How to Create the Perfect Reading Nook

Curling up with a good book becomes heavenly when you have a great place to curl up. The best part of a “nook” is that it’s literally all you need space-wise. Use what you have and see how easy it is to create your very own imagination station, aka reading nook.

 


 

1. Spot the spot

Take a look around your living area for any of the following: a window, an alcove, a corner, extra closet, space under the stairs. All count as excellent choices for a reading nook. Move around a few things to uncover tucked away spots. Ideally, you want a space away from TVs. If possible, use natural light as your focal point.

 

reading nook
Photo by: flickr/Wicker Paradise under license CC BY 2.0


 

2. Brighten it up

Nothing beats sunlight for daytime reading but you definitely want a good reading light for all the pages consumed after dark. Keeping your reading space uncluttered is best, so keep things minimal with a book light or a serpentine lamp (the ones with long, flexible necks). Clamped lights also offer versatility for limited options because you can affix them almost anywhere.

 

Cory Doctorow reading monkey lamp
Photo by: flickr/Cory Doctorow under license CC BY-SA 2.0

 

3. Have a seat

This might be the most important part of creating your perfect reading spot. A cozy, fluffy place to sink into, like an oversized chair, a beanbag, or even a spare mattress (with some modification) can offer a relaxing place to soak up your stories. Work with your space. Sometimes, cushions might be all you really need.

 

reading nook
Photo by: flickr/Peter Alfred Hess under license CC BY 2.0

 

4. Secure a surface

A small end table or upturned crate can give you just the space you need for a mug of hot chocolate or glass of Malbec. Some readers like to have pens and a notepad to jot down ideas while they read. If you have the space, consider a DIY bookshelf to include within your nook.

 

reading table
Photo by: flickr/Wicker Paradise under license CC BY 2.0

 

5. Remove yourself

If you need privacy or like to feel enswathed in a cocoon, consider curtains, wall dividers, or Japanese screens to partition yourself off from the rest of the room. These simple solutions can really carve out a space where you thought there was none.

 

wicker chair nook
Photo by: flickr/Peter Alfred Hess under license CC BY 2.0

 

Remember, you might need to experiment with a few spots to see what works well. That’s part of the fun. Raid the linens and hit vintage shops for more ideas about how to decorate your nook. A few interesting textiles can take you on a journey of room decorating ideas.

And, of course, now it’s time to get busy on your home library.

Odes to Everyday Things from Every Continent

In the spirit of Pablo Neruda’s marvelous poetry about ordinary things, we’ve compiled a photo essay spanning the seven continents. Plato taught us long ago, that the “beauty of style and harmony and grace and good rhythm depend on simplicity.” Let’s take a moment to celebrate the design of everyday things.

 


 

Africa: Ostrich Egg

Homes all over South Africa include ostrich eggs in their array of objet d’ -art and it’s easy to see why. Perfected by nature, oversized ovals are a unique surface for artisans to decorate. Enameled, painted, or even untouched, save for a stand, the results are astounding.

 

South Africa ostrich eggs
Photo by: flickr/Redmond licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

 

Antarctica: Ice

Contemplating the ice of Antarctica is a meditation in white. Something commonly thought of as one color, is in the purity of the Arctic landscape, many, many hues. Behold shades of ghostwhite, floralwhite, ivory, lavenderblush; yes, lavenderblush, all in sheets and bergs of ice.

 

Antarctica ice
Photo by: stocksnap.io/Casey Kiernan licensed under CC0 1.0

 

Asia: Bangles

Among the most beautiful creations in all corners of the Indian subcontinent are stalls of shimmering, fragile, glassy, colorful bangles sold by the dozen. A proper “sleeve” of bangles requires at least three dozen bangles. Since they’re glass, they’re expected to break. Shattering one by one, it’s time for another visit to the bazaar when they’ve all broken away.

 

bangles
Photo by: flickr/Garry Knight licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

 

Australia: Didgeridoo

Indigenous Australians created this exquisite instrument almost 1500 years ago from hollowed out tree limbs. How does one hollow out tree limbs? Termites do it for you. Decorative motifs vary depending on the provenance of the person making the instrument, and makes for a variety of styles and sounds. Its familiar droning is inextricably linked to the culture and people Down Under.

 

Australia Didgeridoo

 


 

Europe: Tulips

It’s a flower so gorgeous it inspired a frenzy in the 1600s. Legend has it that at the height of their value, certain tulip bulbs commanded prices 10 times the yearly income of a skilled craftsman! To this day, economists use the phrase “tulip mania” when speaking about fluctuations in the intrinsic value of goods in the marketplace.

tulips
Photo by: pixabay under license CC0 1.0

 

North America: Maple Syrup

During early European colonization in northeastern North America, indigenous peoples taught arriving colonists how to harvest sap for survival. Many years later, Civil War abolitionists opted to use maple syrup rather than southern sugar cane. And during WWII, maple syrup was the go-to sweetener in a time of increased rations. This is a flapjack syrup with some serious historical cred.

 

maple syrup
Photo by Unsplash/ Sonja Langford

 

South America: Caipirinhas

The classic libation of Brazil that’s as fun to drink as it is to say: KAI-PE-REEN-YA. A refreshing concoction that goes great with Rio’s hot, hot, hot beaches. You can order them with a variety of fruits like pineapples, grapes or strawberries but we recommend taking it classic: a little lime juice, cachaça (sugar cane hard liquor) and a hint of sugar. Saude!

caipirinha
Cachaca Dave/under license GFDL or CC-BY-SA-3.0, Wikimedia Commons

Why Putting Your Own Needs First is Not Selfish

From the moment you took your first steps, your parents taught you one thing: put others’ needs before you own. Should you stray from this path, you are the actual embodiment of self-absorption. You probably believed it, too. And yet, putting your own needs first isn’t always the selfish act it’s made out to be. Instead, it’s often a highly necessary one.

The Life Changing Magic of Not Giving a F**k author Sarah Knight calls this notion “affixing your own oxygen mask before helping others.” It’s a fitting metaphor. You take care of yourself before you can even think about looking after those around you. If you give all that you have to anyone who asks for it, it won’t be long until you burn out. At that point, you’re no use to anybody – least of all yourself. 

Things you can (and maybe should) say “no” to

So, when should you say “no” and why should you do it? While declining every single request you get is a tad over the top, there are certain times when people will ask too much of you. Not sure what I’m talking about? Here are three classic examples. 

1. Attending an expensive bachelorette party abroad

“Ladies! As you know, me and Brad are engaged! So, I’d like to formallyinvite you all to my bachelorette party (woo!). Details TBC but I’m thinking a quick weekend trip to Paris. I’m just spitballing, so let me know what you think!” 

Sound familiar? When your friends start to get engaged, your inbox is sure to be flooded with messages closely resembling this one. There’s no rule that says you have to spend hundreds of dollars flying halfway around the world for your friend. 

There are two main things that you should consider. First of all, can you afford the time and money the trip will take? If the answer is no, it’s time to politely decline. Secondly, do you actually want to go? Again, if the answer is no, you need to say so. You have no obligation. Sure, if the bride-to-be is your best friend and you wantto go, you should do it. But if there’s the slightest part of you that wants to say no, listen to your gut. 

2. Extra workplace tasks (pay raise not included)

Has your job role expanded over the years? As you get more comfortable in a position, it’s only natural that it may change and that you could gain more responsibilities. If your plate is getting fuller but your bank balance remains the same, this could be a real problem. No matter how your boss tries to sugarcoat this pill, the facts remain the same. You’re doing extra workplace chores and reaping absolutely no financial rewards. That’s not okay.

3. Spending the holidays with your in-laws

You don’t just marry a person – you marry their entire family. Yes, whether you’re a newly-wed or anyone in an LTR, you will know this phrase to be true. Navigating the holiday period can be a particularly tricky task, especially if your partner wants you to spend it with their family. Saying “no” and spending the season with your family instead may seem like a tough decision, but it’s one that you’re 100% entitled to make.

Talking openly to your partner about what each of you is planning to do is the best way forward. Setting out your stall and refusing to head to the in-laws is all very well, but you have to be prepared for your partner to go anyhow. It might mean spending the holidays apart or coming up with a handy compromise. Either way, you should be as clear as possible about what you want and why you want it. 

 How To Say ‘No’ to Just About Anything 

For many of us, it’s not just deciding we don’t want to do something that’s the problem. It’s literally saying “no” to people. This is especially hard if it’s someone you love, care about, and want to please. Still, sometimes you need to put your needs first and make it clear that you can’t do what they’ve asked of you. You don’t have to be rude or obnoxious about it. Instead, it’s all about choosing your words wisely. 

While you may be tempted to pussyfoot around the topics, being direct is a much quicker solution. One study published in the Journal of Consumer Research found that using the phrase “I don’t” rather than “I can’t” could be the key to getting this right. Saying that you can’t do something gives the impression that the situation is out of your hands, which makes you sound flaky, as though you’re making up excuses. Because, well, you are. 

On the other hand, saying that you don’t want to, don’t have the time to, or don’t have the money to makes it clear that you’ve set a boundary. You’ve thought about the request and decided that you don’t have the right resources to do it. It’s hard to argue with that kind of logic and, as you will find, few people will try to. What’s more, they are likely to respect your stance as it shows confidence in yourself and what you can and can’t commit to. Nice work. 

Are you guilty of people-pleasing and giving too much? Learning to say “no” to things and putting your own needs first is a much-needed remedy. That doesn’t mean being contrary for the sake of it. It means having the confidence and self-respect to set your own limits on your own terms. After all, it’s your life and you make the rules. Realizing that and making this small change will make you stronger and, let’s be real here, happier, too.

How to Enjoy Mardi Gras (On a Shoestring Budget)

The Big Easy is one of the most expensive destinationsfor U.S. travelers, and prices usually skyrocket by 300% during the Carnival season and Mardi Gras. At “the greatest free show on earth”, the good times roll. But so do your debit and credit cards. So, what’s a would-be reveler to do? Use these budget-savvy tips to let loose and have fun without breaking your bank. 

Make a Plan

Whether you’re visiting The Backstreet Cultural Museum, joining the Shreve Town Walking Parade, or dancing non-stop at Pygmalion Fest, map out your plans. If you’re going to Bacchus and Endymion, two of the biggest parades of the season, grab a spot at least four hours early because the front-row ends up being four or five people deep. And don’t forget that the weather god is the one who actually rules over the Carnival season. Check the weather forecast: there might be icy sleet or sunny heat.

Check for Cancellations

“February 11 is the first major parade that happens. If you come for that instead of the last weekend, it’s not as expensive because more hotels are available. Then you get to experience the rest of New Orleans as well,” says Kelley Troia from Clandestine. If you’re a carnival reveler who hasn’t sealed the deal on accommodations, don’t worry.  While most five-star hotels are booked by December (and require a four-day minimum stay), you can still check for cancellations and be put on a waiting list. Suburban hotels in Metairie, Kenner, or Gretna also are much cheaper. Even if you can’t secure a keycard, there are plenty of RV campsites and homes (or at least bedrooms) available as the countdown to Mardi Gras madness begins. 

Reboot an Old Costume

Costumes are to Carnival as bacon is to eggs. When it comes to getups, the only rule is that there are no rules. “It’s Halloween times ten,” says Andrea Kolasinski Marcinkus, the Dean of Academic Affairs at The Illinois Institute of Art. “The more brightly colored and crazy, the better.” You can slather yourself in fluorescent body paint and cut-outs from cardboard boxes.  Or you can plunge into your closet and dig out Halloween costumes, ugly Christmas sweaters, or bridesmaid’s dress. Then fire up your glue gun, and stick on sequins, feathers, beads, or rhinestones. If you don’t want to suit up, you’ll blend right in wearing layers of purple, green, and gold. 

Hoof it 

Avoid traffic that makes rush hour seem fun and taxis that get nowhere near the action.  Mardi Gras Virgin? Make sure to slip on a pair of comfy, closed-toes shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty. And stick a couple of band-aids in your back pocket. Got to go faster? Rent a cruiser, tandem, or mountain bike.  They often come with free helmets, locks, baskets, and lights for night riding. Or better yet, use public transportation. A visiTOUR card costs $5 per day and gives you unlimited rides on all buses and streetcars. You also can instantly pay for your fare on the RTA GoMobile app, without the hassle of counting coins and cash. 

Eat Cheap

From wedding cake-flavored “sno-balls” filled with ice cream to po’boys stuffed with shrimp and French fries, New Orleans has some of America’s best grub. Unfortunately, local restaurants usually jack up their prices during Mardi Gras. Want to enjoy it without leaving your wallet hung over?Check for coupons and hit up inexpensive eateries like Café Beignet, Camellia Grill, 13 Monaghan, or The Joint.

Bring a Go Cup 

In New Orleans, you can walk the streets with open containers of alcohol—and not just during Mardi Gras. If you want to take your Hurricanes, Hand Grenades, and store-bought spirits with you from bar to bar or parade to parade, use a plastic “go cup” (no cans or bottles); they’re available at the door of every bar. But they’re the hardest-to-get and most sought-after parade throws. “At a young age, we’re taught to always grab them, even if it meant scuffling under floats and between marching bands,” says Becca Miller, a social media specialist at Pet Paradise Resort. Beware: “there ain’t no place to pee during Mardi Gras Day,” says Benny Grunch. Some places along parade routes sell $5 wristbands that allow unlimited use of their bathrooms. Though, free restrooms are so hard to find that you’ll actually see porta-potties strapped to the back of pickup trucks.

Last Note

While Mardi Gras has a reputation as a laid-back, anything-goes extravaganza, there are some sure-fire ways to get into (legal) trouble. Outside of the French Quarter, it’s illegal to flash your naughty bits for beads.  It’s also possible to be arrested for hitting the bottle too hard. But “you’ve got to be intoxicated where you’re a danger to yourself or others,”  says Nick Gernon, the commander of the New Orleans Police Department’s 8th District. Still, ambulance rides and medical bills are expensive ways to sober up.

6 Healthy Dessert Recipes for One

Have you adopted a healthier lifestyle? Your body is thanking you for it. As we all know, deciding to choose healthy doesn’t come without its challenges, especially when temptation is at every corner and you have a nagging sweet tooth that just won’t quit. But a healthier lifestyle doesn’t mean you have to give up all of your favorite indulgences, either. In fact, these healthy dessert recipes meet both cravings–letting you have something sweet that you can actually enjoy, and allowing you to maintain a healthy diet. These six single-serving desserts are minimal, healthy, full of flavor, and are sure to keep you happily on track. Who said you can’t eat good and feel good, too?

Dairy-Free Strawberry-Banana Ice Cream

strawberry banana

Ingredients

2 bananas, frozen

½ cup strawberries, frozen

½ teaspoon vanilla

optional: 2 tablespoons of your favorite non-dairy creamer

Instructions

Place ingredients in a food processor and blend until smooth (the consistency should be like soft serve ice cream). Freeze for one hour and serve cold.

Brown Rice Pudding

rice pudding

Ingredients

1 cup short grain brown rice

4 cups almond milk (or your milk of choice)

½ teaspoon cinnamon

2 tbsp organic cane sugar/coconut palm sugar

1 tsp vanilla

Instructions 

Combine all ingredients, leaving 1 cup of milk set to the side, in a rice cooker under the “Brown Rice” setting. Don’t have a rice cooker? Put ingredients in a saucepan on low-medium heat and cook for 35 minutes (or until rice is no longer tough). Once finished and the liquid has evaporated, add 1 cup of milk and mix together. Enjoy hot.

Peanut Butter Mug Cake

peanut butter mug cake

 Ingredients

2 tbsp brown rice flour

½, tsp baking powder

1 egg/flax egg

1 ½ tbsp melted coconut oil

2 tbsp almond milk

1 tsp vanilla

2 tbsp honey/agave, melted

2 tbsp peanut butter

dark chocolate chips (your desired amount)

Instructions

Combine flour and baking powder in a bowl and whisk together. Whisk in the rest of the ingredients (minus the chocolate chips) and combine well. Grab your favorite mug (a larger one works best) and pour in the batter. Top with chocolate chips. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes and allow to cool for one minute before enjoying. (Original recipe here.)

3-Minute Banana Bread

 banana bread 

Ingredients

⅓ cup very ripe mashed banana (1 small banana)

3 tbsp coconut sugar

2 tbsp coconut oil

¼ tsp pure vanilla extract

4 tbsp brown rice flour

¼ tsp cinnamon

⅛ teaspoon baking soda

pinch salt

2 tbsp dark chocolate chips or chopped nuts, optional

Instructions

Place ingredients into a mug and microwave on 50% for one minute. Cook for additional 30 second intervals at half power until fully cooked, being careful not to overcook the bread. To check if done, place a toothpick into the center of the bread and wait until it comes out clean.

Recipe modified from lindsayannbakes.com. Find the original recipe and instructions here.

Greek Yogurt Chocolate Mousse

 chocolate mousse

Ingredients

¾ cup almond milk

3 ½ oz dark chocolate

2 cups greek yogurt

1 tbsp honey/maple syrup

½ tsp vanilla extract 

Instructions

In a saucepan, place milk and chocolate over medium heat until chocolate has melted completed. Add in honey and vanilla extract. In a bowl, spoon in greek yogurt and add chocolate milk mixture on top. Combine well and transfer to a glass and chill before enjoying. Add fresh raspberries and mint on top for more flavor. (Original recipe here.)

Piña Colada Chia Parfait

pina colada parfait

Ingredients

¼ cup chia seeds
1 ½ cups coconut milk

drizzle of honey
1 cup chopped fresh ripe pineapple
handful coconut flakes

Instructions

Before bed, grab a mason jar and mix chia seeds with coconut milk and place in fridge overnight. In the morning, mix thoroughly to ensure chia seeds aren’t sticking to the bottom of the jar. Blend pineapple in a blender or chop/mash finely. Place on top of chia pudding. Drizzle honey and sprinkle coconut flakes on top. 

Consider a Low Budget Wedding for a Happier Marriage

Studies show that couples who spend a lot of money on their wedding have a higher likelihood of divorce, plain and simple. Needless to say this does not mean that everyone who has an expensive wedding is on the road to Splitsville, or that everyone who has a backyard picnic wedding will enjoy a long and fulfilling relationship; but it does spark curiosity. How does a low budget wedding lead to a happier marriage?

While research is not definitive on the answers to this question, it suggests factors such as decreased financial burden and debt post-wedding and couples who opt for a budget wedding being a better match for each other. Specifically, this research found that those who spent $20,000 or more on their wedding had a 1.6 times higher rate of divorce than those couples who spent between $5,000 and $10,000. What’s more, couples who spent under $1,000 had even lower rates of divorce.

What Money Says About Your Wedding

The fact of the matter is that you don’t need a lot of money to declare love and commitment to your partner or to commemorate the day when you do so in the company of loved ones.

Some theories suggest that couples might be using expensive weddings to impress their family and friends, which is probably not the best strategy. I conducted a social media poll, and as one low-budget wedding planner and advocate shared, “If your friends and family are not already impressed by your choice of life partner, the curry shrimp kebabs and Pinterest-perfect wedding arrangements aren’t likely to push them over the edge.”

low budget wedding

Furthermore, money and stress definitely go hand in hand for many couples, and beginning a marriage with unnecessary debt is not a recipe for success (logistically and spiritually). When it comes to finances, being able to openly communicate about what you are coming to the table with financially and your common vision for the wedding are key in making good decisions. Being able to say, “We can’t afford that,” or (perhaps more importantly), “We don’t value that enough to pay for it,” is an important practice for any couple.

A low budget wedding might require a bit more creativity, dedication, and support from family and friends. Here are eight ways you can have the wedding of your dreams without spending a fortune (and perhaps placing your bets on the statistical odds of having a more successful marriage):

Enlist the Help of Family and Friends

Planning a wedding where your family and friends truly participate in making it happen will make the day even more special (and less expensive). From photos and food to music and decorations, accept any and all help from family and friends who are happy to do so. Involving your loved ones in making your wedding beautiful is a lovely way for everyone to celebrate not only your special day but their love for you.

Hire a Culinary School to Cater

wedding catering

Look into if there is a culinary school in your area that caters events. If so, this can be an excellent way to seriously cut down the cost of a caterer, while still serving delicious food that you don’t have to cook yourself. You might not get the same level of professionalism as a full price caterer, but it could be well worth the sacrifice.

Buy Your Own Booze

Choosing a venue that allows you to bring your own booze can hugely cut costs. Head to Costco and stock up on whatever alcohol you choose to provide, and have a friend bartend.

Choose an Outdoor Venue

Eliminating the expensive venue is another way to bring your wedding costs way down. Choosing an outdoor venue such as a park, public university, your own backyard, or a special place that you and your fiance have shared can make for a gorgeous and simple wedding venue. If you don’t plan on getting married in a church or other religious venue, your outdoor location works well for both the ceremony and reception. 

Consider a Destination Wedding

low budget wedding

Believe it or not, a destination wedding can actually be much cheaper. Especially if you choose a country where the dollar stretches, you can afford some luxuries you might not normally spring for in the United States. This option probably isn’t the best fit for those with huge families and/or guest lists, but another perk of the destination wedding is that those who can make it generally use it as an excuse for a vacation, meaning you get to spend far more time with an intimate group of loved ones.

Dont Go Crazy on the Guest List

Getting swept up in wedding politics can spike your budget, so be conscious about who you invite. Remember, this is your day, and it’s okay to want to share it with people who really matter to you. If you’re paying, don’t be afraid to tell your mom she can’t invite her four best friends, and maybe people you haven’t talked to in years simply won’t make the cut.

You could also consider doing an A and B list of invitees. If people on the A list respond that they can’t attend, move on to your B list. And don’t be afraid to be open and honest with certain people about your budgetary constraints. (For example, do a separate celebration with your work colleagues.)

Buy Your Dress Off the Rack

wedding dress

Off-the-rack dresses are often discounted anywhere from 25 to 75%, and you can bring it home with you that day. Or, you could opt for a bridesmaid dress, depending on how fancy you’d like your dress to be.

Save Your Money for Other Expenses

Wedding day is just day number one of a (hopefully) long and loving relationship. Consciously deciding with your partner that you would rather save money for important things like a honeymoon that is just for you, pre-marital counseling, future children, etc. says a lot about your relationship and your priorities.

If you’ve always dreamed of an extravagant wedding day and have the money to spend on it without becoming overly stressed, maybe these ideas don’t apply to you. But if you are like many couples who don’t want to go into serious debt celebrating their love, consider why a low budget wedding might be the perfect start to your happily ever after.

Five of the Most Captivating Places to Visit Before You’re 30

Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer. While the phrase is a little on the cheesy side, it’s also laden with truth. Taking a trip to lands afar is an enriching and life-altering experience. What’s more, there are some choice locations around the globe that should be on everyone’s hit list. With that thought in mind, let’s take a look at just five of the most captivating places to visit before you’re 30.

1. Havana, Cuba

Highlights: Vintage cars, strong rum, and rich heritage 

havana, cuba

Is half of your heart in Havana? It should be. The Cuban city is a must-see for anyone with a case of wanderlustwhere there’s no escaping the friendly and inviting vibe of the region. The people are certain to welcome you with open arms, while there’s never a shortage of intriguing sights to see. 

While you’re there, be sure to take a trip to the Habana Vieja (‘Old Havana’) quarter, a charming area with a true bohemian spirit and some remarkable colonial buildings. Of course, you will also want to hit up the rum bars, which are ever-flowing,and treat yourself to a tipple. It’s worth taking a wander along the back streets to find the more authentic drinking houses as many of the main street optionscan bereal tourist-traps. 

2. Lisbon, Portugal 

Highlights: Historic trams, decorative tiles, and pasteis de nata 

lisbon, portugal

The vibrant and colorful capital of Portugal has soared in popularity in recent yearsand it’s clear to see why. The hilly city is a whimsical urban area that everyone should see at least once. While 19th Century trams glide up and down the streets, the iconic red 25 de Abril Bridge looms over the river. Be sure to visit both São Jorge Castle and Belém Tower.

The Portuguese cuisine you’ll find here is meat and fish-heavy, although there are a few more contemporary vegan restaurants popping up,too. Heading to Timeout Market is an essential part of the Lisbon experience. The late-night food hall is packed with unique eateries, cafes, and bars. When it comes to dessert, you can’t go wrong with a fresh pastel de nata,a traditional egg tart, whichtastes unforgettable when topped with cinnamon.  

3. Rio De Janeiro, Brazil

Highlights: Stunning beaches, bustling nightlife, and amazing sights

rio de janeiro, brazil

Surrounded by awe-inspiring mountains and remarkable beaches, Rio De Janeiro is truly a sight to behold. Aside from the Instagrammable spots dotted around the metropolis, this is also a place of music and bustling nightlife. From rock and hip hop to the Latino rhythms and beats of samba, you’re sure to find your own personal sound in one of the numerous after dark venues around the city streets. 

During the daylight hours, it’s time to relax and recuperate. Head to Copacabana beach or one of the many other golden-sanded spots here and spend a day in the sun. You can pass the hours by surfing, playing beachside games, or simply sipping on a cocktail. 

4. Sydney, Australia 

Highlights: Shimmering sun, lively streets, and the Opera House

sydney, australia

The gloriously immense harbor is the beating heart of Sydney. This city of epic proportions is one that everyone should cast their eyes upon at some point. When you reach the vast and impressive place, you may not know where to start. Heading toward the water is a great idea, since you can take in both the astounding Harbour Bridge and the Opera House in one camera shot. 

However, there’s so much more to this city than its major tourism points. The restaurant and cafe scene here is massive and there’s a broad variety of cuisines available. From the numerous sushi bars to gelato shops and quaint cafes, you’ll never be at a loss for places to stop off and have a rest. 

5. Barcelona, Spain 

Highlights: Whimsical architecture, museums, and las Ramblas 

barcelona, spain

If you’re a self-proclaimed culture vulture, heading to Barcelona in Spain should be at the top of your bucket list. The Catalan city is brimming with points of interest and museums, including the Museu Picasso and the MACBA contemporary art museum. Head down las Ramblas and each side-street you take will whisk you to a new corner of the city.The area is also filled with street performers, shops, and tapas bars. 

The city is speckled with the architectural works of Antoni Gaudí, the father of Catalan Modernism. The designs of his buildings are as unique as they are whimsical and make for ideal vacation Snap backdrops. You can find his creations, including the famous Sagrada Família cathedral, around the streets of Barcelona. If youhave a love of this style, you will also want to visit Park Güell where you can see more of his work.

10 New Year’s Traditions from Around the World

Smashing plates, burning dummies in the streets, flinging broken appliances through windows—these might sound like alcohol-fueled New Year’s Eve parties, but in other parts of the world, they’re time-honored traditions. Here are 10 fascinating rituals from around the world.

 

Greece

If you thought Santa Claus retired to Cancun—and started surfing to burn off his nearly 336 million cookies—after December 25th, then you forgot about Greece. “Saint Basil the Great gave away all his belongings to the poor. That’s why Greeks believe he’s the Greek Santa Claus,” says Panos Apostolou from SBS Greek. On New Year’s, they set an extra place for him at their tables.  They make donations to charities and give money to their children or their youngest relatives. In some parts of Greece, they also hang wild sea onions, with their bulbs wrapped in foil, above their front doors. Because they continue to grow layers and blossom even when they’re uprooted, they’re said to have magical powers and are symbols of rebirth and good luck.  On Greek Santa Claus’ feast day, parents wake up their children by tapping them on the head with it.

 

Japan

On New Year’s Eve, Japanese families gather together under a heated blanket and watch Kōhaku Uta Gassen,  a special NHK program where popular male and female musicians compete against each other. Then, either for dinner or an evening snack, they slurp year-crossing noodles while wishing for a long life. As midnight nears, Buddhist temples strike their ritual bells with wooden mallets 108 times.  “We symbolically beat out our sins from the past year so we can start the New Year off fresh,” says Reverand Toyokazu Hagio from Honpa Hongwanji Hawaii Betsuin.

 

South Africa

Does your toaster pop out charcoal on its first setting? Then you might want to adopt this South African New Year’s Eve tradition: toss your old furniture out the window at the stroke of midnight. Dating back to the colonial era, it represents letting go of past sorrows for a more hopeful future. But in Johannesburg, South Africa, residents stockpile pots, old couches, and microwaves. Then they chuck them from high-rise buildings with reckless abandon.

 

Denmark

On December 31st, the Danish have a smashing good time. They round up their broken china and hurl it against their friends’ and families’ doors. (No word on whether they volunteer to clean up the mess after.) A measure of popularity, the piles of broken glass ward off bad spirits and welcome happier vibes in the chaos. The Danish also scramble to the highest viewing points in their living rooms and leap into the new year—literally. “It does help to get any tumbles out of the way, pretty early on in the year,” says Alex Aagaard, a self-proclaimed New Year-ologist from Denmark.

 

Spain

At the stroke of midnight on Nochevieja, the last day of the year, Spaniards eat 12 grapes. Each represents good luck for one month of the coming year. Fleshy, sweet, and pale, almost whitish-green in color, these “lucky grapes”  are wrapped in paper bags in early summer and kept covered as they ripen. “They form a peel that’s much finer by not having to fend off … the rain, the sun, or the wind,” says Uva de Mesa Embolsada Vinalopó, a regulatory officer for the Denominación de Origen. “It also makes them quicker to eat. There’s less to swallow.” In Madrid and Barcelona, Spaniards also drop good luck charms like wedding rings or 2 euros into their Cava before the 12 o’clock toast.

 

Chile

In 1995, a family illegally jumped over a cemetery fence to spend New Year’s Eve near their father’s grave. Moved by their selflessness, local officials permanently open cemeteries on December 31st. Since then, families have been encouraged to decorate their loved ones’ graves with Chilean bellflowers, photos, keepsakes, and other souvenirs. While listening to classical music, they share their dead’s favorite foods like chapaleles and arrollado huaso.  They also light small fires next to their graves and sleep there until sunrise on January 1st.

 

Ecuador

Between Christmas and New Year’s, Donald Trump, Spongebob, Pikachu, and Mickey Mouse appear street side. The life-sized mannequins are stuffed with old newspapers or sawdust. On Los Años Viejos, Ecuadorians parade them through the city while men dress as their “widows” and beg for money. In the middle of the night, they set their effigies on fire. This burns away last year’s trials and tribulations and paves the way for nothing but good luck in the coming year. If they jump over the fire twelve times, they also double their happiness and success.

 

Philippines

Circles make the world go round.  They represent wholeness, the Self, timelessness, and all cyclic movement. On New Year’s Eve, Filipinos place 12 round fruits on their tables, a different one for each month of the coming new year. They also scatter Philippine pisos around the house and stash them in their pockets. This keeps their cash flowing past the stroke of midnight.  Hoping to keep Lady Luck by their sides, Filipinos wear polka dot clothing. They also wear red underwear for love, yellow for happiness, or green for money.

 

Finland

It’s no secret that Finland likes to party, but when it comes to New Year’s, it’s less about the glittery mini-dresses and tulle skirts. Instead, it’s more about predicting their future health, wealth, and happiness with molten tin or lead, a practice known as Molybdomancy.  Miniature tin horseshoes are melted in a pan and then poured into a bucket of cold water. The resulting lump of hardened metal is rotated in candlelight to create shadows. A fragile or broken shape indicates that misfortune may be around the corner.  Ships mean that the person may travel in the new year while keys usually suggest career advancement.

 

Belarus

If you’re wondering whether you’ll say, “I do”, in the new year, you might want to book a flight to Belarus. On New Year’s, single women sit in a circle and piles of corn are set in front of them. Then a rooster is let go. Whichever pile of corn he pecks at first determines who’ll get married first. In another game, married women hide items around their single friends’ houses to search for in a “manhunt”.  If they find a ring, they’ll tie the knot with a handsome man.  If they find bread, they’ll likely marry a rich one.

 

Did any of these New Year’s traditions surprise you? Do they make you want to visit that country and experience them firsthand? Let us know in the comments!

The ‘So Bad They’re Good’ Holiday Films On Netflix

Baby, it’s cold outside. (Actually, it’s downright freezing.) As the festive season draws near, so do the dark, chilly evenings. Luckily, that exact combination gives us all an excuse to slip into the coziest pajamas, grab a warm duvet, and settle in for an epic Netflix binge. What’s more, the streaming site has a handful of holiday gifts that you don’t want to miss. Let’s take a look at the ‘so bad they’re actually good’ holiday films on Netflix you have to watch this year.

#1 – The Princess Switch 

Starring ‘High School Musical’ actor, Vanessa Hudgens, ‘The Princess Switch’ is a must-watch for Netflix and rom-com fans. In the vein of the Parent Trap and other life-swapping flicks, the movie sees two miraculously identical characters switch places and walk a mile in one another’s shoes. 

Hudgens plays both an adorable American baker and a British Princess in this wholesome and kooky comedy. The pair soon hatch a plan to swap lives for a couple of days to see how the other half live. You don’t need a crystal ball to predict what happens next, but the movie feels fresh enough to carry the time-old story.

 

#2 – Christmas Inheritance

Before bratty daddy’s girl, Ellen, can inherit the family business, her father sets her a seemingly simple task. She has to deliver a Christmas card to his former partner in the aptly named town, Snow Falls. When a snowstorm hits the region, she’s stranded with no money and no friends to turn to. For the first time in her life, Ellen has to start from scratch and find her way in the world without the help of her family. 

 

#3 – The Christmas Prince 

If you’re looking for a super soppy rom-com that may make you shed a tear, you’ve found it. The Christmas Prince is an absolute cheese-fest of a film, but don’t let that put you off. Despite the slightly predictable (okay, very predictable!) plot, there’s a lot of warmth here and you might find yourself watching the movie again and again. 

 

 #4 – The Christmas Prince: The Royal Wedding 

The 2017 movie ‘The Christmas Prince’ was such a hit for the folks at Netflix that they decided to recreate the magic again this year. Yes, the sequel that we did not ask for ‘The Royal Wedding’ is already out on the streaming site. However, if you’re dying to get more of this cute couple in your life, it’s worth a watch.

 

#5 – The Christmas Chronicles 

If it’s your dream to see Kurt Russell playing Santa Claus (and it should be!), The Christmas Chronicles is the Netflix movie for you. While the flick starts with a heart-wrenching twist, which I won’t ruin for you, it soon picks up to a cheerier note. The film starts by introducing us to the Pierce family; Claire, Teddy, and Kate. Soon enough, the man in the red hat arrives and brings a whole load of the festive spirit with him. The kids find themselves on a magical sleigh ride across the US that turns out to be an adventure they’ll never forget.

10 Christmas Dessert Recipes to Satisfy Your Holiday Sweet Tooth

‘Tis the season to pig out, fa la la la la la la la la! Those are the lyrics, right?… I know that the best part of the holidays is supposed to be the joy of giving or whatever, but if you ask me — which I know you didn’t, but I’m going to tell you anyway — the best part is parking your rump at the dessert table and helping yourself to another slice of pie. If you like to indulge as much as I do, and you enjoy spending time in the kitchen, here are 10 Christmas dessert recipes that are sure to spread the holiday cheer.

10 Christmas Dessert Recipes Perfect for the Holiday Season

1. Red Velvet Cake Balls

 

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Red Velvet Cake Balls! Such a fun and festive holiday treat. 🎅🏻🎄

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Want something that’s easy to prepare but insanely delicious? Try these red velvet cake balls from Bakerella. You only need a handful of ingredients: red velvet cake mix, cream cheese frosting, and chocolate to melt and dip them in. Make huge batches, put them in festive tins, and hand them out to all your friends. Or, you know, eat them all yourself.

2. Hot Cocoa Cheesecake

If you love nothing more than a steaming cup of hot cocoa, this hot cocoa cheesecake from My Baking Addiction is right up your alley. You’ll savor every bite, from the Oreo cookie crust to the mini marshmallows added on top.

3. Reindeer Chow

 

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❤️💚 Reindeer Chow is the ultimate holiday snack mix – Chex cereal, Cheerios, peanuts, pretzels, and red & green M&Ms, all coated in white chocolate. This is an easy recipe that makes a TON, so it’s perfect for taking to all of your holiday events – it’s always a HUGE hit! 🎅⠀ .⠀ #browneyedbaker #f52grams #buzzfeast #yahoofood #eeeeeats #feedfeed @thefeedfeed #bhgfood #marthafood #thekitchn #bareaders #huffposttaste #todayfood #foodblogfeed #buzzfeedfood #buzzfeedtasty #recipe #instayum #eatingfortheinsta #bonappetit #onthetable #foodblogeats #mywilliamssonoma #tastingtable #foodgawker #realsimple #sotasty #f52oven #recipevideo #snacks #christmasiscoming

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Browneyed Baker’s Reindeer Chow is the answer to all of life’s problems. This is yet another simple recipe that is outrageously taste bud-tingling. Mix together Chex, Cheerios, peanuts, pretzels, and M&Ms, and coat it all in white chocolate, and you’ve got a holiday dessert fit for royalty. Christmas dessert recipes don’t have to be complicated to be indulgent.

4. Christmas Chestnut Yule Log Cake

If you’re feeling ambitious and want to really go above and beyond with your Christmas dessert recipes, try the Christmas Chestnut Yule log by Hummingbird High. It’s the perfect table centerpiece, and just wait until you sink your teeth into it. I’d also like to add that it photographs well for Instagram. Priorities!

5. Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars

 

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These look a bit like ugly Christmas sweaters, no? That was the intent with these✨Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars✨ But also: does Santa deserve cookies, or could he get by with bars? Could we smoosh sugar cookie dough into a pan, and slice it into cookie shapes? I’m not mad at Santa or anything, I’m just a *little* exhausted doing his job, you know what I mean? 🎅🏽 Recipe link in profile; also, if you make no other recipe from my site this year, make these sugar cookie bars with cream cheese frosting in an 8×8” pan, k? K. #feedfeed #imsomartha #foodandwine #mywilliamssonoma #fwx #f52grams #abmfoodie #buzzfeast #kitchn #thekitchn #bareaders #beautifulcuisines #gloobyfood #tastingtable #heresmyfood #buzzfeedtasty #christmascookies #christmasbaking #sugarcookies #mms

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These sugar cookie bars from Dessert for Two will give you life. The cream cheese frosting will make you weep. They’re also the perfect addition to your cookie decorating party.

6. Grinch Brownies

The peppermint extract and mint Oreo cookies really give these Grinch brownies from Cookies and Cups a nice kick. Fair warning: this will disappear from the dessert table fast.

7. Gingerbread Cookies

 

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GINGER CUTIES!!!!! 🎄 My favorite gingerbread cookie recipe is up on the blog. Clean edges, tons of spice flavor, easy to decorate with a simple glaze icing. Link in bio @sallysbakeblog PS: I have something as big as a house coming on Monday. Any guesses?! 😉😁😜 ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ #gingerbreadmen #gingerbread #gingerbreadcookies #homemadegingerbread #cutoutcookies #cookiedecorating #christmasclassic #cookies #cookiegram #thekitchn #tistheseason #holidaybaking #christmascookies #christmasbaking #homemade #fromscratch #bakedwithlove #thebakefeed #linkinbio #sallysbakingaddiction #sallyscookiepalooza ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ https://sallysbakingaddiction.com/best-gingerbread-cookies/

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You can never go wrong with traditional gingerbread cookies. Sally’s Baking Addiction has the ultimate recipe. Molasses and spices give them their iconic flavor, and the end result is irresistibly adorable.

8. Peppermint Chocolate Donuts

 

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I love gluten, but if it doesn’t agree with you so much, you’ll love these gluten-free, grain-free peppermint chocolate donuts from Broma Bakery. They’re topped with dark chocolate ganache and crushed peppermint candies, and the holidays have never tasted this good.

9. Christmas Velvet Layer Cake

 

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Layers of red velvet and green velvet cake spread with a dreamy peppermint whipped cream frosting. Get the recipe PLUS special tips for not overestimating your cake-layering abilities and making a cake that is too tall and topples over. If you caught my stories yesterday, YOU KNOW 😉😅. Tap the link in my bio!⠀ .⠀ .⠀ .⠀ .⠀ https://www.somethingswanky.com/christmas-velvet-layer-cake-with-peppermint-whipped-cream-frosting/ #cakestagram #instafood #santaclaus #foodie #christmascheer #christmaslights #love #christmasdessert #cakedesign #cooking #bakery #xmascake #foodstagram #gingerbread #buttercream #fruitcake #christmaslove #cakeart #tasty #foodphotography #santa #foodblogger #presents #christmaspreparations #winter #adventcalendar #holidaybaking #tallcakes

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Layers of red velvet and green velvet cake are spread with a dreamy peppermint whipped cream frosting. How many layers is too many? Trick question! There’s no such thing as too many. You can find the recipe over at Something Swanky.

10. Almond Shortbread

It’s fruity. It’s sweet. So soft and smooth. This almond shortbread with raspberry white chocolate frosting from Dessert First is the perfect holiday baking project.

A lifestyle magazine inspired by author Sylvia Day