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Protect Your Boat from Pets When You Install Foam

March 3, 2016 by · Leave a Comment 

Protect-Your-Boat-from-Pets-When-You-Install-FoamWhen you have a noble watercraft, whether it be an obnoxiously flamboyant yacht or a small fishing dingy, you’re going to want to share your love of the water with your pet. However, you may be hesitant, because you already have to worry about your boat cushions being exposed to the elements. On top of mildew, mold, and premature fabric rot induced by saltwater, you don’t want to have to worry about your cat, dog, parrot, ferret, or guinea pig soaking the soft spots of your boat in urine.

 

Fear not. If you’ve got custom cushions, there’s no reason to worry about them being ruined by bodily fluids, human or otherwise. Just like foam’s moisture-resistant properties help prevent mold and mildew from springing up, it’ll also make it easy to clean when your pet can’t wait to get back to shore. No matter what they’re soaked in, you can just dunk the foam in warm water, wring it out, leave it to dry, and call it a day. And if there’s permanent discoloration? The simplest trick is to order canvas you can use as a cover for your foam. The dense fabric will withstand sunlight, and help waterproof your cushions as well. Canvas is affordable enough to replace as needed, but you can store the cushions below deck when you’re not using them to increase their lifespan.

 

No matter the environment or the frequency of pet barf, you can’t go wrong with upholstery foam from Canada.

 

 

Why Your Next Second Home Should Be On the Cayman Islands

February 16, 2016 by · Leave a Comment 

The Cayman Islands offers luxury, beauty, and a tax free lifestyle.

Although the Cayman Islands is known to be home to banks and hedge funds, due to its highly regulated offshore financial centre, there are enough natural attractions to make it worth becoming a second home for you and your family.

The Benefits

The Cayman Islands has no annual property tax, income tax, capital gains tax, and gift tax. Also non-food shopping is mostly duty free. These incentives have foreign investors looking into property management in the Cayman Islands more than ever.

The white, sandy beaches and the crystal clear water may be one of the selling points of the islands, but people often forget that the Cayman Islands has established themselves as a low-crime save environment to raise a family in.

The sun and economic freedom has played a large part in the influx of residents over the past years. Additionally, North American influence also played a part in how the culture is on the islands. Many of their fine restaurants will be infused with a variety of American references. You might notice this if you explore all the different cuisines the islands have to offer.

Choosing A Place to Live

Newcomers tend to want a peaceful and quiet area to live in, such as Canal Point or Rum Point. Grand Cayman residential property management services can point you in the right direction and match you with a home that is both luxurious and affordable. It’s important that you take the time to explore all of the housing options that are out there so you can determine exactly what you want to surround yourself with. Whether it’s a beach front condo or a luxurious multi-million dollar apartment, the options are definitely not scarce.

Bio: Rem Services specializes in Cayman Islands property leasing and property management.

The Po Lin Monastery: Hong Kong’s Immersive Garden Temple

December 2, 2015 by · Leave a Comment 

By Phineas Upham

The Po Lin Monastery in Hong Kong was once a hidden paradise in the mountains of Hong Kong. The world first caught its glimpse of this incredible place in 1993, when the Tian Tan Buddha statue was erected. The 100 foot tall statue towers over the people of China, watching over and blessing them with a single raised hand.

The statue itself took 12 years to complete, but it’s not the only remarkable thing about this place. If you happen to find yourself in Hong Kong, this beautiful garden temple is definitely worth the detour.

The monastery was founded in 1906 by three monks. The monks were visiting from the neighboring province of Jiangsu, when they decided to create a place for themselves. Initially, the temple was called The Big Hut, a reference to its size and how it was built, but the name that we know today was given in 1924.

The monastery is widely considered to be one of the most important structures in the Buddhist world. It’s home to many devout monks seeking the spiritual path to enlightenment, and the structure itself has a wealth of Buddhist imagery and iconography.

The garden is one of the most popular attractions for tourists. Its fragrance and constant birdsong are easy to feel at peace. The immersive space also features a vegetarian restaurant. If you happen to find yourself there, grab a handmade wooden bracelet as a keepsake. They are only made near the Tian Tan Buddha statue, so you won’t find anything else like them anywhere in the world.


About the Author: Phineas Upham is an investor at a family office/ hedgefund, where he focuses on special situation illiquid investing. Before this position, Phin Upham was working at Morgan Stanley in the Media and Telecom group. You may contact Phin on his Phineas Upham website or Twitter page.

Replacing Your Boat’s Interior and Exterior Seats

November 2, 2015 by · Leave a Comment 

f34b3a6ca93cd0bbf0e4272160ceef9dReplacing-Your-Boat’s-Interior-and-Exterior-SeatsThere’s going to be a time in every boat owner’s life where the interior and exterior starts to become worn down and are in need of some remodeling. Luckily, there are a variety of ways that you can customize everything from boat cushions to upholstery. It may seem like a daunting task but here are some tips that will help you get started.

You’re going to notice that when you are shopping for new cushions, there are a variety of them that you are going to choose from. Inside the cushion filling lies the foam, which is the bread and butter of your entire seat. Ensuring that you buy the proper foam will not only guarantee comfort, but water resistance as well.

Marine foam cushions are designed especially for exterior seats that are prone to getting wet. Treated with an antimicrobial substance, you won’t have to worry about problematic mold and mildew appearing. Their open-cell design allows for moisture and air to proceed throughout the foam base, allowing it to maintain its shape and resisting moisture buildup. These cushions are recommended for every boat owner.

It’s also important that you maintain you cushions. Storing your cushions with salt water still lingering on the outside of the cover will only keep it from staying dry. Before placing them in storage, be sure to rinse them with fresh water for optimal results.

Consult with a company that specializes in making boat cushions to determine which type of foam is right for your boat. By making such small changes and rearrangements to your boat, you can keep it well-maintained and presentable.

Bio: The Foam Factory is a foam manufacturer that carries a large selection of foam products for a variety of applications. In need of some new yacht cushions that will impress your guests? Check out their huge selection today.

Enjoying the Outdoors in Grand Cayman

October 15, 2015 by · Leave a Comment 

By Andy’s Rent-A-Car

When most people think about the Cayman Islands, they think about fun in the sun and relaxing with a cold drink. While there’s nothing wrong with enjoying an island paradise this way, there’s also plenty more you can do outside.

andys6This part of the world has a number of options to offer outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you like to snorkel, hike or do anything in between, you’ll love the Cayman Islands.

That being said, you still have to be careful about planning your trip. While you definitely want to pack for being outside, without rental cars in Grand Cayman, many enthusiasts just like you have found their trips lacking.

Thanks to rental cars in Grand Cayman, though, you can get to any corner of the island whenever you want and stay there until you decide to leave. This will make all the difference. Otherwise, what inevitably happens is that you’re going to leave Grand Cayman wishing you had seen and done more, but couldn’t because you were constantly trying to catch a bus or something.

Although it may seem odd, if you want to enjoy nature in Grand Cayman, you’re going to want a car. Rent yours the moment you decide to visit.

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When you’re ready to see what Heaven on Earth is like, come to the Caymans. Thanks to Andy’s Rent-a-Car, a car rental in Grand Cayman can be yours at an affordable price, allowing you to see the area on your own terms.

A Travel Guide to Amman, Jordan

September 25, 2015 by · Leave a Comment 

Amman, the capital of Jordan, is a hubbub of mosques, souqs, and art galleries. A haven for traditional Jordanian coffeehouses, if you are looking to take a peek into the Middle Eastern Culture and lifestyle, you’ve found the right city.

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When you arrive at Amman airport, you’re more than likely looking for a way to get around the city. Car rentals in Jordan are a popular option due to travelers wanting to hop from city to city. The best thing about the local roads in Jordan is that you can navigate with relative ease and not have to deal with traffic congestion. While some road signs may be difficult to read due to the language barrier, it is recommended to use an international satellite navigational device to help aid you in your drive.

If you’re planning a longer vacation that will go past a week or even a month, you can short term lease a car in Amman Jordan. Visit any car rental company and inquire about their short term leasing options. Many times they will have deals on short term leasing primarily because of the length of the rental. Speak with your travel agent for a recommended rental company around your area.

Amman has been a popular pit stop for travelers en route to destinations like the Dead Sea or Wadi Rum. While certainly flying under the radar amongst tourists, Amman offers a Middle Eastern experience as good as its’ neighboring regions. The city is split into two unique parts: Eastern and Western Amman. Eastern Amman offers a more modern approach with non-traditional malls and art galleries while Western Amman remains more conservative and cultural. If the time allows, take a stroll through both parts and experience the best that Jordan has to offer.

Like almost every popular city, there is a downtown that you can visit in Jordan. With a bustling street life, this is definitely one place that you wouldn’t want to miss out on before leaving the capital. A stereotypical Middle Eastern city, you can expect to see shop fronts actively selling their wares along with Arabian music resonating throughout the streets. Take a walk down into the narrow streets and explore the culture embedded into the buildings and people.

With so many exhilarating experiences that can be had on your visit, Amman is definitely one Middle Eastern city that you must experience. If you’re looking to make things easier, speak to a representative for a car rental company as they have drivers and guides available to assist you in where to go around the city.
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Monte Carlo Rent A Car, LLC is your number one option for car rentals or car hire in Amman Jordan. With competitive prices, look no further than your local Jordanian car rental company that’s been serving the public since 1979.

The Conference House of Staten Island

September 2, 2015 by · Leave a Comment 

By Phineas Upham

Located on the southernmost tip of Staten Island is the Conference House, which was built in 1680. It’s the last standing home from that era, built in the Dutch Colonial style, and it’s become a registered landmark in the National Register of Historic Places.

The Conference House was built on Lenape land, which is widely believed to have been a burial ground. It was commissioned by Captain Christopher Billopp, who earned a 932 parcel of land for his service in the English Royal Navy.

Billopp, the legend goes, played a central role in binding Staten Island to New York. At the time, there was some debate as to which region could lay claim to Staten Island, so a bet was proposed. If Christopher Billop could circumnavigate Staten Island in a single day, then the area would belong to New York. As history shows, Billop was successful in this task.

The date that Billopp’s mansion was constructed isn’t easy to verify, as there seems to be record of an existing home already at that location. What we do know is that the house was passed down to his grandson, who led loyalists during the American Revolution. This was an important point in time for the home, as Lord Howe of the British side wanted to try and broker a deal to end the war.

He invited Benjamin Franklin, John Adams and Edward Rutledge for a three hour meeting. In the end, the American’s politely declined Howe’s offer of peace. A move that would lock the two powers in war for another seven years.


Phineas Upham is an investor from NYC and SF. You may contact Phin on his Phineas Upham website or Facebook page.

Sightseeing in the Cayman Islands

August 24, 2015 by · Leave a Comment 

Written by: Andy’s Rent-A-Car

The Cayman Islands is home to some of the most popular Caribbean activities and attractions. Whether you are in the mood for snorkeling, windsurfing, bird watching, parasailing or even a relaxing round of golf, Cayman is the place to plan your next vacation.

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Grand Cayman is the largest of the three Cayman Islands and the most popular for tourists. Approximately 76 square feet long, the Grand Cayman will require more than just travelling on foot. Not all areas of the island have public transport access, so the best and easiest way to travel around the island would be to rent a car at Grand Cayman.

 

Renting a Car

Like in all countries, there are policies in the Cayman Islands before you are allowed to rent a car. You must be 21 years or older before you are allowed to rent a car on the island.

 

A driver’s license from your country will not be the only document needed to drive in the Cayman Islands. All non-residents must purchase a visitor’s driving permit for a one-time charge of $20. If more than one person is driving the same car, you may add additional drivers for $5. Driving is a common way tourists travel, which is why Grand Cayman car rentals are all over the island. It is wise to do your research and choose wisely.

 

Everything You Need to Know Before you Drive in Grand Cayman

Trying to figure out the rules of driving in a foreign country can be tough. It is best to learn the rules of the road for a safe and fun vacation. Unlike the U.S., people drive on the left side of the road. The speed limit varies on the island, from 25-50 miles per house. The local authorities check car speeds and will give out citations.

 

Like in most countries, all persons in a vehicle must wear seatbelt at all times. Using your cell phone is not allowed while driving a car, however hands-free and Bluetooth devices are permitted. It is wise to purchase a car with an equipped hands-free device and GPS navigation at the car rental in the Cayman Islands

 

Cars in the right-hand lane have the right of way in the Cayman Islands. If they are slightly ahead of you and on the right lane but would like to switch to the left-hand side, you must yield, allowing them in. There are many roundabouts in the Cayman Islands. Always travel around a roundabout in a clockwise direction. Never turn right or you will enter oncoming traffic.

Foam: The Camper’s Hidden Secret

June 24, 2015 by · Leave a Comment 

Every camping trip brings with it the opportunity to do things just a bit better next time. The outdoors presents a challenge that the unprepared can’t handle, but planning for everything is not really feasible. Backpackers only have a finite amount of weight they can carry, and car campers will quickly overload their car with accessories that probably won’t serve them well.

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Camping hacks, like putting toilet paper into a coffee container and cutting a hole for easy disbursement, are designed to bring some of the comforts of home with you. Hacks cover everything from drinking properly in the outdoors to securing foodstuffs from bears and wildlife.

One secret that inexperienced campers overlook is the use of foam. Upholstery foam from Canada can’t do everything around a campsite, but the specialized uses you’ll find for foam will greatly enhance the comfort level of your trip. Use these tips to improve the quality of your campsite and camp in style.

Sleeping and Lounging

One of the primary uses you’ll find for foam is in the mattress itself. Foam has the distinct advantage of being flexible, which means that sheets can be rolled up tightly for easy storage without any long term effects. Memory foam mattresses aren’t as easy to transport, but small custom cushions are perfect for day trips or overnights. Attach the cushion to a backpack and every rock you pass quickly becomes a relaxing chair.

Aside from comfort, dense foam serves two purposes: heat control and protection. When backpackers hit the trail, they tend to make camp as the sun is lowering or already down. Most people know to bring a tarp with them as a protective measure for tents, to be sure that rocks won’t rip the canvas material. Foam pads help protect whatever other bedding you might have too. What if there were small barbs mixed in with that soft ground covering? A simple puncture on an inflatable mattress can leave you feeling miserable for the whole night.

Aside from the mattress itself, custom outdoor cushions cut small enough can double as camping pillows too.

Insulation

Another excellent use for foam is as a tool for insulation. Ever heard of a beer cozy? You can use foam as insulation for cold drinks of any variety, like juice or soda. You’ll need dense foam for this task, otherwise the insulation won’t be as effective. You can also make a pouch of cloth and line it with foam inserts. This would make it easier to transport fresh fruits, veggies and meats that require refrigeration.
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Foam Factory, Inc. is located in Southeast Michigan, operating a facility capable of custom cutting foam shapes to any size required. The Foam Factory offers free shipping on all orders greater than $75.

Top Three Reasons to Move to the Cayman Islands

May 15, 2015 by · Leave a Comment 

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Summary: Learn the benefits of owning real estate in the Cayman Islands.

Everyone knows that the Cayman Islands have sun nearly all year long. Most people also know about our crystal blue waters, rich diving community and outdoor destinations. Those are all great reasons to visit, but not great reasons to live here. Grand Cayman is far more than just a tourist destination, there are clear benefits to purchasing Grand Cayman homes.

Tax-Free Property

When you purchase property in the Cayman Islands, you pay a duty at the time of sale. The duty is a fee that the government collects during the transaction. It’s the only fee they collect, as long as you hold the property. Plus, you can pass the property onto children with nothing more than a stamp duty. That ease of transfer makes Cayman properties an attractive investment.

Mainland Living on a Remote Island

The Cayman Islands are just far enough away from everything, about 585 from Georgetown to Florida. Far enough not to see anything but the horizon, to get amazing blue waters and perfect sun. Close enough to have all the comforts of home. The only big difference you’re likely to notice about Cayman Islands shopping is the emphasis on diving gear.

Passive Income

Along with tax-free property comes the opportunity for passive income opportunities. The reality of Cayman Islands homes for sale is that not every home owner chooses to live here. Some have demands elsewhere, others just want a place to stay during business or on vacation. Whatever your interest, you can hold your property and rent it out for tax-free income on short-term stays.

Bio: James Bovell is the Cayman Islands real estate expert. James Bovell works with Dream Finders, a Re/MAX sales office based out of the Cayman Islands.

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