By Mary Thompson –

Aeroplane Essentials and Tips

Some package deals may look cheap, but the hidden fees do add up

When deciding to go on a trip that involves planes and airports careful financial planning can end up costing so much more than meets the eye. The very act of choosing what airline to go with can seem like daunting task.

Most people tend to turn to popular websites specializing in reduced cheap airfare such as Travelocity and Price Line. After entering the dates and destination it’s natural that most individuals would gravitate to the cheapest deal. However, before deciding to grab that deal with seems to be reasonably priced stop and think.

Why’s it so cheap? Could there possibly be a catch?

For the most part, there is and it’s hardly hidden. In fact, all that’s needed is to take a few minutes to go through the airline’s webpage. For instance, it’s standard for most airlines to allow passengers to take along a personal item and carryon completely free of charge. While a checked bag tends to come with a fee.

Nevertheless, the same can’t be said for cheaper airlines. The personal items such as a purse, laptop or small bag can be taken on without any fees, but when it comes to a carryon, it comes as a shock that has a fee. Suddenly, that quoted deal on the website resembles nothing but a cheap ploy.

Online check in’s, they’re worth it!

Most airlines will offer discounts to passengers who choose to check in online as well as pay for bags and receive seat assignments. These are available 24 hours before the flight. For travellers with children, it’s best to reserve seats at the time of the booking.

That dry cabin air will get anyone down

When the pilot and flight attendants wish the passengers a good flight, wouldn’t it be nice with they could warn them about the discomforts of a pressurized cabin? The harsh effects of this confined setting tend to be felt in one’s lips and face. Isn’t it great to know that there are in fact easy ways to combat these hazards?

Lip balm such as Blistex usually gets the job done or face cream and lip gloss from Nivea are popular choices as well. For passengers really in a bind to find the right remedy something a couple of dabs of Vaseline on lips and Ponds face cream is all that’s needed to get the job done.

Sleeping on a plane? Yes it’s possible

Now when those aspects of getting through a long flight are sorted then comes relaxation and hopefully the chance to sneak in a nap or two. This is especially essential for those double-digit hour flights. Once again this is another task easily accomplished through simple remedies such as purchasing an eye mask from Target.

Once the mask is on thus creating a sense of darkness, melatonin or any other form of sleep medication will probably be permissible. After all getting some sleep in a cramped unfamiliar place certainly can’t be easy. Of course, when taking any type of medication a doctor should be consulted.

Snacks and drinks?

Anyone who’s been to an airport is well aware of the fact that food or beverages sold in them are incredibly overpriced. To remedy this situation some may suggest bringing something from home. However, given the guidelines of airport security, that is simply out of the question. It’s been common knowledge that brings large amounts of liquids are completely out of the question. Since things seem to be changing on a daily basis perhaps it will be smart to steer clear of any outside food passed the checkpoints at all.

For those individuals who simply must have something to eat. It would be a good idea to be prepared to spend at least $15-20 per person. That may seem a bit high, but given the options and environment, it’s better to be realistic.

There’s no getting around the fact that air travel will cost a pretty penny

Hopefully, these tips will at least prevent passengers from feeling robbed at the end of their trip. After all, every little bit helps, and when the total charges can add up to the thousands any discount is sure to help.

 

Mary Thompson

 

By Mary Thompson –

It doesn’t have to cost a bundle to eat well

Most of us are used to the assumption that eating non-GMO, organic and overall healthy food also comes with a pretty steep price tag. One of the biggest names to lead the health food craze Whole Foods Market proved that was more than a stereotype, but a reality. It’s also no secret that due to the mess in the economy, not many people can afford to pay an arm and a leg for a week’s worth of grocery.

Whole Foods takes the lead again and this time through budget-friendly alternatives

It’s no mystery as to why Whole Foods Market’s products tend to come with high prices after all the reason is simple. Most of their products are considered gourmet and rare finds. However, peeling back the layers of brands which are no stranger to heavy price tags, reveals a brand that frequent Whole Food’s Market shoppers are no stranger to, the 365 brand.

Despite their various walks of life, it would be hard for any Whole Food’s Market shopper to deny that they’ve purchased a 365 product. After all, not only is it reasonably priced, but the quality is top notch as well.

In fact, the popularity of 365 products has grown so much that it can now be found in even conventional grocery stores who don’t necessarily cater to healthy eating. However, the main objective Whole Foods wanted to accomplish of educating society into being conscious of the food they consume tends to consume seems to fall through the cracks.

This unavoidable hazard happens when 365 products are surrounded by everything that is unhealthy such as artificial colours and high fructose corn syrup. But, what if there was no guesswork to food choices? To make things even better, wouldn’t it be great to not feel robbed at the end of every shopping trip?

Whole Foods 365 stores, just what’s good for you minus the fluff

One of the common reactions new customers have when stepping into a Whole Foods 365 store is the fancy signage and imported cheese selections are nowhere in sight.  At first glance, this may seem like a deterrent. However what customers have to realize is that this store may be a branch of Whole Foods, but that’s all the stores have in common.

The store is instead focused on only 365 products at low prices which could end up rivalling other grocery store chains. However, not to worry as they have kept the Whole Foods staples customers are used to such as the deli and salad bar.

Could this narrow selection hinder the 365 store’s expansion?

Through the point of view of someone less dedicated to the health food craze, this is an assumption easily reached. But, for those who have made getting vitamins and nutrients in every meal a lifestyle, the 365 store is more of a time saver. Sort of a one-stop shop for everything 365.

 

A negative side to the 365 concepts?

Despite the obvious pros showcased by the stores, not everyone is on board. In fact, some critics have even gone so far as to say this “expansion” could ultimately lead to Whole Foods Market store’s going out of business. This disastrous outcome would most likely not from other chains but within the company itself.

An outcome such as this could easily come to pass when customers, realize that they’re paying too much for Whole Foods Market. Why do this when it’s far cheaper to purchase cheaper yet a product equally high in quality? Thus, resulting in Whole Foods Market closing their doors and Whole Foods 365 all that’s left of the health food giant’s legacy.

There’s always going to be negativity in every bunch

Perhaps these presumptions are a bit farfetched? It could be given that Whole Food 365 seems to be without the rare hard to find products available at Whole Foods Market.

At the end of the day, it’s always a good thing that more people will be financially able to access healthy food. Wasn’t this Whole Food’s goal from the very beginning?

There’s no such thing as too much of a good thing when it’s actually good for you.

 

Mary Thompson

 

By Mary Thompson –

 

Perhaps Disney has learned its lesson in changing things up too much?

Just a few weeks ago speculation emerged that Dumbo would be the next Disney animated film to be brought to life as a live-action remake on the silver screen. Along with the glee and excitement to see the flying elephant come to life came disappointment and worry that what the audience may be getting is far from what they expect.

These dark feelings surrounding the beloved fairy tale are far from unfounded. On the contrary, it’s a disappointment most of us are sure to see. After all Disney live action remakes have a pretty bad track record when it comes to “sticking to the script.” At times these changes have gone past expected additions such as new songs. Some have gone far enough to completely alter the plot of the story completely as was the case with Maleficent.

I’m pretty sure I wasn’t the only one in the audience to ask what just happened at the end of that movie.

Could Dumbo be free of these twists to spice things up which ultimately backfire?

Tim Burton has caused audiences to let out a sigh of relief if the trailer is anything to go by. As far as anyone can see how he hasn’t distorted the classic tail. In fact, he has succeeded in enhancing it. I’m sure most will agree that the most thrilling part of the trailer which lasted just under a couple of minutes, was seeing Dumbo take flight.

We can also rest assured that this feature film will not be taking the same form of Tim Burton’s other products such as the Nightmare Before Christmas. You won’t find any clay animations here. The people are real and Dumbo was constructed to resemble a real elephant.

The attention to detail doesn’t stop there. The song, “Baby Mine” which captured so many hearts and brought tears to everyone’s eyes is proudly showcased throughout the trailer.

Are we bound to see some talking elephants and Dumbo’s trusty companion Timothy Q. Mouse?

If Disney’s live-action production of the Jungle Book is anything to by, the answer would be a definite yes. In fact, judging by the original animated film it would be hard to tell the story without giving voices to Dumbo and Timothy. Not to mention, Mrs Jumbo Dumbo’s loving mother.

It would be difficult to play out the heartbreaking scene of Dumbo being separated from his mother without the aid of verbal communication. Surely, this new adaptation wouldn’t exclude that iconic scene the whole story is based on. The trailer in itself gives an indication that the scene did take place.

Can we positively say that this version of Dumbo will indeed stay true to the original?

Going by what we’ve seen so far there’s a good chance we could get lucky. However, if these predictions would go by Disney remakes past behaviour Dumbo could follow in the footsteps of those before it and win over part of the audience while the others are disappointed.

Upon taking a deeper look into the movies overall synopsis at first glance everything appears the same. Nevertheless, the cast seems to be composed of characters of actual people as opposed to the actual animals.

Speaking of the cast of characters it’s hard to ignore the big names attached to the project. From Colin Farrell to Michael Keaton and Danny DeVito just to name a few. The list just keeps getting better. Hopefully, these big names aren’t simply a way to lure audiences to a feature they would otherwise be disappointed in.

What can we hope to get from the magical tale of our favourite flying elephant come to life?

Something that’ll be loosely based on the Disney adaptation while closely resembling the original novel by Helen Aberson. There’s more than likely going to be the addition of new songs while keeping iconic ones and key scenes. Not to mention spectacular special effects.

Nonetheless, it does make me apprehensive to discover that no voice over actors and actresses have been cast for the characters of the animal kingdom. However, this is Tim Burton, so the best approach to take to this anticipated big screen experience is don’t knock it until you try it.

Who knows we may just be pleasantly surprised?

 

Mary Thompson

 

Surviving these scorching months is what it’s all about

Essential Summer Must Haves By Mary Thompson

Ideally, these summer months would only be composed of sunny days and balmy nights of rest and relaxation. Nevertheless, so many of us are well aware of the fact that it’s not all fun and games. Endless days under the sun and the harsh humidity which is an inescapable element of most evenings can ultimately create havoc on skin and hair if not kept at bay.

Have no fear the ultimate survival kit is here

From frizzy hair, oily skin and sun damaged skin just to name a few common summer hazards. It’s without a doubt essentially crucial to ensure beauty regiments get an extra dose of TLC. However, another well-known fact is that with an increased number of people going on holiday, comes the need for quick fixes that not only get the job done but can also be portable.

This list cuts away the frills and accessories just there to look cut. The following are a concentration of products that will keep the most common of summer mishaps Essential Summer Must Haves

Surviving these scorching months is what it’s all about

Ideally, these summer months would only be composed of sunny days and balmy nights of rest and relaxation. Nevertheless, so many of us are well aware of the fact that it’s not all fun and games. Endless days under the sun and the harsh humidity which is an inescapable element of most evenings can ultimately create havoc on skin and hair if not kept at bay.

Keeping skin healthy shouldn’t take a backseat when hectic schedules fade away

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mist ($19.00 – 29.00) Derm Store, Ulta Beauty, Care to Beauty, Amazon: Shielding skin from the son is important every day, but most importantly on those blazing summer days. Be that as it may, there’s no getting away from the fact that most sunscreens tend to be greasy, heavy and not to mention the unappealing smell.

As a result of those ever-present qualities, most of us neglect to apply sunscreen to the most sensitive of skin, our face. That’s why I was thrilled to come across this product that is not only SPF 60, but it can be worn on top of makeup as well.

What does this mean?

Well, the answer is simple. It’s now possible to look gorgeous while still being protected.

Not only will this product be free of the greasy heavy feeling, but the unflattering smell will be absent as well. Just when we thought it couldn’t get any better, your makeup won’t run either.

Bioderma ($14.00 – 18.00) Derm Store, Amazon, E Skin Store: This is one of those products that pretty much does a brilliant job no matter what the season. One of the misconceptions about cleansing is that heavy cleansers that form a thick lather are what’s needed to get the job done.

On the contrary, sudsy cleansers may be doing more harm than good. The richer they are increases the chances of residue being left soon after the cleansing process. Bioderma is as gentle as water while at the same time being able to tackle all the toxins most cleansers will leave behind.

Caudalie Beauty Elixir ($35.00 – 49.00) Derm Store: This is another one of those beauty must have that’s impossible to live without. Not only is it great for those days spent in dry heat, but it’s especially great for individuals who do a lot of summer travelling. After all, nothing feels worse on skin that spending long hours on an aeroplane.

Not only are the moisturizing effects instantaneous, but the fragrance is light enough to not bother the other passengers. Plus, despite the fragrance, the absence of harsh ingredients makes it suitable for even the most sensitive skin.

Why is it that if hair looks great, everything is right in the world?

For the simple reason that the phrase “bad hair day” is far from just a cliché. One puffy frizz disaster can rain on anyone’s holiday. However, taking a wide array of products is also out of the question since most people tend to travel light to avoid those pesky checked bag fees.

No Frizz Humidity Shield ($12.00 – 19.00) Ulta Beauty, Sephora, QVC: Ideally giving hair a good wash every couple of days is the best way to tame your strands. However, who has the time to do this when all there is to rely on is the hotel hair dryer. This product is in no way supposed to take the place of hair washing.

But, on those days when cleansing your locks is out of the question this product is the next best thing. Not only will it tame frizz, but it won’t weigh hair down or diminish its lift and body.

So, get this summer off to a good start

Now that you’ve figured out the summer essentials. This summer can really get off to a good start.

 

Mary Thompson