Unconventional Date Nights

July 9, 2019 by Leave a Comment

All long-term couples settle into a routine after a while of being together. You know which restaurants you love and which ones will give you food poisoning. The movie theater closest to the mall is always packed, but the local one down the road plays three-dollar classics on Thursdays. You’ve both got date night down to a science…but the trouble is, you do the same things over and over again. Mix it up and do something different together. You will make new memories and you might find a new hobby that you enjoy as a couple!

Dinner Theaters

You might think that only drama enthusiasts visit dinner theaters, but that’s an incorrect assumption. Florida dinner theaters are a fun, out-of-the-box way for you and your partner to enjoy a meal while being part of a show at the same time. It’s a classic twist on the “dinner and a movie” schtick and you will have a good time while there!

Ghost Tours

Do you and your partner have an interest in the paranormal? If so, check online for local ghost tours of your city! There are many different varieties, from simple walking tours and ghost stories from local guides to actual ghost hunting adventures! Whether you believe or not, it’s a fun experience that will leave you shaking in your boots while learning about the history of the city.

Cook a Meal Together

Instead of spending money at an expensive restaurant, try your hand at preparing dinner together in the comfort of your own home. Pick a recipe and go shopping for ingredients together, and spend the evening chopping and sauteeing. A home-cooked meal always tastes the best, and sharing the experience with your loved one makes it even more special.

Take a Class

Expanding one’s knowledge is never a waste of time. There are plenty of classes that are offered locally and for not much money, so choose one together and enroll! It can be something adventurous (like rock climbing), something practical (dog training) or just for fun and picking up a new skill (pottery or art lessons). Whatever you choose to do, make sure that you are both onboard to get you excited about your new endeavor.

Relationships are a neverending juggling act, and nights out together are one of those balls in the air. Instead of settling into the monotony of “same-old, same-old,” mix things up and do something offbeat for date night.

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Ireland – a travel guide

July 9, 2019 by Leave a Comment

So you are planning to travel to Ireland but have no idea on what to expect? Well, you need not worry as this is just a destination like any other. Having said this, it is always important to understand the traditions of a country and their way of life to avoid misunderstandings and awkward situations. The Irish people are known to be laid back, relaxed, and genuinely welcoming. However, it is important to understand the dos and don’ts in Ireland to help you socialize much better.

Meeting and greeting people

When meeting new people in Ireland, always keep it casual. You will be surprised to learn that the Irish are generally talkative and love engaging even with total strangers. In most cases, such discussions will revolve around the weather as there is so much to talk about the weather in Ireland. However, you do not want to touch on politics unless you want to engage in a long and heated discussion on the same.

Handshake or a kiss?

The Irish may use several forms of greeting, but the most preferred is a casual handshake. This is especially so for strangers. However, friends and relatives may go for a kiss on both cheeks. So unless you are already acquainted, keep it casual to the handshake and you will be good to go.

Ordering and paying

For as long as you will be in Ireland, you will have to interact with the food service or pub personnel.  Usually, these settings do not have table service. When you get to a bar, for instance, you will order and pay for your drinks then decide on whether to take them home or simply sit at a table to drink. Notably, Irish bars do not have the tab system. As such, expect to pay for your food or drinks as and when you are ordering.

Tipping

Tipping is a universal practice, and Ireland is not an exception. However, most restaurants in Ireland prefer to apply a service charge which technically replaces the tip, but in cases where you still feel the service has been good, a 10 – 15% tip is acceptable. Some more casual restaurants will, however, have a bowl or plate where you can leave your tip, and this can be distributed among the staff. As much as most of those in service do not necessarily depend on tips for their income, they will still appreciate the gesture nevertheless.

Smoking

Ireland banned smoking in public spaces in 2004. This includes places like restaurants, bars, offices, shops, public transport and all other public indoors places. As such, you can only smoke in your home or in designated smoking zones.

By following these customs and traditions, you can expect to have a good time in Ireland. To be on the safe side, make friends with the locals who can help you better understand other aspects of their culture ranging from religion to politics and general knowledge. With all said and done, Ireland is a great place to visit and you can be sure of having a good time during your stay at Donegal Thatch Cottages.

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Hottest Hair Accessories and Styles That Dominate the Summer

July 9, 2019 by 2 Comments

Each change of season means a transformation in beauty routines and, for the most daring, On the look of hair! If you are willing to bet on a new style, we recommend that you take a look at our pick for the hottest hair accessories and styles for the summer of 2019 and try your favorite.

Let’s start with the choice of trendiest accessories that will rock so many hairstyles in these warm days.

The Hairpins Dominate

According to Scunci the prominent online hair accessory retailer the newly transformed look of trendy hairpins dominate today’s market. The hairpins, those pieces that are normally used to hold hairstyles while going unnoticed, take center stage and are fully visible on one or both sides of the face, and the clearer it looks the better.

Metallic, with bright finishes, printed textures, in golden color and even in the form of a clip are some of the options that complement the trends of 2019.

The Headbands Resurface

The headbands were buried many years ago, but today they become essential and come in different textures and colors, knotted or braided. It is so easy to find a perfect headband and that will be ideally suitable for any occasion and all you have to do is choose the right color and point out that beautiful face that you have.

The Ties Are the ‘Must’

The ties are the favorite of all that bring the accessories for the hair in 2019. Ribbons are the perfect reason to accompany the loose hair by knotting them on the head as a finishing braid or decorating a half pigtail in its maxed out version are just some of the options that this accessory brings.

‘Scrunchies’ Are Back

The hair bands are displaced by the ones used in the late ’80s as ‘scrunchies’. That rubber band of hair surrounded by cloth to give volume and decorate pigtails returns with great force, especially to accompany the super high pigtails that also arrived with a lot of noise.

The Surprise: Scarves

Another trend that comes from the time of Brigitte Bardot is that of wearing a silk scarf on the head knotted at the neck. Although it is predicted for the spring, international influencers have already been seen wearing their handkerchiefs on Instagram and becoming viral.

The Trendiest Hairstyles for the Summer of 2019:

1. Long and Wavy

This is how it needs to be for this summer, from the middle of the back all the way down. The preferred style is the waves in all its versions, whether classic, curly, effortless, in a loop, soft or grunge.

2. Apple Cider & Peanut Butter Shades

The trends indicate that blonde and copper shades, as a balayage, are the hottest thing of the moment! Most dyes are inspired by shades that, through lights and shadows, represent the yellowish colors.

3. Midi with Bangs

Since the beginning of 2019, we already knew that the fringe would triumph over the next few months, right? However, the pictures of celebrities seem to indicate that this summer we will see more than ever. The fringes of the curtain accompanied by a midi cut, are on fire!

4. French Bob in Chestnut

Another trend that has taken over the spring-summer season of 2019 is the effortless look of the French girls, especially in the hair. The result is a short bob, disheveled, with marred tips and chestnut tones, to prevent the hair from being mistreated by the heat of the season.

5. Straight and Point

It is one of the top alternatives for summer because the hair looks healthy, heavy and abundant. Being a simple cut, it is also possible to combine it with two other trends: the fantasy dyes and bangs.

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12 Wine Term Every Wine Enthusiast Who Drinks Should Know

July 1, 2019 by Leave a Comment

wine terms

We love drinking wines, but often we rarely talk about wines. A lot of people would feel intimidated talking about wines, instead of talking with wines. It might because wines are not self-evident. It is not the same with orange juice that when it looks orange, it will taste exactly like oranges.

 

Hence, people would likely to rely on specific wine descriptors to know and elucidate how these certain wines will taste. Still feeling inferior because you are clueless even you are already reading the wine details? Take it easy. Here is a list of terms wine terms that would help you next time when chatting about vino. 

1. Aeration

Aeration is the process of letting wines breathe in the open air to soften tannic young wines or fatigue older the ones. You may either open a bottle of wine or swirl the wine in a glass. A lot of professional claims that aerating bottled wine, especially red wines, could improve its quality and taste. However, it is not yet scientifically proven. 

2. Austere

A term used to describe relatively hard wines, have a high acidity level, and lack depth and roundness. This name is usually referred to young wines that need richness and body or young wines that require time to soften. 

3. Bottle Sickness

Also known as bottle shock, these words are used to refer to a temporary situation characterized by disjointed or muted fruit flavors. This situation happens when right after bottling or when fragile wines or other wines are wobbled during a trip. 

4. Browning

Browning refers to the color of a wine, which denotes maturity and has already faded. It is common for wines that are 20 to 30 years old. These wines tend to have an enjoyable brownish edge. On the other hand, browning is a bad sign in young white and red wines. 

5. Brut

This word means dry and is applied to driest sparkling wines and Champagne. Brut wines are drier, which means they have less than 1.5 percent residual sugar per liter than those called extra dry. It is more than extra brut, however less than extra dry. 

6. Corked

This term is used to call those wines that have been spoiled with tainted corks. Corked wines have moldy-newspaper, musty, and off-putting flavor; musty basement, wet newspaper, damp rags, and chlorine smell; and a dry aftertaste.

7. Decant

This term refers to the act of separating wine into different containers to disparate older wine from sediment, and aerate wine to oxidation. Most of the time, aromas and flavors of the wine will open more if there is a presence of oxygen. 

8. Earthy

Earthy is used to distinguish savory wines, rather than of fruit-forward. Black currant is the earthiest of all berries. Wild strawberry and sour cherry are other fruits used in earthy wines. Austria, Chile, New York, Northern and Central Italy, France, and Oregon are famous for producing earthy wines. 

9. Finish

Finish refers to the residual sensation or taste in your mouth after you swallow a glass of wine.  It can either be bitter, tart, sweet, smoky, or the combination of these all. For experts, a finish is a deciding characteristic between points of 80 to 90 rating. Paying attention to what you prefer among various finish on different wines is your skill.  

10. Noble Rot

Botrytis cinerea or Noble Rot is a type of gray fungus that provokes partial shriveling on ripe grapes to concentrate sugar content. Although most wine experts refer to it as an infection, Noble Rot produces many high-quality dessert wines in the world. 

11. Oxidized

Oxidized is the term used when a wine has been overexposed to oxygen. Loss of color and flavor, browning in pigment, and bitter characteristics are the effects of oxidation. Other Sokolin’s highest rated wine producers like Sherry production encourages this style of winemaking; however, it is a fault in wine.

12. Tannin

Some people misconstrue that tannin is what headaches from red wines are made out of, while others misinterpret it with dryness. Instead, tannin contributes to the body and taste of red wine and adds prickly drying sensation on one’s tongue and roof of one’s mouth. 

 

Red wines can have low, medium, or high tannins. For instance, Pinot Noir has a lower tannin, while Cabernet Sauvignon has higher tannin. Additionally, tannins are complex, astringent,  and herbaceous. As a matter of fact, women are more subtle to how bitter a high tannin wine is than men. 

Takeaway

It is best to have standard knowledge about wines, so you will not feel inferior when talking about it. Choosing the best wine comes down to one’s capacity of using the right terms, regardless it is off the menu or shelf.

 

Author’s bio:

Scarlett Wells is a full-time writer and wine expert. She is an active critique examining all levels of wine types so she can produce reviews and articles that will help guide every consumer in selecting the right kind of wine to drink. Aside from that, she wrote a lot of blogs maximizing the real usage of wines.

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Cryptocurrency and Entertainment

June 28, 2019 by Leave a Comment

With the advent of the internet, online commerce has taken the world by storm, and this will surely continue for the foreseeable future. Instead of going to a physical location to purchase goods and services, you can buy most anything online with free shipping. To make these transactions even more comfortable, the majority of banks have created virtual wallets which enable consumers to make purchases instantly. When you do travel to the store, you can use the NFC technology inside of your smartphone to tap the terminal. With this said, you no longer need cash or physical cards when shopping either online or in-person. Since physical money is falling out of favor, companies are looking for ways to introduce digital currencies to the public. Bitcoin, Litecoin, and other offerings have failed to catch on because they are not exchanging hands. Recently, Facebook announced its cryptocurrency, which is receiving support from many organizations. Moving forward, entertainment personalities such as David Guillod may be using this technology to transact in the entertainment space.

Adopting Cryptocurrency

For longer than anyone alive can remember, the physical currency has been the primary source of transactions, and it will be difficult to change. When internet users first had access to online commerce, many individuals were wary of having information and identities stolen. It took quite a few years for this behavior to become routine, and now users often buy items with a straightforward click. In retrospect, many exciting processes have become second-nature for humans, and digital currency will eventually follow suit. With many independent entertainers gaining favor with the masses, they could potentially connect directly with these audiences with digital currencies.

For this type of technology to catch on, the entire economy will have to become more malleable for this to occur. Also, including Blockchain and cryptocurrency education in school curriculums will help speed this process along. As it stands, many consumers are still unaware of how the banking industry functions and are not prepared for the overhaul of the financial system quite yet.

Making Transactions in the Future

Eventually, many people will experience physical reality with a form of augmented reality layered on top. With 5G around the corner, it will be possible to integrate more types of technology into reality. Instead of using an outdated form of currency that is still tied to things such as the Automated Clearing House (ACH), consumers will slowly gravitate toward digital options. With Facebook leading the charge for this type of currency in the mainstream, it would be wise for these partnering organizations to tie this cryptocurrency to entertainment.

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Amazing Temples in the World

June 28, 2019 by Leave a Comment

There are approximately 4,000 different religions practised in the world today. I find it quite fascinating that while we’re all human, we’re so different from each other. And these numbers are only what seems like a proper religion. There are many tribes practising different traditions which act like their religion. While some places are cordoned off for outsides, there are some temples you can check out to get a sense of the people and their beliefs there. If you’re respectful, I see no harm in exploring around.

Learn about a different side of history

While most of the history is composed of wars and conflicts, along with new discoveries and such, another side of it is the religion. I think it’s interesting to learn about different traditions and beliefs as well as the reason behind it. Some religions evolve with time while some stay the same. On my trip to Bangkok in Thailand, I visited a few of their temples and pagodas. The huge Buddha statues and the utmost respect people have for him. It was fun to tour around and learn about it all. 

Wat Rong Khun, Thailand

Located in Chiang Rai, it’s also known as the white temple. The colour white actually symbolizes the purity of Buddha. Looking like something out of a wintery fairy-tale, the architecture itself symbolizes a lot of things. The glittering glass used in places is a representation of the infinite wisdom of Buddha. Due to Thailand’s culture, architecture is a mix of Thai and Hindu. The overall vibe is very serene as there’s a tranquil lake upfront. There are many paintings of Buddha inside and new ones are being added. 

Tigers Nest Monastery, Bhutan

Lodged on the side of the cliffs in the upper Paro Valley, this is one of the most sacred locations in Bhutan. The second Buddha who introduced the religion in Tibet, Guru Padmasambhava, is said to have meditated here for a long time. Built back in 1692, this monastery is 3000 meters above sea level. As you can tell, people have to go on a long challenging trek just to get here. But I personally think that the whole mystical vibe and the views are worth the effort. If you want the full experience try to visit during the festival of Tsechu, which honours the second Buddha.

Temple of Heaven, Beijing

A huge complex of religious buildings that were established back in the 15th century by the Ming Dynasty to honour the sky. It’s one of the largest ancient temples in all of China. There is a round wall around it that represents the sky and a rectangle one outside that, representing earth. While considered a Taoist temple, back then it was used by the emperors of Ming and Qing dynasties who lead prayers up to the heavens to help with the annual harvest. This heaven worship along with a ritual of sacrifice predates Taoism. This great temple is also a UNESCO heritage site.

Prambanan, Indonesia

This Hindu temple contains 3 buildings dedicated to Trimurtis, to Gods of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. The one dedicated to Shiva is the highest and located in the centre. Each of the building has many rooms as well as a statue of the respective deity. From afar, you’ll see intricate designs and the visible proof of old age since it was built back in the 10th century. Since it’s dedicated to Hinduism, it’s built using the same architectural styles of other Hindu temples. It’s the largest religious complex in all of Java. Take a guided tour because while it’s a sacred place, it’s also an excellent historic site.

Golden Temple, India

Built back in 1604 by Guru Ram Das Ji, the fourth Sikh Guru, it’s one of the most sacred places for Sikhs. Located in the Punjab region of India, it’s not just painted golden but the marble building is actually gold plated! The way it shines in the sun makes it seem like some surreal holy place. It’s also home to the holiest text in Sikh religion, Guru Granth Sahib. With entrances on all four sides of it, it welcomes people from all over the world. Plus it’s also a wonderful place for positive charity as more than 35000 people are fed here for free. Follow the dress code to enter here and have a look around.

Shwedagon Pagoda, Myanmar

Located in Yangon, Myanmar, this place is the most famous Buddhist temple in all of Asia as its home to 8 pieces of hair of Buddha. In fact, this marvellous temple was built during the time of Buddha, around 2600 years ago. Taphussa and Bhalika, who built this impressive structure actually got a chance to meet Lord Buddha back in BC 588, right after he had been enlightened. He gave them 8 pieces of his hair which inspired them to build this temple. It was them plated with gold while the top parts are decorated with thousands of diamonds. If you’d like to see a good example of Buddhist architecture then make sure you visit here.

Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Deemed as the largest religious monument in the whole world, as it sprawls over 401 acres and reaches the height as high as 700 feet. It’s a delight to check it out, marvelling at the Hindu architecture of the place. It was built by Suryavarman II back in the 12th century in tribute to Lord Vishnu. Sadly, over the centuries the temple went through a rough time and was destroyed to some extent. It was later restored and fixed by the Khmer empire. This mixed some Buddhist influence in the Hindu architecture. The top of the temples was beautifully decorated and designed by the Khmer Empire. It’s also unique because unlike other temples it faces west. Take a guided tour of the place to view the many sculpted decorations and statues. The history behind it is also very fascinating especially due to the fact that it went such changes. The mix of ancient and the Khmer influence is pretty clear.

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Blockchain and Independent Films

June 26, 2019 by 1 Comment

With the advent of the internet, independent film companies have come about readily, and this does not seem to be changing. Now, more than ever, the ability to make an independent film is accessible to pretty much any individual with a screen. Before this period, making films was reserved for big studios that were given massive budgets. Movies from these large studios are still responsible for the majority of the revenue earned in this industry, but independent films are beginning to make some noise. Film producers such as Heather Parry have seen this industry over the years, and it continues to evolve as time continues. Independent filmmakers have turned to solutions such as blockchains to receive proper forms of compensation.

Providing Faster Revenue Channels

Traditionally, there are a lot of channels independent film companies must go through before they receive compensation. Companies of this nature regularly receive publishing deals from bigger studios and are often the last entity to receive payment. With the introduction of Blockchain technology, this would no longer be the case. Independent film companies would receive more direct revenues, and these filmmakers would earn more money as a result. Since these individuals are responsible for the overall creative process that reaches the audience, they should receive compensation as quickly as the more prominent entities or even faster if possible.

Reaching Target Market Faster

Since consumers have an endless amount of options to choose from when it comes to visual entertainment, consumers often look toward independent companies to find new offerings. At this time, there appear to be a lot of remakes and sequels in the film industry. While these films are often engaging and draw large crowds, innovation in this space is happening in the independent film sector. With Blockchain technology, independent filmmakers can reach target audiences directly through partial ownership programs. With crowdfunding becoming a big part of the gig economy, many consumers look for avenues that can assist independent artists and filmmakers. As a partial owner, the consumer will become a part of the process and will recoup an investment in real-time once the film begins to make money.

At this time, you no longer have to go through more prominent channels for any form of entertainment. Films of all kinds are released each day from across the world, and this will only continue. For those who have a keen interest in the film industry, this is an incredibly exciting time for independent filmmakers. It is only a matter of time until Blockchain technology becomes integrated into this space.

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Mystique, Mediterranean and the luxuriously magical land of Morocco

June 24, 2019 by Leave a Comment

In this fast-paced world, all of us are in a headlong rush to achieve our goals as fast as we can. For students it is achieving the highest marks, for some adults it means working longer hours for that Christmas Bonus. However, in the end, it does take a toll on you and the sheer stress of it can drive anyone crazy. That is why you might need a good long break that relaxes and revives you for the next quarterly. And what better way to relax than dive deep into the heart of comfort and pampering by opting for the best villas to rent in Morocco, ones that massage away the weariness from your bones?

Located at the Northern part of Africa and lining the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea, Morocco can offer you just that and then some. Pastel hued with its turquoise waters and palm trees and ceramic arts, Morocco continues to rise in demand amongst people who want something different from the European experience. 

At the heart of its seemingly boho and eccentric cities, are resorts and villas lined up to offer you that luxurious experience that you have been craving. Many of these exude the local culture yet combine with it the world class luxury of exotic gastronomic delights by master chefs and sensually deep massages and restful evenings at the sauna. And if you wish for some privacy and a place away from the din of the city, here are our favourite luxurious villas that combine the best of all these worlds:

Villa Acqua

This stunning villa has three bedrooms with three ensuite bathrooms that can accommodate up to six guests. It is located in a secluded area within the one of the medieval cities of this country. This seclusion offers you privacy to enjoy your luxurious getaway in peace. It is an ideal vacation spot for a large group or a small destination wedding. There is an L shaped pool lined with lush olive and palm trees and you can dive in to wash away the sweltering heat of the day. Or maybe an afternoon of music and Barbeque calls more to your soul. Head to the Petanque court invites you for afternoon games or enjoy golfing the lush golfing fields. After a full day of spas and massages and wines that make your taste-buds dance, link arms with your partner and watch the sun set beyond the palm trees, as you sip on delicious cocktail concoctions that the staff brew for you.

 

Villa Noelle

Located in Tassoultante, Morocco this villa provides a high scale private estate for you and your family. You will be enthralled by the well-maintained gardens and lush greenery of the palm trees. Noelle is designed in such a way that it reflects the Moroccan culture and its art. The villa buildings are splashed with colours that complement yet contrast each other and breathe culture and class. Local pieces of art adorn the rooms and expert chefs offer up platters full of one gastronomic delight after the other. End the day by lounging by the pool with your friends, wine in hand and the wind in your hair and swishing among the olive branches.

Amelkis

This exquisite villa can accommodate up to twelve guests in its six spacious bedrooms. The villa is located in a lush park which doubles up as a golf course and provides a comfortable stay for both golfers and families. Amelkis provides a lot of amenities and horseback riding is just one of them. Amelkis is not just for relaxing, though, and, for the ones who seek a little adrenaline everywhere, you can join the Equestrian club and zip through the expansive grounds atop glorious beasts that are friendly and fierce. The best part? Amelkis is known for its expert chefs and the delicacies that they offer up on platters to its guests. And once you are done enjoying all that, you can head to the spa with world class amenities and enjoy massages that pamper your heart and your aching muscles.

 

Loka

Loka is a uniquely styled villa that classily combines comfort with sheer serenity. Located in a secluded area just outside the city’s cultural centre and golf courses, it gives all the access and amenities that come with living near the city yet does away with all the din and noise of the busy streets. The villa itself is grand and spacious and has ample sample for anyone who wants to read a book beneath a palm tree in peace. It can house up to sixteen people in its lush expanse yet it never seems crowded, making it one of the best options if you are travelling in groups. The villa breathes old imperial air with its palatial and grand interiors. Also, world class spa facilities for you to let the stress out of your system. Palm trees line the pool and one can just lounge there with book and wine or take a dip in its sparkling blue waters. And after a long day of play and shopping, you can satiate the wolves in your stomach with scrumptious delicacies that the kitchen staff prepare fresh for you and only you. Bring a perfect end to the night with friends by your side and cocktails in hand and the roaring fire in the fireplace queitly ushering the cold nights away.

 

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