Tropical Smoothies are made with fruits and vegetables and enriched with healthy ingredients. A nutritious smoothie can complete and complement any meal. Adding foods like coconut oil, seeds, oatmeal, chia seeds, and flaxseed oil can increase the nutrients in your smoothie and give it an omega-three boost. Smoothies have been consumed since the early 1990s in tropical regions such as Brazil and Argentina, and their popularity quickly spread worldwide. One of the reasons why this type of drink is popular is because it’s sweet, nutritious, and customizable. Tropical Smoothies vs. Standard SmoothiesThe difference between a healthy and an unhealthy smoothie largely depends on the quality and quantity of its ingredients. The biggest downside is that a standard smoothie can contain large amounts of added sugar. This reduces the nutrient density of your smoothie. Also, consuming too much added sugar can increase your risk of chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and liver disease. Adding a Little SugarSugary ingredients can be commonly added to smoothies and should be used sparingly or not at all. Here are a few ingredients that can be used to sweeten a smoothie:
Other sneaky sources of sugar include nut butter, protein powders, flavored yogurts, fruit-flavored sauces, sugar-sweetened juices, and some milk substitutes. When making smoothies at home, it’s best to use whole fruits like ripe bananas, strawberries, or apples. These fruits will add sweetness and nutrients to your tropical smoothies. Ingredients, Health, and Life Benefits of One Tropical Smoothie a DayFruitSuppose you put fruits in your tropical smoothie and try to cut calories. It’s best to select filling or dense fruits, like apples or bananas. That will help you feel fuller longer and suppress your sweet cravings. That is one of the golden rules to aid in starting your day to lose weight more efficiently. ProteinIt’s a good idea to have adequate protein intake when you exercise to aid in burning calories. Ingredients frequently used in smoothes that are a source of protein include skim milk, almond milk, soy milk, peanuts, walnuts, and protein powders. They help you stay full longer while aiding in weight loss. FiberConsuming fiber is of great importance in dietary content. It helps you feel full longer, helping you consume fewer calories daily. Foods such as red fruits, oats, avocados, greens, kiwi, pears, apples, and chia seeds are good sources of fiber. Better MetabolismTropical smoothies increase metabolic resistance thanks to their high antioxidant content. Improved DigestionSmoothies prepared with tropical fruits regulate digestion and keep the body in top form. Reduced AnxietySmoothies help reduce anxiety and uneasiness and support brain function. They can improve your energy levels due to the nutrient density of a tropical smoothie. Immunity BenefitsThey can protect your body’s resistance (especially in winter), boost immunity, and aid in health problem prevention. Prevents Bodily Fluid LossSmoothies prepared from tropical fruits with high water content are beneficial for preventing the loss of fluid and energy levels in extreme heat during summer. Easy PrepThey are easy to prepare. Keeps your time up to you. Aid in Weight LossThe correct preparation method and the right portion size can aid weight loss. Why Are Tropical Smoothies Good for Beginners?The formula for making nutritious tropical smoothies is: Healthy Fats + Vegetables + Portion Control Fruit + Spices & Supplements + Liquid= a delicious nutritious tropical smoothie. You can prepare nutritious smoothies with strategic nutritional management based on your own dietary needs. Furthermore, you are serving your body by adding a balanced amount of carbohydrates, fiber, protein, and healthy fats to your smoothie. The most nutritious smoothies use whole foods in moderation, contain no added sugar, and include a balanced amount of carbohydrates, fiber, protein, and healthy fats. If you want to try a smoothie on the go, check out smoothie reviews of the Emerald City Smoothie and choose the best smoothie for you. The Healthiest Ingredients To Put in a SmoothieThe ingredients added to a smoothie are nutrient-dense and not heated. They contain vital enzymes and nutrients. These days, when smoothie making has become an art, you can get creative with your smoothie making. Here are a few simple and great-tasting tropical smoothie ingredients you’ll need to help you get started:
Add color to your diet with balanced carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Tropical smoothies contain fresh fruits, especially red fruits, dried fruits, dark green leafy vegetables, oil seeds, and healthy oils such as chia oil, almond oil, avocado oil, and coconut oil. Detox SmoothiesNot every smoothie is a detox smoothie, but you can create a detox smoothie or a heavy metal detox smoothie with the right blend of vegetables and fruit. Easy Tropical Smoothie Recipes1. Banana SmoothieThis smoothie, prepared with bananas and served with honey and milk, helps to lose weight. A banana smoothie, which is ready in about 10 minutes, can also help heal intestinal diseases. Banana Smoothie Recipe:
Instructions: First, peel and thinly slice two bananas. Add honey, cinnamon, and milk in a hand blender. Add the sliced bananas and start mixing. When the smoothie thickens, pour it into a glass. Pass pieces of ice you will add to the mixture through the blender then add them to the mix during service. 2. Spinach SmoothieSpinach, rich in vitamins B, C, and E, helps you lose weight. You can prepare a healthy smoothie by adding parsley and cucumber to your smoothie in addition to spinach. Spinach Smoothie Recipe:
Instructions: blend spinach, cucumber, and parsley to a thin juice consistency. Add lemon juice and apple-flavored mineral water and mix. Divide into serving glasses and enjoy. 3. Fig SmoothieYou can prepare a delicious smoothie by mixing figs, which are high in fiber, with chia seeds and bananas. When consumed regularly, this smoothie can help contribute to bone development. Fig Smoothie Recipe:
Instructions: Place the cut-up frozen banana, fresh figs, yogurt, and chia seeds in a blender. Blend until smooth adding a 1/4 cup of water if you desire a thinner smoothie. Pour the mixture into a glass and enjoy. Garnish with sliced figs if desired. 4. Fruit SmoothieHow about preparing a delicious smoothie with a mixture of raspberry, banana, orange, and yogurt? With a fruit smoothie prepared in just 5 minutes, you can consume it once a day. Fruit Smoothie Recipe:
Instructions: Blend all ingredients in a blender and serve. 5. Beetroot SmoothieBeets help you lose weight with their antioxidant and fibrous structure. Beets also facilitate toxin elimination in the body. As a result, beets keeps you full for a long time. Medical research has suggested that it also makes getting rid of edema easier. Beetroot Smoothie Recipe:
Instructions: Put all the ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Blend for about 1 minute until all the ingredients are thoroughly incorporated. Apply a thin layer of honey to the rims of the glasses with a brush and drizzle the finished smoothie with coconut. 6. Blueberry Ice Cream SmoothiePrepare a delicious smoothie by mixing blueberries (which contribute to weight loss), with ice cream, almond milk, and honey. Consume this smoothie 1 hour before meals. Blueberry Ice Cream Smoothie Recipe:
Instructions: Put all the ingredients in a blender, immediately pour them into a glass, and serve cold and fresh. 7. Kiwi Mango SmoothieSmoothies prepared with mango, kiwi, and lemon juice facilitate the removal of toxins from the skin. It also contributes to the strengthening of immunity. Kiwi Mango Smoothie Recipe:
Instructions: Chop the mango into small pieces and put them in a blender. Add the yogurt, vanilla, lemon juice, and water and hand mix until completely smooth. Place the mixture back into a blender for a final blending of all the ingredients. 8. Mango Avocado SmoothieConsuming mango and avocado provides a delicious and creamy texture to your smoothie. In addition, mango meets 25% of your vitamin C needs, a powerful antioxidant. Hot pepper and fresh ginger are also added to this mix. Mango Avocado Smoothie Recipe:
Instructions: Add all the ingredients to a blender and mix well. Your smoothie is ready! 9. Ginger SmoothieThis immune-boosting tropical smoothie is anything but boring. It’s sweet with a little spicy ginger kick. This drink is low in calories at only 240 calories; it’s great for those who are calorie counting. Ginger Smoothie Recipe:
Instructions: Slice the banana, pineapple, orange, and mango and put all the ingredients in a blender. 10. Spicy SmoothiePineapple and apricots provide a good mix of vitamin B, C, and vitamin A, all in an easy-to-digest smoothie that’s sweet and chock full of omega 3 from the flax seeds. Spicy Smoothie Recipe:
Instructions: Chop the apples and apricots, then place all the ingredients in a blender. If you wish, prepare the spicy smoothie with unfrozen pineapple and boiled milk, then consume it hot. 11. Smoothie for Sweet CravingsThis smoothie is a sweet treat that’s full of omega 3s, fiber, and high in vitamin E. This healthy smoothie, perfect for sweet cravings, is 340 calories. Sweet Smoothie Recipe:
Instructions: Remove the date cores and pass them through a blender with the banana and milk. Then mix it with crushed walnuts and chia seeds and garnish with almonds. 12. Red Fruits SmoothieA delicious fruity smoothie that’s high in fiber is a great summer treat. This smoothie contains healthy fats that benefit those with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) to aid in weight management and decrease abdominal fat or a PCOS belly. Red Fruit Smoothie Recipe:
Instructions: Put all the ingredients, except the pomegranate, through a blender. Before drinking, add pomegranate seeds to your smoothie and mix. 13. Strawberry SmoothieA simple, delicious smoothie that’s sweet and easy to make. Strawberry Smoothie Recipe:
Instructions: Mix all ingredients in a blender. You can increase or decrease the amount of honey according to the tartness of the berries and your personal taste preference. 14. Vitamin C Rich SmoothieA healthy smoothie that’s full of vitamin C from citrus fruits and will help protect you from diseases. Vitamin C Smoothie Recipe:
Instructions: Boil a small pot of water. Let the carrot soak in the pot of boiling water stove for 3 minutes so they soften. Then chop the carrots and the orange, and pass all the ingredients through a blender. 15. Antioxidant SmoothieThis smoothie is high in antioxidants and helps fight free radicals. Antioxidant Smoothie Recipe:
Instructions: Put all the ingredients in a blender, blend until smooth, and enjoy! In ConclusionDrinking a smoothie daily can help boost energy, lose weight, and improve your health. Nutritious tropical smoothies are made with foods such as fruits, vegetables, yogurt, and other healthy fat foods. With carefully planned ingredients, you can prepare smoothies that are high in protein and fiber. A healthy smoothie can aid in weight loss by keeping you full and boosting your energy level. This post was produced by Savoteur. Source: https://savoteur.com/easy-tropical-smoothies/ via https://savoteur.wordpress.com/2022/08/22/all-about-tropical-smoothies-and-15-easy-recipes/
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Anger is a feeling or emotion like disgust, surprise, frustration, gratitude, and other ways to describe how you feel. Anger is typically a cover for other emotions such as frustration, anxiety, loneliness, grief, or shame. Individuals who struggle with other psychiatric disorders such as ADHD, anxiety, or mood disorders are more likely to show forms of aggression or anger. This guide will help you clarify if you may be prone to anger issues and how to cope with them. Do I Have Anger Issues?Repeated focus on adverse events, words said, and how angry those events made you feel leads to depression. Anger issues may be a cover for something deeper such as depression and anxiety caused by convincing yourself these thoughts are all factual. Your anger is an issue if it controls how you act and think, disrupts your ability to work and communicate, and frequently affects you physically and mentally. In regards to children, anger issues, irritability, and aggression are common causes of referrals to therapy. Anger is the core symptom or emotion associated with ODD disorder (Oppositional Defiant Disorder). How to Deal with Anger IssuesBeing angry does not make you a bad person; it can mean that you have chemical needs that need support, such as nutrient deficiencies. It can also indicate that you have trauma, hurt or unforgiven beliefs that are weighing you down. Use tools such as the Anger Iceberg to identify the emotions behind feelings of anger. Once you place the feeling underneath that anger, addressing the triggers and where they come from is easier. Digging into deeper issues is something that is best done with the help of a mental health professional to help guide you through this process. Go to therapy to learn psychoeducation on anger and how Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help you. Practice relaxation and grounding techniques to help distract yourself from the situation that seems to be getting the best of you. Acknowledging you have this issue or acknowledging others telling you that you get angry more frequently, can help you get support. Tips to Recognize and Prevent Anger1. Recognize Your SymptomsRecognize what symptoms occur when you start to feel “angry.” Journaling can help you better identify your triggers for personal use or sharing with a professional in therapy. Write down your physical symptoms, thoughts, and if you noticed a more profound reason for your anger, such as resentment, distrust, or sadness. 2. Know When To Walk AwayIt may be easier said than done but walk away when you feel emotions flooding your body and you cannot control them. If you are around someone you know well, you may feel comfortable telling them, “I care about you and what you have to say, but I am unable to talk to you about this right now. Let’s discuss it when I feel more level-headed and I am able to discuss it calmly”. Walk away and do something healthier like read a book, get a breath of fresh air, meditate, ride your bike, pet an animal, do your hair, or watch a funny video. 3. PracticePractice healthy habits before you get angry, and list examples of times you typically get mad. For example, “I get angry when my spouse nags me about leaving my clothes on the floor.” Then, practice healthy habits such as deep breathing, timeouts/walking away, and journal examples of how you will use those healthy habits to help you in that situation. When you practice the anticipated scenario knowing that you typically get angry when your spouse mentions your clothes on the floor, you are giving yourself tools to cope with multiple situations. So replace your feelings of anger when they say that and plan an activity, like a bike ride, when you start to feel angry or annoyed by their comments. Then when it happens, you know how to respond more productively. 4. Wait to RespondWaiting to respond is similar to walking away. The saying “ if you can’t say something nice, don’t say it at all” can be beneficial in this situation. If you respond while you feel angry, you will not only say and possibly do things you regret but also fuel your anger. If you call someone and tell them how angry you are at the moment and how this other person causes you distress, then you are making yourself more furious. 5. MeditationOnce you identify your feelings beneath your anger, you can focus on meditations that help you cope with those feelings. For example, if you have feelings of resentment that get triggered and cause you to be angry, you can do meditation for irritation. You may learn how to forgive that person for your well-being in this way and let go of those feelings of anger and resentment that you hold and cause you stress. 6. Take SupplementsMagnesium deficiency causes muscle tightness in the neck and shoulders, which is a problem in individuals who are anxious, tense, or angry; they tense up their bodies throughout the day without realizing it. In addition, magnesium deficiency causes irritability, anxiety, migraines, insomnia, and more. Taking magnesium bisglycinate or magnesium threonate can help with magnesium deficiency’s physical and mental symptoms. Magnesium bisglycinate is available in higher doses, and it is highly absorbable, easier on the stomach, and suitable for increasing overall magnesium levels. Magnesium threonate passes the blood-brain barrier more accessibly but is taken in lower doses and mainly for brain health. You can also take a natural muscle relaxer. When you are tense and in physical pain or distress, you tend to be more irritable. Pain and discomfort can lessen your patience and cause you to become angrier than you intend to be. 7. Get Enough SleepSleep is essential for growth, development, detoxing, and especially mood. Getting at least 8 hours of sleep per night can reduce your anger issues or the underlying causes of anger. Sleep debt and sleep deprivation can cause higher levels of anger. Sleep debt is repeatedly going without enough sleep in a night, and sleep deprivation is getting less than adequate sleep. Research showed increased anxiety, depression, anger, and mood swings when sleep deprived. Sleep deprivation can exacerbate mood disorders and anger issues in children and adolescents in as little as one sleepless night. (Saghir et al., 2018) Sleep deprivation affects a part of your brain called the amygdala. The amygdala is one of the brain’s primary parts controlling emotional responses. Sleep deprivation causes the amygdala to have heightened reactions to negativity or perceived threats. A way to fix this is by doing a sleep extension to decrease negative mood and lessen the amygdala’s response. Sleep extension helps reduce the build-up of sleep debt; however, repeated sleep deprivation can diminish the benefits of sleep extension. (Motomura et al., 2017) 8. Forgive And Let It Go**This, of course, is not meant for abuse or more severe forms of wrongdoings. Saying this is also not to downplay the seriousness and validity of anyone’s experiences.** However, we can let go of many things that cause us to be angry and forgiven with time, meditation, therapy, and healing. Rumination can contribute to feelings of anger by causing you to repeatedly re-experience those events. (de la Fuente-Anuncibay et al., 2021) Confirmation bias can cause someone to pursue ideas and beliefs that support their negative perspective about another person or situation. For example, “My neighbor didn’t wave to me one time when they were outside, so my neighbor must have taken my package, and they must have been the one who ratted me out to the HOA.” This is an unhelpful way of thinking and a form of cognitive distortion that causes us to hang onto anger. When you have a clean slate, forgive someone, and set your boundaries, you can work towards letting go of that anger, resentment, and fear. Forgiving someone does not diminish the event’s effects on you; it only frees you from your negative feelings. Where To Get Additional HelpLook up “anger management self-help groups in my area,” and you can find groups that meet locally or online to discuss how they cope with feelings of anger. Go to therapy individually and with your spouse, family member, or friend with whom you may have repeated tension. Therapy can help you address your feelings towards that individual and also help you communicate both of your perspectives for better understanding. For children and adults, it is beneficial to use anger management workbooks or read books about anger. Reading and learning more about these deeper feelings is helpful if you can narrow down the feelings beneath the anger. ConclusionAnger issues can be broken down and understood at a deeper level than simply being angry. Taking care of your physical and mental health, having a community of people you can rely on, and acknowledging that everyone has feelings of anger from time to time are important ways to help cope with anger. Getting help does not make you weak or a bad person; it makes you an aware person who wants to improve. References: de la Fuente-Anuncibay, R., González-Barbadillo, Á., Ortega-Sánchez, D., Ordóñez-Camblor, N., & Pizarro-Ruiz, J. P. (2021). Anger Rumination and Mindfulness: Mediating Effects on Forgiveness. International journal of environmental research and public health, 18(5), 2668. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18052668 Motomura, Y., Kitamura, S., Nakazaki, K., Oba, K., Katsunuma, R., Terasawa, Y., Hida, A., Moriguchi, Y., & Mishima, K. (2017). Recovery from Unrecognized Sleep Loss Accumulated in Daily Life Improved Mood Regulation via Prefrontal Suppression of Amygdala Activity. Frontiers in neurology, 8, 306. https://doi.org/10.3389/fneur.2017.00306 Saghir, Z., Syeda, J. N., Muhammad, A. S., & Balla Abdalla, T. H. (2018). The Amygdala, Sleep Debt, Sleep Deprivation, and the Emotion of Anger: A Possible Connection?. Cureus, 10(7), e2912. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.2912 Source: https://savoteur.com/ways-to-cope-with-anger-issues/ via https://savoteur.wordpress.com/2022/08/22/helpful-ways-to-cope-with-anger-issues-right-now/ Visitors will find an array of activities and things to do in Baltimore, one of the most popular cities in Maryland. Baltimore is a one-hour drive from Washington, D.C., making for a great day trip, from its colorful art scene to historical waterfront, and interesting neighborhoods. Visitors can enjoy walking around cobblestone streets, shopping at local boutiques, dining at award-winning restaurants, or learning something new at one of Baltimore’s many museums. Here we will go over some of the best things to do in Baltimore on your next trip to Maryland. 1. Explore the Inner HarborThe Inner Harbor is the heart of downtown Baltimore. It’s home to the National Aquarium, Maryland Science Center, and Port Discovery Children’s Museum. Visitors can easily spend a day in the Inner Harbor, visiting beautiful museums and eating at award-winning restaurants. For more adventurous explorers, buy a ticket for one of the cruises that depart from the harbor or rent a Chessie Dragon Paddle Boat. No matter what you are in the mood to do, the Inner Harbor is one of the most famous places to visit in Baltimore. 2. The National AquariumThe National Aquarium is located at the Inner Harbor and is known to be one of the best aquariums in the United States. With over 20,000 aquatic animals, visitors should plan on exploring the museum for two to three hours. Besides fish, visitors can also find birds, reptiles, amphibians, marine mammals, and sharks in the aquarium’s exhibits. 3. Maryland Science CenterThe Maryland Science Center is another museum in the Inner Harbor and one of the most popular museums in Baltimore. Maryland Science Center is great for families. Toddlers will enjoy the kid’s room, but older children will love it too. Plan on spending an afternoon at the Maryland Science Center to see all of the exhibits. 4. Maryland ZooThe Maryland Zoo, formerly known as the Baltimore Zoo, is home to nearly 2,000 animals. Visitors can spend about two to three hours walking around the park and visiting giraffes, elephants, rhinos, penguins, and more. The Baltimore Zoo also offers special passes to meet endangered species or get up close and personal with penguins for an additional fee. 5. The Peabody LibraryThe Peabody Library is one of the most beautiful libraries in Baltimore. The five-story, iron and glass atrium lets natural light in, creating a serene and calming atmosphere. It is rumored to be the inspiration for Belle’s library in “Beauty and the Beast.” The library is open to the public Monday through Saturday. 6. Explore Fells Point NeighborhoodFells Point is a waterfront neighborhood full of quaint streets, local shops, and great restaurants and pubs. The area was established in the 18th century as a bustling shipbuilding port. Fells Point has many historical sights and museums. Visitors can visit the Robert Long House, the oldest standing residence in Baltimore. Or stop for a drink at the oldest bar in the area, called The Horse You Came in on Saloon. The Frederick Douglas-Isaac Myers Maritime Park Museum and the year-round indoor Broadway Market are also part of the neighborhood. Those who want more adventure can check out one of the pirate cruises that leave from Fells Point. Urban Pirates allows visitors to board a pirate ship and cruise around the harbor of Baltimore. The company offers cruises geared towards kids or adults-only cruises. Whether you are looking to learn more about the history of Baltimore or want to have some fun, the Fells Point neighborhood has it all. 7. B&O Railroad MuseumThe B&O Railroad Museum is one of Baltimore’s most popular tourist destinations. The museum is dedicated to the history of American railroads. Visitors can explore exhibits, take train rides, and watch a movie in the museum’s theatre. The museum also offers special events and workshops throughout the year. If you are a train enthusiast, this is one of the best things to do in Baltimore. 8. Port Discovery Children’s MuseumPort Discovery Children’s Museum is a hands-on museum that encourages kids to explore and imagine. The museum has three floors of interactive exhibits where kids can role-play as doctors, chefs, or construction workers. There is also an area where kids can create art. Port Discovery Children’s Museum also offers a variety of programs and special events. The Children’s Museum is an excellent air-conditioned space to let your kids run wild and for you to have some downtime. Kids from ages 1-12 will find plenty to do here. 9. Visit an Art MuseumYou will want to check out one of Baltimore’s fantastic art museums when looking for things to do around Baltimore. Baltimore has a great art scene and art museums that cover all genres.
Additionally, Baltimore has some of the best street art, with over 250 murals. 10. Visit the Reginald F. Lewis MuseumThe Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland’s African American History and Culture is the most prominent African American museum in Maryland. It includes African artifacts, art, documents, and photographs dating from the 1700s to today. The museum also holds events that include musical performances and workshops. 11. Catch a Sports GameBaltimore is home to the Orioles and Ravens, so no matter what time of year you are visiting, you will be able to catch a football or baseball game. During fall and winter, head to M&T Bank Stadium to tailgate and see a Ravens game. In summer and spring, go to Camden Yards for an Orioles game. As another option, you can sign up for a tour of Camden Yards or M&T Bank Stadium. 12. Take a Ghost TourBaltimore is known for being haunted. Several ghost tours take place around the city so if you are looking for things to do in Baltimore that are a bit out of the ordinary, check out one of these ghost tours. The tours are led by professional guides and take you to some of the most haunted places in Baltimore. One popular tour is the Ghosts and Graves tour, which takes you to Edgar Allan Poe’s grave and the site of the Great Baltimore Fire. 13. Explore Fort McHenryIn 1812 Fort McHenry was used to keep away the British. It later inspired Francis Scott Key to write the National Anthem that we know today. Visitors can picnic on the waterfront lawn and admire the historical fort, with Baltimore’s skyline in the background. The fort also offers ranger-led tours, educational programs, and has a museum. 14. Get Creative with a Maker’s ClassBaltimore, Maryland, is full of fun and eclectic artists; anyone can be part of Baltimore’s art scene. One fun thing to do in Baltimore is join a class or maker’s space. Anni Howe Papercuts invites anyone thirteen and up to learn how to create and cut paper designs in their studio. Baltimore Clayworks teaches students how to create, sculpt, and glaze pottery. Corradetti Glassblowing Studio and Gallery welcomes visitors to learn the art of glassblowing in their mini-workshops. There is also B.Willow, a beautiful plant shop for those who enjoy planting, or Baltimore Print Studios for those who want to learn about letterpress and screen printing. 15. Visit Edgar Allen Poe’s GraveFans of Poe can visit his grave located in Westminster Hall and Burying Ground. The graveyard is also the final resting place for many notable Baltimore residents, including Johns Hopkins and James McHenry. Visitors can take a tour led by one of the cemetery’s caretakers or explore independently. It’s a lovely area of Baltimore to walk around, and the cemetery is full of unique and unusual gravestones and crypts. Perfect for Poe! ConclusionBaltimore has so much going on and so many exciting things to see. Your whole family will find something that catches their interest. From museums and historical sites to outdoor activities and sports games, there is something for everyone in Baltimore. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to this wonderful city today! This post was produced by Savoteur. Source: https://savoteur.com/best-things-to-do-in-baltimore-maryland/ via https://savoteur.wordpress.com/2022/08/21/15-best-things-to-do-in-baltimore-maryland/ According to an expert, the tide may soon wash one of the most unique natural structures in Scotland’s Highlands into the sea. Many sites make the Scottish Highlands like nowhere else on Earth, but one of them may soon disappear thanks to the nonstop beating of the frigid arctic water. The Old Man of Hoy, off the coast of Orkney, is worthy of a place on any itinerary if you visit Scotland soon. The Old Man of Hoy is a vast, giant-like sea stack off the coast of Orkney in Northern Scotland. It seems to be looking down at the mainland it faces. It is the tallest sea stack in the U.K and was created relatively recently in the 18th century. It stands at 449 meters, or 1473 feet. Many think the enormous stone sea stack will soon fall into the sea. Professor Jim Hansom recently told the Scottish Express that the stone structure could “cave in at any time.” So if you want to see the impossible-looking sea stack for yourself or even scale it, it might be time to plan a trip to the Scottish Highlands and make it a goal for this year. Many have scaled the Old Man since it was first conquered in 1966, including an eight-year-old boy, Edward Mills, who climbed the giant in under five hours in 2018. How to Get to the Old Man of HoyThe Old Man of Hoy is located just off the coast of Hoy Island, which is part of the Orkney archipelago. You’ll need to wake up early for this day trip! Two routes from the Scottish mainland to Orkney require a ferry ride:
From St. Margaret’s Hope, you need to travel to Houten, which has a ferry to Hoy. However, the walk across Hoy is also longer if you go this route. You can get a boat to Hoy Orkney Terminal from Stromness. Then, after a five-mile hike, The Old Man of Hoy will come into sight. Make sure you pack well; it gets cold and wet up there! Ten More Things to Do in Scotland’s Highlands1. The Heart of Neolithic OrkneyHoy is just one of the small islands off the coast of Orkney. But Orkney itself, off the north coast of the highlands of Scotland, is host to some unmissable sights. The heart of neolithic Orkney, a group of four sites, is the most popular. The neolithic Celtic peoples of Orkney built these massive stone monuments over 5,000 years ago. They survive as some of the best examples of megalithic architecture anywhere on Earth. Maeshowe Maeshowe looks like a small grassy hill from the outside, but within it is a long corridor that opens up to a grand chambered tomb, or cairn. The passage was created from colossal sandstone slabs, each weighing up to three tons. It’s a feat of both strength and design. The sun’s rays shine directly down the passage during sunset on the winter solstice each year. Skara Brae For a look into the everyday neolithic lifestyle, few sites are as eye-opening as Skara Brae. It is a village settlement consisting of ten intact interconnected houses. The stone slab houses still contain furniture and flushing toilets used by their owners over 5,000 years ago. The Stones of Stenness You’ve heard of Stone Henge, but did you know that it isn’t the only henge in Britain? Henges were built across neolithic Britain, but the earliest henge was at Stenness. It was built around 3100 B.C. The 6m tall stones (nearly 20 feet) of Stenness are vital evidence that seafarers imported henge culture to Britain via the Orkney Islands. The Ring of Brodgar The Ring of Brodgar is an enormous 104-meter (or 341 foot) circle of stones within a wide dugout ditch. The site is still yet to be excavated, so no one knows how old it truly is. 2. Whiskey ToursThe highlands, the most extensive whiskey-producing region in Scotland and the world, currently houses 39 distilleries. Today’s whiskey-makers continue a history dating back more than 500 years. The Whisky tour in Inverness is a great place to start your Scotch spirit journey. After visiting a distillery and drinking a dram or two, you’ll go home a connoisseur. 3. Glenfinnan Viaduct for Harry Potter FansThe name Glenfinnan Viaduct may not be familiar, but if you’re a fan of the Harry Potter movies, you will no doubt remember the high bridge that the Hogwarts Express crosses. The Jacobite Train runs two daily roundtrip journeys on a single track, from Fort William to Mallaig up in the west highlands. This means you have four opportunities to see the magical crossing each day. If you want to make the most of the few seconds the Jacobite Steam Train comes into view, you’ll need to arrive early, climb one of the nearby hills and get a viewpoint above the tracks. Crowds will form as buses bring in tourists to see the famous engine. Most tour buses don’t arrive early enough to allow time to climb up very far, so with a little planning, you can get a perfect picture with no one else in the frame. 4. Loch NessLakes are called lochs in Gaelic; Loch Ness is the most famous lake in the world. Most have heard stories about Nessie, the mythical Loch Ness Monster. Scientists continue to debate the possibility of Nessie’s existence. A recent discovery of a plesiosaur in Morocco has scientists more confident that a colossal monster could live in the depths of Loch Ness’ freshwater. You’ll find Loch Ness in the northern highlands, where there are plenty of things to do around the lake. This includes the expansive grounds and ruins of Urquhart Castle. If you prefer hikes, try the ultimate Loch Ness experience: the 350 Trail. It’s a six-day, 80-mile footpath around the lake. Perfect for walkers, you’ll see castles and canals and have plenty of time to scan the surface for signs of ol’ Nessie. 5. Highland GamesThe Highland Games are over 1,000 years old. Clans pit themselves against each other for glory. The Games run throughout the summer months across the Scottish highlands. Most games are single-day events, so you can schedule more than one if you are traveling around the area. Expect to hear bagpipes, see the highland dance, and wear a Scottish tartan and kilt. You’ll find food and activities like a state fair at any of the Highland Games events, with the main event being the games themselves. You might be unfamiliar with some events and, as a result, be surprised that Olympic events – like the hammer throw and shot put – were initially Highland Games events. Events you won’t want to miss include:
6. Eilean Donan CastleEilean Donan Castle in the northwest highlands is a picturesque fairyland come to life. Originally built in the 13th century, this medieval castle on a small island is now a monument to the history of the highlands. If you want to come away from Scotland better informed of its history, including the Jacobite uprising and the struggles against the English, Eilean Donan Castle is a must-visit. Additionally, if you want to come away with an Instagram shot like no other, you’ll find that here too. 7. Highland PubFor Scots, there’s no better escape from the wind and rain than inside one of the inland stone-built highland pubs. You’ll drink in some authentic highland culture as you share a swallie (drink) with the chookters (Scottish highlanders.) Even the most introverted extrovert will have a good time among the live music and dancing. 8. InvernessThe city of Inverness is the defacto capital of the Scottish Highlands. Only eight miles from Loch Ness and six miles from The Clara Cairnes, Inverness is the perfect hub to explore Scottish Highlands sites. It’s the best place to find quality traditional kilts, learn about the battle of Culloden and the history of Scotland, and visit the oldest bar in Inverness, called Gellions. Inverness also hosts a traditional Victorian market in its old town, which offers insight into Victorian Britain and the opportunity to find souvenirs. 9. HaggisHaggis is the quintessential highlands dish; you can’t leave Scotland until you have eaten this spiced lamb wrapped in a sheep’s stomach. It may sound awful (and honestly, it doesn’t look all that appetizing), but haggis is nothing more than a lamb sausage. Be sure to order it with neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes). 10. Ben NevisThe highest mountain in the U.K. is in western Scotland in the Scottish Highlands. Of the three peaks in Britain, Ben Nevis is the most significant and most challenging climb. However, that doesn’t stop thousands from completing the three peaks challenge every year of summiting the three highest peaks of Scotland, Wales, and England (Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike, and Mount Snowden.) Anyone with a reasonable fitness level should be able to walk up and down majestic Ben Nevis in about eight hours. Of course, those more interested in the views than the hike can take the cable car for a breathtaking gondola ride with beautiful scenery. Final Thoughts: Rediscover Your Ancestry in Scotland’s HighlandsIt’s estimated that 25 million Americans are children of the highland nation. Though your day-to-day reality is likely wholly different from your ancestors who battled cold winds and harsh terrain in daily life on the edge of the arctic circle, why not reconnect with them? Get in touch with your ancestry by rediscovering the highland tartans and Gaelic language, and go to Scotland before it’s too late! This post was produced by Savoteur. Source: https://savoteur.com/scotlands-highlands/ via https://savoteur.wordpress.com/2022/08/20/scotlands-highlands-10-best-things-to-do-before-this-landmark-disappears/ Are you wondering how much your favorite football player is making? If you are curious about the highest-paid NFL players, that’s what you will learn here. American football ranks among the top five sports that pay the highest salaries. What dollar amount compensates for being the best in this very physical, demanding game of strategy, brawn, and brawl? Yet, knowing a player’s exact compensation can be tricky. They have their in-field paychecks and off-field income streams from various endorsements, events, and social media. The way contracts and compensation packages are structured also complicates the computation. Still, this article will try to shed light on these sports titans’ income. First, Here’s How the NFL Players Are PickedEvery March, the free agency rolls up, and so begins the teams’ mission of picking the best players. A group of top-tier players will have a significantly better chance of winning. During the NFL draft, some teams draft new players from other teams, whereas some will renew or revise their contracts depending on how the player has been performing. Millions of dollars are spent to have the perfect combination of players. The teams in American football are made up of 11 positions. The quarterback has the most important, demanding, and valuable role; thus, he is offered the highest amount of money. A good quarterback can be the deciding factor in how well a team will perform. That being said, each player plays a crucial role. No one can be lacking because the whole team suffers. A team that works together wins together. So all the other positions, such as defensive end, offensive tackle, etc., are just as crucial. So without further ado, Let’s jump right into the list of highest-paid NFL players. Top 25 Highest Paid NFL Players1. Aaron Rodgers – $50.3 MillionThe first entry on our list is the Green Bay Packers’ excellent quarterback, considered by Britannica as the GOAT (greatest of all time) to play the position. Signing a three-year extension guarantees him $150.9 million. Rodgers is a back-to-back two-time MVP, which is impressive. He is the first NFL player to earn more than $50 million annually. That brings Aaron Rodgers’ net worth to over $120 million total. 2. Deshaun Watson – $46 MillionDeshaun started his pro career in 2017 with the Houston Texans. In 2022, he signed a 5-year contract with the Cleveland Browns, guaranteeing him $230 million. This controversial quarterback has a yearly salary of $46 million. 3. Patrick Mahomes – $45 MillionThe quarterback for Kansas City Chiefs has a 10-year contract of $450 million and takes home an annual salary of $45 million. With that yearly salary, Patrick Mahomes’ net worth adds up to a total of $40 million. Mahomes has an impressive record, and his winning streak seems like it won’t stop anytime soon. His massive contract should speak for the amount of trust the Chiefs have in his skill. 4. Josh Allen – $43 MillionJosh Allen is the Buffalo Bills’ star quarterback. He holds the previous record of bagging a guaranteed $150 million as part of the terms of his six-year extension, reportedly worth $258 million. Allen receives a salary of $43 million per year. In addition, he also received a signing bonus of $16 million. 5. Dak Prescott – $40 MillionDak Prescott takes home a handsome annual salary of $40 million playing for the Dallas Cowboys. He has a four-year contract that guarantees him $160 million, and he also received a signing bonus of $66 million. So nothing can keep Dak Prescott from performing, not even an ankle injury. 6. Russell Wilson – $35 MillionThis quarterback takes home an annual salary of $35 million and plays for the Denver Broncos. He has a four-year $140 million contract with a signing bonus of $65 million. In addition, Russell Wilson has a Super Bowl title under his belt and the Walter Payton Man of the year award. 7. Kirk Cousins – $35 MillionKirk Cousins was supposed to be the man to turn everything around for the Minnesota Vikings. That has yet to happen, but that didn’t change the fact that he takes home an average salary of $35 million. In addition, he received a signing bonus of $25 million. 8. Jared Goff – $33.5 MillionJared Goff has a four-year contract of $134 million playing as a quarterback for the Detroit Lions. His base salary is $33.5 million, and upon signing the contract, he received a $25 million bonus. 9. Carson Wentz – $32 MillionCarson Wentz has been through a couple of drafts: his career started with the Eagles, followed by a stint for the Colts. Recently, he was traded to the Washington Commanders. He has an average annual salary of $32 million and a $128 million four-year contract. His guaranteed income amounts to $108 million. 10. Aaron Donald – $31.6 MillionThe first defensive tackle on our list, Aaron Donald, plays for the Los Angeles Rams, which won the 2022 Super Bowl. He is a three-time defensive player of the year and an All-Pro for seven seasons back-to-back. He has an average annual salary of $31.6 million. His 3-year contract rework grants him an increase of $40 million, while the third year is optional for $30 million. 11. Matt Ryan – $30 MillionMatt Ryan is a seasoned veteran playing quarterback for the Indianapolis Colts. He received a signing bonus of $46.5 million and has a base salary of $30 million per year. He has a five-year contract of $150 million. 12. Ryan Tannehill – $29.5 MillionRyan Tannehill remains one of the most valuable players for the Tennessee Titans, as he was responsible for their triple playoff appearances. Tannehill bags an average salary of $29.5 million. He has a four-year contract worth $118 million, and Ryan Tannehill’s total net worth is over $50 million. 13. Davante Adams – $28.25 MillionDavante Adams is the highest-paid wide receiver in the NFL. In the 2022 NFL draft, the Las Vegas Raiders drafted him into the team. He won the All-Pro twice and proved a valuable asset for the Raiders as they gave him an average salary of $28.25 million, a $19.25 million signing bonus, and a five-year contract of $140 million. 14. Jimmy Garoppolo – $27.5 MillionJimmy Garoppolo took the San Francisco 49ers to the finals of the 2020 Super bowl. He signed a five-year contract with the 49ers worth $137.5 million and an average salary of $27.5 million. 2022 is the last year of his five-year contract; he may go for an extension, or his position might go to Trey Lance. Let’s see what happens. 15. DeAndre Hopkins – $27.3 MillionDeAndre Hopkins is the second wide receiver on this list. He used to be the highest-paid WR, but Davante Adams now holds that title with his new deal. Hopkins has a yearly salary of $27.3 million and a two-year contract guaranteeing him $54 million. 16. T.J. Watt – $28 MillionT.J. Watt is the first defensive end on our list of highest-paid NFL players. He signed a four-year contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers that guarantees him a payout of $112 million with a yearly salary of $28 million. 17. Matthew Stafford – $27 MillionMatthew Stafford was a shining star that turned the tides in favor of the Los Angeles Rams. After being drafted in 2021, Stafford led the Rams to a Super Bowl victory. Matthew has a four-year contract worth $160 million. In addition, he receives an annual salary of $27 million. 18. Joey Bosa – $27 MillionJoey Bosa has a five-year contract with the Los Angeles Chargers worth $135 million with a $35 million signing bonus. On top of that, he makes an average yearly salary of $27 million. He was named the AP Defensive rookie in 2016. 19. Derek Carr – $25 MillionDerek Carr is valuable for any team that gets its hands on him—playing for the Las Vegas Raiders, and he receives a yearly salary of $25 million. Carr signed a three-year contract that guaranteed him $121.5 million. In addition, this quarterback also received a $7.5 million signing bonus. 20. Myles Garrett – $25 MillionFor the man that was the most sought-after pick in 2017, it isn’t surprising that he receives a good amount of money for his skills. Myles Garrett is a defensive end playing for the Cleveland Browns and the best pass rusher for most. He has a five-year contract worth $125 million. In addition, he takes home an average salary of $25 million. 21. Khalil Mack – $23.5 MillionKhalil Mack is the first outside linebacker (OLB) on this list. Turning 31 in 2022, Mack is still a force to be reckoned with. He signed a six-year contract in 2018 with the Chicago Bear that guarantees him a payout of $141 million. He makes a yearly salary of $23.5 million. 22. Trent Williams – $23.01 MillionTrent Williams is the highest-paid offensive tackle in the NFL. He is the best-left tackle, and his skills earned him a handsome payout. He receives an average salary of $23.01 million and has a six-year contract with the 49ers that guarantees him $138 million. 23. David Bakhtiari – $23 MillionDavid Bakhtiari plays for the Green Bay Packers as an offensive tackle. Unfortunately, his recent performance hasn’t been up to par due to his ACL injury. However, in four years, he secured the title of All-Pro twice, which is an impressive feat. Bakhtiari has an average salary of $23 million and a four-year contract worth $92 million. In addition, he also received a $30 million bonus upon signing. 24. Laremy Tunsil – $22 MillionThe second to the last entry on our list is also an offensive tackle for the Houston Texans. Laremy Tunsil has a three-year contract worth $66 million. He receives an average salary of $22 million per year. He also received a signing bonus of $13 million. 25. DeForest Buckner – $21 MillionThe last name on our list of highest-paid NFL players is DeForest Buckner. The Colts offered him a four-year contract in 2020 that guarantees him $84 million and an average salary of $21 million. Buckner held the title of All-Pro in 2020. Conclusion – Highest Paid NFL PlayerPlayers of the National Football League (NFL) are among the highest-paid athletes in the world, with a player’s average salary reportedly at $2.8 million per year. The quarterbacks are leading the pack of the highest-paid NFL players on this list, undoubtedly the most critical position in the field. But all these footballers have earned their keep not only by their sheer talent but also by their years of discipline, hard work, and determination. Everyone has a dream for themselves and their families, an objective for the team, and a goal for every game. To quote football legend Bo Jackson, “Set your goals high, and don’t stop till you get there.” All the players on this list have indeed set the bar high, and they deserve to continue reaping fame and fortune for it. Source: https://savoteur.com/highest-paid-nfl-player/ via https://savoteur.wordpress.com/2022/08/19/top-25-highest-paid-nfl-player/ Are you a student or parent in need of school supplies? You’re not alone. The National Retail Federation estimates that families will spend an average of $849 on back-to-school items and College students and their families spend an average of $1,200. If you’re looking to save money on back-to-school shopping, here are 12 ways to get free school supplies. 12 Ways to Get Free School Supplies1. Don’t Be Afraid To Swap SuppliesFinding free school supplies can be challenging, especially if you don’t know where to look. Fortunately, there are a few ways to get your hands on the necessary supplies without spending much money. One option is to swap supplies with other students who may have extras. This can be a great way to get what you need without spending any money. 2. Turn To Your Child’s Teacher For Free School SuppliesAs any parent knows, school supplies can be a significant expense. But there are a few ways to get free school supplies. One is to turn to your child’s teacher. Many teachers are happy to supply students with the basic materials they need for class. Suppose your child’s teacher does not have any extra school supplies on hand. In that case, they may still be able to help you connect with other parents, charitable organizations, or community members who might be able to donate items. You can also check with your child’s school to see if they have any financial assistance or school giveaways to help families in need. 3. Your Child’s School or School DistrictMost schools and school districts have many programs to help students from low-income families get the free school supplies they need for the school year. ‘Your child may qualify to receive items such as a free backpack, free clothes, new shoes, and even free haircuts. Some also provide discounted school supplies, and school supply drives are also popping up around this time of year. Contact your child’s school or district office to find out what available programs are and how to apply for assistance. 4. Go to The Salvation ArmyThe Salvation Army is a wonderful charitable organization providing many services to those in need. Often, these stores will have school supplies donated by people across the country who no longer need them. This is a great way to get free school supplies because you can usually find everything you need in one place. Plus, you’re helping the environment by recycling materials that would otherwise go to waste. Salvation Army service centers provide supplies like backpacks, notebooks, pens, hygiene items, and even free uniforms to students in high-need schools all across the country. To find a local Salvation Army near you, go to their website (you can also check upcoming events or programs) and enter your zip code. Once you find a location, call them and ask if they have any school supplies available. 5. United WayMany local United Way organizations partner with schools and nonprofit groups to provide free or low-cost school supplies for qualifying families. The United Way School Supply Drive is an annual event organized to promote and encourage the community to donate and collect school supplies so that all children may return to class equipped with the materials required for academic success. To find a United Way near you, go to their website and enter your zip code. Once you find a location, call them and ask about their school supply drive. 6. Boys & Girls Clubs of AmericaThe Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) is a federally chartered, national organization that holds a Congressional Charter under Title 36 of the United States Code. They offer a variety of programs and services that focus on academic performance, character and leadership development, and healthy lifestyles. One of the many ways they help support youth is by providing after-school and summer programs for kids, which includes free school supplies. To help assure kids and teenagers return to school with the supplies they need for success, many local and nationwide retailers partner with Boys & Girls Clubs of America, encouraging donations of school supplies and their employees to volunteer and support the cause. Boys & Girls Clubs of America have multiple local chapters all across the country. To find a Boys & Girls Club near you, go to their website and enter your zip code. Once you’ve identified a site, contact them and inquire about their current initiatives and services. 7. Operation Homefront’s Back to School BrigadeThe Back-to-School Brigade is an annual nationwide school supply collection and distribution effort conducted by Operation Homefront. Its focus is to help military children whose parents are deployed, ill, or injured, start the school year off right. Operation Homefront is a national nonprofit that provides financial and other assistance to the families of service members and wounded warriors. The organization donated more than 465,000 backpacks to military children, saving the military family $50 million in educational costs since its inception in 2002. To get help from Operation Homefront, you must fill out an application on their website. Feel free to contact them if you have questions about the application process. 8. Kids in Need FoundationThe Kids In Need Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring that every child in the United States has equal access to high-quality education and the tools necessary to succeed in the classroom. They provide free school supplies to needy children through their Supply A Student program. This works because local businesses, community organizations, and individuals will sponsor a child or classroom by providing them with a fully stocked backpack of school supplies. In short, they will supply directly to teachers who deliver the supplies to needy students. Contact your local school district and inquire about how they can participate in the program. 9. Local Churches and Community CentersChurches and community centers are often overlooked as a source for free school supplies, but they can be a great resource! Many of these organizations hold drives or supply donation bins where people can drop off new and used supplies. Some churches and community centers will also have programs where they will give away backpacks filled with school supplies. If you’re unsure where to start, try searching online or calling your local church or community center. 10. DIY School Supplies DriveOne of the best ways to get free school supplies is to hold a DIY drive. This is where you collect items that can be used to make school supplies, such as paper, pencils, crayons, etc. You can also ask for donations of old textbooks and notebooks. To get started, contact your local schools and see if they are interested in participating in a back-to-school event. You can also post about your drive on social media or online websites. Be sure to include a list of what you’re looking for so people know what to donate. 11. Local News AffiliatesLocal news affiliates often sponsor school supply giveaways during the back-to-school season. They frequently partner with businesses in the community to provide free supplies to students in need. To find out if any affiliate in your area is running a back to school events, tune in to your local news station or check their website. 12. Freecycle.orgFreecycle is an online platform where people can give away unwanted items. You can search for school supplies that you need or even post a request for specific items. Freecycle is a great way to get gently used supplies that are still in good condition. Bonus Tip: Find free school supplies on CraigslistGetting free school supplies can be as easy as checking your local Craigslist website. Many people use Craigslist to post ads for items they are giving away for free. All you have to do is search for “free school supplies” in the search bar and see what comes up. You may be surprised at what people are giving away for free! Final ThoughtsSo, there you have it! Twelve ways to get free school supplies for your child. If you’re creative and resourceful, you can probably find even more ways to get your kids’ supplies without breaking the bank. And remember, start early, so you have plenty of time to gather everything on your list. With a little effort, you can ensure that your children are well-supplied for another school year – without spending a fortune in the process. Source: https://savoteur.com/free-school-supplies/ via https://savoteur.wordpress.com/2022/08/19/12-ways-to-get-free-school-supplies/ In choosing your next big vacation destination, “nowhere” might not have been at the top of your list. But it may be worth a second look. Far from a default setting or consolation prize, a staycation may go toe-to-toe with an all-inclusive beach resort for your next family vacation. A staycation, or holistay, is nothing more or less than a relaxing and rejuvenating period of time off at home. It is a fantastic way to celebrate life with friends and family while reducing some of the stress of travel. With many of the same benefits of an upscale trip abroad, plus a few of its own, you may want to consider whether a quality staycation is ideal for your next trip. Benefits of a StaycationAt first glance, a staycation may look bland against luxurious accommodations, distant getaways, and beachfront resorts overlooking the ocean. However, there are several perks to booking your next relaxing vacation right at home. Bringing the Outside World InWhether your family trip is to a secluded getaway in the mountains, a blissful tropical cruise, a boutique hotel in a vibrant city, or a foreign country with a rich history to explore, the benefits of vacationing remain much the same no matter the location:
The marvelous hidden truth is that you can achieve all these things without ever setting foot on a plane, ship, or train. There are many opportunities for you to heal, recharge, experience, enjoy, and luxuriate right where you are. All it takes is a bit of intention and creativity. Unique Advantages of Staying LocalA staycation can have many therapeutic traits in common with a trip to Aspen, Tokyo, Disney World, or Bali. Although, at the same time, vacations to luxury hotels around the world carry many costs that a staycation does not:
If it is possible to achieve even some of the refreshing nature of a vacation, with none of these added stresses and costs of a distant luxury hotel stay, isn’t it worth your consideration? A staycation is simultaneously an effective way to have fun experiences, find some mental and emotional healing without added stress, and cut back excess spending. Staycation Trade-OffsA staycation isn’t always the perfect option. Some trade-offs may make a more traditional vacation the right option for you. For most of us, time off is a limited resource and it’s best to consider all factors before deciding how we want to spend it. One thing to consider is the simple appeal of “getting away.” In many cases, one core motivation for travel is that distant escapes make it easier to disconnect from your day-to-day life. In contrast, taking time off at home may make it harder to escape things like a messy kitchen, off-the-clock work email, or a leaky faucet. Before booking a vacation package at the Your House resort, you may want to consider other options. For many, one of the biggest appeals of travel is experiencing new things through nightlife, excursions, and gourmet culinary adventures. Unfortunately, this may not come as naturally or feel quite as rewarding near home, although it is certainly possible to create novelty right in your backyard. As you’ll see below, there are several great ways to plan a staycation that is restful, exciting, and fulfilling. You may find one that feels like the perfect fit for your next family holiday, but that doesn’t mean that stay-at-home time-off needs to supplant your family travels altogether. As always, what’s most important is knowing you have options and taking a chance to consider each before deciding the right fit for your next trip. 4 Relaxing Staycation IdeasThere is no one “right way” to do a staycation. Just as a traditional travel vacation can be relaxing or adventurous, domestic or international, tightly scheduled or free-flowing, each staycation is unique, too. Below are a few common ways to structure a staycation so you can think of how best to set up your next local adventure. 1. The Great IndoorsLet’s start with what you might call the “classic” staycation. The simplest way to enjoy your stay is a free-flowing, low-commitment week off around the house. A period like this could include movie marathons, a bit of intentional couch-potato time, games and activities with the family, trying out a new hobby, and just about anything you might think of that you usually struggle to find time for during work and school times. 2. To-Do List TourismFor a staycation that’s a little light on the “-cation,” you may want to consider a few days at home catching up on life’s myriad tasks and to-dos. A few different things drive us to take time off school and work to travel. Sometimes, we need a little time away from it all to rest and recharge, then jump back in. Other times, we find ourselves craving a vacation because life feels chaotic and overwhelming. Our responsibilities can lead us to burnout. A staycation with a productive streak can be the perfect cure for that restless energy. Intentionally spending a few days catching up on bills, housework, phone calls, paperwork, etc., might be a surprisingly effective way for you to return to the office on Monday feeling calm, centered, and on top of life. 3. Local GetawayIf you’re looking for a staycation without too much “stay,“ you could also consider a bit of hyper-local travel. One fun thing about a vacation to a new place is all the opportunities to see and do new things. Depending on where you live, you may have more possibilities to do that right near home. Spending a few days being a tourist in your home town or city is a fantastic way to discover new places and forge delightful new experiences. Considering yourself a tourist in your own city may also permit you to splurge on local tours, events, activities, and spa treatments that you wouldn’t typically set aside the time or money to try. 4. Hybrid ApproachAbove all else, perhaps the most significant benefit of a staycation is its freedom and flexibility. These options above are only a few ways to enjoy an exciting, relaxing, or re-centering vacation at home. One of the most fantastic things about this type of time off is that most of these things require little to no planning or commitment. That means you can mix and match, try different things on different days, or even mix in some new elements we haven’t discussed yet! A staycation gives you room to experiment, tweak, and customize to your heart’s content, so there’s no reason not to play around with it a bit until you land on something that fits perfectly for you. Planning Your Next Staycation Geta-stayThere are as many ways to travel as there are people. So before you check in at a five-star hotel or deluxe resort and spa for your next trip, take a moment to consider whether to book a five-night stay right in your own neighborhood. A brief staycation may not hold the same allure as distant beaches and far-off destinations, but the relaxation and chances to indulge yourself in a staycation are abundant. Plus, you always know who cleaned the guest rooms and never have to worry about cancellation fees, asking a concierge for the wi-fi password, or making it to the breakfast buffet in time. This post was produced by Savoteur.
Source: https://savoteur.com/ideas-for-your-next-staycation/ via https://savoteur.wordpress.com/2022/08/19/4-relaxing-and-luxurious-ideas-for-your-next-staycation/ Investing in dividend stocks is a highly recommended way to build wealth in the long run. Not only can the price of the stock increase, but you also can receive small, regular payments, called dividends while owning these stocks. While many stocks offer a dividend, only so many will become successful, and some might lose a majority of their value. This is why investing your money in only the best dividend stocks is essential. What Are Dividend Stocks?Before diving into some of the best dividend stocks to invest in, it’s crucial to understand what they are. A dividend is payment companies make to their shareholders, who own stock in their corporation. The dividend stock label refers to those that historically have paid out reasonable dividends and maintained (or even increased) their payments yearly. The best dividend stocks are companies with an excellent track record with dividend payments, will likely not be changing course any time soon, and can serve as a source of passive income. “However, dividends are not guaranteed,” points out Danielle Miura, CFP, founder and owner of Spark Financials, a fee-only firm in Ripon, CA. “The board of directors decides whether or not to lower the dividend amount or not have a dividend at all.” What to Look for in Dividend StocksIt’s not good enough to list the best dividend stocks and never revisit them because the markets constantly shift. So what works well one year may not work another. That’s why knowing what to look for in dividend stocks is important. The first important thing to understand is that dividend stocks have a yield representing what percent of your investment you can receive as a regular payment. So, for example, if you buy a $100 dividend stock with a 5% yield and the stock price stays the same, you’ll receive $5 total in dividends for every year you own the stock. It may be an annual payment or split up into separate ones throughout the year. The higher the dividend yield, the higher the percentage of the money you should theoretically earn back from dividends. However, it’s essential to watch out for company trends as a growing company with a 3% yield will often give you far more appreciation of the stock price and total return in the long run than a shrinking company with a 5% yield. Therefore, the best dividend stocks aren’t necessarily the ones with the highest yield percentages but ones that will provide you with the most stability and total returns in the long run. Danielle Miura suggests that “if you plan to invest in dividend stocks, look for a happy medium between growth in the value of the stock and growth in the income you receive. Look for dividend stock companies with low debt to equity ratios, strong cash flow, and consistent dividend growth.” Dividend Stocks Are Long-Term InvestmentsAn important thing to remember about investing is that no matter what vehicle you choose, investing almost always works better with extended holding periods. Even the best dividend stocks can experience volatility when looking at 12 months. Though dividends provide you with some extra safety in the form of cash distributions, it’s necessary to remember that there is a chance you could lose money; selling at a low will cost you in profit. Miura emphasizes this point: “Even the most financially stable dividend stocks can have high fluctuations over short periods. Like any other individual stock investment, investors should be concerned about long-term growth, not short-term growth.” Picking from the Best Dividend Stocks: Common MistakesMaking mistakes is how people learn. However, when it comes to your finances, you’ll likely want to minimize the amount of “learning” you do with real stocks by educating yourself ahead of time. This will help prevent potential damage to your portfolio. Tunnel Vision Regarding YieldThe first common mistake people make when investing in dividend stocks is tunnel vision regarding yield. Of course, a higher dividend yield means potentially higher dividends, but there are many other important factors to consider. Certified financial planner Jonathan P. Bednar states, “Many people search for yield and buy the companies with the highest dividend yield. Sometimes the high dividend can be a red flag because they may use leverage or have a high debt to support the dividend. The long-term risk is that it may be cut to be sustainable.” Failing to Consider Tax Implications of DividendsAnother common mistake investors make is not considering the tax implications of dividends. For example, Ayad Amary from Wealth Care says, “most dividend income is taxed as ordinary income. It will add to your annual revenue, and the dividends will also get taxed at your regular income tax rate. If you are a high-income earner, you may want to consider buying dividend-paying stocks or funds in an IRA or similar retirement vehicle if possible.” Letting Emotions WinThe final most prominent mistake investors make when purchasing even the best dividend stocks is letting their emotions get the best of them. Like investing in any other vehicle, it’s crucial to keep a level head and make decisions based on facts, not feelings. 20 of the Best Dividend Stocks to Consider Adding to Your PortfolioWhile you may have heard that Johnson & Johnson is one of the best dividend stocks to own, what others exist? The list is constantly changing, but here are 20 standout candidates to consider adding to your portfolio. 1. Realty Income (O)
Realty Income Corporation is a real estate investment trust that acquires single-tenant commercial buildings. They specialize in triple net lease investments and consistently offer a solid dividend and high appreciation. 2. MPLX LP (MPLX)
MPLX LP is a network of energy companies focusing on infrastructure and logistics assets. They own many oil and gas collection systems and offer an extremely high yield on their stock. 3. Magellan Midstream Partners LP (MMP)
Based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Magellan Midstream Partners LP is a partnership that owns ammonia and petroleum pipelines. They primarily transport, distribute, and store petroleum products and have offered over 20 years of impressive returns. 4. Hanesbrands Inc. (HBI)
Hanesbrands is a multinational clothing company based in North Carolina that employs over 60,000 people worldwide. They are known for their comfortable, high-quality, and affordable clothing. 5. Walmart
Walmart is an international company that operates thousands of retail stores across the globe. Though its dividend yield is lower than other dividend stocks, Walmart has offered consistent returns through capital gains throughout the year and has a solid payout ratio. 6. Federal Realty Investment Trust
Federal Realty Investment Trust is a real estate investment company that invests in shopping centers and mixed-use neighborhoods in the Northeastern US, the Mid-Atlantic states, California, and South Florida. 7. Church & Dwight
Church and Dwight is a large manufacturing and consumer product goods company headquartered in Ewing, New Jersey. Church and Dwight are best known for their Arm & Hammer products, including baking soda, laundry detergent, and toothpaste. 8. West Pharmaceutical Services
West Pharmaceutical Services is a leading manufacturer of pharmaceutical packaging services and delivery systems with over 10,000 employees worldwide. The company helps to ensure the safety of life-saving and life-enhancing medicines for patients. 9. Walker & Dunlop, Inc.
Walker and Dunlop provide financing services for individuals and corporations who invest in commercial real estate. They are based in Bethesda, Maryland, and provide loans out of 38 offices in the United States. 10. Brookfield Renewable Partners
Being majority owned by Brookfield Asset Management, Brookfield Renewable Partners owns and operates renewable power and energy assets. Their portfolio consists of hydroelectric, solar, wind, and storage facilities all over the world. 11. Enbridge Inc.
Enbridge is a major energy infrastructure company in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. They own pipelines across North America that transport crude oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids. They have some of the most effective pipeline systems in North America. 12. STAG Industrial (STAG)
STAG Industrial is a real estate investment trust focusing on acquiring and operating industrial properties in the United States. 13. AGNC Investment (AGNC)
Founded in the financial crisis, AGNC Investment Corp is a REIT that invests in agency residential mortgage-backed securities on a leveraged basis. 14. Altria Group (MO)
Altria Group is one of the largest tobacco companies in the world, producing and marketing cigarettes and related products. 15. Big Lots (BIG)
Big Lots is a retail company offering consumers savings on household essentials, storage units, and snack items. 16. General Dynamics (GD)
General Dynamics is an American aerospace and defense company noted as the sixth-largest defense contractor in the world. 17. Franklin Resources
Better known as Franklin Templeton, Franklin Resources is one of the largest investment managers in the world. 18. Automatic Data Processing
Also known as ADP, Automatic Data Processing is a leading provider of online payroll and HR solutions, plus tax, compliance, and benefits administration. 19. PepsiCo
PepsiCo is a multinational food, beverage, and snack corporation that oversees all its products’ manufacturing, distribution, and marketing. 20. Abbott Laboratories
Abbott Laboratories is one of the largest healthcare companies in the world. They specialize in creating technologies to extend lives and offer comprehensive information and medicines in the healthcare space. The Best Dividend Stocks to ConsiderRemember, it’s essential to do your research to find companies that consistently offer growing dividend payouts and have strong business fundamentals so that they will be a money-making vehicle year after year. This post was produced by Savoteur.
Source: https://savoteur.com/best-dividend-stocks-to-buy/ via https://savoteur.wordpress.com/2022/08/18/20-of-the-best-dividend-stocks-to-buy-plus-advice-from-advisors/ Nothing soothes the soul like a day by the ocean, and Alabama beaches deliver just that. The warm waters of the gulf and soft white sand make the beaches of Alabama a prime location for laid-back beach lovers. Whether traveling with the whole family, just the two of you, or with a group of friends, Alabama offers unforgettable beach memories. Each beach brings something different to the table, so keep reading to determine which one best suits your beach vacation bucket list. Best Beaches in Alabama1. Gulf Shores Main Public BeachLocated where Highway 59 halts to a stop, the Gulf Shores Main Public Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Alabama. Alabama’s iconic seaside location has long stretches of sandy surroundings, a vibrant beach community, abundant amenities, and a soothing coastal horizon. Beach volleyball and spike ball, among other outdoor games, are ideal for sun-loving families. Four entrances provide ample beach access. With a small fee, you can park close to the beach for the entire day, which makes unloading your gear convenient. In addition, there are restrooms, showers, open-air pavilions, and picnic areas available on-site. 2. Orange BeachOrange Beach is the perfect place to experience Mother Nature’s magic. Travelers come to this spot because of its many fun activities and attractions. With over eight miles of white sand beaches, guests can play golf, rent a bicycle, go kayaking, or take a walk if they get too bored lounging on the beach. The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail, over 15 miles long, contains six ecosystems that are home to birds and other wildlife that you don’t come across daily, such as otters, wild boars, and alligators. Take in the scenic beauty of Orange Beach on your next vacation to Alabama. 3. Romar BeachRomar Beach is the perfect beach if you want to lay low and escape the crowds. Although this beach is on the smaller side, there is plenty of space for you to unwind and relax along the Gulf of Mexico’s temperate waters. Sometimes simple locations are the best to enjoy your day, and Romar Beach proves that. Whether you take a dip in the ocean or stay ashore with a book in hand, you will experience nature’s finest. In addition, Gulf State Park, which we will talk about next, is nearby, so you aren’t too far from amenities. 4. Gulf State ParkGuests get the best of both worlds when visiting Gulf State Park. That is the perfect beach to keep you busy but also relaxed. There are 28 miles of trails, 2 miles of beaches, and 900 acres within Lake Shelby to paddle or swim in there. Known as the safest beach for kids, Gulf State Park has many amenities to entertain children. During the day, kids can explore the nature center. At night, you can enjoy a picnic at the beach pavilion. A pool is also available if you want to escape from the sand for a bit. 5. Dauphin Island BeachLocated on the southernmost point of the state, Dauphin Island Beach is known as the “Sunset Capital of Alabama.” Guests can enjoy a panoramic 14-mile beach that is pet and family-friendly, with a pristine shoreline. Historical landmarks Fort Gaines, the Audubon Bird Sanctuary, and the Dauphin Island Sea Lab are some of the area’s best attractions. Set time aside to visit them while at Dauphin Island Beach, where you can enjoy the views of the gulf or spend the day looking for seashells. In addition, this location offers camping opportunities for those interested in roughing it. 6. Cotton Bayou BeachCotton Bayou Beach is one of the most lovely Alabama beaches. It is on the outskirts of Orange Beach and Gulf State Park. Found where Highway 182 and Highway 161 intersect, this beach offers fun activities in a quaint area. Indulgent scenery is what makes this beach so unique. You can do anything you want in the majestic landscape, from surfing to fishing to tanning. There are restrooms, outdoor showers, as well as free parking here. Make sure to arrive early because this beach is quaint but highly visited, so parking and prime beach spots fill up quickly. 7. Fort Morgan BeachFort Morgan is a National Historic Landmark that occupies a small area about 20 miles west of Gulf Shores. It was built there in 1834 to guard Mobile Bay. Fort Morgan Beach offers its visitors a beach experience like no other. This area was named a Globally Important Bird Area by the American Bird Conservancy. So, if you are a birdwatcher or just love animals of any kind, this beach is the spot for you. In addition to exotic bird viewings, one of Fort Morgan Beach’s most popular attractions is deep-sea fishing. Visitors will love the views of the gulf’s beautiful clear water and the sounds of crashing waves that this location offers. 8. Fairhope BeachAmong the attractions at Fairhope’s North Beach Park are a paved walking trail, white sand, a 1,448-foot-long pier, and a duck pond. Additionally, Fairhope is known for being the best beach for swimming because of its lack of waves. The calm waters allow for a day filled with kayaking, speed boating, and snorkeling. Aside from the beach, this artistic city is known for its seafood, shops, and art galleries. If you can plan to visit in March, you will get to see the town fully immersed in its annual free Fairhope Arts and Crafts Festival. 9. Florida Point BeachFlorida Point Beach is in the area that connects Cotton Bayou, Terry’s Cove, and Bayou Saint John to the Gulf of Mexico. Visitors love that this beach offers soft sand along the mile-long peninsula. If you want to escape the busyness of Gulf Shores but do not want to venture far away, Florida Point Beach is an excellent choice. For those looking to surf, the western side of the beach is where you want to be. Make sure to pack light because the free parking area is a little ways away. You may also hear Florida Point Beach referred to as Perdido Pass or Alabama Point by locals. 10. Robinson IslandRobinson Island is a perfect day trip destination when you are staying in Orange Beach. This secluded island pairs gorgeous views and serenity, making it a popular destination among its visitors. Whether you own or rent a boat, jet ski, stand-up paddleboard, or kayak, Robinson Island offers a fun adventure. Unlike the main coast of Alabama, Robinson Island amenities are few and far between. Plan accordingly and bring everything you need if you intend to go. Robinson Island is a bird sanctuary with many wading herons and terns nesting, so make sure you clean up after yourself to help protect the animals. Where to Stay Near Alabama BeachesParadise Isle ResortParadise Isle Resort offers world-class facilities conveniently located right across the street from the beach. On-site amenities include an outdoor pool, hot tub, bbq grills, and laundry facilities. In addition, each villa boasts a fully-equipped kitchen and separate living room areas for maximum comfort. The southern hospitality at this Bluegreen Vacations resort is the perfect addition to your Alabama vacation. Paradise Isle Resort is in Gulf Shores, Alabama so stay here if you want to visit Gulf Shores Main Public Beach, Gulf State Park, and Fort Morgan Beach. In addition, Fairhope Beach is about an hour away if you want to take a day trip there and experience all this artistic city has to offer. Escapes! To The ShoresEscapes! To The Shores is a Ramada by Wyndham oceanfront resort situated on the white sand beaches and crystal clear waters of Orange Beach. In addition to beach access, this resort offers access to an indoor and outdoor pool, hot tubs, and a fitness center. Accommodations include studio and two-bedroom condo-style units so that you can bring the whole family or just the two of you. Not to mention, you might even see a dolphin from your private balcony. Escapes! To The Shores is in Orange Beach, Alabama. Stay here if you want to visit Orange Beach, Romar Beach, Cotton Bayou Beach, Florida Point Beach, and Robinson Island. Recap: Complete Guide to the 10 Best Alabama BeachesThe beaches of Alabama offer everything from seashell finding and sunning to just about any water sport imaginable. Whether you take a day trip to Robinson Island, play volleyball at Gulf Shores Main Public Beach, or enjoy the tranquility of Romar Beach, you will make unforgettable beach vacation memories. This post was produced by Savoteur and syndicated by Wealth of Geeks.
Source: https://savoteur.com/best-alabama-beaches/ via https://savoteur.wordpress.com/2022/08/17/10-best-alabama-beaches-and-places-to-stay/ 91% of Americans are looking to practice better personal finance habits. So when it comes time for a vacation, don’t drain all your savings, or even worse, go into credit card debt. With over 19,000 cities in America, there are many fantastic places for a vacation outside of expensive towns like Waikiki, San Diego, Washington D.C., or Chicago. Here are 20 Cheap Travel Destinations across America to inspire your next fun-filled and budget-friendly vacation. 1. Florida’s JacksonvilleAs the locals call it, Jax is located in the northeastern part of the state, making it a road-trip option for those in the southeastern United States. Whether you’re an explorer, historian, beach, or salt-life lover, Jacksonville has 22 miles of beach (the most of any city in the state!), an extensive park system, fishing, museums, and even a craft beer scene. There are accommodation options for various budgets with 18,000 hotel rooms across chain hotels, inns, and bed & breakfasts. Also, you don’t have to spend a lot to discover Jacksonville’s beauty, vibrant arts, and culinary scene. Bike along the Baldwin Trail, a lush, shaded path, before making your way over to Jacksonville Beach, a popular seaside destination where swimming and sandcastles await on its white-sand beaches. Stop by the Jacksonville Farmers Market, one of the oldest markets in Florida, where seafood, fresh produce, and local delights line the streets. Afterward, walk The Riverwalk, take a scenic stroll along the St. Johns River before dropping into the Riverside Arts Market, a weekly arts festival free to visitors that features live entertainment. Finally, make sure you check out the city’s many fish camps (casual, inexpensive waterside fish restaurants) and try Mayport shrimp, chowder, and other authentic Florida seafood. 2. Florida’s OcalaIf you’ve ever dreamt of sleeping under the stars, add Ocala in Marion County, Florida, to your bucket list! Full of picturesque campgrounds, R.V. parks, charming cabins, and other budget-friendly accommodations, it’s one of many cheap travel destinations that might not be on your radar. Ocala has so many free things for visitors to do! First, stroll through Tuscawilla Art Park in the historic Art District, and enjoy the sculptures throughout nature. Then take yourself on a historical tour of the area, walk around the Ocala Historic Downtown Square or explore the Fort King National Historic landmark. After working up a sweat, kids can cool down at Lily’s Splash Pad or Citizens Circle Splash Pad. Finally, wrap up your trip by attending one of the many local events hosted by the Ocala Recreation and Parks Service, such as monthly outdoor movie screenings and line dancing events at the community center. 3.Florida’s OrlandoWhile pricey amusement park tickets could bust most vacation budgets, it may be surprising that Orlando actually belongs on a list of cheap travel destinations. With almost 500 hotels in the city, many travel deals to be had and tons of free activities. That’s why USA Today ranked Orlando the #1 Most Affordable Vacation Destination Among Top U.S. Cities. You can get your Disney, LEGO, or Universal Studios fix for free at Disney Springs, Disney Boardwalk, or Universal City Walk, all chock full of tourist attractions. Nature lovers can explore The Nature Conservancy’s Disney Wilderness Preserve and downtown’s 43-acre Lake Eola Park with no admission fees. Or enjoy free admission to The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, Cornell Fine Arts Museum, or CityArts. 4. Idaho’s Twin FallsKnown as The City of Waterfalls, Twin Falls has over 30 of them, including The Niagra Falls of the West, Shoshone Falls, which is even taller than its New York counterpart. While you could spend your entire trip swimming, hiking, boating, or relaxing in Shoshone Falls Park for less than $10 admission, this affordable destination has a long list of free hiking and outdoor sites. For thrill-seekers, activities are reasonably priced, such as renting Snake River kayaks for as little as $15. According to Idaho Tourism, hotel rates on average are $120 a night, with options even under $100 a night. With lava fields, summer fairs, historical sites, and cowboy culture, there’s something for almost everyone in Twin Falls. 5. Iowa’s Council BluffsPerfect for those looking for cheap travel destinations for a family vacation, visitors call Council Bluffs a pleasant surprise. Located on the east bank of the Missouri River, across from the city of Omaha, Nebraska, it’s a great alternative in the region. With 25 hotel options in Council Bluffs alone, there are accommodation options for a range of budgets as well as free and inexpensive things to do. If you’ve always wanted to stand in two places at once, take a stroll over the beloved Bob Kerrey Pedestrian bridge connecting Council Bluffs to Omaha. Train-lovers will enjoy the free-of-charge Union Pacific Railroad museum featuring 150 years of history and interactive exhibits. Or enjoy budget-friendly family vacation classics like disc golf, mini-golf, bowling, indoor go-karts, public art, and bike trails. 6.Iowa’s Mason CityArchitectural lovers and fans of Frank Lloyd Wright will enjoy a getaway to Mason City, one of America’s relatively unknown cheap travel destinations. Select nights are available for $150 at the Historic Park Inn Hotel, the last remaining hotel designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in the world. Another Wright-designed property, the Stockman House, is also open for tours for only $10 a person. Or enjoy a self-guided walking tour through The Rock Crest & Rock Glen neighborhood, showcasing the largest group of Prairie School-designed homes on a unified site. 7.Massachusetts’s BerkshiresThe Berkshires in western Massachusetts includes part of Vermont’s Green Mountains and over 30 towns. Nature lovers, or those looking to escape the hustle or bustle of Boston, or New York City, will fall in love with all the region offers. See why it’s been named one of The 12 Last Great Places by The Nature Conservancy. While the region has luxury resorts and high-end hotels, it is also one of the Northeast’s cheap travel destinations with many accommodation options. Besides a nature-lovers paradise, it’s also known as a mecca for the visual and performing arts. There’s so much to see between the MassMoca, Tanglewood Music Center (the Summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra), Barrington Stage Company, and the longest-running dance festival, Jacob’s Pillow, there’s so much to see! You can save money for performance tickets by booking a condo resort stay on Tripbeat by Wyndham, starting at $210 for an entire week. Take your pick of resorts in South Lee, Lenox, Hancock, and Great Barrington. With a fully equipped kitchen, you can cook some of your vacation meals yourself to afford even more concert tickets. 8. Missouri’s BransonBranson is not only the #1 best value in U.S. travel according to Trivago but is described as the Orlando of the Midwest for its Disney World meets Nashville vibe. Drawing vacationers for over a century to its stunning scenery, outdoor activities, warm people, and a wide range of things to do, it’s not a surprise that 9 million people a year visit Branson. With 16,500 guest rooms across resorts, brand-name hotel chains, independent inns, cabins, condos, timeshares, and vacation homes, you can find accommodations for your budget. Like other cheap travel destinations on this list, cities with tons of hotel rooms often have great deals available. While Branson does have over 100 live shows that could empty your wallet, it also offers tons of free things to do. Explore historic downtown Branson on the hop-on-hop-off trolley, check out Branson Landings’ hourly water spectacular show, take in Ozark Mountain views at scenic overlooks, or explore all that Table Rock Lake State Park and Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area have to offer. 9. Missouri’s St. LouisHome to the iconic Gateway Arch, St. Louis boasts an abundance of free fun and reasonably priced accommodations perfect for those looking for cheap travel destinations in cities. With more than 40,000 hotel rooms ranging from $54 to $248, the average hotel room price in St. Louis is a wallet-friendly $93. Explore the Gateway Arch National Park and its surrounding grounds or explore the recently renovated Museum at the Gateway Arch, a free hands-on experience. Then, spend the day at Forest Park, where visitors can stop by the St. Louis Zoo, the St. Louis Art Museum, the Missouri History Museum, or the Saint Louis Science Center. Finally, visitors can stroll through the Laumeier Sculpture Park, one of the country’s first and largest sculpture parks. Every single one of these St. Louis attractions is free, with no admission charge. 10. Nevada’s Las VegasWith super affordable hotel accommodations, all-you-can-eat buffets, and local casual restaurants, plus a long list of free activities, Vegas is another one of the urban cheap travel destinations on this list. With over 150,000 rooms in town, there are always travel deals available. In addition, with many large resort casinos not relying on room rentals to make money, you can find hotel rates at fantastic resorts for under $100 a night. Fill your day in the Entertainment Capital of the World touring attractions without paying for admission. Whether it sees Chihuly’s stunning blown glass sculptures, touring a botanical garden, or catching the infamous water fountain show, it’s all available free of charge at the Bellagio Hotel. At night head to historic Fremont Street to watch the pedestrian area studded with more than 14 million lights come alive and check out one of the city’s free concerts with acts like Three Doors Down and Plain White T’s. If you’re an avid golfer check out Las Vegas golf course options, as well! 11. New York’s CatskillsA go-to escape for centuries, there’s always been magic in a back-to-nature Catskills vacation. Less than 2 hours from New York City and about 3 hours from Boston, you’ll feel away, even if you’re close to home. See for yourself why it’s a Lonely Planet Top 10 region in America and of the best winter getaways in New York. The resorts depicted in Marvelous Mrs. Maisel are long gone, as millennial entrepreneurs, hoteliers, and restaurateurs from New York and other cities help modernize the region once again. There are many budget-friendly options in the region, such as Jesse’s Harvest House Restaurant and Lodge, from hotel chains, cabins, small inns, and hotels. Opened by former staff at the best restaurant in the country, Michelin-rated Blue Stone at Stone Barns, you can stay in a room for around $125 a night and enjoy a delicious, elevated meal for a fraction of the price. There’s so much to do, from month-long free Octoberfest Festivals to hiking infamous Kaaterskill Falls to exploring small towns like Tannersville, NY, and their no-cost Mountain Top Arboretum. Art lovers can step into the infamous Hudson River School of Art by visiting the exact public locations of their paintings from 200 years ago. Three Art Trail locations are in North/South Lake, a 1,000-acre state park named “America’s First Wilderness” with so many activities you could spend a weekend there alone. 12. North Carolina’s FayettevilleKnown as America’s Hometown for decades, it’s not just one of the most accessible cities on the East Coast (located halfway between New York City and Miami), but its low cost of living translates into a great vacation on a budget. In Fayetteville, there’s something for everyone. It’s home to two regional parks, more than 1,000 acres of recreation space, trails, lakes, and a new minor league ballpark with affordable tickets. Chock full of historical sites like The Airborne & Special Operations Museum, The Fayetteville Area Transportation and Local History Museum, and The African American Heritage Trail have free admission. 13. Oklahoma’s Chickasaw CountryTucked into the rolling hills of south-central Oklahoma, Chickasaw Country is a low-budget destination that provides a high-quality outdoor experience. In addition to an abundance of picturesque campgrounds and R.V. parks, the area boasts a wide array of charming boutique accommodations for a serene, romantic getaway. Couples can stay at Cedar & Stone, Pecan Valley Inn, or Acorn Vacation Homes, with hotel rates under $200 a night on average. The Arbuckle Mountain Range provides not only stunning vistas but plenty of free or low-cost outdoor adventures to keep visitors busy. Hike, bike, or run through the endless miles of trails found in the Chickasaw National Recreation Area to catch glimpses of nearby natural wonders, including the Lake of the Arbuckles, Turner Falls, and Veteran’s Lake. 14. Pennsylvania’s Lancaster CountyLocated in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, Lancaster County is a great value destination and within driving distance from Pittsburgh, New York, New Jersey, Washington D.C., and Virginia. There’s a wide range of lodging options with many motels, hotels, farm stays, country bed and breakfasts, and house rentals in the $100 to $150 a night range. Cheeky couples can stay in one of the many accommodations in the town Intercourse, PA. There really are enough things to do in Lancaster to keep busy for months. For starters, learn about the Amish way of life at Kitchen Kettle Village or Lancaster Central Market, the nation’s oldest continuously operating farmers market. Then, a bike ride along the 14-mile Northwest Lancaster County River Trail or explore Lancaster County Central Park. After you’ve worked up an appetite, go out to dinner at one of the many Pennsylvania Dutch all-you-can-eat reasonably priced smorgasbords like the family favorite Bird-in-Hand Family Restaurant & Smorgasbord. 15. Pennsylvania’s Pocono MountainsFor more than 50 years, the Poconos Mountains welcomed honeymooners to their famous heart-shaped tubs. But its proximity to major metro areas, endless natural beauty, year-round activities, and wide range of accommodations lands it on this list of cheap travel destinations for families or group trips as well. The large region offers a range of budget-friendly accommodations from camping, glamping, inns, resorts, and vacation rental deals. For example, you can rent a cabin at Promised Land State Park for about $40 a night or score condo resort rental deals for as low as $87 on Tripbeat. Featuring many national, state, and local parks, bring a picnic lunch and explore Lehigh Gorge State Park, Prompton State Park, Promised Land State Park, or Tobyhanna State Park, to name a few! 16. South Dakota’s Hot SpringsEscape to this small town that offers so much! Located in the Southern Black Hills, take in all the landscape offers from the historical Mammoth Archaeological Site, Angostura Reservoir State Recreation Area, and Wind Cave National Park. There are options for every budget with a wide range of chain hotels, R.V. sites, KOA cabins, small inns, and bed and breakfasts. Couples will love to get away and relax in the mineral health spas and can enjoy adult-only budget-friendly accommodations like Bluebird Mesa Cabins that offers glamping, teepee, and cabin rentals at affordable prices. 17. South Dakota’s YanktonBoth outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs will enjoy the small town of Yankton. Located along the Missouri River, take your pick of water recreation activities, fishing, or exploring the Lewis and Clark Recreation Area, one of the state park system’s most popular parks. Located on the northern shore of the 31,400-acre Lewis and Clark Lake, it features over 20 budget-friendly activities. The downtown is bursting with history, budget-friendly dining, and breweries and offers a range of accommodations giving South Dakota at least two cheap travel destinations for you to consider. 18. Tennesee’s Smoky MountainsThe Smoky Mountains ranks among the Top 10 Most Affordable Travel Spots by Lonely Planet, only one of two American cities to make a list. Home to not only the most visited National Park in America but the family favorite Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge towns, it’s one of the most popular cheap travel destinations on this list. Smoky Mountains National Park not only contains some of the tallest mountains in North America, including Clingmans Dome, Mount Guyot, and Mount LeConte, but all of its 500,000 acres can be explored free of charge! The region is also home to the iconic amusement park Dollywood, a TripAdvisor Best Amusement Park in the World, and Budget Travel’s Best Value Theme Park. Meaning you can make thrilling family memories even on a budget. 19. Tennessee’s ChattanoogaOne of the most popular cheap travel destinations for families in the Southeast, it’s been named by Lonely Planet as one of the Best Destinations in the U.S and a New York Times Top 45 Places to Go in the World. While outdoor enthusiasts have been coming here for decades, a recent urban revitalization has drawn a growing number of people to this city tucked between mountains along the stunning Tennessee River. There are accommodations to meet a wide range of budgets: hip modern hostels, cabins, romantic bed and breakfasts, chain hotels, and even railroad sleeper cars. Explore the city on a bike, pedaling over the longest pedestrian bridge in the world to reach Coolidge Park, or hike the stunning mountains at Point Park or Coker Creek Falls. 20. Virginia’s Shenandoah ValleyEven in high-cost living areas, you don’t need to go far to find cheap travel destinations! For example, if you’re one of the 6 million people who live in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area, you don’t need to spend an arm and a leg for a weekend getaway or fun-filled family vacation. About 75 miles from D.C., the Shenandoah Valley features a national park, caverns, history, water parks, music, art festivals, wineries, breweries, and distilleries. Go on a day-long road trip along the 105-mile Skyline Drive to marvel at the Blue Ridge Mountains and its vistas. Next, explore the Shenandoah National Park’s 500 miles of hiking trails or 200,000 acres of protected lands for $30 a car. Then, retire back to a wide range of chain hotels, cabins, campsites, or resorts like Massanutten, the Mid-Atlantic’s Premier Four Season Resort Destination, where you can score condo rental travel deals from a timeshare owner for as low as $100 a night. These 20 Cheap Travel Destinations will be waiting to welcome you on your next road trip, couples getaway, family vacation, or honeymoon! You don’t need a lot of money to make memories. There’s no need to blow your hard-earned savings to explore our beautiful country. Instead, you can save money by visiting off the beaten path towns, booking resort deals, or filling your days with inexpensive and free activities! This post originally appeared on Savoteur. Source: https://savoteur.com/cheap-travel-destinations/ via https://savoteur.wordpress.com/2022/08/16/20-cheap-travel-destinations-across-america-for-fun-filled-vacations/ |
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. |