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Concerts are an amazing experience, but there’s nothing quite like a musical festival. These events can go on for days, featuring spectacular light shows and a plethora of bands entertaining the masses. While they are absolutely a fun time, there are mishaps.
With the enormous number of people that attend a festival, not to mention alcohol consumption, the likelihood for an accident is higher than your average day. These are the top five most common injuries and how you can help avoid them.
1. Heat Injuries
Festivals typically take place in an outdoor setting, leaving concertgoers exposed to the sun for hours on end. While sunscreen can help you avoid a sunburn, high levels of heat can also lead to dehydration and other injuries. Nausea, exhaustion, and seizures are just a few.
Staying hydrated is the key to avoiding these types of injuries. While it’s tempting to knock back drinks all day, especially if you’re staying nearby or camping on the grounds, remember to pound down a few bottles of water as well.
2. Broken Bones
Parties of any nature are fueled by high energy and a reckless attitude. The larger the party, the more you can expect of each. Crowd diving, crowd surfing, sitting on a friend’s shoulders, or bumping shoulders in the mosh pit can all lead to injury. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have fun, but stay aware of your surroundings and don’t partake in these activities if you’ve had too much to drink.
3. Drinking and Driving
Some festivals feature campgrounds for their attendees while others require people to drive to a hotel or motel after the fun is over. With a mix of alcohol and sometimes drugs, many find themselves over the limit when the lights go down.
Getting behind the wheel while too intoxicated can lead to property damage or worse. There are countless cases of injuries caused by drunk drivers hitting people, even at slower speeds. If the trip to the hotel includes a highway, the risks are even higher for an accident. Long story short, don’t drink and drive.
4. Stab Wounds
This is one of the more unfortunate injuries on this list. Festivals bring together a highly diverse group of people, which creates a unified audience and culture at various shows. While that’s a great thing, it also means that everyone in the crowd might not have the same intentions of just enjoying the show.
Even with security checks, people have been known to bring knives and other weapons into festivals. Some come with the intent to cause harm, while others have one too many and make violent decisions. It’s vital that you be aware of your surroundings and avoid altercations at all costs.
5. Substance Overdose
Drinking is all a part of the fun for most concertgoers, but festivals tend to include drugs as well. Most of these are illegal or non-prescription, and some of them can be downright deadly. Those who attend festivals often combine drinking with drug use to enhance their experience.
Nine times out of ten, their expectations are met and they thoroughly enjoy the concert without bothering a soul. However, the wrong combination of alcohol and drugs or too much of either can lead to an overdose. Watching your consumption of any substance is vital, but make sure to call 911 immediately if you see someone experiencing an overdose.
Have you ever taken a big sip of your morning cup and wondered: why is my coffee bitter?
If so, don’t worry. A bitter brew can happen to even the most experienced of coffee makers from time to time. But, there are some steps you can take to avoid this problem.
In this article, we’ll walk you through some top causes for bitter coffee, and what you can do about them. Keep reading to learn more!
Why Is My Coffee Bitter?
A bitter taste in your coffee can be caused by a variety of factors, starting with the quality of your coffee beans and how they are ground. Other issues like brew time, temperature, and water ratio can also play a part.
Follow these top tips for a perfect cup, every time!
1. Buy High-Quality Beans
The number one tip for good tasting coffee is to start with the best quality beans you can purchase. When in doubt, stick to gourmet and single-origin options.
For the smoothest cup possible, don’t forget taste-making factors like brewing a 100% arabica blend, and selecting a light to medium roast. And, taste a cup of brewed coffee before buying beans whenever you can.
2. The Right Grind
There is a wide range of grind options from fine to coarse. Which one is right for you will depend on the method of brewing that you prefer.
No matter how you’re planning to brew, keep in mind that a very finely ground coffee works best for espresso. Using too fine a grind for other brewing methods can result in a bitter taste.
3. Proper Storage
To preserve your coffee’s flavor, you’ll want to store it in a cool and dry place. Plus, you’ll want to use an airtight container. This will keep its aroma and essence intact, and prevent other issues like drying or molding.
4. Water Matters
Does the water in your home contain a lot of minerals? If so, it might be interfering with your coffee’s flavor! Hard water can leave your morning cup tasting dull and lifeless, or even bitter.
This issue is easily avoided by using a filtered water pitcher or installing a filter on your kitchen faucet. You can also purchase packets of minerals to add to your current water supply if you are using powerful filtration like reverse osmosis.
5. The Right Ratio
Believe it or not, there is a specific ratio of coffee to water that results in the best brew.
Experts agree that you should use one gram of coffee for every 15 to 18 grams of water. So, the ratio is 1:15-18. Too much coffee can result in a bitter taste, and too little can leave you with a lifeless and watery brew.
6. How To Brew
If you’re wondering how to make better coffee, you might want to try a new method of brewing or two.
While automatic coffee pots are the easiest option, especially on busy weekday mornings, they don’t always offer the best flavor. If you’re looking for a smoother taste with a full body, try an alternative method like the french press or pour-over.
7. Temperature
The ideal temperature for brewing coffee is 195 degrees. But, many automatic machines don’t ever reach this temperature. While this won’t make your coffee taste bitter, it will keep it from reaching its full flavor potential.
If you’re planning to brew manually, use an electric kettle that turns off when it reaches the desired temperature, or use a thermometer. Brewing at too high a temperature can result in a mild burnt or acrid flavor.
8. Cleanliness
Have you ever heard the old wives’ tale that not washing your coffee pot will make your brew taste better? While many people adhere to this advice, it couldn’t be farther from the truth.
The residue of acids and oils that form a brown ring in your coffee pots and cups can leave a bitter and strong flavor behind. And, that’s the exact opposite of what most coffee drinkers want!
Leaving residue on these surfaces can also become unsanitary over time, inviting mold and bacteria to grow.
9. Try Single Serve
If you don’t have tons of time for manual brewing options, consider using single serve drip coffee packets.
These easy to make options take all the guesswork out of creating the perfect cup. They essentially allow you to brew the perfect pour-over every time, without tons of measuring or thermometers. And, they are far more environmentally friendly than other single-serving pods and plastic-based options.
10. Adjust to Taste
Once you’ve followed the first nine tips for making your coffee taste better, you’re ready to customize.
Find the bean and grind that’s right for you, and brew it using the exact method, ratio, and temperature outlined above. Then, taste it.
From this point, you can make small adjustments to achieve the exact flavor you crave. Keep in mind, you’ll want to use small incremental changes, and just alter one factor at a time to keep track of your results.
The Perfect Cup
If all this talk about coffee has you craving a cup, you’re probably excited to give some of these new methods and techniques a try. Why not go for it?
Now that you know a bit more about the coffee brewing process, you’re well on the way to the perfect cup. And, with these tips in mind, you’ll never have to wonder – why is my coffee bitter – again!
Did you find this article helpful? If so, be sure to check out the rest of our blog. It’s packed with exciting tips for travel, dining, drinking, recipes, and more!
You’ve finally got your workout routine going and you’ve been sticking to it. However, fitness enthusiasts all know that muscle is made in the kitchen, not the gym.
Whey protein is trusted by people around the world to take their workouts to the next level. It is a great option for people who want to see results without taking any shortcuts or harming themselves.
Unfortunately, many of us don’t really know how or when to use whey protein. If you want to get the most out of this supplement, read ahead to learn what the pros say.
Trying to Get Whey Stronger?
OK, that was a bit cheesy but there is nothing cheesy about whey protein for muscle gain. Well, not unless you consider the fact that whey is the liquid derived from milk as a byproduct when the cheese is made.
Drinking the whey itself isn’t very pleasant but it is completely packed with all nine essential amino acids. In fact, Hippocrates (AKA the father of medicine) prescribed this serum to boost his patients’ immune systems.
Fortunately, some very considerate scientists extracted the whey protein so you can prepare it however you like.
Whey Protein to Build Muscle
Technically speaking, “whey protein” is actually a group of proteins. They consist mostly of alpha-lactalbumin, beta-lactoglobulin, serum albumin, and immunoglobulins but you won’t be quizzed on that.
What you should know is the whey protein has been subjected to countless studies and investigations. It is an excellent source of branched-chain amino acids.
This is likely why so many people are turning to whey protein shakes for muscle gain.
Concentrate vs Isolate vs Hydrolysate
Essentially, the concentrate is the most ‘natural’ form of whey protein. It still contains a considerable amount of lactose and milk fats. Most agree that the concentrate tastes the best and contains the most nutrient.
Isolate is the ‘purest’ form. It contains over 90% protein and less of all the other stuff.
Hydrolysate, or hydrolyzed whey, has been pre-metabolized to allow for rapid absorption into the blood. Isolate and hydrolysate are generally used by people who want (or need) to reduce carbohydrates in their diet.
How to Drink Whey Protein
So, you finally got your container of the best quality grass fed whey protein on the market. But, now what?
Just add a scoop or two to cold water or milk. Some powders have flavors but you could add some yourself with honey, agave, or fruits.
However, keep in mind that the more you add, the more sugars and fats you will be consuming.
When to Use Whey Protein
Don’t go and drink five ultrarich chocolate icecream milkshakes with a little bit a whey powder on top. That’s a good way to ruin your diet.
If you are looking to build muscle, your best bet is a post-workout shake. You should drink it within 20-30 mins of completing resistance training.
Do You Know The Whey?
It turns out there is nothing wrong with a little bit of cheesiness. However, it’s easy to overdo it.
The same goes for using supplements. There is a right way and wrong way. The potential benefits are great, but if you don’t know when to use whey protein, don’t expect to see incredible results.
You can talk to a trainer, dietician, or other health experts if you’re not sure if it’s right for you. Visit our blog for more information.
Australia is impossible to imagine without the city of Sydney. Sydney is at the top of every traveler’s list for good reasons. It is a rapidly growing city and economy with the cultural heritage and diversity.
This vibrant city is an inviting fusion of world-famous landmarks, historic buildings, bays, and iconic beaches. You are going to find excitement at every stop. Plan to stay for a week to enjoy every bit as there is so much to explore in Sydney.
- How to get there
To fly directly into Sydney (Kingsford Smith) Airport, Cathay Pacific has come forth with international flights from many global hubs. Afterward, you can book a taxi or train in advance for a 20-minute ride to this magnificent city. To settle down your bewilderment, our tour guide will help you out in every possible way.
Let’s delve into Sydney’s popular attractions and must-do experiences:
- BONDI BEACH – A famous stretch of sand
You can’t escape from Sydney’s spectacular seaside suburb to experience the Australian sunshine. This beach is just 8 kilometers away from the city beautiful. Don’t forget to immerse yourself in “the Bondi Bubble.”
For good swimmers, make sure you swim between the flags to avoid any misfortune. For casual strolls, you can get along with the locals from the beach to Coogee coastal trail. Bondi Icebergs is for winter swimming. You will find designer shops, incredible surfers, amazing cafes, and restaurants to keep you occupied.
- Incredible Wildlife
Giving a visit to Taronga Zoo Sydney is the best way to get close to the Australian Wildlife. This zoo is home to more than 4,000 animals including both native and exotic. You can come near to gorillas, giraffes, chimpanzees, tigers, leopards, kangaroos, koala bears, and sea lions.
Have you ever experienced having a glance at wildlife by tackling the treetop Wild Ropes? We bet you won’t get an opportunity to confront the wildlife from such a new perspective. It includes zip-lines, rope climbs, suspended bridges, and various other high rope challenges. To experience a close encounter with animals, you can stay at the safari-style tents at the zoo.
- SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE – A masterpiece
This 20th Century architecture has a lot to offer. It was designed by a Danish architect Jorn Utzon. Take a stroll inside and outside the Opera House with the help of a tour guide. Sydney’s National Opera House hosts more than 40 performances each week in Circular Quay. Book a ticket in advance for an upcoming opera to experience the incredible acoustics.
If you are curious to know how about off-stage, register yourself for a two-hour backstage tour. You can have a glance at the behind-the-scenes domain of performers. You will be served a complete breakfast in the green room. This touring thing starts at 7 a.m. To call it off, you can plan to dine at Peter Gilmore’s restaurant, Bennelong.
- SYDNEY HARBOUR BRIDGE – Australia’s grandest engineering feat
This place has the nickname “The Coathanger”. This bridge is 134 meters high above sea level. You can take a stroll or cycle around this huge structure. If you opt to explore this place, book a BridgeClimb to get yourself to the top of the steel ribs to relish the most astounding views of the city center.
You can unravel the history and construction on the way up. You can enjoy an amazing view of the bridge at Pylon Lookout.
- BLUE MOUNTAINS
If you want to experience Sydney in a completely different way, head to the Blue Mountains National Park. It invites you to discover tall forests, sandstone cliffs, waterfalls, and bushland. You can explore this place with mountain biking, abseiling, or on foot. These mountains cover around one million hectares area. Further, you can head to Scenic World in Katoomba for a unique perspective.
For food lovers, you can dine at Australia’s most awarded restaurants such as Quay, Aria, Mr. Wong, Chin Chin, Firedoor to explore your favorite cuisines. Australia has a huge list of incredible events such as Vivid Sydney, Sydney’s New Year festivities, Sydney Gay, Sydney Lunar Festival, and so on.
Book your tickets to get a mini break from the weariness of your monotonous routine.
Like any other part of your home, it is also essential to pay attention to your bathroom. If it looks old and outdated, now is the time to make some changes. Most modern bathrooms nowadays have shower cabins installed to make it look more elegant and classy. There are numerous designs and styles for you to choose from. Shower cabins have become a popular choice for those who wish to give their bathroom a total makeover. If you are having second thought about installing one of these here are some of the most common benefits that you should know.
It’s convenient
If you are the type of person who doesn’t spend too much time cleaning the house, you would need fixtures that are low maintenance. What’s nice about shower enclosures is that it’s easy to clean and you can even do it while taking a bath. There is no need to worry about the presence of mould and mildew. You can use a simple glass cleaner that is readily available in your local supermarkets as your primary cleaning agent. If you want fewer watermarks or reduce glass stains, you can request for the manufacturer to add a thin layer of coating for extra protection.
It’s great for tiny spaces
If you have a tiny bathroom space, it’s very challenging to make changes or upgrades because of certain restrictions. The good news is that installing a glass cabin has an effect that makes smaller spaces look more spacious than its actual size. There is no need to add walls to segregate your shower area from the sink or bowl because the glass enclosure is more than enough. Also, it’s the best replacement for old plastic shower curtains that makes your bathroom look tacky.
You can have it is personalized
If you happen to have a particular bathroom design in mind, you can have a customized shower cabin. It would be best to discuss your ideas with your interior designer and local contractor so they can find a way to accommodate all of your requests. Shower cabins are available in different shapes, sizes, colour and materials. You can take your time in choosing the best enclosure that will make your bathroom stand out.
It prevents you from slipping on wet floors
Walking on a wet bathroom floor increases your chances of slipping and obtaining a severe injury. Traditional open space bathrooms are quite risky, especially for kids and elders. Deciding to install a shower cabin eliminates the chances of accidents and gives you peace of mind. Also, most enclosures are made from thick, high-quality tempered glass that can withstand impact and high temperature, so there’s nothing to worry about.
Lastly, it’s always a great idea to upgrade your bathroom if you have plans of finding a new owner for your home. There are a lot of buyers that are quite picky, and it’s normal for them to judge your home based on its appearance. Aim for a better deal by working on your homes’ curb appeal.
