The GypsyNesters

New York City is a tourist mecca that is filled with interesting places to visit. The city is big enough that it can be quite challenging to travel across different points without tiring yourself out.

For this reason, a general rule of thumb when visiting New York is to find accommodation near public transport hubs to make your commute a lot more convenient. Since trains are the most common means of public transportation in this city, it would do you good to stay in hotels that are near the Grand Central Station, like the Westgate New York Grand Central.

The Grand Central Station, which is hailed as the central hub for transit in Midtown Manhattan, offers more than just ease of travel. Since the station is located in the very heart of Manhattan, it gives you better access to the most popular attractions within NYC. In fact, a number of these famous tourist spots are within walking distance from the station. Check out what kind of places you can easily visit near the famous terminal.

1. Grand Central Market

The closest place you can visit from the Grand Central Station is the Grand Central Market. This is located between the Graybar Building and the 4/5/6 Subway lines on Lexington Avenue, which is about three minutes away from the main concourse of the terminal.

While it is nowhere near as grand as the central shopping destination that Fifth Avenue is, it does offer a generous collection of retailers with popular brands like Apple and Vineyard Vines. There are also local brands in the scene such as Central Watch, Tia’s Place, and LoveThyBeast.

In addition, the place boasts a broad and diverse range of cuisines with 35 dining options, from Michelin-starred fine dining restaurants to classic cocktail bars.

2. Chrysler Building

The Chrysler Building is a skyscraper located at the intersection of 42nd Street and Lexington Avenue, which is also about three minutes away from the Grand Central Station. This establishment is not as tall as the Empire State Building, but it does catch attention because of its unique structure.

In the past, this particular building was hailed as the tallest skyscraper for 11 months until the Empire State Building surpassed its height. It also received mixed reactions and reviews from the locals due to its eccentric design. But after a few years, people have come to embrace the style and named it the paragon of Art Deco architecture. It also made the list of America’s Favorite Architecture, which was created by the American Institute of Architects. In 1976, it was marked as a national historic landmark by the National Register of Historic Places. And now, it stands as the 11th tallest building in New York.

3. New York Public Library (Main Branch)

Six minutes away from the Grand Central Station, the Main Branch of the New York Public Library sits pristinely at the intersection of 42nd Street and Fifth Avenue. This particular establishment is one of the branches that make up the entire New York Library System, which has 88 branches across different boroughs.

The main branch has 8,438,775 items comprising of books, maps, and other types of resources. Some of the works stored in this building are actually exclusive to the New York Public Library, which means that you’re less likely to find some of the materials in other public libraries.

Aside from the wide collection of books and artworks it houses, this famous library is also pretty popular for its impressive architectural design. It has a marble façade that is accentuated by ornate detailing and iconic stone lions that flank the entrance by the Fifth Avenue.

4. Bryant Park

Bryant Park, which is around six minutes away from the Grand Central Station, is located in between Fifth Avenue, 40th Street, and 42nd Street, just beside the Main Branch of the New York Public Library. This lovely little park that covers nine acres of land first opened to the public in 1934.

Although it’s nowhere as big as the Rockefeller Center, this public park offers various types of entertainment in the form of activities. There are fitness classes, outdoor concerts, movie screenings, and many more. It is also brimming with food kiosks and restaurants that provide a range of dining options. Additionally, it offers a breathtaking view of lush green space that is surrounded by towering skyscrapers.

5. Rockefeller Center

The Rockefeller Center is a vast space located between 48th Street and 51st Street, which is about ten minutes away from the Grand Central Station. This large complex that covers about 22 acres of space houses 19 commercial buildings—most of which are iconic spots in Midtown Manhattan.

In this place, you can find the famous NYC ice skating rink, Top of the Rock, Channel Gardens, NBC Studios, Rock City Music Hall, and many others. In addition to popular attractions, the Rockefeller Center also features stores and restaurants where you can shop and eat. From time to time, this site also hosts events like art exhibits and music fests.

These are only a few of the attractions you can find near the Grand Central Station. This list was narrowed down to spots that take ten minutes of walking or less from the said terminal. On that note, there are other famous sites you can visit if you’re willing to walk a little farther. These include the Empire State Building, the Museum of Modern Art, and finally the Times Square.

Travel is always exciting and an experience that is eye-opening. Since you are looking for adventure, you can easily get caught up in everything. However, the experience might not be what you want if you neglect safety and security considerations. If you want to travel in the following months, you even have to worry about the coronavirus outbreak. Make sure that you respect the following travel tips if this is the case.

Always Do Your Research

Learn all that you can about the destination before you get there and about how you are going to get there. This should be common sense but most people only focus on some aspects of the trip. For instance, they do not know that flight delay compensation might be available for them when they work with a serious company like Flightright. Make a list of all the things you should do in the event something goes wrong, including dealing with a flight delay. The more you research, the better your planning.

Flightright helps people deal with unwanted situations like flight cancelations and delays regardless of the reason why they happened, ranging from coronavirus cancelations to delays caused by mechanical problems. A compensation claim is valid for up to 6 years after flight date. This means if anything bad happened in the past 6 years, Flightright can help you get compensated. 

Do Not Draw Attention To Yourself

Those that look like they are outsiders are vulnerable to thieves and other criminals. This is why you need to blend in. Always choose clothing that is inconspicuous and that does not attract attention. If you need to look at your maps, do it discreetly. When you approach people to ask questions, be even more careful.

It is also a very good idea to buy protective gear and clothing that would make it very tough for the pickpockets to steal things from you.

Copy All The Important Documents

When you travel, you never really know when a copy of the passport or the driver’s license is needed. This is why you need to scan documents and even save them online. Print out many copies so you do not have to look for a Xerox machine during the day.

Keep Family And Friends Updated

It does not matter if you travel to another country or you go to another city. In all cases, your family and friends should be aware of it. Send a copy of the itinerary you will follow to people that you actually trust. This keeps tabs on where you are. Regularly check in with the contacts you have so they are aware of where you are actually supposed to be.

Be Extremely Careful With Public WiFi

Internet access is needed when we travel but this does not mean you can trust free access. Public WiFi can easily be attacked by hackers that want to steal some valuable data stored on your mobile devices. You might end up with them stealing your social security number or credit card details. When you need to access a public network, a VPN will help you to access the online world in a secure way as you travel.

Safeguard The Hotel Room

The hotel that you stay at might have great security measures but this does not mean you should rely on them. If there is a safe, use it to store your valuables. If the door has a deadbolt, use it every single time. You might also want to add the hotel’s Do Not Disturb sign to the door when you leave to give the impression that someone is in.

Get Travel Insurance

The last thing that should be mentioned is that you always need travel insurance, no matter what you might believe. It will protect you, deal with so many bad situations and you can gain access to instant resources in the event that something goes wrong. Due to this, make sure that you choose a great policy for you based on how you travel and where you travel to.   

If you are a new parent, then you must admit that things have not been the same since you got your little bundle of joy. It is not just the things around your home that change, but also the way you travel.

Going on your first adventure with your newborn baby can be a little overwhelming, mostly because you will be worried about their safety.

Travelling with a baby should not scare you. You need to do some extra planning on how to keep your baby safe throughout the trip.

Below are some tips on how to keep your young one safe during your travel:

Have a baby car seat

You will inevitably use a vehicle at some point, regardless of whether you are flying overseas for your vacation or driving locally.

Baby capsules or car seats are legally required for the safety of your child. Children under the age of six months should use rear-facing baby car seats. Also, be sure to install the car seat correctly.

If you are flying, you can carry your baby in their seat right up until you board at the gate. The airline staff will take the seat from you as you board and it will, hopefully, be there to meet you when you collect your luggage at your destination.

Keep your baby entertained

You baby will likely get bored during your travel, regardless of whether you will be travelling via bus, train or aeroplane. While travelling, the last thing you need is for your baby to get upset due to boredom.

To prevent that, make sure you organise to have something to keep them busy during the trip.

For toddlers, you can carry some of their favourite toys. Books can also help if your child is grown enough to read.

Ensure to bring babies comforters, a favourite blanket or soft toy. A little comfort from home goes a long way in keeping babies settled.

Make a checklist

Ensure you bring all your baby essentials. A checklist will ensure that you do not forget to pack anything.

Your checklist should include items such as nappies, baby clothes, nursing pads, formula and bottles, among other things.

Ensure that you go through your checklist a couple of times before the actual travelling day. This will give you enough time to figure out anything that you have forgotten to pack.

Consult your pediatrician

You might need to talk with your pediatrician about your trip, especially if you will be travelling overseas.

Your doctor will check to ensure that your baby is up-to-date with all the required vaccines and that they will not miss any essential medical appointment while on the trip.

The doctor will also advise you if any additional vaccine or preventive medication might be required to keep your baby healthy.

This is crucial, especially if you will be travelling to a malaria-prone country.

Plan to have baby food

Children are delicate and therefore feeding them strange food could easily affect them.

Some countries are known for foodborne diseases and bacteria. Organise to carry your baby food from your country. This way, you are assured your child will have the nutrition they need for the duration of your trip.

Have a baby stroller

You will need a baby stroller during your trip. However, you have to ensure that you get the right baby stroller for the easy and safe movement of your baby. Get a baby stroller with additional features to ensure your baby’s comfort.

For instance, a baby stroller with a light umbrella will protect your young one from the harmful rays of the sun. Ensure the stroller is sturdy enough to cope with all kinds of terrain during your trip while also providing comfort for your little one.

Traveling with an animal isn’t always the easiest, but for some people, it’s entirely worth it.

Many people struggle with travel anxiety and find relief in the presence of an Emotional Support Animal (ESA). For those who are looking ahead to years of gypsy nesting and wild adventures, the idea of having a beloved furry friend by their side makes things feel more manageable.

Getting your pet registered as an emotional support animal is one way you may be able to bring your pet along for the ride. However, there are limitations to consider that might throw a wrench in your plans down the road. Here’s what you need to consider before traveling with an emotional support animal.

Benefits of an ESA

Registering your pet as an ESA comes with a whole host of benefits. From travel and housing advantages to emotional support, getting your pet certified ESA can vastly improve your life. Some of the major emotional areas of improvement include:

• • • More motivation
    • Increased sociability
    • Boost to self-esteem
    • Increased feelings of safety and comfort
    • Reduction in mental health disorder symptoms
    • Boosted sense of purpose

Other benefits outside of mental health include (but aren’t limited to):

• • • Reduced heart rate
    • Boost of oxytocin (the feel-good hormone)
    • Allowance to travel with the animal
    • Allowance to live with the animal even in pet-free housing

Limitations to Consider

 There’s still some gray area in the laws about emotional support animals. Where they’re allowed to be and what they’re allowed to do are up to the discretion of business owners. Because of this, you might run into some limitations when trying to use your pet’s ESA certification.

First off, while ESAs are very important to many people, legally they can still be denied in places like restaurants, hospitals, and hotels. Since these animals aren’t service animals, they don’t have as much freedom and don’t have as many rights.

It’s always a good idea to ask about your ESA when making a reservation. Even though their policy might not support ESAs, many business owners are compassionate to the needs of customers.

Housing Limits

There are also some limitations when it comes to housing and travel. ESAs are covered under the Fair Housing Act, but with some stipulations.

Your pet will be allowed, even if it’s a no-pet place. But if the animal is too large, or your landlord lives amongst 4 or fewer units, it doesn’t apply. For those renting a single-family unit without real estate agent involvement, this might not apply either.

Travel Limits

When traveling, most American airports and airlines will allow emotional support animals on board. However, recent changes and perspectives on the laws mean that airlines might be getting stricter on what they will allow on board, restricting access to trained service animals in most cases.

It’s also important to realize that many foreign airlines are not bound to these same guidelines and may not allow your ESA on board.

Before traveling, it’s smart to check with the airlines you plan to travel with to make sure they’ll be able to come along for the whole trip. The last thing you’d want is to be stuck in a foreign country unable to return with your pet.

Wrap Up

While the guidelines and laws around emotional support animals aren’t the clearest, the best thing to do is just ask for permission. Many places are understanding and will work to accommodate you and your ESA the best they can.

Even still, there’s always a risk that traveling with your emotional support animal could put you in a tough spot down the road of your travels.

Before you decide on what to do with Fido, carefully consider how things might unfold and make the best choice for both you and your pet.

Flooding is one of the most deadly (and costly) weather-related events.

Each year, around 95 Americans die from flooding events, and most of these deaths could have been prevented by basic emergency preparation and safety steps.

In order to keep you and your family safe in the event of an emergency, you need to know these live-saving flood safety tips.

5 Crucial Flood Safety Tips

Being prepared for flash flooding can mean the difference between life and death. Keep these flash flood safety tips in mind so that you’re ready to act when water starts to rise.

1. Move to Higher Ground

Flooding (especially flash flooding) can strike without warning. Water levels can rise fast and your chance of survival falls if you’re stuck on low ground or get trapped in a building with rising water.

If you have time, move valuables and essentials to the highest level in your home.

Homes and other structures located on dips or lower parts of the land will be affected first. If possible, move you and your family to higher ground.

If you do become trapped in a flooding building, move to the highest level or roof if you have to.

2. Avoid Driving Through Flooded Areas

Around 64 percent of flood deaths involve vehicles. Most of these deaths occurred when the person was attempting to cross a flooded road.

Never drive across a road that is covered in water. Just six inches of water (which looks harmless from your car) can sweep you and your vehicle away in a matter of seconds.

Fast-moving water has the ability to wash entire roads and bridges away — do not be caught out driving when floods strike.

If a road is blocked or closed, do not ignore the warnings. Turn around, don’t drown!

3. Stay Clear of Dangerous Debris

Never walk out into floodwater. Even after the flood has happened, the danger of submerged debris is deadly.

Downed power lines and other electrical equipment have been known to electrocute victims that come into contact with the water.

Floodwater can also contain hazardous chemicals, bacteria and snakes. It’s advised to steer clear of any standing water since there’s no way of knowing exactly what’s in it.

4. Evacuate If Needed

If you are told to evacuate your home by authorities, do so immediately. If time allows, use the main power switch to shut off all utilities and close any gas valves.

After you’ve been evacuated, only return to your home when authorities tell you it’s safe to do so.

5. Watch and Listen for Updates

Floodings are rapidly changing events. That’s why it’s important to stay updated and to listen to information provided to you by local authorities.

Stay informed about your local situation by tuning into the radio, television, the Internet and social media. If possible, follow all instructions and guidelines announced by officials.

Purchase Flood Insurance

There are other ways to protect you and your family when it comes to emergencies like flooding. Consider looking into flood insurance. See how you can save money on flood insurance with a quote from Betterflood.com today!

Exploring a new city is all about experiencing everything it has to offer. Taking in new sights, meeting new people and participating in activities that may be unique to the destination.

Below are ways on how best to make your exploration of any new city as exciting as possible:

1.      Travel Like A Local

Travelling is not just about reaching your final destination, how to choose to get there or how you get around the city once you arrive is an important aspect of your adventure. Try to avoid playing it safe and travelling everywhere by taxi or tourist bus. Instead, take inspiration from the locals and how they choose to navigate their city. In Amsterdam it’s all about the bicycle, in Paris you’ll see the locals weaving through the streets on scooters and Bangkok is famous for their tuk-tuks. Opting to travel like the locals will give you an insight into their city and all its character and charm. Look out for local hire or rental companies such as Scootering that offer ways to navigate cities in style. Opting to travel like the locals will give you an insight into their city and all its character and charm.

Public transport is also an excellent option when exploring a new city. Local buses, trams and trains will take you through areas many tour guides do not and you’ll be nestled in amongst the locals and get a feel for their routine. Taking public transport is also often the cheapest option.

2.    Don’t Stick To A Strict Itinerary

Sure, they’ll be things you want to tick off the bucket list that require planning, and having a schedule can make you feel more secure in a new city, but try not to plan out every second of your trip. The beauty of experiencing somewhere new is discovering all the things that you can do during your visit.

Leave room in the schedule for some spontaneity! Remember most plans are not set in stone, give yourself the freedom to find locations and activities that you didn’t even know existed. Almost every city to travel to will surprise you in one way or another if you allow yourself to explore without restrictions.

3.      Talk To Strangers

Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself to new people during your trip. Talking to strangers and being friendly towards the locals could give you inside knowledge on the best places to eat, fun activities to look into or even places to avoid. Locals, in particular, will often want to share their recommendations and tell you what they love about their city.

Starting up conversations with fellow travellers could really enhance your trip if you’re travelling alone. Meeting a like-minded friend along the way could be the highlight of the trip and could lead to future adventures.

4.      Always Try The Food

One of the best parts of visiting a new city is experiencing the local cuisine. Having the internet at our fingertips makes it easier than ever to discover the best restaurants, cafes and bars in any given area. Instead of sticking to what you know that you’ll like, take a risk and ask your server what they’d recommend. The food may not be what you’d typically choose, but you may surprise yourself.

Visiting local food markets is another great way of getting a taste of local produce. You’ll often get a more authentic food offering from small food stalls that are run by locals than you would in any five-star restaurant.

Hopefully, the above tips will make your next urban adventure as exciting as possible. When visiting any new place the best thing to do is keep an open mind and try to embrace everything you can about the experience. Everyone has their own aims when exploring new cities so do whatever you feel will make your experience as enjoyable and fulfilling as possible.

Many gamblers worry whether online casinos are fair or if they are rigged because it is the software behind the machine. First of all, all casinos have an edge on the player and gambling is one of the most lucrative industries in the world which is why casinos don’t need to cheat.

Casino Basics

Some people believe that online casinos are rigged and there are numerous theories about how this is done and some imply that jackpots never occur. Firstly, online casinos have a goal of earning the players’ money whilst still making some players happy and there are regulations that limit the possibility of rigging the game. All licensed casinos, such as clovr.com, use the Random Number Generator (RNG) algorithm in their gaming software. This algorithm makes every bet a random number of strings. If you want to be sure that the online casino is not rigging just check whether they have a license.

How Can I Trust the license

When online casino in Canada applies for a license, they are rigidly tested by the regulating body or bodies. Additionally, even if they pass the test, they are always monitored and re-tested to make sure that the legality is still in place. You can always check from which country is the license because maybe some third-world countries have poorer control.

So, always opt for online casinos being regulated by countries where governments are strict such as the United Kingdom, Malta, and so on. These jurisdictions are detailed in their testing and require a lot from the operators in order to obtain a license. Also, double-check that Random Number Generator is an obligatory technique in a country. If it isn’t, don’t opt for operators licensed by those countries.

Always Check the Website

The bottom of the website should have their license and also if they have received an award from some organizations. Additionally, you can always browse the web and forums and read about the company. Taking an hour of your time to properly research the company is much better than just submitting your information to them. Also, once you are sure about the legality of the company, it is advisable to check their terms and conditions to understand more about what happens with your personal data after you register.

Once you check these concerns, take a look at their payment options and gaming choice. Additionally, most casinos offer welcome bonuses so be sure to use those.