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It’s true to say that no great writing is ever born without some kind of external experience. That’s not to say that you can’t write brilliantly if your daily life follows the same schedule, nor do you have to climb Mount Everest with only a pair of shorts and a rope set to carry you before you’re “permitted” to write, only drawing on what you know, and looking to expand that sense of understanding, can be very helpful.

In either case, writing doesn’t have to be qualified by other people before you get to do it, you can start right now and will undoubtedly have something to say. But if you’re looking for something new to inspire your writing for the better and rejuvenate that sense of creative will, it’s good to look to a few healthy methods of doing so.

But what might those methods be? On this blog, we care about showcasing the wonders of travel, and that can be a great place to start. But what then? Let’s consider this, and hopefully help you on your journey to inspiration:

Cultural Intrigue

There’s a school of thought that says you should only write about what you know and have personally experienced, but that would make much writing out there quite boring and even irrelevant. For this reason, don’t be afraid to write about other peoples, other times, and other places. It can be helpful to have good and accurate references points to do so however. If you can’t travel, it can be nice to enjoy media put out by other cultures. You might look into how to get BBC iPlayer in USA to get British speech patterns down in your writing, or even delve deep into the history and cultural landmarks of a particular place. This will help you write with authority.

Under-Editing

You have time for all the drafts in the world later. Neil Gaiman, fantasy author of wild success, once said that his approach to writing novels is to throw mud at a wall and see what sticks. Then, if part of the wall seems like it could be fashioned into a clearer image, he’ll do that. You can do this over and over until the drafts get tighter. But don’t let the idea of over-editing cause you to limit your ideas or make you feel less competent than you otherwise would – you don’t have to nail your writing in one draft. Just give it a go, even if your story or writing looks like random mud on a wall at first glance.

Enjoyment & Fun

It’s such a simple tip but the truth is, falling in love with writing as opposed to worrying about how to do it “correctly” can ironically help you dig into the real process more readily. It will inspire you to read further afield and cultural perspectives you wouldn’t otherwise. It will give you the robust attitude to read books that argue counter to your own beliefs, if only so you see those arguments articulated. The more enjoyment you have, the more this process fuels you. So make sure this is central to your experience, no matter what type of literature you enjoy delving into.

With this advice, we hope you can inspire your writing for the better, using various methods considered helpful.

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Solo camping can be a lot of fun. You’re by yourself, out in nature, experiencing the world for what it is without someone else there clouding the experience. It’s just you and the elements. 

But, of course, trips can turn out to be disasters if you don’t go into them properly prepared. 

That’s where this post can help. We take a look at some of the ways that you as a woman can rock your next solo camping trip and have a great time. Here’s everything you need to know:-

Plan Ahead

First of all, you need to plan ahead. Choose a campsite that is safe, well-maintained, and not too isolated. Make sure they have a shop or somewhere you can get supplies when you need them. 

If you’re not going to a campsite but wild camping in nature instead, make sure you have all the things you need to make the trip a success. You’ll need access to potable water, food, and plenty of supplies. Dried food is probably the best option, and you can filter water along the way or collect it from public facilities. 

Prepare For Emergencies

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The next step is to think about what could go wrong while you are alone. Make sure you bring the warmest thermal socks for women you can find, plus a first-aid kit, a flashlight, a whistle, a knife, and some matches. These essentials should keep you warm and relatively dry. They can also signal to others that you need assistance if you get into trouble. 

If you encounter wildlife, don’t panic. Stay calm and follow the proper safety protocols for the species inhabiting your area. You may need to take bear spray with you, depending on where you want to camp and hike. 

Have Fun

Next, remember that solo camping is a great opportunity to have fun and experience nature in all its glory. People spend so much of their lives in cities and cozy houses that they forget what life is like on Earth away from that complexity. 

Having fun by yourself usually means introspecting and discovering something new you didn’t know was there before. That could involve meditating, enjoying the sounds and smells of nature, or simply constructing something, like a forest yurt, to spend the night. 

Create Stories

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Lastly, the best solo trips are those that generate stories you can tell when you return to society. If it’s your first time camping alone, that could be a story in itself. You could talk about how you managed the trip by yourself and how you felt in your own company. 

Another story could come from hiking to a distant location through challenging terrain. You could talk about how it has built your ability to do hard things and improved your personal development. 

Finally, stories may sometimes find you. Anything can happen in nature, and many things that do are unexpected and not what you thought. 

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your tent and go rock your solo camping trip!

Skiing is one of the most popular winter sports in the world, and for a good reason. It’s a great way to get outside and enjoy the fresh air and beautiful scenery while getting some exercise. So if you’re planning your first ski trip, here are seven tips to help make sure it’s a success!

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1) Dress for the occasion

The number one rule for your first ski trip is to dress for the occasion. Invest in appropriate clothing that will keep you warm and comfortable on the slopes, such as a waterproof jacket, thermal socks and boots, a beanie or helmet, sunglasses or goggles. Layering is key when it comes to staying warm outdoors and skiing in particular, so make sure you have long johns, thermals, fleece jackets and snow pants available. Make sure your gloves are waterproof too!

In addition, be sure to bring a spare set of clothes for après-ski. You don’t want to get caught in the cold after your time on the slopes, so having an extra set of warm and cozy clothing is essential.

2) Get your gear ready before you go

It’s important to have all your gear ready to go before you head out on your first ski trip. This includes renting or buying skis, boots, poles, a helmet and other necessary items such as gloves and goggles. If you are renting equipment, make sure you do it ahead of time, as rental shops can often run out during peak season or holidays.

It also helps to practice putting everything together at home, so you know how it works before you get on the slopes. You could also consider taking a lesson or two. Having a guide to teach you the basics of skiing can be incredibly helpful, especially if it is your first time on the slopes.

3) Acclimate to the altitude

Altitude sickness is often a factor for those who are heading out for their first ski trip. Altitude sickness occurs when there is not enough oxygen in the air at higher elevations, leaving your body feeling tired and fatigued. To prevent this from happening, make sure to give yourself plenty of time to acclimatize before hitting the slopes by avoiding strenuous activities for several days after arrival and staying hydrated.

Also, be sure to eat a healthy and balanced diet leading up to your ski trip. Eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, proteins and complex carbohydrates can help your body adjust better at higher altitudes.
4) Take a lesson or two

If you’ve never been skiing before, it would be wise to take a lesson or two. Skiing is a tricky sport that requires practice and skill. Don’t expect to hop onto the lift and ski down without some help first! A ski instructor can give you valuable tips on technique, safety, and etiquette while skiing. They can also provide you with helpful advice on which runs are best for beginners. Taking a lesson or two is an investment that will pay off in the long run as you become more comfortable with the basics of skiing and build your confidence as well.

6) Use sunscreen

You may not think of wearing sunscreen when going skiing, but it is highly recommended. The sun can be especially harsh at higher elevations, so make sure to apply SPF15+ sunscreen before hitting the slopes. It will help protect your skin from harmful UV rays while also preventing snow blindness due to reflection off the snow. Don’t forget to re-apply every few hours as well.

7) Take breaks throughout the day

The last tip for your first ski trip is to take frequent breaks throughout the day. Skiing is a physically demanding activity, so it’s important to give yourself time to rest and rehydrate in order to avoid fatigue and prevent injury. Taking short pauses can also help you appreciate the beauty of nature around you while giving your body a chance to recover from all that skiing. Most importantly, don’t forget to have fun! Skiing should be an enjoyable experience, not a chore.

In conclusion, skiing is an incredibly fun and exhilarating winter activity that everyone should experience. By following these seven tips for your first ski trip, you can be sure to have the best time possible! Make sure to plan ahead, acclimate to the altitude, take a lesson or two, dress appropriately, use sunscreen, and take breaks throughout the day. With these tips in mind, you are sure to have an amazing time on your first ski trip!

Even though many people are reluctant to visit Chicago during the winter, we can guarantee that you will have the time of your life if you decide to try it. The city is brightly lit for the holiday season, and a fresh blanket of snow gives it a mystical, otherworldly quality that you won’t find if you visit at any other time of year. Chicago has it all, from top-notch sights to exciting activities, and the wintertime just enhances the city’s allure. You should think again if you thought Chicago in the winter was a bad idea, and keep reading to find out more. 

Photo by Heather Bozman

There Are Many Indoor Tourist Attractions 

The Field Museum, the Museum of Science and Industry, the Adler Planetarium, and the Shedd Aquarium are just a few of the great indoor attractions in Chicago that will be open during the winter for you to explore. The Museum of Contemporary Art and The Art Institute of Chicago are two places where art lovers can go, for example, but there is much more. Other things to see in Chicago include the views from the John Hancock Center or the Skydeck at the Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower), for example. 

Getting a tourist pass is a good idea if you want to save money on entrance fees and skip long lines. A tourist pass will save you money on museum and other attraction entrance fees and let you skip lines at a number of places. For example, the Skydeck at the Willis Tower often has lines that last two hours! Under the Bank of America Museums on Us program, people with Bank of America credit or debit cards can get into some museums for free on the first weekend of every month.

The Weather

You may have heard – or perhaps you know for sure – that Chicago has some truly brutal winters, so it certainly won’t be for everyone. But it could be for you if you enjoy the cold and the snow because Chicago’s weather is like nothing you’ve ever seen before. 

Although winter storms are uncommon in Chicago, you should still dress warmly because the temperature will more than likely drop into the negatives. But do you know what that means? Warm drinks, cuddling up with a loved one in the gorgeous Viceroy Chicago, and sightseeing in the most beautiful city in the United States – aka Chicago – are all things that have to go on your to-do list. 

Fewer Tourists 

Many people choose not to travel to Chicago during the colder months, probably because of the weather problems we discussed. This means you won’t have to wait in line at all to enjoy many of the most popular activities – or at least you won’t have to wait as long. 

Chicago is home to numerous museums, art galleries, historic homes, theaters, and other cultural landmarks, making this something that can actually make or break your vacation to the Windy City. Imagine going to a well-loved site without having to wait in a line that stretches down the street or arriving at the Willis Tower and immediately being able to take in the breathtaking views. Winter in Chicago is great if you don’t like crowds and want it to be easier to make your way around. 

Enjoy The Food 

Both deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs have become iconic Chicagoan foods. When you factor in the abundance of excellent eateries, you’ve got yourself a veritable paradise for foodies. In reality, there is a dizzying array of excellent dining options in Chicago. And in winter, you can still find them all (and find it easier to get a reservation). 

Chicago Restaurant Week, during which participating restaurants offer fixed-price menus at discounted prices, is another perk of a winter trip to the Windy City. Taking advantage of this offer is a fantastic way to save money while enjoying meals at some of Chicago’s finest restaurants. This takes place every year during the winter season. 

Meet More People 

People are friendlier and more willing to help and share their city with visitors during the colder months. Businesses that cater to tourists and travelers during the winter depend on customers like you, so you might receive better treatment than in the summer.

The winter months in Chicago are perfect for visiting, and it’s certainly something that should be on your list of things to do. Most visitors fall in love with Chicago, and if you do too, you can always come back when the weather is better to see the sights once more from a different perspective. 

If you’re like most people, you probably think of California as a place to go on vacation. With its sandy beaches, world-famous theme parks, and stunning mountain ranges, it’s easy to see why. However, before you can start enjoying your vacation in the Golden State, you must ensure that you’re prepared for it. This blog will discuss how to create a vacation checklist to make the most of your time in California!

The first thing that you need to do is decide what kind of vacation you want to take.

California has something for everyone, so it’s essential to narrow down your options before you start packing. For example, are you looking for a relaxing beach vacation? Or are you interested in exploring the state’s many tourist attractions? Once you know what kind of vacation you’re looking for, you can begin creating your checklist.

The next step is to start planning your itinerary.

If you’re visiting California for the first time, it’s a good idea to do some research ahead of time so that you can make the most of your trip. First, decide which sights you want to see and how much time you want to spend in each place. Once you have a general idea of your itinerary, you can start filling in the details. California has a lot to offer when it comes to activities to add to your itinerary, such as visiting the beach, touring wine country, or checking out Disneyland. Cafes in California are also a must-try!

The next item on your checklist should be to book your travel arrangements.

If you’re flying to California, you’ll need to book your flights and ensure you have all the necessary documents. If you’re driving, you’ll need to map out your route and make sure that your vehicle is in good condition for the long journey. You should also plan where you’re going to stay while you’re in California. Booking a hotel or rental property in advance is always a good idea so that you can be sure to get the best rates.

The next step is to start packing.

This is where your checklist comes in handy. Make sure to pack everything you’ll need for your trip, including clothes, toiletries, and any medications you take. If you’re planning on doing any hiking or other outdoor activities, don’t forget to pack sunscreen and insect repellent. And, of course, don’t forget your camera so that you can capture all of the memories from your California vacation!

The last step is to make sure that you have all of the necessary documents.

If you’re traveling with a passport, you’ll need to ensure that it’s up to date and that you have all the necessary visas. If you’re renting a car, you’ll need to bring your driver’s license and proof of insurance. And if you’re traveling with any valuables, it’s always a good idea to make copies of important documents like your passport and driver’s license in case they are lost or stolen.

Following these steps will help ensure that you’re prepared for your vacation in California. 

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You can do many things to blend in as a local in Costa Rica. You don’t necessarily have to look like a tourist all the time and inadvertently draw attention to yourself. For many experienced revelers, the best way to enjoy a foreign country is to identify with the locals – eat their food, learn language basics, gain insight into the culture, etc. You can be part of the 3 million visitors to Costa Rica who do more than ecotourism. Here are some suggestions.

1. Brush up on your Spanish language skills

Spanish is the national and official language in Costa Rica. It will be essential if you wish to blend in. Indeed, nobody expects you to rattle like an expert. However, learning the basics of the Spanish language will be a great way to enjoy your time in the country. More importantly, it will be an opportunity to blend in somewhat with the locals and learn more from them. The truth is that they love it when foreigners deliberately make an effort to learn their native language.

It has nothing to do with cultural appropriation. Instead, it shows a willingness to enjoy your stay and make positive memories on this trip. With the help of technology, you can access language apps that teach basic Spanish lines. Be ready for giggles and amusement from locals if you fail to pronounce the words right. You might join them in laughing at your attempt.

2. Add spontaneous activities to your schedule

One thing about tourists and foreigners is the likelihood of being too out of touch with the things that define the new country. This is often characterized by planned sightseeing at all the popular places a tourist will go. You may not have realized yet that locals do not frequent these places. Have you considered the possibility of some spontaneity? While this may raise safety and security concerns, you can prepare for them and veer slightly away from the status quo.

You can check downtown areas with the help of a willing local. You may have to pay a little fee for such a service. If you’re lucky, you might get a tour guide to take you around during their off-duty hours. Be sure to dress like a local and not give people the impression that you are a non-native. When visiting these places, it is advisable to avoid having valuables like an expensive wristwatch, phone, or sunglasses on you. Another spontaneous activity that helps you identify with locals is fishing. However, for a more organized process, you may want to use services such as Costa Rica Fishing Charters. Indeed, there are tons of places to visit that make it easy to interact freely with locals.

3. Visit the countryside

A drive to the countryside, away from the city center, is a welcome addition to enjoy like a local. Before setting off, however, it would be wise to plan the route on a map and become conversant with the locality. First, it may be wise to identify landmarks that help you make out the terrain on your way back. This will be particularly helpful if you’re taking a hike. However, a GPS may be ideal if you’re driving.

It is a pleasant experience to identify with the locals of a new country and feel welcome in their midst.

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Planning a holiday is never easy, especially when travelling somewhere new. No matter what your budget or the time of year you should visit Kenya, the country has so much to offer that it’s difficult to know where to start. To get you started on planning your first trip to Kenya, read this article for everything you need to know about travelling to make the most of your experience in Kenya.

 

Nairobi

The capital of Kenya, Nairobi is a vibrant and energetic city. It has a rich colonial history, modern infrastructure, and a variety of cultural experiences. You can visit the National Museum of Kenya, the National Library, the National Gallery of Kenya, and Uhuru Park, just to name a few. If you’re interested in wildlife, you can visit the Nairobi National Park, which is home to a wide variety of animals such as lions, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos. Visit the Great Rift Valley, UNESCO World Heritage Site.The Great Rift Valley is home to many animals, such as zebras, giraffes, ostriches, and gazelles.

 

Safaris

Safaris in Kenya are an absolute must-do when visiting. They are the best ways to get a taste of the Kenyan way of life, see wildlife in their natural habitat, and learn about the country’s history and culture. There are many different types of safaris in Kenya, from budget-friendly to luxury. You can choose to go on an escorted or a self-drive safari. On an escorted safari, you’ll be accompanied by an expert guide who knows all the best places to go and see wildlife. Self-drive safaris are a bit more flexible and allow you to determine how long you stay in each place. 

 

Lake Nakuru and Lake Victoria 

Nakuru is a lesser-known Kenyan destination that attracts few tourists and is the perfect place to explore Kenya’s nature. With its diverse landscape, Nakuru is one of the best places in Kenya to see the Great Migration. While the Great Migration happens, you can see it up close at Lake Nakuru National Park. You can also enjoy watching the red flamingos and other species that flock to the lake when the migration is over. Lake Victoria, the largest lake in Africa, is also a great place for wildlife aficionados. The lake is home to many species of birds, hippos, and crocodiles.

 

Baggage and Transportation in Kenya

The airlines in Kenya are very safe, with very few accidents reported. Kenya Airports Authority also ensures that all airports and safety procedures are up to date. If you are traveling from the US, the UK, Australia, or Canada, you do not need a visa to enter Kenya. If you are coming from Europe, you will need to show your travel documents at least 90 days before the flight. If you are coming from Asia, you will need to show your travel documents at least 30 days before the flight. If you are traveling by car or public transport, be aware of pickpockets and other petty crimes that can happen anywhere in the world. While crime rates are low in Kenya, there are areas where you are advised to avoid traveling, such as slums and border areas. You can always hire a car and driver if you would prefer not to take public transportation.

 

Getting and out and exploring the world as a family is such an enriching activity. Yet, any type of travel from 2-week family vacations to day trips costs money. The good news is it’s possible to create and fill a travel fund which means you will always have access to the money you need for your next family adventure. Keep reading to find out how. 

Save money on your meals 

One way to fill your family travel fund is by saving money on your grocery shopping. Happily, there is a range of strategies you can use to do this, including planning your meals. Planning meals means that you stick to a list when in the store and that you don’t end up wasting money by buying items that aren’t needed. 

There are many meal planning resources and videos that can help you create healthy and delicious weekly menus for your family. Although, recipe box kits are an even easier way of doing this as all you have to do is choose the recipes you want, and all the ingredients pre-measured are delivered to you. Thereby cutting food waste, and your grocery bill at the same time.   

Make money by investing 

In addition to saving money to top up your family travel fund, it’s also possible to make more cash from an additional income. One way to generate additional income is to invest your money in products like Contract For Difference trading, as it’s also known.  

CFD Trading is a popular investment option because it operates on margins, rather than the buyer and selling of the entire asset. This means you need less capital to begin but can still make good money. Of course, just like any other kind of investment, your money can decrease, as well as increase so it’s important to consider this risk before investing. 

Save money on running your vehicle 

Most families run at least one car, with many running two or more. This means that vehicle purchase costs, maintenance and fuel all add up to be one of the most significant expenditures. 

Fortunately, by reducing these costs it’s possible to free up money that can be used to pay for activities of your choice including vacations and day trips. One way of saving money on the costs of running a car is to drive it correctly. Indeed, driving in a forward-thinking manner will help preserve fuel, and prevent excess wear on the mechanics of your vehicle, thus saving you money in both the short and long term. 

Make money with photography 

If you are looking to fill your family travel fund, making additional money by selling images online makes sense. After all, you will already be in places of interest which will likely make for great pictures, so all you need to do is snap a few additional ones and then you can sell them on stock image sites. 

Just be sure to brush up on the regulations, and tactics you will need to sell your photos successfully, as this will help you maximize your income and so keep your family travel fund topped up!  

Camping is a great way to get back to nature and enjoy the outdoors. However, it’s important to remember that when you’re camping in the wilderness, you’re completely exposed to the elements. If you’re not prepared, you could easily find yourself in danger. The following blog will discuss some tips for staying safe while camping in the wilderness!

Photo by Nathan Moore from Pexels

1) Don’t Venture Too Far From Your Campsite

One of the most important things to remember when camping in the wilderness is to not venture too far from your campsite. Once you’re more than a few hundred yards from your tent, it can be very easy to get lost. If you stick to trails and well-marked areas, you’ll be much less likely to get lost and end up in danger.

If you do find yourself getting lost, don’t panic! Stay calm and try to backtrack your steps. If you can’t find your way back to your campsite, find a high point and look for any landmarks that can help you orient yourself. Once you have a general idea of where you are, you can start heading in the right direction.

2) Be Careful With Fire

Another hazard to be aware of when camping in the wilderness is fire. If you’re not careful, a small campfire can quickly get out of control and destroy acres of forest. When building a fire, make sure to clear away any leaves and twigs that could catch fire easily. Keep your fire small and contained, and never leave it unattended.

If you find yourself in an area that’s on fire, don’t try to outrun the flames! Instead, look for a body of water such as a lake or river to take refuge in. The water will help protect you from the heat and flames.

3) Pack The Right Gear

Another essential tip for camping in the wilderness is to make sure you’re packing the right gear. Depending on the area you’re camping in, you might need special equipment such as a bear horn or snake bite kit. If you’re unsure of what to bring, it’s always best to consult with a local ranger or visit outdoorcommand.com before heading out into the wilderness.

In general, it’s a good idea to pack plenty of food and water, a first-aid kit, a flashlight, and warm clothing. By being prepared, you can help reduce the risk of running into trouble while camping in the wilderness.

4) Be Aware Of Your Surroundings

One of the best ways to stay safe while camping in the wilderness is to be aware of your surroundings at all times. Pay attention to the animals and plants around you, and look for any potential hazards. If you see something that doesn’t look right, trust your gut and avoid it.

It’s also important to make noise while you’re hiking through the woods. This will help scare away any wildlife that might be lurking nearby. And if you do come across an animal, never approach it! Give them plenty of space and wait for them to move along before continuing on your way.

5) Know Your Limits

It’s essential to know your limits when camping in the wilderness. If you’re not an experienced camper, it’s best to stick to well-traveled trails and areas that are easy to get to. And if you’re planning on hiking through rough terrain, make sure you’re physically prepared for the challenge. It’s always better to err on the side of caution than to put yourself in a dangerous situation.

6) Have A Plan

Before heading out into the wilderness, it’s essential to have a plan. You should know where you’re going, how long you’ll be gone, and what you’ll need to bring with you. By having a plan, you can help reduce the risk of getting lost or running into trouble while camping in the wilderness.

If something does go wrong while you’re camping, make sure to let someone know where you are and when you expect to be back. That way, if you don’t return on time, they can send help.

7) Be Prepared For Weather Changes

The weather can be unpredictable, so it’s essential to be prepared for changes while you’re camping in the wilderness. Bring extra clothing and supplies in case the weather takes a turn for the worse. And if you get stranded due to bad weather, make sure to stay warm and dry until help arrives.

In conclusion, following these tips can help you stay safe while camping in the wilderness. By being aware of the hazards and being prepared, you can reduce the risk of running into trouble. And if something does go wrong, don’t hesitate to call for help. With a bit of planning and preparation, you can ensure that your next camping trip is a safe and enjoyable one.