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When it comes to getting tips for retirement, there are no better people to ask than current retirees. Here are 10 of the best retirement planning tips we received from some of our retired friends.

1. Understand that inflation is inevitable.

Rising prices  will eat into your retirement funds, reducing your buying power. You should understand that inflation is inevitable and factor it into your retirement plans accordingly. By understanding and accepting that inflation is going to happen you can start to prepare in advance, through investing. By doing your research on the stock market and looking into a companies’ stock forecasts, such as amazon aktie prognose (otherwise known as the Amazon stock forecast)you can make money using data instead of your gut instincts. Enabling you to put extra money away for your retirement to help combat inflation.

2. Keep an eye on your investments in pre-retirement.

The money you will need between five and ten years after you retire is the most vulnerable to your overspending. Once this money has gone, it will be a significant challenge to recover it.

Therefore, you should consider investments that provide you with a predictable income. However, be aware that the more predictable an investment is, the less income it will likely offer you. You may wish to take advice from professional investment management services, to ensure you make the best decisions for your future.

3. Involve your spouse in your retirement planning.

Just as you will likely have done throughout your time together, you should involve your spouse in financial planning when it comes to your retirement. Just as you’ve previously discussed buying a new car or taking on a mortgage, for instance, be open with your spouse about your financial retirement plans.

4. Focus on your physical health.

It is crucial to pay attention to your physical health as you approach retirement. Healthcare costs are high, and they are one aspect of retirement that many people fail to consider. Failing to factor healthcare costs into your retirement planning means that any unexpected expenses in this area could jeopardise your retirement plans.

5. Create a budget and stick to it.

Budgeting is straightforward when you know what you have available to spend. However, many people do not take the time to calculate what they will have as their retirement income. If you require assistance in this area, you should consider consulting with an investment professional. These experts will give you insights and tools that will help you stick to your financial plan, check out Portafina.

6. Use a good investment professional.

Following on from the previous tip, you should use a good investment professional. If you’ve not used one before, the best way to find a good investment professional is through a recommendation from a friend or family member who have used one previously

7. Watch out for higher travel expenses in retirement.

There is little doubt that travelling is cheaper and more convenient when you are younger and more mobile. Therefore, consider getting any big travel plans you might have completed before your retirement. Moreover, when you have retired, be mindful of high travel expenses as these will eat into your retirement funds quickly

8. Become mortgage-free.

Owning your home not only provides you with a physical roof over your head, but it gives you considerable emotional shelter too. When you become mortgage-free, you free yourself of a significant financial burden, probably one of the largest monthly expenses most people face.

9. Work a bit longer.

An excellent way of ensuring you have sufficient funds to sustain your retirement lifestyle is to work a bit longer. Working beyond your planned retirement age may not have been your first choice, but it can provide you with a considerable financial cushion for retirement. Even continuing to work for a couple of years means you can considerably boost your pension and retirement funds.

10. Expect to overspend.

Regardless of the amount of financial planning you do before retirement, overspending is inevitable. Therefore, you should plan for unexpected spending and budget accordingly.

Conclusion.

Planning for your retirement it’s not difficult, but it does require a bit of effort. The good news is that by making some minor adjustments, you can achieve the retirement lifestyle you desire. Hopefully, these ten retirement planning tips will help you achieve that.

Hiking is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors. It’s also an activity that can be dangerous for anyone who isn’t prepared, so it’s important to make sure you have everything you need before heading out on your hike. In this blog post, you will learn about things that hikers should wear when they’re going into the wilderness.

Hiking Footwear

The most important thing that you need is that there is footwear specially designed for long nature hikes. Anyone giving you hiking apparel suggestions will explain how important it is to wear hiking footwear that is designed to be worn on difficult hiking trails. These things will keep your feet comfortable and safe while you’re walking through the rough terrain of a mountain or forest trail for several hours, days, weeks if necessary.

The main thing to remember about hiking shoes is that they are not sneakers. They should offer more support and be made from tougher material to protect you on the trail. Sneakers will get dirty, wet, and damaged easily while hiking shoes can sustain a pounding of rocks or mud without damaging your feet or ankles due to their sturdy build.

Here are the most important features your footwear should have:

  • comfort
  • durability
  • water resistance
  • easily washable
  • not weighing too much

Tracksuit

It’s important to know that you need to be warm during the morning and night when you’re hiking. You should wear a tracksuit that is comfortable and can be worn when things get tough during the hike, just in case it gets cold at night.

Tracksuits are great because they have inner pockets which will keep your hands warm in the winter months. They also come in layers so if things heat up on your hike you can take off a layer or two to prevent getting too hot but still provide insulation from the elements no matter what time of year it is.

It will guarantee mobility and flexibility, things you need when hiking. It’s also a good idea to wear tracksuit pants instead of shorts if you want to avoid getting hurt by any rocks or sticks on the trails.

T-Shirt

Once it gets hotter outside, you should lose your top and have a t-shirt on. This is the most basic piece of clothing you need for hiking, and it’s usually made from a cotton or polyester blend. It should be comfortable to wear and also offer your skin some protection against things like plants with thorns as well as bugs that might bite!

The t-shirt will probably have short sleeves (but long sleeves are not unheard of), which means you’ll want to look for one that has UV protection which is another must if there’s sun exposure involved in your hike! You don’t want to end up with an awful burn on top of everything else.

Shorts

Shorts should also be worn in order to not get too hot in your tracksuit bottoms. After all, shorts are made for things like hiking so they’ll be breathable and won’t make you too hot.

If it’s cold or raining then waterproof trousers should be worn on top of the shorts to ensure staying dry even in wet conditions.

Shorts will also protect your legs from any prickly plants that may brush against them as you pass through vegetation. Remember to wear hiking socks with some gaiters if necessary! You can also use trekking poles when out walking but don’t let this stop you from getting fit because there are plenty of ways around carrying these things whilst still keeping yourself safe during a hike!

A Hat

For maximum sun protection, you’ll need to wear a hat. Most hikers recommend wearing brimmed hats rather than baseball caps or visors, but the choice is up to you! These items are available in many styles and shapes including straw hats, wicking fabric hats, high-quality ball caps with neck flaps for extra sun protection (often called “solar flap”), etc.

The important thing is that your hat should cover all sides of your head without touching your face or blocking your vision. This will ensure maximum coverage from both hot sun rays as well as water if things get wet during rain storms while hiking on trails too long! Use sunscreen under any outdoor hat, especially if it doesn’t have UV ray protection built into its design.

Sunglasses

It’s also essential to cover your eyes when you are hiking. Sunglasses help to protect your eyes from the glare of the sun, which can cause damage to your retinas if exposed for too long.

Buying sunglasses with UV protection is also advisable. Just like hats, they are available in a variety of styles, colors, and shapes. However, you need to be a little bit pickier here because of the protective factor of cheaper brands!

Hiking is a fun and healthy activity but you need to be dressed properly. That’s why the first thing to know is that you need good footwear for protection and maximum comfort. Wear a tracksuit for mobility reasons and under it, you should put on a t-shirt and shorts. It’s essential that you protect your head from the sun so a hat and sunglasses are also a must. Good luck and have fun!

In an accident, proving liability can be a complex process. It would help if you did many things to ensure you have the best chance at success when proving liability in court. You have to consult with an experienced attorney before making decisions about your case. This post will go over four essential steps that you should take after an accident and how they will help prove your case in court.

Truck accidents in San Diego can be particularly devastating, given the size and weight of the vehicles involved. If you are involved in an accident with a UPS truck, it is essential to understand your rights and options. It includes understanding how UPS freight truck accident FAQs can help you prove liability. You can ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries by knowing what to expect. It will also help to contact an attorney to learn more.

Things to do to prove liability:

  1. Witness Statements

Witnesses can also be an essential part of an accident case. There may only be one or two witnesses who saw what happened in some cases. In other cases, there may be more. If you can get statements from witnesses, it can help prove liability.

If possible, try to get statements as soon after the accident as possible. Witnesses’ memories tend to be vivid in the immediate aftermath of an event, so getting statements right away can help make sure that all their relevant information is included in the statement.

If you can get a written statement from any witnesses, it may be preferable to have them sign and date each page before sending it to the insurance company. It makes it easier for your insurance lawyer to prove the witness statement for claiming the rightful compensation; click here to learn more about insurance lawyers.

  1. Get The Police Report from the Accident

Police reports are also critical when trying to prove liability. You should make sure to get a copy of the police report. The police report will give information about where your car was concerning other vehicles during the collision, which can be essential tools to prove liability for an accident. It is also helpful if the police report includes the officer’s opinion about who was at fault for the accident. If it doesn’t, you may be able to get a sworn statement from the officer later on in your case.

During an accident investigation, it is common for police officers to take pictures or gather statements from witnesses about what they saw happen. Ask for copies of any photos taken by investigators or witness statements included in the police report. In that case, these can also be very helpful in proving your case.

  1. Traffic Camera Footage

Traffic cameras and surveillance footage can also play an important role in proving liability. Many cities have traffic cameras that monitor intersections and other parts of the city for various reasons, such as security or public safety. If you can obtain any copies of photos from these types of devices, they could be helpful evidence if there is a dispute about who was at fault for the accident.

Similarly, some businesses have surveillance cameras that may have captured footage of your car driving by just before or after the accident happened. If you can get a copy of this footage, it can help prove liability.

  1. Photo and Video from the Accident

Another critical factor in proving liability is having photos or videos of the accident scene. Having visual evidence of the accident will help back up your claims and make it easier for the court to understand what happened. It can be beneficial in proving your case. Try to get statements from any emergency workers who responded to the scene. They may have valuable information that can help prove your case.

It is good to get photos of the damage done to both vehicles in an accident if possible. These photos will help prove who was at fault and how much damage they caused. Have photos of your injuries and doctor’s notes documenting your treatment for those injuries. This evidence will help make it easier to prove that the other driver was at fault for your injuries and should be held responsible.

There have been many accidents that have been captured by CCTV and become evidence in cases. While some people have a dashcam installed in their car to capture everything that happens and can be used as legal evidence inside and outside of the car. The question is, where should the legal placement of dash cam on your car be?

In summary, where there is disagreement about who is responsible for an accident, it is vital to have as much evidence as possible to support your case. These are just a few examples of the types of evidence that can help prove liability. If you are involved in a truck accident, make sure to keep all of these things in mind and gather any relevant evidence you can. Having this evidence will help make it easier to get the compensation you deserve.

You’ve probably heard of the spiritual moldavite crystal before. It’s a beautiful, fiery-coloured stone that is said to bring about spiritual transformation and healing. Though it’s the most famous of the moldavites, many more varieties have their unique properties and characteristics. The Moldavites are aged, greenish-brown stones that are found in areas of the Czech Republic and Slovakia. But there are some things you should know before buying one for yourself or someone else. Here are six things to know about the spiritual moldavite crystal before you buy it:

How To Identify a Fake Moldavite?

Imitations of the original moldavite stone have been on the market for a while now. So, while you are looking for where you can see larger pieces available to buy, you must learn how to identify a fake moldavite. Hold the stone up to the light. If you see any bubbles or air pockets in the stone, it is likely a fake. Fakes will also often be lighter in weight than the real thing and may not have the same shine. Another way to tell if a moldavite is fake is to look at its surface. The fakes will often have scratches or be very smooth with no facets.

Look at the edges of the stone. A real moldavite will have very sharp edges, while a fake one will have smooth edges. Another way to identify a fake moldavite is to check the weight of the stone. Genuine moldavites are quite light in weight, while fakes will be much heavier. You can also test the hardness of the stone by scratching it with a key. A real moldavite will scratch easily, while a fake one will not.

The Healing Properties of the Moldavite Crystal

Due to its significant value, mining the moldavite crystal is a difficult process. There are only a few mines in areas that were once volcanoes that produce this stone, making them rare and expensive. In addition to its spiritual properties, the moldavite crystal also has powerful healing properties. It is said to help with physical healing, as well as emotional and spiritual healing. The moldavite can help to clear away negative energy and promote positive change.

In some healing sessions, crystals are laid out flat on your body so that their energy can be used for healing purposes. For these types of healing sessions, it is best to use elongated stones so that they can be laid out evenly and flatly. The moldavite’s unique shape allows you to do just this.

The Moldavite Crystal Has a Unique Appearance

Though it is greenish-brown in colour, the moldavite crystal has a unique appearance that allows it to rightly be called a stone. It can have sharp angles and sides as well as smooth curves and sides. It is a fairly fragile stone, so you should take care when handling it. There are many different types of moldavites, each with its unique properties and benefits.

The spiritual moldavite crystal is the most famous of the bunch, but there are also blue, black, and white moldavites. The price of a moldavite crystal can vary depending on its type and size. So, before you buy one, be sure to do your research and find the right one for you. It also comes with a few different facets on its surface, which allow you to see the inside of the crystal.

What Determines Its Price and Value?

The price of the moldavite is determined by many factors, including its colour, clarity, size, cut, carat weight (how much it weighs), type (elongated or not), and purity. The spiritual moldavite crystal is made up primarily of silicon dioxide and can vary in colour from greenish to brownish. It has a hardness that ranges between 5.5 to 6.5 which makes it easy to scratch and break.

Though it may seem like large crystals are more valuable than smaller ones due to their size, this is not necessarily true for this stone. You should be aware that very small stones can be just as valuable as larger ones so before you buy one investigate all of these factors.

Spiritual Moldavite Crystal

When it comes to the spiritual moldavite crystal, there are many things to consider before making your purchase. This unique and powerful stone can help to transform your life spiritually if you allow it. So, be sure to do your research and find the right one for you before buying.

The spiritual moldavite crystal is a powerful stone that can help you connect with your higher self and find your true purpose in life. It has strong healing properties and can help you to clear away negative energy. Be sure to do your research before buying one, as each type of moldavite has its unique benefits.

Weddings are certainly unforgettable days in our lives. However, no matter how happy an event may be, it goes without saying that it also brings with itself a lot of responsibility and a little bit of discomfort and even stress. Nevertheless, you can make things easier if you break down the responsibility into parts. For instance, you can start by dividing the tasks into two parts, those you can sort out yourself, and those you should leave to professionals.

To that end, check out this list and find out about the things you can DIY and those that need a rather professional touch.

Things you should leave to a professional

There are a great number of things you can do yourself for the wedding, but there are also certain things that you should hire a specialist for and thus be on the safe side.

Photography

Weddings are one of the happiest moments in your life, so you should definitely capture these moments that you will always want to remember with pleasure. Exactly due to this reason, there are many people who specialize in this field. Therefore, make sure you get a professional photography package that will encapsulate these special moments in the best way possible. This way, you will ensure the premium quality of your day that will keep enchanting you every time you go back to your photo album.

Food

Food is the next aspect of your wedding that you should really spare yourself the fuss, and leave it to the professionals, to be on the safe side. This is mainly because you should have an eclectic food menu, for there will be many people with different preferences, which would thus make it difficult for you to live up to all their tastes, and the second reason is that it would take you too much time and effort and make you overly exhausted for the wedding. If you take all this into account, it may definitely be the safest option to leave it to the specialists in food.

Makeup and hair

Makeup and hair is indeed a special aspect of your wedding appearance, so make sure it is suitable for an event such as this one. In this way, it is highly recommended that your hair be someone who will give it a professional touch.

Things you can DIY

There are so many different things you can actually DIY for your wedding. Not only will you do them with pleasure and joy, but you will also save much of your money. Things such as brooch bouquets, wedding invitations, table numbers, ornament chairs, and decoration in general, are only some of the things you can take on yourself.

Brooch bouquet

A brooch bouquet is indeed a special item and a must for your wedding. Fortunately, instead of paying a lot of money for one, why not make it all by yourself? Not only that, you can give it your personal touch and this will also be one of the sweet things that you will certainly always remember gladly. While making one, make sure you use the colors that match the style and colors of your wedding and thus strike a perfect balance.

Wedding invitations

Wedding invitations are the next aspect of your wedding that you can turn into a project of your personal creation. What is more, you don’t need to be an expert in making wedding invitations, instead, you can give it your personal touch and make it unique and delightful. It will certainly be different from the traditional ones which will surely delight your invitees!

Gilded table numbers and chair ornamentation

You can easily make your guests’ places more special and even give them a sense of grandeur. The good thing about it is that you can achieve all this by yourself. For instance, you can use a golden spray and color the table numbers, which will make your guests feel special. Likewise, you can add some glitter and sequins and make them look really amazing.

On the other hand, you can also do the chair ornamentation part, where you can add flourish decorations on the chairs and thus make them welcoming and sweet. Similarly, you can add your decorative touch to the tables as well. For instance, you can add rustic candle holders and fragrant candles, which will give your wedding a really fragrant and special sense.

There are so many things you can do to make sure your wedding is the one all your guests and you will always remember. To that end, follow the ideas from this list that you find most suitable for you and make your wedding special!

The global situation is slowly going back to normal, meaning we’re bound to see drastic changes in gambling and the gambling industry. During the past couple of years, the changes that happened have influenced the way gamblers approach playing casino games.

Technology innovation and the transition to online gambling sites like Casinocrawlers and cryptocurrency pushed the industry into a different trajectory. And with 2022 just a few days away, it’s nice to check out what we’re expecting in the coming year for gambling.

This article will look at these upcoming trends in the gambling world:

  • Crypto As Major Form of Currency
  • Reopening of Land-Based Casinos
  • Increased Popularity of Esports Betting
  • Virtual Reality Gaming
  • Change in Casino Playing Habits
  • More Live Dealers in Online Casinos
  • Continuous Rise of Mobile iGaming

Crypto As Major Form of Currency

Cryptocurrency has been gaining steady momentum over the years, with multiple crypto coins appearing left and right. Bitcoin, in particular, still holds the reins as the top cryptocurrency in the market.

Many online gambling platforms began accepting crypto as a form of payment, with some even offering bonuses for paying using crypto. The anonymity and extra security that crypto payments offer give both gambling sites and customers the confidence that each transaction is safe. To learn more about cryptocurrency, check out the best crypto exchange australia.

However, traditional payment options will still be available on these gambling platforms, allowing those not into crypto to continue playing their favorite games.

Reopening of Land-Based Casinos

2020 saw the closure of most establishments due to the pandemic, with the land-based casino industry taking a severe hit. Due to the closure of many land-based casinos, avid casino players have transitioned to online gambling platforms to get their fix.

With industries going back to business since mid-2021, land-based casinos are opening their doors and accommodating patrons once again. Unfortunately, with limited seating capacities and more players choosing to stay with online casinos, it may take some time for them to recuperate previous losses.

Increased Popularity of Esports Betting

The innovation in communication and internet technology helped esports grow in popularity and support even during the pandemic. Despite lockdowns and travel restrictions, many esports competitions were held in the past couple of months, giving way to more people watching their matches.

But not only fans and spectators are watching, but also seasoned sports betters that see potential in the various league’s competitive nature. This will push esports betting to the next level, even competing with sports betting for traditional sporting events. Some professional leagues that see strong betting include Dota 2, League of Legends, Overwatch, Fortnite, and CS:GO, to name a few.

Virtual Reality Gaming

Far from the first virtual reality consoles of yesteryears, virtual reality or VR gaming has become a viable option for many gamers. The technology has leaped forward so much that even the gambling industry started adopting this platform for their casino games. VR technology also helps give players an immersive gaming experience, bringing them as close as possible to their beloved casinos.

Utilizing VR and augmented reality (AR) technology on casino games proves to be where casinos are going. Many software providers for the industry are diving into the technology that they’ve produced several slot machine games as proof of concept.

Change in Casino Playing Habits

The playing habits of casino players took a drastic turn with the rise of online casinos. Traditionally, casino gaming supports a pay-to-play platform, where one must buy tokens first before participating in games. But with many online casinos offering free casino bonuses to compete in the crowded market, it’s almost become a standard for new players.

With the many bonuses and discounts online casinos provide gamers, land-based casinos are taking the challenge head-on. They are finding ways to adapt to this new gaming culture and cater to their potential customers.

More Live Dealers in Online Casinos

Dealers are a vital part of the casino industry, as their wit, charm, and personality entice patrons to continue playing. Most online casinos started with AI dealers and algorithm-based casino games. However, recent studies show that players prefer having a real dealer on their games than computer-controlled ones.

Wanting to please their customers and attract new players, online casino providers are taking the feedback seriously and are starting to make necessary changes. They’ve employed real dealers to play with online gamblers on Baccarat and Blackjack tables while encouraging human interaction amongst players and dealers.

Continuous Rise of Mobile iGaming

The smartwatch industry continues to show a meteoric rise due to its convenient and easy-to-access platform. With an expected global worth of around $33 million by 2022, many game developers are starting to make games for the smartwatch.

Mobile iGaming is the next step in casino gaming technology. Not only limited to smartphones anymore, but current innovations in smartwatches also allow for more accessible casino gaming. Developers are creating immersive casino games that are not only interactive but also rewarding.

Stay Ahead of the Gambling Trends for 2022

Based on the growing trends, the gaming industry is looking bright. Continuous progress in the adaption of cryptocurrency, gaming habits, and the use of the latest technology proves that the casino world is catering to its clientele. While competition is intense, it only pushes the industry forward.

An aquarium can be a very nice addition to any room. Some people choose to have an aquarium for the tranquillity that they provide and people enjoy watching their fish. There are some features that are important when looking for an aquarium. Here are 6 important features to look out for when buying an aquarium.

Self Cleaning Mechanism

An aquarium with a self-cleaning mechanism is very important. This ensures that the tank will not get dirty as it will clean it for you. A built-in self-cleaning mechanism works by having a small motor that automatically stirs up the sand on the bottom of the tank and it will siphon out all of the dirt. The cleaner, set up like a vacuum cleaner, will suck up any excess food on the bottom and walls of your aquarium as well as remove algae from the wall and glass surfaces. It is important to make sure that this is an option that the aquarium has.

Levelling Feet

An aquarium with levelling feet is also an important feature that you need to look for when buying an aquarium. These levelling feet ensure that your aquarium will be able to sit level on the floor. An aquarium that is not level could fall over and break. This could occur for a variety of reasons, but it can even be an accident where you bump into the tank while it’s on the stand or if someone might knock against it. You should make sure there are levelling feet and that they can adjust to any surface.

An aquarium with levelling feet is also important as it allows for natural water movement and it will keep the fish in an environment that is similar to their natural habitat.

Tank Lid

There are a few different types of tank lids. The most important feature you should look for is to make sure that the lid has air holes in it. This will allow your fish to get enough oxygen and will prevent any suffocation. There are also other options such as tempered glass, plastic or metal lids depending on what would suit the theme of your home and what you want to use it for.

Make sure the lid locks in place securely. If the lid does not lock in place it is possible for children to knock against it, or for adults to accidentally bump into the aquarium which may cause problems like described above when there’s no levelling feet.

Tank Size

The size of your tank is important as well. You will need to make sure that you measure up how much space you have for an aquarium before you buy it. You also need to have enough room for the size of fish you want. If you are just starting out with an aquarium, it will be a good idea to buy smaller fish until you decide which larger ones you would like to keep in your aquarium.

In addition, consider the shape. There are several different shapes that aquariums come in, so it is important to determine which one you like the look of and what will best suit your home or business. Rectangular tanks can be placed nicely along a wall and they take up very little floor space. This is helpful if you would like to keep an aquarium in your home but it makes it hard to have any walking room when there is a tank in the middle.

Pump

A pump is another significant feature to look for when buying an aquarium. This will provide the oxygen in your tank, run through filters and heaters, and circulate water through your tank.

Make sure the pump is strong enough for the size of your tank. There are different levels of pumps and you need to make sure that it matches up with your tank appropriately. For example, a 10-gallon aquarium will require a stronger pump than a 20-gallon one would.

Heater

One last thing you should look for when buying an aquarium is whether or not there will be room for a heater at the back of your tank. This is an important feature. Without one, your fish could freeze if the temperature is not regulated. At the same time, you do not want them to get too hot either.

To prevent this there are different levels of heaters available. The stronger the heater the more it will regulate your water temperature in order to protect your fish from getting too cold or too hot.

Your aquarium will need some important features to ensure that it is safe for your fish, will provide them with the best living environment and protect you from any accidents. You should make sure that you first research thoroughly all of these features before buying an aquarium.

With the nights drawing in, sun-starved Brits are craving some much-needed vitamin D. With so much up in the air, deciding on the perfect destination for that first big trip is a hard feat. However, things are reassurinngly Covid-secure in Dubai, and the UAE on a whole as we go into the New Year and dream of a getaway.

Nothing is overlooked and masks are mandatory in all enclosed public places, until you sit down for food of course. Social distancing is still practiced and people remain very respectful of space; with Dubai being the centre of the world and home to countless nationalities, people are aware of different boundaries and levels of comfort in regards to closeness. My room at Jumeirah Beach Hotel was laden with hand sanitisers, information on local rules and the staff could not have been more attentive from the moment I arrived. With azure Arabian Gulf views, endless sun, a long golden beach on the doorstep and sumptuous dining options, the five-star hotel is the perfect place to beat the blues this winter.

Yes, the flight is lenghtly – especially if you haven’t travelled far in the last two years but you can tick off every country in the world from the safety of one Emirate, ideal for those wanderlust cravings. This is particularly prominent in the mind-boggling array of world-class restaurants in Dubai that feature cuisine from Cannes to Chiclayo. My taste buds rejoiced after maxing out on the same boring Deliveroo order for the last 18 months. You can head to the breezy European style bistro, Cassette, in the atmospheric The Courtyard in Al Quoz for croissants, cold brew coffees and nomad working. During the sun-soaked days, chow down on contemporary Indian food at Bombay Bungalow by the beach, and, come evening, jump in a golf buggy and hop over to the other nearby Jumeirah hotel along the glittering coastline, Jumeirah al Qasr, and tick off Monte-Carlo at the ever-chic French Riviera restaurant.

For those distinctly Dubai moments that the glittering Emirate is famed for all over the world, I went first on an exhilarating Desert Safari Experience to thrash around in the endless dunes and learn about the local culture from the expert guides, before heading to SAL at Burj Al Arab for balmy sundowner cocktails, a hotel that is synonymous with luxury, hospitality, and decadence across the globe. With so much to take in, the Dubai Frame is a great way of bridging the gap between old and new. The monument offers panoramic views of the entire city with its futuristic skyscrapers touching the clouds right across to the older section of the Emirate located near the river that has remained the same for generations.

Looking to be totally transported? Dubai Old Town on the banks of the creek takes the top spot. Gypsum buildings have been beautifully restored to their original glory, complete with wind towers that cast a contrasting silhouette to the modern skyline. Start at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding and learn about the rich cultural history of the past and also of the present. Perch on Bedouin-style carpets and pillows, and feast on a selection of delicious dishes whilst your local host answers questions about life in the UAE. With its motto ‘Open Doors, Open Minds’ – all questions are welcome and answered, no matter how sensitive. I left feeling humbled and thoughtful, before being thrown back into the hustle and bustle almost straight away in the kaleidoscopic gold, spice and textile souks.

The energy and forward-looking feeling in the Emirate was received like a welcome tonic after months of reminiscing in lockdown about what life used to be like. As we flew over the silver metropolis on a Seawings Seaplane Tour there was a buzz of construction of brand new restaurants, new hotels, and new homes. One to watch is the opening in 2022 of Atlantis The Royal Resort & Residences which will be made up of a staggering 231 luxury apartments, 693 hotel rooms and 102 suites. The hotel will exclusively host restaurants helmed by international celebrity chefs, including Gaston Acurio, Costas Spiliadis, Ariana Bundy, Heston Blumenthal and Jose Andres.

Our trip ended with an exquisite meal at Cé La Vi as we toasted how far travel has come and gazed up at the astonishing Burj Khalifa in all its glory. We clinked our glasses with the restaurant’s name on our lips 220 metres above sea level and sipped on one of the famous ‘Not You Last Word’ cocktails (or two!).

Travelbag offers five nights in Dubai staying in the 5* Jumeirah Beach Hotel on a half board basis from £1,479 including direct return flights from London Heathrow with Emirates. Selected January 2022 travel. Based on two adults sharing. To book, Call Travelbag on 0207 001 4112 or visit www.travelbag.co.uk. All packages subject to availability. Free unlimited access to Wild Wadi Waterpark™

For more information, see visitdubai.com

In recent years, many people have been choosing cremation over burial. The family and loved ones of the deceased keep their ashes in traditional urns to cherish their memory. There are many options to choose from to personalize the cremation urn to capture the essence of your deceased loved one. Some alternatives even include other objects to hold your loved one’s ashes. Here are some ideas to create a unique and memorable cremation urn.

Biodegradable Urns

A biodegradable urn is a container designed to hold the ashes that remain after cremation. The fact that these urns are made from organic and recyclable materials obtained in a sustainable manner distinguishes them from other types of urns. It is then planted in your garden and grown into a tree, which you can watch grow and blossom over the years. This gives you a memorial tree urn that can last for generations. Some businesses specialize in creating a type of concrete using your loved one’s ashes. This type of concrete is biodegradable and can be planted in the ocean, which acts like a coral reef.

Traditional Urns

When it comes to the material used for a cremation urn, there are several options available. This is the first decision you need to make in order to determine what type of design can be implemented on the urn. You can research several types of urns online to find the one that best represents your loved one’s personality. Marble urns are a popular choice due to their elegant design and sturdy structure that can last for years. You might choose a ceramic urn that is more adaptable in terms of color and shape. Metallic urns are also durable and long-lasting, and they are often chosen as a classic alternative. Wooden urns are one of the most flexible since they may be carved with whatever design you like.

Artistic Urns

The art commemorates and memorializes your loved ones while keeping them close by, so you can reminisce about all the memories you had together. You can choose art as the final resting place for your loved one. This can include a painting where the ashes are mixed with the paint. This is a great option for people who enjoy art, making it the perfect way to honor their memory. You can either get a portrait of them painted or choose one of their favorite places or landscapes to be drawn on the painting. Another option is to combine the ashes with tattoo ink. To avoid clogging the tattoo equipment and to blend perfectly with the tattoo ink, the ashes must have a very fine consistency. This means that the tattoo artist will only use a small amount of the cremated ashes, allowing you to honor your loved ones in more than one way while still having a piece of them on your body.

Musical Urns

When the song that is life comes to an end, why not keep that record spinning forever? Some people choose this option, especially if their loved one was passionate about music. The ashes can be placed inside a guitar, which you can hang on your wall. You can also turn the ashes into a vinyl record. Some companies specialize in making vinyl record urns by combining your loved one’s ashes into a vinyl record with a song of your choosing. It is a great way to honor your loved one’s memory by recording their favorite song on the vinyl record.

Jewelry Urns

Urns can be transformed into various types of jewelry. Most people choose a necklace to carry their loved one’s ashes, any type of accessory can be used for this purpose. It is made by hollowing out a charm or bead and then filling it with ashes before sealing it. The beads are then strung onto a chain for a necklace or bracelet. A cremation bead could be made by mixing the ashes with melted glass. Glass jewelry is made by heating the glass before combining it with the ashes. It is then shaped into spherical beads or any other shape you choose.

The ashes might also be turned into cremation diamonds, which can be worn as a ring, necklace, or any other adornment. Diamond is made from carbon, which is found in the ashes. They are placed in a metallic box that is heated to a high temperature as well as being subjected to extreme pressure, imitating their natural underground environment, leaving only the carbon particles behind. These particles are melted to form graphite. The graphite is processed to form a crystal, which takes several weeks. This crystal is then sculpted to your specifications. This crystal is then sculpted to your specifications. This is one of the most expensive and time-consuming techniques for creating a cremation urn.

These are some of the cremation urn options available to you. When it comes to commemorating your loved one’s memory, the design and shape possibilities are endless. Instead of opting for a standard urn, you can create a personalized monument to honor the memory of your loved ones forever.

Things have certainly changed since Covid-19, and education is one sector that has probably seen the most changes to its way of operating. However, the pandemic is not the only thing that has changed the way that teachers and students interact. The overall digital landscape has been evolving in the past two decades, and we have now reached a point in time when the new technologies available to us are quite revolutionary for the teacher-student relationship. Moreover, these solutions also have a big impact on the performance of the teacher and student in their own capacities. These are solutions that both teacher and student can use to improve their skills in many areas, especially when it comes to the relationship between them. #

With so much learning being conducted remotely, teachers and students have found new ways to impart knowledge and learn. The cherry on top is that most of these solutions are either completely free or cost only a few dollars a year. Today, education is no longer limited by financial capacity or physical proximity. Here are a few things all teachers should know about in 2021.

1. Education

If you are in a space such as IT, then you know that things are changing quickly. Every day there is something new to read about, or something new to learn about. However, the same is true for nearly every industry. With so much user-generated information, teachers are hard-pressed to keep up with everything or risk getting left behind. Luckily that is not as difficult as it used to be, modern technology can deliver what is needed straight to our hand-held devices. For instance, you can now become a Mandurah teacher to help students participate in their lessons. With online lessons, you can now study at your convenience. But it’s up to us to internalize it and convey it to students.

2. Communication

With remote learning the norm, the method of communication between student and teacher has become a challenge Even though you might be sharing Google Docs with your students for the actual coursework, your communication needs to improve. Students need feedback to understand how they can improve and as it’s getting harder to give that to them, some teachers are shying away from the responsibility. Luckily, you can literally talk to the student through the digital environment. This is not the same as converting speech to text. It is actually attaching your voice, like a voice message, to the Doc and sharing it with the student. This is not only much quicker, but it is a lot more personal. It helps bring back the human element in this otherwise physically disconnected world.

3. Knowledge

While user-generated information is great in that it gives us a lot of information, you have to take this with a grain of salt. You would be amazed to see how much incorrect information is circulating online, but only the experts can detect it. The average person, who is just beginning to learn about a subject, will not be able to tell if what they are looking at online is inaccurate or not. Especially in more advanced subjects, if a student is studying the motion of an object -it’s impossible for a new learner to tell if the equation is true or not. In fact, anyone could write anything and as long as it is presented properly, people will buy it. As teachers, we need to provide students with solid resources and educate them on how they can find the best information possible.

4. Interaction

Another challenge facing us as teachers is how to filter the good from the bad information even if we are more than proficient in the subject we teach, which adds to the evolution of knowledge in that subject. One of the biggest problems is seeing something new and not knowing how to learn more about it.

An incredibly useful solution is a product called image recognition software. This software can literally tell you what you are looking at. It’s also a valuable tool in class, and you are trying to teach. Other than just telling you what something is, it can show you information about whatever the app sees through the lens. As a teacher, this is something very handy to have on your phone. It’s a very convenient way to learn from the internet.

If you are using digital solutions to get work from students and also hand out assignments and coursework, then consider using an analytics tool. In fact, this tool not only helps teachers but the students as well. Analytics tools can be used for everything from written content to audio files and even video files. It helps you analyze the material in a very statistical and well-articulated way. When you are facing any problem, analytics tools can be an invaluable asset. All of these solutions combined can totally revamp the way we learn and the way we teach. This is the best time to take a step in the right direction.