12 Essential Travel Tools for the Modern Adventurer

In today’s fast-paced world, traveling has become more accessible and exciting than ever before. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or embarking on a round-the-world adventure, having the right travel tools can make your journey smoother, more enjoyable, and stress-free. From reliable travel blogs and advisors to convenient booking platforms and smart devices, here are 12 essential travel tools that every modern adventurer should consider. These tools range from providing valuable information and recommendations to simplifying travel logistics and ensuring peace of mind throughout your journey.

 

The Points Guy TPG

The Points Guy is a popular online resource that caters to savvy travelers looking to maximize their travel rewards. This website offers insightful tips, tricks, and strategies to help you earn and redeem points effectively, allowing you to enjoy upgrades, free flights, hotel stays, and more. With comprehensive guides on loyalty programs, credit cards, and travel hacking, The Points Guy is an invaluable tool for those seeking to make the most of their travel experiences.

 

Travel Blogs

Travel blogs provide a wealth of information and inspiration for travelers worldwide. These online platforms are written by experienced globetrotters, offering personal anecdotes, destination guides, itineraries, and insider tips. From adventure travel to luxury escapes, there is a travel blog for every type of explorer. By following these blogs, you can discover hidden gems, learn about local customs, find budget-friendly options, and gain insights into off-the-beaten-path destinations. Popular travel blogs include Nomadic Matt, Adventurous Kate, and The Blonde Abroad, among many others.

 

Travel Advisors

While travel blogs offer a plethora of information, sometimes it’s beneficial to have a human touch. Travel advisors, also known as travel agents or consultants, are professionals who specialize in curating personalized travel experiences. These experts have extensive knowledge and industry connections to help you plan your dream vacation with ease. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, family vacation, or adventure tour, travel advisors can provide valuable insights, handle complex bookings, and offer recommendations tailored to your preferences. Their expertise ensures a seamless and unforgettable travel experience.

 

Booking.com

Booking.com is a widely recognized online platform that simplifies the process of finding and booking accommodation. With an extensive database of hotels, hostels, vacation rentals, and even alternative accommodations, such as treehouses and houseboats, Booking.com offers a vast selection to suit every traveler’s needs and budget. The platform provides user-friendly search filters, detailed descriptions, reviews, and competitive pricing, making it a go-to tool for travelers worldwide. Booking.com also offers flexible booking options and excellent customer service, ensuring a hassle-free experience from start to finish.

 

HotelsTonight

For spontaneous travelers or those seeking last-minute accommodation deals, HotelsTonight is a game-changer. This mobile app allows you to find discounted hotel rooms for the same day or up to a week in advance. HotelsTonight partners with various hotels to offer unsold inventory at reduced rates, allowing travelers to find affordable options on short notice. The app provides user-friendly filters, detailed hotel information, and real-time availability updates. HotelsTonight is perfect for those seeking to save money or find a comfortable place to stay when their plans change unexpectedly.

 

Airline Credit Card

An airline credit card can be a valuable tool for frequent travelers. These credit cards offer various benefits, such as airline miles or points, priority boarding, lounge access, and free checked bags. By using an airline credit card for your everyday purchases, you can accumulate rewards that can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, or other travel-related expenses. Additionally, some airline credit cards offer travel insurance, purchase protection, and other travel perks. Research different airline credit cards to find the one that aligns with your travel habits and preferences, and start earning rewards towards your next adventure. Chase Sapphire Preferred, Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card and American Express Platinum are just a few of our favorites. See our full review of Best Airline Credit Cards for 2023.

 

Apple iWatch

The iWatch is a versatile travel tool that can simplify your journey. From displaying flight itineraries and hotel reservations to tracking your fitness and monitoring your health, the iWatch and other high-end smartwatches offer convenience and functionality on the go. With built-in features like GPS, heart rate monitoring, and connectivity to your smartphone, you can navigate unfamiliar cities, stay active, receive notifications, and even make contactless payments. The iWatch’s compact design and multiple functionalities make it a practical companion for any traveler.

 

Travel and Lifestyle Websites

Travel and lifestyle websites, such as TripAdvisor or Lonely Planet, provide comprehensive travel information and recommendations beyond just accommodation. These platforms offer insights on local restaurants, attractions, shopping, and nightlife, ensuring you make the most of your destination. With user-generated reviews and ratings, lifestyle websites allow you to gather authentic feedback from fellow travelers, helping you make informed decisions about where to eat, what to do, and what to see. By exploring these websites, you can discover hidden gems, avoid tourist traps, and immerse yourself in the local culture.

 

Travel Magazines

Travel magazines, both in print and digital formats, offer a curated collection of inspiring travel stories, stunning photography, and expert recommendations. These magazines cover a wide range of destinations, cultures, and travel styles, providing a source of inspiration and wanderlust for travelers. Whether you’re flipping through the glossy pages on a long flight or exploring digital articles on your smartphone, travel magazines transport you to different corners of the globe and offer insights into unique experiences. Some popular travel magazines include National Geographic Traveler, Condé Nast Traveler, and Travel + Leisure.

 

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is an essential tool for any traveler. It provides financial protection against unexpected events, such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage. Travel insurance policies typically cover medical expenses, emergency evacuation, trip interruption, and personal liability, among other benefits. Before embarking on your journey, it’s crucial to research and purchase travel insurance that suits your needs and covers your destination. This ensures that you have peace of mind during your travels, knowing that you’re protected in case of unforeseen circumstances.

 

Cheap Flight Alerts

Cheap flight alerts services, such as Going.com (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights) or Airfarewatchdog, help you find the best flight deals and save money on airfare. These services send you email notifications or app alerts when there are significant price drops or mistake fares, allowing you to book discounted flights before prices rise again. By subscribing to these services and being flexible with your travel dates and destinations, you can take advantage of incredible flight deals, explore new places, and stretch your travel budget further.

 

TripIt

TripIt is a travel organization app that consolidates all your travel information in one place. By forwarding your flight, hotel, and car rental confirmations to TripIt, the app creates a master itinerary that can be accessed offline. It provides essential details like departure times, gate information, and confirmation numbers, ensuring you have everything you need at your fingertips. TripIt also offers features like real-time flight updates, alternate flight suggestions, and syncing with your calendar. This app keeps your travel plans organized, simplifying your journey and minimizing stress.

The Right Way to Open Champagne and Sparkling Wine

Not all food and wine traditions—like grilling certain meats, decanting certain wines, or “popping” the cork off of a champagne bottle—results in a better product. Champagne is supposed to open with a bang, right? Not necessarily. In fact a huge celebratory “pop!” is actually a sign that it was opened by an amateur. Experts contend that a bottle of champagne opened with skill will make only a very small popping sound, or perhaps none at all.

Here is how to open a champagne bottle like a pro:

Chill thoroughly – Properly chilled champagne will fizz and/or froth over less
Towel dry the bottle – if there’s condensation to ensure a good grip and prevent slippage
Cut the foil – using a knife, only tearing with fingers after you’ve scored the foil.
Tilt and aim – Tilt the bottle to 45 degrees and aim it away from yourself, others, and anything breakable (like windows)
Hold the cork down – with one hand while twisting open the wire cage with the other
Twist the bottle – with one hand while continuing to hold the cork down with the other
Listen – for the sound of air escaping to signal that the bottle is open. There may also be a small cloud of gas.

The pop can be fun when among friends in a party atmosphere but if opened gently and quietly the champagne will have more bubbles and taste better. As the old saying goes “The ear’s gain is the palate’s loss.”

Once you’ve successfully opened the champagne the next step is pouring it. For the best results make sure the bubbly has been chilled to the proper temperature, 46º F – 57º F depending on age, and then further preserve the bubbles by using a ‘beer-like’ technique and pouring the liquid down the side of a tilted champagne flute.

 

How to Open Champagne

 

This article was originally published on Pursuitist. Republished by permission. 

Emerson Sunglasses—Quality at a Reasonable Price

Quality-at a-reasonable price seems to be in right now with sunglasses. Maybe inflation has pushed popular brands like RayBans or Persols to price points that just seem unreasonable—especially for an item that many people loose with regularity. Whatever the reason, I am seeing more and more people opting for value-oriented brands—albeit polarized and well constructed—like Goodr or Knockaround over the fancier brands.

 

If you like the functionality and fit of a brand like Goodr, but with a bit more sophistication in style, Emerson Sunglasses might be for you. Emerson effortlessly combines these essential elements, making them an excellent choice for anyone seeking both fashion-forward eyewear and reliable eye protection. With a commitment to superior craftsmanship and a keen eye for design, Emerson has established itself as a leading brand in the world of sunglasses. Here are 5 reasons I like the brand.

 

Style

Emerson sunglasses are renowned for their exceptional style and timeless designs. The brand offers a wide range of frame shapes and colors to suit various face shapes and personal preferences. Whether you’re looking for a classic aviator style, a trendy cat-eye shape, or a sporty wraparound design, Emerson has you covered. Their sunglasses effortlessly blend modern aesthetics with a touch of sophistication, ensuring you always look fashionable while shielding your eyes from the sun.

 

Durability

Investing in high-quality sunglasses is essential for long-term eye protection and comfort, and Emerson understands this well. Each pair of Emerson sunglasses is crafted using top-notch materials, such as durable acetate, lightweight metals, and scratch-resistant lenses. These sunglasses are built to withstand daily wear and tear, making them a reliable companion for any adventure. Whether you’re lounging on the beach, exploring the outdoors, or simply running errands, you can trust that Emerson sunglasses will remain resilient and provide optimal performance.

 

Real Eye Protection

Emerson sunglasses not only elevate your style but also prioritize the health and safety of your eyes. The lenses used in their sunglasses offer 100% UV protection, shielding your eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can lead to various eye conditions, including cataracts and macular degeneration. With Emerson sunglasses, you can enjoy outdoor activities with peace of mind, knowing that your eyes are well-protected from the sun’s harmful effects.

 

Enhanced Vision and Comfort

Emerson understands that sunglasses should not only protect your eyes but also optimize your visual experience. Their lenses are designed to minimize glare and improve clarity, ensuring you see the world around you with exceptional sharpness. Moreover, the brand pays great attention to the comfort of their sunglasses. With features like adjustable nose pads, lightweight frames, and ergonomic designs, Emerson sunglasses provide a snug and comfortable fit, allowing you to wear them for extended periods without discomfort.

 

Customer Satisfaction

Emerson takes pride in its commitment to customer satisfaction. The brand offers excellent customer service and stands behind the quality of its products. Should you encounter any issues or have questions regarding your sunglasses, Emerson’s dedicated support team is readily available to assist you. This level of care and attention to customer needs further enhances the overall value of Emerson sunglasses.

 

When it comes to finding the perfect blend of style, functionality, and quality in sunglasses, Emerson stands out as a remarkable choice. Their commitment to superior craftsmanship, attention to detail, and focus on protecting your eyes make Emerson sunglasses a great purchase.

Best Wifi Spots in NYC for the Digital—Yet Discerning—Nomad

While the quality of the WiFi connection may seem to be first and foremost to those looking to get some work done while in a public space, the quality of the WiFi connection is only half the allure.  For most digital nomads, setting and atmosphere are just as important.

 

The following locations have solid, free connections but also get good marks in cleanliness, square footage, working space (tables, chairs), style and flow.

 

PRET @ 28th and Park Ave South

 

For an easy place to get online in NYC without being bothered.

 

It’s super clean: When it comes to cleanliness, not all coffee and café hotspots are created equal, but PRET seems to put more of a premium on this making it feel more professional.

Never crowded: While PRET’s management may not appreciate this fact, someone looking to get a little work done without chaotic background noise and people cramming your style, will.

They have 3 different types of tables/chairs for working; single square wood tables with comfortable soft benches; long wooden tables with short padded stools if you need more table space; long metal counter with adjustable metal/wood stools that looks out on Park Ave.

Plenty of food and drink options: While they have ample coffee options, they also have more lunch options than a standard Starbucks with various sandwiches (1/2 or whole), wraps, soups, salads, fruit cups, yogurts and cold drinks.

X-Factor: nice, mellow vibe with friendly, professional people…aka…not a lot of rif raf.

 

 

Lobby of Ace Hotel

 

For a trendy environment where you can a little people watching while brainstorming

 

Atmosphere: The lobby offers a trendy and creative ambiance, conducive to focused work while enjoying a unique environment.

Ample Seating: Comfortable seating arrangements, including couches and tables, provide ergonomic workspaces for extended periods.

Reliable Wi-Fi: The hotel is known for providing stable and high-speed Wi-Fi, ensuring seamless connectivity for work tasks.

Café Access: On-site café offers easy access to refreshments and snacks, minimizing interruptions to work sessions.

Low Noise Level: The lobby strikes a balance between buzz and tranquility, making it easier to concentrate on tasks without excessive noise.

 

 

Lobby of Ludlow Hotel

 

For a super clean, chic atmosphere with lots of natural light

 

Chic Setting: The lobby’s upscale and chic decor creates an inspiring work environment that appeals to a creative crowd.

Natural Light: Large windows allow plenty of natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere for productive work during the day.

Wi-Fi Quality: The Ludlow Hotel offers reliable and fast Wi-Fi, ensuring smooth online operations and video conferences.

Elegant Seating: Plush seating options provide both comfort and style, accommodating extended work sessions.

Ambient Music: The lobby’s background music enhances focus and productivity without being overwhelming.

 

 

Grand Central Apple Store:

 

For a quick download that requires optimal WiFi speeds

 

Fast Connectivity: The store provides robust Wi-Fi for efficient internet access, ensuring seamless communication and tasks.

Cutting-Edge Environment: Though it’s not intended to be a “work space” The Apple Store’s sleek and modern design sets the stage for a QUICK, tech-savvy work session.

Tech Support: Knowledgeable staff can assist with technical issues, making it a great place for troubleshooting work-related technology—though try not to make it obvious you are simply there for their WiFi.

Inspiring Surroundings: Surrounded by innovative tech products, you’ll find inspiration for creative tasks and projects.

Central Location: Being in Grand Central Terminal, it’s conveniently accessible and allows for efficient work before catching a train.

 

 

NY Public Library (40th St)

 

For a timeless ambiance that is ideal for concentration…it’s a library after all

 

Serene Ambiance: The library’s hushed atmosphere lends itself to focused and concentrated work, suitable for tasks requiring deep thinking.

Reliable Wi-Fi: The library offers free and reliable Wi-Fi, catering to those who require a quiet space without sacrificing connectivity.

Vast Resources: Access to a plethora of books, research materials, and digital resources can aid in comprehensive work or research projects.

Diverse Spaces: Various reading rooms and study areas cater to different preferences, from solitary work to collaborative endeavors.

Cultural Immersion: Being in the heart of New York, the library provides an intellectually stimulating environment that can enhance your work.

 

Starbucks Roastery in Empire State Building

 

For an iconic location that will inspire you

 

Iconic Setting: Working in the Empire State Building’s Starbucks Roastery offers a unique and inspiring backdrop for your tasks.

Premium Coffee: Access to high-quality coffee and beverages can keep you energized and focused throughout your work session.

Efficient Workstations: The layout is designed for productivity, with well-placed outlets and comfortable seating arrangements.

City Views: Enjoy impressive views of the city while working, adding a touch of inspiration to your tasks.

Ample Space: Despite being a busy location, the roastery provides ample seating and space to find a spot that suits your work style.

 

Starbucks West Village @ 7th Ave and 11th/12th Street

 

For a cozy workspace in one of the city’s coziest neighborhoods

 

Cozy Ambience: This neighborhood Starbucks exudes a cozy and inviting atmosphere, making it feel like your personal workspace.

Community Vibes: The local clientele creates a friendly and communal atmosphere that can be conducive to productivity.

Reliable Wi-Fi: Though not the fastest, Starbucks is known for offering dependable Wi-Fi, ensuring smooth online connectivity for work tasks.

Convenient Location: Situated in a charming area, it’s a great spot to work between meetings or while exploring the West Village.

Variety of Beverages: A wide selection of beverages and snacks ensures you can refuel without leaving your workspace.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Best WiFi Spots in San Francisco

While a strong and reliable internet connection remains crucial, the overall environment, setting, and options provided by a space can significantly impact productivity. In San Francisco, a city known for its innovative spirit and diverse neighborhoods, finding the ideal remote work location involves considering factors beyond internet speeds. Here are some top choices for remote work-friendly spaces in the City by the Bay:

 

Blue Bottle Coffee – Mint Plaza

 

Situated in the heart of San Francisco’s bustling SoMa district, Blue Bottle Coffee at Mint Plaza offers a harmonious blend of contemporary style and serene atmosphere. The minimalist interior design creates a focused environment, perfect for work sessions. With a reliable WiFi connection, you can stay connected while sipping on Blue Bottle’s signature coffee creations. The open layout and ample seating choices, ranging from communal tables to cozy corners, cater to different work preferences. Plus, the location’s proximity to tech companies adds to the innovative ambiance.

 

The Mill

 

For those who find inspiration in artistic surroundings, The Mill is a bakery and coffee shop in Alamo Square that boasts a vibrant and creative atmosphere. With an emphasis on artisanal bread and pastries, this space combines the aroma of freshly baked goods with the energy of a shared workspace. Large communal tables and natural light pouring through the windows provide an inviting setting. While the WiFi is reliable, it’s the fusion of flavors and artistic vibes that make The Mill a unique space for productive work.

 

The Battery

 

In the heart of the Financial District lies The Battery, a private club known for its luxurious amenities and exclusive ambiance. If you’re seeking a sophisticated work environment with top-notch facilities, this is the place to be. With reliable connectivity, elegant seating arrangements, and a dedicated workspace, The Battery caters to professionals who require a high level of service and privacy. While membership is required, the benefits extend beyond WiFi to include access to networking events and upscale amenities.

 

Ritual Coffee Roasters – Haight Street

 

Nestled in the iconic Haight-Ashbury neighborhood, Ritual Coffee Roasters offers a laid-back and cozy atmosphere that embodies the spirit of San Francisco. The WiFi connection is dependable, allowing you to blend work with leisure as you sip on carefully crafted coffee. The mix of communal tables, vintage decor, and a diverse crowd creates a comfortable and inviting workspace. If you’re seeking a spot where you can feel like a local while staying productive, Ritual Coffee Roasters is a prime choice.

 

Commonwealth Club

 

For a blend of intellectual stimulation and work productivity, the Commonwealth Club provides an intriguing option. As the nation’s oldest and largest public affairs forum, this venue hosts a variety of talks, panel discussions, and events. When events aren’t taking place, the club offers a serene atmosphere conducive to focused work. The WiFi connection ensures seamless connectivity, and the historic surroundings provide a unique backdrop for your tasks. It’s a space where you can engage your mind and accomplish your work goals simultaneously.

 

The Assembly

 

For a holistic approach to work-life balance, The Assembly in the Mission District offers a combination of workspace, fitness studio, and wellness center. This innovative space is designed to cater to professionals who prioritize both productivity and self-care. With reliable WiFi, ergonomic workstations, and wellness-focused amenities, you can seamlessly transition from work tasks to fitness sessions or mindfulness practices. The Assembly’s commitment to a well-rounded lifestyle makes it a standout choice for those seeking a more holistic work environment.

Sensibo “Pure” Air Filtration System

Looking for the newest technology in air purification that is still sleek and stylish? With most people working from home, it’s more important than ever to pay attention to your indoor air quality.

 

 

PIN IT

 

 

We checked out the Sensibo Pure, touted as the world’s most advanced air purification system. Using smart sensing technology, this is the only filtration system that is powered by Pure Boost, a unique patent-pending technology that uses both HEPA and Carbon filters and removes particles as small as 0.1um(more than 100 times thinner than a human hair).  Pure Boost™ regulates the airflow based on factors like geolocation, inside air quality, outside weather & air quality to regulate the fan level of the device. Even better, if you have a Sensibo AC controller, it will use your AC fan to circulate the air even more, when air quality is dangerously low.

 

This includes contaminants such as bacteria, viruses, and pollen, as well as PM (particulate matter) PM1.0, PM2.5, and PM10. Additionally, the active carbon filter absorbs atoms of harmful gases such as smoke and VOCs (Volatile Organic Components).

 

 

 

PIN IT

 

 

Always on and sensing the air quality, this is the perfect filtration to do all of the work for you. Compatible with Amazon Echo, Apple HomeKit, and Google Home, control is at your fingertips, and Sensibo’s advanced smart sensing algorithms save up to 40% on utility bills by letting you define triggers and schedules, helping you choose the right temperature settings, and reminding you to clean your filters. All in all, a win/win situation. To learn more: sensibo.com

This article was originally published on Pursuitist. Republished by permission. 

5 Great Juicers for Your Next Juice Cleanse

Juicing — the process of extracting the juice from fresh fruits or vegetables — is popular because it can increase the variety of nutrient-rich foods in your diet so you can take advantage of all of fruits and vegetables’ healthy benefits.

There are three styles of juicers: slow, centrifugal, and citrus. Slow juicers and centrifugal juicers are usually best for fruits and vegetables, while citrus juicers are dedicated for simply squeezing citrus, like oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruit.

No matter what kind of juicer you’re looking for, there are many on the market today. But we’ve narrowed them down to our top 5 favorite juicers. Here they are in ascending order:

 

 

Hurom’s H101 Easy Clean Slow Juicer ($499)

The H101 is on our top juicers list because it really was designed with cleaning in mind. It has grooved strainers and a tiled juicing chamber that pours out more — and leaves less mess inside — so you can really enjoy all the benefits of juicing without the messy cleanup. There’s also a pulp outlet, aka trap door, that opens 180 degrees so you can easily flush out any remaining pulp inside the chamber. This slow juicer mimics the motion of fruit squeezing by hand, rotating at a speed of just 43 revolutions per minute, which produces delicious fresh juices in their most natural state. Hate pulp? Love it? This one has a function to control the amount of pulp to suit your own taste preferences. And we should also mention this top juicer also can juice nuts and soybeans into a variety of smoothies and nut milks.

 

 

Novis Vita Juicer ($500)

We love the bright, sleek and shiny exterior design of this juicer, and it comes in seven colors! This top juicer is amazing because it truly has the benefit of all three juicing options, including its own attachment for citrus. It’s simple to use, with just one button to operate everything. And an AutoSpeed function auto-senses the best speed for each food, adjusting the speed of the press and centrifuge according to your chosen fruit or vegetable. There’s a large tube, so you won’t need to cut all of the fruits and vegetables, and every part of the juicer can be easily cleaned in the dishwasher.

 

 

The Smeg Citrus Juicer  ($180)

As the name implies, this one is specifically for citrus, and therefore best for oranges, lemons, and limes. It is the top juicer that has our favorite look, sophisticated and retro, and a design that comes in a few cool colors. Its superior performance pairs with reliability, showing off a powerful 70W motor with an integrated on-off sensor. And using it is simple thanks to a non-drip spout which prevents spillage, keeping kitchen surfaces clean.

 

 

 

Kuvings Whole Slow Juicer ($600)

Kevin’s Whole Slow Juicer stands out for its versatility. It does an efficient job of juicing greens, veggies, and fruits alike. Its 3.2” wide-mouthed two-way feed tube reduces prep time and allows you to insert different types of ingredients without jamming. It has patented low speed extraction technology that prevents nutritional loss and minimizes oxidation. Multiple strainers, including a sorbet and a smoothie strainer attachment, allow for even more food options. And it even has a handle so you can carry it with you.

 

 

Breville Juice Fountain SL Cold Plus ($350)

The Breville Juice Fountain is SL Cold Plus Pursuitist’s overall favorite juicer for its power, ease of operation and clean-up. Its super sized 70 fl.oz. jug seals and stores so you can make large batches, and the 3.5” wide chute shortens prep time — seriously, you can put a whole apple in, core and all, and it juices. The “cold” its name refers to Breville’s “Cold Spin Technology” that reduces the amount of heat transferred while juicing. Set-up couldn’t be simpler, your juice will be pulp-free and delicious, and clean-up is a breeze. What could be better than that?! 

8 Commuter Bikes To Get You Back To The Office in (Eco) Style

As the world enters a new reality and many of us are returning to our offices, it’s a good moment to reinvent your commute. Whether you are on a hybrid schedule or at a desk every day, a bicycle can bring an element of joy (along with its health and environmental pluses) to getting back out into the world again.

Here we have gathered some of our favorite commuter bikes in a variety of styles and functions—folding bikes, cruisers, hybrids, gravel bikes and even some e-bikes, for those riders who would like a little help on any hills. While many of the bicycles gathered here are top-of-the-line models that will give you years of smooth rides, we have also included a few budget-friendly alternatives.

 

Best all-around e-bike: Cannondale Adventure Neo ($2700)

 

The history of e-bikes, or electric bicycles, is almost as long as the history of bicycles themselves. In the 1870s and 1880s, inventors were devising ways of connecting batteries to bicycles. Issues around batteries—above all their weight—meant that many designs remained on paper, but advances in technology especially pedal assist designs, have led to a boom for e-bikes. One source estimates that there will be 40 million e-bikes on roads around the world by 2023.

For commuters e-bikes offer some assistance when necessary. On flat stretches you can rely on pedal power while on hills or anywhere else you want a little extra help, just add a little juice. The Cannondale Adventure Neo seamlessly incorporates its battery into its lightweight step-through aluminum frame. The Bosch battery has a life of up to 65 miles and can provide 20 mph of assist. It’s ideal for both errands in the city and weekend rides.

 

 

Best budget e-bike: Propella’s Single-Speed Drivetrain ($1099)

 

E-bikes as a rule are serious investments and even the least expensive will be more expensive than conventional bicycles. Propella’s Single-Speed Drivetrain isn’t as sleek as the Cannondale Adventure Neo, and its battery’s range is more limited (between 20 and 38 miles) but it is relatively light at 35 pounds and is also easier on the wallet. It can be an ideal starter or occasional e-bike, and if you find yourself converted to the e-bike life you can splurge on a fancier model down the road.

 

 

Best gravel bike: Surly Midnight Special ($2225)

 

From the name, you might think a gravel bike is designed to be ridden on gravel paths. Thanks to their hybrid designs that combine elements of road bikes and mountain bikes, they are actually suited to all terrains. If your commute includes shortcuts through unpaved areas or along potholed roads, the wider tires and lower gearing offer stability.

Surly Bikes’ Midnight Special has an elegant old-school design while not sacrificing anything when it comes to functionality or quality. The high-volume tires allow for tire pressure to be adjusted according to the surface—let some air out for those off-road adventures and top them off when you’ll be traveling on well-paved roads. This solid and dependable bike also has flat-mount disc brakes and front and rear through axles.

 

 

Best cruiser-style bike: Marin Bikes Larkspur 2 ($1199)

 

Cruiser-style bikes let their riders sit tall in their seats, all the better to scan the road for vehicles while also being more visible to drivers. Cruiser bikes are generally built for comfort and not speed with wide handlebars and comfortable seats. If your commute is over well-paved roads, a cruiser is a good option.

Marin Bikes first made its name making mountain bikes, but their Larkspur 2 is designed with urban adventurers, and commuters, in mind. The step-through steel frame makes mounting and dismounting easy, even if you decide to add a basket or baby seat. Disc brakes and wide tires are some mountain-bike details that give the Larkspur 2 the ability to handle various terrains.

 

 

Best hybrid bike: Cannondale Quick / CX4 ($700)

 

 

Hybrid bikes, as the name implies, combine features from both mountain and road bikes. Most have flat handlebars, as is typical of mountain bikes, allowing for an upright ride that most commuters prefer. On the other hand, they have the lighter frames and thinner tires associated with road bikes. The result is an ideal commuter vehicle—it has the ability to handle a variety of terrains and a lightness that means pedaling to the office doesn’t feel like a serious workout.

The Cannondale Quick is a good option on paved roads, while the Quick CX 4 is more of an all-terrain option with suspension forks to absorb any bumps. The aluminum frame is light—the bike weighs 28 pounds—and the 24 gears assure a ride calibrated to every incline and terrain.

 

 

Best single speed bike: Ribble Urban 725s ($688)

 

Single-speed bikes are an ideal option especially if you live in a city with good-enough roads and without any hills. If you don’t have to face inclines and you will typically be riding along at a leisurely pace, skip the extra weight of derailleurs and gears. By foregoing all those extra parts, single speeds are also easier to maintain—there are fewer parts to get clogged with dirt and grease. Another advantage of these pared down bicycles is they are generally cheaper, so you can get a first-class model for the same price you might pay for an average road bike.

The Ribble Urban 725s is a marriage of simplicity and quality. There aren’t many components—a large part of the appeal of single-speed bikes—but those it does have are all top of the line. The solid steel frame is well-suited to the stresses of urban commuting. The bicycle can also be easily switched to a fixed gear one, if you want a taste of fixie life.

 

 

Best folding bike: Tern Bicycles BYB S11 ($2499)

 

Much like e-bikes, folding bikes have a much longer history than many people realize. In the late 19thcentury a number of inventors filed for patents for foldable bikes (though in reality many of them were less foldable than easily disassembled). In the 1960s there was another spike of interest with bicycle manufacturers in Europe and North America producing many foldable bikes and then later, in the early 1980s, models from Brompton and Dahon became popular.

The folding bike has some obvious advantages for the urban commuter—it doesn’t take up space in small apartments and rather than leave it on the street outside your office, it’s easy to break them down and bring them inside. Among the best folding bikes is Tern Bicycles’ BYB S11. It’s 30 percent smaller than other folding bikes, has 11 gears (Shimano), and Kinetix Pro X wheels.

 

 

Best budget folding bike: Zizzo Folding Bike Urbano ($430)

 

If Tern’s BYB S11 is more than you want to spend on a folding bike, there are some lower-cost options. Among our favorites is Zizzo’s Folding Bike Urbano. It has eight gears (Shimano) and weighs in at a light 24 pounds thanks to its LX aluminum frame. Depsite its modest price, it’s a bike capable of handling most terrains and folds up to a size small enough that it’s easy to throw into your trunk for a weekend away, as well as sliding into a corner of your office during the workweek.

 

 

 

How To Take Cool Instagram Photos—From a Pro

The art of photography once was a closed world, filled with mystery and concrete details. It was commonly considered that to make a decent photograph, you should at least obtain a few professional items – camera, lights, etc. But the technologies stepped forward, and with the appearance of the first smartphone models with cameras, the ethereal world of photography has shaken. At first, no one took it all seriously, but nowadays, mobile photography has become a separate kind of art form that can compete with classic techniques. By now, iPhone owners can create outstanding works using their phones solely.

There is a proven way to make your works popular, like the possibility to buy custom Instagram comments or likes. But in this article, we shall concentrate on mobile photography tips for beginners.

 

Turn On The Grid

 

The grid will divide your screen into nine equal segments. This is one of the key points that will help you create a decent composition for your photos. Remember that the objects you want to accentuate on your work should be situated either in the central segment or on the crossings of the lines. The grid also will help you to keep the horizon line parallel to the frame. The crooked horizon line is a fact that effortlessly reveals that you are a newbie in taking photos, so train a bit, or use framing later. But if your grid is turned on, it will be easier to shoot accurately at once.

 

Don’t Make Things Complicated

 

Getting back to the composition, as it is a prominent aspect in photography. At some time, if you feel the urge to put more and more details in your frame – drop it like it’s hot! Adding too many objects to your composition distracts the viewer’s attention from the one you want to show as the central piece. But you can also interact with your followers in the comment section and ask them what they think about your works. Minimalism is easier to shoot and requires fewer corrections later. Of course, shooting a single object on a monotone background can seem tedious, but you should focus on the textures and colors, which can add accents to your photo.

 

Find A New Angle

 

The secret of being a good photographer is to be able to see things differently. Thinking outside of the box is a must if you really want to impress people with your works. While the majority of people shoot, holding the device in the chest area, a true photography enthusiast will find another angle to make a great shot. Use your fantasy and try out all the ideas that you come up with. Don’t always give a deep sense to your pictures – sometimes, the desired result is a pure visual delight. Pay attention to things that happen around you, and try to show how colorful and engaging the world can be.

 

Aim For Depth

 

Creating a three-dimensional effect on your photos makes the shot more engaging and storytelling. This factor is especially vital for landscapes, where animated objects are often absent. The easiest way to add depth to your photo is to include leading lines in your composition. Mostly, a role of a leading line is played by roads of different kinds. Still, it can be rivers, clouds, or fences – basically, anything that can lead the viewer’s eyes through the architecture of the shot from the foreground to the background.

The second popular method to add a sense of depth in the photo is to use closed composition. Closed composition means adding an object into the foreground, which is partly visible, so the picture tunnels. This way, you have objects in your frame’s front, middle, and back, imitating the actual sight.

 

Show More Details Closely

 

The devil is in details, and sometimes a close-up can reveal a whole new world for your viewers. Macro-shooting discovers textures and colors deeper, making your works more engaging as well. In a few years before, to catch the minor details, a specific camera objective was required. Still, modern smartphones can now capture high-resolution images as well, so in your search for a perfect frame, you can get closer to the object. Shortening the distance between the photographer and the object works not only for exciting nature shoots but for portraits too. With the current possibilities of the camera, you can catch emotions and tiny face features that would visualize the character of your model. If you work well enough on the details, it will all pay off in the comments, likes and followers on your profile.

 

Retouching And Enhancing

 

Of course, it is hard to create a masterpiece in one click. Most photos require a particular correction after the initial shooting. For mobile photography, the main tool that helps to improve the shot is color correction, along with cropping, graining, exposure settings, etc. These are fundamental changes that are implemented in most mobile appsfor photo retouching. Nowadays, one of the most popular apps for iPhones is VSCO, which offers a free set of basic enhancements (contrast, white balance, graining, etc.) and a range of more complicated instruments available to users for paid subscriptions. The main benefit of this app is creating, and saving presets that can be applied to several photos – making a series. VSCO presets are also sold and distributed freely by people who are mobile photography enthusiasts, so you can choose the ones you like and apply them to your shots, having a brilliant result.

 

Look For Symmetry

 

Another excellent technique for creating interesting and beautiful photos is capturing symmetry in your works. The human eye loves perfection, and symmetrical shots easily drive attention and impress the public. Besides, it is easy – nature is all about symmetry and perfect forms, so the world around you is filled to the top with the objects to catch in your camera. However, beware of making a totally symmetric composition. To make the picture look more natural, move the central part of the composition to any side slightly, or allow one tiny detail to intrude on it. Imperfections are also natural, so this way, you will make your scene look lively. Find symmetry in the real things – reflection in the water, leaf patterns, or the structure of human features.

 

Place Objects By Diagonal

 

Along with centered perspective, you can also add intrigue and engagement to your shot if the objects in your frame are placed diagonally. Such method allows you to add more details to the shot and provides visual harmony that pleases the eye of your viewers and will make him leave the like or comment organically. The technique works perfectly if you want to introduce two or three objects in your shot. The diagonal lines in your composition can be displayed by the patterns and shades as well – thus, you also create a direction for the viewer’s eye to follow.

 

This article was originally published on Pursuitist. Republished by permission.

6 Sneaky Cool Features of the New Rivian R1

The Gear Tunnel

I would not be surprised if most Rivian owners name the gear tunnel as their favorite feature. It’s simple yet brilliant utility. Exactly like it sounds, the gear tunnel is an 11.6 cubic foot storage area that runs right through the middle of the truck, between the cab and bed, accessible through small doors on both sides of the truck’s exterior. You can also access the Gear Tunnel through an opening between the rear seats.

 

 

The uses for the gear tunnel are endless. As the name suggests, it is obviously great for storing gear—fishing rods, skis, golf clubs, camping gear…whatever your jam is. The tunnel’s doors also double as seats or as a foot stool to reach the truck’s roof. And since the engineers at Rivian don’t like any wasted space, the doors also have small cubbies for additional storage. But Rivian did not stop there. Realizing that this space has so many applications, they thoughtfully outfitted a few custom products—designed specifically for this space—that slide in and out of tunnel.  The coolest one by far is the…

 

Portable “Camp Kitchen”

 

 

While an expensive option, there is no denying how cool this custom feature is. The camp kitchen includes a countertop, a two-burner electric stove, a 4-gallon water tank for the sink, and a 30-piece dish-ware set that includes plates, utensils, carving knifes, and more. All of this folds up like a transformer into a unit that slides into the gear tunnel like a glove so you’ll never hear it bouncing around. Of course, if you are not planning on camping anytime soon, then simply take it out and leave it in your garage until it’s needed and use the storage space for something else.

 

 

Onboard air compressor

 

 

The obvious use for an air compressor would seem to be if you got a flat tire or had a slow leak and needed some quick air in a tire in order to make it to a mechanic. And having an onboard air compressor is certainly a comforting accessory should this scenario present itself. But the Rivian was built for rugged terrain and sometimes—whether it be driving on a beach or over rocks on a mountain road—deflating your tires can be prudent.  The integrated compressor—seamlessly built into the side of the bed—comes with a kit that includes a 20-foot hose that extends to all four wheels, for inflating your tires after airing down for rough terrain. It also includes a quick-connect nozzle and adapters to fill up myriad other gear including your bike tires, an air mattresses, raft, or even just a basketball. Just set the pressure and hit a button, and voila, you have air whenever you need it.

 

Portable Blue-tooth Speaker

 

 

The built-in (but portable) Bluetooth speaker weighs only 5 pounds and docks seamlessly within the truck’s center console for easy storage when not in use. It charges when docked or can be plugged into an external USB Type-C port when docking isn’t an option.

 

The flashlight with its own integrated door pocket

 

 

Powered by a single cell from Rivian’s battery pack, the flashlight fits—James Bond-style—right into a cylindrical opening on the side of the door (when the door is open). Assuming you always pop it back into place, it will always be fully charged. To access the flashlight you simply press inward on the end of the device (almost like pressing a button) and it pops out. Taking up virtually no space, who wouldn’t want this?

 

LED lights built into sideview mirrors

 

 

The Rivian is the ideal vehicle to go camping with. The folks at Rivian know this and added a lot of simple features that do not add any bulk to its overall form factor. The LEDs built into the side-view mirrors—which can light up a campsite or tailgate—is a perfect example. While they are not as bright as the headlights, they add additional lighting to your camp site or beach BBQ. Don’t like them? Don’t use them. They blend in seamlessly.

 

 

5 Fancy Coffee Makers For a Killer Cup o’ Joe

Which fancy coffee machine makes the most luxurious brew? Pursuitist lays out the latest in high-end precision coffee machinery that allow for maximum customization and most importantly — truly killer cups of caffeination. Below, discover the top 5 luxury coffee makers to begin your day with the best technology to craft perfect coffee.

 

 

The Thermador TCM24PS ($3999) isn’t just a maker, but a true built-in appliance and masterpiece for the coffee connoisseur. This plumbed coffee machine with home connect enhances the residential café experience with its full color LED screen and Alexa voice control.  Or create drink orders remotely through your smartphone! The Thermador is always ready for the next cup with a fully automatic rinse program at turn-on and -off. And while it makes quick work of creating personalized beverages, it also stores up to eight coffee customizations. 

 

 

 

The Jura A1 Automatic Coffee Machine ($800) is for the purists. This one-cup machine prepares quality espresso, coffee, and ristretto at the touch of a button. With two adjustable strength settings and three programmable cup sizes, the stylish and sturdy machine preserves the full aroma of your coffee beans after they are ground, then takes those beans to customizable brew with one touch — in about 30 seconds. Ultra-compact, it delivers this full flavor without taking up all of your counter space, and, compared to other popular luxury options, is relatively budget-friendly. 

 

 

 

The Saeco PicoBarista Carafe ($1499) makes milk-based coffee drinks a joy. Fully programmable with buttons for a variety of coffee styles, and to change the intensity of your cup, this machine has a digital readout that makes it easier than ever to customize your coffee. It’s definitely our favorite for milk-based coffee specialities as it offers the largest variety from a compact machine and the attached carafe froths the milk automatically.  It also comes with a special filter that monitors water quality so there will be no descaling for about 5,000 cups! 

 

 

 

The Breville Barista Pro Espresso ($800) is a bold stainless steel beauty that makes a balanced coffee brew. With its adjustable grind size and dose, this machine makes a solid single shot — or double — with intuitive functions, achieving consistent and balanced espresso using the right amount of ground coffee every time. It’s a safe, user-friendly option that makes a phenomenal cup to rival your favorite coffee house.

 

 

 

The Miele CM6150 Coffee Maker ($1900) is a counter top coffee machine that makes the art of coffee both fun and functional. With its creamy milk frother for coffee specialties and up to four customized user profiles, this machine is a favorite for intense coffee flavor without the coffee shop fuss. You can even make two cups at once with the touch of a button! And its convenient cleaning program makes care and maintenance as simple as sipping your afternoon macchiato.

Most Expensive Watches in the World

Finding the top 10 most expensive watches in the world was made easy, with the help of the researchers at Online Casino Betway who meticulously took the task to write about the most desirable luxury watches ever made.

 

As you can imagine, there are some ridiculously priced timepieces, let’s dive straight in and look at some of the most expensive timepieces and explore why some investors really see a huge return on investment when it comes to investing in timepieces.

Are Luxury Watches an Investment?

Why spend so much on a watch? Well the simple answer would be that we know that the worth of high-priced watches goes far beyond their value as accessories.

 

According to a post by the New York Times, some investors claim that their luxury timepieces doubled in value within a year.

 

However, according to the Gentleman’s Gazette, there’s a lot more to investing in watches than buying an expensive model. Choosing a timepiece that will grow in value means research and a lot of careful searching. Let’s take a closer look at some watches that are guaranteed to sell for an even bigger fortune in the future.

10 of the Most Expensive Watches

Hublot Big Bang

The Hublot Big Bang was initially purchased by Beyonce for Jay-Z and is worth around £4,000,000. This timepiece boasts nearly 1,300 diamonds and is worth its weight in gold.

Vacheron Constantin 57260

With a worth of approximately £6,000,000, it took the creators nearly eight years to design and make this watch. Two hundred forty-two jewels form the outer shell of this timepiece.

Patek Philippe Ref. 1518

This timepiece isn’t only remarkable for its value. Released in 1941, this was the first perpetual calendar wristwatch to see the light of day. This Patek Philippe wonder fetched a staggering £8,500,000 at an auction in 2016.

Paul Newman’s Rolex Daytona

Paul Newman’s Rolex Daytona is, without a doubt, one of the watches that has appreciated most in value over time. The former star’s wife gave him the timepiece in 1968. When it went up for auction in 2017, it fetched a whopping £13,500,000.

Breguet Grande Complication Marie-Antoinette

This Breguet may not be a wristwatch, but it’s a luxury watch, nonetheless. Initially commissioned by one of Marie Antoinette’s lovers, the timepiece is valued at £25,000,000 and took 45 years to complete.

Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime

This reversible timepiece currently holds the record for the most expensive wristwatch ever sold at auction: $31,000,000.

Louis Moinet Meteoris Collection

This collection takes its name from Louis Monet, a father of modern watchmaking. One-piece features part of an actual meteorite and is called the “Tourbillon Mars”. The collection is worth £3,500,000.

Patek Philippe 5004T

This timepiece is the only titanium version of this range ever created. It was specifically designed for auction and fetched £2,985,000.

Franck Muller Aeternitas Mega 4

This watch is lovingly dubbed the “Master of Complications” by enthusiasts. It has a host of fascinating features (like a 1000 year calendar) and a price tag of £1.8 million.

Graff Diamonds Hallucination

Decked out in 110 carats of diamond and featuring multiple types of cut, it’s no wonder that this watch has a net worth of approximately £43,000,000.

Competition grows among the HNWI

For those that are lucky enough to even consider buying any of the 10 luxury watches, it makes complete sense to invest in a timepiece that is only going to go up in value as the years tick by. High net worth individuals are on the rise from China to India and the numerous high tech company founders in Silicon Valley, therefore there is bound to be a demand for such luxury timepieces, nevertheless, there are is only a limited edition made for each watch so competition for these rare items is going to grow over the years.

This article was originally published on Pursuitist. Republished by permission.

Best Smart Equipment Systems For Your Home

Staying at home these last few months has sparked a serious boom in demand for at-home fitness equipment. To be sure, there are a number of high-tech players in the at-home equipment game that have a possibility to disrupt the gym industry — or at least make working out so much more convenient!

Pursuitist examined some of the latest in smart home fitness technology, equipment, and apps and narrowed the field to our top five favorites. Here, we list them in ascending order:

 

 

Tonal ($2995 + monthly subscription)

This is a “weight machine” that uses digital weights in a compact gym that extends from a mounted touch screen with a built-in coach. It replaces your personal trainer at the gym by putting one, on-demand, in your own home, offering real-time feedback as well as compact design. Tonal, which uses electromagnetics to create combined resistance, mounts on your wall — but keep in mind that you’ll need to have a wall appropriate for installation.

 

A stationary bike is the best exercise machine for home exercise. If you want to lose your fat calorie a daily basis you buy a recumbent bike to lose weight smartly. Most of us smart persons buy stationary bikes to keep their bodies fit. If you have any idea about stationary bikes you may read this guide to gather your beginner knowledge.

Fight Camp Boxing ($1219 + monthly subscription)

Fight Camp Boxing is a free-standing bag, workout mat, and glove set that makes any space a boxing ring. This smart home gym equipment comprises an in-home boxing bag, guided workout classes, and smart boxing gloves with sensors inside that tell users how hard they’re hitting and how many jabs and punches they actually landed. Fight Camp Boxing has an impressive roster of boxing coaches leading virtual classes and its punch trackers measure punches thrown, speed, and punch output.  It also gamifies your boxing workout by using your stats to beat your own personal records.

 

 

Hydrow Connected Rower ($2245 + monthly subscription)

This high-tech, virtual rower allows you the feel of the river in the comfort of your own home. This piece of smart home rowing equipment has an ultra-smooth electromagnetic computer controlled drag system. With it, you can stream high-energy rowing workouts on-demand as well as mat workouts. A swivel display makes it easy to watch the screen during your floor workout, and two wheels on front make it easy to move when you need to store it away.

 

 

The Mirror ($1495 + monthly subscription)

A full-length mirror and LCD screen that offers hundreds of cardio, strength-training, yoga, boxing, pilates, and barre exercises with a very small physical footprint. It hangs on your wall and provides instructor led, live on-demand classes. This interactivity is one of the best features of this smart home gym machine, added to the fact that the mirror allows you to keep an eye on your own form during your workout. And its slim design is the ultimate space saver!

 

 

The Peloton Bike ($2245 + monthly subscription)

Pelaton—no introduction needed—is an indoor-spin bike with adjustable seat and handle bars that capitalizes on the popularity of the boutique spin-class boom. But Peloton’s monthly subscription comes with unlimited classes, and not just for cycling. While its price is a commitment to making fitness a priority in life, Pelton brings out its riders’ competitive side, with an app that tracks improvement while monitoring resistance, cadence, and output. We love its smooth quiet ride, and give this one bonus points for its TV-sized touchscreen display, but the very best part may be the challenging new workouts added every day.

 

This article was originally published on Pursuitist. Republished by permission. 

Q&A with New Travel Social Platform CEO LeAnn Campas

Travevel is a new platform that combines the familiarity and interactivity of a social platform with user generated content focused on travel, tourism, exploration and adventure. Travevel’s interactive platform is ad-free and filled with user-generated image and video travel content, including an interactive map. Here’s what CEO LeAnn Campas has to say about the future of travel and social media’s role.

 

Q. Why are travel and social media so synergistic? 

 

A. Social media is visual and there are few things more visually interesting than travel images and videos. The two were made for each other. Additionally, the vast majority of us put more weight on personal experiences, and there is no better way to share our adventures, explore others’ experiences and interact with them than through a social platform.

Q. Does Travevel lend itself more to user-generated content (UGC) than some other genres and if so why?

 

A. UGC always carries more weight and credibility to consumers than any form of paid content and we have seen growing frustration from users of other platforms as to the aggressive amount of ads they are seeing, which has a negative impact on the user experience.  With Travevel, our mission is to focus on authentic content from personal users.  While business user accounts will be a part of the platform, the content they upload cannot be branded or watermarked, nor can they pay any additional fees for their content to be prioritized or shown in a different manner than individual user content.  We want to ensure that the user has full control over what they see and how they interact with not only other users, but businesses as well.

 

Q. What is it like launching a travel-oriented social media platform during a worldwide pandemic that has brought the travel industry to its knees? 

 

 

A. There is no question that this is a challenging time to develop and launch Travevel, however, we have found there to be some benefits to the timing.  Through speaking with other travelers worldwide who have had severe restrictions placed on their movements and activities, we have seen even more enthusiasm about future travel not only from frequent travelers, but from those who didn’t have any plans pre-pandemic.  A very large number of people have been actively researching and exploring new destinations to escape this new, and drastically different normal. Travevel is a platform that helps users plan now for travel later.

 

Q. Will COVID-19 change the future of travel even after a vaccine? What are the positives and negatives that will come out of this for the travel industry? 

 

A. Based on the dramatic increase in activity we have seen in the last few months as more destinations started to open, I feel the only thing that will prevent a return to normal levels next year will be limitations on air transportation and rolling travel restrictions across the globe.  Being shut in for so long has certainly seemed to increase interest in travel and new experiences, which should greatly benefit the industry.  The main negative long-term will be transportation and occupancy based.  It may take some time to see the effects of reduced airline routes combined with destinations operating a reduced occupancy.  Unfortunately, at least in the short-term, employees will bear the brunt of these decreases.

 

Q. What are some destinations you recommend right now for Americans based on COVID-19 restrictions and protocols and all the headwinds associated with them.

 

The Caves Resort, Negril, Jamaica

A. While it is difficult to put together a list, there are so many amazing National parks and outdoors destinations close to home, no matter where you live.  Internationally we have been very impressed with the protocols and restrictions imposed by Jamaica since the country reopened in July.  Requiring a negative COVID test, designating a tourism corridor and mandatory masking in public areas have been very effective, and to date, they haven’t had any cases by guests or staff at resorts.  We have visited four times since July and have always felt safe.  Many countries are now reopening to tourism with a wide range of protocols in place from Mexico with no testing or authorization required, to others where a negative test is required as little as 48 hours prior to arrival in addition to travel authorizations, mandatory insurance.  From our personal viewpoint, we prefer to travel to an area with well thought out, and in some cases, challenging safety protocols.  These are interesting times for travel and we strongly encourage others to visit destinations that make you feel safe and comfortable based on your personal situation.

 

Q. What will travel look like in 2021?

 

A. There is certainly no shortage of people wanting to get away.  The struggle will be finding available space in both transportation and lodging because of reduced routes and capacity.  These transportations challenges could very well lead to a dramatic increase in weekend trips to parks, beaches and other outdoor attractions close to home.

 

Q. Any tips for travelers in 2021 and beyond?

 

A. Be flexible, be patient, and be understanding.  The entire world has changed and everyone is still figuring things out.

 

culinary appliances

Culinary Comforts—Best Kitchen Appliances 2020

If your personal preference is centered on design and style, or on food and entertainment, here’s our list of the top high-end culinary brands that will suit your preferred lifestyle.

Best Kitchen Appliances 2016jpg

Live, and dine, in luxury with these incredible kitchen appliance brands, as Pursuitist presents the Best Kitchen Appliances for 2020:

Bertazzoni. Italians are renowned for their passionate love of food. Bertazzoni continues that tradition, as a fifth-generation, family-owned Italian manufacturer of high-end kitchen products. The company’s products include free-standing ranges, built-in cooktops, ventilation hoods and other design-coordinated accessories.

Bertazzoni

Gaggenau. Gaggenau is the world’s preeminent brand of high-performance restaurant-grade cooking technology for the modern home. Specializing in cutting-edge, built-in home appliances, its sleek portfolio includes ovens, gas, electric and induction cook-tops, ventilation, dishwashers, modular refrigeration and freezer columns and wine storage units. Gaggenau also produces specialty appliances such as steamers, grills and deep fryers, and the Asian-influenced Teppan Yaki – all crafted for the luxury American kitchen.

GAGGENAU

La Cornue. Each Château and each Cornuchef is assembled by hand and by one person; this person will follow production through to the end and finalize every last detail. Each kitchen range is monitored, controlled and tested at all the stages of production. Even if you happen to be the Queen of England, you will have to wait at least two months for your Château La Cornue. The superior ranges simply cannot be made any quicker. For three generations, La Cornue has loved and served cuisine in the same way as a stringed-instrument craftsman loves and serves music. La Cornue cultivates an ideal of excellence.

 

 

La Cornue

Dacor. Working together to redefine the modern kitchen, the Dacor family has produced an impressive array of industry firsts. Patented features abound throughout their full line of cooking appliances. Features like an infrared gas broiler inside an electric oven, a Pure Convection system for even heat distribution, a Butterfly Bake Element for an extraordinary traditional bake, and extra-large Dacor Greats that simplify cooking with large pots and pans.

dacor.jpeg

Miele. Each Château and each Cornuchef is assembled by hand and by one person; this person will follow production through to the end and finalize every last detail. Each kitchen range is monitored, controlled and tested at all the stages of production. Even if you happen to be the Queen of England, you will have to wait at least two months for your Château La Cornue. The superior ranges simply cannot be made any quicker. For three generations, La Cornue has loved and served cuisine in the same way as a stringed-instrument craftsman loves and serves music. La Cornue cultivates an ideal of excellence.

MIELE

Viking. In spite of its tremendous growth and success, Viking Range Corporation remains essentially the same entrepreneurial company it was at its inception. This small, close-knit company culture serves Viking and its customers well, and greatly contributes to the company’s ongoing growth and success. By carefully preserving this unique, creative and stimulating environment, and through offering only the very finest, highest quality products, Viking plans to continue its aggressive growth and expansion to further increase its already strong presence in the worldwide major appliance and related culinary lifestyle industries.

THERMADOR

Sub-Zero Refrigeration. For 60 years, Sub-Zero has offered innovative, aesthetically appealing and technologically advanced solutions to meet virtually any home refrigeration need. Through foresight and responsiveness, the company has earned its position as an industry leader – a position Sub-Zero intends to maintain well into the new millennium.

SUBZERO

GE Monogram. GE has been a leader in American manufacturing for years, gaining a corporate reputation for unmatched reliability and innovation in their products. Their Monogram line consists of their premier professional-grade products, from refrigerators to cooking appliances and everything else you can dream up for your kitchen. Should you ever take issue with a Monogram product, GE employs a nationwide fleet of vans and repairpeople to provide prompt service on your appliance.

MONOGRAM

Thermador. Thermador has been at the forefront of cooking technology for more than seven decades, fusing state-of-the-art performance with classic design to satisfy the most demanding culinary enthusiasts. From introducing the first built-in wall oven almost 50 years ago, to revolutionizing gas cooktops with the patented Star Burner, Thermador’s innovations have helped to transform the kitchen from a mere workplace into the social and entertaining center of the modern American home.

THERMADOR

 

See also:

8 Great Commuter Bikes To Get You Back To the Office in (Eco) Style

5 Great Juicers for Your Next Juice Cleanse

The Science Behind Sous Vide Cooking

Wolf. For more than 70 years, Wolf has been synonymous with professional cooking equipment for restaurants and hotels. Now, as part of Sub-Zero, the Wolf line has been adapted for the serious in-home cook. With their superior performance and leading-edge design, Wolf instruments fuel a passion for cooking.

WOLF

Bosch. Also for 70 years, the beauty of Bosch exterior design is how well it blends with your kitchen decor. Their integrated system allows you to match the dishwasher to your cabinets, complementing the entire look of your kitchen with ergonomically-designed controls are at your fingertips.

Bosch

Jenn-Air. This company creates luxury appliances that are more than a facet of your kitchen, they make your house more of a home. Ranked #1 for the last four years in their creation of built-in refrigerators, Jenn-Air will never fail to impress guests in your home.

JENN-AIR

AGA. Aga has nearly a century of experience of enriching kitchens around the world. The Classic Aga Range employs cast iron construction and energy efficient heating, which combine to offer a truly unique cooking experience. Available in a variety of enameled colors; Aga ranges offer tremendous design flexibility. Now enhanced with complementary undercounter refrigeraton Aga continues to redefine upscale kitchen design coupled with professional cooking prowess.

aga

And that concludes our list of the best luxury kitchen appliances for 2020. What culinary brand, from refrigeration to cooking, do you own? Share this on social and add your favorite brands!

The Science Behind Sous Vide Cooking

Sous Vide (sue veed) means “under vacuum” and presents a cooking technique where food is heated to a consistent temperature in a water bath. Although it dates from late 18th century, it was revealed in 1960’s, when it was used by French and American chefs at expensive restaurants. Continue reading

Travel Timepieces

Most elite travelers take a great deal of care when planning vacations, from exclusive itineraries that elevate the experience to elegant modes of travel like yachts and private jets that afford the ultimate in luxury and privacy. The same amount of care should be taken when choosing a timepiece to accompany you on your journey. Continue reading

Less Is More With GoPro’s New Hero4 Session

It’s $400 and has no touch screen or removable battery, yet GoPro’s new Hero4 Session is ideal for active people and here’s why

The new GoPro Hero4 Session is without a doubt a completely new animal—even compared to other GoPros. It’s 50% smaller (in it’s waterproof casing) and 40% lighter than the regular Hero4.  Continue reading