Posts Tagged ‘holidays’
What to Wear When Traveling
Off to somewhere exotic for spring break? You’ve got your bag(s) all packed, your ticket booked, but what do you wear to the airport? No matter how warm your ending destination is shorts, a tank top, and flip-flops may not be great to wear to the airport. Most would not think of this twice, but there are actually some safety measures to be followed through.
On passenger airplanes, there have been 308 accidents worldwide between 2001 and 2010, 69 of those being fatal, according to a statistical summary of commercial airplane accidents done by Boeing. This figure is not meant to scare you out of flying, but become more conscious of the safety measures that could be taken, starting with your outfit.
Nylon may be both stylish and comfortable, but the fabric is a major flight-outfit faux pas. Nylon pants, whether it be yoga pants or sweat pants, melt very quickly and will melt onto one’s skin if the cabin is to ever fill with smoke. This could be very painful and can be prevented by wearing jeans, cotton leggings, or cotton pants.
Layers, layers, layers. It is a good idea to wear layers on a flight, especially if you are going from Vermont to the Bahamas or some other drastic weather change. Not to mention, it is generally cold on airplanes and many people get warm running around the airport trying to find their gate or running to connecting flights. Layers also can be helpful in case of a fire onboard.
What to wear on your feet is another problem. Wearing heels, flip-flops, open-toed sandals, or any shoe with plastic is not recommended. Sneakers, sturdy flats or any kind of heavy or leather shoe is best to protect your feet and will not be a hindering to any evacuation process that may occur.
For more tips, click here.
-TravelBug
I’m reading The Brief Penguin Handbook
How to Buy Holiday Gifts on a College Budget
As a college student, there comes a time where the word “gift” meets the word “budget”. Everyone knows that shopping for friends and family is very difficult when there isn’t much to give. You don’t have that much money, but you want to show that your gift means something that people can cherish. Consider what alternatives are available. Should I just not buy a gift for my friends? Should I focus solely on what to buy my girlfriend/boyfriend? Should I wait to find better deals?
There are lots of questions to ask and consider. Personally, I have gone through a lot of decisions when thinking about what to buy for others, because no-one wants a gift that they will just throw in their closet, only to never see the light of day again. It’s tough, and there may be some people you just can’t please. But luckily, I’ve come up with 5 smart tips when considering what presents to buy for everyone while your pockets seem a little less deep than usual.
- Price is NOT Priority. Obviously, you don’t have a lot of money, so the first thing you should understand is that the price of your present is not what makes it special. Also, make sure you know the price of the products beforehand to get an idea of what you are looking for!
- Make it Meaningful. When looking for a certain gift, consider life experiences you have had with that person. Try to find a gift that is unique to them. There is always something cheap and fun to show someone you’re thinking of them during the holidays!!
- Consider Accessories. For some students, they may already know what their dad is getting for the holidays. So say for example that he is getting an iPad. A great gift would be some accessories that go with the iPad, such as a mount, a case, a keyboard stand, etc. These make for some of the cheapest and best utilized gifts because they make an expensive gift even better.
- Try Homemade. There are tons of ways to use your craftsmanship to create a specific and unique present for those who you care about the most. There are also plenty of websites like realsimple.com that can help you think of ideas. When you make something, people truly consider the work and effort behind the gift, not just the gift itself.
- Take Advantage of Sales/Promotions. If you’re reading this now, chances are that some deals have passed you by. But hey, no worries! There are still tons of deals around that can fit into your budget. Look at websites like overstock.com and find some bargains that you can afford!
Willhelm
The Best and the Worst Holiday Music
It’s the week after Thanksgiving and you know what that means…it’s officially holiday season, even if you act like the Grinch this time of year
It is during these times that we all listen to (or ignore, in some cases) something that only comes once a year; if you didn’t already guess it from this title, it’s Holiday Music. No matter what, we are all bound to hear quite a few holiday songs this December. The only thing that surprises me more than a terrible holiday song is when it is redone by a modern era singer or band (the song will not magically become better because of Mariah Carey). Don’t get me wrong though, there is some great stuff out there that really does pick up your spirits and helps you feel the warmth and comfort of family and friends during the holidays.
So without further ado, here is some of the best and worst holiday music albums/songs (remember, this is just one person’s opinion):
Best Albums:
Kenny G – Miracles: The Holiday Album
The ultimate collection of music to play in the background for a party or while with that “special someone”. With the soft saxaphone this instrumental album is a slightly different spin on traditional holiday music, but still very soothing. This album includes titles such as “Winter Wonderland” and “The Chanukah Song”.
Mannheim Steamroller – A Fresh Aire Christmas
Known as one of the highest selling holiday albums, just a great instrumental version of some great music to get you feeling jolly. This upbeat album includes the titles “Hark! the Herald Angels Sing” and “Veni Veni”.
Shelby Lynne – Merry Christmas
Great country music holiday album with plenty of great upbeat songs for your listening pleasure. This album contains classic holiday songs including “Silver Bells” and “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer”.
Trans-Siberian Orchestra – Christmas Eve and Other Stories
They have the best rock/orchestra holiday show you will see anywhere in the U.S. This unique album includes titles such as “First Snow” and “A Mad Russian’s Christmas”. I highly recommend this album.
Dan Hicks and the Hot Licks – Crazy for Christmas
This album has a great smooth jazz/bluegrass sound making it a great unique holiday album. The fun sounds of this album include titles such as “Somebody Stole My Santa Claus Suit” and “I’ve Got Christmas By the Tail”.
Best Songs:
Paul McCartney and Wings – Wonderful Christmastime
People either love or hate this classic holiday tune. Personally I love it!
South Park – Dreidel Song
Hilarious. Enough said.
Woody Herman – Let it Snow!
Although this classic holiday song has been covered by numerous artists this one is definitely one of my favorites. Enjoy!
Adam Sandler -The Hanukah Song
Simply one of the funniest and most original holiday songs of all time.
Dinah Shore and Buddy Clark – Baby, It’s Cold Outside
Good song that gets you into the spirit of the winter weather. There are multiple versions, and I honestly like the version sang in Elf with Will Ferrell and Zooey Deschanel. I’m not sure if Ferrell actually sang it, but still good with a funny ending.
Worst Albums:
Susan Boyle – The Gift
Yes she may be an amazing singer, but this album is way too slow and intense for me. She has a great voice; too bad her holiday songs sound like nails on a chalk board.
Regis Philbin – The Regis Philbin Christmas Album
Really Regis? I’m think the only reason this CD came out is because his name is Regis Philbin.
Conway Twitty – A Twismas Story
If you like Conway as a country singer that’s one thing, but this album is (Con)way too cliche for holiday music.
Michael Bolton – The Christmas Album
I never really enjoyed Micheal Bolton, and every time I think of him I immediately think of Office Space.
The Chipmunks – Christmas with the Chipmunks
I doubt the Dhali Llama could sit through this one. Anybody that can listen to this entire album deserves a gold medal.
Worst Songs:
Door-to-Door Carolers – We Wish You a Merry Christmas
Can you please knock on my door and sing me something unique or different? This song is sung by every group of carolers, and I’m sorry I don’t have any friggin’ figgy pudding. WE GET IT.
Green Day – Jingle Bells
Punk rock and religion don’t really mix that well. If there’s going to be a guitar in anything religious, it better be a nylon string acoustic or an electric guitar in the Trans-Siberian Orchestra.
Gloria Estefan – Love on Layaway
It’s a pretty romantic song, but the song is a little annoying, and the premise is not something that I’d really use to describe love. … Might as well be Love on Credit.
Bob Seger – Little Drummer Boy
I will never let 80′s rock die, but I can live without Seger singing holiday tunes. Especially this song.
Remember to add any songs you think should be considered the best/worst holiday music, and if you haven’t heard the new Beiber holiday album, it’s probably a good thing. Happy Holidays!!
Willhelm
I’m reading Principles of Microeconomics
Thanksgiving Travel Tips
It’s easy to assume that most students will visit family over Thanksgiving break. It’s a great time to enjoy the company of friends and family that you probably haven’t seen since the beginning of the semester; all the while eating to the point of exhaustion. It’s a holiday where you don’t have to pass on the gravy and can get as many plates as you want. I can’t think of anything that would put a damper on this holiday; except maybe the driving part. No matter which way you spin it, traveling across the U.S. in a cramped car with siblings and the family dog is a pain. It’s even worse while sitting in stand-still traffic, not even 100 miles from home. For those flying, I don’t even want to think about the security checkpoint lines. Lucky for you, I’ve dug up some pointers for those who aren’t veterans of Thanksgiving traveling. I’m hoping these can make your trip a little less miserable, and a little more comfortable.
For Drivers:
1. Leave Early, Stay Late. Obviously for some this may not be possible, but the roads are going to be packed. I recommend scheduling a Tuesday-Tuesday trip. You can also consider leaving home Tuesday and coming home Saturday. Regardless of travel dates, you’re going to be competing with obnoxious amounts of traffic. According to Consumer Travel, November 24th is the single busiest travel day for Americans (That is Wednesday before Thanksgiving). On some interstates, the traffic becomes horrendous in the early evening, so this is something I would highly advise for those traveling long distances.
2. Don’t Just Rely on Your Mirrors. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, one of the months with the highest car crash severity is November. Also, consider that the Thanksgiving holiday is one of the most deadly periods of the year for Americans. So think twice when you’re trying to cut your ETA a few hours by speeding (not trying to be all fatherly, but just saying).
3. Lighten the Load. Remember, you’ll only be gone for a a long weekend, so plan accordingly. There’s no reason to bring extra bags to fill the car to the brim, only creating more stress for your ride. More Space in the Car = Comfort = Better Trip.
4. Cruise on Through. You might as well click on that cruise control once you’re well on your way. This feature has more benefits than keeping pace at a constant speed. Cruise control will save you gas, prevent you from speeding (unless you set the car speed above the speed limit), and give the driver’s legs some much needed rest.
5. Lose the Gas Guzzler. Unless it’s needed, consider driving your smaller car to your destination. It will save you a lot more in gas expenses than driving an SUV. For those traveling with family, an SUV or Van may be your only option. Also, consider whether comfort or price are more important. If someone is squished in the back with the suitcases on their lap, you may want to consider a bigger vehicle.
6. Forecast the Best Route. There’s going to be traffic almost no matter which way you head, but by looking at traffic flow and other factors ahead of time, you can plan the trip more efficiently, saving money and a headache.
7. Bring Snacks. Grab some peanut butter crackers, some drinks, etc. to save a few extra dollars, and a few extra stops. Four stops at a gas station can take up an hour that could be better spent on the highway.
For Flights:
1. Pack Light. This is reiterating what was said for those driving. Make sure you’ve packed the lightest amount possible, because those extra checked bags can be awfully pricy (unless you’re flying Southwest!).
2. Arrive Early. With Thanksgiving being one of the most traveled holidays of the year, the security checkpoints will be extremely busy. Try to arrive at the airport at minimum 2 hours before the flight departs. This time of year, most airlines won’t wait for the stragglers.
3. Fly Smart. If you haven’t booked your flight yet, you better get on that ASAP. The tickets only get more expensive closer to your departure date. Surf around on some travel websites like Expedia or Kayak to find the best deal for you.
4. Avoid Busy Days. If you want to have a less crowded flight, consider flying on days besides November 24th, 25th, 28th, and 29th. This is Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday, and Monday, respectively. It shouldn’t be too awful if you can’t avoid them, but it would be ideal to schedule around these dates.
5. Be Sociable. Being on a flight is a great opportunity to meet new people and have friendly conversations. Just be careful talking to strangers, try to avoid conversations about politics, religion, or the one percent.
Willhelm
I’m reading Biology
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