For many seniors, especially those residing in assisted living communities, a trip to the Galapagos Islands is thrilling. It’s all about adventure and chilling out in an amazing natural spot. But picking when to go can make or break the trip. This guide breaks down the ideal times of year for seniors to explore the archipelago.
The Galapagos Islands have a nice, subtropical climate. This means people can visit any time of the year. However, for seniors who prefer comfortable weather, mid-April to June and November to early December are top picks.
The temperature then hangs around 70°F to 80°F, which is ideal for those who may be sensitive to extreme heat or humidity. Also, the sea stays calm during these times. That’s good news for anyone worried about getting seasick on boat tours. It makes traveling there in later years way more enjoyable.
The Galapagos Islands are a wildlife lover’s dream, with each season bringing its own magic. For seniors keen on bird watching, the cool and dry months from July to December are perfect. This time is all about birds like the famous blue-footed boobies and albatrosses getting busy breeding.
On the other hand, the warmer wet season from January to June is great for spotting sea turtles making their nests on beaches or marine iguanas showing off bright colors. These sights can make short walks or boat rides extra special.
Seniors often find traveling during quieter times more enjoyable. It helps them steer clear of big crowds and take things at a leisurely pace. The Galapagos Islands get busy in June, July, and December because of school holidays.
To dodge the rush, planning trips for shoulder months like May or September is smart. These periods still promise good weather and plenty to see in terms of wildlife, but with fewer people around. This means easier access to popular places, closer chats with tour guides, and a calmer trip all around.
Planning a Galapagos trip means seniors must consider health and accessibility. The islands might be tough for anyone not so steady on their feet. Luckily, many tour groups create trips just for older adults. These include easier walks with plenty of breaks.
Choosing the best time to go also helps deal with the climate better. Plus, medical centers are less busy then—a big plus for those watching their health closely. It’s wise to talk things over with doctors and tour guides before going. This ensures that all needs of senior travelers are looked after well, making sure they have both a safe and fun adventure.
To wrap it up, the Galapagos Islands are a fantastic destination for senior travelers all year, with optimal visiting times in the late spring and late fall. Planning trips around these seasons lets seniors soak in the breathtaking wildlife and scenery comfortably and with ease of access.
The Cyclades, an exquisite group of islands situated in the Aegean Sea, has long been heralded as a coveted yacht destination among charterers. With their unique blend of natural beauty, diverse landscapes, and cultural richness, it is easy to see why these islands are increasingly recognized and celebrated as a leading choice for a yacht charter destination. Home to crystal-clear turquoise waters, traditional whitewashed architecture, and a warm climate all year round, this inviting Mediterranean country welcomes charterers throughout the year. As the year 2023 draws to an end, and we look to 2024, we explore why a luxury charter Greece, in particular to the Cyclades Islands, remains the foremost yacht destination choice.
Why the Cyclades Islands?
The Cyclades Islands, celebrated for their unique charm and beauty, offer an array of experiences that are perfect for those seeking a luxury yacht charter. Santorini, for instance, is not only celebrated for its dramatic sunsets and unique volcanic terrain but also for its intimate coves and beaches, best accessed by a private yacht or tender. In contrast, Mykonos draws visitors with its lively atmosphere, blending upscale dining and high-end shopping with the charm of its azure waters. Naxos appeals to the culturally curious, showcasing ancient ruins amidst its verdant landscapes, while Paros offers a haven for water sports enthusiasts with its ideal wind conditions. Each island’s unique offerings, coupled with the ease of navigating their sheltered bays and the seamless opportunity for island-hopping, further solidify the Cyclades as an unparalleled yacht charter destination.
Yachting in Greece offers the exclusive opportunity to explore some of the region’s most breathtaking beaches. Mykonos, known for its upscale beach clubs, is the ideal spot to lounge under the sun. The popular Psarou Beach is known for its chic beach clubs and crystal-clear waters, offering an upscale environment ideal for relaxation and socializing. On the other hand, Santorini’s Red Beach, renowned for its striking red volcanic sands and dramatic cliffs, provides a unique and visually stunning beach experience. Best accessed and enjoyed by yacht, these islands cater to diverse preferences and provide a wide selection of coastal sanctuaries. The crystal-clear waters surrounding the Cyclades are also ideal for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts.
At the same time, the Cyclades Islands offer a journey through Greece’s history and culture. Clearly evident in the Old Town of Mykonos and the charming villages of Santorini, these settlements provide a window into traditional Greek life. The archaeological site of Delos, near Mykonos, invites visitors to explore ancient temples and statues, enriching the yacht journey in Greece with historical depth. Complementing this cultural exploration, the culinary experiences in the Cyclades are equally varied. From the upscale dining options in Mykonos to the genuine charm of local tavernas on the smaller islands like Naxos and Paros, charterers can indulge in a range of traditional Greek dishes. Sampling local cuisine, such as fresh seafood, flavorful mezedes, and traditional Greek salads, is a fundamental part of the yacht charter experience, adding an authentic taste of the islands’ heritage to the journey.
From the Cyclades, charterers can effortlessly venture to the serene Dodecanese islands, such as Leros. Known for its tranquil atmosphere and pristine beauty, Leros is a favored choice among guests enjoying yachting in Greece, offering hidden coves and quiet bays that provide a restful alternative to the more vibrant Cyclades island group. This proximity allows for easy exploration of other top yachting locations, enhancing the appeal of starting a yacht journey in the Cyclades.
Similarly, the historical island of Rhodes, another prominent yacht charter destination in the Dodecanese, becomes easily reachable from the Cyclades. Rhodes is celebrated for its medieval city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which offers a deep dive into history for those on a yacht charter in the Greek islands. The variety of beaches in Rhodes, from sandy stretches to pebbled coasts, caters to a range of preferences, further demonstrating the strategic advantage of beginning a yacht adventure in the Cyclades.
Moreover, Athens, with its unique mix of ancient and modern elements, is an accessible and significant stop for those sailing from the Cyclades. The city’s marinas act as crucial hubs for Greek Island sailing, leading to famous attractions such as the Acropolis and lively areas like Plaka and Monastiraki. The ease of cruising from the Cyclades to Athens underscores the strategic position of the Cyclades in a comprehensive Greek sailing itinerary, cementing their status as not just a premier yacht charter destination but also a convenient starting point for exploring the rich diversity of the Mediterranean’s yacht charter locations.
A yacht charter to the Cyclades Islands promises an unmatched luxury experience. From the iconic sunsets of Santorini to the lively vibes of Mykonos, and from the historical richness of nearby islands like Rhodes to the modern allure of Athens, the Cyclades Islands offer an incomparable yachting journey. The strategic location of these islands enables seamless exploration of both the tranquil and the bustling destinations, making them an ideal starting point for any luxurious Greek sailing adventure.
Lisbon is the capital city of Portugal, and as such there is always going to be plenty to do there, no matter where your preferences might lie. It’s an enchanting, exciting destination that blends old-world charm with modern life in just the right combination. With so much to do, it can be hard to pick the right itinerary, so here are six of the best things to do in Lisbon to help you get started.
Wander Through Alfama’s Narrow Streets
Alfama is Lisbon’s oldest area, and it’s a gorgeously ancient labyrinth of narrow, cobbled streets lined with colourful houses covered in stunning tiles. You’ll be able to hear locals playing fado, Portugal’s traditional music, and if you pop into one of the quaint taverns you’ll find dotting the way, you’re sure to be able to hear it played live. As you walk, you’ll come across hidden squares, ancient churches, and wonderful views.
Indulge in Pastéis de Belém
If you’ve got a sweet tooth and you want to try a local delicacy, no visit to Lisbon will be completed with enjoying some pasteis de Belem. These custard tarts are iconic – and tasty – and can be enjoyed as you stroll around the city. Make sure you go to the famous Pasteis de Belem bakery where you don’t just get to buy the tarts, but can see them being made as well.
Explore the Belem Tower and Jerónimos Monastery
Lisbon has a fascinating history, and you can explore it as much as you want while you’re there, whether you’re staying for a while or you’re on a day trip from your Silversea Cruises 2023 ship. There are two UNESCO World Heritage Sites to see: the Belem Towers and the Jeronimos Monastery. The tower is a fortress that dates right back to the 16th century, and it offers magnificent views. The monastery is a perfect example of Manueline architecture, and it’s covered with intricate stone carvings.
Get Lost in the Streets of Bairro Alto
If it’s nightlife you’re looking for, Bairro Alto is your destination. This bohemian neighbourhood truly comes alive when the sun goes down, and there are countless bars, cafes, and restaurants to choose from. You’ll find plenty of locals in the area, so you can really feel like part of the community and you’ll be welcomed with open arms.
Take a Tram Ride through the City
Hop on board one of Lisbon’s iconic trams and set off on a fun journey through the heart of the city. If you want the scenic route, take Tram 28, which will take you through some of the most gorgeous neighbourhoods, including Baixa, Graca, and Alfama.
Take a Day Trip to Cascais and Estoril
Why not escape the city (as lovely as it is) for a day and visit the charming coastal towns of Cascais and Estoril? You can go by train and enjoy a scenic ride along the coastline, and when you get to Cascais you can have some treats in the quaint cafes you’ll find in the town. In Estoril you’ll find the famous Casino Estoril, the largest casino in Europe, and some beaches to soak up the sun on.
Summertime offers plenty of opportunities for tourists from around the globe to explore new places and have fun before school starts back. Where should you go?
There are lots of reasons why Aussie and Kiwi visitors to Canada flock to our country every year while playing USA casino online games. First off, they come here because we’re close to them and it saves money on airfare. Second, we have great weather! But perhaps the biggest reason is that there simply isn’t anywhere like it. From the outback to the islands, Aussies and Kiwis flock to Canada to experience what we have to offer.
Despite its recent political turmoil, the UK remains one of the favorite countries for tourists from all around the world. With England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, Cornwall, and even Dubai getting their fair share of British travelers, there’s no shortage of things to visit here.
Looking out for unique experiences, and nowhere else meets that need quite like Morocco. It’s full of culture, tradition, and some of the most incredible landscapes and scenery across the continent.
Asia has so many different cultures, ancient traditions, and spectacular sights, it would take years to see everything. But if we had to pick one place, Japan is probably the clear choice when it comes to value for budget travelers.
This part of the world is home to some truly mind-blowing sights such as Machu Picchu or Rio de Janeiro. And let’s not forget about Argentina either.
Finally, we get to the real elephant in the room – global destinations. These are the big ones, often visited by Canadians traveling abroad. In many cases these are the best options available for tourists as well, meaning that the experience will be similar all over. Places like New York City, London, Paris, Tokyo, Istanbul, and Sydney will give you a sense of both the locals and the local culture.
Traveling to places of interest makes your holiday fun and enjoyable. The above are some of the best countries that you can enjoy visiting in summer. Moreover, to amplify your holiday, you can safe online gambling sites Australia games during your time of relaxation.
Fiji has been described by Lonely Planet as being a place where “the laidback vibe never stops”. This makes it one of the top destinations in Southeast Asia for travellers from around the world. Its stunning natural beauty, friendly locals and hospitable climate welcome thousands of tourists every year. Here is what you should know about Fiji before visiting there.
Two airlines fly directly to Fiji: Air New Zealand and Jetstar Airways. The international airport in Suva is a relatively small facility but it handles most flights coming into Fiji. There is also an international airport located on the island of Vanua Levu, this was opened in 2010 so is still fairly new. This airport is used mainly for smaller regional jets and charter planes. There are no direct flights between these airports and Australia or New Zealand, however, if flying out of either of those countries you will have to first transit through Nadi Airport.
The official currency of Fiji is the Australian Dollar which is called the FJD (Fijian dollar). Many small local businesses accept US dollars, especially along the Coral Coast. You can use your Visa card whilst you are in Fiji to pay for real money casino south Africa games.
Citizens of Australia, New Zealand, Europe and North America do not require visas to enter Fiji. Visas can be obtained at the immigration office in Nadi International Airport upon arrival in Fiji. If you are travelling outside of these countries then check with your nearest Embassies or High Commissions for further information regarding visa requirements.
The official language is English although most people in Fiji speak some form of Burekavula – a dialect similar to Tongan. Some words can be more difficult than others but don’t let that put you off. It is really easy to pick up basic phrases and once you arrive you will find that everyone speaks excellent English!
In conclusion, Fiji is a beautiful little Pacific Island nation with plenty to offer new australian casino player. It offers incredible beaches, coral reefs, rainforests and other natural attractions. However, unlike neighbouring Samoa and American Samoa, Fiji does not have any real tourist infrastructure and therefore it will take time to build up its visitor numbers. But like we said earlier, once you visit Fiji you won’t want to leave!
A wedding in Hawai’i is going to be absolutely magical. With sunny weather, great food and music, sandy beaches, and abundant flowers, Hawai’i has all the ingredients for the perfect wedding. Here are some tips for making your destination wedding in Hawai’i the best it can possibly be.
One key difference between a destination wedding and a hometown wedding is that in the majority of cases, most of the guests will have to travel a lot further for a destination wedding, and there will be much higher accommodation expenses. When planning your destination wedding, therefore, you need to decide who will pay for your guests’ travel and accommodation—you and your spouse-to-be, the guests themselves or someone else, such as your or your partner’s family. Placing the burden on paying on the guests might mean that not everyone you want there can make it, so a solution would be to pay for the guests yourselves and agree to keep the guest list on the small side. Alternatively, you could ask your guests to pay for themselves but not to bring any wedding presents, so as not to put them under too much financial strain.
Whoever ends up paying for travel and accommodation, one way to keep costs down is to get married in the low season—between mid-April and the end of May or in September or October.
While every Hawai’ian Island has something to recommend it, the best place to have a wedding is probably somewhere with easy access both to a scenic place for the actual ceremony and to shops, restaurants, hikes, and other attractions. Unlike a hometown wedding, a destination wedding usually lasts a few days and also acts as a vacation for the happy couple and their loved ones, so the last thing you want is for some of your guests to get bored. A beachfront resort, somewhere like Outrigger Waikiki, is ideal, as it combines the allure of the beach—imagine getting married on the sand at sunset!—with enough cafés, live music, and other activities to keep everyone entertained for days, no matter what they’re into.
In a tropical paradise like Hawai’i, it would be almost criminal to compose your bouquet and decorate your wedding venue with flowers that weren’t native to the islands. A beautiful flower to use in your bouquet and decorations could be the official state flower of Hawai’i, Ma’o Hau Hele, a gorgeous yellow hibiscus. Unfortunately, this plant is endangered in the wild, but it is sold widely in nurseries.
When it comes to food, Hawai’ian weddings go all out! The star of the show is usually kalua pig, a type of pulled pork that is traditionally cooked in an underground oven. It’s not all about the meat, however; with plenty of seafood, vegetables, and fruit available, Hawai’ian cuisine will provide a feast for all tastes and dietary requirements.
Are you planning an Easter vacation in Florence, Italy in 2021? That’s a very good idea. Although the pandemic has made it difficult to travel and plan vacations, this is one city that is still welcoming visitors and has taken an array of precautions to ensure you enjoy your time there and stay safe.
Florence is, after all, one of the most beautiful cities in the world. If you’re considering an Easter vacation in Florence, Italy in 2021, then you’re on the right track.
You’re probably wondering if Easter is the best time to visit Florence as the weather isn’t as warm as in the summer. That’s actually a good thing. It’s warm enough that a light jacket is all you’ll need. The beauty about this temperature is you’ll feel comfortable exploring the city.
Visit in the spring and you’ll also see plenty of colorful flowers blossoming. Of course, there are traditionally fewer visitors at this time of year, ensuring you can see and appreciate everything you want to.
If you’re looking for 4-Star luxury at an affordable process then you need to locate a hotel that offers high-quality service, friendly staff, and great food. After all, you’re in Italy.
In fact, the best hotels have stunning architecture and will cater to your every need. You are also likely to find special Easter offers, such as breakfast included, a glass of Prosecco on arrival, and a guided tour of Museo Pagliazza.
You should also verify that your chosen hotel in Florence has adopted all possible anti-COVID measures. This should include one member of staff dedicated to specific rooms with a twice-daily cleaning service. The ventilation filters being replaced once a week, and the possibility to dine in the open space (courtyard of the hotel). That’s alongside any other current and new measures required by law.
Of course, if you prefer something a little more on a budget you can choose one of the many B&B’s dotted around the city. There are also small hotels with limited service and rock-bottom prices. Of course, these are generally located more on the outskirts of the city.
Florence is an architect’s dream, the buildings are stunning and date back as far as the 15th century. But, you don’t have to be a building lover to appreciate this wonderful city. Here are some of the delights you simply shouldn’t miss:
Alongside these impressive sights, and many more, you should save time to check out the shops. Several open-air markets specialize in specific goods, such as leather items. You’ll also find an extensive array of designer shops and stunning boutiques.
You’re guaranteed to find a treasure or that special gift.
If you’re considering an Easter vacation in Florence, Italy in 2021 then you should consider no longer. Book your trip knowing that you’re going to one of the most stunning cities in the world and that every precaution possible is being made to protect you from COVID during your stay.
The Maldives is home to one of the world’s finest beaches and therefore, you will get the perfect romantic getaway by spending time on one of these!
The sand feels soft to the foot and the blue waters are so soothing that you will feel like never leaving the country. The glowing beaches will take your breath instantly, and will provide you with plenty of photographic opportunities to fill up your Instagram feed. You can also try out various activities like snorkelling, diving or just relax with your partner on the beach. So, what are you waiting for? Book your flights through Cathay Pacific and add some beaches to your itinerary from this list of 10 romantic beaches to visit in the Maldives.
Hulhumale Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the Maldives, especially for the amazing ocean views it offers. It is located in the Kaafu Atoll and lets you enjoy your beach time with nature. It is easily accessible from the Male International Airport. It takes only 10 minutes to reach the beach from here. Wearing bikinis are a big no here, like the rest of the other beaches in the Maldives. This is also an affordable beach destination in which you can try activities like snorkelling and scuba diving with your partner.
Bioluminescent Beaches in the Maldives are world-famous, and if you don’t know what these beaches are like, the most simple way to explain is that they glow at night. So, visiting one of these beaches like Dusti Thani, Mirihi, etc. in the night will be a romantic experience for the two of you. You will feel like the entire sky along with all the stars has fallen into the ocean waters. This phenomenon will make a great photo for your Instagram feed too!
Bikini Beach is where you need to be if you are a person who can’t resist bikinis. Yes, you heard it right. This is because you can wear bikinis here and sunbathe as long as you want with your partner. This long stretch of sands dotted with palm trees and views are amazing as well because of the island location. You can try swimming, snorkelling in Bikini Beach.
Just like the name suggests, this is a man-made beach in the Maldives. But it does not look like one though because of the location and the amazing features, for example, the crescent shape it has. There are not many water sports to enjoy in the Artificial Beach. But you can try swimming because of the shallow blue waters, indulge in the delicious local dishes and get your body moving at a night concert on the beach.
If you want to spend your romantic getaway lavishly, look no further. Reethi Beach is one of the most famous for luxury beaches in the Maldives packed with luxury resort villas and high-end cafes. The white sandy beach with palm trees is perfect for a couple spending their honeymoon in the Maldives. It has a great nightlife too. Therefore, you can relax on the beach in the evening and dance out your worries at a beach party at night.
Dhigurah Beach is most suited for adventurous couples who are looking to add more thrill to their romantic getaway. This beach is located in the South Ari Atoll and it is a great secluded spot for the people who want to wear bikinis all day long. It is a great place to dive in with whale sharks. You can arrange a tour with a local diving excursions operator. You can also try swimming and snorkelling in the surrounding waters.
Veligandu Island is a small island located in the North Ari Atoll of Maldives. The beaches on this island are best known for the tranquil vibes it offers to the visitors. They are private and are more affordable than the other beach islands in the Maldives. Therefore, it is best suited for a backpacking couple looking to have great but a private time in the Maldives. There are many spas here in which you can get amazing couple massages and other body healing therapies.
Cocoa Island is an island associated with the Maldives, and it’s beaches are famous among all those nature-loving couples looking to spend their time among the exotic marine life. You can snorkel and discover thousands of vibrant fish here. Cocoa Island Beaches are easily accessible with a 40-minute boat ride from the Male International Airport. The island resorts and the cafes are however suited for a luxury lifestyle. There are yoga classes here for you to attend with your partner.
Another perfect beach for couples who are looking to have some private time is Fulhadhoo Beach. It is a bit away from the bustles of the city. The beach is a long and wide stretch of white sands and as far as the eyes go you will see blue-green sparkling waters. You will mostly have the beach to yourselves because it is really wide and there are not many people in here. This is also one of the best places in the Maldives to watch an incredible sunset.
Bandos Beach is another popular beach in the Maldives, located just 20 minutes away from the Male International Airport. As this is an island beach you have to ride the speed boat to reach the beach. This is also a great place to get away from the bustling city life of Maldives. It can be quite crowded but don’t let it stop you from getting this lovely experience with your partner. The wide sandy beach is a thing to die for and for couples who want some adventure, try out snorkelling or fishing on the beach. If not, you can simply stroll on the beach and watch the colourful skies and the sunset.
If you want to choose the best retirement country for your needs, then you’ll be glad to know that this is very easy to do. In fact, these top 3 countries are easily the best ones for you to visit if you aren’t sure how to get started.
Mexico
Cheap healthcare, rent and other low costs of living certainly make Mexico one of the finest places for you to retire in the world, right now. The great thing about Mexico is that it’s got a highly diverse environment and you can choose from an incredible number of locations too. So many people choose to retire by the beach or even up in the mountains. Some of the smaller villages in the area are actually the most appealing and you can easily live on a very small budget if you want.
If you enjoy dining out, then the myriad of gastronomic delights will certainly make sure that you have something new to check out every time you venture out of the house. Another thing that you need to know about Mexico is that there are very affordable healthcare services there. Finding healthcare in private establishments can cost just 25% of what it could cost you in another country for the same level of cover and care, so keep that in mind. If you want to move here then why not look into a pension transfer with a specialist to ensure you get value for money on your savings and investments.
Nicaragua
Next up on the list is Nicaragua. This is another American country that is truly affordable if you want to retire. The cost of living in the country is incredibly low when compared to the United States and affords retirees the chance to experience stunning living while on a shoestring budget. If you plan to spend the rest of your days in flip flops, then this is the ideal location for that. Fishing and even hiking are very good, and you can easily visit the city for some fantastic dining entertainment and shopping too.
Costa Rica
This is a very popular and safe country and it’s very easy to see why. It’s got a booming economy, the beaches are awesome and there are also so many natural wonders too. This will keep any retiree very interested, for a very long time. Another thing that you need to know is that the cost of living is affordable. Retirees can find it incredibly easy to get a visa and it’s way more preferable when compared to spending way more money to stay in the country you are in right now.
Of course, there are so many benefits to retiring abroad and if you have never thought about doing it before then now is the time for you to change that. When you do, you will soon find that you are able to not only have the time of your life, but also capitalise on some fantastic benefits. If you want to find out more about retiring abroad then why not look into your pension benefits, and explore other countries that may be an option for you?
You never really know what might happen when you’re out traveling abroad. Something that might be more common than you think is finding the house of your dreams. In some cases, it may even be affordable! Finding this new location with a house may be a surprise, but it’s pretty standard the steps you have to take afterward to make your fantasy a reality.
Think of all the details that go into buying a new home, and then potentially compound it by travel complications. Chances are very likely you’ll have to move through some loan pre-approval process. Financially, you have to calculate your mortgage in a new area, possibly in conjunction with a standard of living economic change. And then there is the matter of transportation to and from the new place while you are moving or potentially transferring your work materials. Paying attention to these details will make your transition smoother.
Loan Pre-Approval
When purchasing a house, loans are a big part of the arrangement. If you find the perfect house in a foreign country, getting a home loan pre-approval may require different paperwork than expected. Every country is different when it comes to real estate laws. Financial institutions have to strictly adhere to regulations, especially when it comes to the purchase of expensive things like real estate or property in general. Make sure that you contact someone you trust and understand that geography plays a part in your equation.
Calculating Your Mortgage
Sometimes when you travel, the cost of living will be different, and that will directly translate into a different standard of living. When you have to figure out how to calculate your mortgage on your new house, be sure to think in a relativistic manner to your new location instead of trying to decide how things worked where you lived before. Even everyday household items can have drastic price differences in different countries, so you have to account for this when creating a budget to pay for mortgages, taxes, and other moving fees.
Transportation To and From the New Place
Because you were traveling when you first saw this house, it makes sense that you will be traveling to move. Do you recognize the costs associated with moving furniture from one country to another? Do you know how you’re going to transport your vehicles from the old location to the new site? If things are prohibitively expensive, are you prepared to buy new stuff at the new place? The more questions you ask early on in your decision-making process to move to a different country, the more likely you are not to be surprised by your situation as it nears the end of your contractual arrangements.