Karen

Nassau: Great Vacation Destination For Grandparents And Grandkids

August 2, 2018 Karen Leave a Comment

Nassau, as the heart of the Bahamas, is peppered with excitement that caters to travelers of all ages. I think any grandmother would want to visit Nassau with her grandchildren because there are many places to see and things to do in the Nassau where both grandmother and her grandchildren can enjoy. Nassau vacation rentals which are easy to find are built to accommodate every visitor’s dream. Nassau has no shortage of wonderful attractions for both grandchildren and grandmothers like me. So, why don’t we take a look at the wonderful places we can visit and things we can do that are fun for the grand folks and little ones.

Visit the Nattie Palace

When you visit the Nattie Palace, this experience will take you back to a time the people enjoyed the simpler things in life. There was great community spirit through caring, sharing and hard working. After you enter in the place, it is a must-see attraction for anyone who would like a beautiful view. Kids can learn a lot about the Nassau heritage and grandmother can reconnect with the past. The main building of the place is too much complex because now that spills into smaller rooms, each room has with a special theme and a special number of historical artifacts, in fact, some of which are over 100 years old.

Food Indulgence

Like every grandmother, I never compromise on the food. Of course everybody loves food and if you are a foodie who is constantly worried about your food then don’t worry as you will find different varieties of food in Nassau. Every restaurant serve the traditional caribbean cuisines but you can also enjoy the non-Bohemian cuisine like baked macaroni, coleslaw, boiled vegetable, fried plantain, and johnnycake.

Arawak Cay

Since we are already talking about food, Arawak Cay serves just a fresh caught seafood which comes perfectly with mouth-watering array of tropical fruits. It offers you the authentic atmosphere of the Bohemian Fish Fry and other Bohemian dishes which are special and unique to this destination. It is also known for its cheap yet delicious meals.

Pirates of Nassau Museum

Almost every kid that watches Disney films love the Pirates of the Caribbean so, bringing your grand kids to a Pirate Museum in Nassau is going to be a visit they will cherish forever. This museum located in the harbor in the heart of downtown Nassau, it is actually based on a model of the famous pirate ship ”REVENGE”, which visitors enter to explore the dark and mysterious world of pirates.

Visit the Straw market

Basically, straw market considered the one of the country’s oldest market which is located in the Nassau In this market, you will find people weaving straw into anything. You will find the all handmade things like Bahamian crafts, mats, dolls, conch shell jewellery, and wood carving each and everything is made with the straw and all these things available at very reasonable price. Basically, they organized the straw market all over the island. It is very quiet, open and very colorful. You enjoy a lot when you visit this market. Head into town for a little duty-free shopping. Any shoppers in the family will have a great time exploring the straw market. It is also a fun activity for grand folks and kids alike to craft their own stuffs made out of straw. It will be a great souvenir!

Hit the beach

Kids love to spend time in the beach while it is also a relaxing breaks for the grammys to take some sun. Nassau paradise island provides a variety of beaches. If you are looking for a quiet, relaxing place where you can do relaxing with your book then it is the best place. The sea is filled with bright color and beaches are pristine and safe for the kids to wander and play. And then, at the end of the day on the beach, you can enjoy dinner under the star with your toes in the sand.

Visit parliament square

No trip to Nassau will be complete without taking a trip back to old days. The Parliament Square in Nassau is oozing with history which is a great day out for you and your grand kids to learn about the past of this paradise island.

In 1815, the Parliament Square building was constructed by the Loyalists. These flamingo-pink government buildings are excellent examples of the colonial architecture of old Nassau. Parliament square is very special because this is where the Prime Minister and two parliamentary houses meet. If the house is sitting, enter the gallery and watch lawmakers debates. It’s a spectacular to witness an actual debate.

Behind the House of Assembly is the supreme court of the Bahamas building, built in 1921. You can also look for local judges or lawyers, who follow tradition, dressing in traditional British wigs and robes. The Senate building is in the center of the square, facing toward Bay Street. Here, you can find an early 20^th-century statue of Queen Victoria in front of this building. This marble statue was built in honor of the queen’s birthday in 1905. Just behind the Supreme Court building, you can find the pretty garden of remembrance. This garden is the center of many events on Remembrance day, including a march from Christ Church Cathedral to the cenotaph.

These are only a short list out of tons of places to see and things to do in Nassau with your grand kids. For sure, you’ll be able to find at least one activity that both you and your grand kids can both enjoy.

Maine Has Something For Everyone

July 27, 2018 Karen Leave a Comment

Maine is often referred to as Vacationland, and there’s a reason for this. This state has a wide range of activities and experiences to offer. Between the rocky shores, forestry wilderness, and clear coastal waters, you truly have the best of every world when you visit the state of Maine. Today I’m going to share a few reasons why Maine is a great state to visit. Perhaps this will entice you to take a trip to this beautiful state sometime soon.

Moose Watching Tours

Maine has a large population of moose that can weigh over 1,000 pounds each and stand over seven feet tall at their shoulders. While these mammals are rather large in size, it’s not always easy to find them. Take a tour with Northeast Whitewater’s Maine Moose Watching Tours. They will show you the ropes in how to find Maine’s beautiful moose population.

Lobster Anywhere

The first thing I think of when I think of Maine is lobster! While you may think that Maine is a great state to visit because of the fresh lobster from their ocean coastline, but you actually can enjoy fresh Maine lobster just about anywhere in the state. Choose to sit by the ocean, enjoying the sweet smell of the salt water while enjoying Maine lobster or travel to the inner parts of the state and enjoy the wilderness while eating a lobster or two.

Forest, Mountain, or Ocean

The beautiful part of the state of Maine, as I mentioned, is that this state offers you a chance to set your own scene. While traveling and staying in Maine you can opt to have a forest view camping site, a mountain view cabin, or a cottage next to the ocean to soak up the sunrays. Maine offers everyone a chance to stay in their comfort zone within the same state.

Island Hopping

Another reason why Maine is a great state to visit is the chance to go island hopping. There are a few islands off the coast of Maine that allow you to experience a completely different culture, view and experience than you can on land.

When you look at the geographical size of the state of Maine, you’ll quickly notice that it’s one of the biggest New England states to visit. Having this large of a state to experience during your travel expeditions makes for a lot of memory making moments by yourself or with loved ones. Consider adding Maine to your travel bucket list now that you’ve learned more about why Maine is such a great state to visit.

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Tips For Traveling With Your Dog

July 27, 2018 Karen Leave a Comment

Well behaved dogs are good travel companions.

Bringing your dog on vacation is such a great way to experience the world with your furry child. Dogs are such loyal pets and they enjoy seeing new places with their owner. If you’re someone who owns a dog and is thinking about traveling with him, then continue reading for some fabulous tips that will help you survive traveling with your dog.

Take a Test Drive

If you’re planning to travel with your dog in a vehicle for a long period of time, then you’ll want to first take a test drive. It’s important to find out how your furry child handles being in a vehicle for long stretches of time. This will allow you to prepare any necessary travel items for car sickness, should your dog show signs of car sickness during this test drive.

Pack Proper Necessities

Create a checklist of items that your dog will need when traveling. This could be their food and water dishes, medications, treats and obviously actual food. Pick up a gallon-sized water jug so that your dog will have ample supply for hydration. These jugs can easily be refilled at a freshwater lake or roadside well accesses that some states have along the roadway. Bring an extra leash just in case something happens to the one you are using. Don’t forget to bring poop bags for cleaning up after your pet when you walk her.

Get Some Accessories

Think about all the adventures you’ll be going on when traveling with your dog. If there will be hiking adventures, then grab some products that will make the hiking trip more comfortable for your furry child. They make booties for dogs as well as backpacks for hiking dogs. Be sure to make a list and purchase any accessories prior to your departure date.

Wellness Check

A dog owner should always get a wellness check for their dog before traveling. Make an appointment for a well doggy visit for your pooch before you travel. This will also let you share your travel plans with your veterinarian and let them answer any outstanding questions you have about traveling with your dog. It’s important your dog is deemed healthy enough for traveling.

Check With The Hotel To Make Sure Pets Are Welcome

There are many hotels these days that accept pets, but you should never just assume that the hotel you reserved does. Be sure to ask if they do so you won’t be disappointed when you arrive.

These simple tips will help you and your furry child travel in comfort and style when you attempt to hit the open road on a new adventure together. The most important part of traveling with your dog is that they are just as happy as you are to be on this adventure.

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Eight Important Things To Remember When Traveling Alone

July 27, 2018 Karen Leave a Comment

Traveling alone can be rather fun. You get to enjoy whatever you want, whenever you want. There’s no other person there to share the itinerary planning. There’s no one else there to have their own places on the list of sights to see. Traveling alone is fabulous because you get to see everything that’s on your sightseeing list, visit every location that you want to visit and sleep in should you desire to do so when traveling alone. While traveling alone is fun, there are some tips for traveling alone that you should know. Today I’m sharing those tips for traveling alone with you so that you can enjoy your next solo trip.

Have Your Car Serviced Before You Go

If you are headed out on a solo road trip, be sure to take your vehicle by the dealership for a checkup before you leave. The service department will change the oil, rotate the tires, check the transmission fluid and the hoses. After a thorough vehicle checkup you can drive away with confidence that your car will make it all the way there and back.

Know your Strengths

As a solo traveler, it’s important to know what your strengths are. Understanding your comfort level with being social, going into crowded places or being stuck in a small space with strangers is important. This will help you best plan your solo travel itinerary to suit your personality strengths.

Learn No, Thank You

This is a very important skill to learn when you’re traveling in a region that speaks another language. Many cultures are very welcoming to travelers and may offer a friendly hello or a gift. Learn how to say, “No, thank you” in the region’s language before traveling there alone.

Check the Ratings

Be sure to check ratings and the reviews for any location that you’re staying at. When traveling solo you’ll want to stay at 4-5 stars rated location. Be sure to read through all of the reviews, because sometimes a 4-5 star rating may actually have horrible reviews.

Get Free Wi-Fi

When traveling alone you’ll want to make sure that you have a way to communicate with the outside world for most of your travel time. Try to book your accommodations in an area that has free Wi-Fi. While most places offer this, it’s still something to check before booking your travel accommodations.

Take your Time Eating

When dining on food during your solo travel adventures, be sure to take your time eating. This downtime allows you to recoup, relax and reflect on all that you’ve experienced so far. It’s a great time to think about your travels and what you want to do next.

Know your Budget

You’ll want to make sure that you have your budget set before leaving on any solo travel adventure. This will keep you held responsible for not spending too much money and always having a little extra on hand in case of an emergency.

Tell Someone Where You Are Going

While planning the itinerary and choosing all the things you want to do is up to you alone, it is always the safe thing to do to tell someone where you are going and when you will be back. If you should happen to run into trouble while on your trip your friend or family member will know when to start worrying if you are not back by the stated time.

There you have it a few tips for traveling alone. It’s important to be aware of your surroundings and to travel in a way that encourages you to enjoy this time alone out in the big, big world.

The Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Georgia

July 26, 2018 Karen Leave a Comment

Many people think of Atlanta or Savannah when it comes to the state of Georgia, but in reality, this state has much more to offer. Georgia is actually known as one of the most beautiful states in the lower 50 to visit. There are so many beautiful places to visit in Georgia, but I could only share a few today. They are all within an easy day’s drive from downtown Atlanta. Enjoy this list of the most beautiful places to visit the next time you find yourself in my home state of Georgia.

Arabia Mountain

Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area, a part of the National Park Service, is located in Lithonia, Georgia and is one of 49 National Heritage sites in the country. Offering you a serene view of gorgeously colored rare plant species, granite landscapes, and breathtaking views, Arabia Mountain is just a 20 mile drive from Atlanta.

Montaluce Winery

This stunning winery is located in Dahlonega, Georgia. While you get to enjoy some amazing wines, you can take in the scenic views of the North Georgia Mountains and the large vineyard.

Callaway Gardens

This is located in Pine Mountain, Georgia with a public garden and resort. You’ll enjoy beautiful views of multi-colored flowers, and even a golf course on this 14,000-acre Appalachian foothills property. If you visit at Christmas time, there is an absolutely gorgeous light display.

Okefenokee Swamp

Enjoy a trip by motorboat or paddle boat in this swamp located on the Florida/Georgia line. You’ll witness alligators, cranes and other unique species of wildlife here. My children and I toured the Okefenokee Swamp many years ago, and we did see alligators swimming in the water near our boat!

Panther Creek Falls

Located in Clarkesville, Georgia you’ll find this location pretty relaxing. This location offers a view of multiple waterfalls that pool up into a clear bed of water below.

Providence Canyon State Park

Known as Georgia’s Little Grand Canyon, this state park located in Lumpkin, Georgia is a 1,000-acre park. There are massive 150-foot gullies that look just like the real Grand Canyon.

Cumberland Island

Located in St Mary’s, Georgia this island will make you feel like you’ve entered onto some private beach land. Beautiful roaming horses, ancient turtles and a secluded beach make this location magical. Cumberland Island is only accessible by boat. No automobiles are allowed, which helps keep it pristine and natural.

Bellwood Quarry

This is a giant hole in the ground from the mining days about one mile from Midtown Atlanta, Georgia. It will become part of the Beltway Park. The city is planning to make it into a reservoir to provide drinking water so be sure to check that the hole is still here first.

There you have it, the most beautiful places to visit in Georgia. If you find that Georgia is on your travel bucket list this travel season, then I hope you’ll be sure to add a few of these beautiful sights to see on your itinerary.

The Best Travel Hacks To Make Traveling Easier

July 26, 2018 Karen Leave a Comment

It really doesn’t matter if you’re traveling by car, by plane or by boat the reality is that travelers enjoy making their vacation easier. Traveling is certainly a fun way to experience different cultures, lifestyles, and events. Over the years I’ve learned some pretty good travel hacks to make traveling easier and save money along the way. Today I’m going to share the best travel hacks with you so that the next time you pack up to go on vacation, you get to have more fun enjoying your time away from home.

Use your Flat Iron

If you have a flat iron packed away to get your hair all fancy while traveling, then it comes in pretty handy when you need to iron your clothes. A flat iron can work just like a regular iron for a quick fix to any clothing that got slightly wrinkled while being packed in a suitcase.

Google Hangouts or Skype

When you’re traveling aboard making phone calls can be quite expensive. If you’re looking for an easier way to communicate with your family while you’re traveling then download Google Hangouts or Skype beforehand so that you can communicate for free using Wi-Fi.

Use Hotel Washer

Call your hotel ahead of time to find out if there are is a washer and dryer on site. This will help you pack less clothing because you’ll be able to wash and dry the clothes that you travel with. Booking a hotel that has a washer and dryer on site will surely make traveling easier.

Use SeatGuru

This app allows you to get the perfect seat every time you’re traveling by plane. You can easily find out if you’ll be seated near a bathroom, if there are power outlets nearby and what pitch the seat is at. SeatGuru makes traveling easier and more comfortable.

Eat Free Breakfast

Breakfast is the best part of the day and you’ll regret not eating it. Be sure to take advantage of free breakfast that’s usually served at most events and hotels where travelers stay. This is an easy way to get your belly full and save money on eating expenses while traveling. There is usually toast, bagels, eggs, bacon sausage, oatmeal, and dry cereals, so you will be sure to find something you like.

Bring Peppermint Oil

There’s nothing worse than having allergies or bad breath during your travel excursions. Having a small container of peppermint oil on you at all times will serve you quite well in making traveling easier. You can dab some on a napkin and sniff to ward off allergies or sprinkle some in your mouth for fresh breath.

Pack A Snack Basket

If you are traveling by car, you can save a ton of money by buying your favorite snacks in large packages. Make up several single serving bags using plastic re-closeable sandwich size bags. Store them in a box or basket in your car. This way you can avoid paying convenience store prices for those pit stops along the way. I like to pack fruit, trail mix, pretzels, peanut butter crackers, and egg salad sandwiches.

There you have some of the best travel hacks to make traveling easier. Traveling can be quite a fun time but there’s sometimes so much involved in the process that knowing some of the hacks to make it easier will surely alleviate stress and allow you to have a great time!

Clever Ways to Use Aluminum Foil

July 26, 2018 Karen Leave a Comment

Aluminum foil is no longer for just cooking or grilling up some food. There are many uses for aluminum foil that can help you in everyday life. I love that aluminum foil has so many clever uses and today I get to share some ideas with you so that you can start making the most out of your aluminum foil collection.

Create Cookie Cutters

For starters, you can make some pretty clever cookie cutter designs by ripping off some aluminum foil from the roll and forming it into any shape you desire. Be sure to triple up the foil so that it’s sturdy enough for use as a cookie cutter.

Potty Training Protection

Take some aluminum foil, fold it up and place it on top of your potty training child’s mattress. Once placed in the appropriate spot, then lay a towel over it and put the child’s bed sheet back on. This will keep leaks from going through to the mattress during potty training time.

Prevent Static Cling

Who knew that you could prevent static cling using aluminum foil balls in your dryer? It’s true! Simply grab some aluminum foil, shape it into balls and toss about three of them into the dryer to keep your clothes from having static cling during the dry winter months.

Sharpen Scissors

Grab those dull scissors from your craft drawer and some aluminum foil. Cut through the foil a few times with the blunt scissors to find that you’ve now sharpened your scissors. This may take a few tries, but it’s much cheaper than buying new scissors or a sharpening stone.

Protect Steel Wool

If you use steel wool to wash dishes but find they get ruined quickly, have no fear! You can wrap steel wool balls into aluminum foil and place in the freezer for storage. This keeps your steel wool from getting ruined and ready for use to clean up those dingy kitchen dishes.

Keep Moisture Away

If you’re out camping during this lovely summer season, consider putting aluminum foil underneath your sleeping bag. This will help keep moisture away from your sleeping bag overnight. You can wake up feeling less soggy while camping.

Shape It Into A Funnel To Pour Oil Into Your Car

I never seem to have a funnel on hand when I have to add oil to my car. You can tear off a short piece of heavy duty aluminum foil and fashion it into a funnel. Put the funnel in the opening for the oil, then pour in the oil with no mess. It is handy to be able to throw the foil away when you are done. You can use this same idea when adding any other liquids to your car. No funnel? No problem.

As you can see, aluminum foil is no longer just an aide in cooking or grilling time, you can easily use this product for a wide range of clever uses such as the ones I shared here today.

How Much Money Do You Need To Retire?

July 13, 2018 Karen Leave a Comment

Panicking About Retirement? Worry no More

Pensions are a major source of worry for many. Those who are saving wondering if they’ve got enough to fund a comfortable retirement and those who aren’t wondering how much an elderly kidney will fetch on the open market…

It appears that an alarming one in seven people aren’t contributing to a pension plan, with half of women aged between 25 and 39 not saving. All told, more than half of the workforce faces a penurious old age.

How much will you need?

The average retired couple will need around $24,000 to feed, clothe and house themselves each year. If they want a few luxuries and a bit of traveling, then this figure rises to $36,000.

If one or both partners gets a halfway decent pension, then they’ll need around $265,000 to $335,000 in a defined pension savings account.

It’s never too late to start

It’s better if you start early, though. If you start at 20-something years old, then you only need to save $200 or so each month to reach your target. Once you’re 50, this monthly saving needs to be ramped up to $840!

Don’t panic!

Work out how much you’ll need first. Do you already own your house outright, or are you planning to sell it and downsize? This move alone could fill the coffers.

If you’re renting you should consider downsizing or moving to a cheaper area, especially if you’re not expecting a huge income after retirement. Then you need to look at your lifestyle; if you want to do a bit of travelling or do that pottery course you always planned you’ll need to fund it somehow.

Then…

Save more if you need to

If you get a bonus each year, do something with it other than plan a holiday. The same applies if you get a pay-raise – siphon the extra money into your pension fund each month.

Alternatively, you could use the extra money to buy a valuable asset like gold. Click here to find out more about investing in precious metals. You never know, you may have a talent for it; if you do, it could make for a very comfortable retirement.

Use your existing assets

If you have a spare room, you could take in a lodger or maybe exchange students from a local college or university. Many colleges need reliable, responsible older people to host foreign students for a month or so and the rates can be very good indeed.

If you’re feeling time running out, don’t despair

Older savers can get tax relief on their pension contributions, so make sure you’re taking advantage of this each month – every little bit helps after all.

You also need to keep an eye on your pension pot as it grows to see what changes you could make to it to ensure it’s big enough by the time (or, even better, before) you retire.

It’s also a good idea to speak to a financial planner to find out where you are and what else you could do to make the most of your savings and your fund.