OHMYGOSSIP – Coldplay will headline Britain’s Prince Harry’s Sentebale charity concert at Kensington Palace on June 28. Just two days after they take to the stage at the world famous Glastonbury Festival in Somerset, England, the ‘Hymn for the Weekend’ hitmakers will sing tracks from their album ‘A Head Full of Dreams’ in support of the prince’s charity and The Handa Foundation.
Coldplay were “delighted” to accept the royal invitation and said: “We’re delighted to join Prince Harry for this very special concert and to support Sentebale’s incredible work with adolescents affected by HIV in Lesotho and Botswana.”
The British group – which includes Chris Martin, Will Champion, Guy Berryman and Jonny Buckland – will play to a crowd of 3,000 people in the outdoor grounds of the palace next month to raise funds for the charity which helps vulnerable children in sub-Saharan Africa and was set up in memory of Prince Harry’s late mother Princess Diana.
The flame-haired royal founded the charity with Prince Seeiso of Lesotho in 2006 to continue the vital work his mother set out to do to tackle HIV and AIDS.
Cathy Ferrier, CEO of Sentebale, said: “We are ever more committed to play our part and use all our resources to support children living with HIV. The concert is about bringing people together who can make a difference.”
‘Green Garden’ hitmaker Laura Mvula, African-Norwegian duo Nico & Vinz, and spoken word poet and Sentebale’s ambassador George Mpanga, known as George the Poet, will also perform.
Meanwhile, Prince Harry, 31, previously enlisted the Coldplay frontman, 39, to write the official anthem for the Invictus Games which he also set up and enjoyed its second event this year.
OHMYGOSSIP – With the average cost of a wedding hovering around $30,000, it’s no wonder that modern couples are saving some green everywhere they can, from doing their own wedding day makeup to DIYing their bouquet. There are also money-saving honeymoon options for the cash-strapped bride and groom. Instead of choosing that dreamy international adventure, many couples are opting for a shorter “mini-moon” a little closer to home. But just because a domestic mini-moon is cheaper, doesn’t mean that it won’t be as romantic. Here are 15 swoon-worthy US destinations for every type of newlywed couple.
Sun Seekers
1. Miami, Florida: No, South Beach isn’t just for spring breakers. This popular touristy locale is perfect for a romantic getaway, with its beautiful art deco hotels, white sandy beaches and lively nighttime entertainment.
2. Maui, Hawaii: Pretty much any island in Hawaii would be ideal for an unforgettable mini-moon, but we’re partial to the stunning island of Maui. With breathtaking waterfalls, beachy resorts and postcard scenery, it’s definitely worthy of your first few days as newlyweds.
3. Clearwater, Florida: Located on the Gulf of Mexico in Pinellas County, the white sand beaches of Clearwater are a beach bum’s dream. From dolphin searching to parasailing to Adirondack chair lounging, you’ll never run out of things to do in this warm and wonderful Gulf-coast town.
Foodies
4. Portland, Oregon: With microbreweries, food trucks and coffeehouses galore — a trip to Portland is almost guaranteed to include some good Instagram-worthy eats.
5. Atlanta, Georgia: The capital city of Georgia may not be widely known for its grub, but spend a few days in the city and you’ll understand why it’s high on almost every foodie’s American dining list. From Antico Pizza to Sublime Donuts, you’ll definitely end up eating your weight in food on this stunning southern adventure.
6. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: Home of the iconic Philly cheese steak, a mini-moon to Philadelphia is packed with delicious goodies. Whether you’re looking for savory bites or sweet treats, Pennsylvania’s largest city is just waiting to seat you in one of their thousands of yummy restaurants.
Adventure Junkies
7. Sedona, Arizona: A true desert town, this beautiful city is surrounded by nature’s playground. We’re talking red-rock buttes, 1.8 million acres of national forest land and two state parks. Whether your ideal getaway is sleeping under the breathtaking stars or hot air ballooning over the red rocks at dawn, Sedona can fulfill your dream adventure.
8. The Big Island, Hawaii: Take a helicopter ride over Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, scuba dive with manta rays off the Kona Coast and walk through the 442-foot Akaka Falls. Whatever adventure you are dreaming of, the Big Island is waiting.
9. Anchorage, Alaska: The largest city in the state of Alaska, this adventurous town is overflowing with things to do with your sweetie. From dog sledding and bicycle tours to glacier cruises, let’s just say a mini-moon here will not be forgotten anytime soon.
Wine Lovers
10. Napa Valley, California: A list of the top domestic wineries to visit wouldn’t be complete without Napa Valley. With dozens of award-winning wineries and vineyards to visit (go check out Sterling Vineyards for the view of a lifetime), it’s a trip that’ll make any wine lover swoon.
11. Yadkin Valley, North Carolina: A hidden gem in beautiful North Carolina, this winery-packed region originated as a tobacco-growing locale. With a rich history and a stunning landscape, you and your partner will have the time of your lives sipping delicious reds while taking in all of the unbelievable sites.
12. Traverse City, Michigan: With over 40 wineries and vineyards in the region, Traverse City is an excellent spot for a romantic mini-moon, especially if going all the way out to sunny California isn’t in your budget.
Big City Dreamers
13. New York City, New York: You better get in a New York state of mind — and fast! From the dazzling spectacle of Times Square to the insane views from recently opened One World Observatory, the city that never sleeps is packed with things to see and do.
14. New Orleans, Louisiana: Nicknamed “The Big Easy,” the hopping nightlife, unbeatable jazz-and-blues scene, rich culture and good eats in this popular Louisiana city make it a great place to celebrate marrying your sweetie. With dozens of festivals a year, it’s always festival season in NOLA.
15. San Francisco, California: A mini-moon to the Bay Area involves much more than gazing upon the Golden Gate Bridge. From sea lion spotting at Pier 39 to catching a cable car up to Nob Hill, this sunny destination is equal parts big city and California dreamin’.
Source: Brit.co/ Ashley Macey
Featured image: Ohmygossip.com
OHMYGOSSIP – Staying on that juicing tip, subbing zoodles for pasta and keeping gluten-free is challenging enough when you’re making your own meals at home. But the minute you fly out on your way to a blissful, week-long summer cruise, making healthy eating choices becomes even more of a challenge. We get it! That’s why we asked two of our favorite healthy eating gurus, The Nutrition Twins Lyssie Lakatos, RDN, CDN, CFT and Tammy Lakatos Shames, RDN, CDN, CFT, the best ways to eat healthy while on a cruise. These two are registered dietitians and authors of The Nutrition Twins’ Veggie Cure, and are all about giving practical, real-life advice to women looking to stay healthy and have fun.
1. Fill your plate— twice. First, grab a regular dinner-sized plate and load up with fresh veggies, like a salad with a simple dressing or steamed vegetables that aren’t drowning in oil or butter. The twins say this will “take the edge off your hunger” and help you make better choices the rest of the evening.
The ladies suggest picking up a small salad plate for your second trip to fill with foods like fresh fish, roasted vegetables, lean meats and whole grains. “The staff want to make sure you’re happy,” the twins remind, so if you’d like your salmon with a lighter sauce or prefer pesto to Alfredo, don’t be afraid to ask for substitutions.
2. Employ the “every other” rule. Tropical frozen drinks flow on a cruise ship; it’s easy to completely derail your diet when piña coladas are coming at you free and fast. The twins suggest sticking to wine and bubbly while you’re on board and chasing every alcoholic bevvie with a glass of water. Go one step farther and start the night with a black iced tea, they advise. It’s full of the amino acid theanine that brings calmness and alertness, helping you to make better choices throughout the evening.
3. Keep a food record. When you take note of your daily eating, it holds you more accountable to yourself. It’s hard to mindlessly gobble up five cookies when you’re writing down what you’re eating at the end of the night. It’s just another way to help keep you aware of your food choices during your vacation, which the twins say is the most important thing to staying healthy.
4. Snack smart. The twins remind that “you’re so close to food” on a cruise ship that you’re not going to starve — so it’s easy to snack smart and small. If you do feel snacky, they suggest handfuls of nuts, a cup of greek yogurt with berries, a bit of shrimp cocktail, hummus and carrot sticks or a few pieces of cheese and fruit.
5. Keep your suit on. Literally, keep your bathing suit on all day. “Think light!” the girls remind. If you stay in your suit all day, rather than, say, a flowing caftan, you’re more apt to steer clear of carb and sugar bombs that are guaranteed to make you feel bloated and sluggish.
Featured image: Ohmygossip.com Source: Brit.co/ Megan Parry
OHMYGOSSIP – Summertime is shor, way too short. That means it’s time to take a break from watching wanderlust YouTube vloggers and make time to finally take your trip! If you’re having a hard time choosing where to spend your vacay, let the stars guide you. Zodiac-obsessed gals, you know what’s up. Our star signs tell us a lot about our personalities, our best pets and even how to date. In sum, our signs give us… well, signs that can help us decide where we will have the best time!
Aquarius
The independently minded Aquarian loves a unique adventure, not the typical tourist hot spot. Trendy vacation destinations? Aquarians probably made them cool first. If you’re seeking warmer climates with mountainous views, Peru makes for a perfect place that is full of adventure opportunities beyond Machu Picchu. Craving a fun city to explore? Lisbon, a coastal city in Portugal, has a vibrant restaurant and cafe scene to go along with its rich history. Art enthusiasts will have a field day roaming their museums.
Pisces
One word comes to mind: Water. Tranquil beings, Pisces seek beautiful and calm surroundings that still have some options for fun outings when the mood strikes. Hawaii might be the first place that pops into your head, but why not switch it up a bit? Try Aruba! You can lay on beaches, sail, snorkel or go on some off-road tours. Aruba provides both relaxation and exploration, so Pisces will never be bored.
Aries
Aries are an active bunch who like to explore, especially if the destination is new and hikable. If the climate you’re seeking is nice and hot, Costa Rica is the way to go. It was pretty much made for Aries, with all the jungle hiking, surfing and plenty of hammocks. New Zealand is another destination that’s a bit out of the ordinary, with plenty to explore. Its gorgeous green mountains are just asking to be hiked (or even flown over by helicopter), and Aries might never want to leave.
Taurus
Bulls seek vacations where they can enjoy some of the finer things in life, and they all must be delicious. Heading to wine country and exploring Napa or Sonoma would be a no-brainer, but what if you were looking to explore further? Brighton Beach in England is a seaside town with a pebble beach (and pier), plenty of shopping and excellent restaurants to explore (or, if you’re a bull who likes to try traditional local fare, some of the best fish-and-chip shops the whole UK has to offer).
Gemini
Geminis love to travel to places with activities around every corner. Museums, shopping, cultural landmarks and plenty of parks for people watching are all musts for a Gemini’s vacation spot. That’s why it’s best to go to a big city. Madrid is a dream for a traveler looking to soak in history and culture. Spend an afternoon in the Prado Museum, then go on a tapas crawl. Another big city for the bravest of Geminis to explore would be Tokyo: all the vibrancy, all the karaoke, all the Harajuku, all of the time!
Cancer
Cancers generally aren’t lovers of crowds and prefer things on the chiller side. Therefore, they look for vacation spots that will accommodate their comfort needs. A unique destination for Cancers could be Galway, a coastal town in Ireland. It has all the charm of Dublin, minus the big city bustle, plus it’s off the North Atlantic Ocean (Cancers like being near water). If you’re seeking a warmer climate, Santa Barbara, California is a beautiful coastal hideout.
Leo
Leos know what they like and want a vacation that won’t disappoint. Must-have aspects for a Leo vacay include a historically rich city with a hint of glam and a lively nightlife. Paris could be the place to be, but been there, done that. Lions, make your way to Berlin. With a crazy nightlife scene and galleries upon galleries, this is a city booming with culture. Looking for similar glamour but seaside? Hit up Barcelona, Spain for bustling street life and an art scene that can’t quit.
Virgo
Virgos aren’t just looking for a warm destination with great food — they like to learn while they vacay. For them, it’s all about what they can walk away with. Amsterdam is not only historic but also beautiful. Virgos can up their history and art knowledge in museums, experience the culture by exploring the markets (flea, book, flower, etc) and soak in the beauty of the architecture and gardens. Looking for a stateside equivalent? If you haven’t been, it’s
New Orleans or bust for you.
Libra
Libras like their options. They like to keep things interesting, see all the things a place has to offer and, if they feel so inclined, check out surrounding areas as well. If you haven’t saved up to backpack around Europe or Spain for a month or two (#samesies), you might still have a chance to save a bit and see what the Greek Islands have to offer. You can sail, check out wineries, visit historical sites and hit the beach — all while experiencing the charms of local haunts.
Scorpio
Scorpios are a bit outdoorsy, and they like to explore. While you don’t have to get crazy rustic (vacations should always be at least a bit relaxing), a bungalow in Tulum, Mexico might be the ideal spot for a post-cave dive nap. Tulum offers ancient Mayan ruins, a city center with authentic food and one of the best beaches in Mexico. Pro tip: If you want to stay in the US, Big Sur in California has some swoon-worthy beaches and hiking trails.
Sagittarius
Sagittarius kids like to travel — like, really, really travel. They like to immerse themselves and live the life of a local. You can go Nordic and jet to Iceland for hot springs and black sand beaches. You can also check out some of the oldest breweries in the world in Belgium. Looking for a warm spot? Try backpacking in Belize. The world is Sagittarius’ oyster.
Capricorn
Capricorns need a balanced vacation of sightseeing and chilling. Somewhere like Prague could be a great fit for Capricorn. Explore the castles and the city’s Wenceslas Square, then take a load off along the river with a beer at a local pub. If the Caribbean is more your scene, try Bocas del Toro, Panama. Swim with dolphins in the coral reef, explore restaurants in the villages and kick back in your bungalow with a fresh juice or cocktail.
Featured image: Ohmygossip.com Source: Brit.co/ Kristin Egan
OHMYGOSSIP – If you’re anything like us, you have wanderlust coursing through your veins and are continually adding to your list of travel destinations you *must see* in this lifetime. Don’t let that travel spirit dwindle any longer! Instead of focusing on that work/life balance or comparing schedules with your bae or BFF to plan a trip “once things settle down,” start planning a trip to one (or more!) of Pinterest’s top 10 travel destinations below. Whether you travel solo or make it work with a travel buddy, these spots will satisfy that wanderlust and bring adventure, culture and a whole lot more.
1. Pink Sand Beach, Bahamas: If you thought the Bahamas was all restaurants and casinos, Pink Sand Beach is going to blow your globe-trotting mind. Natural coral reef begets pretty pink sands that meet up with the turquoise seas in a postcard-perfect way. Enjoy snorkeling, shelling, fishing and swimming, or rent a bike and tour the island. 2. Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia: The lakes of this national park are famous for their ever-changing teal, turquoise or deep blue waters (depending on the ebb and flow of natural minerals deposits). Wooden footbridges and pathways link the 16 lakes, taking visitors over rumbling waters and under waterfalls. Camp nearby in small bungalows and rise at dawn to beat the summer crowd. 3. Lago di Braies, Italy: Located in a lush verdant valley beneath the towering snowcapped Dolomite mountains, Lake Braies is a sight to behold. There’s hiking in the mountains and water activities on the lake, but be aware that the crystal-clear waters are icy from snow runoff, even in summer. Those who prefer more leisurely activities can rent a rowboat and paddle about while filling their Instagram feeds with picture-perfect vistas. 4. The Waitomo Glowworm Caves, New Zealand: A galaxy of living lights fires up the night in the caves beneath the Waitomo River. Water creatures called glowworms, unique to New Zealand, radiate a natural luminosity that has been drawing sightseers for centuries. Walk amongst the geysers, hot springs and bubbling mud pools yourself, or enjoy one of the local guided underground boat tours. The Waitomo area is also home to black water rafting, the Waitomo Trail Run and a “Middle Earth Tour” for the Tolkien geeks among us. 5. Cascada Bigar, Romania: Located in a nature reserve in the Anina Mountains, Bigar Falls is a watery wonder. Underground springs flood high-terrain caves, pushing the water down smoothly rounded, moss-covered cliffs. The falls break over trees and brush, looking like leafy umbrellas in a deluge. Explore the 650-foot river upwards to the spring and go spelunking in the small cave. But beware: To enter, you must first cross an icy river in your bare feet and climb a fragile-looking rope ladder. 6. The Azores, Portugal: Majestic manor houses, 15th-century churches and sheep dot the landscape of this archipelago. Towering cliffs and sapphire waters make the islands a cliff diver’s paradise. Fun fact: It’s actually the home of the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series. But for the less daring among us, Santa Maria Island has amazing water sport facilities, and the other islands offer an array of cathedrals, churches and museums to tour. 7. Trolltunga, Norway: It’s hard to believe your eyes when you first see Trolltunga. A shear slab of cliff hovers seemingly in mid-air over a vast canyon that descends ever deeper into a blue ravine. An Insta-worthy photo-op, for sure, it’s also a climb-at-your-own-risk adventure. If you do plan to hike it, pack sturdy boots, a map, compass, flashlight, first-aid kit, extra clothing and plenty to eat and drink. The weather is moody, and every year search and rescue parties have to go after hikers in trouble. There are no nearby accommodations, but you can pitch a tent. 8. Faroe Islands, Denmark: These lush emerald-green cliffs floating in the frothy tide of the North Atlantic are beautiful, rugged and majestic all at once. Hikers and birdwatchers will be in their element, and almost all will fall in love with the colorful cottages and grass-roofed churches. Tiny towns are linked by dependable roads, making travel easy. Or you can see the sights by a century-old sloop. 9. The Grand Canyon’s Havasu Falls, Arizona: Havasu Falls belongs to the Havasupai American Indian Reservation. Though not an easy hike, it’s well worth the effort. Havasupai means “people of the blue-green water,” and you’ll find that an apt description when you see the azure waters. After 10 miles of hiking, you’ll reach a village with a restaurant, a general store and WiFi. You can stock up there and only have two more miles to hike. Reward yourself at the end with a dive into the crystal clear pool at the bottom of the falls. 10. Jacob’s Well, just outside of Austin, TX: It’s known as one of the most dangerous cave diving spots on the planet, but don’t let that keep you away from Jacob’s Well. The well is spring-fed by the Trinity Aquifer, and its cool waters have lured locals and tourists for hundreds of years. Even if you don’t visit the caves below, you’ll enjoy jumping off surrounding rocks and into the clear water spewing from the well. The area offers many swimming holes and zip line tours.
Featured image: Ohmygossip.com Source: Brit.co/ Sally Jones
OHMYGOSSIP – We’ve started planning our summer vacations and are dreaming about all of the tokens and souvenirs we are going to find on our adventures. But what happens when you come across that perfect ukulele and you still have 10 days left on your trip? Or you stumble upon a stunning painting that would look amazing on your wall but it can’t be rolled up and stowed away? We´ll give you six tips on how to vacation and get all of your keepsakes home in perfect condition.
1. Plan your souvenir wish list ahead of time: Do some research by checking out your favorite travel blogs or Instagrammers to learn what your destination is known for — e.g. the best textiles, best teas or best treats, so you know what the must-haves are and where to grab ’em!
2. Create a multi-city plan: When road tripping and traveling to multiple cities with your besties, space in the car can get a little tight. Free up some room by finding the nearest FedEx Office® to drop off the treasures you collect along the way. They make it so seamless to ship any goody home that we’ve been sending care packages to our besties left and right. Enjoy your driving excursions comfortably and head to your next city worry-free.
3. Stick with souvenirs that are collectable yet sensible: This will help prevent you from buying souvenirs that you’ll never use again. Need to spice up your walls at home? Find a vintage postcard or collectible art print and ship it home so that you don’t have to carry around delicate paper.
4. When buying delicate souvenirs, leave it to the experts: Send gifts to loved ones directly from your travels instead of dragging everything from place to place. This beautiful mirror is far too lovely to risk breaking in luggage, so trust the experts to pack your gift for peace of mind.
5. Look for local unique goodies: Immerse yourself in the culture by seeking items that are specific to your experience and will always make you think of your vacation when you see them. Being San Francisco natives, our must-haves are the Tartine Bread Cookbook, a Heath Ceramics Vase, Ritual Coffee grounds, the WildSam guide to San Francisco and, of course, some cute notebooks from a local bookstore.
6. Find the musical instrument of your dreams: A Hawaiian ukulele or a Nashville-made guitar are just a couple of handmade musical instruments that you can find on your travels. You’d be hard-pressed to pass them up, so visit FedEx Office® to carefully ship your new instrument home while you finish your adventures!
Source: Brit.co /Anita Yung Featured image: Ohmygossip.com
OHMYGOSSIP — The U.S. Citizenship Test is an important step in your U.S. citizenship application. During the citizenship interview, a US citizenship and immigration officer will ask the applicant ten(10) questions. The applicant must answer six(6) out of the ten(10) questions correctly in order to pass the civics portion of the naturalization test. If you fail the citizenship interview test, your citizenship application will be rejected.
OHMYGOSSIP — United States lawful permanent residency refers to a person’s immigration status: the person is authorized to live and work in the United States of America on a permanent basis.
OHMYGOSSIP – If you had to pick one goal for your business this year, what would it be? I can think of a few. But there’s one goal that a lot of business owners will have in common: to make a profit. It’s a subject people either love or hate to talk about – but money is one of the main things that keeps your business running. It pays the bills and lets you live the life you want.
So where does the money come from? And more importantly, how do you make sure that the money keeps on rolling in?
Your audience. The problems arise when you’re not sure if you understand your audience, and you don’t know who they are. You’re unsure about who would be interested in your product or service, and you don’t know what platforms you can reach them on.
It’s doesn’t all have to be a guessing game. There are actually more ways than you know for you to get to grips with your ideal customer and help your business grow in 2016.
Install & Analyse Google Analytics If you don’t have Google Analytics installed for your website, you’re missing out on some seriously useful data. Honestly. Nothing else gives you a detailed insight into your audience like this does.
I’m talking about your current audience here, because that’s who you need to look at. You need to figure out where you’re at right now to be able to grow. There’s no point putting loads of selling tactics and social media strategies in place if you’re not actively targeting the right people. Google Analytics tells you everything that you need to know.
You want to head to your Dashboard and click on “Audience” in the left hand menu. Then go to “Demographics” and “Overview”. This page will tell you the age and gender of your current audience.
But you can go even deeper than that. You want to know you’re targeting the right people who are interested in what services and products your business offers. So how about looking at what interests your audience has? Just go to “Interests” and “Overview”. This lets you see exactly who you’re targeting. You can see if your current audience has the same interests as what your business offers.
If there’s a difference, this is where you can identify it. Thankfully, you can fix it too.
–Write content specifically about your services. If you’ve got a blog, you want to make sure you’re writing about what your business offers. If you’re a digital marketing company, you want to create content about the digital marketing services you offer and how these can help your audience. If you’re a photographer, you want to share your portfolio alongside tips and tricks. Consider what people want to know when they’re looking for a business like yours. Your content can lead them right to it.
-Or, you can also incorporate more of what your audience is interested in. Let’s say there’s a topic you don’t write about that your audience enjoys. Why not start creating content for it? That way, you’re doing both them and your business a favour.
Encourage Interaction Interaction is one of the things that turn visitors into customers. Many people are saying that commenting is dead and no one does it anymore. But that’s not actually true. You’ve just got to ask for it.
Think about it. People who comment on your blog posts and other content are genuinely interested in what you have to offer. They are your biggest fans. So start asking them questions, and I mean real questions. Think about what you want to know and ask them.
Remember, there’s also a difference in how you ask questions. If you said, “Are you going to try out this new scheduling tool?” – this only requires a yes or no answer. That is what’s called a closed question. You want to make sure you’re asking open-ended questions. Questions that leave room for your readers to provide more information in their answer. Here are some examples:
-What’s the biggest thing you can take away from this post?
-How have you conducted your research in the past?
-What’s your biggest tip on this topic?
There are so many possibilities. But this isn’t just restricted to comments. It works on social media too. Follow the right people and reach out. Ask questions and answer them. Keep up the conversation. You’ll be surprised how many ideas you get and how much you learn.
Run a Survey A survey is something you should carry out every single year. You’re not a mind reader. You don’t know what your audience wants and what products they need right now. The best way to find that out is by asking them.
Feedback is one of the things that can benefit your business the most. Your readers and customers are like your cheerleaders. They’re there to share your products or services, sign up to your mailing list and tell everyone how great you are. These are the people who are going to be able to help you grow your business right now.
This is useful for finding out so much information about your audience. Age, gender, what they do for a living, what their interests are – but you can also find out what they’re struggling with and what their problems are. This is crucial information to help you develop your products and services so they’re directly suited to your customers.
Discover things about them that you didn’t know before. Ask them for honest feedback. You won’t get valuable information like this anywhere else. It’s a real insight.
Look at Your Competitors In business, we all know how important it is to keep up to date with what our competitors are doing. But have you ever thought about analysing their audiences?
If you know of a business that’s similar to yours, find out about who their customers are. Head to their Twitter profile and click on their followers – then make notes and even follow people that you think are suited to what you have to offer.
Look on their website and social channels as a customer. Think about what they’re doing to get their customers to hit that purchase or subscribe button. Look at their blog. What ideas can you get? How can you make your content bigger, better and more valuable than theirs?
Don’t worry, you’re not copying here. That’s not your purpose. You’re simply just analysing another area of your competitor. You’re seeing if they’re doing it right, so you can do it better.
If you don’t know who you’re marketing your business to, you’ll always miss something. Stay one step ahead and really get to know your ideal customer. That way, you’ll see results every time.
OHMYGOSSIP – The best places to travel with mother! Anytime is a good time to travel with mom. She spent years taking care of you– feeding you, changing your diapers, worrying when you stayed out past curfew. Why not treat mom to an amazing vacation? It’s a great way to say thanks, reconnect and build new memories. Here’s a few amazing places to visit with that special lady in your life.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
I adore Santa Fe. It’s a place that I’ve returned to six times and have brought my mom and my sister on separate girl’s trips. I love this town not only for its desert beauty, but rich art and culture. A few of my favorite things to do in this stunning desert oasis:
Stroll through historic downtown Santa Fe, soaking up the native American culture, architecture and art scene.
Visit Canyon Road for over 100 no-attitude art galleries. Sculptures,paintings, ceramics– trust me, there’s something for everyone.
Celebrating? There’s no better place to do that than at the James Beard award-winning restaurant, Compound.
Portsmouth, New Hampshire
I may be a little biased (it’s my hometown, after all!), but I love Portsmouth. Settled in 1623, this waterfront city is incredibly walkable, with a historic downtown chockfull of restaurants, cafes, ice cream parlors and boutique mom and pop shops. We like to joke Gap had to move out. Here’s where to go on your next visit:
Spend a day at Strawbery Banke, a 10-acre, open-air historic museum. It’s Portsmouth’s oldest neighborhood, and features original homes, taverns and shops all from the 17th and 18th century. A few of the homes are open to the public, including that of John Paul Jones, known as the father of the U.S Navy.
Take in a show at the historic Music Hall Theater. This Victorian-era establishment boasts incredible concerts, stand-up performances and cinema.
Drop your bags at Wentworth By the Sea, the old Grand Dame hotel reminiscent of the Hotel del Coronado in San Diego.
Tuck into fresh, delicious seafood (paired with live music!) at Dolphin Striker, a local favorite since the mid-70s.
Wilmington, Delaware & the Brandywine Valley
A trip to Wilmington is all about seeing America’s early aristocracy (think of it as a way to heal your mother’s broken heart now that Downton Abbey is really over). Here’s a few of my must-dos:
Visit Winterthur, the magnificent 175-room estate of Henry DuPont (as in the DuPont’s) boasting beautiful gardens and one of the largest collections of early American furniture.
Road trip through the scenic Brandywine Valley, which offers beautiful vistas of pastoral landscapes you thought only existed in paintings.
Check-in to one of my all-time favorite hotels, the Inn at Montchanin Village. It’s not so much that the hotel is in the village of Montchanin. Rather, it is the village! Stay in a luxuriously renovated cottage that once housed the workers of Winterthur.
While you’re at Montchanin Village, be sure to enjoy dinner at Krazy Kat’s, housed in a renovated blacksmith’s shop.
Wander through the Brandywine Museum, soaking up early American art.
St. Petersburg, Florida
I love St. Pete as a destination for mom. Sunshine, beaches, art and sunset cruises– sounds like heaven, and I am sure she’ll agree! Some local highlights:
Even if you’re not typically an art lover, there’s something intoxicating about The Dali (a museum dedicated to Salvador Dali’s works) as well as the and Dale Chihuly Gallery. Spend a morning at either and who knows? You might find yourself inspired to pick up the ol’ paintbrush.
When you think shuffleboard, you think old people. But I want you rid your brain of that stereotype because the Petersburg Shuffleboard Club is seriously fun. Founded in 1924, this 90-year-old private recreation club opens their doors to the public every Friday 7 to 11pm. Just do it.
Fun fact: this place inspired the hispterified Royal Palms shuffleboard club in Brooklyn.
You’re on the west coast of Florida, so why not check out a beautiful sunset cruise? There are tons available, on all kinds of ships– from sailboats to yachts.
You can’t mention St. Pete without talking about the miles of white powder sandy beaches and warm calm Gulf waters. It’s certainly worth it to drive north to Clearwater Beach for the day.
Stroll through the Saturday Morning Market, where the city’s main road shuts down to host a lovely farmer’s market (with plenty of free samples!).
Spend an afternoon checking out St. Pete’s Pier, where (amongst other things) you’ll find a stunning public restroom built in the Romanesque-style. Really, you can’t make this stuff up!
Louisville, Kentucky
Louisville is more than horse racing and bourbon drinking (though to be fair, you should enjoy both while there!). Here’s a few spots to take mom in the Ville:
Spend a few hours wandering through the East Market District, a revitalized area now called NuLu stocked with charming antique stores, art galleries and more.
A trip to Churchill Downs is a must, even on a non-derby day.
With the Humana Festival of New Plays and the critically acclaimed Actor’s Theater of Louisville, this city has a strong theatrical heart. Check in to see what is on stage.
Grab lunch at Wagner’s Pharmacy. Open since 1922, this is where horsemen would come to get their cigarettes and food. Lunch counter hasn’t changed much.
Designed by Frederick Law Olmstead, Cherokee Park offers over 400 acres of meadows, trails and hills to explore.
For a little R&R with mom, I say opt for a long weekend in Fredericksburg. This historic small town (population: 10,829) boasts quaint bed and breakfasts, great dining, stunning drives and wineries. Yes, you heard that right! My top picks:
They call it NEW Texas gold, but you and I will keep calling it wine. There’s a handful of places to sample the local vino. My suggestion? Book a wine tour with transport and don’t spend one second worrying about whether or not you’re over the legal limit.
Experience the great outdoors at Enchanted Rock Natural Area, a large pink rock that rises like a dome, much like Ayers Rock in the Australian Outback. Hike to the top or around it for beautiful views.
Show off your dance moves at one of the the three historic dance halls in town. Fingers crossed mom gets twirled on the dance floor by a handsome cowboy.
Support the local economy by shopping and dining in Fredericksburg’s charming historic district.
Puerto Rico
I like think of Puerto Rico as a tropical island and Europe-inspired destination in one. Bonus? No passport needed! Here’s where to go:
Get that old, sleepy European vibe in Old San Juan, which boasts more than 400 restored buildings from the 16th and 17th Centuries.
Have a Panama hat made at Ole on Forteleza Street (c’mon, you know you want one!).
Visit El Morro, the beautiful seaside fort. There’s a great lawn where families fly kites.
Check another National Park off your list with El Yunque– the only tropical rainforest in the United States National Forest system.
Enjoy drinks and dinner in the courtyard at the breathtaking El Convento, a restaurant and hotel housed in a former convent.
Old San Juan is walking distance to the tranquil and family-friendly beach, Playa Escambron. You’ll find Condado and Isla Verde beaches just a short cab ride away.
Santa Barbara, California
As far as destinations, it’s hard to beat Santa Barbara. It’s got everything: mountains, beach, sunny skies, friendly people and lots of fun things to do. This is truly one of those places where I can’t help but think, “People actually live like this? No fair!” Some local favorites:
Kick back with tacos and margaritas at Los Agaves.
Channel your inner artist at Art from Scrap, an upcycling and crafting studio.
Spend an afternoon checking out beautiful downtown Santa Barbara. Fantastic shopping and just plain ol’ wandering.
Love wine? You’ll adore Urban Wine Trail, where you can taste wine from the central coast without all the driving.
Feeling adventurous? Try Paddleboarding on the bay. I love it beacuse it’s one of the only water sports that doesn’t get your hair wet!
Enjoy the fresh California air at Douglas Family preserve. Easy hikes with amazing views of the coast.
For a bit of history and a fantastic meal, hit up Cold Spring Tavern. Originally built as a stagecoach stop in 1886, these guys still serve excellent breakfast, lunch and dinner in an incredibly quaint setting.
Jackson, Wyoming
The minute you arrive in beautiful Jackson, you and mom will start thinking of ways that will allow you to move there: Maybe we could open a coffee shop? Mend fences? Finally, an opportunity to launch our chainsaw art career! Who wants a giant, wooden bald eagle? All kidding aside, I love the vibe in this quaint mountain town. Here’s where to hang out:
Spend a day (at least!) at Grand Tetons National Park. One of my favorites spots is Jenny Lake, which offers great hikiing as well as boat rides.
Stroll through historic downtown. Trust me, you won’t get bored.
Two of my favorite restaurants are just a few blocks off the main town square, toward E. Broadway. There’s Café Genevieve (a perfect, hearty breakfast) and Persephone Bakery who serve up amazing coffee, croissants, and wine.
A few hours in Jackson will leave you hankering for a pair of cowboy boots. I love Vintage Jackson, where you can get your cowgirl on without selling the farm.
Speaking of farm, pretend what it might be like to buy one by checking out the Sotheby’s store window. Lots of luxury listings, including ranches. In my dreams!
For something a little more affordable, pay a visit to clairvoyant Carroll Ann at Cosmic Café. Who knows– maybe a big windfall is in your future.
Palm Springs, California
Every mom deserves a Hollywood getaway-getaway, and for that, there’s no place like Palm Springs. Here’s how to treat mom like the starlet she is.
Walk the neighborhoods and check out the mid century modern homes. A favorite is the Movie Colony, home to the former residences of folks like Frank Sinatra, Cary Grant and Jack Benny. You could do a self-guided tour, or sign up for something more official, like a Palm Springs Architecture Tour.
Do a little high end vintage shopping on Palm Canyon Drive, stopping at places like AlaMod 768 and PS Modern Way. For vintage inspired threads, you can’t beat Trina Turk’s Palm Springs outpost.
Pretend you’re a honorary Rat Packer at Melvyn’s, where you can indulge in table side Caesar salad served by tuxedoed waiters.
Enjoy the dry desert air on a two-mile loop hike thru Tahquitz Canyon, which leads to a 60-foot waterfall. For something a little more adventurous, take the Aerial Tram up to the top of the Jacinto Mountains. Hike around, or simply soak up the view.
