Posts by : Izy Berry

Traveling with a chronic medical condition can be overwhelming. When you have diabetes, there are a laundry list of supplies and medications that you simply cannot go without. While you’re wrapped up making sure that your medications and supplies are packed – and that you’ve got everything else you need for travel – it’s extremely easy to overlook the small, but important details about what hotel accommodations you will need, and whether or not they will be available for you.

So, we’ve compiled a list of things for you to consider when scheduling your next hotel reservation so that your hotel stay is as comfortable and relaxing as can be!

1. Ask for a room with a fridge. Most rooms come standard with a mini-fridge, but it is important to ask! Many diabetics need to store their medications, like insulin, in the fridge. It’s better to take the time to confirm accommodations prior to arriving than to arrive to discover that there will be no fridge available to you for storing your supplies. You might also prefer to store juice or snacks in the fridge for blood glucose management.

2. Inquire about availability of room service, vending, and in-room snack options. As a diabetic, it is important to ensure that you have access to juice, snacks, and nourishing foods to remedy low blood sugar, should it occur. Even if you don’t experience a bout of low blood sugar, it is important to maintain a proper diet and get plenty of protein to help manage weight and maintain consistency in blood glucose levels. Inquire about the availability of vending machines, in-room snacks for purchase, and room service.

3. Choose a hotel with a visitor’s gym. Maintaining a healthy weight and a strong cardiovascular system is highly beneficial for the management of diabetes. While there are bodyweight exercises you can do in the absence of a gym when you travel, it can be extremely convenient to have a gym at your disposal. When you make your reservations, try to choose a hotel that offers the use of a visitor’s gym to their guests.

4. Ask if early check-in is available. If you are a diabetic in need of insulin storage, early check-in is something to consider when you book your hotel. If the hotel doesn’t offer early check-in, consider another location or make alternative arrangements in order to avoid compromising your insulin.

5. Consider room placement and request accordingly. Do you suffer from diabetic nerve damage? Is it difficult for you to climb stairs? Consider your preference of room location. If stairs are difficult, requesting a ground floor room may be beneficial. While elevators are an option in most hotels, in the event of an emergency, the elevators may not be accessible. Hotel staff are typically very willing to assist guests with medical conditions and special needs. Don’t be afraid to voice your concerns and needs.

Traveling with diabetes doesn’t have to be a huge inconvenience, it simply requires a bit of extra planning. By implementing these simple steps, your next hotel stay is sure to be accommodating and enjoyable.

Happy travels!

Author Bio:

Matt Schmidt is the co-founder of Diabetes Life Solutions and Diabetes365.org. Matt’s father was diagnosed with diabetes and their journey to try and find affordable life insurance for Matt’s diabetic father was a tough one. He decided that no one with diabetes should have to go through that journey and has since been helping find diabetic life insurance at affordable costs.

If you haven’t yet heard of Uncommon Goods, you’ve been missing out. The company provides organic, recycled, and handmaid products so you can give gifts that don’t harm the environment, people, or animals.

If you’re a bride looking for gifts for your bridesmaids, you can’t go wrong with some of the gorgeous products on the Uncommon Goods website. I personally love the birthstone mineral soaps, and the recycled glass tree globes are gorgeous.

And if you’re buying for a bride, there are plenty of great gifts which are perfect for a bridal shower. The heart vases are so pretty, and if you think the special couple would like some bonding time together, check out the custom puzzle which is ridiculously cute.

For people who are about to celebrate an anniversary, or would love to help friends or family members celebrate theirs, the anniversary collection of gifts are to die for. I love the three nights wine box. You can enjoy a bottle of wine on three separate occasions, and I think the whole concept is particularly sweet. I also love the “With you I’m home” scene, which is spot on for anyone who likes to travel.

If you’ve got a special occasion coming up, be sure to check out this wide range of sustainable gifts today!

If you’ve been to Las Vegas, you may have had a little too much to drink, played in a casino or two, and wandered through some of the hotels. But Vegas has much more to offer than this.

If you’re planning a trip to Vegas this year, make sure you do these things:

See the Grand Canyon

Many people are unaware that you can easily visit the Grand Canyon from Vegas. Sure, there’s a lot of drinking to do, but it’s well worth visiting the Grand Canyon if you’re going to be in the area anyway. There are a number of helicopter tours which will give you an incredible view over Vegas, or take you for a flight over the Grand Canyon. Try a Grand Tour helicopter tour so you can see some of the best views around.

Eat, and then eat some more

If you haven’t yet heard about the amazing buffets in Las Vegas, you’ve been missing out. This is the perfect solution after a big night out, or if you simply want to get a lot of bang for your buck. Most of the bigger hotels will offer a buffet, and if you stay at a hotel with one of the best buffets you’ll get to skip the lines and enjoy the buffet whenever you please. Bellagio and Caesars Palace are two of the best, but be sure to go when you’re super hungry so you can fit more in.

Shop until you drop

You may not have heard that the shopping in Las Vegas is top notch. Along with all of the best stores, you’ll find massive discounts and malls full of your favourite brands- all at a great price. Consider heading to some of the outlet malls to pick up some great discounted clothes, shoes, and homeware.

See a show

Some people roll their eyes at the idea of seeing a show in Vegas, but they’re not all cheesy. There are many great shows to take in, including comedians, musicals, Cirque du Soleil, and much more. If you’ll only be in town for a few days, consider purchasing your tickets in advance to make sure you get in before your favourite show is sold out. Or wait until you’re there and see if you can get a great deal on last-minute tickets.

Learn to gamble

What do you do if you don’t know how to play some of the most popular games in Vegas? Simple. You learn. Many of the biggest casinos will give you lessons on how to play everything from poker to blackjack. If you’ve been meaning to perfect your poker face, or you’d just like to learn how to play, you’ll be able to learn some new skills and then put them into practice that night.

If ever you experience a road traffic accident abroad, it’s possible to seek a claim for the compensation you’re owed. When you travel, any number of things can go wrong, from car accidents and lost luggage at the airport to injuries on an aircraft or ones sustained during a train accident. It’s impossible to plan for such occurrences, but it is possible to file a claim if you’ve suffered from a car accident while abroad.

Make Sure to Plan Ahead

Though you never know when you’re going to get into an accident, there are some things you can do to prepare yourself for when an accident does occur. For instance, it’s important to know the phone numbers for any emergency services or an ambulance if you ever require one. You’ll also want to know how to contact the accident notification department for the travel insurer that you’re a part of. If you have friends or family that live nearby, keep their contacts with you or on your smartphone at all times.

One of the most important tips that you should keep in mind is to let someone know your full itinerary before you leave on your trip. This will ensure that someone knows where you are meant to be at all times, which can be useful if a serious car accident takes place. Always have your ID with you and some details about any specific medical conditions you’re suffering from. This type of information is essential for emergency services if you’ve been incapacitated during the accident.

It’s always wise to carry a medical kit in your luggage so that you’re prepared if in a minor car accident. Make sure not to skimp on travel insurance, as you want a policy that offers a substantial amount of coverage. If you make sure to follow each of the aforementioned tips and guidelines, you’ll be well-prepared for a situation involving a car accident while abroad.

Obtain Medical Attention and Contact Travel Insurance Company

In the event that you’ve just gone through an accident, it’s possible that you’re suffering from some car accident injuries that require medical attention. If so, you should contact local emergency services as soon as possible, even if you don’t believe that you’ve suffered from a serious injury. Immediately following an accident, your adrenaline levels are going to be through the roof, which means that you’re not going to feel pain like you usually do. Without a clear idea of which areas of your body are hurt, it’s recommended that you contact these services no matter what.

Depending on where you’re traveling to from the U.S., certain places don’t have their own emergency services for you to contact. However, there will usually be some form of healthcare providers in the area that you can contact instead. There are times when the documents pertaining to your travel insurance will detail some of the local providers available to you and their contact info.

Once you’ve sought medical attention, make sure that you contact your travel insurance provider right away. In fact, some of these providers have a clause that states that you need to contact them within 24 hours in order for you to be able to file a claim. Once you’ve contacted the insurance provider, you can begin to focus on the necessary steps towards filing any road accident claims associated with your accident.

Emphasizing the need to understand insurance intricacies becomes evident after a car accident and prioritizing comprehensive aftercare is crucial for a swift and thorough recovery, with a chiropractor playing a vital role in this process. Collaborating with a chiropractor as part of your aftercare strategy not only aids in physical recovery but also reinforces a holistic approach to well-being after a car accident. Understanding your insurance coverage is an integral aspect of this process, ensuring that you can access the necessary care without unnecessary financial burdens during the recovery period.

Steps to Claiming Compensation After Car Accident

As long as the accident you went through when traveling abroad was not your fault, it’s possible for you to file a claim for any injury you sustained. You can make a claim if you were a passenger, driver, or even a pedestrian. In order to make your claim as strong as possible so that you can receive the car accident compensation you deserve, you’ll need to do several things. For instance, you don’t want to discuss the details of the accident with anyone, as that person could tell the insurance provider a different account of the accident than you’ve told.

You’re also going to want to record as many details of the accident as possible. Write down the names, addresses, and license plate numbers of everyone who played a part in the accident. You must also obtain their insurance information. The same contact info should be written down for any witnesses of the accident. It’s recommended that you get a statement from these witnesses as well. If possible, take photos of all of the vehicles involved in the accident as well as any injuries that occurred. You will need to keep all of this documentation to assist you throughout the claims process. To bolster your chances of a successful claims process, you may want to consider contacting a personal injury attorney to assist you.

Hawaii is one the places anyone would want to visit in their lifetime. Once they make it to Hawaii, no one has gotten enough of the islands. Not only Hawaii has so many gorgeous beaches, this holiday destination also has a rich history, unique culture, friendly people, beautiful volcanoes, good food, great shopping experience. Almost anything you could ask for.

If you are finally planning your Hawaii vacation adventure, then you may be puzzled about what is the correct island to visit. Alternatively, you may want to consider sailing between Hawaiian islands. If you are in a quandary about planning your first Hawaiian vacation, then use this guide to choose which is the best island to stay in Hawaii to learn more about the possibilities.

Oahu, Hawaii

East meets West on the island of Oahu making it a great place to explore all the cultures making Hawaii unique. This island is where Japan invaded the United States making it an outstanding island to visit for historical buffs. Visiting the museums on this island is an awesome way to spend a holiday.

Best Attractions:

• Pacific National Monument – home to the USS Arizona Memorial, this park is a terrific place to learn about the pivotal moments of World War II.
• Diamond Head State Monument – Hike in the volcanic crater at this 475 acre state park which is one of Hawaii’s most iconic landmarks.
• Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve – Surf and snorkel to view the colorful fish living on the nearby coral reefs.
• Hawaii Plantation Village – Explore the history of 400,000 immigrants who came to this island between 1852 and 1947 from around the world.

Hawaii, Hawaii

Hike the world’s most active volcano on the island of Hawaii. The chances of seeing marine life are superb on this island. Make a lei or learn to dance the hula here as this island has many popular cultural attractions. Nature lovers adore this island for its beauty. Escape the hassles of a large resort with Hawaii vacation rentals on the Big Island.

Best Attractions:

• Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park – View the spitting and oozing of the 4,000-foot-tall Kilaeu along with 14,000 foot Mauna Loa.
• Hapuna White Sand Beach – Relax in the sun on this .5 mile white sand beach or snorkel around the small cliff.
• Hawaii Tropical Botanical Gardens – View over 2,000 tropical plant species within the 40 acre valley by taking a scenic drive or hike.
• Volcano Golf and Country Club – Play golf at this golf course located on the rim of Kilauea Volcano.

Read Also: 5 of the Best Places for a Golf Vacation

Maui, Hawaii

If you love the outdoors, then Maui is the perfect island for you to visit. This island boasts of having some of the best food in Hawaii making it a perfect getaway spot for a culinary vacation.

Best Attractions:

• Road to Hana – Drive along the scenic coastline full of photography opportunities including Twin Falls, Wailea Overlook, Waianapanapa State Park and Hookipa Beach.
• Haleakala National Park – This 30,000 acre park is home to the world’s largest dormant volcano along with over four miles of hiking trails.
• Culinary Tours – Explore the Maui’s delicious food scene by going on a culinary tour including pineapple tours, vodka tours and brewing tours. Alternatively, take a traditional cooking class.

Lanaʻi, Hawaii

If you are looking to escape from the crowds, then consider vacationing in Lanaʻi. Owner Larry Ellison wants to make this island one of the most exclusive vacation spots in the world. Feline lovers adore visiting this island. Art lovers find many exciting galleries to browse.

Best Attractions:

• Lanai Cat Sanctuary – Home to more than 495 cats making it the perfect place for feline lovers.
• Mike Carrol Gallery – See the classical landscape paintings of Mike Carrol along with a variety of work by other local artists.
• Garden of the Gods – Legend records that bickering between two kahuna (priests) from Lanai and Molokai resulted in this windswept rock garden.

Molokaʻi, Hawaii

If you are looking for a traditional Hawaiian vacation, then Molokaʻi may be the perfect first time Hawaii vacation destination. This island is a popular choice for those who love to explore Hawaii from a horse.

Best Attractions:

• Kalaupapa Mule Ride – Explore the famous 3.2 mile Kalaupapa Trail by riding on a mule in the Kalaupapa National Historical Park with the tallest sea cliffs in the world.
• Halawa Valley – Explore the cultural history of Halawa Valley on a cultural hike through this valley to see the ancient rock features.
• Hoolehua Post Office – Grab a coconut and send it to those who are jealous you got to go on a Hawaii vacation at the Hoolehua Post Office.

Kauaʻi, Hawaii

The rugged coastline of Kauaʻi, Hawaii, is the best destination for those looking for an outdoor adventure. This island is a favorite with boaters. Divers adore visiting the waters just off this island.

Best Attractions:

• Waimea Canyon – Enjoy the breathtaking views from the Puu ka Pele and Puu hinahina lookout in Waimea Canyon or take a kayak down the Waimea River.
• Na Pali Coast State Park – Hike along the 11 mile long Kalalau Trail through five valleys for unforgettable views of lush greenery.
• Port Allen – Many tour companies use Port Allen for various boats allowing visitors to see dolphins, turtles, whales, seals and fish.

Where to Stay in Hawaii

When you’re traveling to Hawaii, one thing about accommodation that is really important is beautiful views. Whether you are seeking to be close to one of Hawaii’s beautiful beaches, overlooking the outstanding natural scenery, or hanging out in a chilled cottage or vacation rentals on the Big Island, this tropical destination has it all and you won’t have any trouble finding one to suit your style and budget.

Now you know that picking the best island to stay in Hawaii depends on your personal interests. Use the information in this best island to visit in Hawaii for first timers guide to help you make an informed decision.

If you are lucky enough to have your bucks party in Sydney, you are going to have plenty of opportunities to have the time of your life. Whether you want to gamble, take a cruise or simply have a fun day at the golf course, there is something for every guy who wants to enjoy his last few days of freedom. Let’s take a look at six unique bucks party ideas that will create lasting memories.

Spend Some Time at an Adult Establishment

While this may be among the more risque Sydney bucks party ideas, you can visit a strip club without completely losing your dignity. There is no rule that says that you have to sleep with or otherwise cross any other line that you don’t feel comfortable crossing. In fact, it doesn’t even have to be the centerpiece of your night out. Instead, it could be where you begin your evening or where your friends who like to walk on the wild side get to have an adventure before the night really gets going.

Rent a Party Bus for the Night

A party bus can be a great option for those who are looking to take a tour of the city or go on a pub crawl for the evening. The bus should be large enough where you can dance, play cards or play video games on a monitor. If you or others in your party want to have some fun on the party bus, strippers for hire Sydney can provide the entertainment that members of your entourage are looking for.

Visit the Casino

Whether you are a veteran gambler or just like to spend a couple of hours playing the slots from time to time, there is nothing better than an evening at the casino. You can choose to play for big money or settle for penny slots or games of $1 poker. If your best man is a good guy, he may buy you a few chips as a wedding gift. Casinos are among the best bucks party activities to do in Sydney because they may offer free drinks or other comps during your visit.

Play a Round of Golf

Golf is a great way to spend time during a bucks party because there are so many different ways to make the game more interesting. For instance, you can place wagers on who gets their tee shot closest to the pin, who has the lowest score on a hole and a variety of other ways to keep each shot interesting. Some people allow you to buy mulligans or otherwise buy your way to a lower score if the price is right. If you don’t feel comfortable playing for money, there are many other bets that you can make instead like offering to mow your friend’s lawn or babysitting the kids.

Go on a Cruise

Going for a cruise is one thing that everyone should do as an adult. For those who want to get a little crazy, it may be possible to add girls and alcohol to the mix. For those who just want to enjoy some time with friends, the views of Sydney will be enough to make the experience worth it. If you decide to take a cruise, make sure to book your boat well in advance, and make sure that you tip anyone who serves you while on the water.

Engage in Niche Party Games

Have you ever played bubble soccer or human football? If you like sports, those may be a couple of ideas worth looking into during your bucks party. Even if you don’t like sports, you can’t help but enjoy crashing into your friends with reckless abandon for a couple hours after you have had a few drinks. These activities are completely safe and supervised by professionals who will rush to your aid if necessary.

Your bucks party should be one that you and your friends will never forget. Therefore, make sure that you know exactly what you want to do as it will make it easier to book your preferred activities. If a deposit or down payment is required, plan ahead to ensure that it is taken care of without the groom knowing how much it cost to throw him the last party as a single man.

Koh Yao Noi is considered to be one of Thailand’s last unspoiled islands by The Guardian despite the millions of tourists who visit the beautiful destination each year. As one of the top quiet islands in Thailand, it’s an incredible place to relax and recharge while spending time in paradise. When you’re planning a trip to Koh Yao Noi, it’s important to follow a guide that will point you in the right direction with your accommodations.

Where to Stay

The lodging that you stay at will determine how comfortable you feel while vacationing in Koh Yao Noi. 18 thatched-roof bungalows are a popular choice for those who want to enjoy a quaint and cozy setting. The bungalows often include open-air showers and private courtyards with surrounding views of limestone stacks in the distance. Most of the bungalows are run by families and are available at an affordable price.

If you want to enjoy more luxurious accommodations, you can choose to stay in a holiday resort in Koh Yao Noi where you can book air-conditioned rooms and take a dip in the hotel’s swimming pool on the grounds by your booked private villas such as Coastal Escape.  You can enjoy an on-site four-star restaurant, zip a class-A cocktail next to the swimming pool facing the ocean views. Even if you’re not a luxury traveler, it’s worth trying this luxury, secluded, and quiet escape like this once with a reasonable price you don’t get anywhere else in other islands in Thailand.

Read Also: Why to Choose South East Asia for Your Next Luxury Holiday

Things to Do in Koh Yao Noi

When you want to stay busy while vacationing on the island, there are many types of outdoor activities that are available. You can kayak or snorkel when you want to get a close look at the different types of marine life that are available.

If you prefer to stay on the shore, badminton is a laidback and fun game to play on the lawn where you can soak up the sun.

The golden beaches in Koh Yao Noi are the highlight of the island and the main draw for tourists. The shores are often exposed and are a place to go swimming or chase a few crabs. You can take a trip to Phang Nga Bay on a boat trip or take a drive on one of the main roads while riding a motorcycle or bike, which will allow you to take in the beautiful scenery. Some of the top beaches to visit include Lom Lae Beach, Pasai Beach, Klong Jark beach, Tha Khao Beach, and Laem Sai.

Other types of activities that can be enjoyed include rock climbing and diving for thrill-seekers who want a bit of adrenaline in a natural setting.

If you’re in the mood to relax and take in the tranquility of the setting, consider participating in a yoga or Pilates class on the beach. The peaceful movements will improve your flexibility and can maintain your health during your stay. You can follow up your yoga or pilates class by booking a traditional Thai massage at a local spa, which are easy to find on the island at a resort or in the village. You’ll be served a warm cup of lemongrass tea after the massage comes to an end.

Cultural day tours are also available on the island where you can learn about the history and traditions of the setting. Many of the tours include riding bikes to get around the island. You’ll get to handpick a bike at a local shop before meeting your guide.

Dining

Both Western and Thai restaurants can be found in Koh Yao Noi if you prefer to sit down while enjoying your meal. Those who are on the go can visit roadside stalls or the village market if you don’t want to spend much money without compromising on the quality of the food that you enjoy. The main villages also have a few independent restaurants, and many bungalows have eateries that are attached with a high level of Koh Yao Noi accommodation available to tourists.

Transportation

Many people arrive on the island by taking a ferry boat after flying to Phuket. Those who haven’t reserved a spot on the ferry can also get a ride on the songthaew pick-up trucks that are at the pier. The average ride costs 100 baht per person.

Although the island doesn’t have public transportation, you can hire a taxi or rent your own car to use to get around during your trip. Taxi and tour services are also available to rent for the day, which can make it easy to feel accommodated if you have a busy itinerary. Motorbike rentals are also easy to obtain and cost an average of 250 and 350 baht each day.

I haven’t done much travel around the UK yet, but there are a few places I’ve heard great things about, and one of them is Sussex. It has definitely gone on the list as a place I need to visit before the secret gets out and it becomes overrun with tourists.

Sussex is popular with Londoners hoping to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, and for good reason. The far south of England is known for quaint little villages, which has an old-world atmosphere you won’t find in many other places. The inland hills and breathtaking coastline make it a must-visit for people of all ages, and it’s an easy trip to and from London so you can visit for a quick weekend whenever you need to get away.

Unlike many other parts of the UK, Sussex has most of its attractions open throughout the year. This means that finding the right time to go will depend on your tolerance for crowds and the type of weather you’re looking for. Obviously, the colder it is in Sussex, the fewer crowds you’ll seek. In school holidays and the peak of summer (July and August) the sun will be out all day, making it easy to forget you’re in Britain. However parents and kids also know that this is the place to be, so it can be packed with people.

If you want to combine decent weather with a little quiet, visiting in June or September is the way to go. Although May can also be a great time to visit since days are slowly warming up and Brighton begins to warm up with an annual festival of parades, fireworks, comedy, and concerts.

There’s a wide variety of accommodation in Sussex, which is another reason I definitely want to visit. Sometimes I like to stay in cheaper accommodation, while other times I prefer to splash out and stay somewhere really nice. I think I would like to stay in holiday cottage in Sussex, as this is a good way to feel like a local while having all of the comforts of home.

Brighton is a favourite place to visit for those looking to party, but you can also spend some time strolling along the famous pier. You’ll also find that the Seven Sisters is a great place to take a picnic and a camera for views of the English Channel.

Don’t miss Bodiam Castle, which is from the 14th century. You can even climb the towers and be transported back in time.

If you want to feel like you’ve stepped into a fairytale, Arundel is the place to go. Check out the castle and cathedral.

Rye is a medieval town on the river, and the streets are perfect for wandering. Don’t forget to visit Chichester Cathedral as well.

Have you been to Sussex? Give me some tips for my visit in the comments below.

When you visit our nation’s capital, you expect to see the Washington Monument, the Capitol building, the White House, and other D.C. landmarks. While the District of Columbia is known for its history and collection of unique architecture, many don’t realize that the city continues to evolve. In fact, D.C. has changed in the just the past decade with new development projects and some rejuvenation efforts.

Change often invites controversy, and those inside the beltway are no stranger to debate. Whether the issue is modern vs. classic, residential vs. commercial, or building height, there is much to decide. Here is how Washington D.C.’s skyline has evolved over the past decade and a look at the most glaring D.C. development controversy.

U.S. Capitol Dome Restoration

The iconic dome that sits atop our nation’s capital building was constructed 150 years ago. The building and its dome have survived a civil war, a major earthquake, as well as over a hundred years’ worth of sun, snow, and wind.

This National Historic Landmark became threatened by water leaks, rust, and just general deterioration in recent years, which prompted an extensive restoration project that began in 2013. The restoration project on the Capitol dome was completed, ahead of schedule, in October 2016. This recent renovation is expected to leave the dome in good shape for the next 75 years.

Washington D.C.’s Height Act

If you’ve visited Washington D.C., you may have noticed that the city doesn’t have a skyline riddled with skyscrapers like some other major U.S. cities. This is both by design and according to some controversial legislation. The D.C. Height Act was passed in 1899 and limits the height of buildings in the city to just 110 feet.  The original intent of the law was to keep D.C. residents safe since fire crews were still advancing their methods in the late 1800’s and the skyscraper was a new phenomenon in cities.

While some appreciate the aesthetic effect of the rule, the economic consequences have brought forth many opponents to the act. Obviously, the nation’s capital is a center for government as well as some businesses. The height restrictions have lessened available office and living space in Washington D.C., which has boosted commercial and residential rents.  As it is today, the U.S. Capitol and the Washington Monument remain the tallest buildings in the city.

While there are many historic neighborhoods in D.C. worth saving and preserving, there are also areas that could be developed on a grand scale. With the Height Act regulations still in place, developers are limited in their project scopes. For example, between 2005-2015, the city only granted 25,00 building permits, which is a small number for a city of over 650,000 residents.

Transformative Projects Inside the Beltway

There are building and development taking place inside the beltway, despite the constraints of the Height Act. For example, Square 54 is a new complex located at 2200 Pennsylvania Avenue. This three-building complex consists of a residential building for George Washington University as well as commercial space.

Just one block from the White House at the corner of H and 17th Streets sits the new Lafayette Tower building. This new energy-efficient building was the first in D.C. to receive the LEED CD Platinum certification.

There are several new hotels as well. The Marriot Courtyard Washington is located in NoMa (North of Massachusetts). This “stubby” skyscraper provides views of the Capitol as well as world-class amenities. The Marriott Marquis is closer to the Walter E. Washington Convention Center and Penn Quarter. This new hotel has 1,175 guest rooms as well as over 100,000 square feet of meeting space.

Even though D.C.’s height restrictions are preventing some areas from urbanizing and pushing rents to some of the highest rates in the nation, progress continues. There remain “dead zones” in the city that seem to await changes to the antiquated building height rules, but other areas are squeezing in progress and rejuvenation wherever they are able.

There are many custom made door types to choose.  Below are six of the most popular types of custom doors in the market today.

1. Custom Pivot Doors

Pivot doors have gained popularity because of their wide access and its simple, yet modern appearance that blends in with most contemporary buildings.  These pivot hinges are installed at the top and bottom of the door and they are used to transfer the weight to the floor.

It’s cost can be 20% to 30%n more expensive than a single door.  However, it can add several more inches of openable access.  If compared to a double door creation, it prices out similarly, but you may be giving up approximately 60% of that access over those two stock doors.

2. Custom Classic Doors

These traditional doors have been a staple in the door industry for centuries.  They can range from established features such as the typical two panel door with creative raised moldings, all the way to custom doors with beautiful inlaid leaded glass with creative artwork that certainly has a lot of curb appeal. They help any building give the impression that it might last forever.

It is in these classic designs where the beauty and the elegance of the wood is best on display.  When using high-end wood, which is typically used in this style of door, the wood grains in combination with top quality stains, truly capture the attention of the eye.  Sometimes the classic design just can’t be beat.

3. Custom Vintage Doors

As ornate as these doors appear, they can be made to custom specifications and delivered as well as installed as a pre-hung unit.  Typically, they are built with galvanized iron along with solid iron for that vintage ornate appearance that may be desired for that home or office.  Some of these doors sport solid steel bolting mechanisms that produce a secure lock.  Step back in time while living safely in the modern world.

4. Custom Modern Doors

While wood doors with all of their intrinsic beauty and utility have been around since the first trees were harvested, the modern world has honed its excellence and creativity through the use of aluminum door systems.

Aluminum’s unique characteristics are the reason that more people are turning to it as the high-value entrance of choice.  Why?

• It’s about 1/3 the density of steel and just as much lighter.
• Just because its lighter doesn’t mean that it is weaker.  Most aluminum products are an alloy which can be created to different strengths and it doesn’t turn brittle in very cold temperatures like steel.
• It can be formed much easier than steel.  This has the advantage of giving the marketplace a tremendous amount of variety when shopping for custom made doors.
• Aluminum is corrosion-resistant.  It doesn’t rust like its steel and iron counterparts.

For the environment’s sake, aluminum doors can be recycled using just 5% of the energy of producing new ones from scratch.   Since aluminum can be used over and over again, this makes it a high quality choice for environmentally conscious consumers.

5. Custom French Doors

Custom-made French doors are designed to provide the maximum amount of patio space by opening into the interior of the home or office.  Typically, there are two doors that open and close together, which gives a feeling of openness as one either enters or exits the building.  Often, the doors will be made with solid or checkered multi-pane glass windows that continue to breath an air of openness while maintaining energy efficiency when closed.

The wood itself is usually protected by a vinyl exterior extending the life of the door while preserving its beauty.  These doors are highly durable and have become time-tested so the consumer may be assured of their investment.

6. Custom-Designed Barn Doors

Used inside or out, barn doors aren’t just for the holding of the horses inside the barn.  They have become a serious contender in the purchases made for home design and functionality.  Often, they are used in homes where space is at a premium such as rehabbing an older home with smaller room designs.  Sometimes they are simply used to divide off rooms in an effective contrast scheme.  At other times, an old horse barn may be renovated into a beautiful home while retaining its original theme.

In homes where the open-air layout is in play, these barn doors can have window inserts along the top while sliding on parallel tracks to the adjacent walls.  This eliminates the swinging door style which can seem to reduce usable space or at least create the appearance of such.  The options are as endless as the imagination for these nostalgic additions to the home.

7. Custom-Made High Impact Doors

In regions that are prone to the high velocity winds of tornadoes and hurricanes, high impact exterior are an excellent investment for any home.  The materials used are designed to withstand more than the standard winds we are accustomed to braving.  These doors have reinforced hinges and door frames that add to its stoutness.  Just because these doors are extra sturdy doesn’t mean that craft and design have to be sacrificed.  These doors can be custom-made to appear as beautiful as any other door on the market today.

Custom-made doors are available in any style, design or application.