Emily Guthrie – Weekly Insider https://weeklyinsider.co Tue, 15 Oct 2024 22:59:21 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.1 https://weeklyinsider.co/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/cropped-Weekly-Insider-32x32.png Emily Guthrie – Weekly Insider https://weeklyinsider.co 32 32 Top Destinations to Visit in the Fall and Winter in 2024 https://weeklyinsider.co/top-destinations-to-visit-in-the-fall-and-winter-in-2024/ https://weeklyinsider.co/top-destinations-to-visit-in-the-fall-and-winter-in-2024/#respond Tue, 15 Oct 2024 19:25:28 +0000 https://weeklyinsider.co/?p=7069 As the seasons shift, there’s something magical about fall and winter that inspires us to explore new places. Whether it’s the vibrant colors of autumn leaves, or the enchanting charm of snowy landscapes, these colder months offer incredible travel experiences that are perfect for those seeking adventure, relaxation, or a cozy escape. Here’s a look at some of the most popular places to visit during the fall and winter months, and why they should be on your travel list this year.

1. New England, USA

Best for: Fall foliage, charming small towns

New England is a classic destination for fall travel, with its iconic autumn foliage attracting visitors from around the world. States like Vermont, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts offer breathtaking views as their forests transform into a kaleidoscope of red, orange, and gold. Towns like Stowe, VT, and Woodstock, NH, are ideal for a peaceful getaway, where you can enjoy scenic drives, hiking trails, and apple picking.

Top attractions:

  • Scenic Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire
  • Fall foliage hikes in Vermont
  • Historic lighthouses along the Massachusetts coast

2. Kyoto, Japan

Best for: Fall colors, cultural experiences

Kyoto is one of the most beautiful cities in Japan, and its beauty is only heightened during the fall season. The city’s famous temples and gardens are framed by vibrant autumn leaves, creating a serene and stunning atmosphere. Stroll through the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, visit the iconic Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), and enjoy the seasonal delights of traditional Japanese cuisine.

Top attractions:

  • Kiyomizu-dera Temple with fall foliage
  • Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
  • Fushimi Inari Shrine

3. Banff National Park, Canada

Best for: Winter wonderland, outdoor adventures

Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada, transforms into a snowy paradise during the winter months, making it a top destination for adventure seekers. Whether you’re into skiing, snowboarding, or simply soaking in the beauty of the snow-covered Rocky Mountains, Banff offers a true winter wonderland experience. For those looking for a relaxing retreat, the Banff Upper Hot Springs provide the perfect spot to unwind with breathtaking mountain views.

Top attractions:

  • Lake Louise (ice skating in winter)
  • Banff Gondola for panoramic views
  • Skiing and snowboarding at Sunshine Village

4. Aspen, Colorado, USA

Best for: Luxury skiing, picturesque landscapes

Aspen is synonymous with luxury skiing and winter sports, making it one of the most sought-after winter destinations in the U.S. The town’s upscale ambiance, stunning mountain views, and world-class ski resorts attract visitors from all over. Beyond skiing, Aspen offers a vibrant après-ski scene with high-end restaurants, art galleries, and boutique shopping.

Top attractions:

  • Skiing at Aspen Mountain and Snowmass
  • Aspen Art Museum
  • Hot air balloon rides for stunning winter views

5. Munich, Germany

Best for: Christmas markets, festive atmosphere

Few places capture the spirit of winter quite like Munich, Germany, with its world-famous Christmas markets that draw in visitors for their magical ambiance. The main market in Marienplatz is filled with twinkling lights, mulled wine, handmade crafts, and delicious German treats. If you’re visiting in fall, Munich is also home to the iconic Oktoberfest, making it a great destination for beer lovers.

Top attractions:

  • Marienplatz Christmas Market
  • Nymphenburg Palace
  • Oktoberfest in the fall

6. Quebec City, Canada

Best for: European charm, winter festivals

Quebec City is often compared to a European city due to its cobblestone streets, charming architecture, and historic ambiance. During the winter, the city’s snow-covered rooftops and festive lights create a fairytale-like atmosphere. Visit the famous Winter Carnival, one of the largest in the world, and take a stroll through the picturesque Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Top attractions:

  • Winter Carnival (Carnaval de Québec)
  • Montmorency Falls (frozen in winter)
  • Old Quebec and Château Frontenac

7. Lapland, Finland

Best for: Northern lights, winter wilderness

For a true winter wonderland experience, head to Lapland in Finland. This remote region is famous for its stunning displays of the Northern Lights, as well as its unique winter activities like dog sledding, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. You can even visit Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, making it a magical destination for families. Stay in a glass igloo for a front-row seat to the aurora borealis.

Top attractions:

  • Northern Lights safaris
  • Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi
  • Glass igloo stays in Kakslauttanen

8. Reykjavik, Iceland

Best for: Northern lights, geothermal hot springs

Iceland’s capital city, Reykjavik, is a top destination for winter travelers seeking natural wonders and adventure. Visit the famous Blue Lagoon for a dip in geothermal waters surrounded by snowy landscapes, and don’t miss the chance to chase the Northern Lights. Reykjavik also makes a great base for exploring Iceland’s unique sights, including glaciers, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes.

Top attractions:

  • Blue Lagoon
  • Northern Lights tours
  • Golden Circle (Geysir, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park)

9. Vienna, Austria

Best for: Culture and Christmas markets

Vienna is a dream destination in both fall and winter, offering a blend of rich culture, stunning architecture, and festive celebrations. The city’s Christmas markets are some of the most famous in Europe, filled with delicious treats, handmade crafts, and festive decorations. In the fall, you can enjoy Vienna’s golden-hued parks, classical concerts, and cozy cafés.

Top attractions:

  • Vienna Christmas Markets
  • Schönbrunn Palace
  • St. Stephen’s Cathedral

10. The Smoky Mountains, Tennessee/North Carolina, USA

Best for: Scenic drives, hiking, fall foliage

The Great Smoky Mountains offer one of the most picturesque fall destinations in the U.S., with their vibrant foliage and serene landscapes. The national park is a haven for hikers, nature lovers, and photographers looking to capture the beauty of fall. Come winter, the region offers a peaceful, snow-covered retreat with opportunities for cozy cabin stays and quiet mountain hikes.

Top attractions:

  • Cades Cove for wildlife viewing and fall colors
  • Clingmans Dome for panoramic views
  • Gatlinburg for winter festivities and skiing

I’ll keep it short and just say… it’s time to plan that trip. Even a weekend getaway could be just what you and your partner, or family need to reset for the following week. Spring into action and book your next fall, or winter trip today.

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Building Your First Website? Here’s How… https://weeklyinsider.co/building-your-first-website-heres-how/ https://weeklyinsider.co/building-your-first-website-heres-how/#respond Mon, 30 Sep 2024 21:02:05 +0000 https://weeklyinsider.co/?p=6956 Building a website can be an exciting venture, whether you’re creating an online presence for your business, launching a blog, or showcasing your portfolio. In today’s day and age, a website serves as a vital tool to establish both credibility and visibility. With web development tools and hosting platforms becoming more user-friendly, it’s now easier than ever to build a website by oneself. Today, we’ll walk you through the process of creating your first website and highlight some hosting companies that could officially plaster your hard work all over the web.

Step 1: Planning Your Website

Before you dive into web development, it’s crucial to plan your website. Ask yourself:

  • What is the purpose of your website?
  • Who is your target audience?
  • What content do you want to include?
  • What features are necessary (e.g., contact forms, galleries, blogs)?

By outlining these details, you’ll have a clear vision and structure for your site, helping the web development process flow a lot smoother.

Step 2: Choose a Platform

The next step in website development is selecting a platform to build your site. For beginners, content management systems (CMS) like WordPress, Wix, or Squarespace are excellent choices. WordPress is highly customizable, and many web designers prefer it for its flexibility and wide range of plugins. If you’re looking for a simpler, drag-and-drop interface, platforms like Wix and Squarespace are user-friendly and great for smaller websites.

An even simpler option for those who are not tech-savvy in the least could be to hire others with the necessary experience. Platforms such as Fiverr allow you to hire freelance workers for their services. The website features individuals from all experience backgrounds from marketers right back down to web/software developer.

Step 3: Design Your Website

Once you’ve chosen your platform, the fun part begins: designing your site. Web design plays a major role in how your visitors perceive your brand. Here are a few design tips:

  • Keep it simple and easy to navigate.
  • Choose a color scheme that reflects your brand.
  • Use high-quality images and graphics.
  • Ensure that your site is mobile-friendly.

If you don’t have web design skills, many platforms offer templates that can be customized to suit your needs. Alternatively, you can hire a web designer to create a custom look for your site.

Step 4: Choose a Web Hosting Provider

Your web host is the service provider that stores your website’s data and makes it accessible on the internet. Choosing the right hosting provider is essential for website performance, security, and scalability. Two hosting companies worth considering are KnownHost and GlowHost.

KnownHost

KnownHost is notorious for its reliable services, high-performance hosting, and excellent customer support. They offer various hosting plans, including shared hosting, VPS (Virtual Private Servers), and dedicated servers. KnownHost is an excellent option for website development as it provides robust security features, daily backups, and an easy-to-use control panel. Whether you’re a beginner, or a professional web designer, KnownHost offers the support needed to grow your website.

GlowHost

GlowHost is another top-tier hosting provider known for its exceptional uptime and customer service. Their hosting plans are designed to accommodate to a wide range of users, from small personal blogs to large eCommerce sites. GlowHost offers managed hosting, cloud hosting, and reseller hosting, which can be particularly useful for web designers looking to manage multiple client websites. With features like free website migration, 24/7 support, and SEO tools, GlowHost is a fantastic option for anyone serious about web development.

Step 5: Launch and Maintain Your Website

Once your website is designed and hosted, it’s time to launch it! Before going live, make sure to:

  • Test your site on different devices (mobile, tablet, desktop).
  • Check for broken links, or missing content.
  • Ensure that your site loads quickly, as slow websites can drive away visitors.

After launching, remember that website development doesn’t end there. Regular updates, content additions, and maintenance are essential to keep your website running smoothly and securely.

What to Understand

Building your first website can seem overwhelming, but by following these steps, you can create a site that reflects your brand and connects with your audience. With platforms like WordPress and hosting providers like KnownHost and GlowHost, the process of web development has never been more accessible. Whether you’re doing it yourself, or hiring a web designer, having a website is a critical step in the modern world.

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U.S. Presidential Election 2024: Donald Trump vs. Kamala Harris https://weeklyinsider.co/u-s-presidential-election-2024-donald-trump-vs-kamala-harris/ https://weeklyinsider.co/u-s-presidential-election-2024-donald-trump-vs-kamala-harris/#respond Tue, 24 Sep 2024 18:44:22 +0000 https://weeklyinsider.co/?p=6808 As the United States gears up for the 2024 presidential election, the political landscape is set for a monumental clash between two highly influential figures: Donald Trump, the former president, and Kamala Harris, the current vice president. Scheduled for November 5, 2024, this head-to-head election represents a historic moment in U.S. politics, highlighting not only the stark ideological divisions in the country, but also the continuing influence of Trump and the rising prominence of Harris.

A Clash of Ideologies

This election will see the Republican nominee Donald Trump, who has retained a strong hold over the GOP despite his controversial tenure and legal challenges, going up against Kamala Harris, the Democratic candidate, who has steadily built her profile as vice president under Joe Biden.

The contest between Trump’s populist, “America First” agenda and Harris’ progressive stances on social and economic justice issues represents a deeper ideological battle within America’s electorate.

Donald Trump is running on a platform that revisits his 2016 promises—strengthening national borders, prioritizing American manufacturing, and reducing governmental oversight in favor of economic growth.

Despite his legal battles, Trump has galvanized a large base, with many viewing his potential return to the White House as a restoration of their vision of American greatness.

On the other hand, Kamala Harris brings a fresh perspective to the race. As the first female vice president and a woman of Black and South Asian descent, her candidacy marks a significant milestone in U.S. history.

Harris has championed policies aimed at racial equity, climate change mitigation, and expanding healthcare access, positioning herself as a candidate for progressive change. Her platform is largely a continuation of the Biden administration’s policies, but with her own distinct focus on civil rights and reforming the criminal justice system.

Security Concerns Amid Political Tensions

The security landscape surrounding the election has already become a concern. Recent reports revealed that an attempted assassination on Donald Trump was thwarted, adding heightened tension to an already contentious race​ (Hindustan Times).

Photos of the rifle used in the attempt have surfaced, prompting further investigation into potential threats. This incident underscores the volatile political climate, as Trump remains both a beloved and polarizing figure.

Moreover, the rising threat of domestic extremism and politically motivated violence is shaping up to be a major concern in the lead-up to the election. Both campaigns are likely to navigate increased security measures and potential disruptions from fringe groups.

Implications for the Future of America

The outcome of the 2024 election could significantly shape the trajectory of the U.S. for years to come. A Trump victory could signal a return to a more isolationist and nationalist approach to governance, potentially undoing key initiatives on climate action and international diplomacy.

Conversely, a Harris administration would likely continue to push for progressive reforms, expanding the work begun under President Biden while navigating the challenges of a deeply divided Congress.

For voters, this election represents not just a choice between two candidates, but a broader decision about the future of the U.S.—whether to return to the policies of the Trump era, or continue with the gradual, but meaningful reforms spearheaded by Harris and the Biden administration.

The Upcoming Race

As November 5, 2024 approaches, all eyes will be on this dramatic showdown between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris. The stakes are high, not only for the candidates, but for the future of the United States. In an election season fraught with security risks, deep political divisions, and unprecedented social change, this contest is bound to be one of the most closely watched in U.S. history​ .

Stay tuned with us as the race unfolds, and be prepared for one of the most critical elections in modern American history.

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Savings and Convenience with Amazon’s Subscribe & Save Feature https://weeklyinsider.co/unlock-savings-and-convenience-with-amazons-subscribe-save-feature/ https://weeklyinsider.co/unlock-savings-and-convenience-with-amazons-subscribe-save-feature/#respond Tue, 17 Sep 2024 20:25:37 +0000 https://weeklyinsider.co/?p=6575 In today’s fast-paced world, finding ways to automate your shopping experience while saving money is an absolute game-changer. Today, I place before you Amazon’s Subscribe & Save feature, an option designed to offer both convenience and discounts on the products you need most.

Whether it’s household essentials, or personal care products, this service can help you save time, effort, and money by automating recurring purchases. In this post, we’ll walk this journey together as we explore how to use Amazon’s Subscribe & Save store feature and the reasons why it’s beneficial.

What is Amazon Subscribe & Save?

Amazon’s Subscribe & Save program is one that allows customers to subscribe to regular deliveries of products they use frequently. Rather than having to reorder essentials manually, you can set up automatic deliveries at intervals that fit your schedule.

In return, Amazon offers discounts, with savings that range from 5% to 15%, depending on how many items you subscribe to.

How to Use Subscribe & Save

Using Amazon’s Subscribe & Save feature is quick and easy. Here’s how to get started:

  1. Find Eligible Products: While browsing on Amazon, look for the Subscribe & Save option on product pages. Not every item is available for subscription, but a wide range of essentials are.
  2. Choose Your Delivery Frequency: Once you’ve selected an item, you can set how often you want it delivered. Common options include every one, two, three, or six months, depending on your usage.
  3. Review Your Subscription: Before confirming, Amazon will display your discount. When subscribing to multiple items, you’ll see how your discount increases.
  4. Manage Your Subscriptions: Amazon allows you to modify, or cancel your subscriptions at any time. You can adjust the frequency, pause deliveries, or swap items without penalties.
  5. Receive Delivery Notifications: Amazon will notify you before each delivery, allowing you to skip, or reschedule if needed.

Top 10 Products to Use with Subscribe & Save

Here are ten popular, or highly recommended products that are perfect for Amazon’s Subscribe & Save:

  1. Toilet Paper: One of the most practical items for regular deliveries, with brands like Charmin and Cottonelle available.
  2. Laundry Detergent: Household essentials like Tide, or Persil help you stay stocked up and save on bulky items.
  3. Diapers: Parents can greatly benefit from subscribing to brands like Pampers and Huggies, avoiding last-minute diaper runs.
  4. Coffee: If you can’t go without your morning brew, subscribing to K-cups, or ground coffee from brands like Starbucks, or Dunkin’ is a must.
  5. Pet Food: Keep your furry friends happy with regular deliveries of pet food, with popular brands like Purina and Blue Buffalo available.
  6. Dishwasher Detergent: Stock up on dishwasher pods, or liquid from brands like Finish, or Cascade and never run out.
  7. Vitamins and Supplements: Subscribing to multivitamins, or specific supplements can help you stay on top of your health without missing a dose.
  8. Shampoo and Conditioner: Hair care products from brands like Pantene, or Head & Shoulders are perfect for subscription, ensuring you always have hair care products.
  9. Paper Towels: Bulk paper towels from brands like Bounty are another household staple that’s great for Subscribe & Save.
  10. Snacks: For families, subscribing to snack items like granola bars, chips, or healthy snacks from brands like KIND can keep your pantry well-stocked without multiple grocery trips.

Amazon’s Subscribe & Save is a smart way to simplify your shopping, keep essential items in stock, and save money and time with every order. With flexible scheduling and the ability to adjust your orders as needed, it’s a service that can fit effortlessly into anyone’s lifestyle. Start exploring the many products eligible for Subscribe & Save and enjoy the perks of regular discounts and free shipping on your must-have items.

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The Massachusetts SJC Appeal: Commonwealth vs. Donnell and National Reciprocity https://weeklyinsider.co/the-massachusetts-sjc-appeal-commonwealth-vs-donnell-and-national-reciprocity/ https://weeklyinsider.co/the-massachusetts-sjc-appeal-commonwealth-vs-donnell-and-national-reciprocity/#respond Wed, 05 Jun 2024 01:55:00 +0000 https://weeklyinsider.co/?p=6859 The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court (SJC) is currently hearing a pivotal case, Commonwealth vs. Donnell, which has drawn significant attention due to its implications for national gun reciprocity laws. At the heart of this case is whether Massachusetts will adhere to the national movement advocating for reciprocity of concealed carry permits across state lines, allowing gun owners to travel and carry firearms legally in multiple states without facing conflicting local regulations.

Background of the Case

Donnell, a legal gun owner from a state with more lenient concealed carry laws, was arrested in Massachusetts for carrying a firearm without a Massachusetts-issued license. Massachusetts law is known for its stringent gun control measures, including strict local licensing requirements. Donnell’s defense team argues that his concealed carry permit from another state should be honored under the principle of national reciprocity—a growing legislative effort in the U.S. Congress to create uniformity in concealed carry laws across the country.

Key Legal Arguments

The case centers on the Second Amendment and the conflict between state sovereignty over firearm regulations and federal efforts toward national reciprocity. Donnell’s legal team argues that his constitutional right to bear arms should not be hindered by state borders, particularly given that his home state had issued him a concealed carry permit. This argument gains strength from the Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act, a proposal that has garnered bipartisan support at the federal level.

On the other side, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts maintains that its stricter regulations are justified under the Tenth Amendment, which grants states the power to enforce laws that protect public safety. Massachusetts has some of the toughest gun laws in the country, and state prosecutors are arguing that Donnell’s permit from another state is invalid under their local laws.

Implications for National Reciprocity

The outcome of this case could set a precedent for how states handle out-of-state concealed carry permits. If the SJC rules in favor of Donnell, it could pave the way for a significant shift in how national reciprocity is treated in court, effectively weakening states’ ability to enforce their own gun control measures.

Conversely, if Massachusetts prevails, it would reinforce the states’ rights to regulate firearms as they see fit, potentially slowing down or complicating the passage of national reciprocity laws in Congress.

Broader National Context

National reciprocity has been a hot-button issue in recent years. Proponents argue that law-abiding gun owners should not be penalized for crossing state lines and that national reciprocity would simplify the confusing patchwork of local regulations. Critics, however, fear that it would undermine states’ abilities to set their own safety standards, especially in regions with higher crime rates or more frequent mass shootings.

The Commonwealth vs. Donnell case stands as a critical juncture in this national debate. Depending on how the Massachusetts SJC rules, it could either bolster efforts toward a more unified national standard for concealed carry or reinforce the legal framework that allows states to maintain strict control over firearms.

Looking Ahead

As the case unfolds, legal scholars and policymakers across the country are closely monitoring the proceedings. The decision could have far-reaching consequences for gun laws, states’ rights, and the future of national reciprocity legislation.

This case serves as a reminder of the ongoing tension between state and federal laws concerning gun rights—a debate that continues to shape the American legal and political landscape.

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