Three Reasons Why a Train Date Should Be Your Next Romantic Getaway

Trains are a romantic adventure, but they aren’t the first thought that comes to mind for most people looking for a romantic date. Why not? What’s more romantic that speeding through the most beautiful parts of California, eating an amazing dinner with the person you care most for?

Here are three reasons why train tours are the next romantic date you don’t know about yet.

The Destination

Take the Napa Valley Wine Train and you’ll find yourself headed to one of the most beautiful parts of the state, with a destination getaway. You can arrange to stay in Napa Valley if you like, going wine tasting or just relaxing at one of the many boutique hotels you’ll find. It’s not a terribly long trip, but it does take through some sweeping views.

You Control the Experience

Many trains offer different packages so you control the experience you get. Expect to spend anywhere from about two to four hours in a train with your loved one, so it’s wise to consider upgrading to whatever luxury packages are available so you have plenty of space to move around and relax. If you opt for a more cozy atmosphere, make sure you bring some things from home (like nice smelling lotions or romantic music) to make the experience more personal.

The View

Of course, the most romantic of all is the view you’ll see speeding through the country side. There isn’t really an average length of route, as every route is different, but bring your camera and be prepared to snap some photos. During Christmas time, it’s extra special because you get the snow and the starlight shining through clear night skies.

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James Provence is a volunteer docent for the California Railway Museums. As a retired Archbishop James Provence resides in Vacaville California.

What you should pack in your carry-on luggage

Written by Costbuys

Here is a definite list of items that every global traveler. This list includes the absolute must-carry items as well those that will cushion the economy-class flight. It will also not be complete without the items that could tide you over should your bags fail to make it in time or get lost when you reach your destination.

Let’s look at the basics first. The first item is the passport, since, without it, you won’t be going very far. The next is your wallet, that contains your cash and cards. A minimum of two cards that will allow cash withdrawals. Another is the printed itinerary that includes all your flight details, car reservations etc. The basics end with your phone, eye drops, eye mask and ear plugs. Others will depend on your needs like eyeglasses (or contact lenses), lip balm and face wipes. Make a list of these and buy everything you need from a discount website.

The extras are what make the flight more pleasant. The first item to include here is headphones. Ideally, a pair of proper noise-cancelling earphones will help remove all cabin noise and allow you to either watch/listen in peace or sleep. Alternatively, a pair of in-ear headphones will reduce external noise enough. The other item is a tablet with entertainment already downloaded. Connect the headphones to this and you have hours of entertainment to keep you going. Pack a battery pack and a charging cable to keep it running.  All of these items can be purchased for affordable charges when you go online discount shopping.

Lastly for overnighters, pack everything from a phone charger to toiletries, socks, underwear and clothes.

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Costbuys is a new spin on the online shopping portal that aims to take the stress out of placing your online orders.

Opening a Café? Some Extra Costs to Consider

Opening your own café is the ultimate dream come true. It’s a chance to show off your skills in cooking or drink making, to find a way to build a community around your space and to exercise your business acumen. It’s an exciting prospect, but it’s also a lot of work. Aside from the occasional burn, and slow day, there are some extra costs that some of us miss when we’re envisioning that dream.

Inventory Costs

All those white paper cups add up to real dollars when you’re looking at your costs for the year. That’s one area where new business owners tend to get wrong. Ordering too little means you’re out when you may have a customer rush. Ordering too much means you’ll have lots of extra inventory for next year, if you make it that long. You want to avoid those extra costs as much as possible by looking at whatever seasonal sales data is available to you. This is one reason why many people opt for the franchise model. They tend to provide this data to you, so you can base your work on their previous findings.

You can also look closely at the materials used in the coffee cups and lids you buy. Be forewarned that you can cut costs by going with cheaper materials but it’s smarter to get better quality cups in bulk. Customers know a shoddy product when they see one, and that’s not how most people want their businesses to be remembered.

Branding Costs

Ordering paper coffee cups in bulk also saves you money when you’re looking into branding. Those fancy Starbucks cups come at a cost, but the premium is worth it to the company because the benefit from brand recognition. Many frozen yogurt franchises do the same, with bright colors and intricate logos. Look into printing costs for these items. Is it cheaper to print on bags or cups? What about colored spoons and branded merchandise? What about loyalty cards? All of these methods help develop branding and encourage customer loyalty.

Regulations and Fees

The final hidden cost is the cost to do business in your state. Does your state have particular health codes or requirements you must adhere to, outside of the basic ones required to keep your food safe for consumption? If so, you may need additional equipment to comply, or permits to operate. You should also check with your city’s Chamber of Commerce to find out what they recommend, and if they have resources for you to get started.

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Gelato Products sells coffee cups and lids in bulk, with free ground shipping available throughout the United States.

Packing for a multi-day kayaking trip

Written by Crystal Seas

A kayak vacation can be one that gives you the chance to do what you love while learning and bettering your hobbies. However, packing for more than a one-day kayak trip can be stressful and if you forgot an important item, you may have to hold on your paddle for one more day.

The type of water you will be traveling on will affect the type of gear you need to carry. For example, if you are traveling in open water you will require additional navigational equipment, signaling, and safety gear. Your water will also impact the boat you use and how much storage space is available for gear. Here are some of the items you may need;

General gear – Sleeping bag, Personal mug, plate, Spork, Toiletries, Water pump or purification system, Compact stove, Stove fuel, Kitchen & cooking kit, Tarp or shelter, power pack, headlamp.

Supplies – Food (labeled by day or meal), Water storage, Repair equipment, Breakdown or backup paddle, Duct tape, Needle and thread (for skirt repair), Zip ties  (for boat repair).

Safety Gear – Basic first aid kit, communication device, GPS or navigational device, Emergency contacts.

Clothing & Wearable Gear- Personal Flotation Device, Knife, Whistle, Board shorts or swim suits, Synthetic hat, Sandals, Waterproof footwear and gloves, rain coat, Wetsuit or drysuit, Synthetic socks, Bag for dirty laundry clothes.

Small Essentials – Water bottle, Lighters, Sunscreen, Sunglasses, Bug spray, Camera and dry bag, Bear spray

Crystal Seas can give you everything you need—including training—and guide you through your Washington kayak adventure.

Travel to One of the Most Underrated Destinations in the World

Written by: Monte Carlo Rent A Car, LLC

finest travel destinations.

Abu Dhabi is a destination visited mainly by the intrepid and the hardcore of travelers. Why? Due to the constant clashing that is occurring in the Middle East, travelers have this idea that it isn’t safe to visit. Furthermore, this has caused a significant decrease in the amount of tourism that is occurring in Abu Dhabi. Realistically, this country is much safer than you might imagine it to be. Don’t pass on a memorable trip when you could be having the time of your life. Take a chance and explore the wonders of Abu Dhabi with these tips that will help you get started.

Renting a Car Is Faster, Easier, and More Efficient

While you may want to utilize public transportation to get a civilian’s point of view, it’s much more efficient to use visit one of the many car rentals in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and UAE. This way, you’ll be able to explore the different cities at your own pace, without having to worry about the language barrier, city maps, and rapid pace – although there’s nothing wrong with taking public transportation, it’s just easier to get around via rental car.

Furthermore, if you’re looking for a cheap car rental in Abu Dhabi, you might want to start with browsing online. This isn’t just to find the best deal, but it’s also for financial safety purposes as well.

Don’t Skimp Out On the Delicacies

If you’re a foodie, you’ll love Abu Dhabi’s culinary repertoire. Everything from small cafes to the more upscale restaurants, enjoy each and every bit of what this beautiful culture has to offer. Don’t be afraid to ask the locals where they like to eat. The hole-in-the-walls tend to offer more of a “comfort food” experience than anything.

Explore, Explore, Explore!

The great thing about Abu Dhabi is that it offers a rich cultural heritage that is beloved by the citizens that live here. There are numerous monuments, landmarks, and even beautiful open settings to see. If you’ve gone the route of car hire in Abu Dhabi, ask your driver where the most popular attractions are. Chances are you’ll find out a lot more about the area than you initially expected. Remember, the locals are the ones that know the areas inside and out. While travel books and brochures are great for reference, you should always ask the locals where and what to see. You might even stumble across something that even the travel books don’t have yet.

Planning Your Rental Vehicle for Business Trips Overseas

For a cost-efficient trip, be sure to track your purchases and search for long term stay discounts.

Traveling to Abu Dhabi, you’ll find that many business professionals stop here. For those individuals, long term stays are quite normal. Now, if you are planning on doing business in this exquisite country, you may want to find a long term car rental in Abu Dhabi. This will not only provide you with a means of transportation during your tenure here, but you’ll also be able to make the most out your stay.

Bargain Hunt

It isn’t difficult to find bargains and discounts if you’re staying in the country for a long period of time. Most resorts and car rental companies want you to spend more money by staying in the country longer. Use this to your advantage and inquire about long term discounts. While it may seem like haggling, you’re ideally obtaining a vehicle without breaking the bank. Car rentals in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and the UAE are relatively flexible when it comes to long term stays, so be sure to negotiate appropriately.

Reimbursement

When you are working with a different currency, you may not be able to track all of your purchases. If it’s business, and you’re looking to write certain things off, be sure that you log all of your purchases so that you can begin the reimbursement process once you return back to your headquarters. Note that many employers will look at your car rental as a work expense and you may be compensated for it. Be sure to track all your expenses so you don’t have to break the bank.

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Monte Carlo Rent A Car, LLC is your home for long term car rental in Dubai International Airport. For more information, visit them online or call them today.

Looking for Something New for Dinner Tonight? Try Zankou Chicken

When you visit any of the Los Angeles Zankou locations, you’ll be immediately greeted by delicious smelling food. The menu is in vibrant color and you’re next up. What do you do? If you’re struggling to decide on whether the plate or wrap is right for you, then read for a brief description of each item so you can figure out how much food you’ll need to sate the hunger.

Plates

Zankou Chicken’s plates are one of the best values to be found in all of fast casual food. You get a plate of delicious food, including a salad, hummus, pita and meat, for around $10. It’s definitely enough to last two meals, so it’s a great way to treat yourself on lunch break at work. The plate is nice because of the salad, which comes with turnips and pepperoncini peppers too. Rice is your other side dish, which is an excellent alternative to the usual side dish fare you find at Mc Donald’s and the like.

As you might expect, plates aren’t for the faint of appetite. You get a lot of food, and you get to sample a lot of the signature dishes that Zankou is known for, but it might be overwhelming for one person with a tiny appetite. In that situation, you should eat the salad mostly so your plate won’t be soggy leftovers the next day.

Wraps

Wraps are basically a staple of Mediterranean cuisine, and they are the perfect sized meal for those on the go. Wraps are chock full of meats, veggies and garlic sauce is served on the side. You can get everything to keep you going, and Zankou offers a vegan friendly alternative too. If you’re looking to reduce your meat intake, but you still want that protein, try their falafel balls.

Safety Precautions for the Abu Dhabi Traveler

Article written by HotelTravellerReviews

Avoid being scammed and misled by taking every safety precaution possible.

Abu Dhabi has long been in the shadow of the glitzy Dubai. However, don’t let this sway you from visiting this beloved city. Its hospitality and activities are more than enough to make for a fantastic vacation for you and your family. Now, when you’re looking to plan a trip to Abu Dhabi, it’s important that you follow every safety precaution to avoid ruining your entire trip. Here are some of the best safety tips that you and your family should follow when visiting Abu Dhabi.

Validate Car Rental Companies

If you’re looking to find a car rental in Abu Dhabi, be sure that you do some proper research prior to handing over your credit card. There are numerous companies that work in a “shady” environment that promises the lowest rates and the fanciest cars. However, what they don’t tell you is that they put hidden rates within the contract and you’ll find yourself being lost in a sea of charges.

Instead, locate reputable car rentals in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and UAE through the Internet prior to visiting the country. Contact their representatives through their website or via phone to confirm their legitimacy.

Banned Drugs and Medications

The UAE’s strict policy on all sorts of banned drugs has gotten many visitors in trouble. Be sure that you check in advance to see what you can and can’t bring into the country prior to travelling. The custom officials use highly sensitive machines that detect even the slightest microscopic substance. And, don’t even bother with the excuses, just know that the penalties will be harsh.

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Monte Carlo Rent A Car, LLC offers a long term car rental in Dubai International Airport. Their proven track record of outstanding customer service has made them the preferred car rental company of Abu Dhabi.

Tips to Help Travelling for Business

By Phineas Upham

Travelling for business is always a double-edged sword. It can be fun and interesting to see different parts of the country, but it can also tax your body physically and be a source for headache. If you’re fairly well travelled than some of these tips might cover things you already know. Still, anyone looking forward to a business trip might find something useful in this list of things you can do to travel more efficiently.

Make it Easy

If you pack lightly, you’ll have to do more laundry while you’re on vacation but you’ll go through a lot less stress trying to get through customs and on the plane. The pinnacle is travelling across the world with nothing but a carry on. Think you’re up for the challenge?

Look for the Suits

If you queue for security in the line that has more “suits”, or business people, things will most likely go faster for you. Most airports give you a choice of which metal detector to go through. Avoid very long waits while kids fiddle with their backpacks and gadgets.

Hotels are not the Only Options

Hotels are a good idea, and can provide a wonderful respite from being out and about, but they aren’t the only solution. Air BnB offers competitive pricing and good locations, sometimes at a fraction of the cost.

Travel Solo if You Can

Whether you’re a couple or a group, try to schedule a bit of time to go solo. It’s a rewarding experience that can lead to new friends and stellar adventures.

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About the Author: Phineas Upham is an investor at a family office/ hedgefund, where he focuses on special situation illiquid investing. Before this position, Phin Upham was working at Morgan Stanley in the Media and Telecom group. You may contact Phin on his Phineas Upham website or LinkedIn page.

Why Cayman Should be Your Next Investment Destination

The undeniable beauty of the Cayman Islands is one of the primary reasons why it has become a go-to destination for tourists. However, did you also know that it has one of the most robust and desirable real estate markets in the entire world? It’s true, all signs are pointing upwards as Cayman real estate is seeing new residential developments each year.

Cayman Islands Condo

Vacation condos are one of the more common choices for investors. Ranging from opulent residences to modest vacation getaways, they’re a dependable source of rental income.

They also serve as beautiful vacation homes that you and your family can enjoy year-round. During the high season, condos are in high demand. Tourists flock to the islands to experience some fun in the sun. Furthermore, a high return on investment is expected for all condo owners.

Information for investing in a condo on the Cayman Islands can be found through a local real estate agent. Before you begin your investment journey, seek out the advice of one these agents as they know the lay of the land and can pinpoint which area is right for you.

Seven Mile Beach

One of the more popular destinations for travelers is the Seven Mile Beach. This stunning stretch of fine white sand has been the calling card for anyone seeking a true taste of the Caribbean. It’s a desirable area that sees plenty of foot traffic year-round. With nearby dining and shopping, it has become one of the most coveted neighborhoods on the island. Condos on the Seven Mile beach range from smaller, quiet neighborhoods away from the beach to luxurious developments located in the heart of the action.

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