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Buy now 👉 https://bit.ly/SkillTeed9

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BAD DAY THIS WILL MAKE YOU LAUGH MOST FUNNY

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Try not to laugh At This Ultimate Funny Animal

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Funny Cats Cute and Baby Cats Videos 😍😍

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Protection Dog Protecting Kids beacause they are best friend 😍 👏 😍

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Funny Dogs and Ducks Playing Together Funny Babies and Pets

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https://youtu.be/V_ctUb0MxQA

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The 10 Best & Worst U.S. Cities For Public Transportation

When it comes to public transportation, New York City is famous for its subways, San Francisco for its Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system and Los Angeles… for its crowded freeways. With cities large and small, public transport is crucial to moving commuters, shoppers and residents back and forth with speed, accuracy and affordability.

Quality of public transportation can be an important factor when choosing what city to move to.

Here are lists of the top 10 best and worst cities for public transportation in the U.S., according to Walk Score, which rated each city based on accessibility of bike-sharing programs, buses, ferries, heavy rail, light rail and subways.

Top 10 Best Cities For Public Transportation

1. New York City, New York

It’s a well-known fact that most New Yorkers don’t own cars, instead relying on the city’s taxicabs, bike-share programs, buses, subway systems and railroads. The city’s Metropolitan Transportation Authority recently opened the 34th Street–Hudson Yards Station that extends its already far-reaching subway service even more.

2. San Francisco, California

When you mention San Francisco, most people immediately think of its quaint cable cars that traverse the city. Despite the fact that they’re tourist-friendly, these colorful trolleys serve as part of the transit network to shuttle commuters to work. The city is rife with affordable, accessible public transport that includes municipal buses, trains, Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART), subways and CalTrain rail lines. Ferries are also a part of the transit system to link San Francisco with Oakland and Sausalito.

3. Boston, Massachusetts

For as crowded as Boston is, the “T” or the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority, is in charge of its buses, ferries, trains and trolleys. As complicated as you’d think it would be to navigate all those travel options, fear not. Color-coded maps and schedules are available, and locals are always happy to help.

4. Washington, D.C.

Another city that’s rife with traffic gridlock is the nation’s capital. Not only is it the center of all things government, but it’s a tiny area (that covers 68 miles total) with nearly 700,000 residents and many more out-of-town commuters and 22 million annual tourists (in 2016 alone) of people trying to move around its streets. The Metrorail and Metrobus are the two major options for avoiding vehicle traffic.

5. Jersey City, New Jersey

Amtrak is big in Jersey City, and New Jersey’s second-largest city is walker-friendly. Transit buses and heavy-rail PATH (Port Authority Trans-Hudson) trains get movers and shakers to and from Newark and Manhattan in record time. New York Waterway ferries also dock in Jersey City.

6. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

The City of Brotherly Love shows no shortage of public transportation options. Philadelphia’s public transit agency, SEPTA (Southeast Pennsylvania Transit Authority) operates the regional (commuter) rail trains, heavy rapid transit (subway/elevated) trains, light rail vehicles (trolleys), electric trolleybuses and motor buses. Also available is the city’s Indego bike-sharing transport system.

7. Chicago, Illinois

Chi-town tourists and commuters get around via “The L,” officially known as the Elevated Electric Train that’s run by the Chicago Transit Authority. Buses, taxis, water taxis, and the city’s bike-sharing program, Divvy, are all options to travel around this historic metropolis.

8. Miami, Florida

Traverse Miami proper via its buses, rail systems, and old-fashioned trolleys that transport you to the city’s hot spots and tourist venues. The Metromover Monorail is an elevated, electric train that circles downtown. The Metrorail is a nearly 25-mile long elevated train that takes visitors north and south of Miami and also connects to the Tri Rail intercity commuter system.

9. Arlington, Virginia

Arlington, Virginia has its Arlington Transit bus system and a Metro system that transports travelers to and from Washington, D.C. It also has a bike share program and commuter trains.

10. Baltimore, Maryland

Public transportation options in Baltimore included the bus, Light Rail, Metro subway and the MARC train commuter rail system. The Charm City Circulator is a free bus service that even partners with the Water Taxi Harbor Connector for free water routes!

Top 10 Worst Cities For Public Transportation

Now we count down the 10 worst cities in the U.S. for public transportation.

10. Fort Wayne, Indiana

9. Lubbock, Texas

8. Fort Worth, Texas

7. Virginia Beach, Virginia

6. Chandler, Arizona

5. Colorado Springs, Colorado

4. Plano, Texas

3. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

2. Gilbert, Arizona

1. Chesapeake, Virginia

Sorry, Chesapeake, you have the worst public transportation in the U.S.!

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The Most Popular Budget Travel Destinations For 2018

ravel means different things to different people. It can be an adventure, a learning experience, rest and relaxation or a combination of all of these. There are some amazing trips to be taken and some of them are available at budget prices.

Here is a list of the most popular budget travel destinations around the world for 2018 grouped by region.

North America

Montreal, Canada

This 375-year-old city with a French influence is a great treat for lovers of history, culture and art. It’s safe and has a comfortable climate May through September. U.S. residents can save on expensive flights and enjoy the favorable exchange rate.

Moab, Utah

Central to some of the most scenic areas of the United States, Canyonlands, Arches National Parks, and a short drive to Bryce and Zion Canyons, Moab is great for hiking, climbing, camping and glamping for those with a slightly larger budget.

Other budget locations include: San Miguel de Allende Mexico and Yelapa, Mexico

South America

Santiago, Chile

This is another amazing destination for budget travelers. From the Atacama Desert to the Andes Mountains, with $20 hotels and $10 a day for your meals, you can’t go wrong, even if you just hang out in the city or on the beach.

Argentina

With an attractive exchange rate and government-lowered taxes on hotels, your savings will never be greater. From Argentina’s wine country to the best steak dinner you’ll ever have, you can also bring home some fantastic finds on leather goods. Vegans can enjoy the Patagonian peaks and valleys and vegan restaurants are plentiful in the bigger cities.

Other budget locations include: Peru

The Caribbean and Central America

Curacao

Among the few Caribbean islands that escaped the devastating damage of last year’s hurricanes, Curacao is showing lower hotel pricing with the splendor of the Caribbean. It’s great for relaxing or water adventures.

Other budget locations include: Guatamala; Granada, Nicaragua; Bastimentos Island, Panama

Africa

Zanzibar, Tanzania

Escape your world completely with this East African island. This is should be the first of many trips you’ll enjoy for its exotic culture, beautiful beaches and vistas, plus it’s a foodie paradise. Perfect for rest and adventure, the money you expend on flights will be offset by how far your dollars will go.

Other budget locations include: Namibia; Dakar, Senegal; Morroco

Europe

Paris, France

Paris on a budget? Yes, if you stick to museums, parks, jazz clubs, and amazing little cafes. Check out Airbnb for great accommodations and go while the Euro is still a good deal for your dollar.

Albania

A neighbor of Greece and a ferry’s trip from Italy, Albania borders on the Adriatic. Considered a top destination for budget trips to Europe, hotels start under $20,  and there are inexpensive tours of castles and coastlines. Albania is a great central location for any Mediterranean trip.

Other budget locations include: Estonia; Slovenia; Portugal

Asia

Xian, China

China is always a great trip, but frequently overwhelming for many travelers. With this trip you can discover the Terracotta Warriors and other ancient sites. Xian’s monuments stay lit at night and are sensational for photographers.

Sri Lanka

Another great travel destination for those on a budget is on the “pearl of the Indian Ocean.” With 3-star hotels under $15 and amazingly good and inexpensive meals you can set aside $10 a day for three meals. Sri Lanka offers a historic Asian experience without the crowds of travelers in Thailand and India.

Other budget locations include: Nepal; Koh Dach (Silk Island) Phnom Penh, Cambodia

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Relaxing Yoga Retreats Around The World

No matter what time of year it is, we almost always feel the need to rebalance, recharge and find harmony at some point. We all get overworked and put more emphasis on our paycheck and ambitions instead of taking a step back and focuses on our wellness, which is also a vital aspect of taking care of yourself. Just like you need rest and recovery in order to benefit from your workout, we need to close our eyes and invest in some me-time to be our most productive at work.

These yoga retreats promote health, decrease stress and help you get back to being your best self. We included locations from all corners of the globe that offer a range of packages for a range of budgets.

Blue Osa Yoga Retreat and Spa

Blue Osa (pictured above) is widely regarded as the best retreat and spa in Costa Rica for yogis looking to unwind and unplug. It offer customizable experiences that include not just yoga, but also eco-spa therapies and other Costa Rica must-sees. The retreat is only 50 meters from a stunning, isolated jungle beach, and all of the food is sourced from an organic garden. It offers a range of packages, whether you’re looking to meditate and relax or pump your adrenaline up a little more with one of the excursions. Founded by a former New Yorker, this spa aims to change lives through yoga, which it calls a “catalyst for peace.”

Haramara Retreat

When you think of Mexico, it’s easy to get trapped into the brash world of resorts and partying. But away from all that chaos is a remote and idyllic destination 45 minutes south of the Puerta Vallarta airport, nestled in Riviera Nayarit, Mexico. This Pacific coastal retreat was built without mechanical equipment that would otherwise ruin the surrounding virgin jungle; structures are instead hand-built, showing that Haramara values the environment as much as it does its customers. The rustically luxurious experience features sunrise and sunset Yoga Shalas, a therapeutic wellness center and a private beach.

Ananda Spa, Himalayas

The ultimate award-winning spa and yoga retreat, Ananda Spa has been endorsed by stars like Oprah and Ricky Martin. Ananda’s wellness packages offer bountiful yoga getaway options with a range of prices, and it’s located at the Himalayan foothills on a Maharaja Palace estate. The property is actually as gorgeous as the ads, which is a hard promise for many retreats to keep up with. The exotic backdrop of the Himalayas with peacocks roaming the grounds will make you melt into serenity. Their spa is a 25,000 square foot venue with 24 rooms and decadent hydrotherapy treatments. You can tailor your package around a certain style of yoga, detox, weight/stress management and more, but one thing is promised: it’ll never feel like work.

Shreyas Retreat, Bangalore

This boutique resort and luxury ashram calls itself “a journey of self discovery” and we couldn’t agree more. The holistic resort stands out because it abides by traditional ashram style in terms of yoga, chanting, a vegetarian menu and no drinking, juxtaposed with the luxury of a five-star hotel. It applies the bare-bones philosophy in various realms, but still lets you envelop yourself in luxury so you don’t stress from the strict rigour that ashrams usually abide by. It even features a silent retreat, if you want to tune it all out. Shreyas is a nourishing oasis with a state-of-the-art twist that’s just an hour from Bangalore International Airport.

Feathered Pipe Ranch

Praised by yoga instructors and Gaiam video hosts alike, Feathered Pipe is one of the oldest, most popular retreats nestled in the mountains of Montana and has a focus on healing. From the invigorating mountain air and tranquil lake to the sweat lodge and wide range of classes and workshops, Feathered Pipe has it all. Soaked in nature with less emphasis on the luxury aspect, Feathered Pipe is more focused on consciousness and humanitarian efforts, working with efforts to mindfully unplug from technology along with offering scholarship funds and support retreats for healing veterans and individuals who are HIV positive. People that care, with a scenic mountain backdrop? Count us in.

Cliffs Of Moher Retreat

Ireland might not be the first place you think of when you think “yoga retreat,” but the Cliffs of Moher proves that this location is just as breathtaking as one in Mexico or Thailand. It’s set on the coastline, against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean in the countryside of County Clare, Ireland. This unique retreat features beautiful views from the yoga studio and views that look like they came straight off a postcard. The retreats are frequent and offer everything from nurturing pregnancy packages to ones that are focused on walks and hiking (even if you’re a couch potato, it would be hard to resist those cliffs at sunset).

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12 Ways To Avoid Getting Sick When You Travel

Whether you’re going for business or pleasure, travel can be stressful. Between booking flights, arranging hotels and looking at rental cars, the last thing you need to deal with is getting sick.

Travel in general can expose us to germs and illnesses we might not normally experience, and while it’s not always possible to prevent sickness, there are definitely some things you can do to mitigate the chance of illness when you travel.

Here are 12 ways to avoid getting sick when you travel.

Wash Your Hands

Probably one of the most important things you can do to maintain your health and keep germs at bay, regular hand washing has been shown to prevent upwards of 30 percent of different types of illness. Make sure you fully lather your hands with soap each time you wash them, and scrub for a good 20 seconds.

Wipe Down Trays, Phones, Armrests

Anything that other people’s dirty hands can touch is a carrier for illness. Bring some sanitizing wipes with you when you travel and make sure to wipe down the food trays and armrests on the plane, hotel phones and doorknobs. Being a bit of a germaphobe when you travel isn’t a bad thing!

Don’t Touch Your Face

How often do you wipe something from your eye, brush your lip, or rest your cheek on your hand? The bacteria that accumulates on our hands is most quickly spread when we touch our faces. In addition to washing your hands regularly, try to avoid touching your face if possible. This will reduce the potential for issues such as conjunctivitis in the eye or other infections.

Don’t Drink the Water

Contaminated water is one of the biggest causes of illness for travelers. There can be pathogens in foreign water that our bodies simply aren’t used to, which can mean hours or days of gut-wrenching illness. It’s usually safest to drink bottled or filtered water when you travel, and to avoid things like ice in your drinks if you’re in a country where the water system is questionable.

Take Supplements

No matter how fun that vacation might be, it still wreaks havoc on our immune system, which can in turn increase the risk of getting sick. Keep that immune system strong with supplements like vitamin C (Emergen-C packets are great for this) as well as Echinacea, ginger and vitamin E.

Be Aware of Food Contamination

Food-borne illness is one of the leading causes of sickness, and traveling only heightens that risk. Avoid raw foods or fruits and vegetables that don’t have a protective skin, wash all items in clean water, and make sure the hot food you eat is cooked thoroughly.

Stay Active

If workouts and fitness are part of your life at home, it’s important to maintain that schedule when you travel. If your hotel doesn’t have a gym, get outside for a walk, rent bikes or go hiking. It’s also important to get up and move around when you’re on long flights, as sitting for long periods has been known to cause blood clots.

Wear Sunscreen

It seems like a no-brainer in this day and age, but wearing sun protection not only keeps you from getting burned, it can help you avoid things like sunstroke or heat exhaustion. Use at least a 50 SPF sunblock and wear hats and long-sleeve shirts in the sun.

Watch for Bug Bites

Mosquitos and other biting bugs are not only an annoyance, they are also carriers of diseases such as dengue fever and malaria. Make sure to investigate beforehand if the area you’re traveling to has any outbreaks, and use bug spray to keep them at bay.

Get Vaccines if Needed

If you’re traveling to a developing country, be sure to get any required vaccines prior to travel. You can check the Centers for Disease Control website for recommended vaccinations or talk to your doctor. You should try to get vaccinated at least 4-12 weeks prior to travel.

Get Your Sleep

Exhaustion causes our immune system to falter, and not getting enough sleep when you travel can leave you susceptible to illness. Try to get as much sleep as possible, and keep yourself on some kind of schedule, even when traveling to different time zones.

Wear a Mask

It might seem a little extreme, but wearing a mask on a plane can actually help minimize your exposure to airborne illnesses such as colds and the flu. If a surgical mask is too much for you, consider a nasal screen, which are nearly invisible and help filter out bacteria and pollens.

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The Best Small Towns In The U.S. To Retire In

What makes a great small town? Usually it’s a combination of the people, the environment and the pace of life. You may go without some of the conveniences found in a big city, but you won’t be inconvenienced by traffic trying to get to your favorite shopping and restaurants.

The best small towns are like an oasis in the desert or a hidden valley in the mountains. This list of the nine best small towns includes a little bit of everything for every taste and lifestyle, so you can find the perfect small town to retire in.

Whitefish, Montana (Population: 7,279)

Big Sky Country presents this great small town for year-round scenic beauty and every outdoor activity you can imagine. From snow or water skiing to whitewater rafting and climbing in Glacier National Park, Whitefish has it all. You can end your busy days at a local micro-brewery or enjoy fine dining at one of the many local restaurants.

Ketchum, Idaho (Population: 2,753)

This mining town near Sun Valley is centrally located for skiing and year-round hiking and climbing. Known as a favorite home of writer Ernest Hemingway, Ketchum balances small town life with the old west and outdoor adventures.

Traverse City, Michigan (Population: 14,764)

Traverse City is said to have everything but congestion. With pristine beaches and wine-tasting shops, it’s best known for its annual Cherry Festival. Popular activities include cycling, hiking, golf, and performances at the Opera House.

Traverse City is a mecca for foodies, too. Once noted as the most beautiful place in America, it’s also considered one of the best places to retire in the United States.

Stowe, Vermont (Population: 4,314)

Stowe is a quintessential New England village and world-class ski town at the same time. Located in the lush Green Mountains of Vermont, Stowe is only an hour away from Vermont’s largest city, Burlington.

Though known as a ski resort, Stowe is a great place to live in any season. Whether you move there to retire or to cater to the local tourist industry with a small business of your own, you’ll find that Stowe has something for everybody – and it’s only 10 miles away from the original Ben & Jerry’s ice cream factory.

Taos, New Mexico (Population: 5,763)

Arguably one of the most scenic towns in the southwest, Taos is a draw for artists of all callings. For such a small town, Taos is awash with art museums, galleries and performing arts venues. Known for its pueblo dwellings, Taos has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a National Historic Landmark.

Cooperstown, New York (Population: 1,770)

Home of the Baseball Hall Of Fame, Cooperstown is the ideal small town for lovers of our national pastime. It’s also the home of one of the most extensive collections of American folk art and American Indian art in the country. Located in the Catskill Mountains, Cooperstown is a favorite for lakeside estates and summer retreats.

Carmel-by-the Sea, California (Population: 3,722)

Located on the coast just north of Big Sur, California, there isn’t another small town that can beat Carmel-by-the Sea for scenic beauty. It’s an artistic haven for writers and entertainers. Its most famous mayor was actor-director Clint Eastwood.

Carmel isn’t inexpensive by any means, but golf enthusiasts can enjoy playing at the world-famous Pebble Beach golf course just up the road on 17 Mile Drive. Monterey Bay is just a little further north should you want some bigger city life to remind you why you live in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Sevierville, Tennessee (Population: 14,807)

For Southern living in the Great Smoky Mountains, Sevierville is a great choice. This small town is alive with activity year-round as the local attraction Dollywood, Dolly Parton’s namesake theme park, celebrates over 30 years of fun.

The region provides plenty of opportunities for fly-fishing and hiking trails. Less than an hour from Knoxville, TN, and equidistant from Nashville to the west, Charlotte to the east and Atlanta due south, Sevierville puts you right in the heart of Dixie.

Port Townsend, Washington (Population: 9,210)

Port Townsend is a well-preserved 19th century Victorian city in the Pacific Northwest. Known for its appearance in the 1982 movie An Officer and A Gentleman, Port Townsend is located near the million-plus acres of old growth forest, glaciers, and flora and fauna of Olympic National Park. It’s a jewel in the Northwest’s crown.

The United States has a wide variety of climates and environments, and there are hundreds of charming small towns throughout the nation. Find the small town of your dreams and go live the life you’ve always wanted.

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Top 10 Travel Spots In Ireland

Ireland is known as “The Emerald Isle,” and it’s no surprise why. Known for its gorgeous landscape, the country boasts a verdant countryside covered in radiant green grasses and shamrocks. But what many travelers miss about this isle in the United Kingdom are its natural cliffs, still-standing castles and ancient cities in a country that dates back to 7000 B.C.

Here are the top 10 travel destinations in Ireland.

1. The Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher lie on Ireland’s western coast and stretch for about five miles. Watch your step near the cliff edges because they rise more than 700 feet over the pounding waves of the chilly Atlantic Ocean. The cliffs play host to more than one million visitors annually.

2. The Giant’s Causeway

In Northern Ireland, tourists can visit the Giant’s Causeway near the town of Bushmills. It’s a vast array of nearly 40,000 basalt columns on the coast. Mythic folktales boast that an Irish giant called Finn McCool lived on the coast and could see a Scottish giant (called Benandonner) across the ocean.

McCool challenged the Scotsman to a duel and built the causeway so he could cross the ocean to Ireland. When he discovered Benandonner was gigantic, he disguised himself as a baby and fooled the Scot into thinking the father of such an enormous child would be unbeatable. Benandonner fled home and destroyed the causeway so he couldn’t be followed.

3. St. Patrick’s Cathedral

Located in Dublin, St. Patrick’s Cathedral is the country’s largest church. Folklore has it that St. Patrick baptized pagans into Christianity in a nearby well. The present cathedral was built in 1191 and is still a fully operational cathedral that offers parishioners daily services. Sung services are offered six days a week and the cathedral choir sings two daily services during school terms.

4. Guinness Storehouse

Dublin’s most popular attraction is the Guinness Storehouse brewery. It soars seven floors up and its core is the shape of a humongous pint glass. The top floor is called The Gravity Bar and visitors can indulge in a free pint of Guinness while they view the city of Dublin.

5. Grafton Street

For those who prefer retail therapy and good eats, head down to Grafton Street. Here’s where you’ll see talented buskers, tuck into amazing ice cream made with locally sourced milk at Murphy’s, or just sit and watch the people go by.

6. Titanic Belfast

Built on the site of the former Harland & Wolff shipyard where the Titanic was built, Titanic Belfast is a museum attraction and home to the world’s largest Titanic experience. Opened in 2012 as a monument to the centenary of the Titanic’s maiden-and final-voyage, the museum has nine interactive galleries including full-scale reconstructions.

7. Muckross House and Gardens

Head over to Killarney National Park to visit the Muckross House and Gardens, an estate that dates to the 19th century and was once host to Queen Victoria. Tour the mansion and gardens or hop on some jaunting cars (horse-drawn carriages) for a relaxing tour of the grounds, the nearby parklands and lakes.

8. Trinity College

Dublin’s Trinity College is the oldest university in the country, dating to 1592 when it was founded by Queen Elizabeth I. Not only is it still a fully operating university, it’s home to irreplaceable, priceless literature, including the Book of Kells, which contains the four gospels in Latin that was completed in A.D. 384.

9. The Blarney Stone

Close to Cork lies Blarney Castle, which houses the Blarney Stone. Legend has it that anyone who kisses the Blarney Stone will be blessed with “Irish eloquence” or what’s more commonly known as “the gift of gab.” The original castle was built in 1210, although the castle in today’s form was built in 1446.

10. The Aran Islands

The Aran Islands are three rocky outcroppings that guard the mouth of Galway Bay, on the Midwest coast of Ireland. Inishmore is the largest, followed by Inishmaan and Inisheer. Visitors can explore medieval ruins and other structures.

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9 Reasons To Travel Solo At Least Once In Your Life

For many of us there’s nothing like traveling alone. Whether you’re driving to another part of your state or flying to another country, traveling solo can be a great time to enjoy some much-needed “me” time. You may love traveling with your family or friends, but you won’t know what you’re missing until you venture out alone.

Here are nine reasons why you can benefit from traveling solo.

Owning it

This trip is all on you. The choices are yours and all of the effort needed to make this trip a success is up to you. Embrace this challenge to fend for yourself on this solo excursion into the world. A solo trip is like a mini-lifetime you experience to learn new things about yourself.

Simplicity

With one person, the logistics of travel are simpler. As a single traveler, you’re more likely to get the flight you want. You’ll need to pack lighter because you’re going to be the one schlepping your bags.

There’s also a better chance of getting an upgrade for one person than for two, especially if you show consideration for how hard it is to work for an airline or hotel. Awareness of and empathy for others will be appreciated and sometimes open doors for you.

Freedom

All the choices are yours and there’s no push and pull on this trip. There’s nothing like being in a new city with the day in front of you and nobody to please but yourself. You can follow your day’s plans without having to drag anyone around or even cancel them all for a whim that strikes you. The world is yours. Where you originally had plans to go to a museum, you might find yourself sitting at an outdoor café reading your favorite book or people watching. You’ll learn the difference between really being in a place and not just traveling through it.

Real experiences

Solo travel allows you to see your trip differently. All that time you’d normally spend paying attention to a companion is now spent exploring your new environs, talking to people and allowing yourself to take opportunities you might not take with a companion in tow.

Leaving yourself behind

When you go to a place where no one knows you, you can be who you want to be. You are in a judgement-free zone. Be someone else, somewhere else. You are now free to be a person who makes new friends and tries new things. Compliment the locals you meet on their city, ask for help in finding interesting things to do that tourists wouldn’t know about, and don’t dwell on your being away from home. Stay in the now.

Recharging

One very important thing you can get out of a solo trip is recharging your batteries. Pamper yourself with a favorite meal, a dessert you might not normally eat, or a buy present for yourself. Be your own best companion. Do what you need to get your favorite self back. Read, listen to music, or meditate. Reflect on the things that get you excited about life and promise yourself that they will play a bigger part of your life when you return home.

Adventures

Trying new things is perfect for solo trips. If you wanted to be held back you would have brought someone with you. Research local events or classes and blend in and mingle. Imagine what your life would be like if you actually lived in this new place.

Memories

You have a lifetime of memories you share with the people in your life. Make some that are just yours. Sure, you can tell stories about your adventures when you get home, but those memories will still be just yours and yours alone. And be sure to take pictures and ask random people to take some of you to document your solo adventures.

Returning home

The best part is, you can bring this new energized person that you like most back home and share the new you with everyone you care for.

It sure sounds like a lot to expect out of one trip, but what the heck, it’s worth it. It probably won’t be long before you’re planning your next trip alone because now you’ve got the bug. Enjoy it.

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What To Carry In Your Car Survival Kit

Maybe you think that as long as you carry an extra cell phone battery in your glove compartment, you’ll be covered for any emergency you could encounter while driving.

But a working cell phone alone will not keep you prepared for disaster on the road. What if you’re in severe weather or you have an accident that renders your phone unusable? What if you’re traveling in a remote area with no phone reception and your car breaks down? At the very least, arm yourself with these must-haves so you’re prepared for the worst.

Here is everything you need to pack in a car survival kit.

Fire sticks/starter, light sticks, candles and flashlights

Why all four? You never know when one will fail, and you don’t want to be stuck at night without light to help you see or a fire to keep warm should you find yourself stranded while traveling.

Blankets, rain ponchos, coats, shoes, hats, gloves, socks and a change of clothes for every family member

If you’re traveling in the winter, keep clothes dry in waterproof containers. You’ll be able to stay warm by bundling up and not have to burn the car’s fuel reserves by running the heater. You also decrease the risk of harmful fumes.

A cell phone lighter adapter and charger

A battery-powered radio

Replace the batteries every few months with new ones

Extra batteries in a variety of sizes

Check and replace them every few months if you don’t use them. In this category also lies extra cell phone batteries.

A first-aid kit

Stock it with first-aid essentials, including allergy-relief meds as well as any prescription meds your family needs. Keep all prescriptions in their original prescription bottles.

Food and water

For example, you’ll want to include food like trail mix, energy bars and dried fruit. Rotate food and water monthly to make sure it’s fresh. A general volume rule for water consumption is one gallon per person per day. If you’re traveling out into the wilderness, also remember to carry water purification tablets.

An aerosol tire inflator with hose such as Fix-a-Flat

A jack

A spare tire

If you haven’t checked your spare tire’s condition in a while, make sure it’s ready-to-use regularly.

Jumper cables

A five-foot square moving blanket or old carpet for traction if your car gets stuck in mud or snow

Tow chains

An ice scraper for your windows

A car escape tool to break windows in case your car becomes submerged underwater

You might think you’ll never need this, but the CBC reported that a Canadian family was saved by one of these car-escape gadgets in 2014 when an accident veered their SUV off-course into a pond. The ResQMe device fits on a keychain and also has a blade for cutting seatbelts.

Paper maps

Don’t solely rely on GPS. If you’re out of range, it won’t do you any good. Keep a map of your state and a country atlas handy.

A compass

In the event you find yourself without a working phone/GPS, you’ll need it if the sun isn’t shining.

Flares and distress flags

A folding shovel

You might need it to dig out sand, mud or ice; if you’re really traveling remotely, you might even need it to dig for water.

Metal cups for boiling water

Sanitary wipes

A wire saw that cuts through plastic and wood, in case you need shelter

Here are a few additional survival tips for car travel:

While it may be tempting to keep your car survival kit in the trunk, don’t. If the trunk gets frozen shut or if you’re in an accident, there’s no way to reach the kit.

Always let friends or family members know your route and expected arrival time if you are traveling long distances.

If your car is stuck in the mud or snow and won’t move, do not run the engine more than 10 minutes every hour and when you do, make sure the windows are open and that another passenger is awake and aware. This will not only save gas, but also it will help to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

It’s also important to maintain your vehicle so it can transport you safely from Point A to Point B. Depending on your car’s condition, you should also consider a survival kit for it that could include:

Antifreeze

Belts

Brake fluid

Coolant

Fuses

Hoses

[ilyaslam]

8 Luxury Airbnb Tree Houses You Can Actually Stay In

Sometimes, you just want to run away from all the stress and drama in life and hide away in a tree house like when you were a kid. Turns out that’s totally doable, and we have your back. We found these gorgeous, grown-up tree houses all over the globe that are perfect for romantic getaways or some much-needed alone-time. These elevated sanctuaries feature staggering views and modern amenities, but will still give you that childhood nostalgia that we’re all yearning for deep down. Here are eight luxury tree houses you can actually stay in.

Dreamy Tropical Tree House, Hawaii

This bamboo tree house sits on stilts 15-feet high amid the canopy of local, exotic flora,  with close proximity to Volcano National Park and 360-degree views. Located within Hawaii’s lush Fern Forest, it can be accessed through a red cinder path.

Underneath the house between the stilts sits a hanging bed, which will lull you to sleep and connect you to nature. The bedroom has a unique chandelier, the bathroom is filled with hanging plants and the showerhead drips naturally-caught rainwater.

Summit Prairie Lookout, Oregon

Not for those who are scared of heights! Located 40 feet up and far off-the-grid, this is more of a lookout tower/tree house fusion, and can only be reached by four flights of stairs.

It can be rented between April and November, and is located on a 40-acre meadow in Umpqua National Forest in Oregon.

Sway in the hammocks down the hill or take a soak in their wood-fired, spring-fed hot tub. They even include a guide to what the meadow looks like in different months.

Summit Prairie claims it is on over 19,000 Airbnb wish lists, and you can see why!

Treehotel, Sweden

Located in Northern Sweden, this isn’t a standalone tree house, but a hotel made up of a dynamic range of sleek treetop suites. You can watch the northern lights from a mirrored cube, a human-sized bird’s nest, a UFO-inspired accommodation and other picturesque rooms that soar above our expectations. The interiors are just as extraordinary, and we had to give Treehotel a nod for location and concept despite the fact that it’s not an Airbnb.

Atlanta Alpaca Treehouse in the Bamboo Forest

Shrouded in a swaying bamboo forest, you wouldn’t initially guess that this Airbnb tree house is actually located in Atlanta, Georgia. Local alpacas and chickens hang out in this charming abode which features reclaimed antiques, heat and air conditioning, marble baths and luxurious beds. Architecture nerds, nature lovers and glamping fanatics, check it out!

Rainforest Tree House with Hot Springs, Costa Rica

Combine two nature fantasies in one with this affordable Costa Rican treetop haven. Siting in a rainforest with nine organic hot and cool springs at the Bio Thermales in Alajuela, Costa Rica, you and nature will become one here. Melt into this natural spa that offers peace without the expensive lotions and claustrophobic rooms. Plus, it’s just 45 minutes away from Arenal Volcano and horseback riding adventures, so adrenaline-seekers can expend their energy there.

The Fox House, Nashville, Tennessee

The quaint Fox House looks like something out of a dreamy Instagram feed, with its unique angles and mid century look. It’s located in Nashville, Tennessee, and the natural light is a fantasy in itself. Located on a two-acre wooded lot, creative types will love the writing desk and double deck with outdoor seating. There’s no kitchen and the private bathroom is separate, so if you’re looking for a more rustic experience with just a dot of luxury, this is the clear winner.

Trinity Beach Tree House, Queensland, Australia

In the depths of Queensland, Australia, lies an extravagant tree house or “pole home” within Trinity Beach. From the inside, you’d never guess it was a tree house. The massive two-level home features three bedrooms, a stand-in shower upstairs with a floor-to-ceiling window, and its own pool. If abundant amenities and luxury over rustic is your style, this listing is the way to go.

Tree House at Kilauea Volcano, Hawaii

This oasis is nestled in a lush rainforest just five minutes away from the entrance to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where Kilauea Volcano has been active for decades. The tree house has two floors, a hot tub and a fireplace. It’s the perfect place to soak in the quietude and hazy volcano mist. Peaceful, secluded and the ultimate honeymoon destination.

[ilyaslam]

Top 10 Airfare Tracker Apps To Save On Flights

There’s nothing quite like planning an epic vacation, unless it’s planning an epic vacation while getting the best possible deals on airfare.

While it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on prices with your favorite air carrier, trying to keep up with fare discounts and specials can be challenging.

But nowadays, finding the best deal is as easy as picking up your smartphone, as there are some great apps out there for airfare tracking.

Here are the top 10 airfare tracker apps to save you money on your flight

Hopper

One of the most popular and respected travel apps, Hopper allows you to plug in your travel dates and monitor airfare. You’ll receive notifications on when fares go down, as well as recommendations on whether or not you should buy your ticket now or wait for additional price drops.

Skyscanner

Founded in 2003, Skyscanner has become one of the premiere free travel apps available today. It is very user-friendly, with easy flight searches on destinations all around the world.

The app will send out price alerts for saved searches, and you can narrow your search by flight times and duration, flight class, or number of stops.

Jetradar

Cited as one of the top trending apps by Google Play, Jetradar compares fares between more than 1,000 airlines, including charter services and travel agencies.

A price map displays ticket prices for several destinations at once, and you can set up a personal profile for your favorite cities, flight history and flight statistics.

Hipmunk

If you want to keep it simple with one-stop shopping, Hipmunk not only gathers up the best possible airfares, it also shows you the deals on hotels and car rentals too.

With an “agony” option that helps minimize long layovers or lots of stops, you’ll be able to get alerts on flights to your favorite cities, as well as check out new travel ideas based on your budget and personal style.

Fareness

For those with a bit of flexibility in their schedules, Fareness will search out both the least expensive travel dates and destinations all at once.

If you’re dreaming of Mexico but don’t care where in Mexico you go, it will provide you with the cheapest fares on travel to various places there, going as far as six months out and sorting by both dates of travel and length of vacation.

Kayak

In addition to offering the ability to look at several different travel sites at once for low fares, Kayak also has a search tool for special deals, where you can look for discounts on everything from airfare, to cars, to hotel packages, all without putting in a specific date. If your travel dates are at all flexible, this can be a great way to find the best deals.

Google Flights

Google Flights recently redesigned some of their search functions, making it even easier to find the best fares.

In addition to finding you the best deal on your planned trips, it also scouts out money-saving options such as choosing a different airport or time and tracks prices on trips you might be planning to take in the future.

TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor not only helps you find cheap prices on airfare, it provides actual traveler reviews and photos of hotels, restaurants and activities. You can get first-hand experiences from real people, and make educated decisions on just where you want to go.

It has a built-in flight tracker to monitor the latest airfare, and an interface that makes flight searches doable for even the most technologically-challenged.

Airfarewatchdog

Airfarewatchdog sorts through thousands of fares on various airlines, giving you the best possible price for your travel.

It has a stable of “dealhounds” who verify whether or not the fares found are good deals, and you can set up alerts for airfare, hotels and vacation packages.

You can also set alerts for cheap fares from your home city and see what the best fares are for a wide range of destinations.

Priceline

An oldie but a goodie, Priceline is still a top app for booking flights, hotel packages and rental cars.

Their airfare options include sorting by price and quickest flights, as well as prices on “early bird flights.”

They don’t offer the “name your price” tool for flights anymore, but you can still bid on hotels and cars. They also have affordable vacation bundles that combine hotel, flight and car.