Category

Lifestyle

Category

Picture this: you and your family, friends, or spouse sipping on chilled cocktails aboard a luxury boat, a chef sending out tantalizing treats, and a personal DJ blasting your favorite tunes. This can be something other than a daydream as you can turn it into reality by booking a party barge for your next celebration.

From birthday parties to intimate get-togethers, a party barge is always a great idea. Here are nine amazing perks of booking a party barge.

There’s Enough Room For Everyone

A party barge is big enough to house everyone. Depending on the size of your event, you can book a boat with room for fourteen, twenty-five, or fifty people and comfortably accommodate your family and friends.

A Party Barge Has a Captain to Show You Around

When you book a party barge in Austin like Premier Party Cruises, you get a fun and experienced captain who will show you around the lake in style. Additionally, the captain will ensure the boat’s safe operations and manage the safety of all passengers.

An Arched Canopy Keeps You Comfortable

An arched canopy provides the perfect blend of sun and shade. If the weather is hot, you can raise the canopy and prevent harmful UV rays from hitting passengers. When the sun begins to set, you can lower the canopy and enjoy the warm rays.

Offers Great Amenities

Booking a party barge gives you access to awesome amenities such as life jackets, a clean washroom, a large cooler, a Bluetooth speaker system, and wrap-around bench seating. You can also access add-on options like DJs and lily pads.

The Scenery Changes When Cruising on a Party Barge

Booking a party barge in Austin allows you to work with locals who can suggest fun activities around the city. On a party barge, the fun is not limited to onboard activities. Most of the fun is enjoying the ever-changing scenery, exploring new places, and leaving the boat for a few minutes to chat with locals or try local cuisines.

A Professional Plans Everything For You

Booking a party barge gives you access to full-service event planning to create an unforgettable party experience. Working with a planner further works to your advantage because planners are detail-oriented and ensure that all details of your event are covered.

A Party Barge in Austin is Close to the Marina

When you book a party barge in Austin, you can access the boat from the closest marina, which is twenty-five minutes from downtown Austin. You also get free parking; awesome, right?

Access to Premier Customer Service

Booking a party barge allows you to consistently access great customer service with quick response time and friendly help from beginning to end.

Years of Experience

Booking a party barge means working with professionals with years of experience under their belt and the best reviews on the lake.

Choose a Party Barge for Your Next Celebration

A party barge is a perfect event for your next celebration. Instead of hosting everyone in a high school gymnasium or a cramped ballroom, you will be out on beautiful Lake Travis, soaking up the sun and sipping on chilled cocktails.

In distinct parts of the world, dragon paintings are truly applauded. Dragons are seen as a symbol of absolute power, strength, and good luck. Some Asian countries consider dragons extremely important.

There are dragon festivals in China and national holidays to embark on these special occasions. Such is the influence of dragons on art, culture, and society, which is why it’s very important to highlight everything about dragon paintings.

Tap into this lucrative segment to know more about dragons. Reveal more about the symbolism of dragons and some famous dragon paintings.

What do Dragons Symbolise?

According to history, dragons were an imperial symbol of the Tang Dynasty. They were a key notation highlighting power, valiancy, excellence, determination, dignity, and divinity. It is believed to surpass all obstacles and welcome success in every way.

Dragons also represent high spirits, confidence, enthusiasm, intelligence, and determination. The rich Asian culture considers dragons to have great influence and control of water and typhoons. Traditionally they are regarded as a symbol of vigor and fortunate powers.

Unlike European and western influences, Dragons are representative of evil and demons. However, especially China and other Asian countries visualize dragons as breathing fires, a powerful symbol of having supernatural forces.

Saint Michael and The Dragon

In 1483, an artist of high Renaissance, Raffaello Sanzio da Urbino created this historical dragon painting, Saint Michael and The Dragon. Here, Saint Michael is seen with a burning background. The dragon, an emblem of martial expertise, and swords, embody evil and lying incapacitated beneath his feet.

In the background is a fortified city similar to the city of beasts, Urbino. Raphael represents the center of the stage with the grace of a ballet dancer. He is ready to chop off the dragon’s head.

He is brandishing his traditional long sword. Objectified as fearless, he is shown wearing leather armor in a delicate but martia. On the contrary, the dragon seems to be dead. His tongue is out of its mouth, telling us about his defeat.

Nine Dragons

Nine Dragons are one of the very early paintings from the early civilizations. It was painted in 1244 by Chen Rong. The handscroll painting depicts the apparitions of dragons within clouds, mists, rocky mountains, and fires.

The depiction of dragons is associated with the nine sons of the Dragon King. The number nine itself is considered extremely auspicious in Chinese astrology and folk belief. The historical dragon painting is presently housed at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston.

There are scattered drops of ink on the canvas, which are either flung or blown onto the surface. It seems as if it’s similar to an action painting. There is a conscious evocation of rain or some rainmaking ritual by the artist.

The Great Red Dragon

It is a dramatic watercolor creation by William Blake, which unfolds a cosmic battle between the good and evil gods. Moreover, it illustrates passages that describe an enormously massive red dragon with seven heads, ten horns, and seven crowns on its head.

The dragon descends upon a woman clothed with the sun, the moon under her feet, and a crown of twelve stars on her head. However, the dragon embodies Satan. The goal is to seek revenge on the woman who gave birth to a follower of God.

The sun seems overwhelmed with the woman’s figure and catches in the crescent sliver of the moon. Darkness and shadows fill the sky. The downside is a rising deluge invoked by the dragon. The intention is to engulf the woman who is the figure of hapless souls.

Saint Michael Trampling The Dragon

The remarkable canvas of Raphael narrates the triumph of good over evil. It is filled with sinewy drama and a bitter conflict of eternal struggle. Raphael was asked to paint a second rendition of the dragon painting free, completing the first one in 1515.

It was under commission by Pope Julius II in 1518. However, it remains controversial that this work of art was not completed by his hand. Rather, it was his favorite apprentice Giulio Romano who made it.

This fictional art reproduction of the triumphant scene is a remarkable artwork of the Italian High Renaissance. However, it is regarded as a truly modern achievement. From balance to style, everything is on point. Nonetheless, it doesn’t matter who completed the details, and the painting resonates with everything under Raphael’s influence.

The Bottom Line

Dragon paintings are easy to find and can be easily ordered online. They show dragons conquering as a symbol of power and virtues held high in Asian culture.

Looking for a cheap and fun way to relax? Check out the zorb ball! These balls made from stretchy material are inflated with air, and can be filled with water or foam to create a variety of different sensations. Whether you’re looking for an outdoor activity, a party game, or just some fun in your backyard, the zorb ball is definitely worth checking out. These balls are made out of vinyl and can be filled with air or water, which makes them bouncy. You can use them for various games, including bouncing, catching, and tossing. They’re also great for parties because they’re easy to set up and take down. If you’re looking for something fun and cheap to do, a zorb ball cheap is the perfect choice.

Get more information for zorbing

1.What is Zorbing?

Zorbing is a new and exciting activity that is quickly gaining popularity. It is a type of amusement park ride that uses a large rubber ball to bounce people around. The ball is secured to a metal frame, and participants are spun around in circles. Zorbing is perfect for children and adults who want to have some fun and get their blood pumping. Zorbing is a fun and unique experience that can be enjoyed by everyone. It is a type of amusement park ride in which visitors are strapped into a circular metal frame, which is then rotated to create a whirlpool-like motion.

2.How much fun can you have with a zorb ball?

Zorb balls are a large inflatable ball with another ball inside it. They are typically used in sports such as basketball, soccer, and dodgeball. Zorb balls are usually cheaper than other types of balls, making them a good option for players on a budget. Inflatable balls have been around for a while, but the human hamster ball cheap is a new variation on the theme. It’s essentially a large inflatable ball with another ball inside it, which players can use to bounce around and have some fun. The zorb ball is relatively cheap, making it a great option for anyone looking for some harmless fun. A human hamster ball is a type of inflatable toy that has recently become popular among children. The toy consists of a large, soft sphere filled with air. Children can use their feet to keep the ball in place, and then use their hands to create various shapes with the ball. This can be done by bouncing the ball off of walls or furniture, or by spinning it around.

3.How to keep your kids entertained with Zorb balls

For a lot of parents, one of the biggest challenges is keeping their kids entertained. Whether it’s a busy day at work or they just don’t want to sit still, many children find themselves bored easily. One way to keep them occupied is by using zorb balls. Zorb balls are small spheres made from rubber or plastic that can be filled with air or water and then tossed around. They are bouncy, unpredictable and fun – perfect for kids who need something to keep them entertained without needing too much supervision. Plus, they are cheap and easy to store, so you can bring them with you wherever you go. If you’re looking for an entertaining activity for your kids that won’t require a lot of time or money, zorbing balls are a great option. Zorbing balls are a great way to keep your kids entertained. They are cheap and easy to set up. You can use them in the yard, at the park, or even in the house. Just get some human hamster balls and some strong adhesive and you’re ready to go.

4.The Surprising Health Benefits of Zorb Balls

Zorb balls are a cheap and fun way to improve your health. Zorb balls are a cheap, fun way to exercise and have fun at the same time. They can be used indoors or outdoors, and they provide a surprising variety of health benefits. Here are surprising health benefits of the balls:

• Zorb balls help improve balance and coordination.• Zorb balls can help prevent falls in elderly individuals or those with mobility issues.• Zorb balls improve breathing techniques and respiratory function.• Zorb balls are an effective way to relieve stress and anxiety.• Zorb balls can be used as part of rehabilitative therapy for patients with joint pain or Recovery from an injury. • Zorb balls can help increase flexibility and range of motion in the joints and muscles throughout the body. • They can help improve joint mobility. • Zorb balls can help with balance and coordination. • They can help reduce stress and anxiety. • They can also improve cognitive function, reaction time, and muscle strength.

5.Where Can I Buy Zorb Balls?

If you’re looking for a fun way to keep your kids entertained this summer, consider getting them a human hamster ball. These balls are cheap and easy to find at most convenience stores. You can use them for indoor or outdoor play, and they’re great for building spatial awareness and coordination skills. These balls are made of soft, plastic material that is filled with air. When you toss the ball around, it creates a sphere-like shape that is difficult to break or tumble. You can find these balls at many locations, including kameymall.

Conclusion

Zorb ball is a great way for athletes of all ages to stay active and have fun. It’s also a great way to keep your family fit, since everyone can play together. If you’re looking for a low-cost way to keep your family active, the human hamster ball is a great option. zorb balls are a cheap and fun way to prevent injuries. the zorb ball is a low-cost fun toy that can provide hours of enjoyment. It is easy to set up and use, making it a great option for anyone looking for a safe and easy way to have fun. If you’re looking for an affordable and easy way to have some fun, the human hamster ball is the perfect toy for you! They are perfect for parties or summertime fun. Be sure to use common sense when zorbing and stay safe!

Travelling like a seasoned pro is not an overnight miracle. There are plenty of travel secrets and tips that many people won’t know, even if they’ve hopped on a plane more than 10 times. #TeamCoco has put together a monthly guide that will change the way you travel forever – you’ll be a pro in no time!

Roll your clothes for more space

Packing smart doesn’t take much effort, especially with limits on luggage, being effective with your packing is essential! It’s a great idea to roll your clothes rather than fold, as this saves space, helps organsiation and your clothes will be wrinkle-free.

For those who pack lightly, we’d recommend purchasing a travel bag with the correct size dimensions the airline requires. You can take this onboard as hand luggage and it will fit all your rolled-up clothes in.

For the glam queens who always overpack… It’s a different story! Make sure to roll all your clothes, in a large suitcase, that way there’s more room for accessories, shoes and makeup!

Have you noticed that other people use reusable bags when grocery shopping? Have you wondered why some of your friends cut red meat from their diets?

You may have realized that today’s media and activists are influencing people around you – Greta Thunberg is highly influential and continues to inspire people to be more eco-friendly.

For the great cause of bettering Earth’s future, here are four ways you can get started with saving the planet and joining the fight.

1. Use Less Plastic

This may seem obvious, but using less plastic is essential in reducing waste and decreasing the Earth’s landfills. Many plastic items, such as water bottles and cups, are only used once, which is not sustainable.

Plastic has a terrible effect on the earth and mainly affects animals – it’s not unknown that straws are awful for marine life, especially turtles. So it’s essential to reduce this type of waste.

Getting rid of plastic is challenging, but you can start reducing plastic usage by using reusable shopping bags instead of plastic bags. You may also use wax wraps for your food instead of grabbing the usual plastic container.

There is no way to eliminate plastic from the world completely, but it’s possible to reduce the waste from it in order to protect the surrounding wildlife.

2. Recycle

It is impossible to eliminate plastic from the world completely, so recycling those plastic products is essential. Recycling is a great way to protect the Earth in your own way, and it’s incredibly easy to do.

To reduce waste in landfills, it’s good to turn one-time-use items into multi-use items; you do this by recycling your soda bottles and such. These bottles then get remade into new bottles that other people can use.

Although it’s still plastic in the end, it does a great job of slowing the rate of the waste.

3. Shop Wisely

There is also a way to protect the planet through shopping – you just have to shop wisely.

Shopping “wisely” means researching the brands you’re buying from. Certain brands are labeled fast fashion brands because they sell cheap but trendy clothing at the expense of lower wages for their employees and the environment.

Because these types of clothing are cheaply made, they do not last long – you’ll eventually see tears and rips in these clothes even after using them only a couple of times. This means they will ultimately make it to the trash, where they will be added to landfills. The materials that some of these clothes are made from are also hard to break down naturally.

Considering all this, buying from trusted brands or even going thrift shopping is an excellent idea.

4. Start Walking More

This may be more complicated, especially if you have places to be every day. However, walking more will reduce carbon emissions from cars, trains, and buses.

For example, instead of driving to work, you can walk or bike to work. It might be more taxing on your body, but you’ll be fitting it into your daily exercise and protecting the planet by doing this.

You might think that one person walking to work doesn’t make a difference in reducing carbon emissions. But a goal always begins somewhere. You can be that person that starts the “trend” at your workplace.

Final Thoughts

These four suggestions for protecting the planet are not the only ways to become more environmentally friendly. It can be hard to do some of these things, but you have to take it one step at a time, and soon, you’ll” be more conscious about protecting the environment.

Car insurance is a necessity these days, but did you know it can do more than provide coverage in the event of an accident? Many people are unaware of the extra benefits of car insurance, and this article will explore the unexpected ways car insurance can help you. From roadside assistance to discounts on other services, plenty of hidden perks come with being insured. You may be surprised by how much value your car insurance brings to your life.

Unexpected Uses for Car Insurance

Most drivers are familiar with the essential requirements and benefits of car insurance. However, car insurance can help you out in many less-known unexpected ways.

Car insurance provides more than just coverage for your vehicle in the event of an accident. It has several hidden features that can come in handy during other life events. If you already have a policy from a company such as kbdinsurance.com, you may not even know how your auto coverage can help you. Here are some unexpected uses for car insurance:

If you’re renting a vehicle while on vacation or business travel, your car insurance policy may cover rentals up to certain limits. Your insurer also may protect you if someone else has an accident while driving your vehicle or if the damage is caused by hitting a deer or other animal on the road.

Accidents on Vacation

Having the right car insurance coverage can help you in ways that may be unexpected, such as providing financial protection from accidents on vacation. Here are a few key benefits of having car insurance while travelling:

First, if an accident happens while you’re on vacation, your car insurance could cover medical expenses for any injured parties involved in the accident. This includes medical bills and lost wages due to hospitalization or other treatments. Additionally, depending on your policy, it could even cover legal fees if needed.

Second, if your rental car is damaged during an accident or stolen while on vacation, your car insurance policy may cover the costs associated with replacing or repairing the vehicle.

Theft & Vandalism

Comprehensive coverage through an auto policy can help cover the associated costs if your car has been stolen. For example, this coverage helps pay for a rental car while the police search for your vehicle or any towing or storage fees once recovered. Additionally, suppose your vehicle has been vandalized. In that case, comprehensive coverage can also help with repairs or replacements of damaged parts, such as windshields, windows and mirrors, all without having to come out-of-pocket with the cost.

Roadside Assistance

One helpful service provided by many car insurance companies is roadside assistance. This service comes in handy if your car breaks down on the side of the road, suffers a flat tire, or runs out of gas. Roadside assistance can send someone to help you with whatever issue you’re facing and get you back on the road quickly and safely. Some insurance carriers offer this service free as part of their customer coverage plan, so check with your provider to see what services are available.

Make the Most of Your Coverage

Vehicle insurance is an invaluable tool for keeping you and your vehicle safe. It can help protect your finances, provide emergency services, and even cover the costs of medical expenses. Additionally, many car insurance companies offer additional benefits, such as roadside assistance and rental car coverage in case of an accident. Car insurance may also help with unexpected expenses, such as funeral costs or legal fees.

Brisbane combines the best of both worlds with fantastic weather and world-class education. It is recognized as a sunshine state and is the third-largest city in Australia. Over 1,50,000 students enrol for graduation in Brisbane every year from all around the world. Accommodation tips for students in Brisbane The oldest city in Australia has the most diverse population, with almost 33 per cent being foreign-born. Hence you get the opportunity to interact with different cultures and feel at ease with localities in Brisbane. Many platforms like Iglu Brisbane help students find affordable houses in the city.

Brisbane is the 18th most liveable in the whole world. It has also gained popularity for higher education primarily due to renowned universities acknowledged worldwide, warmer climates, and affordable housing. The lifestyle-friendly rental locations ensure you get everything around the block. However, with myriad options available, finding reliable accommodation can be challenging.

So here are some crucial tips for students to rent a safe and affordable rental space.

Accommodation Tips For Students Studying In Brisbane:

More than 85 per cent of international students studying in Brisbane prefer renting properties rather than living in hostels or dorms. If you are planning to pursue your higher education abroad and are confused about which city living arrangement suits you best, don’t worry. The following are the factors that can help you make the right decision.

Proximity To Renowned University and World-Class Education:

Did you know Brisbane offers the finest universities, which rank among the top 30 around the globe? Renting a space near your university will save you a lot of daily commute time. The bicycle parking space is also an ideal option for those who use the cycle to commute and cut down transportation costs.

Cost Of Living

The fastest-growing economy is relatively easier on the pockets. Hence, the majority of the students prefer to stay in Brisbane while completing their studies. You can rent a space at an accommodation anywhere between 339$ to 700$, depending on your preferences, like Iglu Brisbane.

Safe Accommodations

Make sure that the place has rooms with a variety of security options, like e-card access, CCTV, 24-hour guard, and on-site support. Thus, living alone in a new place becomes stress-free, whether staying in shared apartments or individual studios.

Convenience

Brisbane is a city with less population. Many students come in every year to enrol in courses and higher education. Hence the city has adapted its infrastructure to provide the best and fulfil every need of students.

Many premises like Iglu Brisbane offer exceptional amenities and features that are an added advantage for every college goer. They include free WiFi, gym, ready-to-use kitchen set up, cinema room, study space, laundry room, etc. You need not worry about paying separate bills. It is all added up to your monthly rent.

At Home Vibes

When you stay at an accommodation facility, you meet many friends who share the same journey. You won’t feel alone away from home by bonding with others within the accommodation, such as hanging together during a BBQ or Sunday binge-watch.

Bottom Line

Brisbane has a range of accommodation facilities with top-notch amenities. However, ensure excellent connectivity between your living space and the university so you do not need to invest in a private vehicle. Accommodation tips for students in Brisbane The city makes you feel at home with exceptional hospitality and welcome vibes. Hopefully, the above pointers have motivated you to enrol in a university in Brisbane this coming year and explore the fabulous lifestyle of the city.

You’ve bought your dream house and are already enjoying living in it. But, to keep it as it is and increase its value in the long run, homeowners must prioritize home maintenance every six months. Maintaining the house may seem daunting, but it can help you save costly repairs in the future. This article shares a checklist that homeowners must follow to ensure regular home maintenance.

Inspect Home Systems

Maintenance is not only limited to checking appliances and cleaning. It also means checking the major home systems for potential problems. Maintenance is not only limited to checking appliances and cleaning. It also means checking the major home systems for potential problems. During winter, pay close attention to your HVAC systems, clean filthy filters, and replace them to improve indoor air quality to ensure the heater runs efficiently. Test your security system and make sure it functions properly. Check for safety supplies in case there’s a storm or any other natural event that can lead to a power outage. In a nutshell, check each and every system to see if they need any repair or replacement and if so, seek the assistance of licensed HVAC technicians from companies like WireNut Home Services.

Pay Attention to Plumbing

Homeowners should inspect their plumbing system regularly to look for signs of leaks and damage. These damages can include things like cracking of plastic, rust buildup, discoloration on metal pipes, crimping and polymer parts. For water heater maintenance, including tank flashes and other preventative maintenance, make sure to contact the right water heater experts and get all the repair work done. Avoiding such issues in the short term can hurt your pocket in the future for replacements which is why it’s best to always get your plumbing questions answered.

Kitchen and Appliances

Kitchen cleaning should be a part of your regular maintenance routine. It is the room where you spend most of your time. Spilled foods, liquids, and crumbled food can lead to dirt buildup, which can damage your floors and countertops and invite harmful bacterias. So, make sure you take out at least one or two days a week to clean your cabinets and clearing expired items from your pantry. Regularly clean the dishwasher, and don’t leave food leftovers to prevent clogs or leaks. Check if all the kitchen appliances are working properly or need any repair.

Clean Humid Places

Bathrooms, showers, and other areas of your home that become damp easily get mold or mildew, especially when you don’t have proper ventilation. To avoid mold buildup, make sure to scrub bathroom tiles and grout with a cleaning solution at least twice or thrice a month. Also, while you clean, allow some space for ventilation, as it is important for a healthy home environment. Inspect the pipes for any signs of leaks or fixtures or any other changes that could lead to corrosion. Besides, make sure to check caulking around bathtubs, sinks, showers and see if they need repair.

Final Thoughts

It is easy to forget about regular home maintenance if you are a working professional and lead a busy lifestyle. But avoiding maintenance in the short term just for the sake of temporary relief can cost you a big amount of money in the future. Avoiding minimal repairs and updates can lead to costly replacements. Hence, it is better to follow a proper maintenance schedule where you pick days for finishing different tasks.

The Adaaran Select Meedhupparu difference

Never been to the Maldives before and feeling overwhelmed by the choice of resorts available? Wondering which one will best suit your needs? Planning a trip with family or looking for a couples escape?

You’ve come to the right place. Adaaran Select Meedhupparu offers a variety of spaces, accommodation and gastronomy options and activities that are guaranteed to make one day on the island different from the next.

The resort island of Adaaran Select Meedhupparu is part of the Aitken Spence collection of properties in the Maldives. Opened in 2000, the proud mantle of being the very first resort in the Maldives Raa Atoll meant that Adaaran Select Meedhupparu has had time to perfect their hospitality offerings.

This is reflected in the quality and range of their all-inclusive packages designed to target different customer interests and preferences. Their selection of all-inclusive packages includes a brand new ‘Premium All Inclusive’ package that combines some of the island’s best food and drink options.

Accommodation options include a range of over 200 beach villas and 20 Adaaran Prestige Water Villas (both property types share the same island but operate as different resort entities).

The private Adaaran Prestige Water Villas have access to what is arguably the best part of the Meedhupparu house reef. Steps lead from these elegant villas directly into the lagoon with only a few strokes to the reef’s drop-off. These exclusive properties have their own reception, restaurant and bar, swimming pool and beach.

We stayed in a Jacuzzi Beach Villa which was set back from the shoreline behind light vegetation that provided sufficient shade without obstructing views of the lagoon.

Families will find Adaaran Select Meedhupparu a good choice for a family holiday to the Maldives. In addition to beach villas designed with families in mind, you can expect a range of child-friendly facilities including a dedicated (and generously sized) playground, a family-friendly pool and a calendar of childrens’ activities through their Komas Kids Club.

There’s a certain maturity about this island and we are not just referring to their hospitality options. A full-grown rainforest environment teeming with rich biodiversity creates a natural wonderland in one of the most beautiful nations on earth.

Eating at Adaaran Select Meedhupparu

Meedhupparu’s all-inclusive package offers a daily parade of different world cuisines. The main Jaafaiy Restaurant plays host to this buffet selection. Although we did not get the chance to try Sufura, Meedhupparu’s specialised Indian restaurant, the main buffet at Jaafaiy offered a delightful menu of flavourful curries that changed daily.

However, our top choice for dinner during our visit was the Thavaa Restaurant. This was elegant Mediterranean dining made simple. We dined with our feet in the sand whilst enjoying the ocean breeze and soft tunes from the nearby Café Mass.

The open plan kitchen placed us right next to the aromas, sounds and activity from the kitchen which heightened both our expectation and our appetite. The Mediterranean-style dishes we sampled were remarkable.

Away from the main restaurant, options abound for lunch and casual dining throughout the day. For example, the trendy and elegant Café Mass offers beachfront dining and serves a selection of fast food.

We had one of our best lunch meals at the Adaaran Prestige Water Villas restaurant (booking required) – an unforgettable grilled seafood platter with the freshest ingredients possible on such a remote island.

Halaboli Bar is an expansive space with high ceilings and plentiful seating. By day, you can grab a drink and a book from the library and relax.

Albino Bar on the edge of the island is a refuge away from everything. Here, you can experience solitude while browsing through a mind-blowing menu of 101 cocktails (no exaggeration!)

Finally, the Water Villas Bar, Sunset Bar and a swim-up Pool Bar further add to the variety on offer at Meedhupparu.

Things to do at Meedhupparu

If you’re content with doing absolutely nothing, a highlight of this island is the variety of rest and relaxation spaces available including sun loungers for all beach villas and a sea swing reachable at low tide.

If you prefer to take things at a relaxed pace, the mature vegetation on this island makes it perfect for long walks. Be sure to check out their well-maintained and beautifully laid out gardens including the treehouse.

For wellness, a range of treatments are available at the Mandara Spa, an impressive structure in its own right with multiple treatment rooms offering massages, facials and other options.

What is a trip to the Maldives without experiencing the water? Although we visited during monsoon season, there were a host of motorised and non-motorised water activities available at Meedhupparu that were available for booking (some are included in the all-inclusive package).

We spent our nights at Halaboli Bar. At night, the space transforms into a lounge/dance hall with a resident DJ banging out the latest hits. Head to the main bar where you can watch a team of experienced mixologists prepare ghostly looking jellyfish shots (PS: these are not actually made from aquatic animals) guaranteed to hit the spot!

Kids clubs, music and dance, masterful acrobatic performances and talented Sri Lankan Kandyan fire-eating dancers (children are welcome to this show – from a safe distance of course) are just some of the night entertainment options available.

How to get there

A scenic resort-arranged seaplane transfer from Velana International Airport, Malé will get you to Meedhupparu in around 45 minutes. Optionally, you can do a domestic flight and a speedboat transfer to Meedhupparu.

For more information about curating your own experience at Adaaran Select Meedhupparu and to learn more about their all-inclusive packages, visit adaaran.com/selectmeedhupparu/

With the holidays fast approaching, you should get together with your neighbors before going across the country to see family. While block parties are often synonymous with summer, you can have a great time with everyone in your community this upcoming New Year.

Ready to put together an epic party that everyone on your street will remember fondly? Read on to learn how to organize and execute one of these memorable events.

It’s Not Rocket Science

Regarding hosting, some events require every detail to be planned down to the letter. Block parties aren’t one of these moments. Yes, you need to put together a plan, but don’t go overboard. This is a get-together with longtime friends and neighbors, so don’t make this more stressful than it has to be.

Sure, create some flyers or invitations, and definitely plan for amazing food, drink, and matching decor. Do you need to hire a DJ? Probably not. Would it be helpful if you had decent audio equipment and a playlist of tunes on your tablet or phone to play? Absolutely. Just remember to keep things simple when getting creative with your theme.

Picking the Date and Location

Before you choose the next upcoming Saturday with beautiful weather, double-check with your neighbors and friends about the day that works best for them. For example, you never know when there’s a concert in town or a wedding going on that could cut down on your number of attendees. Plus, it’s better to wait until dinner time to hold your festivities instead of having an all-day event.

With that said, you also need to figure out the best place on your block to set up. If you live in a cul-de-sac, or if one of your neighbors does, you’re all set. But if you live on a busy neighborhood street, you’ll need an especially long driveway or amply-sized front yard. This will minimize the risk of an accident and avoid impeding traffic. Then, of course, you can always go to your municipality for permission to shut down that section of the street for the duration of your party.

Another important aspect of holding this type of celebration is lighting. Your guests need to move around the party zone safely, so pay attention to the lighting situation. While renting, a few gas-powered light units may be able to illuminate things by keeping a garage door open, installing additional yard lights along curbs and stairs, and installing party lighting.

Outfit Your Party Zone

As mentioned earlier, while decor is nice, there are other priorities for block parties. Your neighbors are there for food, drink, and entertainment, so plan your event area accordingly. Ensure you have ample signage to help folks find food stations, restrooms, and garbage cans. A banner is also a great idea, along with tablecloths and drink dispensers.

Wherever you plan to set up your grill, you can erect a condiment table with everything needed to make burgers and hot dogs just how they want them. Remember napkins, utensils, and disposable dishware. Food boats are especially helpful and are multi-functional. Whether someone just wants some extra dip for their chips or a bowl to hold multiple food items, these trays are extremely versatile and budget-friendly.

Have Everyone Bring a Covered Dish

Remember how it’s important to keep things simple? When it comes to arranging for the massive amounts of food and drink you’ll need, opt for a potluck instead. Not only does this take some of the planning stress off your shoulders, but you’ll find a few new favorite recipes on party night.

Make sure you take an organized approach and create a list of wants and needs. Then have your guests RSVP what they’re bringing in those categories. You want to avoid three people bringing potato salad, right?

Remember the Drinks!

Block parties are about having a great time. You have the food covered, but what about the drink options? BYOB is always a great plan, but you could also have designated drink stations that offer favorites like margaritas, wine, and draft beer. Remember to include non-alcoholic selections for those who don’t drink alcohol. Offering a variety of specialty fruit teas, sodas, and virgin treats is essential.

If it’s a smaller neighborhood party with just a few households participating, self-service is easy enough. But if you plan to have a hundred people or more, definitely consider having a bartender. You want to avoid risking someone drinking too much or youthful partygoers partaking.

Keep Guests Comfortable

It’s important to have plenty of seating for your block party attendees. Depending on the size of your gathering, you may only want one primary area for kicking back. This will ensure that foot traffic between different entertainment and food areas is unimpeded. Of course, it never hurts to have extra chairs and blankets on hand when groups move around to different areas to avoid crowds. Also, ensure these spots are within the grill.

Keep Waste Under Control

The downside to any block party is the cleanup. However, you can make this a more manageable process by providing conveniently located waste receptacles throughout the party area. Of course, you must keep an eye on their capacity and regularly replace them, but managing garbage during the event is less tedious than waiting until after it all has ended.

Another efficient way to handle the garbage generated by your party is to rent a dumpster (or two). Depending on the size of the event area, one strategically placed roll-off may be the perfect solution. These hold a large capacity of refuse and are easy to spot, so guests will immediately know where to throw away bottles and plates.

You should also have quick wipes, a broom, and other cleaning supplies on hand for when accidents happen. This, too, will make your clean-up process much easier.

Final Thoughts

Block parties are an amazing opportunity to build relationships with your neighbors and simply have a great time as a community. While these events aren’t overly complicated to put together, it’s important to do some planning to ensure everything goes smoothly. This small step will ensure that you and everyone attending have the best times filled with food, drink, and countless good times.