#Car rental services Elizabeth

[umichenginabroad]

New Zealand Part 1 (Week 11)

One of the beautiful things about studying at UNSW is that during week 6 of our studies, we get a flexibility week where the majority of courses don’t hold class and students are given the chance to catch up with schoolwork, get ahead, or do nothing and just relax! My hostel-mates and I knew about this opportunity from the day we got here, so a big trip was always in the works. We even knew that we all wanted to spend the time in New Zealand. The only problem? There’s 18 of us living in the hostel together and we’ve had enough trouble planning trips for just 5 or 6 people, let alone 18. Everyone had a different vision of what a trip to New Zealand could look like between camping, or renting cars and staying in AirBnBs, or living out of campervans. Needless to say, the trip planning was procrastinated all through the 4 weeks of summer and another 4 weeks of term 1. Once in a while someone would say, “Guys, we really have to plan this. Plane tickets are getting expensive!” and they’d be met with more approval and support than a professor who has suggested extending a homework deadline. But, as expected with our group, no action would be taken. Until one person sits down and buys themself a roundtrip flight to New Zealand, nobody is going anywhere. Soon enough, after intense procrastination and discussion, tickets were bought, plans were made, the group of 14 (four couldn’t make it) had divided into two campervans and two cars (who would be staying in AirBnBs), and I was sitting on a plane to Queenstown. 

^^ Landing in Queenstown

Queenstown may not be among New Zealand’s 20 largest cities, but it is renowned for its adventure sports and stunning scenery, earning it the nickname "Adventure Capital of the World," as my friend Elizabeth would say. Our adventures in Queenstown, however, were put on hold until the end of the trip as we had a road trip planned that would take us up north to Christchurch and then back down to the Adventure Capital. So, on our first day there we picked up our car rentals and headed to Fiordland National Park for a quick hike. The greenest plants, mossiest rocks, and most colorful mushrooms riddled the paths and made our short hike one of the most memorable. 

^^ Some New Zealand Flora

I also felt a lot safer hiking in New Zealand compared to Australia. New Zealand has none of the snakes that Australia is infamous for and has an almost negligible amount of dangerous spiders compared to the numbers Australia boasts! With our glow worm cave tour waiting for us in Te Anau, we had to get back on the road quickly. Lucky for us, there are worse places to be driving than one of the most naturally beautiful countries in the world where mountains surround you in every direction and lakes bluer than the sky itself pop up out of the blue (pun intended) every few moments. We weren’t allowed to take pictures in the glow worm caves, but imagine yourself sitting on a boat in a pitch black cave with little blue/green specks scattering the ceiling. That was pretty much it! It was interesting to learn about the glow worms themselves – they glow brighter the hungrier they are (to better attract flies) and they’re actually larvae, not worms, so they just need to survive long enough to turn into gnats and reproduce. You may be wondering why I’m sharing so much detail about random worms. Well, as a recent trivia night attendee (two weeks in a row), I see every random fact as a future topic in trivia. You can thank me later.

^^ Just the average roadside view while driving along the west side of the South Island!

Milford Sound was next on the list. Just a two hour drive from Te Anau with the option of a bus service to shuttle you there and back, Milford Sound is a large fiord stretching 9 miles (or, 15 km should I say) to the open sea. Once there, a boat cruise takes you down to the ocean and back while passing waterfalls, dramatic cliffs, and some popular scuba diving destinations. Milford Sound was highly recommended as an activity on our itinerary, and it truly lived up to the hype! From the stops on the bus ride to the scenic cruise, I was in a constant state of awe that I will never forget. The rest of the trip was just as exciting, but I’ll cover it in the next post! Until then, Cheers!

^^ The car gang on our way to Milford Sound

^^ A snippet of Milford Sound

David Bayer

Biomedical Engineering

University of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia

[zoomcab097]

Transportation in Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls, one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders, draws millions of visitors each year. Whether you're visiting to witness the awe-inspiring waterfalls, explore nearby parks, or enjoy the local attractions, efficient transportation is key to making the most of your trip. Fortunately, the region offers a variety of transportation options, catering to tourists, locals, and even those traveling internationally. This comprehensive guide will cover the best transportation in Niagara Falls, with options for every budget, preference, and convenience.

1. Getting to Niagara Falls: Traveling to the Region

Before diving into how to move around the city itself, it's important to consider how to get transportation in Niagara Falls. The region is well-connected to several major cities in both Canada and the U.S., making it easily accessible.

By Car

The most convenient option for many travelers is Zoom cab. Niagara Falls is located about 27 miles (43 kilometers) north of Buffalo, New York, and about 75 miles (121 kilometers) south of Toronto, Ontario. Major highways like the Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW) in Canada and Interstate 190 (I-190) in the U.S. provide easy access to the falls and surrounding attractions.

By Train

If you’re coming from Toronto or other cities in Ontario, you can take a train via VIA Rail or GO Transit. VIA Rail provides service from cities like Toronto to Niagara Falls, while GO Transit operates commuter trains from various points in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) to Niagara Falls during the tourist season.

By Bus

Bus travel is another affordable option to reach Niagara Falls. Several bus companies, including Greyhound and Megabus, run services from various cities across the U.S. and Canada to the falls. Additionally, Niagara Region offers local bus services for residents and tourists.

By Air

For international visitors, the nearest major airport is Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF) in New York, about 30 minutes away by car. From Toronto, you can fly into Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ), which is around 90 minutes away. There are also regional airports like Niagara Falls International Airport (IAG) on the U.S. side, which offers flights from select locations.

2. Getting Around Niagara Falls

Once you’ve arrived at Niagara Falls, there are a number of ways to get around, depending on your preferences and where you're staying. Here’s a breakdown of the main transportation options.

Walking

Niagara Falls is a walkable destination, and many of the major attractions are within walking distance from each other, especially in the Niagara Falls State Park (U.S. side) and the Niagara Parks (Canada side). If you're staying near the falls, walking is often the best way to take in the sights.

Niagara Falls Trolley Service

For those who prefer not to walk, the Niagara Falls Trolley is an excellent option. The trolley operates on both the Canadian and U.S. sides of the falls and serves as a convenient way to travel between key attractions, hotels, and restaurants. The trolley route is seasonal and operates from late spring to early fall, making it a popular choice for tourists during peak months.

Taxis and Rideshare

Taxis are readily available throughout Niagara Falls, and many visitors choose them for convenience, especially when heading to specific locations or when traveling in groups. Taxi stands are located near major hotels and attractions.

Rideshare services like Zoom cab are also widely available, providing another flexible and often more affordable alternative to traditional taxis. Rideshare apps are popular with both locals and tourists for their convenience, allowing you to hail a ride from your smartphone.

Bicycle Rentals and Tours

For the more adventurous traveler, renting a bicycle is a great way to explore Niagara Falls and the surrounding areas. Bike rentals are available at several locations around the city, including near the falls, downtown, and along the Niagara Parkway. Cycling along the scenic routes offers a unique way to enjoy the region’s natural beauty, and many bike rental shops also offer guided tours.

The Niagara Parkway is particularly popular with cyclists, offering a smooth, paved path that runs from Niagara-on-the-Lake to Niagara Falls, passing through vineyards, parks, and historic sites along the way.

Niagara Falls Sightseeing Tours

For those who want a more structured way to explore the region, numerous guided tours are available, providing transportation between top attractions. Many companies offer hop-on, hop-off bus tours, boat tours, or even helicopter rides for a premium experience. These tours often include knowledgeable guides who share historical and cultural insights about the area.

Car Rentals

While Niagara Falls is a walkable destination, renting a car can be convenient for those who plan to explore beyond the falls. For example, you might want to visit Niagara-on-the-Lake, the Welland Canal, or take a winery tour in the nearby Niagara Wine Region.

Car rental agencies are available at major locations, including the airports and in the downtown areas. Having a car gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace and visit more remote locations that might be harder to reach by public transit.

Shuttle Services

Many hotels and resorts in Niagara Falls offer shuttle services to key attractions, airports, and bus stations. These services are especially useful if you’re staying at a large hotel or resort complex that is a bit farther from the falls. Some shuttle services are complimentary for hotel guests, while others may charge a fee.

3. Unique Transportation Options: The Maid of the Mist and More

One of the most popular ways to experience Niagara Falls up close is by taking the Maid of the Mist boat tour, which operates on the U.S. side. This iconic boat tour brings passengers within feet of the American and Horseshoe Falls, allowing them to feel the mist and hear the roar of the water.

On the Canadian side, visitors can take the Hornblower Niagara Cruises, which offers a similar experience. Both boat tours operate seasonally, typically from spring through fall, and are a must-do for many visitors to Niagara Falls.

Additionally, helicopter tours are available for those looking for a bird’s-eye view of the falls. Helicopter rides provide an unparalleled aerial perspective of the falls, the surrounding landscapes, and even the nearby Niagara Wine Region.

4. Tips for Navigating Niagara Falls

Peak Tourist Seasons: Niagara Falls sees a surge of tourists during the summer months, particularly July and August. If you're looking to avoid crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October). During these times, the weather is still pleasant, but the area is less crowded.

Weather Considerations: The weather can vary significantly, especially between the Canadian and U.S. sides. Be sure to check the forecast and plan accordingly. If you're visiting in the winter months, you might encounter snow and ice, but the falls still offer a stunning sight year-round.

Parking: If you’re driving, be mindful of parking fees. Many hotels charge for parking, but there are also public parking lots around the falls. Be sure to check prices before parking, as fees can vary.

Conclusion:

With so many options for transportation, getting around Niagara Falls is both convenient and enjoyable. Whether you're taking a leisurely stroll through the parks, hopping on a trolley to visit top attractions, or renting a car to explore the surrounding region, you'll find plenty of ways to experience everything this breathtaking destination has to offer.

No matter how you choose to travel, make sure to take the time to appreciate the natural beauty and historical significance of Niagara Falls. The efficient transportation options allow you to focus on what matters most: enjoying your trip and creating unforgettable memories.

[eazycarrentals1]

Sightseeing Perth in a Day: A Complete Guide to Explore the Best of Perth

Perth, the sunniest capital of Australia, boasts a mix of natural beauty and urban excitement. Whether you’re a visitor with limited time or a local wanting to rediscover your city, this guide helps you make the most of your day. With Eazy Car Rentals, you can easily navigate through Perth’s top attractions and enjoy a flexible, efficient journey. Here’s how to see Perth in a day, with a suggested itinerary that covers everything from lush parks to historic sites.

1. Start Your Day at Kings Park and Botanic Garden

Begin your day at the iconic Kings Park and Botanic Garden, which offers stunning views of the Perth skyline and Swan River. One of the world’s largest inner-city parks, Kings Park features beautiful walking trails, native flora, and the impressive War Memorial. Enjoy a peaceful morning stroll or a coffee from one of the local cafés before moving on to the next spot.

Kings Park is ideal for taking photographs and relaxing while surrounded by nature, making it the perfect starting point for your day.

2. Head to Elizabeth Quay for a Waterfront Experience

After Kings Park, drive down to Elizabeth Quay, a vibrant area with waterfront dining, public art, and popular landmarks like the Bell Tower. This is where Perth comes alive with its modern yet charming atmosphere. Take a walk along the quay, visit the Swan Bells, or cross the bridge for a panoramic view of the river.

If you’re visiting on a weekend, there might be a local market or pop-up event to explore. Elizabeth Quay is an excellent spot to soak in Perth’s lively culture.

Also Check: Exploring Sydney with Ease: A Guide to Family-Friendly Car Rentals with Eazy Car Rentals

3. Enjoy a Relaxing Break at Cottesloe Beach

No visit to Perth is complete without spending some time at Cottesloe Beach. Known for its clear waters and white sand, Cottesloe is a popular beach for both locals and visitors. Park your rental car and enjoy a swim, or simply relax under the sun with views of the Indian Ocean.

For lunch, there are plenty of beachside cafés offering fresh seafood and local delights. If you’re lucky enough to visit during the afternoon, you can witness one of the most breathtaking sunsets along the Western Australian coast.

Also Check: Car Rental Age limit in Australia

4. Discover Fremantle’s Rich History and Culture

Next, drive to Fremantle, a bustling port town rich in history and culture. Fremantle is known for its well-preserved colonial buildings and vibrant markets. Visit the famous Fremantle Prison, a UNESCO World Heritage site offering guided tours, or explore the Fremantle Markets for local crafts, food, and souvenirs.

Fremantle’s blend of old-world charm and modern appeal makes it a must-visit. By renting a car, you can easily navigate through its many attractions at your own pace.

5. End Your Day with a Scenic Drive Along the Swan River

As your day draws to a close, take a leisurely drive along the Swan River back to Perth’s city center. The scenic route offers picturesque views and plenty of opportunities to stop for photographs. If you’re feeling adventurous, stop by Matilda Bay for a final sunset view.

For dinner, Perth offers an array of fine dining options. Whether you’re in the mood for seafood, Italian, or Asian fusion, you’ll find plenty of restaurants that cater to every taste.

Eazy Car Rentals Services

At Eazy Car Rentals, we make your trip stress-free with a wide range of vehicles to suit every need. Whether you’re looking for a compact car for city travel or a larger vehicle for family trips, we’ve got you covered. Our services include:

Flexible rental options: Choose from daily, weekly, or long-term rentals.

Unlimited mileage: Drive as much as you want without worrying about distance limits.

Affordable rates: We offer competitive pricing with no hidden fees.

Convenient pick-up and drop-off: Multiple locations across Perth for your convenience.

Conclusion | Sightseeing Perth in a Day

A day in Perth is just enough to experience the city’s highlights, especially when you have the convenience of a rental car from Eazy Car Rentals. Whether you’re exploring lush parks, relaxing on pristine beaches, or discovering historic sites, Perth offers a little something for everyone. Book your rental car today and enjoy the flexibility and freedom to experience Perth’s beauty in a day.

Also Check: Family-Friendly Car Rentals with Eazy Car Rentals

How far is Fremantle from Perth?

Fremantle is about a 30-minute drive from Perth city center. Renting a car from Eazy Car Rentals ensures you have a smooth and comfortable drive to this historic port town.

Can I explore Perth without a car?

While Perth has public transportation, having a rental car gives you the flexibility to visit more attractions in a short time. Plus, with Eazy Car Rentals, you can enjoy unlimited mileage and hassle-free service.

What’s the best time of year to visit Perth?

Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) offer the best weather for sightseeing. However, with Perth’s generally mild climate, you can enjoy the city year-round.

Are there parking options near the main attractions?

Yes, Perth offers ample parking near most attractions, including Kings Park, Elizabeth Quay, and Fremantle. Most locations also offer paid and free parking options.

[michiganprelawland]

Michigan Supreme Court’s Clarifying Decision on the State’s No-Fault Auto Insurance Policy

By Taylor Trenta, Calvin University Class of 2025

August 16, 2023

As of last month, the Michigan Supreme Court clarified that Michigan’s no-fault insurance law does not apply to injuries before the 2019 Act. [1] This 5-2 decision specified that the 2019 amendment is not applicable to earlier and already established policies. [1] The no-fault act was amended in 2019, limiting family-provided attendant care reimbursement, possible medical services, and other alterations. [1] In context, driving in Michigan as a resident requires a no-fault automobile insurance policy. Without it, the punishment is a fine of up to $500 and a year in jail, as well as a 30-day license suspension. [2]

According to the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services, “If you are injured in an auto accident, PIP will pay all reasonable and necessary medical expenses for your lifetime up to the maximum coverage amount selected in the affected policy. PIP will pay wage loss and replacement services for up to three years after the date of the accident.” [2] Personal Injury Protection options include Unlimited Coverage, $500,000 per person per accident, $250,000 per person per accident, $250,000 per person per accident with exclusions, no PIP medical insurance, etc. [2] For property protection, no-fault will pay up to $1 million for cases of damage to another person’s home, fence, or parked vehicles. [2] For Residual Liability Insurance, “Michigan’s no-fault insurance protects insured persons from being sued as the result of an automobile accident, except in certain situations. This includes when the injured party does not have enough coverage to pay for treatment or payment must be made to compensate someone that was killed or seriously injured.” [2] Additional options include Collision and Comprehensive Insurance, Limited Property Damage Liability Insurance, and Towing and Rental Car Coverage. [2]

Michiganders brought attention to the change in policy when Ellen M. Andary and Phillip Krueger experienced challenges to their coverage. After injuries from automotive accidents, the two received uncapped lifetime medical care, but faced challenges following 2019. [1] The case states, “It has long been the rule in Michigan that for insurance purposes the rights and obligations of the parties vest at the time of the accident. For purposes of a no-fault policy of insurance, this means that neither the insured nor the insurer can unilaterally change the terms of a policy after a covered accident occurs.” [1] This emphasized concerns from prior injuries. These people, along with others throughout the state, worried about being able to cover medical expenses if the policy was altered retroactively. The case syllabus says, “Andary’s and Krueger’s rights to [personal protection insurance] benefits under the applicable no-fault insurance policies vested, at the latest, when their injuries occurred and they first became eligible for [personal protection insurance] benefits.” [1] With the majority opinion, Justice Elizabeth Welch wrote: "The 2019 no-fault amendments do not clearly convey an intent to retroactively modify these vested contractual rights.” [3]

In contrast, Viviano wrote the dissent, saying the decision: “thwarts the will of the Legislature” and “As a result, the efforts of the Legislature and the Governor to reduce costs and make insurance more affordable for all the residents of our state will not come to fruition for many decades.” [4] While the updated decision only applies to crash survivors from before June 11, 2019, future dissent may come. [4] When the new cost controls were implemented, lawmakers did not specify if it impacted pre-2019 or post-2019 accidents. With the new decision, 15,000 Michiganders who experienced catastrophic accidents on the road are to be paid at full rates without cost controls. [5] With the overhaul law, healthcare providers were required to cut their prices by approximately 45%; this resulted in some patients being dropped. [5] The alteration also exempts survivors from the 56-hour cap placed on home attendant care. [5]

For the American Civil Liberties Union of Michigan and health organizations, this ruling was a positive decision. Dan Korobkin, legal director for the ACLU of Michigan, stated: “Applying the [2019] law retroactively has resulted in the withdrawal of critical care from people who are living with severe disabilities as a result of catastrophic injuries suffered in car accidents — care that allows them to continue living their lives and participate in society... Because of this ruling, it is our hope that thousands of Michiganders seriously injured in auto accidents, and receiving crucial care and resources through insurance coverage, won’t have their lives dangerously upended.” [1]

However, not all are happy with the results from the turmoil. Kris Curtis, director of CBI Rehabilitation Services in East Lansing, stated, "From what I understand, 30 programs like ours closed... Other health care providers stopped providing services to auto no-fault clientele, and they closed their doors. So, from the statistics I've heard, there were over 6,000 workers in this area that lost their jobs." [3]

While this decision helps clarify the policy, questions remain about the 2019 no-fault decision in Michigan. Even before the new cost controls were implemented, Michigan was the only state in the United States to require drivers to pay for full personal injury protection; consequently, Michigan was consistently the state with the highest auto insurance rate. [5] Now, Insure.com says Michigan ranks fourth. [4] However, many victims of car accidents before 2019 are relieved to receive coverage again.

______________________________________________________________

Taylor Trenta is a pre-law student at Calvin University, located in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She is currently studying history and economics as an Honors Scholars student.

______________________________________________________________

[1] Davidson, Kyle. (July 31, 2023). “Michigan Supreme Court: No-fault auto insurance changes don’t impact prior services.” Michigan Advance. Michigan AdvanceMichigan Supreme Court: No-fault auto insurance changes don’t impact prior servicesChanges to Michigan's no-fault auto insurance law do not apply to individuals injured before the changes were issued, the Michigan Supreme....1 week ago.

[2] Michigan Gov. “Brief Explanation of Michigan No-Fault Insurance.” Michigan Gov. https://www.michigan.gov/-/media/Project/Websites/autoinsurance/PDFs/FIS-PUB_0202a.pdf.

[3] Meyers, Elle. (July 31, 2023). “Michigan Supreme Court upholds no-fault auto insurance ruling.’ CBS Detroit. CBS NewsMichigan Supreme Court upholds no-fault auto insurance ruling(CBS DETROIT) - Early Monday morning, the Michigan Supreme Court upheld a previous lower court ruling, saying those who were injured in car....1 week ago.

[4] Gibbens, Lauren. (July 31, 2023). “Michigan court limits scope of no-fault reform. Will insurance rates rise?” Bridge Michigan.

Bridge MichiganMichigan court limits scope of no-fault reform. Will insurance rates rise?Car crash survivors injured before 2019 no-fault law aren't subject to its restrictions on medical fees, Michigan Supreme Court rules....1 week ago.

[5] Reindl, JC. (July 31, 2023). “Michigan Supreme Court: No-fault overhaul doesn't apply to 15,000 catastrophic survivors.”

Detroit Free Press. Detroit Free PressMichigan Supreme Court: No-fault overhaul doesn't apply to 15000 catastrophic survivorsThe Michigan Supreme Court on Monday ruled that new medical cost controls in Michigan's recent overhaul of its no-fault auto insurance....1 week ago.

[grantgoddard]

Blinded by the light : 1967 : Architectural Drawing Services, 27b High Street, Camberley

It was a mystery. Questions were asked. Answers were not forthcoming. Nobody could understand what had happened. Evidently something must have occurred. But what? And how? The professionals were stumped. I could not help. I had no answers either. Had I been in an accident? No. Had I hit my head? No. Had my face been hurt? No. I remained as baffled as were they. I had no answers. The whole thing was to remain a complete mystery … for decades.

Once a year, we were told to stand in line in the corridor in our underwear. Boys in the morning, girls in the afternoon. I hated standing around near-naked in public. One by one we were ushered into an office where a nurse rushed through an eye test, a hearing test and pinged our underpants’ elastic for a gender check. It was the result of my eye test that held up the ‘production line’ for processing my classmates. The record card had logged my vision as 20/20 one year ago. How come, now, I was so short-sighted that I could read no further than the second line on the eye chart? It was a complete mystery.

Children tend to join a ‘family business’ once they have finished their education. I was put to work by my father before I started school. Once I could walk, I accompanied him on appointments to measure houses, shops, offices and factories where I held the end of a long tape measure marked in feet-and-inches, wound out from a brown holder the size and shape of a discus. Once I could read, I ensured copies of design periodicals including ‘Architects Journal’ were returned to his office shelves in strict chronological order. Once I could write, I used Letraset sheets to transfer stylised, appropriately scaled men or women pushing pushchairs onto his ‘artist’s impression’ building elevation plans. Such was the volume of graphics and lettering I used that the well-thumbed, thick, ring-bound Letraset catalogue became the closest we had to a Bible in our house.

My father’s office was a Portacabin behind the garage in our back garden. As our house was only 300 yards from the town centre, clients could visit him easily. However, my parents were about to move to a house they had been building two miles on the opposite side of town that was reached by an unmade road. It would prove useless for a business. The solution was the rental of a town centre office at 27b High Street on a busy pedestrian alleyway connecting to the Knoll Road public car parks. It had three rooms: a small lobby, a main room large enough for two drawing boards and a desk with an electric typewriter, plus a smaller back room. My father registered a company named ‘Architectural Drawing Services’ and ordered letterheads, invoices, statements and business cards with an olive-green border from Southwell Press in Park Street.

The office windows faced the wall of the Midland Bank building on the other side of the alley. My mother had applied to work there in the early 1950’s, desiring a job closer to home than the administrative role at Elizabeth Shaw’s chocolate factory she had taken after leaving the grammar school on Frimley Road. Thrilled to learn that her application had been successful, she was disappointed to be told she could not work there because no women’s toilet existed in the building where only men were employed. Instead, she was offered the same job at the Midland branch in Farnborough where she could use the female public toilet in the newly built Queensmead shopping plaza … which she accepted and had to commute.

In my father’s new office, I was given three additional tasks. At the end of each month, I typed the invoices, statements and their envelopes. If clients’ payments were overdue, I had a box of green, yellow and red warning stickers I would lick and attach to their statements, printed with progressively strident threats. I handwrote details of each invoice into a large accounting ledger, the opposite page of which my mother updated with bill payments she had made.

Secondly, once school finished at four o���clock, I would pay a halfpenny to catch the number 1 or 2 or 3C bus to the town centre and wait in my father’s office until he was ready to drive us home for ‘tea’ at our new house. He would regularly ‘pop out’ and leave me alone in order to (I learned much later from my mother) spend an hour or so with his current mistress. Clients and potential clients visiting the office late afternoon might find it manned only by a polite nine-year old boy, banging out documents on an IBM Selectric typewriter he had mastered years earlier. It must have seemed bizarre.

Things could have been worse. If I had been born a hundred years earlier, I might have been sent up chimneys as I was appropriately thin and tall (only Pamela Munroe and Marina Hirons were taller in my class of thirty). As it was, I was made familiar with most aspects of running a small business by the time I finished primary school. These were skills that schools (and even university) failed to consider worthwhile imparting, and why girls like my mother had to be sent subsequently to ‘secretarial school’ to learn the practical aspects of commerce about which their male bosses would never need to worry their unpretty big heads.

My third task was to work in the rear office that was off-limit to clients, kept darkened by a venetian blind across its window and contained two printing machines. One was an absolutely massive dyeline printer that used ammonia solution and photosensitive paper to reproduce paper copies of 36- by 48-inch architectural plans drawn onto tracing paper. There was no ventilation from the room as the door to the main office had to be kept shut to keep out the light, as did the one window to prevent a breeze blowing the blind. The second machine was a Rank Xerox monochrome photocopier that used ultraviolet light to print onto photosensitive A4 paper.

During term time, I would regularly do small copying jobs for my father after school on both machines. I hated the smell of the ammonia, the heat generated by the machines and the bright light emitted by the photocopier. During this era, such machines were uncommon outside cities and my father soon realised he could subsidise their cost by offering copying services to non-clients. He was approached by the Associated Examining Board [AEB], the only GCE examination board not linked to a university, which had moved from London to nearby Aldershot in 1966 and was seeking a business to contract for photocopying services. It would mean taking on a lot of seasonal work but the returns would prove significant. The deal was done.

Schools in the UK and former colonies took GCE exams every June, sent them directly to the persons appointed to mark them, who then sent them to AEB. A percentage of papers for each subject were then forwarded by AEB to a different academic whose job was to check that the initial marking was appropriate and consistent. They were sent a photocopy of the student’s marked work to ensure the original would not be lost. Turnaround time for these tasks was critical as exam boards notified students of their results in August before the new school year started the following month.

My mother was occupied at home caring for my younger preschool brother so it fell upon me to fulfil this contract. Most of my school summer holiday had to be spent in the darkened back room of my father’s office, photocopying thousands of examination scripts for days on end. It was hot work and the ultraviolet light flashed around the edges of the document plateau thousands of times. AEB were pleased with the results and renewed the contract to execute the same work for their less busy December exam retakes. Bang went my Christmas holidays too!

The outcome, which everyone had apparently failed to anticipate, was my mother taking me to Leightons opticians at the top of the High Street to purchase my first pair of NHS glasses with thick lenses in tortoiseshell frames. I refused to wear them at school, not because I feared being bullied (something never witnessed at Cordwalles Junior School) but because it was so rare then for children of my age to wear glasses. My stubbornness perplexed teacher Mr Hales who struggled to comprehend why I could no longer copy down things he wrote on the blackboard. Had one of 4H’s brightest students suddenly become illiterate?

Subsequent eye tests proved just as baffling to opticians who could not understand why my eyesight had deteriorated so suddenly during one year, but then remained static for years afterwards. It confounded me too for a long time until I finally understood the havoc wreaked on eyesight by lengthy unfiltered exposure to UV light. The only positive side effect was that, in every workplace I have since worked, I have been the one person in the office who can be relied upon to fix a malfunctioning photocopier!

Once I progressed to secondary school in 1969, I became too busy completing mountains of homework to continue the monthly office tasks. Besides, my father was about to upgrade my ‘help’ to evaluating the potential profitability of local property deals for a considerably more lucrative sideline he had discovered. I also suspect he preferred I spend less time at his office because, the older I was, the more difficult it became for him to disguise his dalliances with women.

In 1972, my father left our family forever to run off with recent teenage bride Suzie Anthony who lived a few doors away. The courts ordered him to pay the mortgage on our house and maintenance to my mother and her three children. He avoided payment, claiming he was unemployed despite living in salubrious, gated St Georges Hill, Weybridge. He broke into our house while we were out and stole almost everything he had ever provided for us, including some of my treasured vinyl records purchased with pocket money. My mother had to take both a day job and an evening cleaning job to try and make ends meet.

On my sixteenth birthday in 1974, my father applied to Farnham court to reduce my maintenance payment to £1 per year, arguing that I was now old enough to take a job. The court agreed, despite him already owing thousands in arrears and me about to take eight O-level exams and hoping to continue my education with A-levels and university. I received a letter from the court informing me of its decision at a hearing of which neither I nor my mother had prior knowledge. When the amount owing mounted even further, he fled abroad. Farnham court said it was our responsibility to trace his whereabouts.

In 1976, entirely coincidentally, my first paying job was processing examination papers at AEB in Aldershot. Almost a decade had passed since I had similarly handled thousands of students’ handwritten GCE scripts from all over the world in my father’s office. It was difficult not to believe in some kind of ‘fate’.

My father died in 2013 though I was not invited to his funeral. A handwritten will bequeathed the majority of his assets to my younger brother whose contribution to my father’s business in Camberley had been … zero.

[limoexpress]

Car rental services Elizabeth

[roswelldetails]

RNM 2x08 - Say It Ain't So

EPISODE SUMMARY:

JAMIE CLAYTON GUEST STARS — Despite promising Liz (Jeanine Mason) that he’ll take things easy with his new heart, Max (Nathan Dean) sets out to find Cameron after learning that she’s gone missing. Michael (Michael Vlamis) grows concerned about Maria (Heather Hemmens) after a surprising discovery about her family history leaves her vulnerable. Elsewhere, ready to move on, Alex (Tyler Blackburn) goes on a date with Forrest (guest star Christian Antidormi), and Rosa (Amber Midthunder) makes a decision about her future. Rachel Raimist directed the episode written by Eva McKenna & Christopher Hollier (#208). Original airdate 5/4/2020. 

DETAILS:

Rosa's secret identity:

"...Cousin Rosalinda from Arizona. My mom married a minor league baseball player, but when he got relocated to a team in Florida…"

"Okay, you know what, let's just go with, they're dead."

This is a Twilight reference.

Rosa about the Mean Girl's art in the cave:

"That reminds me of Stephen Powers before he sold out."

Stephen Powers is a former street artist who went commercial. Some examples of his older work here:

Other examples of his newer, more commercial work here:

By the way, speaking of the cave:

And this is some fabulous visual storytelling right here:

Max is working at the Wild Pony. Temporarily, of course.

"Turns out debt collectors don't care if you've been half dead in a glowing pod for a few months."

So much for the headcanon that Max "I've been driving the same car since high school and am a homeowner before 30" Evans is good with his money. 😆 Debt collectors don't show up that fast… not that I know from experience or anything.  😳 *backs slowly away*

Iris refers to the cave as the go to hang spot for all the artsy weirdos. So it isn't like it was specifically Rosa's cave/hidden spot.

It's the first time we've seen this particular cave other than in 2008 flashbacks.

Iris Sanchez & Rosa Ortecho. Flower, Mexican family name. 😭 The hint is there!

Also 👀 from:

The iris earned its name from the ancient Greek Goddess Iris, a messenger to the gods who was thought to use the rainbow as a bridge between heaven and earth...these flowers were named to honor the Rainbow Goddess and bring favor upon the earth.

Mimi made Maria take back the necklace.

"She said that it was too late for her and that I needed it more."

Michael has seen the necklace before, but he didn't know what the flower was when he fixed the clasp and returned it to her in 1x10.  It was 1x11 when they learned of the existence of the anti alien pollen. Michael reminds us:

"I know this flower.  Its pollen has a paralytic effect on alien abilities."

Once Maria takes it off, she can name every card Michael pulls from the deck.

Maria lists off a bunch of necklace facts from past episodes that fandom has previously noted...

Her powers were heightened when Michael had the necklace in 1x10. 

She wasn't wearing it when Noah invaded her at the gala.

And she wasn't wearing it at Woman As Warrior in 2x02 when she sensed that Isobel was pregnant.

"Kyle said you aren't an alien."

Fact. Kyle did say that.  It doesn't mean that it's a fact that Maria doesn't have alien DNA in her though.

Kyle determined that her blood doesn't carry the alien protein that's in the Pod Squad and Rosa. He is making an assumption that the protein is tied to being an alien.

He said he ran other tests, but the results would take longer to come in. 

Also, just a personal theory, what else do Rosa and the Pod Squad (and Noah) all have in common? They all spent significant time marinating in a pod full of goo. Rosa (10 years), Pod Squad (at least 50 years), Noah (60 years). Kyle has not studied any samples of alien biology from an alien who didn't spend time in pod goo. It's possible the protein is related to the pod goo, moreso than the alien biology. Again, just speculation on my part.

Maria confirms that her mom started getting sick when she was 18, just after she passed the necklace on to Maria.

"If this prevents you from having more episodes, it probably stops the neurodegeneration process too. It's not kryptonite, Maria. This is preventative medicine. Keep it on."

In 2x06 it was established that in addition to Sanders' place being a junkyard and a mechanic/auto shop, they also do tow truck service.  Now that comes into play again as Michael was hired to bring Cam's car back to Roswell for the investigation into her disappearance.  He brought it to the junk yard first though to give Max and Liz an hour to check the car for clues before the sheriff's department comes to collect it.

Max is smart too, in his own way. He quickly identified that "Agent Powell" was driving a rental car and that her gun wasn't government issue. 

However, it's only when he sees her tattoo (which Cam told him about in 1x07) that he confirms that she's actually Charlie Cameron!

(10 points to fandom!)

Max & Liz's conversation with Charlie is mostly just reminding us what we know about Charlie and Jenna's relationship. 

Liz indicates that Jenna had been looking for Charlie for months.  Charlie responds that she didn't want to be found (both things we learned in 2x04 through Cam's discussion with Jesse Manes.

Max indicates that Jenna thought that Charlie hated her, a call back to us first learning about Charlie and the matching tattoos in 1x07.

"I worked on a controversial project a while back. A lot of dangerous people want to know what I know."

(Again, stuff we learned in 2x04).

They learn through Cam's text history that she was looking for Jesse Manes (which we already knew, because...2x04).

"I'm just a guy standing in front of a tourist trap asking a history buff to shoot him with high velocity paint."

Tongue-in-cheek reference to the movie Notting Hill.

"So, you're cool playing war? Doesn't bring anything up?"

"Oh, yeah, my PTSD triggers are a little more complicated. Suffice to say, this war zone is the only place that my family actually got along when I was a kid."

"Yeah, some of my old platoon buddies actually play in leagues."

"I didn't know that you served."

"Yeah I wouldn't go bragging about it to a guy with a Purple Heart. I might have googled you."

New information… both that Forrest served, that he looked into Alex (which could be innocent OR sketchy…).

And of course this is the first open discussion about Alex's PTSD issues.

Cowboys versus aliens paintball… Alex is the cowboy, so Forrest must be the alien.

The call that interrupted Forrest's attempt to kiss Alex was from the hospital. Hence why Alex goes there to see Jesse.

"Look, if I had a little lucky charm that could stop people like Noah from messing with me, I would have that surgically implanted into my décolletage."

Have to admit, I wasn't sure what décolletage meant, so in case anyone else isn't familiar: 

"These abilities are a part of me. I'm not gonna just throw away the chance to learn about who I am. That make sense to you?"

"Yeah, actually, it does."

"You've gotten stronger this year, right?  Can you teach me to train? Learn how to control it all?"

"Look, it took a lot of practice before I could do anything without puking and guzzling acetone to kill the pain.  And you can't practice, because according to Kyle, every time you do it eats your brain."

"Look, I'll stop before it goes that far, okay? I know the signs. Besides, if you help me, maybe I can help you. There must be something that you want to know about your future."

"What about my past?"

Max meeting with Jesse at the Crashdown. This is super interesting because it's the first time Max has sat down, face to face, with a hostile human who knows he's an alien. 

"My uncle used to bring me here. That was back when it catered to a more civil clientele. People who actually respected the history of this town."

This is likely foreshadowing what's to come next week, based on the promo pics released.

Again, similar to the scene with Charlie at the junkyard, much of this exchange between Max and Jesse is just reminding us of stuff we learned in 1x04.

"The last time I saw her she came to me with questions about her sister.  And I told her that the people most interested in Charlie's device were a black ops group based out of Los Alamos. They're called Deep Sky. This is their logo. Paramilitary. And I told Jenna that what she was getting into was gonna be dangerous. But apparently she didn't listen.

Note: in case any of you are unaware, in Los Alamos there's a US DOE lab that has a long, sketchy history of weapons development.  Makes perfect since that it's where a paramilitary organization interested in Charlie's research would be based there.

The Deep Sky Logo

I compared this to a number of screenshots of alien symbols (like the ones we saw in Jim Valenti's letters in 1x12) and there were no matches.

However, fandom has already noted that the logo matches Trevor's ring in 2x06 (see that episode's details post for the photo).

"Charlie Cameron's mind is a unique specimen. Kind of like you. And there's always someone in the shadows waiting to crack those open."

"What did you do to Jenna?"

"I told her the truth. Which is more than you ever did. You're kind of a wolf in sheep's clothing, aren't you?"

"And what are you? Do you feel like a hero? All those people you tortured, all those people you killed. Turns out none of them were an enemy.  They were refugees. So you're not just a murderer, you're a failure."

"Yeah, I know. I am. But I tell you, something shifted in my brain when I had the stroke.  All the hate's gone out of me. All the fight. Caulfield is over and my son Flint has been reassigned. Look at me. I can barely walk."

Liz and Charlie in the car:

"Waitressing's really got to blow when you've grown a fully functioning heart muscle in a lab.  Or are you not the same Elizabeth Ortecho who co-authored a 2013 paper on cellular reprogramming? Some people build model trains; I do my homework.  Your boyfriend seems more like the train type."

"What is that supposed to mean?"

"We've discovered new worlds and changed the course of mankind from a microscope. Should I go Netflix and chill with my boyfriend or stay in the lab, architecting the future?"

"No offense, but if it's true that you've been in prison and in hiding, it does not seem like you've seen much of the inside of a lab either."

"I went too far.  I thought I was building something with real value. The thing is, anything that has the potential to create real change, it scares people. And anything that scares people is inherently dangerous no matter what your intention is."

"You could start over. Get a new identity, work at a research university."

"I've done extraordinary things. Everything ordinary is ruined now."

More exposition that we already know as Max catches Charlie and Liz up on what he learns from Jesse.

"He said Cam is headed to Los Alamos to investigate a group called Deep Sky. Does that mean anything to you?"

"No. Let me reach out to some of my military contacts, do some recon. Give me a day, we'll go from there."

Liz and Michael, in the lab, on The Science:

"I'm looking for the sample of yellow pollen."

"The stuff I swept off the floor after throwing it at Noah? I don't know. I didn't see it while we were packing up."

"Well it was here a few months back.  Did I miss an experiment where it grew legs and a fondness for the outdoors?"

"Could have been accidentally thrown away. Sample was too oxidized to be of much use, and I've been trying to get my hands on fresh flowers, but it's impossible. I think they might be extinct. Why are you freaking out?"

"Because I have a math problem. There's only one flower in Maria's necklace, but there are two DeLuca women and apparently the flower is the key to preventing their illness. This is everything from the Caulfield drives and the experiments done on Maria's grandmother. A lot of it was lost in a lab fire in the '80s, but…"

"I'll take a look."

(Aside… 👀 Lab fire in the '80s. I have a feeling that's more foreshadowing.)

"I just want you to see if anything done could be undone. I don't want you to, like, Dr. Frankenstein it. The experiments were very bad."

"My days as an alien scientist are officially over."

"Why don't I believe you?"

"'Cause it's hard not to think about the far-reaching implications of this kind of research. You don't get sick on this planet. If I could figure out why, I could eradicate all illness."

"But you can't. Because that would expose us."

"Which I would obviously never do. It's over."

Arturo's text to Liz:

Have you seen our little mouse?

"Rosalinda" is late for her first shift.

Isobel and Maria go to Michael's trailer and Isobel shows Maria the newspaper clip of Michael's mom to try to trigger a vision.

"It's not working. And I don't feel great going through this stuff without Michael knowing."

"Why not? One day this palace might all be yours."

"It's not working.  I have a business to run, and you need to go Instagram something."

"Says the social media revitalizer. Listen, word to the wise, every time Max saw Liz in a skirt and tried not to pop a bulb, he wound up setting off a fire alarm. Everytime I push myself too hard, I miss time, or wind up accidentally realizing that my mom still thinks about her ex-boyfriend Rocco, like, in vivid detail."

"Okay, where are you going with this?"

"Effort doesn't equal control. So if you want to do this you're gonna have to embrace your inner ice queen and let it go."

"I'm not great at letting things go."

"Yeah, I know.  That's hard…"

Maria's vision:

Triggered by a t-shirt hanging in the trailer.

Louise is hanging laundry

Walt runs up to her and gives her a little windmill with her name on it. (Initially I thought her name was pressed or punched into the metal, but on second viewing, it looks like it might be puff paint or something similar.)

Walt runs off to find Nora and Louise goes back to hanging laundry.

After the vision Maria's nose starts bleeding.

Max goes after Charlie to stop her from turning herself in.

I wonder if his tire screeching action guy driving is supposed to be emphasizing to the audience that he's not being as cautious as he should be? 

Deep Sky said that if Charlie "...wasn't at Sutter's grain depot by 11pm, that they would torture (Cam) to death."

Charlie heard on the call:

A train rolling by

A demonic laugh

And somehow that's enough for Max to magically know exactly where Cam is.

Alex and Jesse at the hospital:

"Hey, they said that you mixed whiskey with your medications.  That's not like you."

"What the hell are you doing here?"

"I don't know. I mean, you're my father. I can't seem to shake you."

"Yeah. I failed."

"Yes. But in what way specifically?"

"Uncle Tripp. I let him down. I never could figure out what he needed of me. And tonight I went to the bunker.  And I keep trying to crack the code."

"Liz said that you spoke to Max Evans. She said that you were half decent to him. Is that what this is about?"

"One of them killed Tripp, you know."

"An alien? Yeah. Then he hunted them. He dragged them to a torture chamber. I'm not surprised one of them…" 

Jesse slams his cane.

"He was the best man I ever knew.

Jesse tries to stand and falls into Alex, then continues to walk away.

The location that Deep Sky is holding Cam looks like a rodeo or horse arena or racetrack with a big grandstand.

There are nearby train tracks, and a warehouse where a mechanic repairs old carnival rides.

As Max and Charlie are scoping out the area you can hear both sounds softly in the background.

The sniper was watching and shooting at them from the grandstand.

Charlie is shot in the leg.

"Let me go get her."

"No. Deep Sky wants me alive. Your brain is worth considerably less to them which means it'll be splattered all over the dirt."

(Oh the irony...confirming that Charlie doesn't know that Max is an alien.)

"If anything goes wrong, call Liz. No doctors."

Max does shoot the sniper!

And then uses his powers to knock out the power (and instantly feeling it in his heart when he starts to use his powers!!!!!!) which, as @angsty-aliens very eloquently pointed out, is absurd because there was a big red lever that would have done the same thing. *facepalm*

Cam on her kidnapping:

"The last thing I remember is this weird sound. It made the hairs on my arm stand up. And this bright light, and the pain in the back of my neck like you wouldn't believe."

Cam's burn is fractals.  Like Liz's burn from Max's powers in 1x03. Top is Liz's fresh burn in 1x03, bottom is Cam's not-so-fresh burn in 2x08. Keep in mind, we don't know how long Cam was missing for.

Rosa and Iris at the "art show".

"So you said you're from Roswell?"

"Oh, I was from Roswell.  I got out and went to art school as soon as I graduated. I work for an artist now. I help her run her gallery. Yeah, I used to want to be a painter, but then I realized I loved curating art way more than I ever loved making it."

👀 I wonder what this says about Rosa's internal motivation. If Iris is the life she wishes that she had, does she not want to be a painter? Or is that her internal insecurity rearing its head.  Like, she can't even dream about that possibility because it's what she really wants above all else.  Which is why Iris then motivates her to paint and prove to her inner self that she is an artist? 

Speaking of which, here's Rosa's painting from the episode. Mucho gracias to @rosaortecho for giffing it for me since it wasn't cap-able in a single shot.

Iris's assessment of Rosa's art:

"This piece is you outrunning your demons. This is amazing. That's what you have to do.  You have to capture them and rattle the cage.  This is art. This is what you're meant to do, Rosa!"

Rosa's hallucination starts to fall apart as they dance.  She starts coughing and having trouble breathing.

"Your star sign's just out of whack."

Play on lyrics from God of Wine by Third Eye Blind, which was heavily referenced in 1x02. 

The direct quote is "your star sign's out of whack" and the next lyric is "a fraudulent zodiac"

Which, of course, is what Rosa had written on her hand before she died in 2008 and is a reference to Ophiuchus, which was Noah's zodiac obsession.

And then Liz finds her overdosing in the cave. 

The coughing in Rosa's hallucination was from smoke inhalation.  Because while passed out she started a fire with her powers.

Feels like a good time to point out that it's the same cave that she died in back in 2008, and she would have died there again if Liz hadn't found her. 😭

At the hospital Rosa tells Liz that she wants to go to rehab, but she knows she can't since she can't control her powers. 

Liz gives her Maria's necklace to borrow since it will suppress her powers and allow her to go to rehab.

Alex and Forrest at the Wild Pony:

"I still have my dad's voice in my head telling me that being seen with a man in public is an embarrassment. To my name and my uniform."

"Well, there's nothing like a dad voice to mess up a perfectly good date."

"It's also just that...I mean, Roswell's so conservative. This bar is filled with cowboys. If you want to go someplace private…"

"Look, I like you. But I don't want to climb into somebody else's closet."

"I cannot tell you how badly I want to be done with this frickin' closet."

"But you're not. And that's okay. Really. Listen, if that voice in your head ever shuts up, give me a call. Because between you and me, making out with a hot guy in public is only made hotter when it pisses off all the bigots and homophobes."

Charlie took off and left a note for Jenna. According to Jenna it says she's gonna disappear again and not to look for her.

Arturo is taking Rosa to a rehab center that Kyle set her up with "a few hours away".

Max tells Liz "let's go home." So… did she move in with him??

Liz says no though.  She says she has to open the diner and cry alone.  But instead she goes to the secret lab.  

Both Max and Liz were evading the truth a little bit here.  Liz didn't tell Max that she wanted to go to the secret lab.  Max didn't tell Liz that his heart did wonk out after using his powers and he did overdo it going after Cam. Bad Echo!!

Liz goes back to packing the secret lab up initially, but then her eyes fall into the Caulfield folders, and she stops. 

She unpacks her stolen equipment (genetic sequencer?), puts on her lab coat, and sits down to start reading the file.

Isobel brings Michael beer as a peace offering, since she's coming to admit that she helped Maria trigger a vision.  She thinks Michael will be mad, but he isn't because he and Maria already worked it out.

So Isobel tells him about the vision and seeing Louise, and specifically about Walt giving Louise the windmill. 

Michael immediately reacts, goes to a shelf, and grabs a similar windmill.

Turns out Walt is Sanders.  He pulls up in his car and Michael immediately confronts Sanders.

"It was you. You're Walt. You're the little boy in the photo.  You knew my mother."

And Sanders nods.

10 more points to fandom.

Max goes to Charlie's hotel to confront her about turning herself in to Deep Sky.

The windmill in both scenes. Until I put this together I didn't think they were the same one (because Louise's name isn't on Michael's. But other details (like the word weight on one of the legs) are the same.

"You think Deep Sky needs to have Jenna by the throat to kill her? Okay, the only way that I can protect her is from the inside."

Then the "abduction scene" happens.

It mirrors what happened to Jenna in 2x04, only to Max and Charlie.

MUSIC:

1.  Hole "Celebrity Skin"

2.  Lukas Nelson & Promise Of The Real "Die Alone"

3.  Shelly Fairchild "Worry No More"

4.  Marc Danzeisen "Some Things Last Forever"

5.  Joey Sykes "Sign Of The Times"

6.  I AM ORFA "Like That Look"

7.  Danny Ayer "Set Us Free"

8.  Hamish Anderson "Trouble"

9.  OMC "How Bizarre"

10.  Muscadine Bloodline "Movin' On"

11.  Little May "Hide"

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[gingerlexi2897]

When we go to Scotland as a family, we have one rule: we have to visit a castle every day and we have to sit in a pub every day. Thankfully, neither of these are very hard to find so we tend to do a pretty good job of following it. Since Itty and Erin are basically family at this point, we stuck to the rule and Erin would quite enthusiastically remind us of it about every 5 minutes.

The Saturday morning following Erin, Itty, and I’s adventure in Glasgow, we threw all of our laundry back into our backpacks, hauled our luggage back down the 4 flights of stairs, and took an UBER out to the airport where we collected our rental car. After a quick pit stop at Costco, (because why not?) we found ourselves heading north on the M90 towards Perth for a week of laughs, zero personal space, and of course, castles and pubs.

When Mum and I first visited Scotland back in the summer of 2014, we spent about a week in Perth and absolutely fell in love with the riverside city and the surrounding countryside. Since then, every time we have been back in the country, we have tried to at least drive through the town. It was here last summer that we met the Martins and the Crawfords after a Sunday church service at Tayside Christian Fellowship and first heard from them about camp in Hungary. So when it came to making our plans for this summer, we knew we wanted to be somewhere close to Perth and our friends there. Thanks to some help from the Crawfords, we were able to find a self-catering holiday let just up the hill from the River Tay and Perth, close enough to town yet far enough to feel like you were in the middle of nowhere.

The owners had converted what used to be an old stable block for Kinfauns Castle and turned them into 1 to 4 bedroom holiday cottages. When we originally made the plans and booked the cottage, we weren’t sure if Itty and Erin would be with us for this part of the trip, so we booked the two-bedroom and hoped for the best. If you’ve ever wondered how to fit 3 people in two single beds we would suggest pushing the two beds together, as well as being comfortable with zero personal space, having strong upper body strength to fight for your blanket, and oh bums to crack. It is genuinely a miracle that Erin, Itty, and I not only shared the two single beds but were squished into the backseat of a car for a week and didn’t want to kill each other. In fact, we only aggressively yelled when we decided to give running a try and I remembered a very important fact: I don’t run. 

For the two Sundays that we spent in Perth, we attended Tayside Christian Fellowship and spent the afternoons with the team that had been at Camp with us. I think being back with our friends from Camp was something that we had been looking forward to since we had left Budapest the previous week. After lunch at Jim and Carolyn’s, we gathered our bags that they had so kindly brought back from Hungary with them, and set about the task of washing ALL of our stuff. It seems that the day the Scottish team flew back to Edinburgh, it had absolutely poured, soaking everyone’s bags. Unfortunately, ours, even though they were hard-sided had not managed to stay dry. For the first part of our week at the holiday cottage was spent with nearly every piece of clothing we had with us strewn out on every possible surface in an attempt to dry it. Thankfully in all of the loads of laundry we did, only one pair of red socks snuck into a load of whites, so with pink-tinted clothes we set about to achieve our goal of a castle and a pub a day.

You’ll be happy to know that we achieved our goal of a castle and pub a day. We spent hours wandering the halls and gardens of Glamis Castle, the childhood home of Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother, Scone Palace, the crowning place of Scottish kings, and Blair Castle with its giant trees, amongst others. For us, it doesn’t really matter if it is an ornately decorated palace or ruins in a field, we love all castles equally. Just like we love all fuzzy Highland Cows equally. If you know me, you know I absolutely LOVE Highland Cows. From their wee legs to their fuzzy hair and everything in between. I may or may not have cried the first time I saw one in person 5 years ago. One of the things Erin and I discovered early into our friendship was our mutual love of cows, so one of the most important items on the list for Scotland was to see a Highland Cow. I wish I could share all of the pictures I took of her in the buildup to seeing these cows, but there simply isn’t enough room. It’s the little things in life that bring so much joy. Oh, and if you’re looking for gift ideas for either of us in the future, a fuzzy cow will do.

Mum, (and now Itty and Erin as well), are huge fans of the book and TV series Outlander, so when we found out that one of the towns used for filming wasn’t too far from us in Perth, we knew we had to go. Culross is this adorable, picturesque town with narrow cobblestone streets, ruins of an abbey, and a quintessential pub. It’s almost as if it has been entirely unaffected by life outside the city walls and it is just the same as it had been almost 400 years ago. Even though we blatantly ignored the menacing rain clouds on the horizon and ended up in the pouring rain, Culross was absolutely worth it.

While all of the touring was great, it was the evenings we spent with our friends that were the best part of the week. During the 7 days we stayed at the holiday let, we had the opportunity to see many of our friends who lived in the area and have them over to our little cottage either for dinner or just a drink afterwards. From silly jokes to discussions about theology or just local history, we covered it all. It really is the people that keep us coming back every chance we can get.

To more castles and pubs in the future,

Lexi

Songs for Scotland pt II:

Smack That – Akon, Eminem

Senorita – Camilla Cabello, Shawn Mendes

Lift Yourself – Kanye West

Sweet But Psycho –  Ava Max

Castles and Pubs When we go to Scotland as a family, we have one rule: we have to visit a castle every day and we have to sit in a pub every day.

[tabloidtoc]

Globe, June 10

Cover: Second shooter of Robert F. Kennedy found 

Page 2: Up Front & Personal -- Laurence Fishburne, Madonna, Antonio Banderas 

Page 3: Selma Blair, Al Pacino, Bryce Dallas Howard 

Page 4: Kelly Ripa vs. The Bachelor 

Page 5: Rebecca Gayheart was so guilt-stricken by her car accident that killed a boy that she became suicidal 

Page 6: Even baby Archie can’t save Meghan Markle from fed-up Queen Elizabeth’s wrath 

Page 8: Broke Boris Becker’s treasured trophies and memorabilia are going on the auction block after he dropped his bid to stop the sale by claiming diplomatic immunity, Ozzy Osbourne is now a flop in bed 

Page 9: Tom Petty’s widow and kids in ugly court fight over control of his $100M legacy 

Page 10: Wheel of Fortune’s Pat Sajak and Vanna White can’t consummate their decades-long love 

Page 11: Why Steve Kroft is retiring from 60 Minutes 

Page 12: Celebrity Buzz -- Lamar Odom admits he cheated at the Olympics to pass a drug test, Lisa Vanderpump cold-shouldered Kyle Richards during a run-in at Chanel, Jenna Bush Hager was worried what her Secret Service bodyguards would think if she played the field, Chuck Lorre unloaded on dimwit network execs 

Page 13: Jay Leno, Elton John and Taron Egerton, Kelly Osbourne 

Page 14: Travis Tritt miraculously survived a horrific multi-car accident in South Carolina, Meghan McCain was thrilled to be an answer on Jeopardy!, Fashion Verdict -- Eva Longoria, Marisa Tomei, Helen Mirren, Janice Dickinson, Chloe Sevigny

Page 16: Johnny Depp accuses ex Amber Heard of cutting off his finger and faking photo proof of domestic abuse 

Page 17: Jessica Alba slimmed down to avoid catching the eye of Hollywood sex creeps after feeling preyed upon, a nutso dropkicked Arnold Schwarzenegger 

Page 19: 10 Things You Don’t Know About Keanu Reeves, Constance Wu’s landlord claims she let her pet bunny poop all over a luxury rental apartment, the estranged wife of Grey’s Anatomy star Jesse Williams is saying good riddance 

Page 21: True Crime 

Page 24: Cover Story -- RFK assassin unmasked 

Page 26: Health Report -- breakthrough vaccine end arthritis agony 

Page 28: Denise Richards is scheming to crown herself queen of RHOBH 

Page 30: Whitney Houston will star in a hologram tour, Mel B suddenly went blind 

Page 34: Real Life 

Page 36: The brawl over Aretha Franklin’s fortune has gotten uglier as three different wills has been discovered, Honey Boo Boo shuns Mama June, Khloe Kardashian has put dating on the back burner while she cares for daughter True 

Page 38: Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon have armed their TV project The Morning Show with a secret weapon -- Katie Couric, Ronnie Ortiz admits he got laser lipo to sculpt his six-pack 

Page 40: Jada Pinkett Smith’s porn confession, Whoopi Goldberg’s doctors revealed she had a one in three chance of dying during her bout with pneumonia, racing legend Al Unser Jr. busted for DUI 

Page 44: Straight Talk -- Has-been Paris Hilton can’t afford to trash Lindsay Lohan 

Page 45: Cardi B cancelled 3 concerts after being laid low by complications for her recent liposuction and breast augmentation, nerve agony puts Eric Clapton in a wheelchair 

Page 47: Hollywood Flashback -- Clark Gable and Loretta Young had a secret child together 

[kimyestyle]

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Opprotunities

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[caravanparksmelbourne-blog]

7 Super Caravan Parks in Melbourne

Caravan parks are a place for recreational vehicles to park for the night but they have become important to Australians, especially in Victoria. As these parks provide the ideal setting to park your caravan and explore the beautiful regions that you have set out to.

Buying a luxury caravan from a manufacturer can give you all the sophistication you need while you travel , however this guide can help you find the right caravan parks in Melbourne.

If you are planning on making a trip to one of the most liveable cities in the world, Melbourne, then finding the right caravan camp will go a long way in helping you explore the city better. These caravan parks not only contribute to improving holidays but they also improve the economy of the state as they encourage more people to embark on holidays!

 The period of stay can range from one night to longer stays, and the caravan parks usually include provision for a tent or cabin with facilities.

 There is so much to see in Melbourne, from the zoo to the Melbourne botanic gardens to the Star observation wheel, there is enough to keep any family entertained. Therefore, choosing a park that is close to the city but which does not compromise on safety, facility and affordability is prime. There are certain regulations that these caravan parks need to adhere to, and it is important to identify if the park you choose does.

Regulations for Caravan parks:  There are certain regulations in place for caravan parks in Victoria to ensure safety for people who use these parks.

They are regulated by

Part 14 of the Residential Tenancies Act 1997

Residential Tenancies Regulations 2010

The Regulations were in place in 2010 and they include measures to look after the safety of the caravan park users as well as their health. They are not associated with the manufacture of the recreational vehicles. Community groups and local government were associated with forming these regulations, and they were put together after a lot of review and assessment.

Facilities available at Caravan Parks: Caravanning is a great way to explore new places on a budget as it lowers accommodation costs. However, in a city like Melbourne, where land is a premium, there are few caravan parks which provide the right space and facilities. After all, if you need to stop off to look around the place, there are certain basic facilities that you would need to look out for. Here is a list of some of the services and facilities available in caravan parks

Power connection

Sewer connection

Drinking water connection

Wi-fi access

Barbecue facility

Telephone and television access

A grocery store

Exercise equipment

Restrooms and showers

Restaurants with/without bars

Some of the caravan parks even have gift shops, hot tubs, golf courses, picnic tables and recreation halls.

Here are some of the caravan parks found in Melbourne

1. Blue Gum Park Northside:

Address: 2110- 2118 Sydney Rd, Campbellfield VIC 3061 Phone: 0393052451

Blue Gum caravan park is an affordable park but high on quality, both for residential as well as for rental purposes. The cabins are present in peaceful, idyllic and tree dotted grounds so it has a village like atmosphere. The community of people living here are friendly, which makes this caravan park sought after by many travellers.   There are different types of cabins available for people with differing needs, whether residential, long term rental or even permanent accommodation needs.  There is plenty of outdoor seating areas which would make friends night a great one, as the spacious and tree lined community is perfect for tranquility and space. Situated just 15 minutes away from Melbourne’s city centre, the Blue Gum caravan park is close to many shopping centres, medical and dental facilities as well as to entertainment centres. There are fly over tours as well as virtual tours which provides a great perspective  about the Blue Gum caravan park and the features available. The cabins have modern facilities but the rates are nominal, which makes it ideal for many budgets. All the cabins are fully furnished, with double beds, chairs, couches, refrigerators and private car parking space. Apart from these cabins, there are bunkhouses that have verandah seating arrangements as well as kitchenettes that are lower priced and ideal for people on a strict budget.  The communal facilities like showers, laundry and toilets can be accessed only by a secure access key, which makes it safe. Some of the facilities offered in the cabins include a fully equipped kitchen, with a stove, rangehood and fridge.  There are cabins with a single bedroom , while some others ave a suite bedroom with one or two standard or deluxe bedrooms. The options in design and price help cater to the varied interests and requirements of a traveller.

2. Melbourne Big 4 Caravan Park:

Address: 265 Elizabeth Street, Coburg, MELBOURNE, Victoria, 3058 Phone: 1800 802 678

Melbourne is a wonderful city to explore and there are so many attractions to visit, whether you are with your wife, friends or your family. However, a good caravan park can enhance the experience, the Big 4 Caravan Park is one such facility that promises to be an exciting stop. 

Though travelling by a caravan lets you enjoy a luxurious ride and can be an exhilarating experience, a stop over at a park with a resort type of swimming pool can add to the holiday mood. This is one of the main attractions at Big 4 Caravan Park at Melbourne. Cabins: There are different types of cabins available, whether it is for an adventure seeking couple or a family with small children, there is something for everyone here. The cabins range from 3 bedroom deluxe villas to a single bedroom holiday unit. This caravan park is situated 9 kilometres from the city and boasts of luxurious villas and spa cottages that are a great retreat in themselves. They have powered cabins as well as unpowered units. Some of the facilities offered are a movie room with a big screen and with the latest movies showing, a camp kitchen that is fully equipped. There are expansive playgrounds and a game room with table tennis , air hockey and more. The lush green trees that line the cabins and the serene atmosphere evoke images of a countryside, only it is close to a city! To make the holiday experience even better, there is internet access, high chairs for kids, linen on hire, cots and even detailed information about places to visit in Melbourne. Melbourne Big 4 camping park is part of the Big 4 holiday group and this camping park is family owned and operated.

Here is Big 4 Holiday Park in action

3. Honey Hush Caravan Parks:

Address: 6 Leakes Road, Laverton North, VIC 3026 Phone: 03 9369 2253

Situated 17 kms from Melbourne, Honey Hush caravan park provides access to Port Melbourne from highways.  There are standard as well as luxury accomodations to choose from.

There are deluxe cabins with 2 bedrooms, linens, air conditioning and television for families as it also has a lounge area and an equipped kitchen. Cedar cabins are for people who wish to stay for longer than 8 weeks and are available with single bedrooms or two bedrooms.

4. Crystal Brook tourist park

Address: 182 Heidelberg-Warrandyte Rd, Doncaster East VIC 3109 Phone: (03) 9844 3637

Crystal Brook caravan park is only 45 minutes from Melbourne at Doncaster East. This park is also just half hour away from some of the best wineries of the State , with plenty of shopping centres and cafes that throng the area. This means, there is plenty to eat, shop, explore and experience. The bountiful moments of entertainment that Melbourne offers is ready to be explored and a base for that is Crystal Brook caravan park. There are walking trails, beautiful beaches and hidden valleys for someone looking for adventure during the day. The high costs of stay at Melbourne is often a deterrent for nomads but the wide range of affordable cabins and tents will suit the needs of many. Most of the cabins are self contained, with facilities that would suit a quick weekend getaway for couples or for families looking forward to a longer holiday. One with nature: There are tents, both powered as well as unpowered, at parks that are as close to the real and unspoilt as they can be, letting you take in the beauty of nature without having to compromise on the basic needs. Pet friendly: The villas and the camp sites are pet friendly, so you don’t have to miss being with your pet, and your pet gets to be a part of your adventure. Modern amenities: The picturesque and beautiful park has modern amenities so you don’t feel like you stepped into the dark ages. There are well equipped kitchens, BBQ sites and TV. Great for Kids: It can be hard to look after kids, even if there is plenty of space to run about. To keep them away from disturbing you and to ensure that they are having fun in a safe place, there is a big swimming pool which is sun safe, playgrounds, bouncing pillow, arcade games and more. Plenty to keep them busy and entertained for the entire period of your stay. 5. Sundowner caravan park:

Address: 870 Princes Hwy Springvale, Australia Phone: (03) 9546 9587 Sundowner caravan park is about  18km south of Melbourne and is close to many shopping areas and tourist spots. The cabins have two bedrooms, with one of them having a queen sized bed, and the other one with bunk beds. Other amenities like air conditioning, TV, fully equipped kitchen and fridge are also available.

6. Sylvan Caravan Park:

Address: 1780 Hume Hwy, Campbellfield VIC 3061 Phone: (03) 9357 0009

This caravan park offers powered sites as well as long term accommodation. However, there are no tent sites.

7. Chelsea Holiday Park:

Address: 100 Broadway Street, Bonbeach, VIC

[skyhevan]

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You can hire limo for Morristown from a car rental that provides fleet of limousines of top monikers such as Lincoln, Mercedes, stretch limos and sprinter vans. These vehicles can accommodate anywhere from 6 to 14 people depending the occasion and the number of people who are to ride the vehicle.              

[carsinafricablog]

3 of the best road trips in South Africa!

People love to go on a road trip and South Africa is of the places that you can’t ignore. Here in this blog, we have come up with some of your favourite road trips for you to explore. From North West province to the beautiful Garden Route, list these places down in your bucket list. Before that make sure you are renting a car from the best car rental agency in South Africa, for better comfort and style. So, if you want to know the best road trips in the country then keep on reading.

Garden Route: 

It is the most famous route on the south-western coast, showcases the best coastal landscapes. You can take Cars in Africa’s self-drive car rental to enjoy the scenic beauty through South Africa’s spectacular garden which has a diverse range of eco-systems. It is the best place to go for a drive and see the beauty. 

Start and end location: Mossel Bay to Port Elizabeth or vice versa. 

Distance: Around 300 kilometres 

Duration: It depends on the person who is driving the car. Also, you can take your own time along this route and enjoy the sights and activities on offer, a week here could give you plenty of time for enjoyment. There are many guides in this route so if you are lost with your self-drive rental car then you can take the help of them. 

Time: This route can be enjoyed at any time from summer to winter. You can catch the glimpse of an endangered southern right whale if you are visiting here too.   

Panorama Route: 

This route gives you beautiful scenery and the natural landscape. It is centred around the Blyde River Canyon, the world’s third-largest canyon, which you can visit with the help of a car rental service in Africa. You will pass through the Three Rondavels, Graskop and the Bridal Veil Falls near the town of Sabie. When the mountain passes then you can take a look at the stunning landscapes of South Africa, the Panorama route is the must-visit for every nature lover in the world.  

Start and end location: Lindeberg to the Echo Caves, nearby to the border of Mpumalanga 

Distance: Around 200 kilometres 

Duration: Again depends on the person, this route can easily be travelled in a day. You can stop at a place to enjoy the scenery and a few days here will give you the time to enjoy to the fullest. 

Time: 

June to November are the best time to enjoy the place. There you can find plenty of mountain passes for navigation, this route is best attempted at a time when good weather is a must.    

 Route 62:

This route is the big one. If you are driving to South Africa then this place is the way from where you should drive. This route with the self-drive car rental in Africa will take you through the wineries, wildlife opportunities, cultural sites and the country’s spectacular scenery. In this way, you can find the richness and will have a higher chance to get off the beaten track. You can take out time in the town of Montagu and can enjoy the thermal baths, or could explore the greatest wine-producing region around the Calistzdorp town. 

Start and end location:Cape Town to Port Elizabeth 

Distance: Around 850 kilometres.  

Duration: If you are driving on your own then you would have to travel for weeks. You can take the car rental and take regular rest days, where you can stop at plenty of stops for exploring everything in this place. 

Time: The best time is in the springtime like September to October or late summer like February to March where the temperatures are cooler and you can see the longer days and temperate nights. 

  Therefore, these are the best road trips in South Africa. 

[dippedanddripped]

NOBODY KNOWS WHAT LUXURY IS ANYMOREBy

Marc Bain

June 16, 2018

Luxury ain’t what it used to be. Blame the internet, the rise of on-demand services, and the shift in consumer values as younger generations become more important buyers of high-end goods—all are challenging traditional notions of what luxury is.

The classic symbols—the Hermès Birkin bag, a couture dress by Dior, a watch by Rolex—aren’t in any danger of losing status. But around its edges, the concept of luxury is getting blurry, making it less clear where it begins and ends.

What, for example, should you make of a Louis Vuitton hoodie created in collaboration with a skate brand? Is a $2,500 dress still a luxury item when you’re renting it for a fraction of that price? Does the shine of luxury fade if you get a bargain on used coat and then resell it a few months later? Does a New Yorker tote bag rival pricey handbags by signaling an exalted sensibility?

These questions aren’t just hypotheticals. Luxury labels are turning to sweatpants and sneakers for sales growth. The designer clothing rental company Rent the Runway is spreading across the US. Online resale sites such as The RealReal and Vestiaire Collective keep growing. And social and environmental awareness has become a potent marker of affluence and status.

The changes are forcing the traditional luxury makers to adapt, particularly as a new normal of slower global growth takes hold. They’re also offering opportunities for success to the designers and businesses ready to capitalize on the transformations taking place.

Here’s what we know about the new luxury, gleaned in part from insights shared by luxury insiders at a June 7 conference organized by the French-American Chamber of Commerce (FACC) in New York.

LUXURY IS A GRAPHIC T-SHIRT

“The idea of what is luxurious is changing; I think it’s about brand rather than luxury,” said Lazaro Hernandez, cofounder of American fashion brand Proenza Schouler, at the conference.

One of the clearest themes to emerge from the event, which brought together executives from several French and American businesses to talk about the shifts taking place in the industry, was that even for them it’s becoming harder to define what counts as luxury.

Hernandez and Jack McCollough, Proenza Schouler’s other cofounder, argued that an exquisitely crafted product—one of the pillars of traditional, aspirational luxury—matters less to young shoppers than it did to previous generations. More often today it’s the brand—the image, and the storytelling—that attract, which means luxury brands can often sell non-luxurious products without any damage to their prestige.

“I think a true luxury brand today can work in so many different price points,” Hernandez continued. “You can sell a t-shirt for $300, $200 and still be considered a luxury brand these days. Those parameters of what is considered luxury and what is not, I think, are sort of disappearing.”

While fashion and luxury aren’t one in the same, as menswear critic Charlie Porter has astutely noted, many leading luxury brands have followed consumers toward less formal dress, which these days means a lot of athletic wear, especially sneakers, and casual, logo-heavy streetwear. Louis Vuitton hired fashion designer Virgil Abloh, known for his streetwear leanings, to design its menswear. Balenciaga’s creative director, Demna Gvasalia, has found success with items such as sneakers and hoodies.

No matter how expensive and well-crafted they are, a Balenciaga t-shirt or a pair of its sneakers would not have generally been called luxurious a few decades ago—especially as they can be deliberately ugly, reflecting the desire of designers and shoppers alike to break from old standards of taste and stand out on Instagram (paywall). But as Gvasalia told the Financial Times (paywall) earlier this year, young shoppers are now prioritizing uniqueness over the traditional markers of high-end craftsmanship.

Not everyone agrees that what we define as luxury is fundamentally any different today. Another speaker at the conference, Alain Bernard, president and CEO of Van Cleef & Arpels Americas, said his definition is unchanged from 20 years ago; quality and elevated design are still necessities.

But these diverging viewpoints underscore that there is no settled criteria for what defines luxury at this point. Steve Shiffman, CEO of Calvin Klein Inc., talked about how a $25,000 dress designed by artistic director Raf Simons and a $5 pair of Calvin Klein underwear work as part of the same brand. Luxury can be both inclusive and exclusive, aspirational and attainable, he said. What matters most is that the products are objects of desire.

LUXURY IS FOR RENT

“Millennials have been reluctant to buy items such as cars, music and luxury goods,” states investment firm Goldman Sachs. “Instead, they’re turning to a new set of services that provide access to products without the burdens of ownership, giving rise to what’s being called a ‘sharing economy.'”

Millennials and Gen Z already account for 30% of global luxury sales, and they’re on pace to hit 45% by 2025, according to consulting firm Bain & Company. For a lot of these consumers, ownership is overrated. Why purchase movies when you can stream them on Netflix? Who needs a car when there’s Uber?

Similar services are popping up in luxury too. Now, you can rent a Narciso Rodriguez dress for an evening, or a Marni jacket for a month, with Rent the Runway. If you want to show off your discerning taste with a Rolex or a Patek Philippe watch, but don’t have several thousand dollars to spend, there’s Eleven James.

But rental dilutes luxury’s emotional power, Gary Wassner, CEO of Hilldun Corporation and chairman of Interluxe Holdings, which invests in emerging luxury and fashion brands, argued at the conference. Ownership is an essential part of the experience.

“There are words that we’ve always associated with luxury, and they’re not necessarily good ones, but ‘covet,’ ‘possess—'” he said.

Olivier Reza, CEO of Eleven James, interjected, calling those words marketing terms used by brands.

“I’m not even thinking marketing,” Wassner countered. “I’m thinking historically, the emotional aspect of owning a luxurious product that used to give the consumer a sense of accomplishment, of success.”

Exclusivity has been an integral part of luxury’s draw for the few who can afford it. But these services are making the category accessible to a much broader range of customers.

LUXURY IS A NEW YORKER TOTE BAG

The power of luxury has always resided in its ability to convey status. That’s the basis of Thorstein Veblen’s well-known 1899 polemic, The Theory of the Leisure Class, which held that the rich use their wealth to flaunt their class status with consumer goods: “Conspicuous consumption,” he called it. Impractical fashions such as high heels and top hats demonstrated that the person wearing them didn’t actually have to work, and marked them as part of the leisure class.

But conspicuous consumption is on the decline, argues sociologist Elizabeth Currid-Halkett in her book, The Sum of Small Things: A Theory of the Aspirational Class. That’s because many consumer products have become much more widely available to all classes, thanks to globalization and advances in technology.

The result is that conspicuous consumption has been supplanted by a less conspicuous variety that makes “social, environmental, and cultural awareness” the new social capital. Quartz’s Dan Kopf explained:

So instead of spending money on consumer products, Currid-Halkett finds that the rich increasingly focus their spending on “nonvisible, highly expensive goods and services” that allow them to have time to gain that social capital and foster it in their children. Such goods and services include child care, gardeners, and, most importantly, education.

Far from ignoring this shift, the luxury industry is adjusting where it can. Luxury brands are becoming more vocal about their commitments to sustainability, and making a point of showing off that consciousness by dressing celebrities in sustainably produced gowns. Luxury executives are mingling with A-listers at events that promote environmental and social awareness. Luxury retailers such as Net-a-Porter, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Neiman Marcus are now selling wellness products along with their high-end handbags.

None of this is to say that a Louis Vuitton Petite Malle or the mythically unobtainable Hermès Birkin no longer conveys status. But it does mean that carrying an NPR tote, munching an organic avocado toast, with a yoga mat dangling from your shoulder conveys a palpable status—especially on Instagram. The course isn’t likely to reverse either, as education and the other goods and services that nurture this form of signaling continue to get more expensive.

LUXURY LIVES ON INSTAGRAM

If you needed any indication of the power that social-media influencers wield in fashion today, consider that the Council of Fashion Designers of America—the governing body of the US fashion industry—just gave out its first-ever influencer award. Its inevitable recipient: Kim Kardashian West.

The explosion of social media flips the old paradigm, where brands mostly created their own public image from the top down, through advertisements and by building relationships with fashion magazines and editors such as Vogue’s Anna Wintour.

But now anyone with a smartphone can become an “influencer,” crafting their own share of a brand’s image through the pictures they post and what they say. It has shifted the balance of power, and while brands still retain much of it, influencers are increasing in clout.

Brands now ignore influencers at their peril. Tribe Dynamics, a company that identifies influencers and estimates the “earned media value” of their activity around brands, has been hired by luxury giant LVMH (paywall) and others as they move more of their ad spending online. At the FACC conference, Conor Begley, the cofounder and president, recounted an example of the way influencers are shaping the images of luxury brands. Begley said he was invited to speak to a room of executives at one of the five largest luxury brands in the world (he declined to name which):

I’m showing them a bunch of data on Chanel. The number one influencer for Chanel is a guy named Jeffree Star. For those of you that don’t know Jeffree Star, he has pink hair, he’s tattooed from like head to toe—and his neck too—he will routinely smoke weed in his videos […] We show them this data, and somebody from this luxury brand says, ‘Hey, we know this is really important, but we wouldn’t want Jeffree to be our number-one influencer.’ I talk about inclusivity versus exclusivity and not really controlling the conversation, etc. We go home, we look at the data; he was the number-one influencer for that brand as well, they just didn’t know it.

Star is a makeup artist and social-media personality with a large following. Shortly after that meeting, Begley said, Star caused a stir by posting a YouTube video in which he cut up a $5,000 Chanel bag with a glowing-hot knife. Chanel doesn’t need to make Star the face of its brand, Begley pointed out, but it would probably be good for the label to create a relationship with him, since he’s having an impact on how his many fans perceive Chanel. Gucci, in fact, has done just that, and made custom products just for him.

One consequence of influencers’ growing clout is that magazines are losing their grip as the exclusive gatekeepers in fashion. They used to be a brands’ best way to broadcast its message to an audience of potential customers. Now the internet and social media have changed that, and brands have to target small communities online in ways that speak to them.

(Interestingly enough, though, magazine editors are now often influencers themselves (paywall), with their own personal followings separate from the companies they work for.)

LUXURY ISN’T EXCLUSIVE

One theme that runs through many of these changes is that they’re breaking down barriers which once made luxury a walled garden, or at least lowering them several feet. Rental and resale make luxury items more affordable and accessible. T-shirts and slide sandals that proclaim a high-end brand put those brands within reach of more shoppers, both culturally and economically, than expensive evening gowns. Luxury labels now have to consider all their customers because of social media.

The industry is also paying more attention to the non-white and non-wealthy. It has no choice: Younger luxury consumers are more diverse, and the financial and cultural power of hip-hop and streetwear keeps growing. Luxury businesses are also responding to the demands of consumers today who want the brands they buy to reflect their own values. “For them the term [“luxury”] has connotations of elitism and exclusivity,” Alexander Gilkes, cofounder of auction house Paddle8, told the New York Times (paywall). “Instead, they want a luxury that is inclusive, honest and democratic.”

The word “inclusive” came up repeatedly at the FACC talk. As a mindset, it’s a tricky one for luxury labels to maintain, when part of what makes a product desirable, whether it’s a Chanel bag or a rare pair of Jordans, is that not everyone can get it. But the world is changing, and luxury will have to change with it. It’s a challenge, but also a great opportunity for the companies that meet it.