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Happy Hour in Scottsdale: The Best Places to Go

October 24, 2018 by

World travel

Parenthood is a mix of fun and exhausting. From the early morning struggles of preparing the kids for school to late night runs to the grocery, life becomes a lot different when you become parents.

But because you now run a brood doesn’t mean you can have some fun every once in a while. Parents need a break too and what better way to do it than through travelling. And if you’re not so comfortable leaving the kids for a long time to go overseas, you can plan a getaway in one of the many beautiful destinations in the country, one of which is Scottsdale, Arizona.

And of course, you can’t miss including Scottsdale happy hour in your to-do list while you’re alone without the kids. To get you started, here are some of the best places to go for happy hour in Scottsdale:

Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row

Nothing beats good American gastropub fare, good drinks and a bustling party scene to enjoy your vacation in Scottsdale. Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row has been a mainstay in the area and offers over 40 different types of whiskey and a long list of craft beers too.

Address: 4430 N. Saddlebag Trail 105, Scottsdale, Arizona

Happy Hour: Monday – Friday, 4PM to 7PM

Blue Clover Distillery

Founded by longtime friends who love to entertain, Blue Clover Distillery creates handcrafted distilled spirits in its own micro-distillery in Scottsdale and offers select cocktails like Marshall’s Way, Mule Kick and Scottsdale Sunset made with their signature vodka during happy hour. Their famous Giggle Water cocktail is a must-try along with their delicious appetizers like Green Chile Cheese Fries, Quesadilla and Chorizo Poutine.

Address: 7042 E Indian School Rd., Scottsdale, Arizona

Happy Hour: Tuesday – Friday, 3PM to 7PM

Culinary Dropout

If its name isn’t intriguing enough, Culinary Dropout is a must-visit for its classic meals like the 36-hour pork ribs and its famous fried chicken. But this laidback gastropub is more than just good food because it also offers house-made cocktails and ice-cold craft beers that you’ll surely enjoy. During happy hour, Culinary Dropout offers drinks at very cheap prices. A Sangria or Well Cocktail will only cost $4.00 and a Double Blind or Airplane Pickleback that has spicy pink pickle juice will only set you $5.00. Of course, you can’t miss trying its famous salty-creamy Pretzel and Provolone Fondue, which is a steal at only $7.00.

Address: 7135 E. Camelback Rd., Suite 125, Scottsdale, Arizona

Happy Hour: Monday – Friday, 3PM to 6PM

Brat Haus

Brat Haus has the most welcoming beer garden in Arizona boasting 28 craft beers on tap, so if you’re looking to enjoy happy hour in a different way, this is the place to go. Its menu is inspired by European food craftsmen and features a wide variety of burgers, brats, salads and sides. Enjoy Brat Haus’ delicious grub and draft beers at $2.00 off in their open-air patio during happy hour.

Address: 3622 N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale, Arizona

Happy Hour: Tuesday – Friday, 11AM to 6PM

Craft 64

At Craft 64, you’ll never run out of good beer to drink. Known as the premier place for local craft beer, great wine and artisan wood-fired pizza, Craft 64 boasts of over 36 taps of Arizona beers and an extensive wine list. It also makes some of the best wood-fired pizzas in the area and during happy hour, you can enjoy small plates of Mozzarella Caprese Sandwich, fresh-baked Focaccia and a Charcuterie plate for just $8.00 each. And their beers on the tap are just for $1.00, so you’re getting a great deal.

Address: 6922 East Main Street, Scottsdale, Arizona

Happy Hour: Monday – Sunday, 4PM to 7PM

To cap off the list is Citizen Public House in 7111 E. 5th Avenue that offers a menu of innovative bar snacks and an impressive list of glass wines, draught beer and specialty cocktails that are on discount during “Good Citizen’s Social,” its version of happy hour, which happens daily from 4PM to 6PM.

Did this list make you crave for a cocktail? Start planning your vacation in Scottsdale, Arizona today. You’ll surely enjoy everything that it has to offer plus a few good beers and cocktails while you’re at it.




9 Destinations for the Perfect Couples Retreat

October 22, 2018 by

Once you’re married and have started a family, it may feel like all of your future travel plans revolve around that, meaning it’s nothing but family-friendly resorts and trips to Disneyland for the next decade of your life. However, this doesn’t have to be the case, as everyone deserves travel experiences that are personally enriching, no matter what stage of life they’re at.

Once you’ve made the right arrangements, jetting off for a couples retreat with your spouse will be one of the most rewarding and enjoyable vacations you’ll ever take. It’s the perfect way to rediscover your partner and inject some new life into your marriage, and it’s a well-known truism that couples who travel together, stay together.

A romantic getaway is always a good idea, whether you’ve been married for thirty years or dating for six months. Here’s your guide to the ultimate couples retreat destinations, should you need some inspiration.

Santorini, Greece

Greece

Source: Pixabay

The gleaming white limestone buildings that cluster the hillsides of this idyllic Greek island are world-famous, with Santorini being one of the most desirable travel destinations on Earth. The island is actually made up of the remains of a volcanic eruption that occurred thousands of years ago, which caused the unique formations that constitute the dreamy landscape of Santorini. The island is full of private, intensely romantic hotel suites and villas which look over the Aegean Sea, and the sunset is probably one of the most powerful aphrodisiacs known to man. The popularity of this destination naturally means that prices can be sky-high, but if you book outside of peak times (October is the cheapest month), you’ll grab yourself a bargain.

Kerala, India

Kerela

Source: Pixabay

Kerala is a quiet state in southern India that has been increasingly popping up on travelers’ radars in the past couple of years. The state is full of stunning natural scenery and some of the best cuisines on the subcontinent, with Keralan food finally making a well-deserved debut on the tables of Michelin-starred restaurants across the globe. The state is home to some truly gorgeous resorts, couples’ hideaways, and yoga retreats, making this the ideal spot to come to with your partner and experience true peace and quiet. Make sure to book a romantic cruise along one of the many rivers and canals running through the region, surrounded on all sides by mango trees and curious elephants.

Melbourne, Australia

Melbourne

Source: Pixabay

Sometimes the best couples break is a city break, and Melbourne has everything a couple could ever want. The city is an idyllic, laid-back alternative to manic Sydney and the dollhouse-style Victorian architecture that lines the streets means simply going for a stroll is one of the most romantic things you can do here. You’ll want to do as the local couples do and experience the thriving sporting scene here, with one of the most prestigious events in the country, the Melbourne Cup, taking place here every November. You can take your partner to the historic Flemington Racecourse, relax in an elegant booth after checking the tips on Oddschecker, which has the latest odds for couples looking to turn a profit. Perhaps you’ll have the chance to toast your good luck with a few glasses of champagne. Should you win, spend your good fortune together at one of the intensely atmospheric Bistro d’Orsay restaurant, a local institution and valentines’ destination of choice.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

rio de janeiro

Source: Pixabay

A trip to Rio might not be for everyone, but one thing we all can agree on is that the city absolutely oozes sexiness and vitality, making it one of the best couples retreats on Earth. Make sure to book yourself into a suite in the iconic Copacabana neighborhood, so you and your beau can sip on bittersweet caipirinhas and watch the sunset over Sugarloaf Mountain. Once you’re feeling the buzz, ensconce your partner off to a Samba club, where you can dance the night away with the couples of Rio beneath the stars. The city is safer than it has ever been and the exchange rate is good, making now the perfect time for a sexy vacation in Rio de Janeiro.

Granada, Spain

Granada

Source: Pixabay

It’s hard to know where to begin with Granada, an ancient city in southern Spain made up of inviting alleyways and ornate palaces, all just begging to be discovered by the adventurous couple. The highlight of the city is the Alhambra, a sprawling Moorish palace overlooking Granada, a kind of dreamworld filled with isolated gardens, courtyards, and intricate water features. Once you’ve spent a day strolling arm-in-arm around the palace, your next step should be to explore the warren of alleyways in the old town below, chock-full of alluring wine bars and tapas restaurants, where you can have your fill of Jamón Ibérico, Rioja wine and, of course, some Mediterranean oysters. Cap off your evenings with rooftop drinks overlooking the stunning Sierra Nevada, and before long you’ll be making plans to run away here together permanently.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Iceland

Source: Pixabay

While Iceland may be freezing, you’ll find plenty to do here to warm each other up. The capital city is compact and cute, composed mostly of quaint wooden cottages, many of which are filled with inviting cafes and cozy pubs in which to while away the evening. You should make it your priority to spend the day together in the iconic Blue Lagoon : the beautiful geothermal spa is one of the most well-known attractions in Iceland. The Lagoon is the perfect way to spend a snowy day with your partner, and the ancient waters supposedly not only have healing properties, but also powerful aphrodisiac qualities. Reykjavik also happens to be one of the best spots for observing the Northern Lights, a stunning natural phenomenon which makes a romantic backdrop to any evening.

Saint Lucia, West Indies

Marigot bay

Source: Pixabay

There are plenty of Caribbean getaways for couples of all stripes, but it’s undoubtedly St Lucia which feels closest to paradise on Earth. The former French colony is home to some of the best beaches in the world, as well as a number of award-winning couples-only resorts for you to choose from. The natural diversity of this small island means you can go diving from waterfalls into crystal blue lagoons, exploring jungles filled with monkeys and tropical birds, relaxing on white sandy beaches and climbing volcanic mountains, all in one day. The elegant colonial architecture will also help you feel like you’ve been transported to the City of Love itself for a few hours, while you dine on freshly caught fish and wash it down with Caribbean rum.

Maldives, Indian Ocean

Maldives

Source: Pixabay

The Maldives is the ultimate definition of escape, a place where couples can go to be truly free from the interruptions of the outside world. Much of this tiny island nation is made up of floating villages, many that have been repurposed as romantic resorts, where couples can rent a villa on stilts above the deep blue waters of the Indian Ocean, and put all the cares of the real world behind them. Prices may be high, so try to visit in April or November, when you can grab the best bargains.

Bologna, Italy

Bologna

Source: Pixabay

They say the way to a lover’s heart is through their stomach, and this doesn’t ring truer than in Bologna. This gorgeous Renaissance city is lovingly nicknamed “The Fat One” as it’s the best place on Earth to sample the smash-hits of Italian cuisine. This is the destination of choice for couples looking to engage in a weekend of pure decadence, where you can spend your days together in trattorie feasting on pasta and wine, before walking it off with a midnight stroll and some gelato. The city is one of the most beautiful in all of Italy, which is really saying something, and the sight of the sunset lighting up the blood-red buildings is enough to make any couple sigh.

Sometimes the best boost for any couple is a little adventure, and the places listed enough provide more than enough to keep you and your partner stocked up on happy memories for all eternity.




Have a Safe and Comfortable Car Travel with your Child

October 22, 2018 by

Travel with child

Essential Safety Baby Travel Tips You Need To Keep In Mind

The thought of traveling with a baby can be overwhelming. If you’re a first-time parent, you may be feeling a bit scared and freaked out. Whether it’s a simple day trip or an epic weekend break, going on a road trip and vacationing with a child is not easy. There will be challenges ahead.

So is it possible to successfully travel with your child? Of course, it is! The key here is preparedness, creativity, and a little planning to make the whole trip a fun experience for you and your little one.

Here are some simple tips that can help your whole family happy, comfortable, and safe on your journey.

Consider Purchasing a Travel System

Your number one priority when hitting the road should always be safety. It is vital to get one specifically designed for your child’s size and age. Also, the law requires for kids to be in a safety car seat until they reach the age or height where they can fit your vehicle’s seat belt.

Car seats come three types; in rear-facing, front-facing, and booster. There are also a stroller and car seat combos or travel systems strollers that are ideal when hitting the road. A car seat and stroller combo is especially helpful to new parents as it is very convenient. You can detach the baby car seat and use it in your vehicle to keep your precious angel safe throughout the drive. You can attach it on the stroller later on once you arrived at your destination. Moreover, your stress from separately purchasing them will be reduced.

They are also simple and easy to use. Simply unlock the safety seat and attach it back to the stroller whenever required. You don’t have to shift, unfasten, and re-fasten again and again. It’s an investment that can save your budget in the long run since a combo can last you.

Choosing the stroller of your travel system is just as important as the baby car seat. Here are the types that you should be aware of:

  • 3-Wheel. The center of gravity of this stroller is higher, and turnings are sometimes a bit sharper compared to the 4-wheel stroller. Although you can use a single hand to handle it, you may find it less stable.
  • 4-Wheel. This stroller is more stable and easier to handle. You can also fold it easily compare to the 3-wheel.
  • This type can handle all kinds of terrain, but some models are not easy to fold for storage in your car’s trunk.

These stroller types have their pros and cons. Make sure to figure out and choose one that will best suit both your and your child’s needs. Check out the top 20 most trending items in the U.S. to help you choose the best travel system for your family.

Preparing your Car

It is vital to prepare your car before your journey to ensure safety. Here are the things you need to check and consider:

  • Get your vehicle inspected by a professional especially if you’re going on a long ride. Have them check if there are problems that need fixing right away. You don’t want to run into sudden car trouble while on the road.
  • You should also check your car’s heat and aircon. You want the temperature inside your vehicle as comfortable as possible for your baby.
  • Consider buying sun shades so that your little one’s sensitive skin and eyes are not exposed directly to the sunlight.
  • Make sure there are no sharp objects within the vicinity of the baby car seat.
  • Fill the tank up with gas. The last thing you want is to get stuck in the middle of nowhere with your kid.

Keeping your Baby Safe

As mentioned, keeping your child safe and secure during the drive should be your top priority. Make sure to choose the best safety baby car seat and install it accordingly with the help of the user’s manual.

child safety

If you’re planning to rent a vehicle, ask about its airbags and its location. Airbags can injure or cause your baby’s death in case of a car crash. Children are still fragile to withstand its impact. If you will not bring your own car seat, ask if the car rental company can provide you with one, and don’t forget to check its type, expiration date, and if it’s part of a recall. Stay away from car seats that are more than five years old.

When on the road, do no force yourself to drive if you’re tired. If you’re with a travel buddy, take turns on the wheel. If you’re driving alone with your baby and feeling sleepy, stop your vehicle in a safe place, place your baby in the stroller and go for a little walk.

Baby Essentials you Need to Pack

Remember to pack wisely, but do not get overboard. Create a checklist so that you will not forget anything. Your baby essentials should contain the following:

  • A lot of diapers. You can get overboard with this one though. Bring more than you think you need to so that you will not get stuck without one halfway into your road trip.
  • Feeding supplies. If you’re breastfeeding, express before your trip and put your breast milk in storage pouches and then placing them in a cooler. If you’re using formula, pre-pack them in bottles. Make sure to bring plenty of bottles, so you don’t have to make unnecessary stops to wash them. Also, if your baby is already on solid foods, bring enough healthy snacks.
  • Keep yourself and your child hydrated by bringing plenty of clean drinking water especially if you’re traveling during hot months.
  • Wet wipes. These are handy not just for changing diapers. They are great for cleaning your hands and refreshing the face of your child.
  • Keep your angel entertained with his or her favorite toys. You can also buy new ones so that he or she will have plenty of options.
  • Baby blanket. Blankets are handy when on a road trip. You can use it gets chilly, to cover your baby when he or she is sleeping or to support your child’s head in the safety baby car seat.
  • First-aid. Even when you’re really careful, accidents may happen, so you want to be always prepared. Make sure to bring a standard first-aid kit. Moreover, bring a thermometer, rash creams, medications for lowering temperature, and any other prescription medications your baby needs to take.



5 Tips for Flying with Toddlers

October 18, 2018 by

travel

What is the most common way to travel? Well outside of driving, majority of us travel by plane, especially when going from state to state or out of the country. For the most part, traveling is fun but can be stressful for the average person, ranging from flight cancellations or delays to simply having pure anxiety about flying in general. Those factors alone can be quite overwhelming. Now, imagine flying with a toddler…you can multiply those stressors by ten! The “terrible twos” can come into attack mode if you’re not prepared. So if you want to avoid the crying, screaming, and the kicking of the back of someone’s seat, follow these tips to help you avoid a grumpy kid on a bumpy flight.

Distractions

Do you remember going to the doctor as a kid and before the nurse would give you a shot, she would distract you by giving you a piece of candy to take your mind off of getting the shot? Well that’s the approach you have to take with toddlers on flights. You want to have an arsenal of distractions that will keep their mind occupied. With today’s technology, kids are tech-savvy at birth (seemingly,) so have a kid-friendly tablet handy, or even children’s games on your phone, with headphones, so as to not disturb other passengers. Other options would be books, coloring books, and other toys they enjoy.

Air Pressure

Air pressure is a nuisance for anyone at any age, whether your a baby or adult, but at least as an adult, we can combat our ears popping by chewing gum. Chewing gum may not be the best option for a toddler, but you know what is…gummy bears or fruit snacks, if you prefer a healthier option.

Leave Early

Believe it or not, a lot of people aren’t morning people, so earlier flights are less crowded and it’s a better chance that the kiddos will still being in sleep mode upon boarding the plane. Also, planes will typically be on schedule, so delays and cancellations are less likely.

Window Seat

Window seats are not for everyone. Looking out the window makes some people dizzy or sick to their stomachs, but kids LOVE window seats. Them being able to see what the world looks like from a bird’s eye view will open the door to a world of wonder and probably lots of questions, but hey, I’d say questions is a lot better than kicking and screaming.

Germs

Upon boarding a plane, it’s always a good healthy habit to come prepared with hand sanitizer and anti-bacterial wipes. People get on planes coughing and sneezing with runny noses, so why not be proactive in the fight against germs. Wipe down the arm rest, fold down trays, and even have children’s Emergen-C. In reality, nobody likes being sick or having a “bug,” so imagine a toddler on a plane not feeling well. Like the saying says “It’s better to have it and not need it, than to need it and not have it.” So be sure to have these items handy when a cootie shot isn’t an option in the fight against germs.

Thanks for Flying

All in all, traveling is not for the faint of heart, especially for the super moms out there. Toddlers are just like adults…just a lot smaller and need a little more coaxing. Flying with a toddler isn’t easy, but being proactive and following these tips will definitely put you on the right path to having a smooth flight and landing.




A guide to New York: What to See, Eat and Drink

October 10, 2018 by

nyc guide

First of all, let’s get one thing out of the way: it takes a lifetime (but even then, preferably two) to experience all that NYC has to offer from every possible standpoint. It’s a metropolis of multiculturalism and its incredibly vivid nightlife constantly offers new and exciting experiences that range from mellow jazz evenings with a glass of Scotch to a mingling cocktail-laden gallery opening in the artistic hub downtown.

The city that never sleeps truly has everything a wanderer could dream of experiencing, so prepare yourself for an unforgettable adventure and make sure you visit some of the listed spots – they will dazzle your senses and tease your palate, and most importantly, they’ll make you fall in love with the city of New York!

Don’t skip Central Park

Central park

Of course it’s a cliché, and of course it’s on the list, because not a single trip to NYC can go without heading to this iconic patch of greenery – and a massive patch at that! However, instead of being a typical tourist eager to stand in line for the next Shakespeare in the Park, go be and do what locals do and explore the park without looking at the map.

There are so many breathtaking paths, the perfect sit-down spots around the lake, and interesting people walking by that you will be able to spend hours just walking and taking memorable photos. Don’t try not to, it’s literally impossible to put the camera away.

Head to the Met

Yes, it’s yet another New York-esque escapade that it’s silly to think you can go to the city and back home without everyone asking: have you seen the Met? It’s because this world-renowned museum has earned a reputation of excellence for a multitude of impressive reasons. Even the least artsy people who have entered have found something to admire in a heartbeat.

Even if you’re an art newbie, and still eager to understand what all the fuss is about, you can get acquainted with the collections beforehand and look for them as soon as you enter. For instance, some of their most prized artwork include Van Gogh’s self-portrait, the Temple of Dendur from Egypt, all the way to sculptures by Jean-Baptiste Carpeaux.

Enjoy the nightlife

Newyork nightlife

Since your time is precious and limited, you ought to spend some of it mingling with other New Yorkers and enjoying the finest inventions of their night-life – cocktails! The city is a famous hotspot of clubs, galleries, and bars, where you’ll not just meet the most incredible characters, but you’ll inevitably taste some of their staple sips such as the Cosmo, all of them with an authentic twist.

You’ll encounter parties and relaxed get-togethers where many a fine mixologist in NYC turns an otherwise ordinary atmosphere into a spectacle of tastes with their ingenious use of cocktail ingredients paired with delicious canapés. All it takes is to do some digging, talk to people and book your seat for an impeccable evening out in the style of people who have invented the notion of nightlife.

Find a decent brunch spot

Brunch spot

Foodies love New York, and as soon as you stumble upon one of their eateries, you’ll share their enthusiasm instantly. Why brunch, you may ask? Because it pairs the best of breakfast and lunch, comes in a wide range of options, and you’ll be filled with energy to keep exploring the city after your hearty meal. Another plus is that brunches are often less pricey than dinners in their elegant restaurants!

Mediterranean lovers will appreciate the love for food so clearly expressed at the Sparrow Tavern, where celebs as well as mere mortals gladly enter for a batch of potato fries, or a classic pancake meal. The Sullivan Street Bakery will be a perfect pick for lovers of fine pastry, while the slightly classier spots such as Upland offer both the simple, yet delicious meals, alongside fancier options including their famous smoked salmon pizza.

Shop NYC-style

Riddled with vintage boutique stores, little shops that specialize in trinkets, as well as haute couture malls, NYC is the shopping mecca of the East Coast. It only makes sense that you’ll come across a store such as Story precisely in NYC, as this quirky shop has theme-based cycles which shift every four to six weeks – much like the editorial of the magazine.

Aside from the typical brand stores, it’s best to spend some time in markets where artisans gather to show some of their most authentic work, from jewelry, other accessories, all the way to items you can use in your home décor. One such “tradition” is Artists & Fleas which has three different locations across the city, and you should prep your wallet, because you’re bound to find something unique every single time!




Sydney Wandering: What to do When you’re in the Land Down Under

October 1, 2018 by
Sydney places

Heading to Sydney on your next travel adventure? Read below for our tips on where to eat, play and get around in one of the world’s most liveable cities and certainly one o the most popular destinations for Australia tours.

If planning a road trip to the Blue Mountains, you’ll be pleased to know it’s only an hour drive from the heart of Sydney. This makes it a good day trip option. You might want to head into the National Park or to Echo Point to find some great walking trails. Leura is a great heritage town to stop for lunch, shopping and the rather epic Toy and Railway Museum. If you’d prefer to take in the lush scenery, hiring a Sydney bus and driver takes the hassle out or renting your own car or being stuck on a group tour.

Staying around the urban centre, Sydney is famous for cultural attractions. Take in a show at the world renowned Sydney Opera house, or time your visit to attend one of the many outdoor concerts or live performances that are held in warmer months. Of course, you’ll also need to take in the Sydney Harbour Bridge which can be climbed with specialist gear and a booking will take around 3.5 hours. If you prefer an experience with less altitude, grab a ferry ticket and see the harbour by sea.

For eclectic and delicious dining options, Newtown’s many eateries cater to all tastes. You’ll find classic pubs, cocktail bars, delis, and restaurants serving various Asian, European and modern Australian options. If you’re not from Australia, know that many Sydneysiders take brunch very seriously. So make time to head out for breakfast on an empty stomach and enjoy the first meal of the day in style, many places offer all day ‘breakfast’ so you can also have a sleep in.

If you love an Australian soap opera, consider attending the official Home and Away tour. Not only do you get to see various famous filming locations from the long running series, but you’ll also get a nice beach break as you check out Palm Beach which is home to the show. This is another day trip option as it only takes an hour to get to Palm Beach from Sydney.

For lovers of Australian wine, the Hunter Valley is another great location to visit. At a two hour drive, you may wish to do a day trip or stay for a long weekend, eating and drinking at an array of award winning vineyards. For a luxury option, you should consider treating yourself to a helicopter tour, or perhaps hiring a horse-drawn carriage. In the Hunter Valley you’ll find the acclaimed Tyrrell’s Vineyard known for their iconic Semillon, as well as Audrey Wilkinson, McGuigan Wines and Brokenwood Cellar. These days there is also a thriving brewery and distillery scene. Try microbrewery the Hunter Beer Co, Matilda Bay or IronBark Hill Brewhouse for all your handcrafted beer needs. Finally, Hunter Distillery is another award-winning producer of all things spirits, including chocolate vodka, liqueurs and schnapps.




How Proactively Planning a Trip Can Make Vacations Easier

September 25, 2018 by

Travel tips

With summer right around the corner and the kids excitedly counting down the days till break, you know what that means: it’s time to go on a family vacation! But before diving straight into the fun, we should make preparations for our trip ahead of time to ensure that there’s absolutely nothing to worry about when we’re sitting back and relaxing.

This is how proactively planning a trip can make vacations easier:

  1. Time doesn’t get wasted

While you may feel tempted to mostly “wing it” during vacation, creating an itinerary is a more efficient route to take since it will help you follow a schedule that enables you to check off every destination or activity on the family bucket list. Subsequently, on an itinerary, you can include alternative plans in case the first one doesn’t work out. As long as you have a solid plan for every day of your vacation, there’s no harm in taking spontaneous adventures here and there!

  1. Overspending won’t be an issue

Overspending on vacation is more common than you think. According to a survey from Experian in 2015, it was found that 68% of people overspend when traveling. Therefore, to avoid becoming a part of this statistic and putting a hole in your wallet, establish a budget and plan expenses ahead of time. The reason why people tend to overspend is mainly due to the fact that being on vacation makes one feel more inclined to “treat’ themselves or others and rationalize instantly gratifying purchases. While yes, we do deserve to treat ourselves and the kids, it should be done within reason. It should also be done smartly, using various saving options. For example, you can use a VPN to find better deals online by checking the prices of different items across multiple regions.

  1. You will always know exactly where your belongings are

Since you’re traveling with the family, there are a lot of items that need to be kept track of and packed. In order to avoid the panic of losing something or leaving it behind, create a list of everyone’s belongings before the trip and pack accordingly to it before leaving both the house and lodging accommodation. You never want to find yourself in the position wondering where a misplaced item is, such as a passport or event ticket, the moment it’s needed. There are even cheap and easy household solutions to make packaging and organizing a breeze!

  1. There’s less likelihood of running into trouble

Unexpected situations such as losing luggage, getting injured, or having a flight get cancelled happen all the time. By taking precaution to prepare yourself for these events, you are actually able to save both money and your sanity. In fact, the best course of action that can be taken is to invest in traveler’s insurance. It acts as a financial safety net that can reimburse you for the aforementioned circumstances. Moreover, if you’re traveling by your own mode of transportation, such as a car, take your vehicle to a service center to reduce the risks of experiencing any technical or safety issues down the road.

In conclusion, make sure you take steps to proactively plan a trip beforehand, so your vacation is filled with memories that are unforgettable in a good way. The only thing you should do on vacation is have fun with your family, not stress out!




5 Secrets on How to Write a Good Travel Essay

September 19, 2018 by
Travel writing

We all love to travel. We enjoy making some travel notes. Even with this background, it is safe to say that writing a travel essay in high-school or college is still a challenging task. We’ve prepared some tips on how to write a good travel essay.

Add Emotions!

Like a non-traveling author, you do a preliminary research. What can you do, unlike a non-traveling author? Add to the texts juice! Impressions, experiences, comparisons, analogies. All that comes to mind when you wander along new places. Gloomy walls of a ruined church. The cold of the cave reaching to the bone, into which you descended without a jacket. Your shock from the received fine for improper parking, equal to your weekly budget for vacation. Milky pink sunsets over the coast. The night falling on the islands in a few minutes: just was light, and now you are already in the dark go home from the beach… All this will add additional information to the essays, and most importantly, it will add emotions. But they need to be recorded. Emotions evaporate quickly. Tomorrow you will not remember half.

Be Objective and Even Negative Sometimes

At this moment we are ready to sympathize with the authors of the guidebooks. Anyway, they should be tolerant and maximally positive, describing each city. Well, they can not take and write: “This is a dirty port city.  There is an unbearable stale fishy smell in the streets. Garbage is taken out irregularly, so the streets look untidy.” They can not, because it will not be very ethical.  But you can do it! You were there, you saw, you know!

Write an Essay Like Your Would Write a Useful Article

Make a list of reliable sources about the places of interest. More often the most truthful and relevant information can be found on the state and municipal official websites of the institutions you need.

You should base your essay on a unique experience that goes beyond the guides. For example, there are a lot of hedgehogs in the water, and you can not go into the water without slippers. When entering the park, buy more water: the nearest stall will be after 3 hours of walking. Climbing the hill, grab a veil, wine and cheese: this is the best place for dinner with a view. Such information, unique and useful, should be in the text, but in a more “academic”, descriptive way. This increases the value for the client and the semantic uniqueness of the text.

Pay attention to the emotions experienced during the journey. Did you feel like you were the hero of one of the films filmed here? Were you fascinated by the pink sunsets? Did you get astonished from the cod of cicadas? Make sure that these emotions are transmitted so that they can not simply be added to any other description of the city. “The narrow streets,” “delicious food,” “beautiful sunset” — this is not the case.

Stay Historically and Grammatically Correct

Any travel text, of course, is full of geographical names — starting from the name of the country and ending with the names of streets and squares in the cities described. So, it’s best to check the spelling of these words according to the modern, officially approved (it is important!) Dictionary of geographical names. If necessary,  refresh in memory the historical events that affected the change of specific titles. After all, sometimes authors, having incorrectly written this or that geographical name, make not just spelling, but also political, and sometimes even worldview errors. And one more critical point. Once you have checked how the name is spelled, please make sure that it is used throughout the text. DO NOT write once Costa del Sol, once – Costa del Sol, twice – Costa del Sol and again – Costa del Sol. Such an outrage makes professors regret that they are not inquisitors.

Proofread. Twice

We know it is boring advice, but you would be astonished to know how many students fail with their travel essay due to some omissions and pitiful mistakes. It is one of the reasons why a lot of students address essay writing services for help similar to SmartWritingService.com. Use online grammar and spelling checkers and read your essay aloud to detect too complicated and long sentences. Submit on time! Good luck!



How to Keep your Kids Occupied During the Summer

July 2, 2018 by

Kids lesson

We all know that a bored child is a mischievous child. I know this not only because I’m a mother, but I also remember my parents tell myself and my siblings off for causing mischief.

When school is out for summer, you’ll often find parents over the globe looking for things that will keep their kids occupied. The good news is there are plenty of activities that could help to prevent your children from getting bored, you just have to know what they are. This article explores what you can do throughout the summer to keep your little ones occupied.

Send your Children to Summer Camp

Many parents and carers tend to send their children to summer camp. Not only does summer camp keep your kids busy and entertained, but it can also be a great place for them to learn new skills. Of course, if you cannot afford summer camp or you simply don’t want to send your children away every summer, there are other options.

Enjoy a Vacation Together

If you would like to offer your child the best vacation ever, then I can wholeheartedly recommend going on a family trip to Universal Studios. When I took my children there a few years ago they simply loved every moment of it. However, there are many other destinations that you may want to consider visiting. For example, going camping with your children is a lot of fun, as is hiring an RV and making your way across the country.

Wherever you decide to go, make sure you plan to let your kids have fun. Take them somewhere exciting for the day such as a theme park, take them fishing, walk around museums and art galleries, and make sure they have a great time.

Visit Family Together

During the summer you are likely to find yourself with a lot of free time on your hands. This is when travelling across the country and visiting family can help. Why not book a two-week vacation to see your relatives so your kids can play with their cousins? Explore the local area while you’re visiting family, and enjoy a few activities together.

Take your Children to the Park

Unless you have a park that’s on your doorstep, you may want to think about taking your children to the park. Spend at least a few hours there two to three times a week and let them blow off steam. Kids tend to love spending time at the park, it lets them run riot for a few hours, and they can have a lot of fun with their friends.

As you can see, you can keep your kids occupied during the summer, meaning you won’t have to put up with arguments, mischievousness, and upset children. Make sure you and your kids plan to have a lot of fun this summer so you can all have a great time, no matter where you are or what you’re doing.




The Latest Collection of Extraordinary yet Affordable Paddleboards

June 14, 2018 by

Affordable paddleboards

Individuals of every age group like to have the maximum fun and like to enhance their lifestyle in various aspects.  They have decided to exercise and follow an appropriate diet plan on a regular basis. If they have a crush on paddle boarding, then they can explore the most advanced designs of inexpensive paddle boards right now. They will get an overview of how to successfully compare the world-class yet reasonable prices of stand up paddleboards available for sale in online stores.

Attractive paddleboards

Qualified designers and manufacturers of paddleboards worldwide in recent times have a dedication to providing the best yet reasonable prices of paddleboards. They pay attention to ever-increasing requirements of customers and trends in the market.  You can directly make contact with the number one shop where a list of paddleboards is available in different categories. You will get the absolute assistance and fulfil wishes on the easiest method to narrow down loads of paddleboards without difficulty in any aspect.

Crystal clear specifications as well as images of paddleboards from renowned brands these days give you the absolute assistance required for fulfilling paddleboard shopping requirements on the whole.  You can get in touch with specialists in the most modern paddleboards on online and gain knowledge of advanced aspects of inexpensive paddleboards from reputable brands on the market.

Buy and use the best paddleboard

Buy best paddle boards

All users of the best paddleboards in our time get more than expected enjoyment. They take pleasure in the paddle boarding activities and enhance everything related to their entertainment. They make certain that buying a brand new paddleboard is a good investment in fun, exercise as well as lifestyle. They spend their leisure time as enjoyable as possible due to the world-class paddle board and enhanced paddleboarding activities. They recommend the first-class yet reasonable price of the paddleboard to their kith and kin.

There are loads of designs and sizes of paddleboards available for sale in the reputable shop on online. You have to find out and purchase one of the most appropriate paddleboards recommended by satisfied users all through the nation after you have ensured about the following things.

  • Paddleboarding expertise and expectations
  • Budget
  • Paddle board types
  • Paddle board sizes
  • Storage space
  • Durability
  • User-friendliness
  • Pros and cons
  • Reviews and recommendations

Types of paddle boards

Paddleboards type

Different types of paddle boards are available for sale and recommended by experts in this sector. The main categories of paddle boards on the market in our time are as follows.

  • Surfing boards
  • Touring boards
  • Inflatable boards
  • Racing boards

As a beginner to the paddle board, you require the complete assistance from experts in this industry and gain knowledge of how to be successful in your approach to buy an appropriate paddle board. The entire specifications of paddle boards and real images of these products enhance the level of convenience of everyone to directly choose and purchase one of the most outstanding paddleboards.

Concentrate on the size

The size is one of the main things to bear in mind while comparing the most outstanding brands of paddleboards. You have to take note of the exact size of the paddle board before deciding on the paddleboard shopping. The size of the paddleboard of any brand is given in volume. A paddle board with wide, thick and long features does not fail to have the highest possible volume.

Experts in the paddleboard design nowadays make sure that the big paddleboard has a less responsive nature than a small paddleboard. If you are a beginner o he paddleboarding, then you can buy and use a high volume paddleboard. You will get an instant assistance and enhance everything associated with the safe paddleboarding.

Cost

Paddle cost

You may have a reasonable financial plan for the best paddleboard shopping at this time. You can directly get in touch with the specialized paddleboard shop on online and begin a step to narrow down the latest list of paddleboards as comprehensive as possible. You will get the most expected assistance and take advantage of the easiest method to purchase a reasonable price of the paddleboard. You will be satisfied with an inexpensive yet the most outstanding nature of the paddleboard.

Storage space

Every potential buyer of the paddle board has to consider the storage space. They have to make a clear plan to store the paddleboard when they do not use it.  They have to ensure that whether a paddleboard can be accommodated inside the car or require a rental trailer for transportation.  You may get confused with storage space feature of paddleboards available on the market in recent times. You can directly make contact with a specialized customer support team and clarify overall doubtful issues. You will get the absolute guidance as soon as possible. You will realize expectations on the easiest method to choose and purchase a high quality paddle board devoid of compromising your requirements.

The most suggested paddleboards

Suggested boards

Out of the ordinary features of inexpensive paddleboards from well-known brands in recent times make every user happier than ever. All listeners to the most suggested list of paddleboards nowadays can make an informed decision and purchase a suitable paddleboard based on overall paddle boarding expectations. You can focus on and compare popular the following paddleboards subsequent to a complete analysis of a variety of important things.

  • ISLE Cruiser soft top stand-up paddle board
  • Gold coast ANIMA stand-up paddle board
  • Sun Dolphin Seaquest
  • CBC Hydra Classic Foam stand-up paddle board
  • Ten Toes Weekender Inflatable stand-up paddle board

It is the correct time to become skilled at the main features of paddleboards and double-check how to successfully fulfil overall expectations on the paddleboard shopping. You will get the most outstanding guidance and make your wishes on the stress-free method to own one of the best paddleboards.  Satisfied and smart users of the world-class paddleboards in recent times take note of every significant feature. They compare these paddleboards and recommend the most exceptional paddleboards to their friends and beginners to the paddleboard shopping.

Our friends at Globo Surf have some great guides and tips on how to choose an inflatable SUP.




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