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If you’re going on a long trip, listen up.

It’s never fun to have to figure out what to do with your car while you and the family or your buddies go on a trip. Do you get someone to drive you to the airport? Do you take a cab? An Uber?

All that stuff can get super expensive and it can be really inconvenient when you land and you just want to get home quickly. But, then you have to figure out the best way to long term park at the airport.

We’re well-versed in the world of airport long term parking and we’re here to help. There are a few key things you need to know about before you drive to the airport, so pay attention.

Airport Long Term Parking

The most convenient place to park is at the airport, right? Well, there are pros and cons to that. Let’s get started.

1. Expensive, but Convenient

Parking right at the airport is probably the most convenient place to leave your car. They’re usually located right on the grounds with easy access to the terminal, so you can get your bags out and run right in.

The only problem is that it can get kind of pricey to leave your car for an extended time, with most airports charging well over $100 per week.

2. Medium Security

Of course, you want your car to be well looked after while it’s in the airport’s care. Airport lots are fairly well secured. However, they’re usually massive, so it’s a lot for the attendants to look after. 

With the high volume foot traffic of the airport grounds, these lots might actually be more susceptible to vehicle theft in the long-term parking areas.

3. Barely Any Amenities

It’s highly unlikely that you’ll find any parking deals online through the airport. The best you’ll get is a quick shuttle to your terminal if you have to park far away. As we’ll see, if you’re looking for coupons, it’s more likely that you’ll find some with 3rd party lots.

Off-Site Airport Parking

There are usually loads of off-site long-term parking lots surrounding the airport.

4. A Better Deal

These off-site lots are privately owned, and thus, set their own prices. They’re usually competitive with the airports themselves, almost always offering better deals. If you are able to book ahead, you can save a bit more money, as well.

At RSWAirportParking.com, for instance, you can book ahead and find great deals.

5. Airport Tax Fee

Because these lots take away business from the airport parking, they have to pay an “airport tax fee” to use the land surrounding the airport. Expect to have to pay for this. Usually, it’s included in the price, but you’ll notice it included on a receipt.

6. Safest Option

These lots are usually fenced in and occupy a smaller area than the airport lots. This makes it easier to guard the premises and create a safer environment for your vehicle.

Way less foot traffic and activity mean that private lots are far more secure.

7. Cheap with More Amenities

Most off-site parking lots will offer big-time savings for long term occupants. There are usually a few lots competing against one another, so you can always shop for the cheaper option as well. 

Depending on the lot, you’ll see covered or indoor lots, charging stations, and there’s almost always a shuttle to get you to the airport.

Hotel Airport Parking

The last option is to use local hotel parking. It’s a good way for hotels close to the airport to make a bit of extra money.

8. Usually Cheap

Hotel parking, since it’s extra money for the hotel, is usually pretty cheap. It’s better to use if you’re gone for a long time because the daily rates are lower. This is great for longer business trips and other things like that.

Booking online ahead of time is one of the nice features of hotel parking, as well.

9. Unguarded

Parker beware: hotel lots are usually unsecured. You’re getting a reserved spot in the hotel’s lot, which is not usually high-priority for hotel security, so only do this if you are comfortable with that.

10. Long Shuttle Waits

With hotel parking, you’ll get luggage assistance and a free shuttle over to the airport terminal. Unfortunately, however, there are many tales of long waits for the hotel shuttle.

If you want to catch your flight on time, leave plenty of time for it to arrive.

Which Is the Best?

Depending on what your situation is, each parking option does hold some perks. To us, the best option when you account for price, security, and convenience, off-site airport long term parking is the best. It offers the most for the lowest price. 

For more posts and advice on travel, visit our blog.

Are you planning your next adventure but don’t know where to go? Don’t panic! We are here to help!

When planning a vacation, there are certain must see places in Europe that need to go on your list. There are exotic cites, breathtaking scenery, and landmarks and works of art that no one should miss out on!

Let’s take a look at a few of the best cities to visit in Europe that will make your visit the trip of a lifetime!

1. Milan, Italy

Let’s start with a city that is easily one of the most beautiful and popular destinations in Europe. Milan is a city of art, restaurants, and romance! The shopping is like a dream, and this fashion center of the world is filled with beautiful people that you could spend a lifetime watching.

There are gorgeous parks where you can enjoy an afternoon picnic, chic boutiques for lusting after the latest fashions, and stunning churches that are hundreds of years old.

Strolling the streets of Milan is like stepping back in time. Eat at world-class restaurants along the beautiful canals, and spend an evening at the La Scala Theater.

The architecture will take your breath away, and you’ll make memories that are sure to last a lifetime.

2. Lisbon, Portugal

The next stop on our list is a city that will dazzle you. This is the capital city of Portugal, a unique destination that welcomes travelers from every corner of the globe. This European jewel is rich in amazing architecture, stunning culture, and sumptuous landscapes.

Lisbon is often considered a gateway to the country for those who have yet to discover the glories of Portugal, and it would certainly be hard to argue otherwise.

3. Paris, France

It’s time to talk about your bucket list. Frankly, if Paris isn’t on it, you’d best throw the list away and start over!

Paris is called the “City of Lights” for a reason. Spending time here is a dreamlike experience. It’s a city of romance and love, beauty and art, music and food, wine and adventure. It’s the kind of destination you will want to get lost in forever.

The city is rich in museums, the finest art galleries and wine in the world, with luxury hotels that will spoil you like royalty.

From the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre, there are more attractions than you could possibly see in a week or even a month. And the more information you have about these attractions, the more you can enjoy them.

Paris is a city you will want to discover over and over again, and visit year after year, unlocking its many mysteries one delicious clue at a time. 

4. Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Amsterdam is another European destination filled with romance and mystery. From its canals to its gorgeous hotels and restaurants, this is a city that brims with romance and glows with a spirit of adventure.

On your first visit, it won’t take long to understand how so many travelers instantly fall under Amsterdam’s spell.

The city offers trendy shops, decadent restaurants, and is among the most welcoming destinations for the LGBTQ community in the world. 

5. Athens, Greece

Visiting Athens is a genuinely life-altering experience. There are few other opportunities to travel back in time thousands of years, and experience first-hand what it was like to be alive in another time and place.

The ancient ruins of Athens rank among the most astounding wonders of the world. The Acropolis is a stunning example of human design and ingenuity. You’ll get chill bumps simply standing in its shadow.

6. Bruges, Belgium

It’s hard not to fall in love with the city of Bruges.

It holds a charm and mystique that is difficult to match. With its winding canals and medieval streets, this is the kind of destination where you could sit with a cup of coffee or glass of wine and simply watch as the world goes by.

Believe it or not, Bruges can be a busy place, especially in the spring and summer. Thus you’d be wise to plan your trip for the winter months when things quiet down and you’ll be more likely to have the picturesque streets to yourself.

7. Wroclaw, Poland

Wroclaw is often referred to as the “Polish Venice”. And it does bear a certain resemblance, due to its canals and bridges that link its beautiful islands.

Be prepared to be seduced by this delightful European jewel, strolling among the Ostrow Tumski, the oldest part of the city, rich in charm and medieval beauty.

This is a gorgeous city, populated with warm and friendly locals who will go out of their way to make you feel right at home during your stay.

8. Budapest, Hungry

For lovers of museums, European history, art, and lively nightlife, you’d be hard pressed to find a city with more to offer than Budapest.

Believe it or not, this is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Treat yourself to an afternoon at the Szechenyi Spa, the most famous spa in the city. Then stroll among the endless shops, bars, and churches, taking time to visit The Parliament, The Chain Bridge, and Buda Castle.

9. Prague, Czech Republic

Finally, we come to Prague. It’s no secret that Prague ranks among one of the most popular European destinations for travelers from around the world.

This is a city that will easily seduce you with its rich history, cathedrals, as well as the romance of the Charles Bridge.

Prague is truly one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, and once you’ve visited, you’ll discover it’s nearly impossible to resist the impulse to return.

The List of Must See Places In Europe

Europe is a place rich in history and incredible beautify.

And thus a list of must see places in Europe could go on and one without end. This article provides a great start for anyone ready to pack their bags and get started on the adventure of a lifetime.

Click here to see the ultimate packing list for your next big vacation.

While it’s great to expand your cultural palate, ordering food and drinks from other countries can be a minefield. After all, you don’t want to be one of those fools who shoots traditional sake like a frat boy on the tequila slammers. 

Of course, when it comes to ordering food in another language, things can get even more complicated. You might end up ordering a food you hate. Or, an innocent slip of the tongue could land you in hot water with the waitstaff! 

So, if you’re headed to a Spanish-speaking country and want to try out your Spanish, don’t so much as look at a menu until you’ve read our gringo’s guide to ordering food in Spanish. 

Greetings and Getting a Table

Although all these phrases will come in useful in Spanish-speaking environments, a friendly ‘¡Hola!’ is the easiest greeting when entering a restaurant or bar. You should then request, ‘Una mesa para dos/tres etc. por favor’ so that they can find a suitable table for your group. 

Depending on the time of day and how busy and/or popular the restaurant is, the server might ask you whether you plan to eat or only have a drink. Usually they’ll ask something along the lines of, ‘¿Para comer o solo para tomar algo?’

They’ll ask this because they may have certain seats reserved for those who plan to eat. If you only want a quick drink then you might have to sit at the bar or outside. Also, in some restaurants, they may direct you to different seating depending on whether you want to eat tapas or the menú del día (set lunchtime menu). 

As such, it pays to decide whether you want to eat or not and how hungry you all are before entering a restaurant. 

Ordering Drinks

Once you’re all seated, your server will first ask you what you’d all like to drink, with something like, ‘¿Qué van a tomar?’

To make things easier for yourself when you order in Spanish, you can pretty much forget typical English phrases like, ‘Can I get…’ or ‘I’d like…’. Instead, just look the server in the eye and order what you’d like, e.g. ‘Un vaso de vino tinto’ (a glass of red wine) or ‘una cerveza‘ (a beer). 

Unless it’s breakfast time or you’re enjoying ‘la merienda’ (afternoon snack), it’s not customary to order coffee with food in Spanish-speaking countries. So, to avoid looking like a gringo, save your coffee order for the end of your meal and opt for a soft drink or alcoholic beverage instead.  

And, whatever you do, do not order sangria in Spain! If you want a refreshing drink, opt for a ‘clara’ (beer with lemon soda) or a ‘tinto de verano’ (red wine with lemon soda).  

Deciding on What to Eat

Even if the menu has English translations, sometimes these aren’t very accurate or clear. For this reason, it’s a good idea to use your smartphone to decipher what unknown dishes are before ordering in Spanish. This is especially the case if you’re vegetarian, vegan or have food allergies.

Although, it’s wise to double check with the server about ingredients by asking, ‘¿Que lleva…la salsa/este plato/esta ensalada?’ if you want to be sure of what a food contains. 

You might also notice that some dishes have several different prices according to different portion sizes. Check how big these are by asking your server something like, ‘¿Cómo es de grande la porción?’. In most cases, your server will encourage you to order smaller portions to begin with, so that you can order more later if you so choose. 

Ordering Food

When you’ve all decided what to order, place your menus down so that your server knows you’re ready. They’ll then approach your table and ask something like, ‘¿Qué quieren Ustedes?’ 

The simplest way to order food in Spanish is to say ‘Para mí’ (for me) and then state what you want to eat rather than worrying about verbs and how to conjugate them. Although, if you’re ordering a starter and a main, say, ‘Para empezar… y para el segundo plato…’ so the server knows when to bring certain dishes to your group’s table. 

If you’re trying to stick to a diet plan, you might want to order a dish ‘sin salsa’ (without sauce) or ‘con la salsa aparte’ (sauce on the side). The same goes for making meat dishes vegetarian, where you can order, ‘la ensalada, pero sin atún por favor’ (the salad without tuna please). 

Hailing the Server and Extra Requests

Since terms for wait staff can vary across the Spanish-speaking world, the most sure-fire way to avoid offending anyone is to stick your hand up and say, ‘¡Perdone!’ (excuse me) when you want to get your server’s attention. 

If you want to order extra items, such as more bread, the polite way is to say, ‘¿Nos trae más pan por favor?’. The same goes for ordering more drinks or asking for sauce, salt and other items.  

Finishing Up and Getting the Check 

If you thought learning how to order in Spanish was difficult, try getting the attention of your server when you want the check! 

As such, it’s best to take your opportunity to ask for the check by saying, ‘¿Nos trae la cuenta por favor?’ when your server clears away your plates. While they clear, they’ll also ask you something like, ‘¿Quieren algo de postre o café?’ (does anyone want dessert or coffee?). 

Often, the server will reel off a list of dessert options so you need to pay attention if you do want dessert. If not, ask for the check and pay when you’re ready to go. 

Your Guide to Ordering Food in Spanish

With this easy guide to ordering food in Spanish, you’ll be a bilingual menu master before you can say ‘¡Buen provecho!’ 

All it takes is a few key phrases and a bit of cerveza-fueled confidence and you’ll be tucking into the best dishes the Spanish-speaking world has to offer. 

And it’s useful to know how to order food in Spanish since Spanish-speaking countries like Mexico and Spain are must-visit destinations for foodies!

The United States contains around 250 freshwater lakes with a size of 10 square miles or greater. All of these lakes contain a variety of fish, making them all viable fishing spots. When you figure in the many rivers, streams, ponds, quarries, and reservoirs (not to mention the oceans) that exist in America, you start to see that the United States is an angler’s heaven. 

But, while all of these bodies of water are suitable fishing locations, some spots tend to stand out above the rest. Wondering which spots these are? You’re in the right place. 

Read on to discover 5 of the best fishing spots the US has to offer. 

What are the Best Fishing Spots?

The following fishing spots are great not only for their crops of fish but for their sights and atmospheres as well. Let’s get into them! 

1. Miami, Florida  

Truthfully, there isn’t a bad fishing spot on the entirety of the Florida coast. The state has some of the best deepsea fishing the United States has to offer. However, perhaps no part of Florida offers more in the fishing department than Miami. 

There are a number of different fish species which can be caught off the coast of Miami, including Golden tilefish, Snappers, and Groupers, to name just a few. To reach them, you need only to fish miami charters.

2. Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts 

If you’re looking to go fishing in the northeastern portion of the United States, your best bet is to head to Martha’s Vineyard in Massachusetts. A popular summer island located right in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, it’s characterized by lighthouses, quaint homes, and sandy beaches. Oh . . . and a wide variety of fish. 

While most anglers in Martha’s Vineyard aim for Striped Bass and Bluefish, they’re also bound to pull in mackerel, bunker, and bonito. If you’re a fan of fishing and of deep sea adventures, Martha’s Vineyard is the place for you. 

3. Green River, Utah

If you’re out in the southwest portion of the US, you might consider fishing in Green River, Utah. This picturesque area is characterized by sparkling water, rocky canyons, and one of the largest collection of trout the United States has to offer. 

There are many ways to fish in the Green River. Go it alone on a boat, stay at a fishing lounge, or just cast your line from the river bend. Fly fishing is the most recommended. 

4. Lake St. Clair, Michigan 

When it comes to fishing in the midwest, Michigan reigns supreme. After all, the state touches four of the five Great Lakes. However, while the Great Lakes are all great fishing spots, they all fall short of Lake St. Clair. 

Located next to the city of Detroit, Lake St. Clair is filled with a wide variety of fish, including crappie, bass, walleye, and muskie. 

5. Bighorn River, Montana 

There is no shortage of good fishing out in the northwestern United States. However, the spot that reigns supreme over all others is Bighorn River, Montana. 

Filled with an excess of Brown Trout, Bighorn River is the perfect destination for fly fishing. And it’s pretty easy on the eyes as well. 

Find More Fun and Adventure

Interested in visiting any of the best fishing spots the United States has to offer? Looking for more fun and adventure? If so, Beekman Beer Garden has you covered. 

Peruse some of our other articles now! 

It always happens to someone on a big trip. You get on the plane, start looking for your charger, and realize you left it on your nightstand at home. 

According to a survey, the most forgotten items before a trip are phone chargers, sunscreen, razors, toothbrushes, and sunglasses. 

Got a big vacation in the works? Make sure that you don’t leave anything important behind by reviewing this ultimate packing list!

Clothes

You probably aren’t going to forget all of your clothes when you’re packing for your trip, but you may forget certain items of clothing, or you may not pack enough.

Before you start packing, you should look up the predicted forecast for the weather where you’re going. Even if the weather is going to be incredibly cold, you may still want to bring a pair of shorts to wear in your hotel in case it’s too hot. It’s better to be prepared than to go without it.

Here are some clothing items you should have on your ultimate packing list regardless of where you are going.

• T-shirts
• Tank tops
• Underwear
• Jeans
• Shorts
• Pajamas
• Comfortable shoes
• At least one dressy outfit
• Swimsuits
• Hat
• Pairs of socks
• Jacket
• Sweatshirt

You want to make sure that you can pack layers in case the weather isn’t what you expected. If the weather is really cold, layers will save your life. If you end up being too hot, you can just take a few items of clothes off.

You also have to consider what you’re going to do on your trip. If you’re going to go hiking a lot, you’ll want to make sure you have good hiking shoes and comfortable clothes to hike in. If you’re just going to be sightseeing and taking pictures for your Instagram, you can probably just bring some casual clothes. 

How many clothes you pack and what you bring can also be dependent on whether you are just bringing a carry on or a checked in suitcase. Think about how much room you have, and find good organizational ways to maximize the space you have. 

Accessories

Accessories are also important to complement any outfit you have. These may not be as essential as the clothes listed above, but they can make your outfit stand out and make you feel confident

Some accessories you could pack are:

• Earrings
• Necklaces
• Scarves
• Belt
• Purse
• Wallet
• Watches 
• Shoes
• Suspenders
• Sunglasses

There are some other accessories you could consider bringing as well. If you wear a nose ring or stud, you may want to bring a backup one just in case you lose yours. That way you won’t have to worry about the hole closing up while you’re on vacation.

Depending on where you go, you may also not want to bring your most expensive diamond or pearl earrings because they could be stolen. If you have cheap costume jewelry that looks similar, think about bringing that instead. 

The same can be said for watches for the guys as well. You may want to consider leaving your thousand dollar watch at home and look for the best affordable watches instead. 

Toiletries 

Toiletries are also important to pack, and you want to make sure that you don’t forget any. 

Some common toiletries that pack are:

• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Floss (If you do floss)
• Deodorant
• Shampoo
• Conditioner
• Razor
• Shaving cream
• Sunscreen
• Lotion
• Chapstick
• Makeup
• Feminine hygiene products
• Contacts
• Contact case
• Contact solution
• Glasses
• Medications
• Vitamins
• Face wash
• Face moisturizer
• Perfume or body spray
• First aid kit

Some quick tips on the toiletries packing list is to consider if you are flying and bringing a carry-on.

If you are, there is a limit on what liquids you can bring and the size. You should check with your airline carrier and TSA. The general rule is that you can bring one quart-sized bag containing liquids no more than 3.4 ounces. 

Most stores sell travel sizes of common toiletries, like shampoo and conditioner. You may also want to skip bringing the razor if you’re just taking a carry on. TSA may have an issue with it, and if you can it’d be easier to just buy a disposable one when you arrive at your destination.

For medication, if it is prescription you may want to bring the prescription to avoid any hassle or arguments with TSA.

Technology

Technology is also important to pack on your trip. 

Here are some common items you should consider packing:

• Charging cord
• Portable charger
• Outlet adapter (if you are going to a different country)
• Laptop
• Laptop charger
• Camera
• Photography equipment
• Phone
• Tablet
• SIM card (if you are planning on using one in a different country)
• Headphones

One tip when traveling with electronics is to make sure you put it in your personal bag, especially if you are checking a bag. If they lose your bag, you don’t want all your valuables to be missing with it.  

Travel Documents

Whether you are traveling out of the country or not, most of these documents are important to have for any trip.

Here are some items to help you get started thinking about what to pack:

• Passport
• Visa
• IDs
• Cash
• Credit cards
• Debit card
• Health insurance card
• Reservations
  • Hotel
  • Airplane
  • Tours
• Emergency contacts
• Guidebooks
• Maps
• A copy of all of these documents

When you make copies of these documents, don’t keep the copies in the same place as the originals. The last thing you’d want to happen would be to lose your passport and the copy of your passport in a foreign country. 

Packing Should Be a Breeze with Your Ultimate Packing List

One important thing to keep in mind is to remember that you’re not going to another planet.

You’re just going to a new state or country, and if your ultimate packing list fails you, you can normally buy the forgotten item there.

Don’t let the stress of packing take away your fun and excitement of planning your future trip.

So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip so that you can start packing. 

POS or Point Of Sale is a system that is used throughout the restaurant and retail industry. This computerized system allows business owners to track sales, cash flow, food inventory and can help simplify your bookkeeping enormously.

A Booker Clover POS system is a combination of hardware and software built to centralize business operations. It manages the transactions for your business, including credit card processing, and the post-transaction operations that lead to customer fulfillment, whether in a retail or restaurant setting.

This compact countertop point of sale device won’t take up much space and provides customization options so you can add hardware and components down the line. But, the Cash Register Mini point of sale device is a hard worker that offers substantial solutions right out of the box.

After you finish installing your Cash Register Mini, you can immediately have customers making purchases by swiping, inserting their EMV chip cards, and processing touchless payments. Why waste too much time deciding on your POS device when you can use one that integrates with your business goals and current systems.

With the new Clover Station, storefront owners get the standard in innovative design, ease of use, and integrated performance. As you interact with customers, and show off your products and services, Clover tends to running the payment part of your company smoothly. With Clover, you worry about what you do best, and you let your POS keep you getting paid and getting paid fast.

These are just a few of the features that retailers and sales managers can look forward to with the new Clover Station:

▶ A larger screen

▶ Faster payment processing

▶ Customer-facing printer display

▶ Fingerprint scanning

▶ Sophisticated inventory tracking

▶Intuitive time sheet management tools

Apart from the above, a POS systems help you gain better control of your business through their reporting features. You can slice and dice sales data in a many ways to determine what products are selling best at what time, and to figure out everything from the optimal ways to arrange shelves and displays to what promotions are working best and when to change seasonal promotions.

Whether you’re on a journey to expand your cultural palette or you just want to try something new, learning more about Japanese sake is a great place to start.

Japan has a rich history filled with stories of pride and ceremony, and sake and the ceremony surrounding are often involved somewhere.

If you’re interested in giving sake a try but aren’t sure what it is, or where it came, from keep reading. We’re going to break down the colorful history of Japan’s best-known beverage and then tell you how to drink it in the traditional, Japanese way!

What is Sake?

Sake, pronounced “sa-keh,” is a wine made from fermented rice. During the process of fermentation, all of the starches in the rice change to sugar, and given more time that sugar turns into alcohol.

For the most part, Japanese sake contains about 15% alcohol. That is unless you’re talking about “genshu” sake, which contains around 19% alcohol content, as it isn’t diluted with water the way most sake is.

There are many different kinds of sake. In fact, all sake refers to in Japanese is alcohol. The Japanese call alcohol is made from fermented rice called “nihonshu.”

The traditional, low-alcohol sake is called amazake, while koshu is sake that has aged over time and becomes sweet. Nigorizake is what we in the west drink chilled at Japanese restaurants.

The different kinds of Japanese sake that we’ve listed here are just a few of the various types out there. The world of sake is vast!

The Origins of Japanese Sake

Now that you know a little more about what sake is, let’s take a look at where it comes from. It’s impossible to pinpoint exactly where sake itself came from, as it’s been a staple of eastern life since before recorded history.

But we can trace the beginnings of Japanese sake to China.

Small and Unsavory Beginnings

In 500 B.C. China, the people living in Chinese villages would come together to produce sake in what could be the crudest way possible. They would all chew up rice and nuts and then spit the contents of their mouths into a giant tub. That tub would then be covered and stored somewhere to allow the ingredients, saliva included, to ferment.

Luckily enough, this isn’t how we make sake today.

Sometime during the Nara period, year 710 to 794, koji was discovered. Koji is an enzyme created by a mold that could be added to the rice to aid in fermentation. So people stopped spitting their chewed up rice out and letting it sit around to create their alcohol, thank goodness.

This is the sake production method that spread through Japan, eventually creating the sake we have today.

From Governments to Temples to Small Business Breweries

For a long time in Japan, the Japanese government had a monopoly on sake. But this didn’t hold out, as over time the temples and shrines started to brew sake on their own.

For hundreds of years, these temples and shrines were the number one source of sake distillery in Japan. This is the most probable cause behind sake being such a ceremonial drink.

But in the late 1800s, laws began to change around the distilling of sake and soon, anyone could do it. If a family had the means and resources to open their own sake brewery, they were allowed to give it a try.

This created a boom in the sake market, and over 30,000 breweries popped up in less than a year’s time.

This was a short-lived sake success, however. Soon, the taxes that the Japanese government imposed on the production of sake started to make the business all but unmanageable for everyone except the most successful companies.

However, some of the family-operated breweries that managed to make it out of this intense taxation period are still around today.

Present Day Sake Production

Over time, technology improved and so did our ability to produce high-quality sake. Breweries began to use steel tanks instead of wooden barrels when the question of sanitation began to arise.

Taxation on sake was still steep. The Japanese government banned the production of home-brewed sake because it wasn’t taxable, and today it is still illegal to brew without a license.

During WWII, rice was hard to come by. Brewers started to add alcohol and sugar to their fermentation process to bulk it up, and much of the sake produced today is made using this method even though the rice shortage has long been over.

Today in Japan, it’s much more popular to drink beer or wine. While in the U.S., sake is on the rise in popularity.

When to Drink Sake

Sake is a great drink to drink during appetizer, like raw fish. Traditionally, people don’t drink it with large meals. However, with the rise in western consumption, it’s more popular to drink it with big dinners.

You can learn more about how to pair sake with food here!

Despite the slow westernization of this traditional drink, it’s still considered a ceremonial or formal drink.

Serving Sake the Traditional Way

Sake is usually poured out of the container it was bought in and into a flask called a “tokkuri.” From there, you as the server would pour the sake carefully from the tokkuri into small cups called “ochoko.”

Sake is great at any temperature, depending on the way you like it or the season.

Proper Pouring

If you want to enjoy sake in a traditional way to honor its roots, you should start by pouring it properly.

Always use both hands on the tokkuri, to show respect. Never pour your own cup, even if you pour for everyone else at the table. And when you do get your ochoko of sake, cradle it delicately in one hand while resting the fingers of your other hand on the cup.

Wait for the toast, or “kanpai!” in Japanese, and then gently touch your ochoko with the others in the circle.

Expand Your Cultural Horizons With Japanese Sake

Japanese sake is a great way to attempt to expand your cultural horizons. When you start to partake in the ceremonial and traditional practices of the cultures around you, you learn to be a more learned and respectful individual.

Besides, sake tastes great and it’s a refreshing drink to have alongside a delicious Japanese meal!

If you’re interested in learning more about broadening your horizons, check out this post next!

Travel is one of the greatest pleasures in life. To see different cultures, people, and places can renew our sense of purpose and expand our perspectives in ways we might not even have thought possible. 

Many of the younger generations would even rather travel than own property. 

If you find yourself with a case of wanderlust as well, you’ll probably be itching to get overseas or out of the country soon. But you’ll need to take care of a few things first, and renewing your passport might be a priority among them. 

Though it sounds like a big task, renewing your passport doesn’t have to be difficult. Read on, and we’ll walk you through how to renew your passport fast and with little hassle. 

Do I Need to Renew My Passport? 

The short answer is yes.

The last thing you want to do is attempt to travel with a nearly expired or fully expired passport. You’re sure to be stopped at customs and not allowed through if you attempt it. In the worst case scenario, you could get yourself stuck overseas and away from home. 

The best time to get your passport renewed is about six months prior to expiration. This gives you plenty of fluff time to get the job done without needing to worry. 

The process, of course, won’t actually take six months. But there are many countries around the world that require three months validity to allow you in or out. So it’s best to get working on a renewal far in advance, just in case. 

Renewing Your Passport by Mail 

Many people prefer to renew their passport through the mail so that they can avoid standing in lines or irritating commutes. There are a number of criteria you have to hit to be allowed to renew via mail carrier. 

Your passport will need to have been issued in the last 15 years. It needs to be in your current name, undamaged, and you need to have been at least 16 when you first received it. 

If you fit the criteria, then you can start the renew by mail process. You’ll need to obtain a DS-82 form, which can be easily found online. The form requires a variety of fairly expected information on your passport and yourself, including social security number. 

You’ll then send in an envelope: the completed form, a current photo of yourself, your old passport, and a check with the appropriate renewal fee. If you’ve changed your name, include applicable documents with your application. 

When it comes to your photo, make sure you’re following the proper criteria. Many passport applications are denied because of the photo the sender decided to include. Make sure that your photo is 2×2 inches in size, in color, and is of your full face.

Do not wear glasses, headphones, hats, or anything that would cover any part of your head or face.  

Send it all off in an envelope that’s large enough to contain the application without folding. You’ll definitely want to sign up for trackable delivery so you can ensure that your application arrives without a hitch. 

And we know what you’re thinking, but don’t worry: they will send your old passport back. 

Renewing Your Passport in Person 

If you aren’t able to renew via mail or would rather go in person, the process is similar. You’ll need to gather a similar list of materials: a DS-11 application form, proof of citizenship, ID, and a form of payment for the processing fee. 

With immigration and citizenship being such a hot button issue these days, you’ll need to really ensure that your proof of citizenship is valid. Higher scrutiny is resulting in more denied applications. It’s a good idea to bring in more than one element of proof if have another available to you. 

There are regional passport offices around the country that you can visit to have your own passport renewed. You should look up the closest one to you. They can be as close as down the block or as far as a state over, depending on where you are located. 

Is There a Way to Speed Up the Process? 

Maybe you waited too long to get your passport renewed, or you have an upcoming trip you need to depart on soon. But the standard waiting time for mailed in passport renewal is four to six weeks. That doesn’t work for you.

Is there a way to get your passport renewed quicker? You can use expedited services in the mail or in person to try and speed up the process, though they will cost you more from your wallet.

But if you’re in a real rush, you might want to consider third-party services. There are some companies that expedite passport renewals. For a fee, these companies will get your information, hand deliver it to agencies, and turn around a new passport in as quick as 24 hours. 

Depending on where you’re located, googling “find a passport near me” may be your best bet. Such companies are usually located in major cities, but many allow you to apply online instead of having to arrive in person. 

How to Renew Your Passport Fast

If you’re itching to get overseas, you’ll want to know how to renew your passport fast and efficiently. The process you choose all depends on the budget and the amount of time you’ve allowed yourself to get the job done. 

Need more traveling advice, tips, or tricks? Check out our blog for more information.  

Is your computer screensaver a photo of a beautiful island? If it is, you’re not alone. No one knows exactly how many islands there are. But ocean islands are about 2,000 of the world’s islands. 

When it comes to vacationing, tourists love island destinations. Not everyone agrees about which is the best. And narrowing it down to 10 is a tough order. 

But are you ready to ditch the snow and cold in favor of an exotic vacation? These 10 island destinations, in no particular order, are sure to please. 

Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

The Galapagos Islands are home to an amazing array of fish and animal life. There are four main islands of which you can read more about on this blog. The islands are on UNESCO’s list of World Heritage sites. 

It was on these famous islands that Darwin developed his theory of natural selection. There are 13 major islands in the Galapagos. But there are over 100 other smaller islands. 

On the islands, you’ll see dome-shaped tortoises and fearless sea lions. Check out Tortuga Bay on Santa Cruz Island and La Loberia on San Cristobal Island. 

Kaui, Hawaii

If you haven’t been living under a rock, then you’re familiar with the Hawaiian Islands. Kaui is the “Garden Island,” and the fourth most-visited island in Hawaii. If you’re looking for pristine beaches, you’ll find them here. 

If you visit Hawaii, don’t miss Waimea Canyon. It’s the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. If you like a challenging hike, you’ll find it here. The canyon was created by erosion from the Waimea River, and it’s almost 10 miles long.

The views from the top are awe-inspiring as you gaze down 3,000 feet and deeper. If you’ve got money to spend, take a bike tour or even a helicopter tour of the canyon. 

Bali, Indonesia

Head off to Indonesia and check out Bali. If you’re a lazy traveler only looking for sunny beaches, Bali won’t disappoint. Stay in a luxurious oceanfront resort and indulge in spa treatments. 

But there’s plenty for the adventurer here as well. There are many island temples. Or visit the volcano Kintamani. Do you like late night parties? Check out the town of Kuta. 

From parasailing to snorkeling and everything between, Bali won’t disappoint you.

Grand Cayman

The largest of the Cayman Islands is Grand Cayman.

Ready to swim with stingrays? Check out Stingray City. It’s the island’s most popular attraction for good reason. 

You’ll walk in chest-high water while petting and feeding the stingrays! You can’t swim to Stingray City because it’s more than a mile from the shore.

Charter a private boat or join a tour. The Southern Stingrays found on Grand Cayman are passive. But pay attention to your guide’s directions for interacting with the stingrays. 

Singapore

Singapore is one of the most pristine cities in the world. It’s a bustling metropolis and former British colony. But amidst the skyscrapers are islands of wetland preserves. 

Don’t miss the 60-acre Singapore Botanic Gardens. Admission is free, and it’s open until midnight every day. 

Stroll around the famous Marina Bay. There are museums, shops, and the Singapore Flyer Ferris Wheel. Don’t miss the Marina Bay Sands resort!

The Maldives

If you’ve got patience and cash, visit the Maldives. You’ll find this island nation 500 miles southwest of Sri Lanka. But you can’t get a direct flight. The Maldives consists of over 1,000 islands. 

They’re also 100 percent Islamic. If you’re not staying on a resort island, then booze, bikinis, and revealing clothing are off limits. 

It’s daunting but worth it. The white-sand beaches and azure-blue water take your breath away.

Crete

When you think of Greece, does Santorini spring to mind? It’s a beautiful island, but also an often crowded tourist destination. Why not try Crete? It’s a diverse island with modern cities and ancient structures. 

If you’re outdoorsy and looking for beautiful beaches, try Rethymnon or Agios Nikolaos. If you’re looking for nightlife, stay in the northern coast in Heraklion or Chania. 

Mauritius

The Republic of Mauritius is an island nation. It’s about 1,200 miles from the southeast coast of the continent of Africa. Hike the mountainous interior or scuba dive and snorkel offshore. 

Don’t miss the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Le Morne Brabant. If you’re a rock climber with equipment, ascend the true summit. Or hire a guide and climb the minor summit. Be ready for a slippery, steep hike!

Bora Bora

Bora Bora is a beautiful tropical getaway with warm and sunny beaches. There’s a dormant volcano rising up in the center of the small island. This South Pacific island is only a couple of miles wide and about 6 miles long. 

The resorts are luxurious, and the people are friendly. But only plan a visit to Bora Bora if you’ve got money burning a hole in your pocket. This is an expensive little island. 

Tahiti

If you love French food but you’re hankering for an island destination, Tahiti’s your place. This is the French Polynesian archipelago at its best. Tahiti is one of the 118 islands that make up French Polynesia.

The northern section of Tahiti is home to the island’s capital, Papeete. The smaller part of the island, joined by a land bridge, is Tahiti Iti. If it’s secluded beaches you’re after, choose Tahiti Iti. 

But no matter where you stay in Tahiti, you’re in for warm blue water and luxurious resorts. Tahiti will set you back, though visitors agree it’s worth it! Not sure where you want to stay? Try a cruise to Tahiti.

Beautiful Island Destinations

If an island destination is on your short list, you can’t go wrong with any of these 10 islands. You’ll see beautiful beaches and lush greenery. 

All these island destinations have snorkeling, swimming, and gorgeous lush beaches. Many island destinations are UNESCO World Heritage sites. From Hawaii to Bali, there’s something for everyone’s taste. 

Be a polite traveler and learn your host island’s rules of etiquette before you go. Then put on your swimsuit and get to the beach!

If you’re looking for other great travel advice, you’ll find it here. 

 

 

 

When you’re done skiing in Vail Valley, your body will crave relaxation. A good way to unwind after a cold day on the Colorado slopes is to head to a local bar. 

If you like drinking, you can take advantage of happy hour deals. If you’re not a big drinker, you can focus on good food and company. 

Tourism is a thriving industry in Vail, so you have a lot of restaurant options you can try. The city can be the backdrop of your dream vacation.

Here are five places known for their great specials. 

1. Loaded Joe’s 

Happy hour is from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., giving you plenty of time to make it to the restaurant when you’re tired of skiing. Even better than the generous hours are the deals themselves. 

You can buy $3 beers, $4 well cocktails, $5 wines. It doesn’t get much cheaper than those prices. 

This happy hour focuses on drink deals rather than food. 

2. The Blue Plate 

Happy tapas are just as important as happy hour drinks. Who doesn’t love munching on tasty snacks while they’re at the bar? It doesn’t even matter if you’re drinking alcohol or not. 

Happy hour here is from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the bar. The tapas menu becomes half-price. 

Foodies will love this deal because there are so many different things that you can try. 

3. Terra Bistro 

Terra Bistro offers a highly refined experience. The restaurant has been praised by leading publications. Its wine list is especially popular.

You can experience the food and drinks for happy hour prices if you show up between 5:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. The famed wine is $8 per glass and small plates of food range between $6 and $10. 

The Terra Bistro happy hour is considered one of the best-kept local secrets. 

4. Lancelot 

This bar offers a very long happy hour. It starts at 5:30 p.m. and goes until the closing hour.

Patrons can enjoy $7 prime rib sliders and $6 well drinks. You can also get a $3 Trumer Pilsner. 

Lancelot is a reasonable option for tourists and locals on a budget. It’s normal menu options can be very expensive. 

That’s because Vail exudes a certain image. It’s one of the top ski resorts in the world and it attracts people who are prepared to spend money. 

5. Maya Grill 

Interested in Mexican food? The Maya Grill has you covered.

Happy hour is between 3:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. You can taste $3 tacos and $6.50 sangria.  

It’s a different style of food than the rest of the restaurants on the list. Good Mexican food is often very expensive. However, during happy hour you can order $5 tapas from the menu. 

The restaurant is headed by a recognizable chef named Richard Sandoval. He focuses on fresh Latin fusion. 

Happy Hour Deals

Finding good happy hour deals is part of the charm of staying in a resort town. Restaurants compete with each other to get your attention. 

Keep checking our blog if you’re interested in having an above-average vacation. We share a lot of tips and tricks that the typical traveler might not know about.