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Top 5 Places to Visit in Canada

Canada is a beautiful country. The natural beauty interwoven with skyscrapers and the hustle and bustle of city life, it’s a country like no other. So what are the best places to visit in Canada? Let’s have a look… CONTINUE READING >> 

Best places to visit in Canada
Top 5 Canadian destinations to visit

Canada is a beautiful country. The natural beauty interwoven with skyscrapers and the hustle and bustle of city life, it’s a country like no other.

The country covers an area of 9.98 million square kilometers which means that it’s not likely that visitors will be able to see all it has to offer in one go. However, to see it at all, you’ll need to obtain your eTa Canada Visa.

So what are the best places to visit in Canada? Let’s have a look at the top five of them.

1.     The CN Tower:

Touching the Toronto skyline, the CN Tower is one of the most striking buildings in all of Canada. With its majestic look, it stands proudly as a beacon of Canada’s beauty. In the CN Tower, you’ll find the 360 Restaurant, where diners not only partake in excellent cuisine, but also get a breathtaking view of the city.

Are you looking for something a little more exciting? Take part in the edge-walk at the very top of the tower. You and five others will get the chance to experience the highest “hands-free” walk in the world.

2.     Niagara Falls:

One destination that you’ll almost always find on any “top places to visit in Canada” list, Niagara Falls is one of the main tourist attractions in the Great White North. And for good reason, too. Niagara Falls is one of the most beautiful sights in Canada.

When you’re done admiring the magnificence of the falls, be sure to check out the casinos, museums, and wineries around the Falls’ area.

3.     Stanley Park:

One of the star attractions of Vancouver, Stanley Park is over 400 hectares of green spaces, gardens, and woodlands. Take a bike ride along the seawall on English Bay. Or, if you prefer a slower and more appreciative pace, why not enjoy a hike through 27 kilometers of trails through the rainforest?

Stanley Park is also home to the Vancouver Aquarium. This aquarium houses over 70,000 species of marine life including dolphins and other fish from around the world.

4.     Lake Louise:

Located in Banff National Park, Lake Louise is one of the most beautiful lakes, if not one of the most beautiful locations in all of Canada. Home to the turquoise lake and the Victoria Glacier, it’s a marvel of natural engineering and an absolute sight to see.

With canoeing in the summer and skiing in the winter, Lake Louise is equipped to give visitors an unforgettable experience any time of the year.

5.     The Yukon Territory:

The Yukon Territory is located in Northwest Canada. Remote, sparsely populated, and teeming with wildlife, it is a haven for explorers and nature lovers. This region is also home to Canada’s largest mountain, Mount Logan.

But the real star of the show in the Yukon Territory is undoubtedly the aurora borealis. The Northern Lights, as they’re called, are easily visible from Whitehorse, which is the territorial capital.

Yukon Territory beauty
Sights to see in the Yukon Territory

Welcoming millions of tourists every year, Canada is a hotspot for activity, and it’s easy to see why. It’s a beautiful country, filled to the brim with places to see and experience.

We are happy to present this collaborative post to offer valuable information to our readers.

4 Beautiful Places to Visit in Oman

Opened to tourists in the 1980s, Oman is quickly establishing itself as a must-see destination for people wishing to experience something different… CONTINUE READING >> 

Sand dunes in Oman
Best places to visit in Oman

When people think of Middle East, they usually think of places like Dubai, Jordan, or Morocco.

Because of this, Oman generally slips under the radar. Opened to tourists in the 1980s, Oman is quickly establishing itself as a must-see destination for people wishing to experience something “different.”

With a stunning mix of natural beauty and architectural wonders, Oman is filled with sights to see and places to experience. The best way to get your Oman trip started is to apply for an Oman evisa.

The following list is not exhaustive, but it’s a list of places you need to visit on your trip to Oman.

1.     Wahiba Sands:

Desert landscapes cover 82% of the country’s landmass. As such, they are one of the most stunning places to visit in Oman. The Wahiba Sands is a destination famous with tourists due to its proximity to the city of Muscat. Once you arrive at the desert, take a moment to appreciate the vibrant colors of the sand beneath you.

Once you’re done appreciating the beauty of the sand, it’s time to go dune-bashing. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a 4-wheel drive vehicle, and take it out for a spin over 100 meter high dunes. You can also hire a local driver to drive you around the desert should you want a more secondhand experience.

When you’re done with the dune bashing, and it’s time to wind down, consider staying at a night camp in the desert. Watch the sunset and take in the beautiful starlit night sky.

2.     Wadi Bani Khalid:

Oman is not just famous for its vast desert terrain. It is also home to numerous “wadis,” or ravines. These ravines are usually dry, but fill up with water during the rainy season. While Wadi Shab may get all the attention, Wadi Bani Khalid is one that is popular due to its accessibility – it’s just a 5-minute walk from the carpark – and facilities.

Wadi Bani Khalid is a stunning oasis amongst all the desert landscape. It offers pools of crystal clear turquoise water that are perfect for beating the heat.

3.     Ras Al Jinz:

The elephants in Thailand, the wildlife on the African Sahara, the monkeys in the temples in India. What do all these have in common? They’re all animal encounters that turn any trip into an unforgettable adventure.

Oman does not get left behind in this regard, as it is home to one of the most beautiful sights in nature; baby sea turtles surfacing and making their way to the ocean.

The Raz Al Jinz turtle reserve allows visitors to have a close view of the phenomenon while also educating them about the dangers faced by these creatures and the efforts being made to preserve their species.

4.     Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
A popular tourist destination in Oman
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is an architectural masterpiece. With arches, lights, colors, mosaic patterns as far as the eye can see, and of course, the magnificent chandelier at its center, it is the absolute embodiment of Islamic architecture.

The mosque is open to non-muslim visitors, but be sure to dress modestly. Men need to cover their knees, and women need to cover their hair. It is recommended to wear loose dresses.

Conclusion:

Oman is a country made up mostly of desert, but boasts beautiful oases, beaches, and architecture to break up the vast seas of sand. These are just some of the best places to visit in Oman. Of course, there are many more, but if you’re looking to get the most out of a short trip, then these stunning destinations are where you need to go.

We are happy to present this collaborative post to offer valuable information to our readers.

Top 5 Hotels for an Awesome Vacation in Riyadh

The city of Riyadh is quite popular with tourists, both from a religious and non-religious perspective. Being the capital, it is a bustling place with many sights and things of interest for tourists and vacationers… CONTINUE READING >> 

The kingdom of Saudi Arabia is commonly known for its holy significance in the religion of Islam and the two holy mosques. However, the kingdom has a lot to offer for regular tourists as well. The city of Riyadh, in particular, is quite popular with tourists, both from a religious and non-religious perspective.

Riyadh is a major metropolitan city located in the kingdom which is home to more than six million people. Being the capital of the kingdom, it is a bustling place with many sights and things of interest for tourists and vacationers. Among the many offerings for tourists, some of the major attractions for vacationers in the city include the likes of the Kingdom Centre, the historical Masmak fort, Murabba Palace, the National Museum, and Deira’s Souq-Al-Thumairi for local artefacts.

As with everything related to travel, the most important part of a vacation is a good hotel. The memories are undoubtedly made out and about, but if the hotel does not provide the needed rest and creature comforts, then the whole trip seems wasted. For vacationers, it is especially important to have a good place to stay which allows them a comfortable stay for a comparatively long term. We have compiled a list of the top 5 hotels in Riyadh which will guarantee an awesome vacation for you. Let’s have a look:

1. Ascott Rafal Olaya, Riyadh

Situated in the business district of Olaya, the Ascott Rafal Olaya Riyadh is a gem among the many skyscrapers adorning the city’s skyline. The hotel offers unparalleled views of the city and its main landmarks such as Fasaliah Tower and Kingdom Centre, which allow guests to get a good orientation on the directions around the city.

Inside the establishment, guests will find every kind of amenity imaginable to make their stay as comfortable as staying at their own home. The rooms are among the most sought after furnished apartments for rent in Riyadh. The 234 luxurious apartments are equipped with the best amenities such as dedicated workstations, fully functional kitchens, and en-suite bathrooms with complimentary high-quality toiletries. The bedrooms are elegantly furnished with beautiful touches of Arabic tradition while stylishly incorporating modern comforts. Ranging from studios to spacious 2-bed apartments, each apartment is carefully furnished and decorated to reflect Arabian culture while seamlessly incorporating modernity.

Dining is an exotic experience at the Ascott Rafal Olaya. Facilities such as meeting rooms and business centre serve the purpose of facilitating work-related tasks which need to be taken care of. The gym and swimming pool are a good way to unwind the day’s stresses by indulging in some healthy exercise. The steam room and sauna are services which pamper the guests after a long day of sightseeing. With a variety of malls, upscale shops, restaurants and other facilities located nearby, the hotel is our number one pick for vacationers’ accommodation in Riyadh.

2. Marriott Executive Apartments, Riyadh

Located in the centre of the city, the Marriott Executive Apartments are right in the middle of the hustle and bustle. Offering savvy apartments for vacationers, the Marriott Executive Apartments provide the best of both worlds. The furnished apartments are serviced and come fully equipped with the amenities needed to make the stay feel just like home. The 118 apartments are varied in their capacities, and each of them offers kitchens, storage, en-suite bathrooms, workstations, high-speed internet, voicemail, and fax. All of these basic facilities are very helpful in keeping one productive even on vacation.

Dining is hassle-free at the Marriott Executive Apartments, with options ranging from local restaurant delivery to in-house dining and room service. Buffet breakfast and casual coffee arrangements are another of the culinary highlights. With meeting rooms, a business centre, a fitness centre, swimming pool, sauna and whirlpool, these serviced apartments are an excellent choice for your next vacation.

3. Hilton Riyadh Hotel and Residences

The name Hilton does not need any introduction, and this is even more true in the case of Hilton Riyadh Hotel and Residences. Located adjacent to the Granada Shopping Mall, the hotel apartments are spacious and luxurious. Furnished in an indulgent yet grand manner, the guest rooms, suites and executive rooms all offer a varying range of amenities and benefits to fit the different types of vacationers. With its panoramic elevators and glass façade, the guests have sweeping views of the bustling metropolitan. The Hilton Riyadh is connected to the international airport via the underground service, which makes the commute easier. It is also linked to the neighbouring Granada Shopping Mall with its array of shops, eateries and leisure facilities. Other amenities offered by the hotel include room service, laundry service, fitness centre and hot tub.

Located close to the Business Gate, Granada Business Park and the Financial District, the Hilton is in prime proximity to major city facilities and attractions. It is all that vacationers need for a good long stay in the city.

4. OYO 123 Dome El Nozha

An economical option for vacationers in the city of Riyadh is the OYO 123 Dome El Nozha hotel apartments. Famous among guests for getting more than their money’s worth at this establishment, the hotel offers travellers temporary accommodations at an affordable cost. Located at a prime location adjacent to the Palm Mall, Tamimi market and Hamadi hospital, the hotel apartments are in close proximity to everything a traveller could need while on vacation.

The living quarters are furnished with plush décor and contemporary facilities. Flat screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, fridge, fully equipped kitchens and 24-hour room service are just some of the amenities offered by the establishment. The rooms are also fitted with safety deposit boxes and storage facilities.

On-site parking is free for the guests’ use. The 24-hour coffee shop and in-house restaurant provide much-needed nourishment after a long day of sightseeing. The nearby Al Nakheel mall also offers abundant shopping opportunities.

  1. 5. Dar Hashim Hotel Apartments – Al Morouj

Located near to the towering Kingdom Centre, the Dar Hashim Hotel Apartments are an excellent choice for vacationers looking to experience true city life in Riyadh. The rooms are spacious and contemporary, offering a fresh outlook.  The friendly staff makes one feel right at home, and the concierge will be able to make helpful suggestions if one is ever short of ideas on where to go in the city. The Riyadh Gallery Mall is close by for any and all shopping or culinary requirements.

The rooms are tastefully furnished and come with all the frills a modern traveller could want. A kitchenette, microwave, fridge and kettle complete the homey look and feel of the living quarters. The en-suite bathrooms come with their own vanity kits. The distinguishing feature of this hotel for vacationers is the fact that it offers grocery delivery services, which can be of great help for guests staying for a longer period of time.

Vacations are wondrous memories which are cherished for years to come. In a magical place such as Riyadh, it is even more important that all aspects of the vacation are just are indulgent as the places one visits. Therefore, the hotels in such a vacation play a very important role. With all the comforts of home presented in a luxurious package, they give an authentic feel of the place while keeping it homely. The hotels in this list will do that and more. Pick a family room for rent in Riyadh at one of these for your next vacation to the city and let the magic wash over you.

We are happy to present this collaborative post to offer valuable information to our readers.

5 Reasons Why Cruises Top the List of Favored Vacations

For those looking for ideas to utilize those piled up vacation days, here are five reasons why embarking on a cruise should be at the top of your list… CONTINUE READING >> 

In 2017, more than 52 percent of U.S. workers chose not to use their allotted vacation days. That’s an astonishing number of people forgoing some much-needed R&R and time away from work. And, considering the many benefits of going on vacation, that’s a real shame.

Though there are multiple options when it comes to planning a vacation, many travelers prefer the ultimate experience of going on a cruise and enjoying the open waters. For those looking for ideas to utilize those piled up vacation days, here are five reasons why embarking on a cruise should be at the top of your list.

1. Cruises are Affordable

Did you know some Americans spend up to roughly 10 percent of their annual income on vacations? But when you can enjoy bountiful on-shore and off-shore activities, meals and entertainment options for an all-inclusive price, there’s certainly no reason to go overboard (no pun intended) and break the bank.

Typically, cruise travelers have the option to add to their itinerary any number of additional excursions at ports. However, some cruise excursions can run as low as a base charge of $50 a day per person, so there’s no need to break the bank or go into debt for a single vacation.

2. Cruises are Good for Your Health

Though vacations in general can help you feel refreshed, the serenity of the open sea coupled with ultimate relaxation make cruises a popular option to recharge your batteries. Neuroscientists have concluded that consistent exposure to cortisol, the “stress hormone,” can contribute to a decline in mental health and acuity.

With the all-inclusive nature of cruises in which everything from meals to entertainment is already taken care of, as well as the gentle, soothing rocking of the ship on the ocean, the body and mind can find a measure of ease not achievable while rushing to make connecting flights or being cramped in a car for long time periods.

3. Cruises Offer Unmatched Sightseeing

It’s a pretty obvious reason but still one of the most important: Cruises can take you places inaccessible by planes, trains and automobiles. Indeed, the very best Alaska cruise will get you up close and personal with wildlife you never dreamed you would encounter. Cast your eyes on the Great Land’s glaciers, national parks and astonishing sunsets from the unique perspective of a ship. There’s just nothing else like it.

4. Cruises Include Incredible Food

Many cruise lines hire five-star chefs — many create innovative meals that reflect the culture or destination of the trip — to prepare meals for their guests. Though a lot of the food is decadent beyond belief, healthy dining options are standard on many ships.

For those with dietary restrictions, vegetarian and vegan dishes are often available in the grand dining rooms. And if you’re busy enjoying the amenities when supper is served, never fear — you can take advantage of 24-hour room service, typically for no extra charge.

5. Cruises Can Improve Relationships

It’s easy to recognize that, when you spend time enjoying life with those you love and appreciate, the ties that bind grow stronger as you make these new and fulfilling connections and memories. What may not be as apparent, though, is that cruises can actually improve marriages.

In fact, in several studies conducted to analyze the quality of marital life, experts concluded that women who take vacations frequently are less likely to become tense, depressed or tired — and are more satisfied with their marriages. In other words, the more cruises, the merrier.

Ensuring a Unique and Exciting Experience

All in all, cruises surpass other kinds of vacations when considering cost, sightseeing, food and drink, and the impact on valued relationships. With so many reasons to to take to the high seas, what’s stopping you from taking that bon voyage?

We are happy to present this collaborative post to offer valuable information to our readers.

10 Great Movies for RV’ers

Traveling or living in an RV, or recreational vehicle, is becoming a popular pastime again. Hollywood has noticed, so there are a lot of films that will make you laugh and… CONTINUE READING >> 

Traveling or living in an RV, or recreational vehicle, is becoming a popular pastime again. RV’ers were once referred to as “Tin Can Tourists” by a reporter, and the term stuck for decades. The trailers being referred to resembled the shape of a canned ham. I couldn’t say if the name was meant to be derogatory, but it is one that is worn with pride by members of the group.

Today, more people are taking to RV’s to travel or use as primary residences. There are no property taxes, you can move practically anywhere and there are so many to choose from.

Hollywood has not left out the RV; several notable movies feature them. Although there are a lot of films that feature nefarious or questionable people in RV’s, or the unfair term, “trailer trash,” most people who live in RV’s are decent, hardworking people.

If you own an RV or use an RV hire, these movies will make you laugh and proud that you own your own “spare home.” If you don’t, you might be inspired to rent or buy one. If you know someone who owns one, you might give one or two of these movies as a gift.

RV

This 2006 movie from Columbia Studios featured Robin Williams as a burnt out corporate type whose family has drifted apart. He seizes the opportunity to boost his career and save his family by renting an RV for an impromptu cross-country trip. The problem is, that he knows nothing about RV’ing. Enter Jeff Daniels, whose RV family is one you’ll remember fondly forever.

Want an interesting factoid? Jeff Daniels really does own and travel in a 40-foot long motorhome, or Class A RV.

The Long, Long Trailer

Ask anyone about a movie that features RV life and you’ll hear this title first. In 1953, Hollywood made a bold move to feature an Airstream trailer as a honeymoon suite for Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz.

The initial plan is to save money by traveling across country with their home in tow; a sound financial idea. But the couple knows nothing about RV’s or trailers; learning the hard way while providing laughs that resound today. This is the one movie that seems to define RV living.

Paul

Traveling in a Class A RV, or motorhome, is a great way to see the country. When two British tourists rent one in 2011 and head for Area 51, their lives change forever when they pick up a hitchhiker. The hitchhiker just happens to be an alien from another planet. Throw in kidnapping of a young woman, a cross-country chase and a culture clash that has to be seen to be believed, and laughs will ensue.

Panic In Year Zero

Of all the cold war films, this one has remained my favorite since I first saw it as a child. It was made in 1962, during tense times between the Soviet Union and America. Ray Milland, a magnificent actor, is the head of a family that sets out on a camping trip, travel trailer in tow. While they are on the road, they hear Los Angeles being wiped off the face of the earth by a nuclear explosion. What ensues is an eerily accurate description of the initial breakdown of law and order, survival and the eventual restoration of civilization. The type of trailer shown in the film is highly popular among collectors.

Lost in America

In 1985, yuppies everywhere laughed hysterically at this comedy. RV’ing had been on the decline since the end of the 60’s. A fed up advertising agent sees his life going nowhere; he quits and convinces his wife to join him in a gypsy lifestyle in a Winnebago, one of the first popular motorhomes. Hilarity follows; you’ll enjoy this film every time you watch it.

About Schmidt

Is there any part Jack Nicholson can’t play? In this 2002 movie, he plays a retired insurance executive whose life is fairly rote. He and his wife planned to see the country in an RV- unfortunately, she dies and he’s on his own for the first time in decades.

Through the RV, we see him change, see incredible scenery and learn that families aren’t always traditional. There are no murders, blood or violence in this film. It’s wonderful.

Stripes

I first saw this film when I was stationed at Lackland AFB in San Antonio, TX. The thought of basic trainees finishing their own training was unique, to say the least. Two slackers whose lives are going nowhere decide to join the Army. They have problems with authority, motivation, respect and more.

To impress two female MP’s, they steal an RV from the base. It’s no ordinary RV- it’s been modified to be a weapon in disguise. With Bill Murray at the wheel, anything can happen, and it does in this film.

Race With The Devil

Renting RV’s for road trip vacations was becoming popular again in the 70’s. Four friends decide to take a vacation and see the sights, camping in out of the way spots. Unfortunately, they witness a human sacrifice during a satanic ritual.

The RV becomes their shelter, home and escape vehicle with an ending that still leaves me unwilling to open overhead cabinets in motorhomes today. Although made in 1975, it’s still pretty scary.

Spaceballs

Star Wars was a phenomenon. It only followed that Mel Brooks would make a spoof movie of it in 1987 that is one of the funniest space movies of all time. Lone Starr drives/pilots a Winnebago spacecraft; that’s only one of the tongue-in-cheek props.

Winnebagos really do go everywhere, don’t they? That was part of the advertising in the 80’s for the real motorhome.

Jurassic Park 2

Last, but certainly not least, is the travel trailer RV in Jurassic Park 2. Just imagine; a trailer that has enough space for everyone and everything. Electronics, surgery, TV, stove and beds. It looked as though it could take anything- except for a pair of angry T-Rexes.

These movies can be purchased, rented or viewed online at various sites. For those who do not travel or live in an RV, bad things don’t always happen. Then again, most of the things in the movies come from RV owner’s experiences. Except for the dinosaurs.

We are happy to present this collaborative post to offer valuable information to our readers.

San Francisco Bucket List

This San Francisco bucket list has the most exciting, fun activities and places that you should try on your visit to San Francisco City… CONTINUE READING >> 

San Francisco is known for the famous Golden Gate Bridge, the Tonga room, the exciting 16th Avenue Steps and the Dungeness crab. Are you Looking for the best and exciting places in San Francisco? This San Francisco bucket list has the most exciting, fun activities and places that you should try on your visit to San Francisco City.

• The Golden Gate Bridge. Ranked among the most beautiful, exciting and colorful bridge in the whole world, the Golden Gate Bridge connects San Francisco and the Presidio. Enjoy the city’s best hikes, a lot of fun activities, cocktails, driving over the still and a sunset view. Every Saturday from April through September, the Golden Gate Bridge is vehicle traffic-free where travelers can run, ride, and walk on the bridge freely. The Golden Gate Bridge is filled with history and military landmarks. Rent a bike and ride across the Golden Gate Bridge the tourist activity that is worth to remember.

• California Institution/Academy. This is a renowned and established scientific and educational institution that explores, explains and sustains life on Earth.

The tour to The California Academy of Sciences should never miss on the bucket list of every traveler, especially the INTERNATIONAL TRAVELERS who are willing to travel to the United States, check the ESTA and apply for it by filling in the necessary application forms. Requirements include;

>>The applicant should be a citizen of a Visa Waiver Program country

>>Should not be in possession of a visitor’s visa

>>The travel period has to be for not more than 90 days.

>>The reason for the visit to the United States should be for business or pleasure.

It is encouraged for every International Traveler to apply for an ESTA via submit ESTA prior to departure by presenting; a valid passport, valid credit card or MasterCard, your contact information and your most recent employment information to avoid any inconveniences.

Come and enjoy the California Academy of Sciences, watch the splashing penguins in African Hall, and also enjoy watching the wildflowers growing as seen on the roof.

• Tonga room for delicious dinner and drinks. This restaurant is centered in a large lagoon with a floating live band. Tonga room has everything a traveler needs, from the lively music, the hilarious storms which occur every ten minutes, loudest thunder and rainfall giving you a feeling as though you’re in the tropical storm without worrying about getting wet or drenched.
Enjoy amazing platters, the foods, and drinks; their potent umbrella-clad cocktails are to die for.

• Vista Café. Enjoy the world-famous Irish coffee at the Buena Vista Café, the first place to serve Irish coffee in the US. The coffee is so delicious and relaxing. Take a break at Yerba Buena Gardens. If the weather is nice, take your Super Duper Burger out to the lawn where you can sit down, dine and people-watch.

• The Palace of Fine Arts. Ogle the Architecture, the gorgeous building is another attraction that should never miss on your bucket list; it needs to be seen from all angles and the building stands at the foot of a lagoon.

For the non-US citizens, the International Travelers under the Visa Waiver Program, please, Check ESTA application and verify if the application was accepted, update the unpaid or approved application, submit the payment and fulfill all other obligations before the travel date.

• The 16th Avenue Tiled Steps. The artsy hidden staircase is so colorful and amazing. They display waves of turquoise, birds, butterfly-bolstering Green Hairstreak Corridor and lots of sea creatures.

• The Fisherman’s Wharf. Travelers should never miss the Fisherman’s Wharf, get a chance to watch the famous sea lions hanging out on K-Dock and have a memorable experience by eating clam chowder in a bread bowl,

• Mécanique. Play the most fun antique games, piano games, have fun with the love tester, wrestle with the Arm Wrestler, all these are found in the coin-operated arcade; the Musée Mécanique.

• Chinese culture. Walk down Grant Avenue through Chinatown and enjoy Mai Tai at Li Po Cocktail Lounge. Since the 1860’s San Francisco brings the Asian culture to life with a New Year parade, the biggest celebrated illuminated parades outside of Asia. International travelers can as well enjoy the famous Chinese food, eat a pork bun, and enjoy the delicious coconut bread at the Eastern Bakery in Chinatown on their visit to San Francisco.

In Chinatown, you can head to the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory and watch women and men make fortune cookies in a small open kitchen.

• Cable cars. It cannot be a complete bucket list minus a ride on the cable cars. It is a very touristy activity and is also very fun to ride.

We are happy to present this collaborative post to offer valuable information to our readers.

Love and Spit-takes

Have you noticed that the older we get, the less we laugh? As a mother and someone who has worked in academic settings, I find myself envious of teenaged girls who can work themselves into hiccup-inducing hysterics over the slightest thing. Admittedly, the tears come just as fast, and I have to say I’m glad I’m past THAT nonsense but just witnessing a spontaneous giggle-fest sets my heart a-singing.

As a society, we unfortunately chalk uncontrollable laughter up to immaturity. How sad is that? I feel blessed anytime I’m with someone who can find humor in… CONTINUE READING  >>

Veronica Writes

Have you noticed that the older we get, the less we laugh?

As a mother and someone who has worked in academic settings, I find myself envious of teenaged girls who can work themselves into hiccup-inducing hysterics over the slightest thing.

Admittedly, the tears come just as fast, and I have to say I’m glad I’m past THAT nonsense, but just witnessing a spontaneous giggle-fest sets my heart a-singing.

As a society, we unfortunately chalk uncontrollable laughter up to immaturity. How sad is that? I feel blessed anytime I’m with someone who can find humor in everyday situations or can relate a hysterical life story. Give me somebody who can help me plot undoable practical jokes or an elaborate heist scenario any day. I have a criminal mind with, luckily, no guts.

But — alas — it is exceptionally rare that any of these encounters evolve into the kind of laughter that physically hurts. David and I have our moments, but it’s when I’m with my girls, The Piglet and Decibel, that the demented stuff really gets underway.

Twice during a visit to Manhattan, real honest-to-goodness public spit-takes happened.

The first, involving me, red wine and a really nice Italian restaurant where Decibel was a hostess on the weekends. The wonderfully charming restaurateur had just settled us in our regular window table with mussels, bread and Chianti, allowing Decibel sit with us as long as her duties didn’t require her to be elsewhere.

Feeling the effects of all day on planes, buses, taxis and trains — I was properly goofy when I started relating a story of an erstwhile Google search (no need to repeat it here since I’ve yet to find a single person that thinks it’s even remotely funny outside the three of us).

Filling my mouth with the delicious Chianti, I stupidly looked up at Decibel — not my smartest move — and the look on her face took me to the next level of mirth.

Realizing that swallowing had jumped out of the realm of possibilities, I raised my white linen napkin to my quivering lips in a vain effort to keep the red wine contained in my mouth. Not willing to let this situation pass, The Piglet upped the ante by tossing out an inappropriate comment.

The ensuing explosion was spectacular. The Piglet likened it to a scene from a horror flick, as if I’d been impaled and coughing up blood.

You can’t take me anywhere.

The next morning at brunch Decibel repeated the action with her own spit-take, this time with a spiced tea latte. At a communal table.

We’re quite the class act.

Unbecoming spit-takes aside, laughter makes life worth living. I am proud of my dynamic daughters, so full of life and youth, willing to turn me into a doubled-over mess of flying spew.

It’s hard to believe there were times during their teenage years when we couldn’t connect, were unable to share and when I was paralyzed with the thought that they would grow up and not love me anymore.

Now they graciously allow me to see the world they have created for themselves, tell me their stories, share their problems and fears — adult women who are secure enough to call me Mommy.

I fervently hope that no matter how old I get, I’m never too “mature” to chance a spit-take or two with my daughters. Cheers!

Veronica, GypsyNester.com

YOUR turn: Do you have someone that you share laughter like this with?

Money-Transfer Made Easy: How Technology is Changing the Remittance Industry

There was a time when e-commerce involved mailing cheques and other analog solutions because worthwhile payment processors hadn’t came around yet. The issues of trustworthiness, security, and ease of use had to all be tackled… CONTINUE READING >> 

Lots of money gets exchanged via the internet each and every day, absolutely astronomical amounts if I’m being quite honest. It wasn’t always so easy though, it took time for our infrastructure to build up to make it all possible.

There was a time when e-commerce involved mailing cheques and other analog solutions because worthwhile payment processors hadn’t came around yet. The issues of trustworthiness, security, and ease of use had to all be tackled by services who wanted to make a name for themselves in the remittance industry. The definition of remittance is simple, it’s a fancy way of saying the exchange of money from one party to another. You can buy just about anything on the internet, and there are dozens of payment processors there to help you get the job done.

Here’s exactly what’s happening with the remittance industry thanks to new technology:

Instant Payment Anywhere In The World

The world is a big place, but that doesn’t mean we can’t all be connected through the internet. No matter where someone may find themselves in the world, trying to transfer money makes for a seamless experience. One party just needs to log in to their account with their credentials and send off the money and they can receive goods and services from anywhere in the world. The most unlikely of liaisons can occur now nigh-instantly. The technology involved can even convert the money into a different currency should the need arise. Essentially, people can now pay their bills from anywhere that’s connected to the internet in moments instead of hours or days.

Safe, Reliable, And Trustworthy

In any transaction, there’s always some degree of worry that one party won’t hold up their end of the deal or that your financial details may become compromised through the way you choose to pay online. Now that there are established money transfer websites that deliver as intended 99.9% of the time and even has a way to dispute fraudulent transactions it makes for a much safer commercial environment on the internet. Those who own small businesses can set up shop and nobody is going to flinch at the idea of sending off a few dollars from their digital account to another, whereas before these people essentially had no easy convenient way to peddle their wares.

Many Payment Options

The first money transfer services were clunky, they required all of your bank details plus a confirmation process plus the fees associated with the whole ordeal just made it only worth it for large and extremely necessary transactions. Now, you can pay with anything from a credit card to a prepaid voucher bought at a convenience store. Never before has it been so easy to put money online and shuttle it to where it needs to go. Transferring money online is as easy as can be, if you aren’t comfortable with giving lots of details to these sites chances are there’s an easier to use option ready to be taken advantage of.

Once technology started to get a foothold in the remittance industry, the world changed forever. Online shopping was now quick and easy and nobody got scammed in the process. No longer would people have to drive to the post office or the bank to pay off debts. Technology has made parting with our money as easy as can be, for better or worse.

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