Color and Current: Scuba Diving in Alor

Although my visit to Alor, Indonesia was far too brief — a lifetime would hardly be enough — when I think of how to describe the scuba diving in Alor, color and currents are the two words that immediately leap to mind. Note: Alor is not a destination for novice divers. The currents both above and below the surface can be unpredictable and strong. Our group was blown off one popular dive site because the currents that morning were just too strong for a safe dive, and we had to execute negative entries at multiple other sites. Because of this, make sure you have an experienced guide who knows the area well, like Donovan from Dive Alor Dive.

Aside from sometimes swift-moving waters and colorful reefs, what can divers expect in Alor?

[See image gallery at scubadiverlife.com]

Off the beaten path

It takes some work to get to Alor — six hours of flying and transit between Bali, Kupang, and Alor. Once you arrive in Kalabahi, the only town in Alor, you'll see that the islands of the Alor Archipelago certainly aren't a bustling tourist destination. This means you won't find 5-star hotels — but you also won't find jam-packed dive boats and crowds. Your dives will inevitably be more personal, and your group may be the only one on the site. Your focus here will be the diving, as there's not much else to draw tourists. There are limited accommodations with limited amenities and few, if any, restaurants.  Alor is truly a place for adventurous divers who don't mind remote and rural locations.

Scuba diving in Alor

The diversity of the scuba diving in Alor is truly mind-boggling. You'll find drop-offs and pinnacles, sloping walls and swim-throughs. If you love macro and muck diving, you're in for a treat. Did I mention the visibility? It's easily 120 feet (40 m) most of the time with water temperatures from 77 to 89 F (25 to 32 C). The reefs and walls are colorful and full of life, even if you need a bit of experience to dive them.

You can see the world's largest aggregation of anemones — and their colorful resident anemonefish — at Valley of the Clowns (also known as Clown Valley). Other sites feature mandarinfish, blue-ringed octopus, harlequin sweetlips, nudibranchs, frogfish and countless other reef fish. You might also spot various rays, napoleon wrasse, barracuda, wobbegongs, and blacktip reef sharks. Mola molas and thresher sharks appear occasionally, as well as dolphins. We saw huge pods of dolphins on our way to and from multiple dive sites.

 

Some of the dive sites draw the local children, who will congregate around the dive boat. They'll show off their own diving skills, usually wearing homemade goggles, if any, and engage the visiting divers in various kinds of play. I let one child use my dive mask after he asked. It nearly swallowed his entire face, but he didn't seem to care as he laughed and carried on diving under the water and showing it off to the kids around him. I'll be honest — this interaction was one of the highlights of my entire trip.

 

Best time to go

You can dive year-round in Alor, but the best diving is from March to December. There's a little more current in October and November, and if you're keen to see a mola mola, you may want to visit in September when your chances are higher.

All in all, Alor offers a diversity of world-class, advanced diving on lively reefs, with amazing visibility in warm waters. The low-key, uncrowded atmosphere is just the cherry on top.

For more on diving and travel in Indonesia, visit Wonderful Indonesia.

 

The post Color and Current: Scuba Diving in Alor appeared first on Scuba Diver Life.

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Color and Current: Scuba Diving in Alor

Although my visit to Alor, Indonesia was far too brief — a lifetime would hardly be enough — when I think of how to describe the scuba diving in Alor, color and currents are the two words that immediately leap to mind. Note: Alor is not a destination for novice divers. The currents both above and below the surface can be unpredictable and strong. Our group was blown off one popular dive site because the currents that morning were just too strong for a safe dive, and we had to execute negative entries at multiple other sites. Because of this, make sure you have an experienced guide who knows the area well, like Donovan from Dive Alor Dive.

Aside from sometimes swift-moving waters and colorful reefs, what can divers expect in Alor?

[See image gallery at scubadiverlife.com]

Off the beaten path

It takes some work to get to Alor — six hours of flying and transit between Bali, Kupang, and Alor. Once you arrive in Kalabahi, the only town in Alor, you’ll see that the islands of the Alor Archipelago certainly aren’t a bustling tourist destination. This means you won’t find 5-star hotels — but you also won’t find jam-packed dive boats and crowds. Your dives will inevitably be more personal, and your group may be the only one on the site. Your focus here will be the diving, as there’s not much else to draw tourists. There are limited accommodations with limited amenities and few, if any, restaurants.  Alor is truly a place for adventurous divers who don’t mind remote and rural locations.

Scuba diving in Alor

The diversity of the scuba diving in Alor is truly mind-boggling. You’ll find drop-offs and pinnacles, sloping walls and swim-throughs. If you love macro and muck diving, you’re in for a treat. Did I mention the visibility? It’s easily 120 feet (40 m) most of the time with water temperatures from 77 to 89 F (25 to 32 C). The reefs and walls are colorful and full of life, even if you need a bit of experience to dive them.

You can see the world’s largest aggregation of anemones — and their colorful resident anemonefish — at Valley of the Clowns (also known as Clown Valley). Other sites feature mandarinfish, blue-ringed octopus, harlequin sweetlips, nudibranchs, frogfish and countless other reef fish. You might also spot various rays, napoleon wrasse, barracuda, wobbegongs, and blacktip reef sharks. Mola molas and thresher sharks appear occasionally, as well as dolphins. We saw huge pods of dolphins on our way to and from multiple dive sites.

 

Some of the dive sites draw the local children, who will congregate around the dive boat. They’ll show off their own diving skills, usually wearing homemade goggles, if any, and engage the visiting divers in various kinds of play. I let one child use my dive mask after he asked. It nearly swallowed his entire face, but he didn’t seem to care as he laughed and carried on diving under the water and showing it off to the kids around him. I’ll be honest — this interaction was one of the highlights of my entire trip.

 

Best time to go

You can dive year-round in Alor, but the best diving is from March to December. There’s a little more current in October and November, and if you’re keen to see a mola mola, you may want to visit in September when your chances are higher.

All in all, Alor offers a diversity of world-class, advanced diving on lively reefs, with amazing visibility in warm waters. The low-key, uncrowded atmosphere is just the cherry on top.

For more on diving and travel in Indonesia, visit Wonderful Indonesia.

 

The post Color and Current: Scuba Diving in Alor appeared first on Scuba Diver Life.

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Diving the Bahamas with Stuart Cove’s and SeaBob

Imagine gliding effortlessly alongside some of the oceans' most beautiful and majestic creatures. Dream of how it would feel to be as agile and (nearly) as fast as sharks, rays, and big fish. Tantalize yourself with thoughts of feeling even more at one with the ocean and its inhabitants than you ever dreamed you could. Now, head to Stuart Cove's in the Bahamas, grab a SeaBob and make that dream a reality.

Diving with SeaBob and Stuart Cove's

Stuart Cove's shark program is world-renowned and wildly popular among shark lovers and conservationists alike.  Now they've added a new element to that incredible opportunity: the Seabob DPV. I was lucky enough to take part in Stuart Cove's initial launch of their SeaBob program, wherein you can choose to dive (or snorkel) with the DPV. Diving with Stuart Cove's in the Bahamas is an incredible experience regardless, but diving with sharks during their shark-feeding dive is even more so.  Now, instead of just kneeling on the bottom watching the sharks, you can zip around the water with them on the fastest and quietest DPV on the market.

If sharks aren't your thing, you can just do a "normal" dive with a Seabob, or take one snorkeling and/or freediving. Either way, you'll be impressed with the DPV's speed — so much so that you'll find it difficult to hang on at full speed. That it's so quiet also helps keep the marine life from scurrying off more quickly than they normally would.

SeaBobs also have both selfie and front-view cameras that can catch video of your entire dive. Here's a quick video of some footage I caught:

Who should dive with a SeaBob?

One thing to note: diving with a SeaBob is definitely not for beginners. Divers using a DPV must have good depth control and a strong understanding of how important it is to keep themselves from ascending too quickly or dropping to a dangerous depth. They must be fully aware of their surroundings at all times to avoid collisions with other DPVs, marine life, wrecks or reefs.

Stuart Cove's is one of the world's top spots for great shark dives, and now it's one of the only places in the world you can rent a SeaBob DPV to go on a magical underwater tour – in style.

Featured images by Manuela Kirschner

The post Diving the Bahamas with Stuart Cove's and SeaBob appeared first on Scuba Diver Life.

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Diving the Bahamas with Stuart Cove’s and SeaBob

Imagine gliding effortlessly alongside some of the oceans’ most beautiful and majestic creatures. Dream of how it would feel to be as agile and (nearly) as fast as sharks, rays, and big fish. Tantalize yourself with thoughts of feeling even more at one with the ocean and its inhabitants than you ever dreamed you could. Now, head to Stuart Cove’s in the Bahamas, grab a SeaBob and make that dream a reality.

Diving with SeaBob and Stuart Cove’s

Stuart Cove’s shark program is world-renowned and wildly popular among shark lovers and conservationists alike.  Now they’ve added a new element to that incredible opportunity: the Seabob DPV. I was lucky enough to take part in Stuart Cove’s initial launch of their SeaBob program, wherein you can choose to dive (or snorkel) with the DPV. Diving with Stuart Cove’s in the Bahamas is an incredible experience regardless, but diving with sharks during their shark-feeding dive is even more so.  Now, instead of just kneeling on the bottom watching the sharks, you can zip around the water with them on the fastest and quietest DPV on the market.

If sharks aren’t your thing, you can just do a “normal” dive with a Seabob, or take one snorkeling and/or freediving. Either way, you’ll be impressed with the DPV’s speed — so much so that you’ll find it difficult to hang on at full speed. That it’s so quiet also helps keep the marine life from scurrying off more quickly than they normally would.

SeaBobs also have both selfie and front-view cameras that can catch video of your entire dive. Here’s a quick video of some footage I caught:

Who should dive with a SeaBob?

One thing to note: diving with a SeaBob is definitely not for beginners. Divers using a DPV must have good depth control and a strong understanding of how important it is to keep themselves from ascending too quickly or dropping to a dangerous depth. They must be fully aware of their surroundings at all times to avoid collisions with other DPVs, marine life, wrecks or reefs.

Stuart Cove’s is one of the world’s top spots for great shark dives, and now it’s one of the only places in the world you can rent a SeaBob DPV to go on a magical underwater tour – in style.

Featured images by Manuela Kirschner

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HEBS Digital awarded nine Travel Weekly Magellan Awards

With entries from across the U.S. and around the world, the Magellan Award winners represent the best in the travel industry and salute the outstanding travel professionals behind it all.

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For Hyatt automation has a dark side

Hyatt is exploring automation, but it doesn't see robots replacing human beings in hotels. Digiday talked with Maryam Banikarim, global CMO of Hyatt, about the future of automation, home rentals and Amazon.

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TripAdvisor CEO responds to analyst critiques of its hotel search strategy

Analysts continue to critique TripAdvisor's near-term tactics. But CEO Steve Kaufer said that no other company is as well-positioned to create value on mobile in the long run as his own.

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Sabre reimagines lodging with new content services solution

Planned for a 2018 launch, the new solution will integrate multiple sources of content including the Sabre GDS and non-GDS sources such as aggregators, re-distributors, agency-sourced hotel content and other sources as identified.

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Hotels add digital pay to accommodate Chinese travelers

The Chinese digital payment economy is massive - and growing. Hotel companies are catching onto this trend by partnering with Chinese digital wallet companies to capture a greater share of the growing Chinese outbound travel market.

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Google is testing new calls to action for hotel reservations

The company is testing "Book a Room", "Reserve a Room", and "Compare Rates" calls to action in hotels' Knowledge Panels.

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Slack CEO: How we’ll use AI to reduce information overload

Slack CEO Stewart Butterfield spoke to MIT Technology Review about the ways the company plans to use AI to keep people from feeling overwhelmed with data.

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Paid search audience targeting leads to increased conversions

Google's audience targeting was originally only available on display networks and YouTube campaigns, but in May 2017, Google expanded audience targeting to its paid search ad network.

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Deepblu Launches Dive Pro Campaign — Pros Can Validate Logs, Win Dive Computers

Deepblu has announced a campaign, aptly called “Dive Like A Pro,” to share the benefits of their support features for dive pros. Through the app, pros can connect with students, share dive logs, validate training logs, and use their pages to gain exposure within the industry.

In the campaign, Deepblu is attracting pros to the platform by raising awareness of these features, as well as giving perks out to the community. The “Dive Like a Pro” event is giving out 10 pairs of Deepblu COSMIQ dive computers to pros and their students who verify logs on the platform; in addition, those pros who don’t win are eligible for one of 30 surface marker buoys.

Learn more about it and win: https://goo.gl/hmyhzt 

Perfect for Pros

Why are dive professionals using Deepblu to verify customers’ logs? Because it’s convenient, easy-to-use, and dive pros can build their own reputations on Deepblu.

Now, with new features such as dive-log verification, it’s easier than ever to get things done out on the water. Leaving behind soggy pens and paper, students can send their dive log to their pro via the platform and have it validated with a simple click.

In addition to being a dive tool, Deepblu is the fastest growing online community for divers. This means pros can share video, stories, logs, photos, and links that get their brand out into the world. With this kind of connectivity, there’s virtually no limit to what we can do.

Check out the latest video on “Seven Features That Benefit Dive Pros on Deepblu,”  and contact DeepBlu at info@deepblu.com for more information.

 

 

The post Deepblu Launches Dive Pro Campaign — Pros Can Validate Logs, Win Dive Computers appeared first on Scuba Diver Life.

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Deepblu Launches Dive Pro Campaign — Pros Can Validate Logs, Win Dive Computers

Deepblu has announced a campaign, aptly called "Dive Like A Pro," to share the benefits of their support features for dive pros. Through the app, pros can connect with students, share dive logs, validate training logs, and use their pages to gain exposure within the industry.

In the campaign, Deepblu is attracting pros to the platform by raising awareness of these features, as well as giving perks out to the community. The "Dive Like a Pro" event is giving out 10 pairs of Deepblu COSMIQ dive computers to pros and their students who verify logs on the platform; in addition, those pros who don't win are eligible for one of 30 surface marker buoys.

Learn more about it and win: https://goo.gl/hmyhzt 

Perfect for Pros

Why are dive professionals using Deepblu to verify customers' logs? Because it's convenient, easy-to-use, and dive pros can build their own reputations on Deepblu.

Now, with new features such as dive-log verification, it's easier than ever to get things done out on the water. Leaving behind soggy pens and paper, students can send their dive log to their pro via the platform and have it validated with a simple click.

In addition to being a dive tool, Deepblu is the fastest growing online community for divers. This means pros can share video, stories, logs, photos, and links that get their brand out into the world. With this kind of connectivity, there's virtually no limit to what we can do.

Check out the latest video on "Seven Features That Benefit Dive Pros on Deepblu,"  and contact DeepBlu at info@deepblu.com for more information.

 

 

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Reside by Marcon at Cambie Village

RESIDE is an exclusive collection of one, two and three bedroom homes with a coveted Westside Vancouver address. With some of Vancouver’s best parks and amenities close by, this is a well-established neighbourhood. RESIDE will be home to 33 concrete homes and 2 floors of parking. RESIDE is situated near shopping, parks, top-ranked schools, entertainment and dining. Langara Golf Course and Winona Park are within walking distance for you to enjoy Vancouver’s great outdoors. Vancouver International Airport is less than 10 minutes away when you board the Canada Line at Marine Drive Station.

Marcon Developments began as a construction company and gave them the experience to deliver homes not only of high standards, but also of high value. Since inception, they have given the keys to homeowners to more than 10,000 new homes and helped dreams become reality. Marcon has developed some notable residences over the years, such as the first high-rise in Canada to achieve LEED certification. Building to these standards helps to future-proof your home, as well as allowing you to breathe easy from the first day you move in.

The post Reside by Marcon at Cambie Village appeared first on Vancouver New Condos.

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Reside by Marcon at Cambie Village

RESIDE is an exclusive collection of one, two and three bedroom homes with a coveted Westside Vancouver address. With some of Vancouver's best parks and amenities close by, this is a well-established neighbourhood. RESIDE will be home to 33 concrete homes and 2 floors of parking. RESIDE is situated near shopping, parks, top-ranked schools, entertainment and dining. Langara Golf Course and Winona Park are within walking distance for you to enjoy Vancouver's great outdoors. Vancouver International Airport is less than 10 minutes away when you board the Canada Line at Marine Drive Station.

Marcon Developments began as a construction company and gave them the experience to deliver homes not only of high standards, but also of high value. Since inception, they have given the keys to homeowners to more than 10,000 new homes and helped dreams become reality. Marcon has developed some notable residences over the years, such as the first high-rise in Canada to achieve LEED certification. Building to these standards helps to future-proof your home, as well as allowing you to breathe easy from the first day you move in.

The post Reside by Marcon at Cambie Village appeared first on Vancouver New Condos.

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Introducing the New SeaLife Super Macro Lens

Available October 1, 2017, SeaLife’s new Super Macro lens allows photographers to shoot as close as 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) with the SeaLife DC2000. Without the macro lens, the DC2000’s auto focus lens can shoot as close as 4 inches (10.15 cm). Gaining that extra close-up shooting distance means macro shooters can capture stunning details of the tiniest sea creatures.

Philippe Eggert, of SeaLife Indonesia, has been testing the new Super Macro Lens — and the results are stunning.

With the new lens, you can capture the crisp details of these miniscule sea creatures, resulting in striking photos that will truly take your breath away.

The SeaLife Super Macro Lens

The Super Macro lens is constructed of optical-grade glass with broadband AR coating on the inner surfaces to maximize light transmission and prevent flaring. The two-element/two-group optics feature a +10-diopter lens that shortens the camera’s minimum shooting distance by more than 50 percent. All the optics are housed in corrosion-resistant, anodized-aluminum frame that’s depth-rated to 330 feet (100 m).

The lens has a 52mm thread mount for attaching to any underwater housing with 52mm mounting threads. Included with the lens is a 52mm thread-mount adapter that fits onto any SeaLife DC-series housing, including the new SeaLife DC2000. The 52mm thread adapter quickly and easily pushes on to the front of the SeaLife DC housing lens port for a tight, secure hold. Once you attach the thread adapter, simply thread the 52mm Super Macro Lens on. The same applies to any other third party 52mm lens or filter. This universal design gives divers the freedom to use the super-macro lens on other housings [with 52mm threads] or use other 52mm lenses on SeaLife DC-series housings.

SeaLife will also be launching the 52mm thread mount along with a 52-67mm step-up ring, so users have a wide variety of non-SeaLife branded lenses and filters to choose from.

“With the addition of the thread mount adapter and our new Super Macro Lens, the creative range of the DC2000 and other SeaLife DC Series cameras will be greatly enhanced” said Bjorn Harms, SeaLife’s VP and lead product developer.

The new lens and mount will be available on October 1^st. The Super Macro lens with 52mm DC Thread Mount Adapter will retail for $129.95; the 52mm Threaded Adapter for SeaLife DC-series housings will retail for $39.95; the SeaLife 52mm to 67mm Step-up Ring will retail for $29.95.

 

The post Introducing the New SeaLife Super Macro Lens appeared first on Scuba Diver Life.

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Introducing the New SeaLife Super Macro Lens

Available October 1, 2017, SeaLife's new Super Macro lens allows photographers to shoot as close as 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) with the SeaLife DC2000. Without the macro lens, the DC2000's auto focus lens can shoot as close as 4 inches (10.15 cm). Gaining that extra close-up shooting distance means macro shooters can capture stunning details of the tiniest sea creatures.

Philippe Eggert, of SeaLife Indonesia, has been testing the new Super Macro Lens — and the results are stunning.

With the new lens, you can capture the crisp details of these miniscule sea creatures, resulting in striking photos that will truly take your breath away.

The SeaLife Super Macro Lens

The Super Macro lens is constructed of optical-grade glass with broadband AR coating on the inner surfaces to maximize light transmission and prevent flaring. The two-element/two-group optics feature a +10-diopter lens that shortens the camera's minimum shooting distance by more than 50 percent. All the optics are housed in corrosion-resistant, anodized-aluminum frame that's depth-rated to 330 feet (100 m).

The lens has a 52mm thread mount for attaching to any underwater housing with 52mm mounting threads. Included with the lens is a 52mm thread-mount adapter that fits onto any SeaLife DC-series housing, including the new SeaLife DC2000. The 52mm thread adapter quickly and easily pushes on to the front of the SeaLife DC housing lens port for a tight, secure hold. Once you attach the thread adapter, simply thread the 52mm Super Macro Lens on. The same applies to any other third party 52mm lens or filter. This universal design gives divers the freedom to use the super-macro lens on other housings [with 52mm threads] or use other 52mm lenses on SeaLife DC-series housings.

SeaLife will also be launching the 52mm thread mount along with a 52-67mm step-up ring, so users have a wide variety of non-SeaLife branded lenses and filters to choose from.

"With the addition of the thread mount adapter and our new Super Macro Lens, the creative range of the DC2000 and other SeaLife DC Series cameras will be greatly enhanced" said Bjorn Harms, SeaLife's VP and lead product developer.

The new lens and mount will be available on October 1^st. The Super Macro lens with 52mm DC Thread Mount Adapter will retail for $129.95; the 52mm Threaded Adapter for SeaLife DC-series housings will retail for $39.95; the SeaLife 52mm to 67mm Step-up Ring will retail for $29.95.

 

The post Introducing the New SeaLife Super Macro Lens appeared first on Scuba Diver Life.

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Can Airbnb help hotels increase revenue?

A new study confirms that the supply of Airbnb listings in a market brings down a hotel's RevPAR performance, confirming Airbnb's negative impact on hotels. However, the study also founds that price difference between a hotel and the Airbnb listings are positively related to a hotel's RevPAR performance.

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Goodnight room: Hotels and resorts put focus on sleep

Beyond providing amenities such as blackout shades, high-end pillow-top mattresses and soothing lights, some hotel companies are putting a new wrinkle on wellness-oriented goods and services by touting programs designed to ensure that guests get sufficient sleep.

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MailChimp adds Google Ads as it becomes a multichannel platform

After integrating Facebook and Instagram Ads earlier this year, MailChimp took another step toward becoming a multichannel marketing platform, announcing that users can now create and deploy Google Remarketing Ads within its dashboard.

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Data and analytics can help you distribute your hotel inventory effectively

Various distribution channels ranging from call/walk-ins, GDSs to diverse online channels like OTAs, metasearch sites, and social media have made the profitable hotel distribution task more intricate and complex than ever before.

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Why you don’t need to be a data-scientist to price your hotel rooms accurately

Hotel room pricing is never easy to perfect, but you don't need to be a genius or trained data-scientist to get it right at your property.

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Travelport competes with consortias as it launches exclusive hotel rates program

Travelport announced today the first 1000 hotels offering Travelport negotiated corporate-friendly rates to the company's corporate travel agency customers. Offers are negotiated directly by Travelport with the hotel, and require negotiated rates with at least one element exclusive to the Travelport Travel Commerce Platform.

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Online travel turns to AI as travelers increasingly book directly

Trivago's investment in AI technology could be helpful in reigniting it's business in regions such as Europe and Asia-Pacific, where the share of hotel lodging sales made by OTAs might have peaked.

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Expedia affiliate Network seeks mutual benefits of coopetition

Wherever you look these days travel firms are both competing and cooperating on many different levels leading to what may appear at face value to some surprising corporate tie-ups.

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Sea Turtle Conservation Efforts Paying Off

 

In a rare bit of positive conservation news, it seems that sea turtle conservation efforts are working. Efforts date back to the 1950s, with countries all over the world participating.

Antonios Mazaris of Aristotle University in Thessaloniki, Greece, working with other researchers, recently published an article in Science Advances. Therein, the team shared the results of a large-scale study on sea-turtle populations. They found that most species of sea turtles, in most locations in the world, are making a comeback. Leatherback turtles in the eastern and western Pacific are one of the exceptions, but overall, it seems conservation efforts are having an effect.

Sea turtle conservation efforts take root

Conservation efforts include legislation against the capture and trade of sea turtles, increased regulation on fishing areas and techniques, and restoration of nesting sites worldwide.

Researchers found one particularly positive development — that even small sea turtle populations can rebound, despite being much more vulnerable than larger populations. One example is the French Frigate Shoals in Hawaii, where the sea turtle population reached a historic low of 200 in 1973. But, with legal protection, that population has since grown to around 2,000 individuals. Researchers now considered this one of the healthiest sea turtle populations in the United States.

This study and the research demonstrate that conservation can be quite effective. Both international legislation and pressure on local governments to protect sensitive and critical areas work when it comes to conservation. Legislation against trade and capture, in conjunction with other initiatives, can also help restore animal populations that are on the brink of extinction.

We must conduct more research to fully understand the health of the world’s sea-turtle population, as well as to understand the underlying reasons for the rebound. Through this, the work conservationists are doing for sea turtles may serve as the best case-studies for the protection of other species.

The post Sea Turtle Conservation Efforts Paying Off appeared first on Scuba Diver Life.

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Sea Turtle Conservation Efforts Paying Off

 

In a rare bit of positive conservation news, it seems that sea turtle conservation efforts are working. Efforts date back to the 1950s, with countries all over the world participating.

Antonios Mazaris of Aristotle University in Thessaloniki, Greece, working with other researchers, recently published an article in Science Advances. Therein, the team shared the results of a large-scale study on sea-turtle populations. They found that most species of sea turtles, in most locations in the world, are making a comeback. Leatherback turtles in the eastern and western Pacific are one of the exceptions, but overall, it seems conservation efforts are having an effect.

Sea turtle conservation efforts take root

Conservation efforts include legislation against the capture and trade of sea turtles, increased regulation on fishing areas and techniques, and restoration of nesting sites worldwide.

Researchers found one particularly positive development — that even small sea turtle populations can rebound, despite being much more vulnerable than larger populations. One example is the French Frigate Shoals in Hawaii, where the sea turtle population reached a historic low of 200 in 1973. But, with legal protection, that population has since grown to around 2,000 individuals. Researchers now considered this one of the healthiest sea turtle populations in the United States.

This study and the research demonstrate that conservation can be quite effective. Both international legislation and pressure on local governments to protect sensitive and critical areas work when it comes to conservation. Legislation against trade and capture, in conjunction with other initiatives, can also help restore animal populations that are on the brink of extinction.

We must conduct more research to fully understand the health of the world's sea-turtle population, as well as to understand the underlying reasons for the rebound. Through this, the work conservationists are doing for sea turtles may serve as the best case-studies for the protection of other species.

The post Sea Turtle Conservation Efforts Paying Off appeared first on Scuba Diver Life.

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All the mean, nasty and godawful hateful things people say to me online

Guys, why do people troll on the internet? Why are blogger hate comments a thing? Let this be the philosophical question of the day. Please, god, why? WHY? WHY?

And of all the people, why me? I'm a perfectly innocent little travel blogger over here, just minding my own business. The purpose of this blog is to inspire people to travel, what is so confronting about that? Move along. Why can people be so mean to me online? I don't get it. I'm lovely, alright?

Just kidding. Sometimes I'm a shit stirrer. I stir the pot on purpose. If I see something I think is wrong, I say it. Also, god did not see fit to gift me with grace or tact. I am really good at regularly putting my foot in my mouth, often publicly. I also don't know when to back away. And I'm cynical. Is this a recipe for a well-loved image? I'm not quite sure.

At least I'm real, right? Of all my flaws at least I like to think I'm authentic, the only truly honest blogger in a sea of vapid, shallow fools.

Stop talking, Liz. Like right now.

Anyways, it's no secret, I get mean comments on the regular, so regular in fact that I have been doing annual round ups of the best mean comments I get every single year since 2012. I know I'm shamefully overdue on this post. I completely missed 2016.

2016 was an intense year for me, and when it came down to digging through comments looking for the horrible ones, I just couldn't bring myself to go down that particular roller coaster. It was also the first year I started to get death threats. I just wasn't in the mood. Can you forgive me?

Hate comments aren't a novelty to me anymore, and they haven't been for a long time. I've gotten tens of thousands of comments over the years, with a small percentage of them being ugly, and I've learned to just let them slide by in a giant wave of pity – I truly for sorry for anyone that takes the time to hate me so much online. Also, I'm probably laughing at you.

The best hate I got in 2015

The best hate I got in 2014

The best hate I got in 2013

The best hate I got in 2012

Also, I've really just stopped paying attention when people troll me; five years of regular trolls has given me armor. I went from being a delicate rose who bruised easily to a goddamn rhino. Go on, try and say something to mean to me. It can hardly be any worse that what I've gotten before.

And to be honest, it's the same shit day in and day out. You're privileged (yeah I know), you're entitled (no I am not, thank you), you travel off your daddy's money (HA, if you only knew…), you're ugly, you're fat, you're stupid, you swear too much, you're a know it all, you do this why don't you do that, blah blah blah it never fucking ends.

Honestly, I yearn for the creative insults. I think my trolls have gotten lazy. Where's the witty banter? The colorful backhanded comments? The passive aggressive DMs? They've disappeared into regular grammatically ugly "what a c*nt" and "how is this blog even popular" lazy comments. I mean for fuck's sakes guys, if you're gonna come for me, try a little.

But I digress. Back by popular demand, I've taken the time to dig through my work and find the best of the best blogger hate comments, the most entertaining, the ugliest, the cruelest, the worst hate comments I get just for you. Because at the end of the day, the only way we can deal with this BS is just to laugh. You're welcome. Enjoy.

1. The most popular Facebook comment in response to an article about how I built my career in blogging

And if she wasn't a young blond with a penchant for putting out to old men she'd be working at Officeworks for $15/hr

I want to start an argument about feminism here but just can't be fucked.

2. And the second most liked comment on the same article 

The only thing worse than a human that resembles a vacuous opportunistic sponge is the plethora of parasites that aspire to be just that.

Just so we're clear, I'm the sponge and you're the parasite in this allegory.

3. Writing about how Jane Goodall inspires me to be better with conservation

You are not an "activist for saving the planet." The number of flights you take each year creates more carbon emissions that most of us create in our LIVES. If you actually cared about the environment you would travel solely by bike and public transport with an occasional flight, not dozens of international flights a year. Get a grip.

I mean, fair point. I'd love some tips about biking overseas from the island of New Zealand where I live.

4. I really hate it when people don't get sarcasm online on my how to cheat on Instagram

Teaching young people that life depends on Instagram. Thats great and people were wondering what was happening to our decaying society. Telling them that their popularity will increase if they sell their sexuality too. Wow what a true feminist you are. Pathetic. The whole millennial generation is going to be morally bankrupt.

I just facepalmed so hard.

5. Speaking of Instagram…

Not to be rude, just honest, but I noticed your photos have extremely low engagement for "168K" followers. I wonder if the companies who pay you notice this.

Guys, I'm literally one of the ONLY people who doesn't cheat on Instagram! That's why my engagement isn't out of this world. But thanks for pointing that out.

6. That one time I wrote that Central Otago is one of the only regions in New Zealand that has four distinct seasons (which is true)

Seriously? The only region in New Zealand that experiences four distinct seasons? You need to travel more and drink less Pinot. I'm not even sure how I got your spam mail, but I live here, not just a FIFO tourist. If you want to trade travel stories, I'm sure you'll lose.

You can't make me drink less Pinot!!!! YOU CAN'T MAKE ME!

7. When I wrote a million years ago about things that I hate that people do on airplanes

Sounds like a person who wrote the original article needs more than Ambien. probably could use some Xanax and some Prozac also. when you travel on a plane you know there is also something called other human beings. Get a grip. judging by your photo, You're not that cute or anything special…..

Hope you find the help you need.

Kisses!

You know, funny story. One time in Bangkok I went to a pharmacy to get some sleeping pills for upcoming long haul flights – sometimes in Southeast Asia I can get strong sleeping pills over the counter. They gave me Xanax, no questions asked. Best flight ever. In fact, imagine if Xanax was provided on all long-haul flights. Who do I need to speak to about this?

8. Any time I provoke the vegans, one of my favorite pastimes 

Me: writes thousands of words about wildlife, travel, sustainable tourism practices or about anything really

All of the vegans: You should consider going vegan

Me: but, bacon? So tasty.

All of the vegans: PITCHFORKS AT ATTENTION!

As a close friend used to say, do not negotiate with terrorists, Liz.

9. When I wrote a blog post about how to move to New Zealand as American (if you need some entertaining, go read through the comments) which is a minefield!

It is not your home. even if you wish it was it's not, it is new zealands home. fuck off to your own home. leave mine alone… just fuck off back to usa and leave nz to be nz. stop telling people how to get here, we don't want you. most nzers hate americans, you are boring n have no sense of humour, just fuck off bck to usa and leave nzers to our own country, plus u don't get my point cos u dumb american.if u don't want to be thought of a american sterotype don't act like dunb american cunt….you are such a dunb cunt. this is why we hate you.

I can't look beyond the grammatical and spelling errors in this, honestly I tried, but I can't.

Yes go ahead pls MOVE out from US we don't need weak, pathetic, ignorant ppl here who need "safe-spaces" You have been brain washed by fake media like cnn, fox, abc etc for too long

I just can't.

Congratulations on proving again that liberal thought is shallow and feelings-based. Too much reading making your head hurt?

I'm literally the biggest reader you've ever met. Don't even.

I read the first couple of paragraphs and had to stop. As a Trump supporter, I am offended by your words and will now stop following you. It's really too bad that you offend some of your followers, here I thought I was following a travel blog. Please do move to NZ, because America will be better off without you!!

It's ok, I'm ashamed to have had you as a reader.

That response obviously shows why 20 something women shouldn't even have the right to vote.

*Begins to pull hair out of own head*

Im just trying to save you from having to take depression medication for the rest of your life thats all. What are you on now Zoloft or Prozac?

Neither, unfortunately. I sure could use one after reading this.

10. I appeared in a big NBC Dateline special about American's moving to New Zealand and man, that opened the floodgates of crazy

Stay out of America you traitor bitch.

This was the first of many comments calling me a traitor.

STAY OUT OF AMERICA YOU BITCH. HOPE A HOBBIT KILLS YOUR SORRY ASS CUNT.

LOL!!!

STAY OUT OF AMERICA YOU BITCH. I hope a sheep kills you and your family you faggot, the USA is the best country ever.

Me: I feel so sorry for you

I feel worse for you, you no good commie bastard. Stay out of my country and fuck off cunt. Fuck you you no life blogger get a real job.

Me: You feel better now?

Yes, I'm living in the US of A #MAGA fuck. Cuck.

Me: Well I feel better living in a place with people nicer than you. And I have healthcare. And I can spell.

BOOM! How'd they do? What's the worst thing anyone has said to you online? Do you get trolled? How do you cope? Spill!

The post All the mean, nasty and godawful hateful things people say to me online appeared first on Young Adventuress.

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All the mean, nasty and godawful hateful things people say to me online

Guys, why do people troll on the internet? Why are blogger hate comments a thing? Let this be the philosophical question of the day. Please, god, why? WHY? WHY?

And of all the people, why me? I’m a perfectly innocent little travel blogger over here, just minding my own business. The purpose of this blog is to inspire people to travel, what is so confronting about that? Move along. Why can people be so mean to me online? I don’t get it. I’m lovely, alright?

Just kidding. Sometimes I’m a shit stirrer. I stir the pot on purpose. If I see something I think is wrong, I say it. Also, god did not see fit to gift me with grace or tact. I am really good at regularly putting my foot in my mouth, often publicly. I also don’t know when to back away. And I’m cynical. Is this a recipe for a well-loved image? I’m not quite sure.

At least I’m real, right? Of all my flaws at least I like to think I’m authentic, the only truly honest blogger in a sea of vapid, shallow fools.

Stop talking, Liz. Like right now.

Anyways, it’s no secret, I get mean comments on the regular, so regular in fact that I have been doing annual round ups of the best mean comments I get every single year since 2012. I know I’m shamefully overdue on this post. I completely missed 2016.

2016 was an intense year for me, and when it came down to digging through comments looking for the horrible ones, I just couldn’t bring myself to go down that particular roller coaster. It was also the first year I started to get death threats. I just wasn’t in the mood. Can you forgive me?

Hate comments aren’t a novelty to me anymore, and they haven’t been for a long time. I’ve gotten tens of thousands of comments over the years, with a small percentage of them being ugly, and I’ve learned to just let them slide by in a giant wave of pity – I truly for sorry for anyone that takes the time to hate me so much online. Also, I’m probably laughing at you.

The best hate I got in 2015

The best hate I got in 2014

The best hate I got in 2013

The best hate I got in 2012

Also, I’ve really just stopped paying attention when people troll me; five years of regular trolls has given me armor. I went from being a delicate rose who bruised easily to a goddamn rhino. Go on, try and say something to mean to me. It can hardly be any worse that what I’ve gotten before.

And to be honest, it’s the same shit day in and day out. You’re privileged (yeah I know), you’re entitled (no I am not, thank you), you travel off your daddy’s money (HA, if you only knew…), you’re ugly, you’re fat, you’re stupid, you swear too much, you’re a know it all, you do this why don’t you do that, blah blah blah it never fucking ends.

Honestly, I yearn for the creative insults. I think my trolls have gotten lazy. Where’s the witty banter? The colorful backhanded comments? The passive aggressive DMs? They’ve disappeared into regular grammatically ugly “what a c*nt” and “how is this blog even popular” lazy comments. I mean for fuck’s sakes guys, if you’re gonna come for me, try a little.

But I digress. Back by popular demand, I’ve taken the time to dig through my work and find the best of the best blogger hate comments, the most entertaining, the ugliest, the cruelest, the worst hate comments I get just for you. Because at the end of the day, the only way we can deal with this BS is just to laugh. You’re welcome. Enjoy.

1. The most popular Facebook comment in response to an article about how I built my career in blogging

And if she wasn’t a young blond with a penchant for putting out to old men she’d be working at Officeworks for $15/hr

I want to start an argument about feminism here but just can’t be fucked.

2. And the second most liked comment on the same article 

The only thing worse than a human that resembles a vacuous opportunistic sponge is the plethora of parasites that aspire to be just that.

Just so we’re clear, I’m the sponge and you’re the parasite in this allegory.

3. Writing about how Jane Goodall inspires me to be better with conservation

You are not an “activist for saving the planet.” The number of flights you take each year creates more carbon emissions that most of us create in our LIVES. If you actually cared about the environment you would travel solely by bike and public transport with an occasional flight, not dozens of international flights a year. Get a grip.

I mean, fair point. I’d love some tips about biking overseas from the island of New Zealand where I live.

4. I really hate it when people don’t get sarcasm online on my how to cheat on Instagram

Teaching young people that life depends on Instagram. Thats great and people were wondering what was happening to our decaying society. Telling them that their popularity will increase if they sell their sexuality too. Wow what a true feminist you are. Pathetic. The whole millennial generation is going to be morally bankrupt.

I just facepalmed so hard.

5. Speaking of Instagram…

Not to be rude, just honest, but I noticed your photos have extremely low engagement for “168K” followers. I wonder if the companies who pay you notice this.

Guys, I’m literally one of the ONLY people who doesn’t cheat on Instagram! That’s why my engagement isn’t out of this world. But thanks for pointing that out.

6. That one time I wrote that Central Otago is one of the only regions in New Zealand that has four distinct seasons (which is true)

Seriously? The only region in New Zealand that experiences four distinct seasons? You need to travel more and drink less Pinot. I’m not even sure how I got your spam mail, but I live here, not just a FIFO tourist. If you want to trade travel stories, I’m sure you’ll lose.

You can’t make me drink less Pinot!!!! YOU CAN’T MAKE ME!

7. When I wrote a million years ago about things that I hate that people do on airplanes

Sounds like a person who wrote the original article needs more than Ambien. probably could use some Xanax and some Prozac also. when you travel on a plane you know there is also something called other human beings. Get a grip. judging by your photo, You’re not that cute or anything special…..

Hope you find the help you need.

Kisses!

You know, funny story. One time in Bangkok I went to a pharmacy to get some sleeping pills for upcoming long haul flights – sometimes in Southeast Asia I can get strong sleeping pills over the counter. They gave me Xanax, no questions asked. Best flight ever. In fact, imagine if Xanax was provided on all long-haul flights. Who do I need to speak to about this?

8. Any time I provoke the vegans, one of my favorite pastimes 

Me: writes thousands of words about wildlife, travel, sustainable tourism practices or about anything really

All of the vegans: You should consider going vegan

Me: but, bacon? So tasty.

All of the vegans: PITCHFORKS AT ATTENTION!

As a close friend used to say, do not negotiate with terrorists, Liz.

9. When I wrote a blog post about how to move to New Zealand as American (if you need some entertaining, go read through the comments) which is a minefield!

It is not your home. even if you wish it was it’s not, it is new zealands home. fuck off to your own home. leave mine alone… just fuck off back to usa and leave nz to be nz. stop telling people how to get here, we don’t want you. most nzers hate americans, you are boring n have no sense of humour, just fuck off bck to usa and leave nzers to our own country, plus u don’t get my point cos u dumb american.if u don’t want to be thought of a american sterotype don’t act like dunb american cunt….you are such a dunb cunt. this is why we hate you.

I can’t look beyond the grammatical and spelling errors in this, honestly I tried, but I can’t.

Yes go ahead pls MOVE out from US we don’t need weak, pathetic, ignorant ppl here who need “safe-spaces” You have been brain washed by fake media like cnn, fox, abc etc for too long

I just can’t.

Congratulations on proving again that liberal thought is shallow and feelings-based. Too much reading making your head hurt?

I’m literally the biggest reader you’ve ever met. Don’t even.

I read the first couple of paragraphs and had to stop. As a Trump supporter, I am offended by your words and will now stop following you. It’s really too bad that you offend some of your followers, here I thought I was following a travel blog. Please do move to NZ, because America will be better off without you!!

It’s ok, I’m ashamed to have had you as a reader.

That response obviously shows why 20 something women shouldn’t even have the right to vote.

*Begins to pull hair out of own head*

Im just trying to save you from having to take depression medication for the rest of your life thats all. What are you on now Zoloft or Prozac?

Neither, unfortunately. I sure could use one after reading this.

10. I appeared in a big NBC Dateline special about American’s moving to New Zealand and man, that opened the floodgates of crazy

Stay out of America you traitor bitch.

This was the first of many comments calling me a traitor.

STAY OUT OF AMERICA YOU BITCH. HOPE A HOBBIT KILLS YOUR SORRY ASS CUNT.

LOL!!!

STAY OUT OF AMERICA YOU BITCH. I hope a sheep kills you and your family you faggot, the USA is the best country ever.

Me: I feel so sorry for you

I feel worse for you, you no good commie bastard. Stay out of my country and fuck off cunt. Fuck you you no life blogger get a real job.

Me: You feel better now?

Yes, I’m living in the US of A #MAGA fuck. Cuck.

Me: Well I feel better living in a place with people nicer than you. And I have healthcare. And I can spell.

BOOM! How’d they do? What’s the worst thing anyone has said to you online? Do you get trolled? How do you cope? Spill!

The post All the mean, nasty and godawful hateful things people say to me online appeared first on Young Adventuress.

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Things You Need To Know Before a Bathroom Remodel

Content originally published and Shared from http://perfectbath.com

Renovations are always exciting. Yes, you might have to spend a lot. But if the work is excellently done, then you’ll definitely get your money’s worth. Remember to take note of the following things before you proceed on your project.

Image Source: Flickr

Consider these master bath must-haves
Sharing with your sweetie is simpler when you’ve made space for these features.

1. Toilet room:Gives this area privacy; best if it’s got a door.
2. Separate shower stall:Lets bathers and shower-takers clean up simultaneously.
3. Dual workstations:Place double sinks 36 inches apart or more, measured drain to drain, so that you’ll have elbow room. Give each sink enough outlets and lighting, as well as mirror, countertop, and storage space.
4. Wide pathways:Traffic lanes 36 to 42 inches wide allow two people to pass each other without having to squeeze by. Source: ThisOldHouse

Don’t make the toilet the first thing you see when open the door
Ask a bathroom designer what his or her best tried and true tip is, and this is what you’re likely to hear. The reasoning is simple. Oftentimes bathroom doors get left open, meaning that you or any guest in your home walking by will see the toilet — which, come on, isn’t the most aesthetically pleasing thing to look at. If you’re hoping for a spa-like vibe, putting the john front and center in the design can sort of kill the mood as you’re transitioning into the room. So, what should you make the focal point? Anything but the toilet. Source: Houzz

The golden rules of bathroom renovations

• Draw up a clear plan of the room to remodel, and make it to scale. This will be a great reference not only for you, but also for your subcontractors.
• Estimate the approximate total cost of your renovation beforeyou begin your work. This includes quotes from workers, for materials, new fixtures (bath, shower, toilet, and faucets), furniture, decor and lighting.
• Ask for at least two or three quotes from different workers.
• Shop around for your bathroom fixtures. You’d be surprised how much you can save.
• Prepare yourself for surprises and extra expenses along the way, especially if you decide to open up the space and remove walls.
• Do not touch a load bearing wall without first consulting with an expert. Source: Yellowpages

Find top of the line fixtures that will surely fit in your new bathroom. Call us today!

 

Contact:
Perfect Bath
Phone: Toll Free 1-866-843-1641
Calgary, Alberta
Email: info@perfectbath.com

The post Things You Need To Know Before a Bathroom Remodel appeared first on Perfect Bath Canada.

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Airline distribution strategies complicate life for travel agents

As more airlines seek to drive down the cost of offering flight, fare and fee information through multiple distribution channels, travel agent frustration are starting to bubble up.

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A new airline for millennials

How many white-sneaker-clad flight attendants does it take to serve a millennial? AirFrance aims to find out.

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Why video is a great direct response tool for travel marketing

With 80% of users recalling a video ad they viewed in the past thirty days, it's time travel marketers think about video beyond just a brand awareness tool.

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GDPR: What you need to know

The GDPR is coming, it will take effect from 25 May 2018 and hotels need to create a plan to be ready for it.

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3 Benefits of Home Automation

Living in a smart house may sound luxurious but the benefits are definitely worth the investment. Get to know how home automation can positively affect your daily routine by checking out the following:

Image Source: Flickr

It’s Energy Efficient
Having precise control over the power used as well as the temperature can ensure that your home is more energy efficient. This is why smart homes are a part of the appliances that you can use to be more environmentally conscious in your home. Depending on the system that you have in your home, it can suggest energy efficient settings. Source: Property24

Increases Peace of Mind
Perhaps this benefit will not apply to everyone, but for those who habitually worry about whether or not they have taken care of everything at home before leaving for the day, a home automation system is a perfect investment. In short, it offers peace of mind. This is quite beneficial for those individuals who leave each day, obsessively worrying if everything is in order. With so many stresses in daily life, it is nice to take at least one off the list by being able to see what is going on at home without physically being there. Source: Freshome

Convenient
Convenience is one of the biggest reasons that people build and purchase smart homes. These homes give users remote access to systems including heating and cooling systems, intercoms, music and multimedia devices throughout the home. Integrated hard drives allow homeowners to watch video or listen to audio in any room; video intercoms make it easy to communicate with others in the home or visitors at the door. All of these smart home technologies streamline common tasks. Source: HomeGuides.SFGate

Can you imagine how convenient it would be to have automated window treatments? It’s entirely possible! For more information, call us today!

 

Contact:
Universal Blinds
601 – 1550 W. 10th Ave
Vancouver, V6J 1Z9
Canada
Phone: (604) 559-1988

The post 3 Benefits of Home Automation appeared first on Universal Blinds, Shades & Shutters.

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How travel metasearch is changing

The current metasearch model, which simply pushes travelers to another site after shopping seems simply unsustainable. Four major forces are pushing it out of the uneasy equilibrium it had built.

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Expedia’s new CEO on the challenges ahead

Mark Okerstrom spoke with Travel Weekly about some of Expedia's biggest challenges and opportunities like competing with Booking.com.

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Trivago bought an AI startup that eased peoples’ fears about giving up data

The hotel search engine acquired the German machine-learning startup Tripl, which harnesses users' social media activity to make recommendations.

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Yotel secures $250m investment from Starwood Capital

The US investment firm is acquiring a 30% stake in the capsule-style hotel chain making it fit for global expansion.

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Polyester vs. Nylon Carpet Fibers

Picking the best carpet fiber isn’t as easy as you think. Because there are a number of types to choose from, you have to weigh each of their characteristics. Let’s compare two of the most popular synthetic carpet fibers and find out which is a better fit for your home.

Durability

One of the biggest considerations in any carpet purchase is over the carpet’s durability.

Most consumers want a carpet that will stand up to daily wear and tear and still manage to look good for the next decade or so.

Nylon carpet fiber is well-known as being very durable. It has long been considered to be the most durable synthetic carpet fiber available (although some would say that PTT triexta is now a worthy contender for this title). The secret to nylon’s durability lies in its resiliency — its ability to literally “bounce back” from compaction.

Polyester is generally considered to be a less durable fiber than nylon. It lacks nylon’s high resilience, and will typically begin to show signs of wear due to foot traffic in less time than nylon.

It’s important to note that both nylon and polyester carpets are available in a wide range of qualities, and so a high-grade polyester carpet may outperform a low-grade nylon carpet. As always, when comparing two different carpets, be sure that they are of equivalent quality. Source: TheSpruce

Care

Both nylon and polyester are easy to wash and are mildew resistant. Both can be washed in a washing machine and dried on a low heat cycle. Articles made from nylon or polyester should be removed from the dryer immediately. A warm iron can be used on either nylon or polyester. Polyester generally can be dry-cleaned, depending on the manufacturer’s instructions. However, nylon cannot be dry-cleaned as the solvents melt the material. Source: Diffen

Wear and Tear

Nylon Carpets are made from nylon fibers and considered to be the toughest carpets available on the market. Even in a high traffic area your nylon carpet shouldn’t show signs of aging.

Polyester Carpets are second in line to nylon carpets, but have a tendency to get matted and not spring back to its original shape. It will show wear in high traffic areas. If it comes in contact with high heat, polyester carpet can melt. Source: DifferenceBetween

Make sure you get your money’s worth by properly maintaining the carpet you just bought. We can help you out! Call us today!

The post Polyester vs. Nylon Carpet Fibers appeared first on Curlys Carpet Repair.

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Polyester vs. Nylon Carpet Fibers

Picking the best carpet fiber isn't as easy as you think. Because there are a number of types to choose from, you have to weigh each of their characteristics. Let's compare two of the most popular synthetic carpet fibers and find out which is a better fit for your home.

Durability

One of the biggest considerations in any carpet purchase is over the carpet's durability.

Most consumers want a carpet that will stand up to daily wear and tear and still manage to look good for the next decade or so.

Nylon carpet fiber is well-known as being very durable. It has long been considered to be the most durable synthetic carpet fiber available (although some would say that PTT triexta is now a worthy contender for this title). The secret to nylon's durability lies in its resiliency — its ability to literally "bounce back" from compaction.

Polyester is generally considered to be a less durable fiber than nylon. It lacks nylon's high resilience, and will typically begin to show signs of wear due to foot traffic in less time than nylon.

It's important to note that both nylon and polyester carpets are available in a wide range of qualities, and so a high-grade polyester carpet may outperform a low-grade nylon carpet. As always, when comparing two different carpets, be sure that they are of equivalent quality. Source: TheSpruce

Care

Both nylon and polyester are easy to wash and are mildew resistant. Both can be washed in a washing machine and dried on a low heat cycle. Articles made from nylon or polyester should be removed from the dryer immediately. A warm iron can be used on either nylon or polyester. Polyester generally can be dry-cleaned, depending on the manufacturer's instructions. However, nylon cannot be dry-cleaned as the solvents melt the material. Source: Diffen

Wear and Tear

Nylon Carpets are made from nylon fibers and considered to be the toughest carpets available on the market. Even in a high traffic area your nylon carpet shouldn't show signs of aging.

Polyester Carpets are second in line to nylon carpets, but have a tendency to get matted and not spring back to its original shape. It will show wear in high traffic areas. If it comes in contact with high heat, polyester carpet can melt. Source: DifferenceBetween

Make sure you get your money's worth by properly maintaining the carpet you just bought. We can help you out! Call us today!

The post Polyester vs. Nylon Carpet Fibers appeared first on Curlys Carpet Repair.

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3 Benefits of Home Automation

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Things You Need To Know Before a Bathroom Remodel

Content originally published and Shared from http://perfectbath.com

Renovations are always exciting. Yes, you might have to spend a lot. But if the work is excellently done, then you'll definitely get your money's worth. Remember to take note of the following things before you proceed on your project.

Image Source: Flickr

Consider these master bath must-haves
Sharing with your sweetie is simpler when you've made space for these features.

1. Toilet room:Gives this area privacy; best if it's got a door.
2. Separate shower stall:Lets bathers and shower-takers clean up simultaneously.
3. Dual workstations:Place double sinks 36 inches apart or more, measured drain to drain, so that you'll have elbow room. Give each sink enough outlets and lighting, as well as mirror, countertop, and storage space.
4. Wide pathways:Traffic lanes 36 to 42 inches wide allow two people to pass each other without having to squeeze by. Source: ThisOldHouse

Don't make the toilet the first thing you see when open the door
Ask a bathroom designer what his or her best tried and true tip is, and this is what you're likely to hear. The reasoning is simple. Oftentimes bathroom doors get left open, meaning that you or any guest in your home walking by will see the toilet — which, come on, isn't the most aesthetically pleasing thing to look at. If you're hoping for a spa-like vibe, putting the john front and center in the design can sort of kill the mood as you're transitioning into the room. So, what should you make the focal point? Anything but the toilet. Source: Houzz

The golden rules of bathroom renovations

• Draw up a clear plan of the room to remodel, and make it to scale. This will be a great reference not only for you, but also for your subcontractors.
• Estimate the approximate total cost of your renovation beforeyou begin your work. This includes quotes from workers, for materials, new fixtures (bath, shower, toilet, and faucets), furniture, decor and lighting.
• Ask for at least two or three quotes from different workers.
• Shop around for your bathroom fixtures. You'd be surprised how much you can save.
• Prepare yourself for surprises and extra expenses along the way, especially if you decide to open up the space and remove walls.
• Do not touch a load bearing wall without first consulting with an expert. Source: Yellowpages

Find top of the line fixtures that will surely fit in your new bathroom. Call us today!

 

Contact:
Perfect Bath
Phone: Toll Free 1-866-843-1641
Calgary, Alberta
Email: info@perfectbath.com

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3 Benefits of Home Automation

Living in a smart house may sound luxurious but the benefits are definitely worth the investment. Get to know how home automation can positively affect your daily routine by checking out the following:

Image Source: Flickr

It's Energy Efficient
Having precise control over the power used as well as the temperature can ensure that your home is more energy efficient. This is why smart homes are a part of the appliances that you can use to be more environmentally conscious in your home. Depending on the system that you have in your home, it can suggest energy efficient settings. Source: Property24

Increases Peace of Mind
Perhaps this benefit will not apply to everyone, but for those who habitually worry about whether or not they have taken care of everything at home before leaving for the day, a home automation system is a perfect investment. In short, it offers peace of mind. This is quite beneficial for those individuals who leave each day, obsessively worrying if everything is in order. With so many stresses in daily life, it is nice to take at least one off the list by being able to see what is going on at home without physically being there. Source: Freshome

Convenient
Convenience is one of the biggest reasons that people build and purchase smart homes. These homes give users remote access to systems including heating and cooling systems, intercoms, music and multimedia devices throughout the home. Integrated hard drives allow homeowners to watch video or listen to audio in any room; video intercoms make it easy to communicate with others in the home or visitors at the door. All of these smart home technologies streamline common tasks. Source: HomeGuides.SFGate

Can you imagine how convenient it would be to have automated window treatments? It's entirely possible! For more information, call us today!

 

Contact:
Universal Blinds
601 – 1550 W. 10th Ave
Vancouver, V6J 1Z9
Canada
Phone: (604) 559-1988

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Top of the Reef at Wakatobi Dive Resort

Steep walls and dramatic seamounts make for exciting dives, and there are plenty of sites at Wakatobi Dive Resort that offer these profiles. But many of these same sites offer something that few other places can. When reefs rise sharply from deep water to within a few feet of the surface, divers can stretch bottom times beyond the hour mark and discover the colorful world of the shallows.

What lies beneath

Right from arrival, guests get a hint of what awaits beneath the water's surface as the transfer boat pulls up to the resort jetty. Below, the water changes suddenly from deep blue to sparkling aquamarine, offering a bird's-eye view of the corals and seagrass beds peeking through the sunlight. This is the outer edge of the House Reef, which lies around 250 feet from shore (80 m) from shore. Both divers and snorkelers can jump in any time day or night.

Most visitors make their first dive at the resort on the House Reef, which offers a good example of what's to come. After making a short swim or hopping in at the end of the jetty, divers begin on the edge of a steep slope that rises abruptly from deep water to snorkeling depths. And just across the channel, the dive sites of Sawa Island offer even more dramatic profiles, with vertical walls that top out within an arm's reach of the surface.

Sawa Island

Magnifica is aptly named and is one of the favorite sites around Sawa. Descending from a small plateau perched on a high vertical wall, divers can free fall into the depths, where black coral, colorful sea fans and huge sponges thrive. A leisurely ascent back up the wall might feature schools of jacks, barracuda and snappers and a hunt for macro life in the many nooks and crannies of the reef.

In many places, this type of wall dive would end with a safety stop, hanging on a down line or swimming toward shore. But at Wakatobi, the ascent leads to the bright world of the upper reef, where various hard and soft corals spread into large formations to catch the sunlight. Thanks to modern dive computers, profiles such as this allow divers to routinely enjoy bottom times of 70 minutes or more, and spend up to four or more hours in the water each day.

Coral in the shallows

Some of the reef-building corals most associated with the shallows are in the Acropora family. To thrive, these corals require water that is free of sediment and pollution. They also need bright light and oxygenation from water motion. Most Acropora species, such as elkhorn and staghorn coral, form a tangle of slender branches. Others grow to formations that resemble a tabletop, some bigger than a dining room table. Flitting around these majestic corals are countless varieties of reef fish such as wrasse, damselfish and anthias, many of which live as large colonies. Closer looks reveal macro sightings such as "odd-couple" pairings of blind shrimp with their ever-watchful guardian gobies. Other prize sightings include ghost pipefish, blue-spotted stingrays, octopus, cuttlefish and more.

The coral structures of these shallow reefs are sheltered from the ravages of typhoons and storm surge because Wakatobi sits in an area that rarely sees bad weather or rough seas. This means that the reefs surrounding the resort can develop without damage. It also means that divers and snorkelers can enjoy relaxing boat rides and easy entries and exits to dive boats.

Situated in the heart of the world's most biodiverse marine ecosystem, Wakatobi is home to thousands of varieties of fish and even more invertebrates. Marine life thrives under the protection of the resort-sponsored no-take zone. This initiative is especially important to the shallow reefs because they are particularly vulnerable to impacts such as destructive fishing practices.

Ready to spend some quality time in the shallow waters of Wakatobi? Inquire at wakatobi.com or email office@wakatobi.com.

By guest author Walt Stearns

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