• Society
    4 Apps to Get Directions for Free

    With the widespread prevalence of GPS (Global Positioning System) on all smartphones and car systems, people no longer need physical maps. They can get directions to any place in the country at the touch of a button. These days, navigation apps come with additional features like suggestions about which route to take and scenic getaways on the way. These features have made these apps and websites exceedingly popular. The best part is that they help you get directions for free.

    Let us examine the best apps which help you to get directions for free.

    Google Maps
    The accuracy of the Google Maps app is unmatched. The dynamic people at Google are dedicated to mapping every public road in the world, and they do a great job as well. The app will not only guide you, but also tell you how to avoid traffic, how to avoid tolls, how to take scenic routes instead of highways, and give suggestions about getaways nearby. It is very user-friendly and allows you to plot the fastest route between two points. It also provides various transit options, flight times, and walking distance. If you want to avoid looking at the map while driving, you can activate voice control to get directions during your journey.

    Apple Maps
    When the Apple Maps app was first launched, it was ridiculed and called a poor imitation of Google’s superior navigation service. However, this app has made a great comeback after it fixed several glitches that made users angry. It now allows you to link the app with Siri and receive instructions. The techies at Apple are trying hard to make this application the next best thing. Apple Maps app has an intuitive interface. Along with that, it is very detailed and well-designed.

    Waze
    While retaining the primary features of other map apps, Waze has changed the game by allowing other drivers to share real-time updates about the weather conditions, traffic snarls, speed traps, and other untoward hurdles they may face while driving. The app also allows you to connect your Spotify account to ensure that you have a great playlist while you drive. Waze is credited as one of the best apps to get directions for free.

    MapQuest
    MapQuest enjoyed the first-mover advantage for a long time as it was launched in 1996. Initially, the app had many bugs and was not very precise. However, recent updates have brought about considerable improvement in the user interface and features. The app allows you to calculate fuel costs, and at the same time, it shows you directions as well.

  • Society
    The Best Destinations for Retirement in 2018

    In 2016, a little over 13% of the people in the country were aged 65 and older. This figure is going to rise to 20% over the next ten years. These figures raise several important issues, like the need for retirement homes, medical facilities, and communities specially meant for seniors. Retired people usually want a city with a warmer climate, plenty of open space, facilities like golf courses, and proximity to quality medical care, like doctors, dentists, and hospitals. Here is a list of the best places to retire in 2018.

    • Anchorage, Alaska
      Granted that Anchorage is not the warmest place in the country, however, if you like the cold weather and the wilderness, this state knows how to take care of its permanent citizens. A state fund gives all permanent residents an annual dividend, making it one of the best places to retire. In 2017, this dividend was around $1100. The state also has a high density of doctors and medical practitioners with many recreational activities like museums, shows, and outdoor sports.
    • Hilo, Hawaii
      The climate, beaches, and fresh air in Hawaii are any retiree’s dream. However, you should note that the costs here are significantly higher. The prices in Oahu are considerably higher than the country’s average. Nevertheless, Hilo is far more affordable compared to Oahu, and there is plenty of sun and sand to go around. An atmosphere of calm and peace prevails here, and there are plenty of natural waterfalls and trees along with galleries, restaurants, and museums.
    • Lexington, Kentucky
      Known as the Bluegrass state, Lexington promises a great time to horse lovers. It also boasts of six public golf courses and an expansive nature preserve that has multiple trails for hiking. If you like a good stage play, the Lexington Opera House puts on several shows such as musicals, opera, and everything under the sun to whet your appetite. The cost of living here is lower than the national average. This city features prominently in several lists of the best places to retire.
    • Burlington, Vermont
      Located on the shores of Lake Champlain, this small city is great for retirees who wish to live a simple life. You can indulge in plenty of activities such as nature hikes and long bike rides. People here try to live sustainably and promote healthy foods. They make good use of the local food movement and try to source all their food locally. Thus, if you care about nature deeply, this is one of the best places to retire.
  • Society
    3 Tips for First-time Au Pairs

    Au pair means “equal to” in French. Most often, an au pair is a young person who may or may not have any formal training when it comes to childcare. An au pair usually travels from a foreign country and takes up residence in the host’s house in exchange for food, lodging, and some money. The au pair is expected to become a part of the family and take care of the children. The remuneration paid to an au pair is often lesser than what a nanny receives because the au pair partakes in meals and stays at the same residence as the person who is hiring their services. Some parents describe it as adopting an additional child because expenses go up, groceries get over faster, and the prices of utilities increase. However, families save a considerable amount of money on childcare services when they hire an au pair.

    Following are some dos and don’ts that au pairs should follow when it comes to childcare.

    • Open channels of communication
      Given the delicate nature of each household, it is vital for the au pair to seamlessly integrate within this new system rather than disrupt it entirely. As an au pair, you are looking to communicate with your new family, but at the same time, you do not want to become a burden. As each family is different, you must learn to read the room and decide whether it is a decent time to talk. If you want an extra holiday or are staying out late at night, it is essential that you figure out the best time to ask for permission and schedule some time off beforehand.
    • Participation and bonding
      The host family will often invite you to dinners and other events so that you integrate into the family. You should try to have a good time with your new family as this will help you bond better and stay in their good books. It is also crucial to have your own social life. This way, you are not in the house all the time, and you can give the family some privacy when needed. Try not to depend on the host entirely. You could attempt to find new ways to keep yourself entertained.
    • Subordination of individual needs over family interests
      It is important to stay flexible and work as per the host’s time. If they need childcare services, the au pair should accommodate them and their requests. To ensure that things move smoothly, try to move your plans around if there is a clash. Always try to help your host family. At the same time, this does not mean that you let them walk all over you. You must stay firm and request prior notice in all situations except for unexpected events.
  • Society
    A List of Unique Baby Girl Names

    A name is the best gift that you will give your little one. It is something that they will carry with them for the rest of their lives. Just like any other gift, you must put a lot of thought into naming your bundle of joy. The following baby girl names are unique and take inspiration from characters of popular literature or are popular names according to the Social Security Administration of the United States. Some names were included in this list because they have a special meaning.

    Take your time and browse carefully through these unique baby girl names.

    Names inspired by popular literature
    Here is a list of famous names from all the best novels of the last century.

    • Anne
      This name is somewhat common and takes inspiration from the book Anne of Green Gables written by Lucy Maud. The lead character in the book is Anne Shirley, and it means grace or favor.
    • Ada
      The name is taken from the book Cold Mountain by Charles Frazier. One character from this famous book was Ada Monroe. The meaning is nobility vis-à-vis a woman.
    • Beatrice
      This name is taken from Shakespeare’s celebrated work “Much Ado About Nothing.” It means a person who brings cheer or joy.
    • Charlotte
      This name is picked from the classic children’s novel “Charlotte’s Web” by E.B. White, and it refers to a woman who is free.
    • Phoebe
      This name, which means pure, is taken from Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger.

    Names with connotations and those popular across the globe
    Let’s examine some other unique baby girl names that have a beautiful connotation and are popular in many parts of the world.

    • Emily
      Emily Dickinson is one of the most celebrated poets of the country. The name means rival or eager, and it remains popular because it rolls off the tongue quite easily.
    • Isabella
      Isabella is an elegant Spanish name. It means to be devoted to God. Many famous women called Isabella were a part of the royal courts at France, England, and Hungary.
    • Mia
      This Italian name for baby girls is utterly unique. While it is popular in Spanish and Italian culture, these days we are noticing it more often within the country as well.
    • Nora
      Nora is a common Irish name, and now, its use is spreading to the rest of the world as well. The meaning of this cute name is “light.”
    • Jessica
      This Hebrew name has been around for a while, but it remains a favorite among parents from all cultures. You can also consider variations of this name such as Jess or nicknames like Jessie.
  • Society
    Everything You Need to Know About USPS Tracking Numbers

    What is USPS?
    USPS stands for United States Postal Services. It is a unit that takes care of the independent post services operated by the federal government of the United States. This agency is responsible for providing postal services to the associated states of the country and includes different insular areas as well. It was created under Benjamin Franklin’s invigilation and has grown remarkably ever since then. Everybody who has received a post in their lifetime must know about the USPS. For people who don’t, here is a guide to finding the USPS number that will help you track all your packages.

    How to find the USPS tracking number?
    Finding the USPS tracking number is quite simple and tracking it is even simpler. Firstly, you need to see the shipping receipt from the post office. Once you have mailed the package from your end, you will receive a 22-digit tracking number, and then you may take it forward from here. Secondly, if the value of your package is more than $50, the post office will provide you with an additional receipt. This receipt also mentions your tracking number. Some other ways to look for your USPS tracking number are through the confirmation received in the mail or the bottom peel-off portion of the label on your USPS package. Once you have found this number, you can follow the procedure mentioned below to track your package and stay updated regarding its whereabouts.

    How to track a USPS package?
    The most convenient way to track your USPS package is by logging onto their website and selecting the tracking option.

    Here, you can enter up to 35 different tracking numbers to get exclusive information about each package. However, they also have a service wherein you may opt for Informed Delivery, and with this option, you would never require knowledge about the USPS tracking number again. It helps you see all images of incoming mail, and it also tracks your packages automatically. You can sign up to receive text and email notifications so that every time you send a package, you get automatic notifications. In this way, you don’t have to look for the USPS tracking number.

    In short, with the right information, you can set aside your worries about where your parcel is and when it would get delivered to you.

  • Society
    5 Benefits of Having An AARP Membership

    AARP stands for “American Association of Retired Persons,” and it provides a host of benefits to its aging members. Founded in the year 1958 by a retired educator, Ethel Percy Andrus, this group has only grown in numbers since its inception. Listed below are some of the most significant benefits of having an AARP membership.

    Health and wellness
    Since this is an organization catering mainly to the welfare of retired individuals, they have tied up with plenty of health organizations. You can avail discounts on facilities such as AARP Hearing Centre, AARP Long-Term Care Options from New York Life, Best Buy Assured Living, Pill Identifier, Symptom Checker, Rite Aid Pharmacy, and The National Hearing Test, among others. It is an exceptional choice for older citizens of the nation, and with so many discounts, you can get loads of benefits that are worth the price of your AARP membership.

    Travel
    With an AARP membership, you can also avail of various discounts on travel. There are several car rental services associated with AARP. Under the travel section, they have offers on AARP Travel, Budget Rent A Car, Payless® Car Rental, Zipcar, Avis Rent A Car, and Budget Truck Rental. AARP members have access to different travel and vacation packages, which come under AARP Travel. They have collaborated with British Airways, Liberty Travel, Park Ride Fly USA, and Grand European Travel among others. On your vacation, you can also get discounts on different hotels and cruises.

    Entertainment
    If you wish to eat out, you can consider dining at the restaurants associated with this organization. Thanks to these links, members get to enjoy discounts at restaurants like Bonefish Grill, Carrabba’s Italian Grill, Outback Steakhouse, sweetFrog Premium Frozen Yoghurt, and many more. Other discounted entertainment options include AARP Games, Regal Cinemas Concessions, and Cirque Del Soleil.

    Advocacy
    Most senior citizens need help with law and documentation. A lot of times, retired people face complications like property disputes or unforeseen legal difficulties with compensation and pension. These problems can create too many hassles for seniors. With an AARP membership, you can avail of the services provided by AARP Foundation Litigation, Government Advocacy, and AARP State Offices.

    Shopping and groceries
    Due to inflation, seniors can find it tough to manage their monthly expenses on their retirement income. Therefore, AARP has ensured that its members enjoy discounts from a lot of companies such as Stock Yards, Wolferman’s, and Silver Cuisine™ by bistroMD, among others.

  • Society
    All You Need to Know About MobilePatrol

    MobilePatrol™ is a popular app designed by Appriss Safety. It aims to make the lives of citizens safer. It helps you connect to relevant safety information, critical alerts, as well as news in your selected area. They have collaborated with different law enforcement agencies to ensure that there are no compromises when it comes to your safety. Read on to learn about some features of MobilePatrol™, including the MobilePatrol™ Inmate Search, which is considered a great addition.

    Top features of MobilePatrol™
    Unlike many other apps, MobilePatrol™ has just the right amount of functions. You can begin by setting up a host of neighborhoods where you and your family members stay. You can also choose the area where you work. The app then delivers all crucial information regarding the safety of these areas.

    You get a lot of relevant news on your newsfeed about the neighborhoods that you have chosen. This app saves you from missing out on any vital information that may compromise the safety of your loved ones. Additionally, you and all the members of the community can choose the “Report it!” option which helps you participate in the safety of the community. You also get a platform to provide information about traffic alerts, fallen trees, broken mains, as well as crime tips.

    All you need to do is enter the relevant zip codes to get audiovisual safety information. MobilePatrol™ has several partnerships that make sure you are safe and alert all the time. One of the best features, however, includes the option to look up jail booking records, which makes MobilePatrol™ Inmate Search quite useful. They have up-to-date records which you can access at any time and anywhere.

    Inmate Search feature
    The MobilePatrol™ Inmate Search feature is quite helpful for families of convicted felons as well as for victims who want to stay up-to-date with the movements of the perpetrator. To start, you need to narrow down your search to law enforcement records, choose the region that the jail is situated in, and click on the “inmate search” option on the MobilePatrol™ app. Further, you will have to fill relevant details to get valuable information. This option makes it easy to search for inmates. Additionally, it is a convenient option for people who want to be a step ahead in practicing personal safety.