Best Time To Visit Maldives

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The Maldives is a group of little islands in the Indian Ocean. Some of them are possessed, while others are most certainly not. The wonderful country is a traveler’s heaven, with dynamic coral reefs overflowing with the heap types of submerged life, (for example, whales, dolphins, ocean turtles and an immense assortment of fishes.

Besides, there are a lot of water sports to keep you occupied. It is an incredibly special first night spot, and furthermore a family excursion goal.

Likewise, on the off chance that you an experience sports aficionado, you will essentially adore the Maldives. Since a great part of the travel industry based on water, it bodes well to visit the Maldives just amid the dry season.

The best time to visit the Maldives is amid the dry season falling among November and April. This is the point at which the climate is ideal for touring, getting a charge out of social exercises, water sports and obviously relishing the neighborhood food.

Air admissions and inn duties are certainly higher amid this time, however it is smarter to pay higher costs and have a decent time than attempting to streamline by going in the off-season.



Amid this season, the climate isn’t just dry (which is great in the event that you need to keep away from the moistness) yet additionally wonderful with moderate temperature. You can spend the whole day outside.

Yet, do recall, this is the pinnacle visitor season. It will be swarmed and there will be individuals all over the place. Make your courses of action and appointments ahead of time, and appreciate a lovely remain.

The rainstorm season keeps running from May to October, topping around June. While it is best to adhere to the dry season for visiting the Maldives, you can have a decent time lasting through the year in the event that you are not the kind that brains the rain.

Indeed, even in the stormy season, you can simply anticipate scuba-jumping into the Indian Ocean. Amid storms, you will have a lot of choices for convenience and you will get extraordinary arrangements. Numerous resorts offer awesome rates too.



On the off chance that you are a spending voyager, you may really lean toward this season. Simply ensure you generally convey an umbrella with you as it can rain out of the blue.

It will bode well for you to not go out on a limb. Go into the water just on the off chance that it is protected to do as such.

Read 10 Best Things To Do In Maldives

Read Best Time To Visit Fiji

Flash Photography Tips

 

A camera flash is not only for brightening a subject. While brightness is a crucial element in photography, there are much more reasons for using a flash. Many beginners will not use a flash unless it is in a dark place or in the night.

This is a lack of understanding. Flashes are either built-in or external. Irrespective of its position, you need to understand the effects and enhancements on photography that cannot be achieved without a flash.

Familiarizing with your camera flash increases the fun in photography. Flashes create unique elements on a photo. Besides, it sets the mood and adds emphasis to parts of your photo. As an expert in photography, you wouldn’t want to miss a camera flash in any of your shoots.

In fact, you should be moving with both the external and built-in to ensure maximum quality of your photos. While nature is irreplaceable, professional photography cannot depend on natural light; you need to learn to set your own environment and mood before a photo shoot. On most occasions, you will need an external shoe mount flash to achieve high levels of creativity and fun. Here are some tips on flash photography.

1. Diffuse Your Flash

To diffuse is to spread with an objective of covering a wider area. This is an imperative technique in photography considering creativity and enhancement is your goal. Even when you are focusing on a specific object, diffusing help in illuminating other parts of the photo. It also creates more light in the photo.

Don’t worry, it won’t be too bright. By spreading the light, diffusing softens illumination on your subject. The two common types used in this technique are; pop-up flash diffusers and diffusers for professional speed lights. However, there are additional mini boxes used in indoor environments like a studio.

2. Use Colored Flash Gels

Flash gels offer you an opportunity to add desired colors in photography. After all, photography is about details on color. The gels are attached on the flash hence tinting the bright light from the flash. This is a creative technique that you can use to enhance photos, especially in indoor shots. Besides, you can utilize the flash gels to match your flash with the ambient light.

Typically, color temperatures in a room do not correspond with flashes. Without flash gels, one can easily tell a flash was used on the photo because of variations of color on the photo. Apart from the flash gels, you should adjust your camera’s white balance setting to auto and add an amber filter on your flash.

3. Bounce the Light

Pointing a flash directly at your object is a big no. If you are to produce any quality photos without shadows and harsh light on the subject, bounce the flash. This is an important technique that aspiring photographers should learn.

You need to direct your flash to another surface, preferably with the neutral color. This can be a ceiling or wall. Professionals use a reflective card fitted on the side of the flash. And just like another flat surface, the card not only bounces the light but also widens the illumination as well as softens it.



4. Use the Ambient Light

Although a subject is a top priority in any photography, do not forget to completely blur the background. The background is an important aspect of a photo; it should disappear while you are focusing on your object. This is both a creative and a technical tip.

In this case, you have to adjust your camera to manual mode and prioritize exposure on the background. Then when focusing, allowing ambient light and elements of the background to appear. While this underexposes your subject, it enhances the photo with a unique atmosphere. The background and foreground light difference can be compensated with the normal flashlight.

5. Use more than one flash

The essence of using several flashes is to create a three-dimensional effect. Evidently, you need a deep understanding of not only the idea but technical set-up and structure of the same.

Numerous sources of light are used to either create shadows, create a rim of lights, or highlights parts of your subject. Usually, three flashes are used; a key light, fill light and backlight. The three-point light setup is operated with the help of a wireless transmitter.

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6.Enable high-speed flash sync

In Nikon cameras, this is achieved by turning on Auto FP; the same can be achieved in canon cameras by turning on High-speed flash sync. A camera on normal setting cannot sync with flash because the shutter speed takes longer than the flash.

Enabling the high-speed setting ensures the flash fires longer hence in synchronizing with your camera’s sensor. This technique is used in broad daylight as well as to stop motion. You need to acquire a maximum speed flash that goes beyond 1/250 speed. This ensures the flash fires at the same time when your camera sensor is ready to capture.

7. Use TTL technology

Through-the-lens is a setting on your camera that enables communication with the flash to determine lighting conditions as well as the distance between your subject and flash hence emitting appropriate light.

The setting (eTTL for Canon and iTTL for Nikon) ensures there is a balance between light from the flash and the ambient conditions. This technique combines with bouncing and diffusing of light produces elaborate and high-quality photos.

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Flash Photography

15 Things Not To Do In Thailand

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While the nation is bright and smiley, it’s possible that you may be unknowingly committing a social sin. Some are clear while others may be fuzzier.

Here are some of the 15 Things to avoid doing in Thailand.

  1. Think excessively – There are a few reasons and circumstances where you will be told, ‘Don’t think excessively”. From various methods for getting things done, to here and there apparently remiss well being principles and not having any desire to design too far ahead of time, regularly the Thai take will take the mai bpen rai (don’t stress over it) and sabai (simple and agreeable) approach. Due to a more Buddhist outlook and basically simply needing to keep things light and happy , you’ll be prompted not to stress over things, not to get excessively genuine and not, making it impossible to over think things

  2. Contact their head – Unless you’re in a cozy association with somebody, you shouldn’t contact or putting things over individuals’ heads. The head is considered the cleanest and most sacred piece of the body, so contacting somebody’s head is viewed as rude and will make others uneasy.

  3. Shriek around evening time – It’s a Thai superstition that shrieking during the evening is misfortune – you’re calling spirits. It might never again be a major ordeal to a few, however you’ll see numerous individuals getting to be uneasy if a shriek is heard after dusk.

  4. Get filthy – Appearance and neatness are critical. Indeed, even amidst the hot season you’ll see Thais carefully assembled and even physical workers will have clean garments. There might be a casual vibe here, yet not with regards to your appearance and how you deal with yourself.

  5. Raise your voice – Thais are normally easygoing and mild-mannered. However you can hear nonnatives a mile away. Hold your voice down in stores and eateries, and remain quiet in the event that you end up in a contention. Raising your voice or shouting won’t encourage the circumstance and causes everybody required to wind up humiliated.

  6. Make out – When in Rome you may make out in the city, however when in Thailand you shouldn’t. You’ll see that Thais regularly don’t clasp hands or embrace in broad daylight, so any kissing or additional closeness is impossible. It’s alright to sneak a little peck in anywhere.

  7. Take your garments off – Yes, Thailand is tropical. Yet except if you’re on a shoreline, in a specific sort of bar, or in your lodging room keep it concealed. It’s hot and sticky however, folks, that is no reason to run around with your shirt off – you don’t see the Thais doing it. Young ladies, cover shoulders, cleavage and knees while entering sanctuaries. It’s anything but difficult to keep a wrap on you for such places and means a universe of regard.

  8. Wear your shoes – Know why shoes are so well known here? All things considered, it’s hot, and you’re continually taking them off. Entering homes, sanctuaries, shops – even a few eateries and restrooms – you’ll be requested to remove your shoes and stroll around shoe less or with shoes.

  9. Embrace a priest – While men are permitted to be in contact with priests you’ll still more often than not observe them keep an aware separation. Nobody should remain over, or be situated higher than, a priest.

  10. Using your feet – Pointing your toes or the base of your feet at individuals, spots and things is considered to a great degree discourteous. Having your feet looking toward, sanctuaries, Buddha pictures or priests is particularly impolite and unsuitable. You’ll likewise be chastised for utilizing your feet to help close an entryway, venturing over or kicking something.

  11. Buddha images are sacred. Buddhism is the main religion in Thailand and images of the Buddha are considered sacred. Therefore, it is advised to treat Buddha images as sacred. It is also advised not to take Buddha images out of Thailand.

  12. Overstaying visa. Many foreigners travelling to Thailand overstay knowingly or unknowingly. It is advised not to overstay your visa. There are various immigration rules if you overstay your visa. You may be asked to pay a fine. If you overstay for too long you will be deported immediately.

    13.Avoid doing graffitiThere are many instances in which foreigners are caught for doing graffiti. Graffiti are writings or drawings done in scribbled way mostly in walls. Although everything may seem cool, graffiti in public places or walls is considered as a serious offence.

  1. Beware of local laws.

There are laws which prohibit speaking anything against the royal family.  Even a comment in social media post is considered bad. It is advised not to discuss anything about this topic.  If you are unaware and do something against this law in inebriated state you may be asked to give a solid explanation.

  1. Stand up for the royal anthem

Every day the royal anthem is played twice. It is advised to stand up for the royal anthem. 

If you follow the above rules you are almost safe in Thailand. Normally it is advised not to get into an argument with a local. This is true in any country. When you are a foreigner respect the locals.

Read 15 Things Not To Do In Thailand

Read 8 Movies To Watch Before Visiting Thailand

Guide To Travelling When Pregnant

Pregnant Woman

Although pregnancy is one of the most exciting things it can be quite challenging too. Here are some tips that can help.

Do not choose a far-off destination

Pregnancy can be challenging for women and long haul flights can make it stressful during pregnancy.   Therefore, choose a destination that is somewhere within a 2-3 hour flight distance.  It will also help if there isn’t a long airport transfer.

Choose a great destination

Don’t travel to any destination during pregnancy periods. Choose a destination wisely. It is much easier to travel and enjoy a holiday when you know that there are good medical facilities in that region. Do some research on the destination and see if it has good medical facilities.

Avoid going to destinations where there is a risk of catching a mosquito-borne disease like zika or malaria. Also, avoid going to destinations which requires vaccinations during pregnancy.

Traveling by automobile

Don’t drive if you don’t have to. If you drive you to need to push the seat as far back as you can. Wear a seat-belt always. Also, put the shoulder belt tight against your chest. This will help you to get ample comfort and safety while traveling. Further, try to feel the breeze. Keeping the windows slightly open can help ward off nausea.

Traveling by Airplane

Talk to a health care provider or your doctor at least a few weeks before the trip. Ask airlines about their policy regarding pregnant travelers. Most airlines do not allow pregnant women to fly after 36 weeks of gestation.  In case you have to fly you need to talk to your airline and get a letter from the doctor explaining why you need to fly.

In case you fly while you are pregnant ask for an aisle seat so that you can walk easily to the restroom. Also, drink water and bring your own snacks and medicines.  Further, take a copy of your prenatal record. In addition, purchase medical insurance so that it helps you and your family in case of an emergency. If you come prepared you are more likely to handle uncertain situations.

Here’s a Pregnancy Travelling checklist you can use. (source : babycentre)

Travel during 3 Trimesters of Pregnancy

Travel during First Trimester (Week 1- 12)

In this phase, you may feel sick particularly in the morning time. Therefore, it is very important to stay away from noxious odors, keep yourself hydrated, dress comfort clothing, and, use medicines prescribed by your doctor.

Travel during Second Trimester (Week 13-27)

In this phase you will feel better. The morning sickness has subsided and you begin to feel more energetic.  The bump may be more visible and you will find it easier to travel.

Travel during Third Trimester (Week 28-40)

This is the final phase of pregnancy. This phase is definitely the most important phase and you will have to more careful. You bump has grown bigger and you are feeling good. Most airlines won’t let passengers board after 36 weeks of pregnancy. And you should take extra precautions and care to avoid fatigue, heartburn, backache, swelling and other pregnancy related complications.

The above are some of the tips to travel during pregnancy.  In addition, if you find some better tips do let us know. If you are doctor you  are in a much better position to comment about it.

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Read Top 5 Best  Family Holiday Destinations In Asia

Read 7 Tips For Flying With Your Baby

Is it safe to eat Thai street food ?

Thailand ranks among the top countries in the world when it comes to street food. I have traveled the entire country and I personally like Thai street food. But hey! You have to exercise caution while eating street food in Thailand. 

What is Thai street food?

Thai street food consist of barbecued (chicken, pork, fish), fried rice, papaya salad, and all other Thai dishes. If you are fruit lover you may find vendors selling papaya, guava, mango, water melon etc. 

Why people eat Thai street food?

One of the main reasons people love eating Thai street food is it’s affordability. Thai street food is really cheap. Also,Thai food is freshly prepared and served every day. 

What are the tips for eating ?

Thailand’s street food market is very diverse and very chaotic. There are tons of street food vendors. And frankly speaking not all vendors are great. 

Here are some tips for eating Thai street food.

1. Look out for long lines.

If a notice an empty food stall, there may be a reason why it’s empty. A cart that is unhygienic and makes people sick may not be filled with customers. Therefore, look for long lines. 

Long lines in a street food shop does imply that the shop has satisfied customers. Also, see that the lines have more Thai’s than foreigners. It’s good to avoid shops with no customers.

2. Eat freshly cooked food. 

If you find someone cooking in front of you, do have that. This is because it’s hot and fresh. Try to avoid pre-cooked food. 

3. Eat from vendors that specializes in one type of food.

Some vendors are good at cooking fresh biryani. Some are good at cooking fried rice and some are good at cooking Pad Thai. Eat from these specialists. 




4. Use Common Sense

Ask questions like

Is the cooking environment clean?

Is the raw meat kept in  a cooler before cooking?

Does the vendor wash his/her hands after collecting cash ?

Do ingredients look fresh ?

Does the vendor use clean utensils?

You can figure out whether the vendor maintains a decent level of hygiene. 

5. Drink Bottled Water.

Bottled water is available in almost all the Family Marts and 7-Eleven’s. Do drink bottled water. Don’t drink tap water. 

6. Avoid Oily Food.

Most of the street food vendors do not use refined oil. Therefore, it’s good to avoid oily food. Do eat  if you find some vendor using refined or olive oil.

7. Do have rotis and banana crepes.

We went to a night market in Hua Hin and we were delighted to have rotis and banana crepes. These are some of the nicest vegetarian street food available in Thailand.

8. Don’t eat many dishes at once.

Many tourist make the mistake of eating many dishes at one time. This is one of the reasons for stomach upset. Remember that you are in a foreign location and if you feed many many foreign elements to your stomach it is bound to panic.

Overall Thai street food is safe and clean. To be on your safe side you may follow the above eight rules of eating street food. 

If you fall sick ?

Use Oral Rehydration Salts and Activated Charcoal

Little amount of food poisoning can happen if you are in Thailand. Therefore, it’s good to carry oral rehydration salts. Oral rehydration salts will help to keep you hydrated. In addition to oral rehydration salts you can also use activated charcoal tablets to absorb toxins in your stomach. If there is too much pain in the stomach, it is advised to visit a clinic or hospital.  You are most likely to be treated with a saline for immediate relief. 

Use a Thai-English Interpreter to communicate your allergies

If you have allergies eating street food in Thailand is something to worry about. Some people are allergic to eggs, peanuts, wheat, milk, and sea food. Therefore, before eating you can ask the vendor whether the food that is prepared contains the items. That’s where your communication skills will be useful. 

If you really fall sick you will need to visit doctor. Most doctors in rural areas may not be able to talk to you in English. Therefore, it is better to take a friend or a person who knows both Thai and English. Or you already know a bit of Thai it will help you to communicate with the doctor. 

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