Well this has been done for awhile, but sitting covered up because we’re still working out some bugs. Soon this will be perfect! Come see us. Also, Johnathan Richman is coming back two days before Thanksgiving. How rad! You can buy tickets to see him, or any of our other ticketed shows on our Frontgate Tickets page!

We offer full service catering out of our kitchen in West Nashville. Please contact us for more information or any questions. We’ll get back to you ASAP! Thanks

Getting a degree that can allow you to have a teaching career in the future is now easier than ever before, due to there being plenty of reputable universities that now offer an online master’s in education.

Doing your master’s in education online rather than at a physical college campus means you can fit study around your life – including traveling. Your travel experiences can teach you a lot of things, which will help make you a better educator in a lot of ways, so being able to do this while you are attaining your master’s in education can be a really good thing. Naturally though, it does take some discipline to stay focused on your studies when adventure is beckoning.

Here are some ways to make sure you fit in your study and come back from your travels both inspired and qualified for your new career!

• Find Your ‘Dead Time’ And Use It

All travel does involve some ‘dead time’ – that is, time spent on planes or trains or buses, time spent waiting for transport, and time at the hotel when you don’t really have any plans. Most people kill this time with mobile games, books or media, but if you can identify when it is going to occur and equip yourself, you can use it to study very easily. Even without an internet connection, for example on a long-haul flight, you can print off some materials from your education course to review. This will not only allow you to get your study done during time you’d otherwise not be doing anything interesting anyway, but will also stop you getting bored!

• Schedule in Study Appointments

Of course, you won’t be able to complete all of your studies just using time spent waiting around at airports or on trains, so you do need a strategy to ensure you put in enough work when you’re are at a destination. An approach many people find useful for this is to schedule in your study sessions as if they are social engagements or appointments you would never miss. If you know that you need to study for three hours tonight, then this makes it easier to say no if your new friend invites you out for drinks, but also allows you to create a window where, once it’s finished, you can do other things.

• Use the Community on Your Course for Support

Online degrees can have pretty cool student communities you can chat to online, and using these can help you feel less like you are missing out on meeting people and socializing when you are studying. Make as much use of them as you can and you’ll enjoy studying while you are traveling a lot more.

Traveling and studying at the same time can be a really great idea, but you do need to plan ahead and make sure you don’t get side tracked too often in the pursuit of your degree in education while you are exploring!

One question that many RV owners ask is whether they should set up a solar panel system for their RV. Since getting it all set up can be quite expensive, the long-term savings need to justify going through with it.

Start-Up Cost vs. Long-Term Savings

A reliable solar set-up can cost thousands of dollars, but if it ends up saving you just $5 to $10 a day it’ll pay for itself at some point in the future. The big question is when will that be and how much can it save for you each year after it’s paid for itself.

Of course, if you rent an RV with Outdoorsy you don’t have to worry about investing in solar power at all. Just sayin’!

How Do You Use Your RV?

Whether solar power will make sense for you depends greatly on how you use your RV. The more you use it, the more sense it makes and the faster it will pay itself off. Let’s take a look at some of the scenarios and how solar fits in:

The Occasional Weekend –  If you only use your RV on vacation or on an occasional weekend you probably won’t benefit greatly from going the solar route. It will likely just be a novelty item that you can show your friends, but won’t put money back in your pocket or lower your expenses over time.

All Day, Every Day –  If you are a full-time RV user you will likely benefit from solar power. Just make sure that you have a big enough panel to power the things you use the most. And if you can’t replace all of the electricity that you use with solar power you will at least be taking a good chunk out of it.

Off the Grid – Boondocking it is where solar power makes the most sense. When you are out in the middle of nowhere with no ability to hook your RV up to electricity you will need to provide your own supply. At this point it isn’t a matter of whether solar makes financial sense, it often means the difference between being able to live where you want and how you want.

How Long Until You Break Even?

Most potential solar power investors want to know when their break even point will be, that magical time when the solar power system is completely paid for and any electricity it generates is like money in the bank. That calculation will vary from person to person, and depends on how much you initially spend on your system and how much you use it.

How Much Value Do You Place on Self-Reliance?

If you love the idea of being out in the wilderness and not worrying about running out of electricity if you run into a string of cloudy or rainy days, a solar system will probably benefit you a lot. If you’re just considering it because you saw someone with a really cool set-up and now you want one, it’s best to hold off for until you really need it.

As solar power becomes more and more popular, the costs will come down and it will reach a tipping point where everyone has it, and they come standard. Until then, calculate your break even point and determine if the future monthly savings make it a wise investment.

Starting from the Battleship Row of Pearl Harbor fame to the warm and inviting sands of Waikiki Beach, Hawaii allures holidaymakers to its shores in vast numbers. You can look for houses for rent in Hawaii, or travel around. Apart from admiring the natural beauty of Hawaii, there is so much to experience and explore in this tropical paradise, that you are bound to be mesmerized on this amazing vacation. So irrespective of whether you intend to just rejuvenate, or simply let the sand run under your feet, this exclusive itinerary and guide to Hawaii will introduce you to the must see gems of this popular destination.

Start with Honolulu

Your dream trip commences immediately upon arrival at Oahu, where a traditional Polynesian welcome awaits you. After adequate rest, take a tour of the Pearl Harbor Memorial, dedicated to the 1102 brave men who laid down their lives in the infamous Japanese attack. A narration of the dramatic air raid of December 7, 1941, with a visit to the USS Arizona and the battleship USS Missouri culminates a morning well spent.

The art lovers can opt for an excursion to the Polynesian Cultural Center to witness an exclusive performance by over a hundred artists. Most of the performers come from the different island they represent giving the center a degree of authenticity. Other sights include the Punchbowl National Cemetery, Chinatown, the Royal Palace and the statue of Kamehameha the Great.

The north shore of Oahu is basically a region which lies between Ka’ena Point in west Oahu and Kahuku point in east Oahu. The north shore is a haven for surfers, who throng here in the winter season, to ride some of the largest waves to be found anywhere else. Some important surfing places are Waimea beach, Sunset beach and Ehukai beach. 

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Fly down to Hilo on the east coast and drive down to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and visit the active volcanic crater of Mt Kilauea, rising 4,090 feet above sea level. Witness steaming smoke pits and lava flows in this fiery wonderland. While hot lava flows down the sides of the mountain, there are many areas of the road covered by dry lava, displaying a stark reminder of nature’s forces.

Kona

The Kona Coffee Living History Farm is an active macadamia and coffee producing farm, which imparts rich knowledge about the Kona coffee industry and their pioneers. Kona is an ideal place to savor traditional Hawaii specialties like poi and learn the hula. Helicopter flights and excursions to Kealakekua Bay for snorkeling are highly recommended.

Maui

There is so much physical activities for those who want to stay fit traveling, but there is also a lot of sights to relax and see. The Valley island of Maui, can be accessed by an early morning flight from Kona. Take a trip to the dense green ‘Iao Valley to explore the spectacular volcanic spire, ‘Ioa Needle. Activities abound in this region which can include the incredible humpback whale migration during the season. Another option is taking the “ road to hana”, an impressive drive covering 54 bridges and plenty of waterfalls. The road runs from Pa’ia to the remote township of Hana.

No trip to Maui is deemed complete without a visit to the iconic Haleakala National Park to see the Haleakala crater, a designated International Biosphere Reserve, standing at 10,000 feet. Views from the summit exhibit the dormant crater, apart from stunning visuals at sunrise of the entire island.

The Maui Ocean Theatre affords unforgettable views of marine animals like sharks, stingrays, turtles and other creatures which live below the surface of the sea. The glass tunnel provides great close ups of this interesting sea life.

Waikiki Beach

This is undoubtedly the major attraction of Hawaii, offering an exquisite ocean facing beach in the suburb of Honolulu. Waikiki beach is easily accessible and offers all modern amenities and entertainment of a cosmopolitan city. The extinct volcanic crater of the Diamond Head volcano lies at one end of this crescent shaped sun drenched beach.

The name Waikiki actually means ‘spouting water’ and was patronised at one time only by the royal families. Only after the opening of the first premier hotel in 1901, did Waikiki threw its doors open to foreign visitors. Today Waikiki enjoys the distinction of being the most popular vacation destination in the world.

Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park

This scenic coastline on Kauai is said to be one of the most beautiful spot on earth. Apart from  being a picturesque place, the Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park is steeped in Hawaiian history and culture. An abundance of flora and fauna, natural food resources and fresh water supplied though rivers and waterfalls has made Na Pali an attractive sightseeing spot.

Access to this amazing place is only by boat and visitors have the luxury of experiencing this magical place in an ocean vessel. Tourists can also enjoy snorkeling tours and sunset dinner cruises, through a number of agencies specialising in the same.

Travel tips

A visit to Hawaii requires an average level of fitness as most tours involve climbing stairs or walking fair distances, sometimes over uneven surfaces. The highest point on the tour can be as high as 13,000 feet  above sea level. Hawaii happens to be five hours behind EST, or Eastern Standard Time. The electricity in use runs on 120 volts, while the currency in use is the US dollar.

Irrespective of whether you are a resident of Hawaii or a first timer planning a visit to this island paradise, there are innumerable wonderful locations to be experienced in Hawaii. Though this short list can’t do enough justice to see these islands in their entirety, it will surely make your sojourn much more easy.

Exploring Canada

Canada is a beautiful country that houses people of all cultures, races and nationalities. In addition to being home to such great diversity and color, the country also promises many interesting sites for those who wish to explore on their own, adventure, food and even the Canadian Multilotto website.

Visiting Canada for the first time on a strict schedule may prevent you from exploring what it has in store. Therefore, we shall guide you through the top sights to see in Canada so you make the most of your first trip.

1) Niagara Falls:

Niagara Falls is among the top rated tourist attraction sites in the world. Anyone who has been to Canada has definitely seen the falls that are only an hour’s drive from Toronto. The most amusing thing about Niagara Falls is the breathtaking view of the 57-meters deep falls as seen from the edge.

Like other Canadian attractions, it is a family-friendly spot and due to the heroic stunts of daredevils, the surrounding town is working on developing a festival-like atmosphere that is another attraction on its own.

2) CN tower, Toronto

Keeping close to Toronto is the iconic CN Tower erected at the shore of Lake Ontario. This tower is among the tallest standing structures in the world and offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding city, especially when viewed from the revolving restaurant built within the tower.

It is indeed difficult to miss sight of the gigantic CN Tower from any part of Canada’s biggest city. The tower also serves as a spectacular sight that defines the city’s night life because immediately the sun goes down, the tower begins sparkling in an array of lights that keep the city vibrant throughout the night.

3) Old Quebec

The territory of old Quebec constitutes the Upper and Lower Town of Quebec. It is a breathtaking beautiful sight with colorful spread of architecture. Old Quebec is also recognized as a heritage under UNESCO World heritage sites. Apart from the colorful view, you will find yourself enjoying all kinds of shops, out-door diners, museums and all kinds of festivals.

One of the main attractions of upper town is the Château Frontenac, a grand hotel that was designated in 1980 as the National Historic site of Canada. Take advantage of this most photographed hotel in the world to take some nice shots that will serve as a reminder of your trip here.

4) Victoria’s Inner Harbor

Victoria’s Inner Harbor is a beautifully developed area in Victoria that is totally unlike the other waterfronts across Canada. Inner Harbor is an ideal place to take a leisurely stroll, relax, dine and enjoy the variety of street performers.

The harbor is most lively and vibrant in summers and the most picturesque aspect of this sight is the magnificent and historic hotel in the background. Empress Hotel that once served Kings and Queens with grandeur is a highlight for visitors coming to Victoria, who can also enjoy traditional high tea served at the hotel.

5) Vancouver’s Stanley Park

If you happen to be in Vancouver, be sure not to miss the Stanley Park that is situated on a peninsula and surrounded on one side by the ocean, and by huge red cedar and Douglas fir trees on the other. It is a spot to enjoy the view of city and sea, with sights such as an aquarium, the Beverly Lake and a rose garden located within the park. Vancouver will definitely make you want to get outside and you can totally get a good travel workout while exploring the city.

Another great attraction in Stanley Park, are the totem poles in one part, some of which had been erected almost a 100 years ago.

If you’re bringing your kids to New York City with you, you’re probably wondering what the best NYC attractions for kids are. Don’t worry – there are dozens of exciting things you can do with your kids during your visit. With some of the most beautiful family-friendly urban attractions, NYC is one of the best places to travel with your kids.

Here are our top kids’ attractions in NYC:

Broadway Shows

Broadway performances are always something to behold. The shows are a must-visit for visitors with kids. Let your kids enjoy the magnificent shows and classics like Annie, The Lion King and Cinderella, or if you and your kids want a little more action, there’s Spiderman and Newsies.

The thrills in Broadway show performances leave a lasting impression on your kids long after watching the shows. Other than enjoying Broadway performances, hop onto New York City bus tours and enjoy the dazzling lights of Broadway’s theater district and Times Square with your kids.

FAO Schwarz Toy Store

Every kid deserves to be taken to a legendary toy world. Visit the FAO Schwarz and let your kids enjoy a selection of high-end toys, dolls, games and life-sized stuffed animals. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself amazed by what’s on offer in the famous toy store as your kids are. The massive displays of toys and kid games are simply inspiring.

Central Park

With its vast 843 acres of land, Central Park is NYC’s largest green space and the ideal place to take your kids for all kinds of activities from biking to sightseeing. The vast park has amazing scenery and gives your kids an opportunity to explore vast green spaces. You can even grab some food and just picnic in the park while enjoying play time with your kids.

There are 21 playgrounds spread throughout the park. You can also enjoy a walking or a biking tour together as a family or check out the various summer events and theater performances held in the park. There are other New York City Parks that you can also visit, but Central Park tops the list.  

Summer Baseball

If your kids love baseball, take them to a ballgame at the Yankee Stadium or Citi Field. With the warm weather of summer, there is no better way to interact with your kids than out there at a baseball game. Kids will love engaging in sports they love or even watching and cheering on a favorite team, so don’t hesitate to show them a great time.

The Bronx Zoo

The Bronx Zoo is the world’s largest urban zoo, with over 600 species of animals from different parts of the world. The zoo has some unique exhibits like the Tiger Mountain, the Wild Asia Monorail, the Congo Gorilla Forest and the newly added Madagascar. Visiting a zoo always brings lots of excitement for kids, so let them know you’re doing it for them.

American Museum of Natural History

If you’re looking for historical attractions for the whole family, the American Museum of Natural History is the place to visit. With wonders of the past, your kids will be fascinated by history’s secrets and discoveries. The museum is vast, with 27 connected buildings and 45 exhibition halls of both permanent and limited edition historical exhibits like the popular dinosaur skeleton.

The New York Aquarium

As the only major aquarium in New York City, this is another must visit attraction for kids. Located on Coney Island, the aquarium offers lots of fun attractions like sea lion entertainment shows and outdoor touch pools. A visit here offers lots of activities to engage in for all day fun and a unique experience for you and your kids.

Conclusion

More than 60 million tourists visited New York in 2016. There is a reason why so many come to visit the city – because of its great attractions like the Statue of Liberty, Broadway Shows, the Empire State Building and of course the family-friendly attractions mentioned above.

Given the choice to have a quality apartment for your next vacation, you will always prefer a luxury apartment. They might sound expensive due to the term luxury, but you will be getting your money’s worth. Besides, there are a lot of luxury apartments that are actually cheaper compared to 5-star hotels. Here are some more reasons for choosing this type of apartment over other accommodation options.

Better hospitality

With luxury apartments, you will be treated like a member of the family. You won’t feel as if you are just someone who is renting a room for a few days. You will get unbelievable amenities like a swimming pool, biking trails and a fitness gym where you can still maintain your daily workout routine. They are also considered top-of-the-line facilities that will make your experience even better.

Aside from the facilities, you will also get a housekeeping service. If you are staying over a longer period, you will always go home to a clean and comfortable apartment after travelling. You can also call for help from the front desk if there are issues that they should attend to.

Quality experience

Hotel rooms look amazing. They are tastefully decorated. They have quality facilities available. The only problem is that they tend to have a smaller space. It easily feels like you are just a temporary occupant and you will soon be excited to leave. For luxury apartments, you will surely be enticed to stay.

To begin with, there is ample space for you and the entire family. You can rent an apartment with several bedrooms and a living room. You can even have a kitchen where you can cook for the family, especially if you are tired of eating out. You also have a terrace which provides you with a better view of the city.

Security is guaranteed

Not only hotels can provide quality security services. Luxury apartments can also provide the same thing. There are security cameras all over the place and people looking at the footage to check for potential crimes.

There are security personnel moving around the place to check if there are intruders or people who are not supposed to be inside the building. Only those who have access to the building can enter. Even the specific floor where you are staying can only be accessed by people who also have apartments on the same floor as you. Given the quality of security services available, you will feel more confident bringing your entire family.

In the end, you can safely say that luxury apartments are more practical. You get the same services as in a hotel, or even more. There are times during the year when the rates are lower. If you are staying longer, the rate per night also drops.

Check out apartments in Edinburgh and find out which one can provide everything that you need within the price range that you can afford.

One of the biggest concerns a lot of people have is being robbed while they’re traveling in a foreign country. Of course, you can be robbed while you’re in your own hometown, but at least then you know where to turn and what to do.

When you’re abroad, it can be much more stressful, and you may not even know what to do. You may feel stuck or trapped, but if you proactively know what to do if this situation arises, you can handle things calmly and efficiently.

Of course, you will want to let local law enforcement officials know first and foremost. That’s important not because they’re going to be able to do much about it, but because you will need a police report if you’re going to file an insurance claim. Beyond that what should you do?

Let Your Family Know You Need Money

Even if you let the police know you’ve been robbed, chances are they’re not going to be able to do much about it. You will need money, so contact your family and ask them to send you money to make it until your flight leaves.

To do pretty much anything, including getting a new passport, you’re going to need money. You also need to call and cancel your credit cards if they’ve been stolen.

As a side note, in addition to canceling your cards, make sure you cancel your phone if you had one.

Go To the U.S. Embassy

If you’ve been robbed and that includes your passport, go to the U.S. embassy immediately. When you’re at the embassy, you can speak with them about what to do as far as your lost passport.

Embassies can issue what are called emergency passports, and they can be expensive (so keep that in mind when your family or friends send you money), but they take just a few hours to get in many cases.

These passports will usually last around a year, and then once you get back to the U.S., you can exchange it and get a replacement passport for no additional fee.

Contact Your Travel Insurance Company Immediately

First, if you’re traveling abroad, it’s going to be worth it to have travel insurance. It really is. Then, if you have travel insurance and you’re robbed, make sure you contact the company as soon as you’ve reported the robbery to the authorities, contacted your family and gone to the embassy.

They will let you know the documents you will need for reimbursements, and it’s much easier to get those things while you’re still in the country as opposed to trying to get these items later.

It takes some time for reimbursements, but starting sooner rather than later is valuable.

Finally, when you’re robbed, and you’re in a foreign country, it can seem extremely scary, but the worst thing you can do is panic or waste time thinking you’re somehow going to get your money and valuables back. You have to stay calm and start working right away to remedy the situation under the assumption that you’re not getting your items back.

Traveling abroad is an adventurous time for the whole family when it is planned correctly. If you have made the decision to live abroad even more planning is required; your child’s education being one of the most important and challenging issues you will face.

Being educated overseas will be a completely different experience for your child than schooling in the United States. When living abroad, your child will be exposed to many different cultures, languages, and methods of teaching that they would not experience had they remained on American soil.

While diversity and culture are certainly wonderful things, there are some serious considerations before deciding upon the best school for your child.

Here are a few tips:

Research

Researching schools is best begun by mapping out which educational qualities are most important for you and your family.

Which do you prefer as the primary language? Will you be staying overseas for the long or short-term? Are you looking for a similar curriculum to the one your child is accustomed to, or do you plan to fully immerse them into the local environment?

Once you know which qualities are most important, the internet can help you. Visit places like an expat forum to connect with other families also traveling abroad. Here you can find answers to many of the questions you’re sure to have.

What to look out for

Along with the list of educational qualities you need to match, you should also look for things like accreditation, emphasis on learning additional languages, access to technology, extracurricular programs, and the school’s values and reputation as a whole.

If you get the chance to visit a school before deciding, do so! Take a look around. Do the students seem happy? Are teachers interacting with kids outside of the classroom? Keep your eyes and ears open as you walk around the school grounds; you should be able to get an accurate feel for the school as you do so.

Educational options

As when on American soil, there will be many educational avenues to consider when abroad.

Local schools can be an excellent choice for those relocating more permanently. Most local schools conduct their classes in the local language. For children that do not speak the language, that can be a major setback. For those seeking immersion within a new environment, the benefits of attending a local school will outweigh its initial challenges. Keep in mind, however, that some qualifications gained at local schools might not be recognized elsewhere when it comes to gaining entry to colleges and universities.

For the reasons outlined above international schools are a very popular choice among expat families. A tremendous benefit when attending an international school is that they follow an internationally recognized curriculum. That means that if your child should attend another such school elsewhere, they would be studying the same curriculum as they had in the establishment they previously attended. Diplomas earned in such schools are also recognized by colleges and universities around the globe.

American international schools follow an American curriculum. Stamford American’s AERO and Common Core Plus framework, is an excellent program structured to prepare children for ultimate academic success through their International Baccalaureate Diploma Program.

Homeschooling is another option for families that are not planning to stay overseas for an extended period. Taking on your child’s educational needs while away from home can help ease the upheaval of switching from school to school in a short period of time.

Traveling abroad is certainly exciting, and with proper planning for both your stay overseas and your travel there, it is sure to be a wonderful chapter in your family’s lives. While your schooling options may seem overwhelming, keep in mind that your best barometer is your child. Wherever they are happiest, they will learn best.

So, you are heading to Penang this year for vacation? Well, congratulate yourself for making an excellent choice! However, if this is your first trip to Penang, you must know how to maximize your Penang travel experience and discover and enjoy everything about the wonderful city. It can be a bit confusing if going to Penang for the first time. You would have little clue as to what attractions to explore and which hotel in Penang to book. While it is perfectly okay to make a couple of mistakes as a first timer, it is always better to go a little more prepared beforehand. Read on to get some good advice and avoid the common mistakes made to enjoy a much fuller and happier vacation.

When to visit Penang?
A lot will rely on what you are interested to see and the weather. January to February, are the hottest months while the rest of the year enjoys the comfortable climate and lots of rains. If you are interested in celebrations such as Thaipusam, Chinese New Year, then be there in January and February. As Penang remains humid all year long, bring summer clothes.

When to stay in Penang?
Most visitors prefer to go to Georgetown, that is located on the northeast tip of Penang island. The backpackers prefer Chulia Street that is known to boast of a large number of travel agencies and bars. Browse hotel booking websites to take advantage of great deals and make a booking for a comfortable and affordable stay. There are flophouses, guesthouses and cheap private rooms along with luxury 5-star hotels.

Moving around in Penang
The traditional way to arrive in Penang is by the car and pedestrian ferry. When moving around, one can pick from a range of transportation such as cars rental, buses, taxi, trishaw or even motorcycle. Depending on your budget and your choice, the cars and taxis are seen to be more suitable, especially if you have to travel a little distance to explore the hidden gems of Penang.

What to do and see in Penang
There are plenty of must-see attractions that should be there on your itinerary. Here is a handpicked selection that covers the essence of the island.

• A visit to Penang Hill offers a welcome break from the heat below. Make it to the top onboard the funicular train to enjoy breathtaking views of the whole island.
• Kek Lok Si Temple is the largest Buddhist temple and stands on top of a hill. Enjoy looking at the beautifully-landscaped gardens and sacred temples made in Chinese and Burmese styles.
• Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion represents the Chinese architecture from the 18th and 19th-century. Explore its granite courtyards, mansions and rooms when taking those guided tours.
• It is a must to spend a few hours at Escape Adventureland Penang, which is a remarkable park specializing in zip-lining and other fun activities such as free fall and inner-tube slide plus a tree rope swing.
• Head for the fine beaches of Batu Ferringhi which are amongst the most popular Penang travel destinations. Gear up for various water sports like water-scouter riding, jet-skiing. Para-sailing and Banana Boating.
• Your Penang travel experience would not be complete without a good bowl of fried Fried Koay Teow and Assam Laksa. It is moist to try the Penang street food.
• Don’t leave without indulging in some shopping. The areas to explore are Penang Times Square, Straits Quay, Gurney Plaza, Queensbay Mall and First Avenue.
• End your trip with a visit to the famous Batu Ferringhi night market. Shop for souvenirs and enjoy great food. It is indeed one of the most popular activity in Penang.

One can get lost in the wonderland that is Australia. Whether you are headed to one of its quaint port towns, headed out to the country, or enjoying the diverse, eclectic atmosphere of Australia’s major cities, this country has something for everyone. While Sydney and Melbourne are some of the more popular destinations, do not miss out on a great holiday because there are so many wonderful places to visit.

In fact, some of Australia’s best destinations are some of the most underappreciated ones as well, and you do not have to let expense get in your way, either. With a number of travel sites and budget-friendly companies, including Latitude travel loans, you can fund your next trip to the land down under. Australia offers would-be travellers the opportunity to fund their excursion on any dime.

Continue reading below for more information on visiting some of Australia’s most underappreciated locations.

Adelaide

For those who want a change of a scenery but are not into the hullabaloo that comes with visiting most seaside cities, you should look to Adelaide for a lighter version of metropolis mania. While it does not have the skyline of Melbourne or Sydney, the seaside town is a thriving cultural and entertainment hub not to mention the fun that can be had visiting one of the city’s parks or zoo. After a day of diversion, you can find yourself dining or imbibing in one of Adelaide’s fine establishments.

Burleigh Heads

Forget the crowded cities that usually are a draw for tourists, Burleigh Heads is one of the country’s most budget-friendly destinations. The locale offers travellers, young and old, the chance to eat, drink, and enjoy the natural elements and all on a dime. Listed as number 9 on Forbes list of budget-friendly destinations, those wanting to visit a place that offers the beach and the usual diversions can count on Burleigh Heads as the perfect place for respite.

Darwin

The more subdued Darwin is the perfect place for vacationers looking to unwind. Here, you can spend your days strolling through the open-air markets and trying your hand at bargaining. At night, you can take in the sunset while watching the waves caress the shore. If you are seeking more adventure, you can trek through the rainforest or outback to learn about the Aborigines, spend time fishing or take a cruise. Not your typically party town, Darwin offers those on-the-go types something from the minute they set foot in the city to the minute they leave.

Broome

One of Australia’s off-the-radar destinations, Broome has become popular with backpackers who just want to enjoy the town’s quiet atmosphere and majestic scenery. If not setting off on a hiking trip, you can visit Town Beach to see the Staircase to the Moon and the more famous dinosaur prints. If you are not an adventurous type, you can also spend the day shopping for pink diamonds and pearls, bird watching or renting a dune buggy. Broome, while not your typical touristy spot, can satisfy your taste for sport and respite.

Cairns

Cairns, Australia is a popular spot for those who love water sports. As the main gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, this locale is a prime location for those who snorkel, dive, sail, and love everything water-related to the point they should sprout fins themselves. If you are a foodie’s foodie, you’ll find that Cairns offers travellers a diverse range of dining options. Yes, this is one of those places where you can also enjoy a great band in one of the town’s after-hours establishments.

Appreciating the Underappreciated

Australia’s diverse landscape offers travellers the opportunity to visit some of the most fascinating places, both big and small. The above list is only the tip of the iceberg when imagining the vast and beautiful places one can get lost in while travelling to Australia. If you are up to the adventure of finding an adventure, consider one of these underappreciated jewels.

When it comes to strange noises vehicles make, clicking sounds are some of the most common. In some cases, a clicking sound may be indicative of a very minor problem that is more annoying than dangerous. However, there are some clicking noises that point to serious issues that should be addressed as quickly as possible. Here is a quick guide to help you distinguish when the clicking noises in your car mean bad news.

Clicking or Clanking When Going Over Bumps

If your truck makes a clicking or clanking noise when you go over bumps or turn the wheel, it could be time to have your truck shocks inspected. Bad shocks are annoying and make for an extremely rough ride, but they can also put you in danger. When your shocks are bad, you can potentially lose control when accelerating due to unequal distribution of force throughout the car.

Clicking When Braking

A good rule of thumb is to have your brakes checked out any time they make strange noises. If you hear a clicking, metal-on-metal noise, it’s time to visit your mechanic immediately. Neglecting to do so could put you in serious risk of a car crash if your brakes fail. 

Clicking or Popping in Wheels

If you hear a clicking or popping noise coming from your wheels, you may have a damaged CV joint. CV joints give the front axle flexibility and act like wrists for your steering system. If the CV joint becomes damaged, it can cause the axle to become less flexible and click whenever the wheels turn. Have your mechanic check out your CV joint and Dana 44 front axle if you hear clicking noises in your wheels.

Any clicking noises from your truck wheels, brakes or engine should be checked out and repaired for the safety of you and your passengers. If you have experience replacing problematic car parts yourself, you can find shocks, wheels and other parts at 4 Wheel Parts.

If you have made the decision to book that exotic holiday or have to make a trip abroad, congratulations! There is nothing like traveling to broaden the mind and give some fabulous life experiences to treasure. Even traveling in your own country can help you discover places and people you have never seen before. Of course, one aspect of traveling that can be less great for some is the journey itself. That can be especially true for long flights or mammoth train journeys.

So, what you can do to stay entertained when on a long journey?

Great ways to keep amused when on the move

Luckily for you as a traveler, there are many amazing ways to make that next journey more enjoyable. The below are some of the best:

• Online casino games – playing online casino games is a great way to keep occupied when on the go. There are lots of different games to enjoy at online casinos from fun slots to more traditional classic games like blackjack. All will help those hours pass quickly and make any journey more fun. Plus, you might even make some money!

• Read a book – if you want a more traditional way to pass the time on that next car journey or flight, why not pack a good book? They help the hours go by quickly and certainly more so than magazines which you can flick through in ten minutes. A great book will transport you to another time and place entirely and with no technology needed.

• Play a game – if you are in a group when traveling then playing a game together is good fun. Of course, it probably works better for car journeys or when few others are around so you can make some noise. Old classics like I Spy can really add some fun to those otherwise boring minutes.

• Listen to some music – if, like most people, you stream music to your smartphone then this is a superb way to stay amused when traveling. It not only gives you a chance to listen to some of your favorites but also to discover some new artists. Just try not to sing too loudly when getting into it! There are many music streaming services to use out there with one of the most popular being Spotify.

• Check out a TV box set – let’s face it, you probably have lots of TV shows that you need to catch up on. Traveling is a great time to do that as you have lots of opportunity and not much else to distract you. Streaming services such as Netflix have tons of choice so you will never be short of something to check out.

Get set to travel like a pro

There is no getting around the fact that journeys are a big part of traveling. It really is a shame to waste this time as it is part of your holiday. The above tips will not only allow you to make the most of your next trip but also to enjoy the experience. With the advances in technology and the classic ways to stay amused, there really is no reason to not enjoy that next travel experience.

Aging is something that is inevitable. However, ill health does not have to be unavoidable, and plenty of people are growing old in a happy and healthy way thanks to increased knowledge and advances in medical science. In that spirit, here are some of the most common health risks that older people face – and some tips on how to ensure that they are managed well.

Arthritis

Few health concerns can be quite as painful as arthritis – symptoms, treatment and more can all be complicated. This condition affects both women and men, and it is so complicated that there is not always a one-size-fits-all solution – each patient may require a different treatment plan. Arthritis can happen to anybody, though it is believed that there are some ways to reduce the risk. Avoiding smoking during your lifetime, for example, is one way to cut the chances of rheumatoid arthritis developing in later life, while regular exercise can keep your joints working well.

Dementia

Dementia – or the similar condition known as Alzheimer’s disease – is a difficult condition to cope with both for family members and for the patient themselves. Characterized by a sharp decline in memory and cognitive function, it is distressing for all involved. Dementia can be managed through sympathetic care from professionals, and there are some pioneering treatment options under consideration: it is now believed, for example, that some diabetes drugs may one day be able to help dementia patients. It is also believed that following a healthy diet may help reduce the risk that dementia will occur – but as with arthritis, this is a complex condition with no obvious cause.

Macular degeneration

As anyone with a family member who has suffered from this tough eye condition will know, this is an illness that can really reduce the quality of life of the patient. The illness leads to either a total loss of vision or simply just blurred vision, and it is sadly often quite difficult to treat and control. Studies show that people over the age of 50 usually contract this condition, and it tends to affect the patient in a gradual way, which can in some ways make it more painful.

Speaking to a physician about some innovative treatments can be one way to manage the condition, depending on the exact version that you have. If you have “dry” macular degeneration, for example, then it is possible that there won’t be treatment available, though the “wet” form of the disease can be managed with injections.

One of the main worries that people develop as they age is how getting older will affect their health. However, with modern science and health care technology, there are ways to at least manage common older people’s health conditions. While there is never any guarantee that there will be a full solution or a preventative measure, there are almost always steps that you can take to control the onset of ill health.

When decided to format your business, you may be leaning towards a limited liability corporation or LLC. This type of business is a combination of a corporation and partnership. An LLC protects the individual owners of the business from personal liability for actions or debts that the business incurs. An LLC can have more than one owner and such individuals are known as members. You can easily form LLC online by taking advantage of filing services available at Gov Doc Filing. But will an LLC work best for your business?

Benefits

There are benefits to an LLC. The members of an LLC do not have to host formal meetings or creating documentation of meetings like a corporation is required to do. An LLC has flexibility when it comes to managing the business with each member having a say so when it comes to making decisions or choosing set people to make decisions for the company.

Factors to consider when forming an LLC include the start-up cost, which can be low. There is less paperwork involved when comparing an LLC to a corporation. If the LLC is operated correctly, the assets and agreements of the business will be in the name of the company and members are not liable on a personal level the debt or action of the business.

Applying Online

With the help of Gov Doc Filing, you can apply online for an LLC formation as well as an EIN number for your business. So, how to apply for an LLC? Using Gov Doc Filing, click on the application for an LLC. You will be asked information about the business and the process can begin. Once the correct forms have been filled out, you will be ready to hit submit.

In no time, you will have your correct LLC formation and you can work on obtaining an EIN tax ID number as well. Your business will be incorporated and ready to go!

As you get ready for your next or first RV road trip, it’s important not to get caught up in spontaneity. In order to keep yourself organized and lower stress, you can create a checklist of the steps you need to take.

To help you figure out what those steps should be, here are the five things you need to do as part of your RV pre-trip checklist:

1 – Set A Budget

What is the maximum amount of money that you can spend on your trip?

Now you need to take that amount and divide it amongst all of the expenses that you will incur: the RV rental, security deposit, reservation fee, RV park fees, fuel, good, extra expenses, you name it. Organize these expenses onto a spreadsheet and find out your budget for each of them.

2 – Make Reservations

Always make reservations at your RV park or campsite well in advance to ensure a slot. Simply showing up one day and asking for a site may not guarantee you one.

You’ll also want to look for RV parks that offer water and electrical hookups (not all RV parks do), as well as anything else that you desire, such as hiking trails, public showers, a basketball court, access to a river or a lake, or whatever else it is you want.

3 – Choose An RV

You can’t go on an RV trip without an RV to begin with, right? In the weeks before your trip, you should begin the search for an RV to rent.

When looking for an RV, you want to ensure it’s a model with enough storage and sleeping space. Search for the most affordable RV that meets the criteria you want.

One more thing to remember is that when reserving an RV you will have to pay a non-refundable reservation fee, and when you actually do reserve it, you’ll have to pay a refundable security deposit in addition to the rent cost per day.

4 – Get Insured

Even if you have the best auto insurance in the world, it’s most likely not going to cover an RV.

Instead, you need to look for special RV coverage that includes each of the following:

Total Loss Replacement Coverage

Vacation Liability Coverage

Coverage For Loss or Damage of Personal Possessions

In essence, you want to see if you can get RV insurance and travel insurance in one package if possible. Some RV renters will have a renter’s insurance for you as well.

5 – Pack

Obviously you need to pack before you leave on your RV trip, but you can’t just pack everything you need the night or morning before you leave either.

Okay, you can, but that’s hardly the right approach. Instead, you should begin packing about a week before the trip, getting just a little bit done each day (such as spending fifteen minutes or so each evening packing).

Crafting An RV Pre-Trip Checklist

The above five steps should absolutely be on any pre-RV trip checklist that you create for yourself. In fact, without following these steps, your RV trip won’t even be possible.

If you’ve decided to embark on an adventure of a lifetime and have committed to planning a trip to Uganda, simply continue reading to discover a few must-see spots which are well worth visiting on your upcoming trip.

Four of the must-see spots in Uganda:

1. Bwindi National Park

If one of the reasons why you have your heart set on visiting Uganda in the near future is to be able to spot a mountain gorilla in its natural habitat it’s definitely well worth heading to Bwindi National Park, which is home to half the world’s population of wild gorillas. There are currently over 400 mountain gorillas which reside in the national park, which are split up into around 11 different groups.

In order to maximize your chances of spotting a mountain gorilla make sure to book a fun yet informative gorilla tracking tour with an experienced guide who is passionate about teaching tourists everything, they have learned about Uganda’s stunning giants.

If you’re keen on visiting Bwindi National Park, you may also be interested in booking a bird watching experience as the park is also home to a wide array of colorful, rare birds, which call the national park home.

2. Kibale National Forest Park

Once you’ve spotted a group of gorillas in the jungle, it’s well worth heading to the Kibale National Forest Park, which is the number spot in the world to spot wild chimpanzees. While you can spot chimpanzees from the Queen Elizabeth National Park which is located right next to the Kibale National Forest Park, a greater number of chimpanzees call Kibale National Forest Park home.

Guided chimpanzee tracking tours depart daily from the Kanyanchu Visitor Center and last approximately 3 hours. During your tour, you’ll get a rare opportunity to see a group of wild chimpanzees play, eat and socialize with one another.

3. Queen Elizabeth National Park

While the Queen Elizabeth National Park may not be the number one spot to track chimpanzees, it is one of the most popular spots in Uganda to spot wild animals on a guided safari tour. On a safari tour in Uganda, you should be able to spot giraffes, lions, elephants, hippopotamus, antelopes, and crocodiles, among other species of animals.

If spotting Africa’s big five is on your bucket list and you have limited time to explore Uganda, you can’t go wrong visiting Queen Elizabeth National Park.

4. Ssese Islands

When you think of Uganda your first thoughts may be of lush jungles and African plains, however, Uganda is also home to world-class islands such as the Ssese Islands which boast powder soft, white sand beaches and warm turquoise water for as far as your eyes can see. Better yet when the sun goes down many resorts offer beach bonfires which are a great way to unwind and socialize after a day of sightseeing.

So if you’re putting together a basic itinerary for your upcoming trip to Uganda it’s well worth including as many of the incredible destinations listed above on your trip itinerary as possible if you want to enjoy the best activities which Uganda has to offer!

With a population of a little over eight million, there is no doubt that New York City is densely populated. Statistics also indicate that about 45 percent of households own at least one car, while three percent own more than three. During summer, a time when most people resume their daily outdoor activities, it is common to experience traffic snarl-ups in the city. Since such snarls can be stressful and infuriating, it would be essential to learn a few shortcuts that will help you avoid the gridlock. Taking an online defensive driving course will also go a long way toward helping you avoid accidents. Here are some tips to help you drive around while in New York in the summer.

Steer clear of the Lincoln Tunnel

The Lincoln Tunnel, located a short distance from Midtown Manhattan, is one of the spots that experience serious traffic congestion. If you wish to avoid the holdup, you can either take a nearby avenue or jump to the Henry Hudson Parkway for an easy drive both uptown and downtown. In case you are heading to New Jersey, you may want to find out whether the George Washington Bridge or the Holland Tunnel has smooth traffic flow. This will help you to avoid traffic, effectively making your ride faster.

Lookout for Seasonal Street Closures

There is a good chance that weekends will bring with them street fairs in some of the Manhattan neighborhoods, events that are usually accompanied by street closures and traffic jams. You should take time to find out whether the roadways and streets you plan to use will host parades, festivals, or will be under construction. Avoiding such events while in New York on Saturdays and Sundays will require that you identify alternative shortcuts to your intended destination.

Avoid areas around the Brooklyn Bridge

If you are heading to Brooklyn, you may hit traffic once you reach the area around Brooklyn Bridge. The best way to steer clear of the traffic would be to use the Manhattan Bridge or head north towards the Williamsburg Bridge. While these routes are longer, they will allow you to save time as well as enjoy a smooth and happy ride.

Consider using Mass Transport

Most people will advise those who come to New York not to bring their cars to the city. There are several public transport alternatives that will save you both time and money. Using the subway is a sure way to stay away from the traffic-clogged roads. Consider getting a subway map to help you identify your endpoints and eliminate any confusion. You can also take a bus that will drop you off at the place you intend to go to.

Rely on Local Traffic Reports

One of the best ways to be aware of shortcuts that will make your ride faster is to rely on local traffic reports. By relying on reports on radio or online, you will have access to information on roads affected by accidents, congestion, and other incidences. This will give you the chance to choose the proper alternative routes.

Avoid Peak Commute Times

New York roads are likely to be clogged during summer. Whenever possible, you should avoid driving during peak commute times. Depending on where you want to go, you can decide to travel when most of the roadways are clear, which is a sure guarantee that there will be less traffic holdups.

Even with the frequent traffic gridlocks, it is important to ensure that you are safe when driving on public roads. One of the most effective ways to do this is to take an online defensive driving course. Upon completion of the course, you will have the necessary skills to help you reduce the chances of getting tickets and being involved in traffic accidents. This will also be an insurance reduction course, helping you to save substantial amounts in auto insurance premiums.