Planning a trip to Australia? Be ready to open your pocketbook and spend some cash. Traveling to Australia can get expensive fast.  It doesn’t come as a huge surprise - after all, flying to the opposite side of the world can’t be cheap, and Australia isn’t exactly known to be a budget-friendly vacation spot.


A great way to keep costs down? Consider adding some cheap or free things to do to your Sydney, Australia itinerary. While many of the city’s most well-known attractions do charge admission, there are plenty of things you can take advantage of that don’t cost much - or, in some cases, anything at all.

If you’re looking to keep your trip to Sydney affordable, here are some of the best cheap or free things you can do in Sydney, Australia:


CHECK OUT A LOCAL MARKET. Sydney is well-known for the variety of weekly markets that pop up across the city. You can find markets selling everything from flowers, fresh produce, and ready-to-eat food to trinkets, antiques, and clothing. Some, like the Paddington Markets, are open weekly on Saturdays, while others, like the Sydney Vegan Market, only come around once each month. Plan to explore at least one while you’re in town!

STOP BY ST MARY'S CATHEDRAL. Unlike a trip to Europe, you won’t find many old cathedrals or churches to explore in Sydney, but anyone who appreciates architecture will want to stop at St Mary’s Cathedral. This sandstone cathedral is free to visit and open to the public. Inside, you’ll find incredible stained glass windows, incredible columns and arches, and an impressive pipe organ.


LET LITTLE ONES HAVE SOME FUN AT A PLAYGROUND. If you’re traveling with kids, they aren’t going to want to spend each and every day exploring art museums and snapping photos of the Opera House. Fortunately, Sydney is a very kid-friendly city, and you’ll find plenty of playgrounds to let them run around and burn off some energy.

The Darling Quarter Playground in Darling Harbour is arguably one of the best in the city, equipped with everything from balance ropes and climbing nets to a water play area, making it perfect for cooling off on scorching summer days. Regardless of where you are in Sydney, though, a kid-friendly park shouldn’t be too far away!

VISIT THE MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART. The Museum of Contemporary Art is one of the most visited cultural attractions in Sydney, and it’s easy to see why. This Art Deco masterpiece houses thousands of works of art, both from Australian artists and others around the world, as well as a series of rotating exhibitions. The best part? The museum doesn’t charge admission, so you’ll get to enjoy this attraction at no cost.



TAKE A WALK OR TWO! One of the best ways to have fun on vacation without spending money? Explore your destination on foot. Sydney is no exception to this rule, with lots of great places to stroll and explore. One of the best options for touring Sydney on foot? Take a stroll across the Sydney Harbour Bridge. While you’ll pay to climb to the top of the bridge, it costs nothing to cross on foot, and you’ll get the chance to stop wherever you’d like to admire the view and take photographs of some of Sydney’s most iconic buildings and attractions.

Another walk worth taking is the Bondi to Coogee (or Coogee to Bondi) walk. You’ll pass by stunning cliffs, scenic rock pools, beautiful beaches, and other impressive views as you navigate this path, which takes most people around two and a half hours to complete. If you get tired, you can take a break at any of the beaches, cafes, or parks you encounter along the way.



VISIT SYDNEY OLYMPIC PARK. Now home to playgrounds, bike paths, bird-watching opportunities, and excellent restaurants and cafes, this park hosted the 2000 Olympic Games. While many countries struggle to put their Olympic facilities to use after the Games conclude, Sydney has managed to transform the park into a valuable addition to the city - and a great spot for tourists and locals to visit when the weather is nice.

EXPLORE THE ROYAL BOTANIC GARDEN. One of the most gorgeous spots in all of Sydney is surprisingly free to the public. The Royal Botanic Garden offers a breathtaking array of plants and trees and is the perfect spot to slow down for a picnic lunch. Stroll through the grounds on your own or take a free guided tour to learn a thing or two about the Garden’s history and the plants that call it home. As a bonus, you’ll find some great views of the opera house across the water here.



TOUR THE GOVERNMENT HOUSE. After you explore the Botanic Garden, plan a visit to the nearby Government House. Built in the 1800s, this building is the vice-regal residence of the Governor of New South Wales. You can visit the gardens any day of the week, but they offer free tours of the house itself on holidays and weekends, where you can learn about Australia’s government and history as you explore one of the oldest buildings in the country.

ENJOY THE BEACH! Spending a few hours at the beach is an easy way to have fun without spending a ton of money. The easiest beach to visit is Bondi Beach, arguably one of the most famous beaches in the world. There, you can surf, sunbathe, and soak up the sun - as long as you can find a spot! Thanks to its popularity, this beach is often crowded.

For a quieter, more laid back beach experience, head over to nearby Manly Beach. You’ll need to pay a small fare to take the ferry, but you’ll be treated to smaller crowds, stunning shores, and great photo ops.


As you can see, there are quite a few ways to have a great time experiencing Sydney without spending much cash - or, in many cases, any money at all! By adding a few of these exciting opportunities to your itinerary, you’ll cut down on your overall trip budget and still have a ton of fun.

Deciding that we were going to Australia for Spring Break was a decision I made while in Canada. One of the reasons being that the weather was perfect around that time of the year since they were just heading into Autumn while we are still dealing with winter weather in Spring.


I had no idea what we were going to do once we got there. Something that usually happens whenever I travel. I usually book flights first then worry about the hotel and activities later. It’s all about being spontaneous, and something I’ve been doing more lately.

Upon arrival at our hotel the Sheraton on the Park, directly adjacent to Hyde Park, I asked concierge what to do with kids, and one of his suggestion was to pay a visit to Luna Park Sydney. Apparently, it’s Sydney’s version of Brooklyn’s Luna Park aka Coney Island.


HOW TO GET THERE?

Well, there are a few options with one of them being public transportation such as the buses. You can also take a cab or the very popular Uber, or you can do what I did if you’re staying close to Hyde Park or the Darling Harbour area and you’re up for a stroll.

Take a walk through the Royal Botanic Gardens, it’s totally worth it, trust me. Then glide by the Sydney Opera House and make your way to Circular Quay where you can take the ferry from wharf number 5 to Milsons Point. What I can say is that it gave us an excuse to ride the ferry as we saved Luna Park for our final day in Sydney, aka Madison’s fun day.


So was Luna Park worth the $100 we spent on the tickets and game pass? For the novelty, I would say yes. If you’re going for the rides and hoping to have an experience such as you would at Six Flags or Universal, then you may be disappointed. Luckily for me, Madison is very laid back and enjoys going with the flow.

Tickets are available online for a small discount compared to getting your tickets at the park’s ticketing booth. The process was relatively simple, and I was able to show the PDF version of my ticket on my mobile device and issued colored bands for our visit. If you'd like to store your bags, then lockers are available.


Rides and tickets are determined by your height, cm instead of inches, so brush up on the metric system before visiting Australia. Quite a few rides were “being worked on” when we visited, but the ones that were operable were fun enough for Madison. There weren’t many available for very small kids; however, there were a bit more for the older children. Madison apparently grew over the holidays so was able to get on the rides all by herself which she enjoyed. If your child is too short for a particular ride, they may be able to get on with a paying adult.

As someone who has always stated that she was afraid of heights, I was surprised to see Madison get on the Hair Raiser, step off and explain that it was “fun,” but however, she did not want to do it again. I guess once was good enough. She then did the bumper cars followed by the Spider which she also enjoyed. There also weren't many games open during our visit, but once again maybe a weekend might have been different.


There were also quite a significant number of school children on the day that we visited, and without them being there I would say that the park might have been empty as they made up about 80% of the occupants of the park that day. However, schools were still in session in Australia, so I imagine the weekends would be busier compared to a weekday.

What Luna Park lacked on games and rides, they made up for it with their charm. There’s a picnic area for those who just want to relax and have a chill day after getting on the rides, and you also have a lovely view of the Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House in the distance. However, their Ferris Wheel is definitely a must-do. You get a fantastic view from up high, compared to the eye level view you would get from the picnic area.


So is Luna Park Sydney actually worth visiting? I would say yes. They're a historical piece of Sydney and have been in operation since 1935, so if you're visiting Sydney Australia for the very first time, then a visit is definitely a must. However be sure to pay attention to the park calendar and weather.

Australia is a perfect country for those who enjoy road trips in their car. It's a vast piece of land full of magnificent views and landscapes and exciting, lively cities.

Once you start your road trip, you'll be amazed by what you will be able to see. At one point, you will probably end up in Melbourne. If you decide to spend a day there (and you definitely should!), make sure you see the best this city can offer.


1. SOUTHBANK
The Yarra River is perfect for an enjoyable ride along the river bank. If you want to really appreciate it, park your car and take a walk along the bank and admire the numerous street performers. As you walk, you can visit Ponyfish Island to enjoy a drink in a bar located under a bridge.

2. ENJOY A MORNING COFFEE 
If you arrive in Melbourne early in the morning, you'll have a perfect opportunity to enjoy its coffee. The city is flooded with excellent cafes, with coffee being one of the most popular beverages. Start your day in Melbourne in the area around Flinders Street Station, where you can choose your pick among cafes. If you really want to enjoy a cool local cafe and good coffee, visit Cup of Truth on the corner of the street's subway. Local dairy farmers provide their best milk to the cafe, and you'll enjoy it if you are a fan of coffee.


3. NATIONAL GALLERY OF VICTORIA
Melbourne is the city of culture and art, and this gallery will definitely show you what Melbourne has to offer in this area. One part gallery, one part museum and one part museum, this place is a great reason to leave your car and explore the facility on foot. The exhibitions range from ancient Egypt to the post-modern period. You could easily spend a couple of hours there, but make it a bit shorter if you're staying for just a day.

4. ST PAUL'S CATHEDRAL
The most unusual architectural structure in the city is definitely St Paul's. It's a must-see masterpiece for anybody who enjoys beauty, being religious or not. The Gothic design is just stunning, while the peace inside the building in contrast to the city noise is unbelievable. You will have no choice but to admire the craft needed for its construction and the colored stained glass abounds.

5. THE CITY CIRCLE TRAM 
This is an opportunity to switch means for transport at least for a couple of hours. The Circle City Tram is free public transport. It functions as "hop-on, hop-off" service, which takes the passengers from one Melbourne popular site to another. Some of the attractions include Federation Square, the Old Treasury Building, Parliament House, and the Princess Theater. You are also able to listen to the recorded commentary of every attraction that you pass by.


6. A SHORT TRIP TO THE YARRA VALLEY
Use the advantage of traveling by car and visit the exquisite Yara Valley, the wine region. It's only an hour away from the city but make sure your vehicle is ready for the trip. It's essential to maintain your car and clean it regularly to stay safe on the road. Luckily, cleaning your vehicle while on the road in Australia is easy because there are cool apps like Schmicko car wash available, through which you can book washing in just a few clicks. Once you get to the Yarra Valley, enjoy the ride along the green hills, admiring old farmhouses and impressive vineyards. Taste the best wines in some of the region's finest wineries and maybe even have a meal there.

7. THE QUEEN VICTORIA MARKET
Once you're back in the city, have a taste of how it is to go shopping in Melbourne. The great thing about having a car is that you can fill your trunk with all the cool stuff you could find at the Queen Victoria Market. It is considered to be shopping Mecca for all Australians. It's a vast, open-air market that has virtually everything you could ask for. Cool clothes, great food, hand-crafted jewelry and various shops full of all kinds of stuff. You can bargain for almost anything and get lost in it all.

8. BOURKE STREET AND CHINATOWN
If you want a delicious meal, then one of the two locations is a perfect choice. The menus are impressively rich, offering both Western and Asian cuisine. Bourke Street is also a great location if you want to indulge yourself with expensive shopping or retail offers.

On the other hand, Chinatown offers cheap, tasty food and a splendid view of the streets decorated with Chinese themes.


A road trip through Australia will definitely be one of your most memorable trips. And Melbourne will for sure be near the top of your list when it comes to great Australian destinations.

With spring bringing everything in its wake to life, it’s time to think about how you can help it. The exterior and interior of your home are going to need a bit of attention. The front porch should be first on your list of things to tidy up and redecorate as it makes the first impression for your home. Since the weather is getting warmer and nicer, you also want to be able to enjoy the fresh air on your well-kept and stylish front porch.


DON'T FORGET THE COMFY FURNITURE 
You can’t have a proper front porch without outdoor furniture. How are you going to enjoy your afternoon tea or coffee otherwise? When it comes to furniture, there are a lot of different things you can do. If you want to create a coherent and elegant place where everything has its purpose, opt for a mid-modern century or Scandinavian design. Both of these have natural elements to them and bring functionality to another level.

Those who want to make a statement can opt for minimalism. With a minimalistic design, each piece of furniture will be stripped of the bells and whistles and left to its bare beauty. This approach is perfect for those who want a simple yet sophisticated front porch. With minimalism, you can easily send a message that excessive decoration and consumerism are unnecessary to create something beautiful.

Finally, you can let your kids choose and decorate the furniture. In this case, it’s best to buy second-hand wooden furniture that you can decorate yourself. Let them be as creative as they want with crayons, paint, stickers, and whatever else they want. If you don’t want your whole porch to look this way but still think it would be a fun family activity, you can just create a kids’ corner at one side of the porch.



PAY ATTENTION TO DETAILS 
No matter what you do with your front porch, if you don’t pay enough attention to the details, it’s going to end up feeling incomplete and unkempt. This is the time to repaint or reattach your house number, as well as to repaint your fence. Are the stairs still a little chipped from all the wear and tear? Fix that, too.

Finally, don’t forget to check your lights. Front porch lights are essential if you want to enjoy warm spring evenings with your family outside. You can choose fairly lights, simple lamps, candles, or even a lamppost, all depending on the kind of look you want to achieve.

UPDATE YOUR FRONT DOOR
How long has it been since you changed anything on your front door? It’s probably been the same old and boring piece of wood it was when you moved in. This spring, let’s devote more time to home maintenance. The whole appearance of your home can change with the right front door. You can choose to buy a different door and replace the old one if you think there’s no hope for the old one, or you can choose to have a little fun.

Working on your front door as a family can add the personal touch your home is missing. Let your kids help you paint and decorate the door, and draw on it together. You can create a beautiful family memory everyone will cherish while also doing something productive. This approach might also help your kids form a deeper emotional bond with the house. Those who have recently moved houses will benefit from this gesture the most, as a customized front door might just be the thing to make the house feel like it’s really yours.



ADD A WELCOME MAT
If spring had a motto, it would be “welcome.” Welcome to the new flowers, trees, animals; welcome to life. In the same spirit, you should make sure your front porch has a new welcome mat. This is a great way to show your guests that you appreciate their presence, as well as to complete the front porch with a cute detail.

Of course, with so many options from places like Mat Shop, door mats go beyond the generalized versions you see at convenience stores. Now you can personalize your mat with anything you want. Will it be a sweet message to greet anyone at the door? A cute quote as a tribute to spring? Or simply your family name? The possibilities are endless, and with a little inspiration, you’ll soon have the perfect mat that was made just for the front porch.

CREATE A CONTAINER GARDEN
There’s nothing more beautiful than being greeted by a small garden on your front steps. The most obvious reason to include a container garden on your front porch is to bring the inside décor outdoors. Your whole house can now be coherently designed and decorated. You can start with all white pieces of containers, then add splashes of colors where you think they’re necessary. This will help you achieve that classic mid-century modern look.

If you aim for something more quirky, don’t shy away from pots and containers of interesting shapes and sizes. This kind of approach can generate a garden in an asymmetrical but also modern style, depending on what you choose to focus on.

Now for the plant choice. You can aim for flowers which bloom in spring to make your front porch garden pop, or you can opt for native herbs for a more calm and elegant look. Finally, don’t forget to add some hanging flowers. They’re a brilliant way to decorate empty walls and columns and bring your garden to a whole new level of luxury.


CONCLUSION
Front porch decorating can be one of the most enjoyable things you do this spring. It’s not very hard work, but it’s just enough to get you in the spring cleaning mood and give you the motivation to tackle the rest of the house. Soon, your entire home will be a true symbol of spring that your family and friends will absolutely adore. It all starts here and now- with your front porch.

Reading is Fundamental!

It's a quote that I've heard many times over throughout my lifetime and one that I agree with immensely.  At a very early age, my kids were taught to read because it not only helped with their verbal and language skills but their listening skills as well.



March is National Reading Month and a way to motivate and encourage everyone to read daily. While I believe that every month should be National Reading Month and you should read all year round, we all know that it's not going to happen. However, it's never too early to help your children develop reading skills that will last a lifetime. Having a month set aside especially for reading will help get you and your kids into the habit of reading, for at least a month, if nothing else.

I've personally written many posts on why it's important to teach your kids to read, and even how to motivate them to read. One of Madison's goal this year was to read more books, and today, I'm going to share easy ways you can celebrate National Reading Month with your family while creating a love of reading.



1. TAKE YOUR CHILD TO A BOOKSTORE OR LIBRARY
If you're looking to purchase a new book for your little one to add to their reading collection then going to a bookstore is a great idea. However, if you'd prefer to borrow a new book, then the library is also a great suggestion. Personally, I like adding new additions to Madison's collection. However, as a family that travels regularly, it's not always feasible for me to purchase numerous books, because then it just becomes too heavy to put in her travel backpack. That's why we currently own a Fire HD 8 Kids Edition Tablet. We take it with us everywhere and have even given it as gifts. Not only does it keep her occupied on our trips, whether we're traveling by air, land or sea, but she can have thousands of books or games thanks to Amazon FreeTime Unlimited, which I'll tell you more about shortly. Just keep on "reading."

2. PLACE BOOKS EVERYWHERE AROUND THE HOUSE
Keep books accessible around your home and within reach of little hands. Whether that may be on the coffee table, breakfast nook where they congregate for breakfast early in the morning, in the bathroom or even in the couch. Seeing books everywhere will more than likely motivate your child, or even yourself to pick up a book and read. A good idea for kids is to get books that you know they'll be interested in, books with captivating covers and stories.


3. READ AT LEAST 15-20 MINUTES DAILY
Reading together can not only be fun, but it's a great way to get social with your kids as well. While you can have older kids read for more extended periods of time, if they enjoy it, you can get together with the younger kids and read together as a family. Each can take a turn reading a chapter a day for longer chapter books, or just read one page at a time making it a lot more fun than reading alone.

When it comes to Madison reading, my favorite feature with her Fire Kids Edition tablet is using my Parent Dashboard and setting up the parental controls. One fun thing about this is that I can not only use it via her Fire Kids Edition tablet but also on my computer if she's already using it. I'm able to set limits such as, no games before reading for at least 15 minutes, and the shutdown mode which I've enabled. So there's no device usage before 8am and after 8pm during the week. However, there are different limits for the weekend. These controls can be adjusted at any time I desire.


4. HAVE A READING CHALLENGE
Kids enjoy challenges, especially when there's a reward at the end. Start a reading challenge in your own home, and the person who reads the most books gets a special treat at the end. While this is a competition and will get them started, however, I suggest giving each one who did the challenge something small while the winner gets the big prize. The little ones can enjoy picture books, while the older kids can read more challenging books.

5. START A FAMILY BOOK CLUB
We're a family who enjoys reading, and our book collection is extensive. As a matter of fact, Madison enjoys receiving new books in the mail monthly. Not only does she get to read a book at night before bed, but they're great for discussion as well.  A family book club is a great way to discuss the books that the kids are reading showing that they have a much better understanding of the books they've read. The Fire Kids Edition tablet offers a "family book club" approach which provides sample questions and summaries based on the books they've viewed within Amazon FreeTime. You can also use it for videos, Audible books, educational apps, and even websites.


One of the easiest ways I've found for us to read is by having the Amazon Fire Kids Edition tablet, and with Amazon FreeTime Unlimited we have access to thousands of books at our disposal. It comes free with a new purchase a new Fire Kids Edition tablet, but you don't need to own one to access the subscription. Once you've subscribed it's available for use on compatible devices such as Echo devices, and it's also available for download on iOS and Android, however, the content experience will vary based on the device you're using.

The Fire Kids Edition tablet has been an invaluable device for my family. Not only does it keep Madison occupied during our travels, but even while at home. I don't know what I'd do without it!


How would you like to win One (1) of 10 Fire HD 8 Kids Edition tablets in celebration of National Reading Month? Now is your chance to do so! Merely pledge your participation for your chance to win! This contest is open through April 3rd.


Amazon Fire Kids Edition Sweepstakes

My goal for 2019 was to go somewhere I've never been to before, and that goal has been realized three times over as so far for 2019, I've been to Brussels Belgium, Amsterdam Netherlands, and New Orleans. A friend recently asked, "what apps do you use when you travel, and what can't you live without?". I've shared apps that you need to install before you travel aboard, but there are a few that would never be deleted from my phone.

Most people prefer traveling alone because they think it's so much easier. Not only do they get to have fun, but they can do whatever they want, whenever they feel like it. When you travel with kids, it's not always as easy as you think it's going to be. However, that doesn't mean that you still can't have fun or you have to stress while traveling. While traveling with kids come with their own problems, they aren’t that complicated, and once you understand that, it will become easy for you to figure out what you have to do. Here are some tips for all the fathers and mothers who are worried about their next traveling trip with their children.


ALWAYS ALLOW FOR EXTRA TIME
Traveling alone can be really simple. You can get ready at a moment’s notice and arrive at the airport/bus station, with still time to spare. With children, that's sometimes impossible because there is definitely going to be one thing or the other that will not go according to plan. Try to have everything packed at least a day before you travel so that there won't be any pressure while making sure that you don’t forget anything. On the day of your travel, not only will your family be ready on time, in the event of any unplanned changes, you can overcome them because you'll have enough time.

DON'T OVERPACK
While not forgetting anything essential at home is something for you to focus on, you should also try not to take too many pieces of luggage with you when you travel. Not only will you need to take care of a lot of things including everyone’s bags and your children, but too many bags can impede your travel, as you may have too many pieces and not many hands to help. Instead, have the kids take a backpack with a few essentials and a small carryon bag with wheels that they can pull around.
KEEP THEM ENTERTAINED
When we are young, we view the world from a different angle and our interests are also different. As we grow old, our priorities change and so do our hobbies. Children get bored quickly, but they are also entertained easily, you just have to pack the right things. What you should take depends on where you are traveling. For instance, if you are going to a beach, get your kids some beach toys so they can play in the sand. If you are going to a place that is more open and safe, get a skateboard or a hoverboard, so your kids can explore the area in their own way.


TAKE ENOUGH SNACKS
Children are always hungry, even when you think they have eaten enough. They still need some in-between snack meals, and that can be difficult to provide if you are not prepared. Sometimes, there may be no food available on the bus/plane, or maybe there are no stores within miles of your road trip. Sometimes your ride is behind schedule, and you are stuck at the station with nothing to eat. Don’t let those circumstances turn your entire travel into a disaster. Always keep extra snacks on hand that can stay fresh for hours, this includes water. Having enough on hand will ensure that your kids can have enough to eat even after reaching your destination.

EXPLAIN THE TRIP TO YOUR CHILDREN 
Mostly, children feel cranky while traveling because they cannot understand the changes, or why all of it is happening. Explain to your children where you are going, why you are going, and what you will be doing during the trip. This will keep the children from nagging and asking too many questions again and again.


With these helpful tips, traveling with kids will become much more enjoyable! Have fun!

A bathroom remodel can be a significant boost to your home’s value, and it certainly can improve your own quality of life in that home. However, it can be really easy to go about updating your bathroom in the wrong way, which will turn the project into a sinkhole of your money. In case you are planning on renovating a bathroom in your home in the near future, here is what you need to know about the process to preserve the quality of your home and get the most bang for your buck...


KNOW THE RIGHT UPDATES 
Before you start, it’s essential to do some research on what’s in style with bathrooms right now. This will help you direct your money towards accessories that are up-to-date and aren’t likely to fall in value anytime soon. If your updates are dated, it can actually decrease the value of your bathroom, and thus your home. Here are some ideas to get you thinking about what’s big in bathrooms, right now:

• Free-Standing Tub: It has been a trend for years to have luxurious built-in tubs surrounded by wide, marble ledges. While luxury is always on trend, if you can afford the space, consider going for a free-standing tub. That way you can show off the other fancy features in your bathroom, such as unique tile flooring or a tiled accent wall.
• Spacious Shower: Perhaps you have a free-standing tub and want to focus your efforts on making your shower space a space of luxury. Or maybe your bathroom affords room for only a shower, and therefore you want to make sure your shower space has it all. A modern shower will be free of curbs and recessed floors and will feature more space and added bonuses like a bench and built-in shampoo niches. You may even want to go for a vertical shower head to free up some wall space.
• Water-Saving Toilets: When was the last time you updated this feature in your bathroom? A water-saving toilet will help you cut down on your water bills, so there’s no better time than now to make the switch. Besides, since energy efficiency is always on-trend, you can be sure that this is an investment that will never go out of style.

• Accent Wall: Tiles are no longer reserved for the backsplash and shower wall. Not only is this design trend splash-friendly, but it also adds an extra layer of texture and dimension to your bathroom space.
• Golden Fixtures: After a long reign of popularity, silver-toned bathroom fixtures of brushed nickel and stainless steel are being replaced with ones that are gold, copper, and bronze in color. With the multitude of color and finish options available today, the possibilities here are endless.
• Stone Countertops: Countertops are a great way to give your bathroom a facelift, and granite and quartz are both excellent options for the bathroom. Quartz, which is especially popular these days, is known for its superb durability, resistance to heat, and ability to mimic other stones like marble and granite with the variety of colors available.

USE THE RIGHT SUPPLIES
Maybe you’re replacing your tub, toilet, and sink vanity, perhaps you’re completely changing out your flooring, maybe just about everything is getting a makeover, or maybe you’re merely recaulking around the utilities already in the bathroom. Whatever the job, it’s vital to ensure that you have all the necessary tools and materials on hand before starting the job. Parts and materials, after all, can take weeks to ship, and keeping a bathroom out of commission is never convenient for anyone.

KNOW WHEN TO CALL THE PROS
It’s important to remember that there is a time and a place for outsourcing, especially when you are working with plumbing, the “guts” of your home. DIY mistakes can be catastrophic and expensive, so when in doubt of your own abilities, be sure to call a plumber or contractor.

AVOID MOVING YOUR PLUMBING
If you want to stick to your budget and avoid hours of mess and headache, plan on keeping all of your plumbing where it is. This means not moving the bathtub to a new location or trying to switch your sink and toilet around. Moving plumbing around is typically too complicated for a homeowner to tackle on their own, and it’s an expensive job for any plumbing professional.

If you’re trying to choose your next vacation destination, consider Brussels. I spent a couple of days in Brussels Belgium and loved it. The de facto capital of the European Union, the city offers a rich history and a one-of-a-kind experience for travelers looking for a taste of Europe. Brussels is a blend of old and new, tradition and technology, and it offers something for virtually everyone to enjoy.

Not sure why you should include Brussels on your next travel itinerary? Here are just five of the reasons you’ll want to visit Brussels:


1 - THE ARCHITECTURE IS INCREDIBLE.
Brussels is home to some truly stunning architecture. Everywhere you turn, you’ll find photo-worthy storefronts, cafes, and churches, many of which boast an impressive history. Admire the stunning facades in the Grand Place, pack a picnic and enjoy an afternoon in Cinquantenaire Park, or tour St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral for a taste of gothic architecture.

2 - THERE ARE TASTY SNACKS EVERYWHERE YOU TURN. 
Food-lovers are in luck when they visit Brussels. Aside from the fact that you can find virtually every type of ethnic cuisine in the world in this diverse city, it’s home to a few well-loved specialties. These include frites (delicious french fries, often cooked in duck fat) and waffles, which are nothing like the breakfast treats served in the United States. Covered in tasty toppings, these sweet treats are better saved for a late afternoon snack.


3 - IT'S HOME TO A VAST ARRAY OF MUSEUMS. 
If you’re a museum junkie, you may be drawn to visit Paris, but don’t overlook Brussels as an excellent place to soak up some exciting art and culture. You can browse more traditional options, like the House or European History or the Art & History Museum, but you can also explore more interesting museums, like the Musical Instrument Museum or the Fashion and Lace Museum.


4 - YOU'LL FIND ONE-OF-A-KIND-STREET ART.
Brussels’ street art really embraces the city’s sense of humor. Brussels is home to Manneken Pis, a fountain that depicts a small boy urinating into a fountain. If that’s not enough, you can also find Jeanneke Pis, the fountain’s female counterpart, and Zinneke Pis, a status of a dog marking its territory on a metal barricade. You’ll also find murals and street art inspired by some of the world’s most well-loved comic scripts on the sides of buildings, so keep your eyes peeled as you explore the city!

5 - IT'S EASY TO ENJOY. 
One of the best things about Brussels is how easy the city is to explore. Public transit is simple and straightforward, streets are easy to navigate, and many locals speak English, so there’s no language barrier to overcome. You won’t face the overwhelming lines and crowds you’ll find in larger cities, like Paris or London, and you’ll likely feel safer as a result.


There are dozens of reasons to fall in love with Brussels. Whether you’re a family looking for an exciting European vacation, a solo traveler looking for art and culture, or a couple enjoying a romantic trip together, you’ll be hard-pressed to have a bad time in Brussels.