Traveling? Avoid These 4 Travel ‘Don’ts’

Traveling can be a great way to escape the stresses of everyday life, but it can also cause its own set of problems. Avoid being stressed on vacation by following these great tips. 

1. Don't leave things to chance. Unexpected problems are bound to arise, even if you're heading to paradise! Factor how much time you'll need for each task, like driving to the airport, and then give yourself some extra time. This way, you won't be scrambling at the last minute. 

2. Don't over/under pack.
Don't pack too much or too little. Plan for inclement weather by bringing a rain jacket and an extra pair, and throw in a scarf. Some locations in other countries require certain dress, like shawls covering a woman's shoulders. 

3. Don't leave tasks to the last minute.
It will really ruin your vacation if you pull out your passport the day before you're set to leave and realize it's expired. Make sure all the documents you need, like a passport and travel insurance, are all ready to go well before you leave. Also, be sure to notify your bank if you'll be using credit and debit cards outside of the U.S.

4. Don't become a victim of low blood sugar. 
Unexpected delays and impromptu museum visits can cause meal times to be pushed back. Don't let yourself get cranky because you haven't eaten. Always travel with some water and a small snack you can pull out when you feel hunger taking over. 

Trip Idea: Augusta, Maine

See moose, eat lobster, and explore lighthouses with a trip to Augusta, Maine. The capital of Maine is filled with culture, history, and nature. It has all the makings of a great vacation! Make sure you visit these top attractions during your visit.

Maine State Museum
Learn about the history of Maine from the ice age to the 1960s with four floors of exhibits highlighting the nature, history, and industry of Maine. Kids and adults with leave knowing just about anything you could want to know about Maine. The museum is closed on Mondays. Admission is just $2 for adults and $1 for children. 

Old Fort Western
This living history museum is also New England's oldest wooden fort, built in the 18th century. The many exhibits, both inside and outside, give you an idea of what life was like during the American Revolution. There's even a little store full of dry goods commonly used. Many of the exhibits are interactive so kids will have a great time learning some history about Maine. Hours are limited so check the website before you visit. 

Red Barn Drive-In
When visiting Maine you need to indulge in some authentic Maine seafood. The fish at Red Barn is as fresh as can be. Start with a bowl of Laura's Famous Seafood Stew before digging into your Fresh Maine Lobster Roll. Visitors say the lobster roll might be one of the best in the area.

5 Attractions to See During Your Vacation to Italy

Pizza, pasta, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Rome, Venice, Florence… The list of things to see in Italy can go on and on. When planning a vacation to Italy, you'll want to travel to a least a couple of cities during your trip. Make sure you put these top five attractions on your itinerary.

Amalfi Coast
If you're looking for a place with beautiful scenery, go no further than Amalfi Coast. The 30-mile coastline is filled with resorts, small villas, cliffs, and lemon tree gardens. Head into one of the villages for restaurants, shops, and historic architecture. The coast is easily accessed by a ferry ride from Naples. 

Canals of Venice
Venice is called the "City of Water" for good reason. Travel via gondola along one of the 150 canals that connect the city together, and marvel at the beautiful architecture. It's the quintessential romantic experience. 

Statue of David
In Florence, you'll find this famous statue designed by Michelangelo. If you're a fan of art, make sure you take a visit to the Galleria dell'Accademia to see this famous piece of art in person. 

Naples
Craving some authentic Italian food? There is no better place to indulge than in the home town pizza, spaghetti, and parmigiana. Made with classic recipes and fresh ingredients, you won't get Italian cuisine better than this. 

The Colosseum of Rome
History fans will love seeing all the ancient ruins in Rome, the most popular being the Colosseum. This huge theater was once the sight of gladiator fights seen by more than 50,000 people. Keep an eye out for actors walking around dressed like gladiators. 

3 Easy Diet Swaps

Dieting doesn't mean cutting out your favorite foods — just switch them for healthier, low-calorie versions. Check out these tips:

Dip
Don't fear dips anymore. Switch out high calorie dips with Greek yogurt-based dips. It has way less calories and more protein. Trying dipping veggies!

Popcorn
Craving something salty? Instead of reaching for that bag of chips, pop some popcorn. You'll get the same satisfying salty flavor for less calories, just watch your toppings!

Pizza
You can still have pizza while dieting! Instead of ordering a deep dish pizza with all the toppings go for a flatbread pizza with veggies. Or even better, make your own pizza. For a snack size use an English muffin with a little bit of tomato sauce and low-fat mozzarella cheese.

Nick’s Corner Grill: Pub Fare in Ashburn

A recent interior revamping and menu change from pub fare to Greek cuisine has won Nick’s Corner Grill a host of new fans. Go there to feast on the sunny flavors of the region in a warm, relaxing environment. Mezes – appetizers – include Spanikopita – spinach & feta in filo pastry, Falafel – chickpea fritters with tahini sauce, and Greek Fries with feta cheese & oregano. Move on to a tasty entrée like Lamb Shank with rice pilaf, Chicken Kebabs, Beef Shawarma, or the traditional Greek casserole, Mousakka. Gyro sandwiches with fresh cut fries and salads are also on the menu. Beer and wine are available. Open every day for lunch and dinner.

Nick's Corner Grill
42395 Ryan Road, Suite 130
Ashburn, VA 20147
(703) 327-7844
http://www.yelp.com/biz/nicks-corner-grill-ashburn

Trip Idea: Springfield, Illinois

No tour of state capitals would be complete without a visit to Springfield! Illinois's capital, as you might have guessed, features lots and lots on the life of Lincoln. But there's more to see and do! Here are some top destinations if you're planning a visit:

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum
Explore the life and legacy of the man who many call America's greatest president. The museum is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. except on Holidays. Make sure you make a stop at Lincoln's Tomb located just a few miles away. 

Dana-Thomas House
Head over to the Dana-Thomas House designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1902. Take a tour through the house to see a bowling alley, wine cellar, string quartet band lofts, beautiful stained glass, and more. Explore the 35 room house from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday to Sunday. 

D'arcy's Pint
Relax with an authentic Irish meal after a day of site seeing. The warm and cozy environment is perfect for enjoying a pint of beer and some traditional bar food. Make sure your try the "horseshoe," a Springfield classic made with Texas toast, your choice of protein (hamburger, chicken, bacon, turkey, etc.) then topped with fries and homemade cheese sauce. 

Easy Entertaining Idea: Charcuterie Plate

Don't stress the next time you have unexpected guests for lunch or dinner. You can put together a quick charcuterie plate, using staples you probably already have on hand. Here are some basic ingredients:

  • Keep a couple different types of cured meats in the fridge. Popular meats include prosciutto, salami, soppressata, and mortadella. Just about any thin, salty, dried meat will work.
  • Use a loaf of bread like ciabatta or focaccia bread. Breads that work best have a thicker crust and soft inside so they can complement the meat.
  • No plate would be complete without cheese. Add two different cheeses which can be easily sliced or cubed.
  • A few dips or spreads will finish off the tray. Even simple things like mustard or jam pair well with cheese, meat, and bread.
  • Have some olives? Put them on the tray. Small fruits or nuts work well too!

Interesting Facts About Warren Buffet

Perhaps you've heard of Warren Buffet? Nicknamed the Oracle of Omaha, Buffet is a celebrated American business magnate consistently ranked among the world's wealthiest people. Here are five fascinating facts about this American success story:

He's a Regular Guy
Sure, he's enormously wealthy. But Buffet still inhabits the same three-bedroom Omaha, Nebraska house he purchased over fifty years ago. He drives his own car and doesn't employ private driver or security team.

He Likes Simplicity
Buffet has only two rules for his managers: First, don't lose your shareholders' money. Secondly, don't forget the first rule.

He's Always Been Talented
Buffet's gift for finance was apparent when he was a young man. He purchased his first share when he was just eleven years old, later expressing regret that he hadn't begun even sooner! At fourteen, he bought a small farm with money earned on a paper-delivery route.

Harvard Wouldn't Accept Him
After graduating a year early from the University of Nebraska, Buffet applied to Harvard Business School. Harvard rejected him as "too young." Buffet matriculated to Columbia instead. There he met an important mentor: investor Ben Graham.

He's Generous
Most of Buffet's fortune has been donated to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, an organization that advances health and education initiatives around the world.

Stay Motivated While Working Out With These Apps

It's important to stay motivated while working out. There are plenty of apps on the market that aim to make it easier. Here are our favorite apps for working out. 

Fit Radio
Available for iPhones and Android, Fit Radio creates the perfect workout mix to keep you motivated during your workout. The app picks only upbeat tunes, making sure you stay pumped up with great music. 

Nike Training Club
his app is like your personal trainer — but way cheaper. Just enter your goal and work out level. Nike Training Club will give you a list of exercises with detailed instructions and audio guides. When you're workout is done, you'll receive a report with time spent and calories burned. Available for iPhone and Android. 

RunKeeper
If you're a runner, you need this app. Using your phone's GPS, this app will track your progress while running, walking, or biking. Check your pace, distance, and time. Audio cues will give you motivation and progress while you're running. Available for iPhone and Android. 

Pocket Yoga
Now you can practice yoga anywhere with Pocket Yoga. Choose your difficulty level and duration to begin a yoga class. You'll be guided through each pose with audio instructions. Available for iPhone and Android. 

Mediterranean Breeze: Italian Food and More

Make Mediterranean Breeze your go-to spot for flavorful fare served in a pleasant, relaxing setting. Get your taste buds primed with a tasty appetizer like Bruschetta with garlic, basil & olive oil, Fresh Mussels in spicy garlic marinara sauce, or Crab, Spinach & Artichoke Dip with toasted pita bread. Burgers, salads, pasta and sandwiches are also on the menu, as are flavorful entrees like Veal Marsala, Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes, New York Strip Steak, Shrimp Scampi and the Trio Mixed Grill with Black Angus top sirloin, boneless breast of chicken and jumbo shrimp. Greek pizza is also a possibility, with your choice of toppings. Beer, wine and cocktails are served. Open every day.

Mediterranean Breeze
20693 Ashburn Road
Ashburn, VA 20147
(703) 726-1045
http://www.yelp.com/biz/mediterranean-breeze-ashburn

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