POPSUGAR Smart Living

The Rules of Smooth Sailing When You're Travelling With Your Partner

Gyan Yankovich — Fri, 28 Jul 2017 13:20:03 +1000

When I first re-met my now-boyfriend Michael, six years after the last time I'd seen him, I was planning a trip to India. After an awkward wave and a "so, how's your life been since high school?", my upcoming holiday was one of the first things we spoke about. He'd wanted to go forever, and even though I wasn't leaving for another two months, I promised to let him know how it was. We ended up speaking every day I was there.

Since then, travelling has been at the foundation of our relationship - so much so that this year we decided to spend six months exploring Japan, the US, Mexico, Chile, and Argentina.

You discover a lot about a partner while travelling and as your experiences along the way encourage you both to grow, you grow together. You also come across a lot of things you wish you knew before you left home. Because sharing is caring, here are some of those things.

1. Discuss your finances before you leave the country.

Whether you're on the tightest of budgets or have ample funds, your spending choices are something that will come up again and again. Every couple will have their own way of divvying up costs, but discussing this before you set off will save you stress on the road.

Our saving grace was an app called Splitwise. The app works by - you guessed it - splitting costs. We both signed up and throughout the trip kept track of our spending within the app. When one of us paid for flights or accommodation or anything else, we put the amount into Splitwise, where the app then split the cost and recorded it for us. Every month or so we'd settle the balance and start fresh. Easy as!

2. Share the load when planning and organising.

Planning a holiday is fun. That is, until you feel like you're the only one doing any of the hard work. When this happens it begins to feel like you're an under-paid travel agent, planning your partner's dream trip.

In any couple it's likely that one person will be more organised than the other, so it's important to take a proactive approach to delegating tasks and avoid the risk of all the responsibility falling into one person's lap. It might not sound like a big deal but when this happens it's easy for the non-planner to feel disengaged from their own adventure and the planner to feel like they're not really getting the break they deserve.

3. Play to your strengths.

Just like you might divide up housework at home according to who does what best, it's essential to play to your individual strengths while travelling.

During our two-month road trip across the US, Michael did all of the driving. Yes, all of it. You see: I'm not a confident driver. I get anxious in traffic, especially in new places, and this anxiety can flick the switch on my temper in an instant. Michael staying behind the wheel saved us hours of stress. While he drove, I was in charge of entertainment. Before we left for long drives I'd download podcasts and audiobooks, and make Spotify playlists to suit our destination. (My California playlist is honestly some of my best work.)

Every traveller has their strengths and weaknesses, and one of the major perks of travelling in a couple is that there's room for both of you to gravitate towards what you're great at and away from the thing that gives you nightmares.

4. Don't expect it to be smooth sailing all the time.

It's all too easy to imagine that leaving your "normal" life, means escaping all your "normal" arguments. I remember thinking how peaceful life would be when neither of us could come home cranky after a tough day at work, and we didn't have a messy house to complain about. It turns out, travelling brings with it a new lot of scenarios that can spark an argument: think running late to airports and misplaced hotel room keys.

There's no avoiding fights, so the best you can do is remember that for all the good times, there will still be moments of frustration - but these don't mean your trip is any less of a success.

5. Remind yourself to stay in the now.

Not to get all Eckhart Tolle on you, but this is a big one. When travelling it's easy to let your days slip by while you're busy planning the next day, then the next, and the next.

Throughout our trip I've tried to pause and think back to the months I spent looking forward to this adventure. This helps me remember that it's happening right now, and allows me to reset my focus and enjoy what's going on in front of me, while my favourite person is next to me.

Anna Polyviou's Foodie Guide to LA

Ashling Lee — Fri, 28 Jul 2017 13:06:48 +1000

Being a land with golden soil and wealth for toil, as Aussies, we love our food. And like the highly-anticipated viral drop of a new tarte product, we're always on the hunt for the next big food trend. Luckily, we have incredibly talented chefs that scout the world, bring a little inspiration back to our shores and then feed our stomachs.

MasterChef pressure test setter, upcoming Family Food Fight judge and Tourism Accommodation Australia 2017 Chef of the Year, Anna Polyviou, is already famous for her cutting edge desserts. So when someone of that calibre travels to Los Angeles to explore the Californian food scene, you know you're going to get some gold. Below, she shares her top LA food picks, as well as the next big trends which have inspired some of her own creations.

A Studio Ghibli Theme Park Is Set to Open in Japan in 2020!

Nicole Yi — Fri, 28 Jul 2017 11:20:03 +1000

Totoro, Totoro, Totoro, Totoro! You know, the one who helps your garden grow and may or may not provide a leaf-umbrella when you're caught in the rain? Get excited because Studio Ghibli is opening a theme park dedicated to one of its most treasured animations, My Neighbor Totoro. Producer Toshio Suzuki and the governor of Aichi Prefecture Expo Memorial Park agreed to a plan on May 31 and aim to open it up in the early 2020s.

Expo Park (located in Nagoya, Japan) already hosts a recreation of Satsuki and Mei's home from Hayao Miyazaki's film. But Studio Ghibli and Aichi administration are teaming up to expand the exhibit to 200 acres, which will be Ghibli's largest installation yet. The proposed plan is to maintain the existing natural environment filled with trees and flowers, instead of cutting down trees for new developments. What they're calling "Ghibli Park," for now, will bring familiar settings and landscapes to life.

We can't wait to see it!

Make Your Own: Leather Cleaner

Sarah Lipoff — Fri, 28 Jul 2017 07:43:19 +1000

Along with cleaning and organising your home, keeping your leather furniture in great shape is a must once the weather starts getting warmer. Fresh Spring air and hot Summer sun can cause cracks and dryness in your favourite leather furnishings, which doesn't make for a happy house. Instead of spending money on expensive cleaners and cleansers, make your own with ingredients you have in your kitchen. Free of any chemicals, this eco-friendly cleaner does an awesome job at refreshing all your leather furnishings. And did we mention that it costs basically nothing to make?

What You'll Need:

Paper towels
1/4 cup vinegar
1/4 cup olive oil
10 drops lemon or orange essential oil (optional)
Small bowl

Directions:

Start by vacuuming your leather furniture, removing any bits of food and dust lurking about. Then gently wipe the leather item with a damp paper towel.

Mix together the vinegar and olive oil in a small container, whisking to incorporate. The oil and vinegar won't completely come together because the liquids have different densities. The vinegar gently cleans the leather, and the olive oil breaks up dirt and stains while conditioning the furniture. Adding essential oil gives the cleaner a nice scent, which leaves your furnishings smelling fresh.
Dip a clean paper towel into the homemade cleaner and then gently rub on a small test area of the leather item. Let dry for 20 minutes and check for discolouration before coating furniture. Working in a circular motion, coat the entire piece, rubbing the cleaner into the leather. Use a clean and dry paper towel to gently wipe down the furniture, removing any remaining oil. Now sit back and enjoy your freshly cleaned leather!

For more cleaning products that won't break the bank, check out our list of DIYs!

Have the Most Memorable Drink of Your Life at This Underwater Winery

Lauren Levy — Thu, 27 Jul 2017 16:35:03 +1000

From the seriously breathtaking beaches to the charming towns and budget-friendly options, Croatia doesn't need much more to make its way to the top of bucket lists. One of the most unique destinations in the country is an underwater winery.

Located an hour north of Dubrovnik, Edivo Vina ages its wine for three months above ground before sending its bottles deep into the sea for two years. If sipping on the unique final product in the comfort of your dry clothes isn't enough, the winery allows guests to tour one of its underwater cellars to see how the wine is actually made and pick out a unique bottle.

To protect the quality of the wine from the sea water, each bottle is stored in a clay jar during its time in the ocean. When the wine is brought back up, each bottle is as unique as this aging process because they return covered in coral and shells. It's safe to say this is one souvenir you're definitely going to want to bring back. See photos of the winery ahead!

11 Ways to Boost Your Credit Score

Whitney Bania — Thu, 27 Jul 2017 15:35:03 +1000

When it comes to our financial résumés, consensus is that credit scores are the number one factor that lenders rely on to determine the credit-worthiness of a borrower. The time might be right for you to dip a toe into the housing market or buy a new car, but your credit score needs to be in tip-top shape to land a loan. Follow these tips for improving your score to get the best possible interest rates.

This Secret Grand Canyon Waterfall Is Simply Stunning - If You Can Get There

Hilary White — Thu, 27 Jul 2017 14:40:00 +1000

There's nothing more special than finding a secret spot, especially when it's in the midst of a major tourist attraction. Tucked away at mile 117 of the Grand Canyon is a waterfall whose name lives up to its magic. The trail to Elves Chasm at the Royal Arch Creek drainage isn't necessarily the easiest of treks, but the destination proves that a harder route often pays off.

Instagram user carsonlindsay said of the falls: "When most people hike up to Elves Chasm in the Grand Canyon, they stop at the first waterfall. But if you continue up with a little bit of exposed traversing, it gets better and better. You journey up past a few more smaller waterfalls . . . until you end up in a huge, lush, elven amphitheater filled with ferns, huge boulders and a little bit of magic."

Travellers can jump off the falls and take a dip in the swimming hole at its base. The Hiking Project says that getting to Elves Chasm via the riverside trail is "quite a bit more time-consuming than the mileage would suggest," but the site offers a detailed plan for making it to the little slice of paradise. Check out the stunning photos of the falls ahead, and plan your next trip to the Grand Canyon!

Packing Can Spark Joy With These 9 Tips From Organising Expert Marie Kondo

Anna Monette Roberts — Thu, 27 Jul 2017 11:20:03 +1000

If you dread packing your bags before taking a trip, it's understandable. Thankfully, we can turn to organisation experts like Marie Kondo for advice on how to neatly gather and store our belongings - minus the headache - and, dare I add, in a way that "sparks joy!" Upon the release of her upcoming comic book, The Life-Changing Manga of Tidying Up: A Magical Story, Marie spoke to me about how she plans and packs for her trips, including which suitcase is her go-to.

There Is Something Very Extraterrestrial About These Salt Flats in WA

Alexandra Whiting — Thu, 27 Jul 2017 11:05:18 +1000

No, this isn't photographic evidence of life on another planet, but rather aerial shots of the salt flats of Useless Loop, a town in the middle of Shark Bay World Heritage Site, Western Australia. Contrary to its name, Useless Loop is an industrial town responsible for extracting tonnes of world-class salt from its seventy square kilometres of evaporation ponds. A lot of that delish salt finds its way to the country's top restaurants, so foodies, take note!

The stunning aerial shots were taken by photographer Peter Franc, as part of Canon Australia's Down Under From Above series. Franc wanted to capture the "therapeutic emptiness," of the landscape and knew he had to take to the skies. Even thought the shots look like something taken from a satellite, they were actually taken from a tiny petrol-powered aeroplane.

Scroll to take in the stunning shots, it might just rekindle your inner photographer.

2 Simple Ways You Can Draw Positivity Into Your Life Each Day

Nicole Yi — Thu, 27 Jul 2017 07:54:41 +1000

Happiness - it's what many of us strive for, right? We all have the potential to attain it, but it's more of a way of life and mindset than a single action. And the way to get there all begins with a little but impactful thing called positivity. I spoke with energy healer and wellness expert Carolyn Harrington, who told me two simple ways we can draw positivity into our lives each day: by practicing gratitude and setting intention.

Carolyn explained that every time she journals, she writes down five gratitudes and five intentions. Gratitudes can include anything you're appreciative of while intentions answer the question of "What do I want?" Here are some examples:

Gratitudes

I'm thankful for my health.
I'm thankful for friends and family who love me.
I'm thankful for having a roof over my head each night.

Intentions

I intend to finish this project.
I intend to be a better friend and partner.
I intend to treat my body better.

"By focusing on what your intentions are, you get them done much quicker, and you can attract more of what you want that way also," Carolyn said.

Either of these can be as small or big or as immediate or long-term as you'd like. By projecting these thoughts, you're actively highlighting the good over the bad and solidifying your desires to yourself. It's sort of how something doesn't feel real until you say it aloud. As you know, the mind can be extremely persuasive.

"I think there's so much power in mindfulness and meditation," Carolyn said. "People don't realise that they have a lot more control [of their lives] than they think."

Gratitude plus intention - you can do it!

The Aeroplane Hack I've Done Ever Since an Older Lady Told Me To

Tori-Crowther — Wed, 26 Jul 2017 16:58:21 +1000

I'd consider myself to be a pretty experienced traveller, particularly when it comes to solo plane journeys. I've had my fair share of opening up to strangers who sat next to me for eight hours, learning all about their home towns and their current trips.
But my favourite type of person to sit next to on a plane is older ladies. They will always have great stories about their lives (and grandchildren), they will always be interested in my job, particularly when it comes to the world of social media. But best of all, they always have the best travelling hacks!
The most simple but best hack I learned was on one of many trips to the US to visit family. During the flight, after we'd been given our hot towels, the lady next to me began using it to clean the tray table, TV, and arm rests. I immediately asked, "Do you always do that with your hot towel?" and she said it's the dirtiest place on the plane, so it's an easy way to clean it, mess-free. She told me I should do the same, so obviously I followed this wise woman's advice!
Whilst the towels don't contain any antibacterial chemicals, I thought it's got to clean some of the surface, right? On my flights since, I've done this every time. Whilst you won't get a hot towel on your next RyanAir, it's a good tip to remember for other flights. Or even bringing wet wipes can help ease those germophobe thoughts.
To the very nice lady I met flying from London to Michigan, thanks for the lifelong tip.

This Woman Ditched the Corporate World to Start Her Own Monthly Box For Book-Lovers

Hedy Phillips — Wed, 26 Jul 2017 16:40:22 +1000

A photo posted by Trina (@trinaruck) on Jan 21, 2017 at 1:14pm PST

You can get a monthly subscription to just about anything these days, so standing out in the market isn't easy. Lisa Parkin, founder of Uppercase, a young adult book subscription box, knew this and set out to create a monthly box that people couldn't get enough of. Lisa started her project out of her own home, fuelled by a love of books and a desire to create something that she loved, and nearly three years later, she's grown her business into a full-fledged, one-of-a-kind monthly box service with thousands of subscribers. Keep reading to find out where her inspiration came from and what advice she has for aspiring entrepreneurs.

POPSUGAR: Where did the idea for Uppercase come from?
Lisa Parkin: I've been an avid reader since I was a kid, and for the past five years, I've written reviews about young adult books for my blog Read.Breathe.Relax. After seeing the popularity of subscription boxes for makeup and clothes gain popularity over time, and I started to wonder why isn't there a subscription box for YA books?
I researched the market and discovered there was nothing currently on the market for readers. From there, the idea for Uppercase was born.
PS: What were you doing career-wise when you decided to launch Uppercase?
LP: I had quit my full-time social media coordinator job at a major corporation to try and work for myself as a freelance social media consultant for businesses. I worked for two years trying to build a client base but knew deep down this type of career wasn't for me. The idea for Uppercase came at a time when I was seriously considering trying to re-enter the corporate world - so it was a true gift of perfect timing.
PS: Where did the name Uppercase come from?
LP: I was trying to think of a distinct yet book-related name for the company, and my husband and I were brainstorming everything we could think of. The name Uppercase was the name that stuck because I thought it was memorable and has a classy sound. Plus "case" put me in mind of a package and mail.
PS: What sets Uppercase apart from other subscription boxes?
LP: Uppercase is special for a few reasons. First, I put the quality of the books we send as our very first priority. I receive hundreds and hundreds of advanced copies of books in the mail from publishers every year, and I personally read dozens of books each month to pick the very best book for our boxes. Each one is hand-selected by me personally.
We also include extra content for readers. The authors whose books we choose provide videos and behind-the-scenes content that we incorporate into our one-of-a-kind Reading Experience. This comes in the form of a bookmark that lists out page numbers and corresponding codes. When reaching a page number listed on the bookmark, subscribers can go online to our Reading Experience website and access this exclusive content as well as interact with other Uppercase subscribers. We want readers to feel like they're truly immersed in the story and go to great lengths to make sure the content they're getting is unique and special.
One of the aspects of Uppercase that offers the most value to our subscribers is that we always send signed books. Many YA book fans don't live close enough to meet authors or get their books signed, so sending signed books is a huge priority.
PS: How do you balance Uppercase with running your blog?
LP: It's been extremely challenging to balance running Uppercase with writing a blog with quality content. To be very honest, I've taken an extended break from blogging for the past few months. I'd rather pick one and do it with excellence than do both half-heartedly.
PS: What has been the most challenging part of running Uppercase?
LP: One of the most challenging parts of running Uppercase is managing the current month's packing and shipping while constantly planning and preparing for future months. It's a tough balancing act of staying focused on the current day while planning many months in advance.
It's also challenging running a small business with a very small staff because you wear a lot of hats - you are your own accountant, marketer, advertiser, etc.
PS: How has your business grown and changed since you started?
My first month in business, we had 10 customers who gave us a try. Now, almost three years later, I feel incredibly blessed to have thousands and thousands of amazing subscribers. There have been many challenges managing this growth, but I have a solid team who's been supportive and excited.
We've also adapted as we've grown to offer something special in the marketplace; when we launched, we didn't send signed books or our custom Reading Experience. It's important to adapt as the industry develops to make sure your business stands out.
PS: What advice do you have for young women who might be considering launching their own business?
I would tell young women wanting to launch their own business that it's the toughest but most rewarding experience they'll ever have. Ask as many people as you can for their experience and knowledge and don't be too proud to ask for help when you need it. There are so many great resources out there for female entrepreneurs, so use them to their utmost advantage while you can.
Don't be afraid to test something out and see where it goes. I started very small and worked my way up. Success is not overnight - it takes time, energy, and strategy. When I was debating whether or not to try starting this business, I was reminded of this quote, which truly inspired me to make the leap: "A ship in harbour is safe - but that is not what ships are built for." (John A. Shedd)

There's a Private Beach in Aruba Where You Can Literally Hang Out With Flamingos

Nicole Yi — Wed, 26 Jul 2017 16:30:07 +1000

Just when we thought things couldn't get any better than sloth sleepovers, we found out that there's a beach in Aruba where you can actually just chill with flamingos. The private, adult-only beach is part of the Renaissance Resort and Casino in Oranjestad, the capital of the Dutch island. You can even feed the free-roaming flamingos and take selfies with them in the water. And no worries if you're not a resort guest: you can still experience Flamingo Island by purchasing a day pass and taking a quick boat ride to the resort-owned island. See the awesome photos ahead!

This Travel Pillow Is Like Nothing You've Seen Before, and It's Genius

Hilary White — Wed, 26 Jul 2017 15:10:03 +1000

It took me years to swallow my pride and drag around a neck pillow for longer flights, but now I sleep like a baby on planes and have never looked back. If you're doing a long-haul flight, especially a red-eye, it's pretty crucial to get in at least a few hours of sleep so you don't show up to your destination feeling (and looking) like a zombie. But even traditional u-shaped neck pillows aren't always that conducive to comfortable naps.

The EZZZ travel pillow just might change the way you sleep on flights (and other types of transportation) forever. This inflatable pillow is designed to help support your neck and back to allow for better sleep on a moving plane or train. It prevents you from sleeping in the countless awkward positions we often find ourselves in when travelling and is suitable to be used in multiple ways depending on how you want to rest your head.

Because it's inflatable, the pillow looks like it'd be pretty easy to deflate, and it appears relatively compact - which is a key factor when you're travelling. Watch the video ahead to see it in action. The EZZZ pillow is only $37.80 (originally $75.60), so if you are planning a trip soon and want to sleep along the way, consider this handy item.

8 Cool Things to Do With Hotel Amenities

Emily Co — Wed, 26 Jul 2017 14:20:03 +1000

The mini bar may be a costly spot to raid when you're staying at a hotel, but the mini bottles of shampoo and conditioner and other bathroom supplies are fair game (and free). And the general rule of thumb is that it's acceptable to bring home amenities you've already used. We're very into reusing things, because not only is it good for the environment, it's good for your pockets, too. Here are a couple of really cool things to do with your hotel loot.

There's a "Clown Motel" For Sale in Nevada - and It Looks Creepy AF

Victoria Messina — Wed, 26 Jul 2017 13:35:03 +1000

Actually being able to fall asleep in your hotel room is, like, so overrated, right? That must've been the idea behind the iconic Clown Motel in Tonopah, Nevada US (aka our worst nightmare come true). No, this place isn't the set of a horror film; it's an actual motel you can stay in overnight, and it looks pretty darn terrifying, if you ask us.

The Clown Motel has been a Tonopah staple for more than 20 years, drawing tons of courageous tourists who are brave enough to lay their heads down while surrounded by creepy, permanently smiling clowns. To top it all off, the motel is conveniently situated right next to Tonopah's first cemetery, which is sure to send shivers down your spine. Although the nightly rates are pretty dirt-cheap (they range from $43-52, depending on how many people are in your party), we can't say that'd be enough to sway us to make a reservation.

Now that the Clown Motel is up for sale, it's garnering quite a bit of buzz among clown-lovers and haters alike. Let's take a gander at this eerie yet intriguing motel, shall we?

This Enchanting Tree House Is Airbnb's Most Requested Place to Stay

Lauren Levy — Wed, 26 Jul 2017 11:20:03 +1000

From sprawling oceanfront manors to eclectic apartments and airstreams, there's no shortage of memorable and conveniently located places to rent from Airbnb. But it turns out that people aren't flocking to book the same homes as their favourite celebrities or even a traditional house at all - the most requested listing is actually a tree house.

The Atlanta tree house is $487 a night and is booked through May 2018. According to Today, the listing gets 300,000 visits each month and 147,052 people have saved it to their Airbnb "wish list."

Although it doesn't come with a connected bathroom, the Secluded Intown Treehouse offers visitors a memorable experience that outweighs what it lacks in traditional amenities. According to the listing, this urban retreat is minutes from downtown and is a suite of three different rooms nestled in the trees with rope bridges connecting them. "The tree house provides and intimate, simple and calming retreat for two people," the listing states. "Centrally located within the heart of intown Atlanta, the tree houses are a hidden gem. The subject of numerous TV and magazine features, they are often described as being the most relaxing, romantic, dreamy and unique place you'll ever stay. What could be better than falling asleep in the trees and waking up to birds singing around you - all within the city limits?"

The bedroom boasts organic linens with a bed that can be rolled out onto a platform to sleep under the stars and overlook a calming stream. In the next tree, guests can enjoy a living room filled with antique decor and a picturesque balcony. The third element is a deck that surrounds a 150-year-old tree.

Peter Bahouth built the tree house in his backyard 18 years ago, but only first considered renting it out when Airbnb gained popularity. "I didn't really know how I would feel about having people stay out here. But I began to realize that people were having these amazing, great experiences and it was meaningful [to them], and it therefore became meaningful for me," Peter told Today.

Many of Peter's guests come for the opportunity to unplug while being immersed in nature. "People come here and they write and they think," Peter said. "They leave great stories and they have things happen to them here. Sometimes, they leave after two days and they just look different - they look like they just needed to simmer down a little." Take a look at the photos of the cool rental!

Here's Your Chance to Live Amongst the Royals and Be Paid For It

Ashling Lee — Wed, 26 Jul 2017 11:01:10 +1000

If you're in the market for a new job or have been meaning to tidy up your LinkedIn profile, listen up, because the Royals - yes, Prince William, Kate Middleton and Prince Harry - are hiring. Kensington Palace posted a job to the networking platform a few weeks ago, advertising for a Senior Communications Officer to look after the charity of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince of Wales.
The position will primarily focus on handling all communications to do with The Royal Foundation, including campaign management, media inquiries and setting the communications strategy. Part of the job description reads: "The successful candidate will play a key role in the development and implementation of the communications strategy for The Royal Foundation and producing and delivering creative communications campaigns. They will take the lead on The Royal Foundation communications plans and the delivery of engagements as necessary and will work closely with both TRH's Communications Secretary and the CEO of the Foundation."

By the looks of it, the Palace's ideal candidate is someone comfortable dealing with pressure, a pro at multi-tasking, and of course, have impeccable judgement. So, if you consider yourself a bit of a Royalist and have a background in communications, it may be time to consider a relocation. Just saying.

I Have Anxiety, and This Household Activity Has Helped Me SO Much

Hilary White — Wed, 26 Jul 2017 07:55:38 +1000

"Clean house, clear head" rings so very true with me. As someone who is at a constant war with their anxiety, I'm always seeking healthy, straightforward ways to face my mental health head-on. My whole life, I've been what people jokingly called a "neat freak," a trait that I got honestly from my mum. I'm the person people roll their eyes at when I genuinely say that I like to clean. Still, I never realised the value of cleaning beyond a spotless home until I skipped my Saturday morning ritual after a long week and discovered how off-balance I felt.

My home is my sanctuary and safe zone, so when I return to find it clean and clutter-free, my mind is more at peace.

If you suffer from extreme anxiety, you know the feeling of panic that comes over you when things just don't feel right and you don't know how to fix them. It's easy for your whole world to feel off-kilter if just one element of it is disrupted, but cleaning your home can actually help your mental state right itself and restore balance. When I clean my house from top to bottom, I go into a quiet (and private) zone where I let all of my anxieties take the back seat to the task at hand. It's restorative for me, and best of all, I'm left with a sparkling house when all is said and done. Here's how cleaning can help your anxiety.

Cleaning is like meditation.

Nothing helps clear my head of all my frantic thoughts more than putting on music to block everything out and allowing myself to get into the complete cleaning zone. By concentrating on a simple task, I'm able to drown out anxiety by doing something productive and basic. If you're able to focus on your task and force all other negative thoughts out, cleaning can truly have a similar effect for some that meditation does.

It sets you up for a better day or week.

Coming home from a stressful day of work to house full of clutter, dirty dishes, and cat hair forming Texas-sized tumbleweeds of hair can cause me to feel like I may unravel completely. My home is my sanctuary and safe zone, so when I return to find it clean and clutter-free, my mind is more at peace. Spending time over the weekend to give your home a deep-clean can have a major effect on your anxiety, because it takes away a potential element of stress that may be the final straw on a particularly anxiety-ridden day.

It keeps you active.

Although exercise can help anxiety, it's not always for everyone. Unfortunately for me, the more anxious I am, the less prone I'll be to exercise, which can be a vicious cycle. However, cleaning your home is a way to do light exercise, keep your heart rate up, and allow your body to release endorphins, all without having to step foot in a gym.

It yields tangible results.

Anxiety can cause you to be completely overwhelmed. There are times when I feel like there is so much to do, I end up getting stuck on how to start, and I get even less done because of my inability to get past feeling like I'm drowning in unfinished tasks. Cleaning is a simple to solution to this problem. In scrubbing down the bathroom sink or vacuuming the floor, you're able to see tangible results. The manifestation of your hard work is right before your eyes, and this physical evidence of your efforts can be an extreme comfort for an anxious mind.

This Illegal Hike in Hawaii Is Nicknamed the "Stairway to Heaven" For Good Reason

Nicole Yi — Tue, 25 Jul 2017 17:38:13 +1000

One of Hawaii's most epic hikes, known as the Haiku Stairs, is famous for its stunning views and illegal climb. Despite being a steep 3,922-step hike - and not to mention dangerous since becoming damaged by a storm in 2015 - the ladder remains a popular destination among hikers and visitors.

The "Stairway to Heaven" is an appropriate nickname as some of the peaks even tower above the clouds and offer incredible sights of the island of Oahu below. The almost-vertical ladder, which reaches the top of Pu'u Keahi a Kahoe, has a height of over 2,500 feet. Although it was built in 1943 during World War II, it wasn't until 1987 when the Haiku Stairs was deemed off limits to the public. But according to Instagram photos, it still looks like people trespass every day to experience the notorious hike for themselves.

Though we don't encourage anybody to endanger their lives or even risk receiving a fine, we do have to admit that the Stairway to Heaven looks pretty damn cool.

Check out the photos ahead!

8 Secrets From Cruise Ship Employees

Hilary White — Tue, 25 Jul 2017 16:49:04 +1000

A lot goes on behind closed cabin doors on cruise ships. Are your accommodations actually clean? Do crew members even care if you're having a good time? And just how much sex is happening on board the boat? Several cruise ship employees have taken to Reddit over time to spill the beans on what life is really like when sailing the open seas, and they have some great tips for cruise-goers to keep in mind the next time they travel. Read on for details you never knew.

1. There are some major benefits (and downsides) to working on a cruise ship.

One cruise ship employee said that there were a lot of positive aspects to working on the ship. "Best parts: cheap drinks, great parties, decent pay, easy way to save, wake up in a new city/country almost every day, great way to network, become a more confident person, etc." Employees get to travel the world! Still, not everything is great. There are understandably some downsides to living and working on a cruise ship. "Worst: guests are always right . . . ALWAYS, you have a nametag on in public areas even when you are 'off duty,' always tired from lack of sleep, food taste dull after awhile . . . " Because employees are on contract for shorter periods of time, they often work longer hours (up to 16 hours per day).

2. If you get off the ship, follow the crew!

"If you ever go on a cruise, and you get off the ship and you want to know where to eat, follow the crew. The crew knows where the cheap and good food is, where the best dive bars are, and for the most part the safest places in the area. Don't waste money at Señor Frog's like everyone else."

3. Crew members get VERY friendly with one another.

Multiple crew members seem to agree on one thing: sex between employees is definitely happening on cruise ships. One former employee said he "hooked up with like seven different people myself and I am a shy, average looking dude." Another, when asked if a cruise ship is like a "sea-orgy" where everyone bangs each other, responded seriously with "Yes, it's actually just one big bang-fest." However, relations between employees and guests are strictly forbidden and grounds for immediate termination of the cruise ship employee.

4. Pay for crew members comes with extra add-ons - and it's not all that difficult to get hired.

"We get paid daily wages and some days we work more than others. Only thing I pay for is drinks. Everything else is on them." Depending on what cruise line a person is working with, members can also potentially get discounts on cruises for personal vacations. "You don't really have any bills on board (aside from tourist traps and drinking)," said a former cruise ship employee. "It was relatively easy to get in, but I'm very good at interviews. If you know what you're doing in the field of your choice, you'll have no problem . . . "

5. Crew members really want you to have the holiday of a lifetime.

"We work extremely hard to make sure you have a vacation of a lifetime . . . Those cruise surveys are actually taken VERY serious with our company. I'm happy to say that I've been mentioned ALMOST every cruise I've worked. I also work extremely hard to make sure the kids are having the time of their lives."

6. Cleanliness is VERY important!

If you're worried about sanitation on cruises, fear no more - or at least fear a little less. "Crew had to wash hands entering and leaving the crew mess. Chicken, seafood, bread, and vegetables all have separate freezers and storage sections (and elevators) which are cleaned daily. It's no joke! They have people clean the little grooves in the metal going into the elevators just to give you an example." According to another crew member, the kitchens on cruise ships are, in a word, "spotless."

7. If a crew member gets sick, they are quarantined.

"If they even think you have the flu, you're in quarantine for up to a week. In your cabin. Food is brought to you in a sealed container and you. Can. Not. Leave. Period. The ship is a natural hot zone. Over 4,000 people crammed together for sometimes a week at a time, bound to happen. If the ship gets over 5 percent ill, that's when things start to get nasty. Mandatory face shield etc. Also, whenever anyone gets on the ship, they get a hand full of Purell. Mandatory. And nobody can bring food on or off. They take cleanliness very seriously."

8. The one thing crew members want cruise-goers to know . . .

"The one thing that cruisers should know is that during a port day, the crew are just like passengers. They go out and have fun! On sea days however, they work their asses off to make you have the best time of your life. They really do want to make your vacation amazing, and work hard to do so."

7 Ways to Relax the Night Before Travelling

Hedy Phillips — Tue, 25 Jul 2017 11:20:03 +1000

If you're anything like me and flying gives you a bout of anxiety, there are some ways to deal with it. The night before I travel, I like to go through a checklist of things that I know will calm my mind and put me as at ease as possible before I travel. All of them are pretty easy things to do - nary a drug in sight. These all also work regardless of what time of day you might be flying and can be done in the comfort of your own home.

10 Budgeting Tips That Actually Work, From Real Women

Ashling Lee — Tue, 25 Jul 2017 10:20:06 +1000

The B word (budget), much like the D word (diet), is enough to make most recoil or roll their eyes out of denial, boredom, or general CBF-ness. It's too much work, too hard to stick to a plan, or too easy to miss out on fun. However, just as taxes and death are two certainties in life, managing money - however good one might be at it - is another universality that unites us all.

There's no denying it's a dry subject, so, since we're all friends here, we called upon various Aussie women to share their best money advice. Whether it be managing spending, adopting a useful mindset, or a handy trick or two to make your savings go the distance, below are some tried and true tips for becoming smarter with budgeting. (So you can have your smashed avocado toast and eat it, too.)

Set Concrete Limits for Yourself

"Have a separate debit card/account for your fun spending money. Whatever my allocated 'fun money' is for the pay period gets transferred straight to that card, and it is the only one I use if I go out to dinner, want to buy a new pair of shoes, grab drinks with friends, etc. When it runs out, that's it until next pay! " - Crystal

"I work out how much I'm allowed to spend over a period and divide it by seven to show an exact amount I can spend per day. For example, $1,000 over a four-week period equates to roughly $35 a day. The good thing is that I don't end up actually spending this amount, so it can either be saved or rolled over to the weekend." - Mel

Get Smart About Bill Payments

"We all have large expenses, such as insurance, rego, quarterly utilities, etc., that really shouldn't take us by surprise. Take the time to add up these for the year, then divide by 12 (if paid monthly) and automatically transfer that amount into a high interest savings account. That way, the big bills don't set you back or put you on the credit card spiral. Making this change was the best step I ever took." - Sally

Divide and Conquer

"I divide my budget into four accounts: everyday, expenses (groceries, etc.), debits (energy, insurance, etc.) and savings. I transfer everything out of my account as soon as I'm paid and allocate a set amount of spending money every month. This stays in my everyday account, anything leftover goes straight to savings. Debits and savings don't ever get touched so there are no surprises when that energy bill comes along or if it's time to pay the car rego!" - Carmel

Change How You Think About Savings

"Make savings a priority. Too often we approach budgeting with the mindset of: income less expenses = our savings. But we all know that expenses can be endless and it can be hard to save. So, change the equation to: income less savings = expenses (or what you have left to spend)." - Lea

Ask Yourself: Do I Need It?

"I have said this to myself so many times, it almost instantly comes to mind whenever I go to shop. As a result, I've not only saved money in the short term, but found myself investing in timeless and classic items, which hopefully means I'll save even more in the long run. I'm not saving for anything in particular, however, I wanted to have at least one year's salary in the bank as a rainy day back-up. I've now achieved that, so onto the next savings goal!" - Gemma Louise

Out of Sight, Out of Mind

"I set up a direct debit about four years ago to put away $50 per week from my account into a non-linked account. I can't withdraw from it and I've never turned it off." - Amanda

Make Your Spare Change Work Double Time

"I use a handy app called Acorns that invests your spare change on the stock market. You pop in your bank account and credit card details and it rounds up your daily purchases to put into a diversified portfolio. So if I spend $4.55 on a snack, it will invest the leftover 45 cents. Not only is it an easy entry point into the stock market, it's also great as a secondary savings account. Small change goes in there and suddenly, I have extra money without even noticing that I can withdraw at anytime. Seriously, it's the best." - Tegan

Don't Go Cold Turkey

"It's easy to think that your quality of life will be worse off when you start cutting down on spending. So to start, set small tangible goals for yourself within a time frame that can be easily measured. For example, try decreasing weekly coffees to 'X' number per week. Over time, you'll get used to the new habit." - Bronwyn

Have a Relationship With Your Future Self

"I have never lived week-to-week and have always been prepared for what was coming ahead. From my first job being paid in cash, I would divide the cash into envelopes allocating small amounts to help with what I knew would be coming. I still do this today, but electronically. Every dollar is accounted for in a spreadsheet, all purchases go on a credit card to be tracked and I always put aside money for future events. This can be applied on a small or big scale, for example, for Christmas, I put aside $150 per month bad don't feel bad splurging in December." - Penny

This Study Found That Millennials Want 1 Simple Thing - and We Couldn't Agree More

Hilary White — Tue, 25 Jul 2017 08:02:19 +1000

No one enjoys their alone time more than I do. Except, apparently, everyone else born in my generation. Guess I'm not so special. Kantar Futures did a study about how different age groups use their downtime and sought responses to the statement "if I had a free weekend with no plans, I would prefer to spend time by myself." Millennials resoundingly agreed they would choose the option of a solo weekend, beating out Gen Xers and Boomers for the top spot.

While this may seem like a surprise that our outgoing generation values their me time, it actually makes sense. We spend so much time on social media that we are constantly aware of what our friends and family are up to and what we're missing out on. Taking a breather from interactions is healthy, and it's a way to recharge. A night in with Netflix and delivery seems pretty sweet after a long week of trying to keep up with everyone around us.

Yelp Eat24, Yelp's on-demand delivery service, also did a study last year about POMO (pleasure of missing out) and found that 80 percent of those surveyed have made excuses to avoid going out (it's one of my favorite things to do, actually!). 55 percent of those surveyed also said they opt out of social events "because they just don't feel like being around other people." Fellow introverts, I feel you.

The Ultimate Travel Bucket List For Water-Lovers

Nicole Yi — Mon, 24 Jul 2017 15:25:41 +1000

Being near water equals instant relaxation for some of us, so a swimmable destination is much preferred when holidaying. You can't really call a trip a success if you're not pruney the entire time, can you? If you, too, are basically a mermaid IRL, we've rounded up some of the most incredible spots around the world that will give you your fix of H2O. Picturesque beaches and once-in-a-lifetime experiences only begin to describe what's ahead. Check out 35 places around the world that make up the ultimate water-lover's bucket list.