Every driver can benefit from the latest in-car technologies. From multiple sensors and cameras that help you to be safe on the road to telematics devices that can record your driving habits and save you money on your premiums, there are plenty of ways to take action. Let’s take a closer look at how they work and how they can save you money.

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) use technology to avoid accidents and offer features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic emergency braking. Using ADAS can protect you and your passengers while saving you money.

Driving a vehicle with ADAS is like having an extra pair of eyes on the road, with cameras and sensors. These innovative features help prevent crashes and keep you safe on the road. If your car has ADAS, you may be able to get a discount on your insurance, as it reduces the chances of accidents.

Telematics

Telematics technology can help reduce car insurance costs by monitoring driving habits. This technology uses a plug-in device or a smartphone app to track your speed, braking, and stopping habits. Insurers use this data to offer usage-based insurance programs, which provide safe drivers with lower premiums.

With the latest technological advancements, both drivers and insurers benefit from this combination. Talk to your insurance broker about whether or not they offer a telematics program and how it can benefit your safety and limit your insurance costs.

Anti-Theft Systems

Car theft is a serious problem, but modern vehicles have anti-theft systems to prevent it. These systems can range from simple alarms to advanced trackers and immobilizers, which deter thieves and make it easier to locate your car if it is stolen. Having a good anti-theft system can also lead to lower insurance premiums, as many providers offer discounts to drivers with these systems installed.

Dash Cams

Dash cams are becoming more popular due to their potential to record incidents on the road. In case of an accident, the footage provides clear evidence of what happened and who was at fault. Some insurance companies even offer discounts to drivers who install and use dashcams because they appreciate their clarity. Having a dashcam can also encourage safer driving and give drivers peace of mind for themselves and their passengers.

Car insurance is getting a facelift with new car technology. These advancements have the potential to make driving safer and bring down insurance costs. By embracing these changes, we can all work together to enhance safety and security on the road while reducing insurance costs. The automotive and insurance industries are always evolving, and by utilizing these innovations, we can improve safety and security while driving.

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Convenience and Accessibility

One of the most obvious and widely appreciated benefits of digital payments is the unparalleled convenience they offer. Gone are the days of searching for cash or writing checks; these payment methods provide consumers with quick and easy ways to pay for goods and services. Australians no longer need to carry bulky wallets, as they can simply use their smartphones to make payments.

Furthermore, digital payment platforms are available 24/7, allowing customers to make transactions at any time, granting access to goods and services on line at any time of their choosing. For example, online pokies are one of the most popular forms of digital entertainment for many Aussies, and the most reputable casino sites now offer multiple digital payment options:  https://www.topaustraliangambling.com/online-pokies/

As a result of such convenience and ease of use, the Australian marketplace has become more accessible to a broader audience, increasing customer engagement and boosting sales for businesses.

Enhanced Security

Now that we live in an increasingly digital world, concerns about security have become paramount. Fortunately, online and mobile payment systems have made significant strides in ensuring secure transactions. Many of these methods incorporate encryption and authentication measures that protect sensitive financial information, reducing the risk of fraud and identity theft.

In the Australian marketplace, security is a crucial factor in consumer trust and confidence. As a result, the adoption of secure payment methods has helped build trust between consumers and businesses, encouraging more people to embrace online and mobile payments. Likewise, the Australian government has also drafted new legislation, bringing stronger levels of regulation: https://www.reuters.com/technology/australia-unveils-draft-law-regulate-digital-payment-providers-2023-10-11/

This increased level of confidence has directly contributed to rapid growth in recent years. The transaction value of digital payments in Australia is expected to grow almost 15% in 2023, as projections indicating that overall transaction value will comfortably surpass AU $23 billion.

Improved Customer Experience

The swift rise and uptake of digital  payments has led to an overall improvement in the customer experience. Businesses that adopt these payment methods can offer smoother and faster transactions, leading to increased customer satisfaction. Payment platforms often come with features like one-click purchases and digital wallets, making it easier for customers to complete their transactions efficiently.

Moreover, these payment methods open up new possibilities for loyalty programs, discounts, and rewards, as businesses can easily track customer behaviour and tailor their offerings accordingly. This is a great way for any business to leverage digital payments technology.

In the Australian marketplace, companies have been leveraging digital payment data to create personalised shopping experiences, which ultimately strengthen customer relationships and encouraging repeat business.

Driving Economic Growth

Thanks to the widespread adoption of digital transactions, the Australian economy itself has observed a positive impact. Most notably, this vital fintech sector has facilitated cross-border trade and tourism, removing many of the barriers previously associated with currency exchange and international transactions. Foreign visitors are now able to make purchases more conveniently, while Australian businesses can access a global customer base with greater ease.

The digital marketplace in Australia has opened up opportunities for fintech startups and tech companies. These firms develop innovative payment solutions and financial technologies, helping to drive economic growth, create jobs, and enhance Australia’s global standing in the tech sector: https://www.jll.com.au/en/newsroom/promising-growth-for-australias-fintech-industry

According to the statistics, the fintech sector in Australia is currently worth more than AU $4 billion, and with around 800 new startups launched in the last five years, ranks at sixth in the comparative global scale.

Australian Digital Evolution Continues

Clearly, there are many significant benefits to the Australian marketplace, due to the adoption and integration of digital payments. Increased confidence and enhanced security have both enhanced the customer experience, while bringing reduced costs and greater data insights for businesses, across diverse sectors of trade and commerce.

As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the key ingredient for maintained success is for consumers and businesses alike to embrace these payment methods fully. The benefits of digital, online, and mobile payments in the Australian marketplace extend far beyond mere transactional convenience; they shape the future of commerce in Australia and will continue to drive innovation and progress for many more years to come.

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Crisscrossed by ancient cobblestone streets, sun-bathed sandy beaches, and a palpable sense of history, Portugal serves as a magnet for expats seeking a more relaxed pace of life. But for a growing number of global professionals, the allure of Portugal is more than just its rich culture and stunning landscapes; it’s an emergent, booming FinTech industry. Today, we embark on a captivating journey to explore the flourishing FinTech job market trends in Portugal and the lucrative opportunities it offers, especially for expats from the USA who wish to move to Portugal from USA.

Portugal’s Burgeoning FinTech Landscape

For years, Portugal’s FinTech scene has been simmering beneath the surface, slowly gathering momentum. The Portuguese government’s supportive stance towards technological innovation, coupled with an influx of international talent, has acted as a catalyst for the FinTech industry’s recent exponential growth.

According to Statista, the FinTech transactional value in Portugal is expected to witness a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.8% between 2021 and 2025. Thus, for those considering an international career in the realm of financial technology, Portugal’s robust and rapidly expanding FinTech sector offers a promising land of opportunity.

Top FinTech Job Opportunities in Portugal

The breadth and depth of job opportunities in Portugal’s FinTech sector have grown in recent years, attracting a diverse pool of talent from around the world. Companies ranging from dynamic start-ups to established multinational corporations are increasingly seeking expertise in areas such as blockchain technology, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and cyber security.

Expat-Friendly FinTech Companies in Portugal

Several Portugal-based FinTech companies have gained international recognition and are actively recruiting foreign talent. Feedzai, a global leader in fighting fraud with AI, has made Portugal its home. Similarly, Euronext, a leading pan-European stock exchange, has its technology center based in Portugal. These companies, among others, demonstrate a strong commitment to hiring and retaining international employees, making Portugal’s FinTech job market particularly friendly for expats.

The Lure of Portugal’s Expat-Friendly Ecosystem

Portugal’s friendly ecosystem for expats extends beyond its FinTech job market. With a lower cost of living compared to other Western European countries, Portugal offers an enticing mix of high-quality life at a reasonable cost. The Portuguese government’s attractive tax incentives for foreign residents, coupled with a supportive entrepreneurial environment, further sweeten the deal for expats.

Navigating the Hiring Process

While the hiring process can vary across companies, most FinTech firms in Portugal typically have a multistage process that includes an initial screening interview, technical assessments, and a final round of interviews. Companies often value international experience, adaptability, and technical skills, so be prepared to showcase these aspects in your application.

Living the Portuguese Dream: An Expat’s Perspective

Portugal offers a unique blend of work-life balance, cultural richness, and technological innovation, which many expats find irresistible. With an enviable Mediterranean climate, world-class cuisine, and an ever-growing FinTech sector, moving to Portugal from the USA can be a fantastic opportunity for personal and professional growth.

Understanding Portugal’s FinTech Working Culture

The working culture within Portugal’s FinTech industry embraces a collaborative spirit, fostering an environment that encourages innovation and adaptability. With a significant portion of the workforce comprised of international talent, diversity and inclusivity are often at the forefront of the workplace ethos. Moreover, companies tend to emphasize work-life balance, understanding the importance of leisure time in maintaining productivity and job satisfaction.

How COVID-19 Impacted the FinTech Job Market

Like the rest of the world, Portugal’s FinTech industry was not immune to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the crisis also presented unique opportunities for digital financial services, accelerating the adoption of digital banking, online payments, and remote financial advisory.

As physical transactions and face-to-face financial services took a backseat, companies in the FinTech domain saw an increased demand for their services, leading to a surge in job opportunities. This trend showcases the resilience and adaptability of the FinTech job market in Portugal in times of global disruptions.

Career Progression Opportunities in FinTech

Portugal’s evolving FinTech landscape provides myriad opportunities for career advancement. Professionals with a knack for identifying future trends and adapting to changing technologies can find ample room for growth. The industry values skills in data analysis, cyber security, AI, and blockchain, among others. Acquiring expertise in these areas could pave the way for promotions, pay raises, and leadership roles within the industry.

The Future Outlook of Portugal’s FinTech Job Market

As the global economy becomes increasingly digitized, Portugal’s FinTech industry is poised for further growth. The government’s commitment to creating a business-friendly environment, coupled with ongoing investment in technological infrastructure, bodes well for the sector’s future. According to PwC, Portugal is expected to remain an attractive destination for FinTech innovation, cementing its position as a hub for technological advancement in Europe.

Conclusion

Exploring the FinTech job market trends in Portugal unveils a thriving sector rife with opportunities, particularly for expats looking to make an international career move. The unique blend of a booming FinTech industry, a supportive government, a rich cultural heritage, and an exceptional quality of life creates an irresistible proposition for anyone considering the decision to move to Portugal from the USA.

Portugal is not just a country famed for its past but a nation forging a path towards an exciting future. Embracing technological innovation and fostering a robust FinTech industry, Portugal stands out as an excellent choice for professionals seeking new horizons, making the Portuguese dream a reality for many expats.

Whether you’re at the beginning of your FinTech career or an experienced professional, Portugal offers a wealth of opportunities. As the world continues to navigate the post-pandemic era, there’s perhaps never been a more opportune time to consider making the leap and immersing oneself in the vibrant world of Portugal’s FinTech industry.

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Inability to manage your fleet may result in poor vehicle conditions and endanger the drivers’ safety. That’s why taking good care of your vehicles is a must.

However, many decide to ignore regular check-ups. This alone can end with consequences and hinder the company in the long run. Remember Albert Einstein’s words: ‘’Intellectuals solve problems, geniuses prevent them’’.

While effective, fleet preventive maintenance requires a lot of work and attention to detail. Luckily, we live in a tech-driven world where blockchain technology is considered to be the future. 

77% of executives are aware that not using blockchain technology will put their company at a competitive disadvantage. Nowadays, blockchain technology has a lot of use cases for a number of industries, but how can it actually improve fleet preventive maintenance?

Let’s dive in and find out!

Benefits of fleet preventive maintenance

Running a fleet business is not a joke. Fleet managers should really take timely precautions and detections seriously. The most effective way to do this is to implement fleet preventive maintenance, which is hugely beneficial for fleet businesses, meaning it can:

1. Reduce repair costs

We, humans, tend to procrastinate tasks and we all know how it usually turns out – – we drown in last-minute responsibilities. When it comes to vehicle maintenance, postponing it will only result in costly repairs. 

How many times have you had setbacks because of an unexpected vehicle breakdown? 

With a proper fleet preventive maintenance plan unexpected road stops are a thing of the past. You`ll never have to worry about clogged engines or hiring expensive tow vehicles. This will directly impact capital savings and can create more revenue for your company.

2. Increase the safety of your drivers

Keep in mind that vehicle malfunctions pose a threat to your drivers` safety and safety should always come first! Drivers are already facing dangers, so they should at least feel comfortable in the vehicle they’re driving. 

Did you know that 130.000 people are injured in truck accidents every year? These numbers are indeed concerning, which is why safety should not be overlooked. With the fleet preventive maintenance program, vehicle check-ups will become a routine, resulting in a significant increase in safety for both drivers and vehicles.

3. Enhance customer experience

Customer satisfaction plays a key role in the success of your company. If you`re dealing with constant vehicle breakdowns, there’s a huge chance your business performance will suffer, due to deliveries not reaching customers on time. You want to avoid this at all costs and preventive maintenance is the best method to do so.

Fleet vehicles will always be in top condition and the probability of vehicle issues arising will be reduced to a minimum.

4. Reduce fuel consumption 

Regular oil changes and tire maintenance can maximise your vehicles’ uptime. These timely precautions are the key to increasing fuel efficiency. Your vehicles will never spend more fuel than needed, which adds to fuel costs being significantly reduced.

How to streamline fleet preventive maintenance with blockchain technology

Blockchain is a decentralised ledger with a list of highly secured records. The term blockchain is usually associated with bitcoin, but it actually has various application areas. In the past few years, it found its use in fleet businesses. 

The below listed points will explain how blockchain technology can help you streamline fleet preventive maintenance.

1. Connect blockchain to a vehicle’s telematics system

Fleet telematics is highly beneficial on its own, but when combined with blockchain it’s even more efficient. In the past, communication between fleet drivers on the road and fleet managers was almost impossible. A lot of time was needed for a vehicle issue to be addressed.

Nowadays, it’s a totally different situation. With access to blockchain technology, fleet managers are aware of the overall vehicle condition before it hits the road and are timely informed about every malfunction. Moreover, repair centres can quickly determine vehicle faults and help you schedule preventive maintenance check-ups.

Blockchain is mostly known for storing data. What does this mean for your fleets?

The whole performance and maintenance history of a vehicle will be securely stored. This can help you make the right decisions when buying a truck or a trailer because every piece of information needed will be at your fingertips. 

2. Combine blockchain with IoT (Internet of things)

All of the sensors placed in fleet vehicles are helping fleet managers track vehicles’ location, the opening, and closing of doors, and cargo volume in real-time. However, what happens if this information is later needed for preventive maintenance? 

That’s when blockchain technology comes into the picture. The information can be transmitted to a blockchain, where it will be stored and available to you at all times. 

You might wonder why blockchain is needed for tracking when we already have GPS and RFID tags. The answer is simple, these methods are error-prone and can be subject to fraud. Blockchain, on the other hand, has many built-in security features, which makes it almost impossible to be hacked. 

3. Purchase blockchain-based load-matching app

Load-matching app helps connect truck drivers with shipping companies. However, blockchain technology expands its uses. You can use it to your advantage to identify and coordinate efficient load distribution and transportation across distribution networks. It makes it easier for fleet management to cope with driver shortages and can also help you maximise fuel efficiency.

Blockchain is not only beneficial for fleet preventive maintenance but can help fleet management in two more areas as well:

• Effective payment methods. The most widely known use of blockchain technology is smart contracts. Basically, smart contracts are computer programs, which automatically run when predetermined conditions are met. This means that third parties aren’t involved in the process and there’s no need for going through a pile of documents. 

    The time has come for fleet management to also benefit from the use of smart     contracts. Once the driver has completed the shipment contract, funds will           immediately be transferred to the driver’s account, without additional time loss. You         can rest assured that the transaction has been secure. 

• Transparent shipping.  You can now monitor all the loads a vehicle is carrying and all thanks to blockchain technology. You can even upload this information on a blockchain, which means it’ll be available to everybody. Every change will also be immediately updated. 

            This is a great way for customers to track their order until it arrives at their doorstep. Not only is this an effective shipping strategy, but it also establishes trust between the customer and the fleet business. 

The drawbacks of blockchain technology

While blockchain has proven to be effective and doesn’t stop to amaze us, it has some drawbacks worth mentioning. 

We’ve been familiar with blockchain for a while now, but it’s still relatively new, so there’s still a lack of adoption. For it to be able to achieve its full potential, it has to be accepted by a wide network of users. For example, a customer has to be familiar with this technology first before being able to track their orders. 

Blockchain technology can also be expensive to implement, which is another major setback for businesses. Besides that, it consumes a lot of energy, which means huge amounts of server power are needed in order to run it. 

While blockchain is all about transparency, not everyone agrees for their data to be available to the public. Obviously, it cannot be tampered with, but some transactions require more privacy. 

It is indeed amazing and while it has its disadvantages, its acceptance is just growing with time. Blockchain technology is extremely helpful for the financial industry, but only time will tell if it’ll reach its trucking potential as well. 

Can blockchain technology help the fleet industry?

Blockchain technology is still in its infancy. It’s too early to come to a conclusion, but for now, the feedback is positive. From tracking drivers and vehicles to reducing costs and improving customer experience, blockchain has proven to be a worthy investment for trucking industries. 

Most importantly, blockchain can help develop a fleet preventive maintenance plan, which is of utmost importance for fleet performance. 

Blockchain technology definitely has the potential of transforming the automotive industry. Prolonged vehicle life span, on-time deliveries, effective fleet preventive maintenance plan, and satisfied customers – – these are the things that make up a successful fleet business. 

Obviously, blockchain can help your fleet business grow. It’s up to you to decide the future of your fleets, so what do you say, are you ready for future improvement?

Author bio

Makedonka Micajkova is a freelance content writer and translator, always bringing creativity and originality to the table. Being multilingual with professional proficiency in English, German and Spanish, it’s needless to say that languages are her biggest passion in life. She is also a skilled communicator, as a result of having three years of experience as a sales representative. You can find her on Linkedin.

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Is cryptocurrency legal in international trade?

Cryptocurrencies are not legal tender, nor can they be used as currency. They’re also not commodities and therefore cannot be used as financial products. Cryptocurrencies do not have an intrinsic value, such as gold or silver; they simply represent a digital ledger of transactions that are stored on blockchains known as “coins.” While there may be some similarities between cryptocurrencies and other assets like stocks or bonds, the two categories differ greatly in how they function within the global economy.

Cryptocurrency exchanges provide users with access to cryptocurrencies for trading purposes only—they don’t provide any fiat currencies (such as USD) for deposits/withdrawals from their platform; this would require converting fiat back into cryptocurrency before depositing money into an exchange account so users could then purchase crypto tokens directly from them (or vice versa).

How is cryptocurrency used in international trade and cross-border transactions?

Cryptocurrency is an alternative to traditional payment methods. It can be used for international trade and cross-border transactions. The cryptocurrency itself is not regulated by any central bank or government, which means that it’s not tied to any country’s economy.

Cryptocurrency has become popular among investors who want to diversify their investments beyond stocks and bonds, but they also want to keep their money safe from hackers or thieves who might try stealing your digital holdings from you if left with nothing else except cash on hand (which could make you vulnerable).

The value of bitcoin fluctuates based on supply and demand among investors as well as technological advances in its underlying technology behind blockchain technology—a public ledger system used for recording transactions between users across multiple computers connected via internet protocols such as HTTP/HTTPS; SMTP; IMAP4; POP3S etc., where each participant keeps a copy of all past transactions made within this network so long as they’re willing to participate in maintaining said record!

What are the benefits of using cryptocurrency for international trade?

The benefits of using cryptocurrency for international trade are many and varied. Here are some of the most important ones:

• Lower transaction costs. With crypto, you can avoid paying any kind of fees or commissions on your transactions—which means you will save money in the long run. In addition, there is no need for a bank or other intermediary when sending funds from one country to another since cryptocurrencies aren’t limited by borders or jurisdictions; this means that no additional charges will be required when sending money abroad (such as foreign exchange rates).
• No need for conversion between currencies before sending them overseas because cryptocurrencies don’t require any kind of conversion process before being sent out into the world at large! This also means that there won’t be any delays involved either which could lead to lost business opportunities because customers would rather wait longer than buy something cheaper elsewhere – especially if they don’t trust us enough yet.”

What are some potential challenges of using cryptocurrency for international trade?

There are several risks associated with using cryptocurrency for international trade. These include:

• Fraud. The risk of fraud is high when you’re dealing with an unfamiliar currency and its value is volatile. If a merchant accepts cryptocurrency, they may not be able to see all of your transactions in real-time, which could lead them to steal your money or give it away without your knowledge.
• Losing Your Cryptocurrency. If someone hacks into the blockchain network where you store your assets on an online exchange or wallet service provider (like Coinbase), then they’ll be able to access them and sell them for their own purposes—or use them for other nefarious activities as well! This is why it’s important not only to keep track of which wallets hold what amount of funds but also to make sure that those wallets aren’t connected because this would allow hackers access too

How can I protect my company from the potential risks of cryptocurrency transactions?

In order to protect your company from the risks of cryptocurrency transactions, you should consider using a regulated cryptocurrency exchange. If your country does not have an official regulatory body for cryptocurrency exchanges, then it is best to use one that has been deemed trustworthy by other users.

It is also important to use a wallet that is regulated in your country and insured against loss or theft. A good wallet will have a reputation for security as well as a good customer service record—both factors which make them more likely to be trusted by users who are unfamiliar with crypto assets (such as yourself).

Are there any companies already using cryptocurrency in cross-border transactions and international trade?

There are many companies that have started using cryptocurrency in international trade. Some examples include:

• OpenBazaar is an open-source marketplace that uses bitcoin to facilitate peer-to-peer trading of goods and services.
• BitGo is a company that offers wallet services for bitcoin, ether, and other cryptocurrencies.

Using cryptocurrency offers benefits and poses certain risks.

When you look at cryptocurrency as a whole, it offers benefits and poses certain risks. Some of these benefits include:

• Transactions can be made more quickly. In many cases, transactions are processed in minutes instead of days or weeks. This is especially important when dealing with cross-border businesses that want to move money from one country to another quickly and efficiently.
• Cryptocurrencies allow for anonymous transactions between parties who may not know each other well enough to trust their identity or intentions (e.g., when purchasing goods with Bitcoin). This lowers the risk of fraud; however, if two parties do not agree on the terms of use before making any purchase then there could be problems down the road due to mistrust between them once they receive their products back home (or even worse).

These are just some examples but there are many more reasons why using cryptocurrency makes sense for international trade today!

Conclusion

The use of cryptocurrency in international trade and cross-border transactions can be a useful tool to increase transparency and security, while also offering significant benefits. However, there are still several challenges that need to be addressed in order for crypto to become more widely accepted by companies and consumers as a method of payment. The first step is educating yourself on the risks involved with using cryptocurrency for international trade transactions: do your research with bitqt before diving in!

The post The use of cryptocurrency in international trade and cross-border transactions appeared first on Fintech News.

While there is still a lot of red tape surrounding cannabis usage, the figurative (and real) Pandora’s box of weed has opened up dramatically for visitors hoping for a sativa-infused getaway. Can you see yourself sipping a cannabis drink at your next “high”-end dinner party? On a girls’ weekend away, why not visit the “Napa Valley of Weed”? By the way, you can always go to https://hometownherocbd.com/collections/delta-8-thc-edibles to get a pack of different interesting products for purchase. We’ve researched the best weed vacations and compiled a handy dandy dank list of locations that will satisfy even the “highest-end high.”

 #1 – CBD-Infused Cocktails at Madison on Park (San Diego, California)

Head to Madison on Park for a high-end night out. Mr. Nice Guy, which costs $18, is manufactured with cannabidiol oil. CBD oil, which is cold-pressed from the cannabis plant, has minimal to no psychoactive effects (meaning it won’t get you high) and is claimed to have medicinal advantages, which range from anxiety alleviation to pain treatment. Mr. Nice Guy, created by the bar manager, is a concoction of mezcal, CBD oil, matcha, coconut milk, pineapple, and lime. If this isn’t your favorite CBD ingredient combination, you can add a $5 CBD oil add-on to any of the drinks on the Build Your Own Old Fashioned menu.

#2 – Serra Dispensary (Portland, Oregon)

Do you still associate a trip to a dispensary with a long, dark corridor, beaded curtains, and neon mushroom posters? Say welcome to Serra, a greenhouse-inspired dispensary that is hands-down one of the most beautiful we’ve ever witnessed. The brand’s flagship location is in an 1889 historic building in Portland’s Old Town neighborhood. The people who run it say that it is “an experienced and curated CBD retail location that rethinks, redefines, and sets the standard for progressive pot culture.”

#3 – Legendary Cannabis Coffeehouse Culture (Amsterdam, Holland)

Amsterdam is and will always be a hotspot for marijuana pilgrims. Since 1976, when Dutch legislators pioneered a new approach to soft drugs, down-to-earth tolerance has been the norm in the Netherlands. In Amsterdam, approximately 250 coffee shops are authorized to offer the sticky icky. Over 2 million visitors visit Amsterdam and these famed cannabis coffee houses each year, only to (legally) sit streetside and smoke a delectable delicacy.

#4 – Jupiter Hotel: First Cannabis-Friendly Package Deal (Portland, Oregon)

The Jupiter Hotel is a boutique hotel in the heart of Southeast Portland, Oregon. Even Architectural Digest has taken note of the high design appeal at a reasonable price. In conjunction with Dope Magazine, it is also the first hotel in Oregon to provide a cannabis-friendly package to visitors. It contains a Munchie kit, a vape pen, a copy of Dope Magazine, and a discount to local dispensaries. While there is no smoking in the rooms or CBD in the packages, they make it a breeze to enjoy the squeezy.

#5 – First In-House Hotel Dispensary: Lord Jones (West Hollywood, California)

Hollywood, as usual, is at the vanguard of cannabis cultural change. Book a stay at The Standard in Hollywood for the ultimate experience and enjoy the first ever hotel dispensary in cooperation with Lord Jones’ famed edible elegance. We’ve heard that this includes weed-infused travel-size shampoo bottles and CBD chocolates placed on guest pillows.

#5 – Weed Bars at Weddings (Alaska, California, etc.)

If you want Sativa at your wedding, you’ll have to fly to Alaska, California, Colorado, Maine, Massachusetts, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington, where marijuana bars are legal. Wedding planners that specialize in cannabis planning, bow tie-clad “budtenders” to handle the open pot bar, and even high-end transportation companies with a joint-rolling concierge are available to couples. There are entire websites dedicated to the art of planning a classy, CBD-infused event for people who only need a little inspiration.

#6 – My 420 Tours: Completely Curated Cannabis Experiences (Denver, Colorado)

While this information may not be available on the Colorado State Board of Tourism’s website, cannabis tour providers have popped up in the Mile High City. My 420 Tours offers workshops ranging from “Cannabasics Sommelier” to “Sushi & Joint Rolling,” or you may gather your friends for a weekend and go further into a totally catered CBD experience. This includes 420-friendly hotel accommodations, Grow & Dispensary tours, the aforementioned workshops, and cannabis cooking lessons.

#7 – Nipton, CA: First Town Owned by a Cannabis Firm (Nipton, California)

American Green, the largest publicly listed cannabis firm in the United States, purchased the village of Nipton for $5 million in 2016, only 60 miles south of Las Vegas. The startup intends to begin by bottling water laced with CBD, a cannabis component associated with pain and inflammation relief. From there, American Green intends to attract similar businesses, such as CBD and mineral spas, dispensaries, artist-in-residence programs, gourmet events, and bed-and-breakfasts, to “complete the delightful small town experience.”

The post 7 Cannabis Travel Experiences to Start the Year on a High Note appeared first on Fintech News.

Based on their analysis of 100 high-volume credit card-related keywords, there has been a post-pandemic surge in consumer interest for credit cards with travel benefits.

According to Finty:

1. Credit card searches with a travel theme have rebounded to pre-pandemic levels, having plummeted during the pandemic years, indicating the consumer’s desire to travel.
2. Searches for the “best Aeroplan credit card” has experienced 700% YoY growth. Aeroplan credit cards are popular in Canada since they let consumers earn points in the Aeroplan rewards program.
3. Search volume for general money-saving keywords included in the report increased 20-30% in 2022 compared to 2021, coinciding with the increased cost of living.

“After two years of travel restrictions, the revenge travel trend is well and truly alive in Canada. Consumers want to make up for the lost time and travel credit cards are helping to fast-track that,” said David Boyd, MD at Finty.

Revenge travel speaks to the trend for consumers to binge travel, having been confined to their own homes for much of the pandemic. With international borders reopening, consumers can now travel, visit family and friends, and attend events.

Although their report paints a clear image of travel’s resurgence, it hints at a worrying trend: consumers may be using credit cards to close the gap as the cost of living rises.

Canada’s inflation rate reached 8.1% in June 2022 due to the well-documented global supply chain crisis.

Boyd thinks Canadian consumers might be using their credit cards more or considering getting one, so they have some extra padding should the cost of living keep going up: “Our analysis shows that cost-conscious consumers are using cash back credit cards and interest-free deals to cut the cost of living.”

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Imagine that you are planning a trip. A few decades ago, it would take you a lot of time and effort to research destination and accommodation options, book a flight, make a hotel reservation, rent a car, and do a bunch of other trip-related activities. Today, with the help of machine learning and AI, you can use a one-stop travel platform to plan and book everything you need. And the best thing is, you don’t have to leave your home or even your bed.

This convenience wouldn’t be possible without machine learning and artificial intelligence technologies actively adopted by the travel, tourism, and hospitality industries in recent years. Here, you will learn about the uses of ML and AI in travel and the changes they bring to domain businesses.

Read the full article

Related stories: 

–Payments orchestration smooths out travel’s turbulence

-Three Reasons Why Tech And Travel Go Hand In Hand In 2021 And Beyond

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The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted the expansion and accelerated development of various touchless technologies, with facial recognition being one among them. We spoke with CEO Rob Watts, of cutting-edge facial recognition software company Corsight, about facial recognition tech’s expanding role within the travel space, and how it stands to benefit both consumers and industry stakeholders amid COVID-19, and beyond.

Corsight maintains offices in the U.S. and U.K., is headquartered in Israel and conducts operations all around the globe. Prior to the pandemic and the urgent need that it created for contactless solutions, the bulk of Corsight’s business was conducted in support of security, surveillance and counterterror work.

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Related stories: – Three Reasons Why Tech And Travel Go Hand In Hand In 2021 And Beyond              (Forbes)

– Machine learning and AI in travel: 5 essential industry use cases (FintechNews)

The post What role will facial recognition tech play in post-pandemic travel? appeared first on Fintech News.