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The Best Productivity Tips For The Digital Nomad Business Leader

There’s something so amazing about being a digital nomad business leader. You travel where you want to, work on your own time, and get to take breaks whenever you please. But sometimes, it can be hard to stay motivated… CONTINUE READING >> 

There’s something so amazing about being a digital nomad business leader and  finding affordable SEO services certainly helps. So many people go to their nine to five jobs, in offices, having to suffer through long commutes and the stress of their boss constantly checking in on their work.

But you’re lucky, and you’re living the life you want to. You travel where you want to, work on your own time, and get to take breaks whenever you please. But sometimes, it can be hard to stay motivated. The high price of such freedom is that you sometimes wake up late, distracted, and you don’t know how to get your laptop open and start answering emails or working on projects.

That’s why it’s important to have the right strategies for staying productive. Whether you’re a travel blogger or you’re running an online store, here are some great ways to stay motivated as a digital nomad business leader.

1 Get off of social media

 One of life’s greatest distractions in 2018 is social media. It’s no surprise, considering that Facebook has even admitted to making their notifications and sharing as addictive as drugs. And we’re spending so much time on our phones these days that the average American spends approximately 24 hours a week online, according to a study from MIT. Even as a digital nomad, up in the mountains in a faraway country, you aren’t safe: WiFi is everywhere these days, which is great for business, but not so great for social media distractions.

That’s why you need to find a way to control the interaction you have with social media while you’re working. Turn off your phone, and use an app to block your computer. Freedom, which costs only $2.42 a month, will block apps and websites for an amount of time you choose so that you can focus on your work. And if you think you’re suffering from addiction, check out this article on how to do a detox right.

2 Create a daily routine–no matter where you are

 Whether you’ve just started being a digital nomad or you’ve been one for ten years, there’s no denying it: there’s something so magical about that plane landing in a new city or country. The moment you’ve gone through passport control, all you want to do is explore this new land. After all, that’s part of why you became a digital nomad in the first place. But with deadlines and responsibilities looming, it may not be the best idea to have an adventure just yet.

That’s why it’s so important to have a routine you follow, no matter where you are. Do you prefer working at cafes just around the corner from the hostel? Then the second you check in, ask for recommendations. Decide how many hours you want to spend a day working, and how many will be dedicated to exploring this new place. If you work better around other people, research digital nomad hostels or coworking spaces in the area. In areas like Asia, where 45 percent of digital nomads “reside,” you’re sure to find a place where you can get your work done. Digital nomads are particularly spoilt for choice outside of Asia, with cities such as Sydney providing a wide variety of shared workspaces to cater to their every need.

3 Make sure you always have wifi

 As a digital nomad, you know how important it is to be connected. Whether you’re a CMO remotely designing brands for businesses in the US and Europe, or you’re a web developer working with a team that’s half in Italy and half in India, you need to be online. You’re always chatting with them over Slack, discussing different projects, and you’re ready at all times to answer an email from a potential client or business partner. But if you arrive in a new city and you suddenly don’t have wifi–then that can have devastating effects on your business.

Generally speaking, you need to guarantee that your hostel or AirBnB has wifi. Call them up before flying, and make sure that this technology is still available. If you’re traveling to a country where there could be a potential blackout or technology isn’t very advanced, bring a back-up with you. This could be your phone if you’ve got an international plan and tethering abilities, or it could be one of these best wifi hotspots for travelers. And because these strategies may fail for even this reason, be sure to have a backup plan–for example, a colleague who will manage things for you in case you don’t show up online.

As you can see, being productive as a digital nomad business leader is all about being prepared for the unexpected, and understanding what distracts you most so that you can plan with those distractions in mind.

 What’s your greatest challenge when it comes to getting your work done? How do you face this challenge so that you can be more productive?

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All You Need to Know About Trains in Norway

While other trains just simply serve as a means of transport, Norway Trains like to prove otherwise as they move through isolated mountain plateaus or even to rich green valleys which are considered as something rarely viewed… CONTINUE READING >> 

While other trains just simply serve as a means of transport, Norway Trains like to prove otherwise as they move through isolated mountain plateaus or even to rich green valleys which are considered as something rarely viewed. With a distance of 4,000 km long, the Norwegian railway network has a total of 775 tunnels with bridges greater than 3,000. If you belong to the total population who don’t own a car while in the middle of Norway Tours, you better opt for the trains at Norway to get a closer view of nature.

The Bergen Line

The Oslo to Bergen train trip is considered to be one of the most famous railway journeys because of a very good reason—fascinating sceneries. This railway is also called the Bergen Line, where two of the largest cities of Norway were connected across the striking Hardangervidda plateau. The railway is also placed at approximately 1,237 meters above sea level, making it the highest mainline railway journey in Northern Europe. Due to the high altitude of the railway, the scenery for the trip is indeed breath-taking and dramatic.

Tips for Travelling in Trains While in Norway

When you opt for travelling via trains in Norway, you should never miss doing the golden rule—purchasing tickets in advance. Buying train tickets in advance has its perks in Norway. For instance, buying a train ticket for a trip via the Oslo to Bergen railway will cost you 950 kroner. However, purchasing tickets a day in advance will make you qualify for a minipris fares. So instead of spending 950 kroner, you probably will have to spend only 350-500 kroner.

However, these fares only have a limited number, and they’re usually sold out in peak season, which is probably from June to August. Therefore, the earlier you book for your tickets the more chances of qualifying for a low fare. However, you still have to keep in mind that the fares for every trip in the Norwegian railway are non-refundable.

Most of the train trips in Norway are comfortable, as they are equipped with a buffet car, lots of power outlets, and free wifi. But not all trains have available power outlets in the normal class. By paying an additional 90 kroner, each of the trains offers different komfort class. Although making an extra payment doesn’t guarantee a first class standard, available power sockets, an upgraded seat and free hot drinks from the vending machine will be given to you.

There is also an available night train on the main lines connecting major cities. These night trains have sleeping compartments alongside the regular train carriages. All of the passengers travelling on night trains are given a night kit containing ear plugs, an eye mask, and a blanket for comfort during the trip.

On Norwegian Railway

Aside from the beauty of nature that you can enjoy, a lot of perks and advantages can be experienced during a trip on the trains of Norway. While on a Norway Tour, using trains for transport is probably the best option since it connects major cities. With all the things you can receive and view while on the trip, travelling by rail is probably one of the finest travel bargains you can acquire in Norway.

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Emergencies on the Road and How to Deal with Them

Anything can happen on the road. No matter how prepared we seem to be, we will still be at the mercy of uncontrollable circumstances along the way… CONTINUE READING >> 

So, you have already booked a flight to a tropical island somewhere in the Mediterranean. You are now visualizing yourself, sipping a cocktail by the Aegean Sea. The cool, blue waters are inviting you to take a splash. You submit and a moment later, you are in your best swimwear ready to take on the warm Greek weather.

Now, as you frolic in the water, a sharp pain suddenly takes hold of your ankle. You are expecting a shark or at least a beautiful son of Poseidon trying to drag you down to the depths. Your assumptions couldn’t be more wrong, as you are instead being terrorized by a cramp.

You wake up from this dream and realize the fact that anything can happen on the road. No matter how prepared we seem to be, we will still be at the mercy of uncontrollable circumstances along the way.

With that being said, it pays to be a wise traveller, and by that we mean a traveller who is well prepared for any eventuality — from ankle cramps to lost luggage.

Here are just some of the most critical situations that could happen to every traveller, as well as the ways on how best to deal with them.

Dental issues

Don’t you hate when you are treated to a seafood buffet but your impacted wisdom tooth acts up? In such a case, you can either skip the buffet or take the risk by stuffing your mouth, no matter how painful it would get.

No one likes to experience a dental issue, especially when it’s vacation time. It takes the fun out of important activities, most of which involve consuming large amounts of food. You will have to find emergency dental care while travelling so you will be able to make the most out of your gastronomic adventures.

Pro tip:
As much as possible, get your teeth fixed before leaving. If there’s a tooth you want to fill out, then have your dentists fill it out as soon as possible. The same goes for issues that your dentists would recommend for you to fix. Also, it is very important to practice good oral hygiene wherever you go.

Injuries and wounds

Hiking up a mountain trail? Expect to come down covered with rashes and bruises from the many instances you tripped, slid, and passed out. Injuries are very common for a traveller, but this shouldn’t give you any assurances that you will be safe throughout the journey.

Indeed, when you are in an isolated area and far from the nearest emergency services, you will have to invoke your inner Rambo when it comes right down to treating a wound.

Pro tip:
It may sound so cliche at this point, but carrying a first aid kit can actually save your life. Come to think of it, knowing how to use this kit is more important if you want to survive in the harsh wilderness.

Common flu or cold

Are sneezing uncontrollably while you are on a train en route to Oslo? Consider yourself sensitive to the biting cold of the Scandinavian climate. In such a case, you may as well stop dead in your tracks and wait until you are well enough to hit the road again.

Pro tip:
Get yourself checked by a physician before travelling. That way, you will be more aware of your conditions and your doctor will prescribe medications that you can buy at any pharmacy across the globe.

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We are Heading to Paris for Our Own Cycling Tour de France

Our friends at Backroads Travel will once again be hosting us, this time for a phenomenal journey through Normandy along the Seine River. And since it’s summer travel time, we will be combing two of our favorite activities, biking and boating… CONTINUE READING >> 

Follow all of our adventure with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

Our friends at Backroads Travel will once again be hosting us, this time for a phenomenal journey through Normandy along the Seine River.

And since it’s summer travel time, we will be combining two of our favorite activities, biking and boating.

We most assuredly will NOT be doing any racing (or doping for that matter) but by day we will pedal pathways that lead to many of France’s most famous historic sites, as well as the homes and inspirations for many of her renowned artists.

At night we will board our AmaWaterways ship, which will serve as our luxurious home away from home for the week, to be transported to the next incredible destination.

Highlights of our two-wheeled touring will begin with a ride from Paris to the Palace of Versailles, where we will once again fall head over heels for Louis the Fourteenth’s fabulous château.

In the following days we will ride deep into the history of the region with stops at numerous Norman villages, such as Les Andelys, home to Château Gaillard, the ruined medieval castle of Richard the Lionheart, and Rouenx, the historic capital of Normandy.

The stop at Rouen will certainly be unforgetable, as our tour will take us past a soaring Gothic cathedral and immense clock tower, then on to The Old Market Square where Joan of Arc was tried for heresy and burned at the stake.

The historic highpoints of the trip are capped off with a stop at the site of the D-Day landing, Omaha Beach. It is hard to imagine a more important World War II site and emotions cannot help but be running high at this poignant remembrance.

To fulfil our artsy side, we will also stop in the towns of Giverny, best known as the location of Claude Monet’s garden and home, to see his Water Lilies come to life and Auvers‐sur‐Oise, where van Gogh and Cézanne once lived.

Of course, no visit to France is complete without food, and there shall be ample supplies. Normandy is best known for dairy products and apples, so we will visit a local farm and taste delicious ice cream made by the Norman cows.

Wait, these cows aren’t that talented are they? Perhaps we should say produced with their milk.

We will also pedal through quintessentially Norman scenery, reveling in the scenes of thatched roof farmhouses sprinkled among the orchards that provide our bountiful snacks.

As for when we are dining aboard the ship, the chef always endeavors to capture the essence of the area while creating locally inspired specialties.

All in all we expect a fantastic French encounter, just as much as our Backroads Bike tour in Cuba.

While we will be too busy having a blast to report every twist and turn of the journey in real time, though we will certainly be updating as often as possible across all of our social media channels, so be sure to follow all of the adventure along with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

Then check back here for in-depth coverage after the trip.

Viva la France!

David & Veronica, GypsyNester.com

A big thank you to Backroads Travel  for providing this adventure, as always, all opinions are our own.

Why You Should Never Drive a Car with Worn Shocks and How to Tell When You Need New Ones

Whether the vehicle is a daily commuter car, a truck or a jeep, worn out shocks pose serious risks. Fortunately, there are plenty of signs that indicate when shocks need to be replaced… CONTINUE READING >> 

Whether the vehicle is a daily commuter car, a truck or a jeep, worn out shocks pose serious risks. This is especially evident in the case of off road truck shocks. When these are worn out, there is a higher risk for accidents during off road excursions in dangerous settings such as tree-filled forests and highly angled rock faces.

Minor steering adjustments made in response to the early stages of worn shocks can be annoying, but the issue becomes more serious the longer the shocks are worn down. Driving with worn shocks is dangerous for a few reasons with many potential consequences:

• Ineffective braking

• Inaccurate steering

• Rear and front tires accelerate differently

Each of these items alone, as well as together, lead to an increased risk of car accidents and injuries that can be easily prevented by replacing the shocks. For example, inaccurate steering makes swerving to avoid potholes and wild animals a risky action that leads to an even higher accident risk than with non-worn shocks. It is important to replace the shocks and make sure truck wheels accelerate simultaneously and brake on time.

When To Replace Worn Shocks

Fortunately, there are plenty of signs that indicate when shocks need to be replaced. Unusual wheel vibrations, worn tires, oil leakages and falsely correcting steering wheels indicate the shocks need to be replaced. It is a good idea to replace tire wheels when replacing shocks. When replacing the shocks, it is important to invest in quality, because they are one of the vehicles components that a responsible owner should not skimp on. Just in case, having a solid truck bumper is important protection against any accidents caused by worn shocks. All of these materials and additional accessories for trucks can be purchased at 4 Wheel Parts today.

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Bicyclists: Stay Cool In Hot Weather

Summers in the city can get very hot, very quickly, and are also notoriously humid and muggy. Fortunately, there is plenty of stylish bicycle clothing that you can get to look and feel cool as you cruise the city’s streets from morning through evening… CONTINUE READING >> 

As a cyclist in New York City, you want to look hip and stylish–but you’re really a hot mess because you’re panting and drenched in sweat.

Summers in the city can get very hot, very quickly, and are also notoriously humid and muggy. Fortunately, there is plenty of stylish bicycle clothing that you can get to look and feel cool as you cruise the city’s streets from morning through evening.

The folks at Bike Rental Central Park shared some tips to help you have the best experience possible biking around the Big Apple. “The right clothing can make all the difference,” said Blair Nicole of Bike Rental Central Park.  “You want to be comfortable, but yet stylish and safe.”

Plan For The Weather–Sort Of

Since you can’t predict the weather in summer, plan for a variety of conditions. When riding in the cooler hours of the day, such as morning or evening, consider dressing in layers.

Layer On Top

The wind can be surprisingly cool on a bicycle in New York City, particularly if your skin is damp with sweat. An easy and stylish choice for layering on top is a zip-up hoodie. Most zip-up hoodies designed for riding are windproof, and some are also waterproof. The advantage of a zip-up hoodie is that you can take it off quickly and safely when needed.

If you’re planning to commute or go for a longer ride, look for a lightweight hoodie that will fold away easily in a bag or fit in your bike’s basket.

For something lighter weight than a hoodie, a long-sleeve shirt is a good option; make sure to get one with moisture wicking material, such as mesh and built-in UV protection.

If you don’t want layers, a biking jersey will do just fine. Jerseys designed for women have a close fitting cut that is both flattering and safe, as excess fabric moving around can be distracting and dangerous. Bike jerseys also have a deep back pocket where you can stash items that you might need to reach easily, like directions, granola bars, or a cell phone.

What You Wear On The Bottom Is Equally Important.

Traditionally, the standard item to wear in the summer has been padded biking shorts. The built-in padding on bike shorts prevents uncomfortable chafing and rubbing, which can quickly make any Bike Rental Central Park experience miserable.

Luckily, many brands have heeded the call to make more fashionable shorts, which has led to more options on the market, so you can find anything from knee-length capris to fashion-length shorts with discrete but still effective padding built in.

Some also have two layers with a fashionable outer shell and padding on the interior, zip pockets and even strips of reflective fabric to enhance visibility.

Cycling Kits

Another alternative to mixing and matching summer bike clothing is a cycling kit. Cycling kits are one-piece outfits with integrated shirts and shorts. They’re typically worn by professional cyclists, and they’re also ideal for long-distance riding.

Don’t Forget The Hands And Face

Sunglasses are vital for cyclists in the summer. In addition to shielding your eyes from the sun, they also keep debris out of the eyes. Some even have padding on the nose and around the ears so they really stay in place throughout the ride. Multi-lens glasses are a popular choice, as they enable maximum visibility in all lighting. To keep your hands protected from chafing, consider getting a pair of women’s fingerless cycling gloves with plenty of padding to prevent blisters and sores.

Now that you have your new stylish summer biking “uniform,” you’re ready to ride!

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

Where to Find the Best Gluten-Free Goodies in Manhattan

It wasn’t that long ago when people in this country sort of pooh-poohed the idea of gluten-free. But It can be a serious health issue, so it’s necessary to acknowledge it–and the best news is it can be really delicious.  In fact, some people who aren’t gluten-free go to these places just for the taste… CONTINUE READING >> 

With an increasingly large number of people following a gluten-free diet, the availability and variety of foods that meet this dietary restriction have expanded.

“It wasn’t that long ago when people in this country sort of pooh-poohed the idea of gluten-free (GF), although it had been  acknowledged by Europeans for many years,” said Blair Nicole of Liberty Cruise NYC. “It can be a serious health issue, though, so it’s necessary to acknowledge it–and the best news is it can be really delicious.  In fact, I know some people who aren’t gluten-free who go to these places just for the taste!”

Erin McKenna’s Bakery (formerly called Babycakes)

Address: 248 Broome St, New York, NY 10002

Erin McKenna’s Bakery, formerly called Babycakes, is an establishment with a 1950s soda shop feel, which sells treats that are free from harmful ingredients.

This is really a story about how some of the best ideas are born out of necessity.  McKenna, owner and founder, couldn’t find anything to satisfy her sweet tooth, because she had so many food allergies.  So she decided to do it herself, and Babycakes was opened in the late 2000s.  Soon after she was on the cover of Inc. Magazine with celebrity chef Tom Colicchio and at the helm of an empire that included several locations around the country, as well as a best-selling cookbook.  

Later, she renamed it to Erin McKenna’s Bakery.

Products are vegan, Kosher, GF, and also don’t contain any refined sugars, wheat or soy. Soft serve, cupcakes and donuts are popular items, but sweet breads and other treats are also available.

Celebrities, such as Pamela Anderson and Natalie Portman, have been spotted here. Madonna has been known to come in for the donuts.

Even if you aren’t gluten-free, we promise you’ll swoon–especially when you taste her scones and donuts. Trust us, you want to go to this place.

Rubirosa Ristorante

Address: 235 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10012

With dim lights, a chic yet familial atmosphere and big pizzas, Rubirosa is a favorite of both tourists and New York locals. There is an entire GF menu, including mozzarella sticks, fried calamari, meatballs and pasta. The vodka pizza is a standout on the menu.

Chloe’s Soft Serve Fruit Co.

Address: 25 E 17th Street, New York, NY 10003

Warm weather means that traditional baked goods sometimes do not cut it. Chloe’s Soft Serve Fruit Co. has sundaes, fruit pops and soft serve. The soft serve fruit base is only organic cane sugar, water and fruit. It comes in flavors such as banana, dark chocolate and mango.

Tu-Lu’s Bakery

Address: 338 E 11th St, New York, NY 10003

Tu-Lu’s is conveniently close to Erin McKenna’s bakery. Visit one place before checking out the other one. Paninis and homemade croutons share a menu with cookie dough balls and cupcakes.

Baked by Melissa

Address: 110 Fulton St, New York, NY 10038

Baked by Melissa offers bite-sized cupcakes and macarons in GF varieties. Served in trays, these can satisfy any foodie’s sweet tooth. Triple Chocolate Crunch, Red Velvet and Birthday Cake are just a few flavors that are part of the OMFG. assortment. Get some to much on as you explore Manhattan.

Smile to Go

Address: 22 Howard St, New York, NY 10013

The GF desserts at Smile to Go are unique, from the PB&J Cookie to the Banana Quinoa Muffin. The Banana Buckwheat Bread is a more filling menu item. Take one with you while you wander the streets and shop until you drop in Soho.

When you hit land from you Liberty Cruise NYC cruise, your sweet tooth just may be talking to you–so venture around downtown Manhattan later for some GF goodness. Enjoy your foodie adventure!

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