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  • 2020 Tax Guide: Info you Need

    2020 Tax Guide: Info you Need

    The 2020 tax season is almost upon us and many are already taking a look at the steps they need to take to be prepared and ready to go. With all of the changes that happened to the world in 2020, it is normal to have a few questions about how your taxes will do and what changes you should be on the lookout for. In this article, we will spend some time exploring your taxes and what you can expect when you file them this year.

    Changes to the 2020 Taxes

    When you go to file this year, be ready for a few major changes to take place. The IRS is preparing for an influx of individuals who have some drastic changes in their taxes due to unexpected unemployment and more. Some of the different things to expect this tax season include:

    The Stimulus Payment

    Many individuals and families received a stimulus payment earlier this year as part of the CARES Act. This is not going to negatively affect your taxes at all. It is an advance refundable tax credit. This means that no matter what you owe, or don’t owe, when you are done filing your tax return, you will still get to keep that money and you will not be taxed on it at all.

    This is good news for many families. You will not need to worry about paying taxes on that money. And you will not have to pay it back now that the year has ended. If you were within the income guidelines put forth for that rebate, then that money is yours and it will not affect what you will or will not pay in taxes, even if you end up earning more in 2020 than you did in 2018 and 2019, which is what the rebate was based on.

    Deductions

    The types of deductions, and the amount you can deduct on your tax return will be a little bit different in 2020 too. The standard deduction when we look at a tax return for someone married filing jointly will rise up to $24,800 this year. For married individuals who will file separately and single taxpayers, this deduction will increase to $12,400.

    There are also a few changes to the AMT exemption, or the alternative minimum tax exemption. The amount for those who file as single will be $72,900 and it phases out at $518,400. For those who are married and file together, this exemption will be at $113,400 and will phase out at $1,036,800.

    Taxpayers will notice some differences with the CARES Act too. Due to the language in this act, you can have $300 above the line deductions for any of the cash contributions you give to charity if you stick with the standard deduction this year. In addition to those, those who itemize will be able to lift the 60% AGI limitation on the amount you contribute in cash. Keep in mind with this that any donor-advised funds and the organizations that are supported by it can’t qualify for this.

    The Tax Brackets

    Every year it is important to take a look at some of the tax brackets and figure out where you fall in them. This will determine how much you will end up paying in taxes at the end of the year. For 2020 and 2021, the top tax bracket will be at 37%. This is the rate for individual taxpayers when they file as single if they have an income higher than $518,400 in 2020. The income amount limit will be higher in 2021.

    For married couples, the 37% will not go into affected until they earn $622,050 when filing jointly and $311,025 when filing separately. Some of the tax brackets to consider include:

    35% for those who are single or married filing single who earn more than $207,350 for the year. This tax bracket is $414,700 for those married filing jointly.
    32% for married filing single and single taxpayers who earn more than $163,300 in 2020. This tax rate starts at the income of $326,600 for taxpayers you are married and filing jointly.
    24% for married filing single and single taxpayers when they earn more than $85,525. For taxpayers who are married and filing jointly, this tax rate happens when you reach the income level of $172,750.
    22% for single filers will start when they reach an income level of $40,125. This is the tax rate for those filing married and jointly at $80,250.
    12% starts for single taxpayers when they earn more Than $9875 in 202. The rate is put into affect at the income of $19,900 for married filing jointly.

    There is a tax bracket of 10%, but this is for those who earn less than $9875 a year as a single taxpayer. For married individuals, this will be the tax amount when they earn less than $19,750 in the year.

    If you are uncertain about your tax bracket, then it is important to talk with a tax professional ahead of time. Keep in mind that if you have some deductions in place, you may be able to lower the amount that you owe and put yourself in a lower tax bracket. This will save you a lot of time and money in the process.

    Your Retirement

    The IRS has made some changes to how your retirement withdrawals are handled this year as well. To start are the contribution limits. These limits for any employee who participates in an employer retirement plan is increased to $19,500 in 2020. It was $19,000 in the past. For individuals who are age 50 and older who want to do a catch-up contribution, the limit has increased to $6500.

    As a taxpayer, you are able to deduct some of the contributions you make to a traditional IRA if you meet some conditions. There are some phase-out times depending on how much you make, but all of the limits for this phasing out have been increased based on inflation.

    The biggest changes here though are on the withdrawals that you can take on these. If you qualified for any coronavirus-related distributions from the retirement, you will not need to pay for the 10% penalty for withdrawing it early. The distribution is taxable but you can also spread the taxes on that out between three years rather than having it due the entire year that you take it out. If you pay the funds back to the plan within that three year timeframe, it is a rollover and you will not be taxed.

    Because of Covid-19 and many people needing financial help, you are able to also take a loan out of your employer-sponsored retirement plan, up to the full amount or $100,000 depending on which one is smaller. You can then delay the payments on that amount for a year without having to pay anything on it. If you have a loan outstanding on that retirement plan, then you can defer it for a year if necessary.

    Credits

    In the 2020 tax year, the maximum earned income credit is at $6,660 for taxpayers who have three or more children who qualify. In addition, the MAGI amount used by those who are married and file jointly to determine the reduction of the lifetime earning credit will be at $118,000 and phases out completely at $138,000.

    Estates and Gifts

    Even the estates and gifts for this year will change. Estates of decedents who die during the 2020 year will have a basic exclusion amount of $11.58 million this year. The annual exclusions for gifts is $15,000, which is the same as it was in 2019.

    Tax Services to Use

    You do not need to file your taxes on your own. In fact, many individuals find that going in-person or using an online tax filing company makes the whole process that much easier. There are a number of different online tax services that you can use, each with varying costs depending on what type of filing you need to do. For example, if you are just filing for yourself and one job, you may be able to file for free. If you have a business, a house, student loan debt, and other factors, you may need to use one of the services that costs a bit more.

    Some of the best tax service companies to consider using this tax season include:

    TurboTax

    TurboTax allows you to be in the driver seat of your taxes, making it easy to choose the level of help that you want. You can go through and file your taxes all on your own. Or you can use their live tax experts to walk you through every step of the process. They also will go through the whole return before you file to make sure nothing is missed.

    There are a few different plans you can pick out depending on your unique situation through TurboTax. Some of these include:

    The Free Edition: This one doesn’t cost anything but it is only for a very simple tax return. If there is anything special with your taxes, you will have to pay more.
    Deluxe: This would be the option you would need to use if you are married filing together, if you have children, or for any other special situations. It is the most popular option and costs about $60. The state return will cost extra.
    Premier: This option is the best one to choose if you have rental property or investments that you need to claim on your return. It costs about $90 for the federal return.
    Self-employed: If you run your own business or do any freelance work, then the self-employed is the best option. It will run about $120 for the free version.

    H&R Block

    H&R Block is another great company to use to help you handle your taxes at the end of the year. They provide a lot of one on one service and can be a great option for those who have no idea how to handle their taxes at all. You will need to set up an appointment to work with them ahead of time because of the pandemic, but this company has always been one you can trust.

    The amount you will pay for filing with H&R Block will depend on the type of tax return and how much work needs to go into it. The average fee is $147 for each return. This is before you add in itemized deductions to the mix. If you add these, a business, and other options, it is often more expensive to complete.

    1040EZ

    If you have a simple return and can handle your taxes on your own, it is possible to visit the IRS website and do all of the work on your own. This will save you a lot of money. The IRS has a ton of forms that will work for each situation you need during tax time. You just need to know enough about your taxes to handle it and not make mistakes. But if you can do this option, it is completely free to file the taxes.

    TaxAct

    This option may not be as well-known as some of the other options, but it is a great way to handle your taxes and make sure you get the refund you want. They offer some free options if you have simple taxes, which can make them a great place to start. You can even start your return for free and they will let you know if you need one of the other plans based on how you answer questions as you go along.

    TaxAct offers a few different plans based on your tax needs. Some of them include:

    • Free: This one will be great for simple filers and will not cost anything.
    • Deluxe: This is the most popular plan and is the one you most likely will need to use. It works for any deductions, homeowners, and so on. The cost is $25 to file.
    • Premier: This is a great option to use for foreign bank accounts, rental properties, and investments. The cost is $34.95.
    • Self-Employed: If you run your own business, then you will need to use this option. It will help you to get the most out of your return each year and costs $65.

    Conclusion

    Tax season is always a little bit stressful. You have to keep track of all the money you earned and all the special situations that come with it. Then you need to learn any rules and changes in laws that may have come up over that time as well. By looking through this article and understanding more about the recent tax changes, you will be able to accurately file your taxes with ease this year.


  • How to Straighten Teeth Without Braces

    How to Straighten Teeth Without Braces

    First things first: no one wants a bad-looking smile. Everyone wants their teeth to look straight and healthy! However, not everyone needs braces. If you have an underdeveloped palate, limited overcrowding or malocclusion, you might be able to fix your smile without braces.

    How to Straighten Teeth Without Braces

    Brands like Smile Direct and Invisalign have totally shaken up the orthodontics industry for the better. You used to have to go to your orthodontist for your first fitting and installation of regular braces. Depending on the severity of your particular case, you could have to visit the orthodontist as much as once a week to get your traditional braces adjusted.

    With the new technology that these other brands have, all of that effort is a thing of the past. Either book a 3D scan in our SmileShop or get an at-home kit sent to you. A licensed dentist or orthodontist will review your smile plan and guide your new smile remotely from beginning to end. You have the option to either book a 3D scan from your doctor or get an at-home kit sent to you. A licensed dentist or orthodontist will review your smile plan and guide your new smile remotely from beginning to end. Everyone’s gum-line is different, so each aligner is individually trimmed for your teeth and gums. In stead of having to go to get adjusted, these companies send you new molds to track your improvement and ship new aligners right to your front door.

    Palatal Expanders

    Orthodontists often suggest palatal expanders for children with mouths too narrow for their adult teeth. The expander is typically held in place by dental cement and is placed so that it applies pressure on both sides of the mouth. The expander has a mechanism that can be turned by the orthodontist to apply more pressure. Over visits with the orthodontist, the expander is gradually widened, causing the mouth to become wide enough to accommodate eventual adult teeth.

    If your child is suffering from a narrow palate, consider speaking with their orthodontist about expanders. It’s possible to avoid braces altogether with the aid of an expander!

    Retainers

    In the event of limited overcrowding of the mouth, retainers can be used to correct the issue. Orthodontists will often suggest retainers for less extreme conditions, as they have a number of benefits for certain patients. While fixed retainers are similar to braces, Hawley retainers are removable. Removable retainers are great for special occasions or temporary relief while still correcting crooked teeth or misaligned bite.

    If you opt for a removable retainer, the main risk is losing it. Retainers are made from a dental impression and specifically made for one patient. As such, they are expensive to replace. Make sure any children with retainers are aware of how expensive they are and to not misplace them.

    Appliances for Malocclusion

    Malocclusion, or an out-of-alignment bite, can be very discomforting. Those with malocclusion can often be helped by an orthodontist’s appliance, however. Appliances that orthodontists use to correct bite often look a bit extreme but are noted for how successful they are. Headgear used to correct malocclusion can look a bit goofy, but it’s well-worth the benefits of correcting a child’s bite!

    Children with headgear are often mocked by classmates, however, so orthodontists may have other treatments in mind that are more discreet. In such cases, an orthodontist can consult with parents over how best to proceed.


  • Young at Heart? ❤️ Tired of ‘Hook-Up’ Dating Sites?

    Young at Heart? ❤️ Tired of ‘Hook-Up’ Dating Sites?

    If you are young at heart, but finding that the leading dating apps don’t have the right matches for you, you may have concluded that there aren’t too many great options. It seems like the leading apps are mostly geared towards young adults trying to just hook up. Where are the apps for adults who are actually trying to date? Well, we have good news. We’ve got a roundup of the best dating apps for people who are serious about dating!

    Stitch

    Do you like to meet people based on what you have in common? Are you a fan of dates that involve activities like going to a coffee shop or going to a concert? You might like to try Stitch. The best part is, Stitch is a great place to find anything from a new friend to a new relationship!

    Stitch is an app that focuses on connecting users over 50 based on their shared interests. Travel is a big one, and the app even helps find discounted rates on rooms! You can connect with people over any interest, though, including music, movies, and taste in food. There is a free version of the app, but you can also opt for a premium paid membership. The paid version costs $80 per month, but gives you access to calling other members, direct messaging and community features. If you’re looking to connect with someone over mutual interests and shared activities, try Stitch!

    OurTime.com

    Our Time is a great site for those over 50 looking for a relationship. The site actually boasts a higher ratio of women than men, which is a welcome change from most dating sites. The site also has an iPhone and Android app that offer Tinder-like swiping! 

    You can get a paid subscription, but the free version allows for viewing profiles and matches. You also can see who views your profile for free! The paid subscription allows for seeing when your messages are read and highlighting your profile in searches. You can even see who’s interested in you! Our Time is worth checking out if you’re looking for a relationship.

    Plenty of Fish

    Popular dating app Plenty of Fish gets a nod for just how many people use it. The name of the site is actually quite accurate! If you don’t mind filtering through a large number of people to try to find good matches, Plenty of Fish can be great. The best part is, the wide user base means you’re bound to find someone you connect with!

    The site does a good job matching you with people you’re looking for thanks to its algorithms. If you tell it you want to meet people your own age, it can filter for that! That way you’re sure to meet people who are at the same place in life as you, leading to more genuine connections.

    Senior People Meet<

    This popular app has a very large user base and intuitive interface. If you’ve used Tinder, you know what to expect! You swipe left or right on profiles based on whether or not you’re attracted to the person based on their profile. The focus, however, is on senior people, as the name suggests. With this app, you can be certain that your matches will be people your own age, not kids! This makes it an excellent alternative dating app to Tinder for older users. 

    That said, it does hide a number of features behind a paywall. Seeing who is interested in you, who has read your messages, and being able to send and receive email is all behind a monthly subscription. That said, messaging and viewing profiles is free, as is seeing who likes your profile. If you’re in for a Tinder-like experience with mature adults, check out this app!

    Our Favorite Dating App: OK Cupid

    You’ve likely heard of OK Cupid. It has millions of users and an in-depth question and answer section. The questions help to filter your matches to people who have compatible personalities and values, which is great! The site also has some great features for paid subscribers, like seeing who likes your profile, disabling ads and using advanced search functions. 

    OK Cupid is great because it focuses on who you are, not just how you look. Other dating apps can be quite superficial, but OK Cupid is not that way at all! It’s an excellent choice for older people looking for a more thoughtful dating app. The iPhone and Android apps both have great ratings for their usefulness and design. OK Cupid comes highly recommended!


  • Review: 5 Best Features in the Samsung Galaxy Note 10

    Review: 5 Best Features in the Samsung Galaxy Note 10

    To kick off the unveiling of the new Samsung Galaxy Note 10 and Galaxy Note 10 Plus, we’ve gathered a list jam-packed with the 5 coolest features included in the new smartphones. The Galaxy Note 10 is not just a new smartphone, it’s a gaming console, a film studio, a computer, comes with your own personal magic wand – and its all in one device!

    1. Smaller – and bigger
    The Samsung Galaxy Note has always been identified as a “big phone.” Users are pleased to see a smaller, hand-friendly version of the Note 10. It is about 0.2-inches smaller than the Note 9 and the Note 10+. 0.2-inches may not sound like much, however it makes a significant difference when it comes to fitting in your hand. On the contrary, this is the first time Samsung has rolled out two versions of the Note to include the Note+ for those who prefer a bigger smartphone.

    2. 3D Scanning
    While Samsung is not the first to roll out 3D scanning, they came up with a cool application for 3D scanning with Augmented Reality. Consumers can now 3D scan objects and drop them into their photos and videos. It doesn’t stop there; consumers can even animate them using motion capture. This will be huge for consumers that put out content on social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok.

    3. Super-fast charging
    Long gone are the days where your smartphone battery dies a few hours after charging. With a quick 30-minute charging session, the Galaxy Note 10 will hold battery juice all day long. Samsung did this by including a 45W charger to amp up the wattage in comparison to competitors that have a 30W charger.

    4. S-pen
    Say goodbye to selfie sticks and self-timers because the Galaxy Note 10 comes with an S-pen that will allow consumers to take remote photos. It gets even better, with an accelerometer and gyroscope in the S-pen, consumers have their own personal magic wand with gesture-recognition technology.

    5. 5G
    The future is here – 5G is the latest version of cellular networks. This is a once in a decade upgrade to the way consumers can wirelessly deliver data, making the Galaxy Note 10 one of the fastest and most powerful smartphones in the market. Just how much faster? In this new era, the Galaxy Note 10 with 5G will average out to be roughly 20 times faster than the traditional 4G network you are currently using.


  • Thinking about Getting Engaged? Why Blue Diamonds are so Popular

    Thinking about Getting Engaged? Why Blue Diamonds are so Popular

    Blue diamonds are rather rare, and, as such, are extremely expensive. Naturally occurring blue diamonds are so rare that many people thought that “blue diamonds” weren’t actually a real thing in antiquity. Instead, it was thought that such stones were actually sapphire.

    In the modern era, blue diamonds are exceedingly popular as engagement ring stones. This is due to the striking appearance and deep symbology of blue diamonds. Today, we’re looking more deeply into blue diamonds and their place among other types of diamond.

    Blue Diamonds

    Overview

    Despite their physical similarities, sapphires and blue diamonds are not the same gemstones. Sapphires are actually part of the corundum family, much like rubies. Corundum is a crystallized form of aluminum oxide and manifests many colors in nature. Blue diamonds, as their name implies, are a solid form of the element carbon, like all naturally occurring diamonds.

    Blue diamonds, unlike their clear or yellow cousins, are exceedingly rare in nature. They share this trait with red or pink diamonds, though blue diamonds tend to be more popular in formal jewelry. Blue diamonds, much like any diamonds, have a crystalline lattice structure that makes them incredibly hard and resistant to most forms of contaminates.

    Deep Blue

    The beautiful deep blue color of blue diamonds is caused by the rare appearance of a contaminate in the crystalline lattice structure. In the case of a blue diamond, the contaminant in question is boron. Few elements can contaminate diamonds, as their carbon-lattice structure is very resistant to such impurities. This makes blue diamonds much rarer than white or yellow diamonds.

    In fact, blue diamonds are almost entirely of the Type IIb diamond classification, which themselves are only 0.1% of the world’s supply of diamonds. Only a few of these, in turn, are blue. This means you can expect to pay a pretty penny for a blue diamond, but you’ll know you’re getting one of the rarest rocks on Earth.

    It’s also possible to create a blue diamond in a lab setting. Artificially made blue diamonds are made using electron-beam radiation, and it’s much more likely that this what you’re buying when you start shopping for a blue diamond.

    Blue Diamond Lore

    Humans love gemstones, and many people ascribe various near-supernatural powers to them. Blue diamonds are no exception. Many people ascribe properties of truthfulness, eternity, peace, devotion and spirituality. It’s no surprise, then, that these rings prove so popular as engagement rings. What words are better to describe a union than eternity, truthfulness and devotion?

    Famous blue diamonds are not plentiful, but their fame outweighs their small numbers. One of the most famous gemstones of all time, the Hope Diamond, is a fancy blue diamond. Originally, the Tavernier Blue, a rough but strikingly beautiful diamond, was cut down into the Blue Diamond of the French Crown.

    The Hope Diamond

    History holds that Tavernier, a French explorer, purchased the exceptionally large diamond from a mine in India. He then sold it to the French Crown, where it was cut down into the French Crown’s prized Blue Diamond. Following the events of the French Revolution in the late 1700’s, the diamond was stolen and recut into the smaller (yet still exceptionally large) Hope Diamond in an attempt to obscure its origins.

    Following a long and complex series of changing hands in the intervening century, the Hope Diamond eventually found its way to rest in the National Gem Collection in Washington DC. The stone is so famous and rare as to be of literally incalculable value. It’s impossible to say how expensive the stone would be if it were auctioned. Folklore has also suggested that the stone possesses ill fortune, and any wearers of the jewel have a cruel fate befall them.


  • It’s 2021! Time for a New Mattress?

    It’s 2021! Time for a New Mattress?

    Everything circles back around to sleep. If you’re not sleeping well, everything else slips into being worse. Your physical well-being, your mood, everything. It all comes back to whether you’re sleeping well. With that in mind, today we’re looking at mattresses to find which is the best mattress.

    If you’ve been looking to find a good new mattress, this is the article for you. Today we answer the question: which is the best mattress?

    Hybrids

    Constructed from a combination of latex, memory, polyurethane foams, coils, and / or other materials, these mattresses usually are designed to maximize certain benefits, while also minimizing certain cons. For example, a latex + memory foam hybrid is able to deliver great bounce, cooling, and responsiveness via the latex, but also provide great pressure relief and support from the memory foam.

    Best for: Sleepers who want the best of all worlds. Great bounce, support, comfort, and cooling. A good all around option that is a very good choice for the majority of sleepers.

    Memory Foam
    Just like it sounds, these mattresses only consist of memory foam. Memory foam mattresses are known for their great support, pressure relief, and body contouring. Historically, memory foam has had a bad reputation as “sleeping hot”. However, many newer more advanced memory foams have been designed with superior cooling properties, creating a much cooler mattress than traditional memory foams.

    Best For: Sleepers who want great hug, body shaping, contour, pressure relief, and support. There is a wide spectrum of foams classified as “memory foam” and not all memory foams are created equal. A good option for sleepers who want a more pronounced hug than many hybrid or latex mattresses offer.

    Coils
    One of the most popular and widely used mattress types. Coil (aka innerspring) mattresses have one or more layers of spring coils (generally steel) that provide the support and comfort. As technology advances, the number, types, and layers of coils change. A larger number of coils typically means better comfort and support.

    Best For: Sleepers who want a more traditional coil / spring feel, great bounce, cooling, and strong edge support.

    Pillow-top

    Falling into an array of categories (coil, latex, memory, hybrid, etc.), pillow-top mattresses have a layer of soft material either stuffed or sewn into the cover. This works to add extra comfort and cushion for the sleeper.

    Best For: Sleepers who prefer a softer and more cushion comfort. If you enjoy a cloud-like type of support and comfort most pillow tops will offer the best sleeping surface for you.

    Contenders for Best Mattress

    #3. Purple
    Purple mattresses are luxurious and excellent. If you’re a fan of memory foam-style mattresses, you’ll love purple. The Purple Mattress has Smart Comfort Grid technology that keeps pressure on your body to a minimum. This ensures you awake comfortable and well-rested! If you find you often awake with painful pressure points from your mattress, this is for you. This mattress retails for $999, but you can often find it on sale for less. Purple’s website often has sales, as does Amazon!

    Also, a plus for Purple is their return policy. If you don’t love the mattress, you can send it back within 100 days for a full refund. These mattresses are made in the US, and they’re also covered by a ten-year warranty.

    #2. Sleep Number
    Sleep Number is well-known for their unique, adjustable design. If you’re not familiar with them, it works like this: each bed has a controller that allows you to choose a number. That number, your Sleep Number, represents how soft or firm you prefer your bed to be. The best part is, Sleep Number also offers beds that can be adjusted on both sides. That means if you prefer firm and your partner prefers soft, you can get the best of both worlds!

    You can also adjust the angle of the bed, allowing you to choose your preferred sleeping posture. You can even adjust the bed enough to watch TV or read while in bed! These mattresses are in the under-$1000 range, usually coming in between $700 and $900.

    #1. Saatva
    Saatva mattresses are made from all-natural, organic cotton. They also offer mattresses for $999 and offer a great set-up bonus. The cost of a mattress includes free delivery, setup and removal of your old mattress. Talk about full-service! Saatva mattresses are made in the US and Canada, meaning you know you’ll get quality construction.


  • Need a Family Vacation? We Review Amazing Cruises for 2021

    Need a Family Vacation? We Review Amazing Cruises for 2021

    For many people, the words “World Cruise” represent the definitive holiday of a lifetime. On a cruise, you can see many of the places you have longed to see all your life, and you do not have to pack and unpack.

    A further benefit is that you do not need to negotiate several airports and tricky connections while you travel in the safe environment of a cruise ship. Long gone are the days where you would spend hours daydreaming about your perfect cruise. Understandably, it is commonplace for people to hesitate about the idea of going on a cruise. The said hesitation can be attributed to numerous things, most crucial of which is the budget and the time of year the cruise is taking place.

    Another thing that is of paramount importance to consider before deciding to sign up for any particular cruise is the level of security the cruise service has, coupled with the safety the cruise provides to its members. As a result of all these factors, it may be a bit onerous to try and find the cruise tailor suited for you.

    Thankfully, having perused through a plethora of testimonials and references, we have been able to come up with the best cruises you can take in 2021. The only way you can truly know how good a cruise is through the people who have been on it, and it is through the said testimonials that we have compiled this list.

    Amongst the cruises, we have selected you will find one that offers a trip down the Nile, another whose itinerary includes an adventure on the arctic, and another that covers almost the entire world in 180 days. It is solely up to you to select one that meets your preferences.

    Celebrity Cruises and the cruises around Alaska

    Celebrity Cruises is one of the most renowned cruise lines in the world, and their Alaska tour is without a doubt the best you will find in the world. Comprised of three award-winning cruise ships, the Celebrity Eclipse, the Celebrity Solstice, and the Celebrity Millenniums, you can be assured that you will find a cruise that suits your preferences and limitations.

    The cruise line business is ever-dynamic. Keeping true to this nature, Celebrity cruises aims at making sure that everything on their cruise ships is kept up to date. With the Celebrity Eclipse, for example, will be taking its first cruise in the last frontier since its multi-million dollar transformation, and you can be assured that the revolutionized cruise ship will meet all your expectations and then some.

    With celebrity cruises, you get a plethora of cruises, all of which are fun and have a wonderful, breathtaking itinerary. It is solely up to you to decide on the one that works perfectly for you. Here are the cruises that the cruising company is offering.

    The itinerary on these various cruises is something to die for. They include stops in Homer, a paradise located in the farthest reaches of the Kenai Peninsula, where you can fish and move around learning about the region and its culture. You will also have stops in places like Vancouver, a picturesque port town that is as energetic as it is entertaining.

    Mountain and glaciers are perhaps the main reason why people go for cruises around Alaska in the first place and the cruises that Celebrity Cruises offer come jam-packed with scenic glaciers and exotic wildlife. Stops at Seward, Alaska, and Juneau will introduce you to stunning glaciers and the fauna and flora that come with it.

    With celebrity cruises, you can be assured that you will find a cruise that not only works for your budget, but also one that will give you the best value for money.

    ‘The secrets of Egypt and the Nile’ by AmaWaterways River Cruise

    AmaWaterways River Cruises offers you’re the chance of a lifetime. By riding through the AmaDahlia, one of the most luxurious river cruise ships, and AmaWterways 25th, you can partake in an 11-night adventure that entails traveling on both the land and sea.

    Starting in September 2021, the guests on the cruises can tour around Egypt and appreciate the ancient beauty it brings forward. The travelers on the cruise will visit the Pyramids of Giza, the Valley of Kings and Queens, the Temple of Luxor, the Great Sphinx amongst others.

    The icing on this already delicious cake is that the guests will be given a private tour of the Abdeen Presidential Palace. Additionally, they will also visit the Alabaster Mosque in Cairo and the Egyptian Museum. The itinerary for this particular cruise is something out of heaven.

    Norwegian Cruise Line and the ‘nine-day cruise to Scandinavia, Russia and the Baltic’

    Europe is littered with the most beautiful views and places. Norwegian Cruise’s raison d’être is to provide you with a means through which you can enjoy all of the said places. The cruise line’s ship, the Norwegian Escape, brings this philosophy into reality.

    In it, you are assured that you will have the time of your life. As a result of its grandeur and a la mode styling, the Norwegian Escape has won a plethora of awards. In it, there are eighteen dining venues, in which you can enjoy the meals that have been prepared for you. Additionally, there is a waterfront cocktail lounge and a spa. There is also a wide range of staterooms.

    All these features have been put in place so that the guests on the cruise can enjoy their adventure around Scandinavia, Russia, and the Baltic Sea. They provide a relaxing feel as you enjoy the cruise that starts in Berlin and then moves to Helsinki in Finland. Afterward, you will move to St. Petersburg, where you will enjoy two glorious days of moving around and absorbing the city’s culture. Tallinn, the capital city of Estonia, is your next port, followed by a stop in Stockholm, Sweden.

    Crystal Cruises’ ‘Ancient Dynasties and World Wonders’

    Deep sited in every human being is the urge to explore. The desire to discover new places and the curiosity of what lies on the horizon is what has pushed humans to become what they are today and it is what pushes them even further.

    To quench this said thirst for adventure, while simultaneously having the time of your life, Crystal Cruises has provided one of the best and longest cruises you will find in the market. Described by many as the ‘journey of a lifetime’, this cruse that lasts for 13 nights is the stuff of legend, covering almost every single continent.

    Starting off in the sunny city that is Miami, this cruise moves through the Panama Canal and goes all the way to Hawaii, having passed and stopped in Puerto Vallarta and San Diego. This is when the real fun begins. Afterward, the cruise moves to Australia, then Asia, where it makes stops in Singapore, China, Japan, Dubai, and India.

    This is just the tip of the iceberg. The cruise then travels along the Nile, moving through the Suez Canal. It then makes its way to the European Leg of the cruise, where it makes stops in Greece, Italy, Spain, Portugal, and France. The cruise then ends in London.

    Inside the Crystal Serenity, the cruise ship that embarks on this adventure around the world, you can be assured that you will have a delightful time.

    Celebrity Cruises; the European Leg

    Celebrity Cruises, as mentioned earlier, is one of the biggest Cruise companies in the world. The reason behind this is simple. Time and again, the company has proven that it can provide the best cruises in the world, both in terms of the places explored and the cruise ships that are used in the said cruises.

    A prime illustration of this philosophy, one that the company has perfected, is the European Cruises that it offers. Take for example the seven-night cruise onboard one of the most majestic cruise ships not just in the Celebrity Cruises fleet, but also in the world, the Celebrity Infinity.

    As stated before, Celebrity Cruises prides itself on providing the most modern services and cruises. It is for this reason that the Celebrity Infinity cruise ship has been modified and is almost completely renovated.

    The ‘Italy, Croatia and Montenegro Cruise’ is the stuff of dreams. It begins in Venice, the capital of elegance and chicness, where you can explore the canals and waterways in the great and ancient city.

    Afterward, the cruise heads to Croatia, through the Adriatic Sea. After Croatia, the cruise makes its way to Kotor in Montenegro, which is a UNESCO World Heritage city. Shortly thereafter, the Celebrity Infinity makes its way to Corfu, Greece, which is another UNESCO World Heritage city.

    After you have been at sea, relaxing and having the time of your life, the cruise makes a stop at Naples, which gives you the opportunity to travel around the city, appreciate its heritage and culture and enjoy the delicacies it provides. The final stop of the cruise is Rome’s Civitavecchia.

    Silversea Cruises

    Ask anyone who has embarked on a cruise, and they will tell you that transatlantic cruises are one of the best cruises you can embark on. You get to see the best of both worlds, literally and metaphorically. Silversea Cruises provides one of the most spectacular transatlantic cruises you will find in the market.

    The thirteen-day cruise takes place in one of the most luxurious cruise ships you will find, the Silver Shadow. Taking off from Port Lauderdale, the cruise is at sea for two days before making a pit-stop in Hamilton in Bermuda. There, you will be able to enjoy the pink sandy beaches and boat tours on glass-bottom boats and the historic venues all around the city.

    After the vacation in Hamilton, Bermuda, the cruise makes a four-day journey through the Atlantic Ocean. It is during these four days that you will be able to enjoy the plethora of niceties that the Silver Shadow offers. Sunny days in the pool and lounging out while enjoying the ocean are just some of the numerous things you can do before the cruise arrives on the other side of the pond.

    It is in Portugal that the cruise ship will make its next pit stop. There, at Punta Delgada and Horta, you will enjoy the splendid scenes that Portugal’s Azures offer. From volcanic landscapes to natural hot springs and sandy beaches, you will without a doubt have the time of your life.

    Lastly, the ship will make a two-day cruise all the way to Lisbon, the capital of Portugal. During this time, you can indulge further in the good things that the cruise ship has in store for you.

    Oceania Cruise and the ‘Around the World in 180 Days’

    Cruises are about having the time of your life while you explore the world. They are about vacationing and learning simultaneously. They are about being introduced to new cultures while enjoying the numerous niceties that the world offers, from food to cuisine.

    You will find no other cruise that satisfies all these requirements more than what Oceania Cruises offers. The ‘Around the World in 180 days’ will introduce you to cultures and sights you thought you might never see. It covers every single continent that isn’t covered with ice, so you can be assured that you will have your fair share of new adventures.

    Starting off in Miami, as most of the cruises do, this cruise moves pass through numerous ports in Central America and then South America, before crossing the Pacific Ocean. Afterward, it moves through Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and then the Mediterranean.

    It doesn’t stop there. The cruise moves north, through the English Channel, and stops at London before embarking on the return journey to the states, with further stops in Greenland, Iceland, and Canada.

    When it comes to value for money, you will find no cruise that is better than what Oceana provides with this particular one. This is the reason as to why both cruising aficionados and novices alike find this particular cruise to be the best there is.

    Inclusive in the booking of one spot in this cruise is a first-class round-trip airfare, all of the drinks on board, well over seventy excursions, and 7,000 dollars’ worth of shipboard credit. It simply cannot get any better than that.


  • Last Minute Winter Vacation Ideas…

    Last Minute Winter Vacation Ideas…

    It is never too late for a fun winter getaway. Since many of us are working from home these days, why not take your remote work someplace fun this winter? Our team got together and researched a few great ideas for people looking for a fun getaway while staying safe and healthy. Check them out below!

    Last Minute Golf: Whether you are an experienced golfer or picking up clubs for the first time, golfing is a terrific idea for those looking to get outdoors without going too far from home. Sites like golfnow.com, Teeoff.com, and rockbottomgolf.com all provide great search directories and links to courses near you. You’ll be surprised at how easy it is to find a tee-time.

    A Weekend at the Beach: Nothing says relaxation and fun like a gentle sea breeze, sand between your toes, and a refreshing dip in the water.  There are very few things to do that are as relaxing and fun as a day at the beach. Roughly 200 million people in the US live within 100 miles of the coast. If that includes you, get out to the beach! Websites including vrbo.com, hometogo.com, and airbnb.com have curated great selections of vacation rentals at or near the beach.

    Hiking in a beautiful National Park: Need to get away from the city? Do you love fresh air and being in nature? In the Fall and Winter, you will find many parks are empty! There are 419 national parks in the US which span more than 84 million acres in each state. Needless to say, there is plenty of space to spread out and soak in the natural beauty. Make sure to check out us-parks.com, nationalparkguides.com or nps.gov to learn more!

    Poolside in the Desert: Most people think of Palm Springs, Scottsdale and other desert cities as places to go to bake in the Summertime. However, there are great savings and deals to be had in the Fall and Winter in the desert. Just make sure that where ever you stay, a pool is close-by! visitpalmsprings.com or experiencescottsdale.com are a must!

    The Holidays are here… get out there and enjoy them safely before they are gone-


  • ❤️Dating Website & App Review❤️

    ❤️Dating Website & App Review❤️

    If you are young at heart, but finding that the leading dating apps don’t have the right matches for you, you may have concluded that there aren’t too many great options. It seems like the leading apps are mostly geared towards young adults trying to just hook up. Where are the apps for adults who are actually trying to date? Well, we have good news. We’ve got a roundup of the best dating apps for people who are serious about dating!

    Stitch

    Do you like to meet people based on what you have in common? Are you a fan of dates that involve activities like going to a coffee shop or going to a concert? You might like to try Stitch. The best part is, Stitch is a great place to find anything from a new friend to a new relationship!

    Stitch is an app that focuses on connecting users over 50 based on their shared interests. Travel is a big one, and the app even helps find discounted rates on rooms! You can connect with people over any interest, though, including music, movies, and taste in food. There is a free version of the app, but you can also opt for a premium paid membership. The paid version costs $80 per month, but gives you access to calling other members, direct messaging and community features. If you’re looking to connect with someone over mutual interests and shared activities, try Stitch!

    OurTime.com

    Our Time is a great site for those over 50 looking for a relationship. The site actually boasts a higher ratio of women than men, which is a welcome change from most dating sites. The site also has an iPhone and Android app that offer Tinder-like swiping! 

    You can get a paid subscription, but the free version allows for viewing profiles and matches. You also can see who views your profile for free! The paid subscription allows for seeing when your messages are read and highlighting your profile in searches. You can even see who’s interested in you! Our Time is worth checking out if you’re looking for a relationship.

    Plenty of Fish

    Popular dating app Plenty of Fish gets a nod for just how many people use it. The name of the site is actually quite accurate! If you don’t mind filtering through a large number of people to try to find good matches, Plenty of Fish can be great. The best part is, the wide user base means you’re bound to find someone you connect with!

    The site does a good job matching you with people you’re looking for thanks to its algorithms. If you tell it you want to meet people your own age, it can filter for that! That way you’re sure to meet people who are at the same place in life as you, leading to more genuine connections.

    Senior People Meet<

    This popular app has a very large user base and intuitive interface. If you’ve used Tinder, you know what to expect! You swipe left or right on profiles based on whether or not you’re attracted to the person based on their profile. The focus, however, is on senior people, as the name suggests. With this app, you can be certain that your matches will be people your own age, not kids! This makes it an excellent alternative dating app to Tinder for older users. 

    That said, it does hide a number of features behind a paywall. Seeing who is interested in you, who has read your messages, and being able to send and receive email is all behind a monthly subscription. That said, messaging and viewing profiles is free, as is seeing who likes your profile. If you’re in for a Tinder-like experience with mature adults, check out this app!

    Our Favorite Dating App: OK Cupid

    You’ve likely heard of OK Cupid. It has millions of users and an in-depth question and answer section. The questions help to filter your matches to people who have compatible personalities and values, which is great! The site also has some great features for paid subscribers, like seeing who likes your profile, disabling ads and using advanced search functions. 

    OK Cupid is great because it focuses on who you are, not just how you look. Other dating apps can be quite superficial, but OK Cupid is not that way at all! It’s an excellent choice for older people looking for a more thoughtful dating app. The iPhone and Android apps both have great ratings for their usefulness and design. OK Cupid comes highly recommended!