3 Tips to Avoid Locksmith Scams

Locksmith scams are common all over the country. Thus, it is important to be aware of the potential locksmith scams around. Here are some tips that will help you avoid locksmith scams, such as: checking locksmith ID and licensure, asking question and watching out the fluctuation bids.

 

Below are 3 tips to avoid locksmith scams:

Check Locksmith ID and Licensure
Before even contacting them, check their ad and website for an address. Look for accreditation such as from ALOA (though a lot of genuine locksmiths are not members). Then check Google and directory listings for customer reviews.
When you phone them, ask where they or their technicians are based (again, checking the address), whether they are licensed and what the registered name of the business is. End it here if you’re not satisfied with the replies. Source: Scambusters.org

Ask Questions
Most consumer complaints concern fees that were not disclosed when they called the locksmith.  Ask about the cost of a service call, mileage and parts before you agree to have the work performed.  Get an estimate before any work begins, including emergency service.  If the on-site estimate doesn’t match the price quoted on the telephone, have the job done by someone else.Source: BBB.org

Watch Out for Fluctuating Bids
If the locksmith’s on-site price doesn’t match the phone estimate, don’t allow the work to be performed.
Some locksmiths may demand payment after doing shoddy work or inflating the bill, and threaten to call the police or file a lawsuit if you don’t comply.
If that happens, call their bluff. Let them call the police, or offer to call for them. A reputable company won’t drastically change a quoted price, Colorado Attorney General Cynthia H. Coffman says.
“The people who are making those threats generally have the most to lose, because they’re not operating within the law, and their actions are not ethical. They’re bullying,” Coffman says. Source:Angieslist.

The post 3 Tips to Avoid Locksmith Scams appeared first on Mr Locksmith Calgary.

from Mr Locksmith Calgary http://ift.tt/1roOnoe

3 Tips to Avoid Locksmith Scams

Locksmith scams are common all over the country. Thus, it is important to be aware of the potential locksmith scams around. Here are some tips that will help you avoid locksmith scams, such as: checking locksmith ID and licensure, asking question and watching out the fluctuation bids.

 

Below are 3 tips to avoid locksmith scams:

Check Locksmith ID and Licensure
Before even contacting them, check their ad and website for an address. Look for accreditation such as from ALOA (though a lot of genuine locksmiths are not members). Then check Google and directory listings for customer reviews.
When you phone them, ask where they or their technicians are based (again, checking the address), whether they are licensed and what the registered name of the business is. End it here if you're not satisfied with the replies. Source: Scambusters.org

Ask Questions
Most consumer complaints concern fees that were not disclosed when they called the locksmith.  Ask about the cost of a service call, mileage and parts before you agree to have the work performed.  Get an estimate before any work begins, including emergency service.  If the on-site estimate doesn't match the price quoted on the telephone, have the job done by someone else.Source: BBB.org

Watch Out for Fluctuating Bids
If the locksmith's on-site price doesn't match the phone estimate, don't allow the work to be performed.
Some locksmiths may demand payment after doing shoddy work or inflating the bill, and threaten to call the police or file a lawsuit if you don't comply.
If that happens, call their bluff. Let them call the police, or offer to call for them. A reputable company won't drastically change a quoted price, Colorado Attorney General Cynthia H. Coffman says.
"The people who are making those threats generally have the most to lose, because they're not operating within the law, and their actions are not ethical. They're bullying," Coffman says. Source:Angieslist.

The post 3 Tips to Avoid Locksmith Scams appeared first on Mr Locksmith Calgary.

from Mr Locksmith Calgary http://ift.tt/1roOnoe

3 Types of Modern Doors and their Benefits

Are you planning to acquire modern doors? Below you will find information on types of modern doors and their benefits to help you choose the best modern door for your home or establishment.

Automatic Swing Doors – In case you have a shop which has a frequent coming and going of the people, then in that case using the automatic swinging doors is the best option as you will not have any kind of headache to open and close the door by yourself. These doors have safety sensors, wireless remote control, timers, controlled accessories, etc which ensures high level of safety and security. Apart from convenience and safety that these gate offer, there is one more thing that it offers and it is looks. Yes, read it correctly, these doors give an impressive look to the onlookers and passersby. This is one of the most important factors why these gates are used at airports, hotels, shopping center, big retail outlets and various other places. The Automatic doors are energy efficient. These doors consume very little energy to operate and also reduce wasted energy. Although, the doors require less maintenance, then also they can last for several years without the need to waste much time and money on repairing. Source: Automatic

Sliding Doors – Sliding doors can be efficient insulators, ensuring that your home stays warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Sliding doors that are fitted with composite gaskets offer optimal thermal insulation – effectively acting as a weather and sound barrier, and keep dust, drafts and rain out of the home. Source: Property24

Sliding doors can be installed in different areas in your home or office. You can also install them in the bathroom. Cabinets and cupboards too can have sliding doors. You can install them in areas where you need partitions for defined spaces. They are also used for windows, balconies and patio. You can also use glass sliding doors fittings in your garden for plants that need protection from excessive sun, wind or rain. They can also be used for display units in retail stores, libraries, laboratories in schools and hospitals, etc. There are many advantages of installing sliding doors in your homes and offices. One of the main advantages is; these products can save lot of space in your home. If you do not have enough space to fix a door, then sliding door furniture hardware is a good option. Glass sliding doors are perfect for bathrooms to separate wet area from the dry area. Source: Storify

Flush Doors – The newer wood flush doors are fashioned around a core that is 67-percent denser than older varieties, resulting in less sound transmission and improved overall mechanical and physical properties. Featuring recycled and recovered material, the core is environmentally friendly but adds no additional cost to door construction. Moreover, they never require priming, painting, or staining, further adding to the cost savings. They even come with pilot holes pre-drilled at the factory that accept hinge and lock screws. What makes the low-pressure flush doors so durable is that the face and finish are fused to the door at the factory under high heat and pressure, thereby ensuring that the face will never delaminate. During the fusion process, manufacturers add a resin that allows low-pressure flush doors to be 50-percent more scratch resistant than units with wood or high-pressure laminate finishes. Source: Buildings

In summary, choosing modern doors for residential buildings offers many advantages and benefits to the occupants and homeowners. If you want more information please contact us here.

The post 3 Types of Modern Doors and their Benefits appeared first on Mr Locksmith Calgary.

from Mr Locksmith Calgary http://ift.tt/1VWa9Nm

3 Types of Modern Doors and their Benefits

Are you planning to acquire modern doors? Below you will find information on types of modern doors and their benefits to help you choose the best modern door for your home or establishment.

Automatic Swing Doors – In case you have a shop which has a frequent coming and going of the people, then in that case using the automatic swinging doors is the best option as you will not have any kind of headache to open and close the door by yourself. These doors have safety sensors, wireless remote control, timers, controlled accessories, etc which ensures high level of safety and security. Apart from convenience and safety that these gate offer, there is one more thing that it offers and it is looks. Yes, read it correctly, these doors give an impressive look to the onlookers and passersby. This is one of the most important factors why these gates are used at airports, hotels, shopping center, big retail outlets and various other places. The Automatic doors are energy efficient. These doors consume very little energy to operate and also reduce wasted energy. Although, the doors require less maintenance, then also they can last for several years without the need to waste much time and money on repairing. Source: Automatic

Sliding Doors – Sliding doors can be efficient insulators, ensuring that your home stays warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Sliding doors that are fitted with composite gaskets offer optimal thermal insulation – effectively acting as a weather and sound barrier, and keep dust, drafts and rain out of the home. Source: Property24

Sliding doors can be installed in different areas in your home or office. You can also install them in the bathroom. Cabinets and cupboards too can have sliding doors. You can install them in areas where you need partitions for defined spaces. They are also used for windows, balconies and patio. You can also use glass sliding doors fittings in your garden for plants that need protection from excessive sun, wind or rain. They can also be used for display units in retail stores, libraries, laboratories in schools and hospitals, etc. There are many advantages of installing sliding doors in your homes and offices. One of the main advantages is; these products can save lot of space in your home. If you do not have enough space to fix a door, then sliding door furniture hardware is a good option. Glass sliding doors are perfect for bathrooms to separate wet area from the dry area. Source: Storify

Flush Doors – The newer wood flush doors are fashioned around a core that is 67-percent denser than older varieties, resulting in less sound transmission and improved overall mechanical and physical properties. Featuring recycled and recovered material, the core is environmentally friendly but adds no additional cost to door construction. Moreover, they never require priming, painting, or staining, further adding to the cost savings. They even come with pilot holes pre-drilled at the factory that accept hinge and lock screws. What makes the low-pressure flush doors so durable is that the face and finish are fused to the door at the factory under high heat and pressure, thereby ensuring that the face will never delaminate. During the fusion process, manufacturers add a resin that allows low-pressure flush doors to be 50-percent more scratch resistant than units with wood or high-pressure laminate finishes. Source: Buildings

In summary, choosing modern doors for residential buildings offers many advantages and benefits to the occupants and homeowners. If you want more information please contact us here.

The post 3 Types of Modern Doors and their Benefits appeared first on Mr Locksmith Calgary.

from Mr Locksmith Calgary http://ift.tt/1VWa9Nm

Which is better: Western Red Cedar or Yellow Cedar

If you are considering a custom home there are numerous decisions you have to make including what type of logs and timbers to build with? When building a custom home, it’s very important to select the best wood species for your project in order to maximize overall durability, while minimizing cost. Today we are going to look at two of the most popular types of cedar, Western Red Cedar and Alaskan Yellow Cedar. Known for their rich aromatic and being highly decay resistant We will look at the advantages and disadvantages of building with each and the costs associated.

Western Red Cedar

A premium slow growth timber and the most abundant cedar tree available in Western Canada, Western Red Cedar primarily grows in British Columbia and is our preferred choice for many of the custom log home and timber frame structures. Although it is one of the lightest in weight of all commercially important softwood species, Western Red Cedar is very decay resistant and it can yield a larger variety of dimensional lumber. Its abundance and favorable properties make it the dominant choice for building and exports, especially in Europe since it does not have to be heat treated before exporting; and being twice as stable as other softwood species, Western Red Cedar is highly durable and weather resistant. Its natural oils are insect and decay resistant, and left in its natural state it remains beautiful and aesthetically pleasing. Western Red Cedar dries readily with very little shrinkage and has excellent working qualities, machining to a smooth, satiny finish.

Rich in texture, with a unique tactile grain, Western Red Cedar combines visual harmony with stability and durability, making it the common choice for a number of projects such as: siding, decks, fences, planters, screens, and garden furniture. Given its ability to withstand the elements, if you are looking to build your log or timber frame home in an area where extreme weather dominates we would be most inclined to recommend Western Red Cedar.  

Western Red Cedar is also known for their flared butt ends that offers a unique character to many log homes both inside and outside. If you like this type of look and feel for your home western red cedar may be the best type of timber for your home. If you don’t particularly like this look you can still use red cedar without flared ends.

Alaskan Yellow Cedar (also known as Cypress)

The slow growing Alaskan Yellow Cedar is a tough, solid tree and the hardest known cedar in the world, while also boasting exceptional longevity. Due to its straight grain and yellow colour, Yellow Cedar wood is very valuable commercially. It is used extensively for paddles,  boat building, as well as other exterior projects such as bridges, decking, stairs and landscaping. Similar to the Red Cedar, it is highly decay resistant and strongly aromatic when freshly cut, due to its natural oils. However, it’s interesting to note that the Alaskan Yellow Cedar is not in fact a cedar tree, but a cypress tree.

Considerably harder when dry than most commercial softwoods, and therefore much stronger, AYC has excellent strength and wear properties as well as great impact resistance. It is suitable for all types of joinery and carpentry due to its appearance, durability and easy working characteristics. This wood is so easy to work that it has become prized for applications such as joinery and carpentry, decorative panelling, furniture, mouldings and cabinetwork. It also withstands constant wear and load impacts without forming ridges or splitting, and does not splinter.

One of the disadvantages of Alaskan Yellow Cedar is the ability to sourcing large diameter high quality wood. For this reason many builders choose red cedar over yellow cedar.

Cost Comparison: Western Red Cedar vs Alaskan Yellow Cedar 

This chart compares the average cost of Western Red Cedar vs. Alaskan Yellow Cedar depending on the style of timber home you choose:

	Western Red Cedar	Western Red Cedar w/Flared Ends	Alaskan Yellow Cedar
Full Scribe	$55-$75	$65-85	$50-$60
Post & Beam	$40-$65	$45-$70	$35-$55
Timber Frame	$55-$65	N/A	$40-$55

We hope this has given you a better understanding of the differences between the two cedar options available, and why we choose Western Red Cedar. If you have any specific questions we would be happy to discuss them. Please feel free to email us: info@artisanlog.com.

If you would like to know more about the cost associated with building your custom log home you may want to read these articles as well:

• What are the best logs for building my log home?
• How Much Do Log Homes Cost
• How Much Does It Cost To Transport and Export a Log Home
• The Difference Between Timber Frame, Post and Beam and Full Scribe Log Homes

from Artisan Custom Log Homes http://ift.tt/24o3Gvy

Which is better: Western Red Cedar or Yellow Cedar

If you are considering a custom home there are numerous decisions you have to make including what type of logs and timbers to build with? When building a custom home, it's very important to select the best wood species for your project in order to maximize overall durability, while minimizing cost. Today we are going to look at two of the most popular types of cedar, Western Red Cedar and Alaskan Yellow Cedar. Known for their rich aromatic and being highly decay resistant We will look at the advantages and disadvantages of building with each and the costs associated.

Western Red Cedar

A premium slow growth timber and the most abundant cedar tree available in Western Canada, Western Red Cedar primarily grows in British Columbia and is our preferred choice for many of the custom log home and timber frame structures. Although it is one of the lightest in weight of all commercially important softwood species, Western Red Cedar is very decay resistant and it can yield a larger variety of dimensional lumber. Its abundance and favorable properties make it the dominant choice for building and exports, especially in Europe since it does not have to be heat treated before exporting; and being twice as stable as other softwood species, Western Red Cedar is highly durable and weather resistant. Its natural oils are insect and decay resistant, and left in its natural state it remains beautiful and aesthetically pleasing. Western Red Cedar dries readily with very little shrinkage and has excellent working qualities, machining to a smooth, satiny finish.

Rich in texture, with a unique tactile grain, Western Red Cedar combines visual harmony with stability and durability, making it the common choice for a number of projects such as: siding, decks, fences, planters, screens, and garden furniture. Given its ability to withstand the elements, if you are looking to build your log or timber frame home in an area where extreme weather dominates we would be most inclined to recommend Western Red Cedar.  

Western Red Cedar is also known for their flared butt ends that offers a unique character to many log homes both inside and outside. If you like this type of look and feel for your home western red cedar may be the best type of timber for your home. If you don't particularly like this look you can still use red cedar without flared ends.

Alaskan Yellow Cedar (also known as Cypress)

The slow growing Alaskan Yellow Cedar is a tough, solid tree and the hardest known cedar in the world, while also boasting exceptional longevity. Due to its straight grain and yellow colour, Yellow Cedar wood is very valuable commercially. It is used extensively for paddles,  boat building, as well as other exterior projects such as bridges, decking, stairs and landscaping. Similar to the Red Cedar, it is highly decay resistant and strongly aromatic when freshly cut, due to its natural oils. However, it's interesting to note that the Alaskan Yellow Cedar is not in fact a cedar tree, but a cypress tree.

Considerably harder when dry than most commercial softwoods, and therefore much stronger, AYC has excellent strength and wear properties as well as great impact resistance. It is suitable for all types of joinery and carpentry due to its appearance, durability and easy working characteristics. This wood is so easy to work that it has become prized for applications such as joinery and carpentry, decorative panelling, furniture, mouldings and cabinetwork. It also withstands constant wear and load impacts without forming ridges or splitting, and does not splinter.

One of the disadvantages of Alaskan Yellow Cedar is the ability to sourcing large diameter high quality wood. For this reason many builders choose red cedar over yellow cedar.

Cost Comparison: Western Red Cedar vs Alaskan Yellow Cedar 

This chart compares the average cost of Western Red Cedar vs. Alaskan Yellow Cedar depending on the style of timber home you choose:

	Western Red Cedar	Western Red Cedar w/Flared Ends	Alaskan Yellow Cedar
Full Scribe	$55-$75	$65-85	$50-$60
Post & Beam	$40-$65	$45-$70	$35-$55
Timber Frame	$55-$65	N/A	$40-$55

We hope this has given you a better understanding of the differences between the two cedar options available, and why we choose Western Red Cedar. If you have any specific questions we would be happy to discuss them. Please feel free to email us: info@artisanlog.com.

If you would like to know more about the cost associated with building your custom log home you may want to read these articles as well:

• What are the best logs for building my log home?
• How Much Do Log Homes Cost
• How Much Does It Cost To Transport and Export a Log Home
• The Difference Between Timber Frame, Post and Beam and Full Scribe Log Homes

from Artisan Custom Log Homes http://ift.tt/24o3Gvy

Why Travel Boycotts are a Waste of Time

Recently, Mississippi and North Carolina both passed anti-LGBT laws, and many tourists, bloggers, and celebrities promptly said, “Well, as a sign of protest, I won’t go there because I don’t want to support a state whose laws I disagree with!” This reminded me of when people refused to go to Burma because of the junta, declined to visit the United States when George Bush was president, or refused to visit to Cuba because of Fidel Castro. (There are really dozens of examples that could be listed.)

While people have the right to do whatever they want and if you want to take a personal stance, do so but I think tourism-based economic protests are a mistake because they hit the wrong target; they aren’t effective; and, travel and human interaction brings about more change than a reflective boycott. Moreover, governments can and do change: laws are passed and repealed, voters eject politicians and vote in new ones, and revolutions and sanctions topple dictators.

Point #1: Boycotts hit the wrong people.
We might not agree with certain laws or a current government, but if traveling abroad and defending the United States during the Bush years has taught me anything, it is that people are not always their governments, lumping everyone together is misguided, and you end up hurting the people who you agree with.

Like, for example, one of the bookstores I spoke at during my book tour!

This North Carolina store is suffering because authors are canceling the events this place needs to survive. Small independent bookstores are already suffering, and this is just another nail in the coffin. They are collateral damage to a law they do not agree with.

Governments don’t always reflect the will of all their people (or even a majority). Behind boycotts are real people and businesses who suffer. People struggling to put food on the table and meet payroll. They might not support their government or certain controversial laws, yet we lump them all together and these people become the collateral damage of our economic boycotts. We create pain for the people at the bottom – those with the most to lose and usually the least say in things.

And, though the shouts of travel boycotters sometimes add to the pressure on elected officials, I’ve yet to see one country or state reverse course simply because of this reason no matter how strong the plea. (In fact, the governor of Mississippi has come out saying growth is up and everything is fine!)

I used to say, “I’m never going to Burma because I hate the government” and because I wanted to take a stand. But I also found it silly that people said, “I don’t like Bush, so I refuse to go to the United States,” as if this was enough to pressure Bush to change or as if we were all die-hard Bushites. In the end, this made me realize that most citizens of Burma didn’t choose to live under a military dictatorship any more than I chose Bush as president.

And all my protest was doing was denying people the money they needed to survive and the global perspective that could have added fuel to their desire for change.

Point #2: They are not enough.
What caused Burma to change, Iran to open up, or South Africa to end apartheid? It wasn’t a drop in tourist numbers. It was governmental, domestic, and corporate sanctions.

Indiana softened its anti-LGBT law when corporations and conferences pulled out en masse. South Africa’s apartheid government collapsed when governments and major banks and other corporations stopped doing business with it and lending it money. Iran finally yielded under the weight of sanctions that drove it toward bankruptcy.

Those changes were a combination of domestic activism and international pressure not tourist boycotts.

I think it’s foolish to think that somewhere there’s a government official watching reports of tourist boycotts and declaring, “Tourist numbers are down 10%! We must change!” If they cared about that, they would have done something different in the first place.

Governments care about big business, tax revenue and those at the top? When you cause pain there, you cause change.

Point #3: Travel brings change
If you really want to do good, you can’t shut off people from the world — you must embrace them and show them a better way. The way we effect change is by traveling and educating people about the wider world to change their mind.

Staying home isn’t going to effect change. It simply hurts those who might not have control over their government. Travel opens people to new ideas, cultures, and ways of thinking. If you really want to bring about change, go there and kill them with kindness.

I mean, don’t we travel to see the world, learn, and help foster cultural understanding? You can’t do that by staying home. You can only do that by going to the destination.

****

I don’t support the laws passed by these two states. I don’t support the Castro regime. I certainly didn’t support Bush. Nor do I support the current governments in Thailand or Egypt or censorship laws in China.

Do I agree with the treatment of women in many Arab countries, or Japan’s policy of “forgetting” its genocide in China during WWII? No, of course not!

But I believe boycotting travel to countries because of one law or its current choice of leader is misguided. If we were to compile a list of places with one policy or leader that we don’t agree with, we would never go anywhere. There would always be a red line keeping us home. If you feel the need to “take a stand”, do so but remember people are not always their current government’s policy. I think it’s much better to engage people on the ground, change opinions, and pressure your own government or companies to take action.

We’ll greater change than if we just sit at home.

The post Why Travel Boycotts are a Waste of Time appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

from Nomadic Matt's Travel Site http://ift.tt/239sIvX

Why Travel Boycotts are a Waste of Time

Recently, Mississippi and North Carolina both passed anti-LGBT laws, and many tourists, bloggers, and celebrities promptly said, "Well, as a sign of protest, I won't go there because I don't want to support a state whose laws I disagree with!" This reminded me of when people refused to go to Burma because of the junta, declined to visit the United States when George Bush was president, or refused to visit to Cuba because of Fidel Castro. (There are really dozens of examples that could be listed.)

While people have the right to do whatever they want and if you want to take a personal stance, do so but I think tourism-based economic protests are a mistake because they hit the wrong target; they aren't effective; and, travel and human interaction brings about more change than a reflective boycott. Moreover, governments can and do change: laws are passed and repealed, voters eject politicians and vote in new ones, and revolutions and sanctions topple dictators.

Point #1: Boycotts hit the wrong people.
We might not agree with certain laws or a current government, but if traveling abroad and defending the United States during the Bush years has taught me anything, it is that people are not always their governments, lumping everyone together is misguided, and you end up hurting the people who you agree with.

Like, for example, one of the bookstores I spoke at during my book tour!

This North Carolina store is suffering because authors are canceling the events this place needs to survive. Small independent bookstores are already suffering, and this is just another nail in the coffin. They are collateral damage to a law they do not agree with.

Governments don't always reflect the will of all their people (or even a majority). Behind boycotts are real people and businesses who suffer. People struggling to put food on the table and meet payroll. They might not support their government or certain controversial laws, yet we lump them all together and these people become the collateral damage of our economic boycotts. We create pain for the people at the bottom – those with the most to lose and usually the least say in things.

And, though the shouts of travel boycotters sometimes add to the pressure on elected officials, I've yet to see one country or state reverse course simply because of this reason no matter how strong the plea. (In fact, the governor of Mississippi has come out saying growth is up and everything is fine!)

I used to say, "I'm never going to Burma because I hate the government" and because I wanted to take a stand. But I also found it silly that people said, "I don't like Bush, so I refuse to go to the United States," as if this was enough to pressure Bush to change or as if we were all die-hard Bushites. In the end, this made me realize that most citizens of Burma didn't choose to live under a military dictatorship any more than I chose Bush as president.

And all my protest was doing was denying people the money they needed to survive and the global perspective that could have added fuel to their desire for change.

Point #2: They are not enough.
What caused Burma to change, Iran to open up, or South Africa to end apartheid? It wasn't a drop in tourist numbers. It was governmental, domestic, and corporate sanctions.

Indiana softened its anti-LGBT law when corporations and conferences pulled out en masse. South Africa's apartheid government collapsed when governments and major banks and other corporations stopped doing business with it and lending it money. Iran finally yielded under the weight of sanctions that drove it toward bankruptcy.

Those changes were a combination of domestic activism and international pressure not tourist boycotts.

I think it's foolish to think that somewhere there's a government official watching reports of tourist boycotts and declaring, "Tourist numbers are down 10%! We must change!" If they cared about that, they would have done something different in the first place.

Governments care about big business, tax revenue and those at the top? When you cause pain there, you cause change.

Point #3: Travel brings change
If you really want to do good, you can't shut off people from the world — you must embrace them and show them a better way. The way we effect change is by traveling and educating people about the wider world to change their mind.

Staying home isn't going to effect change. It simply hurts those who might not have control over their government. Travel opens people to new ideas, cultures, and ways of thinking. If you really want to bring about change, go there and kill them with kindness.

I mean, don't we travel to see the world, learn, and help foster cultural understanding? You can't do that by staying home. You can only do that by going to the destination.

****

I don't support the laws passed by these two states. I don't support the Castro regime. I certainly didn't support Bush. Nor do I support the current governments in Thailand or Egypt or censorship laws in China.

Do I agree with the treatment of women in many Arab countries, or Japan's policy of "forgetting" its genocide in China during WWII? No, of course not!

But I believe boycotting travel to countries because of one law or its current choice of leader is misguided. If we were to compile a list of places with one policy or leader that we don't agree with, we would never go anywhere. There would always be a red line keeping us home. If you feel the need to "take a stand", do so but remember people are not always their current government's policy. I think it's much better to engage people on the ground, change opinions, and pressure your own government or companies to take action.

We'll greater change than if we just sit at home.

The post Why Travel Boycotts are a Waste of Time appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

from Nomadic Matt's Travel Site http://ift.tt/239sIvX

Feature Project: The Blackberry Kitchen Cafe at Norma Kenny House

In 1979, Norma Kenney, locally known as “The Velvet Steamroller”, founded the Mission Heritage Association (MHA), with a mandate to preserve the area’s local heritage. Through this Association, Kenney became the driving force for preserving a particular piece of crown land that was slated for high-density development. Under the charming and persistent leadership of Norma Kenney, the MHA lobbied the government to conserve the site formerly used by the St. Mary’s Mission and Residential School; and in 1986, forty-four acres of the original land became what is now the Fraser River Heritage Park. The following year, Rob Littler, the founder of Artisan Log and Timber Homes, taught his very first log home building course. Eventually, Rob and a dozen of his eager students built The Norma Kenny House, named after Norma to honour her commitment to founding the MHA, and her perseverance in achieving the dream of having the St. Mary’s property designated as a park. This beautiful log home, located at Heritage Park in Mission BC, boasts stunning views of the Fraser Valley and surrounding mountains, most notably the majestic Mount Baker.

Now, nearly 30 years later, the we are excited that the next generation of Artisan builders is following
in our dad’s footsteps to restore the Norma Kenney House, using the same hard work ethic and high standards as Norma Kenney herself. Operating under the direction of Chef de Cuisine, Kerry D. Martin of Kela Cuisine Inc., The Blackberry Kitchen is undergoing a much needed facelift, as we re-purposes the 1200 square foot log building into a gourmet restaurant.  and provide a much needed facelift to the Blackberry Kitchen. Renovations include removing the existing log floor to re-use the logs as new structural posts, and opening up the entire space to make it much more inviting and open overall. With our commitment to quality workmanship and honouring the mission of Norma herself, we are excited to introduce the Mission community to the new Blackberry Kitchen, where both the food and views still delight the senses, as you surround yourself with the warmth and light of this beautiful building.

If you are ever traveling through the Mission B.C. area we highly recommend that you stop in for a meal at the Blackberry Kitchen to enjoy one of the best home cooked meals you have ever had and take in the beautiful Fraser Valley scenery.  

from Artisan Custom Log Homes http://ift.tt/1XSlgnK

Feature Project: The Blackberry Kitchen Cafe at Norma Kenny House

In 1979, Norma Kenney, locally known as "The Velvet Steamroller", founded the Mission Heritage Association (MHA), with a mandate to preserve the area's local heritage. Through this Association, Kenney became the driving force for preserving a particular piece of crown land that was slated for high-density development. Under the charming and persistent leadership of Norma Kenney, the MHA lobbied the government to conserve the site formerly used by the St. Mary's Mission and Residential School; and in 1986, forty-four acres of the original land became what is now the Fraser River Heritage Park. The following year, Rob Littler, the founder of Artisan Log and Timber Homes, taught his very first log home building course. Eventually, Rob and a dozen of his eager students built The Norma Kenny House, named after Norma to honour her commitment to founding the MHA, and her perseverance in achieving the dream of having the St. Mary's property designated as a park. This beautiful log home, located at Heritage Park in Mission BC, boasts stunning views of the Fraser Valley and surrounding mountains, most notably the majestic Mount Baker.

Now, nearly 30 years later, the we are excited that the next generation of Artisan builders is following
in our dad's footsteps to restore the Norma Kenney House, using the same hard work ethic and high standards as Norma Kenney herself. Operating under the direction of Chef de Cuisine, Kerry D. Martin of Kela Cuisine Inc., The Blackberry Kitchen is undergoing a much needed facelift, as we re-purposes the 1200 square foot log building into a gourmet restaurant.  and provide a much needed facelift to the Blackberry Kitchen. Renovations include removing the existing log floor to re-use the logs as new structural posts, and opening up the entire space to make it much more inviting and open overall. With our commitment to quality workmanship and honouring the mission of Norma herself, we are excited to introduce the Mission community to the new Blackberry Kitchen, where both the food and views still delight the senses, as you surround yourself with the warmth and light of this beautiful building.

If you are ever traveling through the Mission B.C. area we highly recommend that you stop in for a meal at the Blackberry Kitchen to enjoy one of the best home cooked meals you have ever had and take in the beautiful Fraser Valley scenery.  

from Artisan Custom Log Homes http://ift.tt/1XSlgnK

How Jim Didn’t Let a New Disability Change His Travels

Last year, I interviewed Cory Lee, a wheelchair bound traveler, about his experience seeing the world. I'm a firm believer that travel is possible for people from all walks of life so when I stumbled across Cory's website, I knew I wanted to share his inspirational story. You don't meet a lot of disabled travelers on the road.

A few months ago, I was contacted by a 64 year old wheelchair bound reader named Jim. Inspired by Cory, he wanted to know if I wanted his perspective too. He became wheelchair bound later in life due to health issues. Often times those with disabilities lack the knowledge and support they need to travel. There's not a lot of information in the morning. I know this because people email on the subject. "Matt, I'm a senior who can't walk well" or "I'm blind" or "I'm in a wheelchair" and they wonder how they can travel too so stories of people like Jim are important for me to share. In this interview, Jim talks about how he ended up wheelchair bound, how he travels, and his advice for others:

Matt: Tell everyone about yourself.
Jim: I am a fifth-generation Florida native, dating back to 1828, when Florida was a territory. I grew up in West Palm Beach, leaving at age 19 to join the military. I served as a soldier in the US Army for slightly over 30 years of active duty service. I consider my time in the military as one of the best things that ever happened in my life because of the experience, training, opportunities, and development I got. I retired from active duty in 2002 and immediately after, I secured employment as a civilian with the US Army Training and Doctrine Command at beautiful Fort Monroe, Virginia. I recently turned 64 and plan to work in my current position until age 66.

You've been in a wheelchair for a year. What happened?
I have been in a wheelchair since December 2014. I have an unusual autoimmune disease called inclusion body myositis (IBM); it's the result of an overactive immune system, where white cells attack good cells, inflaming and gradually destroying muscle tissue, resulting in loss of muscle mass and severe weakness. I have always been very active and had anticipated I would remain physically active in my old age. But now I can do very little for myself, although I certainly do what I am capable of. I cannot dress myself, put on my socks or pants, or button my shirts. I can rise to my feet under certain conditions, meaning from a certain height using a motorized office chair or lift recliner. I am very unstable when standing but can use a walker on smooth, flat surfaces indoors. But I have gotten to the point that this is not safe or even possible outdoors.

Were you a big traveler before you started using a wheelchair?
I have always enjoyed traveling and was provided many opportunities to travel as I relocated to new duty stations. For example, in 1985 I was stationed at Fort McClellan, Alabama, and relocated to Fort Greely, Alaska; we chose to drive from Alabama to Alaska. It was very interesting to drive across the country, through Canada, the Yukon Territory, and the Northwest Territory and back into the USA. Two years later we made the drive back to Fort Pickett, Virginia. A few years later we drove from Virginia to another assignment at Fort Bliss, Texas, and then back to Fort Bragg, North Carolina.

In my current job I traveled about one week each month using air and ground travel. Many times I was working, but I also tried to make every business trip a fun trip by planning ahead and researching opportunities I could take full advantage of. One of my favorite locations for such required travel is San Antonio: I know when I go there I'll go to the Riverwalk and the Alamo and enjoy authentic Mexican food, the best Texas barbecue, and steaks. These are simple things, but ones I truly appreciate and enjoy.

When you ended up in a wheelchair, what did you think travel would be like now? Did you think it would be possible?
My move into a wheelchair has been a gradual process that allowed time to think ahead, research, and plan how to overcome new obstacles. I know that travel will continue to be difficult and challenging. I also know that planning well in advance will allow me to resolve problems and better enjoy my travel.

I feel that I have a choice to travel or not travel. But not to travel implies defeat, and that's not a good choice for any of us. The time may come that travel is no longer possible, but I do not plan to rush into defeat. This will be a time of resolve and determination to make the best of the life given to me.

How did you overcome any obstacles?
My most recent travel objective was to drive the entire length of the Blue Ridge Parkway, which is 469 miles from Rockfish Gap, Virginia, to Cherokee, North Carolina. Preparation for the trip included a detailed written plan depicting each day's starting point, destination, projected travel miles, dining suggestions, and lodging location (it is imperative that I find handicapped-accessible lodging that includes a roll-in shower, as I am unable to step over a bathtub). A packing list has been a practice of mine for many years, and that makes packing and planning easier. Some of the unique items I pack are a hat with a mounted flashlight, a night-light for hotels, portable suction grab bars, a lift belt, a urine bottle, non-slip pads, a bath mat, wet wipes, a grab stick, and a raised toilet chair. Keeping these lists and adding to them from lessons learned during and after the trip is very helpful.

What is the hardest part about traveling in a wheelchair?
I'd say the hardest part of travel that I experience is all the unknowns. For example, arriving at a lodging location with a reservation for a handicapped-accessible room with a roll-in shower and then finding that it has a tub. I learned it is best to make a reservation for a roll-in, call and speak directly with the hotel manager, and then call again the day before arrival. That's a lot of calls, but this is important to me.

I prefer the Hampton Inn Honors program, which clearly describes their rooms and accessibility. I am also a Marriott member, but their online site has not been very user-friendly locating handicapped-accessible rooms.

What are some good resources people in wheelchairs can use to travel? I suspect many just think they can't do it! 
I am still learning about resources for travel, but I have found it is good to ask others specific questions about their travel experiences. The Internet is an excellent source of information; you can ask most any question, and someone will point you in the right direction.

For example, I really had no idea there was a wheelchair capable of rising straight up, which is what I needed. The VA (Veterans Administration) representative immediately recognized my needs and provided the perfect chair for me, for which I am very grateful.

Don't give up, be determined, research, and ask others for advice and suggestions.

What's the greatest lesson you've learned from this? 
I don't have life as tough as many others. When I start to feel bad, angry, or frustrated for what I am going through, I snap out of it immediately, realizing there are so many others that experience much worse circumstances and difficulties.

There are techniques, equipment, and sources of information readily available that allow those of us with disabilities to continue to enjoy many pleasures of life.

How we conduct ourselves routinely affects others. We may not realize how others observe from a distance those of us with disabilities and how we continue with our daily activities. Many have told me that they have watched me several times and how I conducted myself. Unknown to me, my actions and kindness motivated them to have a more productive and pleasurable day. It's important to remain positive and display an enthusiastic attitude of friendliness and happiness. Be friendly, stay positive, and find joy and contentment in your circumstances.

My wife is my best friend that I can depend on forever. Cindy and I have been married for 34 years, and our goals have always been to outserve each other without keeping score. Having a loving and caring companion is an important and necessary part of my life. God designed us for companionship to serve one another and to share life's experiences, particularly in health and sickness and for better or worse, as we said in our commitment of marriage.

I have a job, friends, medical care, and more, but sadly, some do not have anyone. I am truly blessed and take none of this for granted. God has provided much more than I deserve. I pray that others will be able say to the same.

My purpose in sharing my experience as a man with disabilities and using a wheelchair is to encourage others, to find contentment in my circumstances, and to remain grateful every day. Those of us with disabilities have many challenges and difficulties ahead. I am a man of faith, and I give God all the glory as he created each one of us perfect. If you are reading this, I want you to be encouraged and to be encouraging.

Do you plan to travel internationally, or is that a little too much right now? If so, how are you planning that?
I do not plan to travel out of the country; I simply do not have that desire. I am confident that air travel is possible but would require considerable assistance. I often wonder how guys like Texas governor Abbott and Charles Krauthammer maintain their pace and travel. I believe if they can do it then so can I. We have to believe in ourselves and give it a sincere and wholehearted try.

When you are traveling, how do you figure out what activities you can and can't do? Do you use any special organizations?
Part of my process for choosing a destination is to check out its website and verify with a phone call. Many websites specifically address accessibility. Not long ago I took my wife for dinner at the Williamsburg Lodge to celebrate our 34th anniversary. When I arrived I was surprised to see three steps going down into the dining room and the nearby elevator inoperable. No problem, though, as I had the pleasure of an escorted tour through the kitchen and down a ramp into the dining area.

I like to use Armed Forces Vacation Club to receive discounted resort lodging, sometimes as low as $299 for seven days. Their options usually address accessibility but aren't very clear on specifics, such as roll-in showers, but a phone call to the resort will answer most questions.

I also use Vacation Rental by Owner. These accommodations are usually very specific and provide photos and have a search filter for wheelchair accessibility.

If you could offer someone in a wheelchair or with another mobility disability three specific tips for travel, what would they be? 
1. Veterans should check out the Veterans Affairs website to determine their benefits. If you are a veteran and need a wheelchair or modifications to a home or vehicle, the VA will assist. If your disability is service connected, then additional and increased benefits may be available. Make sure you contact a local Veterans Service Organization for their expert advice.

2. Plan thoroughly and well in advance to obtain and confirm lodging, accessibility, and available equipment. For example, while I was still on my feet and using a walker for short distances, I visited the Baseball Hall of Fame and Niagara Falls. Both facilities offered the use of a wheelchair. Keep your plan handy so that you can edit and improve it for your next trip.

3. Make a bucket list. Let planning and doing these things be a new hobby for you. If necessary, start small: go to the movies, go to the beach, attend church, work as long as you can and as long as you want. You will develop confidence in your abilities to travel, and then your bucket list can really grow.

What trips do you have planned in the future?
I have several trips planned for this year. They are all by ground transportation in our modified and accessible van.

We also plan to drive old historic Highway 17 from Virginia to Florida and participate in the Azalea Festival in Wilmington, North Carolina. Driving Highway 17 is like taking a trip back in time, as many of the sites have not drastically changed. There are great places to eat at, locations that are a combination of restaurants and gas stations serving fried pork chops, collard greens, black-eyed peas, cornbread, and sweet tea.

In the fall we will travel the Skyline Drive, which begins where the Blue Ridge Parkway ends in Rockfish Gap, Virginia; it's fairly short drive north of about 109 miles of beautiful and scenic views. The goal will be to never drive on the interstate and remain on roads less traveled.

*****
People like Jim are an inspiration. They don't let adversity get in their way. Like the saying goes, where there is a will, there is a way. Jim uses careful plan, support groups, and the power of the Internet to let him fulfill his wanderlust.

Become the Next Success Story

One of my favorite parts about this job is hearing people's travel stories. They inspire me, but more importantly, they also inspire you. I travel a certain way but there are many ways to fund your trips and travel the world, and I hope these stories show you that there is more than one way to travel and that it's within your grasp to reach your travel goals. You can send me an email at matt@nomadicmatt.com if you want to share your story!

P.S. – Last week, we launched our travel writing and photography courses. If you're looking to improve your writing or travel photography with detailed instruction from world class teachers, these two new affordable classes will help!

The post How Jim Didn't Let a New Disability Change His Travels appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

from Nomadic Matt's Travel Site http://ift.tt/230TdUv

How Jim Didn’t Let a New Disability Change His Travels

Last year, I interviewed Cory Lee, a wheelchair bound traveler, about his experience seeing the world. I’m a firm believer that travel is possible for people from all walks of life so when I stumbled across Cory’s website, I knew I wanted to share his inspirational story. You don’t meet a lot of disabled travelers on the road.

A few months ago, I was contacted by a 64 year old wheelchair bound reader named Jim. Inspired by Cory, he wanted to know if I wanted his perspective too. He became wheelchair bound later in life due to health issues. Often times those with disabilities lack the knowledge and support they need to travel. There’s not a lot of information in the morning. I know this because people email on the subject. “Matt, I’m a senior who can’t walk well” or “I’m blind” or “I’m in a wheelchair” and they wonder how they can travel too so stories of people like Jim are important for me to share. In this interview, Jim talks about how he ended up wheelchair bound, how he travels, and his advice for others:

Matt: Tell everyone about yourself.
Jim: I am a fifth-generation Florida native, dating back to 1828, when Florida was a territory. I grew up in West Palm Beach, leaving at age 19 to join the military. I served as a soldier in the US Army for slightly over 30 years of active duty service. I consider my time in the military as one of the best things that ever happened in my life because of the experience, training, opportunities, and development I got. I retired from active duty in 2002 and immediately after, I secured employment as a civilian with the US Army Training and Doctrine Command at beautiful Fort Monroe, Virginia. I recently turned 64 and plan to work in my current position until age 66.

You’ve been in a wheelchair for a year. What happened?
I have been in a wheelchair since December 2014. I have an unusual autoimmune disease called inclusion body myositis (IBM); it’s the result of an overactive immune system, where white cells attack good cells, inflaming and gradually destroying muscle tissue, resulting in loss of muscle mass and severe weakness. I have always been very active and had anticipated I would remain physically active in my old age. But now I can do very little for myself, although I certainly do what I am capable of. I cannot dress myself, put on my socks or pants, or button my shirts. I can rise to my feet under certain conditions, meaning from a certain height using a motorized office chair or lift recliner. I am very unstable when standing but can use a walker on smooth, flat surfaces indoors. But I have gotten to the point that this is not safe or even possible outdoors.

Were you a big traveler before you started using a wheelchair?
I have always enjoyed traveling and was provided many opportunities to travel as I relocated to new duty stations. For example, in 1985 I was stationed at Fort McClellan, Alabama, and relocated to Fort Greely, Alaska; we chose to drive from Alabama to Alaska. It was very interesting to drive across the country, through Canada, the Yukon Territory, and the Northwest Territory and back into the USA. Two years later we made the drive back to Fort Pickett, Virginia. A few years later we drove from Virginia to another assignment at Fort Bliss, Texas, and then back to Fort Bragg, North Carolina.

In my current job I traveled about one week each month using air and ground travel. Many times I was working, but I also tried to make every business trip a fun trip by planning ahead and researching opportunities I could take full advantage of. One of my favorite locations for such required travel is San Antonio: I know when I go there I’ll go to the Riverwalk and the Alamo and enjoy authentic Mexican food, the best Texas barbecue, and steaks. These are simple things, but ones I truly appreciate and enjoy.

When you ended up in a wheelchair, what did you think travel would be like now? Did you think it would be possible?
My move into a wheelchair has been a gradual process that allowed time to think ahead, research, and plan how to overcome new obstacles. I know that travel will continue to be difficult and challenging. I also know that planning well in advance will allow me to resolve problems and better enjoy my travel.

I feel that I have a choice to travel or not travel. But not to travel implies defeat, and that’s not a good choice for any of us. The time may come that travel is no longer possible, but I do not plan to rush into defeat. This will be a time of resolve and determination to make the best of the life given to me.

How did you overcome any obstacles?
My most recent travel objective was to drive the entire length of the Blue Ridge Parkway, which is 469 miles from Rockfish Gap, Virginia, to Cherokee, North Carolina. Preparation for the trip included a detailed written plan depicting each day’s starting point, destination, projected travel miles, dining suggestions, and lodging location (it is imperative that I find handicapped-accessible lodging that includes a roll-in shower, as I am unable to step over a bathtub). A packing list has been a practice of mine for many years, and that makes packing and planning easier. Some of the unique items I pack are a hat with a mounted flashlight, a night-light for hotels, portable suction grab bars, a lift belt, a urine bottle, non-slip pads, a bath mat, wet wipes, a grab stick, and a raised toilet chair. Keeping these lists and adding to them from lessons learned during and after the trip is very helpful.

What is the hardest part about traveling in a wheelchair?
I’d say the hardest part of travel that I experience is all the unknowns. For example, arriving at a lodging location with a reservation for a handicapped-accessible room with a roll-in shower and then finding that it has a tub. I learned it is best to make a reservation for a roll-in, call and speak directly with the hotel manager, and then call again the day before arrival. That’s a lot of calls, but this is important to me.

I prefer the Hampton Inn Honors program, which clearly describes their rooms and accessibility. I am also a Marriott member, but their online site has not been very user-friendly locating handicapped-accessible rooms.

What are some good resources people in wheelchairs can use to travel? I suspect many just think they can’t do it! 
I am still learning about resources for travel, but I have found it is good to ask others specific questions about their travel experiences. The Internet is an excellent source of information; you can ask most any question, and someone will point you in the right direction.

For example, I really had no idea there was a wheelchair capable of rising straight up, which is what I needed. The VA (Veterans Administration) representative immediately recognized my needs and provided the perfect chair for me, for which I am very grateful.

Don’t give up, be determined, research, and ask others for advice and suggestions.

What’s the greatest lesson you’ve learned from this? 
I don’t have life as tough as many others. When I start to feel bad, angry, or frustrated for what I am going through, I snap out of it immediately, realizing there are so many others that experience much worse circumstances and difficulties.

There are techniques, equipment, and sources of information readily available that allow those of us with disabilities to continue to enjoy many pleasures of life.

How we conduct ourselves routinely affects others. We may not realize how others observe from a distance those of us with disabilities and how we continue with our daily activities. Many have told me that they have watched me several times and how I conducted myself. Unknown to me, my actions and kindness motivated them to have a more productive and pleasurable day. It’s important to remain positive and display an enthusiastic attitude of friendliness and happiness. Be friendly, stay positive, and find joy and contentment in your circumstances.

My wife is my best friend that I can depend on forever. Cindy and I have been married for 34 years, and our goals have always been to outserve each other without keeping score. Having a loving and caring companion is an important and necessary part of my life. God designed us for companionship to serve one another and to share life’s experiences, particularly in health and sickness and for better or worse, as we said in our commitment of marriage.

I have a job, friends, medical care, and more, but sadly, some do not have anyone. I am truly blessed and take none of this for granted. God has provided much more than I deserve. I pray that others will be able say to the same.

My purpose in sharing my experience as a man with disabilities and using a wheelchair is to encourage others, to find contentment in my circumstances, and to remain grateful every day. Those of us with disabilities have many challenges and difficulties ahead. I am a man of faith, and I give God all the glory as he created each one of us perfect. If you are reading this, I want you to be encouraged and to be encouraging.

Do you plan to travel internationally, or is that a little too much right now? If so, how are you planning that?
I do not plan to travel out of the country; I simply do not have that desire. I am confident that air travel is possible but would require considerable assistance. I often wonder how guys like Texas governor Abbott and Charles Krauthammer maintain their pace and travel. I believe if they can do it then so can I. We have to believe in ourselves and give it a sincere and wholehearted try.

When you are traveling, how do you figure out what activities you can and can’t do? Do you use any special organizations?
Part of my process for choosing a destination is to check out its website and verify with a phone call. Many websites specifically address accessibility. Not long ago I took my wife for dinner at the Williamsburg Lodge to celebrate our 34th anniversary. When I arrived I was surprised to see three steps going down into the dining room and the nearby elevator inoperable. No problem, though, as I had the pleasure of an escorted tour through the kitchen and down a ramp into the dining area.

I like to use Armed Forces Vacation Club to receive discounted resort lodging, sometimes as low as $299 for seven days. Their options usually address accessibility but aren’t very clear on specifics, such as roll-in showers, but a phone call to the resort will answer most questions.

I also use Vacation Rental by Owner. These accommodations are usually very specific and provide photos and have a search filter for wheelchair accessibility.

If you could offer someone in a wheelchair or with another mobility disability three specific tips for travel, what would they be? 
1. Veterans should check out the Veterans Affairs website to determine their benefits. If you are a veteran and need a wheelchair or modifications to a home or vehicle, the VA will assist. If your disability is service connected, then additional and increased benefits may be available. Make sure you contact a local Veterans Service Organization for their expert advice.

2. Plan thoroughly and well in advance to obtain and confirm lodging, accessibility, and available equipment. For example, while I was still on my feet and using a walker for short distances, I visited the Baseball Hall of Fame and Niagara Falls. Both facilities offered the use of a wheelchair. Keep your plan handy so that you can edit and improve it for your next trip.

3. Make a bucket list. Let planning and doing these things be a new hobby for you. If necessary, start small: go to the movies, go to the beach, attend church, work as long as you can and as long as you want. You will develop confidence in your abilities to travel, and then your bucket list can really grow.

What trips do you have planned in the future?
I have several trips planned for this year. They are all by ground transportation in our modified and accessible van.

We also plan to drive old historic Highway 17 from Virginia to Florida and participate in the Azalea Festival in Wilmington, North Carolina. Driving Highway 17 is like taking a trip back in time, as many of the sites have not drastically changed. There are great places to eat at, locations that are a combination of restaurants and gas stations serving fried pork chops, collard greens, black-eyed peas, cornbread, and sweet tea.

In the fall we will travel the Skyline Drive, which begins where the Blue Ridge Parkway ends in Rockfish Gap, Virginia; it’s fairly short drive north of about 109 miles of beautiful and scenic views. The goal will be to never drive on the interstate and remain on roads less traveled.

*****
People like Jim are an inspiration. They don’t let adversity get in their way. Like the saying goes, where there is a will, there is a way. Jim uses careful plan, support groups, and the power of the Internet to let him fulfill his wanderlust.

Become the Next Success Story

One of my favorite parts about this job is hearing people’s travel stories. They inspire me, but more importantly, they also inspire you. I travel a certain way but there are many ways to fund your trips and travel the world, and I hope these stories show you that there is more than one way to travel and that it’s within your grasp to reach your travel goals. You can send me an email at matt@nomadicmatt.com if you want to share your story!

P.S. – Last week, we launched our travel writing and photography courses. If you’re looking to improve your writing or travel photography with detailed instruction from world class teachers, these two new affordable classes will help!

The post How Jim Didn’t Let a New Disability Change His Travels appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

from Nomadic Matt's Travel Site http://ift.tt/230TdUv

Difference Between Hardwired and Wireless Home Alarm Systems

The key to getting the best of any alarm system will depend on your needs and usage. This article will help you to determine which alarm system will fit you best.

Wireless Home Alarm Systems:

Wireless alarm systems take less time to install and require no drilling or wiring
Wireless alarm systems make it easy to upgrade features and equipment later
Less frequent maintenance and typically lower install costs for wireless alarm systems
Wireless alarm systems have distance limitations. Not ideal for extremely large homes or properties with multiple buildings. Most wireless alarm systems have a 500ft open air range.
Some wireless alarm systems have sensor limitations. Large homes with the need for 40-50+ sensors may need a hybrid system or strictly hard wired alarm

Hard Wired Home Alarm Systems:

Hard wired alarm systems can incorporate a lot more sensors than a wireless alarm system. Although most home don’t need any more than 15-20 sensors.
Hard wired alarm systems have been around forever, they are tried and true.
A hard wired alarm system is always installed by a technician. Depending on your view, this could be a pro or a con.
Hard Wired alarm systems have a much more intensive installation. Requires drilling.
Many hard wired alarms are obsolete and outdated. Source: Quora

Hardwired Systems:

Hardwired systems are considered the traditional type of home security systems. Sensors are placed on doors and windows and are wired to a main control panel. Advantages to hardwired systems are their reliability, backup batteries in case of a power outage, and they are less susceptible to electrical interference from other devices. However, they are typically more expensive and are not as easy to install.

Wireless systems:

Wireless systems are newer to the market. They are incredibly easy and quick to install, and can be done so by placing sensors throughout your house that transmit signals to a control panel. Conveniences to wireless systems is the ability to control the system through multiple devices (such as a computer, tablet, or phone), and with upgraded packages you can integrate your thermostat, lights, and door locks into your wireless system. This allows people to turn off lights and turn down the thermostat when no one is home, ultimately helping conserve energy and save money. However, because wireless systems sensors are battery operated, homeowners and renters need to be diligent to make sure batteries are charged. Additionally, wireless systems can have sensory issues in larger homes due to the distance between sensors and the control panel. Source: Porch

Wired Systems:

A wired system generally involves the use of sensors that can be installed on your windows and doors. These sensors are the wired to the main panel for your security system. The wiring is not actually seen. In fact, it is typically placed under the baseboards or carpeting which hides it from view. You can also add security cameras and motion sensors that will be linked to the main panel and these types of systems typically come with a keypad installed. There are a variety of accessories that can be chosen to go along with a wired system and each offers its own unique benefit.

Wireless Systems:

Wireless systems work in much the same way. There are sensors placed on windows and doors but instead of linking these sensors via wiring that is hidden away, the sensors transmit information to the main panel using a wireless technology that is not completely unlike wireless internet routers. The main benefit of a wireless system is that it does not require drilling into the walls or flooring so they are a bit easier to install and a bit less messy than a wired system. They also have keypads and cameras and motion detectors can be integrated into a wireless system just like they can with a wired system. Source: BeforeItsNews

 

We hope this article helped you learn more about the differences between hardwird and wireless home alarm and security systems. If you would like more information please contact us.

The post Difference Between Hardwired and Wireless Home Alarm Systems appeared first on Mr Locksmith Calgary.

from Mr Locksmith Calgary http://ift.tt/21bt467

Difference Between Hardwired and Wireless Home Alarm Systems

The key to getting the best of any alarm system will depend on your needs and usage. This article will help you to determine which alarm system will fit you best.

Wireless Home Alarm Systems:

Wireless alarm systems take less time to install and require no drilling or wiring
Wireless alarm systems make it easy to upgrade features and equipment later
Less frequent maintenance and typically lower install costs for wireless alarm systems
Wireless alarm systems have distance limitations. Not ideal for extremely large homes or properties with multiple buildings. Most wireless alarm systems have a 500ft open air range.
Some wireless alarm systems have sensor limitations. Large homes with the need for 40-50+ sensors may need a hybrid system or strictly hard wired alarm

Hard Wired Home Alarm Systems:

Hard wired alarm systems can incorporate a lot more sensors than a wireless alarm system. Although most home don't need any more than 15-20 sensors.
Hard wired alarm systems have been around forever, they are tried and true.
A hard wired alarm system is always installed by a technician. Depending on your view, this could be a pro or a con.
Hard Wired alarm systems have a much more intensive installation. Requires drilling.
Many hard wired alarms are obsolete and outdated. Source: Quora

Hardwired Systems:

Hardwired systems are considered the traditional type of home security systems. Sensors are placed on doors and windows and are wired to a main control panel. Advantages to hardwired systems are their reliability, backup batteries in case of a power outage, and they are less susceptible to electrical interference from other devices. However, they are typically more expensive and are not as easy to install.

Wireless systems:

Wireless systems are newer to the market. They are incredibly easy and quick to install, and can be done so by placing sensors throughout your house that transmit signals to a control panel. Conveniences to wireless systems is the ability to control the system through multiple devices (such as a computer, tablet, or phone), and with upgraded packages you can integrate your thermostat, lights, and door locks into your wireless system. This allows people to turn off lights and turn down the thermostat when no one is home, ultimately helping conserve energy and save money. However, because wireless systems sensors are battery operated, homeowners and renters need to be diligent to make sure batteries are charged. Additionally, wireless systems can have sensory issues in larger homes due to the distance between sensors and the control panel. Source: Porch

Wired Systems:

A wired system generally involves the use of sensors that can be installed on your windows and doors. These sensors are the wired to the main panel for your security system. The wiring is not actually seen. In fact, it is typically placed under the baseboards or carpeting which hides it from view. You can also add security cameras and motion sensors that will be linked to the main panel and these types of systems typically come with a keypad installed. There are a variety of accessories that can be chosen to go along with a wired system and each offers its own unique benefit.

Wireless Systems:

Wireless systems work in much the same way. There are sensors placed on windows and doors but instead of linking these sensors via wiring that is hidden away, the sensors transmit information to the main panel using a wireless technology that is not completely unlike wireless internet routers. The main benefit of a wireless system is that it does not require drilling into the walls or flooring so they are a bit easier to install and a bit less messy than a wired system. They also have keypads and cameras and motion detectors can be integrated into a wireless system just like they can with a wired system. Source: BeforeItsNews

 

We hope this article helped you learn more about the differences between hardwird and wireless home alarm and security systems. If you would like more information please contact us.

The post Difference Between Hardwired and Wireless Home Alarm Systems appeared first on Mr Locksmith Calgary.

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First Street West Lower Lonsdale

 

Welcome to First Street West in the fantastic Lower Lonsdale. Surrounded by a community of local shops, restaurants, cafes and only a 12 min sea bus commute to DT Vancouver. First Street West features 60 premium, spacious 1 & 2 Bedroom suites up to 1200 sq ft,.

First Street West is developed by Fairborne, who has been quite active in the Lower Lonsdale area, specifically 100 block of West 1st, with a string of developments starting its redevelopmen with the building of Q, followed by Time, Sky, Capstone and now First Street West.

VIP previews starting soon, Contact us today to get priority registration

 

The post First Street West – Lower Lonsdale appeared first on Vancouver New Condos.

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First Street West Lower Lonsdale

 

Welcome to First Street West in the fantastic Lower Lonsdale. Surrounded by a community of local shops, restaurants, cafes and only a 12 min sea bus commute to DT Vancouver. First Street West features 60 premium, spacious 1 & 2 Bedroom suites up to 1200 sq ft,.

First Street West is developed by Fairborne, who has been quite active in the Lower Lonsdale area, specifically 100 block of West 1st, with a string of developments starting its redevelopmen with the building of Q, followed by Time, Sky, Capstone and now First Street West.

VIP previews starting soon, Contact us today to get priority registration

 

The post First Street West – Lower Lonsdale appeared first on Vancouver New Condos.

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How to be a Master Writer (and Photographer)

As many of you know, I've been building a travel media school called Superstar Blogging over the past few months. The purpose of this school is to create a place where those that want to break into various aspects of the travel industry can get practical, in-depth step-by-step advice from the industry's leading experts.

Today, I have two announcements: our photography course is available again (see the second half of this post) and we're releasing our third course — on travel writing! (The last course, on producing travel videos, will be out next month.)

How to Become a Travel Writer

I've partnered with award-winning travel writer David Farley, author of An Irreverent Curiosity and a professor of travel writing at Columbia and New York University, to teach a course on the nuts and bolts of travel writing. From crafting a story to becoming a better writer, self-editing, and making a career as a travel writer, our course covers it all.

David is considered one of the top travel writers in the country. He's hosted a National Geographic Channel show, and his work has appeared in the New York Times, National Geographic Traveler, Travel + Leisure, Los Angeles Times, San Francisco Chronicle, AFAR, and countless other publications. He's one of the people I go to for writing help, advice, and edits, and I'm super excited that he is teaching this course. There couldn't be a better writing expert to impart wisdom!

In his own words, he's part of this course because he "made a lot of errors along the way, fumbling in the dark and there were only a couple of 'how to become a travel writer'–type of books back then and they didn't seem very good. There were no classes — online or live — where a travel writer could lay out for you just how one successfully travels down this path, which is where this class comes in."

With nothing else like it out there, we created this course as a beacon to guide writers down the road to being a successful writer.

Through video lectures, interviews with successful travel writers and editors, detailed examples of edited stories, and writing assignments, you'll not only learn the nuts and bolts of travel writing and its industry but you'll be clued into every aspect of the travel writer's life — from how to find a good story to pre-trip research to writing up a pitch for a story — all of the things David (and I) learned the hard way through trial and error.

There is no class out there that utilizes this level of resources or as many experts in one place to lift the veil on travel writing.

You'll learn how to write stories that editors want to publish. You'll learn to improve your writing and get people saying, "I can't get enough! You're an awesome writer."

We've taken David's college-level course and made it available to everyone — without the college-level price!

Over nine units, this course will cover the spectrum of travel writing. It will teach you how to be a better travel writer — from crafting the perfect story to improving your research and writing to self-editing — as well as instruct you in the business side of writing — how to get an agent and book deal, how to pitch editors, and what mistakes to avoid.

What will this course teach you?

• A breakdown of the various forms of writing you can focus on, including the types of travel writing found in commercial writing (i.e. magazines and newspapers)
• The important rules of travel writing you need to know as you start your journey
• How to create a story — through examples of good and bad story titles, angles, pegs — and how to structure your story
• Strategies to always create the perfect narrative flow
• Grammar do's and don'ts so you don't make the mistakes that make editors and blog readers cringe and not come back
• The anatomy of story, including examples with each element of the story highlighted
• Expert tips on how be descriptive in your writing and what travel clichés to avoid (because the best stories make destinations come alive by placing the reader in your story – and you'll learn how to do that and captivate your reader!)
• The two most common ways to self-edit your work and the important mistakes to look for
• Examples of stories before and after editing
• How to master the long-form story, create a narrative arc, keep the reader interested, and use anecdotes of significance
• How to research any destination
• Real-life examples of book proposals
• Real-life examples of good and bad pitches, as well as a template — you'll learn how to submit article ideas that editors will actually read
• Where to find literary agents and how to price your work

Plus, you'll get the following:

• A private Facebook group where you can share your work, get advice, and solicit feedback from us!
• Homework assignments where you can get notes and feedback on your writing
• Interviews with nine award-winning writers and editors who share their travel writing tips, failures, and successes: Don George (author of Lonely Planet's Guide to Travel Writing, Nathan Thornbough (creator of Roads and Kingdoms), Matt Gross (former NYT's writer and editor of Bon Appetit), Derk Richardson (editor at AFAR), Jessica Colley (freelance writer), Stephanie Elizondo Griest (award winning author and writing professor at UNC), and Thomas Swick (editor).

This course comes with lifetime access and updates. Once you're in, you're in for life! Any interview, webinar, or new content that gets added is automatically yours.

If you've ever wanted to learn how to be a travel writer — or just a better writer — this course is for you. If you've ever wanted access to the best writers out there and their expert insider knowledge and advice about storytelling and how the business works, this course is for you.

Travel is a competitive field, but good writing is always in demand — and it always will be. If you want to stand out online and get a leg up as a freelancer, being able to write well is essential. It doesn't matter the field — the top people in any field are good writers. So many bloggers write so poorly that with just a few tips on how to choose, craft, and polish a story, you can leap past them in quality, attract new readers to your website, stand out from your competition, and get editors to return your calls.

If you wanted the benefits and details of a college writing course — without the college-level price — THIS COURSE IS IT!

The course is $349 USD and you can get instant access to the course by signing-up here!

(Want to pay in installments? No problem! You can pay $120 per month for 3 months instead of one lump payment! Click here for that payment option.)

How to Become a Travel Photographer

Finally, our photography course — taught by acclaimed travel photographer Laurence Norah — is out of beta. We spent the last seven weeks testing it, and now it's ready for permanent viewing!

Broken into 11 units comprising 33 lessons — all laid out with examples, images, and walk-throughs to make it really easy to grasp — the course starts off by getting you entirely comfortable with your camera. You'll learn how to be its master, with a detailed understanding of how it works and how it to get the perfectly exposed shot every time.

It then teaches more advanced topics, such as how to shoot the night sky, what HDR is, mobile (smartphone) photography, and long-exposure photography.

Then the course tackles the post-processing side of photography — what happens after you've taken your photo. You're going to learn everything from how to set up an efficient workflow to editing and backing up your photos. And from how much to charge to getting yourself found, we also go through in detail all you need to know to start making an income from your newfound skills.

Additionally, Laurence will personally look at and give feedback on your submitted pictures! And, every quarter, he'll host a free webinar (that will be recorded) where he'll answer questions, give advice, and build on the course's information.

In addition to all that awesome content, we added a giant glossary of terms, unit summaries, and some advanced editing content, as well as a field guide that lets you take the best of the course with you on the road. It's a downloadable, 47-page PDF filled with screenshots and tutorials to help you get the perfect picture when you're away from the computer!

The course costs $199 USD (or three payments of $75) and you'll get instant and lifetime access as well as lifetime updates! When you're in, you're in for life!

You can purchase this amazing class via this link (or learn more about the course here.)

 

REFUND POLICY:
We're fully committed to helping you become a success. You can test drive either course for two weeks, read the material, and listen to the webinars and interviews. If you do the work and don't feel the course is for you, I'll happily refund 100% of your money.

Important: To be eligible for a refund, you must complete all homework from all available units. If you do the work and don't get value, I don't deserve your money. However, you have to do the work to get the refund, as I want to maintain a very high standard of positivity, encouragement, and action-oriented learning. If you read the material, do the work, and realize this isn't what you want, you'll get a refund right away!

The post How to be a Master Writer (and Photographer) appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

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