Category: Africa

10 Essential Tips for Prepping Your Home Before You Leave for Vacation

September 9, 2023 / Ruben Herrera

Are you getting ready to pack your bags and leave for a much-needed vacation? While you may have planned out all the exciting details of your trip, have you thought about what needs to be done before leaving your home unattended? With a little prep work, you can ensure that your house is safe and secure while you’re away.

In this post, we’ll share 10 essential tips for prepping your home before heading out on vacation. So grab a pen and paper because these tips are not to be missed!

1. Unplug Appliances

One of the most important things you can do to prep your home before you leave for vacation is to unplug all your appliances. This includes everything from your coffee maker to your television. Not only will this help save you money on your energy bill, but it will also help protect your appliances from power surges.

2. Change Your Thermostat Settings

If you plan on being gone for more than a day or two, it’s important to change your thermostat settings. This will help keep your energy bills in check while you’re away and prevent your home from becoming too hot or cold.

To save money on your energy bill, set your thermostat a few degrees higher in the summer and lower in the winter. This may not be comfortable when you first return home, but it will make a significant difference in your energy usage.

If you have a programmable thermostat, you can set it to return to your normal settings an hour or so before you arrive home. This is so that your home is comfortable when you walk in the door.

3. Lock All Windows and Doors

While you’re in the process of packing for your vacation, spare a few extra minutes to ensure the security of your home. Start by checking the functionality of your door locks. If they’re not in perfect working order, consider reaching out to a Daytona Locksmith (or one in your vicinity), to have them fixed. In addition to securing your doors, it’s crucial to close and lock all windows before you depart. An open window can be an open invitation for intruders, so it’s essential to make sure all windows are firmly closed and locked before you set off on your vacation.

Bear in mind that securing a broken window or door is akin to leaving them open. Prioritize addressing their poor condition before heading for a vacation. If, however, repairs prove ineffective, consider replacing them. For this, you can enlist the help of professionals who can provide door and window installation services. They can tackle the task swiftly.

4. Take Out the Trash and Recycling

It’s important to take out the trash and recycling before you leave on vacation so that your home doesn’t become a breeding ground for pests. If possible, put your trash and recycling in a sealed container so that it doesn’t attract attention from animals.

5. Waterproof Your Home/Check for Leaks

If you’re leaving your home for an extended period, it’s important to take measures to protect it from water damage. Waterproof your home by checking for leaks and repairing any damaged areas. For instance, if you notice damage to your roof that could cause leakage in the house, consider conducting an online search using phrases like “roofers near me“. This way you can locate qualified professionals who specialize in addressing roof issues and hire them after thoroughly reviewing their websites and customer reviews.

Similarly, remember to disconnect any hoses or pipes that could leak while you’re away. If possible, have someone check on your home regularly to ensure there are no issues. If you’re unable to do this, consider installing a water detection device that will alert you if a problem arises.

6. Put Away Valuables

It’s important to put away all valuables before you leave for vacation. This includes items like jewelry, watches, and laptops.

You don’t want to leave these items out in the open where they could be easily stolen. Instead, put them away in a safe place where they’ll be hidden from view.

7. Set Up a Timer for Lights

Another important thing to remember is to set timers for your lights before you leave on vacation. This will give your home the appearance of being occupied, deterring burglars. It’s a simple step that can give you peace of mind while you’re away.

8. Check Alarms

When it comes to home safety, one of the most important things you can do is to make sure your home alarm is working properly. Before you leave for vacation, take a few minutes to test it. If it seems to be malfunctioning, then replace it with Verisure Monitored Alarm System and the like. Additionally, it is a good idea to create a list of emergency numbers and keep it near your phone in case of an emergency while you’re away.

9. Arrange for Pet Care

If you have pets, it’s important to make arrangements for their care before you leave on vacation. This can include hiring a pet sitter, boarding your pet at a kennel, or making arrangements with friends or family members to check in on them while you’re gone.

If you’re hiring a pet sitter, be sure to interview several candidates and choose someone who you feel comfortable with and who will provide the level of care your pet needs. When boarding your pet, tour the facility beforehand to make sure it is clean and well-run, and that the staff is caring and attentive.

Whatever option you choose, make sure your pet has plenty of food and water. Also, make sure that their bedding is clean and comfortable, and that they have any toys or other items they need to stay entertained while you’re away.

10. Notify the Post Office

If you’re going to be gone for more than a day or two, it’s a good idea to notify your local post office. This way, they can hold your mail for you while you’re away.

To do this, simply fill out a form at the post office or online. You’ll need to provide your name, address, and the dates you’ll be gone. Once everything is filled out, submit the form and you’re all set!

The Best Places to Take Your Little Ones on a Family Holiday

August 15, 2023 / Ruben Herrera

Were you traveling with kids as a kid? Probably not.

That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try it. Children, when young, seek adventure and new sights. They want to jump in and explore these different places, even with the occasional bout of skepticism.

The idea of a travel holiday is to seize the opportunity, hand them the reins, and see where the next leg of the journey goes. Keep reading for our guide on the best places to take your children on a family holiday.

Walt Disney World, Orlando, Florida

The happiest place on earth is also one of the most magical places to take your little ones on a family holiday. From meeting their favorite characters to exploring different lands, your kids will be sure to have a blast at Walt Disney World.

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Yellowstone is an amazing place to explore with your family, and kids will love seeing all the wildlife up close. There are also plenty of kid-friendly hikes and activities to keep everyone entertained.

Montreal, Quebec

Montreal is a great city for families to discover, with plenty of kid-friendly attractions like the Biodome and the Insectarium to explore. You can get around by public transit, renting a taxi, riding bikes, or even walking, depending on which neighborhood you’re in. Kids will have fun discovering the sights of Old Montreal and trying out some of the delicious food from this French-Canadian city. Whether you’re looking to discover Montreal by taxi, bike, car, or metro, there are plenty of family-friendly adventures awaiting.

Niagara Falls, Ontario

A trip to Niagara Falls is a must for any family holiday – and it’s especially fun for kids! They’ll love getting up close to the falls on a Maid of the Mist boat ride.

There are also plenty of other kid-friendly activities in the area. For example, visiting Clifton Hill and taking a ride on the Niagara SkyWheel.

Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver is a beautiful city that’s perfect for families. It offers tons of kid-friendly activities. This includes Stanley Park, which is home to the Vancouver Aquarium. You can also visit Granville Island, a great spot for arts and crafts, and Capilano Suspension Bridge.

San Diego, California

San Diego is a great place for families, with plenty of kid-friendly attractions like Legoland, the San Diego Zoo, and SeaWorld. Kids will also love exploring the beaches and spending time in Balboa Park.

Hawaii

No list of family holiday destinations would be complete without Hawaii! With its beautiful beaches and amazing wildlife, there’s something for everyone in this tropical paradise. Plus, your kids will never forget their first Hawaiian sunset!

London, England

London is an amazing city that kids will love exploring. From riding the iconic double-decker buses to visiting Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle to seeing Big Ben up close!

There are also plenty of kid-friendly activities like going on a Harry Potter tour. You can also go learn about history at The Tower of London or Hampton Court Palace.

Washington D.C.

Washington D.C. is a great city for families. It has heaps of kid-friendly attractions like the National Zoo, the Smithsonian Museums, and the Memorials. Plus, kids will have a blast exploring the monuments and memorials around the city!

Paris, France

Paris is one of the most romantic cities in the world – but it’s also great for family holidays! Kids will love seeing all the famous sights like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral. They will also love exploring some of Paris’ less well-known gems like Montmartre and The Catacombs.

Rome, Italy

Rome is an amazing city that’s full of history and culture – perfect for curious little minds! Kids will love exploring all the ancient sites around Rome, like The Colosseum and St. Peter’s Basilica. They will also enjoy getting up close to Michelangelo’s statues in The Vatican Museum.

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is a great place to take your family on holiday. It is where you can find plenty of kid-friendly attractions like Park Guell, La Sagrada Familia, and Camp Nou (the home stadium of FC Barcelona). Your kids will also love exploring the streets of this vibrant city and trying out some delicious tapas!

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Amsterdam is also a great place to take your kids on holiday. There. you can find plenty of kid-friendly attractions like the Heineken Experience and the KattenKabinet (a cat museum!). Kids will also love exploring the canals on a boat tour and checking out all the cool street art around the city.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavík is another great destination for family holidays. There are a lot of kid-friendly attractions like visiting Viking ship replicas.

You can also take a dip in one of Iceland’s natural hot springs, and explore Laugavegur (the main shopping street). Plus, kids will never forget seeing their first Northern Lights!

No matter what destination you choose for your family holiday, you’re sure to make some unforgettable memories with your little ones. Happy travels!

Egypt: Why You Must Visit The Pyramids

August 28, 2020 / Ruben Herrera

There is nothing more captivating than one of the seven wonders of the world. I have always admired the amazing culture and history surrounding the Egyptian Pyramids. With modern amenities right on the doorstep of the pyramids in Giza you will have no shortage of things to do. When I have been to Giza and the pyramids a few times myself and simply cannot get enough of it. Therefore, today I am going to go through some of the reasons why the Giza and their Pyramids are a must-see for anyone with a passion for adventure and mystery.

Amazing History

I have always found the history surrounding the Pyramids fascinating. The best part about it is that since the pyramids are so colossal in scale, you will always discover something new about them whenever you visit them. For instance, the first time I visited the pyramids I thought that it was an elaborate cemetery because it houses some of Egypt’s most famous pharaohs. But under closer inspection on my second visit there was so much more to the story.

All the intricately decorated tombs are records of a long-passed story of another way of life. A glimpse into what once was with art of the ancient farmers, religious rituals and what we would now consider brutal practices. I think there is not any else like in the world. For these monuments to stand the test of time is nothing short of astonishing. There is nothing quite like it, not many other cultures in the world have so much well-preserved literature. I could get such a powerful sense of their history identity and culture from all they left behind.

Delicious Food

If history is not your thing trust me there is so much more to experience in modern Egypt, in and around the pyramids. If you love food like I do, and I really love food, you are going to be spoiled for choice in Egypt. There are plenty of great eatery options near the pyramids that will satisfy a wide range of palates.

Many decide to enjoy a beautiful cruise along the Nile river, near the pyramids so they can take in the food and views at the same time. Personally, this is how I experienced it as well. The food went down even better with fantastic views all around.

In the inner city, you will be able to find a wide range of tastes, so you are bound to find something you like. They mostly take influence from Mediterranean cuisine, from countries like Greece, Turkey, and Levant. This is the focus in diverse urban areas around Giza. If you are the kind of person who prefers to taste rural local food, you will most likely be offered Kuftah, a type of spiced meatball served in a thick, gelatinous soup.

Diverse Culture

With Egypt as a country, being predominantly Islam with 90% of the population, it is a great opportunity to learn more about Islamic culture. From learning the difference between sunni compare to sufi, their individual rules and laws, and a lot more, one can get a detailed understanding of what Islam is. Also, because Giza is a popular international tourist spot, you can see a big international presence in the city. So, if you are a big fan of western comforts you will not be deprived of them. There is plenty of choice for whatever side of Egypt and the pyramids have to offer.

Make no mistake just because the city has international influences, it does not mean you will not get an authentic Egyptian experience. The amazing artwork from the template’s heavy influences modern art and culture in the local areas. There is plenty of artists impressions of what the Egyptian pharaoh’s teaching could translate too in a modern setting. With hieroglyphics being a focal point of a variety of modern Egyptian art.

To conclude, you will struggle to find place with more mystery, charm, and character than Giza and its pyramids. They have long been a focal point for Egyptian culture, catapulting their country to international renown. I know I would go back to those pyramids in a heartbeat if I could. I feel like there is so much left unexplored in those ancient temples.

Bathroom Etiquette in African Countries

June 12, 2020 / Ruben Herrera

If you are planning on taking a trip to an African country, then you probably need to know some traveling etiquette. One of the least thought of but important protocol is how to properly use the bathroom in these countries. Many people fail to realize that using the bathroom in other countries is nothing like using it America. Squat toilets are common throughout Africa, and it is just what it sounds like, a hole in the ground with a pan to stand upon instead of a toilet bowl.

Squat toilets might be a bit intimidating for those who are not comfortable with a lot of squatting and bending, or those with bad knees and hips. The most common locations with squat toilets include restaurants, bus, and train stations, as well as low budget hotels. Check out these 8 bathroom etiquette rules when traveling in African countries.

Enter the area with the squat toilet. You will find a bucket or small bowl for your use, be sure to locate the water supply. If the squat toilet is not filled with water, you will need to do this yourself. Locate the footrests for the squat toilet, and put your feet on them. You usually will be turned away from the squat hole.
Keep your clothing items from hitting the floor. If your clothes touch the floor, most likely they will become soiled. It is best to remove your pants or underpants before using the squat toilet. The floor of the area is usually wet, from backsplash of water as well as those who do not have a perfect aim.
Remove items from back pockets. If you have no notion of removing your pants or underpants to use the toilet, be sure to remove all items from your pockets. You do not want to play “seek and find” in a squat toilet for your belongings; it will be an experience you will never forget.
Get into your best squat position. If you are unsteady on your feet, look around for something to hold onto. Most times there is no sink or towel bars to hold onto. It might take a lot of practice to get a perfect aim, or to just to “assume the right position.” However, in this instance, you will have to believe – practice makes perfect.
Cleanse with water. After completing your task, use the bowl in the room to cleanse your private area. If you don’t have a cloth with you, you will most likely be using your hands to help rinse and clean your body. It is a good idea to keep hand sanitizer with you as well.
Do not flush your toilet paper or other paper products. Squat toilets do not have the same plumbing that exists in the United States. The plumbing is more sensitive and might even be nonexistent. Using paper is sure to cause a blockage. Just find a trash can to dispose of it. Water is usually provided to help flush the toilet. Pour it in the pan, so that it moves around and cleans the bowl.
Refill squat bowl with water. Out of courtesy to the next person who enters the squat area, refill the bowl before you leave. Some places will usually provide you with soap or towels, but just to be sure, carry around your own at all times.
Leave a tip for bathroom attendant. Don’t forget the toilet attendant, if there is one. They are usually there to help those with the initial shock of seeing a squat toilet, as well as having to go in and clean up a messy situation.

Not all bathroom experiences are squat toilets in Africa. However, you will have to find upscale restaurants and hotels to find a bathroom with toilets that flush.