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There is plenty that you might be keen on getting out of your travels. You might be interested in seeing cultures and how they differ, or maybe you have a soft spot for a particular people. Something that most people would agree on is that, wherever you go, hat you eat is always going to be a huge part of the experience. But for some, the food is more than that - it’s the whole point. If you are a real food lover and you are keen to experience some of the best in the world, then you might want to take a look at the following. Here are some of the world’s best locations for amazing food, including a few which you might never have considered or even heard of.

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Jakarta

This bustling and highly modernized city in Indonesia has plenty going for it, good and bad. But something that must be said for it is that it has one of the best foodie palettes that you will find anywhere in the world. Once you look past the truly bustling and bust nature of this metropolis, you start to find a food culture which can hardly be compared to quite anywhere, even some of its closest Asian neighbors. The cuisine is varied enough to be appreciated y most travellers and visitors, and for true foodies the city offers a splendid chance to experience some truly genuine and traditional food.

As a city, it is a wonderful place to visit anyway. A brief glance through https://rumahdijual.com/tangerang/will show you that it is both affordable and popular. Yet, it is the cuisine which really brings it alive, and there are a range of flavors which you can easily expect to taste in this diverse location. You will come across countless markets and street food vendors offering the best in Indonesian cuisine, meaning you are able to eat just as the locals do. But if you are a particularly cautious traveller, you do have the option of eating at a chain such as Sate Khas Senayan, who you can trust for their high levels of hygiene, but who will still offer you some of the best Indonesian food around. Given that there are 33 provinces throughout Indonesia, there are plenty of food styles for you to try, and most of them can be found within Jakarta’s city walls. This makes it a delightfully perfect destination for anyone wishing to have a foodie tour of the country, but without actually having to visit all of its corners.

As is often the case with such modernized cities, if you are looking for other kinds of food too, then you will be in luck, you can also find French, Chinese, and some Western food dishes here, so if you want something that tastes a little more like home, you should have no trouble finding it. But it is in the traditional dishes served up by the vendors on the street where your taste buds will really be getting the full experience.

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Jamaica

It is often amazing just how many kinds of food there are in the world. When you stop and think about it, you have countless options to choose from, and a million different ways that people's across the planet deal with the same basic ingredients. The perfect example of this is how many different ways there are to cook and eat chicken, the most basic and yet most versatile of all meats. One of the world’s most famous and most adored treatments of this meat is the Jamaican way, something which you can experience in most cities around the world, thanks to the fact that there is always a Jamaican cafe to be found somewhere. Jerk chicken is, of course, a favorite, and we all know the tastes involved in such a dish. Or do we?

Visiting Jamaicawill make you realize that you have never truly had jerk chicken until now. The range of spices in this dish can be incredibly diverse and even colorful, and it is a favorite for a reason. But if you visit Jamaica for its food, you will find many delights beyond the world-famous chicken dish and rice and peas. This beautiful country is also home to some of the most ingenious combinations of food you can find anywhere in the world. For a breakfast, you might consider having the national fruit, ackee, fried with a little codfish for a beautiful taste you would never have guessed could be possible to produce. For meat lovers, there is oxtail and even goat to devour, often enjoyed in hearty stews and broths bursting full of spicy flavor.

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Of course, no mention of the food of Jamaica would be complete without paying homage to its natural delicacies. This in many respects is a land of burgeoning fruits, and you will be able to discover all of the plentiful tropical fruits that you can imagine in this country. From pineapples and bananas onwards, you will find that there are a million fruits waiting to burst in your mouth. For a little something extra, also consider juicing them up for a soothing and cooling smoothie - ideal in that sun-laden paradise.

Germany

Over to Europe, and we can see that one of the most popular tourist destinations is not actually well-known for its food. Yet, the historic culture within Germany means that you can expect to experience a delightful range of different tastes, including some which you might never have considered to be German. Along with a number of its close neighbors, the Germany food lovers tend to think of has a reputation for heavy and dense foods. Sure, there might be certain dishes which appear that way, but look under the surface and you find that Germany actually has much more to offer than is generally perceived to be the case. So what can you expect to eat if you do visit Germany this year?

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For a start, the obvious. You will likely be served a range of breads and pretzels, and you might need to get used to just how much bread there can be in a single sitting at any restaurant. Likewise, you will experience all of the strudels and sauces you would expect, although these are generally more flavorful than in many other imitations around the world. One of the nation’s food obsessions is the sausage, and the good news there is that over the years they have genuinely perfected how to make the perfect banger. What might surprise you is just how many ways they find to use the sausage in their dishes, ranging from casseroles and stews to more traditional and obvious incarnations. You can’t really visit Germany without trying a sausage or two, so make sure that you do.

To wash it all down, you will find one of the greatest ranges of beer anywhere in the world. If you are particularly keen to experience the many kinds of beer (and to have it served in a traditional tankard), make sure to go in time or Oktoberfest or any of its other foodie festivals, as these are the perfect opportunity to try out a huge range of beers in one setting.

For the vegetarian and even vegan there are a surprising number of hospitable eateries these days, and the Germans are quite adept at ensuring that you will be served dishes full of flavor and variation too. Put simply, Germany is a country where you can expect some of the world’s best food cooked to perfection (and just to your liking), and for some of the lower prices anywhere in Europe.

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Burma

Back over to Asia, and we have here one of the world’s greatest food hotspots that you can possibly experience. If you have never visited Burma, you will find it to be the kind of travelling that really affects you. The culture shock and trying to get around alone can be really quite something, particularly if you are not a frequent traveller. However, it is worth it just if you get to eat some of the local food - a delightful range of highly spiced and hugely flavorful dishes, served still in many traditional forms which you might never have seen anywhere else in the world, even in some of its closest neighbors.

Burma can offer the traveller a completely unique food style like no other, but close cousins perhaps to Thai or Vietnamese. Forget what you think you know about Asian food; whatever you might have expected, Burma has a way of throwing these expectations into the air in such a way that you don’t know quite what is going to happen in your tastebuds next. A truly fascinating and varied experience which you won’t find anywhere else in the world.

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A foodie tour of the world is up there on many bucket lists, but choosing the locations can be hard to do. The above are just a taster of the sorts of areas which might be suitable, but with true extensive travelling you will be bound to find yet more besides which you can then report back to friends and family, and spread the word and share the love.

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It’s one of those terms that every creative has heard at one time or another, finding your voice. It’s a difficult concept. Sometimes we can spend years trying to find the one thing that we can talk about at length or the one passion that has escaped us all this time, apart from blogging, of course. But while writers talk about the graft of creation, the craft of gathering thoughts, what do you need behind you to ensure that you are in a suitable space (physically or mentally) in which to blog your heart out?

The Financial Comfort

Some would argue that this is irrelevant, but when it comes to running a successful blogging business, you can’t be expected to write about living the high life when you have barely the bus fare to get home? Granted, there are those who need the fuel of poverty to motivate them, but when you’re running a business where the content needs to come thick and fast, this isn’t a realistic approach to take for every single blog. If you find yourself consumed by debt and financial worries which distract from your writing (and we’ve all been there!), then it’s worth looking at the short term business loan rates that can benefit you. You don’t have to borrow piles of money so you can stay shut in the dark and churning out blog after blog, but if you can find a way to keep financial peace of mind at bay, then you are more focused to do the work you really want to do!

The Place Where You Can Work

Business owners speak of productivity in all of its forms, and one of the biggest factors to productivity is the working environment. You know where you work best, and if you find that being barricaded away in a home office is what you need, then you must follow that rule for yourself. The right place, whether it’s a cafe or on the couch, can make a big difference in how you work. Try a few different places, and see how much more you can get done. It’s not even just the space. Sometimes, you can work better if you find a manner that suits you. Maybe you write better when you think on your feet. In which case, voice typing is the tool for you!

The Topic

Sometimes we all have difficulty in finding the right words, but the solution is most likely that you aren’t focused enough on what you want to achieve by this blog post. The importance of finding your niche has an impact on your tone of voice, and if you find yourself being too general about a topic, then you’re not focused enough, and your writing stays very “general.” This isn’t a bad thing, per se, but if you are doing your best to get a blog out there, and you want traffic to drive numbers up, then you’ve got to nail down with spikes exactly what you want to discuss.

This is a contributed post.

If you’re a blogger, you are probably familiar with metrics such as web traffic and time spent on page as a mean to measure your success and popularity. For a lot of blog writers, Google Analytics has become a close friend that is checked on a daily basis in order to figure out the readership of each post. However, it doesn’t matter how long you’ve spent preparing the last post and research your keywords; it isn’t always enough to boost your blog’s popularity. Have you considered the possibility of giving your audience a different blogging format to engage with? Instead, more and more online users choose to engage with video posts instead of text. Here’s how to offer a vlogging experience to your audience.

Can you add vlogging to your blog?

Learn from the best

You can’t vlog if you’ve never observed what professional and successful vloggers do. Take Zoella as an example. She’s incredibly popular – so much in fact that you can find her wax effigy at Madame Tussauds – and she’s developed an effective vlogging network. How did she do it? Zoella has made the most of the existing network so that by becoming an active part of it and promoting its actors, she can also benefit from a promotional nudge from other vloggers.You will come across famous other vloggers in her video posts, which is the way Zoella can reach a broader audience.

Get the equipment you need

Admittedly, belonging to a wide community is only helpful if you’ve got the equipment you need to start your vlogging presence. Indeed, vloggers need to share high-quality videos via YouTube, in other words, you can abandon your idea of using a smartphone camera. You will need to invest in the appropriate technology, using your savings or even a signature loan. Don’t let questions such as “what is a signature loan”? stop your plan. Indeed, there is a variety of options to gather the necessary fundings. A signature loan allows you to take an unsecured loan where using savings might disrupt your emergency funds.

Vlogging gear

Practice your camera presence

Video content is more engaging because people prefer to watch than to read. However, it doesn’t mean that vloggers have it easy. You need to practice being in front of a camera so that you can remove all errors, hesitation and uncertainty. All it takes is making a video of yourself, identifying your weaknesses and trying again. You can start in front of a mirror to get used to your image. You will also need to experiment standing, sitting and using a tripod to find the setting that works for you.

What can you use for your vlog?

Finally; the biggest of all questions: what is the best topic for a vlog? If you’ve got a long-established blog, why not create a relevant string of 5 5-second-long clips to add a 5x5 vignette? This can work wonders to boost your presence. You can also make a how-to tutorial video, which is always a hit online. If you know an expert and would like to share their views, you can even organise an interview.

Vlogging doesn’t have to be a full-time change of career. But it can certainly boost your blog presence and attract new readers when it’s done successfully. You may not become the new Zoella. But you can reach a wider audience with video posts.

This is a contributed post.

There’s something wonderful about watching big sporting events live in person. You get to see the action unfold in front of your eyes and feel the excitement that comes with the occasion. But which sporting events around the world should you experience ahead of the others? That’s what we’re going to provide some answers to right now. So read on to find out which live events are best for spectators.

The NBA Finals

Going to a regular season NBA game can be fun, but nothing’s better than heading to a finals match when the stakes are really high and the result really matters. The Championship Final is obviously the best finals game to attend, but if you can’t get to that, each of the conference finals are great as well. There are plenty of games that take place in the postseasonplayoff finals, so take your pick.

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Final Day at the Masters

The final day at the Masters is where it all comes to a head and you find out who will reign supreme. Anyone who has even the faintest interest in golf should attend this day because it’s one of the biggest and most interesting in the sporting calendar. Never let anyone tell you golf can’t be exciting while the Masters is still around.

The Monaco Grand Prix

Monaco is one of the most glamorous places in the world, and it’s worth visiting regardless of your interest in sports. But while you’re there, it’s certainly worth checking out the Monaco Grand Prix. It takes place in the streets, making it out as different to all the other F1 Grand Prix races. BAC Sportcan help you with a package deal, so make sure you check it out one season.

The Olympic Games (Or Winter Olympics)

The Olympic Games only come around every four years, so if you get the chance to attend, you should go for it. There are only going to be so many of these that take place in your adult lifetime, so grab the chance. Alternatively, there’s the Winter Olympics, and watching the ski jumping can be incredibly exhilarating when you’re there live.

The Wimbledon Final

Wimbledon is without question the biggest and most prestigious event in the world of tennis. If you have a soft spot for the sport, you’re going to need to head to one of the competition’s finals one year. It’s an experience you’ll never forget. You’ll be watching an elite tier athlete lifting perhaps the most important trophy of their entire career.

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A Champions League Fixture

In football terms, there is no competition greater than the Champions League in the club sport. The final takes place in a new city each year, and it’s often possible for neutrals to get tickets, so why wait into the team you support makes it all the way to a final? It’s an incredible spectacle whether you have a horse in the race or not.

There are so many fantastic sports events that happen each year, and the six events mentioned here should all be on your sporting bucket list. Each of them offers something different in terms of the spectator experience and the fun that can be had by attending in person as opposed to watching on TV.

This is a contributed post.

If you want to get hair and skin like the Victoria’s Secret Angels (and basically, who doesn’t?) then you need to get the information right from the horse’s mouth, so to speak. While they may have professionals helping them on the day of a shoot or show, they will all still have things that they will be doing from time to time when they are at home. That glossy hair and dewy skin doesn’t get there all by itself! So here are some of the tips, tricks, and hacks that the angels do as part of their regular beauty regime. Are there any that you’d like to adopt?

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Bella Hadid

The whole Hadid family never seem to age, and they have such glossy hair and flawless skin. But angel Bella, reportedly goes weeks at a time without wearing makeup, or minimal makeup at least. Doing so can give your skin what it needs, and act as a bit of a detox for your skin. She is an avid drinker of water, which can help get glowing, clear, and dewy skin (something that we can do more at home really easily).

As well as going bare-faced from time to time, she also reportedly uses skin masks, and even makes her own with natural ingredients. The same goes for hair, using hair masks often too. Having dry and dull hair is not going to cut it as a Victoria’s Secret angel. So if you find that your hair is pretty dry and dull looking, how about adding in a hair mask to your beauty regime? You could even look for a good dry scalp treatment if you suffer with dandruff. An itchy head is never going to be a good look. Coconut oil can work wonders for your hair too.

Alessandra Ambrosio

The brunette beauty Alessandra has some of the best skin around. And the reason why? She is safe in the sun! When you’re out in the sunshine a lot, too many UV rays can cause damage to your skin and speed up the aging of your skin as it will reduce your skin’s elasticity. So using a sunscreen, or even just a foundation with an SPF factor, is really important. Using it every day can be just what your skin needs to get it look its best. This can also help to keep your skin hydrated.

Serums, lotions, and natural products that are aloe vera based can work wonders on your skin, especially after being in the sun, as well as help to fight premature aging.

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Sara Sampaio

The beauty from Portugal has some of the best hair, with dark, shiny locks. So it makes no surprise that haircare is her main concern when she is in her own time. Having a busy schedule modelling can mean a lot of products get used on her hair, and there is nothing worse than going to bed with your hair full of all sorts. It can clog your pores, lead to breakouts, and a dry scalp. So showing each night can be a good idea if you have a lot of product in your hair, or have used lots of hairspray, for instance.

Finding a good conditioner can be the thing that makes or breaks your hair too; no one wants one that leaves your hair feeling too greasy. Look for ones that are sulphite-free and contain as many natural ingredients as possible.

Candice Swanepoel

The South African blonde knows how to take care of her skin; have you ever seen such beautiful skin? From her African roots, she will know just how important a good skincare routine is, especially when out in the sun. But once work is over and the makeup comes off, taking care of your skin is really important. If you like to wear quite a bit of makeup, then it could be a good idea to follow her advice. She told Vogue Magazine last year that she likes to use ointments like melaleuca oil (or tea tree oil in layman's terms), as it is completely natural to use but it does have natural antibacterial properties. So it is great to have as part of your routine, especially if you are prone to breakouts.

Are you doing any of these things already as part of your skincare routine? A lot of it isn’t anything new necessarily, but it is just a case of making it a daily habit, and not just an occasional thing. It would be great to hear what you think!

This is a contributed post.

While one of the pillars of Southeast Asia probably needs no introduction, let’s briefly talk about that magical place known as Malaysia. If Malaysia has never been on your radar as a holiday destination, it very much should be. Whether you want to spend your afternoon in a stunning mega-mall that spans several floors or walk around in some of the local parks, Kuala Lumpur has you sorted. Not only is Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, a beautiful and diverse place in its own right, full of attractions which is bound to attract any tourist or adventurer alike, the rest of the country is a treasure just as well. However, before we get started on conquering all of Malaysia, let’s start at one of the prime time destinations, aka Kuala Lumpur itself. If you have not visited before, then it should be more than enough to keep you occupied for an indefinite amount of time.

Image source: Pexels

Let’s start at the top

If we’re gonna start anywhere, let’s start at the top. The literal top of course, and by that we are of course talking about the Menara Kuala Lumpur, also known as the Kuala Lumpur Tower. This tower stands at an astounding 335 meters and comes complete with a handy observation deck to let you witness Kuala Lumpur from its highest point in all its glory. The tower is not only a pleasant tourist attraction but also serves as a ceremonious place used for spotting the moon to mark the start of the holy Muslim month of Ramadan. In fact, once a year a race to the top takes place to promote health and fitness, so not only is it a pretty tourist attraction, it is deeply integrated into the city’s life making it all the more meaningful.

And now for something completely different

From the top, to the almost underground. Just outside of Kuala Lumpur in a suburb named Selangor, you can find the Batu Caves. The Batu Caves are essentially a gigantic set of limestone cliffs which have been repurposed several times through the years, once serving as a Hindu shrine and series of temples, but now mostly just known as a tourist attraction. Although, they are still considered important places of pilgrimage for the Tamil residents of Malaysia. If just walking around is not really your speed, there are more rock climbing opportunities than you can shake a stick at scattered around the cliffs, over 160 to be precise, so if you’re up for an adventure, you know where to go.

Thean Hou Temple

Staying on the topic of spirituality and importance to the people, why not explore the iconic Thean Hou Temple which is probably one of the most decorative temples the world has ever seen in recent history. The intricate decorative pieces all over the walls and ceiling most definitely garner quite a crowd on a regular basis so do not feel like it would be awkward to walk in to the temple as a tourist. Considering the temple has Buddhist, Confucian and Taoist symbology and decoration scattered around inside, the temple sports traditional beautiful red pillars around it to promote prosperity and welcome its visitors. Because they sure do know that they will have a lot of those.

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Back to the city

If you’ve had enough of holy places and temples for now, why not hit the mall for some good ol’ wandering around and shopping as well as window shopping. Sometimes there is just nothing better than stopping by a gigantic mall and watching your wallet deflate, sitting around drinking coffee and milkshakes one minute then admiring the pretty displays when going up escalators the next. If that sounds like something you would be interested in, then the Suria KLCC complex is probably the place for you. It is a staggeringly large shopping centre which spans over a whole six storeys. Whether you want to go around looking for some fancy new clothes, catch up on the latest tech walking around computer stores and phone shops, or even possibly buy some furniture on your holiday to mail back home, you are bound to find something for you. Not to mention, this is the perfect place to go and pick up some quality souvenirs for all your friends and family back home. After all, would be a shame to go all that way to Malaysia and not bring anything back.

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A fluttering change of pace

If you’ve had enough capitalism and busy shopping centres for now, why not head over to the Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park? If you have not already guessed from the name, the park proudly keeps hundreds of stunning colourful butterflies flying around everywhere. Most definitely a photo opportunity if there ever was one, and with more than 120 species of butterflies flying around you certainly won’t run out of things to put on your Instagram. Definitely a must-see for all nature and animal lovers.

Grab a bite somewhere

If you want to go and taste some authentic street cuisine from Kuala Lumpur, there is no better place to head off to than Alor Street. Alor Street has a history as rich as its food menus, being infamous as a red light district with a somewhat questionable reputation, but over the years they have cleaned up their act and now it is known as a culinary hotspot in the city. If you plan on visiting, spare yourself the disappointment and visit during the evening when all the fun people come out. Most of the stall owners and vendors come out when the sun starts setting, slowly introducing everyone into the evening laid-back mood of fun and relaxation. Of course, no Kuala Lumpurian culinary visit would be complete without trying out some of the local Nasi Kandar. Meaning quite literally “mixed rice”, the dish is as simple as it is delicious, being a well established iconic dish of Kuala Lumpur which came from its South Indian population.

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Get lost in the side streets

There’s no fun in exclusive sticking to the main path and following the touristic signs with the occasional photo taking, sure it’s great for what it is, but it doesn’t allow you to see what the place you are visiting is truly like. Go and see how the locals live their lives, where they go to pick up some tea or coffee, and where they live. Check out the local architecture and if you just so happen to like it a bit more than you expected, you can check out the house prices in Malaysia and possibly even find yourself a new home. It is most definitely an exotic location which is rather different compared to the average western city, but it is westernised enough that you will still feel right at home. A cultural hotspot full of everything you can think of, from beautiful nature parks, to busy shopping malls, to mystical and revered temples and mysterious caves filled with bats and majestic cliffs full of temples, you certainly are not lacking variety in a place like this. Considering its rich heritage and diverse cultures, Kuala Lumpur is definitely one interesting place to live in, and you might not only find new business opportunities, new employment and new sights, but you might just find yourself anew, amidst the busy side streets of Kuala Lumpur. If you need some more time to think then why not head back to the Kuala Lumpur Tower and look over the city, seeing if it's welcoming you with open arms.

This is a contributed post.

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The largest state in southern America, Texas is a popular destination for those taking their annual summer road trip. With popular sights, such as the Alamo, the Rio Grande, and the Space Center in Houston, there is much to see and do. Yet, there are some hidden gems as well; those places that are not as well known but are still deserving of your time. In this article, we will list a few of them, so if you are building up your savings to head onto the extensive highways of the Lone Star State anytime soon, be sure you add some of these places to your itinerary.

Starting in Austin

There is no better place to start than Austin, so book yourself into a decent hotel - we recommend a stay in the Comfort Suites Pflugerville - Austin North - and consider the following places to visit.

A Place To Eat

There are loads of options, but on the quirky side of things, we recommend one of the many food trucks. Now, we know what you’re thinking - the food has to be low quality right? Not if you visit Regal Ravioli in downtown Austin. For a whole range of Italian food made entirely from scratch, you can eat everything from ravioli (of course) to meatball subs and pasta with an incredible range of sauces. Delicious… and cheaper than any fancy restaurant.

A Place To Laugh

If you are in the mood for some comedy, then head to the Hideout Theatre on the corner of 7th and Congress. Honestly, it’s well-named as people often walk right past it apparently, but continuing our hidden gem theme, make sure you don’t. If you love improv comedy, this is the place to be. You could visit time and again, as the shows are completely improvised and inspired by the audience reactions. With a fab coffee and pastry shop on site, you are guaranteed a good giggle.

Heading To San Antonio

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You could go to SeaWorld, or visit the Alamo Mission, but in the search for something a little different, consider…

Two Places To Conquer Your Fears

There are plenty of animal attractions to visit, but if you ever wanted to overcome your fear of snakes, check out the Texas Snake Farm. Just off the highway in New Braunfels, there are slithery snakes galore. Check out the interactive shows, or if you are of a less nervous disposition, get hands on at the petting zoo and give one of these slippery devils a cuddle (under supervision of course).

Then, if your nerves are still holding up, take one of the San Antonio Ghost Tours. As this is one of the the oldest cities in America, you are bound to stir up a few old bones (even if they are just your own). The Alamo City Ghost Tour is popular, but we recommend the Sisters Grimm Tour instead. From darkened streets to a stay in a haunted hotel, you can scare yourself silly or just have a good laugh at those poor saps who jump at shadows.

Finally In Houston

Finally, here is one hidden gem you can easily bypass. You could go to the Space Center, and you could also spend all day at the waterpark. But if you did, you would miss out on this very hidden (and totally frivolous) hidden gem...

THE BIG RED BUTTON!

Press Here!

Sometimes, it is the simple things in life that are just so much fun!

Over To You

Are there any hidden gems in Texas we have missed? Press all of our curious buttons and let us know. Thanks for reading!

This is a contributed post.

If you are a fan of Asian cuisine, why not embark on a culinary journey and experience the authentic tastes of different countries and cultures this year. There are plenty of hidden gems in Asia you will need to see to believe. Whether you’re keen on street food, or want to learn some traditional recipes, you might start looking for destinations to put on your food map. From real Indian cuisine in the North of the country to tasting rice balls in China, there are plenty of tasty experiences awaiting. If you are undecided which country’s food is your favorite, you can find some tips by reading the below list of culinary cities.

1. Tokyo

Image via Jezael Melgoza

If you are keen on five-star restaurants, you will find plenty in Tokyo, Japan. There are more Michelin Star restaurants in Japan than any other country, and this tells you a lot about the love of food embedded in the culture. From sushi places to modern pork cutlets, you can try some of the best seafood dishes in Tokyo. There is always something going on in this city, and - if you are bored with looking at and climbing the skyscrapers that made modern Toyo famous, you could find a hidden gem dish in a local pub or an elegant rooftop restaurant. Whatever your appetite and budget is, Tokyo can cater for your needs.

2. Fukuoka, Japan

In case you would like to familiarize yourself with the street food offerings of Japan, you must visit Fukuoka, where you’ll find over 15 open food stands to try. These stalls, called yatai look like miniature restaurants, and most of them have a folding-up structure. Open all day, until late at night, you can always find something new and hot to ease your hunger whenever you are taking a break from sightseeing and shopping. These restaurants offer great soups and finger food, such as Tonkotsu ramen, a broth-like dish, or yakitori, resembling traditional chicken skewers.

3. Hanoi, Vietnam

The Vietnamese culture is rich in traditions, and food can change if you move just fifty miles up or down the map. To get a real taste of the country, your best bet for a culinary holiday in Vietnam is visiting Hanoi, the birthplace of some of the most popular dishes in the country. The first food item you must get your hands on is Bun cha, or sliced roasted pork belly. As with every dish in Vietnam, you will be served a selection of side dishes and condiments. If you try Bun cha in a restaurant, expect to get deep-fried spring rolls and rice vermicelli.

4. Jaipur, India

Image via Ravi Shekhar

Also called the “Pink City”, Jaipur is one of the cultural centers or the North of the country. The famous Asian chef, Vivek Sing lived and worked in the city in the 1990s. If you are after a traditional Rajahstani curry, you will find many restaurants serving it on the rooftop. The Pink city’s downtown is pretty at night, and - as only pink buildings are allowed - the light shining on the houses looking from the rooftop restaurants will provide you with a unique photo opportunity.

5. Bangkok, Thailand

Image via Wanaporn Yangsiri

There are more than one reasons to visit Bangkok. While it is a popular scene of bachelor parties and cultural tourism, you must taste the city to fully embrace its traditions. You will find that lemongrass is a popular ingredient, and is added to most of the dishes; hot or cold, sweet or savory.

6. Singapore

Whether you are on a business trip or looking for a place to call your home after retirement, Singapore has plenty on offer. From great entertainment and nightlife, to elegant restaurants, street food, and friendly people, you are sure to fall in love with the country. In case you would like to experience the best of Singapore’s hospitality, you can find a room for rent in Singapore and find out for yourself what makes locals smile all day. You will be glad to know that the food safety and hygiene regulations in the country are among the strictest, and this applies to street food, as well as dishes served in five-star restaurants. Try the Chili crab, one of the signature dishes of the country, often served with toasted buns. If you are hungry after a long day of roaming the streets, you will always find a place serving Satay; marinated skewers with peanut sauce.

7. Chengdu, China

Spice lovers will feel at home in Chengdu. The fiery cuisine offers more for the tastebuds than any other Chinese destination. The good news is that if you overdose on the spices, you will always find a teahouse where you can compensate for the burst of flavors. You can find chillied chicken, as well as duck tongue, and plenty of strange vegetables to try the first time.

8. Jakarta, Indonesia

There are plenty of reasons you should visit Jakarta. First of all, it is full of culture and traditions. Second, you can taste Asia in one city. The country’s cuisine has borrowed several dishes and modified them from its neighbors. Move between provinces, and you will find a completely new palette of dishes altogether. You can find street food, modern Indonesian restaurants, and international diners as well.

9. Burma

One of the most popular food destinations, Burma has some truly unique dishes you should try. Why being famous for the Rohingya crisis in the past few years, the country is welcoming and traditional at the same time. You can try Mohingya for breakfast, a fish soup with fritters. The Burmese version of the Byriani is also delicious; with chicken slow cooked and mixed with spices and rice. When you’re on the streets, don’t forget to pick up some Pe Byouk (boiled peas) with fresh bread. A deep fried stuffed tofu is another popular street food option, and has chillies, vegetables, and a spicy sauce on top.

10. Penang, Malaysia

Street food is called hawker food in Penang, and it is very colorful. You can taste the influence of different cultures in every dish, when you visit the Nyonya district and try its cuisine. You will not only find individual vendors lining the streets, but also hawker centers where you can try everything you always wanted to taste. If you are looking to sit down, there are great local coffee shops to accommodate your more traditional taste. Try Wonton Mee, made with noodles, soy sauce, green chillies, and Chinese kale. Lor Bak is minced pork served with two different dipping sauces, and resembles spicy meat balls.

11. Seoul, South Korea

The bad news is that you might find it hard to find street food in Soeul; street carts are illegal. However, vendors are hard to deter, and they often set up their pop up covered trucks in busy shopping districts. If you are hungry for some authentic food, ask a local for directions to “Pojangmacha”, and follow your nose. If you are looking for an evening meal in the restaurant, you must try soyu, a spirit that is often consumed alongside with meals. Try the rice cakes called Ttekbokki, or Odeng (tasty fishcakes) and Gamja-dog, a corn dog with a Korean twist.

12. Xi’an, China

While this spot in China is most famous for the finding of the Terracotta Warriors, its culinary scene is also worth a mention. The Muslim influence is clearly visible in the city, and you can find small restaurants on every corner, offering cheap and high quality traditional dishes. Visit the Muslim Quarter to explore some of the best lamb dishes, or the night markets to find authentic street food. Try Majiang liang pi, or sesame noodles with a black sauce, served cold. The Xi’an version of lamb kebabs is called Yang rou chuan, and is a traditional Muslim street snack. One of the must-try dishes is the Babao meigui jing gao, or rose mirror cake. It is made of sticky rice, and served with a sweet sauce.

13. Manila, Philippines

Image via Bash Carlos

Manila offers the perfect scene for fine dining and street food as well. Most dishes offered by street vendors are deep fried, and you can find some supers weet desserts to die for on every corner. The must-try dish is Balut, or fertilized duck eggs. While this might not be for everyone, if you are looking for a unique taste, you might give it a chance. For a more familiar cuisine, you can try Kwek Kwek, or battered hard boiled eggs. The brave can even get their hands on barbecued intestines, called Isaw. I case you would like to play safe, try the fish balls instead.

Food lovers will find something to fall in love with in every corner of Asia. If you have been thinking about a culinary holiday in Asia, pick one of the above destinations, and eat like the locals for a while. Whether you prefer street food or fine dining, Asia will meet your expectations. There is no better way of exploring a country’s traditions, customs, and culture than tasting its food and eating with locals.

This is a contributed post.

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Most people think that traveling is the best way to escape life’s stresses and strains and monotonous bleeps, but we disagree. The best way to escape these little niggles is to have a holiday home. It’s having that home away from home, one you can make totally and utterly yours. It’s having that little slice of paradise in some faraway hotspot, where you have friends, know the local restaurant owners and know how to make your journey there so hassle-free it puts your morning commute to shame. It’s being able to run off to somewhere totally different and yet perfectly familiar. It’s the ultimate in luxury living.

But for all the blissful living you get to sit back and soak up, there are still some super-duper-important considerations you need to take into account before you pull out your purse, pop your name on the dotted line and snap up a property to use as a holiday home.

That’s why we have pulled together this list. It’s to help you make holiday-home-buying even less stressful than your last grocery shop. Trust us, when it comes to purchasing a second-home abroad, nothing is worse than making the wrong decision. Thankfully, this guide should make it a think of the past.

1. Location Really Is Everything

Forget what little details you are craving; the most valuable factor to think about - and then think about a whole lot more - is the location. It’s where all good things stem from. It’s where you will get the most joy when it comes to your every vacation and where you will get the most returns should you decide to let your property out when you’re not there. That doesn’t just mean choosing the right country or region either, it means where the established markets are, where the tourist hotspots are, how far it is away from basic provisions and lovely restaurants and what the plot offers, whether that be a pool, a beach walk or a cityscape.

2. Deposits Need To Be Big

There is no denying that you will get more bang for your buck in an overseas property than you would be buying into an establish metropolia like a New York or London. But that doesn’t mean you can escape handing over a large sum of money as a down payment. Yeah. You’re still going to need to have a nice dollop of cash tucked away somewhere. Of course, how much you need will all depend on the country you’re looking at. Take Spain as a prime example of a country where 30% deposits are not uncommon. So, know where you’re buying and then know what’s expected of you.

3. Think Future Currency Rates

Unfortunately, buying a holiday home isn’t the same as buying a bag of salted cashews from Lidl in that it can take months to finally get the keys to a property. This makes it pretty hard to predict what the currency rate is going to do because, if the last couple of years are anything to go by, currencies can drop 15 percent in the wake of political headlines. That can make your property a whole lot more expensive than you thought. Don’t worry, there is a simple solution to this and it’s called a forward currency contract. It’s a super-simple agreement that every reliable broker will offer and basically lets you buy a foreign currency at a fixed rate.

4. Do Tons And Tons Of Research

The moment you think you’ve found your dream home, make sure you reign in your emotions, put your optimism to the bottom of the pile and start doing all the in-depth research you can because, trust us, it’s the smaller print and finer details that can really sting you. If you are buying somewhere far off and exotic like the South Pacific, you might want to read this article at https://www.rumah.com/panduan-dan-referensi/mengurus-sertifikat-tanah/ingin-mengubah-sertifikat-hak-guna-bangunan-menjadi-sertifikat-hak-milik-ini-caranyato understand the different building rights and how to get a certificate of property, while buying in France can come with all sorts of odd caveats and laws that mean you never actually own your home, which is why you need to do your research. Make sure the vendor definitely owns the deeds, make sure there are deeds, do a thorough structural review and bring in a legal team. Anything that will help you rest well at night. Oh, and speak to other expats that have bought in the area to see if they had any issues when picking up a hot property.

5. Taxes Play A Big Role

One of the biggest factors that always seem to wangle its way out of the calculations is the tax. Don’t make this mistake. It could cripple your dreams if you do. It might be that you are buying in a country where property taxes are relatively insignificant. However, you might be wanting to buy a holiday home in France and that means you’ll be expected to pay around 7.5% of the property’s value in taxes and fees. If these seem a lot, it is, but it’s made up of a property 5% transfer tax (think stamp duty), as well as solicitors fees, which can be as much as 3% of the property’s value. Whatever your budget, it’s a large chunk of change to overlook.

6. Independent Advice Only, Please

When you’re sat in the estate agents office and wondering where you’re going to get your mortgage-slash-legal advice from before you sign on the dotted line, don’t be tempted to use one that has been suggested to you by the agents. Instead, go with a regulated lawyer or advisor that speaks both languages fluently. Getting good advice is sooooo important when it comes to the purchase of a property, so don’t risk it with an unlicensed lawyer an impartial advisor. Our advice would be: whatever procedures you went through when buying your home at home, stick to them this time around too. That means using independent lawyers, getting independent valuations, enjoying independent mortgage advice and anything else that you feel is necessary. The reason for this is simple: by cutting corners, you have everything to lose and nothing to be gained. Schimples.

This is a contributed post.

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If you are going on holiday soon, you will, no doubt, be feeling incredibly excited about the adventure that lies ahead. However, if you have a long flight to catch, you may be dreading this part. On the way there, it’s not so bad, as you are excited about the holiday that lies ahead. However, on the way back, it is a different scenario, making the boredom even worse. Of course, if you are flying for business purposes and you are not going to have any fun on your trip, the long flight becomes an even bigger thorn in your side. But there are some ways you can overcome it. Read on to discover some tips on how to get through a long haul flight.

Make sure you have plenty of entertainment options - Do not make the mistake of simply relying on the in-flight entertainment system. You may not like the film that is being shown. Instead, make sure your eReader, tablet, smartphone or any other device you use is loaded with content. Moreover, do not make the mistake of downloading lots of mobile phone games that can only be accessed with an Internet connection. Head to https://www.finalfantasyxvapp.com/to find out more about a good game option that will keep you busy throughout the entire flight, as there are so many different levels to get through.

Invest in noise cancelling headphones - If there is one thing that is worth investing in for your long flight abroad, it is noise cancelling headphones. They can be a lifesaver when it comes to cutting out the noise you are bound to experiencing on an aeroplane, be it a child’s whine, an engine whine, or any other sound! This will ensure you can completely focus on you and what you need to get through the long flight ahead of you.

Focus on your comfort - Aside from ensuring you are perfectly set up in terms of entertainment throughout your flight, you also need to make sure that you are comfortable. You need to recreate your home environment in order to make sure you get your rest. Of course, this is very difficult to do with the limited room and a seat. However, a neck pillow is a good place to start. This will ensure your head is supported while you take a nap. You should also block out the light by getting a good sleep mask. If you can afford it, it is a good idea to pay for an extra legroom seat. Head to https://www.stuff.co.nz/travel/104560686/five-ways-to-get-more-legroom-when-flying-economy-classto find out about the different ways that you can get more legroom when you are flying in economy class.

Hopefully, you now feel more prepared for your long-haul flight. If you are taking a long journey anywhere, follow the advice that has been provided above so that you can keep yourself entertained throughout and benefit from plenty of comfort and relaxation.

This is a contributed post.

Picture by Picjumbo

The summer has long been over, the darker nights have rolled in and slowly, but surely the thick scarves make an appearance and gradually even thicker coats. The fall is an exciting time for all the events it brings and the inevitable lead up to Santa hopping down the chimney. To make sure you don’t miss out on all the fun NYC has to offer, be sure to check out the below things to see and do. All are fitting for either meeting up with friends, family or even planning an impressive date.

Catch A Show

What better way is there to spend your time than being bowled over by a new show. If you’re one who loves theatrics, feminism and a feel-good theatre play, try watching the hit show waitress. Featuring a waitress (it’s all in the name) who hopes to break the chains from her loveless marriage and job to start fresh in a new town. All is brought into motion with a pie-making competition, which is understandable because a good pie can motivate us to do most things.

Have A Ball

The McKittrick Hotel plays host to a variety of events with a periodic theme each extracted from different eras to add uniqueness and interest beyond the generic nightclub sphere. With its theatrical displays, costumes and masks, you can have a ball surrounded in periodic style. An upcoming event in the name of Halloween, called inferno: three nights of deviant witchcraft will present live performances and an open bar, an event worth looking into if you’re stuck for ideas this fall.

Illuminations

If you’re a sucker for pretty lights and not afraid of the cold autumn air, try looking at the The Great Jack O Lantern Blaze event situated by the Hudson River. For the Halloween spirited amongst you, the event has lots in store. From 5000 glowing pumpkins, and if viewing pumpkins in mass volume isn't quite enough pumpkin for you, you can stargaze from inside the pumpkin planetarium, how romantic. To get a little boozy, before entering the event, beer will be on sale on several stores with a Halloween twist, you guessed it, pumpkin beer. You’ll be all pumpkined out by the time the events over.

Party and Dine

Why not add the fun back into dining and try visiting Tortilla Flats, a Mexican restaurant based in the Greenwich Village. If loud music while chowing down on tasty tacos seem like your thing, with intermittent shots of tequila being poured down your neck, this is the place for you. Not to mention contests like hula hooping for those with a competitive streak! Insane, go here, it’ll be heaps of fun.

Drinking With Shakespeare

For those of you who adore a bit of theatre and perhaps even deem themselves a bit of an actor/artiste themselves, immersion theatre might tickle your fancy. The theatre experience is amplified as you’re literally drawn into the show. So probably not so much fun for those who go to the theatre to interact as little as possible with people. There are other immersion theatre shows aside from Drunk Shakespeare, but a show that encourages the actors to drink is a show worth watching. At parts, you get to make decisions and influence the actions of the actors. It’s all quite artsy and entertaining for one night, so try it you never know you might like it.

Board Games and Bagels

If drinking and partying are not up your street, perhaps try cozying up at The Uncommons for board games, brunch and hot cocoa. Feasy on a seasonal menu filled with light bites and take the opportunity to beat your friends/or date at monopoly and show them who's boss.

Speakeasy Tour

The museum of the American gangster hosts a speakeasy tour of one of the former bars of New York. If you’re deciding to visit this place, based in the East Village, it’s best to sign up for the tour too. The guide is super passionate about the American gangsters 1920’s era and brings to life the stories and tales. This museum is not shrouded in hundreds of thousands of dollars like the museum of modern art, so don’t expect fancy interior and a grand entrance. This museum is raw and offbeat to demonstrate how the American gangsters influenced new york. This is appealing for people who want to learn more about how New York's heritage and culture were affected by the criminal underworld.

With a few options for plans to make with friends, family or your date, you can never be bored or left uninspired for ideas in a city that’s always changing and surprising you. Thankfully, there will still be new places to explore, admire, enjoy and create memories in while you’re in New York.

This is a contributed post.

Is there any greater joy in life than travel? The chance to explore new and exciting destinations, meet new people and experience other cultures can enrich your worldview, as well as make some incredible memories. If you often get travel envy as you scroll through your Instagram feed or flick through Condé Nast Traveller at the dentist’s office, you’re not alone. If you’ve had a taste of travel, your itchy feet can soon become problematic.

Image Credit: Pxhereunder Creative Commons

The issue that holds many people back from travelling, of course, is money. Your 20s are the optimal time for you to go travelling, with your career still ahead of you and real life commitments like marriage and family still far away in the distance. However, the pressure to work hard and play hard means that travel dreams can stay just that, dreams, while you struggle to adjust to city living, let alone pack your bags and jet off.

They say that you can achieve anything if you put your mind to it, so if it’s travelling that’s on your mind - it’s time to go for it. Take a look at some of the following advice for funding travel in your 20s.

Make a plan

Reaching your goals is easier to do when you’ve got a plan in place. Map out where you’re going, when you want to go and how long you want to go. Having that end goal in place will keep you motivated to save during the tough times, and ensure that you have something to work towards. Many of us live for the weekend, but working to explore the world seems like a good alternative.

Pay off your debts

Going travelling with a mountain of debt is not the most sensible way to start your adventure. Money worries will follow you wherever you go, even if it is on a beach in Thailand. Clearing your debts will help you feel more confident when setting off, and the practice of not spending all of your money as it comes in will teach you some valuable savings habits.

There are some great tips out there to help you pay off your debts, while many credit checker tools include tips and advice for reducing your debt while improving your credit score. With some sensible card spending, you could start building up your credit score right now! It might take some time to get you to a stage where you are debt-free, but it will be worth it to enjoy stress-free travelling.

Start your travel savings budget

If you’re serious about going travelling, then it’s time to get serious about your spending. A budget is going to be the easiest way to scrimp and save every penny, and will stop you spending all of your money down the pub every weekend. A budget for beginners is just what you need to get started.

Your budget might require you to make some sacrifices, but they will all be worth it to help you get on that plane. Who needs a £50-a-month underused gym membership when you can work out at home for free? Do you need your TV package when all you do is watch Netflix anyway? Making these little cuts will add a lot to your savings, without you even realising - so what’s a little short-term pain for long-term gain?

Get side hustling

Ever heard of a side hustle? A side hustle is a sideline that lets you make money. If you ask around your friends and colleagues, you’ll find that many of them have side hustles that provide a boost to their income.

Starting a side hustle to help you fund your travels is a great idea to help you make those savings quicker. There are some easy side hustles for millennials, for example, that you can start today to start bringing in some extra cash. From tutoring to blogging, there are a lot of ways you can make some more money if you’re willing to put the time in.

Work abroad

If the thought of saving up for years to be able to travel doesn’t really appeal, then the fast-track option is to work abroad. Prospects has some amazing advice on working in different countries to help you find your perfect match. If you’re happy to stay in one place for a longer period, then working in a bar or other type of casual job can help you fund your basic living expenses while still enabling you to travel around and enjoy the local area.

Work on the move

If staying in one place isn’t what you dreamed of when you said you want to go travelling, then your other option is to work on the move. The ‘digital nomad’ lifestyle involves working remotely from anywhere in the world, allowing you to hop from destination to destination doing work like copywriting or design. You could spend each week in a different country, working to cover your expenses without being tied to one location.

Do your travel plans have to be long-term?

Going travelling doesn’t have to mean setting off for months on end with your backpack on a list of trendy destinations to get to. You can still enjoy travel by embracing shorter breaks and ticking off some of the world’s most exciting destinations from your bucket list. A week spent in Italy will expose you to some incredible experiences, and you’ll get there much quicker too. If you’re trying to cure those itchy feet then setting off on shorter breaks could be just what you need.

While there’s no denying that travel doesn’t offer up some incredible experiences, it’s not always possible for everyone at this moment in time. If you’re determined to set off, however, then find a way to make it work. There are plenty of ways to fund your travel in your 20s, so make a plan now and say hello to those new adventures.

This is a contributed post.

The rich history and culture of the Czech Republic makes it a fantastic location for any traveler wishing to see more of the world. Expect medieval style cities and towns, gothic architecture, gorgeous green areas and penchant for excellent beer. All of which you can find out more about in my post below.

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When visiting the Czech Republic, the city of Prague is a great place to start.

Getting there and away

The country known as the Czech Republic is a place bordered by Germany, Poland, Slovakia, Austria, and Hungary, which means you can choose to fly direct to Prague or travel overland from any of these countries. Something that makes it an excellent destination on a road trip tour of Europe.

It's not too hard to get from one country to another either on the European continent because all the surrounding counties, as well as the Czech Republic, are part of the schengen agreement. What this means is that you can travel easily from one to the other across their borders.

Also if you are traveling from the US, you don't need a visa unless you plan on staying within a schengen country for more than 90 days. Although, if you do plan on doing this it is worth using a schengen flight reservation visa service. The reasons being that they will be able to reserve flight dates for you without booking them in full, something that you will need to apply to for your visa.

Prague Accommodation

Prague is the capital city of the Czech Republic and is probably the most famous place there as well. In fact, it is popular with many different types of tourist because of its low prices compared to the rest of Europe and its stunning city architecture.

When visiting this city, there is a range of accommodation to choose from including budget choices like the Hotel Relax Inn which offers clean rooms and the use of a swimming pool for as little as $21 a night.

Of course, if you want to stay in an even more central location on a tiny budget then picking a hostel like the Clown & Bard or the Franz Kafka are probably your best bet. You can even splash out on a double room if you like. Although the price difference between that and the more budget hotels is pretty negligible.

However, not everyone will want to keep to a strict budget when visiting the city of Prague, and if this applies to you, you will be happy to discover that there are some excellent high-end options available as well.

One such option is the Mandarin Oriental, a hotel that is part of the worldwide luxe chain. There a room will set you back over $300 a night, but for your money, you can expect the most attentive service, a beautifully designed pool and spa, and a location that is within walking distance of the Castle.

Another option to consider is the Four Seasons Hotel on eleslavínova 1098/2a. Expect similar prices to the Mandarin Oriental here, as well as large luxurious rooms and suites as well as flat screen TVs, and marble bathroom to give you that real feeling of opulence.

Prague Food

Of course, as a large and bustling city, there are plenty of gastronomic experiences to have in Prague. One that you should definitely not miss is the Czech Slovak Restaurant LoungeBar where they serve traditional food with a modern and classy twist.

One of the stars of the menu is the venison goulash, and the 7-course degustation menu that comes with accompanying wine is also pretty popular.

Although, if you are looking for somewhere to grab a quick and hearty snack for lunch or a light dinner then the weirdly named Sad Man's Tongue Bar& Bistro may be more suitable. In fact, you may be surprised to learn it's a 50s style diner that often has live music acts to entertain you while you dine. It's loads of fun though, and well worth a visit during your stay in Prague.

Also while not very Czech, a visit to the fabulous Da Tarquinio is a great idea. It's an Italian style bakery, and that means all sort of delicious and reasonable price treats including individual pizza bread, as a well as tasty sandwiches, Italian desserts and pastries, and ice creams.

Oh, and don't forget that the Czech Republic prides itself on brewing delicious beer. A good thing too as they have the largest beer consumption per persons than any other country in the world. Of course, they won't mind too much if you decide to have a taste of the brewing fare that is on offer. Be sure to give Staropramen a go, as its a light and fruity beer that goes great with cheese or just a midday snack!

Prague Sites

Once you have found a suitable place to lay your head for the night and have refueled, you will want to explore the sights of the historic and captivating city.

First on your list should be the stunning Castle at 119 08 Prague 1. Initially built in the 9th century the castle complex has had some pretty important residents including Roman emperors, the kings of Bohemia, more rennet Czechoslovakian politicians. You'll find a mix of two distinct architectural styles within the complex including Baroque and Mannerism, and classical concerts regularly run in the grounds too.

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You can, of course, explore the inside of the castle as well, although the ticket situation is somewhat confusing. Basically, it works like this. The complex is split up into different areas, and you need to buy a ticket for the specific area that you wish to visit. Such a ticket is valid for two days, and you can get groups and family tickets which can bring the cost down a little. Do be aware though that there are quite a few rules for visitors when touring this thousand-year-old building, so it's best to check them out first before you go.

Another stunning piece of architecture that you won't want to visit during your time in Prague is the Church of Our Lady before Týn. This is a Gothic style building built in the 14th Century and so is steeped in history. Although, you might be surprised to discover that it is much more lavish on the outside that it is inside. In fact, you not allowed to take photos inside at either, so this may be a site where a walk around the grounds is enough.

Lastly, when it comes to visiting the city of Prague, be sure that you don't miss the rather fabulous Astronomical Clock on Staroměstské nám. 1. It was recently fully renovated from its tradition medieval state and is a real sight to behold. Of course, to climb the tower and see the inner working fo the clock from the inside you will need to buy a ticket! Go for the mobile one that allows you to skip the queue!

Český Krumlov

While Prague is the Jewel in the Czech Republic's crown, no trip to this region would be complete without visiting the land once known as Bohemia, and the perfect place to do this is in Český Krumlov. While smaller than Prague, Český Krumlov is no less interesting as it's jammed packed full of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque buildings.

Visit the castle which dates back to 1240, and that you can tour both inside and out. There you can view many of the ornate and opulent rooms, as well as get a glimpse into the historical life of the castle from the perspective of the Schawardburg family. You can even visit the stables and experience what the life of royal steed was like!

Alternatively, if you are looking for something a little more modern amongst all that history you can visit the Egon Schiele Art Centrum at Široká 71, 381 01. This is a gallery that is dedicated to Austrian painter Egon Schiele and his artwork and sketches, although the building itself is a renovated 16th-century brewery. There are usually a range of different exhibitions on offer and there too, as well as a cafe so you can make a good afternoon of touring the place.

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There is another museum that you should make the time to visit as well it is the one dedicated to moldavite named Vltavínů. Moldavite for those that aren't in the know is mineral found in asteroids and has many uses. A topic you can find out more about by interacting with exhibits in this weird but wonderful curiosity.

Lastly, when it comes to accommodation in Český Krumlov, there ain't quite as many as you would find in Prague. They are also a little more expensive as well, with most coming in at just under $50 a night.

However, many of them are in historic buildings which more than makes up for the increased price. While some are run out of local people homes where you can expect some yummy Czech breakfast before you start your day of exploring and soaking up all that genuine Bohemian culture in the south of the Czech Republic.

This is a contributed post.

There are a lot of things to consider when you’re starting a blog. You need to decide on what the content of the blog will be, work out how you’re going to find a readership, find your own specific voice, and then design the blog itself. But a lot of people don’t consider how their blog might put them at risk. You probably don’t think that starting your own blog is a very risky venture but it actually can be. These are some of the different ways that your blog could be putting you at risk.

Image From Pixabay

Online Risks

It’s no secret that online security is a big concern for everybody these days and bloggers are no exception. You might wonder why hackers would bother with a random blog on the internet but there are actually quite a lot of reasons. If you blog about anything that could be considered controversial like politics or religion, for example, you might come under attack by hacktiviststhat don’t agree with your views on those topics. You can protect yourself to some extent by trying to give a well rounded view of those topics but either way, there’s always the chance that people might take issue with your site.

Some people may also attack your blog in an attempt to hold it hostage and then charge you a large sum of money to get it back up and running again. That puts you in a difficult position because you don’t want to give in but you also don’t want to start your blog again from scratch. The best way to protect yourself here is to make sure that you’re backing up your blog regularly. That way, if your site is attacked, you can start again on a fresh site and post all of your old content again.

The blogging community as a whole is a very welcoming place but that doesn’t mean there aren’t some bloggers that will use underhanded tactics against you. They may attack your site in an attempt to shut you down and get rid of the competition. Your site might even come under attack from hackers who are just doing it for the sake of it. It seems stupid but that’s some people’s idea of fun.

If you’re selling products on your site, your site is definitely at risk. You’re holding the personal credit card details of your customers and people might attempt to steal them. That might be through hacking attacks or they may contact you posing as a customer and asking for information. That’s why it’s important that you have a good customer verification service in place. You can use Jumio's Netverify to reduce fraud by implementing a facial recognition service to identify customers. That way there’s no danger of somebody pretending to be a customer to get hold of sensitive information.

Your Reputation

This isn’t something that people really think about when they’re writing a blog but it’s a very personal thing and you’re putting yourself out there. You’ve got to be careful what you put on the blog because it could damage your reputation and get you in some trouble. For example, if you’re putting things about your job on there, you might end up in trouble at work. Whenever you’re airing your life out in public you need to be very careful about what you’re putting out there. Always think about how people might perceive it and whether it could hurt your reputation in some way.

Your Finances

The financial risks are one of the dangers that you’ll have to face as a blogger. People often have a lot of misconceptions about blogging and they think that it doesn’t require any financial input. If you’re just running a small blog as a hobby, you don’t need to spend that much on it. But if you’re trying to run it as a business, you’re going to need to spend money. You’ll have to pay for templates for the site, hosting costs, camera equipment so you can get good quality photos on the blog, and your marketing costs as well. All of those costs can quickly add up and there’s no guarantee that you’re going to make a return on that so you’re taking a big risk.

If you decide to go full-time as a blogger, you’re not going to have a steady income and that is very risky. It’s important that you put money aside when you’re earning rather than just spending it all. Keep a good handle on your finances and make sure that you live within your means so you don’t run into trouble when you aren’t earning as much.

People don’t usually think of starting a blog as a particularly risky thing to do but it can. Being aware of these dangers from the start is the easiest way to make sure you don’t get in trouble.

This is a contributed post.

Holiday travel is both special and stressful. Yuletide spirit and Christmas lights create a festive environment for crossing the country to see family and friends. But the bumper-to-bumper traffic and close quarters are enough to make everyone crazy.

You have to deal with extra crowds, but you won’t want to miss the chance to witness memories in the making. Almost the entire globe is celebrating a holiday this time of year, so you have the opportunity to see all kinds of excitement.

Whether you decide to stay home this year, have a staycation or take a trip far from home, you can easily navigate the best and worst of holiday travel with these reservation tips and packing solutions.

While summertime, spring break, New Year’s, and Thanksgiving are among some of the busiest travel times, it’s no surprise that Christmastime is also on this list. So how do you avoid the stress?

Traveling in the offseason is always an option. Celebrate your holiday a week or two early. Get your traveling out of the way, but don’t leave out any trimmings. Decorate for Christmas and get your holiday shopping out of the way in November. That way you can celebrate like you would and still avoid the crowds.

Spend your holidays in cheaper areas of the world. Mexico is a beautiful destination for saving money because the value of your money goes farther. You can celebrate in true Mexican style, with excitement and flair. Everything in Mexico goes slower, is more relaxed, and is more exciting.

Instead of traveling during your holiday, go somewhere exotic for theirs. For instance, you can travel to Stonehenge during the Solstice, Thailand during Songkran, Delhi during Diwali, or Seville during Holy Week. You get the idea here. You can celebrate something new and different and then stay at home with your family during peak travel times.

Don’t forget to pack your comfortable clothes so you can relax and spend time with the people who matter most. Bonds offers comfortable undergarments and intimate wear so you can pack easily and you can spend the holidays in comfort.

Happy Christmas (or whatever it is that you celebrate)!

Blogging is an exciting hobby, but it can be more than that for many of us. It’s a chance to build an audience, a brand, a reputation, and even a business. And it can all be done from the comfort of your home or your local coffee shop. Perhaps you’ve been inspired by the posts on this site. Perhaps you want to start your own blog. In this article, we’re going to discuss ways in which to ensure your interior design blog is engaging and successful.

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Get inspiration.

The first step to starting an engaging interior design blog is to get inspiration. Even this blog has been inspired by plenty of other Scandiboho blogs. There’s nothing wrong with doing some research. In fact, it’s advisable if you want to get a feel for the best ways in which to write content on your chosen topic. You might get some inspiration in terms of the design and layout of your blog too. It’s important not just to create engaging articles but an engaging aesthetic for your site. Visuals are very important, especially when your blog is related to interior design. Make sure you include plenty of pictures of household interiors on your blog posts. Create an eye-grabbing layout. Entice first-time visitors. Just do your research to see what other bloggers are doing to achieve this result.

Monetise your page.

Another great way to create a more engaging blog is to find its continuous improvement and development. To achieve that, you might want to monetise your page. Adverts could help with this, but you might also be able to get sponsored deals if you have a sizeable following. You could always do some additional research on making money from a blog if you want some more ideas. There are plenty of ways to pull in some extra income by blogging. It might not be time to quit your day job, but you could definitely be earning some cash from your hobby. It’ll benefit you and your readers; that money can go towards renewing your domain, hiring additional writers, and so on.

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Adopt a focused theme.

It isn’t enough to start a general interior design blog. Do you know how many of those there are on the internet? Exactly. There are too many to count. You need to create unique content that can’t be found elsewhere. That’s the way to entice readers and ensure you stand out from a market full of similar blogs discussing similar topics. Take this website, for example; it focuses primarily on Scandinavian home design with some articles embracing slightly different topics and ideas (i.e. this post). You just need to find a theme that interests you. Maybe you could discuss transitional interior styles, for example. It’s not just about being different for the sake of being different. It’s about discussing your passions. People can tell when blog content is inspired and authentic. That’s crucial to engaging people who read your interior design blog.

This is a contributed post.

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If you’re planning on heading away from home at some point in the upcoming year, chances are that you have already looked into different destinations, different excursions and activities, and different ways of getting from A to B. But have you put much thought into who you are going to travel with? Your travel companion really can make or break a trip. A trip to somewhere that isn’t all too exciting and lacks things to see and do with someone you get on really well with will generally be better enjoyed than a trip to a stunning and luxurious location with someone you can’t stand. So, let’s take a moment to consider a few different companions that you might want to consider before agreeing to a trip and heading away!

Your Partner

We’ve all spent a little time at some point or another browsing couples travel accounts on Instagram and couples travel boards on Pinterest. They portray perfect bohemian relationships, with beautiful couples holding hands in stunning locations, chinking glasses over stunning local cuisine, and rubbing lotion into one another’s backs on beautiful beaches. This, of course, could be a reality. But remember that these accounts post idealised and generally unrealistic content. Chances are that you are going to find yourself in some pretty intense situations when you are travelling the world and depending on your relationship, your partner could prove to be the perfect support or could really end up rubbing you up the wrong way. If you are in a relatively new relationship, you might want to stick to short and sweet weekend breaksor city breaks for a few days. Either that or a romantic beach getaway with luxuries and comforts all around. These tend to limit the amount of time that tensions could rise in, or they tend to be extremely relaxing and laid back - both factors can minimise arguments and problems from developing. If you have been with your partner for a little longer, are already familiar with your partner’s quirks, and aren’t going to be embarrassed if you’re hit with a bout of diarrhoea inducing food poisoning from ill chosen street food, a round the world trip could actually prove to be an experience that bonds you together in a way that no other activity could.

A Friend

Another popular choice of travel companion is a close friend. But let us put an emphasis on the word “close”. Many people make spontaneous travel plans with new acquaintances or friends in a bid to strengthen relationships and enjoy yourselves together. But again, travel can be difficult and intense. If you are with someone new, you may not be familiar with how your behaviour can irritate one other when you are exposed to one another around the clock. Older and more firm friends tend to have ironed out and accepted flaws and problems by the point that they are planning on heading away together.

A Pet

We tend to associate our pets with our homes - they’re there when we return home at the end of a long day at work or out socialising. When we head away on vacation, we tend to leave them under the supervision at kennels and pet care centres, or we leave them well looked after by our friends and family members. But if you’re planning on heading away for a longer period of time and you don’t want your pet to experience separation anxiety, or you feel that you’ll miss them too much, you should bear in mind that you cantravel with your pet. You will have to check out these 10 pet friendly airports, ensure that the accommodation that you have booked is pet friendly, and ensure that your pet has received any necessary vaccinations to be safe further from home.

Going Solo

Remember that you do not necessarily have to have anytravel partner when heading out on a grand adventure. Traveling solo can be an extremely appealing option, especially for the more independent individuals amongst us. Traveling solo can teach you a whole lot about yourself. It can encourage confidence. It can encourage us to pick up tips and tricks that we will use later in life. However, you do need to make sure to be especially careful when traveling solo. Being alone can see you considered as increasingly vulnerable. If you are in a rural area, hiking, or engaging in sports such as mountain climbing, you won’t have anyone to call for help if you injure yourself or become unconscious. If you stay in the city, you might be more vulnerable to crime. So, make sure that this is definitely something that you want to do before committing to heading away and to take extra steps to ensure your safety.

You could travel with other people, but these are perhaps some of the best companions that you will find out there! Make sure to put plenty of thought when making this decision, as it can really make or break your get away!

This is a contributed post.

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The new year is fast approaching and many of us are looking to turn a new leaf and create a new image for ourselves. Of course, resolutions can change our behaviour and habits, but why not use this year’s resolutions to create a new look for yourself? This could boost your confidence significantly! Here are just a few areas that you might like to focus on to get the ball rolling the right direction!

Hair

Your hairstyle can dramatically impact your overall appearance - it can speak volumes about your personality, influences, and interests if you want it to. Now, many of us stick to very safe styles that blend into the crowd. This is why you see so many people with their natural hair shades, long locks and blunt cuts with centre partings. But why not switch things up a bit. You don’t necessarily have to shave the sides and dye your hair a wild colour. A few subtle changes can make all the difference! Consider a fringe, switching to a natural colour that doesn’t happen to be yournatural colour, or maybe even just opt for a few layers or a side parting. Whatever you’re considering, book in for a consultation with a hairdresser who will be able to let you know whether your best laid plans are likely to suit you or not. You can then have colour tests for colours you are considering and book in for your full appointment with cut and blow dry!

Clothes

Clothes, of course, also impact your aesthetic. Now, many of us get drawn into purchasing clothes from the same shops and same brands that we always have. We are familiar with their sizing and if something isn’t broken - don’t fix it. However, it’s always fun to check out new little stores to add to your current wardrobe. Consider boutiques like https://fillyflair.com, vintage stores, thrift stores, and other alternative sources of clothing. You never know what gems you might find in the process!

Accessories

Don’t neglect accessories. These can really spruce up an otherwise plain ensemble. Whether you start wearing more jewellery, matching your handbag to your shoes, or try out a few different hair accessories. Remember that accessories can also be functional. You could incorporate hats, scarves, and gloves into your outfit, which will also keep you warm through the winter months. You really can alter the way that you come across with the tiniest of additions or alterations to the way that accessorise.

These are just a few areas that you might want to consider working on in the new year. Each could boost your confidence tremendously! So, why not give them a try?

This is a contributed post.

So much time, money and effort goes into making a your own business. Essentially, the harder you work, the greater the opportunity for the business to grow; this is of course what you want, but in turn it means that you have to continue pushing yourself to keep up with demand. It’s important ensure you’re always looking for a way to maximise profit and minimise losses, so here’s a few simple tips to help you run your business in the most efficient way possible.

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Hire More Help

Unfortunately, there’s always going to be 24 hours in each day. Even if your business quadruples in size, the amount of time you have to complete your work will remain the same. It’s hard to break free from groundwork when you make your own business, because you’ve been nurturing it from the very first business plan to what it has become today. However, it’s vital that you adopt a more senior position and delegate the responsibility to other members off staff. To make sure you’re comfortable passing these tasks on, you should be present throughout the entire interview stage, and assess candidates to your own specific requirements. It’s easy to monitor employee productivity - carrying out regular checks and visit different departments to offer encouragement and motivation so they will be more inclined to put in that extra bit of effort.

Go Digital

Digital advancement has many benefits, and now every entrepreneur is able to discover new technologies and innovative ideas. There are several tasks within the average business that can be done faster and more accurately on some form of computer or device. Automated machinery and other such services are a big investment, but over the course of their lifetime will save you so much money and time. It’s also a good option if you’re less inclined to hire more employees, or want to free up some of your current workers to focus on other tasks. Even contract management can be outsourced and done online, but be sure to do your research and visit sites like https://www.templafy.com/contract-management/to get the best service.

Invest More In Marketing

By putting a heavy focus on marketing in certain seasons, you’ll reach more loyal customers who you can then entice to regularly return to the business. Advertising campaigns can draw a lot of attention, and when more users start to frequent your website you can install a feature for email subscription. You can regularly supply updates and offers, reach a wide range of interested customers and encourage more business - more positives can be seen at https://www.business.com/articles/6-reasons-to-use-email-marketing/. Once the first couple of campaigns are over your customer base will have increased, and the business will continue to grow at a steady rate without anymore interference. By putting a little bit more effort into a few weeks of solid marketing, you can get more time in the future to focus your attention elsewhere.

Hopefully these tricks can allow you to be a more efficient business, allowing you to use your time doing what really matters.

This is a contributed post.

One of the things that will help a business the most is technology. It's 2019, which means that if you're not caught up in the latest and greatest business tech, you're quite behind! No matter the type or size of business, a company has to be able to rely on technology to save money, make the business more efficient and allow employees to work more productively.

The other shining jewel in the crown of a business when it comes to technology is the fact that it gives people freedom. There is a marked decline in the number of new companies that are putting money into premises, and this is because a mobile office is often the best way to go ahead. Bringing in services such as Binatech's IT Consulting can make a massive difference to the way that you choose to run your business, and wanting to go mobile? That requires the right support. If you're ready to ask for help and get your business from an office to a cafe, the garden or even the beach, you need to know how to do it. So, let's take a look.

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Investing in the right mobile technology will be the first step for you. You need to ensure that your business and your staff have portable systems that can be used anywhere. Whether this is a tablet or a powerhouse laptop like a MacBook, you need to pick the tech hardware that's right for you.
Next, you need to ensure that wherever you are, you need to have an internet connection that's secure at all times. You don't need free Wifi spots that are going to be shaky and open you up to an insecure link. Protect your mobile tech with passwords wherever you go, and you'll be safe away from the office.
You still need to be able to contact your other staff, and so you need a system where you can share files and documents with your team at the drop of a hat. Online backup services and cloud-based services are the best way to go, so speak to your provider or IT consultant; they can hook you up with the right service.
Keeping your mobile office maintained is essential, and as you don't have anywhere to hire in a cleaner, you do need to ensure that you perform system updates regularly. The right protective software installed on your mobile hardware should also be considered, and again, your IT consultant can help you here.
Extra tech is also a consideration. You may not have a stable office space to use, but you still need to be able to have everything you need, from printers to extra batteries for your laptop to prevent burnout.

A mobile office can be an exciting way to give your business a little more freedom, allowing you to be on the road whenever you want to be. Take your business outside the confines of the four walls of an office and see how far you can go!

This is a contributed post.

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