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Missouri has something for everyone. Whether you are a weekend warrior, geologist, history buff, or beer connoisseur, Missouri has something you’ll like.

This may come as a surprise. Most people associate the Midwest as nothing but a black hole of corn fields around Chicago.

Keep reading to find out about just a few places to visit in Missouri. See how it earned its name as the Show Me State.

1. St. Louis

Everyone knows about the Gateway Arch. But have you ever heard of Forest Park?

Millions of people come to this 1,300-acre park. And who can argue?

It boasts a zoo, a science center and more. It also contains America’s largest outdoor musical theater on its grounds. 

You can also check out the Soulard district for some barbecue and blues.

And if sports call your name, don’t miss the Cardinals Hall of Fame and Museum.

2. The Ozarks

When nature calls the soul, Missouri provides plenty of options. The Ozark mountains stand tall in the South. This company provides countless ways to explore and experience the great outdoors.

Lake of the Ozarks, a breathtaking reservoir, sit in northern Missouri. You can camp or stay in more comfortable resorts nearby. Take time to enjoy the water and the sights. 

3. Kansas City

Do you love war museums? Kansas City has what you seek.

The World War I museum contains a huge collection of artifacts. You can also learn from interactive displays and first-hand records of the events. 

You can also head to the Nelson Atkins Museum. If you happen to be in town on a Thursday, stop by for free live music. Or, if you are short on time, just visit the sculpture garden.

Whatever you do, admission remains free because culture should belong to everyone. 

4. Places to Visit in Missouri

What to do when you crave the great outdoors but struggle with agoraphobia? Head to the Meramec Caverns. It is conveniently located on Route 66.

You will want to hire a tour guide and come prepared to walk. The caverns stretch for 4.6 miles and have seven levels. There are plenty of sights to see inside as well.

The mirror room has water so calm it reflects the ceiling perfectly.

5. For the Love of Literature

Hannibal, Missouri sits about 100 miles from St. Louis. At first glance, you might wonder why you should even bother.

But if you like a good story, you might know the name “Mark Twain.” He grew up in Hannibal. Huck Finn and Tom Sawyer had many of their adventures in Hannibal as well. 

This spot has as much for the kids as the adults. Two caves, a lighthouse and a train museum will keep you busy all day. 

More Than Just Cornfields

Yes, the midwest has plenty of cornfields. But, as the original frontier, it contains so much rich history as well. 

Hopefully, this tiny taste of places to visit in Missouri has left you hungry for more. In reality, you could go to Missouri a dozen times without seeing all it has to offer. 

For more tips on travel, check out our suggestions here. Until next time, see you on the road!

Are you thinking about buying your first gun?

There are millions of Americans who have made the same decision that you’re about to make in the past. Studies have shown that about 43 percent of U.S. households have at least one gun in them.

Before you purchase your first gun, though, you should make sure that you know the various rules of gun safety. There are, unfortunately, thousands of gun-related accidents that take place every year, resulting in lots of injuries and even deaths.

The last thing you want to do is become a part of this unfortunate statistic. So it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with guns and put the proper precautions in place before you welcome a gun into your home.

Let’s take a closer look at 8 basic rules of gun safety that beginners need to remember when buying their first gun.

1. Learn as Much as You Can About Guns Before Buying One

If you have your heart set on buying your first gun, the first thing you’re going to do is to learn as much as you possibly can about guns and gun safety. There are a variety of different ways that you can do this.

You can:

• Talk to gun owners you know about their experiences with guns
• Speak with gun shop owners about which guns might be best for a beginner like you
• Research guns and gun safety online and read a bunch of articles on them
• Take out books about guns and gun ownership at the library
• Spend time around guns at a gun range and feel what it’s like to fire one

You should also find out the gun laws in your specific state. Each state is a little bit different when it comes to which guns they allow, where people can carry guns and more.

By educating yourself about guns, you can learn everything there is to know about them. You can also pick out the right gun and buy it.

2. Invest in a Gun Safe For Your Home

Where are you going to keep your gun inside your home when you’re not using it?

You should ask yourself that question before you bring a gun home since it can be incredibly dangerous to leave a gun lying around, especially if you have children in your home. Studies have shown that almost 90 percent of unintentional shooting deaths occur as a result of kids finding and playing with guns left unlocked in their homes.

Ideally, you should have a gun safe that you can use to lock your gun up at home. The gun safe doesn’t have to be big and bulky. It just has to be large enough to hold your gun and any accessories that you might have to go along with it.

3. Unload Your Gun When You’re Not Using It

If you take the time to invest in a gun safe for your gun, you might not think that it’s necessary to unload the gun every time you’re finished with it.

There is a very small chance that your gun will fall into the wrong hands when it’s locked up. But it could happen! And if it does, you don’t want your gun to have ammunition in it.

Prior to putting your gun away in your gun safe, take the ammo out of it and store it safely. This will prevent accidents involving your gun from taking place.

4. Use the Right Ammunition and Accessories For Your Specific Gun

When you purchase your first gun at a gun shop, you should make sure that you ask about which ammunition you can use in it. You could damage your gun or sustain a serious injury if you attempt to load the wrong ammo into it.

You should also make sure that you use the right accessories for your gun if you decide to use them. Companies like Wing Tactical sell sights, optics, and other accessories that will allow you to make the most of your new gun.

But if those accessories aren’t made your specific gun, they’ll usually be more trouble than they’re worth. Avoid tinkering with your gun too much or altering it completely to make accessories fit.

5. Resist the Urge to Put Too Much Faith into Your Gun’s “Safety”

All guns come with a “safety” mechanism on them that’s designed to prevent people from accidentally firing a gun. The “safety” on your gun should be turned on any time you don’t plan on using your gun.

You don’t want to rely too much on your “safety” though, since it’s essentially just a mechanical device that could fail on you at any time. You also might think that your “safety” is turned on and pretend to fire your gun, only to discover that your “safety” is off and shoot the gun.

Generally speaking, you should never, ever put your finger on your gun’s trigger unless you’re preparing to pull it. Regardless of whether the “safety” is turned on or not, you could put your life and the lives of others in jeopardy by messing around with your gun while your finger is on the trigger.

The “safety” mechanism should never serve as a replacement for good old common sense.

6. Point Your Gun in a Safe Direction When Holding It

When you first get your hands on a gun, you might be tempted to point it all over the place and even wave it around. Some people get a rush when they have their first gun in their hands and act irrationally.

Even if the gun is unloaded, it’s good to get into the habit of pointing your gun in a safe direction when you’re holding it. When you have the gun in your hand, you should aim it at the ground just in case it happens to go off.

As a basic rule of thumb, the only time you should ever point your gun at anything is if you’re prepared to shoot. You could give those around you the wrong idea if you point your gun at someone or something and cause people to panic.

7. Wear Eye and Ear Protection When Firing Your Gun

Once you’ve purchased your first gun, you should make every effort to practice with it at a gun range. You can improve your aim and start to feel more comfortable by spending time shooting your gun over and over again.

While you’re shooting it, you should always wear both eye and ear protection. It’ll help you avoid unnecessary eye and ear injuries and allow you to focus on perfecting your shot.

A sturdy set of protective glasses can prevent tiny particles from flying into your eyes when you shoot your gun. They can also protect your eyes if your firearm happens to malfunction while you’re shooting it.

Earplugs or another type of ear protection, meanwhile, can stop a gun from doing irreparable damage to your eardrums. If you’ve never shot a gun before, you’re going to be amazed at just how loud they can be.

8. Clean and Service Your Gun Regularly

Did you know that you need to clean and service a gun regularly to keep it in tip-top shape? This is something that many beginners don’t always realize, and they end up putting themselves and others at risk as a result of it.

Before you load up a gun, you should inspect the inside of it to see if there’s any dirt, dust, mud, or other debris that could cause problems with your gun. You should also inspect your gun further if you ever notice that it doesn’t seem to be firing right.

Additionally, you should learn how to clean your gun every so often. From wiping down the outside of your gun to cleaning out the bore of it, keeping your gun as clean as it can be is essential.

You may also need to take your gun in for professional service from time to time. If something seems to be off with your gun and cleaning it doesn’t help, unload the gun immediately and take a trip to your local gun shop. They can get to the bottom of your problem.

Follow These Rules of Gun Safety at All Times

As you’ve hopefully realized by now, owning a gun is a huge responsibility. You need to think hard about whether or not you’re ready for the responsibility before you buy your first gun.

You’re going to need to follow all the rules of gun safety once you bring your first gun home with you. If you break even just one rule, it could be catastrophic and could change your life or the lives of others forever.

If you think you’re up for the challenge of becoming a gun owner, buy one today and start using the rules you read about here as guidelines. They’ll keep you protected and make sure you have a great experience with your first gun.

If you decide guns aren’t for you, there are other self-defense weapons that might be better. Read our blog to find tips for owning a self-defense weapon and using it properly.

The average American consumer drinks about 2 coffees a day. This ancient drink is one of the most popular beverages on the planet. People around the world spend their days visiting sidewalk cafes with friends, family, and colleagues for a cup of coffee and a snack.

So it’s no surprise there are many different ways to prepare it.

Everyone has a unique taste. But, this doesn’t only apply to fashion and food. Coffees can come in a variety of shapes and sizes. And, there are a lot of different ways you can brew them. Each method is different, which changes the ways your coffee will taste.

Finding your favorite brewing method is not always easy. Most of them require specific items. Which means that purchasing the utensils and trying all of them may not be an option.

Below, we’ll go over the different ways to brew coffee and tell you how each one works.

What Is Coffee Brewing?

Before going over the best methods, let’s take a look at the process of brewing. Brewing is the preparation of ground coffee via water infusion. Most people brew coffees using hot water, but there is such thing as cold brewing.

There are many elements that affect the taste of your coffee. One of them is the brewing method. The coffee beans and the degree of roasting will also affect the flavor of your brew.

That said, simply changing the way you prepare your coffee can improve the way your current coffee tastes.

8 Different Ways to Brew Coffee at Home

There are many different ways to prepare coffee. Some of these date back thousands of years. Other brewing techniques are more recent and date back just a few decades. Even though most of them are fast, brewing coffee can take some time. Depending on which method you use of course.

Some coffee makers are so easy to use, you only have to press a button. To find out more about these, you can read more here.

Here are 8 popular ways of brewing coffee at home.

1. Individual Pour-Over Coffee Makers

Individual pour-over coffee makers are some of the oldest designs you can find. These use a drip method but use it for individual mugs. They consist of a plastic, metal, or porcelain cup with holes at the bottom. You place the cup on your mug and add coffee to it. Then, you pour hot water into it and the coffee drips at the bottom.

This set up is ideal for travelers who don’t want to carry large machines. Still, you’ll be able to pour yourself a nice cup of coffee wherever you go!

2. Drip Coffee Machine

Traditional drip coffee machines use the same concept as pour-over cups. You add coffee to one compartment and water in the other. The coffee machine heats the water and transfers it to the coffee compartment. This is where the brewing takes place.

As the water seeps through the coffee it releases its flavor. The coffee compartment looks like a funnel and has a filter at the bottom. It’s important to note that some filters are reusable while others are not. Once at the bottom of the funnel, the liquid drips into a pouring jar and it’s ready.

3. Stovetop Espresso Makers

Stovetop espresso makers, also known as Italian coffee machines, are next on the list. These look similar to a kettle. They are often made of stainless steel or another durable metal.

You can disassemble these coffee makers into different parts. There are two external parts, one chamber that holds the water and another empty one. You’ll also find one internal piece which is where you will place your coffee.

These coffee makers get their name because they make strong coffee. This allows espresso lovers to enjoy a similar coffee without having to buy a huge machine.

4. The French Press AKA Cafetiere

The French press, also known as the cafetiere, is another common way to brew coffee. Unlike other coffee makers, cafetieres come in all sizes. You can find some that only brew one cup at a time. Others can brew as many as six depending on the size you choose.

French press coffee makers are very simple. You pour coffee and hot water into the empty jar. Then, you place the lid that also has the plunging mechanism. Keep in mind that the plunger should be all the way up. And, you should let your coffee brew for at least five minutes.

Once ready, slowly push the plunger to filter out the sediment. This makes for a fresh, light coffee that’s perfect for all occasions.

5. Aeropress

The Aeropress is one of the newest coffee makers out there. This simple machine consists of five plastic pieces and a small paper filter. It can produce different types of coffees that are similar to espressos and long blacks. This also means that you can make a variety of coffees. That said, you won’t have the ability to froth milk!

6. Home Espresso Machines

Home espresso machines are made for people that want professional coffees in their house. They come with a milk frother, so you can make cappuccinos and other fancy coffees. Yes, they are more expensive than most other types. But, having one of these bad boys at home is a great way to ensure good coffee.

7. Chemex

Chemex coffee makers look like decorative glass vases. But, they are much more functional as they allow you to make a delicious brew. These brewers look odd but they can produce several mugs of perfect groundless coffee. That said, learning how to make a perfect coffee will take some time and practice.

8. Cold Brews

Cold brews require special drippers. And, you’ll also need to let your coffee brew for hours before you taste it. Yes, hours! But, the resulting coffee is a strong and tasty beverage. There is no sign of bitterness or acidity. Not even regular sugar users will need to take the edge off this unique brew.

Brew the Perfect Coffee Today!

There are dozens of different ways to brew coffee. They all need special tools, but they also make various coffees that have different qualities. But, remember, the methods above are just some of the many ways you can brew coffee today.

Want to learn more about the best foods and drinks? Check out the rest of our blog for more articles.

For “life-changing” trips, you can expect to pay up to $5,000. 

But, what does life-changing mean for you? Are you an adrenaline junkie who needs a wild time in order to have fun?

If you need more excitement than spas and resorts offer, we’ve got you covered. Here are 10 adventurous vacation ideas to get your adrenaline pumping.

1. Prove You’re up to the Son Doong Cave Challenge

Son Doong Cave is the world’s largest cave. It is located in Vietnam’s Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park in the Quang Binh province. 

This cave has been open to the public for only six years. However, this is no ordinary cave visit. 

In order to attend, you need to undergo a health check and pay a hefty fee of $3,000. 

You’ll spend two nights sleeping in the cave and three days exploring its many wonders. Activities include 25km of jungle trekking before 7km of caving.

You’ll also climb the great wall of Vietnam and then descend 80m into the cave with climbs, ropes and safety lines.

However, this adventure is one which fills up quickly. For 2019, there are only 300 spaces left. You’ll need to book in advance if this is your type of adrenaline! Check out the website for more information.

2. Take a Trip to Alaska to go Heli-Skiing 

Do you find regular old skiing a little boring? Then Heli-skiing is the sport for you. What is it exactly?

Well, heli-skiing is considered one of the world’s most extreme winter sports activities. It does cut out the irritating ski lift, however, as you’re transported to the top of the mountain in a helicopter. 

Once at the top, it’s time to take on those off-trail slopes and see what awaits you from the deepest to the steepest of mountains and glaciers.

You’ll need to contact a range of tour companies to figure out what is right for you. But, this once in a lifetime experience will be worth it and will cost you a large price too. 

3. Lose Your Breath Climbing the World’s Highest Mountain

To climb Mount Everest would be an absolutely fantastic achievement. It takes pure endurance to reach the top of this mountain and descend alive. But, the adrenaline rush from the top sure will be worth it. 

This mountain rises 8,848 meters and over 297 people have died on the way up. It costs up to $70,000 to remove a body from the mountain… 

If you manage to reach the “death zone”, which is 8,000 meters up, you’re in dangerous territory. 

Preparation for such a trip will take a long time and will also cost a large sum too as climbers are required to pay the Nepali authorities a “high fee”.

4. Visit Lions on an African Safari

Although not heavy on the physical endurance, an African safari is certainly loaded with adrenaline. 

Seeing lions, rhinos, elephants, leopards and more in their natural habitat is going to fill you with a real buzz. 

However, always make sure you choose an ethical safari company. This way, you’re supporting the African country you visit and the animals. 

Choose from a safari in Namibia, Botswana, Kenya or Tanzania. 

5. Rock Climbing in Sweden 

If you’re a climber, then taking your favorite sport to more extremes is a great way to spend your holiday. 

Adrenaline junkies will love climbing Kullaberg which sits over the sea. This treacherous route is worth planning well in advance and getting the help of local climbers.

However, it’s one of the cheaper options on this list for an adrenaline filled holiday.

6. Fight Dragons in Komodo

Why not take a trip to Indonesia? While others spend time relaxing on the stunning beaches of Bali, you can take a kayaking trip to Komodo. 

Here you’ll come across Komodo dragons which can eat up to 80% of their body weight in one go. 

As with a safari, make sure you choose a company to kayak with which is ethical and treats the animals and island well.

7. Visit Alaska and See Bears or Sled with Dogs

Dog sledding is a holiday which will be absolutely unforgettable. Visit Alaska to see these amazing dogs in action. 

You can also go on trips with Geographic Marine Expeditions which enable you to see bears in their natural habitat. If you’re an aspiring photographer, you won’t forget this trip. Discover more here. 

This is perhaps not one for those who want to stick to a tight budget. But, it may well be a once in a lifetime holiday worth saving for. 

8. Visit Morocco for a Spot of Canyoning

Morocco is a gorgeous country with cities which can be overwhelming for those coming from calmer homes. Driving around Marrakech roads is already enough adrenaline for many.

But, if you want to add a little more excitement to your holiday, head out to the Atlas Mountains where you can go canyoning. 

You won’t be bored for a minute and should definitely spend time before you trip practicing your swimming, jumping, diving, walking, scrambling and climbing skills.

9. Can you Survive on a Desert in Panama?

The question “what would you take to a desert island is one which many people answer but never intend on truly living out. 

Why not head to Panama where you can have the chance through Responsible Travel to see how you’ll fare in such conditions?

Want to put your practicality to the test? This is the holiday for you. Then, when someone asks you that million dollar question, you’ll already know the answer.

10. Journey to the North Pole

Again, this trip is not a cheap option. It’ll also require training to ensure you’re fit enough to survive the freezing temperatures. 

If you don’t mind 24-hours of daylight and can navigate well on drifting ice, perhaps it doesn’t offer enough adrenaline for you. For the rest of us, coming a little too close to a polar bear provides enough adrenaline to last a lifetime!

Test out Your Adventurous with One of These Trips

You may be someone who believes themselves to be adventurous but quickly realizes that just one of these trips is enough action for life. 

Or, you could be someone who slowly makes their way down the list. 

Either way, staying healthy while you travel is important. Check out this next article to learn how you can be an adventurer and not risk your health.

Only 54% of Americans invest in the stock market. That’s a shame, because stocks and similar investments are some of the best ways to enjoy becoming a millionaire come retirement time.

The only hard part about investing is the capital it requires to get started. After all, if you’re living paycheck to paycheck, investing in your future may not be at the top of your priority list.

Fortunately, there are ways to invest in your future that require little (and even no) money!

Below, I outline some of my favorite how to start investing strategies in hopes that you’ll try out a few of these methods yourself!

1. Enroll in Your Employer’s Retirement Plan

If you have a 9 to 5 job, one of the easiest methods on how to start investing is to enroll in your employer’s retirement plan.

Upon enrolling, a small percentage of your check will get shaved off each month. Your employer’s fund manager will invest that money, and it should grow substantially over time.

Many employers match employee retirement contributions which means that you get to enjoy free money!

2. Use Investing Apps

If you don’t have a retirement plan at work, you could instead start to invest through apps.

Apps like Acorns round up purchases you make to the nearest dollar and invest the additional money in the stock market. Other apps like Robinhood and Betterment allow you to dictate which stocks you buy in an easy to understand way.

Learn more about Robinhood vs. Betterment and other popular investing apps to start streamlining your investing strategies now!

3. Micro-Invest

Can’t afford a whole stock in a company you like? There are some trading platforms that let you buy fractions of stocks.

For example, if you wanted to buy stock in Apple but the price was out of reach at $100.00, you could instead buy half a stock for $50.00.

Stockpile is a popular micro-investing platform that’s worth trying.

4. Throw Your Money in a High-Yield Savings Account

A lot of people don’t think of savings accounts as a way to invest. This is because the interest rates they offer are usually pretty bad.

To the surprise of many though, some online savings accounts offer interest rates of over 2%! A quick Google search should help you find high-rate and reputable accounts that are worth opening.

Savings accounts are federally insured so you’re never gambling by investing in them.

5. Invest in Yourself

Take a course. Start meditating. Listen to a self-help audiobook.

Taking the time to invest in yourself can make a world of difference in the quality of your life and can also be 100% free!

Wrapping Up How to Start Investing

If you’re wondering how to start investing with little or no money, consider the suggestions I’ve outlined above. Each of them has the ability to give your life a big-time boost!

Looking for more inspiration? Look no further than our content on Beekman Beer Garden.

Our articles are all about travel, financial freedom, and living your best life!

Try to imagine this scenario. You’re driving home when suddenly your car dies. The dashboard goes dark and the engine is silent.

You try to check your phone and see what’s going on, but your phone is dead too. Then you start to realize that all the other cars on the road have stopped too.

In the case of an EMP (electromagnetic pulse) attack, all unshielded electronics will go dark. The short burst of electromagnetic energy can disrupt or destroy electronic devices and systems. It can even destroy the electrical power grid.

The detonation of just a few of these high energy EMPs could wipe out all power grids in the United States. Commonly used in apocalyptic stories like One Second After or NBC’s Revolution, few survival scenarios have captured the imagination quite like EMPs.

Could you survive an EMP attack scenario? Here’s what an EMP attack would be like–and what you can do to survive.

Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP) Attack Timeline

An EMP attack could lead to a significantly altered world. A post-EMP world might involve months and months of life without the power grid–and our favorite electronics.

This could radically change your day to day life, and it could put millions of lives in danger. From plane crashes to starvation, there are countless risks to an EMP attack.

Here’s what would go down in the case of an attack–from day one to months later.

Day One

So what would happen immediately after an EMP?

It’s likely that the first few hours and days after the attack will be chaotic and deadly. An EMP can create a surge in currents and voltage in all electrical parts. This means cars, trains, planes, televisions, computers, laptops, radios, phones, and more would stop working at the moment of the attack.

In addition, the electrical grid would be permanently fried. There’s no easy fix–it could take months or even years to get the power back on.

About 500,000 people would die in the first hour. This is mainly due to plane crashes. Without power, every aircraft in the sky would fall to the ground, killing everybody on board as well as those on the ground or in buildings hit by the plane.

Car crashes would also be likely, especially on highways where cars are traveling over 60 miles per hour. Vehicles might run into oncoming traffic, drive off the edge of the road, or strike pedestrians.

Elevators would quickly become death traps–anyone inside would be trapped in complete darkness and would have to find a way out before dying of dehydration.

Anybody living near nuclear plants could be in serious trouble too. As backup generators stop working, plants would melt down and release large amounts of radiation. The 99 reactors in the U.S. would kill anybody within 100 miles.

Month One

While the first few days will ramp up a high death toll, anyone who survives the initial wave will be facing new challenges. 

With no power, people would have no running water, refrigeration, heat, A/C, lights, communication, or access to monetary funds.

After losing these vital technologies, many people would not be able to survive for long. In the first few weeks, shops would be looted and vital supplies would run out quickly. Soon, hordes of people would take to the streets to steal any supplies that they can find–even resorting to violence to do so.

Prisons would shut down and inmates would escape. Without police, criminals would be free to roam the streets.

In addition, hospitals and nursing homes would lose breathing machines and other devices, leading to more deaths. Without access to needed prescriptions, many more would die in the coming weeks.

Two to Three Months After

By this time, those that survive will have learned to live off the land. The country will essentially descend into a second Stone Age. 

With shops and stores out of business, small communities may start to develop. These people may survive off of farming, hunting, and trading with other families or communities. 

However, it’s likely that many will still die from lack of access to clean water, food, or medical treatment. And not all communities will be peaceful–people may still resort to violence, stealing, and looting out of desperation to survive. 

Furthermore, going back to the Stone Age means suffering from diseases that humanity once eradicated. Without access to medication, vaccinations, or clean water, it’s likely that disease will become a major issue. 

With no power, water filtration plants will go down. Humans can only survive about 3 days without water, and survivors may turn to any water source they can find.

This could lead to cholera, which develops from drinking tainted water. Ultimately, cholera could kill thousands of people in the months after an EMP attack. 

Six Months After 

Six months to a year after the EMP, the consequences could be severe.  

A major EMP strike could shut down power for up to 10 years. It would take about 2 trillion dollars in just the first year to try and rebuild the grid.

Millions would continue to die from disease, dehydration, starvation, and more. Furthermore, the U.S. would be susceptible to mainland attack from missiles, helicopters, and ships, which could cause more deaths. It could even lead to a forced military occupation by another country.

It’s likely that in the first year or two following the pulse, 90% of Americans would die.

Tips for Surviving an EMP Attack Scenario

The timeline of an EMP attack might seem bleak. But with the right preparation, you could be one of the 10% that would be more likely to survive an EMP attack.

Here are some tips to get you on the right track towards survival.

1. Act Quickly

At the beginning of an EMP attack, there’s likely to be widespread confusion and chaos. Take advantage of the first few hours and act quickly.

Take all the cash that you have in the house and spend it all on food. Try to find items that won’t perish without refrigeration. Canned soup, canned fruit, dried meat, nuts, peanut butter, rice, pasta, and even candy bars can give you vital energy to keep you alive.

If you have time, you can also stock up on other useful items like water purifiers, medication, or warm clothing.

After stocking up, you can head home. However, if you live in an urban area, it might be a good idea to migrate away from the city. Without law and order, it won’t be safe or sanitary to remain there.

If you have any firearms or self-defense weapons, keep them on hand. As people start to become desperate, they may turn to violence to take your food, water, and hard-earned supplies. 

2. Protect Your Electronics

One of the ways you can prepare for an EMP attack is to protect your electronics.
A Faraday cage, box, or other container is designed to protect any electronic equipment from an electromagnetic pulse. This shielding device can protect all your electronic essentials.

Keeping items like battery-powered radios, solar powered chargers, LED flashlights, mp3 players with music, small generators, a laptop with ebooks or personal pictures, a small DVD player, inverters, and electronic medical equipment.

Don’t know how to build a Faraday cage? Check out the Tech Protect Faraday Bags for a convenient way to protect the vital electronics you’ll need after an EMP attack.

3. Start Rationing Food and Water

Once you’ve survived the first few days, it’s time to start rationing the shelf-stable food and water that you have.

Keep your refrigerator shut as long as possible to preserve the cold air, but you should eat all perishable foods as soon as possible. Stock up on foods from the store, but know that the grocery stores will likely be empty in three days.

If you’re lucky enough to have a backyard space or private land, start planting seeds to prepare for food shortages later down the line. You can also start putting together hunting equipment like traps, spears, and bows.

As soon as the EMP hits, fill every available surface in your house with water. Fill bathtubs, sinks, containers, pools, and more. Soon, the water pressure will shut off and you won’t have access to clean water from the pipes, so stock up on it as soon as possible.

Put containers or barrels outside to collect rainwater and start seeking out nearby rivers or streams where you can draw water. If you don’t have a water pump or iodine drops to purify the water, try boiling the water or putting it in a plastic bottle and leaving it in the sun for 6 hours or more.

Are You Prepared For an EMP Attack? 

While there might not be an EMP attack right on the horizon, this threat could move from fiction to reality sooner than we might think. Whether it’s from a solar flare or a nuclear attack, it pays to be prepared for an EMP attack scenario. 

Survivors of an EMP attack scenario will need to think quickly on their feet, prepare for the worst, and learn to adapt to the new world. 

Do you plan to survive an EMP attack? Check out our life tips section to read more articles on how to be prepared for the worst. 

Are you in the midst of planning a trip to France? Among your research, you’ve undoubtedly come across the same articles and tips regurgitated over and over again.

We all know you have to climb the Eiffel Tower, visit the Louvre, and eat as many French pastries as possible. But if you don’t want your entire trip to be made up of touristy sites, or you’re looking for a more authentic experience away from the crowds, you’ll need to go off the beaten path.

Luckily, there are many places to visit in France that are untouched by tourists. Whether you still want to visit Paris, or you want to skip it and opt for a less-touristy city, we have the answers you’re looking for.

Do you want to travel off the beaten path in France? Then keep reading to learn where you should go.

Past Paris

There’s no denying the allure of Paris. However, with so many tourists present it can seem impossible to get away. If you’re looking for a more authentic experience, you may want to skip Paris and hit one of these towns instead:

1. Saint-Guilhem-le-Desert

If you’re looking for some of that old European history, you can’t go wrong with Saint-Guilhem-le-Desert. Built in the year 806 by Saint Guilhem, this town was originally an Abbey for monks. It has since been dubbed a UNESCO World Heritage Site and really hasn’t changed much over the years.

Visit the old Abbey and the Musee du Village d’Antan to learn a little bit more about this area. Then, spend your days enjoying the architecture that makes you feel like you’ve been transported back in time.

2. Rouen

Rouen is another amazing place to visit in France if you’re looking for some history. This is where Joan of Arc was put on trial and subsequently burned at the stake.

While there is plenty of history here, it is more modern than Saint-Guilhem-le-Desert. There are plenty of museums and things to do, making it perfect for those who want to keep their days busy.

You can still enjoy some traditional gothic architecture and an impressive Notre Dame cathedral which many say rivals the one in Paris. Just be sure to check out this site to brush up on your French before you go.

3. Annecy

Whether you’re planning a winter vacation or summer getaway, Annecy is the perfect escape from the touristy cities. It’s ideal location between the French Alps and Lake Annecy make this a truly romantic and breathtaking spot.

There are ample opportunities for skiing and snowboarding in the French Alps during the winter, while the summer months open up the possibility of paddle boating on Lake Annecy.

But the real allure is the quaint atmosphere of this town. Cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and winding canals make Annecy look like it came right out of a fairytale. This romantic and laid-back town is perfect for honeymoons, anniversaries, or for anyone looking to reconnect with the love of their life.

In Paris

While there are some truly amazing French towns, many still consider Paris a must, especially if it’s your first time visiting France. If you want to see the city of love, but need to spend some time away from the hordes of tourists, check out these activities:

4. Visit the Museums

Paris is jam-packed with museums. While everyone else is going to the Louvre, head over to one of the quirky museums.

Musee Grevin is filled with wax figures that look so incredibly lifelike. Musee des Arts et Metiers looks like the set of a horror film with old medical instruments and steampunk-style tools lining the walls.

If you do want to check out some art, head over to the Musee Rodin. This museum is dedicated to Auguste Rodin, an art prodigy that got accepted to art school at only 14 years old. He’s best known for his sculpture “The Thinker”, although “The Kiss” is also popular.

5. Explore Underground Catacombs

Did you know there are winding tunnels full of artistically arranged bones right underneath the bustling city of Paris? The Paris Catacombs give you a chance to escape the modern city and explore thousands of years worth of history.

Unlike other catacombs which feature many enclosed graves, the catacombs in Paris actually used the bones from the deceased to create intricate designs. It’s both an eerie and impressive site that can’t be missed.

6. Take a River Cruise…But Not on the Seine

Taking a cruise down the Seine River tops many tourists’ to-do list when visiting Paris. However, these cruises are often overpacked and a tad cheesy.

Instead, head over to the Marne River. You’ll find it much less crowded, and the area is very scenic. In fact, many artists used this as inspiration for their work.

Take your time exploring this area. Stop in at a cafe after your river cruise to enjoy a leisurely meal with a view.

7. Do a DIY Chocolate Crawl

Of course, you can’t go to Paris and not indulge in dessert. Macarons, eclairs, and creme brulee are just some of the sweets you need to try.

But Paris is also known for their chocolatiers. And it just so happens that many of them are located within a few blocks of one another in Saint-Germain-des-Pres.

Patrick Roger, Jean-Charles Rouchoux, Henri Le Roux, Pierre Herme, Franck Kesterner, Maison du Chocolat, and Christian Contant are just a few of the famous chocolatiers you need to check out. Admire the chocolate sculptures located in many of the storefronts and get a small treat from each so you can see who you think is the best of the best.

The Best Places to Visit in France

Don’t limit your upcoming trip by just doing the touristy things. From old, historic towns like Rouen to off the beaten path activities in Paris, there are tons of places to visit in France that will make your trip unique and truly unforgettable.

Are you strapped for cash? Check out our budget travel tips to learn how you can travel on a shoestring budget.

Hollywood is the quintessential tourist destination. With thousands of historical sites, flashy bars, and millions of things to do, it’s easy to get overwhelmed the moment your feet hit the star-studded sidewalks of LA. 

But never fear. There are a few things every Los Angeles tourist should try before they head back to LAX. If you’d like to learn more about my favorite things to do in Hollywood, keep reading! 

1. Chinese Theatre Tours 

The Chinese Theatre has been a Hollywood staple for over 90 years. 

This cultural icon has been the scene for thousands of world-famous movie premieres. It was opened in the silent movie era and now houses some of Hollywood’s most iconic props and costumes. 

The architects designed it with the help of Chinese artisans, making it a joint effort that showcases Los Angeles’ colorful history and melting pot populace. 

If you’re interested in seeing the handprints of your favorite stars, you can sign up for guided tours at the theater. These tours will walk you through the courtyard of the theater, letting you quite literally walk in the footsteps of celebrities we all love. 

2. Hollywood Sign Tours

We have all seen the iconic Hollywood sign scattered throughout our favorite shows and movies. 

But Hollywood and Los Angeles are full of other famous signs. If you’re interested in learning more about the city’s history, maybe consider taking a guided tour of these iconic landmarks. 

Many of these tours are walking tours. But there are a few bus tours that may work for those with mobility issues or small children. A Hollywood bus tour is a great attraction for those who may be on a time crunch. They’ll also save your feet some strain. 

3. Visit Some of the World’s Best Bars

Hollywood is known for its nightlife. 

The moment the sun fades away, the city seems to come to life. For those looking for a good time, nighttime in LA can be the best way to experience the city. Checking out some of the best pubs can be tricky. 

But there are a few go-to’s that locals will always recommend. Check out a few sanctioned crawls. There’s something for everyone in your group. 

4. Studio Tours 

Hollywood is known for its movie studios and stars. For the film junkie, the city is Mecca. 

If you’re interested in learning a little bit more about the city and its history, consider going on a studio tour. Many studios will have guides that will walk (or drive) you through the compounds, discussing the history of each sound stage. 

These tours shed a light on the golden era of film that no one will want to miss.

5. See a TV Show-LIVE

To round out this list, one of the best things to do in Hollywood is to catch a live taping of one of your favorite shows. 

There are hundreds of shows taping throughout the year. If you know where to look, you can get tickets and be part of a live audience. This sort of event will be something you’ll cherish long after you leave LA. 

So Many Things to do in Hollywood

Convinced to visit the city yet? 

As you can see there are countless things to do in Hollywood. You can customize your trip anyway you want. If you’d like some hotel recommendations, click here. 

Nearly 850 million passengers flew on a plane in 2017. Over 740 million of these passengers flew domestically in the U.S. and over 100 million traveled internationally. 

In 2017, 62% of Americans decided to take a vacation away from home. Even though this includes the majority of Americans these numbers are down from 2001 where 70% of Americans reported taking a vacation. Common factors cited in the decision to travel or not were income and ability to take time off of work based on employment status. 

But, what if the cost of traveling was lowered? Would Americans be able to take a vacation without increasing their income? 

We all want to get away. We want to be able to visit relatives, experience new places, and relax. We may think like we need to make more money to travel, but maybe we just need to learn how to travel for less?

Knowing how to book cheap flights can help to alleviate travel costs and get you to your dream destination!

Read on to learn tips for booking cheap flights so that you can have the experiences of a lifetime. 

Secret Tips for Booking Cheap Flights

The average cost of a flight from Los Angelos, California in 2018 was $353.21. Lowering costs is possible though by knowing tips and tricks for lowering airfare prices. Explore the following ways to save money on your next trip with these tips for booking cheap flights. 

1. Cheap Days

Before you firmly decide on days to take off of work for your vacation, research which days are cheaper than others to fly. Generally speaking, flying out on a weekday will be cheaper than the weekend, but this isn’t always the case.

In order to get the best deal, it’s important to check out flight costs in advance. You can do this by going to a booking website then reviewing flight costs for the weeks you’re considering traveling.

If booking website allows, select seeing costs to your destination for a whole month. Repeat this step for flights returning from your destination as well. 

2. Book Your Connections 

Getting to your end destination may require stopping at multiple airports and getting on connecting flights. The airline you’re travelling with will then transfer your luggage from one plane to another. Booking sites allow you to book all your flights at once, but to save money you can book your own connecting flights. 

This method should only be used, however, if you’re willing to allow anywhere from a day or a few days to pass before getting on the next flight. This is because the airline will view your next flight as separate from your initial flight. This means you will need to pick up your own luggage, check-in your luggage, and then go through security again. 

First generally search your flight allowing the booking site to provide you with the connecting flights. Then instead of booking everything at once, research the cheapest flights from your first destination to the next. Seek out budget airlines in both locations to save money. 

If no budget airlines exist, then booking your connecting flights at once will likely be cheaper.

3. Use Travel Credits

Many credit cards and airlines offer customers travel credits for using their services. An airline may offer loyalty programs by creating an account and booking with them. This could build airline miles, discounts, and promotions that you can use to make your flight cheaper. 

Some credit card companies also offer travel credits such as cash rewards and airline miles by purchasing airfare and travel related expenses. Seek out credit cards that are co-branded with airlines to get the best bang for your buck. 

4. Compare Booking Sites

Booking sites always claim they have the best prices in one way or another, but the best way to know is to compare. When comparing consider whether you’re interested in bundling expenses and if bundling expenses lowers the total price of your trip. 

5. Book Early 

The earlier you book a flight typically the better. While some airlines may offer last minute deals to fill seats, it’s always better to book flights earlier to avoid paying more. 

6. Surrounding Airports

Flights into some airports may cost more than a neighboring airport. If there are multiple airports in the vicinity of your destination, then research flight prices to each airport. You may need to rent a car and drive to your final destination, but it may cost less overall than paying for a ticket to the closest airport. 

7. Budget Airlines

Flying on budget airlines can also help you to lower airfare costs. In the United States, budget airline companies include Southwest, Frontier, and Spirit Airlines. Two other U.S. budget airlines are Allegiant Air and Sun Country Airlines. 

If you want to travel outside of the U.S., research budget airlines specific to the country or region. Some of these airlines may not fly out of an airport near you which means you’ll need to drive or fly to the airports they do fly out of to get the best deals.

8. Skip Direct

Flying directly usually means you’ll be paying more. If you have the patience for layovers and connecting flights, then flying indirect could definitely help you to save a buck.

9. Search Individually

Search for tickets individually and then as a group. Some airlines tend to provide customers with the same price for all the seats based on the most expensive seat. See how much purchasing tickets individually costs and then compare this to the group rate. 

10. Set Alerts

If you don’t like the prices the booking sites are providing you, then set an alert to get notified of any changes in pricing. Prices can change from day to day, but beware they may increase as well!

If your flight is cancelled or delayed by the airline, then you may be entitled to compensation and can file a claim for a cancelled flight. 

Get Booking with These Tips for Booking Cheap Flights

Using one or all of these tips for booking cheap flights puts you ahead of the game. Be flexible and try to use a variety of approaches in order to get the best prices. Bon Voyage!

If you want to cut even more costs for your upcoming trip, check out our blog post suggesting tips for traveling for free when you feel like you’re broke. 

Every year, about 60 percent of Americans go on vacation. From trips across their respective states to trips across the world, they travel to get away from the hustle and bustle that they face when they’re at home.

If you want to plan to take a trip soon, there are so many amazing family vacations that you can go on. But before you leave, it’s a good idea to prepare your home for when you’re gone on vacation.

By making the proper preparations, you can avoid coming home to a house that’s a total mess for one reason or another. Here are 7 tips that will help you get your home ready for your next vacation.

1. Take Out the Trash

You would be surprised how many people go away for a week or two and completely forget to take out their trash. They come back to a home that reeks because trash has been sitting unattended for days and days at a time.

Walk around inside of your home before going on vacation and collect any trash that has accumulated inside of it. This goes for everything from trash in your kitchen to trash in your home office.

You’ll prevent foul odors from building up in your home by taking out the trash. You’ll also avoid returning home to a major pest problem.

Find out more info about cleaning up trash and clutter in your home as part of your vacation preparations and get to work on it today.

2. Open Up All Your Closet Doors

If you’ve ever opened up a closet door that has been closed for a while, you know what it’s like to get hit in the face with the musty smells that can build up inside of a closet. Those smells develop when air from the closet isn’t allowed to circulate.

When you’re at home day in and day out, you likely open and close most of the closets in your home. This allows the air from your closets to escape and prevents musty smells from setting in.

But when you go on vacation, you obviously won’t be going in and out of your closets regularly. As a result, it won’t be long before musty smells get trapped in your closets.

You can prevent them by leaving your closet doors open so that air can circulate throughout your home.

3. Program Your Thermostat

Since you aren’t going to be home for about a week or so, you don’t have to worry too much about keeping your home comfortable. You can turn your thermostat up or down accordingly, depending on what time of the year it is.

But if it’s the wintertime, you should not turn your thermostat off altogether. Even though you won’t be at home to enjoy the warm air that it helps to produce, you need to continue running your furnace in the winter to stop your plumbing pipes from freezing and bursting.

The last thing you want to do is come home after a vacation to a basement filled with water. You can avoid this scenario by programming your thermostat so that it continues to heat your home when you’re not there.

4. Unplug Appliances That Don’t Need to Be On

There are some appliances in your home that you should keep on even though you won’t be there. For example, your refrigerator/freezer should be left on at all times.

But there are also lots of small appliances, like your coffee maker, that don’t need to be turned on when you’re not home. You should shut them off to stop them from wasting electricity unnecessarily.

Even something as simple as a cell phone charger can waste energy when it’s plugged in, regardless of whether you’re using it or not. Unplug it before you leave to cut your energy costs at the end of the month.

5. Consider Whether or Not to Leave Lights On

There are a number of things you can do to make it look like you’re home when you’re away on vacation. By making it look like your home is occupied, you can prevent it from becoming a target for burglars.

To give others the impression that you’re home, you can:

• Ask a family member or friend to come and collect your mail every day
• Put your newspaper delivery on hold
• Leave a few lights on inside of your home

You might want to think twice about how you’re going to do that last one, though. It’s not a bad idea to leave some lights on in your home, but if you leave the same lights on all day and all night, it’s going to look suspicious.

You might want to put your lights on a timer and have them come on at night when you’re normally home. You might also want to ask a neighbor to stop by your home to turn lights on and off to make it appear more random.

6. Lock Your Windows

You’ll likely remember to shut all your windows before you leave your home. But make sure you lock them, too!

A window that isn’t closed and locked will serve as a perfect place for someone to break in. So double check your windows to ensure they’re all locked before you leave.

7. Let Your Neighbors Know You’re Leaving

Provided you trust your neighbors, you should always let them know before you leave to go on vacation. They can keep a close watch on your home and call you to let you know if there’s anything you need to worry about.

Get Your Home Ready For When You’re Gone on Vacation

Do you want to make sure you have a fantastic time on your next trip?

Work your way through the tips listed here and prepare your home for when you’re gone on vacation. You’ll have a much better time when you know that everything is good to go at home.

Make sure you don’t leave anything at home, either! Read our blog to learn some smart packing hacks that’ll help you pack everything you need for your trip.