Category: USA

Best American Poker Rooms Outside Las Vegas

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As the world’s go-to city for gaming, the Las Vegas Strip gets 42 million foreign visitors each year. The Strip is the third most popular tourist destination in the United States after Central Park and Times Square. However, it’s not the only gaming destination the country has to offer, especially if you’re a fan of poker. Poker enthusiasts know that there are dozens of fantastic poker facilities across the United States, located everywhere from smaller casino havens like Atlantic City, to the bigger tourist areas like Los Angeles, and to lesser-known gaming destinations like Florida and Arizona. The following poker rooms offer world-class gaming experiences for poker players of any level.

Commerce Casino


Source: @commercecasino on Instagram

Though Las Vegas overshadows Los Angeles in terms of gaming experiences, the city of angels still has a lot to offer poker fans. It’s a little-known fact that the poker rooms in Los Angeles are some of the world’s largest. The Bicycle Casino has a whopping 185 card tables, while The Gardens Casino has 184, and the Commerce Casino has 150.

Among them, the Commerce Casino is one of the most exciting. It’s a popular venue for some of poker’s most respected events, including the World Poker Tour. Its 150 tables are usually packed with visitors flooding in from all across the globe to play daily tournaments and cash games. There are also small stakes tables that let more casual players participate for a low $100 buy-in, and many high-stakes No-Limit Hold’em tables for those more experienced.

Borgata Hotel and Casino Poker Room


Source: @borgataac on Instagram

As the resort capital of the East Coast, the seaside gaming haven Atlantic City remains one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. About 27 million tourists flock to the New Jersey city for its unique attractions, which include world-class shopping experiences, luxurious spa facilities, golf courses, and entertainment options.

Among Atlantic City’s most popular gaming establishments is the Borgata Hotel and Casino. The Borgata Hotel and Casino holds the single-best poker room on the East Coast. With 85 active tables playing popular variants like Texas Hold’em and Stud, the Borgata poker room can accommodate large numbers of players of any level and play style. The room’s Tuscan-inspired aesthetic features calming sepia-toned color schemes that give the room a classy and luxurious feel.

Derby Lane Poker Room

 

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Source: @derbylane on Instagram

When people think of Florida’s best attractions, casinos aren’t usually at the top of their list. The state is instead better known for beachside resorts, marshy wetlands, and rocket launches at the Kennedy Space Center. However, that doesn’t mean there’s nothing for gaming fans. Florida is also home to the famous Derby Lane Greyhound Track.

The Derby Lane Greyhound Track is a combined racing track and casino. It was once the oldest Greyhound racing track in the United States until the pandemic forced its closure. However, its famous poker room, called the Derby Lane Poker Room, remains open and ready for non-stop action. It contains a generous 51 tables, divided into a section each for tournaments and cash games. Visitors of the Derby Lane Poker Room can try their hands at some of the less-popular poker variants, including 7 Card Stud.

Vegas is a place to visit, but it’s also slightly expensive and a large distance away from most American cities. If you want to explore America without missing out on exciting poker experiences, you can check out the Commerce Casino in Los Angeles, the Borgata Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City, and Derby Lane Poker Room in Florida.

Top Reasons to See a Live Show in Vegas

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When you go to Vegas there are a number of experiences and activities which you will want to indulge in. Many go for the gambling scene, looking to try their luck in the many casinos here, others look to day trips to places like Hoover Dam and the Grand Canyon, and some just want to hit some of those world-famous pool parties with some of the hottest DJs on the planet. Something which I would absolutely recommend that you do during your time here is to catch a live show of some type, and here is why you are going to love it.

The Home of Entertainment

Las Vegas is the live entertainment capital of the world and it has been for a very long time. These stages have been graced by the likes of Sinatra, Davis Jr and Martin, Elvis, Tom Jones, Cher, Elton John, Prince, Celine Dion and just about every artist with legendary status around the world. Where better then than to watch a live performance of a musical or a theater show than in the home of live entertainment?

Range of Options

Unlike New Your’s Broadway, here in Las Vegas there is a wide range of live performances which you can go to see. This could be going to see Penn & Teller’s magic show, catching the Carrot Top comedy gig, being wowed by a Cirque du Soleil performance of indulging in something a little more risqué with a cabaret show like Blanc de Blanc. Whatever type of live show you are interested in, you are guaranteed to find it here on the Vegas strip.

Ticket Prices

The best part about Vegas shows is that the tickets are very reasonably priced and it won’t break the bank for you to go and see some amazing live shows. In other locations like New York the ticket pricing is absolutely obscene whereas in Vegas you can find deals and promotions to save you some serious cash. Last time my wife and I were in Vegas we found some great deals on Absinthe tickets and this meant that the night afterwards we still had some money left to go to see Cirque du Soleil. These shows are very accessible no matter what your budget is.

Feel Good Factor

Vegas likes to things big and the performers and the people who have created these shows knows that only too well. It is for this reason why the lights, costumes and the performances are given such importance and you are bound to come out of the venue feeling absolutely great about what you have seen. There are no bad shows in Vegas and that is because the standard has been set so high. This is only good news for those who are going to see the shows, and you are going to be guaranteed a smile on your face when you leave.

Whatever you are into, there will be a show in Vegas for you which will blow your socks off.

Cool Camping Ideas: 5 Instagram-Worthy Camping Locations

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We travel to experience something new and breathtaking. Check out these cool camping ideas that will take you to sites you can’t reach any other way.

Roughly 75 million households enjoy taking camping trips. And that’s just in the United States alone.

Camping offers several benefits. It’s a cost-effective alternative to staying in a hotel, and it allows you go get up close and personal with mother nature. It’s no wonder why so many people opt for camping in lieu of a fancy get-away.

Camping is always an adventure, but there are some locations scattered across the United States and might take your trip to the next level.

Want to know what we’re talking about? Keep reading to discover 5 cool camping ideas that are truly Instagram-worthy.

1. Wild Willy’s Hot Springs, California

Natural hot springs reach the perfect middle ground between enjoying nature and feeling like you’re on a luxurious get-away.

While there are several natural hot springs in the United States to choose from, Wild Willy’s Hot Springs in California tops the list.

Unlike most other hot springs, this is not an established resort, which means you can find a camping spot close by, and you’ll get to enjoy a breathtaking view of the Sierra Mountains as you soak up the 95-degree water of the hot springs. Just don’t forget to take some essential hiking gadgets with you!

Looking for your perfect Instagram shot? Well, one of the hot springs is in the shape of a heart.

2. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

Crater Lake is a gorgeous crystal-clear lake that was formed by a volcanic eruption approximately 7,700 years ago. Not only is the view of the lake and surrounding forest spectacular, but there are tons of activities that can be done.

Hiking (including hiking part of the Pacific Crest Trail), swimming, and exploring Wizard island are among the most exciting activities you can take part in. It’s a true adventure holidaythat the whole family can enjoy.

3. North Rim Campground in Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

The Grand Canyon is one of the 7 Wonders of the Natural World, and it finds its place on most people’s bucket list. Sure, you can simply just visit the Grand Canyon, but why settle for that when one of our cool camping ideas is to camp right on the canyon?

The North Rim Campground is the most accessible campground, and it allows RVs as well as tents, so you can bring all your awesome camping gear with you. Click here if you want to update your camping swag before your trip.

The best part, it’s convenient location doesn’t take away from the breathtaking views.

4. Kalalau Beach, Hawaii

When most people think Hawaii they think big resorts on white sand beaches with crystal clear water. And, yes, a lot of Hawaii is like this, but there are also a lot of camping and hiking options.

While cool camping ideas are all over Hawaii, camping at Kalalau Beach is a little more special.

The campground is perched on top of a cliff that will give you breathtaking views of the white-sand beach below.

You’ll need to hike 11 miles to get to the campground, but the work it takes to get to this pristine spot makes the destination even more wonderful.

5. Little Beaver Lake Campground in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan

Have you ever wished you could experience the beautiful deep-blue hues some foreign seas and oceans achieve? Well, you can do that at the Little Beaver Campground in Michigan.

The Upper Peninsula is a huge hidden gem of Michigan, but Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is the best of the best.

It has beautiful waters and thick forests. So, whether you want to take your boat out or enjoy some hiking, this campground is right for you.

Cool Camping Ideas

Camping is fun no matter where you choose to go. It offers a unique experience to get away from your busy life and enjoy the peace that mother nature has to offer.

But, if you’re going to go camping, why not opt for an extra special, Instagram-worthy experience?

Cool camping ideas include Wild Willy’s Hot Springs and the North Rim Campground, among several other locations across the United States.

Did you like this post? Check out our North America blog page for more amazing destinations.

5 of The Best Reasons Why Florida Should be Your Family Destination This Year

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If you are looking for the ultimate location to take your family away to this year then look no further than the land of dreams that is Florida. As far as family trips go there are few better places on the planet which can offer the kind of options, infrastructure and fun-packed adventures as the Sunshine State can, and if you were in any doubt as to why you should be whisking your family there as soon as possible, here are just a few reasons why you should rethink.

Theme Parks

Theme parks are one of the most popular reasons why millions of tourists descend on Florida each and every year. It is not just the high quality of theme parks such as Disney and Universal Studios, it is also the sheer volume of theme parks which occupy the state. Here the kids can play with Disney characters in the Magic Kingdom, live their film fantasies in Universal, visit Seaworld for some aquatic themed fun or head to Busch Gardens for a safari adventure. Whatever the family enjoys, you can find it here in Florida.

Sunshine

Sunny days are usually a prerequisite for our summer vacations and they don’t get much more sunny than here in Florida. The tropical heat is the perfect weather for your vacation, and it is a climate which you can pretty much guarantee to find, with the exception of the odd tropical storm.

Everglades

Away from the fun and craziness of the theme parks, you will find the huge Everglades National Park. This enormous area of marshland is home to a large variety of wildlife such as birds and fish, as well as more dangerous beasts like the alligators that roam these waters. For the perfect family experience, hire one of the hovercrafts which will take you gliding over the water, stopping at the perfect vantage points to take some treasured snaps of these majestic and interesting creatures.

Beaches

Florida is often seen as a somewhat stressful vacation which involves a tightly packed itinerary, early mornings and late nights. With this being said however, you can manage your vacation to take in plenty of sights, and still have time to relax on some of their pristine beaches. Considering that almost 80% of the state is coastal, you won’t be surprised to learn that there are beautiful beaches throughout Florida and wherever you happen to be staying, you can all but guarantee that there will be some soft, talc-like sand just waiting for you.

Miami

Miami is a city which has just about everything to impress all types of different tourists, and the family will love spend some time in this culturally rich destination. Here in Miami you can relax with Cuban culture in Little Havana, rub shoulders with the rich and famous on Ocean Drive and explore some of the finest places to shop in the entire state. Staying in Miami may not be the best idea for the kids, but it is most definitely worth visiting and exploring.

Make this year truly special with a trip to the Sunshine State.

Reasons for Getting Out from Under the Paycheck to Paycheck Lifestyle

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Whether you make $20,000 or $250,000 a year, poor money management can land you in a very uncomfortable place living paycheck to paycheck. What’s worse is that if something happens that saps the money you need to cover your expenses, like a sudden illness, loss of overtime or even the loss of a job, your world as you know it comes crashing down. Instead of waiting for the inevitable to happen, take steps now to end the delicate cycle and enjoy money in the bank and relaxation.

A Quick Fix While You Recover

If you find yourself in a difficult situation where you or a family member had a sickness or overtime is no longer an option, there are ways to get access to cash to cover you. You can have a garage sale and sell off items in good condition that you no longer need or take out a loan from the bank. If neither of these options works for you, you could ask a family member for a short-term loan or contact an online company with Payday loan alternative options to put the money in your pocket quickly.

Budgeting

In order to avoid this same scenario from playing out again in the not-to-distant future, you need to create a household budget. It’s relatively easy to do. You can either do it the old-fashioned way with paper and pen or go online and select a free downloadable Budgeting App. Make a list of every creditor you owe money to and the required monthly payment. Then, include things like your rent, electric, gas, water, cable and cell phone bills. Lastly, you need to add daily expenses such as gas, eating out, coffee, dry cleaning, food shopping, a gym membership, and cleaning products. Once you have the list complete you’ll be able to see what amount you have left over and where you spend your money. For many people, this can be a real revelation.

Cutting Back on Non-Essentials

Now that you have your trusty list by your side you can make changes that will free up your cash, putting more of it back into your pockets. A good place to start is with purchases you don’t need to make. If you eat out a few times during each week, reduce it to once or better yet once every two weeks. Depending on the size of your family this can add up to huge savings and you’re just getting started. Instead of spending 3 to 4 dollars each morning on your hot latte, make it at home. Lunchtime at work is another budget consumer and most times it’s also not healthy. Try bringing your lunch from home and pack it up before heading to bed so it’s ready and waiting in the morning.

Saving on Your Utilities

Running a household does not have to consume a large portion of your monthly budget. In fact, with advancements in technology, there are many things that can reduce your monthly bills. You can replace the old thermostat with a new programmable one or purchase an energy-efficient shower head that turns off while you wash up. You can also switch the washer over to cold. With the new and improved detergents, there is no longer the need to waste energy and money by using hot water. Lower your heat and raise the air conditioning while you sleep and only run full dishwasher cycles.

Bundling Services

Many companies offer discounts for loyalty. For example, if you bundle your homeowner’s insurance and your car insurance together you can save 10, 15, or even 20 percent. The same goes for your cable and the internet you can save on the initial installation, as well as each month.

Gas & Electric

If you feel that your gas and electric bills are higher than they should be, why not shop around. The recently mandated deregulation of utilities is a big win for consumers. Now you can contact other service providers and get their rates. If they are lower than the company you currently have, make the switch.

Living paycheck to paycheck keeps you in a constant state of frailty. One bump in the road is all it takes to send you into financial ruin. Instead, take the necessary steps now to change your current status and start enjoying the benefits.

Choosing The Right Solicitor When Buying & Selling a Home

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When you are buying or selling a property, one of the most important cogs in the machine is a great solicitor who can help to ensure that the whole process runs as smooth as possible. Because of the level of legality and detail in buying and selling property, it always makes sense to have a solicitor on your side, and a great one at that.

I was fortunate enough to have the guys at Woodgrange Solicitors on my side at the end of last year when I finally sold my apartment and I frankly couldn’t have done it without them. There is no absolute requirement for a solicitor but it can most certainly make your life better and if you are buying or selling, here is how to choose the solicitor which can best help you.

Estate Agent Recommendation

It is common practice for your estate agent to recommend a particular solicitor which they usually deal with. Many people consider this to be the easier option and at times you could very well get a great solicitor. The only slight issue that exists here is that the estate agent will no doubt be taking commission from your use of the solicitor and for that reason they may tell you that they are better than they really are. When your estate agent recommends a solicitor, just make sure that you have considered all aspects before deciding.

Using The Internet

The internet is a great tool to use when you are looking for a solicitor and you will be able to not only find solicitors that specialize in house sales, you can also see what others had to say about them. Word of mouth has long been one of the best ways to find great services and that still exists in the modern world, albeit a digital version. My advice would be that once you begin your search for a solicitor, you should start online and choose 3 that operate in your area, and have a good amount of positive things said about them online.

Feeling Your Gut

The very best way to decide on a solicitor in my view, is to call them and arrange a meeting so that you can discuss what it is that you are looking for. During this meeting it will be important to understand price, logistics and practicality, but also to get a feeling as to whether you are going to be happy working with this particular solicitor. The job of a solicitor during a property transaction is not one that requires to much in terms of speciality and their side of the deal is actually very simple. For this reason, there is no need to go out and look for the very best solicitor out there, it is more about finding one that you are confident working with and that charges a fair price for the services that they offer.

Buying or selling a house is never an easy process so make sure that you get the right solicitor which can help you through the transaction.

Planning Your First Trip To Hawaii

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Hawaii is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. This is because of the many interesting treasures that are available. Any trip to Hawaii can include wonderful options like the Kauai Napali Coast cliffs, the Molokai Papohaku Beach, the Oahu Waikiki Beach and the Lanai Hulopoe Bay. On the whole, we can say that Hawaii offers something for everyone. However, the prices associated with the trip will be higher than in many other locations. Because of this, planning the trip to Hawaii requires some proper research. That is especially the case in the event it is your first trip. You can easily take advantage of the advice below to make the trip more memorable for you and whoever goes with you.

Planning Your Itinerary

Most people that visit Hawaii start their adventure at the Honolulu International Airport located in Oahu. It is not that difficult to find a great deal on a flight but it is really important that you look for discounts ahead of time. That is because of the fact that some incredible discounts are now available through the offices of travel agencies. If you do not plan ahead of time, it is a certainty you will not be able to find great deals.

Planning the itinerary starts with planning the actual travelling. Then, you want to see what locations you want to visit. Focus on those that offer the travel activities you would love the most. Be sure that you think about how to arrange visits to all locations in order to maximize time while you minimize how much money you are to spend.

Planning All You Need During The Hawaii Vacation

Make a list of absolutely everything that you need when you visit Hawaii. This does include the obvious things like your bathing suit and other clothes but you should also think about other things that would make the vacation better. For instance, in the event that you will have to often call home, options like NobelApp and phone cards like NobelCom can be pretty useful and should be put on the list.

When your list is created, talk with others that will go with you to Hawaii. It is possible that they would have some specific needs and you need to include them in the list. Never hurry this part of the process and be sure that all you actually need is bought a few weeks in advance, before the departure date.

Where Will You Stay?

Remember that a large part of the budget will be spent on accommodations. Hawaii offers much more than the luxury resorts you always see advertised and the five star hotels. If finances are an issue, allow yourself a lot of time so that you can actually make a list of all the options that would fit the personal budget. Remember that many cheap accommodations are available in Hawaii. You just have to be patient enough to find those great options that you are truly going to appreciate.

Everything You Need to Know About Visiting SeaWorld Orlando

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Do you want to have the perfect family vacation in Orlando this year? If you do, you should consider putting SeaWorld onto your itinerary. This theme park combines everything you need to have an amazing trip. You can see a range of marine life and go on the rollercoasters inside the theme park. SeaWorld also has different events throughout the year to cater for unique experiences. This article describes everything you need to know about visiting this attraction.

Why Should You Visit SeaWorld?

There are many reasons to go to SeaWorld Orlando. It’s not just a large aquarium, it combines thrill seeking in the theme parks with learning experiences in the marine park. You can see dolphin shows, learn about killer whales, and observe animals in their natural habitats. A personal favourite for many kids is getting to see the Penguins of Antarctica. There are also sections to see birds, sharks, and turtles. And you can take the little ones to feed the sea lions or see stingrays up close and personal.

The older visitors can spend hours, if not days, in the theme park. You can ride the tallest and fastest rollercoaster in the entire city. This is certain to get the adrenaline pumping and puts a smile on everyone’s face. Another favourite is the Manta Rollercoaster, which simulates what it’s like to be a manta swimming in the ocean.

If you’re at SeaWorld during Halloween or the 4th of July, you’re also going to be in for a treat. There are lots of fun activities for the younger ones at Halloween including decorations, live shows, and trick-or-treating. You can also see a firework display on the 4th July.

One of the best experiences at SeaWorld is to eat in the underwater restaurant. You’re going to be sat at the table looking up at all the fish and marine life actively swimming above your table. This is one of the most unique things visitors can do at this theme park.

When is the Best Time to Visit?

The theme park is busy all year round and will always have plenty of activities and events at any date on the calendar. But, it’s also important to plan and try to avoid peak season if possible. The busiest times of the year are during spring break and the summer holidays. Families from all over the United States come at this time, which is reflected in the slightly higher price.

Another thing to consider is that you should also try to avoid the long weekends. If you’re visiting with your family, you don’t want to spend all your time waiting in line or having a poor view of the show.

This may not always be possible for domestic visitors as the school holidays will dictate when you can take a vacation. But, it should be a big factor in planning the trip for international visitors.

The Takeaway Message:

SeaWorld is a perfect destination to visit and have a fun experience with the entire family. You can see shows, ride rollercoasters and eat dinner in an underwater restaurant. This destination promises to be a memorable one. Just try to avoid the busy periods to make sure it’s unforgettable for the right reasons!