Posts by : Izy Berry

Whether for confidence, spiritual experience, community independence, adventure, or freedom, more and more women are choosing to embrace the motorbike life, and taking to bikes with an increased voracity.

Many of these women are learning to ride during their 30s, 40s, 50s, and 60s, confronting cultural expectations, societal stereotypes, and personal challenges along the way as they embrace the independence and freedom of motorcycling. While women on bikes are currently at an all-time high, it’s nothing new, and chicks have been riding motorbikes since before they could vote.

There are definitely a lot more women getting into motorcycling though, and they’re now one of the fastest growing demographics in the industry.

Right now, women make up 12% of motorbike owners in the United States. And when you look at both riders and passengers, 1 in 4 are female. Not to mention that a quarter of all purchases are either highly influenced or made by women.

The industry is beginning to realize exactly how many women want to be on the open road, and you can now find motorcycle gear online, including motorcycle jackets for women and even Icon gloves– designed for female hands.

In 2013, around 27 million people in the United States operated a motorbike, and approximately 6.7 million of these people were women. A survey from 2013 (commissioned by Harley Davidson) found that of women riders, 37% reported always feeling happy, compared to just 16% of women non-riders. There were similar numbers for confidence, with 35% saying they always feel confident, compared to just 18% for women who don’t ride, and another big statistic was communication, with a huge 60% of women saying they were content with the way they communicated with their significant other, compared to 38% of non-riders.

Need some more reasons to own a motorbike? The same survey found that more than a third of female riders reported that they feel less stressed after they’ve been riding, while 50% said they were extremely satisfied with their current relationships. And for those that ride, more than half of them said that their motorbike was a key source of their happiness, and almost three quarters of female riders said that they believe that their lives have improved since they began riding.

Since so many women are beginning to ride bikes, and women have a natural affinity toward connection, many of these women have connected with each other. There’s even a resource called Women Riders Now, along with hundreds of riding clubs that are women only, numerous Facebook groups, and a number of organisations including Women on Wheels.

Back in 2013, Maggie McNally-Bradshaw was (unanimously) elected as the chair of the AMA (American Motorcyclist Association) board of directors. This is the first female to lead the board in the 89-year history of the association.

As you can see, millions of women are enjoying their motorbikes every day. If you’ve always wanted to own one, keep in mind that there are women of all ages learning to ride and purchasing their own bikes every year, and this number continues to grow.

Now that we’re in the middle of winter, it can be hard to know what to wear if you want to look cute while also keeping warm. Luckily, we’ve got everything you need to know to stay stylish in the cooler weather, so read on to learn how you can stay on point without freezing over the next few months.

Here are the biggest style trends right now:

Colour

This great infographic goes into lots of detail about which colour trends are actually in this season, and which are out. It turns out that purple is huge right now- whether in shades of lilac, violet or just plain purple. Another big trend? The Prince of Wales check which looks great in a chic skirt or dress (with tights of course). And just when you thought animal print was out, it turns out it’s back with a vengeance. Also big this season? Riverside blue, airy blue, sharkskin, aurora red, warm taupe, dusty cedar, lush meadow, spicy mustard, potter’s clay, and bodacious.

Metallics

Just when you thought this trend was starting to die down, you learned otherwise- if you saw all the people out and about for New Years wearing liquid metal or chunky metallic accessories, you’ll know that this trend isn’t going away anytime soon. Since many people have at least a few black staples for the cold months, this is a great way to make a statement and dress those pieces right up (particularly for a night out).

Necklines and Chokers

Off-the-shoulder necklines have also come back, and looks great in the cooler weather with rich jewel tones, dark prints, long sleeves, and of course, a nice pair of ankle boots. You also may have been living under a rock if you haven’t seen that chokers have made a return, so keep it subtle with a black ribbon or go all out with velvet or crystal details and embrace the Victorian look.

Puffy Jackets

This 90s trend has been big on the runways this season, and one good thing about it is the fact that you can stay super warm while embracing this trend. Want to go all out? Choose bright red or hot pink. Planning to avoid the “look at me” look? Choose burgundy, olive green, blue, grey, or black.

Boots

Boots are always in over the winter months, but you’ll find that ankle boots are huge this year. And over-the-knee boots are also back, although you can keep it relaxed with a cute top and dressy pair of skinny jeans, or go clubbing with a suede pair of boots and a chic miniskirt.

Stripes

Stripes are always a favourite, although we often see them in the summer months in reds and navy. Choose a stripy sweater or even a cute scarf to get the most out of this trend, just be sure to keep the rest of your outfit relatively simple to let the stripes tell the story.

For more information about these trends, check out the infographic below.

When you’re travelling, it can be tricky to know exactly what to bring with you. After all, you don’t want to bring too many things and weight your bag down/ be dealing with extra baggage chargers, but you also don’t want to be realizing that you’re missing something super important while you’re away.

Here’s what you should take on your next trip:

Sunglasses

For anyone travelling in summer (or visiting Southeast Asia throughout the year), sunglasses are a must. Be sure to check if your sunglasses will offer you the best possible protection from the sun, and if you want to be sure you’re getting quality while still looking good, check out Ray Ban sunglasses.

Electronics

Some people taking their first trips will be tempted to leave certain electronics behind. If you work online you’ll obviously need your laptop, however this is also a good thing to bring if you take low cost airlines, or long buses or trains- you can load it up with movies and keep yourself entertained. A kindle is another great thing to bring, as you can download books super easily and keep them all together- no longer will you need to book swap along the way. Just be sure to pack all of your chargers, as arriving in a new destination without your phone charger will mean time spent finding an electronics store to buy a new one.

Good shoes

While you can always find flip flops on the road, you’ll definitely be needing some good shoes if you’re planning to be active and either hit the gym occasionally or go for walks or hikes. Even though shoes can take up a lot of room, it’s worth bringing shoes that are comfortable, well worn-in, and supportive.

Makeup

This is a tough one, as many people believe that makeup takes up precious room in your bag, and you’ll be likely to sweat it off anyway. I personally believe that you should at least take the basics- a good foundation, bronzer, and mascara (along with a high-SPF sunscreen and night cream), so you can feel good when everyone has decided to go out for the night.

Clothes

When it comes to packing clothes, it can be hard to decide just what should make the cut. Think about layers- you want to be able to layer up when it’s cold outside or you’re in air conditioned transport, but you’ll also want to be able to remove layers when you’re walking with your backpack through a humid city or hanging out by the beach.

Before packing every item of clothing, consider how and when you would wear it. Can you mix and match it to make a variety of different outfits? Is it an easy item to throw on and wear anywhere? Or would you only wear it occasionally and in certain circumstances?

As you can see, there are a lot of things to consider when you’re deciding what to take on your next trip, but remember- almost anything you forget can be bought overseas, and you’ll appreciate a lighter bag over a heavier one.

New Jersey is a northeastern U.S. state at a distance of aprox 130 miles of Atlantic coast. It is broadly divided into three geographic regions:

• North Jersey
• Central Jersey
• South Jersey

Though New Jersey is the fourth-smallest state in U.S but still it is one of the most densely populated states out of the 50 United States.  This state experiences two kinds of climate basically. On one hand the south, central, and northeast parts of New Jersey have a humid subtropical climate, whereas on the other hand the northwestern region has a humid continental climate. Apart from English Spanish is the most frequently spoken language.

New Jersey is a very interesting state with lots of things to be done. Those who want to play slots, NJ is a perfect place for them as betting and gambling in sports and games is very popular over here. It is a secured, legal and fully registered online casino where you can play freely without any worries about its legality and earn real money.

Betfair online casino offers a wide range of online games to be played. From Roulette to Blackjack, from Jacks or Better and Deuces Wild to Fortune Pai Gow and everything in between can be found here for your entertainment.

Apart from these betting and gambling NJ has various other attractions for you to fall in love with it such as:-

• Concerts & shows
• Natural parks
• Nature & wildlife areas
• Museums
• Water & amusement parks
• Gardens
• Historical sites
• Farm houses

Let us throw some light on few of the best places to be visited in New Jersey:-

• Cape May Country Park & zoo- A perfect zoo to be visited in all times especially in winters. You can find a variety of animals within their enclosures. You can have a great time with friends and family over here at no cost as the entry is free.
• Jersey Shore Alpacas- It is fun to visit this place, spending time with Alpacas like feeding them, learning to know about them and their stories and all can be really a good time.
• Cape May City Beaches- It is a clean, well maintained beach. You can either enjoy sun bath in the early morning or afternoon hours or just have a leisurely troll on the beach in the evening.
• Casino Pier & Breakwater Beach water park- It is the best place near sea side with thrilling rides and slide pass. Children love this place so don’t miss out to take your kids here on your next visit to NJ.
• Battleship New Jersey- Watching the ship in the midst of water and having a step back in history knowing about historical piece would be worth visiting. This ship is famous for having taken part 3 times in war.

While visiting the tourist attractions in NJ do not forget about the amazing concerts and shows held over here.

1. Passport

You won’t be going anywhere if your passport isn’t in date and in your hand when you head through airport security. Store it in a plastic wallet along with any other important documents you have (boarding passes, transfer tickets, insurance documents, etc.) and keep it safe in your hand luggage bag.

2. Medication

If you take regular medication, you’ll need to make sure you have enough of it available to cover your holiday. Speak to your GP if your usual repeat prescription isn’t going to last the duration of your holiday. Keep emergency medication tucked safely in your hand luggage, just in case there’s a problem with your hold luggage. If you’re jetting off to a country where malaria is a potential problem, you’ll probably need malaria tablets.

3. Phone charger

These days, most of us use our phones for everything – phone calls, email, and photographs – so make sure you’re able to use yours by putting a phone charger in your luggage.

4. Toiletries

You will probably be able to buy toiletries at your destination, but for peace of mind and to save money, buy them before you go and pack them in your luggage. A handy tip when packing is to lay your clothes in first, then a towel, and lie your toiletries on top in a plastic bag; that way, if spills occur, your clothes won’t be ruined.

5. A first-aid box

Regardless of whether you’re staying in a hotel or backpacking, packing a few supplies of plasters, bandages and antibacterial cream is always a good idea. Add some insect repellent and an itch-reliever lotion too for good measure.

6. Comfy clothes

The focus when you’re going abroad is usually making sure you’re well stocked with shorts, t-shirts, sandals, swim clothes, and a couple of fashion savvy going-out get-ups. As well as your usual holiday clothes, pack a pair of comfy joggers you can buy online and a hoody or long-sleeved shirt – just in case it gets a bit nippy. Travelling in joggers is a good idea, too; while it may seem like a good idea before you set off, sitting in a plane seat in tight denim pants is bound to get uncomfortable!

7. A phrase book

Wherever you’re going, the local people are guaranteed to know more about the best sights, restaurants and beaches than any travel reps. Prepare yourself for chatting with the locals by investing in a handy phrase book and learning some of the lingo.

8. Sun cream

If you’re going somewhere warm, you’ll need sun-cream. Even on overcast days, the sun’s rays are strong enough to cause nasty burns, so make sure you’re constantly covered. If you’re going on a hike or a walk, cover yourself with suncream, wear a hat and pack plenty of water to avoid burns and deter heat-stroke.

9. Neck pillow

Keep yourself comfy on the plane with a supportive neck pillow. Most airlines sell neck pillows on-board, so don’t worry if you don’t manage to pick one up before you fly.

10. Keys and wallet

Keep your wallet with you at all times; when you’re out and about, keep it safe in a zipped pocket in a bag (not in your back pocket!). Tourists are an ideal target for pick pockets, particularly in crowded market places, so keep your valuables safe at all times. Pack your keys away in your hand luggage and keep them there; you don’t want to get home and find yourself stranded outside your house!

Whether you’re planning a relaxing beach holiday or you’re gearing up for a city break, it’s important to make sure you’re properly prepared for your next trip – and this includes looking after your health. To help ensure medical woes don’t ruin your getaway, here are three holiday health tips everyone should know.

1. It pays to be sensible about sex

People tend to let their guard down when they’re away from home, and this can result in them being a little lax when it comes to sex. Whether you’re hoping for a holiday romance or not, it’s always a good idea to take condoms with you to protect you from STIs just in case you do meet someone.

If you’re travelling with your partner and you use birth control, don’t forget to take it with you. You might also want to pack a morning after pill in case your regular method of contraception fails. You can order emergency contraception online from trusted sources, and knowing that you have this with you can give you added peace of mind.  

2. You should research travel vaccinations well in advance

Depending on where you’re going, you might need vaccinations to protect you from potentially serious diseases. You can get jabs to reduce the risk of contracting anything from polio, tetanus and diphtheria to typhoid, hepatitis B, rabies and yellow fever. If you’re heading to a place where there’s a risk of diseases like this, it’s essential that you visit a travel clinic – and don’t leave booking an appointment to the last minute. It’s recommended that you visit a clinic at least two months before you set off on your trip because certain vaccinations have to be given well in advance.

3. Basic food and water hygiene can stop you getting sick

There might be lots of enticing foods to sample on your adventures, but you’ll need to follow some basic food and drink hygiene rules if you want to avoid travellers’ diarrhoea. Bear in mind that if you consume contaminated food or water, your trip might be spoiled by a nasty bout of sickness. If you’re going to a country with poor sanitation, don’t drink tap water unless it’s been treated. Don’t even brush your teeth with it. Use bottled or boiled water instead. It’s also important to avoid drinks served with ice.

When it comes to eating in these countries, steer clear of salads, uncooked vegetables and fruits unless they have been washed in safe water. Also, don’t tuck into cooked or fresh food that’s been allowed to stand at room temperature if you’re staying somewhere warm. No matter how delicious they may look, it’s also wise to avoid dairy products and raw or undercooked seafood and shellfish.

Paying attention to tips like these should ensure you can enjoy your holidays without health concerns getting in the way.