Tips to Plan the Perfect Vegas Getaway

New York City is the center of the universe—at least it is east of the Mississippi. When thinking of the West Coast, most New Yorkers immediately imagine Los Angeles and San Francisco. However, there’s one flyover destination that often gets overlooked by city-dwellers: Las Vegas.

In the last two decades, the city’s reputation has leaned away from gaming, which has made it a popular stopover for more travelers. In other words, there’s something for everyone on the Vegas strip today. The city has welcomed a few new sports franchises, along with an increasing number of big-name musical residencies.

Still, many New Yorkers in the mood for a big adventure might think New Jersey’s Atlantic City is a suitable stopover—especially those who want to play a game of roulette or blackjack. However, anyone in the mood for next-level showmanship is better off booking a trip to Nevada. Here are four tips to get you started in the right direction—no matter how long you’re planning to stay.

Start Budgeting Early

For most Americans, Las Vegas is a pricey vacation. For New Yorkers paying rent in Brooklyn or Manhattan, it’s par for the course. Still, that doesn’t mean you can’t start budgeting for your trip early on. If you aren’t sure where to start, it's worth researching a short guide on lodging advice which outlines when and how to book hotels.

As mentioned in decent guides, it's important to keep a lookout for resort fees and other fees. You should only pay for the services and amenities you plan on using. If you can’t wriggle out of these fees, then be sure to take advantage of them. Remember, it’s okay to go all-out in Vegas—just be sure you know exactly what you’re paying for to avoid useless add-ons.

Plan Ahead to Avoid Distractions

As mentioned above, gaming isn’t the only activity du jour in Vegas. This means that there’s an unprecedented number of attractions and shows to see. Musical residencies are some of the most popular, along with magic and aerial shows from groups like Cirque de Soleil. Regardless of your interests, plan ahead.

Hawkers line the Vegas Strip, offering unique experiences—many of which are hard to turn down. However, keep in mind these tickets are often double or triple the standard price, and you won’t have a series of reviews to consult before deciding to opt-in or out. For this reason, always plan ahead. It can help you avoid distractions that aren’t worth your time or money.

Don’t Forget About Mother Nature

Vegas is billed as the City of Lights. However, it’s nestled in one of the US’s most stunning desert regions. Though Vegas’s high temperatures make it untenable for hikes during the summer and parts of autumn and spring, nature lovers will have plenty of options to explore the area’s rugged wonders. 

There are helicopter and small plane tours that can take small groups to see the Grand Canyon—and might even land to let you take a quick tour of the area’s Northern Rim. Other nature excursions include a tour of the Colorado River’s Emerald Cave, Bryce Canyon, and Antelope Canyon. Consider a private tour to avoid long tourist lines during the high season.

Off the Strip: Celeb Sightings, Sports Games, & Ghosts

Speaking of getting off the beaten path in Las Vegas, be sure to look into entertainment that’s not based on the Strip or billed in major advertisements. The city is home to some truly weird history and characters, which are preserved by local tours. For example, Zak Bagans, a ghost hunter from Travel Channel’s Ghost Adventures, curates one of the world’s most haunted museums, filled with terrifying artifacts. 

Those who aren’t interested in making eye contact with cursed dolls can head to the T-Mobile Arena or Allegiant Stadium to watch the city’s WNBA, NHL, or NFL teams battle it out. For non-sports fans, consider targeting one of the dozens of high-profile clubs—often tucked inside other big-name venues. At spots like OMNIA and TAO, you might even catch a glimpse of partying celebrities, from Miley Cyrus to Justin Bieber.

10 Areas of Essential Life Skills for Teens

Most parents decide on various options for teaching their children essential life skills, saving money, and financial literacy. 

One of the best tools is a debit card for teenagers that offers many options like saving, spending, earning, and donating money. 

Only certain ones offer the possibility of investing in stocks for kids, something similar to the adult world, where children have the option to invest in stocks such as Apple and Netflix.

1. Independent cooking and preparation of all types of food

Teach them the basics of cooking, and how to prepare basic foods. 

Don't worry when they learn the basics of food preparation they will later experiment themselves and look at various recipes on the Internet.

2. Money management and investing

Money management and investing are facilitated by the debit card and the app that comes with it. 

Only certain companies have the option of investing within their offer, where teens invest in real shares of companies such as Netflix. 

Children, under parental supervision, can invest in various stocks, donate money to charity, and save it. Some offers allow payment by a third party to the account via a QR code.

3. Carrying out household chores

As teenagers get older, they have more responsibilities and chores than younger children. 

Teenagers are usually responsible when their parents are not at home, they do heavy work such as cleaning the bathroom and toilet, cooking and cleaning the house. 

They also take out garbage regularly, as well helping neighbors with mowing the lawn or taking care of their pets.

4. Learning to drive and passing the driver's license

Teenagers must know the basic rules, that you can't drive and talk on the phone, consume alcohol, or drive fast. 

They must know that when they are in the car, they are responsible for their lives, their fellow passengers as well as people coming from the opposite direction.

5. Social and communication skills

These two skills are crucial for teenagers to express themselves, and feel safe but also vulnerable when necessary. 

Social skills such as sharing, cooperation, listening, basics of etiquette, politeness, respect for personal space, and eye contact are some of the more important social skills.

6. Education

Education is necessary for teenagers to have a comfortable life, everything else is a shortcut or a lucky shot. 

First of all, children must be literate, speak their mother tongue, and an additional one if desired, know how to use all kinds of technology. 

Encourage the habit of reading books, writing letters, compositions, and poems as well as various notes.

7. Making a grocery list and going shopping independently

One of the most important things is to teach your teenager to independently make a grocery list for the coming week. 

In this way, you teach them to cook and prepare food independently, and this will make their future easier for sure. 

Many of today's children don't even know how to make eggs, let alone a slightly more complicated dish, encouraging them to cook and experiment with ingredients and spices themselves.

8. Social sensitivity

Teenagers need to understand that not everyone is as lucky as they are and that they need to be considerate of those who don't have money. 

And to donate money when they can to those who need help the most. You can take them to volunteer at charities.

9. Job search

Encourage teens to look for part-time work, whether it's babysitting, mowing lawns and hedges, dog walking, or something else. 

They must have their own money to spend on personal needs. Help them write their CVs, look for references, and look for a job.

10. Knowing how to prioritize certain things

First of all, teach your children how to identify their skills, talents, and abilities so that they can develop in business. 

Every year, help them write at least 3 goals for the following year that they must fulfill within 365 days. 

The goals must be realistic and achievable, so they don't get disappointed if they are not able to fulfill them. 

Advise them to commit to building and creating the best version of themselves. Always be there as a parent if they need advice, support, or help.

Conclusion

We have selected the 10 most important life skills that you must teach your younger children and teenagers. 

Thanks to these skill sets, their future will be safer, healthier and much better overall. 

6 Ways to Make Your Bed 10 Times Cozier

Beds are one of the most important items in our lives, not only do we use them for resting which is a big deal, but we spend about a third of our lives in total in one. Considering the frequency of use and how important they are then it’s pretty self-explanatory why we would want to make them more comfy and cozy. The better rest you get the more productive you can be during the rest of your day. Investing in a good night's sleep is like you’re investing in your productivity, it’s a really big boon so we’ll be going over a bunch of methods for making your bed cozier.

1. Quality sheets

There are a lot of factors that go into choosing good sheets and most people tend to focus on thread count when comparing different options. While it’s indeed an important characteristic we recommend focusing on a comfy material such as flannel. The feeling of a fancier material on your skin is superb and it’s hard to put into words. Once you try it once it will be incredibly difficult to switch back to your old option just because of how much better it is.

2. Headboards are important 

If you tend to do a lot of sitting in your bed then getting one with a soft headboard will go a long way to increasing your comfort and productivity. Sure, you can simply put your pillow up against a hard headboard but there’s still a pretty big difference in comfort between that and a quality soft headboard. This might be lower on your priority list depending on how much you sit upright in bed but it’s still a nice thing to have. If you’re looking to improve both the functionality and design of your bed, consider attaching a headboard to a divan bed. This combination offers both practical benefits and a cohesive look, making your bedroom feel more complete and inviting.

3, Pillows upon pillows

Some people swear by only one pillow while others will have at least a dozen. It’s all up to personal preference but we highly recommend trying out different pillow counts to see what you like the most. Perhaps half a dozen pillows are the best for you but you’ve never tried using more than one. It can also be a fun experience to just switch things up for a few days so we highly recommend it.

4. Get good lamps

Having bedside lamps that don’t flashbang you when turned on is really important for being able to fall asleep again after getting back from the bathroom late at night. You’ll want a softer light that won’t wake you up completely, but that can still be used for light reading or any other tasks that you might be finishing up in bed which require some lighting to do. Another bonus is the fact that you can enhance the aesthetics of your room with them pretty easily and they can generally be gotten pretty affordably.

5. Weighted blankets

Weighted blankets are becoming more and more popular with time and it doesn’t surprise us. The weighty feeling on top of you is incredibly comforting, and this way you can achieve it with one breathable blanket instead of needing to stack 3-4 on top of yourself which allows you to have the heavy feeling even during warmer months. If you miss the comfy pressure during summer then getting a cool weighted blanket is an incredible idea and will greatly enhance your comfort experience. You can check out MyTickie for some great blankies. 

6. A nice rug and slippers

Having a soft rug surrounding your bed and a nice comfy pair of slippers for bathroom trips will go a long way towards increasing your comfort level. The rug will make it so that getting up in the morning feels nice and soft instead of needing to step on cold laminate. The slippers will help keep your feet warm when going on nightly trips to the bathroom and/or kitchen so that the cold doesn’t wake you up more than it needs to. 

Conclusion

There are a lot of things that you can do to increase how cozy and comfortable your bed and sleeping experience are and we’ve tried to list some of the most practical ones that we could think of. We hope that you’ll give them a try and make it so that you can get more bang for your buck from each night of sleep. 

WhiteBIT vs FTX: Cryptocurrency Exchanges Comparison

There are many platforms trading in the cryptocurrency market, and it can be difficult for inexperienced users to make a choice. In this article, we will compare the two platforms, FTX and the exchange cryptocurrency platform WhiteBIT.

FTX Brief Overview

The exchange cryptocurrency FTX team identifies gaps in the crypto market and fills them with a range of unique products. So, for example, there were tokens for trading with leverage or contracts for volatility and bitcoin hashrate, which were not available to market participants before. These tools are popular among financial institutions, miners and other market participants to get the most out of the current conditions. So, a miner who knows he will receive Bitcoin in the future can take a short position to protect against volatility.

Derivatives or derivative instruments of the FTX cryptocurrency exchange allow speculating on the future price of a digital asset and trade futures corresponding to it. One of the critical differences between derivatives and spot trading in the traditional market is the possibility of shorting, that is, opening short positions when a trader bets on a decrease in the price of an asset.

FTX supports several dozen cryptocurrencies and tokens for trading on futures and leverage. It also offers the option to purchase them on the spot market for traders who do not want to get involved in derivatives.

WhiteBIT Overview

Comparing crypto exchanges, we can say they both have an advanced derivative contract feature that is especially valuable among experienced traders. The WhiteBIT crypto exchange offers a maximum of X20 leverage and over five trading pairs for derivative contracts, constantly working at increasing their number. We dare say that the FTX crypto exchange is more focused on futures contracts than WhiteBIT, while WHiteBIT is more focused on beginner traders, offering a full range of trading options along with a convenient interface. So if you are an advanced trader who requires complex derivative trading features, go to FTX; if you are a novice user, start with WhiteBIT.

Top Five Female Directors to Watch Out For In 2022

Do you wish to watch diversified movies in 2022? We are putting together a list of women-directed movies that we think you will thoroughly enjoy are essential viewing. Women directors were infrequent and there were very few in the twentieth century, as directing used to be a boys' club. Only a few female directors could be named, such as Ida Lupino and Elaine May; the percentage of female directors has increased significantly.

Also, the gender gap between male and female directors was so noticeable for so long that it took until 2010 for a woman to even win the best director at the Academy Awards. The work of women directors has been incredibly impactful, insightful, and inspiring in the past few years through their unique visions. A film directed by a woman is no longer a new concept, and it is included among some of the best films of the last decade. If you want to learn more about the female gaze, we have gathered a list of the five best female directors to look for in 2022. Check it out now!

1. Chloe Zhao

Chloe Zhao has made quite a name for herself in the film industry, becoming the 2nd Asian woman and the first woman to win an Academy Award as Best Director for Nomadland. After her first two films, Zhao even said that ability to adapt the book into a screenplay and directing Nomadland felt like a natural next step to me.

This Chinese-born director started her journey into a feature film by directing the 2015 indie film Song My Brothers Taught Me. Based on her past movies, Chloe directs stories about self-discovery and the American West.

Chloe Zhao also made history by being the first woman of color in directing a Marvel movie for Eternals. Variety reports that the Oscar-winning director is currently working on a sci-fi Western Dracula adaption. Chloé might well write, produce, and direct.

You can watch Chloe’s amazing movies on different streaming platforms. Ensure to have a fast-speed internet connection before streaming for a lag-free experience. Windstream is one viable option for you. Click here https://www.localcabledeals.com/windstream/internet to know more about its high-speed internet packages. 

2. Ava DuVernay

Ava DuVernay is an American Filmmaker and TV producer. She is well-known for her work in television, documentaries, and feature films. She is famous for quite a lot of achievements such as she was the first Black woman to receive a Golden Globe nomination as Best Director for her film Selma in 2015. This film was also nominated for an Academy Award for Best Picture, marking the first time a Black female director had been nominated.

She was the first Black woman to take the Sundance Film Festival's Director's Award for her second film Middle of Nowhere in 2012. In addition to Middle of Nowhere, she directed the documentary 13th about mass incarceration, the Netflix miniseries When They See Us, and the live-action Disney film A Wrinkle in Time, which made $100 million. 

Ava has produced, written, and distributed independent films, combining art and activism. She has a variety of talents. Throughout her films, DuVernay explores blackness in America, particularly in terms of family dynamics and Black women's experiences in a patriarchal, often racist society. Also, as seen in her documentary 13th, she frequently explores the injustices facing Black families and communities. 

3. Greta Gerwig

The actress, screenwriter, and director Greta Celeste Gerwig was born on August 4, 1983. As a result of her work and appearances in several mumblecore films, she began to gain attention. Hannah Takes the Stairs (2007) and Nights and Weekends (2008) are two of the films she appeared in between 2006 and 2009. Several of those films were cowritten or co-directed by her. 

Greta Gerwig is a young filmmaker, actor, and writer who began her career as an actor. Her 2017 directorial debut Lady Bird was a huge success. She also wrote the screenplay. Next, she directed 2019's Little Women. Both films were nominated for the Academy Award for Best Picture. Greta Gerwig accomplished big success in 2013 after starring in and co-writing the indie coming-of-age film Frances Ha. The film also earned her first golden globe nomination.

She was only 35 when she was honored as one of Time’s 100 Most Influential people in 2018. Since she was an actor (and still is), she connects with her cast and encourages them to bring their own experiences to their roles. Having been an actor has helped her relate to each one and make them shine. 

4. Regina King

Regina King is a marvelous actor who has won numerous awards. She also showed her audience that she's a skilled director. Her first television episode as a director was for Southland.

King directed episodes of Scandal in 2015 and 2016, as well as This Is Us in 2017. She also directed the music video for Jaheim's 2010 song "Finding My Way Back." Her feature film directorial debut was the drama One Night in Miami in 2020, for which she received Golden Globe nominations for Best Director and Directors Guild of America nominations for First Time Feature Film.

Regina king was the first Black female director, to have her film played at the 2020 Venice Film Festival. The film received numerous award nominations. Regina was only the 2nd Black woman to receive a Golden Globe nomination for Best Director.

Conclusion

Not only female directors are making a name for themselves but mostly they tackle issues related to gender, race, and politics in their films regardless of genre. The above-mentioned list of directors has contributed to the world of cinemas with their thought-provoking direction. Pick your favorite director and start watching movies made by female directors.

The Best Ideas to Create an Elegant Fireplace

While fireplaces bring feelings of warmth and comfort, they can also be a stunning focal point in any room. There are many elegant design ideas, from traditional looks to something more contemporary to suit any style. Whether you're ready to start planning your project or just gathering inspiration, read on for some great ideas!

Start With the Surround

Fireplace surrounds are available in various materials, including stone, brick, and marble. You'll want to choose a material that fits your home's overall look and feel.

To add elegance, aim for material with some intricate detail or unique texture. For example, a carved stone surround can add a touch of luxury, while a rough-hewn brick surround can lend a more rustic feel. Stylish fireplace tiles are another excellent option, offering a wide range of colors and patterns that can bring a distinct, personalized touch.

For a classic look, stone or brick are always great choices. But marble might be the right option if you're going for something more modern. Once you've decided on the material, you can consider the surround's design.

There are many ways to lay stone or brick, so you'll want to experiment with different patterns until you find one you love. You can also consider adding accents like inlays or mosaics. If you're working with marble, incorporate intricate carvings or unique shapes into the design.

No matter what material or design you choose, ensure the surround fits your room and fireplace proportions. An oversized surround can make a small fireplace look lost, while a too-small surround will make a large fireplace look out of place.

Pick the Right Fireplace Insert

Once you've decided on the perfect surround, it's time to pick the right fireplace insert. These are excellent options for those looking to renovate an existing fireplace.

Inserts work similarly to a stove and can be placed inside existing fireplaces. Many are available on the market, from traditional wood-burning inserts to more modern gas or electric options. Choosing the best one for your home depends on your needs and preferences.

Wood-burning inserts are an excellent choice if you're looking for a classic fireplace feel. If you live in an area with easy access to wood, this can also be a more economical option. However, wood-burning inserts require more maintenance than other types.

Gas inserts provide convenience and ease of use. Many models come with a remote, so you can easily turn the fireplace on and off. However, gas inserts can be more expensive than other types and may require professional installation. So, make sure to look for reputable fireplaces park city (or elsewhere) if you plan on going for a gas fireplace.

Electric inserts are another excellent choice. They offer the realistic look of a wood-burning fire without any hassle. Electric inserts are also very easy to install and can be used in almost any type of fireplace.

Add the Finishing Touches

Once you've chosen the perfect insert and surround, it's time to add the finishing touches. One great way to add an elegant touch is to incorporate accent lighting. Adding sconces on either side of the fireplace or placing recessed lights in the ceiling can highlight the fireplace and make it the room's focal point.

Another way to add a touch of elegance is to use decorative logs or stones. These can be placed in the fireplace insert or around it. If you're using an electric insert, some have faux logs that glow and crackle like a real fire!

Finally, don't forget about the mantel, where you can get creative and add a personal touch. Consider using reclaimed wood or unique tile. You could even incorporate metal accents or lighting – the possibilities are endless if you keep fireplace safety in mind.

Elegant additions to your fireplace mantel include:

• Hanging a large mirror above the fireplace

• Displaying a collection of vintage plates or other objects

• Decorating with greenery or floral arrangements

• Adding shelving on either side of the fireplace

• Installing a floating mantel

As for the walls surrounding your fireplace,  you have a few options. Paint them a bold color to make the fireplace pop, or hang unique artwork. If your fireplace is in an open-concept space, you may consider carrying the same material from the surround onto the walls.

Create an Elegant Fireplace Today

Whether you want to renovate an existing fireplace or build one from scratch, these tips will help you create an elegant and timeless focal point in your home. Start by choosing the right surround and fireplace insert, then add some finishing touches for a look that is uniquely yours. With some planning and effort, you can have the beautiful fireplace of your dreams in no time.