Choosing the Right Pair of Glasses for Your Holiday

Going on holiday means a lot of preparation, from booking travel and accommodation, arranging activities and remembering to pack everything you need. If you want to make the most of your time away and look stylish, it’s important to find the right glasses to take with you.

Something versatile

If you’re trying to travel light and reduce how much you spend, a new pair of Ray-Ban’s could be a good investment. Their stylish frames go with most looks and you can choose from your favourite colours to find the pair which suit you best. The lenses are also available for wearers who have trouble seeing long distances, or in multifocal for both long and short distances, those who need glasses for reading, or fashion-conscious wearers without a prescription.

Consider the weather

If you’re travelling somewhere warm, you can find a stylish pair of sunglasses, with or without a prescription.

If the weather is going to be more uncertain, wraparound glasses offer wind protection. This is great if you’re spending a lot of time on outdoor activities such as cycling, horse riding or sailing.

This lets you make the most of your holiday without worrying about the wind making your eyes sore, or having your vision obscured when it’s crucial to see what you’re doing and observe your surroundings.

Matching your outfits

The good thing about glasses is most styles will look great with your outfit, whether you’re dressed for the beach, attending a sporting event or exploring the local area.

If you like to have a choice of glasses, you could buy several cheaper pairs, besides your main pair. This lets you choose a style depending on your mood, and can protect your main pair if you’re taking part in activities where they could get lost or broken.

Durability

If you are worried about breaking your glasses on holiday, opt for a more durable pair. Thinner frames may be lighter but can break easier depending on the materials they are made from. Stainless steel frames can be more durable. So can titanium frames, though these tend to be more expensive. It’s important to think about the durability of your lenses too. Polycarbonate or trivex lenses are the best and most widely available options if you’re hoping to reduce the risk of damaging them.

Comfort

If you’re only packing one pair of glasses, it’s important to make sure they’re comfortable before you leave. If you’re buying a new pair, wear them for at least a few days before your holiday. This gives you enough time to discover any discomfort they might cause. You don’t want to be away from home with only one pair of glasses, which are uncomfortable to wear.

Getting the right pair of glasses for your holiday lets you get on with everything you planned to do, without having to worry about your glasses. They’ll go with most outfits and help you look and feel stylish while getting the most out of your holiday.

What Are the COVID Regulations for Entering Different Countries?…

The COVID-19 virus changed the way we live. Travelling abroad is no longer as simple as it used to be. You can’t just book flights and turn up in a country on a whim. Instead, there are forms that need to be completed and entry requirements, such as negative PCR tests and vaccinations.

Each country’s entry requirements are different. In some, only a test is necessary for entry. In others, two vaccinations and a test are required.

In this article, you will find a list of the world’s most popular travel destinations and their corresponding entry requirements:

The United States

The United States was one of the countries hit hardest by the COVID-19 pandemic. As this article is being written, there have been over 760,000 COVID-related fatalities there. Because of this, the United States’ travel regulations have been particularly strict.

The U.S. has recently changed its entry requirements in order to encourage tourism from countries like the United Kingdom, however. Currently, unvaccinated non-US citizens are not permitted entry. Those who are vaccinated are required to order an observed lateral flow test from an FDA authorised lateral flow test provider, which they must perform the day after they arrive. These lateral flow tests are much cheaper than the PCR tests required by many European countries, which will unquestionably incentivize travel to the U.S.

The United Arab Emirates

The UAE is one of the world’s most popular travel destinations. Because of this, COVID-19 entry requirements may change at short notice. It’s very important that you check before travelling so that you can keep up to date with the latest information. Currently, tourists and visitors travelling to the United Arab Emirates must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test prior to departure. Upon arrival, travellers will have to again present their negative test certificate. The tests must be undertaken no more than 72 hours before departure. Vaccinations are not required at this time.

Mexico

Before travelling to Mexico, the Mexican government require you to register on the Mexico Vuela Seguro Platform. You will be asked to present your QR code from the platform upon arrival at the airport, prior to departure. At this time, you are not required to be vaccinated or to present a negative test in order to enter Mexico, by land or air. However, if you present symptoms of COVID-19 upon arrival, you will need to refer yourself to the International Health Team. After arriving, you will also be asked to fill out a health questionnaire.

Japan

Japan is another of the world’s most popular travel destinations. Unfortunately, tourism to Japan at this time is not permitted. However, if you need to enter Japan for work or study, then assuming you have not been to any of the countries forbidden from entry into Japan in the last 14 days, then you will be able to gain entry. You can find this list on Japan’s official tourism website. Those who can gain entry into Japan are required to provide evidence of a negative PCR test conducted no more than 72 hours before departure.

Italy

If you are vaccinated, then you can enter Italy at any time, for any reason, without having to self-isolate, provided that you show evidence of a negative PCR or antigen test and fill in the country’s passenger locator form. If you are not vaccinated, then you must fill in the passenger locator form; show evidence of a negative PCR or antigen test; contact the country’s Prevention Department and inform them of your entry; travel to your hotel or villa by private transport, and remain in self-isolation for no less than five days. After your fifth day in isolation, you must take another PCR or antigen test.

Turkey

Anyone who is travelling into Turkey including Turkish citizens from green-listed countries is asked to complete an online form no more than 72 hours prior to departure. If you are transiting Turkey, then this is not required. Anyone who is aged 12 and over will need proof of COVID-19 vaccinations, recovery from COVID-19, or a negative PCR or antigen test. If you are arriving in Turkey from one of the country’s amber-listed countries, then you will be asked to submit a negative PCR test taken no more than 72 hours prior to arrival. You will also need to quarantine for 14 days in one of the government’s approved hotels. You will need to have booked the hotel prior to arrival and will be asked to present evidence.

As this article demonstrates, travelling abroad isn’t easy anymore. With the exception of travelling to the United States, it’s also very expensive. PCR tests cost a lot of money. Make sure to follow the entry requirements of the country that you’re travelling to, otherwise, you could be detained and sent home.

Tips For A More Luxurious RV Experience on The…

Getting into RV travel is fun for the entire family, but it can often be a rather non-glamorous experience. However, there are many things you can do to spruce up your RV and make your vacation a five-star experience. By following our top tips, your camper will get the makeover it desperately needs.

1.  Update your kitchen

Many people use disposable dishes when on the road and it’s understandable – you can just chuck it into the bin after use. Though it may be more convenient, it is a practice that can really lessen the dining experience in your camper. Real silverware and regular plates are much more sustainable, plus they can make you feel like you’re at a high-end restaurant. Be careful to store them properly so they don’t break while your RV is in motion.

2.  Redecorate your living space

Installing new vinyl flooring can revamp your RV’s interior. There are many different patterns out there but we recommend vinyl which looks like wooden flooring. Another thing you can do is put up stick-on wall tiles to glam up your kitchen area. When it comes to seating, everyone could benefit from adding some new cozy cushions! Also, don’t be afraid of home decor items – gorgeously framed photos or macrame pieces can update your RV’s look with little to no effort.

3.  Update your heating option

There’s nothing less luxurious than freezing in your camper. This is why it’s crucial to have the best 12v heater for campervan on the market. You can find some great options by Webasto, for example. Staying warm even on the coldest of winter nights has never been easier!

4.  Get a new TV

Most campers come with outdated TV sets installed which is why one of the best ways to doll up your RV is to get a modern flatscreen. When choosing a TV you have to make sure that it can properly fit your living area, you don’t want it to be a nuisance during your vacation. An additional benefit of a good TV is that you can keep your young ones busy during the longer rides.

5.  Invest in a sound system

If you enjoy listening to music while you drive, a proper sound system is a must-have. Nothing is more annoying than bad speakers, especially if you’re used to headbanging every waking hour. This is why you should invest in a high-end sound system. Just make sure you pick speakers which have Bluetooth connectivity so that you can connect them to your smart device. Once you follow our tip, there will be never ending dance parties in your RV!

6.  Get a signal booster

To modernize your camper experience, you should think about installing a signal booster into your RV. Nowadays, we’re so used to being connected all the time that one weekend trip without adequate reception can feel like torture. Of course, having a signal at all times is also important for safety and GPS. There are many boosters that only improve your cell reception, but we recommend you gear up with a WiFi booster too. Though most campgrounds will provide you with the Internet, it’s oftentimes extremely slow and headache-inducing to use. We all know you can’t feel luxe without fast internet access

7.  Choose top locations

What will truly take your trip to the next level is to plan it with top locations in mind. No one can feel glamorous in a worn-down campsite, which is why it’s crucial to research your destination well before you embark on your RV journey. Many campsites offer luxurious amenities such as swimming pools, fine dining, and even spa treatments.

How To Make Your Travels Far More Enjoyable

Traveling is supposed to be enjoyable, right? Aside from the occasional grumpy passenger on the plane and that occasional moment when we miss our home comforts, many of us have a lot of fun while away.

But if you get the feeling that your travels aren’t as enjoyable as they should be, there could be some reasons why. With this in mind, we have some ideas on ways in which things can be improved for you. Have a read and see how much of a difference they make to your next travel adventure.

#1: Pack light

If you overload your bags with everything but your kitchen sink, you are going to feel weighed down before you actually start on your travels. You will incur airport fees too, and that won’t improve your mood when you’re standing in line for your flight. If you overpack, you might also spend more time thinking about your belongings than the actual destination you are jetting off to, perhaps with fears that your valuable items might get stolen at any moment.

So, here’s the thing. Don’t cram everything you own into your bag. Follow our packing tips and focus on the essentials you need for your trip. Your mood will be as light as your bags if you do.

#2: Don’t be put off by the rain

There are some places where it’s sunshine all year round, so rain might not always be an issue. But if you choose a location that has variable weather, then there may be times when you get a little wet. It’s at these times that you might start to feel miserable. You might also decide to return to your hotel room to while away the hours until the rain stops.

But here’s our advice: Don’t let the rain ruin your holiday. Don’t let it dampen your mood. And don’t let it turn your travels into a washout. Pack your rain gear so you can still enjoy some outdoor activities. Or if it’s really bad, take part in a fun indoor activity instead of spending more time at the hotel. Visit an escape room, leisure center, museum, indoor climbing wall, or any other type of place that could up the fun factor.

#3: Do something you have never done before

Sure, you could do what you have always done in the past. You could visit the same places, take part in the same activities, and sleep in the usual accommodation. And while there’s nothing necessarily wrong with any of that, falling into a routine can make your travels a little too samey.

So, instead of falling into repeated patterns, consider stepping out of your comfort zone. Try activities that could be considered dangerously fun, such as river rafting and shark cage diving. Eat foods you have never eaten before, opting for local delicacies instead of those foods that are similar to what you have back at home. And don’t assume you need to stay in a hotel. There are all kinds of accommodation types you could try, including these unusual places. By doing something different, your travel adventure will be far more memorable, so consider the comfort zones you need to step out of.

#4: Put down your phone

Smartphones are both a blessing and a curse. Yes, they can be useful while you’re away, as you can use them for taking photos and keeping in touch with people at home. If you download a GPS app on your phone, you can reduce the risk of getting lost too! But if you spend all of your time looking at your phone, perhaps scrolling through your Facebook pages or taking selfies of yourself at every popular attraction, you will undermine your travel experiences.

When you put down your phone, you will get to experience more of the world around you. You will see the world through your own eyes and not through your phone’s tiny camera lens. There will be opportunities for you to communicate with the people around you, including the locals who may be all too happy to chat with you. You will be less prone to stress too as if you’re forever opening up your social media pages, you might see something that annoys rather than delights you. So, put down your phone and enjoy your surroundings. You might miss out on so much otherwise and that could hinder your enjoyment.

#5: Wander off the beaten track

There’s nothing wrong with visiting all of the usual touristy places while you’re away. It’s okay to hire a guide to show you around too. But if you spend all of your time wandering along the paths well-traveled, you could miss out on something glorious that could be in another direction.

So, don’t always follow your guidebook and don’t always go to where tourists are congregated. Explore by wandering along the paths less traveled, as who knows what you might see when you turn a new corner. You might see very little but then again, you could stumble upon a place of immense scenic beauty that takes your breath away. There could be unique eating places and stores that you might miss out on too, especially if you head to touristy spots with all of the usual big brands. But if you head to the places where the locals hang out, you might stumble across something against the norm.

#6: Slow down

If you’re rushing from one place to the next in an attempt to see absolutely everything your travel destination has to offer, you’re going to tire yourself out. You won’t get to experience each place to its fullest either, especially if you don’t stay for longer than a few minutes.

But when you slow down, you will get more of a feel for the places you visit. You will have more time to relax too and that will do much for both your body and mind. So, reduce your itinerary so you don’t have to rush everywhere. Focus on the places that you really want to see and leave anything else for the next time you travel.

So, we hope these tips were useful! By following them, you might enjoy your travels more, so give them some thought the next time you’re away.

How To Build a Stock Trading Platform in 8…

Plan on How to Build a Stock Trading Platform

After Robinhood filed for IPO (though the excitement was a bit short-lived) and the January GameStop event made trading fun, users ran to get into it. At least, in America, apps like Robinhood, Webull Financial, and Fidelity have gotten lots of traction. Soon, European traders will get into trading-through-apps too—solutions the Trade Republic are already getting their rounds led by Sequoia and raising $900M. This article will talk about these solutions and explain how to build a stock trading app in eight steps.

1 Step – Initiate The Project

First, determine the type of your trading app, decide what users will trade with on your platform — stocks, cryptocurrencies, CFD, and ETF are the most common options.

Decide who’ll be the primary audience of your app — expert traders, first-time traders, traders who aren’t particularly good at distinguishing setups or interested only in healthcare stocks, etc. Don’t be tempted to divide your audience by age or gender. Segment them by what pains they have within trading and what jobs your app will allow them to do better. (Like, if that’s an app for intermediate traders, live support or a premium community of more experienced traders will help them hop onto the “advanced” train, etc.) Answers to your questions will become your value proposition (VP).

Study your competitors — apps that serve the same people with the same pains. It’s tempting to attempt threatening E*Crypto or Robinhood. There are other apps like Schwab Mobile (great for beginners), Merrill Edge (that converts cash into stocks automatically from your card), Thinkorswim (that provides a live scanner great for day trading), and so on. Determine what you can do better than them, study reviews of their apps. That’ll help you to refine your positioning.

2 Step – Determine the Scope

Figure out what features will allow you to express your VP most efficiently.

Common features for stock trading platforms are a dashboard with stock charts from stock databases and corresponding company profiles, payment gateways, search, authentication, and user profiles. Through UX research, figure out what users are unhappy with the standard look/feel of these features in other apps, and improve them. (For instance, it’s useful to make an option of paper stock trading — trading with fake money — visible if you target beginners — or to include customization for the way charts look, because lots of people, for instance, like candlestick charts better than bar charts.)

Then, think about more complex features: whether or not your app will provide live updates, will it be possible for users to create watchlists or look up news about companies they follow, will the app offer analytics of the user’s previous trading activity, etc. Lots of fintech apps also offer personalized financial advice, historical data analytics, community-based activities — you choose it.

The more features you decide to implement, the bigger the technical part of the scope.

3 Step – Security Plan For Your App

Security features are also part of the scope, but they deserve a special place in the article.

According to Verizon, 60% of all cybersecurity threats are financially motivated — and the fintech industry is the one good target for hackers.

Have a cybersecurity strategy from the beginning: from password policies and multi-factor authentication to automatic logouts and warnings to users about not reusing their passwords. Otherwise, things aren’t going to look pretty.

Don’t forget about encryption, PCI DSS, and requirements from your industry regulators you’ll need to comply with (SEC is one of those in America).

4 Step – Onboard Development Team

For the stock trading app, you’ll need

• UX/UI designer to help with prototyping/design.

• Back-end programmers who specialize in Python, Java, Node.js, or Ruby; who worked with stock trading APIs like Alpaca; payment gateways; API management tools like Postman; PaaS tools like AWS, Azure, or Heroku.

• Front-end programmers (f.i., JavaScript or ReactJS devs).

• Mobile developers (Swift for Apple, Java/Kotlin for Android — or, if you’ll choose the cross-platform way — React Native, Flutter, NativeScript, etc.)

• Cybersecurity specialists or DevOps folks who will handle security issues, incident reporting, other risk-management- and threat detection things.

Hire people who already have experience either in fintech or in other heavily regulated industries.

5 Step – Choose PaaS and MBaaS Platforms

There are two types of cloud services managed by a third party and are a good fit for fintech solutions: PaaS (Platform-as-a-Service) like AWS Elastic Beanstalk, Microsoft Azure, Salesforce — and MBaaS (for mobile development, Mobile-Backend-as-a-Service) like AWS Amplify and Azure Mobile Apps.

If you got intimidated by the sheer amount of specialists required to build a platform — and want to create just a small mobile trading app, AWS Amplify will build a backend for it and help your, e.g., React Native developer connect various APIs to the project. PaaS providers like Azure help you manage the runtime of a trading platform, middleware, servers, networking, and storage.

6 Step – Use a Reliable 3rd Party API Solution

Many stock trading APIs exist: Alpaca Market has already been mentioned, and it’s free. There are also Robinhood API (also free, but often can’t handle the trader volumes), Polygon APIs (there is a free option and packages from $99/m to $499/m), and many others.

Choose according to what kinds of data you want, if you want WebSockets and snapshots, whether or not there is enough info in the developer communities about working with those APIs. Search for security incidents related to APIs you want to use.

7 Step – Create User-Friendly Interface – (UI)

The survey says, 48% of users believe visual design is important whenever assessing website credibility. Credibility is vital for fintech solutions. Also, stock trading is already kind of intimidating and overloaded with cluttered visuals.

Fix that perception by creating a simplistic, accessible UI with distinct typography, easily understandable navigation, and data visualization that doesn’t make users want to cry (especially if that’s an app for beginners.)

8 Step – Develop, Test and Deploy Your App

Implement continuous integration and delivery into the development process. You’ll manage to optimize time for after-testing bug fixing by integrating it into programming (in other words, you’ll test extensively while you’re developing.)

Don’t forget about user testing. It’s better to include it at every milestone of your development — after you developed your most important features, integrated the analytics, polished your UX. That is necessary for staying in contact with your customers instead of being stuck in the development loop — and that will allow you to build a truly user-centric trading app.