Self-publishing, the Way to Go?

Do you want to publish a book?

Do you wonder which way to go?

Think carefully

Don't let the flattery of  a 'proper publisher' blind you to the pros and cons

Here are my top reasons to self-publish, next time round

You are in charge

Pricing? You decide

How much to charge for the e-book or the paperback if you want that as well

You can check the competition and see how to beat it 

You can change the price any time you like

If you feel a discount would boost sales, you decide how much and how long it should last

 Amazon categories? You choose

After pricing, categories are the most influential factor for sales

The smaller the category, the easier it is to reach top 100 in a specific niche

That's a great way to improve visibility

You can add or remove categories as you see fit

Anything else?

If your book isn't selling as well as it should, you can:

Change the cover

Change the title

Change the blurb

Improve keywords

Edit content

and best of all...

You keep all rights

It's your fast track to publication and profit

If you do all of the above, your book will sell and make money for you

70% or more on Amazon e-books

Now, if you're not convinced and still want to go with a publisher, check how much personal guidance you can expect, how your book will be edited (content as well as format?), how much marketing, if any, the publisher will do and what royalties are on offer.

Once you've signed the contract, you can't go back, it's all out of your hands.

Pokhara, Lakeside Trek-O-Tel, Top Value for Money

Phewa Lake and Annapurna, Pokhara ©Solange Hando

Pokhara has it all, fabulous lake, gentle hills, snow-capped peaks and views to 'live' for, but where will you stay?

The bustling 'Lakeside' resort has more restaurants, lodges and hotels than you could try in a week or even two. but if you are looking for value, comfort and a waterside location, check out Trek-O-Tel.

Trek-O-Tel Garden Terrace ©Solange Hando

A short drive from the airport, this low rise hotel is at the quieter end of Pokhara yet it's an easy walk to the town centre and boats to the sacred island. There are plenty of small shops and eateries around but you may well be tempted to lounge on the hotel terrace where you can gaze at the peaceful emerald waters of the lake.

Superior Room at Trek-O-Tel

Grounds are small but pleasant, buildings hexagonal and rooms bright and spacious with all mod. con., toiletries, boiled water, air-conditioning and WiFi. Safes are located at reception and free of charge. Other facilities include bicycle hire and a travel desk. Rated 3 stars, friendly service throughout.

Room service is available, though 'not encouraged', but the restaurant serves a variety of dishes, most popular fish from the lake, in the dining room or on the garden terrace filled with bird song.

Trek-O-Tel, View from the Garden Terrace ©Solange Hando

But besides affordable rates, this hotel stands out for its convenient location, its views of the lake (across a quiet road) and its lush mini-garden bursting with marigolds, dahlias, potted plants and exotic fruit trees.

Auspicious Statues in Hotel Garden ©Solange Hando

If you prefer to avoid the crowds in Pokhara, Trek-O-Tel is for you, the perfect place to relax, watched by a golden Buddha and guardian spirits in the shade of a lychee tree.