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  Travel

  Taking a Mississippi River Cruise: An Unforgettable Experience

  The Mississippi River can be said to be a living history book, reflecting the story of America — its past, present and future — and to cruise on it is to know American culture as well. From its headwaters in Minnesota to its mouth at the Gulf of Mexico, this serpentine river is more than 2,348 miles long and, with its many tributaries, provides the ultimate scenic and culturally rich road trip. But before you set sail, here are a few things that will make your cruise experience unforgettable.1.Get Familiar with the Itinerary and Call PortsMississippi river cruises have a variety of routes, withdifferent itineraries covering a range of interests. Some cruises sail the entire length of the river; others are tailored to specific sections, such as the Upper Mississippi, the Mississippi Delta or the picturesque St. Louis to Memphis stretch. Learn about the port itinerary, each port of call can provide different ports of calls. From dynamic city lights in Memphis to tranquil lands of the Upper Mississippi Valley, each port provides a unique experience of the region's culture and lifestyle.2.Choose the Right Cruise ShipMany cruise lines operate on the Mississippi, each with its own ships, amenitiesand vibe. Considerthe ship's size, cabin options, dining and entertainment optionson board, for example. Bigger ships might offer more opulent amenities and wider decks for magnificent river views, but small vessels can provide a more intimate and personalized experience. Look up the reputation of the cruise line and check reviews so that you will choose a ship that matches your style.3.Plan Your SeasonDeciding on the best time to take a Mississippi River cruise mainly comes down to the type of weather andseasonal activities you want to enjoy. Spring and fall feature moderately ideal temps and fewer crowds, so it'syour best bet for a relaxed cruise. Summer means warmer weather and more celebratory vibes, making it ideal for outdoor activities and music festivals. Winter cruises, though less common, can deliver a wonderfully peaceful and off-season experience, though you'll have to gear up for cold-weather conditions.4.Pack SmartWhen packing, keep in mind that you'll be traversing both land and sea. Pack clothes that you can layer for changing weather and comfortable walking shoes for port excursions. For warmer seasons, don't forget sunscreen, hatsand insect repellent. Pack a reusable water bottle — it's important to keep hydrated during excursions on a cruise.5.Embrace the Local CultureThe Mississippi River is sewn into the fabric of American history and culture. From Delta blues music to Civil War history along the way, every port is a trove of stories and traditions. Chances are, you will have the chance to take part in local tours, see cultural performances and try regional cuisine. Your cruise experience will be made brighter with some local culture time, and the memories will remain for forever.6.Be Aware of RiverConditionsAlthough the Mississippi River is navigable in general, conditions on the river vary, particularly in times of heavy rain or drought. Stay updated on weather predictions and river heights to make sure your cruise is on schedule. Cruise lines usually watch these conditions closely and will change itineraries as necessary to ensure safety.To sum it up, a Mississippi River cruise is a one of a kind way to see the heartland of America. Knowing the route, selecting the right vessel, planning your season, packing appropriately, exploring local culture and remaining aware of river conditions will contribute to a fulfilling cruise experience. Well, hoist your sails upon the grand ole river wee the mighty Mississippi and let the warm waters cadge you up on a course of rediscovery and delight.
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  Home & Garden

  Where to Buy Furniture Reliably: A Comprehensive Guide to Making the Right Choice

  When it comes to purchasing furniture, it is one of the biggest investments we will make for our home, and can be a long term decision in both the cost and how comfortable we feel. The challenge is finding the right mixture of all the aforementioned aspects: your budget, the type of shoe or boot you’re looking for, the style required, how long they’ll last, the comfort level, and so on. With options abound from brick and mortar stores, online outlets, local makers and second-hand markets, navigating the most trustworthy places to shop is no small task. So in this guide,we’ll take a look at what’s available in terms of options, and in the process, decide for yourself what might be the best route to take based on your own situation and preferences.
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  Finance

  Choosing the Best Financial Adviser: A Guide to Securing Your Financial Future

  With time going by, one's financial goals become more and more complex, therefore, we need someone professional to help us manage our finance. A financial adviser can help, whether you're planning for retirement, saving for a big purchase or investing for long-term growth. Not every financial adviser is created equal, though. Here's a complete guide to choosing a financial adviser who is best suited to your needs.1.Familiarize Yourself with Your Financial GoalsThe first step toward finding a financial adviser is to clarify your financial goals. Do you want to build wealth, pay down debt, or save for retirement or your child's college education? Different advisers will have different specialities, so if you're clear on what you want to achieve this will help you think about what types of people you might need. If retirement planning is your priority, you will want an adviser who specializes in pension plans and long range investing strategies.2.Verify Credentials and ExperienceThe credentials a financial adviser has and how many years of experience they have in the business are important markers of expertise. Seek certifications such as CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER (CFP), Chartered Financial Analyst (CFAs), or Certified Public Accountant (CPAs); These designations require substantial training, and there are professional standards behind them, but no bar exam or certification as there is in law. Also, ask how long the adviser has been in the industry. The healthier the body, the more capable you are of developing muscle, realizing that your new actions and the fat burning process soon are the results of habit and time.3.Evaluate Their Fiduciary DutyA fiduciary, by law, is required to act in your best interest — putting your needs ahead of their own. That means they put your best financial interest ahead of the commissions or fees they might earn. Always ask if the adviser is a fiduciary and, if necessary, ask for written confirmation.4.Get a Grip on Their Fee StructureFinancial advisers may be compensated in a number of ways, but the most common are fees, commissions or a mix of the two. Flat-fee, hourly or percentage of assets under management fee-only advisers may be less prone to conflicts of interest. Commission-based advisers earn their money from selling financial products, and their sales may not be in your best interests. Ask about their fee structure upfront and make sure that it's clear and reasonable.5.Check out Their Communication StyleGood communication is paramount to a successful adviser-client relationship. Your adviser should be able to distill complex financial concepts in an understandable way. They should also be available and responsive to your questions and concerns. In those initial meetings, look at whether they listen well and if they personalize advice to your particular circumstances.6.Check out Reviews and Ask for ReferencesWhen choosing a financial adviser, reputation matters. View the online comments or testimonials, or ask for references and suggestions from previous clients. This can help you judge whether they are reliable and professional. Don't be shy about requesting case studies or other examples of how the adviser has worked with clients with similar financial goals.7.Trust Your InstinctsFinally, listen to your gut feeling. Choosing a financial advisor that meets your standard and makes you satisfied is very important, because he or she determines how your financial conditions operate. If something doesn't feel right with your experience it's just fine to continue looking until you meet people who you connect with.In short, hiring a financial adviser may be one of the most important decisions you ever make in the course of managing your finances successfully. Knowing your goals, researching credentials, verifying fiduciary duty and testing communication styles will help you find an adviser that aligns with your needs and values. Take your time, ask a lot of questions and remember that the right adviser will do more than help you manage your money, they will empower you to reach your full potential financially.