Whether you’re
traveling for work, fun or family, a long flight is rarely something people
look forward to. It’s not enjoyable to be stuck in a seat for that long, even
if you can nap and chill out during your trip.
Long flights
are sometimes unavoidable, so if you have one coming up, now’s the time to
prepare for it. What will you do to keep yourself comfortable and entertained?
Read on for a
few strategies that will help you prepare for a 10+ hour flight. Using these
tips will make your journey as easy as possible, so you can get through it and
enjoy what you have planned at your destination.
1. Upgrade if Possible
Many people
must make their ticket choice based on their travel budget. You may be working
with limited company funds to pay for your flight, or you could have purchased
your ticket out of pocket.
The first thing
you should do is see if you can upgrade your seat. Call the airline ahead of time and
talk with them about options. You may have flier miles to trade in or a
discount you could take advantage of. An upgraded seat will give you additional
comfort and legroom that will matter a few hours into your flight.
2. Carry Very Little
Almost everyone
brings a carry-on bag. It allows you to have what you need without forcing you
to get out of your seat and get stuff from the overhead bin.
That works
great during short flights, but not for longer ones. A carry-on bag will only
decrease your legroom and make things more cramped. Instead, consider carrying
the essentials on you in your pockets. An eye mask, a snack and even
your phone will all fit, so you can hold your laptop or tablet and still have
room to stretch out.
3. Wear Your Comfiest Clothing
One of the
biggest reasons people hate long flights is because of mild to moderate stress
factors. What you wear is one of the sneakiest ways tension can make its way
onto your flight.
Beat this
stress by wearing your comfiest clothing, like stretchy pants and a warm
sweatshirt. Make sure to wear something you can stay cool or warm up in, since
temperatures on planes can vary.
Comfy clothes
keeping your stress levels down is another way to remain calm during turbulence. The more comfortable you are, the less
you’ll worry about a little bumpiness during your ride.
4. Buy Electrolyte Solutions
More than 10 hours is basically an entire day, which you
wouldn’t normally go through without a fair amount of water. If you want to
minimize your intake without leaving yourself dehydrated, buy drinks with
electrolytes at the airport. You can take them on the plane after you get
through security and not become dehydrated during your flight.
Settle in for the Long Haul
Electrolytes,
comfy clothing and a basic seat upgrade are just a few of the ways you can make
a long flight easier on yourself before you ever step foot on your plane.
Phuket is an exotic destination for any traveler. Everything from luxury hotels, turquoise colored beaches, bendy palm trees, tasty Thai delicacies; there is truly something for everyone. If you are backpacker hoping across Thailand or on a luxury vacation staying in only the best and luxurious hotels, it is a once in a lifetime experience. Here is a list of everything you must do in 24 hours.
We hired a driver from our hotel’s concierge at The Thavorn Beach Village Resort. We paid $800 Baht ($25 USD) for 6 hours and 6 locations. The concierge did a great job at giving us the best price and even gave us tips on what to see.
1. Monkey Hill
If you are an animal lover like myself, you are bound to enjoy the company of the local Macaques at Monkey Hill.
Also known as Toh Sae Hill, Monkey Hill is located in Phuket town on the east side of the Island and is the highest hill in Phuket. Ask your driver or use google maps to get you to the right place. The hill is open from 7 AM – 10 PM, the best time to visit is during midday or sunset.
Once you get there leave your personal belongings in the car. The path up the hill is filled with many monkeys and their babies. I will be honest it was hard to handle how adorable these little guys were. They are not as cute and fluffy as they look, some of them can be furious.
The best way to interact with the monkeys is by feeding them peanuts. If you are going to do that just remember they will climb up on you. The best thing to do is to remain calm and not panic.
At the top of the hill you are greeted with the spectacular view of the whole city with the ocean in the distance. If you plan on visiting during the sunset, the city will be illuminated in a golden glow.
2. Big Buddha
The Big Buddha is the biggest Buddha statue in all of Phuket and is located in South Phuket. The statue is 40 meters tall and sits on top of the Nakkerd Hills, it is hard to miss and can be seen from a distance.
The statue is made of pure white marble and looks beautiful against the light. There is a strict dress code, no short shorts, no tank tops. They provide women with shawls to cover themselves while visiting, just remember to return it once you are done.
The hill provides a panoramic view of the city, with the beach on one side and the bustling city on the other. You can also catch a beautiful sunset from this hill.
3. Party in Patong Beach
During the day Patong Beach is crowded with tourist enjoying basking in the sun, parasailing, jet skiing or just strolling around the busy city. The best thing about Patong Beach is that it comes alive at night. Patong Beach is located on the west side of the island. There are 100s of bars, night clubs, hipster cafes, and authentic Thai restaurants. It’s no wonder why countless tourist flock to this place to have a once in a lifetime experience.
Source: TripAdvisor
For a first time visit, it can be an overwhelming experience. The neon lights, the crowd, the loud music, and night club workers coming up to you and asking you to come to see ladyboys. The best thing to do is just take it slow, let the experience come to you. I recommend doing this at least once.
Source: Hotels.com
4. Go wild in a Tuk Tuk
One of the things that Thailand is famous for is their unique Tuk Tuks. These incredible and powerful machines are found anywhere in Phuket, particularly around the busy parts of the island, like Patong Beach. We took a Tuk Tuk from Patong Beach to our hotel, enjoyed some cold beers and house music while sitting in the back, all while it was raining. It was an experience that is unforgettable. This is a must do!
5. Karon View Point
There are so many viewpoints in Phuket its hard to go them all, but the best and most popular is Karon View Point. Located in southern Phuket, the viewpoint offers spectacular views of the Kata Noi, Kata Yai, and Karon beaches. It is easy to see why this is the most popular viewpoint and the most crowded. The best time to visit is midday or before sunset. I recommend getting there an hour before sunset and grabbing a good seat to watch the sun go down. It is the perfect way to end the day.
Source: Hotels.com
6. Old Town Phuket
Old town Phuket is the heart of Phuket, it is where the new and old blend together to bring a unique and authentic experience for any traveler. In this historical part of town, you will find ancient temples, beautiful colored buildings that make for the perfect Instagram picture, and it is a shoppers paradise.
Take a stroll through theWalking Street. Sandwiched between two buildings it can be easy to miss, so make sure to look out for a sign. The long street is filled with small vendors and stalls serving food, desserts, and souvenirs.
On the other side of the Walking Street is the real Old Town Phuket, The Phuket Walking Street. Every Sunday the street is closed to cars and bikes and is filled with small vendors serving some of the best Thai delicacies. You can find everything from the infamous Pad Thai to delicious desserts. The street is open from 4 -10 PM. If you are looking for an authentic Thai Taste, Old Town Phuket is a must visit. Don’t forget to try the fresh watermelon juice, perfect for a hot day!
7. Island Hopping
If you only had one day and wanted to experience the best of Thailand. I would recommend taking a trip to the Phi Phi Islands. There are many companies that offer tours to multiple islands throughout the day. Our tour company took us to about 6 islands. Stopping along the way to different islands, sometimes snorkeling in the blue waters or seeing monkey at the monkey island. The tour company also provides you with lunch during the day on one of the big islands.
The best thing to do is take a longtail boat for you and your group so you have flexibility and privacy. Big tour companies stick to a schedule and you often don’t have much time at one island.
Phi Phi Leh and Phi Phi Don are among the two star islands and are always the most crowded. Which is why I recommend hiring a private longtail boat, so you have some privacy and truly get to experience the island the way its meant to be.
All of the experiences that I mentioned above are just my opinion and in no way the best way to experience Phuket. I had reserched in advanced of all the experiences and attractions. There are many other things you could do in Phuket, Party all day or just relax at your 5 star hotel. It is totally up to you!
Angel’s Landing is one of the toughest hikes in the United States. It is by no means an easy hike. Therefore, I will provide you with a quick and easy guide for one of the most highly endurance paced hikes in the world.
Zion national Park is visited by 4.3 million tourists ever year and over half of them attempt the Angle’s Landing Hike. The hike is difficult and not recommended to anyone that has a serious fear of heights. The hike starts across from the Grotto Trailhead, the 6th stop on the Zion canyon shuttle.
Hike Details
Difficulty: Extremely strenuous, not recommend for individuals with serious fear of heights
Distance: 5 mile round trip
Time: 4-5 hour round trip
Location: The Grotto Trailhead
Elevation Gain: 1500 feet
Season: Angels’s Landing is open to hikers year around, but is not recommended during the winter if the trails are icy and slippery.
Before Hiking…
Before you embark on your journey for the hike of a life time. I recommend doing some cardio activities in the gym or outside. The whole point behind this is to build up your cardiovascular endurance for the hike. Before heading out on any major hike or road trip, I make sure to spend at least one week in the gym switching up my routine with HIIT training or Circuit workouts.
Pack Light!
The best way to ensure you make it to the top is by minimizing the weight load on your legs and back. Only pack what you need. Take a few bottles of water, some protein or granola bars, and some fruits (apple’s or orange’s are the best for a hike).
If you are taking a camera like me, make sure to only take the gear you are absolutely going to use. I took my Sony A7riii, 16-35mm lens, and a light tripod. Packing light will ensure that I don’t put a heavy strain on my body and will keep me going for a long time.
Start early
We started our day at 9 am and took the Zion Canyon Shuttle to The Grotto Trailhead and were on our way. Being early means much of the valley is still in the shade and cooler until the sun warms it up. It can tend to get hot, especially during the summer season.
Walter’s Wiggles
Walter’s Wiggles is a set of 21 switchbacks that are very steep and will present a challenge for any climber. This is the real challenge before the view point where the HIIT and Circuit training comes to pay off.
Scout’s Lookout
Just after the switchbacks is Scout’s Lookout, giving you a view of the the whole canyon. Restrooms are available at the lookout point. This is where most people take a break before finishing the hike or if you are afraid of heights this is where you turn around.
The Last 1/2 mile
The last 1/2 miles is what makes Angel’s Landing the most visited hike in Zion National Park. With 1000 ft drop off on both sides, some places are 2 feet wide that require to hang onto the chains bolted into the rocks. The path up Angel’s Landing gives its intimidating reputation and a thrill for some individuals.
Also know as “Hogsback,” the gigantic rock is crowded with thrill seekers. Be careful when you cross path with another hiker and always make sure you are properly secured before you cross. Always hang on to the chain and never let go when climbing, also do not rush the climb be patient and calm. After climbing the Hogsback, it is a flat walk to the viewpoint. Take in the view, relax and enjoy before heading back down.
Angel’s Landing is one of the toughest hikes in the United States. It is by no means an easy hike. Therefore, I will provide you with a quick and easy guide for one of the most highly endurance paced hikes in the world.
Zion national Park is visited by 4.3 million tourists ever year and over half of the them attempt the Angle’s Landing Hike. The hike is difficult and not recommended to anyone that has a serious fear of heights. The hike starts across from the Grotto Trailhead, the 6th stop on the Zion canyon shuttle.
Hike Details
Difficulty: Extremely strenuous, not recommend for individuals with serious fear of heights
Distance: 5 mile round trip
Time: 4-5 hour round trip
Location: The Grotto Trailhead
Elevation Gain: 1500 feet
Season: Angels’s Landing is open to hikers year around, but is not recommended during the winter if the trails are icy and slippery.
Before Hiking…
Before you embark on your journey for the hike of a life time. I recommend doing some cardio activities in the gym or outside. The whole point behind this is to build up your cardiovascular endurance for the hike. Before heading out on any major hike or road trip, I make sure to spend at least one week in the gym switching up my routine with HIIT training or Circuit workouts.
Pack Light!
The best way to ensure you make it to the top is by minimizing the weight load on your legs and back. Only pack what you need. Take a few bottles of water, some protein or granola bars, and some fruits (apple’s or orange’s are the best for a hike).
Photo by Presley Roozenburg
If you are taking a camera like me, make sure to only take the gear you are absolutely going to use. I took my Sony A7riii, 16-35mm lens, and a light tripod. Packing light will ensure that I don’t put a heavy strain on my body and will keep me going for a long time.
Start early
We started our day at 9 am and took the Zion Canyon Shuttle to The Grotto Trailhead and were on our way. Being early means much of the valley is still in the shade and cooler until the sun warms it up. It can tend to get hot, especially during the summer season.
Walter’s Wiggles
Walter’s Wiggles is a set of 21 switchbacks that are very steep and will present a challenge for any climber. This is the real challenge before the view point where the HIIT and Circuit training comes to pay off.
Scout’s Lookout
Just after the switchbacks is Scout’s Lookout, giving you a view of the the whole canyon. Restrooms are available at the lookout point. This is where most people take a break before finishing the hike or if you are afraid of heights this is where you turn around.
The Last 1/2 mile
The last 1/2 miles is what makes Angel’s Landing the most visited hike in Zion National Park. With 1000 ft drop off on both sides, some places are 2 feet wide that require to hang onto the chains bolted into the rocks. The path up Angel’s Landing gives its intimidating reputation and a thrill for some individuals.
Also know as “Hogsback,” the gigantic rock is crowded with thrill seekers. Be careful when you cross path with another hiker and always make sure you are properly secured before you cross. Always hang on to the chain and never let go when climbing, also do not rush the climb be patient and calm. After climbing the Hogsback, it is a flat walk to the viewpoint. Take in the view, relax and enjoy before heading back down.
Angel’s Landing is one of the toughest hikes in the United States. It is by no means an easy hike. Therefore, I will provide you with a quick and easy guide for one of the most highly endurance paced hikes in the world.
Zion National Park is visited by 4.3 million tourists every year and over half of them attempt the Angle’s Landing Hike. The hike is difficult and not recommended to anyone that has a serious fear of heights. The hike starts across from the Grotto Trailhead, the 6th stop on the Zion Canyon shuttle.
Hike Details
Difficulty: Extremely strenuous, not recommend for individuals with a serious fear of heights
Distance: 5 mile round trip
Time: 4-5 hour round trip
Location: The Grotto Trailhead
Elevation Gain: 1500 feet
Season: Angel’s Landing is open to hikers year around, but is not recommended during the winter if the trails are icy and slippery.
A week before Hiking…
Before you embark on your journey for the hike of a life time. I recommend doing some cardio activities in the gym or outside. The whole point behind this is to build up your cardiovascular endurance for the hike. Before heading out on any major hike or road trip, I make sure to spend at least one week in the gym switching up my routine with HIIT training or Circuit workouts.
Pack Light!
The best way to ensure you make it to the top is by minimizing the weight load on your legs and back. Only pack what you need. Take a few bottles of water, some protein or granola bars, and some fruits (apple’s or orange’s are the best for a hike).
Start early
We started our day at 9 am and took the Zion Canyon Shuttle to The Grotto Trailhead and were on our way. Being early means much of the valley is still in the shade and cooler until the sun warms it up. It can tend to get hot, especially during the summer season.
Walter’s Wiggles
Walter’s Wiggles is a set of 21 switchbacks that are very steep and will present a challenge for any climber. This is the real challenge before the view point where the HIIT and Circuit training comes to pay off.
Scout’s Lookout
Just after the switchbacks is Scout’s Lookout, giving you a view of the whole canyon. Restrooms are available at the lookout point. This is where most people take a break before finishing the hike or if you are afraid of heights this is where you turn around.
The Last 1/2 mile
The last 1/2 miles is what makes Angel’s Landing the most visited hike in Zion National Park. With 1000 ft drop off on both sides, some places are 2 feet wide that require to hang onto the chains bolted into the rocks. The path up Angel’s Landing gives it the intimidating reputation.
Also know as “Hogsback,” the gigantic rock is crowded with thrill seekers. Be careful when you cross path with another hiker and always make sure you are properly secured before you cross. Always hang on to the chain and never let go when climbing, also do not rush the climb be patient and calm. After climbing the Hogsback, it is a flat walk to the viewpoint. Take in the view, relax and enjoy before heading back down.
Thinking about going on a trip or vacation? These tips will help you take great photos and will ensure you are prepared in every way.
Know you camera!
It doesn’t matter if you have a DSLR or an iPhone. The best way to ensure you get the photos you want is by knowing your equipment and how it works. I recommend you get an entry level to mid range DSLR, if you are starting off. Here are some options for beginners. I started off with the Canon 80D, it is an excellent camera for beginners.
Why is it so important to know you camera?
When you are traveling to a place you are not familiar with, things can change very fast. If you like something you see, it is important to set the camera to the correct setting as fast as possible. So you walk away with that perfect picture.
2. Beat the crowd & stay out late
If there is one thing I hate about traveling, it’s the horde of people at every famous photo location. My solution to this is very simple, wake up early.
Photog by Daniele D’Andreti
Waking up early has its own benefits. There are fewer people out on the streets, fewer tourist and even fewer photographers. You get to experience the city for what it truly is. With less photographers out, you are bound to get that unique sunrise shot that many won’t have in their portfolio.
Along with waking up early, staying out late until the streets are empty will give your shots an unique perspective.
3. Do your research
Before hopping on any flight to a destination, I always do my research. Whether it is the best place to eat in Vancouver or it is how to beat the crowd at the Horse shoe bend. Doing your research will help you prepare for your shots in advanced. How crowded is Stanley park in July? What time does the Taj Mahal open? All of these questions can make your travels so much easier. Instagram or Google are both great tools to help you prepare your shot list.
4. Buy the correct lens
My go to lens is a 16-35mm F/2.8, it is wide and fast, it allows me to capture more of the scene. The second lens I take with me is the 70-200mm F/2.8, this allows me to capture a scene from far way without being in someone’s face. By having these two lenses in your bag, you make sure to cover most of the focal range.
5. Back up your files
There is not a worse feeling than realizing that all your hard work and pictures got wiped out from your computer. These things happen often, but individuals do not realize it until it happens to them. It is important to back up your files as soon as you get back to you hotel. I always carry two Western Digital Hard Drives with me at all times. I can sleep peacefully at night knowing that everything is backed up not only once but twice.
6. Photograph the locals
This is probably one of the most important aspects of travel photography. Taking pictures of the locals is a crucial part of traveling. This allows the viewer to dive into the culture, location and the setting of the place. Before you start snapping away, get to know the locals on a personal level. The locals are aware of the area more than tourist. They will be able to give more insight on the best places to eat and sightsee many tourist may not be aware about. This will create a bond with them that will allow them to feel more comfortable when photographing them. It will also make you feel comfortable when taking pictures of the locals.
7. Editing Software
There are a lot of mobile apps that allow you to polish up your photos but nothing gives you more flexibility and room than Adobe Lightroom. The photography plan gives you 20GB of storage, Adobe Lightroom Classic CC and Adobe Photoshop only for $9.99/month. This is the best plan for photographers. It also allows you to sync your edited photos directly to your phone through the Lightroom Classic mobile app.
8. Always shoot RAW
There are two modes in every camera that photos are captured in, RAW & JPEG. When shooting in RAW you get the most flexibility and details from the scene. It also helps you are get the highest quality possible from the scene. Most of the images in Raw are uncompressed an allow you to work more with details in post processing.
Shooting in RAW also ensures that you get better dynamic range, just a fancy word for capturing both the highlights and the dark parts of the scene.
Just remember if you do decided to shoot in JPEG, the images will be compressed and will lose quality. The camera takes the RAW file and compresses to JPEG in camera. You don’t want the camera doing that, unless you are purposely trying to save space on the memory card.
9. Explore your creativity
Chances are that wherever you are going that place has already been photographed a million times. Change things up by trying a different angle, most people shoot from eye level. So don’t be afraid to get low to the ground or climbing stairs to get a different perspective. If you are shooting landscape try adding people to the photo, this adds scale, creates depth and interest in your photos.
10. Put down the camera
This is probably the most important tip I can think of. It is likely that you are not being paid thousands of dollars to photograph a city or landscape. If you are kudos to you, but it is likely that you are there to enjoy and experience the beautiful place you are in. You want to immerse in the culture, the city, and the way of life. So put that camera down and relax for a bit, let the experience come to you and make you lifetime of memories.
While traveling to Oregon, I realized that it has everything I ever imaged and more. It has everything a curious and adventurous traveler is looking for. Its lush landscape and 300 miles of open coast are what makes tourists so attracted to this beautiful state. One of the greatest things about Oregon is its beauty year around.
Crater Lake National Park is located in Southern Oregon and is the most popular place in that area. It is the only national park in all of Oregon. Before the crystal clear blue waters of the lake, it used to be a volcano. About 7,700 years ago, Mount Mazama collapsed on itself creating a beautiful rim crater that it is today. Mount Mazama peaked at 11,000 feet The lake is approximately 2000 feet, making it the deepest lake in the United States. The island in the middle of the lake can be visited by a boat tour. There are countless hikes and trails that offer the best views of the the lake from above.
9. Painted Hills
The Painted Hills are one of the seven wonders of Oregon. These hills are part of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, located in Wheeler County, Oregon. Each color unveils a layer of history dating back to millions of years. The hills are best visited during the sunset hour. The golden glow from the sun lights up the hills in such a way that is pleasing to the eyes. The yellow, red, and pink illuminate and reveal the history of this planet. When I took a glance at them from the viewpoint, it was as if I was looking at a piece of landscape from Mars. These Painted Hills are a must visit for any admirer of this planet.
8. Blue Lagoon
The Tamolitch, more commonly know as “Blue Lagoon” or “Blue Pool” is located in Chinook just off the OR-216 highway. It is off the OR-12 exit, passing the sign for Tamolitch Trail Head. You can park your car there and it is a short hike along side the McKenzie River. The hike is filled with giant lush trees, green moss, and crystal clear waters or the McKenzie River. Just keep going until you stumble upon a huge blue pool that is crystal clear. Before, there was a way to go down to the pool, but because of the recent rock slide the path is blocked.
Mckenzie River Trail
7. Airplane Home
This is no ordinary plane, I did not crash land here. It was built and assembled piece by piece. Believe it or not this is someones home, yes a HOME! The Airplane home is located in the farming community of Hillsboro, Oregon among the tall trees. Ever since I saw this place on the internet, I was very intrigued by it and had to visit. The owner of this extraordinary home is Bruce and is very welcoming. If the owner is home, you can take a tour, but if not then he asks you to be civilized around the plane and treat it with respect. To find the directions you can find them here.
6. Samuel H. Boardman State Park
The Oregon Coast is one of the most scenic on the west coast. Samuel H. Boardman State Park located in Southern, Oregon Park has some of the intersting rock formations in the country. The most famous being “Arch Rock” is just off the coast and can be viewed from the park. The park is located just off the 101-Highway, so don’t miss it.
Photo by David Kovalenko
5. Latourell Falls
Latourell Falls is located close to the Columbia River Gorge. This is one of the closest falls to Portland, just 20 minutes away. There is a hiking loop trail that leads you to the top of the falls that is just 2.4 miles. There is also a trail that leads you to the base of the falls, if you are in hurry I recommend taking this trail.
The fall is 225 feet high and is always fully roaring. If you are feeling a little adventurous like me, I recommend taking a walk to the back of the waterfall. Just make sure you have shoes with good grip as the ground is always muddy.
4. Silver Falls State Park
Silver Falls State Park is one of the most beautiful parks in all of Oregon. It is located near the town of Silverton, and is a perfect place to go for a day hike. It is just 10 minutes from the parking lot of South Falls, which is the most famous falls in the park and definitely the most picturesque. The hiking trail continues in a loop that leads you behind the waterfall. If you find yourself in Oregon and have a few hours to spare, this is the perfect place to go.
3. Mt. Hood
Photo provided by Unsplash, photographer Atanas Malamov
Mt. Hood is one of the seven wonders of Oregon. It is located in the town of Sandy, and the volcanic peak can leave anyone speechless. According to statistics, Mt. Hood is the second most climbed mountain in the world. Mt. Hood is also home to countless alpine lakes, a world class ski resort and beautiful glaciers. This is a must visit for any traveler in their lifetime.
2. Cannon Beach
Cannon Beach is the icon of the Oregon Coast, specifically Haystack Rock.It is located in northern Oregon, and named after a cannon being rolled up on the beach. Depending on the sea level, you can walk to Haystack Rock and is sometimes covered in water. During our visit, the elements were not in our favor. It was raining with high speed winds, so I had to settle for an average shot on my phone. But don’t let this stop you from exploring such a beautiful place, no matter the conditions. Here is a picture of Cannon Beach under better weather conditions.
Photo by Caleb Jones , provided by Unslpash
Multnomah Falls
Multnomah Falls is the most visited place in all of the Pacific Northwest.It is located just off the 84-Highway and 30 minutes from downtown Portland. This place is perfect for a quick getaway from the city. The Falls plunge a whopping 620 feet from the top to the bottom of the second waterfall. In order to get to the bridge on the second level, it is a short 5 minute walk from the viewpoint. This is the most busiest places in Oregon. I recommend going there super early in the morning to get some quite time before the horde of tourist start to flow in. If there was only once place to see in Oregon, I would highly recommend this place.
I hope you have an adventure of a lifetime in Oregon, and the elements are always in your favor.
