![]() Daigo-ji Temple | Kyoto |
Discover the Land of Endless AllureThis year, Japan is a standout in the travel scene. While the cherry blossoms often steal the limelight, each season in Japan presents its charm. Kyoto’s heritage sites radiate tranquility, Tokyo’s avenues hum with life, and Hokkaido’s landscapes captivate — a tapestry of experiences awaits every traveler. Sakura SeasonCherry blossom season is beautiful wherever you find a thicket of the spring-blooming beauties – but the most famous destination for this is Japan. The trees hit their peak in Tokyo from the end of March to the beginning of April. ![]() ![]() Himeji Castle, Hyōgo | Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto “Sakura,” as the blossoms are called, are a sign of renewal, and their quick blooming season is a reminder of the transience of life, both of which are important tenets of Buddhism. It’s why the blossoms are so revered and sought out by the Japanese – and why visitors who want to take part in the annual ritual need to book far in advance to see it for themselves. Gastronomic WondersBut flowers aren’t the only reason you’ll visit Japan. The food culture is strong thanks to the high quality of ingredients and the attention to detail and presentation that make every meal an exceptional one. ![]() ![]() Amanemu – Ise-Shima | Tea Ceremony – Aman – Kyoto And the fine dining is unforgettable. Japan has 411 Michelin-starred restaurants and another 428 that boast Michelin’s Bib gourmand ranking, noting excellent meals for under $50. Build a trip around food, and you’ll never go wrong. Watch the Netflix documentary Jiro Dreams of Sushi to get you excited about your mouth-watering trip. Echoes of Tradition immersing yourself in Japan’s deep-rooted culture is at the heart of your journey. Make Kyoto your first stop: walk through the torii gates of the ancient Fushimi Inari shrine, enjoy the ceremony and ritual found within a traditional wooden teahouse, admire the colorful kimonos of the geisha, and slow down and find your Zen in the famous raked gardens. ![]() ![]() Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kyoto | Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Nara Park A popular day trip from Kyoto is to Nara, Japan’s first capital, full of historic treasures, including UNESCO world heritage sites. Wild deer are considered sacred in Nara Park and have become the symbols of the city. Buy a bag of deer crackers to feed them, and you’ll become fast friends. Winter Wonderland Hokkaido, the northern jewel of Japan, is a winter enthusiast’s dream. Blanketed in powdery snow, this region transforms into a picturesque wonderland. Beyond skiing and snowboarding on its renowned slopes, travelers can marvel at the Sapporo Snow Festival’s grand ice sculptures or take a tranquil walk in the snow-laden Otaru Canal. And when the cold gets intense, there’s nothing more comforting than a bowl of Hokkaido’s signature miso ramen to warm your spirits. ![]() ![]() Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono – Hokkaido | Takayama Another great spot is Takayama, a stunning small town near the Japanese Alps with an old town full of traditional wooden homes and shrines. Refuel on the go by picking up some mitarashi dango (rice balls grilled in soy) from a street stall. Takayama is often voted one of the most beautiful cities in Japan. Another top experience is onsen, and there’s lots to choose from: Japan has over 3,000 hot springs. Taking part in the hot spring ritual allows visitors to soak up more of the local culture. Onsen’s are oases of calm, and most will insist visitors strip down to their birthday suits before slipping into the hot baths. ![]() ![]() Onsen, Yamagata | Ryokan Onsen, Kawaguchiko Lake(Good to know: you’ll need to cover up tattoos with a sticker patch, but some onsens are beginning to allow tattoos. Check before you go.) While gaijin, or foreigners, may find the art of communal bathing odd, in Japan, it is a beloved part of everyday life. Might as well dive in! The food, the culture, the natural settings – what’s first in your Japan trip? JAPAN BECKONS – START PLANNING |
![]() Manarola, Cinque Terre, Italy |
Dreams to Destinations – The Power of Planning AheadThe perfect journey begins with the perfect plan! As we edge closer to another year, it’s the ideal time to start laying out your “blueprint” for travel in 2024 and the years that follow. And why navigate the vast world of travel alone? When you team up with me, you’re unlocking more than just bookings. Dive into hidden gems, exclusive travel perks, and local insights that aren’t readily available to most.![]() ![]() Top: Puerto de Santiago, Tenerife, Spain | Bottom: Porto, Corsica, France If you’re a creature of habit (St. Barts again?), let’s find you something incredible in the Canary Islands, Tenerife perhaps? If you like your Italian-influenced Mediterranean islands (try Sardinia) or French – then Corsica may be your next favorite destination. A long-term plan not only unveils hidden gems and my exclusive perks but also elevates those monumental life events. ![]() ![]() Top: Wilderness Chitabe – Botswana | Hotel Grande Bretagne – Athens, Greece A significant milestone or important holiday deserves something special – sing happy birthday with a sundowner on safari; toast the years while standing amid Greece’s marvels, basking on its sun-kissed shores, or getting lost in the vibrant rhythm of Athens. Or what about heli-skiing down the champagne powder of the B.C. backcountry? Those are experiences no one forgets. And those big trips are ones to book a year or two in advance with me. This gives your travel family something to look forward to, and the advance-plan document helps us keep an eye out for better pricing and availability. Now, that’s definitely worth nailing down a two-year plan for. Dream trips aren’t left to chance. Use your travel blueprint to uncover the best of what the world has to offer. LET’S DESIGN YOUR BLUEPRINT |
![]() Christmas Market | Salzburg, Austria |
Need a Festive Getaway? I’ve Got You CoveredI understand life’s whirlwind pace – work, family, day-to-day chores. So, it’s only natural if you momentarily forgot to book that festive trip you’ve been dreaming of. If you’re now pondering, “Where should we ring in the holidays this year? What choices do we still have?” – you’re in the right hands. With the festive season on the horizon, it’s prime time to lock in those travel arrangements. While early planning usually ensures the best rates and options, my insider expertise means I can still find those secret spots even at the last minute. Late bookings might indeed have a slightly higher tag, but the delightful experiences and hidden opportunities I can access are well worth it. And remember, the sheer excitement of a last-minute festive escape? Absolutely priceless. Be it for the upcoming festive season or any other time of the year, let me chart your journey. .CREATE HOLIDAY MAGIC NOW |
![]() Happy Travels, Carrie Mandala ElmRock Travel |
In the realm of special occasions, be it a gala, a wedding, or an upscale soirée, the attire you choose speaks volumes about your style, grace, and confidence. When it comes to finding the perfect dress that seamlessly blends sophistication, glamour, and uniqueness, look no further than Mary Jane Denzer. Here’s why this luxury boutique stands out as the epitome of elegance for all your special event needs.
1. Timeless Elegance: Mary Jane Denzer has established itself as a purveyor of timeless elegance in the tri-state area for over 40 years. The owners, Anastasia Cucinella and Debra OShea meticulously curate selections from the world’s best designers, transcending trends, ensuring that their offerings remain eternally chic. The boutique embraces the classics while also showcasing some show-stoppers, providing a collection that is both enduring and on-trend for its sophisticated clientele.
2. Exclusive Designer Collections: Mary Jane Denzer collaborates with renowned designers, bringing you exclusive collections that are not easily found elsewhere. From international couturiers to emerging talents, the boutique showcases a diverse array of styles, ensuring that every woman can find a dress that resonates with her personal taste and style preferences.
3. Unparalleled Craftsmanship: Craftsmanship is at the heart of every dress curated for the collection at Mary Jane Denzer. Meticulously designed and tailored, each piece exemplifies the highest standards of quality. The attention to detail is evident in the intricate beading, luxurious fabrics, and flawless silhouettes. Choosing a dress from Mary Jane Denzer guarantees not just a garment but a masterpiece that accentuates your individuality.
4. Personalized Service: At Mary Jane Denzer, shopping for a special event dress is not merely a transaction; it’s an experience. The boutique prides itself on providing unparalleled service, with Anastasia and Debra working with you by appointment, to guide you through the process of selecting the most beautiful and appropriate choices for your venue. Whether you have a specific vision in mind or seek expert advice, Mary Jane Denzer is dedicated to making your shopping experience seamless and enjoyable.
5. Size Inclusivity: Recognizing that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes, Mary Jane Denzercelebrates diversity by offering a wide range of silhouettes and sizes. Every woman deserves to feel confident and beautiful, and the boutique ensures that its collection caters to a diverse clientele. They are experts and fit and with their team of experienced seamstresses, make sure that every garment that leaves the premises has been tailored to perfection.
In conclusion: Mary Jane Denzer emerges as the premier destination for those seeking a dress that transcends the ordinary. With a commitment to timeless elegance, unparalleled craftsmanship, exclusive designer collections, personalized service, and size inclusivity, Mary Jane Denzer stands as a beacon of style and sophistication in the world of special event dresses. Elevate your elegance and make a lasting impression with a dress from Mary Jane Denzer.
For an appointment, please call 914-328-0330.
The holiday season is upon us, and if you’re on the hunt for a gift that goes beyond the ordinary, why not consider something that combines luxury, precision, and the thrill of the game? Enter PXG (Parsons Xtreme Golf), a brand synonymous with groundbreaking golf technology and unparalleled performance. This year, elevate your gift-giving game by presenting your favorite golfer with an experience that’s truly above par—a personalized PXG golf club fitting.
PXG has carved a niche in the golf industry by pushing the boundaries of innovation. Founded by billionaire entrepreneur Bob Parsons, PXG is known for its commitment to excellence and a relentless pursuit of perfection in golf club design. Each club is a masterpiece, meticulously crafted to enhance performance and cater to the unique needs of every golfer.
What makes a PXG golf club fitting an exceptional gift? It’s all about precision. Imagine a tailor-made suit, but for your golf game. A personalized fitting session ensures that every club in the bag is perfectly suited to the player’s individual swing characteristics, body mechanics, and playing style. It’s not just about having high-quality clubs; it’s about having clubs that are precisely calibrated to optimize performance.
A PXG fitting experience is more than just a session—it’s a journey to golfing excellence. Expert fitters use cutting-edge technology, including advanced launch monitors and data analytics, to analyze the player’s swing dynamics. This data is then translated into the perfect combination of club head, shaft, and grip to maximize distance, accuracy, and overall playability.
Imagine the joy on your loved one’s face as they unwrap a PXG golf club fitting experience. It’s not just a gift; it’s an investment in their passion for golf and a commitment to helping them reach new heights on the course. From the first swing with their personalized clubs, they’ll feel the difference—a confidence boost that can transform their game.
In addition to the tangible benefits, a PXG golf club fitting is an experience that creates lasting memories. Whether it’s a seasoned golfer looking to fine-tune their game or a beginner taking their first steps on the fairway, the personalized attention and expertise provided during a PXG fitting make it a truly special and unforgettable gift.
This holiday season, go beyond the ordinary and give the gift of precision with a PXG golf club fitting. It’s not just about clubs; it’s about unlocking potential, enhancing performance, and creating memories on the golf course. Elevate your gift-giving game, and let the joy of the perfect swing be the highlight of the holiday season.
Close your eyes and envision the soft rustle of palm trees and the harmonious symphony of ocean waves as your daily alarm clock. Picture sun-drenched beaches, verdant landscapes, and the kaleidoscope of Hawaiian culture that defines the islands. It’s no surprise that Hawaii is a dream destination for many.
Whether you’re actively planning a move to the Hawaiian Islands or indulging in daydreams of this tropical paradise, our comprehensive guide to renting in Hawaii has you covered with indispensable insights and invaluable tips for a seamless island rental experience.
1. Choosing Your Hawaiian Island
Hawaii consists of eight major islands, each with its own unique character. When renting in Hawaii, your first decision is choosing which island to call home. Here’s a brief overview of the four most popular islands for renters:
Oahu: The most populous and urban island, home to Honolulu, the state capital. Ideal for those seeking a mix of city life and natural beauty.
Maui: Known for its stunning beaches, waterfalls, and laid-back atmosphere. Great for couples, retirees, and nature enthusiasts.
Big Island (Hawaii Island): The largest and most diverse island, offering a variety of climates, landscapes, and lifestyles.
Kauai: Also known as the “Garden Isle” for its lush greenery and natural beauty. Perfect for those who value peace and tranquillity.
2. Rental Market Overview
Before you set sail on your Hawaiian adventure, it’s crucial to gain a firm grasp of the local rental landscape. Rental prices in Hawaii exhibit a broad spectrum of variations contingent on the island, location, and property type.
For instance, the vibrant and urban metropolis of Honolulu, situated on Oahu, typically commands the highest rents, owing to its bustling nature and a plethora of job opportunities. Conversely, rural areas and certain pockets of the expansive Big Island present more wallet-friendly alternatives.
For an even deeper understanding of rental dynamics, peruse Rent.com’s informative Hawaii map with cities. It’s a valuable resource, providing an array of essential details about these unique locations, including, naturally, the average cost of rent. This tool will prove indispensable in your quest to find the ideal rental spot in the Hawaiian archipelago.
3. Types of Rentals
Hawaii offers a variety of rental options, including:
Apartments: Common in urban areas like Honolulu, apartments provide convenience and are often close to work and amenities.
Houses: Single-family homes are popular in suburban and rural areas, providing more space and privacy.
Condos: Condominiums are a mix of apartment living and homeownership, offering communal amenities like pools and fitness centers.
Ohana Units: These are typically small, detached units on the same property as a larger home. Ohana units are a unique housing option in Hawaii.
4. Understanding Rental Costs
When considering renting in Hawaii, it’s crucial to account for all costs. Rental rates are just one part of the equation. Other costs may include:
Utilities: The cost of electricity, water, and gas can vary. Some rentals may include utilities in the rent.
Parking: If you have a car, parking fees can add to your monthly expenses, especially in urban areas.
Renters’ Insurance: This is often required by landlords, and it’s essential for protecting your belongings.
Taxes and Fees: Hawaii may have additional taxes and fees associated with renting.
5. Hawaii’s Unique Rental Laws
Hawaii has its own set of rental laws and regulations that renters and landlords must follow. Some important aspects to be aware of include:
Security Deposits: Hawaii law limits the amount landlords can charge for a security deposit.
Landlord Entry: Landlords must provide advance notice before entering a rental property.
Rent Increases: Hawaii law regulates how much and how often rent can be increased.
6. Best Practices For Finding Rentals
When searching for rentals in Hawaii, consider the following best practices:
Start Early: Begin your search well in advance to secure the best deals.
Use Local Resources: Consult local newspapers, community boards, and real estate agents to find available rentals.
Online Searches: Utilize websites, social media, and rental apps to discover listings.
Property Management Companies: Some rentals in Hawaii are managed by professional property management companies, making the process more straightforward.
Visit in Person: If possible, visit the island you plan to move to before renting. It’s essential to experience the area firsthand.
7. Tips For A Smooth Transition
Once you’ve found your dream rental in Hawaii, follow these tips for a smooth transition:
Prepare Financially: There’s no getting around the fact that Hawaii is more expensive than the mainland U.S. Ensure you have a financial cushion to cover moving and living expenses.
Pack Light: Shipping your belongings to Hawaii can be costly. Consider paring down your possessions.
Embrace the Aloha Spirit: Hawaii is known for its friendly and welcoming culture. Embrace the Aloha spirit, and you’ll find it easier to integrate into the community.
Respect the Land and Culture: Hawaii’s environment and culture are unique and sacred. Respect local customs, natural resources, and the land.
8. Beaches, Culture, And Outdoor Activities
One of the biggest perks of renting in Hawaii is gaining unparalleled access to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and a vibrant culture that blends Hawaiian traditions with diverse influences. Surfing, hiking, snorkelling, and exploring volcanoes are just a few of the outdoor activities you can enjoy regularly.
9. Local Cuisine And Food Culture
Hawaii’s culinary scene is a delicious melting pot of influences from various cultures, including native Hawaiian, Asian, Polynesian, and American. As a resident, you’ll have the opportunity to explore a diverse array of dishes and flavors. Don’t miss out on:
Plate Lunch: A classic Hawaiian meal consisting of two scoops of rice, macaroni salad, and a choice of meat or seafood.
Poke: A local favorite, poke is a dish made from marinated raw fish, typically served with rice or salad. It’s a must-try for seafood lovers.
Locally-Grown Produce: Hawaii’s tropical climate allows for the cultivation of a wide variety of fruits and vegetables. Visit local farmers’ markets to savor fresh, island-grown produce.
Hawaiian Luaus: Experience the spirit of Hawaii by attending a traditional luau. These cultural events often feature a feast of roasted pig, hula dancing, and music.
Embrace Island Living!
Renting in Hawaii is a dream come true for many, offering an unparalleled quality of life. The Aloha State’s unique blend of nature, culture, and lifestyle sets it apart from anywhere else in the United States.
With careful planning and an understanding of the local rental market, you can turn your dream of living in Hawaii into a reality, all while basking in the beauty and culture of the Hawaiian Islands.
When we set out to buy a home, it can feel like an impossible task. So many potential homes to choose from, so many factors to consider. There’s your budget, the location, whether it suits your family, and everything in between. The one thing you can’t predict is the feeling you get when you step through the door. The feeling is like trying on your wedding dress for the first time. You just know. No one can tell you how it feels or describe it to you; it’s just there. So what happens if you get that feeling, and the home is a bit of a disaster zone? You need perhaps more work than you had anticipated. Rest assured, here is an essential guide to making an older home feel brand new. Creating your perfect space.
Image source – pixabay – cco license
Think about the exterior and structure
A big giveaway of a property’s age is the exterior look. A house or property can have the telltale signs of brickwork looking shabby, maybe some parts having broken away. There are the windows and the doors. All of which could look a little dated and in need of some attention. This is where you may need to consider getting some professionals in to take out any structural repairs. Or perhaps consider some new windows to make the property more energy efficient. This way you are giving your new home a little makeover while potentially saving yourself some money on your energy bills.
Make use of original features
A lot of older properties have beautiful original features like exposed beams or fireplaces. These are a wonderful designer feature to any home and are worth restoring and keeping if you can. They make great talking points and can work well with a modern design. Original features can often be very difficult to maintain though, so you may want to get some help from experts who might be able to help you. Exposing and creating a fireplace needs more than just the fireplace itself, it is the chimney to think about and the internal structure. This is when getting a professional chimney sweep could help you to make more of it. Websites like https://www.jcs-homeservices.com/chimney-sweep-in-northern-va/ are worth looking at. Beams are also a great feature, but they may need treating thanks to rot. However, experts will tell you exactly what needs to be done, and of course, the costs involved. Original features are always worth restoring where possible.
Add a modern twist
An older property may look desirable. But that doesn’t mean the kitchen and bathroom will be. Often in this kind of property, those features may not have been improved for some time. So it’s the perfect opportunity to add a modern twist to the home by adding a fantastic state-of-the-art kitchen and serene bathroom suite. These are the rooms that often add value to a property so don’t be too worried about losing your investment.
Work with smaller spaces
Older properties often don’t have square or boxy rooms like new builds do. After all, it is probably why you fell in love with the place thanks to its quirky nature. But sometimes that means that buying furniture might not always be a possibility. It may not fit or even look right. This is when creating bespoke pieces to fit certain areas of a room could be ideal. Chairs or built-in seating with storage, for example. A carpenter can work on your design and measurements. It definitely will help you make the home a little more user-friendly.
Make the home work for you
A lot of the time, in older properties, the layouts don’t work for modern living. So don’t be afraid to knock some walls down and make the internal space work for your family. Of course, the only thing to bear in mind here is any buildings that are listed. This is where you will need to speak to a conservation officer to ask what work you can and can’t do to the property. In most cases, any interior work is permitted.
Don’t forget the garden and landscaping
Finally, the garden and landscape can be a big feature of the property. So make sure you spend some time updating it. Even if you keep things simple with a pretty flower bed and a well-kept lawn. It can instantly change the curb appeal of your new home.
I hope this helps you if you have fallen in love with a home that needs some work.
Working out alone can be a daunting task, but when you team up with your partner, it becomes a shared journey of motivation, challenges, and, most importantly, fun. Sometimes, mustering up the energy to work out – especially as a couple – can be a bit… well, challenging. Here are some nifty tricks to help you two find that pep in your step.
Via Pexels
Chat with your partner over a cup of tea or while lounging on the couch. What do you both want to get out of these workouts? Drop a few pounds? Flex those biceps? Or maybe just laugh and have a good time while moving? Once you’re on the same page, it’s game on!
You wouldn’t flake on movie night, would you? So, why skip out on a workout date? Pop it in your calendar, set a reminder, and make it as unmissable as your favourite TV show.
You know those songs that just make you wanna dance? Or maybe run, or jump, or do a silly jig? Yep, those! Put them all together in a playlist. It’s a fun little pre-workout activity that gets you both pumped up.
Repeating the same stuff can get a tad boring. How about a salsa class one day and maybe a brisk morning walk another? Mix it up! Adventures await!
You ever have those days when you’re just… blah? It might be more than just a mood. Sometimes, our bodies need a little extra TLC. For guys, low energy can be linked to testosterone levels. You could look into online TRT that some folks use. But, hey, always chat with a doc before diving into anything new.
Some days, your partner might not be feeling the workout vibe. That’s where you swoop in with a pep talk! And guess what? When your energy dips, they’ve got your back too.
Did you both nail that tricky yoga pose? Or maybe jogged that extra mile? High five! Now, how about some ice cream or maybe a cosy movie night? Little rewards make everything sweeter.
Ever thought of joining a fun fitness group? There’s something super cool about sweating it out with a bunch of folks cheering you on. And hey, a little friendly competition never hurt anyone.
Turn that workout into playtime. Maybe a goofy dance-off? Or a game of tag? The key is to chuckle, giggle, and have a blast.
After a few weeks, take a breather and chat about how things are going. Maybe you both loved Zumba but weren’t into Pilates? Cool, switch it up. It’s all about finding what makes you both tick.
In conclusion, working out as a couple can be an enriching experience that strengthens not just your muscles but also your bond. With these tips, working out as a twosome is less of a chore and more of a blast. So go on, lace up those sneakers, grab your partner’s hand, and dive into the fun world of couple workouts!