Travel Tidbits - Best Countries for Solo Travel

 All across the world, people frequently decide to leave their plus ones and embark on a solo adventure. But according to Reddit, not all solo adventure sites are created equal. 

Solitaired analyzed 6,000 comments on Reddit’s top 20 travel subreddits to find out what seasoned travelers believe are the absolute best places to travel solo.  

Key Findings: 

• Argentina, Russia, and Taiwan are the best countries for solo travel.

• Athens, Boston, and Savannah are the best cities for solo travel. 

• Washington, Oregon, and Colorado are the best U.S. states for solo travel. 

And some comments from redditors themselves:

• “My first venture was Santorini and Athens (in late October, so outside of peak season). I felt safe and lots of people wanted a chat as they realised I was eating alone and were super friendly. I was 31 when I went. I did a lot of walking around and eating good food. Highly recommend!” by bluesummerrain 

• “Argentina would be a fun option. Check out some combination Buenos Aires, Patagonia (Calafate; El Chalten and Mt. Fitz Roy; Ushuaia), Iguazu falls, Mendoza, and Puerto Madryn.” by spillionaire

• “I found Taiwan especially friendly and fun, great surf/camp culture” by sniffingmodpodge

Take a look at the full study

Music MInute - Anne Wilson: REBEL (Live from Lexington)

 

PLATINUM-certified, GRAMMY-nominated artist and songwriter Anne Wilson announces the release of her upcoming live album, REBEL (Live From Lexington), due Oct. 25. The 10-track live record features standouts from her genre-blending album REBEL, as well as her breakout hit “My Jesus.” The announcement of the live record comes just weeks after Wilson took home top honors with REBEL at the 55th annual GMA Dove Awards for Bluegrass / Country / Roots Album of the Year and performed to a sold-out audience during her Ryman Auditorium headline debut as part of her nationwide The REBEL Tour.   PRE-SAVE/PRE-ADD: REBEL (LIVE FROM LEXINGTON)   Recorded in June at the Lexington Opera House in her hometown of Lexington, Ky., REBEL (Live From Lexington) showcases Wilson's captivating live performance supported by a full band led by Chris Wrate. Known for her “vocal masterclass” (Holler), the country prodigy seamlessly “hits the bullseye between contemporary Christian and country twang" (GRAMMY.com), bringing her “faith-rooted country sound” (Billboard) to life on stage.   Upon its release on April 19, her “trailblazing album” (People.com) secured the No. 1, No. 2 and No. 3 spots on the Christian, Country and all-genre charts respectively – joining the ranks of superstars Carrie Underwood, Chris Tomlin and Hillary Scott, who have previously held Top 10 positions on both Billboard Christian and Country charts – further proving Wilson's undeniable star power. REBEL also hit No. 10 on the Billboard Country Albums chart and notched more than 10.3M total global streams in its first week, nearly doubling her GRAMMY-nominated album My Jesus' first week numbers of 5.6M. To date, the Spotify Hot Country Artist to Watch has garnered over one BILLION career streams.   Combining much-needed encouragement, vulnerability and transparency into a perfect balance that footholds the space between the dead-end road paved in dirt and the church pew of redemption on Sunday morning, the Jeff Pardo and Jonathan Smith-produced record emerges as a powerful message of faith. Collaborations with some of Christian and country music's biggest names bolster the album, enlisting reigning CMA Entertainer of the Year Lainey Wilson for “Praying Woman,” GRAMMY-Award winner Chris Tomlin for “The Cross,” currently in the Top 25 at Christian radio, and is rounded out with country superstar Jordan Davis on “Country Gold.” REBEL also earned Wilson her first CMT Music Award nomination for Breakthrough Female Video of the Year for “Rain In The Rearview.”   Last month, Wilson released the first taste of new music with “Stand.” Penned by Wilson, Matthew West, Jeff Pardo and Jonathan Smith, “Stand” sees “bright production and a balanced country-pop instinct” become “a shining foil for her powerful, twangy vocal and a message of holding fast to one's convictions,” Billboard praises.  Wilson will continue to bring her mesmerizing performance to her nearly sold-out 28-stop The REBEL Tour with special guest Jordan Rowe throughout the fall. Stay up to date with Wilson at www.annewilsonofficial.com and keep up with her on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube.

ABOUT ANNE WILSON: One of Nashville's most inspiring young trailblazers, Anne Wilson is a revolution in modern music. The Lexington, Ky. native, known for her transcendent vocal and down-to-earth storytelling, recently released REBEL, fusing the heart of Contemporary Christian Music with the sound of country. A bold musical statement with an even bolder message of faith, REBEL features her hopeful, healing debut country single “Rain In The Rearview” as well as chart-topping ballad “Strong,” which notched No. 1 at Christian radio. Also from REBEL, “Songs About Whiskey” continues to be heard on country airwaves, while “The Cross (with Chris Tomlin)” simultaneously spins at Christian radio. The genre-bending album follows her GRAMMY-nominated 2022 debut My Jesus, with the title track becoming a PLATINUM-certified No. 1 hit on Billboard's Christian Airplay chart. Since then, Wilson has tallied over one billion global streams, made her Grand Ole Opry debut and wrapped her entirely sold-out headlining My Jesus Tour and continues on her 28-stop The REBEL Tour throughout fall 2024. Already named a Spotify Hot Country Artist to Watch, one of CMT's Next Women of Country, and a 2024 Opry NextStage Artist, she has made high-profile appearances on TODAY and ACM Honors, while earning her first-ever CMT Music Awards nomination, as well as a Billboard Music Award. Come October 25, Wilson will release REBEL (Live From Lexington), a 10-track live record featuring standouts from her genre-blending album REBEL, as well as her breakout hit “My Jesus.” Unapologetically real, Wilson approaches her craft with a purpose and conviction that sets her apart.

Going Green - Tripware

TRIPWARE is made from POST-CONSUMER recycled clay, and its quality is just the same as conventional ceramicware.

Also, they look very natural and beautiful with minimal design.

You may now see recycled ceramicware at stores and they are mostly post-industrial or pre-consumer recycled items. TRIPWARE has invented a post-consumer recycling way in Japan and plates, bowls and cups contain at least 20% of that recycled clay. In near future, they may contain 50% or even higher!

They have a sale running through Oct 31st!

Shopping Savings - TerraCycle Zero Waste Box Halloween Promotion

 Since candy wrappers are tricky to recycle, they’re not accepted by curbside recycling. To avoid being haunted by the remnants of these bite-sized, individually-wrapped treats, TerraCycle’s Zero Waste Box provides a convenient recycling solution for all brands of candy packaging and wrappers. With nearly 20 million candy wrappers already recycled by TerraCycle, Zero Waste Box makes sure that landfills don’t become their final resting place. 

TerraCycle’s Halloween-themed Zero Waste Box will be 25% off from October 20th – 23rd when using the code Treat25 at checkout. 

Money Matters - Inflation and Travel Plans

 

With some of the year’s busiest travel dates fast approaching, the personal-finance website WalletHub today announced the results of its 2024 Winter Travel Survey, along with its updated list of the Best Credit Cards for Winter Travel. Applying for the right card now will give people enough time to earn up to $750 in free travel. Inflation's Travel Toll: 72% of people say inflation will affect their winter travel plans this year.   Lingering Travel Debt: 49% of Americans are still carrying debt from traveling last winter.   Debt-Worthy Winter Travel: 52% of people think winter travel is worth going into debt for — men are 83% more likely to agree than women.   Travel Over Shopping: 58% of Americans say they prefer to spend their money on travel instead of shopping.   Redeeming Credit Card Rewards: Nearly 4 in 5 Americans plan to redeem credit card rewards to help with their winter holiday spending.   No Travel Savings Fund: 37% of Americans don’t have a winter travel savings fund.   2024’s Best Travel Credit Card: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is the best credit card for winter travel because it offers an initial bonus worth $750 in travel, along with double points on all travel purchases and a reasonable annual fee.   “Americans are cash-strapped and debt-laden, yet many of us are going to travel this winter. That’s inevitable, but borrowing to do it shouldn’t be a foregone conclusion. Around 4 in 5 people plan to redeem credit card rewards to help cover the cost, and it’s not too late to join them even if you don’t have any rewards saved up. Applying for the right card now and using it to book your trip and pay for everyday expenses can get you $750+ in bonus rewards, which you can put toward covering the cost of your travels. The best cards also have perks like airport lounge access and trip cancellation insurance, which can definitely come in handy during the holidays.” - John Kiernan, WalletHub Editor     More From WalletHub Best Airline Credit Cards Best Hotel Credit Cards Best Credit Cards for International Travel Most Fun States in America Best Small Cities in America

Caring Causes - Miracles for Kids

   Miracles for Kids hosted its highly anticipated ‘2024 Night of Miracles’ Gala and raised over $3.16 million to support families with critically-ill children and help them battle bankruptcy, homelessness, hunger and depression so they can fight for their child’s life. The event was held at the prestigious Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort in Dana Point, California, celebrating two decades of making miracles happen for critically-ill children and their families. The sold-out event, attended by over 400 guests, was headlined by legendary music producer and performer Babyface, who delivered an unforgettable custom 60-minute set of his #1 hits.

 

"We are truly humbled to receive such generous support by our community of donors at this year’s gala, ensuring that miracles can continue to create stability for critically-ill children and families in great need. Having Babyface return to our stage nine years later, this time to join us as we celebrate our 20 years of miracles, was an epic way to end the evening," said Autumn Strier, co-founder & CEO of Miracles for Kids. “I wanted to do something truly special for our donors to mark this milestone, and Babyface delivered. The ballroom was electric as everyone danced, swayed and sang along to his legendary hit list. It was a night to remember and we are grateful to every person whose involvement made the 2024 Night of Miracles successful."

 

This year's 2024 Night of Miracles was made possible by Presenting Sponsor Xponential, Wine Sponsor As One Cru, Spirits Sponsor Javier’s Tequila, and Opportunity Item Sponsor Happy Jewelers, whose donation of a 20-carat classic Diamond Set in honor of 20 years of miracles,  raised $18,300 in ticket sales throughout the night. Over 44 corporate sponsors and underwriters contributed to making this year’s Gala a massive success.

 

The evening honored several key contributors to the Miracles for Kids mission. Anthony Geisler and The Geisler Family were presented with the prestigious 2024 Miracle Maker Award for their outstanding service and longtime support. "Miracles for Kids has been close to my heart for many years now, and it’s an honor to support an organization that does so much for families in their greatest time of need," said Geisler.

 

Curtis Green, Co-Founder of Miracles for Kids and Board member, was named the 2024 Champion of Children Honoree. Green’s compassion for families struggling with the emotional, physical, and financial effects of having a child with a life-threatening illness, inspired him to lay the foundation for MIracles for Kids. "What started as a small effort to help a few families has turned into something bigger than we could have imagined. I’m humbled to continue this work for the children and families who need us most," Green shared.

 

In an emotional moment, the Hamlin family, whose son Joshua has been battling leukemia for seven years, was honored with a video tribute and standing ovation by everyone in the room. Their journey of resilience and hope moved the audience, highlighting the real-life impact Miracles for Kids has on families in crisis.

 

As the evening came to a close, Strier expressed heartfelt thanks to all those who supported the gala and Miracles for Kids’ mission over the past two decades, including the volunteers who donated hundreds of hours to make the evening a success. "It has been our honor to serve the community for the last 20 years, and we are as dedicated as ever to continue our work in service of those who need us most."

 

For more information about Miracles for Kids and how to support, volunteer or donate visit www.miraclesforkids.org.

 

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About Miracles for Kids

Miracles for Kids is a 501(c)(3) non-profit serving children with life-threatening illnesses and the families that care for them. With programs launched in 2004 and led by Co-Founder & CEO Autumn Strier for 20 years, the organization creates stability for families that are crumbling from the financial and emotional devastation of fighting for their child's life. With programs providing financial aid, basic needs, housing, and wellness to patients and their families, Miracles for Kids fulfills a mission to help caregivers battle bankruptcy, homelessness, hunger, and depression, so they can concentrate on what matters most. In 2023, 82 cents of every dollar collected was spent on programs that directly benefit the families they serve. Based in Orange County, California, Miracles for Kids currently serves families of kids in treatment at CHOC Children’s, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, UCLA Mattel Children's Hospital, Rady Children’s, UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital, By the Bay Health, City of Hope, Loma Linda University Hospital, Phoenix Children’s Hospital, and Children’s Medical Center Dallas. Follow on Instagram @MiraclesForKids to see how you can make a difference and get involved atMiraclesForKids.org.

 

 

Healthy Habits - FSA Store® shares 7 ways to fight flu and viruses while spending down flexible spending account (FSA) funds before December 31

 According to recent data, Americans should prepare for an increase in respiratory illnesses this fall. Fortunately, people who are enrolled in flexible spending accounts (FSA) can spend remaining 2024 funds on a wide variety of products and services that will protect themselves and their dependents from the spread of viruses and help treat symptoms. At the same time, spending down FSA funds before December 31 can help consumers avoid forfeiting unused funds to this use-it-or-lose-it deadline. To help consumers protect their health and their healthcare dollars, FSA Store®, the first and leading online store dedicated exclusively to selling FSA-eligible products and telehealth services, is sharing seven ways to use tax-free funds during cold and flu season.

“FSAs are an exceptional tool for saving money and protecting your health, and now is the time of year when consumers need to do both. However, low understanding of FSA eligibility and deadline rules can get in the way,” said Keri Kaiser, chief revenue officer for Health-E Commerce, parent brand to FSA Store and HSA Store. “That’s why we’re educating individuals and families about easy, high-value ways to spend down remaining FSA funds on virus-preparedness and treatments.”

According to FSA Store, these tax-free funds can be used to pay for the following eligible expenses – and much more – to combat viruses like Covid-19, influenza, the common cold, and more:

1. Thermometers: Make temperature testing quick and easy with non-contact and ear and forehead digital thermometers. Infant versions are also available. 
2. Steam Inhalers: A tried-and-true approach to alleviating congestion and mucus buildup, portable and cordless steam inhalers, as well as shower-activated steam tablets can be purchased with FSA funds.
3. Face Masks: Proven to be effective in reducing the spread of germs and viral conditions, FSA Store offers disposable N95 and Pediatric Masks that are guaranteed eligible with tax-free funds.
4. Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medicines: OTC medications can help treat symptoms like cough, chest tightness, pain and fever, nasal congestion, lack of sleep, nasal congestion, sinus pain, and more. In addition to these high-volume medications, FSA funds can also be used to purchase devices like the Aura Ease mask to relieve headache pain. For added convenience, FSA Store also offers a variety of bundles, like the Medicine Cabinet Bundle or the Cold and Flu Bundle that allow shoppers to quickly and easily purchase related products in a single purchase.
5. Hand Sanitizers: Bacteria and viruses can be prevented with hand sanitizers and alcohol wipes, in travel sizes for on-the-go use and holiday travel, or canisters for home use.
6. Emergency and Backup Medications: Staying healthy during cold and flu season also means being prepared with daily dose medications for existing or chronic conditions. FSA Store gives consumers easy access to use their FSA funds to purchase personalized medication kits and backup prescriptions through Jase Medical.
7. Diagnostic Supplies and Devices: Tracking key biometrics is an important part of fighting off viruses. Diagnostic products and devices like Covid testing kits, pulse oximeters, stethoscopes, and wearable health trackers can all be purchased with FSA funds.

“If you have an FSA, now is the perfect time to spend those funds on products and services that will keep your family healthy during the coming months,” said Kaiser. “We offer more than 2,500 guaranteed eligible products and telehealth services to help account holders spend their remaining funds in meaningful ways, along with industry leading education resources to help you maximize your account throughout the year.”

What is an FSA? An FSA is a tax-advantaged account that consumers can enroll in through their employer-sponsored benefits program. Employees and/or employers can contribute to the account through pre-tax payroll contributions. This reduces the employee’s taxable income and helps them pay for a wide range of expenses. FSA-eligible expenses are determined by the Internal Revenue Service.

What is the FSA deadline? All FSAs have a deadline by which funds must be spent each year. The majority of employers that offer an FSA have a December 31 deadline, which means that employees who are enrolled in the FSA may need to spend all funds by December 31 with a few exceptions. Unused funds will be forfeited. This December deadline is often referred to as the “use-it-or-lose-it deadline.”

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About Health-E Commerce

Health-E Commerce is the parent brand to FSA Store and HSA Store, online stores that serve the 70+ million consumers enrolled in pre-tax health and wellness accounts. The company also created Caring Mill™, a popular private-label line of health products through which a portion of every purchase is donated to the Children’s Health Fund. Since 2010, the Health-E Commerce brands have led the direct-to-consumer e-commerce market for exclusively pre-tax health and wellness benefits. Health-E Commerce plays an essential role in expanding product eligibility for important new categories within the list of eligible medical expenses.