthiness and a great cause.”
How to Entertain Like the Stars
(NewsUSA) – So you say you want to learn to throw a party worthy of the Kardashians? Well, admittedly, that’s asking a lot. After all, one of their more recent bashes featured synchronized swimmers — it was a poolside event — surprising guests with a routine straight out of a 1950s Esther William movie.
But take heart.
The Kardashian sisters — who seemingly never run out of mind-blowing ideas — didn’t think that party highlight up themselves. Linnea Johansson, author of “Perfect Parties: Tips and Advice from a New York Planner,” did. And even if you don’t have money to throw around, she says to apply the “same principle” of doing “something unexpected” at your event:
For more on how that translates into actionable advice, read on:
* Fun in finger foods. Out: sit-down dinners. In: small plates and finger food like the very trendy Russian-style tapas called zakuski. As far back as Tolstoy’s 19th century, the custom was to individually plate an array of what literally translates into “small bites” and eat them in a set order.
The key to really pulling it off, though, says Johansson, a noted chef herself, is to pair the zakuski with an authentic premium Russian vodka, which to her means Russian Standard Vodka. “It’s the number-one premium vodka in Russia, and it’s perfect for drinking neat or in cocktails, and excellent paired with food.”
* Creativity shines in centerpieces. Why spend a fortune on store-bought white roses for your dinner table? Pick some pine cones and holly leaves while out strolling, say, throw in a few cinnamon sticks and clove-laden oranges, and you’ve got yourself a masterpiece so delicious-smelling that it doubles as an air-freshener.
* Toast to great times. Russians certainly know how to drink vodka, and toasting is the perfect invitation to celebrate and party. The traditional way of toasting in Russia is continuous and lasts throughout the night — which can only lead to a great time!
* House cocktail to invite tastebuds. Even if your guests’ tastes lean more to chips-and-dip than zakuski, Johansson says that vodka — used as the base for a custom cocktail like the one below — is “a definite crowd pleaser.”
