City Guides
Hot Topic Here’s How To Have A Cool (And Warm) Home!
I’m not talking about having a funky retro home or awesome bachelor pad here! No, instead this post is all about temperature management in the home and what you can do to control it at both ends of the spectrum. Something that is worthwhile doing as it can not only make your house a more pleasant place to live but save you money too. Read on to find out more.
Thermal curtains
One way that you can regulate the temperature in your home efficiently is by picking the right window dressings. Yes, transparent voile looks lovely, but they aren’t the most efficient way to keep the heat in during the winter, or even stop the heat penetrating your room during the summer.
In fact, it’s much better to use thick, specially designed thermal curtains for this task. After all, it costs money to heat or cool a room, and by buying some reasonably priced blackout curtains, you can save a fortune, as well as make your home space much more comfortable during extremes of weather.
Triple glazing
A massive part of controlling the temperature in your home is the type of window that you have. Old style windows with wooden frame and a single pane of glass are the least energy efficient because they do not create enough of a barrier between the outside and inside of your home. This lack of barrier results in natural movement of heat between the inside and outside, making it very difficult to, maintain a constant temperature in the room.
However, manufacturers and most builders have long since dropped this type of window for triple glazed ones instead. The additional layers of glass act as insulation and help to maintain the temperature in the room. Once again meaning that it is easier to keep cold or warm because not so much of the air that is at the right temperature is being lost.
The right window can make all the difference in home temperature control.
Screen doors
Another smart strategy for controlling the temperature within your home in to install what is known as a screen door or a security screen. These are mesh screens that experts will fit over the regular doors, the idea being that you can keep the doors open in the summer to provide a cooling breeze and not compromise the security of your home at the same time.
Of course, you will need to get some tips for buying security screens before making your purchase. After all, as most families will want to make sure they choose the most secure option, so they can use their screen door overnight and still, have peace of mind.
Ceiling fans
Ceiling fans are something else you may wish to consider if you are looking to regulate the temperature in your home. Naturally, they are best suited to keeping a warm area cold, as their rotation moves air about and provides a breeze.
However, before deciding to install a ceiling fan, it’s important to look at the dimensions of the room that you wish to do this in. Such spaces need to be tall enough that no one will be in danger of hitting their head on the fan when it is in use.
Also, as ceiling fans are often large and cumbersome items, it is vital that they do not overwhelm the room and ruin the aesthetics and ambiance that you have worked so hard to create.
Air conditioning
One of the most popular temperature control methods for the home is air conditioning. Air conditioning is a system where air from outside is brought in from outside and cooled before being released into your home. Many people that live in hot climates already have such systems, and rely on them daily to control the temperature in their home, especially during the warmest times of the year.
Although, others query whether the cost of installation and running is too high for air conditioning to be an economical way of managing temperature. Certainly, the cost of installing and maintenance can be high, and when you add running costs to this, it can make air conditioning seem more like a luxury, especially in locations where they can do without it for most of the year.
With that in mind to help you make your decision, it can be useful to watch a video like the one below and research the cost versus benefit issue in more depth.
Glass film
Glass film, also known as Solar Film is an additional method of temperature control used in the home. The film is tinted and applied to windows, and it prevents a large portion of the sun’s UVA and UVB rays entering the building and warming up the air.
It also reduces sun glare which is an added benefit as it can mean that your home environment is much more comfortable no matter how bright the day is outside.
Underfloor heating
One of the most substantial developments in home temperature regulation is underfloor heating, as it tends to be a lot more efficient than the regular type of radiator heating. The reason for this is that the heat is more easily dispersed around the room, meaning less is needed to raise the temperature to an acceptable level and keep it that way.
Before installing such a heating system in your home, it is worth remembering in that there are two types on the market. The first type is water based, with hot water running through pipes installed under the floor. The second type is electrical element based and is where the elements are controlled by an electrical charge. Each type is often be suited to some properties, in particular, so do your homework before you sign on the dotted line.
Infrared heating
Last of all, if controlling your home temperature is a hot topic then it’s also worth considering infrared heating. This is one of the newest methods of home heating on the market. It is also incredibly efficient.
The reason that it is so economical is that the system works by directing heats to specific areas of the home. In this way you have much more control over the precise temperature of your environment and a lot less energy is wasted in maintaining a constant level of heat across the entire space.
Therefore infrared heating is a good choice too to consider if you are looking to stabilise your homes inner temperature, no matter what the weather is doing outside.
Adventure Travel
Outdoor Activities in Bangkok – Adventure City Guide
Find out how you can explore the streets, canals and local markets within minutes of Bangkok with our Outdoor Activities in Bangkok Adventure City Guide.
Are you looking for an insider’s adventure travel guide for the best outdoor activities in Bangkok?
As part of our Adventure City Guide series, Ian from Where Sidewalks End shares his expert insider tips on the top adventure and outdoor activities to do in Bangkok.
Outdoor Activities in Bangkok – Adventure City Guide – Photo by Evoflash
Why visit Bangkok for adventure?
Bangkok is one of the world’s largest metropolises and a gateway for most of the world to access the rest of South East Asia. With numbers surpassing 14 million people in the Greater Bangkok Region, this is no small player in the world’s super-cities. Of course, having such a long history with foreign visitors, the city has become incredibly established in the world’s tourist sector.
This has allowed it to grow many facets of adventurous activities – making access to something for everyone!
Outdoor Activities in Bangkok
Exploring the Klongs
Outdoor Activities in Bangkok – The Klongs
Klongs are canals that used to feed the entire city with life-giving water, branched off from the city’s main artery – the Chao Phraya River. Today, the locals wouldn’t drink the water if you paid them, but there is still a fascinating life along the Klongs’ banks. There is so much to explore, from floating markets to old houses on stilts, and it gives insight into this ancient way of life!
What’s it cost, and how to get to the Klongs?
You can usually arrange the Klongs from the pier “Saphan Taksin” along the Chao Phraya River. This is conveniently a stop on the Skytrain, making it very easy to access. Usually, you will be renting the entire boat for the day (about 1000 THB, or USD 35) and not paying a per-person rate. So if you can find a few people to go with, the price will drop significantly per person.
Rickshaw City Tours
If you’ve never been to Asia before, Rickshaws are one of the most fun ways to get around. Although they can often be a little more expensive than metered taxis, you get an experience (and a view) that is unparalleled, especially in the busy streets of Bangkok.
What’s it cost?
Occasionally, you can even haggle a deal for a city tour for next to nothing (50-100 THB or $1.50-3 USD), as long as you visit a couple of affiliated ‘custom suit tailors’ throughout the day, as they’ll get a kickback from the shops just for bringing you there… No purchase is necessary.
You can often find Tuk Tuk drivers willing to do this standing along the perimeter of the Kings’ Palace. It may take a few attempts of asking for a ‘special city tour,’ but you will be bound to find someone ready for a cut of this business.
Outdoor Activities in Bangkok – Rickshaw Tours
Local Secret Spot
Chatuchak Market
Though most people wouldn’t consider going to a market an adventure, they probably have never experienced the likes of Chatuchak (also known as JJs). This is one of SE Asia’s LARGEST outdoor markets. It’s so prominent that you can find maps of the market to help navigate. It’s roughly the size of 4 city blocks and is divided into various sections.
You’ll find everything under the sun here, from clothing to handicrafts, food, mobile phones, and even puppies and other cute critters for sale!! It’s bonkers. If it gets too much for you, you can take a break in one of Bangkok’s most famous parks (Chatuchak park), located next to the market.
How to get there?
You can get here via Skytrain (BTS), subway (MRT), taxi, bus, you name it – it’s very accessible! But it’s only open on weekends, from about dawn until 5 or 6 pm at its peak. Some shops stay open longer, but most will be closed by dusk. It’s free entry and a perfect place to buy ANY souvenirs at the end of your time in Thailand.
Suppose you can coordinate to be here on the weekend. I generally hate shopping for ‘stuff,’ but I love this market and its energy!
Outdoor Activities in Bangkok – Chatuchak Markets
Best time of the year to visit Bangkok for adventure?
Bangkok is in the tropics and quite close to the Equator. Of course, this means it’s hot on a year-round basis.
It’s considered the rainy season from May to October, though showers can happen at any time of the year. This is generally a less busy time for tourists, though the rains are not quite as bad as expected and often only last 30 mins-1 hour, cooling the city’s heart. Peak season is in December-January when temperatures are at their most astounding ad driest… though it’s still pretty hot!
And if Bangkok isn’t to your taste, the luxury Koh Samui will be. Endless sandy beach, beautiful clear waters, and nightlife that could be lived in forever. The luxury rental properties are stunning, and we recommend Tempston Luxury villa rentals.
Finally, the reason I love Bangkok for adventure is that…
It’s never-ending. This city is SO BIG that you could get lost in a new neighborhood almost every day. Single. Day. And still find new, exciting things to explore. On my list for the upcoming weeks, I’ve got the Scala Cinema, the Thai Air Force Museum, Papaya Vintage Shop, and the Erawan Museum – to name a few. Every time I explore one place, I learn of 3 more!!
BIO:
From a young age, Ian was always a wanderer. He’s since travelled to all 7 continents, and has spent the majority of his life pursuing this passion. You can follow him in his off-the-beaten-path adventures and discoveries on Twitter, Facebook, Google+ and his travel blog Where Sidewalks End.
Have you been to Bangkok? What were your favorite outdoor activities in Bangkok?
Adventure Travel
Outdoor Activities in Athens: Adventure City Guide
Use our Adventure City Guide for Athens to find all the best Outdoor Activities in Athens; including hiking, kayaking and bungee jumping.
Are you looking for an insider’s adventure travel guide for the best outdoor activities in Athens?
As part of our Adventure City Guide series, Stephen Shreck from A Backpacker’s Tale shares his expert insider tips on the top adventure and outdoor activities to do in Athens, including how to go on holiday to Greece and the costs.
Why visit Athens for adventure?
Athens’ location lends itself to the adventurous. On one side, you then have the Aegean Sea and the beautiful Greek islands begging to be explored. And on the other, you have scenic mountains and hillsides, which are perfect for people who want to hike, mountain bike, and take in some of the countrysides.
Best Outdoor Activities in Athens
Corinth Canal
This world-renowned canal is a stunning sight in itself. Imagine standing on the edge of the platform, looking down the right before diving yourself head-first into the middle of the canal. Taking on the challenge of bungee jumping into Corinth Canal is an adventure you will never forget.
Getting to the Corinth Canal
Hop on the train from Athens to Corinth. The ride takes between 60 – and 70 minutes.
Additional information
The Bungee jump is only available from April to September and costs 60 Euros. Check out Zulu Bungee for more information.
Mt Parnitha
Towering over Athens at 1,400 m, Mt. Parnitha is one of Greece’s most beautiful and scenic mountains.
Not only does Mt. Parnitha have the ancient fortress of Frourio Fills and Spileo Panos, the cave to the Greek god Pan to explore, but it also has numerous hiking and mountain biking trails that allow you to take you across the stunning Greek countryside, making it perfect for sightseers and adventurers of all skill levels.
Outdoor Activities in Athens – Mt Parnitha
Getting to Mt Parnitha
Located just 25k outside of Athens, the easiest way to reach Mt Parnitha is by public bus or car.
Explore a Greek Island
Athens is the doorway to the Greek islands, and a few of them are close enough to enjoy as day trips. Aegina and Hydra Island are the most popular, but if you have to choose only one, then I would recommend Hydra.
This island offers a good mix of sights and plenty of things to do. You can wander the streets of the beautiful port town and get some great photos of the tall marble bell tower of the Church of Assumption. There are areas to enjoy cliff jumping for those seeking more adventurous activities.
Cost of Exploring a Greek Island
How much you will spend will vary on what island and adventure travel activities you choose. However, it’s safe to say that most of the cost will be getting there. Boat fares change all the time, but a reasonable estimate is about 50 euros round trip.
Outdoor Activities in Athens – Visiting Hydra Island – Photo by Francisco J Gonzalez
Best time of the year to visit Athens for adventure?
Many people are worried about visiting Athens since the European debt crisis, but honestly, this is the perfect time to visit. You will have to deal with smaller lines, but you will also find lower prices. Athens’ weather is gorgeous in the summer, making it the perfect time to visit, especially for Island hopping. Mt Parnitha is beautiful in any season, and the view you can get from hiking in the winter might even be more beautiful than in the summer.
Where to stay in Athens?
If you’re a budget traveler, you will want to check out the hostel, City Circus.
It has a great location in the middle of the city, as well as a fantastic atmosphere and a great bar at a budget price. The hostel staff is also accommodating.
Finally, the reason I love Athens for adventure is that…
Athens has a little to offer everyone with beaches, mountains, and extreme sports, like bungee jumping, all right near the city. This makes Athens the perfect home base for your next travel adventure.
Bio:
Stephen Schreck is a world traveller, nomad, and mistake-prone backpacker. He is currently traveling the world full-time making his dream his reality. His adventure travels lead him on a endless quest to try and tackle his growing bucket list.
Make sure you check out his travel blog, A Backpacker’s Tale to follow along with his many entertaining misadventures in random locations. You can also find him on Twitter and Facebook.
With a green focus and an animal-loving attitude, a superb collection of pet-friendly hotels, and many fantastic pooch-welcoming bars and restaurants, Portland is one of the most dog-friendly cities in the USA. Check out our top dog-friendly attractions…
1 Sellwood Riverfront Park
With a 1.5-acre off-leash area that extends to the river, this is a great place to bring your dog, especially if yours loves to run and play with other dogs. You’ll need to put your dog back on the leash to use the connecting paths that take you through the forest, parks, and neighborhood areas, but there are plenty of places to enjoy sniffing around. Make sure you bring your poop bags and drinking water for your dog. The park provides picnic tables where you can rest after your walk.
Funny Jack Russell Terrier Dog Walks Down Street On A Leash. Dog Looks Directly Into Camera—wide Angel Lens Shot.
2 Wildwood Trail, Forest Park
This wilderness area is situated at NW Germantown Road for serious hikers and canines of a high fitness level. Its 30-mile hike takes a couple of days to get around comfortably. It would help if you considered getting a map of Forest Park to find the best way to get around the trails, as some are more challenging than others. You’ll need to keep your dog on a leash the whole time, and you’ll have to bring your water and poop bags as these are not provided.
3 Portland Saturday Market
If you and your pup are the socializing kinds, then the open-air arts and crafts Saturday Market and Farmers Market at 2 SW Naito Parkway is the place to be. You’ll have to keep your dog on the leash while browsing for delicious baked goods, meats, and cheeses, but dogs are made welcome with plenty of drinking water stations and lots of shady spots when the weather gets too hot.
4 Portland International Raceway Dog Park
If you’re looking for somewhere you can let your canine stretch their legs, the fenced-off dog park has the best place to go. This is a very well maintained area where the grass is kept short and neat, and garbage is constantly cleared away, so take poop bags with you. Portland International Raceway is the home of drag racing, auto racing, motorcycle racing, and motocross, as well as Cruise-in specials, and all of these are held at various times throughout the year, so why not make a weekend of it and enjoy plenty of thrills, excitement, music, and great food and drink. Remember, though, that your pet must be adequately supervised, on a leash at all times, and must be cleaned up after. Some events do not allow pets, so check before you book.
group of dogs in the park walking with a professional dog walker
5 Plum Hill Vineyards
How about this for something a little different? Plum Hill Vineyards, situated between Forest Grove and Gaston, this family-owned concern brews its wines, and not for nothing do they say it’s ‘your dog’s favorite winery’! It has to be one of the very few places where you can enjoy the company of your canine friend and, at the same time sample, some of the delicious wines the Plum Hill Vineyard has to offer. This place is genuinely dog-friendly as well-behaved dogs (and their humans) are allowed into the tasting room and onto the outside patio area. A large fenced dog run right next to the Vineyard where you and your dog can play. Poop bags, water, and treats are thoughtfully provided for you.
6 International Rose Test Garden
If you love to walk around well-tended gardens full to the brim with the sweet aroma of more than 10,000 beautiful roses, other plants, and attractions, then this is well worth a visit. The International Rose Test Garden, the oldest public garden in the US, is pet-friendly and extremely easy to get around on paved paths. You can take one of the free public tours or stroll around at your own pace to enjoy the fountain, statue, and gardens. Why not bring a picnic lunch and sit a while to enjoy the superb view, provided it is a clear day, over the city and Mt Hood in the distance. The garden is open all year round, but you should visit in June to see the roses at their best. There is free admission and a gift shop on-site as well.
Four funny, cute dogs ex abandoned homeless, adopted by good people and having fun on the pillows in the pet shop enjoying a new life selective focus
7 Sandy River Delta, Thousand Acres Park
Although known to locals as simply Thousand Acres, and located just off I-84, 20 minutes from downtown Portland, this is 1,400 acres of doggy paradise. Consisting of open fields, wetlands, hiking trails, two rivers (the Sandy River and Columbia River), and numerous blackberry bushes, you and your pup can enjoy as much off-leash fun as possible. If your dog loves to swim, run, or just take a stroll at your side, you should come here to appreciate all that the Thousand Acres has to offer. It isn’t solely for dog walkers either – the Park is popular with birders, waterfowl hunters, horseback riders, and mountain bikers. There is one part of the park that you won’t be allowed into; however, as one-third of it is an off-limits wildlife habitat, so be aware of this. The park is open all year round from dawn until dusk, and there is car parking on site. The US Forest Service is responsible for the upkeep and development of the Park and for maintaining the off-leash regulations for doggy visitors. These state that dogs should be kept on a leash in the parking lot and within 100 feet of the Confluence Trail.
8 Hotel Monaco
Canine and human visitors to Portland will need a dog-friendly place to stay, and the Hotel Monaco is one of the best. The hotel welcomes all dogs, whether large or small, pure-breed or mutt. On arrival, you and your pup are greeted by the hotel’s canine, a Golden Retriever, to make you all feel at home. You can order a dog bed, food and water bowls, and mats if you don’t want to take your own. The hotel’s nightly wine reception welcomes guests and their pups, and you’ll be glad to know there are many dog-friendly restaurants nearby.
We have been wearing out our jandals (Kiwi for flip-flops) on our travel adventures around the world since 2009. We think our blog is thought provoking and a little witty. But we have been proven wrong before. Find out more about us here...
