4 Benefits of Renewable Energy for Homes

Carol Highland
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4 Benefits of Renewable Energy for Homes
Reading Time: 3 minutes

Renewable energy use in the US increased by 90% from 2000 to 2020.

Renewable energy for homes is growing more popular due to the benefits it brings. Technological advancements are also improving the infrastructure, making renewable energy sources much more viable.

If you’re wondering “do I need renewable energy for my home?” then keep reading and we’ll give you 5 reasons why you do.

1. Reliable Energy Supply

Renewable energy can come in various forms such as solar, wind, and hydropower. One trait that these all share is that they don’t run out. They’re constantly providing energy, so if your home is powered by one of these you can be confident you will always have an energy supply.

Once a system is set up there’s no need for extra work to find fuel. Things like oil, coal, and natural gas constantly need to be sourced and transported, making them far less sustainable.

2. Lower Environmental impact

One of the main benefits of renewable energy sources for your home is that they’ll lower your impact on the environment. Renewable resources don’t emit greenhouse gases, which have become a significant problem in today’s world.

Burning traditional energy sources such as natural gas can add to the effects of climate change. A move towards clean energy is essential, and every home that starts using renewable energy is helping with this.

3. Cost Saving

There are various renewable energy ideas for a home, and they typically require setting up some sort of infrastructure. This comes with an initial cost, but in the long run, it’s often a more cost-efficient solution.

Using renewable energy for a home can reduce the price of utility bills. Wind or solar power, for example, can sometimes fully power a home, completely eliminating electricity bills. A solar energy system may even be able to send excess energy back to the grid, which the owner is then paid for.

After a while, renewable energy will pay for itself, then you can continue to benefit from the savings. It’s hard to determine the exact amount you’ll make in terms of savings, but a professional solar installation company like Blue Raven Solar will be able to give you an idea. You can get a free estimate from them with no commitment required.

4. Improved Public Health

The harmful gases that traditional energy sources emit aren’t just bad for the environment, but also for people. Gases like carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and sulfur monoxide can cause a range of health issues in people who are exposed to them, such as:

  • Heart attacks
  • Pneumonia
  • High blood pressure
  • Strokes
  • More

Using renewable sources can be beneficial to your health, as well as the health of others.

The Future of Renewable Energy for Homes

There are various sources of renewable energy for homes, and they’re all better for people and the environment than traditional energy sources. Using renewable energy can also save you money, and it’s very reliable. With time it seems more people and businesses will keep moving toward renewable energy sources.

For more lifestyle articles check out some of our other blog posts.

Carol
Information sourced by the author for luxuryactivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only.

6 Ways Card Games Can Become More Interesting

Carol Highland
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0
6 Ways Card Games Can Become More Interesting
Reading Time: 5 minutes

Do you love playing card games but find them a little bit too boring? Are you looking for ways to make them more interesting and exciting? If so, you’re in luck! This blog post will discuss six ways that you can spice up your card games and make them more fun for everyone involved. Let’s get started!

Customize The Field 

Make sure that you have the best-looking table for the card game you’re playing with your friends. You can easily click here and research the playmats that would fit your game. If you’re not customizing the field, then you’re not really trying to make your card game more interesting.

Your friends should also be comfortable with the environment that you’re playing in. Try to find a place where there aren’t too many distractions and everyone can focus on the game. This way, when things get heated, players can think about their next move without getting distracted.

Another way to customize the field is by adding different elements to it. For example, you can add trees, buildings, or even custom dice. This will make the game more visually appealing and also give it a unique feel.

Change The Ambiance 

Create a room specially designed for playing cards. This can be as simple as changing the lighting or adding some decorations. If you have the budget, you can go all out and design a game room complete with a card table, comfortable chairs, and plenty of storage for your games.

If you’re not able to change the physical space where you play cards, try changing the music you listen to or the snacks you eat. Creating a different atmosphere will make playing cards feel like a special event rather than just another evening activity.

The right lighting can affect your mood, so try changing the type of lightbulbs you use or the position of lamps in the room. Candles are also a great way to create a more relaxing atmosphere. If you usually play cards at night, try playing during the day for a change of pace.

Turn It Into A Drinking Game 

Add some shot glasses to the mix and suddenly your game of Go Fish becomes a lot more interesting. If you really want to spice things up, make it a rule that every time somebody loses a hand, they have to down a shot. Just be careful that you don’t end up turning your card game into an all-out drinking session!

There will surely be more laughs and (maybe even some) spills, but that’s all part of the fun. So next time you’re feeling bored with your old standby card games, remember that a little bit of alcohol can go a long way in making things more interesting. Cheers!

Just make sure to drink responsibly and don’t pressure anyone into taking shots if they don’t want to.

Think Of New Rules 

Expand the rule book according to your personal taste and make sure they make sense. Some good ideas for new rules are the following:

  • Instead of taking two cards from the draw pile, take three.
  • If you lay down a run, you can choose to either pick up another card or take another turn.
  • When playing UNO, instead of saying “UNO” when you have one card left, say a joke. The other players then have to laugh before they can play their next card. This will make the game more fun and relaxed.
  • If somebody lays down an Ace, the next player has to pick up two cards instead of one.

Make It A Tradition

Gather other enthusiasts and make it a regular thing. Have themed nights where everyone brings their favorite deck or tries out a new game. Make snacks and drinks to add to the ambiance and good vibes. 

You can even put together prize packs for the winners of each game or tournament you hold. This will give everyone something to look forward to and make card games more interesting than ever before!

This is also great for bonding with friends and family. You can make it a tradition to play card games every weekend or on holidays. It doesn’t matter when you do it, as long as you have fun and enjoy each other’s company.

Place Bets 

People love to gamble, and what better way to do it than with the people you’re already playing cards with? Placing bets can up the ante and make games more interesting. The key is to make sure everyone is comfortable with the idea before placing any money on the line.

Place small bets at first to see how it goes. You can always increase the stakes later on if everyone is enjoying themselves. Just make sure that no one feels like they’re being taken advantage of.

top-card-game-trends
Image source: quinonesnaomy for Pixabay

Card games are very fun, but you can always up the game with some custom playmats and create an ambiance where everyone is comfortable. Another option is to turn the whole thing into a drinking game and you can also think of new rules if everyone agrees with them. Create a tradition out of playing these games and try placing bets to spice up the game. Have fun!

Carol
Information sourced by the author for luxuryactivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only. Featured image by Jlaso for Pixabay.

How to make any room look and feel luxurious

Carol Highland
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0
How to make any room look and feel luxurious
Reading Time: 4 minutes

Decorating is a costly business, and we probably need to spend a fortune to get that look you just saw in magazines. When you look at buying rugs, furniture, mirrors, paint, art, and more, the cost can add up and damage your bank balance. The good news, especially in this time of rising costs, is that you can get that luxurious look and feel without spending a fortune. Here we explore some of the best hacks for getting that home to be proud of and show off to the neighbours.

Plump and clear

There are many ways to elevate a bedroom, especially if guests are staying. The easiest is to buy overfilled pillows and cushions for the bed and give that double a sumptuous feel. Remember how much we love the feeling of sleeping in a hotel bed, as though it is the comfiest place we have ever rested our heads. It is all done on a budget with some clever choice of pillows.

The other way to create a sense of luxury is by giving an impression of space. The room will always look small if it is full of furniture and the floor is littered with detritus. Keeping the luxury of a bedroom means keeping the clutter out of the way. If you have some cash to spare, you should invest this in some high-quality storage, which will make this task so much easier.

bedroom-design-guide

Getting playful with the old

When you skip through magazines, luxury is often apparent because of the antiques and period features that are on show. We are not suggesting that you take this opportunity to move yourself to a Georgian mansion in the posher part of town. Instead, you might want to invest in some decorative moulding, which gives the impression of a period feature. It is not only a bargain to buy from your local DIY store, but relatively simple to install too.

Another way to bring some luxury with the antique is to buy one feature piece that draws all the attention in a room. The best décor tricks the eye with some well-placed items, making the observer believe they have walked into a palace!

Go for curves

While a minimalist design will celebrate the straight lines and wide-open spaces of painted walls, it is hardly what we would call a luxurious feel. It feels a lot like living in a piece of conceptual art. You need a curve or two for genuine, authentic, beautiful luxury. You can add lots of depth and gently guide the eye of the visitor around points of interest in the room.

You should consider furniture with rounded arms and backs, but your accessories should also come with sensuous edges. Look at your choice of mirrors and lamps – and the legs on your furniture.

Window dressing to die for

Your window takes up a lot of attention in your room. Without trying, your window will draw the observer’s attention, and if you haven’t put some luxury in place, the effect will be lost. So, investing in a custom window treatment adds the bespoke touch that will help your living area stand out. While this is not a cheap option for a single item, it is a single purchase you can make that will have the most impact on the feel of your room.

Go metallic

A bit of glitz, and we mean just a bit, can add some glamour to a space. We are not suggesting a mirror ball or a full gold leaf wall, ala Donald Trump, and what we suggest is a few well-placed gold or silver-plated items that catch the light in the room and add some depth. Remember, to be tasteful, you only need a small amount of metallic to get a lot of impact. This is definitely a less is more situation, which is great for the bank balance.

House plants and fresh flowers

Nature does a brilliant job of looking beautiful, and it seems to have this base covered. Therefore, why not bring some of this beauty into your rooms. A house plant, especially one with big waxy leaves, will add a sense of luxury. Equally, a well-placed vase of fresh flowers can perk a room up and add a scented element. 

Small things, big impact

The good news for would-be interior design goddesses is that the journey to a showstopper room isn’t going to break your finances. You can make any room look and feel luxurious with a few savvy purchases.

Carol
Information sourced by the author for LuxuryActivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only.

Beach Summer Outfit Styles For 2022

Carol Highland
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0
Reading Time: 5 minutes

Beachwear has a style all its own. You can wear next to nothing at the beach, and no one will look at you funny. However, put on a rain slicker and head down to the water on a sunny day, and you’re likely to get stares. So, when it comes to this list of the best beach outfits for summer 2022, you can expect more tried-and-true options and fewer fashions that are likely to make you the pariah of the beach. So, what should beach-goers wear this summer when they hit the sand?

Good options for beachwear should include items that provide plenty of protection from the sun while remaining light and airy. Good examples can consist of long skirts, button-ups, sun hats, sunglasses, rompers, sarongs, and swimsuits as just the beginning of excellent beach style.

Luxurious Long Skirts

A long skirt can offer coverage for those who want it while keeping things breezy. Long skirts can come in various styles and make the best options for the beach with light materials such as chambray, linen, rayon, and other blends that are perfect for summer. Feeling adventurous? Go for a bold animal print.

Some of the best long skirt outfits will also do a great job of protecting you from the sun’s harmful U/V rays. The total physical barrier that a skirt can provide isn’t easy to replicate by sunscreen alone. And while you might be tempted to go with a shorter skirt, doing so can make avoiding funky tan lines more difficult.

Beachy Button-Ups

If you’re only thinking of Hawaiian shirts when you think of button-ups at the beach, think again! No matter the color, print, or style, natural fibers like linen and cotton will keep you feeling and looking fantastic.

And button-ups can be so versatile. Even styling a basic denim shirt can give you more options than you might think. You can tuck a button-up into shorts for a strait-laced look or let it hang down over a skirt for a more casual outfit. You can tie the same shirt at the bottom to give it a slimming profile or leave it unbuttoned for a more airy, unbothered look. When it comes to styling beachy button-ups, the choice is yours.

bikini-trends-2022-guide

Sun Safe Accessories

Spending time at the beach means significantly upping your possible sun exposure. To be on the safe side, keep covered as much as possible. This can be accomplished without sacrificing style by wearing oversized sunglasses and hats. Not only are big frames stylish, but they will provide more shade around your eyes. Protecting this sensitive spot of skin is essential—yet often overlooked. After all, you can’t slather your eyeballs in SPF.

And when it comes to beach umbrellas, bigger is always better. While not a piece of personal fashion, an umbrella can certainly make a statement when popped open on the beach. Just make sure you properly stake your umbrella down—they have been known to get caught in the wind. They can be very dangerous when this happens (even impaling some beachgoers).

Outrageous Rompers

A romper can be the perfect piece to complete a casual beach outfit—because it is the outfit! This staple can seamlessly transition from brunch to the beach to dinner on the patio when paired with a slip-on sandal. Rompers also make changing in or out of beachwear a breeze.

When it comes to styling a romper, you can never go wrong with a delicate floral print or geometric design. Materials will differ, but rayon, chambray, and linen rompers should all be adequate for beachwear. Put on a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and you have an entire beach look that can take just a minute to put together.

Summery Sarongs

A sarong might seem a bit cliché, but it’s a beach classic for a reason: adaptability. It is the ultimate beach coverup. One can be worn as a dress, a skirt, a shrug, or even used as a beach blanket. All of this combines to make a sarong a must-have for any beach trip. There are even sarongs that have substantial U/V protection built right in.

Sharp Swimsuits

The one item that is vital to any good beach outfit is undoubtedly a swimsuit. Even if you don’t plan on getting in the water, a cute suit is still a must-have for any day at the beach. All the classic options are still available as well. Choosing between a one-piece suit and a bikini is a matter of personal preference.

Worried about the sun? Consider wearing a swim shirt when out on the water. These shirts are especially popular with surfers. This is because swim shirts basically function as the top half of a wetsuit. The long-sleeved design protects against cuts and scrapes as well as sunshine.

This Summer, Wear What You Want to the Beach

Hopefully, some of the above outfit ideas will serve as inspiration for your own beach attire. Whatever you wear to the beach this summer, make sure it keeps you protected from the sun and feeling comfortable. After all, life is like a beach during the summer, and we should all do our best to enjoy it!

Carol
Information sourced by the author for luxuryactivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only.

5 Amazing Ways to Spend a Luxury Couples Getaway

Carol Highland
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0
5 Amazing Ways to Spend a Luxury Couples Getaway
Reading Time: 6 minutes

We’ve all been confined to our homes for the past couple of years, thanks to the Covid-19 pandemic. Now that things are going back to normal, it’s time to hop on a plane for a romantic escape, whether that’s a honeymoon or to celebrate an anniversary. And since you’ve waited longer and have not been able to travel for a while, you probably have more cash to splurge on a luxury getaway. But where should you go and what activities should you do? 

Here are some amazing ways to spend a luxury couples’ getaway.

1. Visit a Church in Rome 

For couples celebrating an anniversary, one of the best ways to celebrate your milestone and be thankful for reaching this far in your marriage is to visit a church, and Rome is the best place for this. In fact, for most tourists that come to the city, their main goal is to visit the churches. 

While most visitors would head straight to Saint Peter’s Basilica, it’s worth noting that Rome has more than 900 churches, and many of these are truly worth a visit. So, aside from visiting this famous church, you might want to venture out a little more and see the other beautiful churches in Rome. One of these is the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, the largest of all churches in the city. It’s dedicated to the Virgin Mary, and every corner of the church is filled with beautiful arts and artefacts.

The San Giovanni in Laterano is another church you may be interested in visiting in Rome. It’s the seat of the bishop of Rome and the city’s official cathedral. Even though its facade is not that impressive, the interiors more than make up for that. You will be in awe at the gorgeous frescoes, mosaics, sculptures, and columns in almost every corner of the church.

2. Cruising the Galapagos Islands 

For couples who are true wildlife lovers, booking one of those luxury Galapagos cruises is the best way to celebrate your love in luxury. Your romantic getaway to the Galapagos is a truly unique adventure, something that you are sure to remember for the rest of your lives!

Located off the coast of Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands are made up of 19 large islands and more than a hundred small islands and islets. On your luxury cruise, you’ll see unique wildlife up-close, with the opportunity to take up outdoor activities like scuba diving or hiking. At night, you can relax in your suite and wake up surrounded by the stunning views of nature!

Galapagos-Island-guide

While you won’t be visiting all islands on your Galapagos cruise, your itinerary will include visiting the most popular islands like Santa Cruz and San Cristobal, definitely look into what’s on offer before you rush into booking as you might find a package to fit your couples getaway that better suits your vacation goals. Santa Cruz has distinct rock formations and is home to several interesting wildlife species. It’s a great island for hiking and snorkelling. Meanwhile, San Cristobal Island is also home to a beautiful beach and a popular spot for surfing.

3. Hike in Kauai 

Hawaii is one of the world’s most popular destinations for a honeymoon. Each of the Hawaiian Islands has a unique charm, but all possess a stunning natural beauty. Kauai is highly recommended for couples who love outdoor adventures, like hiking. The island is home to some of the world’s most scenic hiking trails, and some of these will take you through gorgeous coast and dramatic cliffs. 

The Kalalau hiking trail is the most popular hiking trail in Kauai, and for a good reason. It includes the first two miles of the path that stretches into the Na Pali coastline. Since the trail can be a bit strenuous, it’s more suitable for the more experienced hikers as it also requires climbing and descending several times. Yet, the stunning views you’ll see along the way can make all the efforts truly worth it!

The Canyon Trail is another great hiking trail in Kauai for those who want to venture inland and into the Waimea Canyon. It offers incredible views of the vast canyon and will take you to the top of a gorgeous waterfall, the Waipoo Falls, which you will see from the opposing side of the canyon. 

Makena-Big-Beach-Maui-Hawaii

4. Luxury Camping in the UK

Because of the Covid-19 pandemic, glamping has become more popular than ever. Even though international travel is now going back to normal, glamping has never lost its appeal, especially for nature lovers. The term, which means “glamorous camping”, is a more luxurious way of sleeping in nature since you’ll have access to luxury facilities, such as a hot tub.

Because of the popularity of glamping, you will now find several glamping sites spread across the UK. So, if your idea of a romantic getaway is to go glamping in the United Kingdom with a hot tub, you will have plenty of choices.

The Hayton Hideaways in Carlisle is one of the most popular glamping sites with hot tubs in the UK. Couples will sleep in a glamping pod set on a stunning farm, and each pod is equipped with a shower room, toilet, and kitchen. There’s a decked veranda outside, a fire pit and comes with an optional hot tub.

5. Lounge on a Beach in Greece

Greece has always been a popular destination for honeymooners due to its romantic setting. For couples who want to lounge at the beach on their romantic getaway, Greece would be the perfect destination for this. The country is famous for its stunning sandy beaches with crystal clear waters.  

Given its long coastline, you’ll have thousands of beaches to choose from in Greece. You’ll find the most beautiful ones in Crete, Naxos, Mykonos, Paros, and Ios. If you want to combine partying with your romantic getaway to Greece, head to Mykonos, where you’ll find Paradise Beach, lined with beach bars and clubs.

But for those who want to enjoy some privacy, you’ll find many remote coves in the islands of Paros and Ios, ideal for lounging and relaxation. You may want to go island hopping in Greece to visit many beaches.

Carol
Information sourced by the author for luxuryactivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only.

The Best Luxury Destinations for Explorers 

Jennifer Hard
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The Best Luxury Destinations for Explorers 
Reading Time: 6 minutes

If you are looking to splurge on your next adventure, these luxury destinations will fit the bill. Often, when people go on adventures, images of sweaty safari hats and dusty hiking boots usually come to mind. But this is not the case when it comes to traveling luxuriously. Elevate your holiday by visiting these luxury destinations guaranteed to satisfy your thirst for exploration without giving up modern comforts and luxuries. 

1. The Galapagos Islands 

The Galapagos Islands are on the bucket list of world explorers, thanks to its abundance of interesting wildlife, which includes giant tortoises and baby sea lions. The archipelago is a World Heritage Site and has been the inspiration for Charles Darwin’s Theory of Evolution. 

As an archipelago, the best way to explore the Galapagos is to go on a guided island-hopping cruise. You will find day trips coming from the main tourist hub that will take you to famous islands like Santa Cruz but taking a small yacht cruise is the best way to go, especially if you plan on visiting the more remote islands. As your boat hops from one island to another, you’ll also have the opportunity to enjoy fun activities like snorkelling, hiking, and kayaking. Keep your eyes peeled on the different species you’ll encounter, from marine iguanas to blue-footed boobies and the giant tortoises!

galapagos-turtles

After your island-hopping excursion, the best way to relax is to visit one of the beautiful beaches of the Galapagos. Gardner Bay in Espanola Island is one of these beaches. It’s an ideal spot to enjoy swimming and snorkelling, where you’ll discover abundant marine life.

2. Hawaii – Kauai 

Kauai is famous for its stunning natural beauty and dramatic landscapes, including the Waimea Canyon, Na Pali Bay, and more. Home to gorgeous mountains and majestic waterfalls, including white sand beaches, Kauai is a haven for those who love exploring nature and taking up outdoor adventures. 

Some of Kauai’s beautiful beaches are easily accessible, but others are very secluded that it could take several miles on foot to reach them. The Poipu beach is one of the most popular beaches on the island. It’s located on the South shore and is easily accessible. Since you’re here for exploration, it’s worth visiting the Na Pali Coast, where you can go hiking or go on a whale-watching cruise. This area is not accessible by car, so the only way to get here is on a boat or a helicopter ride.   

There are various luxury resorts in Kauai, such as the Hilton, Marriott, and Grand Hyatt. But if you want to enjoy some peace and quiet, away from crowds of tourists, you should stay in one of the sensational luxury Kauai villas. Some of these villas are set in a secluded area, offering privacy and a totally relaxing stay. Best of all, these villas open to the island’s most stunning views!

3. The Greek Islands

Given its varied landscape and incredible islands, Greece would be the perfect place to explore and try outdoor adventures. Island hopping is the best way to explore the many Greek islands scattered across the Aegean and Ionian Seas. 

Given the many islands to visit in Greece, you’ll have plenty of choices for your island-hopping excursions. For those seeking a cosmopolitan vibe with a vibrant nightlife, Mykonos and Santorini are the best islands to visit in the Cyclades. Both are popular with tourists and offer stunning views, picturesque beaches, and exciting nightlife scenes. 

Travel-guide-greece

If you prefer to visit islands with a more laid-back vibe, head to Folegandros, Milos, and Paros. All three islands are also part of the Cyclades, yet they have a more peaceful atmosphere, unlike the touristy and often crowded islands of Santorini and Mykonos. Folegandros is a small island home to whitewashed villages and locally run tavernas, while Milos is a volcanic island with dramatic cliffs set among turquoise waters. Meanwhile, Paros offers a blend of picturesque villages and wide, sandy beaches.

4. California 

If you love exploring the great outdoors, a trip to California has got to be on your bucket list. It’s home to the Yosemite National Park, Mammoth Lakes, Lake Tahoe, and other interesting natural attractions. The scenery in these places is absolutely stunning, and there are plenty of activities suitable for all ages. And if you want to experience nature at its finest, you can get out glamping in California, where you’ll be staying on a camping site equipped with luxurious facilities, such as a hot tub and pool. 

Covering a vast area of 3,027 km², the Yosemite National Park is where you should go to enjoy nature at its best. But if you want to go glamping in Yosemite, reservations are required. If camping is not an option, you can make a day trip to the park and enjoy some amazing sceneries, such as the “Tunnel View”.

If you’re heading to California in the winter season, visit Lake Tahoe, a ski town that offers plenty of opportunities for winter activities, such as skiing and snowboarding. The Mammoth Lakes is another excellent destination for winter sports in California. But if you come here during summer, you can enjoy all types of outdoor activities, from hiking to fishing and boating.

5. Italy – Rome 

If you’re someone who loves exploring historical monuments, Italy should be on top of your list. Its sprawling capital city of Rome is known as the cradle of Western Civilisation and home to some of the world’s most incredible historic sites, including the Colosseum.

While you will find many of Italy’s historical sites in Rome, there are many other places in Italy to visit for a glimpse of the country’s historical past. Pompeii is a must-visit. Situated close to Mount Vesuvius, this vast archaeological site is home to countless ruins of streets and houses.  

Venice may be more famous for being a honeymoon destination, but it’s also a haven for history lovers. Its labyrinth of canals is lined with architectural wonders, such as the Saint Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace. This UNESCO-listed city is full of interesting remnants from its golden age of music and art.

Jennifer
Information sourced by the author for luxuryactivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only.

Your Buying Guide to High Carat Weight Diamond Rings

Carol Highland
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0
Your Buying Guide to High Carat Weight Diamond Rings
Reading Time: 6 minutes

Diamonds have been in demand since the first ones were discovered. According to Wonderopolis, the first diamonds were discovered in India around 2,400 years ago. Since then, many other regions have been found to produce diamonds, with the biggest exporters being in Africa, and also Canada.

For the average person, buying a diamond ring either means visiting a jeweler in person, or looking online. Today it isn’t unusual for people to invest in jewelry through online stores, especially as ecommerce continues to grow.

However, some diamonds need a little more thought put behind them before making a purchase. Not many people would feel safe spending hundreds of thousands online on a gem that they have never laid eyes on.

These jewels are what are known as high-carat diamonds. They are special, and they need to be understood by the buyer.

What is classed as high-carat weight?

If you want to go to extremes then the world’s largest diamond was discovered in South Africa in 1905. This diamond was measured at 3,106-carats and blows away everything else that has ever been found since.

To put this into perspective, the average person would buy a diamond that weighs 1 to 1.9-carats. Many go for less than 1-carat, and 1.5-carats is also a popular range. Celebrities such as Kim Kardashian, and the gem-loving Elizabeth Taylor, have both owned monster diamond rings.

diamond-rings-guide
Photo by say straight on Pexels.com

Kardashian’s engagement ring came in at an impressive 15-carats, while one of Elizabeth Taylor’s many rings was nearly double this weight. Nevertheless, many people think that 3-carats or more is where diamonds start to pack a punch.

How expensive is a big carat diamond?

It isn’t a matter of simply quoting a price per carat as there are other factors to consider. Yet, for an example range, a 7-carat diamond ring might go for up to $550,000, but it could cost less than $100,000.

The clarity and color of the diamond will have a heavy impact on the price of the gem, as will the cut and how well this has been done.

Some estimates say that diamonds can be priced at between $10,000 to $30,000 per carat, but this is still only guesswork, and other considerations will determine the price.

For example, a 7-carat diamond ring might cost $500,000, but Kardashian’s 15-carat ring cost four times this amount despite only weighing just over twice as much.

How does the shape and cut of the diamond affect the price?

The shape and cut of the diamond will make a big difference to the value of the jewelry. There are ten shapes and cuts that are used on diamonds, and the most valuable is the pear, while the princess cut is the least.

For example, a 7-carat diamond with a pear cut may be around $80,000 more than one with a princess cut. This though is only an estimate that doesn’t take into account color and clarity properly.

Is a 7-carat weight diamond too big?

Many people believe that 2 to 3-carats is already big enough. However, if you desire something eye-catching, a 7-carat diamond will certainly do the trick.

For some, this ring may be too large, but if you are looking for a luxurious engagement ring, then 7-carats wouldn’t disappoint. Whether it is too big though may depend on the cut and style you choose.

The different cuts don’t just make the pricing vary, they also reflect how much of the diamond will be visible. Some cuts are wider than others, and other ones are longer.

A 7-carat diamond is heavy but it doesn’t need to be overwhelming if you choose a cut to fit your hand. Many will prefer a shorter cut so that the diamond doesn’t look so dominant, while others may like a longer elegant cut.

Choosing the color and clarity

Much of which heavy-carat diamond ring you buy will depend on your budget, and the color and clarity can affect the price considerably. Yet, color should also be a factor when choosing the setting.

A near colorless diamond will work better with gold rings, while a light diamond will work betting in a white setting. The clarity is another consideration, especially when looking at the price.

An SI1 clarity diamond is a good starting point according to many experts. This will include some slight flaws but nothing to ruin the beauty of the gem. This can be a good starting point as the higher the clarity, the higher the cost will be.

Where should you look for high carat weight diamond rings?

For small diamonds, there is no reason why you cannot visit a jeweler and make your own decisions. For heavy or high-carat diamonds, more care should probably be taken considering the weight involved and the price.

Visiting a diamond dealer who is experienced and established may be advisable. Someone who is well versed in high-carat diamonds will be able to advise and recommend what to purchase according to your budget.

What about the setting?

Many people simply go to a jeweler when looking for an engagement ring. However, picking a unique engagement ring is far more difficult. If you are purchasing a 7-carat diamond, then you may want the setting to be custom-made.

Some settings work better with high-carats, and these include halo, pave, and solitaire settings. One way to achieve highly desirable results is to allow a jeweler to design the setting according to the diamond weight and cut that you have purchased.

Summary

Buying a 7-carat diamond is a serious consideration for many. While there are high-carat diamonds at the lower end of the scale, if you want clarity and a god ‘make’ then you will have to spend considerably more.

Taking advice from an experienced diamond dealer may be invaluable. Unless you are highly confident in what you are purchasing, an expert’s help should be taken.

Once you are thoroughly happy with the diamond, then you can approach a jeweler to make the setting that is most appropriate and works with the gem. Then, you can enjoy this piece of jewelry for the rest of your life.

Carol
Information sourced by the author for luxuryactivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only.

Top Tips To Make Your Watch Last Longer

Arsene Wargas
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Top Tips To Make Your Watch Last Longer
Reading Time: 3 minutes

A watch can tell you the time and can also make you look good. Some people are never completely dressed without their watches strapped to their wrists. Wearing a wrist watch gives you an awesome feeling, especially when it’s one with quality. Wrist watches have been around for a really long time. The first wrist watch was said to be made in the year 1810, but before that, there were pocket watches, which were often used.

Wrist watches are very valuable and expensive possessions. Some of them can be passed down from one generation to another. Some wrist watches are made of superior and precious stones from the earth, such as diamonds.

Types of wrist watches

Wrist watches come in different types. It all depends on the type you want to get and what purpose you want to use it for. Listed below are the various types of wrist watches.

  1. Luxury watch
  2. Smart watch
  3. Field Watch
  4. Pilot watch
  5. Mechanical watch
  6. Quartz watch
  7. Dress watch
  8. Diving watch
  9. Chronograph watch
  10. Automatic watch
  11. Digital watch
  12. Watch analog

Wrist watch maintenance

Wrist watches can be quite expensive, especially if they are luxury. Getting an expensive wrist watch means that you have to properly maintain it and care for it. When your wrist watch is expensive, it is important to properly maintain it. By properly maintaining your wrist watch, you are getting the most value for your money.

A lot of work and effort go into the maintenance of wrist watches. Here are the top things to keep in mind if you want your wrist watch to last a long time.

Get a wrist watch strap

Getting a strap is very important if you want your wrist watch to last a long time. Straps are what hold the wristwatch to your wrist. Getting a good strap, especially one for luxury brands like Omega, is very important. When you wear a rubber strap for Omega, you become confident in the durability of your wrist watch.

 Do not wash your wrist watch with soap

Wrist watches sometimes get dirty, especially when they are used regularly. It is important to note that the ingredients in soap could damage your wrist watch. So when you next want to clean your watch, use a microfiber cloth.

Servicing

Wrist watches have engines. It is important that when your wrist watch is beginning to show some signs, you should endeavor to service it.

Do not test your watch to its limits

Some wrist watch owners like to test their watches by doing things like stepping over them with a car or freezing them. This should not be done if you want your watch to last.

Regularly check the water resistance

It is important to check your wrist watch regularly to ensure that there are no openings. If you bathe or swim with your watch, always ensure that it is regularly checked so that it does not spoil. 

Summary

Maintaining your wrist watch is not always an easy task. Everyone’s daily life is often filled with activities, and there might be no time to check your watch. To ensure your wrist watch lasts a long time, always endeavor to check it often.

Arsene
Information sourced by the author for luxuryactivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only.

The best cabaret shows in the world

LuxuryActivist
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The best cabaret shows in the world
Reading Time: 4 minutes

Exciting entertainment, fully legendary and not a little risqué, can be found at the best cabaret shows in the world. From Paris to St Tropez, and from Berlin to New York, these nightclubs roll out the red carpet, keep the Champagne flowing and the lights and music rolling, along with sophisticated shows ranging from burlesque to drag, Samba and belly dancing, near-nude showgirls and over-the-top sequins, spangles and stars.

Keep on reading to discover the world’s best cabaret shows that are guaranteed to entertain into the early hours.

Best cabaret shows

Moulin Rouge

moulin-rouge
©Moulin Rouge

The Moulin Rouge in Paris is considered one of the world’s best cabaret shows. Dating to 1889, it is located in the Pigalle district. This famous cabaret show in Paris is where the modern can-can originated, a dance that is said to have inspired the opening of other cabarets across Europe. Enter underneath the iconic marquee and be bewitched by dozens of statuesque showgirls adorned with brightly coloured feathers, sequins and little else. Tickets are said to be among the hottest in Paris.

Le Crazy Horse de Paris

Crazy-Horse
© Crazy Horse

Another top-of-the-list French cabaret is the storied Le Crazy Horse de Paris, founded in 1951 by artist Alain Bernardin and established in the former wine cellars of an elaborate Haussmann-style building just steps away from the Eiffel Tower and the Champs Elysées. Dazzling dancers are the main attraction of this famous cabaret, but the nightly performances often include magic shows and celebrity entertainers. Champagne and dinner are also available.

Bar Jeder Vernunft

Bar-Jeder-Vernunft
© Bar-Jeder-Vernunft

The glittering circus-style tent of the Bar Jeder Vernuft in Berlin offers cabaret-style musical comedy under a ceiling of a thousand mirrors. Though a smaller venue than other famous cabarets, the Bar Jeder Vernuft is big on entertainment, featuring acts from Berlin and across the globe. Relax and enjoy drinks, fresh cuisine, and in summer, beverages in an outdoor beer garden before the show. Situated in the middle of Berlin, Bar Jeder Vernuft transports guests to the atmosphere of the 1920s in its fabulous and festive art nouveau tent.

Le Scandal

© Le Scandal

Across the pond, don’t pass up a visit to Le Scandal cabaret in Midtown Manhattan, US, considered one of the world’s best cabaret shows. Founded in 2001 by the late Bonnie Dunn, known as “the godmother of burlesque,” Le Scandal has the longest-running neo-burlesque show in New York City.

It is also said to have raised the profile of chic St Tropez on the French Riviera, as its performers “entertain, entice, and enrage all the while redefining what is sexy,” according to a review by Tristan Taormino in The Village Voice, an American news and culture newspaper.

Though Le Scandal is on pandemic hiatus as of the time of writing, it’s still worth adding this famous cabaret to your must-visit list – no doubt the waitlist will be long once it reopens!

L’Opera 

Dine and show at L’Opera, a famous cabaret in the heart of St Tropez, France. Located just steps away from some of the world’s most luxurious offerings, including some of the most iconic restaurants in Saint Tropez, L’Opera features outstanding Tropezian dancers and artists who perform on improvised stages, providing an evening of spectacular performance. 

While the fabulous show takes place, guests can enjoy an extravagant meal of the finest Provencal cuisine alongside worldwide specialities. The elegant restaurant is decorated with quirky art pieces, including photography by the famed French multidisciplinary artist Philippe Shangti. Guests can be seated inside or outside on the terrace, which boasts panoramic views of the port of St Tropez. L’Opera is a must-visit when in St Tropez! 

There is no question that the best cabaret shows in the world provide a night of spectacular entertainment. What world-famous cabaret will you be booking tickets for?

Joanna Lewis / Judy Isacoff
Information sourced by the authors for luxuryactivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only.

How To Judge If A Car Is Really Worth Top Dollar

Arsene Wargas
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0
How To Judge If A Car Is Really Worth Top Dollar
Reading Time: 5 minutes

When you’re out car shopping, it’s important to get a good idea of what the car is worth. You don’t want to end up spending too much on a vehicle, or worse, not getting as much money as you could for it when you go to sell. In this article, we’ll give you some tips on how to judge a car’s worth and make sure you’re getting the best deal possible.

Mileage

One of the most important things to look at when trying to determine a car’s worth is the mileage. Obviously, the lower the mileage, the better. A car that has only been driven a few thousand miles is going to be worth more than one that has been driven for tens of thousands of miles. If you’re looking at two similar cars and one has much lower mileage, it’s probably going to be the better deal. In addition to mileage, 1/4 mile times are an important metric to consider when trying to determine a car’s value. This is especially true for muscle cars and other performance vehicles. A car that can do 0-60 in under four seconds is going to be worth a lot more than one that takes over six seconds.

Condition

Of course, the condition of the vehicle is going to heavily influence how much it’s worth. If you’re selling a car that’s in pristine condition, you can definitely command a higher price than if it was covered in dents and scratches. But, even if your car isn’t in showroom condition, that doesn’t mean it’s not worth good money. It just might take a little more effort to find the right buyer.

There are a few different things that can influence the condition of a car. Obviously, how well it was maintained will play a role. A car that has been regularly serviced and had any necessary repairs made is going to be in better condition than one that was never brought in for service. In addition, where the car was driven can also impact its condition. If it spent most of its life on the open highway, it’s going to be in better condition than one that was driven in the city where it was constantly exposed to the elements.

Age

The age of the car is also going to play a role in its value. A brand-new car is obviously going to be worth more than an old beat-up clunker. But, even if a car is a few years old, it can still be worth good money.

Cars depreciate the most in the first few years after they’re purchased. After that, the rate of depreciation slows down considerably. So, even if you’re selling a car that’s a few years old, it might not have lost that much value. In fact, if you’ve taken good care of it, it might have even increased in value.

Accident History

If the car you’re selling has been in an accident, that’s going to have a big impact on its value. Even if the damage was minor, it will still bring down the price. If the car has been in a major accident, it may be difficult to sell at all. 

The best way to find out about a car’s accident history is to get a vehicle history report. This report will tell you if the car has been in any accidents, as well as other important information like whether it’s been in a flood or if it has a salvage title. 

You can usually get a vehicle history report from the dealer, or you can order one yourself from an online service.

Color

Did you know that the color of your car can influence its value? It’s true. Certain colors are more popular than others, and cars in these colors will usually sell for a premium. For example, red is a very popular color for sports cars, so a red sports car is going to be worth more than a blue one. 

On the other hand, there are some colors that are much less popular. If you’re selling a green car, you might have a hard time finding a buyer. And, if you do find a buyer, you’re not likely to get top dollar for your green car.

luxury-car

Features

One last thing that can influence a car’s value is its features. Certain features are more popular than others, and cars with these features will sell for a premium. For example, cars with leather seats are usually worth more than cars with cloth seats. If you’re selling a car that has unique or rare features, you might be able to command a higher price. 

There are a lot of factors that go into determining how much a car is worth. Some of these factors include the age of the car, its accident history, and its color. But, the most important factor is probably its condition. A car in good condition will be worth more than one that’s been neglected. Hopefully, this guide has given you a better understanding of how to judge if a car is really worth top dollar.

Arsene
Information sourced by the author for luxuryactivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only.

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