Travel Tech 101 – Revolutionary Products by Inateck

Heather Boothman
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Travel Tech 101 – Revolutionary Products by Inateck

We consider ourselves to be proactive travelers, by planning our trips beforehand,  finding hotels and flights well in advance, along with maps of the best attractions to visit. One of the coolest aspects of traveling is packing, however some common questions that go hand in hand with packing are things like: What bag should I bring? How do I organize all these cables? What gadgets should I take with me to improve my travel experience?

Travel Tech 101

We are introducing a brand new series on our site (yes that’s right yet another series!) called “Travel Tech 101,” a series devoted to focusing on the latest and greatest travel gadgets/technology products that will help you on your travels.

Travel Tech 101

With the rapid development of technology and brand new companies all around the world releasing products every day, we are hoping this series will introduce you to some new tech products that will fit your needs.

Inateck – Experience is Everything

In order to kick off this new series we would like to introduce you to a company that you may not be familiar with – Inateck.  One thing that immediately stands out with Inateck is their motto – “Experience is Everything”. From our experience, we have found that when a company recognizes what their customers want, the experience of using their products is always worth it! Inateck does just that – they focus their attention on developing high quality products that are functional for everyone, especially travelers.

Inateck

Inateck provides all kinds of revolutionary accessories or upgrades, including Expansion Cards, Power Supplies & Batteries, Hard Drives & SSDs, Cables & Tools etc. Today we are delighted to share with you our experiences of three very different products that each have their own benefits to taking with you on your travels.

Portable Bluetooth Speaker

Inateck’s Portable Bluetooth Speaker is a 10 watt bluetooth quality speaker that connects up to 10 meters from your bluetooth enabled device and can also double as a speakerphone in case you receive an incoming call. It is very small for the sound it packs and also has a ledge for your device to sit while the music is playing.

In the box you will find the speaker, a power cable to charge the device and an AUX cable in case that is needed as well. The speaker also has a built-in stand that allows the speaker to stand by itself and can also store away for easy access.

If you are like us and have those random jam sessions, $29.99 doesn’t ‘sound’ terribly bad at all.

Inateck Bluetooth Speaker

MacBook Felt Sleeve

A MacBook Felt Sleeve – I will be honest, the word felt had me a bit worried because I am not a fan of anything that has a texture (weird, I know). However, I decided I would give this a chance and focused my attention on the main reason we have laptop cases – protection! I can confirm that this case certainly does that but also does so in a stylish, modern way. The inside of the case has the best security lining that could prevent so many different issues from mold to water damage.

The case also has various pockets for your phone, earphones, and magazines. The main disadvantage to this felt case is that it apparently requires dry cleaning should you need to clean this (not sure if I see myself heading to the local dry cleaners with a MacBook case but you never know!)

Also included is an additional small sleeve for your MacBook charger, which is very nice because every time I open up my bag to get my charger I feel like I am playing with a jack in the box! For only $15.99 you are on your way to looking stylish and protected.

Macbook Laptop Sleeve

4-Port USB Travel Wall Charger

Who doesn’t love to see USB ports while traveling? This 4-port USB Travel Wall Charger allows you to plug into the wall and have 4 additional USB charging ports which is amazing, especially with all the devices we carry that require a USB charging cable.

Most of the chargers on the market right now can weigh you down with how heavy they are but this one is super light and compact. Inateck have guaranteed that this is about 10% faster that other standard chargers when charging 2 devices at the same time and from my experiences so far I can’t argue against that!

This item is worth the $15.99 to forget all those other chargers and just carrying this one plug – Now you just have to figure out how to organize all of those cables? Don’t worry, stay tuned to Travel Tech 101 to find out more…

USB Travel Wall Charger

Summary

Trying to pick and choose what products to buy can be difficult when you are uncertain of what gadgets are out there. These items are not new to the market, but they are revolutionizing how the products are being made. Each of these three products is relatively low-cost in comparison to their main competitors, immediately providing Inateck with a competitive advantage.

If you are in the market for any of these products definitely check out Inateck along with the rest of their diverse product line – I am sure there is something that will fit your needs!

Have you heard of Inateck? Do you use any of their products? If so, leave us a comment below we would love to know what gadget you are using! 

*Disclosure of Material Connection: A Brit & A Southerner was not financially compensated for this post. We received free samples from Inateck for consideration of review purposes only. This is solely our personal opinion/experience*

Saturday Snaps #8 – El Teide National Park

Chris Boothman
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9
Saturday Snaps #8 – El Teide National Park

El Teide National Park

Location:  El Teide National Park on the island of Tenerife, Canary Islands (Spain)

Author: Carmen Edelson @ Carmen’s Travel Tips

This photo was taken in the El Teide National Park on the island of Tenerife in the beauty Canary Islands. The Teide Volcano stands majestically in the background and Carmen has really captured a perfect shot here on a gorgeous day. I can just imagine exploring the wilderness here inside this national park before heading back to one of the coastal regions of Tenerife.

You can reach more of Carmen’s awesome work at her website and the following social media networks:

Website: Carmen’s Travel Tips

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carmenstraveltips 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/carmenstrvltips 

Instagram: http://instagram.com/carmenstraveltips

Google+: https://plus.google.com/+Carmenstraveltips 

A Walk Around Downtown Indianapolis

Chris Boothman
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31
A Walk Around Downtown Indianapolis

Is there any better way to explore a city than to use your own two feet and wander the streets, unaware of the next hidden gem you may come across? While visiting Indiana’s capital – Indianapolis, our time there was limited but we both knew that getting out of our car and exploring the downtown district was the best approach to see this beautiful city! Deciding to take a walk around downtown Indianapolis really opens your eyes to a city that offers a nice combination of history and modern-day architecture.

After heading past Lucas Oil Stadium, home of the Indianapolis Colts NFL team, we made our way down the main street and parked by the Indiana World War Memorial Plaza. For anyone heading to ‘Indy’, this is a great spot to park, it’s cheap at only a couple of dollars per hour and you have great access to the main landmarks in the city!

Indiana War Memorial Plaza

Built to honor the war veterans of Indiana, this plaza district consists of two war memorial museums and a plethora of monuments, statues, sculptures and gorgeous fountains providing a perfect historic setting to remember those lives that were sacrificed in the World Wars.

Indiana War Memorial Museum

The Indiana War Memorial Museum, in particular, is a great FREE experience that depicts detailed exhibits of the various wars that Indiana veterans fought in. The museum consists of three floors, though the upper floor is the stunningly beautiful Shrine Room which idyllically symbolizes the peace and unity following the Great War.

Indiana War Memorial Plaza

One of the most interesting features is the AH-1 Cobra Helicopter that is on display near the end of the self-guided museum tour. Dependent on which wars you have most interest in, there is something for everyone here and even if history is not really your thing, this is still worthy of your time to see such fascinating, intricate details that make up these exhibits.

Vietnam War Memorial

Some of the other leading monuments inside the Indiana War Memorial Plaza include the 100ft Obelisk that is located inside the Veterans Memorial Plaza. Other tributes can be found here to provide memories of the Korean War veterans along with Vietnam and other tragic warfare.

Korean War Memorial

Many war memorials provide a somber feeling as you reflect on the lives that have been lost, but this plaza really provides a more surreal, positive outlook on life with the beautiful architecture presented here.

Soldiers and Sailors Monument

Heading north from the Indiana War Memorial, located in Monument Circle, is the Soldiers and Sailors Monument which is a global, iconic structure remembering those veterans that fought in the Revolutionary War and Civil War among others.

Soldiers and Sailors Monument Indianapolis

Comparable in size to the Statue of Liberty, this monument is yet another example of architectural genius and contains not only a gift shop and observation deck but also the Colonel Eli Lilly Civil War Museum.

Indiana State Capitol

Of course, state capitols are always impressive buildings and Indiana’s located in the heart of downtown Indianapolis is certainly no different!

Indiana State Capitol

Even though we didn’t participate in one of the guided tours available here, it is definitely a structure worth gazing at for a few minutes before heading on to the next stop on your walking tour.

NCAA Hall of Champions

Indianapolis is all about those Indiana Hoosiers but what better place to get into the spirit of a college town that by visiting a museum devoted to college sports history. Located in White River State Park and also home of the NCAA national offices, the NCAA Hall of Champions offers not only a museum but also a great riverfront, canal walk with gorgeous scenery.

NCAA Hall of Champions

A tour of the NCAA Hall of Champions is definitely worthwhile and with admission priced at only $5 per adult, it offers cheap entertainment value for the family. Learn all about the various college sports offered by the NCAA along with a variety of interactive exhibits such as throwing a football and measuring your vertical leap (plus you can shoot some hoops in the full-size basketball court!).

NCAA Hall of Champions

Eiteljorg Museum

Located beside the NCAA Hall of Champions and the Indiana State Museum is the Eiteljorg Museum which is home to a series of exhibits devoted to the history of American Indians and Western Art. Learn all about the Native American tribes and see a variety of traditional objects, along with a personal collection from the founder of the museum Harrison Eiteljorg.

Eiteljorg Museum

I was pleasantly surprised at just how interesting downtown Indianapolis was. There is a lot to see and you can easily spend a full day here exploring just the museums and various sculptures that are strategically positioned around the downtown area.

Have you visited Indianapolis? What attractions are most appealing to you? Do you enjoy taking self-guided walking tours of a city?

Top 10 Reasons to Visit London

Chris Boothman
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27
Top 10 Reasons to Visit London

Many of our posts are focused on specific reasons/experiences to visit a particular location. However, if you are like us, you will enjoy a quick summary of the top 10 reasons for visiting a destination around the world. With that in mind, we are delighted to introduce a brand new series on our site that focuses on the “Top 10 Reasons to visit xyz”. Today we would like to share with you our Top 10 Reasons to Visit London!

I am convinced there are many more reasons out there and I am sure we all have very different opinions on what should be on each of our bucket lists, but we want to start the conversation by introducing just a few reasons that makes London such an attractive location for us.

I’m leaving because the weather is too good. I hate London when it’s not raining! – Groucho Marx

From a Brit’s perspective, is there any better place around the world to start than England’s capital city of London? From a Southern American’s perspective… well come on folks, this is LONDON we are talking about, need I say any more!

London is undoubtedly one of the top tourism attractions in the world and of course for very good reason! From the realms of historic heritage to the cultural immersion that this city offers, London has it all.

Please feel free to add your reasons for visiting London in the comments section and share with everyone what makes this beautiful city such a popular destination for global wanderers.

1. Big Ben

One of the most iconic landmarks not only in London, but around the globe! Big Ben is the nickname for the bell in the clock tower at the end of the Houses of Parliament and for decades has remained an integral part of London’s heritage.

Big Ben London

A trip to the English capital would not be the same without taking in this landmark, and of course why not take a selfie with Big Ben in the background as the clock strikes 12!

2. Buckingham Palace

Would a trip to London be the same without a visit to the home of the Queen – Buckingham Palace?

Buckingham Palace London

Whether you are interested in British Royalty or think it’s an overhyped hypocrisy, the sight of the palace at the end of the Mall is pretty spectacular and well worth taking the time to experience.

3. Walking the London Streets

What better way to sample the real hidden gems that London has to offer than by wandering around the streets after alighting from one of the iconic London Tube stations.

London-Streets

Whether you are exploring the ritzy Kensington Gardens area or Hyde Park neighbourhood, I can guarantee that you will stumble across a treasured memory along the way.

4. Windsor Castle

Exploring London is not just about experiencing everything the capital city has to offer in the downtown area though there is plenty to see there that will likely keep you occupied for a few days!

Windsor Castle

If time permits, head west to the idyllic town of Windsor to see another of the Royal residences – Windsor Castle. Whether you are a history buff or not, this impressive structure will leave you standing in awe as you contemplate the history that surrounds this residence.

5. Tower Bridge

With the River Thames running through the heart of London, many of the bridges that cross this river are yet more impressive structures that immediately catch your eye as you enter the city.

Tower Bridge London

Possibly the most famous of them all is Tower Bridge that is steeped with history since its construction in the late 19th century.

6. Tower of London

By now you will have noticed that London and the surrounding area is full of palaces and royal residences. Let’s continue this theme by taking a trip over to the Tower of London which is a historic castle located on the banks of the River Thames.

Tower of London

Another landmark filled with history, taking a tour of this attraction will leave you with a plethora of knowledge about England’s history (some of which may leave a rather grim reputation due to rumored events inside the Tower of London!)

7. London Eye

In terms of recent modern architecture to have such an impact on London’s skyline, the London Eye that was constructed at the turn of the 21st century has proven to be an instant success.

London Eye

Situated on the banks of the Thames overlooking the city of London, taking a ride on the Eye is a perfect way to take in the spectacular views of the city.

8. River Cruises

A cruise along the River Thames is a great way to end a long day of exploring the city of London. Try one of the candlelit dinner cruises that are on offer or just take a trip to see more of London’s favourite attractions.

City Cruises London

City Cruises London offer a variety of tours from Greenwich, Tower and Westminster Piers and allow tourists to capture some cherished memories of not only some of the attractions already mentioned here but others such as the Royal Palace of Greenwich.

If cruising down the River Thames does not spark your interest, why not hop on Jason’s Canal Boat tours by taking a unique boat tour passing Lord’s Cricket Ground and Zoo among other attractions along the way.

Jasons Canal Boat London

The tour runs between Little Venice and Camden Lock, where you can alight and take in the famous Camden Markets.

9. Sporting Events

Let’s face it, England loves their sporting events so of course London is no different! Whether the Brits always are successful is debatable but there is a passion level second to none around the world when it comes to sport.

Wimbledon Tennis London

Dependent on when you visit London will determine the sporting events ‘in season’ but if you pick the month of June, England’s capital will be all about Wimbledon. The winter months will see football on the mind’s of everyone but there will likely be something for everyone.

Stamford Bridge Chelsea London

10. Retail Therapy/Shopping

Finally, if after visiting all of these amazing attractions you are still not exhausted, just like every other global city London has an abundance of great shopping options available. For the females reading this article, I am sure you would love to spend some time in Harrods department store but all leading global brands will likely have a base somewhere in downtown London.

shopping london windsor

But if the mainstream shops are not really your thing, check out some of the local gift/souvenir stores to take home a memory of your time in London!

So there you have our top 10 reasons to visit London, England! What would you add to this list? What are your experiences in England’s capital of the world?

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