While it’s good to protect your best and most expensive shoes by carrying them with you and changing when you need to walk in inclement weather, you can waterproof shoes of all materials in just a few minutes so they’re protected from rain and snow. This is especially important when the seasons change and spring arrives and when you spend hundreds of dollars on your shoes. After all, you want to protect that investment!
The way you waterproof your shoes will depend on the material. You use different treatments for suede, leather, vinyl, and other shoe materials and will also use different application methods. The easiest way to waterproof your shoes is to purchase a spray that is meant for the shoe material in particular and use that over all parts of your shoes, but even with this treatment method you need to use caution. Some sprays are very lightweight and don’t protect well and may not work for all the materials of shoes you have.
Wax-based polishes are good for waterproofing various forms of shoes as the wax provides a thin coating over the shoe material which repels water as well as dirt, salt, and mud. The wax also nourishes and moisturizes leather and vinyl materials so they’re less likely to crack. If you polish your shoes once per week with a wax-based polish you’ll be providing it with a waterproof coating at the same time.
Specialty waterproof compounds are made to provide a barrier against moisture but don’t give your shoes that shine that you’ll get with wax. These compounds are usually found in those sprays you purchase but the better the brand, the better the seal you’ll get. It’s often recommended that you use your waterproof compound and then a wax polish on top of that. Those that are sold in solid form will be thicker and provide a better seal for your shoes.
Before you use any type of waterproofing material on your shoes, you want to determine if the material will withstand the treatment without fading or changing the color. Choose a part of the shoe that won’t show such as the back of the heel and test just a part of it. Before you waterproof your shoes, clean them thoroughly with a brush or wet rag so you’re not waterproofing over dirt and mud. Make sure the shoe is completely dry.
It’s good to waterproof once a month during winter or any rainy season so you know your shoes are completely protected. Be sure you treat them everywhere, including along the sole and the stitching between the sole and body of the shoe, and the heel. This will keep your shoes dry and comfortable all season long.
If you’re visiting the United States, you’re most likely aware of popular tourist destinations. However, this attraction is not limited to popular destinations. You can find plenty of beautiful spots in Tennessee. Once you learn about these destinations, you would want to check them out. We have compiled a list of beautiful visitation spots in Tennessee for you to check out.
Tennessee’s Civil War Heritage
Tennessee has witnessed its share of numerous battles, which brought many museums and memorials to commemorate these events. The Fort Donelson National Battlefield is one primary visiting site. This monument serves as a cemetery and a visiting center fort. It provides visitors with a very sobering experience and an excellent view of eagles soaring around this location.
Dollywood Express Steam Train
This train lets you view the breathtaking view of the Great Smoky Mountains. It is a 20-minute journey which allows you to relax and enjoy the many passing by views. After the renowned Dolly Parton, the train got its name after purchasing a part in the theme park. It is a top-rated tourist destination and should be visited by you when you are in town.
The Parthenon
It is another extremely enticing sight to visit while in Tennessee. It is located in Centennial Park and has a remarkable replica of the original Parthenon in Athens. It is a vast structure made entirely of cement and serves as a permanent art gallery. It has a collection of 19th and 20th American artists and an impressive Athena Parthenos goddess statue.
Gatlinburg
The beautiful mountain town Gatlinburg is a winter wonderland. There is a stunning LED display along with Gatlinburg’s famous Downtown Parkway adjacent river road. This resort also houses many wild animals such as deer, foxes, and squirrels; animals add to the whole area’s charm. There is also an exciting ski lodge for you to explore. Gatlinburg is the best area to stay and enjoy living in cabins. It is also known as the gateway of the Great Smoky Mountains. You can easily find Cheap Cabins In Gatlinburg while exploring this gorgeous vicinity.
Oak Ridge: American Museum of Science and Energy
This beautiful museum dedicates itself to exploring nuclear energy. It also dives into Oak Ridge’s role in developing the atomic bomb and the Manhattan Project. There are also many images, artifacts, and videos for you to explore. Other displays include models of weaponry, tools, and clothing used while working on the site. They have recently incorporated robotics to make it even more interactive.
Abandoned Tennessee State Penitentiary
It is one of the most impressive and imposing structures. However, this prison closed down in 1992 and is simply a tourist site now. Exploring this building will give you a surreal feeling as you know this prison housed some notorious criminals. These criminals locked away indefinitely while some were on death row—a spooky yet memorable piece of architecture.
The Great Smoky Mountains
If you’re a hiking enthusiast, Tennessee has some beautiful mountains waiting for you. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is an incredible feat. With 850 miles of trails and unlaced roads, there is so much for you to see. While hiking, you can capture some fantastic photos and enjoy the refreshing Tennessee air. When you’re done hiking for the day, you can find inns to host you and help you with a warm meal and a cool beverage making this a memorable experience.
Downtown Knoxville
This gorgeous location is at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park; it has a beautiful Sun sphere tower with observation decks. It gives you a magnificent view of downtown Knoxville. This city is also a living reminder of its role in the civil war. Evidenced by the confederate memorial hall, you can visit these halls and learn about Knoxville’s rich history. The infamous gathering point is called the market square, where numerous events and festivals include many shopping opportunities.
Cumberland Caves
It is perhaps the longest cave in the whole world. It provides an unriveting and unique experience for your visitation to Tennessee. Tourists have wandered extensively through these caves, and thrill-seekers even arranged parties down here. The cavern is like a labyrinth with an extensive network to discover and explore.
Cades Cove
It is one of the most popular destinations in the Great Smokies. It is a breathtaking sight and is essentially an isolated valley. With a gorgeous field surrounding you, tourists take their time while driving through or even cycling through. They have a bike rental to have a fulfilling experience as you venture down this path, explore the landscape, and witness different animals living in these areas.
Memphis
It is the home of gospel and blues music. You’ll find yourself on the famous Beale Street where celebrities like Elvis took off. You can visit the Memphis music hall of fame, where you can witness pictures and mentions of some of the well-known stars. Make sure while you’re there, you also visit the Rock ‘no’ Soul museum and explore the various studios where celebrities once stood.
Signal Mountain
This historic land is another must-visit. Native Americans sent messages from here. The top’s view is spec at cause and lets you see Chattanooga’s river valley and city. While you are exploring Tennessee’s gorgeous view, don’t forget to venture downtown Chattanooga and visit the famous Hunter Museum of Art.
Wrap Up
Tennessee is one of the United States’ gorgeous states. Suppose you’re a tourist and enjoy exploring recent locations. Eastern Tennessee is your go-to place; it houses many museums and beautiful landscapes. It has an activity for all sectors such as science enthusiasts and hikers. With trails leading to gorgeous views and museums loaded with information, this is your next tourist destination.
San Francisco’s streets are so very drenched in culture that each year it attracts approximately 16 million visitors. Those iconic downhill dips and ramps of the long expansive roads, as Steve McQueen roars past to a melody of sirens, in a flashback to 1968′s groundbreaking chase movie, Bullitt. But what is it that can make a holiday there, especially for the more culture-hungry visitor? You’ll be glad to know that the Golden Gate city has much more to offer than what it displays on its foggy surface.
The City
San Francisco is a bijou yet picturesque city overlooking a stunning bay. The weather is cool and crisp, not great for people who prefer warmer climes; however microclimates mean that the east of the city is warmer than the west. This cultured and cosmopolitan city bears the echoes of some of America’s most exciting eras and movements. You can see – and ride in – cable cars, gliding serenely up Nob Hill, which opens onto the popular shopping Mecca of Union Square. This shopper’s paradise is a place where you can buy anything from exquisite antique china to a sheer t-shirt from a high street retailer.
The Bay
The San Francisco bay is spanned by one of the Modern Wonders of the world – the Golden Gate suspension bridge. Walking or cycling is the best way to visit, with reserved times for each throughout the day, but be aware that pedestrians are banned from the Pacific facing side of the bridge. You can also try a bus tour of San Francisco’s landmarks. Alcatraz also overlooks the bay and is a National Historic Landmark. This beautiful island, populated by charming wildlife, is home to the now abandoned Alcatraz prison; which became notorious due to its isolated location and desperate escape attempts, as well as hosting inmates from Al Capone to Robert Stroud. Entrance to the prison is free, but the ferry trip costs; however it includes a guided tour of the island with first person narration from former prisoners.
The Life
The City Lights Bookstore is a must see destination for literary tourists – and the main reason I’m going to San Francisco. City Lights have published books (including the Pocket Poets series) as well as selling literature. The company originally published Howl by Allen Ginsberg; the resulting obscenity trial revolutionised freedom of speech in the USA, enabling the publication of works hitherto deemed appallingly immoral. Nowadays, they put on a few readings a week and no holiday would be complete without attending one. It embodies the culture, passion and liberal politics that makes San Fran one of the best places to live in America. The Castro Fair is on every October, and well worth the trip by itself. If you have a further taste for culture, the Marrakech Magic Theater features a range of fantastic magic and comedy shows, complemented by a delicious menu and a selection of exotic cocktails.
Florida is a popular family travel destination. The most significant draw in the Sunshine State in Orlando. Not only is Orlando home to Walt Disney World and Universal Studios Resort, but it has a whole other world waiting to be discovered.
Here is what I suggest for an Orlando family vacation that packs your trip with fun and memorable activities. Orlando is known for its culinary scene; Keke’s Breakfast Cafe, a local chain, is a great introduction to how delicious food in Orlando is. Even though there are several shopping destinations in Orlando, I prefer shopping at the Orlando International Premium Outlets. People from all over the world enjoy discount shopping at Orlando International Premium Outlets’ 180 stores.
Say hello to Disney Springs! This is a place for family and is entirely free to visit. I-Drive 360, a super fast-paced, entertainment complex offers eye-catching attractions such as the Coca-Cola Orlando Eye, Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum, Arcade City, and Sea Life Aquarium. Pick your favorite and add these special attractions to your vacation.
If you are looking for another activity to fill your day then at Lake Eola, take a walk on the sidewalk that goes around the lovely park or rent swan-shaped paddle boats and get out on the lake. The central fountain is a stunning treat to the eyes.
Movies and television come to life at this action-packed theme park at Universal Studios Orlando feature seven distinct areas, and each one feels like a film set with rich detailing. Diagon Alley, part of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, is the most popular area here.
Since Orlando has a lot to offer so here is a small tip for all the mom’s: The Universal Studios Orlando allows the following items: bottled water; small snacks; any food required for medical purposes and medically-indicated nutritional supplements; any food for special dietary needs; baby food/baby formula; and soft-sided insulated bags no larger than 8.5 inches wide, 6 inches high and 6 inches deep. Full picnic lunches and food that requires heating or refrigeration are not permitted.
Hotel Recommendations
Hotels and resorts with connected suites are an ideal option if you’re travelling with younger children, allowing parents to enjoy some alone, so this is one of the best budget hotels in Orlando. We had the most comfortable stay with our kids at OYO Townhouse & Suites – Orlando. The place offers total assistance and premier comforts in the heart of Orlando. Orlando International Airport is the nearest airport to this hotel at just 8.6 miles. Being established in the hub of the city, all major attractions can be easily accessed from the hotel.
It remains a popular name for a cozy accommodation as it is situated 4.3 miles away from the Holy Land experience and 5.5 miles away from The Wheel at ICON Park Orlando. The OYO hotelgives perks such as 24×7 Accessible Kitchen, Kitchen, Room Service, Free Wifi, Iron, Wheelchair Accessible, Laundry service, Parking Facility, Reception, Daily Housekeeping, Bath Tub, Card Payment, Attached Bathroom, First Aid, Refrigerator, Mirror, CCTV Cameras around the premises. Most of the famous theme parks in Orlando are at a close distance to the hotels.
No question about it – cruise ship vacations are fun. You will struggle to find someone who does not want to do a cruise at least once in their lifetime. What however puts some people off and can be a blot to an otherwise unforgettable time is the formality and strict procedure that characterizes the days on board.
Specific meal times go hand in hand with a specific table throughout the cruise. You have to dress for the occasion – no wandering into the dining area in slippers, shorts and a t-shirt. One of the largest cruise companies in the world, Norwegian Cruise Lines (NCL) identified this inflexibility and decided to try out a new form of cruising where patrons were under no obligation to adhere to specific dining, accommodation and entertainment rules.
In a traditional cruise, what you pay for covers the major meals each at a specific time of the day. If you do not make it to the restaurant within meal times, you effectively forfeit the food you ticket paid for. In addition, each guest’s meals are limited to the same restaurant (even though there may be several other restaurants on board) and the same table throughout the cruise. Freestyle cruising on the other hand adopts a dine-as-you-please philosophy. You can eat anytime and in any restaurant on the ship.
In a conventional cruise, you must dress up for formal nights. There is no such rule in a freestyle cruise. You can be jeans and a t-shirt even if everyone else chooses to don a tuxedo or an evening dress. The third difference between traditional and freestyle cruising is in the variety of entertainment. Freestyle cruises will have multiple partying and clubbing spots with some open to guests throughout the day.
Whereas NCL have been the pioneers and the cruise line that is best associated with freestyle cruising, other shipping lines such as Princess Cruises are coming up with freestyle packages too.
Has travelling alone ever been in your bucket checklist? If sure, then discover your good vacation spot within the USA amongst the plethora of touristic locations it presents. Selecting the highest locations to journey solo appears to be tough, however we’ve bought you coated. Head out on your hassle-free enthralling journey to those 11 greatest locations to journey solo in USA:
Listing OF Greatest Locations To Journey Solo in USA
1: MIAMI, FLORIDA
Overlook your worry of travelling alone and got down to see among the finest cities to journey solo in USA. In your journey, you would possibly discover different solo travellers within the metropolis. The oh-so-lovely seashores of Miami let you have the most effective time of your life, all by your self. Get pleasure from these beautiful seaside hangouts all throughout the town:
Sightsee by way of combo tour packages, cruise on the Biscayne Bay, and revel in airboat and sea-plane rides over the town.
Get insights of the Cuban tradition and their delicacies on the Little Havana Meals and Strolling Tour in Miami.
Meet pleasant and playful Dolphins on the well-known Miami Seaquarium.
Behold superb Graffiti art work on a Golf Cart on the Artwork Basel Pageant on December weekends at Wynwood.
2: San Diego, California
This coastal metropolis is stuffed with enjoyable and frolic. The colourful and chirpy neighborhood, the attractive seashores, and the majestic pure panorama are a deal with to the eyes and coronary heart. When in San Diego, bask in these actions to raise your spirits: You may also prefer to learn 10 solo travel tips for beginners.
Extensively hike alongside Level Loma and sightsee whereas paragliding alongside the pink sandstone ravines on the Torrey Pines State Reserve.
Get tipsy & get pleasure from tasting new cuisines at San Diego’s vibrant neighborhood – Gaslamp Quarter.
Surf and sun-bathe at stunning seashores like Coronado and Mission Seaside.
See the ocean creatures on a ship/kayak on the La Jolla Cove, standing on the turquoise-coloured sea waters.
Go to the San Diego Maritime Museum together with whale-watching from the cruise.
Spot the rarest species like Pink Panda, Amur Leopards, and Californian condors on the San Diego Zoo.
3: San Francisco, California
The brilliant sunny metropolis is among the most secure cities for solo-travelling females. Benefit from the foggy mornings from hilltops and bay openings. The nice and cozy and welcoming locals all the time assist vacationers get comfy travelling safely within the metropolis. You possibly can go to these locations at San Francisco:
The Golden Gate Bridge at Marin Headlands is an ideal Instagram-worthy place with an internationally iconic background.
Tour the town by way of the pocket-friendly transports from Muni to the Bay Space Speedy Transport (BART).
Take a ferry experience to the very best safety jail of North America – Alcatraz Penitentiary at San Francisco.
Get pleasure from exploring the Asian Artwork Museum.
4: Washington D.C.
The capital metropolis of the US, named after its first President, George Washington, is among the most secure but spectacular metropolis to go to. Town’s tradition, heritage, and structure will hold you engaged all through. Even on this ultra-modern period, this metropolis retains its historic values in the most effective vogue. You possibly can go for an thrilling touring to those locations:
Go to the historic buildings just like the White Home, Washington Monument, and Congress Home, to call a number of.
See the Cherry blossoms in its full bloom on April from the Potomac Park and Tidal Basin.
On the Previous Put up Workplace Pavilion’s clock tower get an awe-struck night view of Washington’s cityscape. Additionally dine within the post-office pavilion, now refurbished as an opulent resort.
Science-geeks can get pleasure from an academic tour of the worldly innovations and creations on the Nationwide Geographic Museum.
5: BOULDER, COLORADO
For the out of doors thrill seekers, that is the proper vacation spot for you. Get pleasure from trekking, automotive experience or bike experience alongside the 45,000 acres open panorama. The awe-struck scenic magnificence will positive blow your thoughts. Positioned on the foot of the North American Rockies, it’s rightfully referred to as “the town nestled between the mountains and actuality”. Amongst a great deal of stuff obtainable, listed here are a spread of issues, you possibly can devour in:
Stroll down the traffic-free neighbourhood of Pearl Avenue and discover a good spot to eat alone.
Behold wealthy cultural heritage on the Museum of Boulder. You possibly can spend a fun-filled day trip at this place with out tad-bit bored.
Stroll round and purchase contemporary native harvest from the farmers on the Boulder’s Farmers Market. Open on Saturday mornings from April-November and Wednesday mornings from Could-October.
Hike to get picturesque views of the Rockies Mountains and Flatirons pink sandstones.
6: NEW YORK
The uber-chic atmosphere coupled with a wide range of enjoyable actions will revive your mundane life. Travelling solo and assembly totally different folks within the busy metropolitan will enhance your spirit and confidence. When in New York, head out to those locations to have an satisfying time alone:
Cruise from Manhattan to see the Statue of Liberty and the cityscape on each side.
Discover a new delicacies and revel in a delicious meal or get drunk on the bars and eating places.
Get pleasure from a pleasant metropolis tour wandering across the metropolis on bike or double-decker buses.
Behold the fantastic thing about trendy artwork on the Museum of Fashionable Artwork and discover intricate sculptures and work on the Frisk Assortment.
Get pleasure from on the Rockaways seaside viewing the sundown and dipping your toes within the cool sea waters.
7: SANTA FE, New Mexico
The second oldest metropolis of the US, with its Pueblo-style Spanish architectural heritage, is a must-visit for solo travellers. Even in case you aren’t an artwork lover, you’ll nonetheless be mesmerised by the even mixing of historical past with the quirky trendy tradition. You possibly can got down to discover a spread of issues on the capital of Mexico:
With over 80 artwork galleries within the Canyon Street, your boring day will come to life with a wide range of artworks.
Stroll across the Pecos Nationwide Park – ruins of the traditional Pecos Pueblo settlers, virtually a millennium outdated.
Journey on an enigmatic psychedelic expertise on the Meow Wolf Artwork Museum, visualising the summary gentle and artwork reveals.
Journey again to the 1800s, gown up in historic Mexican type and have a gala time on the Ranch of Swallows
8: MOAB, UTAH
For solo travellers looking for a good place full of outside actions, this small and desolate metropolis is a gem. The thrilling actions amidst the guts of the scenic pure panorama are an ideal deal with for self. Amongst an entire lot of issues to do, listed here are a number of enjoyable stuff so that you can get pleasure from in Moab:
Raft within the waters of the Colorado River viewing the enthralling pink sandstone rock canyons and benefit from the picturesque scenic view in your method.
Have a topsy-turvy enjoyable drive alongside the extraordinarily rugged terrain on the Hell’s Revenge 4*4 path.
Hike or climb on the Canyonlands Nationwide Park to see the pure arches, mesas, and buttes from the highest.
Camp with the breath-taking view of the scenic panorama, 600 metres above Colorado River on the Lifeless Horse Park State Park.
9: LAS VEGAS
If you’re on the lookout for a mind-freshening guilt-free journey then Vegas is your greatest place-to-be. Splurge into an all-luxurious solo journey to this high-spirited metropolis within the US. It has made it to the highest 11 locations to journey solo in USA for all the correct causes.
Free your fears and skydive on the coronary heart of the Grand Canyon viewing the astonishing panorama.
Sip on champagne on a scorching air balloon experience exploring the town from the highest.
Gamble and occasion all evening on the 24-hours open casinos and themed bars of the well-known Fremont Avenue.
E-book an evening city-tour to discover Bellagio’s dancing fountains and the artificially erupting volcanoes on the Mirage.
10: MAUI, HAWAII
Go to this tropical island at Hawai named because the sixth greatest journey vacation spot on the planet. The plush greenery throughout amidst the volcanic panorama is a spot for a surreal expertise. Set out for a pleasant journey right here having fun with at:
Haleakala Nationwide Park
Watch a fascinating dawn at Haleakala Nationwide Park, positioned above a dormant volcanic crater.
Get pleasure from an exhilarating and scenic tour of the Maui’s forest on a zipper line.
Go to the Maui Ocean Centre to have a style of the brilliant marine lifetime of Hawaii indoors.
Solar-bathe, snorkel, and usher in these tan traces at Napili and Wailea seashores and Waianapanapa State Park.
11: MICHIGAN
On the lookout for a has-it-all vacation spot? From all-natural scenic wonders to enjoyable and thrilling leisure areas, Michigan presents all of it. If you’re planning to journey solo to Michigan, then you definately ought to go to these locations:
Mackinac Islands
On the Mackinac Islands go for the Nice Turtle Kayak Tour or a city-wide carriage tour of the cultural panorama.
See the wind mills, bloomed tulips, museums of Holland and Kruizenza, and revel in Dutch tradition at Holland.
Tour the Sleeping Bear Lakeshore Heritage Path, kayak on Platte River and Loon Lake. Spend time on the Glen Haven village.
Behold the picturesque pure surroundings at Pictured Rocks Nationwide Lakeshore. Take pleasure in out of doors enjoyable by the Lake Superior.
Worrying in regards to the security of your pet whilst you journey? The professionals at Michigan’s Canine Watch centre will customise their pet-keeping companies suiting your wants and your canine’s wellbeing. Additionally, take a look at our information on Michigan Dog-Friendly Beaches.
Select your favorite vacation spot from the checklist. E-book your tickets, pack your rucksack, and got down to any of those greatest locations to Journey Solo in USA. I’m positive that it’ll be among the finest selections you’ll ever make and the expertise of a lifetime.
If your product or service can be given as a gift, a publicity windfall awaits at the end of the year – but you need to start working in June. Each December, media outlets cover the newest,the hottest and the most unusual Holiday gifts. The reporters assigned to develop these pieces typically depend on two sources of information:
1. Phone interviews with local store owners
– and –
2. Press materials that have been sent by publicity seekers.
Let’s deal with Point 1. Here’s a cool trick: In early November, write a letter to stores and major websites that carry your product. Remind them that they may be hearing from journalists soon about hot gift ideas, and request that they consider mentioning your product when that happens. Point out afew reasons why your product is the newest, coolest, best or whatever. Ask the vendor to drop you an e-mail or give you acall if a story results that mentions your product.
Now, on to old-fashioned publicity. When to contact the media depends on the publication or program’s lead time (how far in advance of publication or airing the material is developed). Magazines like Woman’s Day have a lead time up to six months, so get materials to them now. Newspapers have a lead time as short as a week for feature material, so send materials in November. In between are wire services, medium-lead magazines, “in-flight”magazines and others. To learn the lead time of a particular media outlet, call the editorial department. If that doesn’t work, try the advertising department.
What you send should be kept simple — a press release about your product/service, a pitch letter explaining why it’s such a great gift idea, and, if applicable, a disk with color product photos.See our articles “How to Write a Great Pitch Letter” for more details.
As you craft the materials, think about where your product/service fits. Based on its nature, cost, rarity or usefulness, it may work with a variety of typical Christmas Gift stories such as: Great Stocking Stuffer Ideas, Gifts for Teenagers, Gifts for the Person Who Has It All, Gifts for Executives, Gifts that Relax, etc. By suggesting a category for your product, rather than simply stating “Here’s a product that would make a nice holiday gift”, you’re making yourself stand out– and maybe even giving the journalist an idea for a story angle that he or she wouldn’t have thought about otherwise. Either way, your chances of getting coverage are greatly improved.
The Thanksgiving leftovers have all been eaten and the gift-buying season has shifted into high gear. Remain calm and prepare yourself for the most jam-packed month in the calendar year. There are a small percentage of you who may actually have completed your to-do list long before everyone else. (If this is you, then kick back and relax.) The rest of you needn’t despair! Just read on for the essential steps in holiday preparation. The key to preparing yourself for all the craziness is a well thought out plan. Believe it or not, the simple act of putting it down on paper can give you some peace. I am not sure why seeing my obligations and tasks in black and white are more calming than letting them race through my mind, but it really works.
During December, the holiday plan that I depend on is divided into four separate sections or categories. They are:
– Cards
– Gifts
– Social/Community Obligations
– Decorating
(Keep an extra copy of your gift list in the car, because you never know where your daily travels will take you.)
Holiday Cards
This year, if you have not already, transfer all of your names and addresses from your address book to a word processing file so you can easily print labels. My recommendation is to use clear labels, because they go with any choice of envelope color. Tip: if you are mailing over-sized envelopes, go to the post office early to have a sample weighed so you can purchase the necessary postage. (Don’t forget about adding those new friends and purging the ones that drive you crazy. I especially like to purge those who can only talk about themselves and their stuff, how boring!!)
Presents, presents, and more presents
Make a list of all the people that are going to be the recipients of your hard work. To minimize some effort, consider different options. If individuals are in the same household, consider a group gift. If you have children to buy for and their parents don’t have any suggestions (because Tommy and Susie have every possible toy out there), offer to pay for a special activity or a couple of lessons of their choice. Last year my parents picked up riding lessons for our daughter and it was a great gift for all. Our daughter loved it, my husband did not have to open his wallet, and I did not have house more “stuff”.
Social and Community Obligations
‘Tis the season to be merry and party ? but my suggestion is not to overdo it. Our daily routines are so overscheduled anyway that the extra commitments can make it difficult to juggle everything. Attend the parties and social gatherings that are truly important to you and politely decline the rest. (Sorry, but this does not apply to family functions!). The season is too short and busy to spend an evening watching the clock.
Community or charitable contributions are important during the holiday season. There are many people in your community that are less fortunate, so as a family or as an individual make some extra time for those in need. There are many local organizations that would be happy to guide you as to what is needed. I believe this is a wonderful opportunity for people to make a difference and experience the true holiday spirit.
Indoor/Outdoor Decorating
Last, but not least, make two separate plans for attacking decorating: one for indoors and the other for outdoors; and remember this does not need to be accomplished in one day. My husband and I allow significant downtime between the two tasks. Decorating should be a fun family event and if you get stressed out and exhausted the enjoyment will disappear.
Pick a theme for your outdoor display: all out, Clark Griswold-style or a more elegant approach, such as a simple wreath with a spotlight on your front door. Anything goes, so make it a reflection of how you and your family celebrate the holidays. Have fun with the indoor decorating and remember to take a quick inventory of what you have so there is no duplication. Light a fire and put on your favorite CD and let the decorating begin.
Good luck, relax, check those lists twice and remember what the season is really about.
Whether you are looking for an affordable way to celebrate your anniversary or just want to give your partner a romantic experience, a staycation special dinner is a good option. There is no need to spend thousands of dollars because with creativity, you and your partner can have that romantic getaway feel on your own backyard. There are many things you can do to make it extra special.
A romantic staycation is never complete without a candlelight dinner. Candles have a great way of setting a mood. Maybe it is our primitive fire loving natures or perhaps it is the nice scents of some of the more expensive candles. Whatever it may be, make sure you don’t set the house on fire. Be safe, but the more candles the better.
If both of you are at home, consider preparing the food together. Even if only one of you has culinary skills, preparing the ingredients is a fun way to enjoy each other’s company. It also ensures you finish preparing the food faster. Cook foods that you enjoyed on your previous vacation, especially those that you had on your trip abroad. Eating a delicious foreign cuisine will make you feel that you are in some other places in the world. Otherwise, if you have not been abroad, then try cooking local dishes from where your partner or their family is from. Old family recipes are a great treasure trove of bringing up cultural fun and interesting conversations. Make sure you’ve done your research before because you might need special ingredients that you don’t have readily available in the pantry.
The romantic candlelight dinner is just the icing of the cake. It is the time you spend together while preparing the dinner that make your staycation extra special. There is no need to do things perfectly; the important thing is you are able to share laughter and light-hearted conversation. It will strengthen your bond, and serve as a reminder of why you adore each other.
Pro-tip: If you are feeling very adventurous…try to do all of this outdoors.
If you try to set up an outdoor candlelight ambiance you will really impress your partner. Weather permitting, you could take old blankets and set up a bedouin tent scene. Even if you’ve ordered in take out it will seem so amazing because of the ambiance. WORD OF WARNING: Do NOT set the house on fire! Make sure if you are setting up the blankets that you are not at risk of setting them ablaze. It’s best to have a bucket of water or fire extinguisher ready. Use your brain, that’s why it’s a pro-tip.
Who said traveling has to be very drab and boring? That you cannot put your best foot (boot) forward as you discover new things around the world. As Coco Chanel said “Everyday is a fashion show and the world is your runway!”
Weather Factor
It is very important to checkout the weather in your destination country before you pack your bags and go there, this helps you easily plan your wardrobe for the rest of your journey. You will not have to shop for different outfits when you reach your destination and you packed for the wrong weather.
Packing
After getting done with the weather, of course you head straight to the packing, the moment you know what you need especially if you are going to a sunny place. Everything you carry has to be summer appropriate. Start with packing very light clothing such as cotton, chiffon and some denim just incase you get to areas where you do not have to show so much skin.
Makeup Kit and Skin Exfoliators
Going on vacation does not mean you leave everything to go wild, you have to keep that face still radiant; pack the right makeup for your destination at least just enough to outline all that beauty and still keep you looking fresh. Make sure you have a good exfoliator and shaving kit that is good for your skin type that will make showing off those legs even more fun. Do not forget wipes; they are very essential for hot days and makeup removal, stay fresh.
Shoes and More Shoes
All the pretty shoes you have that make you feel like Cinderella heading for a ball should be packed for vacation, after all a vacation is supposed to bring you back that feel-good element. Make sure you pack for the right weather with the right footwear, feel good and enjoy that holiday with your best foot forward.
Strenuous Activity
You have to go sightseeing when on vacation, no one stays cooped up in the hotel just watching TV and ordering room service; you jump into it, take life by the plums and see what you never expected to see. So why shouldn’t you look your very best as you go mountain climbing or take on that long jungle trail; pick up those beautiful shorts, leggings and pretty sneakers and walk into it with as much positivity as you can. Keep away from wearing dresses or skirts for such activities since they get in the way.
Sunscreen Glasses and Hats
Did you know that regular sunscreen was not made for your face? It clogs up the pores, so be sure to get one that is specifically made for your face such as the En Garde from Votre Vu (choose one for your skin type and color). The biggest essential of all are sunglasses. Sunny places need pretty bright colored aviator glasses and a huge beautiful floppy hat to frame your face in the heat.
Travel Bags
When packing for your journey, avoid bulky luggage because it makes it hard for transition if you are traveling alone; try as much as you can to fit everything you need in two bags and keep the toiletries in your hand luggage for emergencies. Even better, you can tag your bags with cute bright unique luggage tags that can help you easily identify your belongings.
Vacation Shopping
Considering you might have to shop every once in awhile when at your destination, plan for how much you have to set aside for that wee shopping you might end up indulging into. Do not go to the chain stores, pass by the flea markets because they have unique things you might love and put your bargaining skills on display but limit yourself to a certain budget; just incase you see too many pieces that might leave you breathless.
