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6 Worth Visiting Spots in Russia You Never Heard of

Russia is truly a breathtakingly beautiful place to visit. A place rich in history and intrigue. While there are many interesting spots to visit, here we break down 6 of these must-see, more obscure spots and sites… CONTINUE READING >> 

Russia is truly a breathtakingly beautiful place to visit. A place rich in history and intrigue. While there are many interesting spots to visit, the experience is not the same with hundreds of tourists around. You may have heard about the more popular hotspots like St. Basil’s Cathedral, or Khizi Island, but there are some lesser-known sites for you to explore. Here we break down 6 of these must-see, more obscure spots and sites.

6. Dargavs Village: City of the Dead

The ‘city’ is more of a burial ground with almost 100 house-like structures filled with the remains of loved ones from long ago. Situated on a sloping hill in the middle of a 17 km mountainous valley. Located in the Republic of North Ossetia, Southern Russia and nestled in one of five mountain ridges. This mystical place is the home of many old legends and myths. In ancient times, locals believed that the recently departed soul needed to cross a river to reach heaven. Therefore, many were buried in boat-like coffins, one even being found with an oar. You will also find wells dotted throughout, filled with old coins. Loved ones would drop a coin and if it landed on a rock it meant that the soul had made it to heaven. This is one of the more morbid surprising destinations in Russia, that you’ll not want to miss.

5. Psychedelic Salt Mines

These abandoned salt mines are deep beneath the surface (650 feet, to be exact) of the Russian city of Yekaterinburg. A sea that dried completely over 280 million years ago, left behind a salty residue of evaporated minerals that created a swirl of beautiful colours throughout the rock. The resulting psychedelic patterns are almost mind-blowing. With deep hues of red, gold, and orange, they are truly a sight to behold. As one of the lesser known awe-spots, the mines should be on every visitor’s itinerary.

4. Lake Baikal

As the oldest and deepest lake in the world, Lake Baikal is home to many species that can only be found there, including one of its most adorable residents, the Nerpa, the world’s only freshwater-exclusive seal. The earth underneath the lake is mysteriously heated from unknown sources and 300 plus, rivers and streams feed into it with The Selenga River being the largest contributor. Located in South Central Russia, this is a special place with an almost spiritual atmosphere. A great place to clear one’s mind.

3. Museum of Sin

This creepy attraction was dreamed up by a pathologist from the Tambov morgue by the name of Yuri Shchukin. For over 3 decades he collected body parts from those who have been injured or died while indulging in their vices, anything from adultery to alcoholism. One of their creepy exhibits is the severed finger of an adulterous man, while another is an amputated hip from a man who while getting a tattoo to impress a girl, developed a nasty case of gangrene. If you are intrigued by the gruesomely fascinating, then be sure to make time for a pre-arranged, but absolutely free tour.

2. Khachapuri

A quaint little Georgian cafe, the Khachapuri was named after a delicious dish of cheese bread. This hidden jewel situated in the heart of Moscow was designed to give the feel of a bright New York loft, standing out amongst a crowd of more traditional eateries. With its delectable cuisine, large portions that encourage sharing, and cosy, intimate atmosphere, this is one of the more low-key surprising destinations in Russia you will definitely want to indulge in. Don’t let the understatedness deter you, this is one place your tastebuds will thank you for visiting. Be sure to try the Adjarian Khachapuri, and wash it down with a lovely homemade fruit juice.

1. Laika Monument

Laika was a Russian mutt rescued from the streets of Moscow in the late 1950s by the Russian space program. This adorable, little mongrel had quite the tragic destiny. She was to be the first animal to orbit the earth in outer space. She had a face that would melt the hearts of the world and she (and her mission) gained international attention. Laika was fitted with a specially made space suit and was launched on November 3, 1957. Unfortunately for our four-legged hero, she never made it back. It was initially claimed that the pup had completed her mission and had died from oxygen deprivation or planned euthanasia. However, the truth was revealed in 2002, Laika had perished within mere hours of the launch. She was crudely cremated when her spacecraft disintegrated upon reentry. Long overdue, this lovely monument was built in 2008.

I am sure that there are other sites that are waiting for an adventure. Always be aware of your surroundings and educate yourself. You, of course, wouldn’t want to do anything to offend the locals, which you are sure to run into a few deviating from the more touristy paths. To truly experience all this gorgeous country has to offer, you have to respect and appreciate it. The greatest way to show respect is by doing your research, not only about the locations, but about the customs and culture as a whole. Learning the basics of the native language couldn’t hurt either. Have a safe and amazing adventure!

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Why You Don’t Need to Hold Back on Caviar

You might think that caviar is only made for fancy cocktail parties and to be consumed as a cracker topping along with champagne. What you probably didn’t know is that it boasts a myriad of health benefits as well… CONTINUE READING >> 

Caviar is a delicacy that is enjoyed by many. While some people may find it off-putting, it’s actually a delicious food to indulge in. You might think that caviar is only made for fancy cocktail parties and to be consumed as a cracker topping along with champagne. However, many people today have become more interested in eating this delicious treat and it’s been paired with many other food items. What you probably didn’t know is that it boasts a myriad of health benefits as well. Below are the reasons why you should definitely start eating Caviar.

What is Caviar?

Caviar is basically fish roe or fish eggs that can be curated without harming the fish. It’s then processed, salted with brine, and canned. True caviar comes from the fish, sturgeon which is native to Caspian and Black seas and its types include beluga, sevruga, and ostreta; each type produces different flavors and textures. Beluga caviar is preferred by many because it’s the largest egg and is the freshest of all the types with an earthy and sea tone flavor. Caviar is one of the oldest delicacies and was first fished by Russians and Persians. Recently, caviar can be purchased at any price as it ranges from expensive to affordable, according to the type and its production technique. Prices range from $7 all the way to $200.

Why You Should Eat Caviar

Caviar is a tasty delicacy that many enjoy alone or paired with different types of food. The most popular way of eating it is spreading it with creme fraiche on a pancake-like patty.  There are endless health benefits to eating caviar, some of which are quite surprising to know:

It’s rich in vitamins

Caviar has an array of vitamins that help enhance your body like vitamin A, E, D, as well as B2, B5, and B12. These vitamins boost your immunity, repair skin cells, improve blood circulation, and prevent diseases like cancer, heart disease, or Parkinson’s. It’s also considered one of the best natural antioxidants that help renew your cells. Another thing that it improves is reducing the risk of migraines. Because it also includes calcium, it’s great for nourishing your bones.

It’s loaded with Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Since it’s already from a fish, then obviously it’s rich in the fatty acids your body needs to function better. Eating one gram of caviar a day can actually keep heart disease at bay and improves your cardio health. It can also lower your blood pressure.

It can act as an antidepressant

Believe it or not, caviar is as strong as some antidepressants like Prozac. Some doctors actually recommend eating caviar instead of taking medications to avoid unwanted side effects. Caviar has the power to slightly decrease your depression over time and control your anxiety levels.

It’s an aphrodisiac

Legend has it that Casanova used to eat a spoonful of caviar in between his romantic conquests. And from then on, it’s been considered one of the most extravagant and effective aphrodisiacs on the planet. Because it’s so rich in fatty acids and vitamins, it can actually increase your sexual drive and libido. It can also raise a man’s testosterone levels, leading to a healthier sex life.

It’s popular among athletes

Because it’s also rich in protein and iron, many athletes prefer to indulge in this delicacy to enhance their bodies and boost their energy levels for a productive workout. It’s the perfect muscle developer!

Pearls of the Sea

These tiny delicacies are not only delicious, but they’re full of health benefits that can enhance your body and immunity. Don’t be turned off by their aroma or where they come from; many have actually enjoyed this delicacy for years for its taste and health benefits.

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Fear Conquering & Zip Lining 300 Feet High

I have to wonder who thinks up things like zip lining? What kind of sick mind muses – “hey, lets launch folks across a gaping canyon on a wire – that’ll be awesome!”

Zip lining, in my mind, falls into the bungee-jumping, rodeo-clowning, leaping-off-buildings-in-suits-with-wings category of antics. Better off left to the fearless young whippersnapper types.

Not something I’d ever… CONTINUE READING >>

With the good ole summertime upon us, we thought we’d re visit this hair raising way to cool off.

WATCH: I scream my way across the canyon!

Veronica is trying to smile through the fear before zip line in Newfoundland
Apparently this is what I look like when I attempt to smile whilst terrified!

Ziplining at Marble Mountain in NewfoundlandWho thinks up things like zip lining?

What kind of sick mind muses – “hey, let’s launch folks across a gaping canyon on a wire – that’ll be awesome!”

Well, whoever that was, I’d like to personally thank them. As crazy as it sounds, I’ve become a fan.

When I first found out that we’d be zip lining during our Newfoundland adventure, I had a major panic moment.

Zip lining, in my mind, fell into the bungee-jumping, rodeo-clowning, leaping-off-buildings-in-suits-with-wings category of antics.

Better off left to the fearless young whippersnapper types.

Not something I’d ever volunteer to do at my age (or at any age, for that matter).

But there it was, staring out from a sheet of paper, just daring me, taunting me. Intriguing me.

So I popped over to the Marble Zip Tours website – not a good move. The site features out-of-control photos and videos along with slogans like “Canada’s Highest Zip Line” and “It’s a cross between parachuting and flying.” Yikes.

Having never parachuted nor flown, this “cross” sounded like one I wasn’t willing to bear.

BUT, I had specifically told our sponsors at Go Western Newfoundland that I wanted to conquer some fears during our visit, and I was game for anything (when will I learn to keep my yap shut?), so I pulled up my big-girl panties and headed to the beautiful Humber Valley.

Waterfall view while zip lining in Newfoundland with Marble Zip Tours
A pretty good shot considering I was screaming my brains out as I took this, eh?

After getting harnessed in and going through the surprisingly hilarious safety talk, I was actually getting excited. The true panic didn’t hit until I was actually hooked on and on my way…

Ziplining three hundred feet in the air with Marble Zip Tours in Newfoundland

The Marble Zip Tour is made up of a total of nine zips, and after my first terrifying run I settled down and really started to enjoy myself. Our guides were funny and engaging, pointing out points of interest along the way that, by my third or fourth zip, I was actually able to focus on.

The valley magically morphed from a place of terror to one of the most spectacularly beautiful places on Earth.

Ziplining three hundred feet in the air with Marble Zip Tours in Newfoundland

There truly is a difference between standing on the edge of something wonderful and actually being in amongst it all. Suddenly I became more than a bystander; I realized it was the first time I felt a part of something so vast and natural – as a bird might feel.

I will be zip lining again.

Veronica, GypsyNester.com

Visit Marble Zip Tours website

See all of our Newfoundland adventures!

We are so grateful to Go Western Newfoundland and Newfoundland and Labrador Tourism for making this adventure possible. As always, all opinions are our own.

YOUR TURN: Would you, could you zip line? Have you zip lined? Tell us of your adventure!

How to Party on a Party Bus (Affordably) Through Chicago

A party bus offers you the best of both worlds when it comes to partying in Chicago. You can save time and money with the coolest way to get around… CONTINUE READING >> 

A party bus offers you the best of both worlds when it comes to partying in Chicago. You can save time and money with the coolest way to get around in Chicago.

The best way to use a party bus is if you have a large group of people. If you are just traveling with a few people, it’s probably not the best option, but for groups of 10 or more, it’s really a great way to get around.

You know what they say, it’s about the journey, not the destination. The party bus is a great way to experience the journey and have fun throughout.

Here are a few ways we’ve found to best enjoy the party tours:

BYOB

Save money by bringing your own drinks on the bus. You can pregame in style and safely, while the driver gives you a tour of the Chicago area, or get you to and from your destination. If you’d like, you can even skip going to a bar entirely, and save money on parking as well as the costs of drinks. .

Entertainment

Our party buses have everything you need to have a good time. The big screen tvs available on the will play your favorite movie or tv show. Bring your mp3 player and stream your favorite music. You can even tune into the radio and listen to a live broadcast. There are areas where you can stand up and dance. Or, if you prefer, you can sit back and watch a movie, or just have a chat.

Group Travel

Ever want to take a journey with a whole bunch of your friends? A party bus is the perfect way to do it, as it can seat upwards of 40 people. Travel in Chicago can be expensive, from gas prices to finding parking as well as the time cost from getting stuck in traffic. A party bus takes all of the hassle and stress out of going where you need to go.It’s a unique opportunity to travel in a group and to have fun while doing it. The party bus itself can be better than a crowded, expensive nightclub.

Entertaining a Group of Visitors

Are you in Chicago, and you want to make a great impression on a group of people (either for business or pleasure)? Whether you’re going to a wedding, concert, prom, or some other big event, renting a party bus is the best way to get everyone in the mood for a good time. While limos used to be the standard for luxury travel, and they still have their place, party buses open up a whole new world in partying while you’re traveling. Get to know your group members better and relax and unwind.

Some party buses can even allow pets, so you can bring the whole gang and have a great time.

Getting You Places

Our drivers know the Chicago area well, and will be your best friend when it comes to partying affordably in Chicago. You won’t have to stress about getting lost or where you’re going, because our drivers are local and know the area well. They’ll get you to your destination safely and on time. Be sure to talk to your driver about your plans beforehand, so you can help create a fun and memorable experience with everyone on the same page.

Booking a party bus in Chicago is the best choice for making your party stress free, organized, affordable and fun for everything. Travel in style on one of our party bus choices. You’ll be blown away by all of the amenities and options that our luxury party buses have for you and your group. Be sure to call us today to get started.

Our Vendors

We used Chicago Party Bus Pros for our rentals, they were great to work with and very accomodating to our needs. They even have a handly list of party bus destinations in Chicago that can help you plan your trip.

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

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Moving and Raising Your Teenage Girls as an Immigrant in the UK

Raising children in general is a challenge on its own. But having to raise girls takes a somewhat different approach. Add to that the challenge of having to move your teenage girls away from your norms, traditions and culture into a completely foreign and alien setup, and you have the test of a lifetime… CONTINUE READING >> 

Change, as a concept, is more often than not, an uncertain but necessary aspect in our lives. It happens, and we must adapt, one way or another. When you have a family, the concept takes on a whole new meaning and depth, because you are no longer the only one that needs to adapt to any given change- it’s something you have to do as a unit.

Raising children in general is a challenge on its own. But having to raise girls takes a somewhat different approach than it does to raising boys in most cases, and in different cultures, they have different norms in the process.

Add to that the challenge of having to move your teenage girls away from your norms, traditions and culture into a completely foreign and alien setup, and you have the test of a lifetime on your hands!

In this article in particular, we are going to tend to the concerns of parents having to move and raise their teenage girls into the UK and how to adapt to life as immigrants.

CLARITY & COMMUNICATION

The importance of being transparent at all times cannot be stressed enough when it comes to facing drastic changes for any family. It’s crucial that as your family makes its move into the UK, you teenage daughters know that they can come and talk to you about anything at all. It will be no easy feat to face issues that you are probably not used to confronting, especially if you’re coming from a culture that has completely different ethics and norms. As a parent, it is your job to quell your child’s insecurities and ensure and reiterate as often as possible that you, as a parent, and their home, no matter where they are in the world- is their refuge and safe place always.

SENSE OF SECURITY

A new move means a new home, and a lot of new things. This could possibly put a strain on your expenses, and your teenage girls will want to fit in, and in turn, will want to buy new clothes and such. It’s important that you always keep open lines of communication with wherever your funding is coming from back home, at least until you settle down. The great thing about the UK is that international money transfer is relatively easy and can be done quite efficiently and in no time whatsoever. The last thing you want to do is make your girls feel left out- and while this may break the bank initially, it will do wonders in helping them feel like they belong in a place that is new to them.

DON’T FORGET YOUR ROOTS

When moving to the UK or anywhere for that matter, it’s always important that you figure out a way to balance keeping your culture and traditions  along with adapting to the new society that you have brought yourself and your teenage girls into. Girls are especially sensitive and are susceptible to dealing with identity crisis if there are too many extremes tugging at them. The way their friends and the society around them lives and the way the rules and traditions are at home can go any which way. They can either work harmoniously together, or it can be a disaster and your girls will probably go to one extreme or another, and you don’t want that. So make sure that you integrate your culture and tradition in a way that doesn’t create challenges for your girls when you’re settling in to your new life in the UK.

EVERYDAY IS A NEW ADVENTURE

If you put forward for yourself and your family that the new changes in your lives are only new adventures, then moving to the UK as an immigrant won’t have to be as challenging as you may think it is. You just need to find a balance between keeping your identity and adapting to your new surroundings. Make sure that your girls feel secure and that they can speak to you about anything, and be sure to help them become integrated in a way that they are accepting to change and adapting to their new surroundings.

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Ultimate travel guide to Hoi An in Vietnam

The historic city of Hoi An is Vietnam’s most delightful and charming city. This beautiful city is influenced by the combination of Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese, and even French heritage and architecture so many people flock to this UNESCO-heritage town to soak up the rich culture, delicious food, and truly unique experiences… CONTINUE READING >> 

The historic city of Hoi An is Vietnam’s most delightful and charming city. Located along the coast of the central region, this beautiful city is influenced by the combination of Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese, and even French heritage and architecture due to its trading port back in the 15th – 18th century. Nowadays, many people flock to this UNESCO-heritage town to soak up the rich culture, delicious food, and truly unique experiences. We take you on an exploration guide of the stunning city of Hoi An.

How to get there

Hoi An doesn’t have an airport or a train station; the only way to get there is by car or taxi. From the neighboring city of Da Nang, you can actually either fly to its airport or take a train from whichever Vietnamese city you’re currently into Da Nang and rent a car or taxi from there. It should cost you around $15 for the 30-kilometer ride.

Where to stay

There are a ton of great hotels you can book in Hoi An, from budget-friendly hotels to 5-star ones. Decide on the type of hotel you need – whether it’s for a luxury or if you’re sticking to a budget. If you need recommendations, see a list of some of the best hotels to stay in here and you can make a decision on the most suitable hotel according to your budget and travel purpose. The majority of inns and hotels are actually a walking distance from the Old Town. If you opt to stay further, then you’ll be just a scooter-ride away. However, riding a scooter is at limited times because most traffic in Hoi An is on foot or bicycle.

Where to go

One of the greatest places to visit is definitely Old Town. It’s easy to get around on foot as it doesn’t have much traffic like other major cities. The ancient town is home to fascinating architecture and historical buildings like Tan Ky House, which was built two centuries ago, or the Phung Hung House with gorgeous lanterns. Visit Hoi An’s main symbol, the Japanese Covered Bridge as well as the Chinese Assembly Halls, the Phac Hat Pagoda, or the Quan Cong Temple to soak up some holy culture. Hoi An is also famous for its arts and crafts, silk, and textiles; take a stroll through the Silk Village or to the Museum of Trading Ceramics. You can even attend a workshop or two to learn skills from the masters. Be sure to visit their liveliest street at night and during the day; The Riverside is where the traditional meets the modern with an endless variety of restaurants, local markets that are bustling at night, or chill as you watch boats cruising by.

What to eat

Hoi An is the ideal place to try some of the best Vietnamese delicacies that are blended with Japanese, Chinese, and Portuguese cuisines as well. Back in the day, traders and merchants brought their home country’s flavors into Hoi An, and so, this fusion cuisine was created. You can indulge in bottomless fresh noodle bowls, fresh seafood, shrimp or pork-filled dumplings, or the famous Com Ga, a dish of delicious Vietnamese rice and chicken. You’ll also find some of the best street food, be sure to try Banh Xeo, which literally means ‘sizzling pancakes,’ it’s served with seafood or pork.

The best time to visit Hoi An is away from monsoon season as the Old Town tends to flood. You can visit during the dry months which are February through July. But for the best weather, consider March or April. Rent a bicycle to ride around the town, or even if you’re heading to the beach as it’s very popular there. Hoi An has everything for any kind of traveler; it has culture, shopping, great food, a fun nightlife, and a chance to relax in a simple but exquisite town. Be sure to take in everything that it has to offer for a trip of a lifetime!

IS CBD GOOD FOR SKIN

CBD comes up with an uncountable list of wonders. In the beauty industry, CBD is a lovable ingredient of everyone. No matter, what is the skin problem one is facing, CBD will show the magic on its own… CONTINUE READING >> 

When searching for natural medication, CBD emerges out as a first option which is extremely curative. Many studies resulted that with CBD, there is no worry attached as cannabidiol works with better cure and doesn’t leave behind any infection.

CBD holds the potential to bring back a proper balance in the endocannabinoid system present in the body which helps to improve several associated symptoms of uneasiness, depression, and so on. In addition, CBD is a fascinating healer for any bumps, lines, or any other skin problems.

Why CBD is regarded as an excellent treatment for skin?

CBD comes up with an uncountable list of wonders. In the beauty industry, CBD is a lovable ingredient of everyone. No matter, what is the skin problem one is facing, CBD will show the magic on its own. It is especially popular due to the presence of some eye-catching properties within CBD concentration, such as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. In order to have a deep understanding of how CBD cures skin damages, it is good to continue reading.

Is it useful to choose CBD for acne treatment?

The hunt must begin with understanding the root causes behind the origin of acne disorder. The situation of acne arises when a blockage occurs which holds follicles. All these blockages come into emergency due to any dead skin cells or excessive presence of sebum. Apart from this, certain other root causes of acne include dietary foods, hormonal release, stress, and so on.

CBD is great magic for acne treatment since it consists of anti-inflammatory properties which help to fight with the situation of inflammation that plays a major role in giving birth to several skin disorders. Many studies show that CBD is a way to soothe the skin which is prone to acne. In addition, it helps to fill the breakouts, decreases the red-hot bumps arising on the face.

Is it right to choose CBD over conventional medications as an anti-aging solution?

Without any doubt, CBD excels in the field of anti-aging products. CBD is built with antioxidant properties which help to make the skin look flawless and younger. Additionally, CBD is a sturdy fighter of wrinkles, dark spots, and so on.

With the help of antioxidants, it becomes helpful to extend the process of anti-aging and make it slow. It can be done by reducing the free-radicals such as any toxic substance or so on. With the free-radicals, the skin gets breakouts due to the occurrence of collagen, which breaks the skin tissues and ultimately results in wrinkles or lines. With the introduction of antioxidants in the skin creams, lotions, or other products, it becomes easy to fight against any harmful toxins present on the skin.

Is it suitable to use CBD for delicate or sensitive skin?

CBD is widely known for its therapeutic benefits for people suffering from different types of skin problems. It treats the following conditions:

1. Psoriasis:During the time when skill cell reaches a stage of excessive growth, the skin starts getting dry and patches appear on the skin surface.

2. Pruritus:It is a symptom which may arise from different kinds of ailments. It happens when the skin starts itching.

In terms of providing the moisturizing aspect, CBD is a wise choice. CBD is suitable for sensitive skin as well and can kill all the bacteria present on the skin surface.

CBD hemp oil for the daily skin care schedule

CBD has reached wide popularity which makes it easily accessible from online websites. Though, the availability of CBD oil is not restricted to any particular area which states to be careful while choosing the right CBD oil. For best skin surface, it is beneficial to add some CBD products to your daily skin care schedule which can include the following:

1. Eye cream:Sometimes, when you wake up after long hours of sleep, your skin looks exhausting. In such a situation, it is helpful to apply some CBD concentrated eye cream. It is a great remedy to avoid any dark circles, lines, wrinkles, or patchy surface.

2. Anti-aging solution: CBD has provided a solution to look flawless every time. With the presence of “apple stem cells,” CBD protects the skin from wrinkles or any fine lines. It helps to keep the skin as flawless as you want.

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

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