Home Security

These days having a way to protect your family from the dangers they can face at home is very important. There are way too many dangers such as, burglary, fire and carbon monoxide that your family can face. One of the best ways that you can protect your family from all of these dangers is to have a monitored home security system. A home security monitor will be your eyes and ears when you are not at home with your family to protect them or when your family is on vacation.

A home security monitor will allow you to have peace of mind knowing that your family is protected from more than one possible danger. You want to research and learn all you can about a monitored home security system. This will help you see how important it is to have this type of system securing your home and keeping your family safe. One good way to get all the information you need is to read news stories.

There have been many news stories done about home security monitor. In one news story that was done by the NY Times, they were discussing the different dangers that a monitored home security system can protect you from. They talked to Ann Lindstrom, a spokeswoman for ADT Security Services and she states, “The untold story of professionally monitored security systems is that people are using them for a variety of reasons beyond burglar protection. We are the eyes and ears for people when they can’t be home.”

Ms. Lindstrom also states, “The basic home security setup, includes sensors on the doors and windows that are connected to a main panel, where the keypad is used to arm or disarm the system. A more sophisticated system might include motion detectors and sensors that can detect glass being broken. Or it can monitor for fire, carbon monoxide, unexpected temperature changes, power failures and flooding and can even provide for video monitoring.” So, as you can see a home security monitor will definitely protect your family from more than one danger.

The reason that it is so important for you to research a monitored home security system is because there are so many different ones available that you have to make sure you find the one that will effectively protect your family the most. One monitored system that is popular with a lot of people is the Alarm Relay. They are a team of professionals that have been monitoring people’s homes for years. They have the experience needed to get your family help when it is needed. You will be able to have peace of mind knowing that your home is being monitored 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Now, some people don’t want to have a home security monitor, and for you that would mean that you want to get a security system that will protect your family but one that you monitor yourself. One that is popular with many people is the Powermax + Visonic Powermax Plus Security and Management System. This is the most durable and least problematic system on the market. It provides up to eight user codes and can call up to four private phone numbers when the alarm is activated. Both of these can be researched at homesecuritystore.us.

You have to remember that home security is vital to your family’s safety. So, research home security monitor and other systems so you can figure out the best one for your security needs. A monitored home security system will definitely be the best choice for many families

By: Ralph Winn

About the Author:

So you purchased a vacation home or condo and now you are trying to decide if you should allow pets. Ask yourself these questions:

Will I get more bookings if I allow pets at my vacation home?
Will renters not want to rent my vacation home because I allow pets at my home?
Do pets really damage vacation rentals?
If I say No Pets Allowed, can I really enforce that rule?
What type of pets should I allow if I decide to allow them?
How many pets should I allow?
Am I trying to rent my vacation home to guests with pet allergies?
If I decide to allow pets what should I do to minimize any associated risks?
After all is considered should I allow pets?


Here is my advice and suggestions based on 8 years of experience and owning 7 vacation rentals.

Will I get more bookings if I allow pets at my vacation home?

It has been our experience that allowing pets has increased our rentals. If you refuse pets, you will lose rentals to anyone who wants to vacation with their pet. It becomes a question of balancing the number of rentals lost due to refusing pets, by the number of rentals lost due to renters with allergies. They may be unwilling to stay if you occasionally have pets in your rental home. However, keep in mind we do have rules with respect to type of pet, number of pets, and activity of pets. We also have renters who bring pets and get them to sign a Pet Policy.

Will renters not want to rent my home because I allow pets at my vacation home?

Some renters will already have it in their minds that vacation rentals who allows pets are dirty, smelly and run down. You will not be able to change their minds, so do not even bother trying. Such renters would likely be problem renters anyway. Some renters with allergies will also avoid your home, but in our experience there are fewer of these than there are pet owners.

Do pets really damage vacation rentals?

While some pets do, the vast majority do not damage vacation rentals. You would never even know a pet had ever been there. Most pet owners who travel with their pets, have clean well kept homes. They expect their pets to behave in their own home and while on vacation. These kinds of renters will always ask if they can bring their pet to your home. These are not the renters and pets you need to worry about. Pets you need to be wary of are ones that are not used to traveling or even being indoors.

Unfortunately, there are some renters who seldom admit they are bringing a pet because they anticipate damage or at least a mess. Protecting yourself with a good pet policy is more effective than simply banning pets. Banning them will not ensure that renters would not bring them along anyway and try to sneak them in.

If I say no pets allowed can I really enforce that rule?

We do not come right out and say that pets are allowed at our vacation homes, but rather we ask renters to inquire about pets. We found this to work very well. Renters will then ask us about pets and we can find out what type of pet they intend to bring etc. We then are able to inform them of our pet policy and we ask them to sign the pet policy. I use the pet policy found on www.GoRentPro.com. This pet policy has everything I needed and could also be modified to suit my individual needs.

You can also ask for an additional security deposit for any renters who bring pets. It has been our experience that renters who told us about their pets were not the problem, but renters who try to sneak in their pets are the problem.

If you know in advance that certain renters will have pets at your vacation home, you can let your property management know. They can check for any problems while the renters are there, and also check more closely for evidence of damage after the renters check out. Inform your property management of any pets that will be staying at your vacation home. Insist that your management staff immediately report any unauthorized pets at your home.

What type of pets should I allow?

Most renters travel with a small dog or cat. Very few travel with a large dog because a large dog takes up so much room in a vehicle and usually that room is used for people and luggage. Renters that travel with dogs and cats will usually have them in pet carriers. Most renters do not want an unruly pet accompanying them on vacation.

How many pets should I allow?

How many pets you allow at your vacation rentals will depend on the size of your rental. If your home is a 3 bedroom 2 bathroom vacation home and the guest want to bring 4 dogs I think that is a bit much. Really, it will be up to you to determine if you will permit any exceptions but do so only if you are very comfortable.

After all is considered should I allow pets?

In most cases it is more profitable to allow pets than to refuse them. Most people who tell you they are bringing a pet are never a problem. It is often when they try to hide a pet, that you have problems.  It is generally better to allow pets and to insist on full disclosure. Have the renters sign the pet policy to encourage them to be responsible and to have a security deposit to ensure accountability.

When it’s all said and done,  I travel with my own pet. If you travel with your pet, you know how difficult it can be at times to find accommodation suitable to both your family and your pet. As a pet owner and rental home owner who sympathizes with this dilemma, I allow pets in my vacation home.

By: Roberta Beriault

About the Author:

Everybody knows home security is important, but a lot of us put off dealing with it until it’s too late, until we’ve suffered a break-in. The best way to protect your home and your family, however, is to think home security long before we have a problem. You need strong doors with updated locks (always change the locks after you move in, as you don’t know how many copies of the old keys are out there), sturdy lockable windows, and you may want to consider an alarm and even exterior security cameras–especially if you are away from home a lot.

That’s right, security cameras are not just for shopping centers and multi-million dollar mansions. Prices have come down a lot, and just about anyone can afford a surveillance system. It’s a smart move too.

Security cameras visibly installed on a home’s exterior provide deterrence to would-be criminals, and don’t require large expenses. This is an excellent fact for homeowners who are seeing increased numbers of robberies in their neighborhood.

Home surveillance systems used to cost thousands of dollars, but fortunately that is no longer the case. Introductory security systems with a single, basic camera can be bought cheaply at most major retail store with an electronics department. Even systems with two waterproof night-vision cameras/speakers and a small monitor to connect them to cost approximately $100.

There are other reasons to consider security cameras. Lowered rates on homeowner’s insurance are always a possibility (make sure to ask your agency), and that alone could cover the cost of the cameras over time. Personal systems also don’t bring the attached monitoring costs that advertised services do.

Attaching a VCR to one of these systems can bring increased peace of mind because, if a crime occurs, you may have the criminal on tape, ready to turn over to police. Separate security VCRs exist with tapes that need to be changed once every 24 hours. You can also get cameras that download the footage to your computer.

Choosing a camera system takes planning, so be prepared before you shop. Power outlets must be available, unless you want a battery-powered system and are willing to handle the additional expense of the batteries. Then there is the time necessary to change them. The work required to install an additional outlet would likely be worth the time, assuming your home doesn’t have any outlets near entrances already.

Before choosing to install a system, you must also decide how many entrances you want to cover, and purchase enough cameras for them. Large bay windows may also merit their own camera in addition to the obvious doors.

Technophile owners may also choose a more advanced system, such as those produced by X10. Automated systems can integrate with other home security systems and add other features. Many of these packages can call pre-set numbers and deliver a message to them when a break-in is detected. With such an advanced system you may be able to provide equivalent functionality to ADT and other providers without a recurring cost because the system can call you, a neighbor, and 911 automatically. That’s a tremendous benefit if you’re monitoring a vacation home or you travel a lot and worry about something happening to your main residence while you’re gone.

Everyone should have a home security plan, and as you can see, there are many reasons to consider security cameras as part of that plan.

By: TC Thorn

About the Author:

Just a short time ago, the term Home Automation was associated with the mansions of the rich and famous, or the home of the future display at a local fair. The first systems were complicated, time consuming to install, and gave new meaning to the word expensive. Oh, how quickly things have changed in this technological age we live in.

Home Automation is a field specializing in the automation requirements of private homes for the comfort and security of its residents. This may sound complicated at first, but latest technology has made it user-friendly to implement. The average homeowner is able to install these systems quickly, and at an affordable cost. This is now something every homeowner can enjoy and afford.

What are some of the things Home Automation can do for us? That would take pages to answer, but let us look at some highlights.

Never Enter A Dark House Again

We have all come home late at night to a dark house. Is someone hiding in the shadows? Before you step out of your car, press a button to illuminate your yard, porch, and inside lights, ensuring a safe place. The lights can even turn off for you a few minutes after you have gone inside.

Relax on Your Vacations! Know Your Home Looks Occupied! Why leave a home dark and deserted when you are on vacation? Home automation can ensure a fun and worry free vacation by turning lights on and off at different times, making your house look occupied.

Modules can control appliances such as a radio, fan, air-conditioner, coffeepot, DVD recorder, or whatever, limited only by your imagination.

Using basic inexpensive home automation equipment, you can give a warm welcome home every night, provide security while you are away with a realistic lived-in look, and lower energy bills with schedules for lighting and appliances.

OK, that all sounds great, but how does it work? First, connect each device to be controlled to a wireless module. Next, sit down at your computer and use a Software program that is easy to use. No programming degree required! Anyone who can point and click will be able to look like a home automation genius! The software looks like other Windows XP software and works with Drag-And-Drop simplicity. On your computer screen, Modules are organized by rooms. See all the devices in each room and easily organize and schedule your events. Colorful graphics help you organize and schedule your events with ease. Control Lights, Appliances and Electronics from your Desktop. That is it, and absolutely user-friendly. A fun evening with family and friends, and you now have Home Automation in operation.

Once you are comfortable with the basic system up and running, you will find yourself exploring other features like Mood Change, for example. Synchronize table lamps, floor lamps, ceiling lights and wall sconces to create different moods in a room and for different occasions like when you are entertaining.

Sit back and let Home Automation control your lighting, electronic systems, appliances, security system, and more. In fact, you can control and monitor your home over the Internet if you wish. Now, that’s powerful!

By: Brian Bees

About the Author:

As the economy continues to lag many Americans are discovering the (somewhat) new world of vacation rentals. Families in particular are finding that vacation rentals are a much cheaper way to enjoy first class accommodations at reasonable prices. Renters can visit exotic locations and expensive cities for half the cost and three times the space of a traditional hotel. However, despite the perks of vacation rentals, many people have yet to try them out. There are various reasons for this, but one common issue is that the would be first time vacation renter is simply nervous about (or doesn’t understand) the rental process. It’s true, that when someone books a hotel they basically know what they are buying, a level of stale predictability. With a little homework and due diligence, anyone can find a vacation home that far exceeds their expectations.

This list of tips and tricks will help you, the first time vacation renter, get the right place the first time so you too can start enjoying the wonderful world of vacation rentals.

Vacation Rental Listing Sites

Currently all of the vacation rental listing sites are basically the same. They each have their own color scheme and look but their search functions and features are almost identical. Simply by googling ‘vacation rentals’ you can find a myriad of listing sites, so, just find one you are comfortable with and you’re ready to start searching.

Finding Homes

The hardest part of the whole vacation rental process (and maybe the reason many people don’t rent them) is finding properties close to your destination. There are hundreds of vacation rentals in every major city, but if, for example, you searched ‘Disneyland CA’ on any of the major listing websites you would be given results from San Diego to Santa Barbara and everywhere in between. This search term on one of the larger sites brought back 540 listings. It would take long time to wade through all of these listings. Therefore, if you are traveling to a large metropolitan area like LA, it’s best to find the name of the actual city you want to stay in e.g. ‘Anaheim’ for Disneyland. Unless you are familiar with the area you should start with Google Maps. From there you will be able to see the surrounding cities, attractions, etc. To use our Disneyland example, maybe you want to stay at the beach rather than in Anaheim. By using Google Maps you can see that Newport Beach or Huntington Beach would be great places to start looking for a vacation rental. On the same listing site as above the search ‘Newport Beach CA’ brought back 111 listings, and ‘Huntington Beach CA’ brought back 33 results. This is a much smaller list to manage and you know that the properties are all in close proximity to your desired destination.

Reviewing

Once you get your search narrowed to 4 or 5 houses that look good from their locations and pictures its time to start comparing. First, You need to contact the owners directly (this will save you a lot of time!). DON’T bother reading the pages and pages of features, amenities, things to do, etc. With one phone call to the owner you will have all the info you need without reading 400 lines of text. Remember, this is the property owner’s business, so they are more then happy to talk to you. Also, you will get a good idea just through your conversation whether or not you want to rent from this person. While you have them on the phone ask them about the amenities, condition of the house, recent upgrades or renovations, if their family stays at the house often, etc. These questions will give you a good idea of the true condition of the house. If the family is there often then most likely the owners keep a close watch on repairs, upkeep, etc. If they rarely use the place then it may need new paint, the yard might need attention, or there may be some other issue associated with an absent owner. A short written list of questions will prevent you from forgetting a question or leaving something important unanswered. Most owners are very upfront so don’t feel like you need to quiz them or pry answers out of them, but its helpful to have specific questions that you would like answered.

If you don’t see them, ask for pictures of bathrooms and the kitchen. These rooms, more than others, will show you the condition of the home. Look for little details like age of furnishings and bedding. After your phone calls if there are still 2 or 3 houses that look good it simply comes down to the details. Do you want the pool and spa with 2 bathrooms, or the house that only has a spa but 3 bathrooms? These details differ for the party, but the hard work is done and you are ready to book!

Contracts, Fees, Credit Cards, etc

Here is another place the first time renter gets scared. Have no fear, this is the easy stuff! Owners have rented their properties many times and even though its new to you they know what they’re doing. Some owners have simple contracts, others have more complicated ones. You should read it through and ask any questions you have. However, a contract will protect you as much as the owner. The owner of a property is in business-they want to rent their home and they want return business. They are trying to provide the best possible experience for you as their guest and will answer any questions you may have. If you are nervous about giving your credit card information know that you are actually safer using a credit card for payment. If you call your credit card company to contest a charge with a merchant, the credit card will support you as their customer, unless a merchant can show total fraud and use of the property on your part.

Security deposits and cleaning fees protect the property, the owner, and you. Generally the cleaning staff are the eyes and ears for the owner. Just follow the outlined rules for the home and you will receive your security deposit back. Be honest if something does break, let the owner know and they will usually be very understanding. Owners are people too and do understand accidents. Although you will be responsible for replacement, it is much easier to deal with it upfront than fight over it later when the property owner does discover the broken item. Again, owners are looking for good customers who love their home, they are not looking to “rip you off”, take security deposit money for no reason, or steal your credit card.

If you do find a home is not as advertised, immediately contact the vacation listing site where you found the property, as well as the property owner. Listing sites are also in business and do not want owners listing with them that create a bad name for their site or for the vacation rental industry. They will remove the listing and very well may help in getting your money back. Overall vacation rentals are a very positive experience. Every once in awhile there are small discrepancies but these are few and far between. This is one reason vacation rental use grows each year.

Enjoy

Okay, you’ve booked your first vacation rental and now its time to go enjoy it! Each year more people are discovering that vacation rentals are the best way to travel, they enjoy privacy, space, and a unique experience every time. With a little work you can find the perfect place for your party and have more fun and relaxation then a hotel could ever provide. So, for your next excursion, remember to book a vacation rental. Happy vacationing!

By: Stewart Christensen

About the Author:

That time of the year is finally here. You know what I’m talking about, the one or two weeks you get every year to escape from “real life” and just be you. Relax, eat and drink well, enjoy your family, catch up on some much needed sleep. But, before you pack up and head out, rethink the all-too-normal hotel stay. Believe it or not, you have options, one of which is the vacation rental.

Wouldn’t it be nice to leave your own home, arrive in your destination city and settle into a “home away from home” for your next vacation? That’s what vacation rentals are all about. These are homes waiting to be rented out by people on vacation. Each vacation rental owner will have different criteria in what type of renter they are looking for, each vacation rental house will vary in amenities, and each price will be dependant on the time of year and the length of stay. So, it sounds like a great idea, but how do you figure out how to make it all happen? Not a problem. Below you will find answers to frequently asked questions regarding vacation rentals. Read on, my friend, your next “home away from home” vacation rental is right around the corner.

Frequently Asked Questions on Vacation Rentals

What are the advantages of a vacation rental?

Do you ever wish your hotel room had just a little more personality? Yeah, I thought so. Well, renting someone else’s home for your vacation might just be the thing you’re looking for. Usually offering larger living spaces than hotel rooms, these vacation rentals are all about living like you were in your own home. They offer greater privacy than hotel rooms and most rentals have a kitchen area for cooking, which in the end will save you money if you prepare some of your own meals.

You’ll enjoy several rooms, and maybe even different levels, instead of one big room where the whole family sleeps. Many owners will leave information on things to do and see in the local area. Vacation rental homes are clean, friendly, comfortable and inviting. This is because many of them aren’t just rental homes, but also function as the owner’s own residence for part of the year.

A majority of vacation rentals tend to be cheaper on a per night basis than their hotel counterpart. By renting directly from the owner you will avoid taxes, tips and other extraneous charges. However, there is a wide variation among costs based on a number of factors (see How Much Should I Expect to Pay below)

What are the drawbacks of a vacation rental?

Of course, there’s always the other side of the coin. As vacation rentals are not usually monitored by a central managing company, you’ll only know what you’re getting yourself into when you actually arrive to your rental. Many owners require pre-payment, or at least a large deposit fee, before arriving. Therefore, if things aren’t the way you anticipated after arriving, or if you find your dwelling unacceptable and decide to head to a local hotel, you may lose any money you prepaid. This is also true for last minute cancellations. There isn’t usually a refund. You always run the risk of getting less than you expected, but, it’s rare.

Most times, vacation rentals tend to be cheaper than an average hotel room per night. But, not always, so make sure you are comfortable with the price you will be asked to pay.

Another disadvantage to vacation rentals is the lack of a managing member on site to deal with any problems that you may encounter with the home or during your stay in general. Most owners get around this by having a list of emergency numbers, utility companies and other such items available to the renter should they need anything.

What amenities are included in a vacation rental?

Since every rental is owned by a different owner, each will include different amenities. Some come with swimming pools, hot tubs, others with golf packages, and horse stable privileges. In cities with tourist attractions, some owners include tickets to local attractions.

Most vacation rentals come with the essentials: TV, equipped kitchen, towels, linen, and everyday appliances, but it never hurts to ask these questions when searching for the perfect place. Be sure to understand exactly what you are paying for before sending in the payment.

What types of rentals are available?

Pretty much any type of dwelling that you would want to live in during your vacation is available somewhere. From studios in downtown Manhattan to a villa in the south of Spain, you’ll be able to find what you’re looking for. The range of available options is mind boggling. Additionally, each week, month and year there are new possibilities as owners put their homes up for only certain weeks or months of the year, the choices are constantly changing.

Are vacation rentals only available in the US?

Vacation rentals are available worldwide. They can be found in every state of the US and almost every country in the world. Don’t be fooled by their different names, though. Vacation rentals are also known as holiday cottages, tourist rentals and holiday rentals. If you are looking for one in Europe, the Italians call them agriturismi, while the French say gites. If you are in Germany you will be looking for ferienwohnungen (yep, try to say that three times fast with a bratwurst in your mouth!)

Regardless of what you call it, though, a vacation rental is a great option for those getting ready to take a few weeks off from reality and enjoy the good life a bit.

How do I find a property?

There are several ways to go about finding the perfect vacation rental for your next trip. Check with your local travel agent to find someone in your area that specializes in finding owners and renters and getting them together. Another option is the yellow pages. Finally, there is a wealth of information on the Internet. Type in a search for “vacation rentals” and over 13,300,000 websites can be found just on http://www.google.com alone. Some websites only list vacation rentals in the United States while others specialize in vacation rentals worldwide. There are some sites that will allow the potential renter to look for a residence by specific search criteria such as a particular destination, certain number of bedrooms and types of amenities that are included in the property.

Most of the vacation rental services on the internet are only the “go-between” or the “classified” section of the newspaper. They take no responsibility for the truth or correctness of the ads that are listed on their sites. So, do your homework by making phone calls, speaking with the owner and asking specific questions. Make sure you feel comfortable with the answers, if not, move on to the next rental, there are plenty.

If you’re not comfortable with the whole renter/owner thing, there is another way to rent a vacation home. Some companies exist that strictly buy and rent out homes to vacationers. They offer a bit more security so that you feel you are truly getting what you bargained for (although nothing is ever 100% fool proof). Additionally, sometimes these agencies will give you cancellation insurance. In other words, if you cancel before arriving, they may be able to refund a portion of your deposit or payment instead of keeping it as most owners do if a cancellation occurs. With some agencies you’ll find that you pay a higher price than going directly to an owner. This is how the agencies make their profits. There are always pros and cons to each scenario. Ensure you know which one works best for you.

How much should I expect to pay?

This is a tough question to answer. The amount you pay will depend on what country or state you are visiting, number of days you are staying, and type of house you are renting. Some owners offer package deals including tickets or sightseeing events along with the rental, others include bonus days if you stay for a certain length of time. There are other owners who may offer free or add-on house cleaning service with your stay while some go to great efforts to ensure you have everything you need, even additional items such as a crib, highchair or wheelchair. Each vacation rental will be entirely different than the next. Your best bet after deciding on your destination is to review multiple rentals to determine which is better suited to your needs and overall budget.

Are there any hidden fees?

Hidden fees usually only emerge after you have arrived. These may include extra for phone calls, house cleaning service, extra person fees, excess heat and air-conditioning bills, pet deposit, computer access… etc. Again, be extremely thorough when interviewing the owner of your prospective vacation rental. Ask about any “extra” fees, or if the house is “all-inclusive”. Do you have free access to all the pantry and food items? How about the laundry supplies? All utilities? It never hurts to ask!

Vacation Rentals

In summary, cover all bases by asking lots of questions. Getting your agreement in writing is also a very smart idea. After these basics are out of the way you will be ready to take off for your home-away-from-home vacation rental. Try one this year and see for yourself that vacation rentals can be a fantastic means to really getting the full enjoyment out of your next vacation.

By: Barbara Pfieffer

About the Author:

Imagine lying on a flawless beach, watching the stunning blue water lap lazily at the sand while the sun gently kisses the landscape. Imagine hiking up to the top of a summit and looking out over the breathtaking ocean view and seeing other magnificent islands in the distance. Now imagine walking over the beach to your own private residence, unlocking the door, and wondering why you used to settle for staying in crowded hotels.

Several individuals realize their dreams through Hawaii vacation rentals. Instead of staying in a hotel full of tourists, many people instead choose to rent private cottages, condos or vacation apartments. People staying in these Hawaiian rental accommodations find that they actually have a much better vacation than they would if staying in a hotel.

Vacation rentals in Hawaii come in many shapes and sizes. The easiest and most common types are condos. Often luxurious and close to the beach, Hawaii condos can offer you a level of privacy and tranquility that you won’t find in a regular hotel room. Some condos can even be on a timeshare plan, meaning that your investment in the property will buy you a block of time there each year.

Close your eyes and imagine spending your honeymoon in a private home on a beautiful, secluded Maui beach. Private beach front villas and vacation homes are options in Maui vacation rentals. If you’re looking for privacy and a homey feel, one of these might be just right for you. While these rental accommodations are a little more expensive, villas can be rented by the night, the week, or on a timeshare. They come fully-furnished including furniture, dinnerware, and laundry facilities.

If you don’t want to stay in a hotel and can’t afford a private villa, you might try renting a vacation apartment. These fully-furnished apartments give you the security and lower cost of staying in a multi-family accommodation while providing you with the privacy of your own apartment. Apartments also offer fully-equipped kitchen facilities and a chance to enjoy some good home cooking as an alternative to eating all of your meals at restaurants.

Hawaii vacation rentals come in many different packages. Each and every one of them will give you the vacation experience of a lifetime. But, beware! You might find that after staying in a private rental cabin, villa, or apartment you’ll never want to stay in a hotel again!

By: Ellen Gentry

About the Author:

During summer trip season, use these suggestions to protect your property and to make your home appear occupied. These steps may discourage burglars and thieves.

Install quality locks on doors and windows. It is true that an intruder who really wants to get into your home probably can find some way, but most burglaries are crimes of opportunity committed by small time thieves. This means that the more difficult you make it for someone to break into your home, the more likely it is a thief will not make the attempt.

Install motion detector lights and dummy security cameras on the outside of your home, or consider real closed circuit TV. Use automatic timers on inside lamps and day/night switches on outside lights. A week or two before you leave, set your timers so you can establish a pattern while you are still home. There are even timers available that will vary the on/off times. Periodically have a stereo or TV turned on.

Don’t leave valuable items where they can be easily seen from the windows. Video equipment, televisions, stereos, gun collections, etc. should be stored in cellars, closets, upstairs, or left with a friend or neighbor. Equipping a storage closet with a good quality lock makes a safe storage area too. Leave your curtains in the normal position. Have a friend close them at night and open them in the morning, or use sheers. Sheers help to hide the view into the home without making it obvious, as curtains would, that no one is home.

Put at least two lamps and a television on automatic timers. Leave the bathroom light on with the door ajar to add to the idea that someone may be home. Close and lock your garage doors to prevent someone from entering through the garage. Consider putting a padlock in the track of overhead garage doors. Also, attached garages that are not kept locked provide the means for an intruder to enter the garage and work without detection at breaking into your house, perhaps even with the assistance of your own tools!

Cover your garage windows to prevent anyone from seeing the inside of your garage and see whether your auto is at home. Check your homeowner’s insurance policy- does it provide robbery coverage while you’re staying in hotels and motels? It should. Don’t let your travel plans be widely known.

Try to arrange for a house-sitter, but if you cannot, give your immediate neighbors a card with your pertinent information. If you are to be gone for an long period, you may want a trusted neighbor to:

-Check your home every day for anything unusual.

-Park in your drive or in front of your home.

-Occasionally place trash in your trash can.

-Mow the lawn.

-Pick up your mail and paper.

By: Carl Ringwall

About the Author:

For your next vacation, I highly recommend Australia! Here are a few tips and facts to help you on your way to this vacation paradise.

Money

You should not carry too much cash on you when you travel here. That said, you are not going to be able to use a credit card or write a check when you are visiting Australia. A sensible way to make sure that you have enough money is to get travelers checks. This is a way that you will be able to get what you need and then some and also have the added security of knowing that you are covered if they are lost or stolen. Australian currency is decimal with the dollar as the basic unit. There are exchange shops where you can cash in and get the local currency that you will need.

Climate

The climate is moderate and there is not as hot as some people might thing. The temperate will depend on what time of the year you are there. Usually you will find nice temperatures and a great weather pattern. You will want to bring lightweight clothing for your trip and a couple of sweaters or sweat shirts just in case.

Customs

Laws prohibit any drugs, firearms, or any other foreign objects. They have these laws to protect the wildlife and citizens of their country. Unlike some foreign countries, there is not limit on the amount of Australian cash that may be brought into or taken out of Australia.

Tipping

Unlike the United States, tipping is not expected and services charges are not automatically added to hotel and restaurants. For any special services, a tip of ten percent is good. Taxi drivers do not expect a tip, but will appreciate anything that is offered to them. Feel free to tip when you feel you’ve had great service.

Information centers

You will find local tourist information and free advice in most places in Australia. Look for the signs that have an “I” on them. This will guide you to get the information that you need. Have a great vacation!

Travel is great isn’t it? And when you get home you organize all your pictures and souvenirs. And you think, “wouldn’t it be great if I could find a beautiful Australian Flag to remember my vacation by that doesn’t cost too much to add to my whole vacation experience?” Check us out at http://www.FlagWave.com for great looking flags for not a lot of money and our shipping is super fast!

By: Beth Gabriel

About the Author: