8 Must-Have Summer Dresses for a Fun and Stylish Look

8 Must-Have Summer Dresses for a Fun and Stylish Look

Dresses and comfy clothes are a must for summer, especially if, like me, you live somewhere with scorching summer days. It gets so hot here in AZ! I prefer dresses because you can’t beat the ease of a one-and-done outfit. Not to mention, they provide a little airflow when I need it most. My favorite dresses effortlessly transition from day to night, and keep me comfortable through appointments and other aspects of mom life!

Dresses are always a great option for summer and beyond because they can be worn on their own or layered with other pieces. During the summer, here in Arizona, it’s chilly inside so a sweater or jacket is always needed. When fall comes around, those summer dresses can be worn with a sweater, button-up, or jacket. So, today, we’re sharing must-have summer dresses that will have you looking your best. From flowy maxi dresses to lightweight and breathable sundresses, we’ve got something for everyone. So, without further ado, let’s take a look at these fabulous summer dresses!

8 Must-Have Summer Dresses for a Fun and Stylish Look

Summer is almost here, and you know what that means – it’s time to break out the summer dresses! Not only are they stylish and versatile, but they’re also a lifesaver when it comes to staying cool in the heat. Trust me, I’ve been there – sweating bullets in my jeans while everyone else is rocking their cute sundresses. So, let’s avoid that scenario this year, shall we? I’ve created a collection must-have summer dresses that will keep you looking and feeling your best all season long. With so many styles to choose from, it can be hard to narrow them down. Don’t worry, we got you covered for any occasion. So, go ahead and add these to your wardrobe, and let’s have some fun in the sun!

The 8 dresses

With summer just around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about what to wear. If you’re looking for a fun and stylish look, consider these must-have summer dresses. A flowy maxi dress is perfect for warm days spent strolling through the park or running errands. A sundress is ideal for a day spent at the beach or pool. A midi dress is perfect for a backyard barbecue or an evening out with friends. Mini dresses are great when the temps are soaring and you want to stay comfortable. A sleeveless dress or shirt dress is perfect for any occasion. A tunic dress is perfect for wearing with shorts underneath if you aren’t comfortable wearing it alone. And an activewear dress is a must-have for scorching days on the go. Think cotton, eyelet, linen, and embroidered fabrics for the perfect summer dress.!

Whatever your plans, make sure to include one (or more) of these eight must-have summer dresses in your wardrobe for a fun and stylish look!

Why each dress is a must-have

As the temperatures rise, it can be tempting to reach for the nearest pair of shorts and call it a day. But with a few key dresses in your closet, you can enjoy both comfort and style all summer long. Here are eight must-have summer dresses to help you stay cool and look great:

1. A Maxi Dress:

A maxi dress is perfect for hot summer days. The flowing fabric will keep you cool, and the long length provides full coverage. Plus, there are endless ways to style a maxi dress, making it a versatile piece for any occasion.

2. A Sundress:

A sundress is another essential for summertime. The light fabric is ideal for warm weather, and the loose-fitting silhouette will keep you cool and comfortable. Plus, sundresses come in a variety of colors and patterns, so you can find one that suits your style.

3. A Little Black Dress:

A little black dress is a wardrobe staple for a reason. It’s easy to dress up or down, making it perfect for any occasion. And in the heat of summer, a black dress will help you stay cool by absorbing less heat than lighter colors.

4. A Wrap Dress:

A wrap dress is a great option for summer because it’s both comfortable and flattering. The wrap silhouette will hug your curves in all the right places, and the fabric can be lightweight or flowy, depending on your preference. Plus, the wrap dress is versatile and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

5. A Mini Dress:

A mini dress is a must-have for summer fun. Whether you’re headed to the beach or a party, a mini dress will help you stay cool and look great. Just be sure to pair it with flats or sandals to avoid overheating. If you’re looking to add some extra style to your mini dress, consider accessorizing with a wide-brimmed hat and statement sunglasses for a chic summer look.

6. A Tunic Dress:

A tunic dress is a versatile piece that can be worn as a dress or a top. It’s perfect for hot summer days when you want to cover up but don’t want to wear something heavy. And the loose-fitting silhouette will keep you cool and comfortable.

7. A Shirt Dress

Shirt dresses are universally flattering and perfect for any occasion. Dress it up with strappy heels and elegant accessories or keep it casual and cool with sandals or sneakers.

8. An Activewear Dress

Whether or not you actually have plans to workout, an activewear dress is a must-have for summer. These sporty dresses are typically made from moisture-wicking fabric to keep you cool. Plus, because they’re often inspired by classic tennis dresses, they often have built-in shorts and pockets. It doesn’t get any easier than that!

 

Styling tips for each dress

It’s no secret that summer is the season for fashion. The warm weather and longer days provide the perfect opportunity to break out your wardrobe and experiment with new trends. However, with so many choices available, it can be difficult to know where to start, let alone how to wear them. Here are some tips on how to style different dresses for summer.

First, consider a classic maxi dress.

This timeless style is perfect for a day spent exploring the city or relaxing on the beach. Pair it with a denim jacket and some sneakers for a chic daytime look, or dress it up with some heels and statement earrings for a night on the town.

Next, a flowy sundress is a summer staple.

Whether you choose a floral print or a solid color (I prefer a warmer color like hot pink), this dress style is sure to turn heads. To keep it from looking too whimsical, pair it with some chunky jewelry or a leather jacket.

If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, try a printed midi dress.

This style is ideal for showing off your personality and standing out from the crowd. Just be sure to keep the rest of your outfit simple to avoid looking overly busy. Consider pairing this bold style with neutral accessories and simple makeup to let your statement piece shine.

If you are headed to the beach or want to ensure you are cool, try a mini dress.

A mini dress is perfect for hot summer days when you want to show off some skin but avoid overheating. Just be sure to pair it with flats or sandals to avoid looking too casual. To dress up your mini dress, consider adding some statement jewelry and a pair of wedges for a chic and sophisticated look.

Shirt dresses dress are the anytime, anywhere dress.

One of the many reasons a shirt dress is a must-have is because it’s versatile enough to wear just about anywhere, anytime. Dress it up or keep it casual, the best way to wear a shirt dress is with shoes and accessories that make you feel your best.

Finally, if you have a busy day planned, an activewear dress will keep you comfortable and cool.

Whether you’re sweating on the tennis court or from loading shopping bags in your trunk, an activewear dress with a comfy pair of sandals or sneakers is one summer dress you don’t want to go without.

 

Conclusion

The best way to end a summer look is with a great pair of sunglasses and a confident smile. No matter what your style is, there are certain items that every woman should have in her wardrobe. These eight must-have summer dresses will help you create a fun and stylish look that will make you feel your best. From airy linen dresses to playful cotton minis, each piece is perfect for a hot summer day. So stock up on these key items and enjoy the sunny season in style.

Here are a few dresses that caught my attention and links to shop them! (if you purchase with these links, I receive a small commission and that helps me keep this blog going 🙂 )

Mango Knit Sweater Dress
Mini Dress - Must-Have Summer Dresses
Floral Wrap Midi
Cotton Cut-Out Dress

If you are looking for some summer sandals to match up with your dresses, I wrote a whole roundup on some of my most favorite ones, here.

How to Wash a Washable Rug PROPERLY: A Comprehensive Guide

How to Wash a Washable Rug PROPERLY: A Comprehensive Guide

Rugs are more than just floor coverings; they’re statements of style and comfort, adding warmth and character to any space. However, the challenge of cleaning traditional rugs often deters many from enjoying their benefits fully. That’s where washable rugs come in, offering the charm of traditional rugs with the convenience of easy cleaning. In this guide, we’ll explore the proper way to wash and maintain washable rugs, ensuring they stay in pristine condition for years to come.

What Are Washable Rugs?

Washable rugs are designed to withstand regular washing, making them ideal for high-traffic areas or homes with pets and children. Typically made from synthetic fibers like polyester or polypropylene, these rugs are durable and easy to maintain. Unlike traditional rugs, which often require professional cleaning, washable rugs can be cleaned in a washing machine, saving time and money in the long run.How to Wash a Washable Rug

How to Wash a Washable Rug:

Step 1: Check the Care Label

Before washing your washable rug, always check the care label for specific instructions. Some rugs may require special treatment or detergent, while others may be machine washable. Following the manufacturer’s guidelines will help avoid damaging the rug and ensure optimal cleaning results.

Step 2: Shake Off Loose Dirt

Start by taking the rug outside and shaking off any loose dirt or debris. This simple step helps prevent dirt from clogging up your washing machine and ensures a more thorough clean.

Step 3: Vacuum the Rug

Next, use a vacuum cleaner to remove any remaining dirt or debris from the surface of the rug. Regular vacuuming not only keeps your rug looking its best but also helps prolong its lifespan by preventing dirt from settling into the fibers.

Step 4: Machine Wash

If the care label indicates that the rug is machine washable, place it in a front-loading washing machine. Using cold water and a mild detergent, wash the rug on a gentle cycle to avoid damaging the fibers. Avoid using hot water or strong detergents, as they can cause shrinkage or color fading.

Step 5: Tumble Dry or Air Dry

After washing, you can either tumble dry the rug on a low heat setting or air dry it outdoors. Tumble drying is convenient and helps fluff up the fibers, but be sure to remove the rug from the dryer while it’s still slightly damp to prevent overheating. Alternatively, you can lay the rug flat toWashable Rug care tips air dry, flipping it occasionally to ensure even drying.

What Are The Best Washable Rugs?

1. Gorilla Grip Original Durable Indoor Doormat

Made from high-quality synthetic fibers, this durable rug is perfect for high-traffic areas like entryways and hallways. Its non-slip backing ensures it stays in place, even in busy households.

2. Maples Rugs Pelham Vintage Area Rug

Featuring a vintage-inspired design, this stylish rug adds a touch of elegance to any room. Made from soft synthetic fibers, it’s comfortable underfoot and easy to clean, making it perfect for homes with pets and children.

Are Washable Rugs Worth It?

In conclusion, washable rugs offer the perfect blend of style and convenience, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of traditional rugs without the hassle of difficult cleaning. By following the proper washing and maintenance techniques outlined in this guide, you can keep your washable rugs looking fresh and vibrant for years to come. So why wait? Invest in washable rugs today and say goodbye to the stress of carpet and home cleaning!

Don’t forget to check out our recommended washable rugs on Amazon here, and for more tips on carpet and home cleaning, visit carpet and home cleaning.

Keeping Your Turf Pristine: The Importance of Turf Cleaning

Keeping Your Turf Pristine: The Importance of Turf Cleaning

In the world of landscaping, artificial turf has become increasingly popular for its low maintenance and evergreen appeal. However, just like natural grass, artificial turf requires regular upkeep to stay pristine and extend its lifespan. This is where Turf Cleaning Co comes in, offering top-notch turf cleaning services to residents across Arizona.

Keeping Your Turf Pristine: The Importance of Turf Cleaning

Why Turf Cleaning Matters

1. Prolongs Turf Lifespan: Over time, artificial turf can accumulate dust, debris, and even bacteria. Regular cleaning helps prevent theseThe Importance of Turf Cleaning substances from breaking down the turf fibers, ultimately extending its lifespan and saving you money in the long run.

2. Enhances Aesthetic Appeal: Nothing beats the lush, vibrant look of freshly cleaned turf. Turf Cleaning Co uses advanced cleaning techniques to restore your turf’s original beauty, making your outdoor space more inviting and enjoyable for both residents and guests.

3. Promotes Health and Safety: A neglected turf can become a breeding ground for mold, mildew, and harmful bacteria. By removing these contaminants, turf cleaning helps create a safer and healthier environment for your family, pets, and visitors.

4. Preserve Investment: Installing artificial turf is a significant investment in your property. Protecting that investment requires regular maintenance, including professional cleaning. Turf Cleaning Co’s services ensure that your turf remains in pristine condition, preserving its value for years to come.

Why Choose Turf Cleaning Co?

1. Expertise and Experience: With years of experience in the industry, Turf Cleaning Co has perfected the art of turf cleaning. Their team of professionals knows the ins and outs of artificial turf maintenance, delivering exceptional results every time.

2. State-of-the-Art Equipment: Turf Cleaning Co utilizes cutting-edge equipment and eco-friendly cleaning solutions to ensure the highestTurf Cleaning quality of service without harming the environment.

3. Convenience and Affordability: Booking a turf cleaning service with Turf Cleaning Co is easy and hassle-free. Plus, with their competitive pricing and special offers, including discounts for first-time customers through your referral link (https://vip.turfcleaningcompany.com/usw), keeping your turf clean has never been more affordable.

4. Local Arizona Company: As a locally owned and operated business, Turf Cleaning Co understands the unique needs of Arizona residents. Their team is dedicated to providing personalized service and exceeding customer expectations every step of the way. Be sure to check out our experience HERE. Be sure to sign up to save on your first month’s service HERE.

Maintaining a clean and healthy turf is essential for preserving its beauty, longevity, and value. With Turf Cleaning Co, residents across Arizona can enjoy professional turf cleaning services that deliver outstanding results. Don’t wait until your turf starts showing signs of wear and tear – schedule your cleaning today and experience the difference firsthand.

Related: How to Make Your Home Office More Green

How to Live Your Best Life Now: Tips for a Better Tomorrow

How to Live Your Best Life Now: Tips for a Better Tomorrow

Do you feel like your life isn’t as good as it can be? We all want to live a fulfilling and meaningful life; a life that we can look back on and be proud of. If you feel like you’re falling short of living your best life, don’t worry — you can start today! It’s never too late to start living the life you want. If you’re ready to live your best life but you’re not sure how to start, you’ve come to the right place. Today, I’m sharing tips for improving your life and making tomorrow better than yesterday.

Everyone deserves to live their best life, and there’s no time like the present to get started. So what are you waiting for? Let’s get into it!

How To Live Your Best Life Now

Make a list of things you want to change about your life

Are you feeling a bit uninspired by your daily routine? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many people go through the motions, day after day, week after week, without really living each day to the fullest. But remember, it’s never too late to make a change! Starting with your daily habits, you can work toward creating a dream life that’s filled with good health, positivity, and meaningful purpose. Identify any bad habits that are holding you back and replace them with healthy ones that support your goals. Small changes in your daily life can have a big impact on you overall quality of life. If you’re ready for a change, here are some tips to help you live your best life now:

Finding your purpose.

How to Live Your Best Life NowFiguring out what makes your heart sing is like finding the perfect playlist for your soul. So, take a moment to tap into your passions and think about what gets you excited to jump out of bed in the morning. Once you’ve got that fire burning, you’ll be amazed at how it fuels you to take steps toward creating a life that’s filled with purpose and joy. It’s time to ditch those snooze-worthy routines and make room for the things that truly light you up!

Prioritizing health.

Taking care of your mind and body is super important, and it doesn’t have to be complicated. Your physical and mental health should be a top priority. Making small changes like eating more nutritious food, moving your body regularly, and getting enough rest can go a long way in helping you feel your best. Plus, when you feel good physically, you have mental capacity to tackle anything that comes your way!

Aiming for constant growth.

When it comes to personal growth, the key is to never stop learning and pushing yourself. It’s an ongoing process, so always be striving to learn and improve. Read books, take classes, and challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone regularly. By continuously growing and evolving, you’re adding value and meaning to your life. Trust me, the more you grow and evolve, the richer your life’s gonna be!

Figuring out your finances.

Let’s talk about money, because let’s face it, it’s a necessary evil. But here’s the thing, to avoid stressful money woes and embrace financial security, you have to get a grip on your finances. Start by making a budget (trust me, it’s not as boring as it sounds), save up money to help you reach your goals, and consider investing in your future. With these simple steps, you’ll be one step closer to taking charge of your financial journey.

Serving others.

Want to know a super simple way to boost your mood? Help others! Yup, it’s true. Whether you’re volunteering, donating to a cause you’re passionate about, or just being there for your loved ones, giving back is a surefire way to feel good and add meaning to your life. Plus, you never know what good things might come your way when you do.

Practicing Gratitude.

Here’s a little secret to boost your happiness – take a moment each day to appreciate the good stuff in life. A simple but powerful way to improve your life is to focus on the things you’re grateful for. Yup, just a few minutes of reflecting on the things that make you happy and grateful can dramatically shift your mindset to a more positive place. A positive mindset is essential to overall happiness.

Exercising More.

You know what they say, “Exercise not only gives you a rockin’ bod, but it also gives your brain a happy boost!” Exercise is not only good for your physical health but also your mental and emotional well-being. When you get active, your body releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects. So get out there and start moving!

Break down changes into smaller, more manageable goals

It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life and forget about taking time for yourself. But if you want to live your best life, it’s important to set aside time each day to do things that make you happy.

This doesn’t mean making a bunch of big changes all at once; instead, focus on taking small steps that will help bring you closer to your goals. For example, if you want to travel more, start by taking a weekend trip. If you want to eat healthier, add more fruits and vegetables to your next meal. Maybe you want to spend more time with friends and family; call them now and plan a get-together. And if you want to spend less time staring at screens and on social media (they really do drain your energy), put away your phone and take a nature walk.

Remember, even the smallest step forward is still a step in the right direction. Changes, no matter how small they might seem, can make a big difference in your life overall. So don’t wait; start living your best life now!

Create a plan of action to achieve those goals

Ways to Live Your Best Life NowTo start living your best life now and achieve all of the goals you have set for yourself, you need to create a plan of action.

This can involve identifying what activities and habits are holding you back from reaching your full potential, as well as identifying steps you can take to begin living the life you want to live. For example, one key step might be finding more free time for yourself, whether by quitting a toxic job or establishing better sleep habits.

Additionally, focusing on personal growth through activities like learning a new skill or taking up a new hobby can help to boost your confidence and prepare you for success. Ultimately, the key to living your best life now is to start making small changes today that will lead you down the path toward a brighter tomorrow.

Stick to the plan and don’t give up

tips to make life better

If you want to live your best life now and achieve all of your goals, it’s important to stick to a plan and not give up. Whether you’re setting daily goals or striving towards your ultimate dream, staying focused is crucial for success.

Despite the inevitable stress and anxiety that can come with any goal-driven lifestyle, it’s important to remember that every setback is an opportunity for growth. Take risks, step out of your comfort zone, and learn to be resilient in the face of difficulty. This way you can navigate the ups and downs of life more confidently and eventually reach new heights.

If you’re looking to live your best life now rather than tomorrow, the key is to stay focused on your goals while also taking time to enjoy all of the wonderful things that make life worth living – from spending time with family and friends to getting lost in a good book or savoring a cup of coffee in your favorite cozy spot. After all, happiness is found not in chasing dreams but in enjoying each moment along the way!

Celebrate your accomplishments along the way

One of the best ways to set yourself up for a successful and fulfilling life is to celebrate your accomplishments along the way. Whether it’s landing a new job, donating time or money to charity, or simply trying something new, it’s important to recognize and acknowledge all of the moments along your journey that show you’re doing well. This can help you stay motivated and inspired to continue working toward your goals. It can also help keep you grounded in the present moment, enjoying all of the small joys that life has to offer.

So, whether it’s big or small, always take some time to celebrate your successes. After all, they are what pave the way towards living your best life now!

Repeat as necessary

Celebrate your accomplishments along the wayAs the saying goes, practice makes perfect. And that’s especially true when it comes to making positive changes in your life. Just like you can’t expect to become a master chef overnight, you can’t expect to completely transform your life after just one go. Change is a process, and it takes time, effort, and repetition to make lasting changes. That’s why one of the best ways to live your best life now is to start small and focus on one change at a time.

Once you’ve mastered that change, you can move on to the next one. And with each change you make, you’ll be one step closer to living your best life. So don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results immediately – just keep going and repeating those positive changes until they become second nature. And before you know it, you’ll be living your best life now.

 

6 Best Vacation Rental Apps for Travelers and Property Owners

6 Best Vacation Rental Apps for Travelers and Property Owners

In recent years, the combination of the smartphone boom and the thriving vacation rental industry has revolutionized the way people plan and experience their vacations. More and more travelers now prefer using vacation rental apps over traditional websites on their PCs. Similarly, vacation rental owners are capitalizing on the rise in mobile phone popularity by adopting vacation rental apps to streamline their businesses. These apps not only provide seamless booking options but also enable property owners to manage their rentals efficiently and engage with their guests effectively. In this blog post, we’ll explore the six best vacation rental apps that cater to the needs of travelers and property owners alike.

6 Best Vacation Rental Apps for Travelers and Property Owners

What Is A Vacation Rental?

A vacation rental is an accommodation that can be rented out on a short-term basis to out of town guests. While the length of stay can vary, vacation rentals are usually rented out for less than 30 days at a time. They’re typically fully-furnished houses, apartments, condos, lodges, or cottages meant to function as a more private alternative to a hotel.

Airbnb

Airbnb, a pioneer in the vacation rental industry, is the most well-known company for short-term property rentals. Since its inception in 2007, Airbnb has maintained its status as one of the most popular choices for travelers looking for high-quality travel experiences across the globe. The Airbnb app is available for both iOSBest Vacation Rental Apps for Travelers and Property Owners and Android, making it accessible to a wide range of users. As of December 31, 2023, Airbnb has more than 7.7 million listings available in more than 220 countries and regions, ensuring that travelers can easily find the perfect vacation rental and instantly book accommodation.

For Guests:
Apart from booking vacation rentals, the app allows users to send photo messages, respond to reviews, and communicate directly with hosts for personalized recommendations or assistance. The app also provides valuable information about location amenities, the surrounding area, nearby points of interest, and local events.

For Owners:
Airbnb’s property management tools empower owners to manage their inventory efficiently, set competitive pricing, and handle guest inquiries promptly. The app’s user-friendly interface and robust 24/7 customer support make it a reliable choice for vacation rental owners.

Download the Airbnb app: iOS | Android

Vrbo

Vrbo, short for “Vacation Rentals By Owner,” is another top-notch vacation rental app, particularly popular among families and travelers seeking largerBest Vacation Rental Apps for Travelers and Property Owners accommodations. With Vrbo, you can browse a vast array of rental options ranging from cozy cabins to luxurious beachfront villas.

For Guests:
Vrbo’s app allows guests to explore various rental options, filter results based on their travel dates and preferences, and save time by accessing essential details such as property amenities, pricing, and availability. The app also facilitates secure online transactions for easy booking. Be sure to use the “total price” filter when looking for a property to avoid hidden fees!

For Owners:
Vrbo offers a user-friendly platform for property owners to list their rentals, engage with guests to offer their local expertise, and manage bookings. With its built-in calendar and reporting features, Vrbo ensures that owners can keep track of their rental schedules, including check-in times, effortlessly.

Download the Vrbo app: iOS | Android

Booking.com

Booking.com, a prominent name in the online travel industry, has extended its services to include vacation rentals. The Booking.com app caters to a diverseVacation Rental range of travelers, from solo adventurers to families and groups.

For Guests:
In addition to a vast selection of vacation rentals, the Booking.com app provides users with real-time availability and competitive pricing. Travelers can easily find vacation rentals that suit their preferences and budget.

For Owners:
Vacation rental owners can rely on Booking.com’s secure platform to showcase their properties to a global audience. The app enables owners to manage bookings, communicate with guests, and handle payments with ease.

Download the Booking.com app: iOS | Android

HomeToGo

HomeToGo was founded in 2014 to give travelers access to amazing homes around the world. Considered one of the hidden gems of vacation rental apps, HomeToGo offers more than 15 million high-quality accommodations. In 2024, HomeToGo earned the first place award for best customer service in in the vacation rentals category by Newsweek and Statista.

For Guests:
The HomeToGo app makes it easy to read each property description, including its unique amenities, to find the perfect rental. To make it even easier, the app allows travelers to compare two properties side by side. The multi-lingual and multi-currency support is especially useful for international travelers looking for short-term rental accommodations.

For Owners:
HomeToGo offers a lot of flexibility for owners looking to rent out their properties. Owners can set their own rules, prices, and availability, giving you more control than some of the other popular vacation rental apps.

Download the HomeToGo app: iOS | Android

White bedroomTripAdvisor Rentals

TripAdvisor Rentals combines the power of the popular review platform with a vast selection of vacation rentals. The app provides travelers with valuable insights from previous guests, helping them make informed decisions.

For Guests:
The TripAdvisor Rentals app allows travelers to browse through a diverse range of properties, read reviews, and compare prices to find the ideal vacationtravel apps rental. The app also offers the convenience of secure bookings and payment options.

For Owners:
Property owners can leverage TripAdvisor Rentals to showcase their rentals to a vast audience. The app’s user-friendly interface simplifies the management process, including calendar synchronization and guest communication.

Download the TripAdvisor Rentals app: iOS | Android

Expedia

Expedia is a popular platform that offers vacation rentals as well as booking for flights, hotels, and cars. You can even use Expedia to arrange activities and experiences during your stay.

For Guests:
Travelers can filter search results by destination, travel dates, amenities, and more to easily find a vacation rental that suits their needs.

For Owners:
Owners who list their vacation rental through Expedia are guaranteed exposure to a massive audience. However, the platform’s popularity also means more competition for owners.

Download the Expedia app: iOS | Android

Whether you are a travel enthusiast searching for the perfect vacation rental or a property owner looking to streamline your vacation rental business, these five best vacation rental apps have got you covered. With their impressive features, ease of use, and compatibility with both iOS and Android devices, these apps are sure to enhance your vacation rental experience. Embrace the convenience of mobile technology and explore the world of vacation rentals like never before!

And before you embark on your next adventure, don’t forget to check out some ethical travel tips. Happy travels!

How to Avoid Online Distractions

How to Avoid Online Distractions

Y’all, I’m the first to admit that anytime someone tells me they used x,y,z site for getting this or that done more efficiently, I will head straight there to check it out. I have to know for myself! Yet, I don’t ever take the time to actually use and learn it because I’m onto the next best thing someone else recommended. And then my list of things to do, like this blog post, end up getting lost in the shuffle. It’s who I am and I’m doing my best to own it and change. If you are like me or maybe not as easily distracted as me, here are a few tips we can all use to help avoid online distractions. 

How to Avoid Online Distractions

Many people are still working full time and schooling from home, but unlike in 2020, when everyone was getting so much more done and had more time on their hands than ever, most of us are back to the daily grind. We no longer have unlimited time to explore and discover new things online. We also don’t have to frequently check social, and news feeds to stay in-the-know. But if you’re like me, this habit isn’t one that you can quickly and easily break. Whether it’s part-time or full-time, many of us are still working from home. Here are a few of my tips to avoid online distractions so you can keep your productivity and focus on what you need to do. 

Identifying Your Distractions

Let’s start with the most challenging part in eliminating your distractions, and it’s identifying what they are. When you try toHow to Avoid Online Distractions work, take note of the things and ideas that keep your focus away. Is it a Facebook group discussion, sale online, an abandoned online shopping cart, or trending Twitter topics? Whatever it is, please write it down, and once done, look at your list and evaluate how to reduce or eliminate them.

 

Disable Notifications while Working or Studying

Pings and buzzes from notifications can easily distract you. There are ways to minimize their effect on your productivity. Silence the unnecessary notifications to stay focused during work or study time. If it is on your phone, disable it before you start to work, the same with computers and other gadgets—close distracting websites. One of the most distracting notifications comes from messenger apps and phone calls. It’s better to turn it off in the meantime or hide it somewhere far from your work area.

 

Set a Time Cap for Online Sessions

Take screen breaks. To increase productivity and avoid feeling burnout, create a balance between your online sessions andHow to Avoid Online Distractions taking breaks. Destressing is essential but make sure that you are within a specific schedule. Perhaps, set it to a specific time, maybe 20 minutes for every hour work time. Spend it to stretch, grab a snack, drink coffee, or dance with your pups or kids. 

Don’t go beyond the time you spend on breaks. Return immediately to your work to keep your routine on track and to keep you efficient.

 

Ask a Friend to Keep You Accountable

Seek accountability by asking someone to help you fight online distractions. It could be a friend, a sibling, or a roommate. Let them keep your phone while you’re working, or create a co-working area where you hold each other accountable to finish your work. Another way is also doing it online through a video call. You can study or work together while on Zoom. Just make sure to be true to your accountability goals.

 

Setting Aside Time for Answering and Reading Emails

Find ways to manage the time you spend answering and reading emails. How? Turn off email notifications. Allot time to clear up your inbox. A well-categorized inbox can lessen the time you spend scrolling through it. Organize and use folders for this. Use automated filtering. Lastly, set a specific number of minutes, and schedule an hour in a day when you can do an email task. So, create an email system that works best with your work schedule.

 

Changing your Workplace

If noise-canceling headphones are not working for you, relocate to another area conducive for working. Your workplace is a huge factor in your focus level. It covers inevitable external distractions like interruptions from other employees or your family. Studying or catching up on work in a coffee shop might sound like a good idea, but for many people it’s an environment that makes it difficult to manage distractions. Keep your door closed, clear the clutter before you start working or studying, and evaluate how your existing workplace affects your productivity. If you are still struggling, make sure to check out this blog I wrote to help you limit distractions when working from home. 

 

Using Anti-Distraction Apps

While the worldwide web is a place to work, it’s also where significant distractions come from. There’s just a certain allure to current socializing technology like our favorite social media platforms, games, and many more. So, one of the best ways to combat online distraction is to use another technology against it. Build discipline with the help of anti-distraction apps that keep you stay on track. These apps will hopefully help you build a better routine.

How To Avoid Distractions During Online Classes

Turn Off Your Phone

If you’re like a lot of college students (or students of any age, really) who easily get distracted during online learning, silencing your phone or turning off notifications isn’t enough to avoid distractions. Instead, turn off your phone. This will make it easier to focus on the task at hand.

You can take it one step further and leave your phone where it’s out of reach. Out of sight, out of mind, right? This, a lot of times, works for people who struggle with paying attention when their phone is accessible, even if it’s turned off. You might even consider having one of your family members hold onto it for a specific period of time.

Take Frequent Breaks

No matter how well you’re able to concentrate on a task, it’s only a matter of time until it becomes hard to stay focused. Stay ahead of these dips in productivity by taking breaks. Your brain needs to rest, too! Research shows that even a short diversion can significantly improve focus

Best Anti Distraction Apps

Here are some of the focus apps that surely help to avoid getting distracted. These are tools that give options as far as distraction blocking apps is concerned:

Freedom

Works on all your devices at the same time, so you can block your computer and phone and iPad all at the same time and not be distracted by a different device. Minimal cost of $9/month for all devices or you can choose yearly for about $3.50/month. (Personally this is what I use)

FocusMe

This one works great for kids to block sites on iPads and phones so they either can’t access them, or they can only access them on a certain schedule. 

Serene

Offers 10 free trial hours but is currently only available for MacOS. 

Cold Turkey Blocker – Free and Pro version.

The Pro version is a one time purchase of $39 and you have it forever. Impossible to get out of the blocker once you start until the time is seen through or specific task is complete. 

Leechblock

Free browser extension but it is only available for Firefox, so if you want to use other browsers to distract, you can do so. 

Hopefully this helps you free yourself from the digital distractions we all find ourselves getting into, and you find on of the anti distraction options helps you become more productive. Afterall, we all have the same hours in the day, and it’s important you make the best use of the most valuable resource – time.