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4 ways to cut down on meat when dining out – and still make healthy choices

.<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/laura-marchese-1271636">Laura Marchese</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/deakin-university-757">Deakin University</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/katherine-livingstone-324808">Katherine Livingstone</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/deakin-university-757">Deakin University</a> Many of us are looking for ways to eat a healthier and more <a href="https://theconversation.com/how-sustainable-is-your-weekly-grocery-shop-these-small-changes-can-have-big-benefits-234367">sustainable diet</a>. And one way to do this is by reducing the amount of meat we eat. That doesn’t mean you need to become a <a href="https://theconversation.com/why-you-should-eat-a-plant-based-diet-but-that-doesnt-mean-being-a-vegetarian-78470">vegan or vegetarian</a>. Our <a href="https://jn.nutrition.org/article/S0022-3166(24)00333-X/fulltext">recent research</a> shows even small changes to cut down on meat consumption could help improve health and wellbeing. But not all plant-based options are created equal and some are <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30744710/">ultra-processed</a>. Navigating what’s available when eating out – including options like tofu and fake meats – can be a challenge. So what are your best options at a cafe or restaurant? Here are some guiding principles to keep in mind when cutting down on meat. <h2>Health benefits to cutting down</h2> Small amounts of lean meat can be part of a healthy, balanced diet. But the majority of Australians <a href="https://cancer.org.au/about-us/policy-and-advocacy/prevention/obesity/related-resources/meat-and-cancer#consumption">still eat more meat</a> than recommended. Only a small percentage of Australians (10%) are vegetarian or vegan. But an <a href="https://www.foodfrontier.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Food-Frontier-Hungry-For-Plant-Based-Australian-Consumer-Insights.pdf">increasing</a> number opt for a <a href="https://theconversation.com/love-meat-too-much-to-be-vegetarian-go-flexitarian-73741">flexitarian</a> diet. <a href="https://theconversation.com/whats-the-difference-between-vegan-and-vegetarian-225275">Flexitarians</a> eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, while still enjoying small amounts of meat, dairy, eggs and fish. Our <a href="https://jn.nutrition.org/article/S0022-3166(24)00333-X/fulltext">recent research</a> looked at whether the average Australian diet would improve if we swapped meat and dairy for plant-based alternatives, and the results were promising. The study found health benefits when people halved the amount of meat and dairy they ate and replaced them with healthy plant-based foods, like tofu or <a href="https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/blog/why-you-need-legumes-in-your-life">legumes</a>. On average, their dietary fibre intake – which helps with feeling fuller for longer and digestive health – went up. Saturated fats – which increase our blood cholesterol levels, a risk factor for heart disease – went down. Including more fibre and less saturated fat helps reduce the risk of <a href="https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/healthy-living/healthy-eating/healthy-eating-to-protect-your-heart">heart disease</a>. Achieving these health benefits may be as simple as swapping ham for baked beans in a toastie for lunch, or substituting half of the mince in your bolognese for lentils at dinner. <h2>How it’s made matters</h2> For a long time we’ve known processed meats – such as ham, bacon and sausages – are bad for your health. Eating high amounts of these foods is associated with poor <a href="https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/healthy-living/healthy-eating/protein-and-heart-health">heart health</a> and some forms of <a href="https://cancer.org.au/cancer-information/causes-and-prevention/diet-and-exercise/meat-and-cancer-risk">cancer</a>. But the same can be true of many processed meat alternatives. Plant-based alternatives designed to mimic meat, such as sausages and burgers, have become readily available in supermarkets, cafes and restaurants. These products are ultra-processed and can be <a href="https://theconversation.com/we-looked-at-700-plant-based-foods-to-see-how-healthy-they-really-are-heres-what-we-found-222991">high in salt and saturated fat</a>. Our study found when people replaced meat and dairy with ultra-processed meat alternatives – such as plant-based burgers or sausages – they ate more salt and less calcium, compared to eating meat or healthy plant-based options. So if you’re cutting down on meat for health reasons, it’s important to think about what you’re replacing it with. The <a href="https://www.eatforhealth.gov.au/sites/default/files/2022-09/n55g_adult_brochure.pdf">Australian Dietary Guidelines</a> recommend eggs, legumes/beans, tofu, nuts and seeds. Tofu can be a great option. But we recommend flavouring plain tofu with herbs and spices yourself, as pre-marinated products are often ultra-processed and can be high in salt. <h2>What about when dining out?</h2> When you’re making your own food, it’s easier to adapt recipes or reduce the amount of meat. But when faced with a menu, it can be difficult to work out what is the best option. Here are our four ways to make healthy choices when you eat out: 1. Fill half your plate with vegetables When cutting down on meat, aim for half your plate to be vegetables. Try to also eat <a href="https://theconversation.com/were-told-to-eat-a-rainbow-of-fruit-and-vegetables-heres-what-each-colour-does-in-our-body-191337">a variety of colours</a>, such as leafy green spinach, red capsicum and pumpkin. When you’re out, this might look like choosing a vegetable-based entree, a stir-fry or ordering a side salad to have with your meal. 2. Avoid the deep fryer The Australian Dietary Guidelines <a href="https://www.eatforhealth.gov.au/sites/default/files/files/the_guidelines/n55a_australian_dietary_guidelines_summary_130530.pdf">recommend limiting</a> deep fried foods to once a week or less. When dining out, choose plant-based options that are sautéed, grilled, baked, steamed, boiled or poached – instead of those that are crumbed or battered before deep frying. This could mean choosing vegetarian dumplings that are steamed not fried, or poached eggs at brunch instead of fried. Ordering a side of roast vegetables instead of hot chips is also a great option. 3. Pick wholegrains Scan the menu for wholegrain options such as brown rice, wholemeal pizza or pasta, barley, quinoa or wholemeal burger buns. Not only are they good sources of protein, but they also provide more <a href="https://www.eatforhealth.gov.au/food-essentials/five-food-groups/grain-cereal-foods-mostly-wholegrain-and-or-high-cereal-fibre">dietary fibre</a> than refined grains, which help keep you fuller for longer. 4. If you do pick meat – choose less processed kinds You may not always want, or be able, to make a vegetarian choice when eating out and with other people. If you do opt for meat, it’s better to steer clear of processed options like bacon or sausages. If sharing dishes with other people, you could try adding unprocessed plant-based options into the mix. For example, a curry with lentils or chickpeas, or a vegetable-based pizza instead of one with ham or salami. If that’s not an option, try choose meat that’s a lean cut, such as chicken breast, or options which are grilled rather than fried.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/236505/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/laura-marchese-1271636">Laura Marchese</a>, PhD candidate at the Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/deakin-university-757">Deakin University</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/katherine-livingstone-324808">Katherine Livingstone</a>, NHMRC Emerging Leadership Fellow and Senior Research Fellow at the Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/deakin-university-757">Deakin University</a> Image credits: Shutterstock This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/4-ways-to-cut-down-on-meat-when-dining-out-and-still-make-healthy-choices-236505">original article</a>.

Food & Wine

10 tips for a better night’s sleep in a hotel room

From noisy neighbours to unbearable bedding, a good night’s sleep in a hotel room can be hard to come by. Here are 10 tips to help you get decent shut eye. 1. Book a room midway down a hallway This is generally the quietest part of the floor, way from ice and wending machines, laundry facilities, exits, closets and any other places where sudden noises might occur. 2. Try to avoid rooms facing a pool While the view is something to admire, pools can also be the sight of noise generating late-night gathering and any sounds generally echo loudly off the water. 3. Inquire at the front desk about pillow options If the wrong pillow gives you back or neck pain have a chat to the front desk when checking in. Most hotels stock pillows of varying firmness, and can offer a better fit. 4. Pack earplugs and eyeshades When you’re struggling to get to sleep the tiniest noise or ray of light can end up being a huge distraction. Nip this in the bud by packing earplugs and eyeshades. 5. Turn your mobile phone off Mobile notifications can be a huge distraction (particularly when they’re coming from friends and family in different time zones). Turn your phone off, and enjoy the bliss. 6. Make use of your ‘do not disturb’ sign If you’re planning to sleep in make sure you put your ‘do not disturb’ sign on the outside doorknob, otherwise you might get a rude awakening from a housekeeper. 7. Report any noises immediately Sometimes a quick pound of the wall will quiet down a noisy neighbour, but this doesn’t always work. If the people in the room next to you won’t keep quiet, make sure you let the front desk know and they can take the necessary actions. 8. Adjust the room temperature Most people sleep better in a cooler room, so make sure you adjust the temperature to whatever is the best fit for you to get sleep. Even just opening the window a tiny little crack can make a big difference in terms of your overall comfort levels. 9. Ask the front desk about blackout shades Particularly if you’re staying in a city that’s full of lights, noises and distractions, blackout shades can provide you with a level of peace and comfort that will help you sleep. 10. Consider bringing your own sheets Particularly if you’ve got skin sensitives, it’s generally a good idea to bring your own sheets (if you’ve got enough space). The familiar scent and feel will really help you sleep. Image credits: Shutterstock

Travel Tips

"I can’t a fjord it": Inside one of the world’s most extreme restaurants

One of the world's most extreme restaurants has gone viral and not only for its unique location and shape, but also its exclusive dining experience that's eerily similar to 2022 horror film The Menu. Restaurant Iris is located inside a giant silvery orb in Hardangerfjord, the second largest Fjord in Norway. The four-storey structure, called the Salmon Eye is inspired by - you guessed it - the shape of a fish eye, and it is quite a sight to behold. The Salmon Eye is covered in 9,000 steel plates to emulate fish scales, weighing a whopping 1,256 tonnes and an impressive diameter of 25 metres, with one sub-surface floor that boasts a panoramic view of the Fjord. The restaurant itself can only be accessed by an electric boat off the shore of Rosendal, as guests are treated to "an exclusive expedition dining-journey" which offers an 18-course meal and panoramic views. The 24-seat restaurant is run by Head Chef Anika Madsen, and prior to having their main meal, guests are taken to the chef's boathouse on the nearby island of Snilstveitoy, for a "welcoming snack". The menu is designed to showcase "the most local ingredients possible", which reflects Madsen's "commitment to sustainability" and her "passion for discovering new ingredients from the ocean". Mari Eriksmoen posted the viral video on TikTok which has racked up over eight million views. "This spectacular just opened in the middle of the Hardangerfjord in Norway," she started in the clip with a shot of the structure floating in the middle of the fjord. She described the experience of walking into the restaurant "like entering a spaceship," and was mesmerised by the "insane views". Once the evening kicks off, guests indulge in a multi-sensory experience where they were instructed to pick a "cracker" hanging from the ceiling after watching a "short movie about food waste". Another TikTok user compared it to the extraterrestrial spacecraft from the 2016 sci-fi film Arrival. However many other users compared the dining experience to 2022 horror film The Menu, where a group of guests eat at an exclusive restaurant on a remote island and face dire consequences. "Did we learn nothing from The Menu?" commented one user with the crying face emoji. "I know how this movie ends," wrote another user. "I can’t a fjord it," joked a third. The dining experience aims to "blend gastronomy and activism on a global scale" as they hope to raise awareness on the the challenges and threats to the global food system. "The menu at Iris reads like a story, " a statement said. "A story about the challenges and threats to the global food system, but also with ideas and suggestions for future innovations, that can help bring us closer to solving them." The tasting menu itself is priced at 3,200 Norwegian Krone ($316) with an optional wine pairing for 2,500 Norwegian Krone ($247). For those who want to visit the Salmon Eye, but don't want to dine in, they can buy a ticket for a two-hour "learning experience" at the centre priced at 349 Norwegian Krone ($34). Images: Salmon Eye Website/ Instagram, TikTok

Food & Wine

The best cruise cabin for every type of need

So many options Cruise accommodations – also known as staterooms or cabins – are your home away from home while at sea. Far from a one-size-fits-all decision, there are numerous factors to consider when determining the best rooms on a cruise ship to fit your and your companions’ needs. From size to location to view and beyond, there are many things to keep in mind when selecting your stateroom, says Gianluca Corneli, hotel director at Royal Caribbean International. “How many will stay in the room? Is your room a place to hang out or just where you sleep?” Also, think about what you’d like to be near on the ship. “For example, consider if you would like to be near the elevator for convenience or prefer a location down the hallway with fewer guests passing by,” she says. Also factor in any ways you’d like to elevate your stay, like maybe a balcony or a suite for your next Caribbean cruise. It’s no wonder that some of the best cruise lines offer up to 28 different types of rooms on a single ship – they want to ensure there’s an ideal solution for every guest. Let’s focus on upgrading your room choice to the perfect fit for your specific needs. Best for avoiding seasickness Choose: the middle of the ship, on a low deck Picture a ship like a seesaw – the most movement will be felt on either end, while the middle stays fairly even-keel. “Middle and low, that’s where you want to be,” says cruise expert Dori Saltzman, senior editor with trade publication Travel Market Report. “While you don’t need to be on the absolute lowest passenger deck, you don’t want to go above the middle of the ship (vertical wise). You also want to try to be as middle (horizontal wise) as possible. If cabins in the middle of the ship aren’t available, she says to choose aft over forward, because the more forward a cabin is, the more you’ll feel the motion of the ocean. And while this may seem counter-intuitive, be sure to book a cabin with a window or balcony, so you can keep your eyes on the horizon if you start feeling queasy. Best for great views Choose: a cabin with a balcony, preferably at the back of the ship While you can always go to the upper decks of any ship for 360-degree views of your surroundings, there’s no greater cruise ship luxury than enjoying the scenery from your own private balcony. They may also be called verandah cabins. Balconies are the perfect place to enjoy a cup of coffee in the morning or glass of champagne during a spectacular sunset and pretend you’re all alone at sea. And some of the absolute best rooms on a cruise ship are located at the rear, where you’ll also be treated to the photo-worthy wake left behind, which is a fun way to mark your ship’s progress. Balconies are also nice for having access to fresh air when you want it, it can be very soothing to listen to the sounds of the ocean from your stateroom, and you’ll have a better chance of spotting wildlife along your cruise too. Best for light sleepers Choose: a deck filled with other guest cabins and away from elevators Finding the best rooms on a cruise ship for light sleepers usually takes a little research, but that due diligence will pay off come bedtime. “You need your cabin to be located away from any bank of elevators, but also away from crew entrances,” says Saltzman. So being surrounded by other cabins of people who want to sleep too is a safe bet. “You also don’t want your cabin to be located above the ship’s main theatre, underneath any restaurants where you can hear the chairs scraping on the floor or under/over any of the lounges that have music late into the night.” Finally, you don’t want to be on a low deck that’s too aft or too forward, as you may end up above the engines or the anchor, which makes a lot of noise when it’s lowered and raised. You may feel a bit like Goldilocks trying to choose that perfect cabin on your next romantic cruise, but the reward of peace and quiet will be priceless. Best for a little more space Choose: a forward-facing cabin While you aren’t likely to find a balcony on a forward-facing cabin, you may find more interior space than similarly priced mid-ship cabins. Why? There are some odd angles in forward-facing cabins that the designers had to work around, thanks to the slanted style of the front of a ship. Those odd angles may work in your favour when it comes to square footage. It’s important to note that while these are some of the best rooms on a cruise ship for extra space, you will experience the most movement in a front-facing cabin, so this choice is not an ideal position for anyone prone to motion sickness. Best for cruising with little kids Most cruise lines offer family-friendly cruises and specific cabins suited for kids, which can be a mix of in-room amenities and proximity to other areas of the ship children will love. “On Disney’s ships, all cabins have two bathrooms, one with a sink and toilet and the other with a shower/bath combo (a small minority of rooms do not have the tub) for families that need the little one to be able to take a bath, while everyone else is still able to wash up,” says Saltzman. “Another good option is the Family Harbour cabins on Carnival’s Vista-class ships (Vista, Horizon, Panorama) and Excel-class ships (Mardi Gras, Celebration). Similar to the Disney cabins, these have two bathrooms, one a full one with a shower, sink and toilet, and the other with a sink and shower/tub combo.” Best for staying on a budget Choose: an interior cabin Unless you’re worried about feeling claustrophobic – since there will be no porthole or window to the outside world – an interior cabin is a nice option for saving money (we’re talking $300 for 7-day cruises). Not only is it the lowest-priced cabin type, which means you’ll have more funds to put toward excursions, a drink package or souvenirs, but you’ll also be able to take midday naps or sleep in later because there won’t be any light sneaking in. Another positive is that an interior cabin might encourage you to spend more of your free time roaming around the ship, meeting other people and getting more involved in activities, since you may not find it desirable to spend your time beyond sleeping and showering in a windowless box. Best for mobility disabilities Choose: an accessible stateroom For passengers with limited mobility or no mobility, most major cruise lines offer accessible staterooms in a variety of room types (inside cabin, ocean view and balcony). These options do vary based on the cruise line and the age of the ship, so it’s best to research this in advance and factor the accessible options available into your cruise planning process. Accessible rooms tend to be larger than standard cabins to accommodate wheelchair or scooter users, and they also feature larger bathrooms. Additionally, some rooms will have emergency-call buttons or specific amenities for hearing or vision-impaired guests. For instance, the fully accessible rooms on Holland America Line provide adequate turning space, accessibility routes throughout the room, roll-in showers, wheelchair access on both sides of the bed, handlebars in the shower and hand-held shower heads, says Sissel Bergersen, director of rooms division, Holland America Line. Before you lock in a booking, it may be best to call the cruise line and explain your needs so they can help steer you toward the perfect cabin. Best for being spoiled rotten Choose: a cabin with butler service or a spa cabin For travellers who like adult-only cruises or who are yearning for a little extra pampering, the best rooms on a cruise ship fall into one of two categories. The first is a suite that comes with butler service, where you’ll have someone helping with all the details you don’t want to spend your precious holiday time tending to – like reserving prime-time dinner slots at specialty restaurants, booking shore excursions, packing and unpacking and even drawing rose petal bubble baths. Rooms at this level may also come with exclusive access to private pools, clubs and lounges with more luxurious touches and solitude than you’ll find elsewhere on the ship. The other category that’s becoming increasingly popular is spa suites. On Norwegian Cruise Line, the Haven Spa Suite, Spa Club Balcony Suites and Spa Balcony (available on the Norwegian Escape, Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Epic) have varying amenities that range from more tranquil room décor with an oversized shower and body spray jets to priority access to Mandara Spa. And on Celebrity Cruises, the AquaClass staterooms are focused on wellness, with a pillow menu, complimentary fitness pass, preferential rates on spa packages, healthy room-service menu options, an exclusive restaurant, a spa concierge, access to the SEA Thermal Suite and a yoga mat for use onboard. Best for solo cruisers Choose: a cruise line that offers single rooms or waives single supplements Solo cruises are a wonderful experience, yet so many cruise lines penalise single cruisers by forcing them to pay a ‘single supplement.’ This surcharge is added to the fare of a solo passenger, since cruise room pricing is generally based on double occupancy. This fee can be an additional 10 per cent all the way up to a full 100 per cent of the rate, making solo cruising unaffordable for many travellers. Instead, look for cruise lines that offer single staterooms, like Celebrity, which has the Edge Single Stateroom with Infinite Veranda (available on Celebrity Edge, Celebrity Apex, Celebrity Beyond and Celebrity Ascent) and the Single Inside Stateroom on Celebrity Silhouette. Other cruise lines, including Holland America Line, Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line, also offer single cabins – these special solo and studio cabins aren’t subject to single supplements. Occasionally, you may even find cruise lines running special promotions and waiving their single supplement for a regular-size room. Image credits: Getty Images This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.co.nz/travel/cruising/the-best-cruise-cabin-for-every-type-of-need" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>.

Cruising

How to set up your room to help you fall asleep

Getting a good night’s rest is essential for your health and quality of life. Sometimes sleep can be disturbed due to coffee or stress but sometimes it can be caused by the state of a bedroom. If you are having trouble falling asleep at night then your bedroom environment might be part of the problem. If your bedroom isn’t the sleep-friendly environment it should be, try these tips today. 1. Remove night lights and electronics If you have a bright light shining from a radio or alarm clock, it might be a good idea to cover it at night or turn it around so the light isn’t facing you as you sleep. Our brains can misinterpret dim lights and be aroused to wake up. It is also important to not be on your electronic devices right before you go to sleep due to the light that radiates from the screen. 2. Shut your curtains Even though the light from the moon, car headlights or streetlights might be outside your window, they still could be a factor in keeping you up. Drapes will help you fall asleep at night time and stop the morning sun waking you up as well. 3. Lower the temperature Just a small drop in temperature can help induce sleep. Experts recommend cooling down your room by a few degrees to aid your brain in drifting asleep peacefully. Studies have also found that wearing socks can help you fall asleep. It is believed that if your feet are warm, it helps the internal body temperature drop. 4. Get a comfy mattress A painful mattress will not only disturb your sleep but it will also leave you with aches and pains in the morning. Make sure you shop around and research carefully before buying a mattress so you can get one that allows you to have the most natural and deep sleep. Mattress protectors and mattress toppers are also a worthwhile investment for extra softness and comfort as you sleep. 5. Choose the right colour scheme Colours can speak volumes to your subconscious so it is important to paint and decorate your room with calming colours. Colours such as blue, purple and light pink can help calm your thoughts. Select colours that are the right shade to help you feel tranquil before you fall asleep at night. 6. Declutter your bedroom The impact of a cluttered room is far greater than you might initially think. If you are tossing and turning in the night make sure that before you go to bed, your bedroom is cleared of unnecessary clutter. Once your bedroom is clean, it will make you feel like you have more space and that you aren’t restricted. 7. Choose the right bedding The right sheets, the right pillows and the perfect number of pillows are all factors in helping you fall asleep. Whether you want cotton or flannelette bed sheets, make sure you are maintaining their quality as you use them. Image credits: Getty Images

Home Hints & Tips

Stop making these 5 living room mistakes

A living room should be a welcoming place to entertain guests and a space where you can go to unwind. Creating a comfortable and stylish living room doesn’t have to involve any manual labour or cost a fortune, a few simple tweaks can make a world of difference. 1. Furniture placement If you tend to push furniture up against all the walls of your living room, you’re making it look smaller rather than larger. Give the room the illusion of more space by pulling furniture away from the walls. Plan your living room around the scale of the room, it will open it up and become a place you’ll never want to leave! 2. Too much clutter Clutter makes a house a home but storage is key when it comes to keeping a tidy living room. Pack away what you can to keep your tables relatively tidy. Arrange flowers, books, candles or house plants however you like to create an inviting atmosphere. 3. TV placement The optimal place for your TV to sit is on a blank wall that doesn’t block window light. If you can, mount your TV on the wall for a cleaner look, otherwise have an appropriately sized TV unit to put it on. 4. Using the wrong rugs Rugs are a must for a stylish living room but they need to look like they belong! Small rugs can imbalance the room, so go for a big rug your furniture can sit on top of. 5. Lack of colour Many living rooms lack colour, not just the walls, but the lack of artwork, rugs and cushions. Bright pieces add life to a room. Hang artwork, get colourful pillows, plants, or other clutter to spruce up the room - just not too much! Image credit: Shutterstock

Home & Garden

Room to Move: Desperate renters forced into backyard boxes

Victorian tenants have taken desperate measures in their hunt for a home in the midst of a housing crisis, turning to portable rooms set up in their parent’s driveways and backyards. The portables - described as ‘stand-alone separate rooms’ - have been seen across Facebook Marketplace for up to $180 per week, in a time when Melbourne’s median rent has reached $460 each week. The company behind the Room to Move initiative have advertised a 7.2sq m room for $150 per week, and for those seeking a little more wiggle room, a 10.1sq m room is available for $180. However, a minimum hire period of six months applies to both, as well as a bond of $500, and a one-month written notice to end the lease. And for anyone just outside of Melbourne who might be interested, the rooms can be delivered within a three-to-four hour drive from the city - for a fee of $250. The spaces don’t come with bathrooms, but do feature weatherproof electrical sockets that power two double power points, two internal downlights, and a reverse cycle air conditioner. “There’s plenty of demand for people looking for a short term solution for accommodation,” Room to Move co-founder Nick Nottle said of the decision to launch the spaces. “Typically people place [the rooms] in their backyard or on their driveway back off the street a bit.” He noted that the spaces attracted the most attention from renters who were moving back in with family in a bid to save enough for their own house deposit, and that he and business partner Mike Rose launched Room to Move when they noticed a gap in the market, and saw an opportunity for portables that weren’t an eyesore in a residential environment. “Neighbours don’t really complain because people like the look of it,” he said, “it doesn’t look like you’ve just dropped a big shipping container in your backyard.” Beyond desperate renters, however, Nick believes the ‘properties’ also appeal to parents who want something self-contained to get their teenagers out of their hair, as well as having somewhere to house visitors coming from a long way away. And last but not least, according to Nick, “the other group is people using them as an office to work from home, or for studio-type businesses like a lash salon, tattoo parlour or hairdresser - things you can do from home rather than renting a space elsewhere.” Images: Facebook, realestate.com.au

Real Estate

12 things you should always do before you leave your hotel room

Check under the bed and dresser “I always get down on my hands and knees and look under the bed and under the dresser,” says Suzanne Markham-Bagnera, a former general manager at hotels. Young kids especially like to hide things, and then forget about them. “You get the frantic phone call that a child has left their Lovey, their stuffed animal, or their toy and they realised once they get in their car and start driving, but they’re not able to come right back to the hotel,” she adds. Pull the bed linens back Markham-Bagnera typically removes the bedding to both help out the housekeeper and make sure she hasn’t forgotten anything. “That’s my way of securing: I’ve done the clean sweep of the bed. I’m good,” she says. Guest aren’t expected to strip the bed, but should you decide to, make sure to leave the comforter on a chair or in the closet, not on the floor. And don’t ball the bed linens up with the blanket, keep them separate. Leave the used towels in the tub Markham-Bagnera puts all the towels on the bathtub, especially if they’re still wet. That way they’re out of the way and all together in the pile. And the room attendant only has to pick up one pile of dirty linen. “It makes it a lot faster to pick up,” Markham-Bagnera says. Take the food you want to keep If you’ve used the refrigerator, make sure that you take out the items that you want. “The ones that you don’t want, throw away,” she says. Some guests leave alcohol as a tip for the housekeeper, but policies vary from hotel to hotel on whether they can accept it or not. Stack overflow takeaway boxes next to a waste bin Hotel waste bin are pretty small, and the remnants of last night’s dinner may not fit. If you’ve got overflow, pile the boxes next to the waste bin instead of leaving them scattered all around the room. “The messier you leave the room, the harder it is for the room attendant to clean that room,” Markham-Bagnera says. Check between the mattress and box spring When a room doesn’t have a safe, hotel guests will sometimes hide items they don’t want to leave around the room between the mattress and the box spring. Housekeepers have recovered weapons and sex toys there, Markham-Bagnera says. Move the furniture back If hotel guests are travelling with children, they sometimes move one of the beds against the wall so there’s less opportunity for a child to fall out of the bed. That’s fine, but the courtesy is to move the furniture back where you found it before you leave. Take your medications and supplies with you Forgetting your medication can be dangerous for you, but leaving supplies like needles in your room could also be hazardous to your housekeeper. Also, if you gashed yourself shaving and used a towel to stop the blood flow, separate the towel out from the rest. “Hotels will have protocols for how to clean it or for how they have to bag it and have a company come and dispose of it. Because they can’t just put that in the regular trash and be done with it in a hotel,” Markham-Bagnera says. Make sure you have your charger! “If I had a dollar for every charger that I found, I could take my whole family on vacation,” says hotel manager, Adam Sperling. These days, it’s bad news if your phone dies, so take that last look around. “It’s things that get left behind that can often cause you stress at the end of your journey,” he says. Think about a tip Room attendants are typically paid hourly, so their position is different from a bellhop or a server that might make less per hour with the expectation that they will make more in gratuities, Markham-Bagnera says. That said, room attendants work incredibly hard and tipping is appreciated. Things to consider? The quality of the hotel, whether you’re staying one night or multiple nights, and how messy you’re leaving the room. “If you’ve got a lot of people staying in the room and you’ve got a pullout sofa or a cot, and you’ve used a lot more towels, it certainly is nicer to leave a little extra,” Markham-Bagnera says. Call down to the front desk for transportation Mornings can be hectic at hotels, with out-of-town guests rushing to make meetings and flights in cities they don’t know. You can save yourself some of the hassle by doing a little prep before you leave the hotel room. “Call down and say, ‘hey, I’m leaving at 7.30 tomorrow, can my car be waiting for me?’” Sperling suggests. “That helps everybody. Your car’s waiting for you and we’re not scrambling to go get it at 7.25 when you need it at 7.30.” Book your next stay If you really liked your room and are planning to be back in the area, before you leave your hotel is a great time to rebook, Sperling says. He recommends you ask for the front desk manager for face-to-face treatment that can trump the savings online. “You’re likely to get a great rate, and you’re likely to get upgraded,” he says. Image credits: Shutterstock This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.co.nz/travel/12-things-you-should-always-do-before-you-leave-your-hotel-room?pages=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>.

Travel Tips

4 things you can take from your hotel room – and 6 you can’t

<h2>What you can take: soap or shower gel</h2> If there’s one thing most hotels reliably have in their rooms, it’s soap. And according to Ousman Conteh, hotel general manager, these mini bottles are OK to take from your hotel room. “Often hotels receive negotiated pricing for items from another brand,” he says. However, Curt Asmussen, managing director of ObieHospitality, notes that it’s not encouraged to take these items – but guests aren’t penalised in any way if they do. <h2>What you can take: Shampoo or conditioner</h2> Much like the mini soaps stocked in the bathroom, the travel-size shampoo and conditioner are also fine to take from your hotel room. Hotels sometimes brand these items too, Conteh says. So taking their shampoos and sporting the hotel brand name can help the word out about a hotel. <h2>What you can take: Anything “complimentary”</h2> Complimentary items could include things like dry-cleaning bags, coffee, creamers, sugar packets and certain marketing collateral pieces, Asmussen says. It’s fair game to take them with you. Joanna McCreary, hotel general manage, adds that some hotels even give exclusive complimentary gifts which you are, of course, free to take. “We love giving people champagne on check-in on peak arrival days,” she says. “We don’t advertise it, but do get a good deal on it, and complimentary surprise champagne you will find is a very easy sell.” <h2>What you can take: Paper and pens</h2> These paper items also usually have the hotel brand name on them and serve as a marketing tool. Feel free to take them with you! <h2>What you can’t take: Sheets and towels</h2> Sheets, towels and other linens are definitely something you shouldn’t take from hotel rooms. As McCreary explains, the hotels’ goal is to prepare the perfect room for the next guest. Taking pricy essentials, like sheets, make it harder for hotel staff to do their job. According to the Telegraph, however, 68 percent of people in a survey admitted they steal linens and towels from hotel rooms. Beware that some hotels can track stolen towels thanks to electronic tags, HuffPost reports. <h2>What you can’t take: Electronics</h2> Conteh notes that in most cases, there are disclaimers on all items that shouldn’t leave the room – especially in the case of pricy electronics. “They note that there will be a cost levied on the room charge if a tablet or other item of value goes missing or removed from the premises. <h2>What you can’t take: Robes</h2> These plush robes are one of the most common items people think they can take from hotel rooms, but can’t, according to Conteh and McCreary. You will be charged! Slippers, on the other hand, won’t be used again and are typically OK to take. <h2>What you can’t take: Wooden hangers, glass bottles and mugs</h2> There is a chance that taking these items from your hotel room could lead to consequences beyond an extra charge to your room – including being “blacklisted,” NBC reports. Hotels keep a record of guests who trash hotel rooms or steal items and might ban these people from booking rooms again. In rare scenarios, some people could get arrested. The Telegraph reports a couple in Japan was arrested for stealing robes and an ashtray. It’s better to be safe than sorry, so only take the complimentary items that you really need. Remember, just because you can take something doesn’t mean you should. Image credit: Shutterstock <a href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/travel/travel-hints-tips/4-things-you-can-take-from-your-hotel-room-and-6-you-cant" target="_blank" rel="noopener">This article originally appeared on Reader's Digest.</a>

Travel Tips

Tom Cruise dines with legends on Sir Michael Caine’s big day

Tom Cruise has spent the night with fellow industry heavyweights while out for dinner for Sir Michael Caine’s 90th birthday. The evening marked the first time that the 60-year-old actor, best known for his work in Top Gun and Mission Impossible, was spotted publicly since his absence at the 2023 Oscars was noted - while his film was nominated for Best Picture, Cruise was not in attendance at the event. He was one of a few select guests at Caine’s birthday celebrations, with the 90-year-old screen legend host welcoming the likes of Cruise, David Walliams, screenwriter Christopher McQuarrie, and Denise Welch to his private dinner at the River Cafe in London. Author and comedian Davia Walliams immortalised the gathering by sharing pictures with keen fans to his social media accounts, a series of snaps he captioned “Happy 90th Birthday to the legendary Sir Michael Caine.” “I have no idea why it brings me so much joy to see Tom Cruise & you hang[ing] out together for Michael Caine's birthday, but it does,” one eager supporter wrote. “Thanks for sharing!” “Looks like a fun night. Sorry I couldn’t make it,” joked another. “Easy to see why he skipped out on the Oscars,” one said. “He knows where the real power lies.” <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cpye3ruDG95/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cpye3ruDG95/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by David Walliams HQ (@dwalliams)</a> </div> </blockquote> Meanwhile, actress and TV personality Denise Welch took a slightly different approach to showcasing the party, opting instead to post a clip of a joke for mature audiences she’d shared with the party, writing that it was “such an honour to be asked by Shakira to say a few words at Sir Michael Caines’ 90th birthday!!! He loves a dirty joke and so does @tomcruise it appears!!!!” Her fans loved it, with one quipping “Tom Cruise skipping the Oscars to watch Denise perform stand up was not on my 2023 bingo card.” Denise liked the comment so much she later tweeted a headline that quoted it, calling it her “favourite headline ever.” “No way is that Tom Cruise & Michael Caine.... just fainted. I can't imagine being at the same table as Hollywood Royalty,” another admitted on the original post, starstruck. <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CpzeNmPITWi/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CpzeNmPITWi/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Denise Welch (@denise_welch)</a> </div> </blockquote> In both posts, it appears that Cruise was seated right next to Caine for the celebration, with many voicing their surprise that the two were friends. The pair have never technically appeared together in a movie, but both actors did have parts in the 2002 film Austin Powers in Goldmember. However, Cruise’s role was only a cameo at the beginning of the comedy, while Caine portrayed Nigel Powers. Images: Instagram

Relationships

Russell Crowe and girlfriend denied entry at restaurant

Actor Russell Crowe and his girlfriend Britney Theriot were refused entry at a Melbourne restaurant for not meeting the smart-casual dress code, according to a report. The pair went to eat at Mr Myagi, a Japanese-fusion establishment in Melbourne, wearing outfits they had played tennis in earlier that day, and the staff were quick to deny them entry. “He went there wearing a brand new Ralph Lauren polo, having just played a game of tennis and was turned away,” Crowe’s manager Grant Vandenberg told the Daily Mail Australia. Mr Miyagi describes itself as “casual but fancy” where “work gear, activewear, singlets, and thongs” are forbidden. The restaurant’s management doubled down on their decision to deny the pair service, saying no one is above their rules. “We treat everyone the same. It doesn’t matter who you are or if you are Russell Crowe. We’ve got a dress code that we push across every level,” restaurant owner Kristian Klein told The Herald Sun. “We are consistent with it and I don’t feel like it’s unreasonable," Klein added. “But I know personally if I’m in my thongs and my boardies, I’m not going to try and go to a nice restaurant, because I wouldn’t be dressed appropriately.” Klein said the staff member that denied Crowe’s entry did not know who the Gladiator actor was, and it was a “very unfortunate situation for everyone”. The restaurant had some fun with the situation, posting an updated dress code policy on Instagram. “Dress smart casual, unless you’re Russell Crowe, then wear whatevs,” the sign read. Mr Myiagi also addressed Crowe to clear the air. “Dear Russell, During your last visit it seems we got off on the wrong foot. After much reflection on what occurred, we have made a permanent change to our dress code,” the caption read. “We would love to see you again in the future, you’re always welcome at Mr. Miyagi.” According to the Daily Mail, radio broadcaster Steve Price and his partner were turned away from Mr Miyagi just days later for the same reason. Crowe has now joined the list of recent A-listers who were denied service from restaurants. Talk show host James Corden was banned from Balthazar, Keith McNally’s restaurant in Manhattan, in October 2022 after he allegedly mistreated the restaurant’s staff. Other celebrities that have been turned away from establishments include Ariana Grande, who was banned from a California doughnut shop after being seen on a surveillance camera licking unattended pastries. Image credit: Getty

Food & Wine

12 gross things hotels do to save money

Looks can be deceiving Since there’s such a quick turnaround between guests, perhaps it shouldn’t come as all that much of a surprise that hotels aren’t as clean as they should be. In fact – and only read on if you have a strong stomach – one study found that 81 per cent of hotel surfaces contained at least some faecal bacteria. Here’s the issue: hotels are in the business of making money, and one way they keep more of that money is by cutting corners where they think they can get away with it. And we hate to break the news to you, but surfaces aren’t the only things you need to worry about in your guest room, though, of course, some spots are dirtier that others. They reuse the sheets If there aren’t stains, some hotels won’t clean the sheets regularly between guests, says Philip Biton, the co-founder of NDOband who also helps hotels find ways to generate money from their rented rooms. In fact, three out of nine hotels tested secretly didn’t change sheets (insert vomit emoji), according to an Inside Edition investigation. But, Biton says, “sheets should always be replaced.” After all, bodily fluids, hair, and other seriously gross stuff from previous guests could be lurking there. In your own home, this is how bad it is to not wash your sheets every week. Now imagine that at a hotel, with multiple people you don’t know rolling around on them. They choose colourful carpets on purpose The purpose: to hide stains. Let your mind envision any stains you want, and chances are, they’re embedded in your lush, colourful carpet, according to Bustle. Yes, tiles are easy to clean, but those colourful carpets can also be viewed as works of art, according to Hotel Management, so they’re technically doing double duty. The most recent popular colours include greys, brown tones, and non-directional designs with heavy layers of texture. They skimp on washing the glasses It’s easy to make a glass look clean: You simply have to rinse it under some water or quickly wipe it with a towel, especially if the previous guest only drank water out of it. And if the housekeepers have limited time to clean each room, there’s a good chance they’re going to save some of those precious minutes by not washing the glasses properly, according to an undercover investigation by ABC News in 2009. As a result, 75 per cent of the glasses failed ABC’s clean-glasses test. Most were just wiped down and rinsed out instead of being properly sanitised. While this study was the most in-depth on the topic, a more recent look at the state of hotel glasses didn’t find any better news, according to the Daily Mail: instead, they reported that cleaning staff washed the glasses with dirty cloths and with spray that was not suitable for drinking. Pro-tip: BYO reusable water bottles when you stay in a hotel. They don't wash the coffeepots Let’s be honest here: when was the last time you washed your own coffeepot? Exactly. So, you really shouldn’t expect a hotel to do a better job. One ABC News exposé found that hotels aren’t using soap or any other cleaners to clean their coffeepots. And researchers from the University of Valencia examined nine hotel Nespresso machines that had only been used for a year and found bacteria in all of them. That’s why we bring our own mini French Press with us when we travel. We know the last time it was cleaned properly. They don't change their mattresses often Mattresses are expensive. As a result, high-end hotels tend to change their mattresses every three to five years, while less expensive hotels will change mattresses every ten years, according to Traveller.com. Even if the mattress is torn or stained, many hotels will simply hide or clean the issue, as it’s too expensive to swap out a mattress every time there’s a problem. They neglect the pillowcases Often, hotel beds are piled high with pillows, and chances are, you aren’t actually sleeping on all of them. And even if you do sleep on a pillow, do you really leave a mark? The Today Show investigated top hotel chains in the United States and found that many of the housekeepers put the pillows on the chair next to the bed while they changed the sheets. Then, they fluffed the dirty pillows and put them back on the bed. No visible stains equals a reuse. Plus, the pillowcases last longer that way, saving the hotels even more money in the long run. The light switch is never cleaned We all touch them multiple times per day, but the light switches in hotels aren’t cleaned properly…or maybe ever, say researchers from the University of Houston. And this is a huge problem because the light switches – especially those on bedside lamps – are covered in bacteria. Light switches and TV remotes were the worst offenders in the room, according to this study. Since housekeepers are only allotted 30 minutes to clean each room, they don’t have time to wipe down everything, and they also inadvertently carry bacteria to multiple rooms by reusing the same sponge and mop. As a result, bacteria in the hotel rooms were found to be between two and ten times higher than the levels accepted in hospitals. For this reason, you should probably skip the hotel hair dryer as well, or use antibacterial wipes first. They don't change the bedspread The first thing you should do when you get into your hotel room? Don a pair of gloves and remove the bedspread from your bed. Seriously, don’t touch it. Most hotels clean bedspreads just four times per year, according to TravelTruth.com. If that bedspread is colourful, it’s more likely that it’s one of those special ones that’s not changed regularly. It was created to look good and hide stains, saving the hotel money in the process since it doesn’t have to be washed for each new guest. They don't bother with the throw pillows You know, the decorative ones that you toss off your bed and onto that gross carpet as soon as you enter your room? The housekeeping staff simply pops those germ-laden throw pillows back onto your bed – touching your (hopefully) clean pillowcases, according to Thrillist. Super-duper gross. Are their throw pillows ever washed? Are yours? Some have poor water pressure Hotels can save money by controlling the flow of water, according to the Hotel Association. Conserving the flow of water not only saves on water costs, but it also saves money on energy and more – so the hotels may have actually installed low-flow devices. What does this mean for you? Aside from poor shower quality, you’ll also get linens that aren’t so clean and an overall filthy vibe. They don't always change their towels “They utilise the apathy of guests by stating that only towels left in the bath and shower will be changed,” says Jeremy Scott Foster, CEO of TravelFreak. “This can save hotels so much money on labour, detergent and electricity.” Previously, Foster says, all towels not on the original rails were washed. Still, some good does come out of this cost-cutting policy: It benefits the environment. Laundry makes up 16 per cent of a hotel’s water usage, and by not washing those towels, the hotel can save on water, sewer, labour and energy costs, according to National Geographic. This is one reuse we don’t actually mind, especially since we’re the only ones using and reusing those towels. They skip cleaning days completely Some hotels are up-front about skipping cleaning days. They will offer their guests credit if they choose not to have their room cleaned, or alternatively (at different hotels), they’ll tack on additional costs for daily cleaning. These hotels have realised that it’s not cost-effective or necessary to do a thorough cleaning every day, so they’re offering these alternatives to save money. Image credits: Getty Images This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.co.nz/travel/12-gross-things-hotels-do-to-save-money?pages=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>.

Travel Tips

The best ways to use every room in your house, according to science

The best place to keep a wireless router On a bookshelf. Situate it on a desk or a tall shelf in a central location in your house. A router works best when elevated, since it sends signals in all directions. The worst place to have a router: in the kitchen. Metal appliances can disrupt its signal. The best place to solve a problem In the shower. Monotonous tasks, like lathering up, may allow the mind to wander and boost creative thinking. In a Psychological Science study, participants who completed a simple task between solving creative problems performed better on the problems than those who completed difficult tasks or no task at all. The best place to add a houseplant In the bathroom. Plants are a staple of your living space, but you probably haven’t thought to stow one next to, say, your shower. Plants can filter indoor air, helpful for small spaces like bathrooms. Ferns are a low-maintenance choice: for a shady bathroom, try a Boston fern. In sunnier bathrooms, place a Kimberly Queen fern. A classic NASA study that identified air-purifying plants found both types of ferns filter air of chemicals like formaldehyde (found in tile grout and paper towels; can cause nose and throat irritation) and xylene (found in household cleaners and perfumes; can cause dizziness and headache). The best place to stash emergency cash In the kids’ room. Scope out a subtle place in a young child’s room, where burglars are less likely to look for valuable items. Tuck emergency cash in an envelope inside a stuffed animal that’s no longer played with – say, a teddy bear on a high shelf. The best place to do a morning workout In the yard. If you can, get outside to break a morning sweat. A study in the journal PLOS One found that exposure to morning sunlight is linked to a lower body mass index (BMI). Researchers say just 20 to 30 minutes of morning brightness is enough to affect BMI; they hypothesise that sun exposure helps regulate metabolism. Bonus of taking your workout outdoors: your burpees won’t knock over a lamp. The best place to hide during an earthquake Under a desk or a kitchen table. If your area is prone to earthquakes, don’t count on the door frame. Though standing underneath one is age-old advice, in many modern homes, the door frame is no stronger than any other part of the house and probably won’t protect you from the most likely cause of injury: flying items. Image credits: Getty Images This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.co.nz/culture/the-best-ways-to-use-every-room-in-your-house-according-to-science" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>.

Home & Garden

7 secrets to enjoying food on a cruise

Jennifer Campbell writes for <a href="http://blog.virtuoso.com/" target="_blank">Virtuoso Luxury Traveller</a>, the blog of a <a href="http://www.virtuoso.com/" target="_blank">global luxury travel network</a>, and she enjoys nothing more than taking a holiday. When you conjure up great food and drink experiences, you might think of a fabulous meal by a celebrity chef, or a sommelier-led wine tasting, or local cuisine prepared with fresh ingredients. You probably don’t think of having all these on a cruise. Cruise lines have realized the enormous appetite of travellers for fine cuisine, wine and spirits. The World Food Travel Association says more than 39 million people are culinary travellers, seeking out food and beverage experiences around the world. Dining is consistently one of the top three favourite travel activities, and all demographics love food equally. For me, a self-professed lover of all things food, wine and spirits, the more than 10 cruises that I’ve been on have provided amazing opportunities to enjoy all of these loves while exploring the world. Here are my eight ways to make the most of the myriad ways to indulge in great cruise food and drink experiences. 1. Open your mind to new experiences Gone are the stereotypical days of extravagant buffets and cruisers filling their pockets with crab legs before the seemingly endless piles vanish. Not to say that there aren’t still buffets on cruise ships. But the buffets of today cater to a more discerning and well-travelled client. Because of the international nature of cruising, the breakfast buffet might include congee and dumplings. Or maybe kippered herring, muesli or sliced meats and cheeses alongside traditional American staples of cereal, yogurt, eggs and pastries. The lunch buffet might be like visiting Japan, Greece, Ireland, Italy and Germany in one 50-foot stretch. For my friends and dining companions last year on Silversea Cruises, the amount of sushi that I consumed every day from the lunch buffet became embarrassing. We got to the point where our waiter would see me coming and prepare a plate of sushi to be sent to the table. I can still taste that salmon sashimi. Remember that the buffet isn’t like the Thanksgiving table; you don’t have to get it all at once. Eat in courses, try things and enjoy! 2. Master the main dining room This can enhance your cruise immensely. Most cruise lines now offer open seating – meaning that you can eat at any time you like rather than at a set time. The great thing about the main dining room is its flexibility. The menu might offer appetizers, entrees and dessert, but guess what? You can order any or all of them in whatever configuration suits your mood. If you want three appetizers and no dessert, then fine, that is what you’ll have. If you order the wiener schnitzel and then notice that someone at an adjacent table has the shrimp scampi and you want it too, it is yours. Don’t see shrimp cocktail on the menu but it’s your favourite? Just ask and chances are they’ll make it just for you. My mom enjoyed it every night on our last cruise in October. 3. Discover the specialty restaurants Specialty restaurants on many ships offer five-star dining experiences, comparable to some of the world’s great restaurants. Celebrity chefs are now as common on cruise ships as the swimming pool. Nobu Matsushisa, Todd English, Jacques Pepin, and Jamie Oliver (to name a few) all work with cruise lines in menu design, chef restaurants and cooking demonstrations. They’re elevating cruise food to new levels. Steakhouses, sushi bars, Italian trattorias, French dining – all of these can be found on cruise ships. Craving escargot or maybe a Pittsburgh-style steak? You can get these in the middle of the ocean. I had one of the best goat cheese soufflés of my life recently on board Azamara Club Cruises. Yes, there is typically a surcharge at the specialty dining restaurants. But many cruise lines now offer packages that discount that rate. So whether you want to buy a package and enjoy the specialty restaurants multiple times, or pay the one-time upcharge for one splurge evening, take advantage of them and their over-the-top menus. Depending on the cruise line and the category of cabin in which you’ll be staying, sometimes reservations are included and can be made well in advance. Other lines require you to book onboard. When booking onboard, don’t be dismayed if the time and date you want is not available. Many times there are cancellations, so spots open up daily. Befriend the maitre d’ and you’ll be surprised what can happen for you. 4. Buy bar and wine packages Is there a particular sprit that you enjoy each evening? Maybe a dry Belvedere martini with a lemon twist or a Glenlivet scotch neat? The premium bar packages on many lines allow you to have these same comforts onboard the ship at a price not much more than you pay at home. Rather than paying $20 each evening for your martini like in a fine restaurant, your daily rate pays for itself in one drink. On my last cruise on Azamara, the premium bar package was less per day than one cocktail with my favourite spirit. Great deal for me and no guilt if I decided to splurge and have a second one. Love wine? Consider a wine package where you can pick premium bottles of wine from around the world and enjoy them at any restaurant on the ship. Can’t finish the bottle? The sommelier will cork if for you and it will be waiting the next night, just like you are at home. 5. Opt for a cosy dinner in If you had a busy day of exploring on shore and just want to cocoon in your room that night, order room service. Unlike a hotel on land, it’s included in the price of your cruise. And it’s generally available 24/7 for any late-night cravings. On certain lines, waiters will set up a table in your room and – just like at a restaurant – return with each new course as you’ve finished the last one. 6. Take advantage of all your cruise food options Your dining isn’t confined just to the buffet or the main dining room. Get to know all the ship’s venues and sample their wares. Have a casual meal on deck at the barbecue grill. Enjoy a snack or dessert at the ice cream shop. Indulge in special late-night culinary offerings after a show or nightcap. Savor a morning beverage and pastry at a coffee bar. 7. Pick your shore excursions with food and drink in mind With so much traveller interest in local food and beverages, most lines offer culinary experiences while in port. You might taste wine in one of the world’s most acclaimed wine regions, tour a distillery, explore local farmers markets with one of the ship’s chefs or try a local specialty like olive oil in Italy or rice vinegar in Japan. You may be able to dine in a Michelin-starred restaurant or in a private home. What’s your favourite part about eating on a cruise? Is there a meal that stands out? Let us know in the comments, we’d love to hear from you. First appeared on Virtuoso. <a href="http://www.virtuoso.com/" target="_blank">Click here</a> to visit their website for more information. Related links: <a href="/travel/cruising/2016/07/queen-mary-2-cruise-ship-gets-pet-friendly-makeover/">Queen Mary 2 cruise ship gets pet-friendly makeover</a> <a href="/travel/cruising/2016/06/best-cruise-lines-in-the-world-revealed/">The world’s best cruise lines revealed</a> <a href="/travel/cruising/2016/04/cunard-queen-mary-marilyn-monroe-showcase/">Cunard to showcase world’s largest Marilyn Monroe collection</a>

Cruising

Former housekeeper shares things she would never use in a hotel room

After working as a housekeeper for many years, Tara knows a thing or two about hotel rooms. The former cleaner has made a frank admission about what goes on behind closed doors when cleaning and tidying hotel rooms for the next guests. “Hate to break it to you, things aren’t as clean as you think they are,” Tara said on her TikTok. She went on to list the things she would never use in hotel rooms after her years in the industry, beginning with basic kitchenware. “The first thing I would never ever use is the coffee pot or any of the glassware.” “Usually the housekeeper rinses these things out in the bathroom sink and dries them off with the same rag they clean the rest of the room with.” The next thing she avoids using or touching is the ice bucket. “A lot of times people just innocently use these as water dishes for their pets but then other times, people do much worse things to these buckets... and I don’t ever want to talk about that,” she said. She also advises travellers to remove the bedspread as soon as you check in to your hotel room. “Take that s*** off the bed the minute you walk in there and do not put it back on the bed,” she said. “They are so filthy, they only get washed once a year unless there’s a visible stain on them. “So unless someone has puked, bled, p***ed or s*** on them, they do not get washed for an entire year. “Seriously, I’ve seen some things.” In a follow-up video, she explained why parts of hotel rooms are neglected during the cleaning process. “You would actually get in trouble if you took too long to clean hotel rooms and you would get in trouble for backing up the laundry if you’re sending down too many bedspreads and blankets and things like that.” She added, “Totally depends on hotel, training, employee and management but I’m turned off for life because of what I’ve seen.” Image credits: TikTok

Travel Tips

"Walk the rooms": Inside the house that Johnny Cash built

Johnny Cash's former home has hit the market, with the California property expected to sell for up to $1.8 million. Cash, who passed away in 2003 at the age of 71, shared the property with his first wife, Vivian Liberto, and the home is adorned with the relics of Johnny's love for music. The house features a wood-panelled recording studio, wall-mounted turn tables and a country motif living room. The artist reportedly built the 4,500 sq. ft. home in Casitas Springs, California, back in 1961 as an escape from his demanding lifestyle. Johnny and Vivian, along with their three daughters, spent six years in the homestead retreat, which was rumoured to be built to Cash's exact wishes. According to the listing agents of Douglas Elliman, "Johnny bought the land and built the house to his exact specifications, walking the rooms and deciding on exact placement and layout. He created a secluded sanctuary, unique to this rural small-town enclave. Longtime locals recount stories of Johnny setting up speakers on the hillside outside the house and playing concerts for the townspeople down below." Inside the five bedroom home, most rooms remain original to Johnny and Vivian's vision, with painted ceilings featuring a touch of glitter, an original wall-mounted turntable and intercom system, and curved brick fireplace in the family room. Despite a modern uplift in the his and hers suites, the property is undeniably Cash's with custom wood built-ins, exposed brick walls, natural wooden beams and a country motif living room. The grounds are equally mesmerizing with live oaks, verdant gardens, a sparkling swimming pool, and corrals and fields ready for horses, pigs, goats, chickens or other rural uses. Image credits: Douglas Elliman Realty

Real Estate

Inside the house where you can swing from room to room

Dubbed ‘Disney World for adults’ by the selling agent, the owners of this interesting resort style home have dropped the price by AUD $946,400 (USD$700,000) in hopes someone will finally buy the property after a long 18 months on the market. Real estate agent Colleen Henninger of City Center Realty recently re-listed the unusual family home on real estate site Zillow, where it gained huge interest thanks to its design. It’s a fusion between African safari, American wild west, Tarzan's lair and a ride at a Disney resort. For AUD $1.6 million (USD $1.2 million ), the home could be all yours. The outside of this two-storey home features timber and rock walls, while inside you will find massive exposed timber beams, corrugated iron walls and wrought iron walkways connecting the rooms, which are separated by a massive internal void. A life-sized carved timber elephant is on display in the downstairs living room, while a statue of a pirate guards the upstairs area. There is also an elevated stage complete with drum kit and ropes to swing from end to end if you’re feeling like something different. The three-bedroom, three bathroom home in the Los Angeles suburb of Lakewood, California, first hit the market in October 2020, with an asking price of USD $1.9 million (AUD $2.57 million). However, after failing to sell and a brief stint as a rental on Airbnb where it was leasing for USD $730 per night, the owners have decided to drop the asking price. Henninger, who is a friend of the owners, says there had been a great deal of interest in the home, but the majority of those who inspected the property just wanted to look and had no intention of buying. "It's a great house. It's like Disney World," she said. "It was built with fun in mind. It's a unique home and it's going to need a unique buyer. You go in and you either love it or hate it. It needs someone who wants to entertain guests and have fun." Of course if you do get bored, the home is within driving distance to Disneyland Resort, Anaheim which is a short 20 kilometres away. Images: Domain

Real Estate

The ultimate living room cleaning guide

The living room is our go-to space for relaxing and socialising with friends and family – but first, let’s make sure it’s clean! And we’re ready to go beyond clearing clutter and fluffing pillows. This extensive living room cleaning guide will help you freshen up every inch from top to bottom. Living room cleaning tips Like the kitchen, the living room is a magnet for family clutter. So before you even pick up a dust cloth, grab a basket and clear out all the items that don’t belong. Then, organise your cleaning tasks from top to bottom. Start with dusting ceiling fixtures and window blinds, and leave the rug and flooring for last. When you’re finished, it’s time to light a new scented candle and relax. Living room cleaning tools Cleaning the living room involves a lot of dusting and vacuuming, and the right cleaning products will make all the difference. Here are our favourite tools to get the job done: Magic erasers: even stubborn wall marks are no match for these. Upright swivel bagless vacuum: this vac works great on both hard and soft floors. White vinegar: you’ll be using vinegar in several cleaning mixtures. It’s effective yet gentle on all living room surfaces. How to clean blinds If there is a lot of dust build-up on your blinds, vacuum first. Close the blinds completely, and drag a horse hair vacuum attachment across the entire length. Then close the blinds the opposite way and repeat. Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a bucket or other container. Use a microfibre cloth to wipe down the blinds with the mixture. You can also put your hand inside a sock. How to clean a ceiling fan The best way to clean a dusty ceiling fan is with an old pillowcase. Standing on a ladder, wipe each fan blade by gently dragging it inside the pillowcase. All the dust will be caught in the pillowcase, avoiding a mess on the floor. Wipe the remaining dust or grime with a microfibre cloth dipped in a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water. If there is a light fixture attached to the fan, wipe it with the vinegar and water mixture, then do a final polish with a glass cleaner. How to clean walls and wall decor Use a magic eraser to get rid of any scuff marks on the wall. Wipe down all the walls and skirting boards with a microfibre cloth and a mixture of vinegar and water. Use the same cloth and mixture to gently wipe the tops of picture frames and other wall decor where dust likes to settle. How to clean upholstered furniture Remove all the lounge and chair cushions and vacuum. Remove any items that have fallen under the cushions (there will be a treasure trove if you have kids!). Then vacuum up the remaining crumbs and debris with a vacuum attachment. In a spray bottle mix 1/4 cup vinegar, 3/4 warm water and 1 teaspoon of dishwashing liquid. Mist the mixture on all the cushions (both sides!) and armrests, then wipe with a microfibre cloth. Let the cushions dry, then replace them on the lounge. For leather furniture, use a mixture of 2 parts white vinegar with 1 part olive oil in a spray bottle and shake well. (You can also add a few drops of essential oil for fragrance.) How to dust furniture Remove all items like lamps and decorative accessories from your end tables, coffee table and any other hard surfaced furniture. Use a damp microfibre cloth (microfibre traps dust rather than just moving it around) and wipe down all the furniture. Use the same cloth to wipe down lamps and accessories before returning them to the tables. To remove a water stain, apply a white, non-gel toothpaste to a soft cloth and rub it in a circular motion. Then, wipe clean with a damp cloth. How to clean TV and media equipment Make sure your devices are turned off and cool before you start cleaning. Wipe away dust and loose dirt with a dry microfibre cloth. (Don’t forget the back of the TV, which gets super dusty.) Spot-clean smudges with moist wipes designed for electronics. How to clean the living room floor Vacuum both your hard and soft floors (sweeping just moves the dust around). For a carpet or rug deodoriser, mix 2 cups of baking soda with 10 drops of essential oil like lemon or lavender. Sprinkle the mixture on the carpet, then vacuum it up. Tackle any stains with this miracle carpet cleaner or mix a DIY carpet cleaner with 2 to 3 teaspoons of mild dishwashing liquid and 4 litres of warm water. Mop hard floors with a mixture 4 litres of hot water, 1 cup of vinegar and 1 drop of dishwashing liquid. Squeeze your mop thoroughly before starting; your mop should be damp but not wet. Daily living room cleaning tasks Now that you’ve thoroughly cleaned your living room, here’s how to keep it clean. These daily tasks will keep your space tidy and ready for guests even if your next weekly cleaning is a few days away. Clear away clutter at the end of every day. Put everything that doesn’t belong in one big basket, then walk around the house with your basket to put items in their rightful spot. Fluff pillows and fold throw blankets. Straighten lounge cushions. Locate the TV remote and any gaming remotes, and put them back where they belong. How to deep-clean your living room These deep cleaning tasks only need to be done once every couple of months, but your living room will thank you! Remove curtains and launder. Remove throw pillow covers and couch cushion covers, if they’re removable, and wash in the washing machine. Clean windows both inside and out. Thoroughly shampoo your carpet and rugs with a rented carpet cleaner. Dust the ceiling using a vacuum extension, or reach the area by securing a microfibre cloth over the bristles of a broom. Image credits: Getty Images This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.co.nz/food-home-garden/the-ultimate-living-room-cleaning-guide?pages=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>.

Home & Garden

Mega mansion with odes to Hollywood hits the market

A mansion on the top of a mountain with “million-dollar views” of Queensland’s Sunshine Coast Hinterland has hit the market - but its unique interior could be its biggest drawcard. Not only does it come with seven bedrooms and eight bathrooms, it also boasts its own medieval throne room, a Wild West-style saloon bar, and a Hollywood-style theatrette. Ray White Beerwah agent Alex Garden said the property, known as Chateau Cedarton, was built by a concreter who wanted his own mega mansion. “It is really unique,” Mr Garden told <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/news/live-like-royalty-in-qlds-own-game-of-thrones-house/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">realestate.com.au</a>. “In its heyday, it would have been a really cool venue.” The medieval throne room, styled with stone tiles to create a classic castle look, is complete with two full-sized replica knights and leads into the 25-metre-long red-carpeted theatrette, decorated with Hollywood-style movie posters. The Wild West-style saloon room features timber panelling, appropriately-themed wall art and a cellar. Other internal features include a sauna and spa, as well as a formal reception area, statement kitchen, formal dining room, space for 10 cars, a pool/rumpus room, and a commercial kitchen and laundry. Outside, the 16.19-hectare block boasts just as many interesting features, such as Roman columns, a pool with its own public bathroom, and replicas of European fountains. There is also a wraparound verandah, a resort-style pool, a gazebo, fruit trees, three dams, and a workers cottage. According to the <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-cedarton-139351039" target="_blank" rel="noopener">listing</a>, the home has complete privacy despite being surrounded by large acreage homes and “hosts scenic breathtaking million-dollar views”. After spending a weekend at the home more than a decade ago, owners Victor and Lana, who have asked for their surname not to be published, said they fell in love with the property. But, their plans for transforming the home were put on hold after Victor suffered an accident which saw him undergo extensive rehabilitation two months after they moved in. “We had huge plans for it and we did open it as a function centre, restaurant and accommodation for a while, we also had visits from the elderly, from retirement villages and children with disabilities,” Lana said. “And our direction changed towards that, towards helping people who needed some peace and tranquillity.” With COVID-19 lockdowns keeping them away from half of their family in Victoria, the couple then decided it was time to sell - giving them the opportunity to move south and start their new business venture. They have freshened up the home ahead of the sale, softening some of the Tuscan palette to create a more neutral vibe. But, they have left its unique rooms untouched. “That’s what makes it so unique,” Lana said. They hope that the next owner has their own vision for the property, as Lana says the estate has “so much potential”. “It needs someone with some big plans and the ability to make them happen. “The views, the privacy, the grounds, the possibilities are endless.” Images: Ray White

Real Estate

Woman’s heartbreak 20 years on

A popular Facebook page that receives stories from readers about their bad, favourite or most memorable dates has broken hearts with a recent post. Alita Brydon, the creator of Bad Dates of Melbourne, shared a story from a reader who devastatingly experienced grief and loss. The storyteller notes that this happened to her 20 years ago, back when she was 29, and this is the first time she has shared the story publicly. Now 49, she is still grieving the loss of who she thought would be her forever partner. “When I was 29, I was living with my parents and feeling a bit lost. I spent a lot of time on the internet, in chat rooms, hanging out with interesting people from all over the world,” the story begins. “One day I was in the Scotland chat room, hoping to meet some locals before I planned a trip there - but it was full of Americans. “I was chatting to a 45-year-old man from a small town in the USA who was sweet and funny. “We exchanged emails - and it all started from there.” She revealed that within just months of meeting online, the pair were spending as many hours as they could on the phone. He quickly became her best friend and confidante and vice versa. However, it was soon enough that she realised that she was actually in love with a man who lives halfway across the world and had never met him saying “I swore I would never do that”. “The next year, he came to visit and we had a lovely two weeks together. The bond was true and real and I didn’t let him see me cry when I said goodbye,” she continued. “Pretty soon I was planning a trip to visit him for a good chunk of time, so we could figure out if this was the real deal.” On the plane “jumping out of my skin” excited to see the man she was in love with, the storyteller was ready to see him. “I walked from the plane into the terminal looking for his face - but he wasn’t there,” she revealed. “I headed to the baggage carousel - but he wasn’t there. He hadn’t checked into the airport hotel.” Coming up with possible solutions as to why he hadn’t showed up, unfortunately she settled on the fact that he changed his mind and didn’t want to see her. “Had he changed his mind and decided he didn’t want to see me? That’s what I decided to focus on - the only thing that seemed the most logical. He'd changed his mind, chickened out.” Unsure of what to do, she tried calling his apartment multiple times but to no avail. She then made a deal with herself to call him one more time the following day then leave it. The following day arrives and she picks up the phone to call and someone finally answered, delivering the worst possible news. “They’d found him 30 minutes before and he was dead. He’d been making coffee for the trip to come and get me; and he’d collapsed,” she revealed. “As it turned out, he had an undiagnosed heart condition. He went quickly and peacefully.” The man’s cousin drove to her to pick her up where she then took her to meet his kids who took her where he lived. “Everyone was so welcoming and so kind, even while dealing with their own grief. I stayed for three weeks before I went on my way. I knew he would want me to continue my trip - and that’s what I did. “Since then, I’ve found a new family through his. We’ve taken road trips together, and his brother and sister-in-law came to visit me a few years ago. “I still think about him a lot. His smile, his laugh, his dirty jokes. Our time together was short but it was just so special. “Since then, I’ve had my share of good and bad dates. I got married, divorced and now I’m happily settled with a lovely man I met on a dating app (that’s not a bad story actually). “I’ll never forget my American bloke though." Image: Shutterstock

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4 ways to cut down on meat when dining out – and still make healthy choices

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"I can’t a fjord it": Inside one of the world’s most extreme restaurants

The best cruise cabin for every type of need

How to set up your room to help you fall asleep

Stop making these 5 living room mistakes

Room to Move: Desperate renters forced into backyard boxes

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Tom Cruise dines with legends on Sir Michael Caine’s big day

Russell Crowe and girlfriend denied entry at restaurant

12 gross things hotels do to save money

The best ways to use every room in your house, according to science

7 secrets to enjoying food on a cruise

Former housekeeper shares things she would never use in a hotel room

"Walk the rooms": Inside the house that Johnny Cash built

Inside the house where you can swing from room to room

The ultimate living room cleaning guide

Mega mansion with odes to Hollywood hits the market

Woman’s heartbreak 20 years on