10 of the Best Sedans for Budget-Conscious Shoppers

October 10, 2020

badge-buying-guide-hero-(1) — Source: carsguide

The best part about shopping in a fiercely competitive segment is that automakers are constantly obligated to offer more for less in order to stay on top. This is reflected by some of the smaller sedan cars (here) on sale in the USA in 2024. Just because you’re on a tight budget, it doesn’t mean you have to settle for less than what you need, whether it be safety or excellent fuel economy. Here are some budget-friendly options that are certainly worth considering:

1. Kia Forte

Thanks to its recent redesign, the Kia Forte bears a similar resemblance to the Kia Stinger, which is a really good thing. It’s a handsome-looking sedan with a price that starts well under $20k. It also bagged a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS, the highest accolade that the institute gives. Possibly one of the Kia’s most redeeming qualities is its immaculate interior. There aren’t many rivals at this price point that can compete with this Korean gem’s cabin. Modern tech and surprisingly plush materials are abundant, but there are a few hints here and there of cheaper materials. Still, the Forte is an excellent choice overall.

2. Nissan Versa Sedan

The Versa is Nissan’s smallest vehicle and, as a result of its diminutive size, the cheapest, too. If you’ve ever ordered an Uber or hired the cheapest rental on holiday, chances are you’ve been in a Versa. Because it’s easy to drive and has relatively good safety scores, the Versa is well-suited for beginner drivers. It also boasts some pretty excellent mpg figures from the EPA, which is yet another appealing aspect for the average student or first-time buyers.

3. Honda Civic Sedan

The Honda Civic is a favorite amongst frugal shoppers because it’s simply one of the best compact sedans out there. It’s surprisingly refined for its price point, thanks to the choice between two efficient powertrains, including a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter and a turbocharged 1.5-liter. The base engine produces 158 horsepower. Regardless of which four-banger you opt for, the Civic is eager. The interior is respectably modern and comfortable, too. The Honda will do well on longer trips, so get packing for Spring Break.

4. Toyota Corolla Sedan

The Corolla is the king of reliability in its segment, which gives it a huge advantage. Its exterior appearance has drastically improved over the last few years, to the point that it’s actually quite an attractive little thing. The Corolla simply ticks all the right boxes. It’s affordable, comfortable, and extremely safe. The 2024 model received a Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS, making it trustworthy for those who are concerned about safety. The infotainment system is impressive and the interior is actually quite nice, but not quite as nice as the Kia Forte.

5. Kia Rio

We know what you’re thinking, “Seriously, another Kia?” But the Korean automaker is on fire these days. The Rio is dirt cheap to purchase and perfect for a student that regularly finds themselves warming ramen. Beyond its attractive asking price, it’s super easy to drive and comes with an efficient 1.6-liter that’s eager enough for city driving without sacrificing fuel economy. As expected from Kia, the Rio has an excellent interior that we wouldn’t call luxurious, but certainly modern. And when you’re only forking out around $16,000, it’s an excellent choice.

6. Volkswagen Jetta

The Jetta has been in the compact sedan segment for years and years, and there are reasons behind the fact that sales volumes aren’t dropping. The Jetta is ideal for a small family thanks to its spacious interior, and those who opt for the Jetta usually value overall refinement compared to an engaging driving experience. One of the best aspects of the Jetta is the high level of comfort it offers in comparison to its counterparts in the US. Still, other rivals from Kia and Mazda offer more features for their base model.

7. Subaru Impreza Sedan

When you hear “Subaru Impreza”, your mind will immediately take you to thoughts of illegal races on Saturday nights, but this isn’t that kind of party. The Impreza we’re talking about is a lovely little sedan for the family, with only the best manners on display. Its merits are good enough to land it a spot on the list, but it falls behind its competitors from Mazda and Honda. We blame the lethargic four-pot for the Subaru’s drop in rankings.

8. Hyundai Accent

If reliability and a determined attitude mean a lot to you, the Hyundai Accent will be a fine choice, so long as you don’t expect much else from it. It has an unremarkable exterior design that pretty much blends in with the crowd and its interior is far behind rivals. However, its supremely low asking price and impressive safety ratings save it from bottom-feeder status. Those who are upgrading from an older Hyundai will typically opt for the Accent because they are comfortable with the brand.

9. Chevrolet Cruze Sedan

If you’re looking for any kind of luxury, don’t make eye contact. Just back away slowly. The Cruze is not a bad-looking car by any means, but it does have a no-nonsense design that focuses purely on utilizing as much space as possible. The inside provides enough tech to get by, but it’s not packaged in an overly appealing way. Still, the materials inside are durable and comfortable enough. The Cruze has a starting MSRP that sits well under the $20k mark, so it’ll no doubt be an option for students or small families on a budget.

10. Mitsubishi Mirage G4

If all you need is a vehicle to get you from A to B, the Mirage is perfect. If you want even a smidge of anything else from its performance, you’re in the wrong place. Even if you expect a blatantly cheap interior and limited features, you’ll still be unpleasantly surprised. The Mirage’s gas mileage estimates are impressive and leave its rivals in the dust, but that’s all it really has to offer.

Are Laundromats Safe During the Pandemic?

Milana Kuznecev

October 10, 2020

As 2024 sets in, almost every place in the world has been affected by the pandemic, and every cities and state are asking their residents to follow home quarantine and practice safety to avoid spreading the virus. Our everyday life has changed dramatically, even doing the simplest household chores like grocery shopping and laundry.

Laundry is not a problem for those who have a washer and dryer at home, but how about those who don’t? That’s when public health experts guide how people can use laundromats or send out laundry for cleaning.

Is there a possibility to get infected from clothing?

It is common to ask whether there is a possibility that we can get infected from the clothes we wear. Clothing should not be the most significant health concern, but hygiene is. Experts emphasized the importance of proper hygiene practices during the pandemic, as it is the best preventive measure. Thus, alongside with frequent hand washing, we have to clean our clothes hygienically.

The coronavirus is transmitted through respiratory droplets, which can be prevented through social distancing. However, as it is unnoticeable, the virus may land on surfaces, including your clothes, for days. If you touch these materials, there is a possible risk of infection, although relatively low.

Thus, we should make it a habit to change our outside clothes with inside clothes once you enter your house. Most especially if you are from work or you used public transportation. You can never tell whether you have contracted the virus or not, and there’s a great possibility that you might bring the virus at home.

How to do laundry today?

If you are lucky to have a washing and dryer machine at your home, you will have few worries when it comes to doing your laundry. Experts recommend using the warmest appropriate setting for washing your dirty clothes, and high temperature when drying the clothes thoroughly. It is best to avoid wearing delicate clothes when they might not withstand the high temperatures.

When you are about to launder, do not shake your clothes; it will disperse the virus through the air. Always disinfect the things you used after doing the laundry. If you are curious about the frequency of washing your clothes, ask yourself– what are you most concerned about the clothes? Do you work on the front line? If so, then washing your clothes is more urgent than those who are primarily staying at home.

But, how about those who have no access to washing and drying facilities in their home?

Some apartment complexes have a communal laundry room. They sent out instructions to their residents on how they can use the laundry room and machines. Moreover, apartment complexes are recommended to establish a schedule among their residents for launder to avoid having more than two people in the room and maintain a safe distance.

If there’s no shared space at your apartment complex, then maybe laundromats or laundry services are the best options you got.

Is going to laundromats safe?

You can only say laundromats are safe when you take precautions as you go out. Wear a mask, observe social distancing, and do not touch your face. You can also bring a disinfectant as you touch several surfaces outside, and handwashing may not be feasible.

Before you head out to launder, ensure that you have already sorted at your dirty clothes at home to minimize contacting the laundromat’s surfaces. Do not head out if it is the peak hours; the laundromat may be jampacked with other customers. It is best to call ahead the laundromat to check whether their place is busy or ask them what specific time they have few customers.

Once you are inside the laundry shop, stay at least six feet away from others, or you can drop off your dirty clothes and have their staff take care of them for you. Do not forget to sanitize your hands after dropping off your dirty clothes. It is inevitable not to touch several surfaces inside the laundromat. Also, it is best to wait outside the shop or in your car in between the loads.

If you wonder how often you should head out for laundry, it would be practical only to have it bi-weekly or once a week to minimize contact outside.

Other Laundry Services

If you feel it is unsafe to go out to launder clothes, you can venture with some other services. There are laundromats that offer wash and fold, dry cleaning, and laundry pickup and delivery services. In these services, you outsource the task to the experts.

According to Liox, a laundry service company, it is best to outsource your dirty clothes to companies that offer laundry pickup and delivery. You do not have to go outside, drop off your laundry, and wait for it to get done. Instead, you only have to call and request a service appointment to the laundry company. It is better to send your laundry out to a wash-and-fold service or dry cleaning than a laundromat because you limit contact with other people.

Moreover, you have the responsibility to protect the workers as they will handle your dirty clothes. If someone in your household is sick, do not send out your dirty laundry immediately. Instead, put it in a plastic bag and let it sit for a couple of days before you decide to send it out. Do not spread the virus.

So, if you do not have the washer and dryer at your house and you feel unsafe going to the laundromat, call reliable laundry services near your place.

Final Thoughts

Doing laundry is an essential task. We are required to be habitually hygienic not only during the pandemic but at all times– and doing laundry is part of it. Whether you are laundering at home, in a shared laundry room in your apartment complex, at a laundromat, or hiring a laundry service, you have to follow safety precautions. When going to laundromats to wash your clothes, always bring a hand sanitizer, wear a mask, and practice social distancing to be safe.

Top 5 PhD Degrees for the Future

Дмитра Врачарић

October 10, 2020

The job market is a very harsh and unforgiving place nowadays. Getting a well-paying job wasn’t a walk in the park even before the COVID-19 pandemic has irreversibly changed how we perceive work. Heading into a career related to your field of study straight out of college is nearly impossible, especially if you want to be paid a competitive salary.

One way to significantly boost your chances of getting employed with a respectable salary is to continue your academic education after obtaining your master’s degree. This is important for those who have chosen some of the most popular paths, such as degrees in management or economics, but also some of the more demanding, scientific subjects. Regardless of whether you want to get a PhD in Physics or become a doctor of audiology, turning into a true specialist in your field will attract high profile employers to your person.

Education experts from Online-PhD-Degrees are adamant about the fact that it isn’t always easy to find a program that suits your particular needs and interests right off the bat. More often than not, students end up picking a degree and school that’s most convenient for them in terms of money and location, rather than the actual curriculum contents and what they stand to get out of the experience. If that’s the case with you, then you might seriously consider participating in a digital PhD course instead, which can give you more freedom to pursue a career at the same time.

Doctoral degrees are not for everyone, though. You need to be truly passionate about your field of expertise to be willing to devote another year or two of your life to the pursuit of graduate degrees. If you’re about to make this important decision and don’t quite know how to select a degree that will bring you the most benefits, look no further – these highest paying PhD programs might just be what you’re looking for.

1. Computer Science

Even a Bachelor’s degree in this field can land you a pretty comfortable job with great benefits. There is no shortage of prospective programmers and computer wizards graduating from universities across the entirety of the United States, but the exponential growth of the industries related to information technologies all but guarantees the continuation of demand for young and skillful computer scientists.

If you pursue a PhD in computer science, you’ll be in a favorable position to secure a job that is a few rungs of the corporate ladder above the entry-level “IT guy” positions. It is a more-than-solid foundation on which you could build your future career.

2. Statistics

A lot of students majoring in mathematics laugh off statistics as the least “serious” one of all math-related subjects you could choose to study at university. While it’s certainly true that stats majors don’t concern themselves with intricate and complex theoretical mathematics, it doesn’t necessarily mean that statistics is a bad career choice for a math aficionado.

Quite the contrary — statisticians are increasingly needed in modern enterprises to carry out data analysis and processing and have skills that are more useful in practice when compared to the brainy work of mathematicians operating solely in the realm of theory. Statistics and data science are crucial fields when it comes to the development of artificial intelligence and other innovative technologies, so expertise in this area will certainly pay off for many years to come!

3. Pharmacology

Pharmacology might be one of the most difficult avenues of higher education to go into. The study of pharmaceutical drugs and how they work is one of the most important areas in the 21st century. Modern medicine’s capabilities are getting broader and broader with each passing year, which makes pharmacology all the more exciting of a career option to pursue.

Getting a PhD in this chemistry-heavy field increases your chances of getting a lab-based position where you’d be able to directly contribute to the development of potentially life-saving drugs.

4. Engineering

Although many may consider chasing after a PhD in engineering unnecessary, acquiring the highest degree in this field can ensure an extremely satisfactory salary, not to mention the fact that you’ll be able to take on jobs that will put you in charge of various projects, instead of simply carrying them out.

It’s not a secret that engineering is one of the best paying academic fields overall, and if you really want to break the bank, acquiring a PhD in this area may put you at the forefront of innovation for your entire career!

5. Immunology

This might not have made the list just a few years ago, but with everything that has happened in 2024 and the year before, immunology has become quite a hot topic, not only in the scientific community but in the wider public opinion, as well. The COVID-19 pandemic is still ongoing, and there are already talks of new, potentially deadly diseases on the horizon. It does not paint the prettiest picture for the future of humankind, but it certainly solidifies the need for qualified immunologists in 2024 and beyond.

The Bottom Line

You can spend all day looking at lists and articles about the highest paying PhD degrees and the most viable career options, but the truth is that you need to base your decision primarily on your own interests and experiences. You can enroll in the highest paying doctoral courses, but no amount of money will be worth the misery of spending a lifetime working in a field you have absolutely no passion for. You can make a career in just about any area of human activity, but you need to have a clear-cut plan for your development and stay proactive, even if it means combining studying with part-time work or unpaid internships.

Maciej Grzymkowski – an avid traveler with a particular affinity for Southeast Asia. I love to explore the differences between corporate cultures and ways of doing business in different parts of the world, and I’m always keen on adopting alternative and exotic solutions in my own work.

8 Quirky and Unusual Things to Do in Canada

Billy Voss

October 10, 2020

Surely you agree with us that planning a vacation or even a quick trip is always fun. It means that you will finally have some time to relax and unwind and visit some cool places. Generally speaking, people are always looking for a country or a city they have never visited before. They want to see new attractions and experience different things.

However, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to travel to a new place every time. One of the most incredible beauties is that every country has so much to offer, which means that you can always do and see something for the first time. In this article, we are going to introduce you to some unusual things that you can do in Canada, and if you are looking for more suggestions, visit kevsbest.ca.

1. Bata Shoe Museum

You have probably never been to a shoe museum before, right? Well, visiting the BSM in Toronto is a great day to spend a rainy day. The fascinating thing is that their collection consists of 13,000 shoes from all over the world and different eras. You will see some of these as a part of their permanent exhibition.

What’s more, the museum often organizes and hosts numerous special exhibitions like Manolo Blahnik’s The Art of Shoes. Yes, you can see the footwear made popular by the Sex & the City series. This is an excellent opportunity to travel back in time in a way you haven’t before.

2. Thomas Fisher Rare Book Library

If you are a bookworm and haven’t visited this place before, now is to time to put on your list. This library isn’t just a regular one because it holds the largest number of books and manuscripts available to the public’s eye. Their goal is to preserve this national treasure while providing visitors with the opportunity to inspect them in person. Yes, this means that you can schedule your visit and see these up close. Some of the most popular items include Cicero’s Book of Naturally History, edition from 1551, Palfijn’s version of Licetus’ Book of Monsters, Monstrorum Historia by Ulysses Aldrovandi, etc. We cannot forget to mention some of Shakespeare’s work as well as some beautiful editions of Alice in Wonderland. Since the number of pieces on display can be overwhelming, our recommendation is to follow the museum’s official pages to learn more about what you can see and explore their monthly exhibits.

3. Kensington Market

If you are looking for a place that is a perfect combination of well, everything from cuisines to trades, you cannot skip Kensington Market. Stroll through vintage shops and quaint print shops, tattoo and art parlors, and take a break to eat Jamaican patties, Mexican churros and burritos, Colombian arepas, and so on. In addition, you cannot miss the opportunity to wash everything down with a hot cider or an organic beer.

4. Toronto’s Half House

Surely you have come across images of this architectural wonder online. It isn’t only odd, but it is also quite entertaining to observe. This house is located in St. Patrick Street, and it was built in the late 19^th century. Initially, it was one of the six connected homes, and over time, other structures where demolished, but one owner, the Valkos family, refused to give in.

Over the next few decades, other houses were torn down, but this one is still standing today. Obviously, now it looks like a house that was cut in two as it went through a nasty divorce where partners split everything into two equal pieces. However, let’s be honest – it is what makes it so charming and unique.

5. Nuit Blanche (White Night)

This festival isn’t necessarily an unusual event, but it is definitely something that you shouldn’t miss. The first Saturday in October is the day when the entire city transforms into one large art exhibition. During this night, private and public art galleries and museums stay open, and everyone can visit them free of charge. In addition, the center of the city is also transformed into an exhibition itself with art installations, but also different kinds of performances and activities. This is an annual event, so you might want to plan your trip accordingly.

6. Winter Garden Theatre

There is no need to look further if you want to enjoy a one-of-a-kind theatre experience. The interior of this one is breath-taking. Not only are the walls decorated with trellises and plants, but the real dried leaves cover the ceiling. The goal is to bring the outside in, and we have to say that they have achieved it magnificently.

Moreover, the Winter Garden Theatre is actually a part of the only double-decker Edwardian theatre in the world. If you don’t have a chance to attend a performance here, you can always go on one of the guided tours that are available all year round.

7. Leslieville’s Crazy Doll House

Yes, we agree some dolls can be creepy, but believe us when we say that you will be fascinated by this garden. Instead of typical flowers and bushes, this homeowner decided to decorate hers with all sorts of dolls. Alongside these, there are stuffed animals, toys, and signs. As you can expect, there are often transformed to suit the current season and holidays. You won’t have any trouble locating this place because everyone in the neighborhood can direct you to it.

8. Sewers of Toronto

It takes a real effort to turn the city’s sewage system into a landmark and tourist attraction. At first glance, you are probably wondering why anyone would want to visit this place. Well, we are not only talking about unusual sites, but this is a great chance to explore the underground of Toronto. Due to their appearance, and the fact that they are preserved in their original states, these tunnels are just like any work of fiction would imagine them to be. Plus, each of the sections holds a long history and secrets waiting for you to discover them. You will need special permission to visit this place, and you can only go in with a certified guide, but we believe this experience is worth all the trouble.

Top 10 Most Popular Sports in the World

Дмитра Врачарић

October 9, 2020

Sports are popular in every single country in the world, even on some of the smallest islands and in places that you didn’t know existed. Since sports form such a big part of our lives, it can be difficult to narrow them down, especially since sports are heavily influenced by the cultures in which they come from, and aren’t always easy for foreigners to understand.

However, we thought it would be fun to look at the top 10 most popular sports in the world, according to how many people watch and play them. Yes, there might be some more obscure sports that are popular in certain countries, but this article will cover just the most well known across both the southern and northern hemisphere.

The Top 10 Most Popular Sports in the World

Football player kneeling on field celebrating next to ball by holding an upright fist

1. Football

It probably won’t come as a surprise to many but football is the most popular sport in the world, with an estimated 3.5 billion fans worldwide. That’s about half the population!

Football is so popular in fact that it influences so many aspects of people’s lives. This includes the way they dress to the friends they watch or play it with. For the very competitive, a choice of team might even cause some tension around the family dinner table.

In fact, some fans are so dedicated to their football team that their passion for winning can be compared to those who play slots online. For more information click here!

2. Cricket

This quintessentially British sport managed to make its way to various parts of the world over the last two centuries, to the point where it is one of the world’s most popular sports, especially in countries like India.

With an estimated 2.5 billion fans, cricket is a close second to football. With a footprint that also spans the Caribbean, the fanbase for cricket is massive, with dedicated fans all over the world spending time watching both test cricket and shorter versions of the game.

3. Basketball

Although it is mainly played in the States, basketball is hugely popular around the world, especially in countries like China. With about 2.2 billion fans, basketball is close behind cricket as one of the most loved games around the world.

The legacy of the NBA and players like Michael Jordan has definitely cemented the game’s popularity. The almost idol-like status of many of the players means that basketball has also spurned an entire industry of merchandise, mostly famously Nike’s Air Jordans.

4. Field Hockey

Not to be confused with ice hockey, field hockey is played across Europe and in parts of Africa, and is also one of the top contenders for the most popular sports in the world with 2 billion fans.

Although some of the players might not be as iconic as those in the NBA, this popular sport is played at schools around the world, and has for many years been an Olympic sport.

Tennis player holding ball on court about to serve

5. Tennis

Another sport with very iconic players, tennis is a game that is enjoyed around the world, with several famous Grand Slam events taking place in countries like the USA, France and the UK.

If you haven’t heard the name Federer, Nadal or Djokovic, or don’t know anything about the Williams’ sisters, then you are surely in the minority, and not one of the sports 1 billion fans!

6. Volleyball

From the beaches of Rio de Janeiro to Olympic facilities, the game of volleyball is extremely popular around the world, with around 900 million fans.

What’s interesting to note is that this game was only invented towards the end of the 1800s, and took its inspiration from various different sports that existed at the time.

7. Table tennis

A game that many might be used to playing informally, table tennis is a hugely popular and competitive sport, with about 850 millions followers around the globe.

Based on the game of tennis itself, one of the advantages of this game is that it can be played in very small spaces, which makes it an easy game to become popular in many places!

8. Baseball

Hitting a home run is probably familiar to most people, even if they don’t know all the rules to this popular game, which has around 500 million loyal fans. Although mostly played in the USA and a few other countries, the sport has a global reach thanks to its portrayal in popular culture and famous figures like Babe Ruth.

9. American football

American football is quite technical and requires players to wear a lot of protective equipment. This sport has gained popularity through movies and social media, so even if you don’t understand the rules yourself, there are over 410 million fans in the US who do! Often, fans express their love for the NFL and college football by watching every single game, memorizing the names of all the players, and betting on their favorite teams. Whether you prefer the NFL or college football, you need to do your research before betting. The seasoned experts at Doc’s Sports can help you by providing all the college football picks that you need in order to start winning.

10. Golf

Last but not least on the list is golf, which has also been made famous by iconic players like Tiger Woods. An extremely historic sport, golf is now played all over the world, and is well appreciated by its 390 million fans, who no doubt love to hit a few balls on the course themselves.

Final thoughts on the top 10 most popular sports in the world

There you have it! This article gave just a brief insight into the top 10 most popular sports in the world right now. Whether you only follow one of the sports on this list, there is no doubt that you are a fan of at least one of them, and will be watching a game, match or tournament sometime soon.

8 Things You Must Buy When You Move Into a New Apartment

Billy Voss

October 8, 2020

47462811_l-Woman-near-window-raising-hands-facing-the-sunrise-at-morning-e1571147657603 — Source: unpakt

If you finally managed to purchase a new apartment that you wanted for quite a long time, there will be a lot of things that you’ll need to think about. But, besides planning how you’ll place your furniture and decorations, there is a wide range of things that you’ll have to and want to buy before actually moving in.

However, if you never moved into a new apartment before, you might be wondering – what are the things that I’ll need to purchase? Well, luckily for all individuals that found themselves in this situation, this article can help. Let’s take a look at the 10 things MTD PM Team says you’ll need to buy before moving in:

1. First Things First – Purchase The Bedroom Necessities

Some of the first things that you’ll need to buy are bedroom essentials. Why should you do this first? Well, it is a new apartment and there is probably no furniture in it. So, if you do not want to sleep on the floor, start browsing online and brick-and-mortar businesses for bedroom necessities that include a mattress, pillows, bedding, and so on.

While on the topic of equipping your bedroom, you might also want to purchase coat hangers. This will allow you to unpack your clothes, which in return will allow you to start feeling like you are home! Additionally, by purchasing the hangers, you’ll be able to make the entire unpacking process easier.

2. You’ll Need Basic Tools

In order to join your furniture pieces together, as well as hang your decoration such as paintings and photographs, you’ll need to buy some basic tools. This means that you might want to go to the hardware store and buy a hammer, some nails, wall hooks, screwdrivers, and so on.

Besides the aforementioned things, you might also want to get a step stool that will allow you to place some of your items in your new apartments, as well as some batteries and an extension cord that will allow you to set up your TV, computer, appliances, and other gadgets.

3. Equip Your Bathroom Next

Trust me when I say this, you do not want to ruin your completely new floor with water, which is why you must opt for buying a shower curtain. Also, do not forget to buy a liner and wall hooks since you’ll need them as soon as you start unpacking your things. Keep in mind – pack a bag of essential toiletry items – such as soap, shampoo, and towels – when you are moving since you’ll surely want to take a shower after a long and tiring day of moving.

4. You’ll Need Cleaning Equipment

Before you place your items in your new home, you’ll probably want to ensure that everything is clean, especially since you won’t be able to vacuum under your closet every time you are cleaning your apartment. Hence, ensure that you purchase a high-quality vacuum, multi-surface wet wipes, paper towels, as well as anything else that you might use for cleaning.

Now, you might be wondering – how can I choose the best vacuum for my new apartment? Fortunately, there are various review websites such as StuffedAbode, which means that you can learn what are some of the best items you can buy, hence, ensure that you take advantage of such platforms.

5. Stock Up Your Kitchen

A lot of new homeowners opt for using plastic utensils, paper plates, and plastic cups before they purchase a dish set, however, you might want to buy several things before the move. And, if you want to make the entire experience more pleasant, opt for getting water glasses, mugs, as well as pans and pots that you can use for cooking.

And, if you want to set up the kitchen during the first day of your move then you should also buy some appliances such as a toaster, blender, as well as a microwave. Doing this will allow you to see how much space you are left with, which means that you’ll know what you can buy later on.

6. Get or Make a First-Aid Package

If there is one thing that you should take away from this article, it is the fact that accidents do happen when moving into a new place. No matter if someone trips down the stairs or if you cut yourself while opening the box, you’ll want to have something that will help you take care of your wounds.

Hence, do not forget to buy some bandages, anti-inflammatory medicine, band-aids, gauze, alcohol, wipes, and some cold medicine. By buying all of these things, you can ensure that you can treat any injury if it occurs, which means that you’ll be able to continue unpacking instead of losing time commuting to the ER.

7. Do Not Forget to Eat!

Moving is a stressful task, which is why you might want to avoid ordering fast food every time you feel hungry. This is why you might want to buy some food and prepare healthy homemade meals. Not only will this help you stay healthy, but it will also make you feel like you are truly in your home and it will allow you to see how your appliances and kitchen gadgets work.

8. Curtains Are Important as Well

One of the most common things new homeowners forget to buy is curtains. Curtains won’t only protect your privacy, but, they will also allow you to sleep better and they’ll completely tie the rooms together. Naturally, you’ll want to buy them last in order to match them with the new furniture and décor you bought.

Conclusion

As you can see, there is a wide range of things that you’ll need to buy when moving into your new apartment. However, if you choose to follow the list above, you’ll make the entire moving process easier, less time-consuming, and more importantly, you’ll make it less stressful for yourself.

So, now that you are aware of all the things you might want to purchase, you should not lose any more of your time. Instead, go back to the beginning of the list and go through it once again in order to create a list of things that you’ll need to buy before you move into your new home.

Working From Home: Ultimate Guide to Avoiding Common Challenges

Дмитра Врачарић

October 8, 2020

The work-from-home and remote work set-up appears to have become the norm since the pandemic started. In April 2024, the Office of National Statistics reported that 46.6% of employees worked from home to some extent. And while some industries still struggle to come to terms with the shift, many businesses find working from home to be the most viable solution to the health crisis.

Shifting to a remote work set-up isn’t as seamless as one may think. Of course, there are unique challenges involved with not being in a standard office environment. In this article, we will discuss these issues and the best way to resolve them. We’ll also be providing recommendations on designing a work-from-home office with the right tools and supplies for optimum productivity.

Setting up the perfect space for working from home

Before starting to work from home, you need to prepare the right space conducive to productivity. Here’s how to set up that space:

Choosing a location. The location or space should be away from distractions and provide for unique work requirements. As much as possible, space should be dedicated only to work so that you can optimise productivity. A spare room, for example, is the perfect location. But, if you don’t already have a home office, perhaps a corner will do until you can create a more permanent setup.
Identifying your needs. The needs of a work-from-home employee depend on the requirements of their job. For example, you may need a high-end computer instead of a laptop. It would help if you also stocked your home office with supplies, an ergonomic chair, and a desk with storage space to keep your things organised.

Staying organised is essential because working from home can be stressful for some people who are surrounded by distractions.

Essential tools and supplies ideal for a WFH office

Now, let’s move on to the supplies and tools necessary for the best work-from-home set-up. Of course, this list is generic since there are unique requirements specific to every job description.

Office supplies. Although you’re mostly working online, you’ll still need basic office supplies such as paper, envelopes, and folders. Fortunately, you can buy from online suppliers like www.aosonline.co.uk. Stocking up on supplies should be a priority since going out for shop runs isn’t recommended.
Reliable wireless internet connection. Connectivity is a must for any employee working remotely. Before shifting to this set-up, you need to ensure that your internet connection at home remains stable, despite a possible increase in bandwidth use.
Accessories for your computer. Do you need noise-cancelling headphones for taking phone calls from clients? It’s critical to ensure that you can tune out any distracting noise from the background, such as pets and kids.
Software for video conferencing. It’s always good to have a video conferencing app installed on your computer before you start working from home. If your company provides a suite of tools and software for daily tasks, you can use other tools such as an online calendar to help remind you of your deliverables.

These days, there is plenty of technology designed to make working from home more efficient. If you can, try to invest in this technology, especially when it is free.

Now that we’ve discussed the importance of creating a suitable work-from-home environment let’s move on to some tips on avoiding the common challenges faced by WFH employees – especially when it comes to maintaining productivity.

Your mindset should distinguish between work and home

One of the most significant advantages of working from home is access to your “creature comforts”. For example, you’re only a few paces away from the kitchen, the sofa, or your bed. But, the accessibility can be a hindrance to productivity. When working from home, you need to adhere to the same routines you’re used to when you need to go to the office.

Start your day right by washing, dressing, eating your breakfast, and setting up your office. Don’t start working without changing out of your pyjamas. If possible, do a workout to get the adrenaline pumping before you begin your daily tasks.

Set realistic goals

If you think about the number of hours you have to complete your work, it does seem like working from home opens a lot of possibilities. But instead of setting mighty goals, it’s essential to remain realistic about what you can achieve. You will only set yourself up for disappointment by aiming too high.

The good thing about being realistic is that you’ll feel more accomplished if you can achieve more.

Break your work hours into short bursts

In a traditional office set-up, your working hours usually get interrupted by meetings, a quick chat with colleagues, and bathroom breaks. At home, the lack of interaction means your hours are often spent only on work. The problem here is that you can easily lose focus and energy by working too long.

What you need to do is impose some type of structure on your workday. Schedule a few minutes between work tasks to take a break, walk around the house, or perhaps get a quick snack. You’ll notice that your concentration level increases more when you aren’t confined to your desk all the time.

Manage all sources of distraction

Perhaps some of the biggest challenges every WFH employee encounters are the distractions of homelife. If you have young kids, then keeping them occupied and away from your workspace is in itself an issue. That’s why it’s vital to take breaks from time to time so that you can manage these distractions.

If you think that living alone works to your advantage, then think again. You may not have external distractions, but it’s easy to lose focus and drift into unproductive activities such as browsing social media. What you can do is to get up from your table once in a while to do something that isn’t work-related. For example, you can wash the dishes or put on the kettle for a cup of tea. A change of scenery is just what your brain needs to restart and refocus on your tasks.

Did You Know Bernipk Hides Some Messages in His Videos?

Billy Voss

October 8, 2020

Bernipk (Samtu Palouki) is an American Soldier, comedian, actor, director, and a rapper that always impresses his viewers with the creativity and the virality of his content. He’s made over 18 million views with hilarious videos and catchy short films shared on his platforms. But did you know he hides secret messages in some of his videos?

Who is Bernipk?

Born and raised in Lome, Togo, Samtu Palouki moved to the US in 2017 at 18. Having an urge to become independent and get rid of his introverted personality, he decided to join the US Army 6 months later. After remarkably passing the Basic and Advanced Individual Trainings, he was assigned to the 10th Mountain Division in Fort Drum, New York. But he quickly realized the soldiers around him were depressed due to the lack of entertaining activities. So, with no prior experience in video editing, he decided to start making and sharing funny videos on social media from the comfort of his barrack’s room, using his phone to record and edit.

In May 2018, He shared a fifteen-second video on his Instagram account that went viral in just a few minutes. Tyga and Destorm, two famous singers and comedians, even remade it. After his content’s success, he released some short funny videos that drastically increased his numbers on his Instagram and Facebook pages.

But in August 2019, Bernipk took another turn. He found a passion for Filmmaking. He released “The Room Inspection,” his first-ever movie written, directed, recorded, and edited entirely by himself. Just four months after his first one, he came back with a very emotional eight minutes long short film called “The Last Call: World War III.” This movie made 1.6 million views on his Facebook page. I highly suggest you have something to wipe your tears when watching it. He also released “The Deal” two months after, a lot more in the following months, and even managed to get the commanding General of his unit in one of his videos about Coronavirus. He’s been featured in the AUSA magazine and is considered as one of the USARMY influencers.

Now that you know who Bernipk is, let’s focus on the main subject, the messages he hides in some of his videos.

A Hidden Camera

The first one we’re going to focus on is “A Night At Oscars,” a video he made to celebrate the 100 thousand followers on his Facebook page. He mentioned that he played three characters easy to find in the description, but there was a fourth one hidden.

” I played three characters easily noticeable, but there is one hidden somewhere. Just write in the comments what he is doing when you find him, don’t give any clue and don’t mention anyone. Keep it a secret! ” – Bernipk

I’m sure no one even bothered to look for it. But no worries, I’ll take care of this one. The three characters he played were the award winner, the host, and the manager. If you pay close attention to the scene right after his manager finishes clapping, at exactly 2:32, you will see the fourth character, a person on the podium, on his knees, with a camera in his hands taking pictures of the award winner.

It is hard to notice because the clothing color matches perfectly with the podium, and the scene only lasts 2 seconds. I will assume it is his way of telling us he does all the work by himself.

The 16 Digits Code

Next, we will pay attention to a piece of detail in the short film “The Deal.”

After calling his boss to tell him the mission was over, theHatBoy received a 16 digits code that would take him to the drop off location. Here is something you don’t know about that code. If you type the numbers in Google Maps, you will get the exact position where the HatBoy was standing at with the driver to exchange the bags. Check it out by yourself and compare it to the scenes. On YouTube, you will find the digits at 07:46.

We’re going to talk about one more thing, the last detail that shows Bernipk is somehow very mysterious.

The Green Note Book

Let’s take a look at these following videos, “Well, watch me!”, “Be safe out there,” Stay productive” and “A night at Oscars.” Did you find anything that looked similar in each of them? No? Let me help you out.

In “Well, watch me!” he talked for a particular amount of time, then started writing in a green book. In “Be safe out there,” he was on duty filling out some paperwork, but on the side, there was a green book in which he started writing in. In “Stay productive,” when he mentioned the importance of taking notes while in quarantine, he took his notes in the green book. Finally, in “A Night at Oscars,” he read the name of the winner from the same green book, and if you paid close attention to all the scenes, you would notice that the name of the green book was “SECRET.”

Why? One thing we’re sure about is some of his scripts are written in the book, based on the videos he shared. Maybe, he has an agenda for the next five years with a list of secret ideas he is planning on sharing with us, no one really knows for sure.

In his most recent video, Bernipk announced that he could be absent from social media for two or three months to work on a new project. So far, he doesn’t give any update, but his fans assume he is preparing a short film, and they might be right. We also know he is working on a fundraiser to support the production. It looks like he is taking things very seriously now.

While we’re waiting on the mysterious star to show up, you can take a look at his pages across social media, Facebook, and other networks with the same username @BERNIPK. Hasta la vista!

6 Things to Know Before Buying A Jewelry Gift

Billy Voss

October 7, 2020

Buying jewelry is an expensive endeavor that will cost you money. Thus, you should know what you’re buying before committing.

Jewelry is one of those things that can be the perfect gift for the perfect occasion. But simply buying the first thing you see isn’t a smart thing to do.

And with the holiday seasons slowly, very slowly, approaching, it is important to remember that nearly 1 in 3 people return their gifts.

Naturally, it would work in your best interest not to humiliate yourself and prevent such a thing. To help out, we’ve pieced together a list of the 6 things to know before buying a jewelry gift.

This article will help you select the perfect jewelry gift for the right person, and make sure that they love it.

With all that said, let’s start.

1. Does the Person Even Like Jewelry?

This is a very important thing to know as what use would a necklace serve is the person doesn’t wear it? Understanding whether the recipient of the gift truly has a thing for jewelry can potentially make or break your gift.

Sure, they might not wear jewelry on a daily bases, but that has nothing to do with the fact that they indeed like wearing. Making sure that your gift doesn’t go to vain is a very important thing that can be prevented early on.

2. What Type of Jewelry Do They Like?

Picture this for a moment, you buy a pair of earrings but the person’s ears aren’t pierced. What do you do next? This is yet another situation that you’d likely want to avoid.

It’s safe to say that certain people love and hate a certain type of jewelry. And this solely stems from the fact that different people have different tastes.

Some might prefer necklaces, others might prefer earrings. A whole different section of the earth prefers to wear bracelets and so on. It’s safe to say that you have to make the right purchasing decision for the right person.

And to refer back to the previous section, you’d likely want to avoid the person returning the gift for something else.

3. Do You Know Their Jewelry Size?

Same as with clothes, certain jewelry pieces have different size needs. This is most likely the case with rings and bracelets. If you’re buying a ring for a special someone, then you have to know their size.

It would work against you if you miss this up as you’ll likely end up being an embarrassment.

But how would you know their ring or bracelet size? Well, that’s easy. You can ask someone close to them if they know it, or always go for a slightly bigger ring if you’re unsure of it.

If this person is your mother or your spouse or any other family member, then you can take one of their rings for examination.

But, as we mentioned, it’s always better to go for a bigger than a smaller size.

There are dozens of online stores that you can buy any type of jewelry. One that we’ll recommend is Nano Jewelry, a place where you can buy gold jewelry online.

4. Understand Their Wearing Habits to Uncover the Perfect Gift

Certain people never leave the house without a ring on them. Others prefer the necklace, while some prefer the bracelet. But it’s safe to say that not every person wears the same type of jewelry nor wears it every single day.

Most people, women, wear jewelry based on her outfits. They combine styles and make them matching to get the most out of both worlds.

Judging by this logic, you can try and uncover what the best type of jewelry would be. She might wear only sentimental pieces, so it’s best to look for something that mostly gives out those vibes.

Others might be more into fashion-pieces and certain gals prefer gold.

It’s safe to say that this is a rather tricky and hard thing to do, so might have to put in the hours just to make sure.

5. Is the Person Allergic to Metal?

It’s obvious that people are allergic to all sorts of stuff. But one allergy that you’d hate to have and be a jewelry fanatic is metal allergy.

Out of the various metals that exist, nickel is the most common one out there. And that’s why you should make sure that the person that intends on wearing the ring isn’t allergic to metal.

Apart from nickel, other allergic materials include gold-filled wire, sterling silver, and every other high-quality metal piece. Eliminating the risk is very easy, fortunately.

All you need to do is look for pieces that aren’t comprised of these metals. Wood, ceramic, and even stone make for brilliant jewelry pieces and one that looks very exotic.

6. Things To Consider In Regards to Each Piece

And finally, let’s look at more important things such as quality, style, and even return policy.

· Quality

It’s safe to say that certain pieces are made out of higher quality than others. This is the most important thing to look for when buying any piece as a gift. Making sure that you’re buying quality means you care for the person. We already know that moisture can have a detrimental effect on the quality of any jewellery, so you want to make sure this is avoided. You’ll also want to ensure that you take into mind the material you are cleaning. For example, you can check out Silpada’s guide to learn how to care for sterling silver.

· Budget

While the higher the quality the more you care for the person, it’s good to know that higher-quality pieces cost a lot of money. That’s why you need to create your budget and go in accordance with it.

And we’re certain that purchasing something very expensive as a gift won’t be that pleasant for the recipient.

· Return Policy

Remember when we said that you’d hate it if the person would return the gift? Well if everything we just said failed, then the person will most definitely return the gift.

In this case, you should research the store’s return policy and whether they allow pieces to be returned or exchanged. This is very important as you don’t want to be stuck with an expensive ring that no one is willing to wear it.

Why You Should Hire a Zapier Expert For Your Automation Project

Billy Voss

October 7, 2020

Zapier-Experts-Blog-Post — Source: workload

No matter if you are a manager in a company, a small business owner, or a freelancer, there are big chances that you’ll need to use a wide range of applications such as Gmail, Slack, and so on. And, if you noticed that it has been taking a lot of your time to use these apps, you might want to consider using Zapier.

But, if you never heard of this platform before, you might be wondering – why should I hire the experts working for that company? Luckily, this article will be able to help you. Before we look at the reasons why you might want to hire them, let’s first take a look at what this tool does:

Why Should You Opt For Using This Program?

One of the best ways to integrate your workflows on your own and automate them is to use the Zapier Cloud-Automation-Tool. By using it, you can connect thousands of applications individually with the program’s intuitive nature and multiple zaps that will allow your work to complete itself. Now, if you are experienced with using such tools, you can also choose to insert a custom code such as Javascript or Python into the interface and extend your automation even further.

However, there may come a point where you’ll be completely lost on your automation journey. You are unable to identify an error code, an app’s API simply does not want to work, or you might find that your workflow is far more complex and complicated than anticipated. And, if this happens to you, you might want to consider recruiting a specialist that will assist you during the entire process.

So, you have been browsing Fiverr and you have come across a guy who knows how to use the platform and could help you with your automation. However, there is a wide range of good reasons why you should not search for a freelancer for this. Instead, you might want to consider contacting a certified and knowledgable Zapier Expert. Why should you do this? Well, here are some reasons why you might want to consider it:

Should You Hire a Zapier Professional? Here Are 5 Reasons Why You Should

1. They Are Certified And Accredited

The very first reason why you should consider hiring such an expert is that they are actually accredited to offer the best services and they’ll also comply with all the applicable rules, requirements, and specifications. Because they are certified, this also entails such aspects as authentication for passwords.

Firstly, if you recruit a freelancer from websites such as Fiverr, you won’t be GDPR compliant first since there is no chance of signing a DPA. Second, Fiverr wildly shares your passwords, and third, it is not approved by Zapier. All of this means that you cannot ensure that your data and passwords are protected.

But, if you choose to hire a specialist, you won’t have to worry about your data and passwords being shared, instead, you can be confident that all the important and sensitive information is protected and safe in the hands of an experienced and certified employee.

2. They Have A Wide Range of Coding Skills And Knowledge

As mentioned at the beginning of this article, you can easily implement coding – Javascript or Python – into your Zaps. This is one of the best ways to expand your integration and automation process. However, it needs coding knowledge, something that you might not have. Hence, it is safer to leave it to the experts if you are not familiar with it.

3. You’ll Get Nothing Else Then Premium Support

You probably know by now that it is important to run and monitor your automation 24/7, which means that it needs to work at all times. If something decides to crash in your Zap, maybe you won’t be able to recognize and find the issues as soon as it happens.

But, if you want to avoid such problems, having premium help right on your side with a certified expert anytime you need it might be a solution. This way, with the automation processes, you can be sure that the problems are solves as soon as they occur, which means that you won’t waste any of your time, money, or efforts.

4. They’ll Be GDPR-Compliance (Which is Extremely Important)

If your company is based in Europe, you are likely to hate those four letters. It is necessary, however, to comply with it, especially when it comes to protecting your data and sensitive information. Even though Zapier is a US-American company, it actually complies with the European data protection guidelines.

However, is the Fiverr freelancer that you are thinking about hiring compliant with it as well? Well, simply said, he/she probably isn’t. The certified Zapier Experts in Europe attach great importance to data security and they are continually motivated to develop their strategies further.

Hence, if you opt for employing a European Zapier Expert for your automation projects, processes, and tasks, you can be sure that they are compliant with the GDPR and with prioritizing data security. Wemakefuture is one Zapier Expert who places great emphasis on this.

For more information, go here: https://wemakefuture.com/en/zapier-expert-germany/

5. They Can Help You Build Apps

Zapier can easily allow you to build an application by using the program itself in order to make the processes more efficient. Hence, you do not need to worry about not having an app available, mostly because Zapier will allow the expert to create a completely customized application that will depend on your requirements, needs, the purpose, and it will automate the workflow as well.

Conclusion

As you were able to read and learn, if you truly want to get the most out of your automation and if you want to ensure stability and data protection in your business, there is really no way around a Zapier Expert. Whether you want to hire one because you are stuck in the process, you do not have the time for completing your tasks, or if you do not have money, skills, or knowledge to build these integrations, it is recommended that you look for an experienced Zapier expert, one that will work according to your requirements and that can properly introduce you to automation.