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How To Avoid Getting Malaria When Travelling

Malaria is an illness that is still highly prevalent around the world. This disease, caused by the bite of the female Anopheles mosquito, can be life-threatening. The infection is usually more rampant in warm tropical and subtropical climates where the parasite thrives easily. So if you are travelling elsewhere, take some steps to take care of yourself. In this case, prevention is definitely better than cure!

The first step is to find out if this disease is prevalent in the area where you intend to travel. If so, a visit to your doctor is due. Obtain antimalarial medication and carry it with you.

Once there, you can take a number of preventative measures to ensure that you don’t contract malaria. The most sensible thing would be to try and not get bitten by mosquitoes. But this might not be as easy as you would think. You can, however, try these tricks to see if it works:

  • Mosquitoes are active from dusk to dawn, so try to stay indoors during this period as much as possible.
  • Try to get a room with air-conditioning, as that usually drives the mosquitoes out. They prefer warmth.
  • Spray your room with a mosquito repellent in the late afternoon before the mosquitoes enter. This will prevent the mosquitoes from coming in, and you won’t have to breathe the chemicals over the night. You can find out from the locals which is the most effective repellent.
  • Mosquito repellent ointments are also available. You can spread this liberally on the exposed portion of your skin when you go out or while you sleep.
  • If you go out during the evenings, try to keep your skin covered. Wear full sleeves and cover your legs. Light coloured clothing can also act as a repellent to the mosquitoes.
  • If you are camping out, then make sure that your camping gear is treated with insecticides. Your gear should definitely include mosquito nets for sleeping in.

But even with the best intentions and precautions, people do fall prey to the disease. When this happens, consult the nearest doctor at the earliest to confirm the diagnosis. The symptoms include nausea, tiredness, aches, shaking, fever, and general fatigue. The illness can become manifest around 10 days to 4 weeks after infection, though in some cases, people have been known to become ill after several months.

A blood test is the best way to get yourself diagnosed, so go to a hospital quickly. If you can’t reach a doctor right away, then take antimalarial medication until you can reach one. Once diagnosed, you can start your treatment. Since this infection is often prone to relapse as the parasite can live in your bloodstream for up to 4 years, it is important for you to complete the full course of the treatment and go back for check-ups.

Malaria can give you a tough time, but it is a disease that you can both prevent and cure, provided you are careful.

Travel

3 Tips to Improving Your Safety on the Roads

Each time you get behind the wheel of your car or truck, do you feel as if you are as safe as possible out there?

For millions of drivers, safety unfortunately takes a back seat to reckless driving. As a result, they put themselves and others at risk. In some cases, those risks end up resulting in serious injuries and even death.

While you can’t control the actions of others on the road, you can in fact determine how you drive when behind the wheel.

With that being the case, are you ready to improve your safety on the roads?

Being a Safer Driver Starting Today

So that you lessen the chances of being in an accident, remember these tips to improve your safety:

1. Preparedness

One of the main reasons drivers get into accidents in the first place is rushing. Whether they leave late or they do not take into account inclement weather, they can find trouble.

Always do your best to take your time when heading out. This is true even if you’re only running a mile or two from home to the store or an appointment. There is never a good reason to speed somewhere.

Part of that preparedness also transfers over to your vehicle.

Make sure you prepare your car or truck to be as road-ready as possible. This means regular maintenance visits to your mechanic. It also requires spending the money when brakes are in need of repair or a tire or two is lacking tread.

By making your times on the road as safe as possible, you can very well live to tell everyone about it.

2. Recklessness

As part of your preparations and those for your vehicle, don’t be one of the countless reckless drivers.

Among some of the more common reckless traits:

· Speeding – Even if you had someone in the vehicle about to deliver a baby, there is no reason to speed. Sure, everyone goes a few miles over the limits at times, but that’s where it should end.

· Distractions – From your phone to using makeup or an electric razor, avoid distractions. It only takes a second or two of removing your eyes from the road to cause quite an accident.

· Tickets – Are you wondering if you have a reckless driving ticket or two you may have forgotten? If so, you could be driving around looking over your shoulder whenever you see police. Use one of the online services out there that can show you if you should worry about getting pulled over.

3. Rage

Although it can become easy to get into a rage over someone cutting you off, tailgated, or even flipped off, don’t do it.

While some road rage incidents end up nothing more than a quick exchange, others get more serious.

In the event someone does something to get your ire, do your best to turn the other cheek and drive away.

By doing so, you keep yourself and others out of harm’s way whether on a local drive or a road trip.

With these tips in mind, are you ready for a safer drive each time out?

Travel

Summer Getaway: Some “Must Visit” Coastal Retreats

Although summer is about halfway through, it’s not too late to plan a getaway for a long weekend or a week. Maybe you have gone to the same cabin every year for as long as you can remember or maybe you’re just fresh out of vacation ideas.

Whether traveling alone and splurging on luxury or are traveling with the family, check out these coastal retreats for something a little different this summer:

On The East Coast

When the East Coast is mentioned, people may mention the fishing harbors of the Northeast, the boardwalk of Atlantic City, or the sandy beaches of Florida. Coastal resorts might not be the first thing that comes to mind. The versatility of the East Coast means that there are many diverse resort options; here are a few:

The Cloister at Sea Island

Want to feel like you’re vacationing in the Mediterranean? The Cloister was built in 1928, and the has since been restored with some modern add-ons. The architecture alone feels exotic, and the amenities are designed for the traveler who wants to treat him or herself.

Perfect for a trip alone or with your family, The Cloister is on the Southeastern coast of Georgia, and there is a five-mile long private beach for guests at the resort. Whether you want to take a dip in the pool, learn how to sail, or even go horseback riding on the beach, there’s plenty to do without worrying about the crowds of tourists.

Stockton Seaview Hotel and Golf Club

If you’ve saved up to enjoy a luxurious and relaxing vacation, consider the Stockton Seaview Hotel and Golf Club. Built in 1912, Seaview has been popular among the rich and famous as well as families and “everyday” people escaping the stressors of daily life.

Even if you’re not a golfing pro, it would be a shame to pass up on the opportunity to play. If you’re looking for a place to relax and indulge in a spa treatment, Seaview is the place to go. It’s close to Atlantic City so you can do a little gambling or if you want to sit by the pool and play some online poker or slots, just visit a top online casino.

West Coast

West coast beaches are quintessential summer, and while they are fun to visit, they become overcrowded in a hurry. Want to do something a little bit different? Here are a few resorts to consider:

Paradise Point Resort and Spa

This resort and spa is located on a private, 44-acre island in the Mission Bay area of San Diego. If you’re traveling alone and hoping for some quiet time, don’t let the family-friendly atmosphere deter you; remember, there’s lots of space to spread out and enjoy all the amenities Paradise Point has to offer.

Want to learn how to surf, get a massage, or just hang out with your dog? Paradise Point is the place to as much or as little as you want in the perfect San Diego weather.

Coast Cabins

Want a little more privacy than a resort hotel? If you head Northwest to Manzanita, Oregon, you can stay at one of the Coast Cabins. These cabins are just a half a mile from the ocean, and the cabins have modern amenities but comforts of home like a kitchen or wood stove.

While these cabins may not be as high-brow as other coastal resorts, sometimes a minimalist resort is just what you need to relax and enjoy your summer getaway.

Travel

3 Safety Factors for Your Next Road Trip

Are you ready to head out on a road trip? If so, how safe of an experience do you expect it to be?

For millions of Americans hitting the roads, it is imperative their trips focus on safety. That said is safety always of prime importance to you?

Making for a safe road trip doesn’t have to be like pulling teeth.

By having commonsense, along with vehicle safety features, you can oftentimes avoid accidents.

So, are you prepared to get going on your next adventure on the roads?

Making Safety Your Number One Priority

When you make safety your number one priority, good things oftentimes happen.

That being the case, remember these all-important safety factors:

1. Your vehicle

What you drive ends up playing a major factor in keeping you and your loved ones safe on the roads. That said does your vehicle have all the safety features it needs?

One feature that may get overlooked yet plays a major role in keeping people safe is a backup camera system.

If you do not have one on your vehicle, the idea of installing a wireless backup camera system is a good decision.

The system helps remove what are blind spots. Those blind spots can end up being major factors in accidents. Even accidents at low speeds can prove quite destructive in more ways than one.

Once you have a wireless backup camera system, you are better prepared to see the following:

· Other vehicles nearby

· Individuals moving behind your car or truck

· Stationery objects like concrete walls or even poles in the ground

By making sure your vehicle is as sound as possible, you can reduce the chances for an accident.

2. Your driving

As it relates to your driving, be sure to follow the rules of the road whenever you start your vehicle. Even a momentary lapse in judgment can end up having devastating consequences.

For instance, if road rage gets the better of you, you could end up with more than an accident. In some cases, drivers and/or passengers have died when a situation got out of control.

In the event someone is causing you angst, it is best to get away from the situation as soon as possible.

If another driver continues to cause issues, do whatever you can to alert authorities. Although using your cell phone when driving is not a good idea, you may end up having to call 911.

With commonsense; chances of being in an accident or other negative situation decrease.

3. Your trip

As much as you want to avoid accidents and road rage they unfortunately can occur. That said do your best to focus on your road trip.

In concentrating on your road trip, be sure to plan your itinerary as completely as possible.

This means having your vehicle ready to roll and also making sure that you avoid:

· Drowsy driving – It only takes a second to lose control of your vehicle when you nod off.

· Drinking and driving – There is never an excuse for having one too many and getting behind the wheel.

· Reckless driving – From speeding to always changing lanes, don’t be the one everyone hates.

When the time comes for your next road trip, are you going to be as safe as you can be?

Travel

Making the most of a trip to Lyon

Going on a trip to Lyon? This post will give you itinerary ideas.

Most people fly into Paris when going on vacation in France, but if you want to center your trip around the Alps, you’re better off landing in Lyon, France’s second largest city.

With views of the mountains being possible from its tallest buildings, this well-aged and attractive city is the perfect place to kick off a visit to this corner of Europe.

Airport transportation in Lyon is plentiful, but if you want to experience the best possible service after spending hours on an airplane, we recommend hiring a private car to take you to your hotel.

With drivers who are polite, courteous, and knowledgeable about the city’s layout, you’ll be ensuring the last part of your travel day goes smoothly.

After you get settled and have a chance to sleep off your jet lag, check out the following sights in the city of Lyon:

1) Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière

While it may not be as famous as churches in bigger cities like Paris, the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière is one of Lyon’s top attractions for several reasons.

First, the interior of the church is nothing short of breathtaking, as it will dazzle you with its ornately carved pillars and impossibly intricate mosaics on its ceiling.

Second, it is home to Lyon’s Museum of Sacred Art, which is filled with paintings, murals, and drawings depicting various biblical scenes.

Finally, members of the public are permitted to climb its north tower, granting unmatched views over the city of Lyon. On a clear day, it is possible to see Mont Blanc, France’s tallest mountain, so don’t miss it.

2) Roman Theater

Lyon has plenty of history on offer as well. Humans have been living here since the days of the Romans, as this city was born out of a need to establish a place of exile for the lieutenants of the recently assassinated Julius Caesar.

Named Lugdunum, it gave rise to two Roman Emperors (Claudius and Carcalla), and a whole host of ancient structures.

Over the millennia, though, most were quarried or became buried as human acts and natural processes erased this ancient city from view.

Thankfully, archeological digs have managed to unearth a few outstanding sites around the city.

Lyon’s Roman Theater is among the most impressive of these, as its stone benches, performance stage, and support pillars have stood up to the rigors of time surprisingly well.

In fact, it is so sturdy that it continues to be used for cultural events to this day. Check with the tourism office on arrival and you might be able to attend a show here.

3) Vieux Lyon

While virtually all Roman buildings have been reduced to rubble, there are plenty of beautiful structures in Lyon dating from the Renaissance Era.

Found in Vieux Lyon (aka the Old City), there are plenty of amazing churches, museums, narrow lane ways, and stunning architecture that can be found in this stunning part of town not to mention the boutique stores where you can find the best French perfume brands on sale.

In the course of your wandering, be sure to find a quiet cafe, grab a French pastry and a coffee and soak in the moment: this is just the start of a memorable vacation in France.

Entertainment, Style, Travel

Who Parties Harder? Bachelors or Bachelorettes

Pre-wedding parties have been tradition since anyone can remember. The groom and his guys all get together to have a bachelor party which the bride and her bridesmaids get together for a wild bachelorette party. Both parties typically include a mountain of alcohol, sleazy strippers, and dirty hotel rooms but which party is more wild for the night? There has been much discussion in the past about which group parties harder, and there’s evidence on both sides of the aisle. Here’s my take:

Bachelor Parties and How They Rage

Bachelor parties have long been famous for complete debauchery. Most parties will include insanely drunk groomsmen, strippers, and a location that inspires madness. Forget about The Hangover, no one is ending up with a tiger. Most parties start with a road trip to an unforgettable location and fills the guest list with best friends, strippers, and bartenders. It has been said that sometimes the groom figures out that he doesn’t want to be married following a bachelor party, because he has found that all he wants is meaningless sex, but that’s typically not the case. With most grooms, they’ll be so happy to escape their wild friends and get back safely to the woman that they love. Sure, everyone loves a lap dance, but you’re more likely to see unbelievable bachelor parties in a movie than in real life.

Bachelorette Parties

Bachelorette parties are comprised of the bride and her bridesmaids, but they shouldn’t ever be considered innocent. These parties also can include strippers, booze, and friends but they also have something else: tons of penis shaped paraphernalia. Bachelorette parties are almost famous for being covered in neon colored, plastic penises. Hollywood has shown that bachelorette parties can get just as crazy as the male counterpart. However, in real life, you’re far more likely to see a party that starts strong with strippers and shots and then winds down with a couple of friends discussing their futures. The bride will usually pass out in the hotel room before most of her friends because she’s been fed shots and kept close.

So Who Parties Harder?

Bachelorette parties definitely go harder than bachelor parties. Most bachelor parties are grooms and their groomsmen just getting together for a relaxing night when, all of a sudden, a stripper shows up. Don’t get me wrong, that’s a lot of fun, but it doesn’t really pass for a wild night of drunken shenanigans. This is because bachelor parties are typically just a way for the groom to sit down with his friends and enjoy a final night of being unaccounted for while the other kind of party is more of a free-for-all. Bachelorette parties go super hard because there is, most times, a dangerous amount of alcohol being given to the bride. She’ll get so drunk that some members of the party might think of alcohol poisoning. Anyone that drunk is liable to do some crazy stuff, especially when a huge life event is on the horizon.