Travel Tips for The Long-Haul

o you have plans for an international trip to another continent this year? If so, then you will want to prepare for your long-haul international flight to help make it the best experience possible.

Here are my top tips for your next long-haul flight:

Hydrate – flying dehydrates you so make sure to drink a ton of water. I generally bring a few large bottles of water onto the plane with me so I always have some on hand throughout the flight. I’m also a big fan of Liquid IVs and I typically add a couple of these to my water throughout the flight.

Get up and move – sitting too long can cause all kinds of issues – swelling, discomfort, and even blood clots - so make sure to get up and move at least every hour or two. You can also do simple exercises – like raising and lowering your calves or ankle circles - in your seat to move your legs and ankles to keep the blood flowing.

Compression socks – they may not be fashionable but if you’re prone to your legs, feet, or ankles swelling on flights, they are definitely functional. I have a pair I travel with for any flight that is at least four hours long. My feet tend to swell when I fly and these help minimize the swelling and keep my legs from feeling achy. Compression socks will also reduce your risk for blood clots.

Bring your own entertainment – make sure to have shows or movies downloaded onto a device, books or e-books, and wireless noise-canceling headphones. Sometimes in-flight entertainment systems don’t work, so make sure you have enough to keep you entertained for the duration of the flight. Also, don’t forget a phone charger.

Sleep – I know it isn’t always easy to do, but sleeping on a long-haul flight is your best friend. You get some rest, it helps you fight jetlag, and you won’t be totally exhausted when you arrive at your destination. I’m a big fan of bringing a travel pillow, a wrap that also serves as a blanket, and eye shades. A lot of people also love ear plugs but I prefer sleeping with my Air Pods in with the noise cancelling turned on. I also prefer the window seat so I have something to lean on while I sleep.

Pack basic toiletries – make sure that you have a toothbrush, toothpaste, contact supplies/glasses, lip balm, and deodorant. A lot of people also like to bring moisturizer or hand cream and face wash/wipes. Being able to take ten minutes in the restroom to freshen up a few times throughout the flight will make all of the difference in how you feel when you land.

Dress comfortably and in layers – you’re going to be in the same clothes for hours and (hopefully) sleep in them as well, so make sure that you are comfortable. You can still look stylish and be comfy, so a great pair of leggings or joggers, a t-shirt, and a sweater or sweatshirt are perfect. Plus, if you get hot or cold you can add or remove layers throughout the flight. I also recommend slip-on shoes or bring a pair of flip flops for when you need to walk around the cabin. And please always wear socks if you take off your shoes – being barefoot on a plane is gross.

There you have it, my top tips for making your next long-haul flight a great one!

Home is where the heart is at Dogwood Forest Acworth Assisted Living & Memory Care and so is the CARE. We love our residents like family and you can visit our website and hear from family members why they love us, too.

WE OFFER:

• Short Term Stays

• Studio & 1BR Apartments

• On-site Rehab

• Robust Activities & Programs

• 3 Miles from Local Hospitals

• Pastoral Chaplain as we are a Faith-based Company For information, please contact Lori Ghassedi at:

First, I want to wish everyone a Happy New Year and hope it will be safe, happy, and prosperous for you. Now that 2023 is here, we are all keeping a watchful eye on the economy, which is still being pulled in all directions by high inflation, steep interest rates, ongoing uncertainties, and recession fears, to name a few. After two years of rather strong seller market sales there are indicators a correction is underway but it’s not changing that quickly. Mortgage rates are still at about twice as much as what they were a year ago. Monthly home prices are still increasing in some areas, despite a decline in total number of sales to make it harder for many home buyers to access affordable housing. Still, higher housing costs have taken a toll on home shoppers as mortgage applications are at their lowest level in a very long time. Because of this decline in housing sales, could the housing market be reaching the bottom already?

More Housing Inventory is always a Good Thing.

Low housing inventory has been a challenge since the 2008 housing crash, when the construction of new homes plummeted and, in many areas, came to a standstill. Many people feel like it still hasn’t fully recovered. Housing supply remains near historic lows which has held up demand compared to other downturns, consequently sustaining higher home prices. Prospective home buyers have been faced with two challenges, one is elevated mortgage rates and the second is limited housing inventory leading to sellers. Now that slowing sales is upon us, we are experiencing a slowdown in new construction which is jeopardizing the already limited housing supply. It would be a step in the right direction when an increase in Single-family new construction occurs.

Are there Many or Any Foreclosures on the Market?

It seems like there is a slow rise in foreclosures that resulted after the expiration of the Covid-19 foreclosure moratorium starting around

September, 2021. That’s a great situation for renovators and buyers looking for a project. But now foreclosures may have hit their peak because of the stronger seller market and the fact that people can still do a short sale for their hardship. We will continue to see below-normal foreclosure activity, since unemployment rates are still very low, and mortgage delinquency rates are lower than historical averages. Another key difference now compared to the last housing crash is that many homeowners, and even those struggling to make payments, have had a large increase in their home values in recent years which means they still have equity in their homes and are not in the red. The home values are up which is why we don’t see many foreclosures. This is good for homeowners but not for renovators.

When is the Best Time to Buy a Home in 2023?

Buying in any market is a highly personal decision. Because homes represent the largest single purchase most people will make in their life, it’s important to be in a solid financial position before diving in. It’s best to use an online mortgage calculator to get an idea of your monthly housing costs based on your down payment, interest rate and estimated taxes & insurance to get the most accurate total monthly payment. Trying to predict what might happen next year is not the best home buying strategy. If buyers are sitting on the sidelines today, in anticipation of lower prices tomorrow, they will end up disappointed. It is possible that some areas will see some decreasing pricing but not widespread. Don’t expect a national price decrease like what occurred in the housing crisis of 2008. Instead of waiting for much lower prices, it’s best to buy a home based on your current budget and needs for your family. If you find a home that you love in the area you love, and it also fits your budget, then chances are it might be right for you. In this case, you should buy now making it the time to call a reputable Real Estate Agent and Loan Officer.

Tips for Buying in Today’s Housing Market

It’s always best to start with a budget and stick to it. Even with a slight uptick in the number of homes for sale, buyers are still facing elevated prices and mortgage rates that are higher than they were last year heading into the Spring Market. Even though buyers are getting a bit more breathing room now, they should keep in mind that it’s still a seller’s market while they consider their options which is why anyone thinking of selling should get on the market now.

Great advice when Selling in Today’s Housing Market

The first step for a successful sale is to find an experienced and reputable listing agent who knows the area and comes highly recommended. A good agent will work closely with you to price your home competitively based on many local factors while fielding questions and professionally negotiate offers from prospective buyers.

Let’s make it a Great Year!

Call today for a “FREE” market analysis!