Need vacation ideas? Here are 10 unique places to travel

Each time we’re feeling like we need a break, we dream of unique places to travel. These inspiring holiday destinations won’t only gift their visitors with unforgettable views and experiences, but will also open their minds and hearts.

 

1. Dubai, United Arab Emirates

If you are fascinated by futuristic metropolis, Dubai is the perfect destination for an unforgettable vacation. The city is home to the world’s tallest building, Burj Khalifa, and the world’s largest shopping mall, Dubai Mall. Other attractions include the artificial islands and some of the best beaches on the planet. Moreover, when you think that in the 1970s Dubai was a small tribal city, you will be amazed by what it looks like now. The cost for a 5-day holiday in Dubai is about $1,400.

 

2. Maldives

The Maldives is a great choice for a dream holiday, a unique exotic destination with white sand beaches, turquoise lagoons, and coral reef reserves. The Maldives is the ideal place to relax and forget about noise, bustling, and stress. The rate for a 5-day trip in the Maldives averages at approximately $3,000.

 

3. Hanoi, Vietnam

Hanoi is a spectacular blend of the East and West, combining traditional Vietnamese culture with the French colonial flair. Fortunately, the city has remained untouched by war and is now more vibrant and active than ever. The Old Quarter is one of the largest markets in the world, and the Vietnamese Women’s Museum, which emphasizes the role of women in Vietnamese history, certainly deserves a visit. For a 5-day vacation in Hanoi, you’ll spend about $400. Yes, crazy cheap and totally worth it!

 

4. Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul is a thousand-years-old lively city in Turkey, spreading between Europe and Asia, and between Christianity and Islam. The place is famous for its delicious cuisine, wonderful coffee, bustling bazaars and old architecture, with mosques and churches standing side by side. At the end of a sightseeing day, make sure you take some time to relax in a traditional Turkish bath, called hammam. $800 is the approximate amount of money you’ll spend for a 5-day holiday in Istanbul.

 

5. Siem Reap, Cambodia

Although the city is relatively new, it is surrounded by the ancient remains of the Temple Town, Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious monument. What Angkor Wat offers in terms of spirituality, adventure, and exploration, Siem Reap offers in terms of rest, shopping, entertainment, and relaxation. It’s a very affordable place, as well; for a 5-day trip, you’ll only have to pay about $500.

 

6. Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town has a unique setting, being surrounded by sea and beautiful beaches on one side and by an awe-inspiring mountainous landscape on the other side. The city is one of the most cosmopolitan in Africa, and its colonial roots can still be noticed in its delightful architecture. The price for a 5-day vacation in Cape Town averages at $700.

 

7. Iceland

Many tourists looking for authentic experiences have turned Iceland into a sought-after holiday destination. The realm of ice and fire portrays some of the most beautiful monuments of nature, such as the Strokkur geyser, the thermal springs in the Blue Lagoon, or the impressive northern lights. A 5-day trip to outstanding Iceland will cost you around $1,400.

 

8. Havana, Cuba

The “forbidden fruit” of American tourism for more than 50 years, Cuba is now open for international visitors. The country offers a unique image of a culture frozen in time. Tourists in Havana can admire the local artisans’ crafts, the mesmerizing architecture, and the daily living of ordinary Cubans. This is the perfect time to visit Cuba before the country is transformed by Western influences. For a 5-day holiday in Havana, Cuba, you’ll need approximately $500.

 

9. Malaysia

Visiting Malaysia is like experiencing two different worlds. The peninsula is marked by Chinese and Indian influences manifested through the spiritual wealth of this modern nation. The Malaysian part of the Borneo island, on the other hand, offers the image of natural wilderness, with the mysterious and dense jungle where ancient cultures keep their traditions. If we add one of the world’s finest cuisines, Malaysia is certainly a delightful destination to check out. A 5-day holiday in Malaysia will cost you about $400.

 

10. Costa Rica

The jewel of Central America, Costa Rica reveals stunning ecosystems, tropical forests, mountains, rivers, volcanoes and beaches of the Pacific Ocean as well as the Caribbean Sea. The nation is an example in terms of environmental protection, a large part of the territory being protected by law. Locals are extremely welcoming and the country is a great destination for those who are looking for the purity of nature, but also a little adventure. $400 is the approximate cost for a 5-day trip to Costa Rica.

We hope we’ve inspired you with these gorgeous and unique places to visit. If you’ve already been in some of them, we’d love to hear about your experience. Additionally, if you have more recommendations, please let us know.

How to Market Yourself as a Freelancer

Marketing yourself is paramount for freelancers, as it’s certainly going to differentiate you from all the other independent contractors out there. And one of the most frequently asked questions among freelancers is ‘how can I successfully promote myself and attract clients?’ Well, with no further ado, here are some smart ways to get more eyes to your freelance business.

1. Use an e-mail signature

Simple as that and extremely efficient. As a freelancer, you’re going to be sending plenty of e-mails to prospects, other freelancers, and so on. So why not make the most out of this? Create a simple signature with your name, the services you offer, and your contact details. I’d also recommend adding a professional picture. Furthermore, if you have a website or a portfolio page, insert the link to your signature, so that people can get to know you better.

2. Share your portfolio online

Another great way to market yourself is to house your portfolio in a lot of different places. The online world is huge and there are many places where you can promote your work and services. Create a great portfolio with your best samples and add it to your website, to your LinkedIn profile, and any other freelance platforms you’ve joined.

3. Build a website

This doesn’t need to be anything complicated. Begin with getting a domain and a hosting service. Oh, and you don’t need any web designing skills, either (unless, of course, you’re a freelance web designer). Platforms like WordPress and Wix have a plethora of ready-to-use templates you can choose from. Therefore, opt for the one that best suits your business and list all the information you want your prospects to check out. Key sections to add to your website include the ‘About’, ‘Portfolio’, ‘Hire Me’ and ‘Contact’ pages. If you set up your website the right way, rest assured that work will start coming to you in a timely manner.

4. Embrace networking

Networking is, in fact, a way of expanding your circle of acquaintances. The main goal is to make yourself known by as many people as possible and eventually land a gig or get recommended when someone asks “Do you know a good freelance copywriter/ designer/developer?” There are multiple networking opportunities: from local business events and informal meetups to public speaking gatherings and job fairs, the list is endless. However, keep in mind that you shouldn’t be pushy when talking about your freelance business. Start with a laid-back conversation and let things flow as natural as possible towards your freelancing career.

5. Join freelancing platforms

Freelancing marketplaces like Fiverr, Upwork, Giggrabbers and Toptal are awesome for marketing your services and landing new freelance jobs. Set up an account, write about your experience, past projects, skills, and qualifications. You can even include details about your education, courses you’ve taken, and conferences you’ve attended. Most platforms allow you to attach a resume and a portfolio and that’s a great way of having everything in one place. After you feel confident with your profile, browse for gigs and apply to the ones that seem like a good fit. Once you get your first assignments done, you’ll gain popularity, receive reviews, and potential clients will start inviting you to interview for remote jobs.

6. Use social media

Social media networks allow you to let everyone know that you’re a freelancer. Whether we’re talking about Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram, don’t forget to mention your business in your description. Moreover, you can create dedicated branded pages that focus solely on your freelance services and maybe run some sponsored ads. LinkedIn is one of the key networks to be on, as it’s main aim is to connect professionals. You can easily get discovered by recruiters and get in touch with companies that are searching for independent contractors. Plus, you can join groups where like-minded freelancers exchange ideas and share opportunities.

7. Seek out client referrals

Once you’ve done a wonderful job for a client, don’t be ashamed to ask for referrals. If they’re happy with your work, they’ll be willing to recommend you to their business partners and acquaintances who are searching for a reliable freelancer.

All in all, keep in mind that you don’t need to pitch 24/7, hustle, or struggle in order to market your services. These simple, yet effective tips will help you grow your freelance business and get more clients in a jiffy. Break a leg!