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Family activity holidays provide a great opportunity for all of the family to enjoy some inhibited fun, spend some quality time together, bond and create an experience that they will remember for the rest of their lives. Therefore, it is vitally important that when deciding on your family holiday, you pick a great destination. One of the most popular and highly recommended family adventure holidays is to go on one of the available Grand Canyon tours. This blog post will reveal why Grand Canyon tours are so great and why you should consider booking one.
First and foremost, the Grand Canyon is one of the seven natural wonders of the world, which is reason alone to visit. The other six being the Great Barrier Reef, the Victoria Falls, Aurora, Mount Everest, the Paricutin volcano, and the harbour of Rio De Janeiro. How remarkable will it be for you and your children to say they have visited one of these? There is so much history and culture behind the Grand Canyon and so to witness such beauty and depth of meaning is something all can appreciate and enjoy. Furthermore, the Grand Canyon is one of the seven natural wonders of the world which is easier to access and whereby cheaper deals can be found.
In addition to this, there are tons and tons of exciting wildlife you can witness whilst visiting the Grand Canyon. And trust me; you do not have to be an animal lover to find the experience exciting and unique. The animals on display include horned owls and coyotes. In fact, there are approximately 355 types of bird, 89 different mammals, 47 types of reptile, 17 species of fish and 9 different amphibians in the canyon alone.
In addition to wildlife and history, the sightseeing experience is a fascinating one. You will be able to witness some remarkable beauty in the rock contours on display. A lot of people worry about going on sightseeing holidays when they have children because they are concerned that they will be bored. This is an understandable concern. However, this will not be the case if you opt to go on a Grand Canyon tour. In fact, the helicopter ride itself will be enough to keep them satisfied for the entire vacation.
Finally, millions and millions of people visit the Grand Canyon every year, whether purely to sightsee or as part of global adventure challenges. This should provide you with an indication as to how successful it is as a family activity holiday destination. Surely all of these people canât have terrible taste. The beauty of the Grand Canyon is something you truly have to witness yourself; it is not something which can be justified through the use of words.
All in all, it is plain to see why so many families decide to take advantage of one of the many Grand Canyon tours available. They are something all ages can enjoy, there are tons of wildlife on display, a heap of history and culture to experience and of course a mass of beauty for the eye to behold. What more could you possibly want?
We’ve all met them, those mature travellers that have so much decorum, so much experience of travelling and just are great tourists to travel with. Even on the Inca Trail, I was blessed to be joined by a Taiwanese couple in their 50s doing the hike. I was 30 at the time, I couldn’t have imagined being able to do that aged 50! But when I get to hang out with mature travellers (and yes I know I am in danger of becoming one very soon, as the years go by), I tend to get very inspired by them, and then they tell me their stories…
Best Ways For Mature Travellers To Find Love
Sadly it’s not always good news. Sometimes, they went through tough divorces, many lost their partners to disease, some had children that left their families behind. As someone who suffers from depression, I started to listen more and relate to such stories. Then I asked them about their dating experiences and if they still look for love on the road. Of course, the answer is normally yes. We all need and want love, or to be loved. Dating then, for the mature travellers, here are some options…
1.Dating Websites
Forget the stupid myth that over 50s don’t know anything about the internet – it’s cow excrement! My parents are both in their 70s and have been using mobile phones and the internet for over 20 years. Yes, really! So, dating websites are not just for the young and it needs to be told more often. Indeed there are a multitude of over 50s dating sites now and you need to be aware that they are becoming very popular. I met a few travellers who used them (with great stories and success to tell).
2.Hiking Clubs
I was surprised to learn and I was very naive to know that over 50s love to keep fit and hike. I know, I was a bit ignorant. And each and every hike I have done since the age of thirty, I became more and more aware that we love the outdoors and nature more and more as we age. We love the challenge of keeping our bodies in shape.
“Trying to keep your bag of bones in trim” – Noel Gallagher.
Hiking in China
3.Against the Old School Flow
It might seem like the old fashioned approach is gone, but there is a brave mix now. SO much so that mixing ages has become a great travel craze. Break the boundaries.Â
4.Room Sharing Hostels
Did you ever meet an over 50 year old in a hostel room? Yes you did because if you didn’t, then you haven’t really whackpacked it in dorm rooms. I shared dorm rooms with many an over 50 and later, I was to learn one of the reasons…
Hostel dorms
They still feel young, they still feel more energetic than you. And they are. Yes, we know that factually they have an earlier date of birth and possibly their physicalities have limits (I say possibly…) but they are of a young mind. But to meet like-minded folk, perhaps it’s no wonder that sites like older-dating.com have become popular in recent years as they really do work. I met many people on my trips that met through such sites, and you know, it’s the same as anyone – we just look for love, friendship and fun.
Good luck on your travels, whether “old”, “young” or “middle aged”!
“There must be more to life than stereotypes” – Damon Albarn.
I have worked online for myself since late 2012, mostly as a blogger, copywriter, travel writer and marketer. The digital age was some kind of a revolution for business globally and many new entrepreneurs felt they needed a slice of the cake. This resulted in lots of new blogs, websites, online businesses, eBooks, digital start ups and just anything that meant you could live a free and easy lifestyle, as opposed to the traditional executive burn out in rat races, 9-5s (which became 8 – 10s) or old school methods that have since fallen by the wayside.
This has created a new working lifestyle for many with endless, boundless and limitless possibilities. I mean, until 2004, there was no such thing as Facebook. Even YouTube wasn’t around at the turn of the century. Every big business started somewhere and online is the place to do it these days. People are now free to move around the world, working on their laptops, becoming familiar with some of these new-age labels and terms:
- Digital nomad
- Backpacker
- Global wanderer
- Location independent
- Social media Guru
- Whackpacker
- Ultra vagabond
All such terms are a result of the new era of blogs becoming businesses. Websites such as My Emma are excellent in providing us with marketing campaigns and options for our new up and coming online businesses. There are also lots of new and innovative sites in the healthcare industry, for example finding Cannabis Seeds is a lot easier online now.
Today, I recommend using digital marketing, social media marketing and email marketing to enhance your business acumen and online status. The long term goal is freedom and satisfaction whilst running your business from your laptop. Am excellent website from Campaign Monitor shows the best email marketing campaigns and gives readers an insight into how to apply such models to your business and make a success out of it – with the goal – profits and long term profitability for your business.
The Campaign Monitor website uses its expertise and case studies to help businesses who run online to maximise their potential and reap the rewards, in the name of profit. The company has worked in conjunction with clothing companies, food companies and even charities to improve, adapt, develop and better their websites and email marketing campaigns.
As an entrepreneur running a new business, you don’t want to be relying on traditional methods of business. You need to move with the times. Too many emails come into our inbox. Many go into spam or junk mail before we have even clicked on them. Many we simply delete. Some of them we block.
Websites like Campaign Monitor help new business (as well as established ones) realise their true worth. Targetting the desired niche is a big part of such online businesses and for this reason, you need to start by knowing the correct market that will be receptive of your business. So before your start your next huge plan and business venture, be sure to use the correct marketing skills and use the companies who clearly have the best experience in the field.
Don’t forget to have fun while doing it!
Backpacking in the USA: 4 Must-Try Coffee Shops in the Redmond Area
When the hustle and bustle of Seattle, Washington, gets to be a bit much, drive east about 20 miles to the north end of Lake Sammamish. There you will find Washington’s little pot of perfectly brewed greatness, Redmond, Washington.
Redmond is growing in popularity for its parks, shopping, and now, its coffee shops. Here are four places in Redmond that promise to bring out the coffee lover in you. Map out the ones you want to visit, and then select a hotel that’s walking distance from them so you can enjoy the stroll back to your room, cup in hand.
5 Stones Coffee
Step into 5 Stones Coffee and your delicious cup of joe becomes more than just a cup of java. Here the focus is on the beverage experience. Their mantra is the opposite of most other coffee shops. At 5 Stones Coffee, they invite you to come in, get comfortable, and stay awhile.
5 Stones Coffee takes pride in using coffee beans from local suppliers whose products are âethically-sourced.â One popular coffee served is the âProud Mary, â made with a Brazilian blend.
River Trail Roasters
Take one whiff inside River Trail Roasters and smell the coffee beans roasting in-house. This coffee shop cares about the ingredients in your cup and on your plate. The food menu consists of vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. Fresh pastries are supplied daily by local bakers. Sandwiches and sauces are made with care in-house.
River Trail Roasters offer both familiar and specialty coffee flavors. You’ll find everything from espressos, macchiatos, and cappuccinos to the blending of simple syrups and essences to enhance the natural flavor of the coffee. Choose from flavors like lavender + honey, vanilla bean, and cinnamon + vanilla to add the perfect touch.
SoulFood Coffeehouse
If coffee and entertainment sound appealing, check out SoulFood Coffeehouse. This eco-friendly coffee bar not only brews coffee, but it offers live musical entertainment from local artists. Here at SoulFood Coffeehouse, the people are the focus.
Baked goods from local suppliers are offered daily in conjunction with specialty teas. An exciting coffee choice on the menu is the âAttitude Adjustment.” It’s a powerful blend of espresso with hemp, cinnamon, honey, hazelnut, and vanilla. Another one to try is the âRosary,â Â a blend of white chocolate and rose.
Victor’s Celtic Coffee Company and Roasters
For a flashback experience, visit Victor’s Celtic Coffee Company and Roasters. Located in the heart of Redmond, there is no Wi-Fi here! The focus is the coffee and good company.
Here, the coffee starts the conversations. The coffee bar offers a âDark Guatemalanâ which packs a punch with a spicy but subtle flavor. There is a âCosta Ricanâ that is smooth, well-rounded, and slightly sweet. An interesting blend is the âMonkaâ that balances buttery and nutty with spicy tones.
Everyone follows the house rules at Victor’s Celtic Coffee Company and Roasters. Parents, keep a close eye on your little ones. If not, the trip home promises to include espresso-filled children and a new puppy!
Now you’re ready to pack your bags and your travel mug. Check out some of these great hot beverages brewed just for you. Redmond, Washington, has the perfect cup of coffee waiting for you.
With our extensive travels to the United States, we yet again share our visa tips on visiting the “land of the free”. Firstly, a load of nationalities can now apply online for what is known as an esta. An esta is the visa that Nationals from countries such as Norway, Ireland, United Kingdom and France need.
Backpacking to the USA – Imagine Gardens in New York. Visa needed first.
A full list of countries that need an esta for the USA is here, a total of 38 nationalities:
Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Chile, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia,
Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, United Kingdom.
Travelling in the USA – Los Angeles
You need to have authorisation under ESTA
In order to travel without a visa you must have authorisation through the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) before getting a U.S. bound air or sea carrier. ESTA is basically the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) and is an automated web-based system used to determine a person’s eligibility to travel without a visa to the United States for tourism or business. So visit the website, pay online and get your visum USA sorted in advance of your trip.
Your Travel Must be on an Approved Carrier
On a final note, you need to be arriving by a registered or approved carrier. Don’t just hop on a boat and chance it. Official airlines is the way to do it, or cruise ships.
We’ll have some great tips on travel within the USA on the site to come.
Touring New York, USA
When you travel the world endlessly, dating can become hard especially for those single travellers who don’t have a base. Moving from city to city, country to country or from whackpack to backpack can prove difficult. Girls don’t want a stray guy who could leave tomorrow and guys don’t want a girl who is always on the move and unable to stay with him for a long period.
Relationships on the Road: Dating Options for Older Travellers
Of course, as travellers we have many options to meet people on the road and these include online dating, blind dating and just meeting people in real life. Here are some ideas, which are especially useful for travellers over the age of 40 or 50, where they have reached a level where sometimes younger and newer travellers don’t feel a connection with the veterans.
1.Single Mature Websites
There are a host of single and mature websites, aiming to bring older mature couples together. These are generally trustworthy as the person has to register and nobody will arrange to meet each other until you feel certain, and are sure and comfortable with your potential date. You get a pureness and honesty as you fill in all of your statistics at the start. Then you can get matched up. For an idea of what these sites can be like, click here.
2. Facebook Groups
Although generally Facebook is used more often by younger folk, there are plenty of safe, private groups for mature people wanting to date. It’s not hard to find these when you log into Facebook. So what are you waiting for – it’s a no risk and it’s free to use. Get joining and you never know where the love of your life awaits.Â
3.Bingo Clubs
Even for those more mature folk on the move, there are bingo venues everywhere and it is a super place to meet a potential partner. Have a chat, a drink and a dance at a bingo hall and see if there is any spark there. Check online for your nearest bingo hall and pencil it in your diary for the next visit.
4. Cougar Dating
Finally and maybe not so obvious, is the idea of cougar dating is another option. While you might think a cougar is an animal, actually cougar dating is when an older woman is looking for a lover or a sexual relationship with a younger man. This is really not as rare as you might think. Many older ladies love it. Plus guys love a girl with experience. Generally ladies live longer than men so this also means you can grow old together and live a long time in each other’s company without worrying about being a widow or a widower for a longer period. Generally of course there are risks with it and many older ladies might have a history of multiple husbands, children and divorce settlements. But if you’re willing to give it a try, this could be the option for you.
And why did I not mention Tinder? Well I guess it is an option, but I reckon sticking to these four is better on the long run.
If you love going on adventure trips, something you should try (if you havenât tried already) is water sports. There are a number of water sports, and thereâs something out there for all ability levels and personality types, so youâll nearly always find something thatâs comfortable for you. Remember, you rarely have fun stuck inside of your comfort zone! Below youâll find some awesome water sports to try on your next adventure trip. Take a look:
Water Sports To Try On Your Next Adventure Trip
Kayaking
Kayaking is a great water sport because you are free to go at your own pace. Itâs the perfect one to go for if you think youâd prefer to just paddle along and enjoy the breeze and the scenery. Youâre unlikely to be bucked about and tossed in the sea, providing youâre careful and choose the right route.
Jet Skiing
Now, jet skiing is perfect for the thrill seekers out there. Itâs an action packed water sport full of adrenaline – youâve probably noticed people jet skiing on previous holidays. More often than not, they look like theyâre having a great time!
Fishing
Fishing might not be considered all that much fun or even adventurous for some, but for others, itâs super thrilling! Heading out on a boat to catch some fish, enjoying the scenery as you go can be a great way to get some alone time. Places like Fishing sun have the equipment you need if youâre confused about what you should have to take this up.
Parasailing
Parasailing allows you to fly through the air towed by a boat – again, something youâve probably spotted others doing and wondered about. Thereâs no feeling like it, and itâs pretty hard to describe. You can even do this with another person, so itâs a great idea for two people who want to enjoy more adventures together.
Rafting
When rafting, youâll make your way through rapids. Youâll have to work as a team to stay on the right path, and depending on the route, you might get tossed in all directions – so you have to make sure youâre able and capable before you sign up! There are beginner routes and more difficult routes depending on what youâre looking for. This is a great activity to enjoy with friends and family.
Surfing
Surfing is a super exciting activity, and can also be a great way to show off whenever you head to the beach! Of course, itâs a good idea to have lessons first, as itâs a pretty tough sport to teach yourself. You also need to know appropriate surf etiquette – never jump in on another surferâs wave, for example. Surferâs can get pretty tetchy about that sort of thing!
Things To Remember
When it comes to water sports, you always need to consider your safety first. Make sure you listen carefully to instructions and wear all of the recommended safety gear at all times. You should also make sure you get water sports insurance and other appropriate cover to keep you safe whatever you decide to do!
An eSIM, short for embedded Subscriber Identity Module, is a digital SIM card that is built directly into a device such as a smartphone, tablet, or smartwatch. Unlike traditional physical SIM cards that need to be inserted and removed from a device, an eSIM is embedded within the device’s hardware.
What Is an eSIM and why use it to travel?
An eSIM serves the same purpose as a physical SIM card: it securely stores subscriber information, including the mobile network operator’s credentials and identification data necessary for accessing cellular networks. However, since it is embedded in the device, it eliminates the need for a physical SIM card slot.
The primary advantage of an eSIM is its flexibility and convenience. Users can switch between different mobile network operators without needing to physically swap SIM cards. Instead, they can simply choose and activate a new mobile plan or operator directly from their device’s settings menu.
What Is an eSIM and why use it to travel?
eSIM technology enables users to manage multiple mobile network profiles simultaneously on a single device. This is particularly useful for travellers who frequently switch between different countries or regions, as they can easily select and activate a local mobile plan or data package without the need for a physical SIM card.
Furthermore, eSIMs streamline the activation process for new devices, as there is no need to acquire and insert a physical SIM card. Users can set up their devices and connect to their preferred mobile network operator seamlessly.
It’s worth noting that not all devices support eSIM functionality. However, an increasing number of smartphones, tablets, and wearables released in recent years have included eSIM support. It’s advisable to check with your device manufacturer or mobile service provider to confirm if your device is eSIM-compatible before setting up an account at a site like aloSIM.
Overall, eSIM technology offers greater convenience, flexibility, and ease of use for managing cellular connectivity on compatible devices.
What Is an eSIM and why use it to travel?
Finally, here are three advantages of using an eSIM:
1.Flexibility and Convenience
With an eSIM, you can easily switch between different mobile network operators without the need to physically change SIM cards. This is particularly beneficial for travellers who frequently visit different countries or regions. Instead of purchasing and inserting a local SIM card each time, you can simply activate a new mobile plan or data package directly from your device’s settings. This flexibility allows for seamless connectivity and eliminates the hassle of dealing with physical SIM cards.
2.Multiple Profiles on a Single Device
eSIM technology enables you to have multiple mobile network profiles simultaneously on a single device. This means you can have separate profiles for personal and business use, or maintain profiles for different countries or regions. It provides the convenience of managing multiple phone numbers or data plans without the need for multiple physical SIM cards or devices. This can be especially useful for individuals who want to separate their personal and professional communications or frequently switch between different mobile plans.
3.Streamlined Activation Process
When setting up a new device after buying prepaid eSIM data packages, the activation process is streamlined and simplified. There’s no need to physically acquire and insert a SIM card into the device. Instead, you can activate the eSIM directly from the device’s settings or through a mobile app provided by your mobile network operator. This saves time and eliminates the inconvenience of visiting a store or waiting for a physical SIM card to be delivered. It allows for quick and hassle-free activation of mobile services on your device.
These advantages make eSIMs a convenient and flexible solution for managing cellular connectivity, offering users greater control and ease of use when it comes to travelling abroad choosing and switching between mobile network operators and plans.
