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Ways to exercise or walk during constant traveling hours

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For many of us out there who are not fond of traveling and for them, it can be a big and hectic process especially when the flights are being delayed. Initially, it depends on the purpose of traveling, i-e: if you are traveling for vacations or the business, it can be difficult to stay healthy, relax and feel safe especially with all the scary news and stories of pandemics due to the passengers flying overseas. Sometimes it might sound like everyone is doomed to get sick during a flight. But that is not always the case.

  •         Health and fitness concerns related to flights:

Most people don’t realize that while sitting in a cramped metal tube with many other fellow passengers from around the world, at 8,000 feet of pressure, your body isn’t the same. Your immune system gets stressed and even breathing is more labored due to less availability of oxygen in the air at such high altitude. Also, the breathing system is under pressure because of the air’s diminished humidity.

In addition to all these, sitting idle for a couple of hours or more and eating processed food, caffeine, and sugary products adds more to the deteriorating health status of your body. The worst of all is the jet lag, making your body turn upside down. So the question arises, is it possible to stay healthy and fit during long-haul flights?

Another very common condition is a result of long flights which is generally termed as an economy-class syndrome or deep vein thrombosis. During air travel, the long durations of immobility results in the development of clots and cramped legs, the reason being low cabin pressure, dehydration and immobility. The doctors and physicians suggest passengers especially in long flights to create a situation where they can stretch themselves and move their limbs and legs for joints and muscle movement and regulated blood flow especially in lower half of the body to prevent such conditions.

Understanding all these health and fitness-related concerns, recently at Philadelphia Airport various health and fitness-related trends started to show up. The addition of yoga rooms, stationary exercise bikes and walking tracks scattered throughout the terminals making your overall traveling experience much better than it was ever before. 

  •         Simple exercise routines at airports and during flight:

During the flights when you sit upright for longer durations, it tends to stiff and tense your muscles. Also, it can be a cause of feet swelling due to fluid collection in your feet. To avoid certain conditions and prevent deep vein thrombosis, you are suggested to stretch before flights or even during the flight when the seatbelt sign turns off. Even a few laps to the toilet, simple walking, can be a good thing (if you are not disturbing other fellow passengers).

Some airports around the globe, like the Philadelphia Airport, have specified areas- the Philadelphia airport’s fitness zones, around the terminals for you to stretch yourself a bit before taking off. They have brought gym directly to the concourse and also created walking paths both inside and outside the terminals and the yoga rooms with loaner mats, encouraging easy access and low-impact exercise for everyone in the vicinity.

You can even pay for the gyms that are found nearby and at the airport terminals or hop on the stationary bikes and ride for a couple of minutes. Make sure to make most of the airport terminal space and amenities.  

  •         Philadelphia Airport Marriott fitness center:

The Philadelphia Airport Marriott is located at a very convenient location. Connected directly connected to Philadelphia Airport Terminal B, it allows passengers to get settled with an exceptionally accessible location, into comfortable areas quickly before getting lost in the sightseeing of the city. It is not only located near the Airport premises but is also in the center of all famous attractions and corporate hubs. You can just ho on an airport shuttle for free which departs every 20 minutes or you can simply walk straight to the gates to the hotel. You can also book the shuttle service on-demand between 12:00 PM to 1:00 AM. For health and fitness freaks, the Marriot is facilitated with a fully-equipped 24-hour fitness center. You can maintain your workout routine while in Philadelphia and can enjoy modern cardio equipment, free weights, and dumbbells, workout space with flat-screen TV’s throughout and total body exercise machines.

  •         Other fitness centers near Philadelphia International Airport:

ü  New Old City Ironworks- Situated about 15 minutes away from the airport by taxi ride and charge only $ 10-day pass.

ü  The Sweat fitness- Located just 20 minutes away from the airport by taxi ride and charge only $15 per day.

ü  The Ridley Sports Club- Situated about 10 minutes away from the airport by taxi ride, one day rates are free and charge only $10.00 after that. You can do aerobics, indoor tracks, aquatics, weights, racquetball and much more.

ü  The Bally Fitness- Located just 15 minutes away from the airport by taxi ride.

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  •         Exercise during flight:

If you don’t have enough time to spare and head towards specified gym and fitness centers, you can still perform simple and easy exercises (better to say stretching exercises) during the flight, just to stay active and not to exhaust yourself. Like;

  1. Knee lift

While sitting, you can gently and slowly bend your knees in the upward direction, towards you, one leg at one time. This simple exercise will improve blood flow in your lower body.

  1. Foot stretch and pump

While standing (make sure to find support to balance your body), lift your heels and stretch as high as you can. Then put both feet back on the floor and this time, raise your toes upwards and stretch as far as you can. It is the best stretching exercise for your lower body, especially feet, and legs.

  1. Shoulder roll

By creating gentle and simple circular movements for your shoulders and stretching them, improves the blood flow and relaxes joints. First, hunch your shoulders forward and then move them upward, backward and then downward, and repeated the cycle gently moving your shoulders.

  1. Knee hug

For a knee hug, clasp your knee while bending slightly forward and lifting your leg like hugging it towards your chest.

  1. Forward bend

Even simply bending forward while keeping your back straight and touching your thighs, lower limbs, foot and floor (entirely your choice and stretching capacity) is proved to be beneficial. Slowly ease yourself back up after holding for 10-15 seconds.

  1. Neckroll

Keeping your shoulders relaxed, drop your ear towards your shoulder, and then gently roll your head from side to side, at least 10 times on each side.

Exercises at the airport:

Traveling means longer hours of idle sitting such as layovers, long flying hours, delayed flights and so on. After all of that holiday food, it feels good to stay fit and all of the downtimes at the airport are the perfect time to get some stretching. Some simple exercises you can do at the airport can be a great help.

  1.     Lunges:

It is a single-leg bodyweight exercise that works your hips, hamstrings, and your inner thighs. In the less crowded area, lunge out one leg ensuring your front knee go past your toes.

  1.     Squats:

The Squat is a lower-body exercise. This exercise targets the thighs, quadriceps, hamstrings and the glutes. Place your feet hip-width apart and put your body weight in your heels. Squat to 90 degrees and gently balance your body back to the normal standing position.

  1.     Tricep Dips:

Tricep dips are one of the best exercise targeting arm strength. While sitting on a chair or a bench, set your body and feet so that your upper body will be vertical. Holding from the edge, lower yourself down and extend your legs.

  1.     Chair Push-Ups:

Align your body straight while placing your hands on a chair and lower your chest while bending the elbows.

  1.     Seated Leg Lifts:

While raising your legs out in front of you, squeeze your thighs. Keep your focus on the lower body. Not only do seated single-leg lifts work your core, but they can also help stabilize your knees after an injury.

  1.     Wall Sit:

Sit up against a wall with your legs at a 90-degree angle and hold it for as long as you can. Simple!

  •         Exercise tips for non-gym persons:

A question arises, when you are not much of a gym, exercise or a yoga person and after tiresome flight hours, not much of strength is left to sweat. So, we are here to guide you along the path which is much easier, convenient and most interesting of all is, not even generally considered as an exercise.

Some several stretches and techniques will not only improve the benefits of walking but also help prevent injury. Here the idea is, even the simplest moments of the body and joints can prove to be beneficial for health. Using the following techniques will help improve the benefits of walking:

ü  The majority of the forward motion should start with the hips and each stride should feel natural like neither too long nor too short stride.

ü  Walk briskly but don’t forget to carry on a conversation generally as to maintain enough breath.

ü  To get optimum aerobic benefit, maintain a good form while walking with each step, keeping in mind to protect your back and avoid injury.

ü  Keep the stomach stand fully upright and pulled in slightly as it is important to help support the trunk of the body and the spine by using the abdominal muscles.

ü  Keep the shoulders relaxed but straight, head up and centered between the shoulders; avoid slouching forward and the eyes focused straight ahead at the horizon.

ü  Avoid leaning forward as you walk.

If you are stranded at Philadelphia airport, there’s more to do now. The new exercise equipment such as elliptical machines and exercise bikes have been installed recently for travelers to use in the terminal representing new development in the growing availability of fitness facilities. The free-standing low-impact cycling machines consist of devices that measure heart rate, pedals and seats and are free of charge. Also wooden rocking chairs are positioned near the shops and restaurants near the terminals in an attempt to tempt travelers to extend their sitting time before boarding their plane. Also, you can find pop-up gym that moves between the airport’s terminals every two weeks so that the passengers can have a light workout and stretching.

Cole is one half of New Zealand's leading adventure travel blogging couple who have been wearing out their jandals around the world since 2009. He loves any adventure activities and anything to do with the water whether it is Surfing, Diving, Swimming, Snorkeling or just lounging nearby on the beach. You can follow Cole on Google+. Or consider following us via RSS Feed, Twitter, Facebook and subscribe to our Newsletter.

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Travel Tips

Visiting the UK for the First Time? 10 Things to Consider Doing (2024)

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Are you planning a trip to the United Kingdom and feeling a little overwhelmed with all there is to do? No worries! The UK is packed with history, culture, and beautiful landscapes, making it an exciting destination for any traveler. To help you get started, here are ten things you should consider doing on your first visit.

1. Explore London’s Iconic Landmarks

London is often the starting point for many visitors, and for good reason. The city is bursting with iconic sights that you’ve likely seen in movies or read about in books. Be sure to check out:

  • The Tower of London: Learn about its rich history and see the Crown Jewels.
  • Buckingham Palace: Try to catch the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
  • The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben: Snap some photos of these famous structures.
  • The London Eye: Get a bird’s eye view of the city from this giant Ferris wheel.

Walking along the River Thames will give you a great perspective of the city’s skyline, too!

2. Take a Day Trip to Stonehenge

Just a couple of hours away from London, Stonehenge is a prehistoric marvel that has stood on the British landscape for thousands of years. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most famous landmarks in the UK. Many tours are available that can provide round-trip transportation and insightful commentary about this mysterious stone circle.

3. Discover the Scottish Highlands

If time allows, venture north to Scotland and experience the breathtaking beauty of the Scottish Highlands. With its rugged mountains, serene lochs (lakes), and sweeping glens (valleys), it’s an area of outstanding natural beauty. You might even want to try spotting the elusive Loch Ness Monster while you’re there!

4. Play the Irish Lottery

While exploring the UK, many travelers try their luck with the Irish Lottery. While based in Ireland, the Irish Lotto remains popular in the UK among locals and visitors alike. People can purchase a ticket from authorized retailers like Lottoland.

5. Visit Historical University Towns

The UK is home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities, and the towns of Oxford and Cambridge are well worth a visit. Wander around the historic college buildings, admire the architecture, and maybe even take a punt (boat) down the river. Both towns have a unique charm and are brimming with history and culture.

6. Enjoy Traditional British Cuisine

Your trip won’t be complete without trying some traditional British food. Fish and chips are a must-have, ideally enjoyed by the seaside. Also, don’t miss out on a classic Sunday roast at a local pub, complete with Yorkshire pudding and gravy. For something sweet, afternoon tea is a charming British tradition where you can indulge in scones, sandwiches, and a selection of teas.

7. Wander Through the Lake District

The Lake District is England’s largest National Park and a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its stunning lakes, forests, and mountains. It’s the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you prefer hiking, cycling, or simply picnicking by the water’s edge, the natural beauty here is sure to leave you in awe. Don’t forget to visit the charming villages like Windermere and Keswick.

8. Experience the Welsh Culture in Cardiff

Cardiff, the capital of Wales, offers a blend of ancient history and modern Welsh culture. Explore Cardiff Castle, stroll through Bute Park, or catch a rugby match to experience the national sport and passion of Wales. The city also boasts a vibrant waterfront at Cardiff Bay, where you can find delicious Welsh cuisine and entertainment.

9. Attend a West End Show in London

For theatre lovers, attending a show in London’s West End is a must-do. The area is famous for its high-quality theatrical productions, ranging from musicals and comedies to classic dramas and new works. There’s something magical about spending an evening in one of the historic theatres, enjoying world-class performances that you’ll remember long after the curtain falls.

10. Visit the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland

A trip to the UK wouldn’t be complete without seeing the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland. This natural wonder consists of 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, give or take, resulting from an ancient volcanic eruption. Legend says it was built by giants, and as you walk the coastal path with the Atlantic Ocean crashing beside you, it’s easy to see why this myth persists. It’s a truly unique and unforgettable sight.

Remember, the UK is more than just its sights; it’s the experiences and the people that make a trip truly memorable. So, chat with locals, take in the scenery, and immerse yourself in the culture. Have a fantastic trip!

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Did you get receive an inheritance or own the Lottoland’s lottery and are planning a trip to the UK? Here are 10 things to consider doing next time you visit the United Kingdom.

 

 

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Exploring Equatorial Guinea: A Journey through the Heart of Africa

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Tucked away in the western part of Central Africa lies Equatorial Guinea, a nation often referred to as the “Heart of Africa” due to its geographical location straddling the equator. This small yet captivating country comprises the mainland region called Rio Muni and several islands, with Bioko being the largest and most populous. Exploring Equatorial Guinea is akin to embarking on a journey through a microcosm of Africa’s diverse landscapes, cultures, and history. So, if you are in the mood to plan a trip to this wonderful land, make sure to check out eVisa in order to keep things going easily and plan stress-free.

A Tapestry of Landscapes

Equatorial Guinea’s geography is as varied as it is stunning. From dense rainforests to pristine beaches and volcanic landscapes, this country offers a tapestry of natural wonders waiting to be discovered. The lush rainforests of Bioko Island are a haven for biodiversity, home to rare species such as the drill monkey and the African grey parrot. Hiking through the dense foliage, one can encounter cascading waterfalls, hidden lagoons, and endemic flora that thrive in this ecological paradise.

Venturing to the mainland, Rio Muni unveils a different facet of Equatorial Guinea’s landscape. Here, expansive savannas stretch as far as the eye can see, interrupted by winding rivers and rolling hills. The Monte Alen National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, offers intrepid travelers the chance to witness elephants, gorillas, and other wildlife roaming freely in their natural habitat. Explorations along the Rio Muni River reveal traditional villages where ancient customs and traditions are still preserved, providing a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of Equatorial Guinea.

Cultural Encounters

Equatorial Guinea is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from indigenous tribes, Spanish colonial heritage, and neighboring African nations. This diversity is reflected in the country’s vibrant music, dance, and cuisine. Traditional rhythms reverberate through the streets during festivals and celebrations, where locals clad in colorful attire showcase their ancestral dances passed down through generations.

The capital city, Malabo, offers a fascinating blend of old-world charm and modernity. Spanish colonial architecture stands side by side with contemporary structures, creating a unique juxtaposition of styles. The bustling markets of Malabo are a feast for the senses, with vendors selling fresh produce, spices, and handicrafts crafted by local artisans. Exploring the city’s museums and galleries provides insight into Equatorial Guinea’s history, from its pre-colonial roots to its struggle for independence and subsequent development.

Island Escapes

Equatorial Guinea’s islands offer a perfect escape for those seeking sun, sand, and sea. Bioko Island boasts pristine beaches fringed by coconut palms, where azure waters beckon travelers to swim, snorkel, and dive amidst colorful coral reefs teeming with marine life. The island’s volcanic peaks provide a dramatic backdrop for exploration, with opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and even volcano trekking for the adventurous.

Off the coast of Rio Muni lies the tranquil island of Annobón, a secluded paradise untouched by mass tourism. Here, time seems to stand still as visitors immerse themselves in the laid-back island lifestyle, characterized by warm hospitality and breathtaking natural beauty. Snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, exploring hidden coves, or simply unwinding on deserted beaches are among the activities that make Annobón a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

Conclusion

Exploring Equatorial Guinea is a journey of discovery, where every corner reveals a new facet of Africa’s rich heritage and natural splendor. From the lush rainforests of Bioko to the pristine beaches of Annobón, this small yet diverse country offers endless opportunities for adventure, cultural immersion, and relaxation. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking an off-the-beaten-path destination, Equatorial Guinea promises an unforgettable experience that will leave a lasting impression on all who visit.

 

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Travel Tips

How Gaming Inspires Real-World Adventure

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Video games have gone well beyond just entertainment; they can now open doors to real-world exploration and adventure too. Their unique ability to take players to new worlds, albeit virtual ones, can motivate players to go out on their own to experience those locations, cultures, and adventures first-hand. A trend that’s gaining popularity with gamers is seeking out these virtual experiences in the real world to bridge the gap between the two realms. After all, they’ve already visited these diverse cultures virtually. In this article, we look at the impact gaming has had on our desire to explore and connect with the world around us.

The Influence of Gaming on Travel Choices

The immersive worlds of video games serve as more than just backdrops for storytelling and gameplay; they can be jumping-off points for real-world exploration. Games like Assassin’s Creed, which explores various historical settings, including cities, landscapes, and cultures in detail, and Yakuza, which unfolds the heart of Tokyo, have piqued the curiosity in gamers, motivating them to explore these destinations themselves.

These games have rich narratives and often take place in authentic settings, giving players a close-up look at the spirit of different locales, from the ancient streets of Rome to the bustling districts of modern-day Japan. This virtual tourism not only enriches the gaming experience but also influences travel choices, as players seek to experience the depth and authenticity of the cultures and places they’ve grown to admire in their digital adventures.

Las Vegas and Online Casinos

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Las Vegas is one of the best examples of how gaming—video games and online casinos—inspires real-world adventure. For those who don’t live in the Southwestern United States, getting to the entertainment capital of the world requires planning and long-distance travel. However, you can find aspects of the city’s glittering appeal in various video games and online platforms that offer a virtual taste of one of the world’s most famous cities.

These digital experiences, from the strategy of blackjack to slot machines’ virtual spins, mirror the excitement of Las Vegas, motivating gamers to experience the city in person. Titles like Fallout: New Vegas and numerous casino-themed games have significantly shaped perceptions, enticing gamers with a virtual Las Vegas adventure to seek the authentic entertainment, sounds, and sights of the Strip, boosting tourism as players pursue the excitement they’ve first encountered online.

From Virtual to Reality: Other Popular Destinations Inspired by Gaming

Within video games, distant and fictional worlds are available for us to explore with the tap of a controller or click of the mouse, which can inspire real-world curiosity among audiences. If a player explores Tokyo through the Persona series, they’ll get a vibrant, stylized glimpse into Japanese culture, fashion, and daily life, which can encourage fans to get out and explore the city’s actual streets, shrines, and districts on their next vacation.

Similarly, the Spider-Man games set in New York City allow players to swing through the different Manhattan boroughs, which can foster a desire to experience the Big Apple’s iconic landmarks in person.  One of the biggest draws of the Assassin’s Creed series is its historical settings that educate players on different eras and locations, including everything from Renaissance Italy to Ancient Egypt, making history accessible and intriguing. These games entertain while at the same time acting as interactive travel guides, encouraging cultural exploration and a deeper appreciation of the history and significance of their real-world counterparts.

The Role of Augmented Reality (AR) Games

Augmented Reality (AR) games, like Pokémon GO, have changed the way we interact with our surroundings, turning boring everyday activities into a backdrop for fun and exciting adventures. AR works by overlaying virtual elements onto the real world and these games encourage players to venture outdoors, explore new locations, and even travel far from home as they try to collect as many Pokémon as they can along the way, making it one of the most unique gaming experiences available. Pokémon GO, in particular, has had a big role in creating community events and gatherings, bringing together players of all ages in public spaces, parks, and landmarks worldwide.

The Pokémon Go phenomenon has gotten people off the couch and engaging in physical activity and exploration while also bringing together communities for a shared adventure among players. Although there hasn’t been another game as successful as Pokémon GO, its success demonstrates the potential to blend virtual gaming experiences with real-world adventures, making the act of exploration both fun and rewarding. Through these interactive experiences, AR games have the power to transform local neighborhoods and distant locales into playgrounds for the imagination, further blurring the lines between the digital and the physical worlds.

 

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Meet Cole and Adela

Cole and AdelaWe 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...

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