(NewsUSA) - Sponsored News -Whether you are in a hotel room, at your desk, in an RV, or by a campfire, it can be difficult to get a good cup of coffee away from home. With the holiday travel season in full swing, travelers are wondering how best to enjoy their morning java while on the go.<br /> <br /> Most away-from-home coffee options have major drawbacks. Hotel room coffee makers are convenient and cheap, but the coffee they brew means a major compromise on taste. Local cafes often offer good coffee, but the cost of all those to-go cups can really add up. Existing travel coffee presses offer a way to brew while on the go, but they typically brew slowly and therefore brew a bitter and very acidic cup.<br /> <br /> Travelers benefit from being able to brew delicious coffee quickly and easily wherever they are. Luckily there is a perfect way to do just that. The AeroPress Go travel coffee press brews up to three cups of delicious hot or cold brew coffee that is richer, smoother, and lower in acidity than coffee brewed by other travel presses. Simply add ground coffee and water, stir briskly, press, and enjoy a cup of hot or cold brew coffee in just a minute or two.<br /> <br /> The AeroPress Go travels self- contained in its own mug with a lid, making it easy to fit in a suitcase, in a desk, with camping gear, in an RV or in a backpack. It is compact, lightweight, and durable, making it easy to transport. And it cleans up in just a few seconds with a quick rinse.<br /> <br /> The AeroPress Go's ability to make cold brew coffee is a big additional advantage because it can be used where there is no access to hot water. Wherever you go, there is almost always a source of water, but often no way to heat it. Use the AeroPress Go to join the hot new trend of drinking coffee that's an amazingly smooth, rich cold brew. With the AeroPress Go, it's easy to brew a cup of cold brew using unheated water in about two minutes.<br /> <br /> Visit <a target='_blank' href="https://aeropress.com/">https://aeropress.com/</a> for more information about how to brew great coffee on the road.<br /> <br /> Ref: Gadgets - in Blogs

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(NewsUSA) - In the past few weeks, it has become clear that social distancing and quarantining are the new normal. This is an overwhelming time as we attempt to adjust our mindsets and schedules - between working from home, watching after the kids, keeping up with the news, and maintaining sanity, it can be a challenge to prioritize your physical and mental health. Here are some tips on how to stay active in these strange and unprecedented times. <br /> <br /> Make a plan<br /> <br /> It's always easier to commit to a healthy habit if you make it part of your routine. At the beginning of each week, take a look at your schedule and find those windows where you could realistically squeeze in a workout. Set a reminder on your phone or even add the workout to your calendar to keep yourself accountable. <br /> <br /> Try a meal delivery service<br /> <br /> It may be difficult to cook healthy meals every day, especially if you can't get what you need from the grocery store. Having healthy food delivered safely to your door can alleviate the stress and hassle of cooking, plus having healthy options in the house will keep you from overeating and reaching for junk food. South Beach Diet, for example, offers fully nutritionally balanced, prepared meals and snacks that make it easy to keep your diet on track. <br /> <br /> Take breaks from work<br /> <br /> It can be tempting to sit around all day while you're working from home, but don't let yourself stay sedentary for too long. Get away from your workspace and move around every hour or so to get your blood flowing. This will help you to stay sharp and healthy during social isolation. If you're taking a phone call, stand up and allow yourself to pace around. Try to get up every hour and take a few steps around the house, stretch, or even do a few jumping jacks. <br /> <br /> Stream, stream, stream<br /> <br /> As gyms and workout studios are necessarily closed for the moment, many fitness brands and instructors are using Instagram live to hold virtual classes. If you have a favorite local studio or a favorite instructor, check out their website or social media to see if they are hosting any online classes. Many fitness brands are also offering extended free trials to access their libraries of workout videos. <br /> <br /> Go for a walk or run<br /> <br /> Of course, we are all limiting our trips outside to the grocery store, gas station, or anywhere else we might come in close contact with others. But if you are able to safely run or walk while keeping distance from your neighbors, those are great options for staying active, clearing your mind, and getting some fresh air.<br /> <br /> "It's so important to find those moments of joy outdoors while we're all social distancing," says Jessie James Decker, mother of three and South Beach Diet brand ambassador. "Whatever that means for you - whether it's a stroll around the neighborhood with the kids or a long run to clear your head - you'll feel so much better if you make the time for it." <br /> <br /> Keep your mind active<br /> <br /> Just as our bodies need physical activity to stay healthy, our minds need stimulation (beyond reality TV binge sessions) to stay sharp as well. Group activities such as board games or puzzles are a great option for keeping your mind sharp while clocking some quality time with your family or roommates.<br /> <br /> For more tips on how to stay healthy and active while social distancing, check out <a target='_blank' href="https://palm.southbeachdiet.com.">https://palm.southbeachdiet.com.</a><br /> <br /> Ref: How To - in Blogs

(NewsUSA) - As energy costs rise, the "green" movement and conservation efforts have become popular topics. Energy-saving recommendations appear daily in the media, and consumers are being offered subsidies or state and federal tax credits to encourage the purchase of more efficient appliances. However, many homeowners fail to consider their water heater when it comes to going "green."<br /> <br /> Although today's water heaters are expected to operate for an average of 13 years, the U.S. Department of Energy recommends shopping for a new water heater if your current unit is more than seven years old. This allows an adequate amount of time for homeowners to research and select a water heater that best meets their needs instead of waiting until their heater breaks down and selecting the cheapest quick fix for cold showers.<br /> <br /> Consumers are increasingly turning to high-efficiency water heaters when replacing older units or during remodeling and building projects. While these models may cost more initially, savings in water and energy usage continue throughout the lifetime of the appliance, offsetting the price difference. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency reports that these units use 10 to 50 percent less energy, benefits to both your budget and the environment.<br /> <br /> A recent study by the Gas Technology Institute simulated the residential performance of high-efficiency water heaters and conventional units. The Vertex from A. O. Smith, a hybrid, gas-condensing, residential unit incorporating tank-type and tankless technology, provided the best overall performance at average and high-volume hot water usage, which is the consumption of 64-gallons or more per day of hot water.<br /> <br /> Endorsed by long-time environmental champion Ed Begley Jr. of the HGTV series "Living With Ed," the Vertex provides sufficient quantities of hot water for shower after shower and operates at 90 percent thermal efficiency. Additionally, it is designed to meet the demands that modern lifestyles require.<br /> <br /> "Using more efficient combustion to produce hot water at lower operating costs and 90 percent thermal efficiency, the Vertex is a good choice for customers who want to save energy without skimping on hot water," said David Chisolm, A. O. Smith Water Heater brand manager.<br /> <br /> For more information on the A. O. Smith Vertex model, visit hotwater.com/resources/energy-star-qualified-products/.<br /> <br /> Ref: Gifts - in Blogs

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(NewsUSA) - Sponsored by GAF - It's time to stop thinking of Millennials as totally uninterested in owning anything just because they were early adopters of Uber.<br /> <br /> The newly released U.S. home ownership rate rose in 2017 for the first time in 13 years - it now stands at 64.2 percent - driven mainly by a shift towards owning over renting by the under-age 35 crowd who'd been wary of committing for both financial and personal reasons.<br /> <br /> "This is happening because young households are buying homes. Full stop," Ralph McLaughlin, chief economist at home listings provider Trulia, told the Wall Street Journal.<br /> <br /> They're not the only purchasers, of course. Which means if you're looking to sell your house now or in the not too distant future, you might want to check out this generational roadmap to four upgrades experts say are worth it to help attract potential buyers.<br /> <br /> * Cross-generational: a new steel door. The only thing that beat it on Remodeling magazine's annual Cost vs. Value Report for 2017 was loose-fill attic insulation, but this project - with a 90.7% return on investment - speaks directly to the report's main takeaway: "Curb appeal projects, by and large, generated higher returns on investment than work done inside the home."<br /> <br /> Plus, as far as Millennials go, while their ideal interiors may differ from older generations - for example, they prefer open floor plans and hardwood floors - Architectural Digest says they're still into "traditional exteriors."<br /> <br /> * Millennials: smart-home tech. Yes, there are Boomers and Generation Xers who are super tech savvy, but Millennials especially crave homes that allow them to control their heating, air-conditioning, home security, and lighting systems from their phones.<br /> <br /> "They want to use their brains for other things, not for remembering whether they adjusted the heat or closed the garage door," Angie's List stressed.<br /> <br /> * Cross-generational: a new roof. It's the ultimate curb appeal enhancer and a perennial Remodeling magazine A-lister, with Credit.com having observed that "buyers pay a premium for one already in place."<br /> <br /> So if the first thing prospects notice even before exiting their cars looks like something out of "Twister," you've got a problem.<br /> <br /> "It's a huge turn-off," said Patsy O'Neill, a sales associate with Sotheby's in Montclair, New Jersey, "and makes buyers of all ages predisposed to find even more things they don't like."<br /> <br /> If your roof does need replacing, those particularly interested in targeting Millennials might want to consider the very affordable Sienna line of diamond-shaped shingles from GAF (gaf.com), North America's largest roofing manufacturer, since they capture that generation's sensibilities.<br /> <br /> "They pick up on key Millennial style trends of natural, clean materials, clean lines, and the integration of artistic elements," said Leslie Franklin, executive director of residential marketing at GAF.<br /> <br /> * Millennials: all-new appliances. Realtors will tell you that major kitchen (and bath) upgrades aren't generally worth their high costs, in terms of return on investment, since prospective buyers' tastes can clash with yours.<br /> <br /> However, Millennials do love, love, love all-new stainless steel appliances. So much so that what RealtyTimes.com called "an astonishing majority of 75 percent" of respondents in a recent survey chose to spend their hypothetical home buying budgets on them.<br /> <br /> Ref: Gardens - in Blogs

As the most densely populated city in central Indonesia, Makassar offers a diverse array of captivating destinations for travelers. The strategic coastal position of Makassar makes it an important transit port for long-distance ships, serving routes from Surabaya to Papua. This strategic role is not new—since colonial times, Makassar has been a vital naval center, as evidenced by the magnificent presence of Fort Rotterdam.<br /><br />The Rich History of Fort Rotterdam<br />Fort Rotterdam was first constructed in 1545 by the 9th King of Gowa, Daeng Matanre Karaeng Tumapa'risi' Kallonna. Originally named Fort Ujung Pandang, this fortress was later surrendered to the Dutch VOC under the Treaty of Bungaya in 1667.<br />The fort's architecture is truly impressive, featuring six sturdy bastions surrounded by seven-meter-high walls and a two-meter-deep moat as a defense system. During its golden era, this fortress served as the central collection point for spices from across the Indonesian archipelago before being traded to European markets, making it one of the most important economic hubs in Southeast Asia.<br /><br />Transformation into an Educational Museum<br />Today, Fort Rotterdam has transformed into an educational museum that can be visited free of charge by all Indonesian citizens. The fortress atmosphere successfully maintains its classic ambiance, transporting visitors back to the colonial era.<br /><br />Within the fort complex, invaluable historical artifacts are housed and can be enjoyed by visitors of all ages, from children to adults. This place serves as the perfect educational venue for understanding Indonesia's historical journey, particularly in the South Sulawesi region.<br /><br />The museum showcases various collections that tell the story of Makassar's maritime heritage, colonial influences, and the rich cultural tapestry of the Bugis-Makassar people. Interactive displays and well-preserved artifacts provide visitors with an immersive learning experience about Indonesia's colonial past and its impact on modern society.<br /><br />A Photography Paradise with Classic Vibes<br />For photography enthusiasts, Fort Rotterdam offers an extraordinary location with stunning classic and aesthetic appeal. Various corners of the fort provide Instagram-worthy backdrops, creating the sensation of traveling back in time.<br /><br />You can pose freely and capture as many moments as desired at the numerous attractive spots available. The well-preserved colonial architecture provides the perfect backdrop for character-rich photo collections. The interplay of ancient stone walls, vintage cannons, and tropical vegetation creates a unique visual narrative that tells stories of centuries past.<br /><br />Whether you're interested in architectural photography, portrait sessions, or simply capturing memories with friends and family, Fort Rotterdam's diverse settings offer endless creative possibilities. Don't forget to share your best shots on your favorite social media platforms!<br /><br />Practical Information for Visitors<br />Opening Hours: Daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM<br />Admission: Free for Indonesian citizens<br />Location: Jl. Ujung Pandang, Bulo Gading, Makassar<br />Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for optimal lighting and cooler temperatures<br />The fort is easily accessible by public transportation, private vehicles, or ride-sharing services. Parking facilities are available on-site, and the location is within walking distance of other Makassar attractions, making it convenient to include in your city tour itinerary.<br /><br />A Living Testament to History<br />Fort Rotterdam is more than just an ordinary tourist destination—it stands as a silent witness to historical journeys that connect the past with the present. The combination of educational value, architectural beauty, and captivating photography experiences makes this place a must-visit when in Makassar.<br />The fortress represents the complex layers of Indonesian history, from the powerful Gowa Kingdom to Dutch colonial rule, and finally to Indonesia's independence. Walking through its corridors and chambers, visitors can almost hear the echoes of historical events that shaped not only Makassar but the entire Indonesian archipelago.<br />For history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and casual travelers alike, Fort Rotterdam offers a unique window into Indonesia's rich maritime heritage and colonial past, making it an essential stop on any Makassar adventure.<br /><br /><br />Have you had any interesting experiences while visiting Fort Rotterdam? Or do you have questions about this historical destination? Please share in the comments section below. Thank you for reading!<br />

(NewsUSA) - As the calendar flips to another year, many employees will consider starting the new year on the hunt for a new job. In today's changing workforce, it is more important than ever for companies to realize that a salary alone is no longer enough to recruit or retain strong employees. According to a recent survey by Aflac, small businesses deserve a round of applause for their ability to keep employees happy. The report found that 85 percent of small-business employees are happy in their current job and more than half (51 percent) agree that most of or all of their happiness in their current job is because is a result of working for a small business.<br /> <br /> The keys to happiness<br /> <br /> Nearly a quarter of participants (23 percent) stated that the feeling of importance was the best part of working for a small business. Small businesses have the unique ability to make employees feel appreciated, respected and valued on a personal and professional level. In a small business environment, there are typically fewer layers between newcomers and leadership. This tight-knit structure of small businesses can create a family-like atmosphere that allows employees to feel that their opinions matter and that they play a significant role in the business's mission.<br /> <br /> Flexibility is also vital in creating employee happiness. According to the report, 30 percent of respondents noted that flexible scheduling was the best part of working for a small business. This can include working from home, leaving work early to play in a summer sports league or giving new parents an extra week of paid time off to help care for their newborn. A workplace that promotes healthy work-life balance can create happier, less stressed employees and can also increase employee productivity on the job.<br /> <br /> Unlocking improvements<br /> <br /> Although small businesses excel at keeping employees happy, there is always room for improvement. In a small-business community, money does not seem to be the only motivator. In fact, 65 percent of small-business employees indicate that an improvement in their benefits offerings would make them happier employees. By offering a robust benefits plan that includes voluntary benefits, small businesses can ensure that their employees are able to find the right benefits to meet their individual needs.<br /> <br /> Learn more at <a class="no-ajax" target='_blank' href="https://aflac.com/smallbusiness">https://aflac.com/smallbusiness</a><br /><br /> <br /> Ref: Business - in Blogs