Articles by AlterSage on ArticleSnatch.com

Spending bonuses wisely

Wed, 01 Dec 2010 09:19:50 -0500

A bonus is a great financial boost, often coming at a time of the year when many people are tightening their belts. While the temptation to blow your bonus on a desirable item or a shopping spree can be considerable, there are far more practical, and ultimately more profitable, ways to spend your bonus. Spending your bonus wisely is not about depriving yourself. There is no reason not to spend a portion of your bonus on your year-end holiday or on an indulgence that you have been craving. But by sensibly investing at least a reasonable portion of your bonus, you can do yourself a tremendous service in the medium or long-term. One of the best, and most immediately beneficial, ways to use your bonus is to reduce your debt. You can put the money straight into your bond or use it to help pay off your car, or other assets. Reducing your credit card debt If you are paying interest on your outstanding credit card balance, it can be extremely beneficial to use your bonus to reduce or eliminate this debt. Reducing debt on which you are paying interest is a priority. **End Summary** Topics: bonus]]> year-end]]> credit card]]> debt]]> interest]]> investment]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Plastiq is a credit card comparison website for South African consumers. Plastiq allows you to compare different credit cards in South Africa and offers a wealth of information about using credit wisely .

Doing your Grocery Shopping with a Credit Card

Wed, 01 Dec 2010 08:30:04 -0500

Buying groceries is one of the most common regular expenses for any household and it is easy to become complacent about grocery shopping. Particularly as the year is drawing to an end, when you may need to budget for the holidays, it is important to manage grocery spending and look for the best deals. If you regularly use your credit card to shop for groceries, you are in a good position to analyse your grocery spending patterns. An examination of your monthly itemised statement can be a very useful way to streamline your shopping. Manage your spending Do you regularly spend money on unnecessary items, or habitually purchase more than your household can use? Are some minor luxuries adding up to a lot more than you thought? Simply by looking at the accumulated costs of different goods, it is often be possible to trim the excess off of your grocery bill, without noticeably depriving yourself or your family. To best organise grocery shopping, it can be helpful to use two or more credit cards linked to a single account. This way, the grocery spending of each member of a household can be compared and coordinated. **End Summary** Topics: grocery]]> shopping]]> credit card]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Plastiq is a credit card comparison website for South African consumers. Plastiq can help you compare different credit cards in South Africa and allows you to apply for credit cards online .

Holidays in Cape Town

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 05:09:49 -0500

The Mother City Cape Town is like a little world within a city. Host to some of the worlds’ most luxurious accommodation and award-winning gourmet cuisine, Cape Town is an entertainment and cultural hub that boasts strong heritage alongside exquisite beauty. Explore the Outdoors Once you choose Cape Town as your next holiday destination, prepare to be spoilt. The menu of outdoor activities alone is endless. The city centre sits at the foot of the iconic Table Mountain. Take the cable car up the mountain and enjoy a glass of chardonnay whilst overlooking the Peninsula. If you enjoy a challenge, you will have fun walking up one of the many winding paths – and maybe even abseiling your way down. Alternatively, you can hike up Signal Hill and watch the sunrise, explore nature in Newlands forest or sunbathe on one of Clifton’s famous beaches. Treat yourself and embark a charter yacht, which will take you on a Cape coastline tour that includes Hout Bay harbour, Robben Island and Muizenburg. The yacht then anchors just off Camps Bay, and champagne and snacks are served. Cape Town’s history plays a key role in contributing to the city’s personality. **End Summary** Topics: cape town holiday]]> luxury hotel accommodation]]> restaurant]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Enjoy luxury Cape Town accommodation at the Taj Cape Town. Situated in the heart of Cape Townâs city centre, the hotel is in close proximity to many of the cityâs attractions . The Taj hotel offers gourmet dining, an exclusive spa and an exclusive cigar lounge, making it the perfect stay for your next Cape Town holiday.

Get Married in Cape Town

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 05:08:00 -0500

Planning your special day Planning your wedding can be an overwhelming task. Creating the perfect fairytale wedding and turning your lifelong dream into reality can create great pressure. Begin by selecting a wedding venue, as this will set the theme and tone of your big day. Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, offering a magical backdrop for your wedding, with grand mountains, lush forests and pristine beaches. The list of exquisite wedding reception venues ranges from five star hotels and restaurants, to wine farms and historical monuments. There are even a handful of unique and enchanting locations that might capture your attention. United in nature Share your romantic wedding ceremony with your loved ones on a small beach situated between Camps Bay and Bakoven. The white sand, crystal clear water and sun-kissed boulders make for a memorable setting for exchanging vows as the sun sets on the horizon. Following the ceremony you and your guests will wine, dine and dance to your hearts’ content at the wedding reception held at the famous Roundhouse restaurant. **End Summary** Topics: cape town wedding]]> venues]]> married]]> location]]> reception]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> The Taj Cape Town is a luxurious wedding venue situated at the heart of the city centre. The hotel will take care of all your wedding requirements, including catering and accommodation. The bride can enjoy world class spa treatments in preparation for her big day.

Enjoy Christmas in Cape Town

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 05:06:21 -0500

Celebrating the Christmas season in Cape Town is a gift in itself, with surprises at every turn. The festive season is synonymous with family unity and celebration. Cape Town is a great family destination and a wonderful place to celebrate. The city’s hospitality and warm culture will make you feel right at home. The Mother City offers a wealth of activities which will keep you and your family happily entertained for the duration of your stay. Be it wining and dining at a five star restaurant, strolling through the V&A Waterfront or singing Christmas carols beneath the stars, Cape Town promises a magical Christmas holiday. Gifts from nature Cape Town has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with soft white sand and turquoise waters. While you relax and soak up the African sun, the kids can build sand castles and or play beach sports. Clifton Fourth Beach is always teeming with locals and tourists, and is situated next to the famous La Med Restaurant, which serves delicious Mediterranean food as well as some of the city’s best cocktails – agreat way to watch the sun set on the horizon. **End Summary** Topics: christmas cape town]]> december summer activities]]> holiday]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> The Taj Cape Town is a luxurious five star hotel situated in the city centre. Celebrate the festive season with Tajâs Festive Season Packages and be treated to gourmet cuisine and world class facilities at the Jiva Spa .

Five Star Cape Town

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 05:04:47 -0500

The first governor of the Cape Colony, Simon van der Stel, made time in his busy schedule to establish the Cape’s first wine estate, Groot Constantia. Luxury, in other words, has been part of the Cape Town social landscape since its very inception. Firmly established as a destination for the world’s jet set, Cape Town’s historical elegance is now more than matched by the city’s penchant for contemporary chic. Wine and Dine These days, a visit to a wine estate is a chance to experience both. Most of the Cape’s wineries are a short drive from Cape Town, but there are some excellent estates in the city. Buitenverwachting, Constantia Uitsig and Governor van der Stel’s Groot Constantia all make elegant wines right in the forested suburb of Constantia. If you’re looking for luxury dining, Cape wineries have expanded into haute cuisine and generally have outstanding restuarants. Constantia Uitsig’s La Colombe might be the most lauded winery restaurant in the country. Cape Town tends to dominate the fine dining accolades in South Africa. The Eat Out Top 10 best restaurants list is always heavily populated by Cape eateries, with highest honours in 2009 going to La Colombe. **End Summary** Topics: cape town]]> luxury]]> five star dining]]> restaurant travel hotel]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> For deluxe accommodation, the Taj Cape Town is a luxury Cape Town hotel conveniently situated in the cityâs buzzing city centre. Guest of the Taj are ideally situated to explore Cape Town are close to many of the cityâs finest restaurants and attractions.

Luxury Hotel Accommodation in Cape Town

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 04:59:16 -0500

Because Cape Town is such a desirable international destination, there is an enormous variety of accommodation, even at the very top of the range. Whether you desire luxury seaside villas, trendy boutique hotels, new world bling or old world elegance, Cape Town has the right exclusive hotel for you. The important thing to bear in mind is that luxury accommodation should be chosen carefully. There is little point opting for a premium product if it does not suit you exactly. Here are some points to bear in mind when choosing luxury hotel accommodation in Cape Town. Dining in Cape Town has a reputation for culinary excellence. This is attributable to the quality of local produce, a discerning local and international clientele and a host of passionate, talented chefs and proprietors. Foodies will want to devote a good portion of their stay exploring Cape Town’s cafes, restaurant and markets. For ultimate luxury and convenience, make sure your luxury hotel contains at least one good restaurant. The city’s finer establishments also have elegant bars where you can enjoy Cape wine or hip cocktails. **End Summary** Topics: cape town]]> luxury hotel accommodation]]> restaurant]]> spa]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> The Taj Cape Town is conveniently situated in the Cape Town city centre. The Taj hotel provides luxury Cape Town accommodation with deluxe dining, including the luxurious Mint restaurant and the Bombay Brasserie, which serves Speciality Indian cuisine.

The most effective treatment for alcohol and drug addiction

Wed, 03 Nov 2010 10:01:40 -0400

Like any addiction, drug and alcohol addiction are symptoms of often complex underlying problems within the addicted individual. Drug addicts or alcoholics do not need to be punished or issued with ultimatums. In fact, this is one of the worst ways to attempt to change a drug addict or alcoholic’s behaviour. The first step in treating drug and alcohol addiction starts with the addict themselves; they need to acknowledge that they have a problem and that they have lost control over their lives. Once this has occurred, the addict can seek help through counselling and treatment. The most effective treatment for alcohol and drug addiction can be found at an extended primary care rehab facility. Long-term residential care has been show to be the most effective method of treating addictions. Dealing with the root of addiction Treating alcohol or drug addiction should not only deal with the symptoms, that is the “using”. Taking drugs or drinking alcohol are not the root of the problem, they are a symptom of the fundamental problem. **End Summary** Topics: effective treatment]]> drug]]> alcohol]]> addiction]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Contact Oasis Counselling Centre to discover more about the drug and alcohol treatment facilities we offer at our addiction centre in South Africa .

What is addiction?

Wed, 03 Nov 2010 09:59:41 -0400

In the past addiction was thought of as being a failure of will power or as a character flaw in the addicted individual. However, we now know that addiction is actually a disease with psychological and social aspects. People with an addiction do not have control over what they are doing or using. The disease of addiction manifests itself in many ways, whether drugs, alcohol or unhealthy relationships – addictive behaviours are all symptomatic of the underlying condition. Many people drink alcohol or may experiment with drugs without becoming addicts. There is a difference between a habit and an addiction. A habit is done by choice. The person with the habit can choose to stop, and can successfully choose not to resume their habit. The psychological and physical component is not an issue as it is with an addiction. The disease of addiction Addiction is a progressive disease, meaning that it becomes worse over time. Eventually, addiction will reach a point at which it is no longer manageable and it becomes harmful to the addict and possibly those around them. Addicts usually experience emotional problems or difficulty coping with their lives. **End Summary** Topics: what addiction disease treatment counselling oasis]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Oasis Counselling Centre is an addiction treatment centre in Plettenberg Bay, South Africa. Oasis offers provides holistic treatment for addiction, including group therapy and a twelve step programme .

Eating disorders and treatment

Mon, 11 Oct 2010 10:28:31 -0400

Eating disorders can express themselves in many, sometimes apparently opposite, ways. This is because eating disorders, like other addictions and compulsive behaviours, are caused by underlying emotional problems, rather than by the food itself. That is why it is not surprising that some people develop disorders such as anorexia while others struggle with binge eating. Either disorder needs to be treated for the direct harm that misusing food can cause; but effective, lasting treatment requires recognition of the root causes of the behaviours and treatments designed to help overcome these problems. Anorexia Most addictive behaviours involve habitual overindulgence in a particular activity. Anorexia nervosa manifests itself in obsessive avoidance of food. Anorexics have an obsession with avoiding weight gain, owing to an unhealthy self-image. Such extreme self-deprivation is itself dangerous, but anorexia is also symptomatic of a very unhealthy state of mind. Families of people suffering from anorexia are often alarmed by the obvious damage done to the sufferer"��s body. Proper treatment will address physical concerns as an urgent priority while paying no less attention to the mental anxieties that cause the damaging behaviour. Binge eating Some people suffer from an addiction to unhealthy eating behaviours, like compulsive overeating disorder. **End Summary** Topics: eating disorder treatment]]> recovery therapy]]> food]]> anorexia]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Oasis Counselling Centre is an treatment for eating disorders, including ...

Addiction recovery programmes

Mon, 11 Oct 2010 10:25:22 -0400

Addiction is a serious disease that needs to be treated by professionals. Treatment for addiction differs from many other kinds of treatment in that it often requires a significant mental and emotional effort on the part of the addict in order for treatment to be effective. Choosing the right addiction recovery programmes is vital both in order to support the patient during treatment, and to increase the likelihood that the addiction treatment will be successful. Before treatment can commence, addicts need to cease their addictive behaviour. Successful treatment for addiction must address the underlying emotional and spiritual problems faced by the addict. Without tackling the underlying causes of addiction, treatment will not be successful in the long term. This is why therapy is recommended for people who want to overcome their addiction. Therapy may take the form of individual or group sessions, or a combination of both. Group therapy Group therapy has the advantage of providing addicts with peer support and helping them to understand that they are not alone, and that their problems are not unique. This can be a tremendous source of comfort and emotional strength, which is particularity important during the initial, very difficult, stages of cessation. **End Summary** Topics: addiction recovery programme]]> therapy group]]> treatment]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Oasis Counselling Centre is an addiction treatment centre in Plettenberg Bay, South Africa. Oasis offers holistic addiction recovery programmes that include a 12 Step program and a focus on healthy, balanced living.

What to Look for in a Funeral Plan

Fri, 08 Oct 2010 04:45:34 -0400

Choose a funeral plan that best suits your particular needs and budget. Planning ahead for unexpected events such as an untimely death may seem like a morbid undertaking, but it is a necessary precaution, especially for those with dependants. Protect your family from the financial implications of planning a funeral by finding an affordable funeral insurance policy that suits your budget and family needs. Things to consider when choosing a funeral plan When researching the market for funeral plan options, there are many considerations to bear in mind. Make certain that your funeral plan is sold by an authorised financial services provider. Select a reputable insurance company that has been in existence for many years, offering reliable long-term cover. Assess your individual requirements before selecting a plan. You may require cover for yourself, your spouse and your dependents, or in addition you may wish to cover your parents and parents-in-law. Seek funeral plans that offer low premiums for each additional relative. Look out for practical funeral plans that offer useful benefits over and above a cash payout to cover funeral expenses. **End Summary** Topics: affordable funeral plan]]> policy]]> south africa]]> insurance]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Hollard Funeral provides quality funeral plans in South Africa , enabling individuals to secure a dignified funeral, while relieving their loved-oneâs of financial obligations. Contact Hollard today to discuss an individualised funeral policy.

Things to Consider when Planning a Funeral

Fri, 08 Oct 2010 04:41:46 -0400

Everyone has the right to a dignified funeral, where they will be praised and honoured in the presence of family and friends. Death is one of life’s poignant inevitabilities. When faced with the unfortunate responsibility of planning a funeral, one needs to consider several legal, financial and organisational obligations. Steps for planning a funeral One of the first steps in the funeral planning process is to ascertain whether or not the deceased has a funeral insurance policy, and if so, establish the details and cover of the plan. Grief-stricken family members will be relieved of financial burdens during a traumatic time, should there be a funeral insurance policy in place. Secondly, it is important to obtain a copy of the last will and testament. This document will stipulate any special requests concerning funeral arrangements. The deceased’s pre-determined burial or cremation preference can be established, and you and your family can begin to arrange their final farewell. For legal and funeral planning purposes it is essential to obtain copies of the death certificate and to apply for a burial permit, if it is the chosen procedure. **End Summary** Topics: funeral planning]]> affordable insurance policy]]> burial]]> plan]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Hollard Funeral offers a range of affordable funeral plans in South Africa , tailored to the needs and budgets of our clients. Contact Hollard Funeral to discover the right funeral plan for you and your family.

Do I need Funeral Cover if I have Life Insurance?

Fri, 08 Oct 2010 04:39:58 -0400

Choose insurance options that will provide your family with financial security. It is important to understand the difference between funeral cover and life insurance policies, to determine if one is sufficient without the other. Payout time frames and terms of cover can significantly influence your decision and assist you in making the right choice. What is the difference between life insurance and a funeral plan? Life insurance is distinctly different from a funeral policy. When you take out a life insurance policy, you are required to pay a predetermined amount of money to an insurance company at regular intervals. The policy pays out a lump sum to a nominated beneficiary after your death, based on the terms and conditions of your contract. This amount will provide financial support to your family members and settle any of your outstanding debt. Funeral policy holders pay low monthly premiums for varying amounts of cover, one can choose to cover one person or the whole family. A funeral plan is a type of insurance that covers the immediate costs associated with a funeral. **End Summary** Topics: funeral cover]]> life insurance]]> policy plan]]> death]]> ]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Hollard Funeral is an authorised financial services provider that offers excellent funeral plans in South Africa . Contact Hollard today for a professional consultation and advice on the best insurance plan for you and your family.

Funeral Plans in South Africa

Thu, 07 Oct 2010 09:09:45 -0400

Funeral plans are affordable way to cover the costs of a dignified burial, and provide peace of mind for your loved ones during times of grief. Just like many other types of insurance, funeral insurance exists to protect people against unmanageable expenses during stressful and traumatic times. Just as you’d take out life, disability or income insurance to protect your family, so should you take out funeral cover, thus ensuring continued financial security for you or your loved ones during life’s trying times. Today, the cost of a funeral can amount to many thousands of rands. Should you or a member of your immediate family die, the expense of a funeral can add to an already heavy burden. Thankfully, a range of funeral plans have been created to address the significant financial demands of a funeral – demands that may otherwise be placed on your or your loved ones’ shoulders. Below, different types of funeral plans in South Africa are outlined. Explore these options to find the one that will best meet your burial cover requirements. Funeral plans are necessary and affordable, and by applying for one, you can spare your loved ones from additional worry and strife. **End Summary** Topics: funeral plan]]> south africa]]> affordable insurance]]> policy]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Hollard Funeral offers a range of affordable funeral plans in South Africa , tailored the needs and budgets of our clients. Contact Hollardâs friendly and knowledgeable consultants today to discover the right funeral plan for you and your family.

Funeral Insurance Policy Benefits

Thu, 07 Oct 2010 09:07:12 -0400

Taking out a funeral insurance policy could provide many valuable benefits for your family during their time of need. If you’ve ever spent some time considering funeral insurance, you’ll know that a burial plan serves to cover the cost of a funeral – from the coffin and flowers to catering for the mourners. But did you know that funeral insurance can also offer affiliated benefits that provide additional support to you or your loved ones, over and above covering the costs of a funeral? Funeral plans available today can often be augmented by a range of additional benefits that provide financial support to family members during this difficult time. In the period following a death, the last thing a bereaved individual wants to think about is finances – but it’s often during this time that pressing financial needs arise. Simply covering the costs of a funeral may not be enough. Read on to discover the types of benefits that a good quality funeral plan can provide, and to find out why these are important. Why do I need additional funeral plan benefits? The cost of a funeral is not the only expense incurred when a loved one dies. **End Summary** Topics: benefit]]> funeral insurance]]> policy plan]]> advantage]]> death]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Hollard Funeral is an authorised provider of funeral insurance in South Africa , and offers affordable funeral plans to cater to your individual requirements, as well as a range of additional funeral plan benefits for you and your loved ones. Contact us to discuss a tailor-made funeral plan for you and your family.

Do I Need a Funeral Plan?

Thu, 07 Oct 2010 09:04:07 -0400

Are you considering taking out burial cover? Here’s why you may need funeral insurance for you and your loved ones. For everyone, death is an inevitable part of life, yet the costs of a funeral are seldom taken into account. Contemplating this expense is indeed one of life’s more unpleasant considerations, but it’s an essential part of sensible financial planning – particularly for those with dependents. If you’re not sure whether you need a burial plan, this article will provide valuable insight. Below, explore the types of individuals for whom funeral insurance is recommended. Continue reading to discover whether you fall into any of these categories – and, if so, how you can find an affordable burial plan that will provide the dignified funeral you or your loved ones deserve. Individuals who require funeral plans • Primary breadwinners If you’re the primary breadwinner in your household, it’s essential to have burial cover in place – especially if you have little or no life insurance. Given the high costs of a funeral, your burial could place unmanageable financial strain on your family. **End Summary** Topics: funeral plan]]> burial]]> bereavement]]> insurance cover]]> Hollard]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Hollard Funeral provides quality funeral plans in South Africa , enabling individuals to secure affordable burial cover and valuable funeral benefits for their loved ones. Contact Hollard today to discuss an individualised funeral plan.

Preparing for the Inevitable

Thu, 07 Oct 2010 02:42:35 -0400

Nothing is certain except death and taxes. Unfortunately, at least half of that well-worn declaration is beyond dispute. Death may not be a pleasant topic to dwell on, but it is an inevitable part of life. By preparing for the inevitable now, it is possible to minimise the logistical and financial burden of dealing with the death of a loved one and ensure that funeral and other arrangements are conducted with dignity. A dignified burial honours the deceased. Perhaps more important, it helps family and friends come to terms with their loss. This is an important consideration when deciding potential funeral arrangements for oneself. However modest your personal wishes may be, consideration should also be taken for the needs of your loved ones when you die. The funeral service, tombstone and memorial ceremony should not be considered a testament to the vanity of the deceased. These services have a powerful symbolic value that can help console mourners. Financial considerations The fact is that a decent funeral is expensive. On top of wanting to provide for your family when you die, it is sensible to take specific measures to provide the money and resources to pay for a funeral. **End Summary** Topics: funeral preparations plan]]> insurance]]> organising]]> burial]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Hollard Funeral provides quality funeral insurance in South Africa ensuring your family has immediate cash funds available when they need it most to pay for a funeral and related expenses. A range of optional funeral plan benefits are also available. Contact Hollard for a funeral insurance quote to suit your needs.

Optional Funeral Plan Benefits

Thu, 07 Oct 2010 02:40:33 -0400

A funeral plan is a crucial aspect of long-term financial planning. A sufficiently flexible funeral insurance policy will have a number of options so that you can choose the level of coverage that suits you best. However, it is not always obvious what level of coverage is appropriate. You can make the right choices by investigating the options available and discussing your cover with an insurance broker. When choosing funeral insurance, it is important to consider how much cover is included in the standard policy, and how flexible the funeral policy is – what optional benefits are offered. A funeral policy will generally pay out a cash amount – in the form of a lump sum, in installments, or both – in the event of the death or serious injury of the insured. Some insurers offer funeral policies that can be customised to individual requirements. Ideally, you will be able to choose the benefit options that suit you, and not elect to pay for extraneous benefits. When choosing funeral plan benefits, your broker should assist you in making the right decision. **End Summary** Topics: funeral plan benefits]]> options]]> optional insurance groceries]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Hollard Funeral provides competitive funeral insurance in South Africa. Hollard Funeral is extremely flexible, offering a number of optional funeral plan benefits to suit all of your coverage needs.

Estate Planning

Thu, 07 Oct 2010 02:38:26 -0400

Death is a sad inevitability. Have you considered what would happen to your family if you were to die unexpectedly? Would they have access to the resources and funds that they need, and would your estate be executed according to your wishes? Preparing for the inevitable It’s possible to add funeral plans into your estate planning or will. Funeral and estate planning are similar in that they can make your funeral much easier for your loved ones, as they won't have to fear the legal hassles which could follow your death if you haven’t made proper provisions. When a loved one dies, it’s hard enough for the family without the added stress of financial uncertainty. Often the deceased’s assets, including the money in their bank account, are frozen and may be inaccessible for quite some time until all their affairs are in order. It makes sense to plan accordingly to make sure that your family is well taken care of financially and that your final wishes are carried out in a dignified and fitting fashion. Planning and budgeting for a funeral The expense of a funeral alone can significantly add to the family’s burden. **End Summary** Topics: estate planning]]> budgeting]]> funeral insurance]]> will executor]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Hollard Funeral provides affordable funeral insurance in South Africa. A cash lump sum payment upon the death of the insured will assist the beneficiaries with the financial burden that often accompanies a death. A number of optional funeral plan benefits are also available, including the Monthly Provider benefit.

Choosing a Funeral Home

Thu, 07 Oct 2010 02:36:19 -0400

Like any other important consumer decision, it makes sense to shop around before choosing a funeral home. This may sound morbid, but it can prevent you from having to pay excessive fees and from receiving poor service. If possible, look for a funeral home that is conveniently located, close to where you live and that is accessible to guests. Particularly if there are visitors from out of town, transporting guests can be a hassle. This can be aggravated if the funeral home is far away or difficult to find. There should be adequate facilities to ensure the comfort of guests, such as sufficient parking, seating for elderly guests, and adequate bathroom facilities. It is also important that the funeral home provides a comfortable environment, where mourners feel at ease. It is most helpful to see the site of the ceremony yourself, but it may also be possible to rely on the referral of a trusted friend. Helpful staff The benefit of helpful and friendly staff cannot be overstated. Not only will they make the funeral a much calmer process, their professionalism will aid with the smooth-running of the service. **End Summary** Topics: funeral preparations]]> plan]]> insurance]]> organising]]> burial]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Hollard Funeral are trusted providers of funeral insurance in South Africa . With funeral insurance from Hollard Funeral you are able to choose from a range of funeral benefits that suit you, without compromising on a dignified burial.

Bereavement Counselling

Thu, 07 Oct 2010 02:34:27 -0400

Bereavement counselling can be helpful after the death of a family member or loved one. Grief counselling is not always necessary or even appropriate, but can greatly aid mourners suffering from unusually severe or protracted grief. Grief is normal following the death of a loved one. In extreme cases, this can result in disabling trauma, requiring therapy. But even normal bereavement can sometimes be difficult to cope with. In these cases, bereavement counselling can assist sufferers to manage their grief and not suffer undue impairment to their ordinary lives. The effects of bereavement can take time to fully manifest. Some people only feel a need for counselling some time after the death. It is worth emphasising that this, too, is a normal reaction, and mourners should have no compunction about seeking help when they feel they need it. Family and society A person’s social networks can be a tremendous help at a time of bereavement. Close family support and cultural consolations all play a part in coping with grief. But regardless of a person’s background, it is not possible to predict how such a traumatic event will affect each person, and anomalous responses are to be expected. **End Summary** Topics: bereavement counseling]]> grief]]> death]]> funeral]]> trauma]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Hollard Funeral provides flexible funeral insurance in South Africa , enabling family members to arrange a funeral easily and with dignity. Contact Hollard Funeral today to discuss a comprehensive funeral policy .

Guaranteed Investment

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 05:01:40 -0400

Choosing the right investment is about balancing risk with reward. Equity-linked investments can fluctuate in value, making them unpredictable. Guaranteed investments allow you to make your money work with the assurance of stability. This means you can be sure of getting returns on your investment without taking risks on your future - or risking the financial security of your loved ones. Different investors have different requirements. Whether you are looking to ensure your future financial security or are a high-risk investor looking to safeguard a portion of your wealth, there is a place for guaranteed investments in your portfolio. And, as many guaranteed investments options are paid out with no tax obligation, they can be a tax-effective way to grow wealth. In these uncertain economic times, people are less willing to risk their capital. However, merely holding one's capital in a savings account offers little or no opportunity to create wealth. Guaranteed investments are a way for investors to get assured growth without exposing their money to the many of the risks often associated with investment. Freedom to plan for the future Life is unpredictable - but a guaranteed investment lends stability to your portfolio. **End Summary** Topics: guaranteed income]]> investment]]> assured]]> retirement]]> lump sum]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Hollard Wealth Management provides a complete range of savings and investment programmes. Hollard Wealth Management offers a number of specialised guaranteed investment products to its clients in South Africa.

Credit Card Calculators

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 04:19:15 -0400

Credit cards are a good way to manage spending. Comprehensive statements makes it possible to keep track of every purchase, and simple-to-use credit card calculators make working out the rate of repayment straightforward. How can a credit card calculator help me? Using credit prudently often comes down to balancing the benefits of an extended repayment time with the cost-effectiveness of making repayments quickly. This might sound complicated, but it is really quite simple: The sooner you settle your credit card account, the less interest you will pay. On the other hand, it may be more practical and convenient to make smaller payments over a longer period of time. A credit card calculator makes it easy to determine the benefits and costs of each approach. This is clearly illustrated by a hypothetical example. Suppose you owe R5000 at an interest rate of 17%. If you want to repay this amount within six months, you will have to pay at least R875.14 each month. If you were to pay the minimum repayment each month, the total amount paid after six months would be R5166. **End Summary** Topics: plastiq]]> credit cards]]> credit card calculator]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Plastiq lets customers compare credit cards and apply for credit cards online in South Africa. Use Plastiqâs credit card calculator to calculate the total outstanding amount on your credit card.

Credit Card FAQs

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 03:30:50 -0400

What is the difference between a debit card and a credit card? When you spend with a debit card, the amount is deducted directly from the money deposited in your savings or cheque account. A credit card effectively allows you to borrow money from your bank for each transaction. When you spend with your credit card, the bank is extending credit for the amount spent. In return, you agree to repay that money over a certain period. How is interest charged? Many credit card accounts offer an interest-free period. This means that if your account is paid in full on or before the due date, you will not be charged interest. If you have not settled your account within the interest-free period, you will be charged interest on the outstanding balance from the time your transactions were made until the account is settled. If you do not settle your account, you will continue to be charged interest on the remaining balance and on any new transactions. When the outstanding balance is repaid, the interest-free period is reset, and you can again use your card without paying interest, provided you repay this amount within the interest-free period. **End Summary** Topics: plastiq]]> credit cards]]> credit card information]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Plastiq allows customers to compare credit cards and apply for credit cards online in South Africa. Personal credit cards make shopping simple and convenient and are an excellent financial management tool.