Listicle Exploring South Dakota: Great Ideas for Active Families 4:21 PM South Dakota offers an incredible playground for families seeking outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, the Mount Rushmore State provides endless opportunities for active families to bond while exploring some of America’s most stunning landscapes. Iconic Landmarks and National Treasures The Black Hills region serves as South Dakota’s crown jewel for family exploration. Mount Rushmore National Memorial Mount Rushmore captivates visitors of all ages, offering hiking trails that provide unique perspectives of the famous presidential faces. The Presidential Trail is particularly family-friendly, featuring accessible boardwalks and viewing areas perfect for children. Crazy Horse MemorialJust about 17 miles away from the Presidential Trail, Crazy Horse Memorial presents an ongoing sculpture project that fascinates young minds. The site includes cultural programs, museums, and evening events that illuminate the massive carving. Families can participate in educational workshops about Native American culture while enjoying the outdoor amphitheater experience.Can you do Crazy Horse and Mount Rushmore in a day?You can easily visit both the Crazy Horse Memorial and Mount Rushmore in one day, as they’re only 30 minutes apart. You can spend the morning at one memorial, have lunch, and visit the other in the afternoon or evening. Allow a minimum of 2-3 hours at each location. Underground Adventures The Black Hills region extends its wonders below ground through remarkable cave systems. Exploring these stunning caves is one of the best things to do in South Dakota for families.Wind Cave National ParkWind Cave National Park combines subterranean exploration with prairie wildlife viewing. The cave tours range from easy walks suitable for young children to more challenging adventures for teenagers and adults. Above ground, families can spot bison, elk, and prairie dogs while hiking the park’s surface trails. Jewel Cave National MonumentJewel Cave National Monument offers another underground marvel, featuring intricate calcite formations that sparkle like jewels. The scenic tour provides an excellent introduction for families new to caving, while more adventurous options challenge experienced explorers. Badlands Beauty and Wildlife Badlands National Park transforms family road trips into geological time travel experiences. The park’s scenic loop road offers numerous stopping points where families can stretch their legs and explore fossil exhibits. Short hiking trails, such as the Door Trail and Window Trail, accommodate a range of fitness levels while offering spectacular photo opportunities. The park’s Junior Ranger program engages children through hands-on activities and educational presentations. Evening programs often include stargazing sessions, taking advantage of the area’s minimal light pollution for incredible celestial viewing. Gateway to Adventure: Rapid City Attractions As the gateway to the Black Hills, Rapid City attractions provide excellent starting points for family adventures. The city itself offers numerous attractions:Municipal, state, and national parksThe interactive Journey MuseumThe famous City of Presidents walking tour features life-sized bronze statues of all American presidents along the downtown sidewalks. These urban amenities complement the surrounding natural wonders perfectly.Here are the top 10 things to do in Rapid City, South Dakota, according to DoTravel: Water Recreation and State Parks in South Dakota South Dakota’s numerous lakes and rivers provide excellent opportunities for water-based family activities. Lake Thompson offers swimming, fishing, and boating in a family-friendly environment. Palisades State Park, located near Garretson, features unique quartzite rock formations alongside Split Rock Creek, providing families with opportunities to swim, fish, or simply enjoy picnicking in the scenic surroundings. The Missouri River creates additional recreational opportunities through reservoirs like Lake Sharpe and Lake Francis Case, where families can enjoy water skiing, fishing, and camping at well-maintained state recreation areas. Cultural Experiences and Learning Beyond natural attractions, South Dakota provides rich cultural experiences that keep active families engaged. The town of Deadwood combines Wild West history with family-friendly activities, including historic trolley tours and interactive museums. Many locations offer living history demonstrations that bring the frontier era to life. Native American cultural sites throughout the state provide educational opportunities for families to learn about indigenous heritage through traditional crafts, storytelling, and cultural demonstrations. South Dakota’s diverse landscape ensures that active families find adventures matching their interests and abilities. South Dakota Travel GuideIf exploring South Dakota is on your bucket list this year, bookmark this travel guide and enjoy the national parks, unique attractions, and fun tourism this lovely state offers.FAQsWhat is the number one attraction in South Dakota?Mount Rushmore National Memorial is South Dakota’s most popular tourist attraction, drawing over 2 million visitors annually. The monument features the carved faces of Presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. What month is best to visit South Dakota?The best time to visit South Dakota is from May through September. This travel season provides the most favorable weather for outdoor activities, with comfortable temperatures averaging 60-75°F and full access to attractions. July attracts the most tourism, while May and September tend to have milder crowds and pleasant South Dakota weather.How many days do you need to visit South Dakota?5-7 days is recommended for a comprehensive South Dakota experience. If you have only 3-4 days, focus on Badlands National Park and the Black Hills region, including Mount Rushmore, the Crazy Horse Memorial, and Custer State Park.A typical breakdown includes:Half day: Mount Rushmore2 days: Badlands National Park1-1.5 days: Custer State ParkHalf day each: Wind Cave/Jewel CaveWhat is the prettiest part of South Dakota?The Black Hills region stands out as the most scenic area in South Dakota, featuring several beautiful locations:Custer State Park - 71,000 acres with bison herds, granite peaks, and scenic drivesSpearfish Canyon - Limestone cliffs, clear streams, and waterfallsNeedles Highway - Dramatic rock formations and scenic mountain roadsBadlands National Park - Otherworldly rock formations and fossil bedsWhere to stay in Badlands?Wall and Interior offer the most convenient lodging options near Badlands National Park.Hotels & Motels:Hansen Inn & Cabins (Wall) - recently remodeledVarious affordable chain hotels in Wall and the InteriorUnique Accommodations:Badlands Frontier Cabins - 33 authentic log cabinsCedar Pass Lodge - cabins, tent sites, and RV sitesCircle View Guest Ranch - working cattle ranch experienceBadlands Hotel & Campground - just 1 mile from the parkHow much does it cost to get into Mount Rushmore?There is no entrance fee to visit Mount Rushmore. However, you must pay a $10 parking fee per vehicle. The parking permit is valid for one year from the date of purchase, so you can return multiple times with the same permit.Can you go up to the face of Crazy Horse?Based on the available information, no specific details about accessing the face of Crazy Horse were found in the current search results. For the most up-to-date access information and tour options, it’s recommended to check the Crazy Horse Memorial website directly or contact them before your visit.Have you visited South Dakota? What was your favorite attraction that isn’t listed here?Header Image © Internet Marketing Ad. No commercial reuse.Want to license or commission something similar? Let me know in the comments!
Portfolio Mövenpick Resort & Spa Boracay: Hotel Review 6:56 AM Mövenpick Resort and Spa Boracay: Hotel Review I've been to Boracay multiple times—single, engaged, married, before and after its temporary closure—and extensively explored Stations 1 and 2. Yet, nothing compares to my recent stay at Station Zero, specifically in Mövenpick Resort & Spa Boracay. Here's my honest hotel review of this Green Globe-certified, family-friendly paradise.But first...Why Visit BoracayBoracay is a tropical paradise renowned for its powdery white sand, breathtaking sunsets, and warm, hospitable locals. Over the years, this island has transformed into a vibrant, tourist-friendly destination, offering accommodations that range from luxurious 5-star hotels to charming boutique inns. Its bustling malls, supermarkets stocked with local and imported products, and diverse restaurants cater to every palate.Choosing Where to Stay in BoracayBoracay's main beach is divided into three key areas:Station 1: Known for its upscale resorts and quieter ambiance.Station 2: The heart of the action with bustling nightlife and restaurants.Station 3: Ideal for budget travelers.Station Zero, however, stands apart for its exclusivity, tranquility, and sophistication. If you're looking for a more relaxing and secluded experience, Mövenpick Resort & Spa is the perfect choice.Mövenpick Resort & Spa Boracay: Review and Our Memorable ExperienceSeamless TransitMövenpick Boracay ensures a hassle-free transfer experience, making arrivals and departures smooth and stress-free.Key features of the transit service:Punctuality: The staff was on time for the airport pickup. (We didn't get the transfer to the airport, as we stayed in a different hotel before our trip back.)Efficient Coordination: We were warmly greeted and guided to the exclusive Mövenpick van upon arrival at the airport. The transition to the speedboat was seamless, with staff handling our luggage every step of the way. There was no waiting.Warm Welcome: At the resort, a welcoming staff greeted us with Mövenpick's signature iced tea and cold towels, setting the tone for a luxurious stay.Comfortable Journey:The van was clean and air-conditioned, offering ample space for our party of two couples during the pickup.The speedboat ride was swifter than when you were taking the public boat.This well-orchestrated process made travel to and from the resort effortless, allowing us to focus on enjoying our vacation from the very start. We're glad we paid extra for this service; it was worth it. Free Shuttle ServiceConvenient free shuttle service makes exploring the island easy and hassle-free.Schedules are regular and well-managed, ensuring guests can comfortably visit nearby attractions or the D'Mall shopping area.If you want to explore other parts of the island or go outside the scheduled activities, please inform the concierge, and they will arrange for an Etrike driver to pick you up from the main road. Expect a fare of 200-300 pesos, although some drivers may request a higher amount. It's best to negotiate the price.Here's their current schedule (as of December 2024):There is also a free shuttle around the resort, which makes it easier to move between buildings.5-Star Service & ExperienceOur arrival wasn't without hiccups, as the first room we were assigned had an issue. However, the management resolved it swiftly, upgrading us to a Junior Master Suite. The room's spectacular view and luxurious amenities more than made up for the initial mishap.Stunning ViewI love that, whether grabbing breakfast at The Market, having dinner at Brezza, or partying at Sol Marina Beach Club, you can always enjoy a great view of the vast pool and the beach. Additionally, our suite's balcony offers a stunning view of both.Enjoying this romantic view with my husbandThe Junior Master SuiteThe suite was a harmonious blend of modern elegance and cozy charm. Here's what stood out for me:Design: The room featured warm wooden flooring, soft ambient lighting, and a plush panel-style headboard that exuded understated luxury.Bathroom: A frosted glass partition added a contemporary flair while maintaining an open and airy feel. The dual vanity and massive bathtub were perfect for couples.Balcony: Sheer curtains provided privacy without obstructing the view of lush greenery and sky. Blackout curtains were a lifesaver for those who needed to sleep in.Amenities: Every detail was thoughtfully curated, from the sustainable comb and brush to a variety of teas and toiletries.The suite was a sanctuary, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. We didn't mind that it was stormy during our first three days in Boracay because we were cozy in our room.Dining OptionsMövenpick offers four dining establishments, each with its own unique appeal:1. The Market: Specializes in Filipino cuisine.Serves an extensive breakfast buffet, which we enjoyed every morning.Breakfast includes fresh juices, pastries, and options for meat lovers and vegetarians.Limited choices for strict vegans during lunch and dinner.2. Sol Marina Beach Club: Beachfront bar with a view.Ideal for cocktails, dinner, or enjoying the sunset.3. The Café: Located near reception.Serves desserts and café-style food overlooking a serene garden pond.4. Brezza: An Italian gem and our favorite!The truffle pasta stood out, and the decadent chocolate mousse was unforgettable. They also serve scrumptious pizza.The ambiance, with Italian music and a stunning sunset view, made for a perfect dining experience.Staff ExperienceBiancaLet's talk about our favorite server for a hot minute.Bianca, one of the servers at Mövenpick Boracay's Brezza restaurant, elevated our dining experience.Bianca exuded a natural charm that made us feel welcomed and cared for. She remembered our preferences, checked in with perfect timing, and ensured every meal detail was spot on. Her radiant smile and friendly attitude were infectious.You don't often encounter this level of service. It's rare to meet someone who loves their job so visibly, and Bianca is a testament to the top-tier staff Mövenpick employs. Her dedication to creating a delightful guest experience deserves recognition. If Mövenpick is looking for a benchmark in customer relations, Bianca sets the bar high.The Other Guy 😏That Market server should learn from her, too. When we asked why our reserved dinner table was already occupied, he simply said, "I'll let our captain know of your concern," brushing us off.First of all, this is a wrong response. We don't need to talk to their "captain." They should have just informed the other guests that the table was reserved.Second, that didn't even address our question. He didn't bother checking the system to see if there was indeed an oversight. Honestly, we weren't upset; we were just surprised and wondered why someone was sitting there. It's no biggie—mix-ups happen, and we get that. But that response was frustrating.Fortunately, the female server who had personally reserved the table for us spoke to the manager. From then on, they made sure the table was reserved for us every day we were there. They didn't have to go that extra mile. The manager did top-notch customer service, and we truly appreciated their effort to make things right. Everyone else did a great job during our stay. Maybe that guy was just having a bad day. Let's give him that. Signature Chocolate HourEvery afternoon from 3:00 to 4:00 PM, guests are treated to an array of FREE chocolates: brownies, chocolate fondue, cookies, and more. It's a delightful indulgence for both kids and adults. Let's just say we didn't hold back!Seasonal Events & ProgramsWe stayed there during the week of Halloween. The resort organized family-friendly events, including games and activities for children. The staff also encouraged us to return during the holidays as they prepared fun programs for Christmas and New Year.These thoughtful touches reflect Mövenpick's commitment to creating memorable experiences for every guest. Private BeachOne of the biggest perks of staying at Mövenpick is access to its private beach. This beach, accessible only to guests of Mövenpick, Crimson, and Shangri-La, offers a peaceful retreat from the busier main beach.Here's what stands out:Tranquility: No constant interruptions from vendors. Those present at the far edges respect boundaries and approach only if called.Sheltered Location: Nestled between Crimson and Shangri-La, the beach is naturally shielded from strong winds, even on stormy days.Safe and Comfortable: Lifeguards are on duty, with clear swimming condition flags. I recommend wearing water shoes due to some coral along the shoreline (it's not the signature powdery sand of Boracay in this area).Extra Touches: Towels are provided after a swim. Tip: Ask for towels fresh from the laundry, as they are warmer.The soft white sand, turquoise waters, and breathtaking sunsets make this private beach a slice of paradise. The yellow lines mark where turtle eggs are buried in the sand.Multi-Level PoolThe resort boasts one of the most beautiful pools I've seen, with:Multiple levels spanning a vast area.A safe 4-ft depth, suitable for kids and non-swimmers.Water volleyball, jacuzzis (blower only, no heater), and a dedicated shallow section for toddlers.The pool offers breathtaking views of the beach, creating a stunning backdrop for relaxation. It's only a few steps from the restaurants, so you can quickly get snacks and drinks.Sagay SpaAs spa enthusiasts and self-proclaimed spa critics (lol), my husband and I were impressed with the treatments at Sagay Spa:Exceptional Therapists: Jenny (?), my husband's therapist and my own, MJ, and Sun were highly skilled and attentive. High-quality oils: I love that they used premium oils that absorbed beautifully, leaving skin soft and subtly scented. (They don't have to wipe you with hot towels after the session like in other spas.) I believe lavender, floral, and peppermint are the scents available. A serene ambiance complete with soothing scents and music.Although pricier than other spas (2,500 Php or $43 for 60 minutes), overall, it was a pleasant experience.Note: I pride myself on sharing only honest reviews on my blog, so I'd like to add that I've had just as good massages at cheaper prices in Dumaguete (350 PHP or $6) and Punta Bulata (less than 1,000 PHP or $17). There are also massage places outside the resort that offer good services for a cheaper price.Suggestions for MövenpickWhile Mövenpick Boracay delivers an overall fantastic experience, a few areas of improvement could make a significant difference:Enforcing the No-Smoking Policy: Smoking outside the designated area was a recurring issue during our stay. Some guests were smoking in spaces like the sunbeds near The Market and behind Brezza, both of which are just steps away from the designated smoking zone. 🤯 This is not the resort's fault (some people just have a hard time following the rules), but it detracts from the resort's otherwise serene environment and compromises the comfort of non-smoking guests. Adding clear signage around the property and reminding guests of this policy during check-in would go a long way in ensuring compliance. A gentle but firm approach to enforcement is essential to maintain the resort's pristine atmosphere.Vegetarian, Vegan, and Pescatarian Dining Options: Although the breakfast buffet offered a great variety, the lunch and dinner menus, particularly at The Market, could benefit from more inclusive options for guests with dietary preferences or restrictions. Expanding the vegetarian, vegan, and pescatarian offerings would enhance the experience for a broader audience.Maintenance at the Fun Hub: Certain facilities, including the billiards table and cue sticks, exhibited signs of wear and tear. Ensuring these are well-maintained would keep the Fun Hub an enjoyable retreat for guests.Localized Social Media Presence: Creating dedicated social media accounts for individual Mövenpick locations would improve direct communication. Guests could ask location-specific questions without being redirected to general email or phone contacts.Summary: What to Expect at Mövenpick BoracayOur rating for this hotel resort? ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐This resort checks all the boxes for a luxurious, family-friendly getaway:Exceptional service with staff trained for excellence (except for one).A tranquil and exclusive location, away from the bustling crowds.Gorgeous views, top-notch amenities, and thoughtfully curated activities.How to get to Mövenpick Resort & SpaFrom Caticlan AirportExit the airport: Once you arrive at Caticlan Airport, walk past the vans and look for the tricycles waiting outside.Take a tricycle to Caticlan Jetty Port: The fare is approximately PHP 75 if traveling alone or PHP 50 per person if traveling in a group. The ride takes about 10 minutes.Pay the fees: At Caticlan Jetty Port, pay the necessary terminal fees and register with the Department of Tourism (DOT) by showing your hotel reservation. Then, board the boat (a pump boat or an Oyster ferry) for a 15-20-minute ride to Boracay Island.Arrival at Cagban Jetty Port: Once you arrive at Cagban Jetty Port, you can take a tricycle or van to Mövenpick Resort & Spa Boracay. The resort is approximately 30 minutes away by road.From Kalibo AirportExit the airport: Upon arrival at Kalibo Airport, look for the local buses or vans heading to Caticlan Jetty Port.Take a bus to Caticlan Jetty Port: This journey takes about 2 hours. Alternatively, you can take a local bus to Kalibo town and then transfer to a bus heading to Caticlan.Arrive at Caticlan Jetty Port: Go through the registration and verification process.Pay the fees: There will be a terminal and environmental fee.Board the ferry: Take the Local Bangka Boat from Caticlan Jetty Port to Cagban Jetty Port. Then, board your boat for the 15-20-minute journey to Boracay Island.Arrive at Cagban Jetty Port. Take a tricycle or van to Mövenpick Resort & Spa Boracay, about 30 minutes away.The fare from Cagban Jetty Port to Mövenpick Resort & Spa Boracay is about Php160 to Php200 (around $3 to $4), but some transport companies may charge more. Depending on traffic, the trip takes around 8 minutes by taxi or e-trike. You can also arrange a private transfer through the resort for a varying cost.Note: The rates may have changed, so it's best to research and prepare enough cash for transit.FAQs Are the pools in Mövenpick heated?No. But the sun heats the pool water when it gets hot during the day, making it warm.Do they provide warm towels?Some towels are warm when fresh from the laundry, but typically, they are not. Please ask for availability.Can you access the neighboring resorts for free?Yes. You can simply walk from Mövenpick Beach to Shangri-La and Crimson, as they are just a few steps away.Does Mövenpick offer a day pass?Yes, the Mövenpick Resort & Spa allows you to spend the day and experience its luxury without staying overnight. Walk-ins are usually accepted, but reservations are encouraged. The day pass is all-inclusive of:Entry to Boracay's multi-level swimming pool, which covers 3,300 sqm.Access to a 150-meter semi-private beach at Punta Bunga Cove, ideal for stunning sunset views.Receive PHP 1,600 in credits for dining and spa services.Utilize sun beds, towels, and shower amenities.A welcome drink is provided upon arrival.Take advantage of the Happy Hour Promotion at Sol Marina Beach Club from 4:00 to 6:00 PM.Attend DJ sessions, live performances featuring fire dancers, and sunset duo shows at Sol Marina Beach Club (availability depending on schedule).Join daily wellness activities, such as cultural dances like Tinikling, Aqua Aerobics, Zumba, and more (availability depending on schedule).Check out their website for more information.What is the old name of Mövenpick? Mövenpick took over Sheraton Karachi.What is the parent company of Mövenpick? Accor under CEO Olivier Chavy (as of this writing).Would we return to Mövenpick Resort & Spa Boracay? Absolutely! For a serene escape that combines luxury and relaxation, there's truly no place like it.Images Copyright: Internet Marketing Ad
Health & Wellness A Premium Perimenopause Retreat: Your Prepping Guide to Navigate Hormonal Chaos 10:47 PM Many modern independent women believe that anything in life is achievable. However, some feel held back, especially in terms of traveling, by their perimenopause stage.It is a sad reality that this transitional period brings several physical health challenges, and our culture avoids discussing it openly.A Bank of America study found that 64% of women want menopause-specific employment benefits. However, only 14% believe that these will materialize. Women still feel stigmatized during this challenging yet crucial time of their lives. The stress only amplifies when you wonder whether to go on a premium retreat.Fret not!We will discuss the perimenopause phase and helpful travel tips. Let nothing, not even menopause, stop you from living life to the fullest.Why Women Avoid Perimenopause Travel Menopause can be among the most challenging periods of a woman’s life. There is scientific evidence to prove that women’s bodies are hormonally charged differently than men’s. Any hormone changes like progesterone and estrogen are guaranteed to affect physical health, mood, and more. Perimenopause: Navigating Travel ChallengesPerimenopause can significantly impact daily life. Characterized by a range of symptoms, including hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep issues, this transitional phase can be physically and emotionally demanding.Routine activities become more challenging. Once effortless tasks may require increased effort due to symptoms such as brain fog and fatigue.Travel can exacerbate perimenopausal symptoms. Factors like jet lag and environmental changes can disrupt sleep patterns and hormone balance, intensifying discomfort.Luxury travel does not guarantee a stress-free experience. Despite high-end accommodations and curated itineraries, women in perimenopause may still encounter travel-related anxieties.With careful planning and preparation, you can make enjoyable travel a reality. By implementing specific strategies, women can mitigate the impact of perimenopausal symptoms and create a memorable vacation experience. How to Enjoy a Blissful Perimenopause Vacation Excited to travel in luxury to multiple countries but worried about perimenopause getting in the way?Should you put your life on hold until post-menopause? The only solution is to find your way around the symptoms. Let’s look at different ways in which you can plan and prepare to enjoy a blissful perimenopause vacation. Before You Leave: Preparing for Your Perimenopausal JourneyHere are some tips for traveling with perimenopause symptoms:Thorough planning. When making preparations, consider the duration and location of your trip. Factors such as climate and itinerary should influence packing and potential medical needs.Choose breathable fabrics. Natural fibers like cotton and linen help regulate body temperature and manage hot flashes, especially in warmer climates.Pack strategically. Overpacking can be stressful, but underpacking can lead to discomfort. Bring essential items in abundance, such as period products and medications.Address incontinence concerns. If you experience incontinence, explore options like Kegel exercises, hormone replacement therapy, or pelvic floor therapy before considering more invasive procedures like vaginal mesh implants. While these were once a popular option, the numerous vaginal mesh lawsuits due to severe side effects have made many women wary of this procedure.Prioritize health and safety. Create a detailed packing list to avoid forgetting essential items. This can help alleviate pre-trip anxiety.Consult your healthcare provider. Discuss your travel plans and any specific concerns with your doctor to ensure you are well-prepared.Getting There: Embarking on Your Perimenopausal AdventurePrepare in advance: The anticipation of your well-deserved trip is exciting, but understandably, nerves may arise. Proper planning can significantly ease your departure. Pack your luggage in advance to avoid last-minute stress.Arrange transportation: Allow ample time for your journey to the airport by pre-booking transportation.Dress for comfort: Opt for loose, layered clothing for comfort.Manage crowds: If crowds overwhelm you, find a quiet space and practice mindfulness techniques.Minimize bloating: Avoid heavy meals before your flight to minimize bloating, often exacerbated by air pressure changes. Prioritize hydration and wholesome food choices.Discuss blood clot risks: If you’re taking Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), discuss potential blood clot risks with your healthcare provider, as these can be heightened during air travel.Consider compression stockings: As a precautionary measure, consider wearing compression stockings. Anti-embolism stockings might be advisable for those at higher risk.While You’re Away: Making the Most of Your TripPrioritize HRT management: Your HRT medication can significantly enhance your travel experience. Carefully review the storage requirements for your specific medication, as temperature can affect its efficacy.Utilize hotel amenities: Most high-end accommodations offer temperature control options. Ensure your HRT is stored according to the prescribed conditions.Prepare for unexpected circumstances: If you lose or misplace medication, avoid purchasing HRT from local pharmacies. The ingredients and quality may vary.Implement general wellness strategies: Focus on general well-being to manage symptoms. Prioritize hydration, rest, and avoiding alcohol.Manage sleep disturbances: Incorporate relaxation techniques like listening to calming music or meditation to improve sleep quality. Avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and consider storing your water bottle in the mini-fridge for refreshing hydration. Rejuvenate: There may be moments when proximity to others is too overwhelming. Hormones can get charged even if you’re simply relaxing by the pool. To rejuvenate, take time alone, exercise, or walk by the beach.Benefits of Traveling for Perimenopausal WomenTraveling can offer numerous benefits for women experiencing perimenopause. Here are a few:Physical BenefitsStress Reduction: A change of scenery can help alleviate stress, a common perimenopausal symptom.Improved Sleep: Different environments can sometimes lead to better sleep quality, which can be disrupted during perimenopause.Increased Physical Activity: Exploring new places often involves walking and sightseeing, which can boost physical health.Mental and Emotional BenefitsBoost in Mood: New experiences and adventures can elevate mood and combat feelings of depression or anxiety.Increased Self-Esteem: Overcoming travel challenges related to perimenopause can boost confidence and self-esteem.Sense of Freedom: Traveling can provide a sense of liberation and independence, allowing women to focus on themselves.Social BenefitsQuality Time with Loved Ones: Shared experiences can strengthen bonds with family and friends.New Connections: Meeting people from different cultures can enrich and expand social circles.Navigate Hormonal Chaos During MenopauseFeeling overwhelmed by the prospect of perimenopause travel? That’s perfectly normal. Planning ahead can make a world of difference. And while it’s okay to get stressed out and feel nervous, remember that this phase of life is just another chapter. Millions of women embrace this journey, and so can you. It’s time to start writing your next adventure. You're a woman. You can do anything.
How-To Exploring The Globe Affordably: Savvy Strategies For Budget Travel 10:40 PM Traveling the world is a dream shared by many, but the prospect of high costs often discourages people from taking the plunge. However, seeing the world on a shoestring budget is possible with careful planning and a dash of creativity. In this article, we'll share some valuable tips to help you keep your travel expenses down, allowing you to embark on your dream adventures without breaking the bank.1. Book Travel and Activity Tickets in Advance for the Best PricesOne of the most effective ways to save on travel costs is to plan and book your tickets well in advance. Airlines and other transportation providers often offer significant discounts for travelers who book their tickets early. This approach helps you secure the best prices and allows you to have more flexibility in your travel dates.Booking tickets in advance also applies to attractions and activities abroad. By booking tickets in advance, you can visit if you want and when you want, avoiding long queues at ticket offices and avoiding massive disappointment in the process.2. Embrace the Art of Traveling Off-PeakAnother budget-friendly tip is to travel during the off-peak season. This means choosing to visit destinations when they are less crowded and typically less expensive. Off-peak travel helps you save money and allows you to enjoy a more authentic and peaceful experience.Many popular tourist destinations have distinct high and low seasons, so research the best time to visit your chosen location. Prices for accommodations, attractions, and flights can drop significantly during these times. Plus, you'll have the added benefit of avoiding long lines and crowded tourist spots.3. Consider Alternative Accommodation OptionsWhile hotels can offer comfort and luxury, they often come with a hefty price tag. To save money on accommodation, consider alternatives such as hostels, guesthouses, vacation rentals, or even camping.These options can be significantly more budget-friendly while providing a comfortable and unique experience.Visit if you want: Hostels are famous among budget travelers, offering affordable dormitory-style rooms or private accommodations. Many hostels also have communal kitchens where you can cook meals, reducing expenses. Vacation rentals like Airbnb can be another excellent option, especially if you're traveling with a group, as they often offer more space and amenities than hotels at a lower cost per person.4. Master the Art of Budget DiningFood is essential to the travel experience, and you don't have to break the bank to savor delicious local cuisine. To save money on dining while traveling, consider the following strategies:Eat Like a Local: Venture away from touristy areas and dine at local restaurants and street stalls. You'll get a taste of authentic cuisine and enjoy lower prices.Cook Your Meals: If you stay in accommodations with kitchen facilities, buy groceries and cook meals. This is an excellent way to save money and experience the local food culture through markets and grocery stores.Splurge Wisely: Instead of dining out for every meal, choose one or two special occasions to splurge on a high-end restaurant. This allows you to enjoy a gourmet experience without overspending.5. Explore Free and Low-Cost AttractionsMany destinations offer a wealth of free or low-cost attractions that allow you to experience the local culture and history without straining your budget. Research your destination's museums, parks, and historic sites to find options that won't dent your wallet.Visit if you want: City passes, or tourist cards can also be an excellent investment to visit multiple attractions. These cards often provide significant discounts or even free admission to attractions and public transportation.6. Opt for Public TransportationWhile taxis and rental cars can quickly eat into your travel budget, public transportation is often an affordable and convenient alternative. Trains, buses, trams, and subways can take you to most major attractions, and they are usually much cheaper than other forms of transportation. Plus, using public transport allows you to experience a destination like a local.In addition to saving money, using public transportation can also be more environmentally friendly, reducing your carbon footprint during your travels.7. Travel Light and Pack SmartPacking efficiently can save you money and hassle during your travels. Avoid checking in luggage whenever possible, as many airlines charge extra fees for checked bags. Stick to a carry-on suitcase and pack only the essentials to minimize expenses and avoid the risk of lost luggage.Furthermore, consider using versatile, mixed, and matched clothing to create different outfits. This way, you can pack less while still having various clothing options for your trip.Traveling on a Budget: A Rewarding AdventureEmbarking on a budget-friendly journey doesn't mean sacrificing the quality of your travel experience. By following these tips, you can explore the world while keeping your costs in check. Remember, the key to successful budget travel is careful planning, flexibility, and a willingness to embrace new experiences. So, go ahead and start planning your next adventure – it's possible to see the world without emptying your wallet.
Events What Goes On In NYC In The Summer 8:06 AM What Goes On In NYC In The Summer It's officially summertime in NYC. As the temperatures continue to rise, so does the excitement with all the events and activities happening this month. From concerts and movie screenings to outdoor fitness classes and museum exhibits, there's something for everyone to enjoy. It is always good to keep up with the july events and tips in nyc to make the most of summer.Here are some highlights of what's going on in NYC this July. 1. Music Events For music lovers, NYC is host to a variety of concerts and music festivals throughout the summer.Big Names in the MusicDepending on when you read this, you might catch performances by big names like Jay-Z, Katy Perry, Bruno Mars, and Stevie Wonder at Madison Square Garden this July. Intimate Music Events in NYCBut if you're looking for a more intimate setting, check out one of the many music venues throughout the city, such as:Bowery BallroomBrooklyn BowlRough Trade NYC.NYC's Outdoor Music Several concerts in parks across NYC are held for those who prefer to experience music outdoors.Central Park SummerStage features performances by various artists from all genres.Celebrate Brooklyn! Festival offers free shows at the Prospect Park Bandshell.2. Art and CultureNYC is home to some of the world's most famous museums. Several must-see exhibits are on display this summer. NYC Museums to Visit in the SummerThe Metropolitan Museum of Art: "Countdown to Zero: Defeating Disease" exhibit explores how close we are to eradicating some of the world's deadliest diseases. The Museum of Modern Art: "Items: Is Fashion Modern?" looks at how clothing has been used as a form of self-expression throughout history.The High Line Park: home to several rotating art installations. The Brooklyn Museum: "Open House New York" looks at some of NYC's most iconic buildings. 3. Summer Outdoor Activities in NYCNYC is the perfect place to enjoy the outdoors this summer.Fitness in Central Park. Take advantage of the warm weather with a fitness class in one of the city's many parks, such as yoga in Central Park Boot Camp Class in Brooklyn Bridge Park. Public Beach. Swim at one of NYC's public beaches, such as Coney Island, Rockaway Beach, or Brighton Beach.China Town Tour. Take a walking tour of NYC's historic Chinatown.Bike in Brooklyn. Brooklyn's Greenpoint neighborhood is a great area for a bike ride.What Goes On In NYC In the SummerHere's what Here Be Barr suggests you do in NYC in the summer:It makes sense to head outdoors with it being summer, but don't miss out on the museums that provide indoor culture. Mix with the locals and check out the New York restaurants and their local culinary delights. Experience New York as more than just a tourist to be part of what is happening. No matter your interests, NYC has something to offer this summer. So get out there and enjoy all the city can provide this time of year. What's your favorite summer activity in your town or city?
