Hunting is a beautiful passion for nature lovers out there. People invest their time and energy to experience nature. As exciting as it sounds there is so much danger involved in it. When you are aiming for hunting you don’t’ know your final destination you are walking in dark to an unknown destination and it is the most crucial point where you need the source of light to protect yourself.
A good quality
headlamp can save you from trouble and make things easy for you with proper
source of light. If you are someone e who loves thrill and adventure headlamp
is your essential item to get before you head out for hunting.
We have decided to make things a little less complicated for you. Give a read to the necessary features you must know before taking a final purchase decision.
Features you must look out while taking a final purchase call of hunting
headlamp:
With the advent of technology and online shopping, you always have so many options in your list to pick and choose from hunting headlamps also have a vast variety of models to choose and pick your favorite one. Once you have access to so many options, the qualities and features make you confuse there is no doubt at one hand you are having good options but at the other, you are confused for taking a final call.
A new tactic has been adopted by numerous brands out there now they tend to add on additional characteristics which aren’t even necessary while you are on a hunt out there. You must know what are your necessary hunting equipment requirements before jumping to the final decision.
i, Brightness is very important:
The key element of your entire hunting experience is to provide you access to your desired location with a good amount of light and adequate resources. If you don’t have basic light to lock your target everything you plan for your hunting will go into the vein.
ii, Double check the Battery Life:
We all if your headlamp is providing you a brighter light it is ultimately going to affect the battery. Since hunting is a very time-consuming activity and it requires a lot of efforts as well. You wouldn’t want to get run out of battery in the middle of your hunt. Ideally, it must last for more than 6 hours while utilizing full brightness.
iii, it should have Waterproof
feature:
If you are looking out for a long-term investment you must pick a heads lamp that lasts for years and it is reliable. Even if you are opting for a superior model it must have a waterproof feature. The weather is always unexpected and it can’t be left unseen. To avoid any sort of risk/danger you must seek the waterproof gadgets.
iv, Weight is also an important
feature:
Since you are planning to go out for hunting
at night you need to make sure the weight is easy to carry since you will be
carrying it over your head the entire time. You must make sure it is easy and
convenient to use and it doesn’t end up giving you unnecessary neck or shoulder
pain.
v, Warranty:
Make it a regular practice of checking the warranty while buying new hunting gears since long lasting reliability and convenience can only be measured through the extended warranty time period.
This hunting headlamp is specifically created to work in different environments. The current rating of this gear is IPX4 which implies the reliability of the product that it will have a long-lasting impact even if water enters or even if it drops down at floor it provides maximum protection and safety
2. Stream light
61070.
The distinctive
feature of this hunting headlamp is a bright Xenon bulb. To make your hunting
experience goes smoothly just in case you don’t miss out your catch with bright
light there is also a feature of three green LEDs for night vision.
3. InnoGear Headlight
Torch.
If you are
looking out for some superior quality hunting headlamp this is your solution.
Since it has 3 LED lights at the front and also a safety light at the back of
the headlamp. The outstanding feature of this headlamp is the quality of the
headlamp that it is made out of very soft material which protects your skin
against irritation and sweat.
Conclusion:
Hunting is a
very interesting, thrilling and challenging experience. You just need to make
sure you have all the necessary gear ready and most importantly you know the
role each gear can play in order to enhance your experience.
Author Bio
Warda Yasir writes about creativity, technology, business, real estate, education, literature and emerging writing with the center for fiction. When she isn’t busy freelance writing or editing. She’s at a desk somewhere in Dubai, UAE, toiling away at her own fiction writing.
If you ever doubted the power of social media, you need to visit Page, Arizona, USA. There are two attractions nearby that were hardly known by anyone other than locals twenty years ago. Then came Instagram, and Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend have become internationally known tourist attractions that everyone visiting the western USA wants to see.
Antelope
Canyon is a slot canyon on Navajo Indian land. It has two separate, scenic
sections; Upper Antelope Canyon and Lower Antelope Canyon. The two canyons are
distinct but are within a 10-minute drive of each other. You can choose to do
both in one day and each will take roughly two hours. But it’s not as easy as that
because you need to book ahead and tours are often running late.
Antelope Canyon was formed
by erosion primarily due to flash flooding. Rainwater
runs into the extensive basin above the slot canyon sections, picking up speed
and sand as it rushes into the narrow passageways. Over time the passageways
eroded away, making the corridors deeper and smoothing hard edges.
Antelope
Canyon is a very popular location for photographers and sightseers, and a
source of tourism business for the Navajo Nation since the first tour in 1997.
All visits are through one of several licensed tour operators. It is not
possible to visit the Canyon independently. You will need to rent a car or take
an organised tour to reach Antelope Canyon since there is no bus or public
transportation.
You cannot
drive your car straight to the entrance of the canyons. Instead, you drive to
your tour provider, park at their shop, and then your tour provider transports
you to the canyon, either by car for Upper Antelope Canyon or by foot for Lower
Antelope Canyon.
Lower Antelope Canyon
Because I
was on a very tight schedule, I could only visit the lower canyon where two
operators provide tours. As far as I can tell they operate almost identical
tours at a similar cost. To a large extent the success of the tour depends on
the guide. Our guide was very helpful in taking photos and told us stories
surrounding the rock formations.
Lower
Antelope is a more difficult hike than Upper Antelope. It is longer, narrower
in spots, and there is uneven footing in some parts. Five flights of steep stairs
are available to aid in descent and ascent. It is not recommended for people
with walking difficulties, pregnant women or the very obese.
Antelope
Canyon is visited exclusively through guided tours, in part because rains
during monsoon season can quickly flood the canyon. Rain does not have to fall
on or near the Antelope Canyon slots for flash floods to whip through, as rain
falling many kilometres away upstream of the canyons can funnel into them with
little prior notice.
Visitors start their guided
Lower Antelope Canyon tours with a short 10-minute walk from the ticket booth
to the entrance of the canyon. The trail leading to the entrance is both rocky
and sandy, so appropriate shoes are necessary.
The Antelope slot Canyon
tours are all-walking tours that are about one and a half hours long. Visitors
walk just over 1,800 meters round trip. Visitors are welcome to take photos
with handheld devices (no tripods, monopods, selfie sticks, or GoPros are
allowed). It would be a pity to visit without some photographs because the
canyon is really spectacular.
Horseshoe
Bend
This Instagram favourite is a horseshoe-shaped incised meander of the Colorado
River (think Grand Canyon) within Glen
Canyon National Recreation Area, about 6 km southwest of Page. Just like
Antelope Canyon, social media has dramatically increased the number of visitors
who come here and the parking lot has just been tripled in size to help
accommodate the rush.
It is a 2.5 kilometre
round-trip from the parking lot to an outlook point. The track is a bit rough
in places and it descends some distance so it’s not suitable for wheelchairs or
those with restricted movement. Make sure you
take water with you when the weather is hot and there isn’t any shade. The
overlook is 1,300 m above sea level, and the Colorado River is at 980 m, making
it a 320 m drop.
There is usually
a large, steady stream of people walking to and from the bend and once you get
there everyone is jockeying for a photo spot. I’m surprised that people don’t
fall over the edge on a regular basis because there is no barrier along most
parts. You will be amazed by the view and by the craziness of some people
taking extreme measures for their perfect picture. Most visitors get in, get
the picture, and get out within an hour or so.
A vehicle is an expensive investment that should be taken care of at all the time. Recent research reveals that accidents tend to be more common during the wet season. This is because the roads become very slippery, and there is reduced visibility. It is, therefore, important to ensure that your car is well maintained and fit to be on the road.
This prevents the occurrence of unnecessary mechanical problems that are likely to cause accidents. Worn out tires should be avoided by all means as they do not have the capacity to affect the required traction. As the driver, you are required to employ the following tips when driving in wet weather.
Advantages of Observing Precautions When Driving In Wet Roads
The above tips can save your life and that of other road users. The tips are applicable regardless of the model of your vehicle; old or new cars. Some insurance companies discount their clients who are in a position to avoid incidences of road accidents simply by driving according to the discussed tips.
Automobile companies have manufactured a variety of car models that have the capacity to withstand harsh weather conditions such as extreme wetness. Some manufacturers give you the privilege to enjoy a five-year warranty and should anything happen; you are protected from incurring any losses. You are offered with affordable service plans that will enable you to maintain your car with ease.
Basic Tips That Facilitate Safe Driving
Your undivided attention is required on the road when driving as seemingly negligible distraction can result in a big mess. Take control of the vehicle by ensuring that you hold the steering wheel with both hands.
This implies that multitasking while driving is dangerous and should be avoided by all means. Maximize visibility by making sure that the windshield wipers and defrosters are functional. You should keep the headlights on, especially when there is fog.
Always follow the wheel tracks of the car preceding you and increase your following distance. This helps to avoid collisions as it gives you enough time to break with reduced force. However, you are advised to drive at a slow speed as this enables you to control the vehicle easily; otherwise, your vehicle will hydroplane.
Wet weather is associated with pools of water on the road, which you should always avoid. Drive along the middle lanes whenever possible as water tends to settle on the outside lanes. This is because you are likely to splash the water and impair the visibility of other drivers as well. Never splash water to the pedestrians as this is unethical.
The stagnant water can also prevent you from seeing potholes and other distracters, which can result in accidents. Should you experience a hydroplane, keep the steering wheel straight, free the gas and brake gradually. Wet weather affects the efficiency of the brakes, and hence, heavy braking can result in loss of control. It also recommended that you avoid using the cruise control as it causes acceleration during hydroplaning and skidding. Avoid driving over puddles as they can cause a short circuit in your car.
Pay attention to the presence of trucks and trailers as they are more likely to lose control and may get to your lane. It is important to expect the least from the other drivers and always do your best to avoid accidents.
Observe all the possible precautions such as fastening the seat belts and should anything happen do not panic. Sometimes you might be forced to stay indoors, especially during a heavy downpour as it might be too risky to drive. You should purchase an insurance policy for your vehicle from a certified insurance company.
It is important to invest your money where you are likely to earn good returns or get a safety net for the future when you will not be earning much. The investment may be in a business or tangible asset that is appreciating. Digital nomads such as freelancers need to identify one or a few projects and plan on the investment in the middle and long-term. Here are some of the best ideas to invest the money as a digital nomad.
Consider Medical Insurance
A medical cover comes in handy if you get sick or are involved in an accident. As a nomad, you will be travelling from one corner of the country to the other. In case of an accident or if you catch an illness while travelling, you are sure that you will not have to pay the hospital charges from your pocket. The cover also takes care of your loved ones in similar circumstances. Ensure that you pick a medical insurance provider that covers a wide range of risks involved in travelling.
Invest In Provident Funds
Provident funds are good long-term investments. In essence, they involve keeping aside a small amount out of your monthly income. This amount grows fast in about 15 years. At the end of the provident fund duration, you could use the money to invest in the other ideas in this guide or take part of it for a holiday to your favourite destination.
Join a Retirement Plan
There are a number of retirement investment schemes that digital nomads can join. When you are over 60 years, you may not be in a position to make enough from the job that you are currently doing. The retirement investment may come in handy since it ensures that you have enough for your sunset years. Look for reputable private pension schemes to invest in. You can do it with low amounts and still save significant amounts, especially if you start saving early.
Mutual Funds
The main advantage of mutual funds is that they are funded by several investors but managed professionally. This saves you from the hustle of having to analyse all the trades that are available for investing. With proper professional management, mutual funds grow rather quickly and bring good returns, making them some of the smart investments to make money. They are also quite flexible and easy to liquidate should you get into financial problems. Instead of saving your cash in the bank, you may pick one or two mutual funds whose managers have a reputation for good fund management.
Recurring Deposits
Recurring deposits are saving schemes where you put in your money for a specific period. This is a great way to fund travelling or events at specific dates in the future. You will only be paying a small amount of your monthly income and will have some significant amounts after a definite period. Most investment periods range from six months to several years. However, you have the liberty to determine the ideal length of time you will invest in the fund.
Investments in Property
A good number of digital nomads do not see the need for investing in the property market since they are always on the move, which is understandable. However, it is good to plan that time when they will want to settle down and maybe have a family. If that is not among your plans, you can invest in rental properties for some income. Across Australia, holiday homes are the next big thing. You can buy a holiday home and make it a commercial accommodation investment for most of the time that you are not around.
Invest in Buying Prize Draws
Prize draws are great ways to invest in communities that you visit around the world. Therefore, consider investing in prize draws run by organisations that support these communities. There is usually a wide range of prizes to be won from these draws.You get a chance of winning a house, trips, car or other worthy prize. When you decide to invest in prize draws, pick one or two so that you do not spend lots of cash on prize tickets.
Investing In Running Businesses
You may also consider investing in running businesses and companies. You can buy stocks and shares from particular companies or even partner with others in setting up businesses. With a broad market and good solutions, you can grow a business while still freelancing. However, you must have a background in business management if you plan to take an active role in the venture. This may also limit your freelancing lifestyle. There are still online business models such as drop shipping that you can invest in without active participation in dealing with clients.
When selecting an investment plan as a nomad, consider the probable returns, the period of the investment and the community around you. Pick a business that promotes your current lifestyle.
Insta-worthy dream holiday without having to pack your bags!
Holidays are one of the best ways to tick off those outstanding items on your bucket list. The holiday provides us with the opportunity to do those ‘once in a lifetime’ things that we dream about in our day-to-day, a chance to live those exhilarating experiences and collect those unforgettable memories.
But what if you didn’t have to wait for a big, expensive holiday to a far-flung destination to do all the things on your list? What if you could do those same incredible activities in the UK or Ireland?
Stena Line asked the UK public what they would most want to do on their dream holiday. Here are the top 5:
Surfing
Safari experience
Thermal springs
Whale watching
Skiing
So, how can you have an Insta-worthy dream holiday without having to pack your bags and fly around the world?
1. Surfing
Surfing has (excuse the pun) really made a
splash with holidaymakers over the last decade or so. It’s grown from an
ancient practice in Polynesia to a rebellious sub-culture in California and now
it can be found all over the world.
Surfing is a perfect holiday activity because
it combines a little bit of learning — perfect to keep the brain stimulated
when it might otherwise switch off — with a fun physical challenge and plenty
of time in the sun.
The dream: Hawaii, USA
Though Californian surf culture made the
practice famous in contemporary society, the best surfing can still be found
where it all started. Hawaii is known for its profound surf culture and
world-class waves. Its white beaches and sub-tropical climate make it a surfer’s
dream.
Getting there, however, is not a laid-back
experience. From the UK, it takes at least 17 hours to get to Hawaii, not
including transfer time, which can quickly stack up to nearly an entire day of
flying. And the flights, as you might expect, aren’t cheap. We found that
return flights were £1,244 per person.
Once you’ve landed, you could technically surf
for free (no one owns the ocean, after all), but it’s unlikely that you’ll haul
a surfboard halfway around the world with you.
Instead, you’ll probably want to hire your
gear when you’re there. If you go for, let’s say, five days (you’ve gone all
that way, after all!), you can hire a beginner board for a week for $80
(£61.35). Five nights in a good mid-range hotel in Honolulu will set you back £890.
Oh, and don’t forget: Hawaii is part of the
USA, which means you’ll need to purchase a $14 (£10.55) ESTA to get through
customs.
Altogether,
that clocks in at £2,205.90.
Close to home: Llangennith, Wales
Over the last decade or so, there’s been a marked
rise in the number of people going ‘cold water’ surfing in North America and
Europe.
One of the best places for that? Wales —
specifically, Llangennith, a long beach where surfers can get stuck in to the
Gower, a reef renowned for its waves. The Gower has been called the heartland
of Welsh surfing, offering waves for surfers of all abilities, whether you’re
after those mellow troughs or those gnarly thirty-footers.
Some of the best surfers in the UK refine
their craft in the waves off the shores of Llangennith, so it’s definitely one
for your bucket list.
Unlike Hawaii, you won’t need to worry about
getting flights to Llangennith if you’re in the UK. Surf gear is a little more
expensive than Hawaii — about £80 to buy a beginner board and wetsuit — but you
won’t need to pay for a visa or an ESTA to get there.
Because it’s only a short journey, you could
probably visit Llangennith for a couple of days before heading back, but for
the sake of being fair, let’s say that you’re staying for five days.
Accommodation in Llangennith is around £85 per room for a mid-range hotel so
your hotel costs for the week would come in at about £425.
The sum
total takes you to just £505.00.
Saving:
£1,700.90 (77%)
2. Safari experience
Getting out onto the plains of Africa is the
dream of many a wildlife enthusiast, which is why a safari is at the top of
many people’s bucket lists. They’re often the only opportunity that people have
to see some of the world’s most incredible animals out in the wild, up close,
from gigantic elephants and hippos to lion prides and ferocious crocodiles.
The dream: Maasai Mara, Kenya
No continent does a safari quite like Africa —
its stretching plains and varied wildlife makes it a haven for animal-lovers.
One of the best-known safaris in Africa is the Maasai Mara National Reserve in
Kenya. Maasai Mara shares a common border with the Serengeti and is famous for
its plentiful populations of lions, leopards, cheetahs, zebras and wildebeest.
The problem is that going on a safari in
Maasai Mara is an all-in experience; planning a day trip out onto the plains
isn’t easy to do. The shortest safari package we could find was a 3-day outing
that started at $746 (£564.20) per person. Assuming you would stay an absolute
minimum of 2 nights, that puts accommodation at £500 per room if you want to
stay near Maasai Mara. Cheaper rooms are available in Narok, the nearest town,
but it’s a three-hour drive away.
Getting to Kenya in the first place is fairly
pricey. Return tickets are about £378 per person, but you’ll also need to
factor in getting a visa for entry for $51 (£38.72) and the shots you’ll need
for typhoid and yellow fever (£141.95). That
puts the entire trip at £1,622.87 per person, excluding food and airport
transfers.
Close to home: Birmingham, England
You’d be mistaken in believing that you have
to leave the UK and Ireland to enjoy an engrossing safari experience. The West
Midland Safari Park — located just half an hour or so outside of Birmingham —
offers one of Europe’s best wildlife experiences. Lions? Check. Zebras? Check.
Elephants and rhinos and cheetahs and pretty much everything else you’d spot on
the Serengeti plains? All check. And you can see them all in one day!
Admission, as you might expect, is much
cheaper than booking an African experience. Day passes start from £24 per
person, though you can book a VIP package if you want something more immersive.
Accommodation in Birmingham is agreeable, too, with mid-range hotels starting
at about £43 per room. And since it’s in
the UK, you won’t need to pay anything for flights, visas or vaccines, which
puts the total at just £67.
Saving: £1,555.87 (96%)
3. Thermal springs
Everyone loves a good spa day, but there’s
something magical about the restorative powers of the earth itself. Though
thermal spas have been around for millennia (they were a particularly big hit
with the Romans), they’ve recently had a rapid increase in popularity. Genuine
thermal spas are a rarity, which is why they’re sought after by holidaymakers
who are looking for unique experiences.
The dream: Blue Lagoon, Iceland
The tourism statistics for Iceland’s Blue Lagoon
have benefitted massively from the Instagram generation. It’s one of the most
beautiful places in the world, sporting an azure blue volcanic lake that
contrasts sharply with the stark igneous landscape that surrounds it. For that
reason, it’s become a top destination for modern travellers to go to.
It isn’t cheap, though. Iceland is notoriously
pricey — in fact, it’s cited by many as the most expensive tourist destination in the world,
due to high import costs and taxation on food and alcohol. The Blue Lagoon is
ISK 6,990 (£44.60) for just one hour in the pool, and that’s if you book in
advance. If you want to stay over, the on-site hotel is your only real option,
as the spa is in the middle of nowhere. A stay at the Silica Hotel starts at
ISK 70,400 (£448.83) per night. Add the
flights on top of that — £173 return from the UK — and your total comes to
£666.43.
Close to home: Bath, England
Bath is, in the minds of many, the original
thermal spa town. It’s even named
after the Roman baths. That’s because of the plentiful geothermal springs
underground that allowed Roman settlers to create hot bathhouses, some of which
still stand today.
You can actually enjoy a dip in a genuine
geothermal spa when you visit Bath by going to the Thermae Spa. Admission to
the New Royal Bath is £36 on weekdays, for which you’ll get a two-hour spa
session and access to the open-air rooftop pool and the Minerva Bath, the
largest of the thermal baths. Accommodation
in Bath is about £67 per night, and without flights to worry about, your total
comes to just £103.
Saving:
£563.43 (85%)
4. Whale watching
Whales are incredible creatures. With the
largest of them measuring almost 30 metres long, it’s understanding that the
vast majority of them don’t fit in an aquarium or sea life centre. You have to
go out into the wild to see them for real — and spotting them is one of the top
things that we want to do on holiday.
The dream: Húsavík, Iceland
One of the best spots to see whales in the
world is off the northeast coast of Iceland. The coastal town of Húsavík has
become a hotspot for budding whale-spotters, and as such, there are several
companies that run world-class whale-watching tours out of Skjálfandi Bay on
traditional oak boats.
As mentioned earlier, though, Iceland is
expensive. The three hours you spend on the water will cost you 10,500 ISK
(£66.52) per person, and a night spent in Húsavík will cost you around £100 per
room — and that’s at the low end of the spectrum. Return flights to Akureyri —
the nearest airport to Húsavík — are about £396 from the UK.
That means that even without food costs and
airport transfers — which can be two or three times what you may spend in the
UK — you’ll be spending £565.52 to do a
day of whale watching in Iceland.
Close to home: Cork, Ireland
Did you know that the Irish government
declared the coastal waters of Ireland a whale and dolphin sanctuary during the
early 1990s? Ireland’s policies on the preservation of sea life have turned it
into one of Europe’s top spots for seeing Minke, Fin, Baleen and even Humpback
whales in their natural habitat.
You can go whale watching from West Cork for
just €50 (£42.67) per person for 4 hours out on the water. Accommodation in
Cork is around £87 per night for a mid-range hotel, and getting to Cork from
the UK is easy — you can hop aboard a ferry from just £41 per person for an
overnight stay, which gives you as much as 36 hours in Ireland.
Altogether,
you’ll be spending just £170.67.
Saving:
£415.85 (74%)
5. Skiing
Skiing has a sort of vintage charm about it —
maybe that’s because its popularity grew rapidly in the 50s and 60s when metal
skis made it easy, even fun, for amateurs to ski as well as pros. Since then,
it’s become a top holiday recreation, complete with cosy lodges and alpine
tipples.
The dream: Cervinia, Italy
What skiing hotspot can compete with the
world-famous Matterhorn? It’s instantly recognisable by its pyramid shape and
its looming presence in the Alps, crossing the borders of both Italy and
Switzerland. One of the best ski resorts at the base of the Matterhorn is
Cervinia, Italy, where you can take a lift up to some of the best parts of the
mountain and ski to your heart’s desire.
Flights to Cervinia are very reasonable from
the UK, with return flights coming in at only about £72 off-peak. A day-pass to
the Cervinia resort is €43 (£35.59), with ski hire coming it at £18.87 per day
if you book online. However, accommodation is pretty pricey, probably because
of how remote the hotels are. For two nights, you’ll be looking at about £426
per room.
For argument sake, let’s say you just want to
ski for one full day — that takes your
total to £552.46.
At home: Glenshee, Scotland
Bet you didn’t know there were ski resorts in
the UK! In fact, Glenshee Ski Resort in Scotland sees a great deal of snowfall
throughout the year, and with a few gentler slopes than Cervinia, it’s ideal
for beginners and intermediates.
Admission to the ski resort is a little
cheaper than Cervinia, with a 1-day lift pass coming in at £32 (although if you
just want to hit the beginner slopes, you can get to them for just £20 a day).
Ski hire is £23 a day for skis, boots and poles.
The biggest saving you’ll make is on
accommodation. You can stay at a mid-range hotel in Ballater — about half an
hour’s drive from Glenshee — for about £55 a night, so £110 if we’re going to
match the two nights you’d spend in Cervinia.
That
puts your total at just £165.
Saving:
£387.46 (70%)
The Dream: £5613.18
Home: £947.67
Saving: £4,665.51
83%
A dream holiday from home
If you have plenty of money — and time, too — you might be willing to travel the world to complete your holiday bucket list. For the rest of us, though, the good news is that all the activities we dream about for our perfect holiday are right on our doorstep here in the UK and Ireland.
Here’s to a staycation that exceeds all
expectations!
You may think that Sydney and Melbourne offer all the fun in Australia, but Brisbane is not far behind. The moment the sun sets, Brisbane opens up the doors to its many nightclubs, bars, and restaurants offering various events and activities to their patrons. But the fun doesn’t end there since other establishments like galleries also welcome visitors dazzling them with their exciting programs.
If you are new to nightlife in Brisbane, here are the best spots to have a memorable time and meet this amazing Australian city.
Don’t skip the food in Brisbane
Australia is famous for its fusion cuisine combining tastes from all over the world and diverse offer which will accommodate even the most demanding palate. In Brisbane, you will find your fair share of dining spots that work at all hours even late at night and not only those serving fast-food. Craft beer and live music at the Greaser Bar offer American food on the verge of being homemade like buttermilk fried chicken.
If you like jazz, then Doo-Bop Jazz Bar may be just the place for you to relax with some nice tunes and diverse menu offering chicken wings and mussels with some cashew spring rolls. The Yiros Shop is the popular place in Brisbane for late-night kebab working until the early morning hours. Of course, there are great places to have Asian cuisine like Fat Noodle which serves pho and dim sum until midnight.
Have a relaxing drink at one of the bars
If you are not so much into dancing and partying, then try one of the many bars in Brisbane where you can chill and hang out with your friends. Bars usually open late in the afternoon and close in the early morning hours, so they are ideal to come before or after a nightclub. Lychee Lounge is visually interesting with an oriental design and comfortable chairs considered to serve some of the best drinks in Brisbane.
If you are looking for a hipster hub, then you will feel right at home at The End with vintage furniture and record player. This bar serves house brews and craft beers but also has an impressive collection of rum and 1970s surf videos that will certainly get your attention. Dandy’s Rooftop Bar is a fun place to be late at night since it offers a gorgeous view over the lights of Brisbane’s CBD. As the night progresses, this bar turns into a live DJ concert so come a bit early if you want to enjoy the astounding sunset in peace.
Dance the night away
The nightlife in Brisbane may offer a variety of options, but nothing is more alive and exciting than the nightclub scene. Cloudland is the club on everyone’s list occupying the space in Fortitude Valley which has a waterfall, plant life, and a grass roof. The interior design alone lives people breathless with huge chandeliers, but its pan-Asian food and classy cocktails make it one of the best nightclubs in Brisbane.
On the other hand, The Met is made of three bars with big LED screens and a crowded dance floor the whole night. If you want to feel a little bit of New York, then The Bowery should definitely be on your list with cozy booths and live jazz over the weekends. Those looking for something casual will definitely like Birdees with three bars and dancing by the pool.
Look for organized events
All over Brisbane, nightclubs and bars hire professionals like Velvet Rope Entertainment to organize events. They offer entertainment acts, dancing and prominent names in music. Keep an eye on new clubs on the Brisbane scene. Clubs like Oh Hello go the extra mile to attract patrons. Usually, this means that you will attend some powerful sessions by world-renowned DJs and performers.
Themed events are very common in Brisbane’s nightlife. You will easily find a foam or costume party. However, there are also regular events. For example, Friday’s Riverside taking place every weekend when the venue turns into a club. It becomes an awesome place with food, cocktails and a dance floor.
Check out the music festivals in Brisbane
Since Brisbane has great weather, it’s a perfect place to organize festivals throughout the year and nothing attracts a crowd like music festivals. Featuring famous names from the music industry, these festivals are very popular and highly attended so you need to get your ticket early.
CMC Rocks is the biggest festival in Australia dedicated to international country and roots scene. It’s taking place in March. Jungle Love Festival is at the same time place to dance, listen to music and swim. It’s organized in the Yabba Creek where it is held in the late Australian spring. Of course, if you are into big music festivals, then you should definitely stop by Woodford. It has over 2000 international performers and it’s being held for over 30 years.
In the end
It’s easy to have a memorable time in the nightlife of Brisbane. It offers a variety of programs, events, and options. From jazz clubs, gourmet cuisine and imaginative cocktails, Brisbane has it all. So make sure you are ready to spend many sleepless nights dancing and having fun.
There is another side to Istanbul apart from old Constantinople
Words: Len Rutledge
Pictures: Phensri Rutledge
Roman ruins, great mosques and churches, huge city walls,
palaces, 500-year-old bazaars, and intriguing museums make Istanbul a
‘must-see’ city. Despite the recent strife in the Middle East, Istanbul remains
a fascinating city for visitors of all ages and my wife and I found it
perfectly safe and very welcoming. It was in the 10 Top Visited Cities in 2018.
It is common to say that Istanbul is caught between Europe
and Asia and while this is correct, it is just a small part of the picture.
Others romanticise the fact that this has been a ‘world city’ for over two
thousand years and talk up its ancient buildings and monuments as the greatest
appeal of the city. They are probably right.
Much is written about the Old City that once was called Byzantium
then later Constantinople. Less well
known, but also impressive, is ‘New’ Istanbul just a few hundred meters across
the stretch of water known as the Golden Horn. You are still in Europe but in
many ways, it is as though you are in a different city.
The Asian side of the city is less visited but this too
provides cultural insights that cannot be gleaned elsewhere. Walking is the
best way to explore but for those who do not find this enjoyable, taxis and
public transport is available. Be aware though that motorists rarely stop to let pedestrians
cross roads even at major crossings.
In 1503 the ruling Sultan wished to construct a bridge between
Old Istanbul and Galata and he asked
Leonardo da Vinci to produce a design. His design for an unprecedented single
span 240 m bridge was rejected, however, and the construction of a bridge was not
completed until the 19th century.
Galata
When you cross the bridge from Old Istanbul, you enter Galata
which is almost as old as Constantinople but there are few relics from the
early days. The area had city walls at least 1600 years ago and there was also
a fortress here during early Byzantine times. In 1261, Galata became a
semi-independent colony controlled by the Genoese.
The 67 m Galata Tower
is the most obvious landmark. It was built in 1348 and for many years it was
used as a fire lookout tower. Today you can ride to near the top by elevator
and the view from the narrow outside balcony is impressive.
For those who don’t like walking up hills, the Tünelis a godsend. It was opened in 1875 and was one of the first
underground urban railways in the world.
Istiklal Caddesi
When you climb the hill from the Galata Bridge or exit the Tünel,
you are on Istiklal Caddesi, one of the most important streets in the city. It is
lined with hundreds of shops selling just about everything you need, and much
you don’t. It has many large and small stores and street vendors of all kinds.
If you get tired and thirsty, there are plenty of cafes along
the way for refreshments and there are many bars to drop in on if you feel so
inclined. A kebab or freshly baked simit
(circular, sesame seed-coated bread), are good choices followed by some
melt-in-your-mouth Turkish Delight.
Enjoying the local food in Istanbul is one of the real joys
of the city. Midway along Istiklal Caddesi, there are a couple of beautifully
restored arcades on the left. The most famous is Çiçek Pasajı
(Flower Passage) which is outstanding and has several attractive restaurants
inside.
For something cheaper, you can head through the nearby fish
market and find some local eating places along Nevizade, a small street
parallel to Istiklal Caddesi. These
are safe and you will find someone who speaks good English.
Shopping
Istanbul has some of the best shopping to be found in
Eastern Europe with modern shopping centers, ancient bazaars, independent
boutiques, design shops, and thousands of street stalls. You can start shopping
in Istiklal Caddesi and keep going north.
Cukurcuma is a
charming area of winding side streets and alleyways where rambling apartments
house some of the finest collections of antiques, boutique fashion, and kitsch
in the city.
A complete contrast if provided by Abdi İpekci Street, located in the Nişantaşı district which hosts
luxury retail shopping venues and is currently the most expensive street for
retail stores in the city.
Visitor attractions
The area also has some excellent visitor attractions. Istanbul Modern is a contemporary art
museum in a converted warehouse by the Bosphorus. If you walk further you come
to Dolmabahçe Palace,home to six Sultans from 1856 until
1924, and the largest palace in Turkey.
Further on is Ortaköy, an
artsy neighborhood with two structures that dominate the
area- the baroque Ortaköy Mosque and the First Bosphorus Bridge. The charming
waterfront hides a lattice of narrow cobbled streets filled with nice cafes and
trendy small clothing boutiques.
Across the Bosphorus, there are huge suburbs on the Asian side with their own
commercial centers and transport systems. You reach here by ferry or by an
undersea rail tube. I strongly recommend that you check out this area.
If
you go
An Istanbul Tourist Pass can be
useful if you plan extensive sightseeing. It also includes a one-way transfer
between the airport and your hotel by car, a Bosphorus cruise, and unlimited
mobile internet access.
Bagi mereka yang mendapat pekerjaan di Jakarta, Indonesia atau sekedar berlibur, yang belum mengetahui seluk beluk kota metropolitan ini secara detil, tentu yang pertama harus dicari adalah di mana akan tinggal selama bekerja atau liburan di ibukota. Tidak masalah buat mereka yang memang asli orang Betawi dan punya warisan tanah di mana-mana. Atau mereka yang punya banyak saudara yang tinggal di Jakarta. Namun bagaimana dengan mereka yang sama sekali tidak kenal Jakarta dan belum pernah menginjakkan kakinya di kota besar ini?
Jakarta memang menjanjikan banyak hal, khususnya buat mereka yang belum pernah ke sana. Untuk memulai kehidupan baru, yang harus dicari pertama kali adalah tempat tinggal yang terjangkau, strategis, dan bisa menampung sesuai dengan kapasitas orang (khususnya yang sudah berumah tangga dan punya anak). Membeli rumah (landed house) di kota ini membutuhkan biaya yang besar, walaupun rumah bekas. Apartemen adalah solusinya. Dan di Jakarta banyak apartemen-apartemen murah dengan harga yang cukup terjangkau yang bisa dipilih.
Misalnya,
kalau kerja di daerah Jakarta Utara, ada Aston Marina Ancol. Ini daerah yang
sangat strategis buat yang mau main-main ke Dufan atau menjajal wisata kuliner
di Kelapa Gading. Harganya cukup terjangkau per malamnya, hanya sekitar 500
ribu. Selain itu, fasilitasnya juga lengkap mulai dari WiFi, kafe, kolam
renang, restoran dan sebagainya.
Melipir
ke tengah sedikit, ada Batavia Apartemen yang berlokasi di Bendungan Hilir. Di
daerah sini dekat dengan pusat perbelanjaan grosir terbesar se-Asia Tenggara
alias Tanah Abang. Harga yang ditawarkan berkisar 1,450,000 dengan kamar yang
cukup luas dan nyaman.
Mau
yang lebih ke pusat lagi? Ada Ascott Kuningan yang lokasinya di Kuningan.
Tempatnya premium dengan harga yang juga premium. Sayangnya, daerah sini
terkenal dengan macetnya. Apalagi kalau jam masuk dan pulang kantor. Meski di
kawasan lain juga macet, namun belum ada yang “mengalahkan” kemacetan
Kuningan. Namun tidak perlu khawatir,
bagi yang kuat jalan kaki, di sekitar sini banyak sekali pusat-pusat
perbelanjaan premium dan grosir yang bisa diakses tanpa harus naik kendaraan.
Lainnya
adalah Morrissey Hotel Residence. Lokasinya di Jl. Wahid Hasyim, Menteng. Ini
daerah yang lumayan “ramah” dari sisi kepadatan jalannya. Dibanding
Sudirman dan Kuningan, lokasi di sini cocok buat mereka yang “anti kemacetan”. Daerah lain yang cukup ramah jalan rayanya
adalah Lite Rooms Kebagusan City. Lokasinya di Pasar Minggu. Hanya saja, kalau
yang doyan belanja, di daearah sini tidak terlalu banyak mal. Paling dekat
adalah Pejanten Village. Dan apartemen lain yang bisa dipertimbangkan adalah Ra
Simatupang, yang berlokasi di Jl. TB Simatupang. Kawasan distrik bisnis yang
“baru lahir” ini memang masih belum terlalu macet dibanding lainnya.
Pusat hiburannya ada Cilandak Town Square alias Citos. Di daearah sini juga ada
Kyo Serviced Apartement. Cocok buat mereka yang berkantor di TB Simatupang.
Mau
coba di Jakarta Barat? Ada Somerset Berlian Jakarta yang lokasinya di Permata
Hijau. Meski berada di perbatasan dengan Tangerang, namun lokasi di sini cukup
premium juga. Banyak kantor dan pusat hiburan di sini. Yang kerjanya di
Tangerang atau bandara Soekarno -Hatta pun cocok kalau ambil apartemen di sini.
Termasuk juga kalau menyewa di Gloria Suites Grogol. Harganya bahkan hanya
sekitar 350 ribu per malam.
So, banyak apartemen murah di Jakarta yang bisa dipilih sesuai bujet maupun lokasi. Yang terpenting adalah apakah yang menjadi kebutuhan dasar penyewanya: kedekatan dengan tempat aktifitas, biaya yang lebih murah, atau kenyamanan lingkungan. You decide it! Selamat memiih!
Avid travelers know that there is nothing better than waking up in an unusual new place and enjoying the best tiny adventures that completely push you out of your comfort zone. One of the destinations that many have on their ultimate bucket list is one of the most beautiful cities in Australia, Sydney. As a matter of fact, Sydney is considered to be one of the most loved cities in the whole world and it is not difficult to see why. With its renowned attractions such as Harbour Bridge and Opera House dominating books, billboards, and the media, it is a must-visit for anyone wishing to experience life at its fullest. However, one of the greatest joys of traveling to a new place is getting a taste of the delicious cuisine of new land, and in this case, Australian food takes the medal. Most importantly, Sydney is considered the top destination for foodies worldwide. A word of caution: Hopefully, you are not reading this article on an empty stomach; its contents will leave you absolutely starving! Here are some of the must-visit places in Sydney for the foodie traveler.
1. Seafood haven
“The Quay” is the official name of Sydney’s main ferry terminus, and it is located in the very centre of Sydney Cove. Its main purpose is connecting tourists to the city’s main attractions-Sydney Harbour, the Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, and the Rocks. Also, this area in Sydney is one of the oldest and most attractive ones. The iconic restaurant on Sydney Harbour called the Quay is where many tourists enjoy spending their free time. Even though it was closed for renovations, it reopened in 2018 with a brand-new menu and fabulously designed dining room. One of the new gastronomic challenges which the restaurant undertook is the so-called “oyster intervention.” The oyster intervention concerns creating the perfect texture by combining a silky oyster cream with a sort of crackling from the frill. The dish is topped with a serving of caviar and presented on a beautiful and authentic ceramic oyster shell. Also, locals recommend trying out the delicious dessert called White Coral; without revealing too much, it is safe to say that it features white chocolate ganache at its finest.
2. Exotic dishes
The giveaway sign of a truly phenomenal dish is when you reminisce about it months later! In fact, this is how a lot of tourists feel after visiting the Momofuku Seiobo at The Star. The restaurant is a truly unique addition to Sydney, and it can all be traced back to the 14-course menu inspired by the spirit of the Caribbean. When visiting, start off the feast with scrumptious slices of tender abalone directly from Batemans Bay paired with the freshest Jamaican bread. One of the specialties of the house is the plantain tarts which are skillfully presented with the use of snail meat. However, if snails are not your preference, then why not try out the cured rice with crab? If you are only interested in mouth-watering desserts, then the restaurant recommends the roast coconut ice cream with cocoa nibs and a cashew crumb. If this does not make your mouth water, then nothing will!
3. Food paired with entertainment
Looking to have a memorable night with your friends or a place to party and enjoy delicious food? If so, then definitely check out Diggers Miranda RSL. Located in southern Sydney, it is truly a must-visit for anyone who likes a bit of entertainment when dining out. Also, there is the option of becoming a member of the Miranda RSL Club, which grants benefits such as discounted food and drinks, and a great chance to win amazing prizes (among other benefits). The Bistro is open every day of the week, and it features a wide array of delicious dishes, such as Chilli angel hair with king prawns and Peri Peri marinated chicken breast burgers. If you have a hard time choosing from the lengthy menu, then consider picking something from the weekly specials.
4. Something for the French cuisine fans
Are you interested in tasting some of the most decadent French specialties available in Sydney? Do not fret, because Restaurant Hubert in downtown Sydney has got you covered. According to guests, the French restaurant has a true sense of theatre as soon as you step foot in it. The restaurant is truly one of a kind since there are a stage and a theatre located in the dining area. At night, talks and events are hosted whilst the guests enjoy their delicious meals paired with the finest wines available. In addition, even though Hubert is a walk in the venue, it is possible to make reservations. When it comes to recommendations, a lot of guests rave about the Escargot and Boudin Noir, so take it into consideration next time you visit.
All in all, there are many great hot spots for foodie lovers in the beautiful city of Sydney. However, if you are looking for the absolute best Sydney has to offer, visit some of the mentioned places, you will not be disappointed.
What is the most universal type of meat in the world? The answer isn’t hard to reach. Undoubtedly, it is beef. No matter where you are in the world, beef is a diverse fan favourite. In fact, beef jerky has become one of the top snack choices across the nation. Let’s take a look around the globe and find out where you can get your tastebuds on the best tasting beef.
Argentina
To get an idea as to how much Argentines love beef, compare it to the love that America has for football. Beef is an incomparable delicacy in Argentina and is said to have the best taste on the planet. The quest to find “organic” meat is quite simple as all of the cows are strictly grass-fed and aren’t exposed to antibiotics of any kind.
This makes the beef consistent in texture, lean with little to no fat, and less likely to attribute to health issues. Also, unlike many other countries, the beef in Argentina is typically only seasoned with one ingredient – salt.
Because the meat is so tactfully prepared, this one simple flavour is enough to bring about a supreme taste that is both savoury and rich. If you ever visit this country, don’t leave before indulging in a juicy piece of steak. Learn more about what makes Argentine beef so delectable.
Spain
While Spain gets a lot of hype about their ham, their beef is definitely next in line. In fact, many Spanish restaurants have earned reputations crediting their superior steaks. The beef culture in this country is vastly growing in popularity.
The chalet de buy is often seen around the country but is perfected in none other than Spain. This popular slice of beef is a slow-roasted, smoky rib-steak that is often served with sliced potatoes and is large enough to feed at least two people.
Australia
If you are in search of insanely high-quality beef, don’t neglect Australia. The agricultural industry in this country is highly regarded and heavily policed. Australia holds tiptop standards requiring all farmers to grass-feed their cattle and ensure that they are being raised in an environment that is both clean and humane. In fact, many countries purchase their beef from Australia to match their level of excellence. Australian beef jerky is one that gets a lot of attention in places near and far. Whether you prefer a thin cut, T-bone, or a fillet steak, Australian meat is not one to disappoint. Click Here to learn more about the popular steak cuts in Australia.
Japan
If you are a fan of fine dining and supreme tender cuts, Japan is the place to be. Much like Australia and Argentina, the beef produced in Japan is thoughtfully reared. The Japanese have adopted delicate practices for their livestock to ensure that they remain healthy and well for the duration of their lives.
Such techniques include regular massages and soothing music to make certain that the cattle remain healthy on a holistic level. These regimens seem to bring about great results as Japan is known for being the home of one of the most popular flavorful beef cuts – Wagyu, also known as Kobe beef. Learn more about comfort food Wagyu beef and how to choose the best cut.
While the United States has topped the ranks for the highest beef production, we may be selling ourselves short by not seeing what other countries have to offer. Though a good steak is not promised everywhere, we definitely have a few great options. The love for beef is widespread, and many cultures across the globe are competing to hold the title for the best beef in the world.
Best Travel Guides to Destinations Around the World
