Latest news with #SummerVacation
Daily Mail
20-07-2025
- Daily Mail
Three things you must do to your home before going on vacation to save thousands and avoid disaster
Summer is officially underway, which means many families are leaving their homes for relaxing summer vacations. But before you fly out the door with suitcases in tow, cleaning expert and internet personality Kyshawn Lane recommends you tick a few things off of a simple list to protect your home and save you thousands. Lane is known for his weekly home checks, which teach viewers how to save time, money, and energy while keeping their houses in the best possible condition. His latest video addresses the best way to leave your home prior to a vacation to ensure that you can soak up every second of relaxation while you're away. Daily Mail caught up with Lane, who explained why each tip is so important and provided some bonus advice. Water Heater The first recommendation is to set your water heater to pilot or vacation mode. That saves energy by limiting unneeded water usage while you're out of town. 'The water heater is something that you know we're unconscious about, that we use it every day and how much energy it uses,' he told Daily Mail. 'So if there's no one home and there's no need for hot water, you might as well give it a break and put some money back in your pocket.' Switching your water heater to 'vacation mode,' allows you to save money and energy when out of town, Lane advises But he warned against turning the water heater all the way off, because getting it restarted can be a hassle. 'You'll have to relight the pilot and sometimes that can put a little stress on its parts,' he said. Thermostat Second, he said to adjust your thermostat to 78 degrees in the summer, which will keep you from coming back to a musty home, which can even impact your health. 'It's the perfect temperature,' he said. Especially if you have plants or even electronics that can be affected by the heat. Turning your thermostat to a perfect 78 degrees can prevent damage to those items while saving energy and money. 'If you have pets or even electronics and plants, it can be crucial,' he said. Lane warned, however, not to turn your thermostat all the way off. 'It's going to use more energy, trying to get the climate back to where it was or where it needs to be,' he explained. He said it's also crucial at the end of each summer to perform routine maintenance on any over-worked appliances. 'Get your AC checked or tuned,' he said. 'It should be done like every one to three years depending on how you use it so that it's good for next summer. 'You don't wanna be in a predicament where it's blazing hot outside and suddenly that AC cranks out on you so definitely always be up-to-date with the health of your AC.' Lane said neglecting to do these things could lead to hidden damages to your home Having frozen pipes is also a costly consequence of not taking care of your home before leaving on a vacation in the winter time. 'There are damages that we don't see... when your pipes freeze or they burst,' he said. 'Then you have water in the walls and you have to worry about fighting mold and bacteria growing in the walls.' To prevent costly, often invisible damage, turning the heat to just 55 degrees is crucial. For money and energy saving in any season, Lane said it's a good idea to make sure none of your air is escaping through cracks in windows or door frames. Homeowners often unknowingly crank up their energy bills because regulated air isn't circulating properly in their home. Water Valve The hack he said is the most important? Turning off the main water valve in your home to prevent leaking. Lane learned this lesson the hard way after forgetting to complete the step and coming home to a water leak that cost him thousands of dollars. 'I returned from vacation. It was around 10 pm at night. I'm thinking I'm just gonna come home and have a chill night and go to bed,' Lane recalled. 'I come home to a leaking ceiling that started from my top bathroom floor and penetrated all the way down to my basement.' He said something as simple as turning off his water valve could have prevented the inconvenience and thousands of dollars he had to spend to have it fixed. 'Just something as simple as turning off the main water valve when you're gonna be away for a few days will give you peace of mind that you won't be returning to a tsunami once you come back home,' Lane said. Bonus advice If you live in an apartment and don't have to worry about water valve leaks and water heater costs, Lane said there are still a few things you can do to save yourself some money and make sure you're coming home to a relaxing space. He said to place electronics like your refrigerator on energy saver or vacation mode before heading out of town and unplug toasters, lamps, and electronics that won't be used while you're away. 'When we go out we always say "I'm unplugging," do the same for the home,' he said. When you return from a trip, Lane said to make sure to turn your water valve back on, switch on the water heater, and set your thermostat to a comfortable temperature once again. But he noted there are a couple of extra steps he likes to take to make sure everything in the home is in order. 'I'm flushing the toilets to make sure that everything is still working. I'm running the faucet,' he added. He said it's good to make sure your space is 'in good shape to move forward since you know it hasn't been used.' Lane frequently shares tips and tricks for homeowners on his Instagram and TikTok page. In any season it's important to make sure you're not wasting your money or energy on unnecessary home repairs and expenses. 'We're about saving money here,' he said.
Yahoo
29-06-2025
- Yahoo
5 best Canadian travel swaps for U.S. destinations — Canada Day, summer vacations and more
Whether you're concerned about Canada-U.S. border crossing, how far your dollar goes in the States or just feel like spending more time here at home, there are plenty of reasons to consider swapping a U.S. summer trip for a Canadian vacation. From inspired landscapes to rich cultural experiences — and with an abundance of vast nature to explore — a trip right here in Canada might just surprise you. "It's always been a good time to travel domestically, but there are a couple of reasons to plan a summer trip in Canada this year,' says David Webb, editor at Explore Magazine. 'The new Canada Strong Pass is removing entry fees to national parks and historic sites and offering discounts on camping. Plus exploring Canada rather than crossing the border means your dollar will go a lot further.' If you're looking for inspiration, read on for Canadian swaps for popular U.S. destinations. California's Big Sur may be known for its rugged terrain and ocean views, but Tofino, B.C. — 'Canada's no. 1 one surf capital' — boasts spectacular coastline and island vibes. You can stroll along white sandy beaches, hike through misty rainforest and watch stunning sunsets at Long Beach. Delve into deep Indigenous heritage and embrace the opportunity to catch a glimpse at some of the local wildlife, like grey whales, sea otters and even sea wolves — which are unique to the Pacific Northwest. Las Vegas may be glitz, bright lights and 24-hour nightlife energy, but Montreal, Que. blends European charm and a French flare with fabulous live music and a nightlife scene. This historic city, built in 1642, is known for its cobblestone charm, historic architecture and artistic culture. Montreal also hosts an array of festivals throughout the year, like Osheaga, one of Canada's largest music festivals, which is held in early August. Don't forget to indulge in poutine, and enjoy a world-famous Montreal bagel. Maine has lighthouses, fresh seafood and the Atlantic coast — but Nova Scotia offers all this and more right here in Canada. Where else can you see the iconic Peggy's Cove Lighthouse, the most photographed spot in Canada, on the edge of the rugged Atlantic Ocean? You can also enjoy a lively music scene with a strong Celtic heritage — get ready to stomp your feet to the sound of the fiddle. If it's seafood you are after, there's no shortage. Dine on fresh lobster rolls, or pick your own lobster from pot to plate. Be sure to head to Halifax, and hop on the short ferry ride — the oldest saltwater ferry service in North America — across the harbour to downtown Dartmouth. Colorado might be known for its mountainous scenery, however Canada's Rocky Mountains offer majestic wilderness and awe-inspiring vistas. It's the perfect road trip for anyone looking for a great adventure in the midst of truly dramatic nature. Be sure to take a snap shot at Lake Louise, famed for its turquoise water, and don't forget a stop at glacier-fed Peyto Lake. The Canadian Rockies are also home to an array of wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled. From grizzly bears to elk, which are often spotted strolling around the town of Banff, as well as bighorn sheep, it's bound to be an epic trip. If the appeal of Chicago's big city buzz and lake-front location is what you are after, you'll feel right at home in Toronto. Canada's largest city is a cosmopolitan hub and a multicultural metropolis. Explore the revitalized waterfront with views of the CN Tower. Enjoy world class entertainment and visit the many museums like the ROM, home to dinosaurs and ancient relics. If it's food you are after, you won't find a better selection of global flavours than here. One of the best ways to see the city is on foot, where you can get a sense of the diverse neighbourhoods, from Little Italy (for a tasty bite), to Kensington Market, known for its vintage finds and street art. It borders the city's Chinatown neighbourhood, which was established in the late 1800s. Toronto is truly a vibrant mix of food and culture.
Gizmodo
26-06-2025
- Business
- Gizmodo
This Cheap Surfshark VPN + Antivirus Bundle Feels Illegal (But It's Not)
The new Surfshark bundle practically pays for itself. Who needs a free VPN when you can enjoy virus protection and online privacy for pennies? If you act fast, Surfshark can be yours at a ridiculously low price. When things look too good to be true, something's always off. Not today. Explore the Surfshark bundle, save big, and enjoy your summer vacation free of viruses, prying eyes, and other online nasties for a pocket change! Grab Surfshark At 85% Off Here Surfshark is the king of affordable VPNs, but never have we seen such a significant deal. The star of this sale is the biennial Surfshark One plan, which is discounted by 85% thanks to three free months. Instead of $17.95 monthly, you'll spend only $2.69. Paid upfront, we're looking at a meagre $72.63 for the first 27 months. Apart from a 30-day money-back guarantee acting as a failsafe, Surfshark not only offer a VPN. As said, the package is complemented by an antivirus. This antivirus is no slouch. It works on all devices, providing real-time protection, webcam protection, and scheduled scans. Antivirus and VPN services differ a lot, which makes the combo unique. On one hand, you enjoy the privacy that Surfshark offers on a silver platter. On the other hand, there's virus protection to ensure device safety and prevent unwanted software from ruining the day. Such a unique combination raises the question of quality. Are the VPN and virus protection tools worth your time? Yes! We're discussing flagship products that adhere to the highest standards of user satisfaction. Surfshark VPN includes unlimited connections, applications for all devices, and competent 24/7 support. It also features modern security features, a verified no-log policy, and streaming and torrenting servers. As one of the top performers, Surfshark is popular worldwide. Its Camouflage Mode helps sidestep censorship in specific areas, while MultiHop routes the connection through two servers, doubling the encryption. Extras like Alternative ID, Alert, and Search are there. Surfshark uses them to enrich the package and provide users with innovative features. For example, Alternative ID makes a new ID with fake information to conceal your identity. Alert is a Dark Web Monitor. Conversely, Search is an incognito browser with no tracking. Combine everything with virus protection and get a complete security bundle for all your devices. However, the Starter plan doesn't include these tools, so keep an eye out when exploring Surfshark's plans. If you don't find its biennial plans attractive, the provider offers three more 12-month plans with exceptional discounts. Ultimately, if you're swimming in a money pool, you may prefer its monthly deals at much higher prices. Test Surfshark VPN Risk-Free
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Travel + Leisure
29-05-2025
- Business
- Travel + Leisure
This Region of Italy Is Trending With American Tourists for Summer 2025
Italy is a top summer travel destination for Americans; that's really nothing new. What could be as alluring as the idea of sipping Aperol Spritzes, gorging oneself on pasta, and strolling sun-drenched cobblestone streets? And while major cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice will always be popular for those experiences, other destinations across the southern European country are experiencing a boom in popularity this summer. According to Expedia's 2025 Summer Travel Report, people are seeking out more beaches and coastlines and fewer duomos for their Italian summer vacation. Based on Expedia searches for travel between June 1 and Aug. 31, the Campania region of Italy had the largest spike in interest year over year. Searches for the region increased by 210 percent since 2024. That's not too surprising, considering Campania's geographic location. Located inn Southern Italy, Campania has 311 miles of Tyrrhenian Sea coastline and stunning turquoise waters. Hands down, Campania is home to some of the best beach towns and most iconic sites in Italy. Notable destinations include Salerno, Naples, Positano, Amalfi, Pompeii, and Sorrento. In addition to more well-known coastal cities, there's also some lesser-known gems, like the hidden beach behind a fjord in the town of Furore. Campania isn't the only Italian destination experiencing a major spike in popularity compared to 2024. Alghero, on the island of Sardinia, saw a 110 percent increase in search interest. The city is one of T+L's most beautiful places in Italy and offers numerous beaches, grottos, and cliffs to explore. But beach destinations aren't the only things Americans are seeking out, as evidenced by the third trending Italian location: Lombardy. Situated in Northern Italy, the region is famous for Lake Como, Milan, lakefront resorts, and charming medieval villages. So, if you're planning your own Italian getaway, consider expanding your search to include island beaches, cliffside hotels, and lakefront resorts.
Telegraph
24-05-2025
- Telegraph
Beat the summer heat with a Nordic-Baltic cruise
Temperatures are already climbing in the Med, with the mercury in Spain and Portugal expected to hit 37C in the coming week – and to soar far higher as the summer progresses. But there is another way. The Nordic and Baltic countries offer not only more comfortable temperatures in the peak holiday months, but also white-sand beaches, natural beauty and rich culture. And the best way to experience the best of it all in a single trip? Why, a cruise of course. Several companies offer summer sailings which combine Scandinavia and a handful of Baltic highlights, but amongst the most comprehensive is Regent Seven Seas' two-week itinerary, which takes in six countries (Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Germany, Poland and Latvia), and combines many of the elements which make a summer Nordic-Baltic cruise such a varied and appealing holiday option. Here are the highlights to look for when booking yours. Norway The cruise begins in Oslo, a capital set against the stunning backdrop of the Oslofjord and surrounded by snow-capped peaks and forests. Home of the annual Nobel Peace Prize ceremony, the city offers a wealth of cultural experiences as well as a lively waterfront, an abundance of green spaces (including the vast Nordmarka forest just outside the city), and plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure. Denmark Meanwhile, Copenhagen, one of Europe's oldest capitals, exudes an air of refined elegance, and boasts an abundance of museums, theatres and galleries. Its iconic sites – like the brightly painted quays of Nyhaven, historic Tivoli Gardens and beautiful bronze of the Little Mermaid from Hans Christian Andersen's beloved fairy tale – are not to be missed. There are also a number of charming smaller cities, each with its own distinctive charm and hidden treasures. Chief amongst them is Aarhus, Denmark's second largest city, which captivates its visitors with rich cultural attractions and striking architecture. There's also a stop in Skagen, located at the northern tip of Denmark and referred to as 'The Land of Light', as it has longer days than anywhere in the country. It's famed for its art, bustling harbour and dramatic landscapes with large white sandy beaches. For something completely different, guests can enjoy a stopover on the fascinating island of Bornholme where only 40,000 people live. With its location right in the middle of the Baltic Sea, it's been a stopping point for sailors since the 1100s. It's also extremely picturesque, with charming fishing villages, craggy cliffs, lush forests and white-sand beaches. Sweden Across the Oresund Strait from Denmark lies Malmo, Sweden's third-largest city famous for the iconic Oresund bridge which connects Sweden and Denmark. Visitors can also explore its historic buildings, scenic parks, the charming Gamla Stan (Old Town) and the stately 16th-century Malmohus Castle. Justifiably dubbed the 'Venice of the North', Stockholm spans 14 small islands, with its 800-year heritage woven into every aspect of its identity. The city is renowned for its broad streets, waterside parks, captivating Old Town and a blend of magnificent old and boldly new architecture. A cruise also offers plenty of chances to explore some of the region's less well known seaside towns, with their beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. Mandal, for example, sits on Sweden's southwestern coast where visitors can enjoy its picturesque harbour, quaint cobblestone streets lined with colourful wooden houses, breathtaking landscapes and pristine beaches. The scenic coastal town of Lysekil, also in Sweden, is home to the tranquil waters of the Gullmarsfjord and a thriving population of seals. Germany The cruise also makes port twice in Germany. The first stop is Warnemunde, a seaside resort and significant maritime port located in north-east Germany. It's also the gateway to Berlin, reached via a scenic drive across the picturesque landscapes of Northern Germany. Once in the city, you'll be immediately immersed in contemporary art and culture, historical monuments and a thriving restaurant and bar scene. The second German port of call is Kiel, a vibrant city with a long maritime heritage. As a key hub for shipbuilding, the city provides a gateway between northern Europe and the wider world, connecting the Baltic and North Seas. It's home to the eastern lock of the Kiel canal, the world's busiest artificial waterway which serves more than 60,000 ships each year. Its bustling harbour serves as a reminder of the country's seafaring history. Poland Continuing the journey east, the ship heads to Gdansk in Poland, a historic gem on the Baltic Sea, steeped in centuries of maritime heritage. Its medieval architecture and role as a key hub in the Hanseatic League tell the story of a city shaped by trade, conflict, and resilience. The streets are lined with colourful facades, bustling cafes and artisan shops making it a delightful destination with its unique blend of culture, history and coastal beauty. Latvia The final Baltic port of call is Riga, the capital of Latvia, a captivating blend of rich history and vibrant modernity. As the largest city in the Baltics, Riga boasts a Unesco World Heritage-listed Old Town with cobblestone streets, Gothic spires and Art Nouveau architecture – ideal for sunny walks on balmy (though not too balmy, mind) summer days. How to do it Regent Seven Seas (023 80821390) has a 14-night cruise aboard Seven Seas Grandeur from Oslo to Stockholm from £12,199 per person (for a Deluxe Veranda Suite). It calls at Oslo and Mandal in Norway; Skagen, Ronne (Bornholm), Aarhus and Copenhagen in Denmark; Lysekil, Malmo and Stockholm in Sweden; Kiel and Berlin (Rostock) in Germany; Gdansk (Gdynia) in Poland; and Riga in Latvia. Departs 15 August 15 2026.
