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For most Americans, our smartphones are our connection to the outside world. Whether it’s calling (or, more likely, texting) a loved one, checking out some videos online, or even managing our finances, these devices make our world so much easier.

Unfortunately, sometimes when traveling should we ever lose our phones or if they get stolen, then we are in big trouble. Thankfully, though, new technology is making sure that it’s not quite the disaster that it once was. Today, let’s see how AVG can help track your phone when it goes missing, and what you can do to protect yourself.

Keeping Your Data Safe

Even if you don’t use your smartphone for things like banking or online shopping, the fact is that there is still plenty of information that can be valuable to thieves and hackers. One common method for infecting new phones is to send texts to your contacts, who are liable to click the link since it’s coming from a trusted source. As such, it’s imperative that you keep yourself safe so that you can protect others as well. Fortunately, Droid antivirus apps like AVG monitor and remove threats so that you don’t have to worry.

Tracking Your Phone

If your device is stolen, then your information can be hacked and used against you. One method to protect yourself is to keep your phone password protected, but that’s only one step you should take. AVG Android security allows you to go even further by tracking your phone after the fact. In some cases, you may be able to identify the thief by activating the phone’s camera. This will make it much easier to find and retrieve if possible.

Shutting it Down

In many cases, getting your phone back is an unlikely scenario. When that happens, you can take a final step and lock it down remotely. This way, hackers won’t be able to get inside and steal your data. This is your best line of defense when your phone is compromised, and AVG makes it easy and hassle-free to do it.

In the end, losing your phone shouldn’t be a devastating tragedy. Even if you keep sensitive information on it, with the right software, you shouldn’t have to worry as much about the long-term effects anymore.

Collaboration with Amanda Green

 

Kentucky is a unique state. The 15th member of the Union stretches from the fertile grain fields along the Mississippi River to the towering mountains of coal country along the Virginias.

In between is as much diversity as you would imagine, but perhaps nothing is more universal in the state than horse racing and fine spirits. Getting the opportunity to capture a real experience with both should be the goal of every traveler to the Bluegrass.

It’s the lime-heavy soils that have yielded strong-boned thoroughbreds for racing in Kentucky, and the first Saturday in May gives the world a chance to see the nation’s best battle it out for two minutes of action that leaves hooves and hearts pounding.

And those same soils have brought forth quality corn and grapes that have been skillfully refined into some of the world’s best bourbon and wine. If you’ve thought about getting a travel package that includes Kentucky Derby tickets 2017, don’t just stop at Churchill Downs. The state offers a number of opportunities to partake of its perfectly-aged beverages as well.

One easy way to enjoy those offerings is to travel the Bullitt County Bourbon & Wine Trail. Situated just south of Louisville, Bullitt County is conveniently located to flights and hotels, leaving your local travel to a minimum. Just a quick jaunt down I-65 from the city lands you in this region of quality products.

The trail has developed as part of the state’s overall emphasis on its history with bourbon, with labels like Jim Beam and Maker’s Mark logging decades of production and small-batch products like Woodford Reserve and Town Branch joining in more recently. Coupling the home-grown product with an ancient beverage like wine is a perfect mix that provides something for everyone. Add in the popularity of wine-related travel and you’ve got an ideal journey for anyone who enjoys fine drink.

So now that you are sold on the Trail, why Derby week? Isn’t it the most chaotic time to visit Kentucky? The answer is yes, and it’s beautifully chaotic.

The state needs no help from us to be absolutely gorgeous in May. Redbuds, dogwoods, cherries, and dozens of other species may be in bloom, and the bluegrass that gave the state its nickname is growing vigorously and emitting its namesake bluish cast on bright spring mornings.

But the Derby became icing on the cake when it began in 1875, building into a weeks-long celebration of all things Kentucky that make it heaven for any traveler. There is live music and food throughout the city, and Derby Week features a number of famous balls and galas that draw in celebrities from around the world. For something unique and absolutely breathtaking, watch the Great Balloon Race as it carries dozens of colorful hot-air balloons across the Kentucky countryside.

Tying in a trip to Bullitt County is a perfect connection. The weather is already likely to be beautiful. You’ll have a great variety of travel packages to choose from, and with the Trail’s flexibility, you’ll be free to enjoy whatever Derby events you want to see while still having plenty of time for the wineries and distilleries.

Kentucky is a place of immense variety. It straddles two time zones, borders seven other states, and was torn between Union and Confederate loyalties during the Civil War. Its elevation ranges from the peak of Black Mountain in Harlan County at 4,131 feet to the Kentucky Bend of Fulton County at 257 feet above sea level.

With so much to see, a visit to Kentucky should never include just one event or attraction. And with nothing bigger than the Derby to bring you in, the Bullitt County Bourbon and Wine Trail is a perfect compliment to your travel meal. There’s nothing better to pair with the fastest two minutes in sports than wine and bourbon that took decades to make.

Collaboration with Amanda Green

 

While, of course, there is no wrong way to tour California, some ways are better than others. For instance, a far better way than doing a whirlwind road trip is to experience each region differently.

So, instead of an exhausting trip going from one place to another, visit only one region at a time. You’ll spend less time travelling and more time getting a deeper appreciation for each region. When you get home, you’ll have more treasured memories rather than a blur of experiences.

Here is a quick overview of some recommended regions to visit in California to give you a good idea about it delightful cultural and geographical diversity.

Cultural Diversity

While California has a number of cities, the most fascinating to visit are Los Angeles, San Francisco, Santa Barbara, San Diego and Palm Springs.

Incidentally, speaking of popular cities, an interesting fact about California is that the growing popularity of timeshare in the San Diego and Palm Springs areas serves as a home-base for those wishing to return after an unforgettable trip. According to a San Diego Union Tribune article on the Lawrence Welk timeshare, San Diego, “Welk resorts have condominium-style rooms with kitchens, lavish water slides and playgrounds. The Escondido complex has a retail center and theater with music and Broadway-style productions. It’s something like a cruise ship on land.”

1. Los Angeles

Los Angeles, the City of Angels, in Southern California, has the distinction of being ranked only after New York when it comes to the largest US city. Surrounded by mountains and valleys and faces the inexorable spread of the blue Pacific Ocean, its beaches, like Venice and Malibu, has a reputation for being wild-and-crazy places for surfers, celebrities, and tourists. Often considered the celebrity capital of the US because of Hollywood and the big movie studios here, LA has many gorgeous celebrity homes, high-priced designer stores in Beverly Hills and exquisite restaurants. LA is also home to big amusement parks like Universal Studios Hollywood and theme parks like Disneyland.

2. San Francisco

San Francisco, nestled in the San Francisco Bay Area in northern California, is the tip of a peninsula. It has a unique ambiance by dint of the world famous suspension bridge, the Golden Gate Bridge, the tight curves of Lombard Street, the Chinatown area, the largest outside Asia, and the Fisherman’s Wharf. San Francisco has developed a reputation as one of the top college towns. According to an article in Grandslam on Top 10 College Towns in California, “Nestled right by downtown San Francisco and Silicon Valley, Berkeley is a student’s paradise. Great food, great climate, beautiful scenery, and both a small-town and big-city feel are just a day in the life of a UC Berkeley students. The student population is incredibly vibrant, known for their activism, protests, and rallies. Additionally, Berkeley offers a thriving music, film, and art scene as well as a booming tech scene.”

3. Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara, 90 miles north of LA, has been called “The American Riviera” because of its mild climate, beautiful beaches, and old-world atmosphere. The city is well-known for its ubiquitous California Mission style architecture and Mission Santa Barbara, founded in 1786 by the Franciscan order.

4. San Diego

San Diego, south of LA and north of the Mexican border, is a huge coastal city, with an ideal climate and breathtakingly beautiful beaches. Despite its large size, it has the intimacy of a small town. Popular attractions include the San Diego Zoo in Balboa Park, the Birch Aquarium, and SeaWorld San Diego.

5. Palm Springs

The sun shines almost all year long, and even the winters, at 60 degree Fahrenheit, are mild. Dubbed as the winter retreat of the rich and famous, this city in the desert has numerous golf courses, clubs and casinos, bars, and fine-dining restaurants.

Geographical Diversity

Some of California’s unique natural geographical places include Death Valley, Catalina Island, Napa Valley, and its national parks.

1. Death Valley

Death Valley, located in the Mojave Desert in the Death Valley National Park, ranges from snow capped mountains to spectacular sand dunes. The region is famous for the ruins of ghost towns; Scotty’s Castle, a historic landmark; and Zabriskie Point, a scenic outlook.

2. Santa Catalina Island

Santa Catalina on the Pacific is only 22 miles from LA and visitors come by plane, helicopters, ferries, and private boats. It’s a popular island for day trips, family vacations, and honeymoons. Its two main popular centers are Two Harbors and Avalon. There are no private cars here, only taxis, golf carts, and bicycles.

3. Napa Valley

Home to some of the finest wines in the world, Napa Valley has developed a booming hospitality industry to accommodate wine lovers from the US and around the world. Visitors have a choice of established hotel chains, Bed & Breakfast inns, quaint hotels, and camping grounds. Besides enjoying a wine tour, visitors can also enjoy a spa, bike tours, and hot air balloon trips.

4. National Parks

The most famous national parks are Sequoia National Park, Kings Canyon National Park, and Yosemite National Park. Sequoia and Kings Canyon border each other in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The region is famous for its gigantic sequoia trees, which can be a 100 feet wide and 300 feet tall. Meanwhile, Yosemite National Park, also in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of central eastern California, is celebrated for its 1,169 miles of geographical diversity from gigantic trees to stunning waterfalls to towering granite cliffs.

Collaboration with Amanda Green

 

Everyone loves taking a holiday. It’s the opportunity to get far from our hectic everyday routines. Many people already know what their escape looks like – a beautiful shoreline against turquoise ocean waters. Others cannot wait for their vacation to a small town brimming with history and stunning architecture. Perhaps, you are looking for something a little different, a real break from your everyday.

A boating holiday provides total flexibility to determine where to spend your day. Your route is your choice. If a pleasant town comes into view or a picturesque country pub catches your attention, moor up and visit.

There are many excellent financiers out there to assist you with boat loans and insurance policies. Your only work will be deciding how you want to pass the day. A boating vacation in Europe is just what you need if you want to avoid the crowds but still have opportunities to explore.

If you are looking for some guidance, consider the following suggestions for your European boating getaway.

Germany 

Spend your vacation cruising along Germany’s waterways. Whether you choose to boat around Berlin or take in the unspoiled rural lakes such as Mecklenburg or Brandenburg, Germany is an excellent choice for your vacation.

Italy

Venice is home to many famous waterways you may wish to explore. You can dock in the city center of the town and see the famous sights, and this is even before including a trip along the Grand Canal. Visit the islands of Murano and Burano in the Venice lagoon or travel up the Site or Brenta rivers.  There are so many different stops you can visit such as Bruges or St. Mark’s Square.

Holland 

Many different scenic lakes are available to you when you choose to explore the Dutch canals. Travel along the Rhine and visit Amsterdam, cruise north to Edam or south to Utrecht. Whichever way you go, you are guaranteed to be delighted by the windmills dotting the landscape.

Belgium

A beautiful vacation awaits you when you choose to cruise the coasts of Belgium. With shorelines that bridge into fine sandy beaches, Belgium is a favorite boating destination. Travel inland and cruise the serene countryside and charming historic towns joined by the Flemish waterways.

Boating networks all throughout Europe are full of fantastic bars, bistros, shops, and people. Every country has something to offer you, whether it is the beauty of Salsa or an aged pint of ale. There is nothing better than a relaxing day on the water finishing up with a pleasant pint of ale in a sun-filled beer garden. Right on the water’s edge or in town, make a stop when the feeling hits.

A boating holiday in any of the many beautiful countries of Europe allows you to be in control. Where you go and how you get there are all up to you. Why go on a vacation just to be told what is next on your agenda. When you want to explore, go for it! If you want to enjoy a lazy day on the water, it is your choice. Is that not what a vacation is supposed to be?

Try something different on your next vacation and do not follow the masses. People like a beach destination, and it is easy to see why. Nevertheless, you ought to consider something fresh this coming year. Whether you go with the family or a handful of close friends you can be sure to create some great memories on a boating vacation.

Collaboration with Amanda Green

 

The great American road trip is almost a tradition in a country that initiated the era of the automobile. It’s almost considered a rite of passage: an archetypal search for freedom and identity, and it has often been memorialized in books and movies rife with nostalgia and misadventure.

The idea of a road trip is appealing because it’s somewhat democratic. It’s simple. It’s fair. And it can lead anywhere. A map, a road-worthy vehicle, and a Jack Kerouac-like appetite for adventure are all that’s necessary.

If you’re planning on a road trip in 2017, here are 5 tips to consider:

1. Make sure you have the right paperwork.

The last thing you want to do before you set out is forget to update your driver’s license, license plate stickers, and insurance. When it comes to insurance, you have to research things like liability insurance, collision coverage, comprehensive coverage. It goes without saying that the better the coverage, the easier it will be to handle any accidents or mishaps on your trip, and with cheap online car insurance, it shouldn’t be difficult to get an excellent insurance policy, even if you fall under the category of a higher risk driver.

2. Get a vehicle checkup.

Schedule any necessary service for oil changes and tune-ups.

Here are some other things that you should check up on your vehicle:

• ·  Make sure it has good wiper blades and sufficient fluid levels.
• ·  Make sure it has a strong battery charge and clean terminals.
• ·  Make sure it has tires in good conditions. Notice if it has enough tread, if there are any tears, and if there are any bulges on the side wall. Make sure you have the right tire pressure.
• ·  Make sure it has brake pads that are not worn or need to be replaced.
• ·  Make sure it is not overloaded when you pack. Check your vehicle’s load capacity to pack smart.

3. Estimate your time.

Before you start thinking about your route, estimate how much time you have for the trip. This will tell you how far you can go and how to pace your trip.

4. Figure out your budget.

Get a good idea of how much you are willing to spend. You don’t want to run out of money in the middle of nowhere because you didn’t have time to balance your checkbook.

5. Get the necessary equipment.

Think about the equipment you will need. Do you need a GPS, a smartphone, travel guides, satellite radio, tents, sleeping bags, and an emergency medical kit? Make a list of all the things that you’ll need to take with you.

5. Plan out your route.

By planning out your route, you won’t spend most of your time traveling through cities when you would rather be on a country route or much time in deserts when you would rather be driving through forests.

Here are some ideas for your itinerary:

• 1. Get guides for classic US routes. For instance, the New England fall foliage tour; the nostalgic, old Route 66; the labyrinthine California Highways.
• 2. While planning on taking a trip to favorite sights, be sure to leave some options for unexpected detours. This will allow you to have a general sense of direction while also give you the freedom to wing it.
• 3. If you have no idea where you want to go, then you could simply follow data-genius Randy Olson’s ultimate road trip. According to an article in Washington Post, “At the urging of Tracy Staedter from Discovery News, Olson set out to find the quickest driving route that would stop at a national natural landmark, national historic site, national park or national monument in all of the lower 48 states. He also included Washington, D.C. and added another stop in California to get to a total of 50 stops.” The article has detailed maps.

Popular Places

With so many favorite places and roadside curiosities people across this vast country, you would need a thick guidebook to even start.

With that in mind, here are some idea starters:

• ·  Go to the Grand Canyon, a geological phenomena that took over a million years to create.
• ·  Visit Yellowstone, the first national park. Opened in 1872, it spans 2 million acres.
• ·  Drive along California’s Pacific Highway 1, a 135 mile stretch between San Luis Obispo and Monterey. At Monterey, you can drive an additional two hours north to see the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, a 75-year-old feat of engineering.
• ·  Visit Walt Disney World. Located in Orlando, Florida, your children can enjoy the Magic Kingdom,
• ·  Explore Cinderella’s Castle, and watch the animatronic wax model of Abe Lincoln in the Hall of Presidents.
• ·  Go to Times Square, which stretches between Manhattan’s 42^nd and 47^th street. This piece of Broadway will fascinate you.
• ·  Baker, California, has the world’s tallest thermometer.
• ·  Collinsville, Illinois, has the world’s largest bottle of ketchup. The 170 ft tall water tower was built by the W.E. Caldwell Company in 1949 for the G.S. Suppinger catsup bottling plant.

A road trip can be a blast or a disaster. By taking the time for planning ahead, you’ll have fun rather than wishing you had stayed at home.