Travels 3 Australian Cities To Spend An Extraordinary New Year’s Eve 5:31 AM Celebrating New Year’s Eve is probably one of the best things to do under the sun. The most interesting thing is that different people celebrate in different styles. While some prefer preparing cakes, candies, cookies, chocolates and mouthwatering delicacies for their loves ones at home, others prefer celebrating in some outstanding location that would leave them with bags of memories. Well, both are memorable but when you step in a new country to celebrate such a special occasion, you experience new things and come back with wonderful stories. So, if you are in search of one such venue where you can celebrate the best new year’s eve of your life, why not try Australia? No, it’s not because it’s both a country and a continent but most importantly, it has some awesome cities where the celebrations are bound to leave you spellbound. Apart from having smaller cities, Australia has eight capital cities out of which you can aim to visit Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane where the celebration leaves everyone speechless. Therefore, if you are keen about this plan and willing to make a move, eDreams will be there to assist you by all means. So, let’s gather a few facts and know how these three vibrant Australian cities can surprise you with their New Year’s Eve celebrations: Sydney This beautiful city is sure to amaze you with its astounding display of fireworks. Once you reach the Darling Harbour, the nocturnal sky there will keep your eyes still for a few moments. If you are done, move towards the Harbourside, say with your favorite drink, and witness dazzling displays like you had never dreamt of. Just don’t worry about cafes and restaurants as the Darling Harbour is lined with a lot of these. A visit to the Bondi Beach will also be quite memorable while the light shows at Taronga Zoo will keep your little ones happy. Melbourne What’s best about Melbourne is that it would bring you a plethora of locations where you can take short visits and keep celebrating. People usually head to the Docklands, Southbank, Federation Square and CBD. In case you are willing to party hard, visit the suburbs like Richmond, Collingwood, St Kilda, Abbotsford, South Wharf and more. There are exclusive European bars that arrange Hawaiian themed parties where you are surely going to have a blast. Even at 123 Queen Street, entertainment will take a new note with themes of 90s. Brisbane Nothing can beat the magnificence of the 31st night over the Brisbane River that goes illuminated with an out-of-the-world light show. Although the show lasts ten minutes, it’s grand enough to get you goosebumps. To have the best views, move towards the River Quay or the Streets Beach or rather towards Clem Jones Promenade. Don’t worry about the routes as eDreams will be your tour guide and would give you the best possible suggestions for a nice and pleasant journey. Enjoy and All the Best!! If you like this blog post about life and love, please share the article using the social media buttons below or on the left. Thanks!
Travels 5 Places To Visit For Your Family Vacation In France 7:00 PM Charles de Gaulle, the former French President, rightly said, “France cannot be France without greatness.” Boasting of incredible destinations, unmatched culture, thrilling nightlife, and fine dining, France today allures over eighty million tourists on an annual basis. Holidaymakers from all over the globe take utmost pleasure in exploring the sizzling cities of this nation that is steeped in deep history. The majority of the cities are dotted with magnificent palaces, cathedrals and ancient castles that make France stand out in terms of architecture and aristocracy. This European country, in other words, is that ideal paradise where you will love to take your near ones, especially your family. Being the third largest country in the world, France has plenty of beautiful cities for a super holiday that can now be exclusively arranged by Opodo. Here are 5 great cities that will surely make a family vacation of a lifetime. Take a look: 1. Paris The capital city has to be on the list as it is also the most populous one with plenty of remarkable things to witness. To top the charts is the Eiffel Tower followed by the Louvre Museum, the Sacre-Coeur, and the Arc de Triomphe. Well, if it’s not the first time for you, head to Denfert-Rochereau, the Place de la Nation, the Jardin du Luxembourg and the Marais where you can keep a bit of distance from the crowd. Besides, you can take your family to let them witness around 6,600 sculptures at the Musee Rodin. The Seine Cruise, on the other hand, will be quite enjoyable as it would take you past the famous landmarks, making way to the English Channel. Don’t forget to take your kids to Disneyland Paris where they will enjoy taking spectacular rides. 2. Lyon Rested in east-central France, Lyon is the third largest city that boasts of a long history and attracts tourists to witness its vibrant culture and historic architecture. Do not miss exploring its various districts like the Presquile that is surrounded with bars and restaurants, the Croix-Rousse that is known for its secret passageways while Fourviere will leave you spellbound with its Gothic churches and Roman ruins. The Lyon Cathedral and its astronomical clock of the 14th century too is sure to grab your attention. 3. Strasbourg This is one amazing place in France where you will discover beauty in its art and architecture, food, fashion and even in its language. As it is located along the Rhine River, it has a fine blend of German and French cultures. Moreover, what the ladies would love here is shopping from the range of Alsatian textiles, stork-shaped souvenirs, cookware and what not. Pick up those exclusive gift boxes, candies, and cookies from those little shops to leave your little ones delighted. 4. Corsica Who doesn’t want to witness the birthplace of the great Napoleon? Ajaccio, the capital of Corsica, takes pride in having places in the name of this German legend, especially the Bonaparte House Museum. Besides, water activities are plenty here as a lot of tourists spend weekends here kayaking, surfing, water skiing etc. 5. Marseilles If you are keen to witness the amalgamation of African and French culture, this is the city for you. The beaches here too deserve mention like Plage de Prado, which is quite wide and open for kids who can find climbing walls and playgrounds as well. Of course, the historic museums like the Art Museum and the Natural Art Museum will accumulate memories for the art lovers. The unmatched Mediterranean food keeps calling back tourists every year while young graduates love choosing this French city for weekend evening parties. If you are willing to explore these cities or other any other location in France with your family and friends, Opodo will assist you without any hassle. Grab this opportunity now and you never know this can be your dream vacation you have been waiting for!! If you like this blog post about life and love, please share the article using the social media buttons below or on the left. Thanks!
Listicle Where To Go To Escape From New York City 7:00 AM It's called the capital of the world, the city of dreams. It's also ranked as the top stressed city by CNN Money. It's the city that never sleeps, but you finally need your rest. It's time to get up and head away from the New York hustle. Pack lightly because there are some serene locations closer than you might think that only require a day trip Where to Go to Escape From New York City The Meadowlands, New Jersey Believe it or not, nature is only a few miles outside of New York. The Meadowlands boasts 100 acres and contains 21 parks with 8 miles of trails. The Richard W. DeKorte Park is open daily and allows dogs, fishing, and picnics. The Meadowlands hosts not only an abundance of wildlife and nature but also the Meadowlands Sports Complex, which is home to the Giants and Jets. Here you will be able to experience nature while seeing the beautiful New York Skyline. If you traveled far, there are even affordable hotels conveniently nearby. Princeton, New Jersey Princeton is much more than the college town that might generally pop into your mind. It's a town filled to the brim with history, nature, and luxury. In a drive that is a little over an hour, you can experience hiking, kayaking, horseback riding, or biking. Some of the first Quaker settlers came here to Princeton, and many of the historical areas are preserved or restored. Two hour-long guided tours will show you highlights from the University and the town itself. Princeton is a great excuse to get out and experience something spectacular that is both new and old. Kent, Connecticut Image via Flickr by BurningQuestion Just a two-hour drive away is the secluded town of Kent, Connecticut. New York contains a population of 8.5 million, while Kent is just under 3,000. Here in Kent, you will be far away from any city noise while deep in the calmness of nature. Bull's Bridge is one of three remaining covered bridges that date back to the 19th century. The bridge was built in 1842, and it is still in use as of 2018! The Kent Falls State Park alone will make a trip up worth it. The park is often referred to as "The Jewel of Inland Parks" because of the radiant 17 waterfalls encompassing it. Along with the great views, this park offers a Trout Park, hiking, and picnic areas for your group. The only cost is a small parking fee on weekends and holidays. Madison, Connecticut If you love beaches and want to be away from the crowds Madison, Connecticut is the place to be. It's about a 2-hour drive from New York, and even the car ride will give you a great view as you drive along the coast. Madison has the longest shoreline in Connecticut, leaving you with plenty of space to sprawl out with the family or by yourself. Fishing, hiking, swimming, and camping are just a few things you will be able to do in the small town of Madison. On your trip to get away from the restless nature of New York, you will pass by other small towns that are just as beautiful and quaint. It's about the journey, not the destination, and the destinations are amazing. If you like this blog post about life and love, please share the article using the social media buttons below or on the left. Thanks!
Listicle Enjoy A Pick-Me-Up At These 6 Coffee Shops In Montclair 3:21 PM Montclair, New Jersey is a funky downtown and most desirable holiday destination for those looking for stunning arts scenes, delectable cuisines, and heritage sites. While you are visiting Montclair for a fun vacation you can stay at one of the many recommended hotels around Montclair and explore the best local coffee shops in the area. 6 Coffee Shops in Montclair Red Eye Café The Red Eye is a small hip café with a flavorful menu and very friendly staff serving creative brunch/lunch and delicious coffees in large cups. A two-minute walk from the Walnut Street train station, it is a perfect place for quiet conversation, reading, and studying. They specialize in “Dirty Chai,” a chai latte with a shot of espresso; brewed Kombucha; and coffee latte. Additionally, their omelettes, banana bread, Highlander, Beetnik Sandwich, and smoked salmon sandwich are divine. Local Coffee Located around the corner from Watchung Avenue Station, Local Coffee is decorated with cool local artwork and outdoor seating. They serve rich coffee and offer gluten-free baked goods. Their Funktado Cortado, which is a double espresso shot with cayenne and other spices, is simply perfection. They also specialize in matcha latte, soy latte, and hot chocolate with almond. Their most recommended donuts are the hibiscus, lemon poppy, and dough donuts. Java Love Coffee Roasting Co. If you are looking for a perfect cup of coffee and are environmentally conscious, Java Love Coffee Roasting Co has you covered, since they use only compostable cups. This place serves great cappuccino, lattes, and chai lattes, and their "Dirty Grandma" chai is quite popular with the locals. Although they serve only coffee and pastries, they offer chocolate croissant and "Monuts," which is a muffin that is made with donut batter. You can easily reach them by taking a one-minute walk from Upper Montclair station. Bluestone Coffee Co. Image via Flickr by Ruth and Dave This is a cute breakfast spot with a cozy and inviting ambiance on Watchung Avenue, just a three-minute walk from Watchung Station. Enjoy fresh on-site roasted coffee with a sumptuous breakfast and other specialties including Belgian waffles, zucchini frittata, breakfast quesadilla, eggs Benedict, Spanish omelette, Challah french toast, and spiced chai latte. Trend Coffee & Tea House If you are looking for a decent and cozy entertaining experience coupled with extraordinary coffee and yummy dishes then you must visit Trend Coffee House at Bloomfield Avenue. Trend offers a sinful variety of coffees and teas, like espresso, café mocha, cappuccino, mango passion fruit tea, chai latte, and yogic chai. They specialize in vegan pastries, the most delectable of which is the famous “Apple Pie.” Their signature salads, sandwiches, and wraps are also very special and worth coming back for. Blend Coffee House Blend Coffee House is a hidden gem on Broad Street, in nearby Bloomfield. They serve 20 diverse varieties of coffee with delectable homemade cookies, yummy pastries, and desserts. They are famous for their dirty chai, custom-made frozen latte, vanilla latte, caramel coconut coffee, and virgin Irish coffee, along with their delicious Spinach feta quiche, blueberry muffin, and rice pudding. Montclair has more than 100 restaurants, coffee shops, and cafés serving visitors and locals every day with delicious dishes and beverages from around the world. If you like this blog post about life and love, please share the article using the social media buttons below or on the left. Thanks!
Listicle Planning a Vacation to San Diego? 5 Fun Activities to Look Into 2:00 PM San Diego has a coastal seat, a sunny climate, and a unique blend of American, Italian and Mexican culture, so it’s no wonder you’re planning a vacation there. If you truly want to make the most out of your time in ‘America’s Finest City’, however, then you have to be heading down there with a list of things to do — if you don’t, as there’s just so much to do, you’d no doubt miss out on something special. To help you draw up your very own itinerary, make sure to check out the five fun San Diego activities found below. Planning A Vacation To San Diego Visit the San Diego Zoo If you’re a lover of the animal kingdom or just an all-round lover of the zoo, then the world-renowned San Diego Zoo should be high on your list of things to do when you head to this part of the world. On the 100-acre land that the zoo owns, you’ll be able to find over 4,000 types of animals, most of which are rare and some of which are even endangered. There’s also a prominent botanical collection of exotic plants to be found on the plot of land, too, meaning all green fingers that vacation here will no doubt get their fill. For a different kind of animal experience, the San Diego Safari Park, with all of the safari-style tours that it offers, is situated nearby. Head on the Tequila, Tacos and Tombstones tour A favorite you can find through San Diego tour guide is the Tequila, Tacos and Tombstones tour. This tour is an adventure that you can’t miss when you vacation in this corner of the U.S. If you’re big on your history then you’ll be in luck when you head on this tour, as you’ll get to visit Old Town, a place that is commonly known as the ‘Birthplace of California’. As well as that, you’ll learn everything there is to know about the Spanish missionaries, and you’ll get to eat and drink some of Mexico’s finest exports. Have a beach day No matter what part of San Diego you find yourself, if you head west, you’ll find yourself at the beach. The best beach out of the bunch, however, is La Jolla, and this where you should resolve to have your vacation beach day. Here, you can go ocean kayaking and tide pool-hopping. Check out the USS Midway Aircraft Carrier San Diego has a wealth of military ties, and if you want to learn a little bit about them, then you should visit the USS Midway Aircraft Carrier. Here, you’ll hear an account about what it took to get this 972-foot-long carrier up in the air from someone that was actually involved in the first flight (and it’s some story to hear). Balance your mind with a spot of Reiki energy healing If all that fun you have in San Diego ends up taking its toll on you, then you might benefit from indulging in a bit of rest and relaxation before your vacation is over. If you’re looking for a more relaxing experience, you can look into what is known as Reiki energy healing, which will help you to do just that. Found at the Apotheque Lifestyle Spa in nearby Oceanside, this type of massage will get to work in balancing your energy levels. So, make sure to fit it in your travel plans before your San Diego adventure draws to a close. From the zoo to tequila to war stories, a vacation in San Diego need never be boring… not for one second! When you're done in ‘America’s Finest City’, why not head south of the border into the Mexican city of Tijuana? The good times need never come to an end! If you like this blog post about life and love, please share the article using the social media buttons below or on the left. Thanks!
Listicle Tips For Anyone Considering Taking An Elderly Parent On Vacation 8:17 PM If you care for your parents on a regular basis, leaving them behind when you need a vacation can be heartache. As well as paying for your trip, you’ve got to add in the cost and stress of finding suitable home care for them while you’re away. However, have you thought about taking them with you on your vacation? It will require a certain amount of planning, but it’ll be worth to have memories you can share long after the vacation is over. Take note of the following tips, and you’ll be enjoying trips with your parents for many years to come. Tips for Taking an Elderly Parent on Vacation Think About the Travel Arrangements As well as the usual arrangements you would make for a vacation; you’re also going to have to consider some special ones for your parents. If you’re traveling by air, for example, ensure the airline is aware of their special needs. They may need to bring rollators with them, which is a rolling walker with seat or require wheelchair assistance. Journeys made by car may take a little longer as you’ll need to plan in a few extra stops and have snacks and drinks available. It will also be advisable to keep any medication near and handy. On the subject of medication, make sure they bring everything they need, and it’s clearly labeled. Look Into Renting Medical Equipment Your elderly parents may have special needs, and it’s not always possible for them to bring everything with them. Wheelchair, rolling walker, walker with seat, oxygen tanks and other types of medical equipment could be rented from a local supplier. If you’ve got space, then bring as much along as you can to save on the cost. Do some research online and find out if there are any medical equipment companies in the area you’re visiting. What Kind of Care Will Your Parents Need? How much help do your parents normally get when at home? You should aim to provide at least the same level as they are used to. If possible, look into getting extra help so that you can enjoy some downtime. The vacation you’re planning is for everyone to enjoy. You’re not going to enjoy it as much if you spend the whole time looking after your parents. Don’t risk coming home with bitter memories and feelings of resentment because your vacation was not as restful as you wanted. The secrets of a successful vacation, whether you’re traveling alone or with your aging parents, is to plan and prepare, organize and be flexible. All the effort you put in before you leave home will be rewarded in the long run. Take time out to relax and cover these moments with extra help. That way it will be certain you all enjoy the vacation. There are going to be ups and downs, but that’s always a possibility when family vacation together! Choose your destination wisely, prepare for all eventualities as far as possible and don’t be too disappointed if things don’t go according to plan. You’ll be able to vacation again next year, and next time you’ll be better equipped to make the right plans. If you like this blog post about life and love, please share the article using the social media buttons below or on the left. Thanks!
Listicle Top Tips On How To Research A Holiday Destination 9:37 PM Before you even start thinking of what you are going to do on holiday, you have to decide and plan on where you are going to visit. Below are our top tips on how to research the perfect holiday destination. Top Tips on How to Research a Holiday Destination Budget You can’t plan a holiday that you cannot afford. The first thing you need to do when planning a holiday is consider what your budget is. You can choose from budget holidays or luxury holidays. You may also need to plan if you are taking children and pets too, which sometimes cost extra. Your budget will vary depending on what type of holiday you want. Climate The weather in your destination can make or break an experience. If you are looking to go somewhere with a warmer climate, it’s worth researching on a trusted website like Catch-it Pest Control‘s to find out the proper pest control precautions to take so you don’t get bitten to death by bugs (or other dangerous pests. It’s important to know that during the summer, you will experience a rise in rates. If you like to travel on a budget, avoid the peak times to get half the normal rates. Attractions Some destinations will have more attractions than other. For example, a city like London will have a lot of historic sites to visit, while a small beach resort may have only the bare essentials. Make sure to research and choose a destination that is surrounded by the kind of attractions you want to visit during your holiday. Local cuisine Culinary options may be of importance to you if you have to stick to a strict diet, such as vegan and vegetarianism. Choose a destination that offers the sort of variety you need, or has somewhere you can source food from to cook. Age and number of people travelling Traveling with children and older people in colder months can be a bit of a pest. Before you choose a destination, research whether it has the proper accommodations to fit everyone in your party. If you are travelling with pets or people with disabilities, you also have to consider your options for a destination. Getting around You have to think about how you’re going to travel round attractions. Make sure to download a map of your destination. This way you can always make a decision on the fastest way to get around on your holiday. Safety There are places that you should check before visiting them as a holiday destination. Safety also applies to activities. If you are interested in diving or going on a boat ride, you should always get in touch with the proper licensed professional. Ease of booking Ensure that your destinations allows for online booking. Make sure to ask any pertinent questions when booking online, such as paying by credit card, are cots provided and are there any hidden charges. Cultural difference Research the culture of your chosen destination. The last thing you want to do is offend anyone. So take the time to learn the differences between your culture, and those of the people that live at your holiday destination. Languages It’s always best to research what the local language is, and invest in a guide to teach you a few of the key phrases you may need whilst on your holiday. If you like this blog post about life and love, please share the article using the social media buttons below or on the left. Thanks!
Food 3 Budget-Friendly Places To Eat In Livingston 7:32 PM When traveling to a classic northeastern destination like New Jersey, you expect to find a huge variety of coffee, doughnut shops, and pizza joints, but Livingston offers so much more. Hungry visitors to Livingston are sure to be pleasantly surprised at the dizzying array of excellent restaurants, including brunch and bakeries, authentic Asian, fresh seafood, and much more — many with vegan and vegetarian options. Read on for just a small sampling of Livingston area restaurants that are sure to satisfy your cravings and your wallet. 3 Budget-Friendly Places to Eat in Livingston Honey's Kitchen What Honey's Kitchen in nearby Fairfield lacks in size, it makes up for in delicious food made with local ingredients and friendly service. Glowing reviews just keep pouring in for Honey's brunch menu. Dig into thick-sliced challah French toast with decadent toppings like caramelized bananas and pecans, or keep it light with the popular crab cakes or an egg salad sandwich. Kids are welcome here with little touches like Mickey Mouse-shaped pancakes. The restaurant is also open for dinner on Wednesdays with a variety of familiar dishes at reasonable prices. Inspiration Roll Image via Flickr by ashleyt For an exotic taste of the West on your Livingston vacation, check out one of Inspiration Roll's many locations in the Essex County area. Sushi burritos are growing in popularity all over the country, but you don't have to go all the way to New York City to try one! This chain eatery has surprisingly low prices for high-quality food. There's sure to be an Inspiration Roll near whichever of the dozens of Livingston area hotel options you choose for your vacation. With easy online ordering, just take it back to your room and chill! The menu makes it easy to assemble your rice or poke bowl, salad, or sushi burrito by custom-building your order one ingredient a time. Choose from crab sticks, shrimp tempura, spicy yellow fin tuna, and more. If sushi doesn't suit your taste buds, Inspiration Roll has you covered with a full page of interesting ramen noodle bowls instead. PF Market This unique combo of restaurant and fresh fish market has been featured in the New York Times and won awards in many "best-of" competitions. Many of their dinner selections are a bargain and feature the freshest catch at under $30 per entree with an impressive wine list. You can also try a lunch special for the same great tastes at a lower price. Highlights include oysters caught from around the country, squid ink Fettuccine, soft shell crabs, and even live lobster served with drawn butter. Their convenient West Caldwell location makes it easy to dine in or order online and pick up to enjoy al fresco. Whatever you decide to chow down on after a busy day of adventuring in and around Livingston, you're sure to find options to please everyone in your group without breaking the bank. And remember that many lodging options also offer onsite dining, in case you don't feel like leaving the building to grab a bite! If you like this blog post about life and love, please share the article using the social media buttons below or on the left. Thanks!
Dogs Traveling With Your Dog? Enjoy These Pet-Friendly Spots in Lyndhurst 7:00 PM With so many sporting events and concerts at New Jersey's MetLife Stadium, you might decide to stay awhile in nearby Lyndhurst, New Jersey. It's a short jaunt across the river from New York City, but feels worlds away. Add to the fun you're bound to have there by bringing your dog along. This way you won't feel bad about leaving him at home, and he'll get to have a little vacation too. Once you've selected the perfect hotel for your family, it's time to explore. Pet-Friendly Spots in Lyndhurst Time for a Run When your dog needs a fun run or a bit of doggy play, check out the Joseph Carucci area of the Riverside County Park in Lyndhurst. Locals come here to let their dogs explore two different fenced in areas (one for small dogs, one for large.) The dog runs have water and bowls, as well as toys to share. Once your dog is done playing, you can enjoy some time in the shade or grab some ice cream from trucks that frequent the park. Your dog might even enjoy watching you play some tennis or bocce. Picture-Perfect Pups You've always wanted to have a professional portrait photograph of your dog, but never could find the time. Now that you're in Lyndhurst, make an appointment with Dizzy Bird Imaging. The husband-and-wife team behind Dizzy Bird knows just how to capture the perfect image of your furry family member to create a keepsake you'll treasure. Your photographer will work at getting just the right shot of your pup playing, striking a serious pose, or offering you that perfect “I love you” look. Local Outdoor Eats Your dog deserves a night out just as much as you do. Luckily, Lyndhurst's City Lounge Restaurant has an outdoor area with three tables set aside for people who have brought their dogs along for dinner. In fact, City Lounge is one of the only restaurants in the area with an outdoor patio, so you know it's aiming to be dog-friendly. This popular spot offers traditional bar fare – hamburgers and wings – as well as nightly specials. While you're out there enjoying the evening with your dog, the two of you can watch sporting events on the outdoor televisions. Image via Flickr by MSVG The Diner Goes to the Dogs If you and your dog prefer to have an indoor meal together, the Colonial Diner also has three dog-friendly tables for its patrons. Like many diners along the east coast, the Colonial has a retro feel along with hardy food. The menu is chock-full of temptations, including soups, sandwiches, larger entrees, and all-day breakfast fare. Best of all, the Colonial is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. So you and your dog can have a meal or just enjoy dessert whenever hunger strikes. If it's time for you and your family – including your dog – to take a little vacation, Lyndhurst might just be the place for all of you. There are sights to see in nearby New York City and MetLife Stadium events all year long. Happily, you'll find plenty for your pup to do too. If you like this blog post about life and love, please share the article using the social media buttons below or on the left. Thanks!
For Moms 7 Ways To Get Restful Sleep When Traveling With Kids 7:18 PM Everyone loves a happy and relaxed life; whether you are an adult, a teen, or a kid, nothing is fulfilling like a restful sleep. But not always do you get that desired rest; sometimes it takes an effort to grasp some quality sleep especially when you are traveling accompanied by your kids. Long journeys by rail, air or road are challenging for parents going with kids. In most cases children are the most excited lot in any travel, of course, they are young, and their life is just in the exploratory stage. You may run into trouble with other travelers because of the nuisance by your kids. Anticipate shame from your child’s behavior during a trip on public transport; their silly curiosity will get you mad but remember that is the nature of any kid. If you are fortunate to get other families traveling with kids, your journey will be the most enjoyable as you can share the responsibility of watching over the kids on that amazing trip! There is a bunch of ways to get restful on hectic trips while traveling with kids. Probably, you can pick 2 or three ideas that could work for you on that next trip! 7 Ways To Get Restful Sleep When Traveling With Kids Start your trip in the evening. That may sound funny, but with kids in mind, it should come as a relief to you. For any day in the life of a kid, by the time it gets to dawn children are ready to take a rest from a tiring and playful day. More so if they were anxious about the journey, the excitement would have made a toll on them, and most likely they would need to nap during the night travel time. That gives the parent or caregiver a chance to take naps and reserve calories for activities of the following day. In case travel must happen during the daylight, make sure that kids go to bed early to encourage them to get enough sleep-in readiness for the long-awaited trip. Organize Spacious Accommodation During Your Trip One undoing for any beautiful trip is a shrunk bed space in hotels in the course of your stay away from home. As much as possible, make sure the bedrooms match your home at the least. Since you do not go for trips on a routine basis, find a superior suite for your stay. After all, significant trips with family are probably two or three in any given year. Reduce overcrowding in cramped rooms during travel as that denotes an epic disaster for your trip. As parents, privacy matters during these trips and therefore an adequate space is the determinant. As much as possible, book a fully equipped suite with 3 or 4 bedrooms for an enhanced family experience. For toddlers, ask the hotel in advance whether they give baby cots or not. That way, planning your requirements for the trip becomes easy. You get an understanding of what to pack early, whether it is extra bedding, sheets or traveling pillow for kids. Brace yourself for critical eventualities and unexpected gaps during your travel, not every trip is a rosy one. Understand Time Differences Traveling across different time zones alters the routines of any person. Children do not understand anything about time differences, and the parent should take the lead in helping them adjust well before traveling. It is critical to backtrack or extend activities of the day depending on how the time zone affects your life during the trip. For example, you could make children wake up and sleep early and vice versa with two weeks remaining to cross-time zone travel. Start using time schedules for new time zones for eased adjustment for you and your kids. One valuable sleeping tip is the use of circadian rhythms for exposure to light when travel to western time zones and if going eastwards, expose yourself and children to bright light before daybreak as a way of practicing. Invest in a White Noise Machine and a Noise Cancelling Headphones In any trip with kids, a brilliant tool for use is the White Noise machine. That is a sleeping aid gadget that produces distinctive sounds at high frequencies that encourage sleep. The noises include waterfalls, winds, rain, blowing of trees and so many other sounds. The device encourages relaxation which triggers rest through sleep. Noise canceling headphones equally serves the purpose of promoting quick sleep. Different from other headphones, this special one reduces ambient sounds through soundproof technique. You should try these headphones when traveling in noisy vehicles or flights and be sure of inducing a peaceful sleep fast. Another way of accessing white noise is through downloading relax melodies apps on android. Buy Comfort Items for Kids For adequate sleep, children and parents need comfort in all forms. Comfort soothes anyone and triggers rest within the shortest time possible. Some comfort items for consideration during travel include socks, Marvin hats, face blanket, sono pillow and footrests among many more. When going to cold places, socks and Marvin hats are essential to keep warm as you try getting sleep. A face blanket, on the other hand, works well to reduce ambient lighting and promote sleep. Sono pillows and footrests encourage comfort while in a sitting position of rest. Notably, the song pillow relaxes the back and reduces back pain while the footrests minimize numbness of the feet by encouraging blood flow. A cooling pillow is another original item to carry during travel. While on a trip to tropical climatic areas, the cooling pillow comes in handy to regulate temperatures and ensuring a comfortable sleep. Imposing Strict Sleeping Schedules During travel, parents should exercise control over children and their excitement. Kids are always joyous on trips, without control anything could happen. Control sleeping schedules for each family member to ensure each gets to rest in readiness for another memorable day of a travel expedition. Defy the rules! It is a vacation, and it is a time to treat yourself. Go out, stay out late, cause trouble and then back to the hotel room sleep awaits. But do not overdo the fun as that could affect your children's rest. Conclusion As a wrap, understand the value of sleep and restful nights during travel. That way you get the best out of the family trip. Arrange your tour well, think about the kids, put yourself in their shoes, and mobilize enough resources for guaranteed comfort. Most of all learn how time zone differences can affect your sleep and do not forget it is time for fun. Have a fun trip! Hey, did you find this post helpful or entertaining? Please go ahead and share. Share buttons on the left and at the bottom of the article. Big thanks! Subscribe to About Life And Love by Email
Guest Blogger 5 Tips For Budget Travel In Europe 9:56 PM Europe is an excellent destination for anyone planning for a vacation soon. You don t need to worry about the budget implications as there exist so many alternatives for the beautiful trip but low budget. First, you have to plan and determine your budget estimates for the whole trip. That will be resolved but the length of your trip and the cost to cover for air tickets. Once you sort all that out, then you are ready for the journey of your lifetime. Below are the tips to help you get the best of Europe while spending less. 5 Tips for Budget Travel in Europe 1. Camping for cheap accommodation If the cost of staying in a hotel is too expensive for you, then camping could offer a great alternative. They exist beautiful camping sites in Europe even in the major cities at a very affordable cost to sort every traveler need. Those campsites beside offering a place to sleep, the also give cooking and bathing services. Why pay expensively in a hotel when you can get those cost-effective services by camping. Some camping sites also allow for person cooking which is a little bit cheaper than having to purchase restaurant food. 2. Be local when you eat That’s the trick, the local dishes found in the streets will be at a lower cost than those found in the tourists’ hotels. You can use the tourist hotels for sleep but when it comes to eating, walk around, and you will find cheaper restaurants where the locals frequent. Besides the meals, you will also have a chance to enjoy seeing the streets and interact with the locals. 3. Use the train, walk or cycle to move on the roads Using a train is one of the cheapest means to move around Europe without spending a lot. Ensure to get an all-rail pass so that it more comfortable with fewer hustles whenever you want to board a different train. Walking is even more excellent as that another way, you will be site seeing while saving money. Opt to walk for those proximities that are near rather than spending on such unnecessary costs. Cycling is also another option that is cheap and affordable compared to tourist cabs. Just walk with your best hiking backpack under $100 a few blocks away from the hotels, and you will get cyclists ready to take you to the nearest place. 4. Look for less costly airlines There exist several cheap airlines for traveling in Europe. You can opt for such to save as you move. Examples of airlines that offer less expensive airline deals include the easy jet and Ryan air. To even enjoy the low costs more, make early bookings. That takes away the headache of having to rush when the travel time arrives. 5. Visit during off seasons Traveling when the seasons are lower will save you a great deal of money. The flights, accommodation, and other travel necessities will be cheap. That is because there is less pressure in the tourism facilities and the rates will be normal compared to high seasons. Do you want to save while enjoying your moments in Europe? Well, the choice is yours with all these great tips to try and enjoy the low budget vacation. About the Author: Part-time Travel Writer and full-time Vagabond, J Miles wants nothing more than to inspire and encourage others to satisfy their wanderlust. He achieves this by regularly posting valuable travel tips and first-hand travel narratives on popular backpacking and travel writing websites. Hey, did you find this post helpful or entertaining? Please go ahead and share. Share buttons on the left and at the bottom of the article. Big thanks! Subscribe to About Life And Love by Email
Listicle 7 Tips To Be Followed By Every Solo Traveler 4:04 PM Travelling to new places is the best thing that rejuvenates your senses and gives you a positive and fresh energy to catch up your routine when you are back. Going to new places can be fun when it is with your friends and can be adventurous when you are on your own. Solo trips require a lot of extra work which you must keep in mind to have a safe and healthy trip whether you are going to a trek or are planning to hit the ocean it is always best to be safe rather than healing. If you are planning to take on the journey as a solo traveler then these tips will be really helpful in planning as well as enjoying your trip. 7 Tips To Be Followed By Every Solo Traveler Research and revise Once you have made up your mind about the destination you would like to visit, the first thing you must do is to read about the place in detail. You must know about the climatic conditions, places to stay, places to visit. This research will make you feel more confident and will also help you in preparing your bag and baggage accordingly. Make a list of your emergency contact numbers Always travel with your phone unlocked and keep a list of emergency phone numbers somewhere easily accessible. Keep a diary where you must mention your name, blood group, your address, phone numbers of your parents or friends and you must also mention some quick details about your insurance policy. These things are very helpful if you and up in any kind of medical emergency. Let your family and friends know about your whereabouts One of the most important things to do while travelling solo is to let your family and friends be aware of your itinerary. Maintain a list of hotels or inns where you will be landing, your entire journey with local phone numbers of your accommodation where you will be saying so that they can get in touch with you or if they lose touch then they will have a place to call and know about your safety. Book a solo friendly accommodation Booking an inn, homestay or a lodge will be the best idea rather than landing up in a hotel room as it will be in your budget and will also provide a homely feel. There are a lot of inns and homestays that offer home cooked food too which will add up to your trip and will leave you with yummy memories of the local food and hospitality. Travelers can easily book their accommodation with one of the best online booking advisor like easemytrip and save more on their billing amount by applying easemytrip coupons. Stay Somewhere With Free Wi-Fi Depending on what time of year you travel, it might get dark early which means you do not want to be outside exploring as long as you might on a summer evening. If you're going to be spending a lot of time at your hotel, make sure to stay somewhere with free wi-fi which will also help you cut short on those extra expenses. You can use this time for Skype your family and friends back home to recount your adventures for the day. Eat and enjoy your food After a long and tiring day dinner is the most difficult part especially when you are travelling alone. Make sure that you visit the same place to have your dinner, this way you will meet the same people again and can socialize with them. Try to eat at the bar or in a restaurant with communal tables and you could be mixing with the locals in no time. Take your own photos On your way back your friends and family will be more interested in looking at your pictures rather than the landscapes and art gallerias. Learn how to click your own pictures so that even after 10 years when you look at these pictures you will recall all the adventures you did and will cherish them forever. Conclusion Travelling solo is a complete adventure in itself and one must do it once in their lifetime. It not only gives you time to explore things according to your lookout but also makes you independent and confident. All you need to do is to keep some small things in mind and be extra cautious as your security and safety is in your hands. Go on and start planning your trip and make sure you choose a good trip advisor to guide you with places well within your budget. HAPPY JOURNEY!! Hey, did you find this post helpful or entertaining? Please go ahead and share. Share buttons on the left and at the bottom of the article. Big thanks! Subscribe to About Life And Love by Email
Listicle Top Events in New Orleans You Simply Can’t Miss 9:16 PM The Crescent City offers endless opportunities for fun and food lovers, and we narrowed them down to the top five must-attend events. Are you ready to explore them all? Top Events in New Orleans You Simply Can’t Miss Mardi Gras This crazy celebration has made New Orleans famous! Here Mardi Gras is not just another day, not just another festival. Mardi Gras is the most vibrant, most insane culmination of the carnival season in Louisiana. These days are all about parades, music, alcohol, and creative self-expression, so participants need to prepare thoroughly for months. Mardi Gras features lots of traditions, and participating streets have their own atmosphere to share during the celebrations. For example, beads and coconuts are valuable items during the Mardi Gras days, and people can multiply their treasures by participating in different competitions. The brightest festivities take place on Fat Tuesday, one day before Ash Wednesday that marks the beginning of the Lent period in Christian traditions. The festival makes the city stop and party hard. Although there are no strict rules in self-expression and alcohol consumption, there are few practical limitations you need to keep in mind—no ladders and no private portable toilets. Why so? Go there and ask :) Tennessee Williams Literary Festival The annual Tennessee Williams/New Orleans Literary Festival happens each spring in New Orleans. It honours the world-famous playwright who called New Orleans his home during a creative period in his life. Each year, the festival gathers top playwrights, speakers, authors and actors for literary panels. It also provides master classes with other published authors. Five days of the festival are packed with theatrical performances of original works, readings, culinary events, cocktail parties, movie screenings, literary walking tours, and book signings. The festival’s favourite is the “Stella!” shouting contest in the French Quarter. Go and watch these hopeful participants dressed in Stanley Kowalski-style sleeveless undershirts shouting the most convincing and pathetic appeal to the judges standing on the balcony of the Pontalba Apartments on Jackson Square. Female contestants are allowed to shout “Stanley!” Festival-goers enjoy special hotel rates. Many events at the festival are free. French Quarter Festival This festival has been reminding New Orleanians how fabulous the French Quarter is since 1984. Nearly two dozen stages are set around the Quarter, and food from the city’s finest restaurants draws visitors to over 60 booths in Jackson Square and beyond. Celebrate life and live with the locals and tourists with city’s best music and cuisine during the second weekend in April. Four days of the Festival are filled with sounds of jazz, R&B, Latin, New Orleans’ funk, zydeco, rock, and swing performed by over 100 musicians. The festival's signature event is the "world's largest jazz brunch" across Jackson Square, Woldenberg Riverfront Park, and nearby locations—incredible selection of beverages and specialty items from the finest restaurants in New Orleans. It’s a challenge to visit top city’s restaurants during one trip to New Orleans, but easier to check them out during this weekend. The Festival also offers free tours to the hidden gardens and patios of French Quarter houses, art shows, film screenings, crawfish-eating contest, and much more. New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival The Jazz Fest is a celebration of the unique heritage of New Orleans and Louisiana. The festival is held every year over the two spring weekends—the last weekend of April and the first weekend of May. It was inspired by the spirit of the Eureka Brass Band and Mahalia Jackson back in 1970, and today it is one of the most important cultural events in the US. Here, you’ll find it all from gospel hymn, zydeco, jazz, blues, rock, and funk to R&B, African, Caribbean, Latin, and folk music. New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival features the chart-topping local artists alongside internationally renowned guests. Red Dress Run Red Dress Runs take place all over the USA, but the Red Dress Run in New Orleans claims to be the biggest one. Thousands of people turn out in their beautiful red dresses each year. You don’t want to miss such an exciting event organised by the Hash House Harriers (self-proclaimed “drinking club with a running problem”). Add some bizarre costumes, lots of alcohol, and live music, and there you go—one of the best 5k(ish) events is ready! Well, it’s not only for fun, but the Run is also a great fundraising event and supports local charities. The NOLA Red Dress Run falls on the 2nd Saturday of August, rain or shine. The route is usually kept in secret until a few days before the Run. Usually, it goes through the Marigny. Participants have to wear a red dress, and it’s considered a bad form running in the same dress two years in a row. The organizers also provide some over-the-top clothing so you can dress up right before the run. Only adults aged 21+ can participate. The registration costs around $60-65 depending on your sign-up date. Hey, did you find this post helpful or entertaining? Please go ahead and share. Share buttons on the left and at the bottom of the article. Big thanks! Subscribe to About Life And Love by Email
Listicle Fun Cities To Visit On A Budget 7:00 AM Sometimes having a lot of fun doesn't necessarily mean that you need to empty the bank in order to do so. In fact, some of the best vacations you can ever have can be the cheapest. That being said, it may be difficult at first to know just where to go where you can stretch your dollar without sacrificing the experience. This article will equip you with that knowledge. It will discuss four cities in the US that you and your family can visit on a budget and have an amazing experience. Fun Cities to Visit on a Budget 1. Jacksonville, Florida For those who want to have a Broadway experience or see a fun and affordable concert or event, then look no further than the Thrasher-Horne Center for the Arts. They have shows to dazzle any member of the family. In addition, with their passionate view of the arts, they also have galleries to walk through and take in the exceptional works of art on display. So, whether you want a quieter experience or something with a lot of drama or music, then you should set your sights on the Thrasher-Horne Center for the Arts and go see a broadway show in Jacksonville. 2. San Antonio, Texas This city is for the history buffs or for those looking for a fun party scene. Most famous for the Alamo, the city also boasts a National Historical Park. The best part about these attractions is that they both offer free admission. Nothing quite like hearing a gripping story without having to pay for it. The city also has an annual Tex-Mex Mardi Gras party called Fiesta in late April. So, if you want a bit of culture and a fun night that won't cost you anything, then head to the party scene in San Antonio. 3. Kansas City, MO Do you like that word 'free'? Well, there's more free attractions in Kansas City. For motorcycle lovers, the Harley-Davidson plant offers free tours of its facilities. If you're a beer or brewery lover instead, then head to the free tour at Boulevard Brewing Company. For kids, there's an incredible art studio called Kaleidoscope that inspires and encourages children to follow their creative paths. This city has something for everyone of every age, and it may not even cost you anything to have the time of your lives. 4. Atlanta, Georgia For those want to have a fun and affordable concert or event, then you should also consider Atlanta. Many of their parks have free concerts throughout the season. There are also museums that have free admission like the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Site. You and your children can have your eyes opened without hurting your wallet in the process. The children may especially like visiting the Center for Puppetry Arts. The Skinny There are cities all across the US offering free experiences. Jump in your car and forge new memories with your family without breaking the bank now. Hey, did you find this post helpful or entertaining? Please go ahead and share. Share buttons on the left and at the bottom of the article. Big thanks! Subscribe to About Life And Love by Email
Travels Reasons Why Malaga Airport Transfers Are The Best Mode Of Transportation 7:00 AM Most of us struggle with the question of driving to the airport ourselves or taking a cab. Well, as soon as we think about it, the whole journey pops-up in the head - right from taking the luggage and driving the car toward the airport and then parking the car at an airport and dragging all the luggage out of the car whilst the family is with you sounds a little too boring and troublesome. Traveling for a vacation should be fun as this is the only time we do not think about those traffic lights, getting late to office, and dropping or picking the kids up from the school on time. As humans, we have a plethora of options that can drive us to the airport, however, taxi from Malaga airport is what you need the most. Below mentioned points will truly justify this statement. Why Malaga Airport Transfers Are The Best Polished skills From your pickup location to your drop location nothing but the best will serve you! Everything will be taken care of - right from the luggage to your safety, nothing will be compromised. Chauffeurs that are well-groomed and have class will pick you up from your home and drop you at your airport location without interfering with your safety. These are not just drivers that take you from one point to another, in fact, these are chauffeurs that let you enjoy the right with comfort and ease wherever you go. Cost-Effective What is more important to you - a hassle-free ride or a drive that causes you mental stress? This question is crucial as this decides your priorities in life! There is nothing more important than health in life and if that is first on the priority list, then traveling in a car which is clean and gifts you the peace you need is not at all costly. There are various airport transfer services that provide cost-effective vehicles without compromising the comfort of the traveler, regardless of the occasion or purpose of the traveling. The Driving Wisdom Experience is the mother of wisdom - a famous adage! Well, that is totally true. When taking a taxi from Malaga airport, an inexperienced driver is not that you will be getting. A person who knows the nuances of sitting right behind the wheels and making his customers happy by serving the best version of traveling is what he will be known for. Also, in today’s world, everything has been simplified, now, most companies let you choose with whom you want to travel and make him your traveling cohort. Technology Technology speaks for itself in every domain. Nothing in this world today runs without technology. Right from the food to traffic lights, a new era is being evolved with the addition of technology. Same goes for luxurious cars, GPRS tracking systems, the mobile application for booking your favorite car, and receiving instant invoice copy via mail are things that are possible only with the help of technology. Hope you are all set to travel in luxury, style, and comfort! Hey, did you find this post helpful or entertaining? Please go ahead and share. Share buttons on the left and at the bottom of the article. Big thanks! Subscribe to About Life And Love by Email
Listicle 6 Ways You Can Feel Closer To Nature 10:54 PM Even though we all are mere byproducts of nature, as humans we seem to be overly preoccupied in the material world which we have created ourselves, leaving little room for recognizing and appreciating the wonderful gifts of nature. Everything around us comes from what we come from – we all are related in some ways. Hence, not only is it important to appreciate nature, but it is also very important for every person to feel close to nature in order to realize that materialistic issues or problems are not that serious in the grander scheme of things. Here are six ways a person can feel closer to nature. 6 Ways You Can Feel Closer To Nature Being conscious of water wastage The reason that this approach is put in the first place is because water wastage is a matter of immediate urgency. While there are millions of people around the world struggling to find clean sources of water, there are several people and industries that gladly wastewater. Mother Teresa once said that every drop is important to the ocean – in this case, every drop saved matters in this fight to preserve this wonderful natural resource that keeps us all alive. Reading Another great way to become more involved with nature is to read about it – reading about nature, the immediate threats to nature, what people can do to combat these threats – all of these can play a crucial role in opening an individual’s eyes in his bid to come close to nature. The more you read about nature, the more you will understand nature’s blessings, and this will gradually nurture a healthy relationship between Mother Nature and you. Observing nature and journaling personal observations This is exactly how most naturalists and botanists gain an intricate understanding of the plants, animals and scientific cycles of the earth that guide us all – this activity is not exclusively meant for the experts, anyone can do it in order to feel well acquainted with nature. Spending unhindered time with nature Be it hiking, biking or camping– everyone must have a fixed routine on a monthly basis where they can go out in the wild, exploring local woods, forests or mountains. This ‘nature and me’ time is important for people as it helps them lay off their over dependence on technology and enjoy the wonders of nature. In a simple way, you can also enjoy a significant closeness with nature through gardening activities. It would be good to check out websites like Preparednessmama.Com, which offer valuable guidelines regarding gardening activities. Forest bathing This actually is an interesting activity. An ancient Japanese practice, ‘shinrin-yoku’ or forest bathing, is a natural way to decrease stress levels and improve mental wellness by the means of spending time with nature. Composting The perfect way to contribute to the cycle of life, engaging in composting is almost a miraculous way of converting waste into worth. All it takes is patience and the willingness to dispose waste materials in the appropriate manner. These are some of the best ways to start off the journey to being closer to nature – a journey that all humans must embark upon. Hey, did you find this post helpful or entertaining? Please go ahead and share. Share buttons on the left and at the bottom of the article. Big thanks! Subscribe to About Life And Love by Email