Gainful Effects of Animated Presentations

Any boring topic under the sun is bound to put the reader, the viewer or the listener into slumber in no time. But watch the difference once that very same subject is presented in an illustrated colourful manner. With attention as never before, the eyes would pop out while the ears stretch to no ends to hear what is being said! Yes, that is the amazing power of an illustrated or a graphical presentation. This has been further enhanced with the advent of the animation which reportedly dates back to over 5000 years, according to historians of art.

However, it was in the 19th century that numerous developments were witnessed in this illusory arena of animation, courtesy the techniques of cinema-photography with audio effects. Almost every 2D animation company in USA contributed to this advancement, Subsequent progress in this science even resulted in the relevant presentations shaped in two dimensional (2-D) formats. And today, computer technology has enabled this art to appear in three dimensional (3-D) and also four dimensional (4-D) shapes. All these have found extensive applications in modern era of learning and teaching, better known as e-learning.

Right from K-12 (kindergarten to high school XII standard level) and games to corporate training modules, an animated medium has proved to be the most impressive presentation. But to make it ‘impressive' is no child's play since 2D animation character design involves apex of acumen in artistic and creative traits. And the designer needs to know thoroughly as to what is the essence of message being conveyed, to whom and in what context. As such the following factors play the crucial role in the development of the animation character:

Identifying the target audience
Relevant spots or slots for the animated character
Relating the character in the most modern modes
Making it distinctive vis-à-vis features and colours
Consistency in the facial and other features of personality traits
Adding an element of life into characteristics to give each animated character a distinctive personality
Appropriate tools/software to ensure no distortion whatsoever in the animation of a character in the entire presentation
Focus on facial expressions in tune with the orated words or scripted content
Scope for flexibility of the animated character

On this score, there are companies in India who have excelled in the art of animation and incorporated their creative characters in varying themes to perfection. One of them based in Delhi NCR has earned global recognition in developing highly interactive and engaging content that can be even delivered through various traditional and newer platforms like mobile sets and tablets. As a result this company has become an active media development partner for leading publications and resource agencies in the segment of K-12 training programmes, both at home and overseas.

As an industry in India, animation has been in great demand among the producers of audio-video advertisements and commercial cinema, better known as Bollywood. A recent survey had revealed India will continue to be a cost effective and high quality delivery partner for providing outsourcing services to global animation market.

You don't protect your eyes

Shades aren't only a style proclamation they're basic to keeping your eyes safe from UV beams. Verify your shades offer UV insurance, in light of the fact that some reasonable styles don't have the defensive covering. "Without it, the dim lenses really permit your understudies to widen, permitting significantly more UV beams in, which can assume a major part in waterfall advancement," says Dr. Sherber. At long last, a wellbeing motivation to purchase a couple of decent shades!

You skip it if you're going to be in the shade

Looking for comfort under a shoreline umbrella or an overhang close to the pool doesn't mean you're getting sufficient security from the sun. Why? Sand and water both reflect harming beams, and 34% of UV radiation gets past when you're under a shoreline umbrella, "so despite everything you need to apply sunscreen in case you're sitting under spread," says Dr. Graf. Regardless of the possibility that you don't get a sunburn, despite everything you're getting UV presentation.

You use an old bottle

you're sufficiently utilizing sunscreen when applying—recollect that shot glass-worth, or those two layers of shower?—then having containers remaining from years past shouldn't be a lot of an issue. Be that as it may, on the off chance that you happen to have sunscreen that has been waiting for a long time or more, Dr. Graf says to throw it, since it can lose its viability after some time

You don't reapply often enough

It may feel like you did your due diligence by applying sunscreen once, but it's not a day-long cloak of immunity. Reapplying it just as important as putting it on in the first place. How often? "Every 80 minutes, even if it's water-resistant," says Dr. Graf.

You chose an SPF that's too low

tanning oil with SPF 8 in fact is sunscreen, however its sufficiently not assurance. The Skin Cancer Foundation prescribes utilizing expansive range sunscreen with at any rate SPF 15. Be that as it may, would it be advisable for you to go higher? Some say the regularly pricier high-SPF sunscreens are a misuse of cash, since they don't give considerably more security SPF 30 obstructs 97% of beams, while SPF 50 squares only 1% more. On the other hand, they do have some advantage.

"They retain all the more free radical-delivering vitality, so I prescribe them for the mid year," Dr. Graf says. One admonition before you go after the SPF 100: "The super-high SPFs can give an incorrect feeling that all is well with the world, similar to you're secured for more, however you have to reapply pretty much as frequently as you would a SPF 30."

You don't use a broad-spectrum formula

It used to be that numerous sunscreens just blocked UVB beams, the high-vitality kind in charge of sunburns. Be that as it may, protecting against UVA beams is pretty much as critical, says Dr. Graf, in light of the fact that they "enter the skin all the more profoundly, are consistent as the year progressed, and cause untimely maturing." Umm, pass! To be completely secured, search for sunscreens marked "wide range," which implies they ruin both sorts of beams. Furthermore, uplifting news: these equations are progressively turning into the standard.

You think you're safe indoors or in cars

Unless you decide to invest your energy in an austere shelter, you're not shielded from UV beams when you're inside. "Driving can be a noteworthy wellspring of coincidental presentation," says Dr. Sherber. "The windows and windshield piece UVB beams so you don't see a sunburn, yet UVA leaks right in, and that is the range that causes most ." Your most solid option: apply sunscreen each morning, then don't hesitate to sit by a window or take a drive! At any rate, attempt a lotion with SPF so you're not adding a stage to your every day schedule.

You don't use enough

The old administer about utilizing a shot glass worth of sunscreen each time you apply still holds up, says Dr. Graf. (That is around 1.5 ounces.) But now that a greater amount of us are deciding on nonstop splash equations, it can be difficult to tell in case we're truly sufficiently getting scope. To verify you're utilizing showers accurately, she proposes holding the can six inches from skin and splashing relentless, so you can see the dampness covering the whole region. "At that point rub it in—yes, regardless of the fact that the container says you don't need to—so you don't miss spots," Dr. Graf says. "Furthermore, rehash the shower a second time

You only use it when it's nice out

Risk! It may appear to be nonsensical to slather on sunscreen on a dim or drizzly day, however you can get UV presentation while never seeing the sun in the sky, says Dr. Graf. Eighty percent of UV beams still deliver the goods on shady days, as indicated by the American Academy of Dermatology, so don't let the climate influence your sunscreen utilization.

You use a body formula on your face

It's not only an advertising trick: There is a contrast between face- and body-particular sunscreens. "Facial skin is by and large more than body skin, so confront plans have been tried to bring about less bothering and not trigger pimple inflamation," says Dr. Sherber. "In case you're skin inflammation inclined or touchy, maintain a strategic distance from the body adaptations for your face, particularly the dry-touch splashes they're completely brimming with liquor, which is exceptionally drying and aggravating for facial skin."

You sweat (or rinse) it all off

The little print on your sunscreen name matters, so verify you're picking the right sunscreen for your action, particularly if that movement includes sweat, a pool, or the sea. "Verify you get a water-safe plan for swimming or exercises where you'll sweat, on the grounds that non-water-safe recipes can slide right off," says Dr. Sherber. "In addition, they have a tendency to specify relocate into eyes and sting, though water-safe ones won't."

You miss other key spots

Think you can spread sunscreen on your nose like a 1950s lifeguard and be secured? Shockingly, there are parcel of more subtle territories individuals have a tendency to overlook and they're generally as critical to secure, Dr. Graf says. "The most normally missed territories are toes and feet, including the bottoms of your feet; underarms; back of the neck under the hairline; ears, particularly the tops and back of your ears; eyelids; and internal upper arms." Put that stuff all over.

You don't protect your lips

Much the same as whatever remains of your skin, lips are defenseless against UV beams, so its amazingly vital to utilize sunscreen on your mouth, Dr. Graf says. In any case, don't utilize the same stuff you use on whatever is left of your body—it tastes odd and won't keep going that long on your lips at any rate. So attempt a lip medicine with SPF, which is thicker so it keeps focused. "At that point reapply significantly more much of the time than you do body sunscreen, since talking, eating, and drinking uproots the sunscreen on your lips speedier," she say

You apply sunscreen around your clothes

Skin disease can strike anyplace, so its best to apply sunscreen when you're buck exposed. Something else, "in the event that you as of now have a bathing suit or attire on, you're liable to apply it carefully so you don't get it on your garments, which makes you prone to miss a spot or not make a difference generously enough," says Noelle Sherber, MD, a counseling dermatologist for the Johns Hopkins Scleroderma Center. Strip down before a full-length mirror, she says, which "aides guarantee you totally cover dubious spots like the mid-back and backs of the legs." (And you ought to apply before going outside

You wait until you're outside to apply sunscreen

What number of individuals have you seen get to the shoreline, spread out their covers, strip down to their bathing suits, and after that begin slathering ceaselessly? "You really need to apply your sunscreen 30 minutes preceding introduction," says Jeannette Graf, MD, colleague clinical teacher of dermatology at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York. That way, it has sufficient energy to get retained and begin working—thus you don't get UV introduction for those initial couple of minutes when you

15 Biggest Sunscreen Mistakes

At this point, you most likely realize that you ought to utilize sunscreen consistently both to help lessen your danger of skin tumor and to forestall troublesome wrinkles, dull spots, and different indications of untimely maturing. Yet even individuals who do slather it on religiously commit possibly hazardous errors. Here are the most widely recognized ways you're fouling up with sunscreen—and how to really shield yourself from UV beam

Best and Worst Foods for Sex 1

Numerous seared and quick nourishments have large amounts of "awful fats, for example, immersed and trans fat, which can contrarily influence your heart and block blood stream because of a construct up of greasy plaque in the supply routes.

Additionally, broiled potatoes, for example, French fries, have been related (alongside different sustenances) with a more serious danger of sort 2 diabetes, which is known not sexual wellbeing issues in both men and ladies.

Backtalk says the sort of oil used to broil the nourishment is key. "On the off chance that its singed in part of the way hydrogenated oil it would have trans fat (more awful than immersed fat)," she says. "In the event that it was seared in a fluid plant oil, the (sustenance) may be low in immersed fat."

Best and Worst Foods for Sex 2

This famous summer organic product is low in calories, additionally high in possibly charisma boosting phytonutrients.

In 2008, Texas A&M exploration proposed that the lycopene, citrulline, and beta-carotene found in watermelon may help unwind veins, and give a characteristic improvement to revving up your sex drive.

Best and Worst Foods for Sex 3

Zinc is thought to be useful for sexual wellbeing (it can help testosterone and sperm creation in men) and the No. 1 source is shellfish. In any case, how frequently do you eat clams? Another source: Sesame seeds, says Sass.

Blend them into granola or sprinkle them into a solid stirfry, she says.

Some breakfast cereals likewise contain zinc, for example, Kellogg's All-Bran Complete Wheat Flakes. One serving (3/4 container) has more than 100% of the suggested day by day consumption.

Best and Worst Foods for Sex 4

Sweet potatoes are rich in potassium, which helps battle hypertension, which is connected with a higher danger of erectile brokenness.

They're likewise rich in beta-carotene, giving the body vitamin A, which is suspected (however not turned out to be) useful for those with barrenness.

Best and Worst Foods for Sex 5

While meat does give protein and zinc, meat likewise has a tendency to be high in immersed fat and cholesterol. A meat-substantial eating routine is connected with a higher danger of sort 2 diabetes, hypertension, and coronary illness, wellbeing conditions that can influence blood dissemination and sexual capacity.

Likewise, a little study distributed in 2006 in Chemical Senses proposed that eating meat, may bring about, ahem, a less alluring armpit stench. In the study, 17 men ate either a meat or non-meat diet for two weeks and after that exchanged. Ladies were requested that rate their engaging quality in light of smell alone (from armpit cushions worn by the men), and they had a tendency to incline toward non-meat eaters.

Best and Worst Foods for Sex 6

Almonds contain zinc, selenium, and vitamin E, which are vitamins and minerals that appear to be imperative for sexual wellbeing and propagation.

Selenium can help with fruitlessness issues and, with vitamin E, may help heart wellbeing. Zinc is a mineral that helps create men's sex hormones and can help charisma.

Blood stream is imperative for your sex organs, so picking great fats, for example, the omega-3 unsaturated fats found in almonds, is a smart thought.

Best and Worst Foods for Sex 7

These superfruits are rich in vitamin E, which has cancer prevention agent properties, potassium, and vitamin B6, which may forestall or delay coronary illness and advance better blood stream.

They're additionally a decent wellspring of heart-sound monounsaturated fats. Anything that helps your heart and flow can likewise be basic for a sound sexual coexistence. Men with coronary illness are twice as liable to have erectile brokenness in light of the fact that both conditions can come about because of course harm.

Best and Worst Foods for Sex 8

A glass of wine can make you feel casual and effusive out on the town, and its the social oil that frequently gets outsiders conversing with each other in a bar.

Be that as it may, actually, liquor can be one of the most noticeably bad things for your affection life. An excess of liquor hoses sexual yearning, abatements excitement and affectability, and may lower restraints prompting risky choices about sex.

Best and Worst Foods for Sex 9

We'll say it: Strawberries are attractive. Here's the reason. Great dissemination is thought to be critical for sexual working in both men and ladies, and strawberries are rich in cancer prevention agents that advantage your heart and corridors.

Also, they're rich in vitamin C, which alongside cancer prevention agents, has been connected to higher sperm numbers in men. Have a go at dunking the berries in dull chocolate, which contains methylxanthines that may actuate the charisma.

Best and Worst Foods for Sex 10

Libido-boosting foods

by Ashley Macha
It can take more than just a few candles and a Marvin Gaye song to feel sexy. A healthy lifestyle—from the food you eat to the exercise you do—can make you look and feel better, and improve your sex life, too. At the same time, some foods can be mood- and libido-killers.

"The link between food and sex drive isn’t just wishful thinking" says Cynthia Sass, RD, author of S.A.S.S Yourself Slim ($10-14; amazon.com). "Studies show that certain foods or nutrients do play a role in boosting libido and supporting a healthy sex life."

Here are a variety of foods that can put some sizzle—or fizzle—in your sex life.

HTC's rumoured tablet looks like a triumphant return

HTC is holding an event on April 8 and with the HTC One M9 out in the open, speculation is rife about what the Taiwanese manufacturer is going to unveil.

Rumours of HTC returning to the tablet market are particularly prominent right now, and new whispers suggest that HTC is again working on an upcoming slate. Not just a slate, but a rather impressive one.
Claimed specifications of HTC's tablet include an 8.9-inch glass display with a 1530 x 2048 resolution. The device will allegedly be powered by a 2.2GHz octa-core Allwinner H8 CPU, 2GB of RAM and a PowerVR SGX544 GPU for graphics.

Snap happy

Apparently the tablet will come with a choice of 16GB or 32GB internal storage, along with a rear-facing 16 megapixel camera and an 8 megapixel front-facing snapper.
The body is claimed to be just 7.88mm thin, with a 6700mAh battery and Android 5.0 pre-installed, along with front-facing stereo BoomSound speakers that are set to handle media duties.
According to the rumours there will be two versions available: one that's Wi-Fi only, and another which includes 4G LTE connectivity. The devices are apparently set to release as soon as May at a very competitive price point.
Mark April 8 in your diaries - it just got a lot more interesting.

Lenovo ThinkPad Yoga 12

Yes, another Lenovo hybrid! The Yoga 12 is a versatile bulldog of a device. You can use it as your work laptop. You can use it for play. It won't be the best pick for either of these tasks, but it won't stray too far from the upper tier either. At 3.4 pounds and 0.74 inches thick, it's just light and slim enough to claim portability. With more than seven hours of video playback, its battery is good enough to get through a workday, and it's affordably priced starting at just $845.
Packing a full HD display that can bend into four different modes, you'll enjoy this device's flexibility, even though it isn't the lightest or sexiest device on the planet. With that being said, it performs on par or better than any of the devices on this list.

Lenovo Yoga 2 Pro

With the Lenovo Yoga 2 Pro (starting at $1,099, £999, AU$1,599), we can now confirm that 3,200 x 1,800 pixels is delicious indeed. On top of the winning Yoga form factor, we loved the solid performance, backlit keyboard, and the snappy SSD, creating mobile device-like response times.
However, in our experience, a Haswell-based ultrabook this thin should run twice as long as the Yoga 2 Pro does on a full charge; we got about five hours in our testing. Even with cloud services like Google Drive, a 128GB SSD is hard to recommend for even your grandparents.
Drawbacks considered, the Yoga 2 Pro is a winner of a laptop, pure and simple. At the $1,000 price point, you could put the Yoga 2 Pro in just about anyone's hands and make them quite pleased.
For those of you who crave portability more than anything, Lenovo recently unveiled the new LaVie Z, which the company claims is the lightest convertible on the market. For those who want more power and don't mind a little heft, you could also check out the Lenovo Yoga 3 2014.

Lenovo IdeaPad Yoga 11S

The 11.6-inch Lenovo Yoga 11S (starting at around $799, £599, AU$1,299) laptop is a flexible machine that can fold over from a typical laptop stance to a stand position, to a position with the keyboard behind the screen, ready for delivering presentations.

It comes with HDMI, SD card and USB ports, and boasts a surprisingly impressive Intel Core i7 processor, 8GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD for storage. The screen is sharp and bright, though not full HD, and works well with Windows 8. It's also nicely light and small for portability. You can easily use the Yoga 11S as you would any other laptop, replete with a full QWERTY keyboard.

Asus Transformer Book T200

If you are looking for a combination of Windows laptop and tablet, the Asus Transformer Book T200 is a very appealing option that offers a fair amount for only $539 (£349, or AU$690).
The T200 is quiet, light, well built and feels responsive during normal usage. Battery life is excellent, so you won't find yourself hunting obsessively for charging points throughout the day. Its "smart" hard drive bay adds plenty of storage space alongside the speedy 32GB SSD, and despite having a disappointing resolution, the IPS display is at least vibrant with good viewing angles. Good connectivity in the form of USB 3.0 and RJ45 ports are welcome additions, with a reasonable pre-loaded software set finishing off the package nicely.
For those with a little more cash to splash, the Surface Pro 3 is a very appealing option that offers similar functionality in a slimmer form, and with much more power. Otherwise, if you are looking for something a little larger, Asus' 2013 13-inch Transformer Book TX300 comes with an i7 processor and a full-HD screen.

best 2-in-1 laptops 2015: top hybrid laptops reviewed

Microsoft's Windows 8 didn't just shake up the company's entire software empire, but the mobile computing industry as well.
Given the dualistic nature of the new Windows, laptop and tablet makers responded in kind with devices commonly known as 2-in-1 laptops, or hybrid laptops.
These are devices that are able to serve as both a laptop and a tablet, either in a detachable design that sees the touchscreen doubling as a tablet, or a convertible approach in which the notebook's hinge rotates 360 degrees for a similar effect. In the past, neither have been all that successful in providing both experiences in equal measure, but that's slowly changing.
Considering their similarity to Ultrabooks in terms of build quality, thinness and lightness, 2-in-1 laptops are generally priced in the same range: between $700 (about £450, AU$800) and $2,000 (around £1,169, AU$2,131). However, some manufacturers, like Acer, make budget hybrids, and there are even 2-in-1s designed specifically for the business user, like the Dell Venue 7000 series. However, the hybrid market is almost entirely catered toward consumer needs.
These are sleek, powerful devices that look good and serve multiple use cases to varying degrees of success. Obviously there are a ton of solid devices out there that narrowly missed the cut, such as the Asus Transformer Book Flip TP300LA, so there's no shortage of great devices for you to choose.
With that, here are the best 2-in-1 laptops that we've reviewed thus far.

Microsoft Surface Pro 3

The best tablet-laptop hybrid device yet released
This is not only Microsoft's most striking and versatile device to date, but the most convincing poster child for the hybrid category yet. And this ringing endorsement comes from a long-time skeptic of such devices.
That said, the Surface Pro 3 (starting at $799, £639, AU$979) is hamstrung by flaws that cannot be ignored. Namely, the battery life might be in line with most Ultrabooks, but isn't close to what Apple's leading laptop and top tablet. And the Type Cover billed as an accessory doesn't help Microsoft's cause – it's quite pricey to boot.
At any rate, this version of the tablet comes in cheaper than the most affordable iPad Air and 13-inch MacBook Air combined, even with the Type Cover, and that's the point. On paper, this slate is more powerful than either Apple device, not to mention most other comparably priced laptops and tablets. The Surface Pro 3 might not be perfect, but it's far and wide the brightest shining example of a potential tablet takeover. If you're not concerned about a downgraded performance, consider the new Surface 3, which doesn't provide as much kick as the Pro, but is lighter and a lot cheaper.
Read: Microsoft Surface Pro 3 review

The Asus Transformer Book T300 Chi is one of the first laptops to finally get the hybrid form factor right. Thanks to the use of a magnet latching system and Intel's fanless Core M processor, Asus has been able to produce a lighter tablet-laptop hybrid that's thin to boot.
The detachable Bluetooth keyboard also opens up a few alternative ways to use the device. Over the last few weeks, I propped up the screen while I used the keyboard as a remote for Netflix and stood the screen on its side, using it as a makeshift vertical screen. The best thing about all this is it's entirely seamless, letting you easily switch between tablet and laptop modes with ease.
There are a few things Asus didn't get right in this go around with the T300 Chi, namely the micro-sized ports. It has helped Asus shave down it's latest Transformer Book into a much more svelte profile, but you'll need to carry around a set of cables and adapters to plug in something as simple as a USB drive. With battery life averaging five hours and maxing out at six at best, you might want to look into a tablet or Chromebook for longer use cases. If you're looking for something similar, but less impressive and less expensive, you can always try the

You can now buy Project Tango without an invite

Google's test and inventive Undertaking Tango isn't generally a buyer item just yet, yet that doesn't mean you can't purchase it.

The slate, which utilizes cameras and a profundity sensor to guide out the space around it, is currently accessible to purchase without a welcome surprisingly.

You can lift it up from the Google Store and you'll need to pay $512 (around £334/AU$667) for the benefit. It's additionally US just until further notice, yet ideally it won't be too much sooner than it gets a more extensive rollout.

Unfulfilled potential

In case you're not in the US you're not passing up a major opportunity for excessively, as this is all that much an engineer gadget. Its 4GB of RAM is genuinely amazing however its cumbersome, has only a 7-inch screen and is stuck on Android KitKat.

There's a ton of potential here for future buyer applications however, from more immersive enlarged reality recreations, to definite inside maps, route devices for the outwardly disabled and then some.

The timing of its without welcome dispatch is intriguing as well, as with Google IO 2015 hours away there may wel

iPad Air 2 review

Update: Apple has offered up iOS 8.3 for the iPad Air 2, bringing with it performance improvements, new emojis and faster performance of things like the Control Center and Wi-Fi signal connection. We're currently putting the new software through our battery of tests, and will update the review imminently with the results!
It was hard to see how Apple could improve on the first iPad Air - arguably the finest tablet ever produced.
And then it went and did so with the iPad Air 2. You can talk all you like about what counts as "too thin" but there's no denying that this new tablet is a feat of engineering that again pushes the limits of what makes a premium slate. Plus, unlike the iPhone 6 Plus it doesn't bend either!
Not only that, but the relentless desire to make the thing thinner has resulted in a better screen too, as the layers that make up the backlight, touchscreen digitizer and LCD screen are so close that Apple now claims there is zero air in between them.
The result? A less reflective display that looks brighter and more colorful. And it really is.
There's the question of where the iPad Air 2 sits in the market, as it's US$499 (£399, AU$619) for the basic version, and you can pay up to US$829 (£659, AU$1,019) for the fully specced, Wi-Fi + 4G model.

But while that cost is high, it's no more than is being charged by Samsung or Sony for their comparable tablets.
Of course on contract it's ridiculously expensive, but then again I think most people will still want to buy the iPad Air 2 as a sofa-dwelling device, so the 4G option isn't going to be the real reason you buy this tablet.
I'll get onto the design in a moment - but it's worth noting that the design alone is a good reason to pick up the new iPad Air 2. It's super light, amazingly slim and will delight over and over again for the first fortnight of ownership, before you slip back to the standard tech nonchalance that creeps over us all eventually.
Did the iPad Air need to get thinner and more powerful? Not really - I'm already struggling to find must-have reasons for the improved A8X chip beyond a much faster interface and the promise of better apps and games to come - but once you actually handle the new iPad Air 2, you'll be sold.

Design

At 6.1mm thick, the Apple iPad Air 2 is easily one of the slimmest tablets on the market. It's not actually the thinnest, but we're at the point now where fractions of a millimetre really don't matter.
Thinness for its own sake can be an error - there is a point of diminishing returns where only marginal improvements can be achieved, at the cost of structural integrity, battery life and overall performance - but Apple hasn't reached that point yet.

The iPad Air 2 feels like a very solid tablet that can be held easily for hours without it getting uncomfortable. The iPad Air was hardly a big tablet, and the Samsung Galaxy Tab S matches the iPad Air 2 in weight, if not thickness.
Where the Apple device wins though is the overall packaging. Samsung's option is good, but clearly an assemblage of distinct parts. The plastic back, the larger-bezelled screen and the rim are all competing parts, where the iPad Air 2 is a complete package, smooth and easy to hold in one hand.
I was almost loath to put it in a case - it needs to be protected if you're going to be running it around town, as that back and chamfered edges will scuff up eventually - but if you're going to be a sofa-warrior with your new tablet, the Smart Cover will do just fine and won't obscure the impressive design.

The sad thing here is the loss of the silencing switch, which has departed due to size restrictions. Apple would argue that this is because the new Control Center makes the option available throughout the OS with just a flick of the hand, but in truth I'm really going to miss being able to silence the tablet without even looking.
The power button remains at the top and the volume keys have shuffled a little upwards now free of the silence key, but otherwise the only real design changes are the speaker grill at the bottom of the tablet (now a single row of holes, rather than the two before) and the Touch ID on the home key.
You'd be hard pressed to tell the difference between the iPad Air 2 and the iPad Air without a spotter's guide, but the iPad Air 2 has a deeper black bezel which helps enhance the picture - plus it now comes in gold to join space gray and silver.
The camera stays where it has been, both front and back, with the new 8MP iSight snapper not jutting out as it does on the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus. The fact no tablet camera needs to be that high res, nor should people be taking pics with a tablet anyway, is something to discuss in another article.
Does the iPad Air 2's design warrant the high price tag? Yes, more than any other tablet on the market. It brings a premium build, quality finish, great looks and while it doesn't need to be this thin, the structure doesn't seem to have had an effect on the actual performance of the tablet, and does add something in the palm.

10 steps to buy the best auto insurance (part 1)

Starting by figuring out the amount of coverage you need. This varies from state to state, so take a moment to find out what coverage is required where you live.

Once you know what’s required, you can decide what you need. Some people are quite cautious. They base their lives on worst-case scenarios and insurance companies love that. Insurance companies are in the risk business, and they know a policyholder’s likelihood of being in an accident, as well as how likely it is for a car to be damaged or stolen.

Step 2: Review Your Current Insurance Policy

Read through your current policy or contact your auto insurance company to get the information you need. Jot down the amount of coverage you have now and how much you are paying for it. Take note of the yearly and monthly cost of your insurance, since many of your quotes will be given both ways. Now you have a figure to beat.

Step 3: Check Your Driving Record

You should know how many tickets you have had recently. If you can’t remember how long that speeding ticket has been on your record, check with your state’s department of motor vehicles. If a ticket or points you earned are about to disappear, thus improving your driving record, wait until that happens before you get quotes. Nothing drives up the price of insurance like a bad driving record.

Step 4: Solicit Competitive Quotes

Set aside at least an hour for this task. Have at hand your current insurance policy, your driver license number and your vehicle registration. You can begin with online services. If you go to an online site to get a quote for an insurance rate, you can type in your information and begin to build a list of companies for comparative quotes.

Step 5: Gather Quotes and Company Information

While you’re researching companies, take careful notes so you can easily make price and coverage comparisons. Keep a list of:

Annual and monthly rates for the different types of coverage. Make sure to keep the coverage limits the same so you can make apples-to-apples comparisons for cost and coverage.
The insurance company’s 800 telephone number, so you can get answers to questions you couldn’t find online.
The insurance company’s payment policy. When is the payment due? What kinds of payment plans are available? What happens if you’re late in making a payment?

Tips to low the cost for Car Insurance Monthly Instalment

We’ve analysed the 11 million quotes run on car insurance channel in the 12 months to May 2015 and found that 44% of drivers pay by instalment.

This is understandable, given that typical premiums are the thick end of £500 – a hefty sum to stump up in one go.

But the problem is, paying monthly for car insurance adds an average £62 to each policy.

Our stats show that the average premium for drivers paying annually is £452, versus £514 to pay monthly – an uplift of 11%.

But there is an alternative if you can’t or don’t want to settle your premium all in one go.

Zero hour

Here’s how: You take out a zero per cent purchase credit card and use it to pay your premium in one go.

Then you divide your premium by 12 and set up a standing order from your current account for that amount. So if your premium came in at £600, you’d pay £50 a month.

And because a zero per cent purchase credit card doesn’t charge you interest for a given period (anything up to 23 months), you’d only pay £600 in total. Paying the insurance company by instalments would probably bring your total bill nearer to the £700 mark.

You might have to pay a small fee to pay by credit card – maybe 1% of the total, so £6 in this example – but the overall savings would still be significant.

Disciplined approach

Here’s a really important point if you go down this route: you should adopt a disciplined approach and stick to a maximum of 12 monthly payments, regardless of how long the card’s interest free purchase period lasts.

That means you’ll have stopped paying for this year’s cover by the time you have to shop around for next year’s cover.

And before you take the plunge with a new card, check whether you’re likely to be accepted using our credit card Smart Search facility. If you apply for a card and are declined, you’ll leave a stain on your credit rating – but we’ll find the cards you’re likely to be approved for before you make your application.

The Best and Cheapest Car Insurance Quotes in Colorado – By City

Across the analysis, the average cost to insure a car with basic liability protection was $1,186 a year – almost $100 a month.

The five companies with the cheapest car insurance rates in Colorado were: USAA, GEICO, Grange Insurance, State Farm, and Farmers Insurance. USAA, however, is a specialty insurer that only covers members of the military and their relatives. To round out a list of five providers with the best rates for the general population, we’ll add American Family, the insurer with the next lowest rates. Together, the six cheapest companies in Colorado charged an average rate of $837 each year to insure a vehicle. Compared to the overall state average, these companies were 29% lower, on average.

We’ll also take a look at how the cheapest rates and companies can vary across by city in Colorado. Often, where a driver lives and garages their vehicle heavily influences the insurance rates they see, and which companies have the best rates in that area. We are going to analyse the rate in those biggest cities in Colorado as following:

Denver, CO

Denver is the most expensive city for car insurance on our list with an average cost 27% higher than the state average. Auto insurance for Denver drivers can cost $1,510 a year. Nicknamed the Mile High City, Denver is situated at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains some 5,300 feet above sea level. It is home to more than 600,000 residents, the Denver Broncos, the Colorado Rockies, the Colorado Avalanche, and the Denver Nuggets.

Even though auto insurance is the most expensive in Denver, there is always room to save. For cheap auto insurance rates in Denver, we suggest starting with quotes from GEICO, Grange, and State Farm. While USAA did have the best insurance rates in Denver, unless you’re part of a military family, it’s unlikely you’ll be insured. The three insurers above had the best car insurance quotes, on average, of $1,036 per year for basic coverage of bodily liability and property damage. That’s a 31% decrease compared to the citywide mean. The next best provider with the lowest rates in Denver is Farmers Insurance Company, followed by Allied.

Colorado Springs, CO

The Centennial State’s second largest city, Colorado Springs is home to 426,000 residents and the United States Air Force Academy. There is a plethora of natural beauty for residents and visitors alike to enjoy. The city is situated at the base of Pike’s Peak, one of Colorado’s vaunted 14ers that inspired the national song “America, the Beautiful”.

The companies with the cheapest car insurance quotes in Colorado Springs are USAA, GEICO, Grange, Farmers, and Allied / American Family (tied). This is great news for the approximately 7,000 airmen, servicemen, and families residing on the base, since USAA had the lowest costs out of the companies in The Springs. On average, the six companies charged about $858 a year to insure a vehicle in the city. Compared to $1,198 (the average annual cost of car insurance in Colorado Springs), getting a quote from one of these providers could save the city’s drivers 28%.

Aurora, CO

Aurora is the fourth most expensive city for auto insurance in Colorado. Drivers in Aurora can pay $1,345 a year to insure their vehicles – about 14% costlier than the state average. With a population of 325,000, Aurora is the third most populous city in the Centennial State. The Buckley Air Force Base, which is Aurora’s largest employer, is located in Aurora.

Despite the city’s status as the fourth most expensive in the state, there is opportunity for consumers to lower their car insurance costs through comparing quotes. Airmen and other affiliated military members at the Buckley Air Force Base should consider getting premium estimates from USAA. USAA had the cheapest car insurance rates in Aurora, on average, by nearly 50% when compared to the city mean. For civilians, GEICO, Grange, and Farmers are three of the cheapest insurers in Aurora. These three providers had an average rate of $920 per year for basic liability and property damage coverage – which is $425 or 32% lower than what the typical Aurora insurer charges. State Farm and Auto-Owners complete the top five providers with the best rates in Aurora for the average driver.

Fort Collins, CO

At the top of our cities with the cheapest car insurance is Fort Collins. It’s a university town – home to Colorado State University, to be specific – with a population of 144,000 located near the Rocky Mountains. Auto insurance here costs $1,002, which is 16% lower than the state average.

For low-cost auto insurance in Fort Collins, we suggest obtaining quotes from GEICO, Grange, and Farmers. Among these three companies, the average annual quote for the typical driver was $720, which would have saved him or her 28% compared to the city average. If you live in Fort Collins and are affiliated with the military, there’s another great option. USAA actually had the best rates for car insurance in Fort Collins – rates here were about 44% lower than the prevailing average in the city.

Lakewood, CO

Lakewood is the fifth most populous city in Colorado, just outside of the Denver city proper. It is home to 143,000 residents and Colorado Christian University. Drivers insuring their cars in Lakewood can see mean costs averaging about $1,254 – just $68 lower than what the typical Coloradoan pays.

Which companies have the cheapest car insurance rates in Lakewood? Grange, GEICO, and State Farm would be three great companies to start getting quotes from. These three had the lowest rates that we saw in Lakewood for the commuting driver – amounting to $828 per year on average. At this level, costs would be 34% cheaper compared to the citywide mean. Are you an active or retired member of the military, or related to someone who is? Then USAA might have the best rates for you. Average annual rates at USAA of $612 were 51% lower than what the typical insurer charges in Lakewood. Farmers and American Family Insurance are two additional candidates for low cost auto insurance in Lakewood.

Thornton, CO

Perhaps one of Colorado’s newest cities, Thornton began developing in the early 1950s as the first fully planned neighborhood in Adams County. Situated about eleven miles from Denver, Thornton has grown recently to become Centennial State’s sixth largest city. On average, drivers can see annual rates of about $1,188, just two dollars more than the statewide average, to insure their vehicles in Thornton.

Drivers looking to save on car insurance rates in Thornton should evaluate quotes from GEICO, Grange, and Farmers – unless you’ve served in the military or are related to someone who has, in which case, get a quote from USAA too. In all, the four companies had an average cost of $753 a year, which is 37% cheaper than the city mean.

Pueblo, CO

Pueblo, the seventh largest city in Colorado with 107,000 residents, is our second most expensive city for auto insurance. The annual cost of auto insurance for the city’s drivers is $1,369, which is 15% costlier than the state average. Pueblo is nicknamed the “City of Heroes” for producing a number of Medal of Honor recipients.

How can motorists save on insurance costs in Pueblo? We suggest obtaining and comparing quotes from GEICO, Grange, and American Family (USAA too, but it only insures military members and their families). The three general providers had the lowest auto insurance rates in Pueblo by about 32% when compared to the citywide average ($928 versus $1,369). For two additional suggestions, Allied and State Farm round out the most affordable companies in Pueblo.

Arvada, CO

The traffic signal installed at the corner of Olde Wadsworth Boulevard and Grandview Avenue in Arvada was the first of its kind in Jefferson County. It is also said that former resident T. H. Krause invented the turn signal that governs rules of the roads today. When it comes to auto insurance, Arvada drivers can see costs of $1,186 a year – right on par with state rates.

Drivers in Arvada looking to save on car insurance costs should obtain and compare quotes from Grange, GEICO, and Farmers at a minimum. At $812 per year, these three companies had some of the lowest rates insured vehicles in Arvada. This figure represents a 32% decrease against what the typical insurance provider in the city charges. Current and former servicemen in the military can potentially see even lower quotes at USAA.

Westminster, CO

Centrally located between Denver and Boulder, Westminster is a growing suburb community. It has been recognized by Money magazine as a “Best Place to Live”, and with sweeping views of the Rocky Mountains and access to a plethora of recreational activities – it’s easy to see how it garnered that distinction. At $1,199 per year, the cost of automobile insurance is just 1% higher than the state average.

We found the best rates for auto insurance in Westminster at GEICO, State Farm, and Grange – quotes among the three clustered around the $860 level. With these cheap rates, drivers could reduce their costs by 28% versus the average insurance company underwriting in Westminster. As you can see from the graph, USAA actually was the cheapest insurance company in Westminster, but they only insure members of the military and their families.

Loveland, CO

Known as the Sweetheart City, Loveland is the city with the second cheapest auto insurance costs in Colorado. It is centrally located and accessible to larger cities and colleges such as Boulder, Colorado State University, University of Northern Colorado at Greeley, and Colorado University at Boulder. Great news for these commuters: the cost of car insurance here is $1,026 a year, about 13% cheaper than the Colorado average.

USAA, GEICO, Grange, Farmers, and Allied / State Farm (tied) make up the six companies with the best rates for car insurance in Loveland. Annual rates at these companies averaged $728, reducing rates for drivers in Loveland an additional 29% on top of the second lowest rates in Colorado. While USAA was the cheapest, bear in mind that the company only insures military and their family – so GEICO has the next cheapest rates in the city for the general motorist.

LaPorte, CO

The annual cost of auto insurance in LaPorte is $1,046, which is the third lowest cost in Colorado. LaPorte was the site of the first European settlement in Larimer County, and began as a hunting and fur-trapping community. It is home to approximately 2,700 residents, which makes it the smallest city on our top ten cheapest list in terms of population.

To drivers in search of low-cost car insurance in LaPorte: include quotes from Grange, GEICO, and State Farm / Allied (tied) when comparison shopping. These four companies had annual costs of $795 on average – $251 cheaper than the prevailing rate charged by the typical insurer in LaPorte. Drivers with military family can also consider USAA, which actually had the best rates in LaPorte.

Windsor, CO

Fourth on our list is Windsor, a town with roots in wheat production and sugar beet harvesting. Today, out of the 19,000 residents, those who drive pay $1,059 a year on average to insure their cars. That rate is 11% lower than the state average.

Who has the best auto insurance quotes in Windsor? GEICO, Grange, and Farmers had the lowest auto insurance rates for the civilian driver (motorists with military roots or family should also factor in USAA in their quote comparisons). These three companies charged on average $756 for car insurance, which is 29% more affordable compared to the average rates in Windsor. Allied and State Farm round out the five general insurance companies in Windsor with the best rates.

Longmont, CO

Located in the St. Vrain Valley, Longmont is named after Long’s Peak, a towering 14,000 foot mountain nearby. The city is the first in Boulder County with a grid plan for its streets – great for drivers navigating the city. It ranks as the fifth cheapest city in Colorado for car insurance with costs of $89 a month, or $1,064 a year.

Longmont drivers should obtain and evaluate quotes from GEICO, Grange, and Farmers. At an average rate of $764 annually, they had the lowest rates for car insurance out of the companies we surveyed in Longmont. Compared to the citywide average, drivers could see rates that are 28% lower with these companies. Have you or someone you’re closely related to served in the military? Then you should get a quote from USAA, a specialty insurer.

Bailey, CO

The third most expensive spot in Colorado has the lowest population among our Top Five with 8,000 residents. That’s Bailey, a community located in the northeast of Park County. Auto insurance in this rustic mountain town is 13% higher than the state average at $1,346 a year.

Even though Bailey drivers pay the third highest rates in the state, savings can be had with some price comparison. Our team found the cheapest quotes for car insurance in Bailey at Grange, GEICO, and Allied. For some context, average costs at these providers ($860 / year) were 36% or $486 cheaper than what the average insurer charged in Bailey. If you’re a member of the military or a relative of one, you can potentially see more favorable costs at USAA.

Commerce City, CO

The fifth most expensive city for car insurance in Colorado is Commerce City. Located in Adams County, Commerce City is home to 46,000 denizens, and is just seven miles away from Denver. It can cost $1,340 a year for a driver to insure his car in Commerce City – 13% more expensive than the statewide average.

Living and driving in Commerce City doesn’t mean having to pay high rates, however. Some of the cheapest auto insurance rates we saw in Commerce City were at GEICO, Grange, and State Farm. The cost of basic liability protection among these three companies averaged $888 per year, which was 34% better than the citywide average. USAA (military and family only), Farmers, and Allied are a couple of other companies with the lowest rates in Commerce City.

How to choose auto insurance Florida?

Florida law requires residents of FL to have car insurance. You must purchase the minimum coverage amounts for both personal injury protection (PIP) insurance and property damage liability (PDL) car insurance. Learn more about auto insurance Florida requirements, the effects of traffic violations on premium costs, and how to get the best quotes on car insurance available.
Bodily Injury Liability
Covers expenses related to the injury or death of another driver or a pedestrian when an accident is your fault.
Property Damage Liability
Covers expenses related to the damage of another person’s property—like vehicles, homes, buildings and other structures—when an accident is your fault.
Uninsured Motorist
Covers medical expenses if you’re in an accident, the other driver is at fault and doesn’t have any insurance.
Medical Payments
If you and/or your passengers are hurt in an accident, this can cover your medical or funeral expenses.
Personal Injury Protection
If you and/or your passengers are hurt in an accident, this can cover your medical bills plus related expenses like income continuation.What’s available: You are required by Florida law to carry PIP insurance on your vehicle. Many people purchase $10,000 in coverage. You can choose a deductible of $500.00, $1,000.00 or $2,000.00, or no deductible at all.
Getting auto insurance Florida has never been easier thanks to the internet. In fact, Florida online auto insurance quotes take less than 10 minutes through some of the more technological savvy companies. This reduces the excuses for drivers in the states to not have legal insurance to 0.
Getting auto insurance Florida online quotes is quick, simple, and could ultimately save you a great deal of financial suffering and inconvenience. Accidents without insurance can be overwhelming expensive, including medical bills, vehicle replacement costs, pain and suffering money and other charges.

Car Insurance 101: Auto Insurance Deductible

The auto insurance deductible is the amount of money you will first be responsible for before the insurance company begins to cover costs. Unlike health insurance, auto insurance policy deductibles are normally on a per claim basis meaning you would have to cover these costs every time you file a claim. Higher deductible policies come with lower annual premiums in exchange for the higher out of pocket expenses.

Unlike Health Insurance plans where consumers plan covers all types of medical care, car insurance policies are actually broken up into multiple types of coverage. Liability insurance which includes the bodily injury and property damage coverage do not typically have any deductibles attached. Generally deductibles area only applicable to two forms of coverage:

Collision Coverage: Covers damage done to your vehicle when you are in a crash with another vehicle or any stationary object. This covers the cost of repairs and or any replacements necessary for your own care. Collision coverage does not cover the damage you caused to other people’s property
Comprehensive Coverage: Covers damage done to your vehicle in all instances other than a crash in which you are at fault. This includes things like falling tree limbs, hail or any other types of damage that your car may incur.

How Does The Deductible Work?

Your deductible, typically around $750 will be first applied to any damages. For example if you are in an accident where your collision coverage would apply and the car you were driving suffered damage requiring $3,500 in repairs, you would be responsible for paying $750 of those costs. The remaining $2,750 would then be covered through the collision coverage by your insurer.

In some cases where another driver is at fault for the accident you may wish to file a third party claim against theirproperty damage coverage. Under these circumstances your insurer may pursue a process called subrogation to recoup the amounts they have already paid. In the process they may also help to reclaim any amount that you paid through your deductible.

Choosing the right car insurance deductible amount

Your first consideration when choosing your insurance deductible is how much you would be able to pay in the event of an incident. Insurance companies sell you coverage for a profit, the more risk protection you buy the more they profit and the lower your deductible the more risk protection you are buying. Your deductible should be set at a level where if you had to pay the out of pocket expenses, you could do so reasonably without impacting your financial situation or lifestyle. It is also important to remember that since auto insurance deductibles are on a per-claim basis so the frequency of your claims will be one of the most important factors. If your policy has a $500.00 deductible and you were involved in 4 separate claims of less than $500, then you would be responsible for 100% of all the payments and your insurance would have provided no coverage.

A car insurance deductible is the amount of money you have to pay toward repairs before your insurance covers the rest.. For example, if you’re in an accident that causes $3,000 worth of damage to your car and your deductible is $500, you will only have to pay $500 toward the repair. The insurance company pays the remaining $2,500.

For many people, increasing the amount of their deductible is also a great way to save money. That’s because when you choose a higher car insurance deductible amount,, it could lower the amount you pay on your insurance premium.

However, it’s important to choose a deductible that you can afford. Imagine not being able to get your car fixed because you don’t have money to cover the deductible.

When choosing your car insurance deductible, think about how much you can pay without causing a lot of stress in your life? Consider your income, your household budget, your personal savings, and your available credit.

Understanding how deductibles work and knowing what you can afford is important to getting the right coverage at the right price.

Tips to buy cheap car insurance in NJ

Auto insurance is required in New Jersey. As a New Jersey driver, you have many choices when it comes to purchasing cheap car insurance in NJ. Each choice you make affects the coverage you receive and the amount you pay.

As with any major purchase, you need to understand the product before you buy it. Use the tools below to help you shop for the coverage that best suits your needs. New Jersey offers several avenues for you to fulfill the state’s car insurance requirements.

In order to buy cheap car insurance in NJ while complying the laws, you must choose a car insurance policy.

The Basic policy option is the more affordable insurance package; however, it offers limited coverage, including:

$5,000 of property damage liability (PDL) per accident. This covers damage you may have caused to someone’s property in a car crash.
$15,000 of personal injury protection (PIP) per person, per accident. This coverage pays for injuries you suffer in a car crash.
Up to $250,000 for very severe injuries, such as permanent brain injuries.

Best tips to get an auto insurance quote

Getting the right coverage for your vehicle is easy. Insurance companies offer convenient payment options, an affordable monthly price and 24/7 customer service to provide the protection that you and your car need. Check out their websites today to get an auto insurance quote covered with the right insurance for the right price so you can enjoy the road ahead.

When you get an auto insurance online, remember to compare car insurance online. Shopping around to get an auto insurance quote is often a simple but effective way to reduce the price you pay for cover. Insurance companies rarely offer their very best deals to existing customers, instead reserving their cheapest possible prices for new customers.

Think carefully before adding extras, such as legal expenses cover, windscreen cover or use of a courtesy car to your car insurance package. While insurance companies are often enthusiastic about their value and they might come in handy, they are not strictly necessary – and including too many add-ons could significantly bump up the price of your policy.

While spreading the cost of get an auto insurance quote might feel less painful than paying for your premium in one go, it will probably cost you more in the long run. Many insurance companies charge interest when customers opt to pay for their insurance monthly, so check before you sign on the dotted line. If your insurer’s policy is to charge interest but you would like to spread the cost of your cover for free, you could consider using a 0% purchase credit card to pay for it – just be sure to clear your balance in full before the 0% period ends.

International Student Car Insurance and Saving Tips

Where to Find Insurance for International Students

The majority of universities and colleges have programs to help international students with accommodating immediate needs such as purchasing car insurance. They will assist the student in finding an insurance provider that won’t insist the student have a minimum of three years of driving experience before being able to cover their vehicle with their insurance.

Some insurance companies do count the international student’s driving experience in his or her native country and will offer a rate comparable to that of someone who is a United States citizen. Also, before the student leaves their country, they should make sure their international driver’s license is up-to-date and clear of any fines or warrants

You will definitely need to make sure you have some form of international student car insurance. It may seems confusing and overwhelming to deal with, but if you keep a few major tips in mind you’ll find it a lot easier to navigate the world of international student car insurance and get the protection that you need.

Tips for International Students Car Insurance

Choose a company that doesn’t penalize international students – as Steven Ellise Enterprise reports, many insurance companies will only offer lower premiums and high coverage to individuals who have driven in the U.S. for at least three years. Unfortunately, there aren’t that many companies who count driving experience in other countries as qualified experience, so do your homework and seek them out. In the long run, you’ll be glad you did.

Look into collision and comprehensive coverage, not just liability – By going with liability insurance, you’re going with the bare, legal minimum, but it only covers passengers or property that you damage in an accident. Collision will cover repairs to your vehicle if you’re involved in an accident and comprehensive will help you recover losses if your car is stolen or destroyed in some other way not related to a crash. Know the differences, as well as the area you’ll be living in, to determine the best coverage for you as an international student.
Look for fixed rates – As Ezine reports, some companies offer fixed rates for a certain length of time, meaning that your rates won’t go up even if you have an accident. Look for the longest period possible!
Have an updated international driver’s license – This will allow you to drive in the U.S. as well as at home with out having to register for just a U.S. license. And make sure that it is valid for at least six months after your stay ends so that you stand a better chance at getting reasonable international student car insurance rates and coverage.

How to get auto insurance online

Get more for your money when you buy auto insurance from Progressive. If something happens to your car, you get full service (just drop off your car and pick it up when it’s ready) and guaranteed repairs—this is included in your coverage—and you’re back on the road fast.

Whatever the reason, when you get auto insurance online, you can tailor and purchase a car insurance policy instantly, and even print out your proof of insurance card. Here’s how it works.

Give us two minutes and we’ll give you an auto insurance quote. It’s that easy. Then, if you like our rates (and we’re pretty sure you will), simply purchase your policy online and we’ll provide you with immediate proof of insurance.

Determine Your Insurance Needs Before You Buy Car Insurance Online

Establish a definitive list of your auto insurance needs before getting an online auto insurance quote. There are two separate aspects to this list – the legal requirements of your state and your own coverage needs.

First, determine exactly what your state’s minimum coverage requirements are. Each state is different, so make sure you thoroughly research what you need. This is your auto insurance coverage ground level and you can work up to build a policy that perfectly fits your needs.

The rest is based on your assets, driving record, and comfort.

Top Tips to Save Car Insurance

1. Choose your vehicle wisely

You might find a great deal on a new car right now, but you might have to brace for sticker shock when you buy your insurance policy. Luxury automobiles can be expensive to insure, for example, because they are more expensive to repair and replace.

Check your insurance rate before you buy. Call or get a quote online from your insurance company before you buy a new or used car.
Check your car’s rating to get an idea of which makes/models could cost less to insure.
Help thwart thieves. In some cases, installing an approved aftermarket immobilizer or purchasing a vehicle with one already installed may help lower your premiums.

2. Drive safely and drive less

Generally, the longer you drive without major citations or accidents, the lower your premium will be. In addition, the more time you spend driving and the farther the distances, the higher the likelihood that you may end up in an accident regardless of how safe a driver you are. Consider car-pooling, taking public transportation or riding your bike. If you are a safe driver, Farmers offers a safe driver discount to reward your good driving habits.

3. Consider car insurance costs before you buy

When it comes to buying a new or used car, many people overlook insurance expense as part of the total cost of owning a vehicle. It’s better to consider the cost of insurance before you buy since auto insurance premiums vary widely depending on a vehicle’s specific characteristics, including its price, average repair costs, safety record and whether or not it’s a target among thieves.

4. Consider Higher Deductibles

Deductibles are what you pay before your insurance policy kicks in. By requesting higher deductibles, you can lower your costs substantially. For example, increasing your deductible from $200 to $500 could reduce your collision and comprehensive coverage cost by 15 to 30 percent. Going to a $1,000 deductible can save you 40 percent or more. Before choosing a higher deductible, be sure you have enough money set aside to pay it if you have a claim.

5. Maintain a Good Credit History

Establishing a solid credit history can cut your insurance costs. Most insurers use credit information to price auto insurance policies. Research shows that people who effectively manage their credit have fewer claims. To protect your credit standing, pay your bills on time, don’t obtain more credit than you need and keep your credit balances as low as possible. Check your credit record on a regular basis and have any errors corrected promptly so that your record remains accurate.

6. Ask About Group Insurance

Some companies offer reductions to drivers who get insurance through a group plan from their employers, through professional, business and alumni groups or from other associations. Ask your employer and inquire with groups or clubs you are a member of to see if this is possible.

Some companies offer discounts to motorists who drive a lower than average number of miles per year. Low mileage discounts can also apply to drivers who car pool to work.

Beginners’ guide to car insurance

Car insurance is a legal requirement

Every motorist is required by law to have insurance for their vehicle, providing cover for you and other named drivers in the event of driving-related damage or injury.
The only exception would be if the vehicle is registered as off road with a Statutory Off Road Notice (SORN).

Filling in your application

You’re responsible for answering any questions relating to your application honestly. If the information is found to be incorrect it could invalidate your insurance and your insurer may not pay out for any claims you make.
Always make sure that the policy you’re applying for has the right level of cover and features that you require.

Factors affecting your car insurance premium

Insurers will take into account many different factors when calculating your car insurance premium. These will include:
Vehicle type: If you have an expensive car or a high-performance vehicle, you’ll probably be in a high insurance group and may have to pay more for your premium.
Age: Younger drivers will usually have to pay more for insurance, as statistically they’re more likely to make a claim.
Occupation: Particular jobs could raise premiums, such as chefs or journalists.
Use of vehicle: How often you use your car, your mileage and when you travel could have an effect on how much you pay. Travelling within busy peak times can bump up your premium, too.
Driving history: Prior convictions can affect the price of your insurance.
Voluntary excess: Opting for a higher voluntary excess (the amount you pay in the event of a claim) could lower your premium.

Comprehensive

A comprehensive policy will provide you with the most extensive level of cover, including everything covered by third party, fire and theft, and usually:
Some insurance companies offer cheaper policies that offer less protection, known as ‘stripped down’ policies. For example, they may have taken off windscreen cover or reduced what you can claim for personal effects – so always check your policy documents to make sure you have the cover you want.

Policy exclusions

Most car insurance policies will have key exclusions which will be outlined in your policy documents. Always make sure that you’ve thoroughly read what you’re not covered for prior to choosing your policy.

Excess

An excess is what you’re liable to pay towards a claim. There are two types, compulsory and voluntary.

No claims bonus

A no claims bonus is a reward for people who don’t make a claim on their policy.
Note that it’s a ‘no claim’ bonus, not a ‘no blame’ bonus, so whether an accident is your fault or not when you make a claim, it will affect your no claims bonus, unless your insurer recovers their costs from the other driver’s insurance company.

Documentation and paperwork

Once you have taken out an insurance policy, your insurer should send you or give you access to:
Make sure you keep your documents in a safe place where you can access them easily.

Changes to your policy

For any changes that you want to make to your policy, such as your address or to add another driver, you must inform your insurance company. This is important because if your information is false it could make any claims invalid.
You may be charged an administration fee by the insurance company for changes that you wish to make.
Also remember that your premium may alter depending on the details you amend.

Driving other cars

You’ll need to read your policy documents beforedriving another car. Some will allow it but others won’t, so take care. If your policy permits you to drive another vehicle, the following usually applies:

Making a claim

In the event that you have an accident or your car is stolen, it’s vital that you tell your insurer straight away. This also applies if you’ve had an accident but aren’t making a claim.
Insurers will then take details of your claim. If you have comprehensive cover and your car needs repairing, your insurer can provide you with approved repairers in your area and arrange for it to be fixed.

Uninsured drivers

The Motor Insurers’ Bureau was set up in 1946 to provide a way of compensating the victims of uninsured or untraced motorists.

You may be charged if you cancel your policy before it has ended

All motor insurers must be members of the Motor Insurers’ Bureau and contribute to its funding.
The Bureau has a Motor Insurance Database which helps identify uninsured drivers. It’s run by the Motor Insurers’ Information Centre and holds details of all private and fleet motor insurance policyholders.
The police have access to the database so they can carry out on-the-spot checks on motorists to confirm they have current and valid insurance.
When an uninsured or untraced driver injures a third party or damages their property, the third party should receive compensation from the Motor Insurers’ Bureau.
If a car is stolen and the car thief damages property or injures someone, the insurance company for the car covers these costs.

Cancelling a policy

You may be charged if you cancel your policy before it has ended. The charge could be made up of a cancellation fee and a percentage of your premium.
Cancellation rates can usually be found in your policy booklet. Remember that you won’t be able to drive your car until you take out a new policy.

Travel Insurance: A Safety Net For Yourself and Your Trip

Reading through your policy won’t get your pulse racing, but it’s essential to check how you’re covered, what’s not covered and any conditions that apply before you set out – whether you bought annual travel insurance or cover for a short trip. Let’s face it, you won’t be in the mood to read through travel insurance exclusions if you’re shivering with dengue fever in Borneo, or nursing a broken hip..

You might think it’s ‘fine print’ but you really don’t need that magnifying glass. So let’s look at a few things you should consider:

Medical insurance. If the guidebook told you there were piranhas and you go for a swim anyway this isn’t covered, as it is putting yourself in a needless risk situation, and are not taking reasonable care. If you get in an accident and seriously injured abroad, you need to know if your expenses are covered, particularly in the USA where medical costs can be huge, and that they’ll help fly you home if you’re not able to keep travelling.
Sporting injuries. We wouldn’t dream of doubting your skills. But don’t hike up Table Mountain or bungee jump in New Zealand before checking if your policy covers it and if you’ll be helicoptered to hospital if you break a leg.

Contents insurance. If you don’t like having thumbprints on the lens of that fancy camera, imagine how you’ll feel if it gets snatched out of your hands on your tour of Europe. Check whether your travel insurance policy covers all your gadgets or if you need to take out extra cover for more expensive gear. Many policies also have conditions that apply to high value items so be aware of any exclusions that might apply.
Delay and cancellation. If the departures board is awash with cancellations, at least you might be able to spend your extended holiday in the airport with some of your expenses covered by your travel insurance.

Make sure you compare insurance plans to get the right policy for you, whether you’re a carefree student, trekking across Canada with your family, or relaxing on a cruise. And think about how often you travel: do you need annual multi trip insurance for your mini-break addiction or single trip insurance for a one-off jaunt? If you’ve finally taken the plunge for a gap year or career break, look out for backpacker and long-stay travel insurance.

What could Travel Insurance help you during you trip

In the event of serious injury or illness, insurance payouts can run into hundreds of thousands of US dollars. An uninsured Australian injured in Alabama will end up at the mercy of the expensive American healthcare system. If you consider a Canadian bitten by a rabid dog in Rwanda or British backpacker needing an airlift out of the Himalaya, the benefits of travel insurance are clear.

High prices don’t always mean the best coverage. List what aspects of a policy are important to you. It’s pointless paying a premium to reduce car rental excess if you can’t drive, or covering your luggage when all you have is a backpack full of dirty socks and a dodgy mp3 player. Removing options or lessening limits often reduces the premium you pay.

What needs to be covered by my travel insurance?

We believe emergency medical coverage is most important. Insurance policies vary, so read the fine print carefully to see exactly what is covered. Certain pre-existing medical conditions that increase the likelihood of a claim may be excluded. If you have a heart condition or terminal illness, you may need to provide additional information before you can be offered a policy. Sporty people, off-piste skiers and bungee jumpers should check if their activities are covered. And injuries occurring during professional sports are generally not covered.

Insurance premiums are calculated based on your origin, age, destination and duration of travel, with the world divided into different zones. When travelling to countries like the USA, where health insurance is a multi-billion dollar industry, or to less developed countries with a lower standard of healthcare to which you’re accustomed, look for a policy with a high level of cover. Some providers will offer ‘unlimited’ medical coverage for a higher premium, while a cheaper policy might cover up to US$10 million. The highest claims paid globally run into millions of dollars, but are very unlikely to run into the tens of millions.

Other things to consider

Will a provider airlift you home? Do they have doctors on the staff of their emergency hotline? Will they pay to fly your family to you if you’re unable to be moved? Read the fine print and choose what suits your needs.

Reciprocal healthcare agreements

Some countries have reciprocal healthcare agreements with others, meaning that if you’re from a participating country and travelling in another, you’ll be entitled to free or subsidised public healthcare to the same standard enjoyed by residents. Participating countries include (but are not limited to) Australia, New Zealand, the UK and Ireland; Sweden, Norway and Finland; Italy and The Netherlands. Refer to your government’s traveller information homepage for details, noting that any reciprocal coverage will not be at the same level as facilitated by travel insurance. And if you’re an EU citizen, don’t forget to carry a European Health Insurance Card to entitle you to cut-price or free state-provided healthcare in EEA countries and Switzerland.

Are your belongings covered?

Next, confirm how your luggage is covered, particularly for theft or damage. Are there individual item limits? What are they? Are electronic devices included? Is theft from inside a car excluded? What if your iPod falls in the Trevi Fountain? If anything is unclear, phone your provider – insurers are legally obliged to unravel the fine print in simple terms.

The other essential heavyweight inclusions to investigate are:

Cancellation. You can often nominate the amount of coverage in the event that something prevents you from travelling – this should equal the full cost of your trip and any extras, but the higher the amount, the more expensive the policy becomes.
Travel delay. Count on at least US$250 per day, and look for exclusions relating to strikes, natural disasters, war and terrorism. But don’t expect to be showered with cash for a couple of hours spent sweating on a grounded aircraft: you are unlikely to be covered for delays less than 24 hours if it’s the airline’s fault.
Airline and end supplier insolvency. If the people who took your money go bust, ensured you’re covered by US$10,000 and then some. This is a relatively new addition to some policies, so you might have to shop around for this one.
Personal liability. In case someone trips on your carelessly placed luggage, injures themselves and sues you for damages, you’ll need to be covered. Look for policies that offer somewhere up to US$2 million in cover. Remember you are up for compensation of medical bills and ongoing treatment, not to mention any medical bills.
Car rental. Travel insurance usually won’t cover the full cost if you’re in an accident in a rental car, even if it’s not your fault. It can help with the excess (the amount you’re liable to pay), but you will need to take out the compulsory insurances provided by the car rental company too. Look out for the excess and if you can reduce it (US$5,000), damage (US$50,000-plus) and liability (US$1 million) in the rental insurance and compare this with the limits and what’s covered under your travel insurance policy so you won’t be out of pocket. Something to keep in mind – the travel insurance cover for personal liability usually excludes motor vehicle usage, so make sure you’ve got the right cover with your car rental company for third party liability.

If accidents happen

When travelling, keep the emergency number close. If you need medical help, seek treatment urgently. If you can’t call for help, someone will find the number on your person so make sure you keep a copy of your Certificate of Insurance on you, just in case. If your situation is not medical in nature, it’s always best to phone the provider anyway, and they’ll advise their protocol.

Making a claim back home is generally straightforward – you’ll need to submit some forms, so keep receipts, get police reports, evidence – everything you can to support your claim. If the claim is investigated and accepted, you should normally be reimbursed within a few weeks. If not, an appeals process is always available.

With some careful investigation, travel insurance doesn’t need to cost the earth. Shop around, get insured, keep your details close at hand, and hopefully you’ll never need them. But if you twist your ankle in a Barcelona ballroom or get bitten by a Bornean snake, you’ll be very glad to be covered.

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