3 Unique Thanksgiving Spots for 2018

By Emily Bach

With Thanksgiving fast approaching, now seems to be the best time of any to take a trip to somewhere new. For some that may look like a family member’s home, but for others it could be the spot of ultimate relaxation. Here are a few of our favorite places to spend for spending this Thanksgiving in bliss.

Hilton Head, SC

This booming island has quickly become a huge hit for the holiday times. Their laid-back and beachy vibes make it the perfect place to sit back, grab a pina colada and enjoy the sound of the waves. For dinner, there are a number of nicer restaurants, from Truffles, with a family-style menu, to Topside, known for their high quality seafood. But, the most notable of restaurants is The Salty Dog, a Hilton Head classic that’s quickly taken over the Atlantic region.

Ogden, UT

For a bit of a chillier escape, consider trying out a vacation in Utah. The destination is known for it’s insane ski-slopes, but contains far more beneath the surface. Complete with a cute city center and scads of adorable cabins, the city is the perfect place to go for a Thanksgiving getaway.

Washington, DC

If you’re looking to explore and adventure, DC is the place to go. As the nation’s capital, it contains some of the US’ top dining locations and most carefully curated museums. If you’re not an art person, check out the Air and Space Museum, Spy Museum or Bible Museum for a fun, but informative, day. And while you’re there, make sure you don’t miss out on the Washington Monument, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime sight.

5 Reasons to Build a Bike Online

Gone are the days when a physical store was a must for purchasing a bicycle. Now, with online stores everywhere, your dream bike is just a fingertip away from you.

Buying a bike has now become so easy, you can just click your screen and quality will be delivered to your doorstep in a few days. Some of these stores come with direct-to-consumer sales; which means there will be deeper levels of intimacy between the buyer and seller, and also offers a great DIY customization experience.

You Understand What you Have

The best thing about building a bike online is that you know exactly what you will be getting. You can essentially build a bike online that you always wanted as you can add as many new parts as you wish. With motorbikes, you understand how the motor is placed, how much power is being transferred from the battery to the motor, and how the brake lever wiring works. Putting a bike together guarantees that you have a proper sense of how all the parts works.

You Can Fix It

A benefit that comes with building a bike online and understanding it fully is the things you learn while putting the bike together. Putting parts together and replacing them will be easy enough for you after building your bike. If you want to replace a gear, for instance, since you attached the motor yourself, the task should not be a big deal. Or, you can watch informative videos on how to properly take specific bicycle brand parts apart.

You Choose What you Want

With building a bike online, you have the complete control of whatever colors you would like to see on your bike frame, the quality of chains, tires, rims, lighting quality and others.

With building a bicycle, the first thing you will get to choose is the frame. The frame design, material and build will play a huge part in determining how your bike eventually turns out. The wheels, tires and handlebars are just added bonuses. After selecting your preferred frame, you have the options of selecting the ‘groupset’- the moving parts of a bicycle. You select brakes, wheels, tires, inner tubes and saddles, and then make the final choices of seat posts, saddles, stems and handlebars.

You Start with Your Preferred Bike

Of course, building a bike online guarantees you will make your choices for parts and components based on what you like, your needs and your ultimate aim. There will almost definitely be a sentimental attachment to a bike you build by yourself, and not just a store bought one. The bike would be unique to you in many ways.

You’ll Feel Good

Basically, building things comes with some levels of pride at what we can do. Building a bike online comes with an even greater sense of pride, because it would be yours. The quality and how it works out will boost your ego, and make you feel more capable.

If you plan on building a bike for professional commuting reasons or just for the fun of having a DIY project, you should definitely go forward with the idea. The rewards of your labor will be right before your eyes every day. If you are a woman, you can choose from some of the best bikes for women available online right now. 

 

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How To Vacate Your Stress On Your Next Holiday

The vacation you’ve been planning for a while now is on the horizon and you’re super excited. You should be because holidays of a lifetime don’t come around too often. When they do, you’ve got to enjoy every moment or else it will be a damp squib. Stressed holidaymakers don’t do any of the above as they are too worried about the little things to enjoy the break.

Let’s face facts – vacations aren’t hassle-free. You’ve got to plan it, get to the airport on time, and figure out how not to argue with the family. The last one is almost impossible, by the way. Unfortunately, the tension takes away from the experience as you can’t let yourself go and immerse yourself in a new culture for two weeks.

What you need to do is to find out a way be super chill on the morning of the vacation and beyond. Then, the retreat you’ve been planning and looking forward to for months will live up to the expectations. Here are the options.

Hire A Professional

Every time you lack expertise in an area, you call someone who has skill and years of experience in the field. If a pipe in the house burst, you wouldn’t deal with it yourself. No, you’d call a plumber and ask them to take a look at the damage. Well, it’s okay to do the same thing with a holiday. Yes, some experts deal with vacation planning and you can find out more about them by following the link.

The important thing to consider is that they plan everything from the flights to the accommodation and more. Give them a call and talk them through what you want from your vacation and they’ll send you an itinerary within a couple of days. Then, you either accept it or ask them to tweak it. Regardless, the plan should be perfect after a couple of conversations.

Most people don’t know these businesses exist because planning a holiday seems simple. The truth is it isn’t so sometimes it’s nice to have a professional on which to rely.

Apply For TSA PreCheck

One of the most stressful parts of the vacation is the traveling. Once you’re on the plane, there is nothing to worry about. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the in-flight entertainment with a beer and a snack. However, getting on to the flight isn’t as straightforward. Firstly, there are long lines at the check-in desk and then there is security.

With a TSA PreCheck, you can walk straight through the long queues at the security area and straight into the lobby. There is no waiting around and no difficult immigration officers trying to catch you out. Don’t worry because the people that do this aren’t a risk; everybody is pre-approved at an earlier date. Find out more with this comprehensive post. Apply by going to the TSA homepage and filing an application and then wait for their decision. Hopefully, they’ll be no mad rush to the gate.

As well dealing with the airport, don’t forget about getting there. Book a taxi and set off with plenty of time to spare in case there is traffic.

Talk To The Hotel

You got the plane, just about, and now you’re about to check-in to the hotel. On arrival though, there are a couple of nasty surprises which grind your gears. Apparently, the rules mean that no animals are allowed in the rooms during the duration of your stay. Or, that your meals aren’t included in the price and you’ll have to pay extra.

Revelations like this happen all of the time due to a lack of communication. Hotels list their deals online and customers see the prices without reading the terms and conditions. Scrolling through the rules and regulations is a must before any vacation. If that’s too much like hard work, then speaking to them on the phone or via email is less hassle.

Ask them any questions which will ruin your vacation and add more stress. For example, is there an elevator? Can the seniors in the party have a ground floor room? What’s the noise level like at nighttime?

Download Your Banking App

Money is a big deal, especially if the vacation is a treat. You want to splash the cash without putting your finances at risk when you land back home. It’s a sensible thing to worry about, even if it the thought of it stops you from enjoying the holiday. Rather than fretting, the average person can view their account information online. Just download the app, track your spending, and pull back if it gets out of hand.

To understand what’s too much, there should be a budget in place. It doesn’t have to be comprehensive, but it should exist to help you rein it in. A basic way to create a plan is to work out how much you can spend per day. As soon as the $200 limit is reached, you can take action by shutting off your pockets or spending less the next day.

One final money-related tip is to split up your cards. Carrying too much plastic is a worry if you get pickpocketed. It’s not a nice thing to say yet there are criminals everywhere and you need to be aware.

Go With The Flow

Arguments happen because people have conflicting views. For example, you want to go out and explore the town and the kids want to sit by the pool. Once soon as they lose, they start to moan for the duration of the day which makes things worse. Typical.

Remember that you’re on vacation and it’s about going with the flow. Having a lazy day by the pool is perfectly acceptable, especially when you have a full two weeks. If you can’t stand the serenity, leave the kids with the hubby and go off alone.

No one said everybody has to spend every waking moment together on vacation. Anyway, getting some “me” time is an excellent way to de-stress.

 

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A First Timer's Guide to San Francisco

San Francisco is a place that is on the bucket list of many people. The weather can be great, there are plenty of famous attractions, and many blockbuster movies have been set here. It is a place in the US that is quite unlike any other, so makes a fun change to see a new city. Not to mention that southern San Francisco is classed as ‘Silicon Valley’ as it is the home to many a tech startup, as well as companies like Facebook, Apple, and Google. So for work or for pleasure, San Francisco is a great place to visit. But what are some of the best places to go, eat, drink, or see? Here are some of the top reasons to visit and a bit of a guide for people heading there for the first time.

Great Range of Food

Cites tend to do a variety of food really well, and in SF (what you should be calling it, darling) is all about the food and range of it; there is something for everyone. You could start the day with breakfast or brunch at the Tartine Bakery, as their classic baked goods are to die for. This is a popular spot you may have to wait in line, but it is going to be worth it. The Devil’s Teeth Baking Company (such an awesome name) is known for their breakfast sandwiches, and being located right by the beach, gives you a great backdrop with which to enjoy your sandwich.

For something for lunch, it can be fun to experience something with seafood, being located right by the sea, and all. The Hog Island Oyster Bar is worth a visit, especially on a weekend when there is a farmers market close by too. Overlooking the bay, you can try oysters, and enjoy as much clam chowder as you can handle; a classic for this area of California. For something for dinner, again, you are a little spoilt for choice. You could learn more here about Rokaakor, where you can find Japanese food in SF, or you could go for something a little more all-American with burgers and pork chops at Nopa. Just be warned, they take bookings months in advance, so get planning now.

Travel

San Francisco is a city, but as cities go, it is relatively small. But still with that in mind, it can be hard to get around. There are things like trams that you can use, but really, one of the simplest ways to get around is using Uber. you are likely to want to hit up a few different things each day, and as the city is pretty small, you won’t have to pay a lot for the fare. That being said, getting around on foot can be pretty popular too. Just make sure that you pack your comfy shoes (SF is not the place to break in a new pair of shoes). It is pretty hilly, so be prepared.

Best Times to Visit

Being almost like an island, as it is a long thin strip of land, with the ocean on either side, the city can experience some really varied and unpredictable weather. So really, there isn’t a ‘best’ time to go. Of course, summer can get some of the warmest temperatures, but there can still be a lot of fog in summer. So don’t pin all your hopes on seeing the Golden Gate Bridge in all of its glory in August, as it may not happen. June Gloom, as nicknamed by locals, is definitely a thing as well. So really, it is California, so temperatures are generally going to be pretty steady. It can just get cooler and foggier due to the island-like set up that the city has.

Top Attractions to See and Do

As has been mentioned, SF has featured in the media a lot, so there may be some film sites that you want to visit, as well as the classic things that the city is known for. Some of the top things to see and do are:

• Twin Peaks: this is the place to get a look at some of the best views in the Bay area; you will need a clear day to see it all, of course. If you’re looking for a romantic spot, then heading up here just near sunset can be a good choice, and as it is high up, you can get a little chilly. So bring a jacket or hoodie with you.

• Lombard Street: the classic street that is shown in pretty much anything SF related really has to be seen to be believed. It can be a busy place, especially if you are going to travel down by car, but really, it is going to be worth it. You can walk up or down it too, and experience those eight hairpin turns on the way down.

• Alcatraz Island: the island that was just basically a prison, is a short ferry ride away, and can be seen from most spots in SF. It is now a museum with tours, so you can learn all about what went on in that area and some of the tales of the escapees that were never found again. The tours can get booked up, so this needs to be done a few weeks before you plan to go. During the day gives the great views, but visiting in the evening can make it a little spookier.

• Golden Gate Bridge: this is probably one of the most famous things about San Francisco. But located right by the beach, you can see it in all of its glory, as long as there isn’t a thick or heavy fog. There are trails to follow, or you could simply drive across if you really want to experience it. It is also a great photo spot in the city, as you can view Alcatraz from there, as well as most of the city, and the sandy beaches.

Have you ever been to SF before? It would be great to hear what you think.

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5 Reasons Why Australia Should Be Your Next Vacation Destination

If you could choose to go anywhere on vacation, where would you choose? If you’re looking for a destination that has it all - great landscapes, beautiful beaches, incredible cities and so much more, then Australia could be exactly what you’re looking for. To explore its vast wonders at your own pace, consider opting for a long term car rental to enhance your journey even further. Here are five reasons why Australia should be your next vacation.

 1. The lifestyle will help you escape

Australians are known for being laid-back, adventurous and very welcoming. If you’re looking for a chance to escape and truly relax, then a Tasmania tour will be waiting with open arms. Enjoy getting to know people, places and a new pace of life. With great weather helping you make the most of every day, you’ll return to normal life well rested, with a different outlook.

2. The natural wonders

Australia is home to so many of the world’s natural wonders that it’s difficult to fit them all into your visit. You’ll want to experience Uluru, the outback, and of course, the Great Barrier Reef. Tours and excursions are the best way to experience these wonders, so look into Port Douglas reef tours and others to help you make the most of your visit. Remember to pack your camera to capture every moment.

3. The beaches

Sun, sea, and sand - you’ll get plenty of each in Australia. Known for its impressive beaches and surf culture, some days spent on the beach is a must during your visit. Some of Australia’s best beaches include Bondi, 75 Mile, and Whitehaven Beach on the Whitsunday Island. Try your hand at some fun water sports while you’re there - you don’t want to miss out on these amazing opportunities!

4. The once-in-a-lifetime opportunities

Australia is the place to go to enjoy adventures. From skydiving near the Great Ocean Road to climbing the Sydney Harbor Bridge, it’s a great destination for thrill-seekers. Even driving from location to location can be an adventure, so make your vacation one big road trip. Add some of the following to your list of things to do to help you experience the best of Australia:

• Four-wheel driving in Queensland

• Sail the Whitsundays

• See the 12 Apostles by helicopter

• Go kayaking in Katherine Gorge, Nitmiluk National Park

It’ll help your travel budget if you book and pay for activities and excursions in advance to help your spending money go further.

5. The wildlife

Australia is home to wildlife you won’t find anywhere else in the world, unless you go to a zoo! There’s nothing quite like seeing koalas or kangaroos in the wild, and you’ll get plenty of opportunities on your travels. Some of the best places to experience Australian wildlife include:

• Daintree Rainforest

• Nymboida River

• Phillip Island

• Tower Hill

• Tasmania

Book yourself on a wildlife tour or visit a sanctuary to get the best experience of wildlife Down Under.

Whatever your vacation style, you’ll find something that appeals in Australia. Need some inspiration for your next escape? Read about Julianne Hough’s travel bucket list and tips on how to prepare for a big trip.

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Three Natural Wonders in the US That Everyone Needs to Visit

It’s no wonder that less than half of Americans own a passport, there’s more to see and do on home soil than you could ever manage in a lifetime. But whether you’re coming from abroad or already live in the US, there are a few locations here in the land of the free that you absolutely must visit before you die

The Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon in Arizona is considered as one of the natural wonders of the world. If you’re after a trip which offers endless locations of natural beauty then you won’t go far wrong with Arizona. Whilst in the state you can also visit Monument Valley, often used for filming Western movies it’s red sand backdrop makes for some incredible views. You can visit Petrified Forest National Park,  a picturesque natural attraction with lots of fascinating petrified tree trunks and fossils. And of course, the Grand Canyon itself, its layered bands of red rock revealing millions of years of geological history. You then have plenty of towns and cities to visit if shopping and dining is on your agenda, from Phoenix to Prescott and so many more. A stay in the Quality Inn Prescott would place you in a great location for visiting downtown, a historic area with lots of shops and things to do.

Niagara Falls

When many people think of Niagara Falls, they think of Canada, However, Niagara is actually the collective name for three waterfalls, which straddle the international border between Ontario in Canada as well as New York. While a trip to New York is all glitz and glamour- built up areas with incredible architecture, shops, restaurants and more, you also have the opportunity to view this amazing natural wonder. You have the chance to explore acres of pristine hiking trails and take in the scenery, as well as immerse yourself in outdoor adventure. It can come as a surprise to those outside of the US that such a monumental natural wonder exists so close to such a major American city.

The Everglades

Everglades National Park in Florida is an epic one and a half million-acre wetlands preserve, located right on the southern tip of the Sunshine State. The area is made up of coastal mangroves, sawgrass marshes and pine flatwoods that are home to hundreds of animal species and fascinating plants and give you a fantastic slice of unspoiled natural land. You can spot wildlife, go on hikes, biking, tours and much more. When visiting, you will need to decide which of the Everglades entrances to use since there are three and they’re all hours apart from each other. Look into Shark Valley in Miami, the Main Entrance of the Park in Homestead or the Gulf Coast entrance. Each will allow you to see and experience different things so be sure to be prepared. Tourists from around the world flock to Florida to visit Disney, but don’t overlook some of the amazing natural areas of the state too.

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