Situated in the U.S. Southwest, the landlocked state of Utah is a place of contrasting beauty and incredible rock formations. There are five Utah national parks that contain some of its most beautiful landscapes. While Utah has its fair share of cities, they don’t have the seclusion, wide-open spaces, and clear night skies that the national parks have! Plus, building a vacation around national parks is a great way to travel on a budget. During a trip to Utah, you can easily visit all five national parks or just a few of them, depending on how long you plan to travel around the state. Each one is unique and offers a range of attractions and activities. So, get ready to immerse yourself in the great outdoors and embark on some epic adventures you won’t soon forget! Below, all five Utah national parks are outlined with information on things to do and the best places to stay in each. Zion National ParkKnown for the 2,000-foot-deep canyon cutting through it, Zion National Park features red sandstone cliffs, buttes, mesas, mountains, and natural arches that make it the most visited of all Utah national parks. Zion’s location at the crossroads of the Mojave Desert, Colorado Plateau, and Great Basin in southern Utah creates a unique ecosystem where a wide variety of wildlife and plant life thrive. Things To Do in ZionOne of the best ways to see Zion in all its glory is to take a mini road trip on Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, where you’ll find numerous viewpoints and places to dip in the Virgin River. However, to truly experience Zion, you’ll have to do some hiking. Trails cater to all ages and abilities. Weeping Rock and Riverside Walk are two short kid-friendly options, while Emerald Pools Trail, Kolob Arch Trail, and Angels Landing offer more of a challenge. Angels Landing has been ranked as one of the top 10 most dangerous hikes in the U.S. and now even requires a permit! Other attractions in the park include Subway Canyon, Checkerboard Mesa, the Narrows, and Observation Point, though the latter is currently closed due to a landslide. If you want to learn more about the history of Zion, the Human History Museum features exhibits highlighting indigenous culture in the region and pioneer settlements. The best part about enjoying the abundance of scenic drives, hiking trails, and outdoor activities in Zion National Park is that you can explore for a week for $35.00. However, if you plan to explore other Utah national parks during your vacation, consider purchasing an annual America the Beautiful Pass that allows entry to many national parks across the country for $80.00. Another way to save money is to use the free shuttle that stops at various points of interest in the park. Where To Stay in ZionThere are two main campgrounds near the entrance of Zion National Park. Zion Lodge is the only formal accommodation inside the park boundaries. Zion Canyon Lodge, Red Rock Cottages, and Zion Wildflower are all great options outside the park. This comprehensive Zion Lodging Guide offers even more ideas on where to stay in the area. If glamping is your style, you can also peruse this Zion National Park Glamping round-up. Bryce Canyon National ParkWith its enormous collection of otherworldly hoodoos, rock formations, and canyons, Bryce Canyon National Park contains everything Utah is best known for. A scenic road passes through the park, where you’ll find 13 viewpoints highlighting its stunning landscapes. Things To Do in Bryce CanyonHiking is a popular activity in Bryce Canyon, and there are many easy trails, including Mossy Cave and Waterfall, Bristlecone Loop, and Queens Garden. In addition, Navajo Loop, Tower Bridge, and the Rim Trail are three great moderate hikes. Sunset Point, Natural Bridge, Fairyland Point, and Agua Canyon are just a few other must-see attractions in the park. But, come nightfall, the adventure doesn’t stop. Bryce Canyon has one of the darkest skies in the country. So, grab a chair or a blanket, cozy up under the stars, and enjoy the show! It costs $35.00 per vehicle to enter the park, and the pass is suitable for a week. One of the best ways to save money when exploring Utah’s national parks is to camp as much as possible, and there are two campgrounds in Bryce Canyon. Eating at restaurants also gets expensive, so if you’re on a budget, stop at a supermarket and pack a picnic to take on your adventures. Where To Stay in Bryce CanyonThere’s only one hotel inside the national park, and that’s The Lodge at Bryce Canyon. However, there are many other great places to stay in nearby towns, including Bryce Pioneer Village, Best Western Plus Ruby’s Inn, and Stone Canyon Inn. Arches National ParkLocated just north of Moab, Arches National Park is home to over 2,000 sandstone arches and incredible rock formations rising over the picturesque Colorado Plateau. Things To Do in Arches National ParkMountain biking, canyoneering, and rock climbing are all fun activities in this park, but hiking is the most popular. Delicate Arch, Park Avenue, Devil’s Garden, and Landscape Arch are easy to moderately difficult hikes highlighting many of the area’s stunning natural landscapes. If you want to hike to Fiery Furnace Overlook, you’ll need to embark on one of the guided walks offered twice daily during peak season or purchase a permit to tackle it on your own. Some other highlights in Arches National Park include Balanced Rock, Double Arch, Sand Dune Arch, Garden of Eden, and Petrified Dunes Lookout. Admission is $30.00 for one week. If you’d like to save money by staying in a tent instead of a hotel, Devils Garden Campground is inside the park. In nearby Moab, you can find a variety of budget eateries, including Quesadilla Mobilla and Moab Diner. Where To Stay in Arches National ParkLazy Lizard Hostel in Moab is a great place to spend the night if you want to save without staying in a tent. SpringHill Suites by Marriott Moab, Red Cliffs Lodge, Sorrel River Ranch Resort, and Castle Valley Inn are all hotels nearby, or you can check out this Moab Airbnb Guide for the best self-catering options. Canyonlands National ParkStunning rock formations and deep canyons running along the Colorado River characterize Canyonlands National Park. It’s the largest of all five Utah national parks (and one of the least visited), so there are plenty of opportunities to get off the beaten path. Things To Do in CanyonlandsThe most iconic attraction in Canyonlands National Park is the famous flat-topped mesa known as Island in the Sky. The Needles district is a close second. In Horseshoe Canyon, you can also see fascinating indigenous rock carvings over 1,500 years old. Bikers can’t miss cycling the scenic 100-mile White Rim Road. Calm sections of the Green and Colorado Rivers also attract rafters and kayakers. Hikers can challenge themselves with a hike to the top of Whale Rock. Mesa Arch, Grand View Point, Green River Overlook, Aztec Butte, and Murphy Point are more of the top sights to check out in Canyonlands. Those up for an adventure can take on The Maze, the park’s most remote and difficult-to-access district. The fee to enter this park for a week is $30.00 per vehicle. If you plan to explore other parks in the area, consider purchasing the Southeast Utah Parks Pass for $55.00, which will give you access to other national parks and sites, including Arches National Park, Hovenweep National Monument, and Natural Bridges. If you’re seeking budget accommodation inside the park, camping is available at The Needles Campground and Island in the Sky Campground. Where To Stay in CanyonlandsThere are many great places to stay near the national park, including Sunflower Hill Inn, which is only a 15-minute drive away. Red Moon Lodge, Hoodoo Moab, and the self-catering Moab Springs Lodge are also nearby. Capitol Reef National ParkCapitol Reef National Park is the least visited of all Utah National Parks. Situated 11 miles from the town of Torrey in the south-central region, Capitol Reef features a striking mesh of sandstone rock formations and canyons set against a vast desert landscape. As you explore, you’ll learn why it’s called red rock country and gazes in awe at the 100-mile-long Waterpocket Fold. Things To Do in Capitol Reef National ParkThis park has many hiking trails, and Cassidy Arch, Brimhall Natural Bridge, Strike Valley Overlook, Hickman Bridge, and Frying Pan are the most popular. However, if you prefer to explore from the comfort of your vehicle, there are several scenic drives, too, including Notom-Bullfrog and Cathedral Road. Alternatively, Gifford Homestead is an old farm with a historic farmhouse, barn, smokehouse, and garden. The on-site shop sells local artwork, quilts, delicious homemade ice cream, and pies. Nearby, you’ll find the old Fruita Schoolhouse that dates to the late 1800s. Finally, head to Panorama Point, where visitors can take in sweeping views of the entire national park. The fee for one vehicle to enter Capitol Reef National Park is $20.00. Depending on when you’ll be visiting, there are free days throughout the year, so be sure to check the NPS website in advance of your visit. Camping is available in the park at Fruita Campground and if you’re looking to enjoy a meal on a budget, try Slackers Burgers in Torrey. Where To Stay Near Capitol ReefCapitol Reef Resort is the closest hotel to the national park, but there are many other options in the nearby town of Torrey, including Red Sands Hotel and Broken Spur Inn & Steakhouse. Lodge at Red River Ranch in Teasdale and Sunglow in Bicknell are also great options nearby. Other Utah AttractionsWhile Utah National Parks get all the attention, many other great outdoor attractions are worth visiting. While planning your Utah road trip, consider adding Goblin Valley State Park, Cedar Breaks National Monument, Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Rainbow Bridge National Monument, and Glen Canyon National Recreation Area to your itinerary. What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Utah National Parks?The best time to visit Utah National Parks is from April to May and September to October. These months offer ideal temperatures for outdoor exploration as well as fewer crowds.
Source: https://savoteur.com/utah-national-parks/ via https://savoteur.wordpress.com/2022/08/26/best-of-the-5-utah-national-parks-things-to-do-and-places-to-stay/
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Hopping in your car or on a flight to see one of the 10,000+ cities worldwide with your family might be on the top of your vacation list. But sometimes you want a break from the part-time job planning a vacation nowadays. You want to get away close to home, have a blast with your kids and make fun-filled family memories without the hassle of vacation planning. That’s the beauty of indoor water park resorts cropping up in destinations across America and the globe. After our first indoor water park resort experience at The Kartrite, New York State’s largest indoor water park inside a modern, premium hotel, we see why families love this vacation. Set in New York’s southern Catskills, this all-in-one family resort is a fun mountain escape that’s only 100 miles from New York City. 9 Things We Loved About the KartriteWhen talking to friends and family about our trip, we mention these nine things the most. Additionally, adults will appreciate the sophisticated, upscale design elements that make the Kartrite feel more like a premium resort and less like a kitschy children’s water park. An Indoor Water Park Resort Can Be Fun and StunningWhen entering the water park itself, you’ll see the beautiful Catskills mountains views from a stories-high, clear roof. Additionally, the park gives off tropical island vibes with its 84-degree year-round temperature and abundant tropical vegetation throughout the rides and attractions. While the world’s largest transparent roof made of Texlon material is awe-inspiring, it does allow the sun’s rays through, so don’t forget to apply sunscreen. With 13 rides and attractions, plus more fun on Kartrite Island and the Puddle Ducks toddler area, there’s plenty of fun to last more than one day. From head-first fast tube races on a foam mat to the Time Warp raft slide that feels more like a roller coaster or the stories high Noreaster that will give you that weightless feeling, there are plenty of options for thrill-seekers. For those looking for a challenge, take a crack at riding the quick-moving forever wave of the Flowrider. My 10-year-old loved it, even on his first try! If you’d like to catch your breath, pick one of the relaxing water park attractions. Grab an inner tube and float your cares away on the Empire Bay lazy river that feels more like a Caribbean jungle excursion than an indoor water park attraction. Or take a dip in Affinity Springs, an indoor/outdoor oversized hot tub-style pool. If your kids are ready for more action but you’d like a break, grab a seat (and an adult beverage from one of the bars). You can watch them conquer the neighboring Canonballer’s water basketball area or Later Gator Crossing. My preschooler and 10-year-old both loved repeatedly doing both. Before the park closes, visit Kartrite Island, with 100 water features, including multiple slides for smaller ones, endless water canons, and a giant water bucket. The waterpark is open from 11 am to 7 pm every day. If you live nearby or are staying in the region already, reserve a day pass and enjoy all the water park has to offer without paying for a Kartrite resort room. 6 Additional Resort Activities Outside of the Water ParkEven though Kartrite is the state’s largest indoor water park, it’s just the beginning of resort activities. So whether you hit them up right after breakfast while you wait for the water park to open or make it a late night, here are the numerous other on-site activities the resort offers. 1. Outdoor Play Space: Games, Obstacle Course, and MoreWe loved the courtyard area with a wooden obstacle course, ample lawn space, and three outdoor games to choose from. Each morning we went out to play after breakfast and enjoyed the oversized Connect 4, chess, and bean bag toss games. In the evenings, we returned and were pleasantly surprised at the spontaneous group games formed with other kids, like tag and dodge ball. Parents could relax by the firepits, enjoying a cocktail and chatting with other guests. 2. Firepits Perfect for SmoresMake sure to bring smores ingredients, including sticks, from home. If you forget, Pop’s Sweet Shop on the lower level of the resort sells kits with everything you need for a Catskills mountain evening around the fire. 3. On-property Hiking TrailsYou’ll see signs for Kartrite’s five hiking trails near the oversized lawn games. With 6 miles of scenic trails that give you a taste of The Catskills’ beauty, pick from a gentle stroll on the Sullivan Trail or more adventure on the Thompson Trail or Togoggan Trail. None of the options are overly strenuous for beginners or families with little kids. 4. Daily Movie Night in the LobbyPop some popcorn in your room microwave and head down to the comfy chairs and couches in the lobby for family movie night. Every evening they show a popular animated movie on a giant projector. It’s the perfect after-dinner activity to fill the time before bed! 5. Oversized Arcade, Laser Tag, Escape Room Bowling Alley, Climbing Wall, and Ropes Course (Additional Cost)Gamers and climbers will lose their minds over the options at The Kartrite. You will find it located right at the water park entrance. It is impossible to avoid spotting the oversized, over-the-top arcade games from movie franchises or the over-head adventure ropes course. Our kids happily spent their allowance money, and then some, on arcade games to earn tickets for fabulous prizes. When we were short 50 tickets for one of the items, the employee happily rounded our total up, making it possible to get their first pick prize. For tweens, teens, or non-video gamers, check out their four-lane miniature bowling alley over by the elevators, laser tag arena, or Escape Room. 6. Craft Projects (Additional Cost for Some)If you take the stairs down to the water park each morning from the lobby, you’ll see a craft desk set up daily. Small free craft projects are available, while larger ones like Build-A-Bear, tie-dye, and sand art are an additional cost. If your kids like to collect souvenirs from vacation, check out what the complimentary craft offering is each day for an affordable trip keepsake. On-site Dining Options for Both Grown-ups and KidsThere are seven restaurants, cafes, and snack shops throughout the property, including a quick-service restaurant on the first floor of the water park. Numerous Kosher options are available throughout The Kartrite as well. If you’ve been to other indoor water park resorts and feel that it’s all children’s food or fast food options, you’ll be pleasantly surprised with the grown-up meals and restaurant options at The Kartrite. We enjoyed a casual family dinner at Harvey’s Wallbanger with killer cocktails and an extensive children’s menu. I had an oversized Cobb Salad, my husband had a steak, and even my picky kids finished their kids’ meals. Our waitress was friendly and very warm and didn’t blink an eye when my son knocked his entire drink all over the floor. A Variety of Room Options and Discounts Are AvailableFrom expanded hotel-style suites to condo-style accommodations with one, two, or three bedrooms, visitors have various options and price points. We stayed in a two-bedroom unit with two private bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a separate living/dining room space that included a micro-fridge, microwave, and Keurig coffee maker. If you have picky-eaters like us, bringing food you know they will eat and can prepare in the space makes a trip less stressful. If you’re trying to stick to your vacation budget, you can bring pre-made or instant-style food from home and re-heat it in the room microwave. We brought paper plates, plastic silverware, and disposable cups from home to eat some meals in our room. If you head to the outdoor courtyard at night, you’ll see families who also prepared easy meals in their rooms and carried them out to the patio tables and chairs. Before booking a stay, check out their special offers that can save guests 20 to 50% off room rates. If you’re interested in visiting the nearby Legoland New York Amusement Park, purchase theme park tickets at The Kartrite and save $20 off each ticket. It’s Easy To Get to the Kartrite ResortThe Kartrite is approximately 45 minutes from the New York Thruway’s Woodbury Commons exit, making it an easy drive from the region’s cities and suburbs. You’ll know you’ve taken the right exit for The Kartrite with a large stone sign welcoming you to the road leading to the resort. Electric car charging stations are plentiful in the resort parking lot, and we spotted open stalls many times. For those living in New York City without a car, you can take a Coach USA bus directly from Port Authority to The Kartrite. The trip takes 2 hours one way as there are no stops. It Looks Like We’re Not the Only Ones Who Enjoy This Type of VacationAfter thoroughly enjoying our hosted stay at the Kartrite, I’m not sure why we waited so long to try out an indoor water park resort. But now I get why so many families are visiting these types of resorts across the globe. According to the IAAPA, the premier trade association of the attractions industry, there is a rise in indoor water parks because they have proven to be successful year-round vacation spots. “Guests are no longer just going to them when it’s cold outside, but also when the summer heat is extreme,” explained Caitlin Dineen, IAAPA Director of Communications.
This originally appeared on Savoteur.
Source: https://savoteur.com/kartrite/ via https://savoteur.wordpress.com/2022/08/26/9-reasons-the-kartrite-turned-us-into-an-indoor-water-park-resort-family/ California is a beautiful place to visit, especially in the summer. There’s no shortage of things to do, from hiking through the Redwood forests and exploring Yosemite to relaxing on the beach in Santa Cruz or driving up Highway 1 along the Big Sur coast. No matter your interests, endless activities will allow you to enjoy California’s natural beauty and unique culture. So where should you go? Best Places to Visit in California This SummerThe best place to visit in California depends on what you’re looking for. Do you want some peace and quiet? The redwoods? Volcanoes? Surfing and sunbathing? Would you prefer the beach or the big city lights? California has all these things, so it’s no wonder that tourists flock here year-round to experience it. Here are the 11 best places to visit in California this summer: MontereyMonterey is the perfect combination of wildlife and nature, with plenty of attractions. The town is located right on Monterey Bay, which means it’s surrounded by pristine beaches, gorgeous coastline, and wildlife-filled waters. First, check out the Monterey Bay Aquarium for an unforgettable experience for adults and kids! Then, go souvenir shopping at Cannery Row or whale watching at the Old Fisherman’s Wharf. You’ll also find some of the coziest bed and breakfast spots on the Central Coast, so spend a few days here. Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park is one of the most popular national parks to visit in the summer. It’s located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, so you’re likely to have not-too-hot weather when you visit during the summer season. Yosemite National Park is home to many waterfalls, lakes, and species of animals such as deer, bears, and foxes. During the day, explore El Capitan and Half Dome in the year-round Yosemite Valley. Drive up Tioga Pass Road and Glacier Point Road; both open only during the summer due to heavy snowfall in the winter. At night, the weather gets cooler, and you’ll be able to see some of the best stargazing in California. Stay a few days in a cabin near Yosemite for a combination of authenticity and comfort. Los AngelesLos Angeles is a city that never sleeps, and you’ll find many things to do here in the summer:
Lake TahoeLake Tahoe is a large freshwater lake in the Sierra Nevada Mountains on the California-Nevada border. It’s surrounded by mountains, making for some stunning views no matter which direction you look. The area offers many activities, including hiking, biking, and boating. So if you’re looking for a day trip from San Francisco or Sacramento, consider visiting Lake Tahoe. Highways bring visitors directly to its shores, where they can enjoy everything from swimming and kayaking to golfing and fishing. Redwood National & State ParksIf you’re looking for a California destination filled with redwood trees, head to Redwood National & State Parks. Hike through the Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail to walk through fog among the redwood trees. Camp at Elk Prairie Campground and wake up to seeing Roosevelt Elk grazing in the grass. Bike through the curves on Newton B. Drury Scenic Pkwy. Make sure to check out Fern Canyon before leaving the park. You’ll enjoy the lush fern greenery that blankets the 50-foot canyon, a location used in Jurassic Park: The Lost World. The best part about visiting Redwood National Park is that you’ll enjoy chilly weather even in the summer! Lassen Volcanic National ParkIf you’re fascinated by volcanoes, Lassen Volcanic National Park is the place to be. You’ll see all four types of volcanos: stratovolcano, shield, plug dome, and cinder cone. A combination of these different types of volcanoes makes this park unique! First, check out geothermal areas around the park, including Sulphur Works and Bumpass Hell. Next, hike up the steep Cinder Cone—a large cone-shaped volcano that erupted from lava flows years ago. View the Fantastic Lava Beds and its beautiful landscape from the top before heading back home. Why visit this park in the summer? Due to the park’s high elevation, you will be met with mildly hot days in the summer. Plus, the Lassen Volcanic National Park Highway closes from December to May due to snowfall, so plan the trip during the summer. San FranciscoIn the summer, San Francisco is a city that truly comes alive. The weather is perfect for spending long days exploring its many attractions and enjoying the great outdoors. The city’s climate is mild year-round, but summers here are enjoyable, with average high temperatures of around 70 degrees Fahrenheit/20 degrees Celsius. San Francisco’s temperate climate makes it one of the most pleasant cities in the US during both the summer and winter seasons. Because of that, San Francisco has become a top tourist destination in California. Visitors can enjoy museums like the de Young Museum or California Academy of Sciences, take part in festivals such as Pride Weekend, explore recreational activities such as hiking at Muir Woods National Monument or biking across Golden Gate Bridge, shop at Union Square, see shows at theaters like American Conservatory Theater or California Shakespeare Theater Company and so much more! Pismo BeachHead down to Pismo Beach in the summer for its surfing, sunbathing, and whale watching! The surf can be pretty powerful sometimes, so it’s not for the faint of heart or those who don’t know how to swim. It’s good practice, though, if you want to learn how to surf! Then, walk down the Pismo Pier for sunsets over the ocean and to go whale watching. If you’re looking for something relaxing instead of an adrenaline rush, Pismo Beach also has some nice spots where you can relax with your friends or family while enjoying fresh ocean air; check out Dinosaur Caves Park and Margo Dodd Park. Channel Islands National ParkIf you want an adventure without leaving land behind entirely but still want some island time, visiting Channel Islands National Park would be perfect! It’s one of the state’s most remote and rugged parks, so you’ll be surrounded by natural beauty and wildlife. There are five islands in this national park: Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, San Miguel Island, and Santa Barbara. All these islands are located below the city of Santa Barbara on the southern coast of California. You’ll need to take a boat from the park’s mainland visitor centers to reach these areas because there’s no road access available. However, the islands’ waters offer fantastic kayaking and snorkeling opportunities where visitors can see everything from sea lions to whales! In addition, you can spend your days hiking through sandy trails or scuba diving into the sea. Big SurThe rugged coast of Big Sur has a special place in the hearts of California travelers. The area is known for its scenic drive that runs along Highway 1, which you can take with your car, a rental car, or on one of California’s many tours. Big Sur has everything you could ever want from a vacation spot — beautiful beaches, rugged cliffs, and rolling hills. The landscape is unlike anywhere else in California; it looks like something out of a fairy tale book cover or movie scene set in Ireland or Scotland. There are also plenty of campsites along the coast where you can pitch a tent and spend days exploring. If you’re looking for something more active than just enjoying the scenery, you can hike at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Andrew Molera State Park, and Point Lobos Natural Reserve. You can wander through forests and climb high peaks; there are also waterfalls along the way. Santa CruzSanta Cruz is known for its beautiful beaches and surf culture and has been named one of the best places to surf in America. It’s also an ideal destination for summer vacationers thanks to its mild weather and beachside resorts that provide everything from sunbathing opportunities to surfing schools. The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is the top attraction in Santa Cruz. You can enjoy rides, games, and food at the Boardwalk. There are also plenty of shops where you can find unique gifts for family and friends. If you’re into nature, you’ll love visiting some of the parks in Santa Cruz! Head over to Natural Bridges State Park or Wilder Ranch State Park. Take a hike up one of the trails to see some fantastic views – especially at sunset when everything looks even more beautiful than usual! Conclusion: Best Places to Visit in California This SummerIf you’re in California and want to take a trip, any of the places mentioned above would be a great day trip. They offer something different, so even if you visit multiple times this summer, you’ll have a different experience each time. I hope you have an enjoyable and relaxing summer, and remember to stay safe out there!
Source: https://savoteur.com/places-to-visit-in-california/ via https://savoteur.wordpress.com/2022/08/26/11-best-places-to-visit-in-california-this-summer/ Dating in today’s crazy world is challenging. One of the hardest questions to answer when you find someone is, “Where should we go on a date?” Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered with the best options that provide an affordable yet memorable experience. Where Should We Go on a DateThe majority of first dates fall into two categories:
Things To Consider When Planning Your DateTo further help you decide where to go on your first date, here are some necessary boxes to include in your checklist of first date ideas. CostYou have to be practical when planning your first date, especially since it will cost you money. Remember that one of the things to consider when picking a location is its affordability. You will do yourself a big favor by considering the expenses. Remember that a date doesn’t need to be expensive to make it memorable. Remember that first dates help you get to know each other. If everything doesn’t go as well as you hoped, you spare yourself the regret of spending too much on something that was not fulfilling. CozinessFirst dates are primarily for getting to know each other on a deeper level. It is always best to pick a place that allows both parties to converse freely and without unnecessary distractions. You may have initially planned to go for a movie date, a bowling alley date, or a night out in a concert or club. But whether this may be of mutual interest for the two of you, these date ideas will not allow for meaningful conversation to happen. Eye-to-EyeEye contact is the main ingredient in building an initial emotional connection. Therefore, choose a first date activity that lets you look each other in the eye. Nowadays, people choose to spend their first date doing physical sports activities like kayaking, hiking, and biking. While this may be a fun and unique way to spend time together for the first time, it may not be the best first date idea because you barely see each other face-to-face. In such sports activities, you stand side-by-side, or one person leads the other. A good first date idea would allow for moments where you can look at each other’s faces. OriginalityIf you’re planning to impress your special someone on your first date, then one thing you ought to come up with is a unique and novel activity. When coming up with an idea, you should consider a new activity that both of you are sure to enjoy genuinely. It would also help to think of a first-date idea based on your shared interests like video games, rock music, classic films, or others. No AwkwardnessAwkward silence is the last thing you want on your first date. This is why it is important to consider going to a place that freely encourages random topics for conversation. Choosing Your First Date PlaceHere are some surefire ideas for places to spend your first date with your special someone. You can’t go wrong with any of them. Tea HouseIf you think coffee dates are overrated, opt to have your first date in a tea house. Depending on the vibe you want, you can choose a classy tea house or a Japanese-inspired tea house for your date. Drinking tea with your special someone in a calm atmosphere can help induce a genuinely warm connection. Mini GolfA Mini Golf date idea sets the stage for playful competition. Another added perk of a mini golf first date is that it is not that expensive and doesn’t require a specific skill set to play. Some even have onsite bars and restaurants you can enjoy before or after your round of golf. Amusement ParkAmusement parks offer a wide range of thrilling and enjoyable activities depending on what both of you are in the mood to do. Are you both willing to go on thrill rides like rollercoasters, or would you rather share an intimate moment with a serene view from the top of a Ferris wheel? While walking around the amusement park, you can hold each other’s hands. You can also try to win oversized stuffed animals for each other by playing different fun games. Trivia NightYou may consider a trivia night if a challenge is your idea of a perfect first date. You can team up with your date and compete with other couples or compete with each other instead. Aside from a trivia night being a chance to hang out together, it is also a time to showcase your knowledge. In some trivia competitions, you may get the opportunity to bring home exciting prizes that you and your date can compete for or enjoy as a pair. Pottery PaintingPottery-making may be an excellent first-date activity, but it can be messy and take a lot of time. If you’d rather not spend the entire day attending a pottery-making session, you can always choose to do paint pottery instead. This activity still allows you to show off your creative and artistic side while allowing for smooth and casual communication between you and your date. That is a definite go-to date idea if both of you have an introverted personality. MuseumMuseum dates make for a romantic and classy first-date experience. Another added advantage is that museum dates may be less expensive than other date ideas. The two of you can either spend most of your time enjoying exhibits or taking Instagrammable photos of each other impersonating the artwork. Minor League Sports GameIf both of you are sports enthusiasts but want to avoid spending too much money watching professional sports games, a cheaper and better alternative is to take your first date to a minor league sports game. Sports games offer a casual and comfortable atmosphere, leaving room for engaging conversations. Remember not to focus on the game more than you pay attention to your date. PicnicA picnic is a good idea for your first date if both of you do not mind spending time in nature. When planning a picnic date, remember to pick a location that is close to nature but not too secluded; you don’t want to freak out your date! A picnic date is also an opportunity to show off your nature skills and resourcefulness in food preparation. First Date TakeawayA first date is a significant milestone in a relationship. If the relationship works out, it’s something you will look back on whenever you reminisce about how your love began. Planning for the perfect first date idea for you and your special someone can seem overwhelming. You have to consider numerous factors, like affordability, suitability, and originality. There are numerous ways to impress your special someone, and it doesn’t have to be expensive. What matters most is whether both of you had a fun time together. This post was produced by Savoteur. Source: https://savoteur.com/where-should-we-go-on-a-date/ via https://savoteur.wordpress.com/2022/08/26/where-should-we-go-on-a-date-planning-the-perfect-first-date/ Want excellent investment advice? Buy low, sell high. This desirable but overly simplified strategy means you should buy shares at a low price and sell them when they are at a higher price, resulting in a profit on the transaction. The problem with such advice is that you’ll have to know when to call a bottom in down markets so you can make purchases or when the market is peaking to make a profit. Therein lies the rub for most investors, which is challenging to achieve. Why? Because we are busy human beings with emotional biases that react to volatile markets. When the market is in a downturn, people often fear more declines and sell their shares. And when stocks rise, people get FOMO (fear of missing out) and may rush in to invest. For many of us, emotions and stress levels play a role in constructing our investment portfolio, making dollar-cost-averaging a legitimate strategy. What is Dollar-Cost-Averaging?To succeed financially, you must establish long-term investment strategies. Avoid making common mistakes when there is substantial market volatility like trying to time the market, chasing the hottest trends, being overconfident, or setting unrealistic goals. Our emotions get the best of us, especially when making investments. To counter our tendencies to get into trouble, we can adopt a safe and effective strategy for the long term: dollar-cost-averaging. Dollar-cost-averaging (DCA) is a systematic program of investing equal sums of money at regular intervals regardless of the investment’s price. It’s a simple approach requiring you to determine two parameters: the fixed amount for each period and how often. In this approach, you’ll automate investing the same fixed dollar amount in the same stock, ETF, or mutual fund at regular intervals over a long time. As investments tend to increase in price more than they fall, the “cost averaging” means that you purchase more when the price is down and fewer shares when the price is high. Essentially, you are buying most of the shares at below-average costs. You’re Probably Already Using the DCA ApproachThis strategy provides a disciplined approach, taking the guesswork out of investment timing and avoiding the outside events that may cause short-term gyration in the market. DCA is similar to the buy-and-hold investment strategies that look past short-term noise in the market. You’re probably already using dollar-cost-averaging for your 401K plans, individual retirement savings accounts (Roth IRAs or traditional IRAs), and employee stock ownership plans. Suppose you use Acorns, the micro-investing app, Greenlight app, or other fintech companies that use a Round-ups feature or recurring investments. When making purchases using a linked debit card, the spare change from the transaction rounds up to the nearest dollar and goes into your investment account. Users will benefit from using the dollar-cost-average strategy. Besides these plans, a dividend reinvestment plan (DRIP) can carry out dollar cost averaging. Many well-known companies, such as Coca-Cola, allow investors to purchase shares of stock on a dollar-cost basis directly from them through a DRIP program managed by the Direct Stock Purchase Plan Clearinghouse. This allows you to avoid going through a brokerage firm. DRIP strategies help investors reinvest their dividends. Although dollar-cost-averaging is not an exciting way to invest, it tends to enable investors to buy at “below-average” prices. For example, you may want to invest $100 into shares of a specific company each month, whether the market is fluctuating, declining, or rising. At the end of six months, you invested $600 into shares for an average dollar cost of $3.87 per share. Had you invested $600 all at once as a lump sum, your average price would be $5 per share, above the average price of $3.87. We’ll discuss investing in lump sum payments below. MONTH $ AMOUNT SHARE PRICE SHARES PURCHASED
Benefits of Dollar-Cost-AveragesReduces RiskThe DCA approach minimizes risk and is desirable for investors with low-risk tolerance. It automatically buys more shares through downturns and lower prices, decreasing the average share price. Essentially, it provides short-term downside protection by taking advantage of gyrations. Investor DisciplineThis simple strategy enhances investor discipline. Investors are making purchases at regular intervals and fixed amounts instead of poorly timed lump sum investments. Investors aren’t timing the market, a challenge for most sophisticated investors. They can set up automated contributions based on preferred parameters like they do for their retirement accounts. Warren Buffett is a fan of the low-cost-average approach. Whether he is buying shares for his own portfolio or recommending that investors buy low-cost index funds of the S&P 500, he often says investors should not make their purchases all at once. Help You Lower Your Cost BasisDollar-Cost-Averages reduce the average cost of shares purchased over a relatively long term. Investors will buy more shares at a fixed amount when the market goes down. While it doesn’t eliminate losses, this strategy limits them during times of declining prices. Reduce Emotional BiasesDCA counters investor psychology sometimes called behavioral finance. We often buy at the “wrong” time and second-guess our moves in the market. Investors experience loss aversion, a cognitive bias that describes individuals who feel the pain of losses significantly more than the pleasure gains in the stock they own. Similarly, anchoring bias causes us to rely on the first piece of information we know rather than new information. For example, an investor may refuse to sell a stock at a lower price than their purchase. They may cling to the higher price they paid, even though new information reveals an unfavorable direction for the company. Dollar-Cost-Averages provide a mechanism that eliminates emotional biases that may undermine our portfolio strategy. Less Focus on Short-Term Market VolatilityMarket volatility can be stressful. DCA smooths out the volatility by regularly making lower-priced share purchases. Investors can better ignore the daily noise affecting the market. Contributing money to your portfolio during a sharp market downturn is often the best time to purchase stocks. The DCA approach allows investors to remain in the market rather than staying out and missing the bottom. You can’t wait for “the dust to settle” as there are no bright lights that tell you when to wade back into the market. Disadvantages of Dollar-Cost-AveragingA More Conservative ApproachDCA’s lack of glamour may bore some investors who prefer actively trading stocks for shorter timeframes. The Dollar-Cost-Averages strategy tends to be a more conservative way to invest than making lump sum investments. Investors May Forfeit Higher ReturnsLower risks tend to generate lower returns. Therefore DCA investors may forfeit higher returns associated with the riskier lump sum investment strategy. Investors will generate higher returns if the asset price rises by investing a lump sum at once at a lower price rather than over regular intervals. In the DCA strategy, you may buy fewer shares than if you make a more significant investment upfront. There May be Opportunity CostsWhen implementing the DCA approach, you may hold the funds in cash or money markets (cash-equivalents) at meager returns, causing opportunity costs. You can avoid this scenario by contributing to your portfolio from your paycheck as you do for your retirement accounts. Comparing Performances of DCA to Lump Sum InvestingAn alternative to DCA is lump sum investing. This is when you invest a lump sum immediately, unlike DCA, which invests equal amounts at intervals. A Northwestern team analyzed rolling, 10-year returns of $1 million invested immediately in the U.S. markets versus dollar-cost averaging. In the dollar-cost averaging scenario, the money was invested evenly over 12 months and then held for the remaining nine years. They varied the portfolio composition from 100% equities or 100% fixed income, including money markets, and a 60/40 split between equities and fixed income. They found that lump sum investing a $1 million windfall all at once generated better cumulative total returns at the end of 10 years than dollar-cost-averaging almost 75 percent of the time. This was regardless of asset allocation. However, another study pointed out that the length of time for DCA made a difference. Over 36-month intervals, the lump sum beat the dollar cost, averaging more than 90 percent of the time. However, the results were much closer over six-month time frames. DCA works better for six to twelve months, whereas lump sum investing works better with large windfalls such as an inheritance or insurance and more extended periods. Who Should Consider a Dollar-Cost-Averaging Strategy
Although DCA works with individual stocks, buying ETFs or mutual funds is desirable for diversification purposes. Final ThoughtsDollar-cost-averaging is a conservative approach to investing in the market, reducing risk, stress, and emotional biases. It is desirable for investors who are less tolerant of market volatility but want to participate in the market. This post was produced by Savoteur.
Source: https://savoteur.com/what-is-dollar-cost-averaging/ via https://savoteur.wordpress.com/2022/08/25/what-is-dollar-cost-averaging-is-it-the-best-way-to-invest/ Robinhood is one of the most popular online brokers for a reason — it’s user-friendly, has zero fees, and you can use it on your mobile app, making it a viable alternative to the traditional trading platform offered by your broker. But since it launched in 2013, many worthy competitors have emerged. It only makes sense to consider whether it’s the best choice for your stock trading or if you should consider one of the many Robinhood alternatives instead. If that’s the case, you’re in the right place. We’ve assessed the top trading platforms on the market to find the best alternatives. Whether you’re a swing trader or buy-and-hold investor, whether you prefer cryptos to stocks or trade price breakouts over momentum, you’ll find something here to suit your needs. Why Reconsider Robinhood?Robinhood has had its fair share of controversies over the years. Back in 2019, a few users realized that a glitch in the system allowed them to trade with almost unlimited leverage — some traders managed to claim up to $1,000,000. The scandal-hit again at the start of 2021 due to Robinhood’s involvement with the Gamestop fiasco. The app decided to freeze trades involving the stock, leaving many traders upset, given Robinhood’s status as one of the most popular and accessible trading apps. But even if these problems don’t bother you, there are many other reasons why you might be questioning if Robinhood is the right choice. It might not quite hit the mark for more experienced traders due to its lack of more sophisticated tools. You also can’t trade mutual funds or open tax-advantaged accounts (like IRA accounts) for now. Additionally, Robinhood has limited availability outside of the US. For instance, Robinhood is not available in Canada and several other countries. Best Robinhood AlternativesWith all this in mind, let’s get straight into platforms for you to consider instead. E*TRADE: Best for Non-Crypto TradingFees: $0 Minimum balance: $0 or $500 Investment types available: Stocks, Exchange Traded Fund (ETF), options, futures, mutual funds Like Robinhood, ETRADE doesn’t charge a fee for trading stocks or ETFs — but unlike Robinhood, it lets you trade mutual funds (also with no commissions). It also offers other asset types, like futures and options trading, which involve fees. Plus, you can open a range of tax-efficient accounts, including Roth and traditional IRAs. Unfortunately, it doesn’t support any crypto products. ETRADE is an option worth considering for beginner and advanced traders, thanks to its combination of educational resources and more sophisticated trading tools, such as charting capabilities for risk analysis. You can open a simple brokerage account or a Core Portfolio, which offers automated investment management if you have a little more money. The Core Portfolio automatically builds a diversified portfolio for a 0.3% fee (as a percentage of your total balance) and a $500 minimum balance. Pros:
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Webull: Best for Extended Trading HoursFees: $0 Minimum balance: $0 Investment types available: Stocks, options, ETFs, cryptocurrencies Webull is what you might call a genuine Robinhood replacement. Webull is another app-based trading platform that lets you start trading without fees and requires no fixed minimum balance. The platform lets you trade outside usual trading hours, running “extended hours” for a few hours before and after typical sessions. You can also open an account like an IRA on the app, which differentiates it from Robinhood. A disadvantage is that you can’t invest in stocks and ETFs directly. Still, as an alternative, you can invest in ADRs: securities issued by American brokers or banks of foreign shares. Pros:
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TD Ameritrade: Best for Forex TradingFees: $0 Minimum balance: $0 Investment types available: Stocks, options, ETFs, mutual funds, futures, forex, cryptocurrency TD Ameritrade might be a more traditional platform, but that doesn’t mean it can’t make for an excellent alternative to Robinhood. In addition to the usual suspects, TD Ameritrade lets you trade various assets, including forex, futures, options, cryptocurrencies, and more. The diverse range makes TD Ameritrade an excellent choice for more advanced traders, especially given its more sophisticated features. There are also no fees for stocks, ETFs, or options. Pros:
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Acorns: Best for Automating SavingFees: $3 a month Minimum balance: Stocks, ETFs, bonds Investment types available: $0 Acorns made its name for being a platform that makes it easier for you to save and invest by rounding up your purchases and supporting them on your behalf. It’s not necessarily the obvious Robinhood alternative, but it’s well worth considering if you struggle to put money aside for investing. For a $3 a month fee, Acorns will invest your spare change through “round-ups” (aka, you spend $3.60 and it invests $0.40 for you) into a diversified portfolio using a mix of stocks, bonds, and ETFs. It also has options for sustainable investing with an ESG portfolio, tax-efficient investment for retirement, and investing on your kids’ behalf. Acorns are an excellent choice for those who’d like to sit back and know their money is being used smartly and efficiently on their behalf — but it’s not so much of a good choice for anyone who wants to have a little more control. There’s also a limited range of asset classes, with no crypto. Pros:
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Gemini: Best for CryptocurrenciesFees: Up to 1.49% (depending on platform) Minimum balance: $0 Investment types available: Cryptocurrencies Gemini is an obvious choice if you’re primarily interested in trading cryptocurrencies. It has more than 52 different cryptocurrencies available for trading (including 21 pairs), and there’s something for traders of all levels. You can use ActiveTrader for advanced features like charting and block trading. It even has a dedicated Gemini Wallet where you can securely hold your crypto — a convenient option for active traders. However, unlike other platforms on this list, you’ll be hit with a trading fee of up to 1.49% per transaction. Pros:
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Charles Schwab: Best for Online Investing and Retirement Planning (IRA)Fees: $0 Minimum balance: $0 Investment types available: Stocks, bonds, options, futures Charles Schwab is another of the traditional financial brokers, but don’t dismiss it based on that. You can’t trade cryptocurrencies on the platform, but there’s a vast range of other assets, including futures, options, fractional shares, and more. And even though you can’t access cryptocurrencies directly, you can still trade financial products containing bitcoin (e.g., bitcoin futures). An advantage of using an established platform like Charles Schwab is the access to advanced trading research tools and sources, including Reuters and Moody’s. It’s also a good option for those looking to open retirement accounts due to the tax-efficient funds and its status as a leading retirement planning platform. However, beware that there’s a small fee to transfer your funds from your account on the platform. Pros:
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M1 Finance: Best for Automated InvestingFees: $0 Minimum balance: $100 Investment types available: Stocks, ETFs M1 Finance is a tool that specializes in automated investing, making it an excellent choice for those who want to invest passively. However, unlike some other platforms, you won’t have to pay a management fee for the Robo-advisor to take care of things. You can also choose between many different portfolios depending on your needs, allowing you to keep some control. Just tell M1 your goals and select the fund that best matches them. The basic plan has no management fees, but if you upgrade, you’ll pay a fee for various extra features, including borrowing and high cashback rates. Although the minimum balance of $100 is higher than many other platforms on this list, this is still low in the scheme of things. Pros:
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Stash: Best for Learning To InvestFees: $1 a month Minimum balance: $5 Investment types available: Stocks and ETFs How? Like Acorns, Stash was initially established as a platform designed to make investing more accessible. It charges a nominal fee to help users make plans for funding, and budgeting gives them advice and allows them to earn stocks as they spend (which it calls “stock back” rather than “chargeback”). Stash is, therefore, far more than a Robinhood alternative — it’s a tool to help you manage your finances better, with the option to receive personalized advice and more, depending on your chosen plan. Monthly fees start at $1 a month but can go up to $9. While this might not be much for what you’re getting, those strapped for cash might prefer to go for one of the free trade fee options on this list. It also doesn’t offer a variety of asset types; you can only trade stocks or ETFs. Pros:
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Public: Best for Young PeopleFees: $0 Minimum balance: $0 Investment types available: Stocks, ETFs, cryptocurrencies The public is a beginner-friendly mobile trading app aiming to make it quick and easy to trade stocks and cryptocurrencies. It’s similar to Robinhood, but it does offer something a little different: the layout works similarly to a social media site, with a feed that lets you see what more advanced traders are doing and learn from them. That makes it a good choice for young people learning to invest, especially with cryptocurrency. However, it might not be ideal for more experienced traders, mainly due to the lack of trading options other than stocks, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies. Pros:
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Feeling Spoiled For Choice?You’re not obliged to stay loyal to your existing platform if there’s something that suits you better, and it’s good to know there are so many great options. Whether you decide to ditch Robinhood or stick with it, hopefully, your eyes have now been opened to just how many similar platforms there are on the market. If you’re struggling to know where to start, why not take advantage of the low or non-existent minimum balance requirements by signing up for a few different platforms and testing them out? This post originally appeared on Wealth of Geeks. Source: https://savoteur.com/robinhood-alternatives/ via https://savoteur.wordpress.com/2022/08/24/9-robinhood-alternatives-2022-the-best-stock-and-crypto-trading-apps/ Exploring seas, lakes, and rivers by stand-up paddleboarding provides access to places you can’t reach by car or on foot. However, searching for “paddle boarding near me” on Google can be intimidating, especially for beginner paddle boarders. In this article, we’ll go through expert tips and tricks so you can find the perfect spot for your next paddling adventure. What is Paddle Boarding?Paddle boarding is a water activity in many US vacation spots. When paddle boarding, you are on top of a surfboard-like buoyant board. You either use your arms or a paddle to propel through the water. Although there are different ways you can enjoy paddle boarding, stand-up paddle boarding, or SUP, is the most popular, raking in over 3 million stand-up paddlers in 2021 alone. Types of Stand-Up Paddle BoardsStand-up paddle boards come in different sizes and shapes and have various purposes. Here are the five types of stand-up paddle boards you can use to cruise the sea or river while wearing a life vest (a safety measure we recommend). 1. All Around Paddle BoardsBeginner and leisure paddlers use an all-around paddle board to strike the perfect balance between stability and speed efficiency. You can tell an all-around paddle board apart from other types of SUP boards just by looking at its rounded nose or planing hull. It also has a little rocker so that the nose will push the water down, allowing you to handle small waves. Another distinct feature is its wide deck, which adds more stability and maneuverability. These features, however, also mean that the board will create more drag on the water. 2. Touring Paddle BoardsOn the other hand, a touring paddle board is for speed and long distances. It features a pointed nose and a narrow, streamlined deck, allowing it to easily push the water on either side and keep the board track straight. However, as expected, touring paddle boards are more challenging to keep stable. That can be a problem for a beginner paddler, but if you are an intermediate paddler wanting to cover more area in less time and effort, a touring paddle board is hard to beat. 3. Racing Paddle BoardsRacing paddle boards are the narrowest of all stand-up paddle boards. They are usually 25″to 29″ at their widest point, allowing them to travel much faster than a touring board. These boards aren’t suitable for beginner riders since they tend to be less stable and sway more from side to side. This makes them difficult to stand on unless you are paddling fast. However, an experienced paddler can easily cut through the surf and move more quickly in a reasonably quiet lake. 4. Surf Paddle BoardsUnlike a touring or racing paddleboard, surf paddle boards are shorter. They are typically between 7’ to 10′ in length, and have a flat underside for balance and maneuverability, especially when riding waves. Surf paddle boards have four fin configurations: single, twin, 2+1, and quad. The 2+1 or thruster is the most common setup because it provides added maneuverability and stability on rough waters. 5. Crossover Paddle BoardsA crossover SUP board marries the strong suits of all-around surf and touring paddle boards. The board is typically 10′ to 12′ in size but has a generous width, allowing sufficient stability and maneuverability with light surf performance. Depending on the model and brand, a crossover SUP board typically combines the aesthetic appeal of natural wood layers with the lightweight durability of holp-up glass layers. What Are the Best Places to Paddleboard Near Me?From scenic mountain views to crystal clear waters, these long-distance stand-up paddleboarding destinations in the US and Canada promise epic adventures and unique perspectives only SUP can offer. Don’t forget to pack snacks because the paddling area of these locations is expansive and you’ll need some food to refuel. Deep Cove, VancouverDeep Cove is just a short 30-minute drive from downtown Vancouver, yet its majestic mountain views will surprise you, along with pristine and calm waters, and a spectacular coastline. On a sunny weekend, you can sail from Panorama Park or launch from the public dock. Experienced paddlers can even set forth to Raccoon Island in the Indian Arm during low tide or when the water is calm. Don’t have a stand-up paddleboard? Visitors can rent a SUP for the day at Deep Cove Kayak. Lake Tahoe, CaliforniaOne whole day of paddling is not enough to explore this beautiful California lake. Lake Tahoe is the biggest alpine lake in the US, measuring 22 miles long. Luckily, there are several launch points for paddlers. This includes Lakeview Common, Camp Richardson, and Kiva Beach. There are also rental stores such as Kayak Tahoe, Action Water Sports, South Tahoe SUP, and Tahoe City Kayak, so you can start paddling away and not spend hours on Google searching for “paddle boards near me.” Grand Teton Nation Park, WyomingGrand Teton National Park is another ideal spot for stand-up paddleboarding. There are two spots you can paddle here: String Lake and Leigh Lake. The waters of String Lake are calm, shallow, and crystal clear, providing a fun ad safe environment for all levels of experience. There are also campgrounds and picnic areas with picnic tables along the lakeshore. From String Lake, you can paddle for a short portage to Leigh Lake for another adventure. Leigh Lake offers easy access and an enormous area to explore. Be sure to plan your trip ahead of time since parking is limited. Provo River, UtahSeasoned pro paddlers will enjoy an exhilarating adventure in Provo River, Utah. You can paddle down the small rapids and ever-changing scenery that make up the lower section of the Provo River. The waters are shallow and have rocky riverbeds, so make sure you swap your rigid epoxy SUPs with an inflatable paddle board. You can easily launch from the boat ramp below Deer Creek Dam and exit the water at Vivian Park. Park City SUP offers guided tours for those nervous about firsts river paddling. Whether you are going for fishing or simply a paddling adventure in Provo River, don’t forget to carry your SUP leash and life jacket as a safety precaution. Hood River, OregonHood River is famous for its excellent windsurfing conditions, quaint downtown, campsites, and hikes. It’s beautiful in all seasons, but summer and early fall are the best times to enjoy all the outdoor activities Hood River offers. If kitesurfing isn’t your thing, and you are looking for the best places to paddleboard nearby, don’t worry. There are parts of the Hood River that are peaceful enough to paddleboard and even go for a little swim. There is even a dedicated dock for you to launch from easily. Lake Powell, UtahThe best paddle boarding near me locations wouldn’t be complete without Utah’s Lake Powell. You may have seen photos of its fantastic red rock cliffs and beautiful crystal-clear warm water, but nothing beats experiencing it in person. Plus, it has over 94 major canyons and 150 miles of water to explore! The best way to access Lake Powell is to rent a boat and explore for a week. Alternatively, you can visit Rock Canyon and Antelope Canyon for leisure paddling. Colorado River, ArizonaThe Colorado River is a great paddling spot if you want to enjoy picturesque sandstone canyon scenery without having to be wary of water rapids. The best time to paddle on the Colorado River is during winter (December to February) or spring (March to May). The climate is the most temperate during these times, the desert is in bloom, and you are best able to enjoy all of Arizona’s outdoor activities. Moose Pond, MaineMoose Pond is a great place to explore by paddleboard, popular with fishermen, campers, and wildlife spotters. The pond has some of the most beautiful islands in the northern end, such as Sabatis and Oblong Island. Plus, there are plenty of campsites along its docks and pine shores. The waterway in Moose Pond contains several miles of board paddling and hiking trails. Much of the pond is scenic and remote, offering you a greater chance of meeting some of Maine’s popular residents, such as deer and moose. Northeast Whitewater Lodge & Guide Service provides stand-up paddleboarding rentals, tours, and lessons. How to Find Paddle Boarding Near MeIf the top places mentioned above are too far from your home, don’t lose hope for nearby paddleboarding just yet! You can discover the best and nearest paddleboarding spots with these free methods: 1. Visit Your State’s Department of Natural Resources WebsiteIf you want to know the popular paddling spots near you, as well as paddling fees and permitted watercraft, you should visit your state’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website. DNR websites have all the resources you need to know including boat launches, fees, facilities like available restrooms, and even water trails. For instance, Michigan’s DNR website lists 1,300 boating access sites, state parks, and state forest campgrounds. Aside from SUP, DNR websites have the latest details regarding other water activities like kayaking. 2. Check Online Paddle Boarding CommunitiesAnother way to find the best paddle boarding near me locations is to check paddle boarding communities. Sites like Facebook and Reddit offer many local-specific paddle-oriented groups where you can meet new paddlers. For instance, the subreddit r/SUP has 23,000 members that share their paddling trips and favorite paddling spots. Alternatively, you can type “Paddling Clubs in [your city, your state]” into a search bar to get the most up-to-date information. 3. Download a Paddling AppDownloading a paddling app like Go Paddling is also one of the easiest ways to find the best places to paddleboard near me. Available on iOS and Android, Go Paddling has over 25,000 SUP locations that you can discover in just a few taps. You even check the location’s most updated regulations and available facilities within the app. Paddling apps are not only for finding your next paddling adventure. Apps like Paddle Logger allow you to digitally track water routes and distance traveled. ConclusionJust like finding places for kayaking, searching for “paddle boarding near me” on the internet can be an overwhelming and confusing process. Hopefully, our in-depth guide on how to find the best places for paddleboarding has helped you narrow down your choices. This post was produced by Savoteur.
Source: https://savoteur.com/paddle-boarding-near-me/ via https://savoteur.wordpress.com/2022/08/24/paddle-boarding-near-me-finding-your-next-great-adventure/ Providing an allowance to your child is a great way to teach reliability, responsibility, and financial literacy. Using creative allowance alternatives to teach kids about money management is a valuable tool that will lay the foundation for budgeting, financial planning, and saving for essential things or life events. Understanding the value of money also helps show your child the importance of generously giving, patience, strategy, goal setting, critical thinking, and maybe even the basic premise of entrepreneurship. However, giving your kids extra pocket money regularly without having that money tied to a sense of accomplishment may create unintended results. The Problem With Giving Kids A Weekly AllowanceToo often, parents become wrapped up in wanting to give their children everything. While it isn’t wrong to like to provide your children with a small amount of money to buy something they will enjoy, there is a risk of potentially creating unnecessary behavioral hardship. While kids enjoy receiving extra spending money and choosing what to do with it, a fixed allowance system often creates a sense of entitlement and expectation. There are also valid arguments for the benefits for kids living with minimalism. Teaching your kids to value earning money, budgeting, and saving for future events helps prevent them from growing up thinking they need to spend money to be happy. Honoring Your Budget vs. Keeping Up With Allowance TrendsToo many parents are pressured by what other families are doing by providing an allowance to their children. Often this pressure results in parents taking money away from a limited living expense budget, which will only leave them stressed, irritable, and resentful. Allowance is a learning tool to set your kids up for the future and should not be a point of contention. If you don’t have the capacity in your budget to pay your children for extra work around the house, consider compensation alternatives or barter. Another idea is to ask around the neighborhood to find out whether anyone in your community would be able to pay for extra chores outside the home. Keep in mind your bottom line. Only provide an allowance you can afford. Establishing Boundaries For Chores and Compensatable Household AssistanceRegardless of the decided-upon reward system you use for your kids, ensure it is financially sustainable and flexible. If an emergency or additional expenses are required, discuss them and agree on a suitable replacement. To avoid creating entitled expectations and busting your budget while factoring in pre-established money sharing, restructure or set up your allowance system to be more of a reward system dependent on work ethic, extra assistance, or accomplishment. If you’re worried about your child only wanting to participate in working for money when they want something, come up with creative trade ideas. Establish the boundary that their assistance with household tasks is a requirement, and if they don’t want to participate, they can offer to use their earned allowance to pay you or a sibling to do their chores for them. Explain to them that as they grow into adulthood, if there are household items they don’t want to do, they’ll need to pay someone to come over to help, but you’re open to negotiations. The Average Allowance for Kids Varies by AgeAs of 2021, the average weekly allowance for kids was approximately $10, depending on their age.
58% of parents surveyed required their kids to do something to earn their allowance instead of just providing them a weekly or monthly stipend. While most parents questioned mentioned assisting their kids as a way to teach them money management, only 3% helped their kids with savings plans and establishing a budget. Allowance rates may vary depending on the money earned and whether the kids are making money based on their efforts and accomplishments. For example,
7 Creative Allowance Alternatives To Teach Kids About Money Management And ResponsibilityUsing alternative ideas to giving an allowance helps keep you honest in your budget and helps encourage your child to learn the value of money. It is increasingly important, especially with inflation skyrocketing, for youth to understand that money is directly tied to effort and strategy and to provide a valued service to the community (or your family). Remember that earning extra spending money shouldn’t be stressful or overwhelming for you or your child. These teachable moments bring together various means of accomplishment and a small sum of money or non-monetary reward. 1. Teach Kids To Earn Money Through Hard WorkPaying your children for doing chores helps reward them for working hard. There are many age-appropriate chores kids can do around the house or homestead. You will want to factor in your child’s emotional maturity before assigning them tasks to ensure the assigned duties aren’t overwhelming or too much for them to handle. Working for their allowance isn’t to test their abilities to get everything done but to encourage them to be helpful and do more than the bare minimum. If you’re concerned about them only doing the bare minimum chore amounts, consider having a core set of chores for each child and offering to pay them an allowance for completing extra duties and household responsibilities. Appropriate Chores for Kids 2-4While most kids under five don’t usually care about earning money, it’s wise to develop good habits by starting a routine with them, helping you clean around the house. Because toddlers primarily focus on fun and exploration, the tasks may take a little longer to complete or require additional encouragement. However, the lessons learned and cleanliness habits gained are well worth the extra time and effort invested in them.
Appropriate Chores for Kids 5-9Depending on your child’s maturity, kids ages 5-9 should be ok handling chores from the 2-4 ages plus:
You should pay attention to your child’s emotional status during these years. It doesn’t take a lot for kids to feel overwhelmed. They might feel overwhelmed having more than three chores to do. Appropriate Chores for Pre-Teens 10-13By the time your child reaches age 10, they should be ready for additional responsibilities and have a more firm fundamental understanding of what money is and how to earn it. Depending on your pre-teen’s maturity, young adults ages 10-13 should be ok handling chores from the 2-9 ages plus:
Appropriate Chores for Teens 14+The most significant concern of teenagers is teaching them to understand and respect their physical and mental limitations. Maturity is difficult to gauge since all teens are different. Depending on your Teen’s maturity, kids ages 14+ should be ok handling chores from the 2-13 ages plus:
2. Teach Kids To Earn Money By Helping OthersEntrepreneurs hold a standing belief that states, “if you want to make more money, help more people.” Teaching your kids while they’re young to help others is essential to develop them into valued members of society. Still, it also enables them to find creative ways to make money by helping others or giving back to the community through volunteer work and random acts of kindness. Help your child strategize ways to be helpful throughout your community to develop a skill. Then as they become proficient with that skill, have them earn extra money by providing that service to neighbors. 3. Teach Kids To Earn Money Through Academic AccomplishmentsA common way for parents to provide an allowance based on academic accomplishments.
Providing cash payments for academic accomplishments isn’t as common among homeschooling families. However, if you homeschool your children, you could offer them extra money for reading books and their curriculum requirements that will benefit their future. 4. Teach Kids To Earn Money With Reading RewardsA more creative alternative allowance is paying your child to read books. You could offer them $5-10 for every nonfiction, finance, business, trade skill, or personal development book they read in addition to their school curriculum requirements. Another idea is to offer a discounted price for any fun or fictional book or novel they read in addition to their school curriculum requirements. 5. Teach Kids To Earn Money Through Business VenturesIf you have a business, there are many ways your child can help you with age-appropriate business activities, including helping with accounting, stock, customer service, typing, organizing, primary responsibilities, or creating products. Working with you shows them valuable lessons not available anywhere else and enables them to kinetically learn business tasks instead of just reading about them in books. If you don’t have a business, consider helping your child develop an age-appropriate business to help them start and grow. Lemonade stands are popular options, as are creating and selling art projects. If you have a homestead, you could offer your child the opportunity to collect and sell backyard chicken eggs, produce, handmade baskets, or other items you make together. You can also by playing business. Take the idea of paying your child for extra chores by assigning a monetary value to each assignment in a graph, and allow them to choose which task(s) to complete. Then they can see the additional tasks’ worth and play business by meeting them and giving you an invoice. 6. Teach Kids To Strategize Ways To Earn MoneyEncouraging your child to delve into creative thinking is easily the most significant gift you can give their future. Take a step back from controlling everything they do, and offer them the space to brainstorm and decide what they want to do to make extra money. Your encouragement will help increase their confidence, but you’ll also assist them with developing critical thinking and strategy skills not taught anywhere else, giving them a stronger foundation for success when they become adults. 7. Teach Kids To Enjoy Earning, Giving, and Spending moneyMoney doesn’t need to be a taboo topic that no one discusses. It is not the root of all evil (the good Bible quote is “the love of money is the root of all evil”). Making money should be something they enjoy doing because the tasks kids complete to earn money are appreciated and needed by their family or community. Showing your child that making money is tied to a sense of accomplishment and doing meaningful tasks may be a form of self-care you and your kids can do together. When your child sees the impact and value of contributing meaningfully, they realize the value of assisting other people and finding the motivation to achieve their goals. 5 Tips for Helping Your Child Manage Their MoneyGiving an allowance is only half the task of teaching your kids about money, whether they receive a flat rate weekly amount, you’re paying them for chores, or you’re compensating them for academic accomplishments. 1. Teach Your Child To Tithe Their IncomeThe Bible mentions tithing 10% of your harvest, giving a historical foundation to the idea of saving for emergencies, future shortfalls, and assisting less fortunate people. Tithing expresses thankfulness and gratitude. Be grateful for what you receive, and share it willingly. “Honor the Lord with your wealth and the first fruits of all your produce; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will burst with wine.” – Proverbs 3:9-10 Use that biblical lesson to teach your kids the importance of saving and giving back to the community. Proverbs chapter 3 verses 9-10 encourages you to keep some of what you earn to help support the most vulnerable members of your community, such as orphans, widows, homeless shelters, or a local nonprofit that aligns with your values. 2. Teach Your Child Advanced Level Budget ManagementMany financial gurus recommend following the 50/30/20 budgeting rule, which is a great teaching tool. This rule tells you that 50% of your income should be necessary expenses. 30% of your income should go towards what you want to buy now. The 50/30/20 rule says you should save 20% of what you earn for the future. Discussing this type of spending plan with your child helps them lay the foundation of understanding money management, not just spending everything they have at once. Kids over eight years old who have the maturity and understanding of delayed gratification will benefit significantly from understanding this budgeting technique. With not needing to worry about living expenses, kids should instead invest that 50% into a separate saving account to benefit their future. Establishing a savings account for significant future expenditures helps provide expenses like resource books, a future car, future college tuition, future house down payment, or even starter business equipment expenses. For example, if your child sells handmade baskets, they may want to save up some of their income to invest in higher-quality tools to help them make more complex baskets. The 50/30/20 rule states that 30% of your income should be for things you want. Allow your child to spend 20% of their earned money on items important to them, like a new phone, a new game, a particular outfit, carnival tickets, new toys, a new bike, a special treat at a restaurant, gifts for family members and friends, or new sports equipment. Your kids could even use this spending money to pay each other to take care of their expected chore list. Children shouldn’t need to worry about debt payment unless they compensate you for taking care of their chore list or as a previously agreed upon punishment for low academic performance. Typically, for children, that 20% should go toward building an emergency fund, long-term savings account, creative investments, or even starting a retirement fund. These numbers and spending applications will likely need to change as they age, depending on how much they make compared to living expenses. But teaching your kids the difficult-to-understand financial fundamentals of not spending every penny burning a hole in their pocket will become invaluable lessons when they’re older. 3. Teach Your Child To Manage Money By Setting GoalsIt is only a matter of time before your child will see something they want but can’t yet afford. Use that as a learning tool to save up for something they want. For example, if 8-year-old Sam wants a $200 bike, discuss extra household tasks or mini-business opportunities he could do to earn that $200 (plus tax) needed to purchase it. Help him establish his goal of saving $200. Then, set up a budget with his earned allowance and a plan to earn extra cash to accomplish that goal. 4. Teach Your Child Investment TechniquesInvesting in the future is always a beneficial lesson to learn. Discussing investment opportunities is wise, especially for teenagers. Discuss what you support and why with your child if you have investments. As they get older, strategize with them about different ways to invest, and create spreadsheets to track fictional investments to give them an idea of how much they could earn or lose through those investment opportunities. When they feel comfortable starting an investment account, please consult with a financial advisor or do what you can to assist them in starting small and building an investment portfolio. You can also discuss the value of diversifying investments through tangible options like real estate or starting silver and gold coin collections. 5. Use Your Child’s Spending Budget To Teach Your Kid About MoneyHelping your child understand the value of money, how to make it, and what they can realistically afford helps them develop a healthy financial perspective and is the cornerstone to becoming financially literate. Please look at their spending goals and budget, and have candid conversations about the value of money by comparing different ways to earn with the things they want or need to purchase. Talk with your child about the value of different types of work and how helping more people with more complex problems results in higher income. Teach Your Child To Barter Their Skills (Cash-Alternatives)Several other ways to compensate your child for taking the initiative to do extra tasks in addition to their required household chores or homestead duties.
Teach Your Child To Value Their Time and Effort By Choosing Their RewardAllow your child to choose what they receive in exchange for their efforts. This reward could result in financial compensation or bartering for something they want. Either way, make it more enjoyable for them by allowing your kids to decide what they want to work for or how they spend their earned allowance. Your child taking the time to choose how to use their money also sets them up to learn the natural consequences of money through practice. Honoring their decisions also means giving them space to experience buyer’s remorse and set money-based priorities. What Family Surveys Show About Choosing An Allowance vs. Allowance Alternative SystemAccording to a survey conducted by the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA), 92% of parents say it’s vital that their children understand how to manage their money effectively, and 66% give their children a cash allowance. T. Rowe Price investment firm, found that 62% of kids agree that having financial conversations with their parents make a difference in their 12th annual survey. Are Allowance Alternatives Right For You?Whether or not to give your kids an allowance is personal, and the correct answer will differ for different families. Most importantly, make your decisions together, and keep the financial conversations light-hearted. Our society uses the money to measure energy and time to accomplish a task and relate it to its value. Earning an allowance shouldn’t be daunting or provoke anxiety. It should be a fun endeavor to explore developing savvy financial habits. This post originally appeared on Hello Sensible. Source: https://savoteur.com/allowance-alternatives/ via https://savoteur.wordpress.com/2022/08/23/allowance-alternatives-to-teach-kids-about-money/ What is the first thing that comes to mind when you picture islands in the Caribbean? What about volcanic hot springs, soaring mountains, and World War II shipwrecks? You might be surprised to learn that you can find all this, and so much more, alongside the crystal clear water and white sand beaches, you’ve seen on a postcard. Let’s look at some of the most incredible hidden gems in the Caribbean. You may never hear of them, but they’re calling your name! Isla de la JuventudNestled just south of the main island of Cuba and surrounded by a chain of white sand keys, Isla de la Juventud is technically a part of Cuba, though, in many ways, it feels a world away. Many visitors compare it to a Cuba of the past. The charming capital city of Nueva Gerona is just a tiny town, with only about 50,000 inhabitants, filled with the historic architecture and the vintage American cars that make Cuba famous. After a quick visit to Nueva Gerona, head outside the city to the island’s true attraction: the countless pristine beaches, including some of the most beautiful undeveloped beaches in the Caribbean. While Isla de la Juventud’s white and black sand beaches are unmissable, you’ll also want to visit the pristine beaches on the keys just off the island’s shore. The most famous nearby key is Cayo Largo del Sur, home to Playa Paraiso and Playa Sirena, which is largely considered the most beautiful beach in Cuba. Isla de la Juventud is easily accessible by regular flights from Havana, so you can add a day in Old Havana to your itinerary before catching a flight to Nueva Gerona. ViequesJust a tiny island off the coast of Puerto Rico, Vieques has long been a popular destination with in-the-know travelers looking for one of the best Caribbean islands you can visit from the United States without a passport. While Hurricane Maria devasted the island, even more so than it did Puerto Rico, Vieques has rebuilt and is better than ever, ready to welcome visitors back to its untouched beaches. Vieques is also home to Mosquito Bay, one of the world’s most famous destinations for experiencing bioluminescence. Popular boat tours ferry visitors to this bay under cover of darkness to witness blue-green glowing waves lapping at the shores, lit brightly by the microorganisms that grow here. GuadeloupePart of the French-controlled Caribbean, Guadeloupe has all the charm and beauty of other French Caribbean colonies like St. Barths and St. Martin, but with just a fraction of the visitors. Technically an archipelago of several islands, a visit to Guadeloupe isn’t complete without visiting the two largest islands, Basse-Terre and Grand-Terre. Basse-Terre is known for its natural beauty, and its wild landscape is complete with waterfalls and swimming holes in the jungle. Grand-Basse has more of the white sand beaches and coral reefs you might expect from and of the best Caribbean islands. Cayo GuillermoIf you’re a fan of Ernest Hemingway, you may have heard of Cayo Guillermo; the author’s work “Islands in the Stream” lauds this tiny island off the northern coast of Cuba for its incredible natural beauty, shallow coral reefs, and crystal clear waters. Rimmed with some of the best beaches in Cuba, Cayo Guillermo is one of the best Caribbean islands for a getaway at a luxurious all-inclusive resort that may not have been on your radar. Once a wild and natural getaway, Cayo Guillermo has caught the recent attention of some of the world’s largest hotel chains, and new developments have popped up along the island’s east coast. Staking claim over the island’s most beautiful beach – Playa Pilar – are beautiful Kempinski and Iberostar properties where you can enjoy the beach and countless watersports like snorkeling and diving. Cayo Guillermo is easily accessible via the Jardines del Rey International Airport on the neighboring island of Cayo Coco, connected to the island by a bridge that prominently displays a statue of Hemingway to remind visitors of its most famous guest. Cayo JutiasThe rugged and natural Cayo Jutias is yet another under-the-radar island off the coast of mainland Cuba, home to several untouched, wild beaches that make this unique Caribbean destination a true off-the-grid escape. You won’t find any all-inclusive resorts here – just tiny guesthouses and spots for wild camping among the unspoiled beaches. The easiest way to visit Cayo Jutias is by renting a vintage American car on the Cuban mainland to bring you over the long bridge connecting Cayo Jutias with the rest of Cuba. While some visitors spend days on this laidback, undeveloped paradise island, most choose to come just for the day while in the area visiting Viñales, one of the most picturesque natural destinations in the Caribbean. In combination with a visit to the Viñales Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage destination for its unique limestone karst “mountains,” Cayo Jutias makes for a perfect getaway. DominicaNot to be confused with the Dominican Republic, the tiny island nation of Dominica is one of the best spots in the Caribbean for ecotourism. Think all things natural beauty: mountains, warm, lush jungles, waterfall, and even volcanic hot springs to bathe in. One of the least visited large Caribbean islands, Dominica is not a place you’ll be overwhelmed by tourism; plan to stay in a boutique hotel or budget accommodation and eat at local joints, where you’ll have delicious and plentiful Caribbean classics. While you won’t find as many pristine white-sand beaches in Dominica as you will on neighboring islands, don’t count out Dominica as a potential travel destination. Dominica has so much to offer visitors – far beyond what you might imagine of a Caribbean island. BonaireLargely overshadowed by neighboring Aruba and Curacao, Bonaire is one of the best-kept secrets of the Caribbean, still quite undertouristed despite its endless natural beauty. Experienced snorkelers and scuba divers nearly unanimously identify Bonaire as the best spot for undersea exploration in the Caribbean. Bonaire’s reefs are an excellent destination for beginner divers and snorkelers, as many shore diving destinations have impressive arrays of fish and coral accessible from the beach. However, don’t count it out even if you’re more experienced. In addition to natural underwater beauty, you’ll also find nearly a dozen shipwreck dive sites scattered around the island, including the infamous Hilma Hooker, the wreck of a drug-running vessel that crashed into the reef in the 1980s. CarriacouThe hidden and underrated dive spots in the Caribbean don’t stop with Bonaire; the tiny island of Carriacou, part of the Grenadines in the Lesser Antilles, is another world-class spot, easily one of the best Caribbean islands for snorkeling and scuba diving. Known as the “Isle of the Reefs,” Carriacou is home to countless dive spots around the island, many accessible by shore and shipwrecks to dive. You’ll also find beautiful beaches here, like the white-sand Paradise Beach, which lives up to its name. This island is tiny, so if you get antsy, head to Grenada, just a 90-minute ferry ride away. Carriacou is also accessible by plane with regular flights to Grenada. The Corn IslandsHead 45 miles out into the Caribbean from the coast of Nicaragua, and you’ll hit las Islas del Maiz – the Corn Islands – which are quickly becoming a favorite off-the-beaten-path Caribbean destination. Long a favorite destination for surfers and budget backpackers looking to disconnect, word has gotten out in recent years, and there are more visitors than ever. However, nothing seems to kill the relaxed vibe you’ll enjoy on “the Corns.” While both islands have beautiful beaches with great opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and surfing, Big Corn Island has more hustle and bustle, plus more accommodation and dining options. Little Corn Island – just a few square kilometers in size – is much more laid back, and there are no cars on the island. Despite being relatively remote, multiple daily flights from the Nicaraguan capital of Managua to Big Corn Island make them easy to reach. Book your visit before word gets out about these underrated hidden gems! The Rosario IslandsLocated just off Colombia’s Caribbean coast, the tiny chain of islands known as las Islas de Rosario – the Rosario Islands – are a favorite Caribbean destination for South American travelers. The Rosario Islands offer a wide range of accommodation options, including everything from luxurious eco-lodges to party hostels, meaning all kinds of travelers can visit these shallow, turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Just an hour north of Cartagena and frequented by shared and private boats from the city, the Rosario Islands are an easy and relatively inexpensive Caribbean getaway. With cheap international flight into Cartagena and lower-cost accommodation options that you’ll find in most other Caribbean destinations, the Rosario Islands might be the budget Caribbean vacation you’ve been dreaming of. Final ThoughtsThese unique Caribbean destinations may not be suitable for every traveler, but they have so much to offer visitors looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination. Consider adding these hidden gems to your itinerary for your next Caribbean vacation, and you will have unforgettable experiences enjoying these hidden Caribbean gems.
This post originally appeared on Hello Sensible.
Source: https://savoteur.com/best-caribbean-islands/ via https://savoteur.wordpress.com/2022/08/23/the-10-best-caribbean-islands-youve-never-even-heard-of/ Kids amusement parks are a summer right of passage. Many families pack up the car and head to an amusement park for a fun day or weekend. Spending a day at a theme park is great for family vacations. Amusement parks offer thrill rides like rollercoasters that get your adrenaline going. But what are the best theme parks for little ones? This article focuses on lesser-known amusement parks with a great selection of rides, specifically for little kids and toddlers. The most popular amusement park is not always the best, but there are others you may not think of that are. Top Theme Parks For Young Kids1. Six Flags AmericaSix Flags is known for its thrilling rides. They also have rides geared towards younger kids and sections for little kids. Six Flags is an option that is good for the whole family. The ride times in the kids’ areas are age-appropriate, each ride lasting only 1 to 2 minutes. This means that the wait time between rides is shorter for anyone who may be waiting in line. In our experience, there’s often not any wait or only a 1 to 2 minutes waiting between rides. One benefit to rides geared toward little kids and toddlers is that if there is no one in line, the attendant will often let you stay on for back-to-back rides. Most rides can accommodate bigger kids or parents as well. That is great because sometimes kids need comfort and support from a big brother, sister, or mom or dad. Six Flags LocationsSix Flags has many locations. There are 27 properties, including theme parks, amusement parks, water parks, and a family entertainment center. Finding one near you with so many park options shouldn’t be difficult. Some of the most notable Six Flags locations include:
Six Flags Water ParksSome Six Flags locations also have water parks that include water slides, a lazy river, and swimming. Typically admission to the water park is included in your ticket price. Six Flags also has water rides like a log flume or plunge, which are appropriate for all ages, including small kids. The water park at Six Flags is Hurricane Harbor. Six Flags DiscountsThere are always many Six Flags discounts. For example, children two and under do not need a ticket at most Six Flags locations. Check each park’s site for specifics and verification. 2. Silver Dollar CitySilver Dollar City is in Branson, Missouri. It’s fun for all ages, and kids from 2 to 92 will be able to find rides to enjoy. The best part about bringing little kids to Silver Dollar City is that kids five and under are FREE! Silver Dollar City ThemeWhen you step inside the 1880’s themed amusement park, you will feel like you’ve traveled back in time. Employees have dressed the part with more than 30 craftsmen and women working in shops on hand-blown glass, stretching taffy, and making soap or candles, to name of few. Visiting these shops and seeing working trades shows the younger generations that the goods we purchase are created somewhere. They take time and effort to craft before ending up on store shelves or being delivered to our door. Rides for all Ages and HeightsSimilar to Six Flags, Silver Dollar City has rides for kids of all ages. They have an entire section geared towards younger kids and family fun. One of the most appealing aspects of the rides at Silver Dollar City is the ones for little kids and toddlers aren’t lumped together in one area, forcing bigger kids and adults to stay with their group. Silver Dollar City does an excellent job of spreading rides across their 100-acre park. In addition to various rides for all ages being in every park area, many rides indicate that riders must be 42 inches to join. However, most non-coaster, upside-down flip rides also allow riders between 36 and 41 inches to ride with an adult. Being a toddler is hard enough! But to be just a smidge too short to ride isn’t a concern at Silver Dollar City. Dinner Show at Silver Dollar CityBefore you wrap your trip, stop by the Dolly Parton Stampede for a dinner show filled with 31 horses and riders performing tricks and stunts. The stampede brings a whole new meaning to dinner and a show. Fun Year-RoundLike Six Flags, Silver Dollar City doesn’t stop the fun once summer ends. They play host to several autumn-themed events and festivals. The park ends the year by decorating its 100 acres with more than 6.5 million lights and hosting nightly parades with Rudolph and many more holiday characters. 3. Worlds of FunWorlds of Fun is in Kansas City, Missouri. Like most amusement parks, you find fun and appropriate rides for little kids and thrill rides for older children. Their website lists all their rides with a filter on whether they are thrill rides or kid-friendly. Worlds of Fun offers a PreK pass for kids 3-5, which means no cost of admission. Proof of age is required. Snoopy-Themed Kids AreaThe little kid area at Worlds of Fun features 12 rides, all centered around Snoopy cartoons and its many characters. In line with the Snoopy and Charlie Brown-themed kids area, Worlds Of Fun hosts The Great Pumpkin Fest each Saturday and Sunday from mid-September through the end of October. Holiday EventsIn addition to The Great Pumpkin Fest on select nights from mid-September thru October after 6:30 pm, Worlds of Fun turns into a ghostly haunted-themed attraction with as many as 400 monsters lurking in the darkness to haunt you. Children under 14 should avoid this event. The Best Kids Amusement Park You Didn’t Know Existed4. Neli’s Dutch VillageNeli’s Dutch Village is perfect for little kids. It is tucked away in Holland, Michigan, and is an excellent stop for any family with small children. Upon entering, you feel like you’ve just landed in The Netherlands and are experiencing Dutch life. Neli’s Dutch Village tickets are affordable for the entire family, with adult tickets costing a mere $14 (there are lower prices and no service charge when purchased online.) Children ages 4-17 are $13, and kids three and under are free. They also have a petting zoo where you can feed goats, bunnies, llamas, and chickens. You can even retrieve any eggs you may find. One of the best parts about Neli’s Dutch Village is its approach to families. Unlike many other big-name amusement parks, they will not charge you additional fees for parking or purchasing your tickets online. Neli’s Dutch Village was the most fun of all the amusement parks our family has visited. 5. Air Zoo KalamazooAlso, in Michigan, you may stumble upon the Air Zoo, located in Kalamazoo. It’s a short 45 minutes from Grand Rapids. Air-Themed ExperienceUpon entering, you walk through tunnels covered with clouds on both sides, making you feel you’re soaring through the air. Once you’re through the tunnel, you find yourself surrounded by pristine aircraft dating from The Golden Age of Flight to Jet Aged AirCraft and everything in between. Air Zoo ExhibitsThis Smithsonian-affiliated museum is filled to the brim with planes and spacecraft in near-perfect condition. Each aircraft has a plaque stating facts about it, including the era. This museum is organized by dates and includes WWI and WWII with special sections for D-Day, Black Wings, Women in Flight, and the Golden Age of Flight. In addition to its rides, you can also check out the aerospace sector. You will find many artifacts from the Apollo Air Missions to space travel vessels here. Rides and Attractions at Air ZooWhat may surprise you the most about your visit to Air Zoo is the section filled with amusement park rides that the entire family can ride. From the Parachute Drop to Hot Air Balloons floating through the air, little kids, teens, and adults will have the time of their lives taking in all the attractions. These rides require children under 36 to 48 inches to ride with an adult. In addition to the amusement park rides, visitors can also take a ride in one of the 4 Flight Simulators in the far back of the main museum. Take a ride to see what it’s like flying in some of the world’s most amazing planes. You can even pay for a private ride in a biplane at the nearby airstrip. Air Zoo is one of the best theme parks we visited with our three kids, ages five and younger. There are several kiddie rides, all with airplane themes. If we lived nearby, we would be season ticket holders. What To Bring To Kids Amusement ParksCreate an items list to pack with you for your time at the parks. Some ideas of what to bring include:
What About Disney Theme Parks?When you think about the “Happiest Place on Earth,” do you want crowds, lines, lots of walking, expensive theme park tickets, and high costs for lodging, parking, food, and everything else? Disney is a wholly unique experience, but one you certainly pay a steep price for. If you want to make memories at the Happiest Place on Earth, but budget is a factor, it might be best to wait until your kids are older so their memories will be securely imprinted. What to Look For in a Kids’ Amusement ParkWildly Popular Theme Parks and Their Stroller PoliciesEveryone knows about the popular amusement parks in Orlando and California. Parks like Walt Disney World (including its four parks: Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, and Epcot), Disneyland, Universal Studios, Legoland, and Busch Gardens are crowded and enormous. These parks also come with a higher price tag. Kids’ tickets aren’t much cheaper than adult tickets, even though there are not as many ride options. Larger parks geared towards older kids and adults also have long ride lines. Little kids don’t have the attention span or patience for all the waiting and walking. And parents don’t have the patience to deal with whining kids while waiting! Additionally, it’s important to note that Disney theme parks changed their stroller policies, and the once-popular stroller wagons are no longer allowed inside their parks. That means you will have to purchase a stroller to bring with you that is permitted on the property or pay to rent one for your visit. For younger kids, avoiding the crowds at Disney and Universal theme parks may be best. Height Requirements and Size of the ParkAnother reason to avoid the largest parks if your kids are younger is that little kids do not need the tallest Ferris Wheel or the fastest roller coaster. They get thrills and tummy tickles on rides sized for them. Plus, they will get worn out walking around the larger parks, although that’s not necessarily a bad thing come bedtime! Types of Attractions AvailableYou want your kiddos to scream and laugh with excitement, not scream from the thrill that older kids and adults seek. Young kids are not yet thrill-seekers. Instead, they need adventures and new experiences. Teenagers and adults prefer park rides that are fast, high, go upside-down, and spin fast. Little kids are afraid of these rides and aren’t tall enough to ride them. Save the adrenaline rush and thrills for when they are older. For now, focus on rides and attractions designed for kids’ needs. In ConclusionThere are many amusement park options for your family vacation. The options are not limited to the top-rated California theme parks and the Orlando Theme parks. Many fun parks are less crowded, less expensive, and closer to home. The best amusement parks are not always the most popular ones. After all, being with your whole family is part of what makes visits to theme parks fun—talking and deciding who will ride which coaster with who is part of the fun. Poking fun at siblings, cousins, or parents for being too ninny to ride one of the most thrilling coasters to deciding who will get the wettest on a water ride – regardless of the randomness of how the ride spins – is part of what makes memories at the best kids theme parks. This post was produced by Savoteur. Image Credit: Shutterstock.
Source: https://savoteur.com/great-kids-amusement-parks/ via https://savoteur.wordpress.com/2022/08/23/5-great-kids-amusement-parks-that-will-entertain-for-hours/ |
About MeHowdy I am Charles M Cota. I'm 37 year old living in USA. More often than not I surf on the web about a definitive travel website. Somebody that gives true serenity despite life's. |