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Cover Artist: Michelle Held
Born and raised in Maryland, Michelle knew from a young age that she was meant to fly the vast skies of the art world with a palette and paints tucked beneath her eager wings. Passionately working as an artist and business owner for the past 28 years, Michelle has been living out her dreams in Sarasota, Florida.
Michelle currently participates in invitational paint outs and is widely collected throughout the United States. She is also represented in 3 thriving galleries as well.
Often commissioned for custom paintings as well as murals and the ever so important historical restoration, Michelle’s passion for wildlife and its ecosystems brought her to embrace the natural world through painting from life
Achieving many awards throughout this journey, Best of show Sedona 2020 PleinAir, Best Architecture Sedona 2023, 1st Place Quick Draw Forgotten Coast 2021 to name a few.
To see more of Michelle’s work visit: www.artbymichelleheld.com
Live the Florida lifestyle
Discover the perfect blend of comfort and luxury in DeLand, Florida at Grandview Gardens
Nestled in the heart of DeLand, this community offers the ideal Florida lifestyle with community amenities, convenient access to shopping and dining, and a short drive to amazing springs and beaches. Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of DeLand’s finest. Welcome home to Grandview Gardens – where your dream life begins!
ExoticVacationReads
Frommer’s Athens and the Greek Islands by Stephen Brewer
Every Frommer’s Travel Guide is up-to-date, with exact prices for everything, dozens of maps, and exciting coverage of shopping, history, culture, and nightlife. This guide is geared to travelers who want to go to Greece for beaches, beautiful weather, island hopping, archaeological riches, and the capital city of Athens. Inside, you’ll find smart itineraries, important historic sights and museums, and the types of restaurants, nightlife, and hidden beauty spots that only the locals know about.
Bali, Indonesia Travel Guide 2024 Edition by
Williams Carter
Discover Bali’s Unparalleled Beauty: Picture yourself on sun-kissed beaches with powdery white sand, framed by azure waters that stretch endlessly to the horizon. This guide will lead you to Bali’s most breathtaking coastal gems. Dive into the crystal-clear waters to explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life or ride the waves at world-class surf breaks. From snorkeling to sunbathing, Bali’s beaches cater to every traveler’s paradise-seeking heart.
Ultimate Travel Guide To Bora Bora by
Elizabeth Whyte
Bora Bora, the jewel of the South Pacific, is more than just a destination – it’s a dream come true. Imagine waking up in an overwater bungalow, the gentle lull of the lagoon beneath you. Picture yourself exploring vibrant coral reefs, where marine life dances in a symphony of colors. This guide is your key to unlocking the secrets of this tropical paradise. Dive into crystal-clear waters with confidence, knowing you’re armed with the knowledge to explore with finesse.
Frommer’s New Zealand by Jessica
Wynne Lockhart
This full-color book includes scores of photographs, a fold-out map, plus detailed maps throughout; and shows exact pricing, opening hours, addresses, and other important details that will make your trip smoother and less hectic. There is also fastidiously researched information on all of the outdoor adventures New Zealand offers. From bungee jumping to spectacular hiking, kayaking, zorbing, jetboating, and more, we cover it all, and give our take on the most responsible outfitters to use for these activities. Last but not least, the book includes fascinating information and insights on the history and unique culture of the land that’s known both as Aotearoa and New Zealand today.
Lonely Planet Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos & Northern Thailand by
Lonely Planet
Lonely Planet’s Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos & Northern Thailand is your passport to the most relevant, up-todate advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. Visit Chiang Mai, the cultural capital of northern Thailand, discover a secret beach on Cambodia’s Koh Rong, or loosen up in Ho Chi Minh City; all with your trusted travel companion.
Covers Hanoi, Halong Bay, Ho Chi Minh City, Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Sihanoukville, Vientiane, Luan Prabang, Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Golden Triangle and more.
Journeys
of a Lifetime by National Geographic
Compiled from the favorite trips of National Geographic’s legendary travel writers, this fully updated, 10th anniversary edition of Journeys of a Lifetime spans the globe to highlight the best of the world’s most celebrated and lesser-known sojourns. Offering a diverse array of possibilities, every continent and possible form of transport is covered, illustrated with glorious color photographs. Each chapter features stunning photography, full-color maps, and practical tips, including how to get there, when to visit, and how to make the most of your journey.
Bermuda Travel Guide 2024 by Noah Hicks
Embark on a journey to Bermuda, where azure waters meet pink sand beaches and lush landscapes beckon adventurous souls. Our Bermuda Travel Guide is your key to unlocking the secrets of this enchanting island paradise. Whether you’re dreaming of your next escape or planning a tropical getaway for a loved one, our Bermuda Travel Guide is the ultimate companion. Packed with insider tips, breathtaking photos, and invaluable insights, it’s a gift that promises endless adventures and unforgettable memories.
Fodor’s The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor’s Travel Guide
Whether you want to follow the Great Migration in Kenya and Tanzania, explore Botswana’s Okavango Delta, or experience Victoria Falls, the local Fodor’s travel experts in Africa are here to help! Fodor’s The Complete Guide to Africa Safaris guidebook is packed with maps, carefully curated recommendations, and everything else you need to simplify your tripplanning process and make the most of your time.
Fodor’s Essential Peru: with Machu Picchu & the Inca Trail by Fodor’s Travel Guides
Whether you want to hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, explore the Peruvian Amazon, or enjoy Lima’s world-class food and museums, the local Fodor’s travel experts in Peru are here to help! Fodor’s Essential Peru, 2nd Edition guidebook is packed with maps, carefully curated recommendations, and everything else you need to simplify your tripplanning process and make the most of your time.
Dominican Republic Travel Guide 2024 Edition by Williams Carter
Welcome to the Dominican Republic, a land of captivating beauty, vibrant culture, and endless possibilities. In this travel guide, we invite you to discover the secrets of this tropical gem, where pristine beaches, lush mountains, and rich history converge to create an experience like no other. Whether you’re a fan of luxurious resorts, charming boutique stays, eco-friendly lodges, or urban gems, we’ve got your accommodation needs covered.
All reads available at www.Amazon.com
By the Numbers Exotic Vacation Facts
23 Million
India’s trains transport roughly 23 million passengers each day. That’s the entire population of Australia.
20,000
A team of 20,000 artisans and craftsmen built the iconic Taj Mahal.
0
Saudi Arabia has no rivers. The country in the Arabian peninsula has no permanent rivers.
100
Egypt is thought to have just over 100 pyramids.
30
The world’s longest commercial flight took around 30 hours. The so-called ‘Double Sunrise’ service by Qantas, which ran from Australia to Sri Lanka from 1943-45, often lasted over 30 hours, with passengers seeing the sunrise twice.
30
You’re never more than 30 steps away from a trash can in Disneyland.
250
Sudan is claimed to be home to around 250 pyramid structures, that were built by the rulers of the ancient Kushite kingdoms between 2500BC to 300AD.
2
Incredibly, the shortest commercial flight, operating between the neighboring islands of Westray and Papa Westray in Scotland’s Orkney islands, takes around one and a half minutes. With the fastest recorded flight taking less than 50 seconds.
Sometimes planning a vacation getaway can feel like a compromise—you can have great prices or a great location, but not both. Fortunately, while it may feel that way, it’s also not strictly true. There are many vacation spots that feel like hidden gems and check all the right boxes. Who said exotic vacation destinations had to be expensive? Whether you’re a family on a budget, a college student, or someone looking to take an extended trip, these destinations are sure to impress. You don’t have to sacrifice quality beaches, food, and views to take an affordable trip these days.
1. Thailand
Beautiful beaches, interesting food, and up-close encounters with animals are just a few of the joys of visiting Thailand. While worth visiting once, you may generally want to steer clear of Bangkok, which is one of the most expensive places to stay. Once outside the city, there are plenty of things to enjoy. In the Thai currency of Thai Baht (THB), one dollar is about 33 THB. Meals can be extremely inexpensive, averaging about $1.90, while beer comes out to around $2.50. However, cheap transportation and hotels may make up for it.
2. Albania
Albania doesn’t get enough recognition, and you may not even realize that it’s home to some beautiful beaches along the riviera. One of the cheapest destinations in Europe, Albania boasts white sand beaches and clear blue water. Not to mention, there are also mountains, lakes, and old castles to explore. You can get many of the beautiful Croatian sights without the Croatian prices. In fact, 100 LEK is the equivalent of just under one dollar as of writing. You can expect to pay around $5 on average for a meal and just over a dollar for beer or wine.
3. Greece
Due to their recent economic collapse, there’s never been a financially better time to visit Greece. Prices are budget-friendly, and tourism is slowly but surely helping the country build itself back up. Depending on where you go, you can expect beautiful beaches, delicious Mediterranean fare, world-famous architecture, and more. If you’re traveling alone on a mid-range budget, the trip could cost about $81 a day.
Greece
4. Peru
Peru makes a wonderful cultural expedition, with one-of-a-kind mountain ranges, remnants of the Inca empire, and a rich history. Peru makes for a stunning adventure. While Machu Picchu is one of the most popular attractions in Peru, it should also be noted that it’s among the pricier adventures you may take. However, if seeing the 15th-century citadel is on your bucket list, it may be worth the splurge. Especially considering your average Peruvian meal is about $3, and beverages, transportation, and hotels are similarly cheap.
5. Vietnam
If you love to kayak in scenic locations, pack your bags for Vietnam. Halong Bay is a popular kayak destination, with beautiful caves and limestone islands that appear in interesting shapes. If you’re a foodie, be sure to check out the many opportunities for street food such as Pho, Bahn Mi, and delicious sweet desserts, among other things. An average meal costs roughly $2.10, while beer and water cost under a dollar. You can even find transportation well under a dollar. Just be aware that nicer hotels and accommodations can be a bit pricey.
6. Dominican Republic
If you’re looking for a great resort stay, look no further than the Dominican Republic. Cities like Punta Cana have everything there is to love about resort life, including good prices. If you plan on staying in and enjoying all your resort has to offer, you can cut out transportation costs, for the most part, giving you a bit more wiggle room for food and other fun. Average hotel prices in the DR are around $67, and you can find many all-inclusive resorts for under $150 a night.
7. The Philippines
Is your dream to backpack across the world? The Philippines is a popular destination for first-time backpackers due to great prices. If beaches interest you, or you desire to learn scuba diving, the Philippines might also be for you. While you’re trekking across the country, you can see many gorgeous views, such as rice terraces, the Mayon Volcano, and the underground river, Puerto Princesa. The average hotel in the Philippines is $45, with meals around $3 and drinks like beer and coffee just above $2.
Everyone needs a happy place—somewhere to relax, unwind, and let the worries of everyday life melt away. Some dream of white-sand beaches, while others prefer cozy mountain cabins. Regardless, research supports our need for a break. Making time to relax is not only important for personal well-being but also benefits employers and the broader economy. But what about when you can’t get away? Few of us can afford to take a spur-of-the-moment trip after a long work week. Fortunately, there’s another option: making your home your happy place. In this article, we’ll walk you through four simple ways to turn your home into a sanctuary.
Choose Natural and Warm Lighting
Once you’ve outfitted your space with comfortable furniture and accessories, turn your attention to the lighting in your home. Avoid harsh overhead bulbs and fluorescent lighting. Instead, opt for warm hues and soft lighting.
In addition to warm-hued LED lighting, incorporate as much natural light as possible. It may even be worthwhile to install new windows in a few key rooms. Consult with a contractor or interior designer about window type and placement. The top window companies offer a wide range of options, from picture windows and sliding glass doors to skylights and corner windows.
Declutter, Organize, and Clean Up
The third step is decluttering and organizing your home. Whether you take a minimalist approach or happily embrace the maximalist lifestyle, tidy spaces are more relaxing. Set aside time to deepclean your home using safe, natural, and nice-smelling products. Then, sort through one room at a time and look for items you can rehome. Donate anything you no longer want or need to a reputable nonprofit, or sell gently used items online. Consider investing in stylish organizational bins and clever storage solutions to ensure everything has a place. Then, set up a daily or weekly cleaning schedule. Even devoting 15 minutes each day to tidying your home can make a huge difference.
Prioritize Comfort
The first step in creating an at-home sanctuary is making your home cozier. Invest in comfortable, high-quality furniture that makes your space feel warm and inviting. Then, accessorize your living spaces with cushy throw pillows, cozy blankets, soft rugs, and luxury towels.
As you shop, remember that you don’t need to overhaul your entire home immediately. Focus on the rooms where you spend the most time or the spaces you use to relax.
Add Special Touches
Finish each newly redesigned space with thoughtful touches that reflect the room’s purpose and your unique personality. You can use this step to quickly refresh your entire home—even rooms that received little or no attention during the other steps. Start with a fresh coat of paint, keeping color psychology in mind. Next, decorate with items that will help set the mood. Hang artwork that evokes whatever feeling you want to achieve. Incorporate items that spark joy or celebrate your interests. Include a few houseplants, if possible. Researchers have identified several benefits to keeping plants, including improved air quality and lower stress levels.
