Enjoy exclusive access to some of the best courtyards and gardens in Austin.
From the best neighborhoods to the best views, Austin has a lot to offer the energetic apartment hunter. The city is filled with beautiful apartments, but the trick is finding somewhere that truly meets all your needs.
This means thinking through what amenities matter most to you. Whether you want a resort-style pool, a state-of-the-art fitness center or even covered parking, you can find what you’re looking for in Austin. That said, you need to be sure not to forget about the outdoor space when you’re wading through the vast sea of amenities. Austin is just too beautiful to deny yourself an outdoor space you can use to hang out with those closest to you without leaving home.
To see a few hand-selected standout apartment complexes with courtyards and gardens in Austin, check out this list below. Pick your favorite spot and schedule your tour today.
Source: Rent. / Troubadour
This long strip of lawn at Troubadour is the perfect spot for some outdoor games. Grab a set of cornhole boards and make a day of fun in the sun for you and your friends. As the sun goes down, head into the outdoor TV lounge and catch a movie under the stars.
Located within the safe and comfortable Hancock neighborhood, this area is known for its great parks and spanning green space. In this bike-friendly area, with public easily accessible transportation, getting around doesn’t have to involve a car. A little to the north of the city center and the University of Texas, you’ll get a nice mix of students, young professionals and families living here.
Source: Rent. / Lantana Ridge
Get closer to nature in the on-site park at Lantana Ridge. With a paved trail for walking, running or cycling, no corner of this beautiful, 55-acre space will be left unexplored after a few months of living here.
Found in one of Austin’s larger neighborhoods, East Oak Hill is only 10 minutes from downtown. Although close to the urban center of the city, you’ll feel separated from all that living here in the hill country. With plenty of outdoor space, you can spend time exploring the Texas hills, hang out on Lady Bird Lake or even wander through Barton Creek Wilderness Park.
Source: Rent. / MAA Barton Skyway
Although you’ll find a well-maintained walking trail on the property at MAA Barton Skyway, the little oasis pictured above allows you to stop and settle into your natural surroundings. Set under the trees, among a layer of fallen leaves, a little wooden table and benches await for you to take a calming break in this bit of secluded space.
To keep up the outdoor activity, make sure you head to nearby Zilker Park. A prime feature of this Barton Hills neighborhood, the 350-acre park includes a botanical garden, a sculpture garden and a spring-fed pool.
Source: Rent. / Paloma
Enjoy a moment of zen in the minimalist courtyard at Paloma. A single, skinny bench lets you sit and take a moment to meditate alongside two companion trees. In the center of this space, a marble fountain provides a soothing soundtrack, ideal for deep contemplation.
Minutes away from great shopping, dining and entertainment, living in Northeast Austin gives you convenient access to the rest of the city as well as plenty natural resources. A quieter part of town, you’ll also find touches of suburbia with wide streets plenty of parks and an ever-evolving populous of young families.
Source Rent. / Bridge at Steiner Ranch
The garden at Bridge at Steiner Ranch is more for walking around than stopping to smell the roses. In fact, there aren’t any flowers here, just native trees and bushes, giving this area a comfortable, natural feel. The lawn is close-clipped to really highlight the other plant life, and the curved path lets you quickly do a lap or two before moving on.
Up in the hill country, this Northwest Austin neighborhood is picturesque to say the least. It’s also a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts to call home. An abundance of hiking and biking trails throughout means there’s no shortage of fresh air activities within a short drive.
Source: Rent. / Barton’s Mill
An outdoorsy vibe is what stands out at Barton’s Mill. Walking up to your apartment, for example, takes you along a path surrounded by grass, trees and manicured bushes. It’s like walking through a little park or garden, something that should put you in a good mood whether you’re leaving for the day or getting back home after a long day out and about.
Outdoor recreation is a favorite pastime of many Austinites, so living in South Lawn is great because of the easy access to the outdoors. Throughout this neighborhood, you’ll find opportunities to hike, bike and even hop into a canoe. It’s a great place to call home to make those sunny days count in this great city.
Source: Rent. / Camden Stoneleigh
The courtyard at Camden Stoneleigh feels like a garden thanks to the circle of trees and vibrant green lawn. Gnarled branches lean in all directions, giving this space a mystical feel, combining tasteful hardscaping with small plants along the border. Take the path, walk right through or weave between the trees for a little solo time in nature.
Yet another popular part of Austin, living in Southwest Austin gives you the best of both worlds. You’re close to the downtown area and all its fun, but you still have plenty of parks, shopping and green space to enjoy close to home. There are a few lakes to utilize for a dip or a boat ride as well, which comes in handy when summer temperatures soar.
Source: Rent. / Sonterra
The garden at Sonterra welcomes you in with a special message, “Plant dreams, pull weeds and grow a happy life.” This sweet sentiment makes this lush space all the more special. Take a walk around to get closer to the trees and other greenery or sit on one of the stone benches for a quiet moment. Between the wide variety of plant life and the stacked rock borders, you’ll fall in love with this tranquil space in no time.
This Northwest Austin community provides an element of seclusion thanks to its heavily-wooded surroundings which extend into the greenbelt. You’re also very close to Lake Travis and Volente Beach, which sits along four acres of the lake.
Source: Rent. / The Park at Wells Branch
Nice decking and red wooden benches set the courtyard at The Park at Wells Branch apart. This is also where you’ll find the charcoal grill and umbrella-covered picnic table for when it’s time to whip up a meal alfresco. Surrounded by a short wall of shrubbery and mature trees with leaning branches, this is the ideal spot for a Saturday barbecue.
A tranquil Austin community, living here can also make your daily commute very easy. It’s close to some of the local major employers like IBM and Amazon. Other amenities within this eco-friendly community include a pool and hot tub, playground and basketball court. There are also nearby trails for hiking and biking to keep those active vibes going.
Source: Rent. / The Social
A minimalist approach to greenery doesn’t make the garden path any less peaceful at The Social. Iron gateways spice up an otherwise basic sidewalk, giving it a fun look. Cacti and other desert-friendly greenery sit low to the ground, while pruned bushes and trees rise up to near-eye level.
For a real taste of Austin suburbia, you’d do well to call any community in Parker Lane home. This chill neighborhood is primarily residential, so you may have to drive a little to head out for the night, but you do have an excellent bit of greenery all around. Mabel Davis District Park is here. It takes up 50 acres in the center of the neighborhood and contains a playground, an Olympic-sized swimming pool and a skate park. There’s also a covered picnic area and basketball courts.
Find an apartment with one of the best gardens in Austin
Don’t forget to consider amenities as you decide what your ideal Austin apartment looks like and start uncovering all the secrets this great city has to offer. Having all the right features — and a great outdoor space — will give you a winning combination to call home no matter what part of the city speaks to you the most.
Family travel is a whole other ballgame. The strategy, gear, planning, expectations and number of times you may answer “Are we there yet?” make it an entirely different sport than solo or adults-only trips.
While traveling with kids is arguably quite different than taking a trip without a child (notice we didn’t call it a “vacation” with kids), it doesn’t have to be intimidating. In fact, there are countless ways to experience memorable moments and make lifelong memories with your kids, whether you hike the mountains of Machu Picchu or ride the newest coaster at Disney World.
Related: TPG’s 10 top family vacation destinations
To make the journey a little easier, we’ve compiled our 43 favorite family travel tips. Whether you’re traveling with infants, teens or some of both, these tried-and-true tips are bound to ease travel headaches and ensure your family travels are as fun and carefree as possible.
Travel tips for infants and toddlers
Having a baby does not mean the end of your time as a traveler. It may cause you to temporarily pause your adventures, and it will certainly change how you travel. But traveling with a baby is still worth the effort.
While it’s true that your baby may not remember the details of your trips during the first few years, quality time together is invaluable. You will always remember their first big vacations.
Some travel is often easier with a small, snuggly baby than with a growing, active toddler, so don’t be afraid to plan something while your little one is still young.
Use the right travel stroller
If you plan on traveling with a stroller, you want one that is lightweight and easy to maneuver through the airport or rough terrain, if necessary, once you reach your destination.
Related: These are the 13 best travel strollers for your next trip
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If you choose to gate-check your stroller, foldability isn’t as important. Instead, prioritize protecting your stroller from dirt and damage by investing in a stroller with a bag. For long layovers, you can request to have your gate-checked stroller delivered to you between flights so that your baby has a safe and comfortable place to rest while you navigate the airport. Just ask the gate agent when you check your stroller.
Baby-wear
To keep your hands free and your baby snuggled, you may choose to baby-wear through the airport or on a flight (though most airlines don’t allow it during takeoff and landing).
The Transportation Security Administration rules state that infants may be carried in a sling or carrier while going through the walk-through metal detector, so you shouldn’t have to remove them for security — at least, according to the rules.
If it’s not too hot, baby carriers and slings also come in handy at theme parks, which allow baby-wearing on many family-friendly attractions. Just be sure you ask about safety restrictions before you ride.
Breastfeeding mamas should consider carriers that allow easy access for on-the-go nursing, such as those in sling or wrap styles.
Consider a Doona
If you don’t want to lug both a car seat and a stroller and your baby weighs between 4 and 35 pounds, you’re in luck: The Doona can serve the function of both. It transforms very easily from a stroller to a car seat and back again, all while your baby is strapped in.
Because of their convenience, Doonas are great for flights, cab rides, Uber rides and, frankly, any part of your busy life with a baby.
Think twice about flying with a lap infant
Most airlines allow children younger than 2 to fly as lap infants instead of purchasing separate seats for them.
The cost savings can be hard to pass up, and during those early months when the little one is nursing or sleeping a lot, it can be the easiest way to go. However, if your baby is fussy or you are flying solo, you may feel more comfortable keeping them in their car seat. If they can sleep through anything or you have someone you can split baby-care duties with, you may have more success flying with a lap infant.
If you do purchase a seat for your baby, there are dozens of portable car seats out there that are much easier to travel with than the bulky car seat you may have at home.
Get a car seat just for travel
The Cosco Scenera is a perennial favorite when it comes to travel car seats. At around 10 pounds and only $50 to $60, this car seat is a winner for travel when you need something easy and affordable. It’s rated for rear-facing little ones weighing between 5 and 40 pounds or forward-facing kiddos weighing 22 to 40 pounds.
Another model to consider is the WAYB Pico portable car seat, which was recommended by several TPG readers.
Use a car seat on the plane
Every kid is different, but if your little one sleeps well in a car seat in the car, they may do the same on a plane. If your kids are generally comfortable in car seats and have their own seat assignments on the plane, consider bringing the car seat on board for a secure flight experience.
Related: Car seats that are airline approved
Bring a Boppy pillow if you’re holding an infant
TPG’s senior director of engineering Mitchell Stoutin recommended using a Boppy nursing pillow for long flights with an infant. In addition to being handy for nursing, it gives your baby a comfortable place to rest. He also advised stashing your Boppy in a vacuum Ziploc bag to save space when not in use.
Sign your kids up for frequent flyer programs
Once you make the transition to buying your child a seat — either because they turn 2 or because you think having a separate seat will work best for your family — sign them up for a frequent flyer account and let the miles start rolling in.
No minimum age requirements exist for kids, so enroll them while they’re young to maximize their earnings.
Related: Earning frequent flyer miles for your kids just got a little easier
Board last
Most airlines let families with young children board early in the process, but as long as your family has assigned seats, you don’t need to worry about rushing to board before others.
Instead, have one parent get all the gear ready and board first while the other waits as long as possible before bringing the baby on board. This will help minimize the amount of time you have your little one in tight quarters, reducing the likelihood of a meltdown or further disrupting their schedule.
Pack your carry-on strategically
Think about everything you may need to easily access for yourself and your baby before organizing your carry-on. That way, you don’t forget any of your must-have items or struggle to find them while on board.
Consider packing food, diapers and extra outfits for at least twice as long as you think you’ll need them for your little one while in transit. Don’t forget to also bring clothes, snacks and drinks for yourself so you have everything you need.
As a general rule of thumb, it’s a good idea to have enough essentials to survive at least 24 hours off of what you bring on board, as you never know what is going to happen.
Bring large Ziploc bags and black trash sacks
Avoid packing a suitcase without tossing in a few Ziploc bags, grocery bags or trash bags. They can be used to stash snacks and store wet or dirty clothing.
As TPG executive editor Scott Mayerowitz shared, large black garbage bags can also work as blackout shades in a pinch.
Related: The best family beach vacation destinations to kick off summer
Find a space in your hotel for the baby to sleep
In the best-case scenario, you’ll have accommodations with at least two bedrooms so your baby has a dark, quiet place to sleep while you relax without disturbing them. However, there are times when having multiple rooms isn’t possible.
If you only have one bedroom, try putting a crib in a hotel closet or bathroom to achieve the same result.
Travel with gear that will help your baby sleep in the hotel
When it’s time for the baby to sleep, there are numerous sleep tents, shades and white noise machines to choose from. Here are a few of our most trusted options:
You don’t always need to buy new gear for a successful trip, though. One reader suggested using painter’s tape to cover outlets as a quick, cost-effective way to baby-proof your hotel room.
Related: These are the best New York City hotels for families to check out
Have diapers and essentials shipped to your final destination
While you need plenty on hand for that first day or two, you can purchase what you need from Amazon and have it shipped directly to your destination instead of traveling with an entire week’s worth of needed items like diapers and wipes.
Alternatively, you can use a service like Shipt or Instacart to have essentials delivered to your hotel or home rental after you arrive.
Pack the snacks
This is true for all ages but especially applies when traveling with infants.
Don’t ever assume anything baby-appropriate will be available while you are in transit. The last thing you want is the stress of scrambling to find what you need at the last minute.
To avoid this potential headache, pack enough formula, snacks and more so you have whatever your little one may need to stay happy and content.
Related: How to pack — and prepare — for travel with a baby
Travel tips for preschoolers
The good news is that when kids are old enough for preschool, they don’t need quite as much sleeping and transportation gear.
With preschoolers, you’ll want to pay particular attention to toys and activities that will keep them entertained, night lights that will help keep the “scaries” away and a few other important travel essentials.
Bring mess-free toys
When choosing toys to pack for a flight or road trip, keep in mind that you don’t want anything that will create a mess or get lost easily, such as Legos or slime.
For mess-free coloring, we love Crayola Color Wonder Markers and coloring pages. If you’re taking a long flight or road trip, consider suction toys that can stick to a car or airplane window.
Related: 14 mistakes parents make when traveling with kids
Pack hidden toys to reveal during your trip
A surefire way to keep your child content for extended periods of time is to hide some toys until your travel day arrives so they feel new and exciting. You can even wrap them up or dole them out periodically throughout your trip — we recommend packing one toy for each hour of a flight — to add an element of surprise.
Try visiting a dollar store or dollar aisle in a store to dial up the surprise factor. Trust us, the $5 investment will pay off in spades.
Related: Your guide to flying with kids of every age
Consider an inflatable booster seat
If your child has graduated to a booster seat (congrats!), there are inflatable and fold-flat booster seats available that are easier to haul when traveling by car.
While there are several options currently on the market, the BubbleBum inflatable booster seat is a TPG reader favorite.
Use a stroller
Should you find yourself covering lots of miles on your trip, having a stroller can come in handy, even if you don’t normally use one at home.
For example, at a large theme park like Disney World, you may find yourself needing a stroller until your kid is 6, 7 or even 8 years old if you are moving quickly and want them to easily keep up (or if you know they will fall asleep before you are ready to call it a night). This may mean renting one when you get there, though you may prefer to have your own if you’re doing more than spending time at Disney.
Get stroller straps
Because it isn’t socially acceptable to AirTag children (though they do come in handy for finding lost luggage), we instead suggest getting stroller straps that bigger kids can hold on to while you push younger children in the stroller. We’re particularly fond of the Tagalong Stroller Accessory.
Preschedule car service from the airport
If you need car seats or want to be sure you have a ride waiting for you when you land, Uber and Lyft now both have options for prescheduling a ride if you need one.
While the best service depends on where you are going, one option to try is Blacklane. Consider having your driver meet you inside at baggage claim if you’re traveling with a lot of gear.
Pack a night light
For kids who are afraid of the dark, night lights may come in handy. This affordable nightlight is small, sleek and easy to pack.
If you are going on a cruise and don’t have access to traditional power outlets, TPG senior travel editor Erica Silverstein suggests bringing along battery-operated tea lights instead.
Travel somewhere with a kids club
A magical milestone in travel is when your child turns 3 and is potty trained, as this unlocks access to a variety of kids clubs.
Whether you’re on a Disney cruise (like the new Disney Wish cruise ship, pictured below) or at a resort with a kids club (some of which are free to use), children’s clubs are great for preschoolers.
By going somewhere that caters to younger children, you’ll be able to get a well-deserved break while the kiddos are taken care of.
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Plan down days and afternoon rest
Even if your preschooler has dropped daily naps at home, it’s still smart to build some downtime into your vacation schedule. This is especially important because it’s likely that their sleep schedule will be a little off while you’re traveling and that your vacation will be more action-packed than what they’re used to at home.
To help your overtired kid adjust, plan a relaxing pool day or take an afternoon break in your hotel room to keep crankiness at bay.
Travel tips for elementary-age kids
As kids get older, they can do more while on vacation with less help, but the tried-and-true tricks for keeping them entertained may no longer work.
Because their brains are developing and becoming more complex, elementary-age kids will need to have access to more activities while they’re away from home. As a result, you’ll need to adjust your strategy for vacations so they continue to have a good time.
Use packing cubes for the family
This tip applies to all age groups but can be especially helpful when your child starts taking more of an interest in choosing their own clothes. By relying on packing cubes, you can keep clothing for every member of your family organized while saving space.
If you decide to use packing cubes, there are a couple of good methods to choose from.
You can have a packing cube for each day of your trip and put your family’s clothing for each day in one cube. This works well if you will be making multiple stops and don’t want to pack and unpack everything.
You could also pack each family member’s clothing in a separate packing cube, which is helpful when you are encouraging kids to get dressed on their own and choose their own outfits.
Leave 1 day free in the schedule
We’ve already covered the importance of leaving some flex time in the afternoons, but if you are traveling for more than a long weekend, we highly recommend leaving an entire day unscheduled. That way, the kids can either rest and chill or you have the ability to say yes to something they spot along the way.
Depending on your child’s interests, you may want to use your free day for activities like splashing around at a water park, checking out some animals at a zoo, enjoying an epic ice cream-tasting adventure or spending more time at the kids club.
The key is to leave this day flexible so you can cater some activities to what your kid is enjoying the most.
Take advantage of your hotel’s club lounge
Club access can be invaluable when traveling with kids.
If you stay in a club-level room at a hotel, you’ll often have daily access to breakfast, snacks and drinks. An added bonus is that the club can serve as a gathering spot for enjoying more time (and often gorgeous views) with them.
Related: Can you use a World of Hyatt club lounge access award for someone else?
Plan trips with another family
This is the age where having other kids around really starts to matter.
If at all possible, try planning the trip to at least overlap with time spent with cousins or friends. Doing so will virtually guarantee the kids will have a better time, which means you will, too.
For these types of trips, you may want to look into finding a good vacation home rental.
Related: Why the best big family vacation may be skiing
Travel tips for tweens and teens
Traveling with tweens and teens is completely different than traveling with younger kids — something you probably know all too well if you are currently living with them.
At this age, kids are well on their way toward becoming full-fledged adults. As a result, they deserve a taste of the space, privacy and independence that comes along with adulthood.
Build an activity bag
It’s easy to assume the phone will do the trick, but TPG editor Kristy Tolley is a proponent of custom activity bags to keep kids (including older ones) occupied on long trips.
For your activity bag, consider anything from snacks to quiet toys to new games for their Nintendo Switch to art supplies — whatever will keep them entertained while you get to your final destination.
Double-check downloaded content
Wi-Fi on airplanes can be quite finicky. Even if you pay for it, there’s never a guarantee it’ll work for the entirety of your flight. Because of this, download movies, music, games and more to your device (or your child’s) before your trip.
When downloading movies or TV shows, turn to multiple sources like Netflix, Disney+ and Apple. That way, if you run into issues with one provider, you still have content from the others.
Also, remember that messaging others is free on many flights, so be sure your teen has the airline app downloaded if you want them to be able to keep using services such as iMessage while in the air.
Enroll your child in TSA PreCheck
Until they turn 13, kids traveling with a parent or guardian with TSA PreCheck will be allowed to go through the expedited security line even if they themselves don’t have TSA PreCheck.
Even after they turn 13, kids 17 and younger can typically use the TSA PreCheck lines with their parent or guardian as long as the teen has the indicator on their boarding pass.
If you have a credit card that reimburses fees for TSA PreCheck, you can recoup the cost of your child’s application. Note that Clear continues to work to bring kids through until they turn 18.
Related: Why you should get TSA PreCheck and Clear — and how you can save on both
Consider connecting rooms
The days of squeezing two or three kids into one queen-size bed are probably long gone once they reach their teenage years. Not to mention, trying to have the whole family use one bathroom is an ordeal you likely won’t want to go through.
To keep the peace, consider reserving connecting hotel rooms.
With connecting rooms, you’ll have double the beds, bathrooms and storage space. Plus, teens and tweens will have the space and privacy they need without you being too far away to keep an eye on them.
Related: Big news for families: Hilton to guarantee adjoining rooms with ‘Confirmed Connecting Rooms’
Let kids choose a few activities (or plan the whole day)
At this age, kids are not just along for the ride. Give them some input (and independence) by allowing them to help plan your trip. Odds are they’ll be more engaged by being involved in the planning.
Bring a friend
While planning trips with other families is a good strategy with elementary-age kids, by the time kids are teens, just bringing along one of their friends could be sufficient.
To keep the costs down, consider using an airline companion certificate to bring along that friend without spending extra.
Go somewhere with a teens club
If you are visiting a resort or destination where you may be going light on activities, lean into places that have a space just for teens.
Cruise ships are fantastic when it comes to this, as they often have kid-focused spaces divided into pretty distinct age ranges. For example, Disney Cruise Line has a club for kids ages 3 to 12, another for those between 11 and 14 and then one for teens ages 14 to 17.
By taking advantage of clubs that are broken up into designated age groups, your teen can have plenty of fun without the annoyance of hanging out with younger kids.
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Related: Child turning 18? Here’s everything you need to know before the next time they travel
General family travel tips
Some family travel tips transcend age groups.
Regardless of how old your kids are, where you’re traveling or how you’re getting to your vacation destination, there are a few tips you’ll always want to keep top of mind.
Utilize airport lounges
Airport lounges are becoming more and more kid-friendly, as they offer dedicated family rooms with toys and kids shows on TV, plus food that will please picky eaters. Additionally, if you have a long layover or are dealing with flight delays or cancellations, you’ll be much more comfortable waiting in a lounge instead of at your gate.
You can purchase a day pass to many lounges but may be able to get yourself and your family in for free with certain credit cards or airline status. For example, The Platinum Card® from American Express grants the cardmember and one guest complimentary access to Priority Pass lounges and access to Centurion and Escape lounges, though complimentary guest access depends on how much you spend annually.
Related: Best credit cards for airport lounge access
Upgrade to a suite
Similar to springing for connecting rooms, upgrading to a suite will buy you additional space and, sometimes, a pullout sofa that adds another sleeping option.
You’ll also have more room for your family’s belongings and areas for relaxing and dining so your kids don’t spend all their time jumping, eating and lounging on the beds.
Check for reciprocal zoo and museum memberships
If you have a membership to your local zoo or museum, you may be able to use reciprocal benefits for free or discounted entry to other zoos and museums that you can visit on vacation.
This information is usually available on your zoo or museum’s website, but you can also check lists on the Association of Zoos & Aquariums’ page about reciprocal admissions or on the North American Reciprocal Museum Association website.
Get a travel tracker that doubles as a memento
There are so many unique travel souvenirs you can get that also serve as keepsakes for remembering your child’s travel “firsts.”
These Junior Frequent Flyer flight logbooks allow you to record your child’s flights while teaching them about aviation.
If a national park visit is in your future, order a standard or junior National Parks Passport and collect stamps every time you visit a new park.
Don’t forget important medicines
When you are away from home, you have to be prepared for anything. That includes unexpected sicknesses and accidents.
Pack kid-safe and grown-up medicines, as well as Band-Aids, antibiotic ointment and other first-aid necessities in your carry-on bag so you won’t be without them if your checked luggage is delayed or lost.
Bring an extra bag
If you are traveling between a cold climate and a hot one, pack a lightweight tote bag that can fold into your carry-on so you can easily gather up everyone’s coats once on the plane. By keeping this tote tucked away until you’re on board the aircraft, you’ll enjoy an extra allowed bag, saving you the headache of trying to determine where to put bulky coats.
Get Global Entry for each family member
Unlike TSA PreCheck, which allows kids to travel with an eligible adult until they turn 18 (in most cases), anyone wishing to use Global Entry to expedite reentry into the U.S. needs to apply for the program.
Global Entry can save valuable time spent waiting in line. However, you’ll need to apply well in advance of your trip so you have time to submit your application, complete an in-person interview and await approval.
Similar to TSA PreCheck, you can use a credit card that will reimburse your child’s Global Entry application fee.
Try out the games built into many spaces
It’s easy to miss, but many resorts, theme parks and cruise ships have a hidden layer of fun that ranges from traditional scavenger hunts to interactive activities you can unlock with an iPhone or similar device.
While the youngest travelers won’t benefit from these types of experiences, they can be fun for a variety of age ranges, especially elementary-age kids and tweens.
Related: Disney World rolls out all-new MagicBand+: Here’s what this wristband can do for your trip
Bottom line
Family travel has its own built-in challenges, but it also comes with immense rewards.
By knowing all the tips and tricks to traveling with kids, having the right gear with you, mapping out a game plan and having the right attitude and realistic expectations, you can have a memorable vacation every member of the family enjoys.
You may not get to do everything you want or sometimes feel like it’s more of a hassle than a vacation. However, if you’re willing to be flexible and appreciate when things go according to plan — even if the end result isn’t quite what you had hoped for — you’ll find yourself eager to book your next family trip before you have the bags unpacked and put away.
I’ve lived in a small town for most of my life. The drive home includes steep hills with panoramic views and winding country roads that ramble past ranches and wide-open fields.
But I didn’t always have positive feelings about the country life. In high school, I hated it. All of the action was in the city, where coffee shops, museums, restaurants, and concerts happened. When I moved to the city my freshman year of college, I thought that would be the end of country living — I was finally a city mouse.
As it turned out, after seven years in the city, I did move back. It began as a purely financial decision, and one that, at the time, made me feel a twinge of anxiety. I remember that as my husband and I were packing up our apartment in town to get ready for the move, I had a mini meltdown, asking him, “Are you sure you want to do this? Are you really sure you want to do this?” (He probably thought I was nuts since the whole thing was my idea, but he’s a wise man and kept that to himself, simply saying that yes, he was sure.)
The Move Becomes Permanent
We planned to save money for a down payment on a home, but none of the houses that we viewed were just right. Then one day we happened upon a beautiful lot that was for sale, and we started thinking about the possibilities of building a home. More excited about the prospect of building than we were about any of the homes we had toured, we bought the 4.5-acre lot and have now started the slow process of paying-with-cash home construction.
This bit of background is just to let you know that I don’t view country life as better than city life, or vice versa. Having lived in both places, I see advantages and disadvantages to each, especially when it comes to finances. (There are exceptions to every rule, but for the purposes of this article I’ll make a general comparison between living in a rural town of large ranches and 2-plus acre lots with living in a mid-sized city.)
Advantages of Being a Country Mouse
One of the biggest financial advantages of living in a small town is a lower cost of living. Housing is cheaper, and where I live, the closest parking meter is 40 minutes away. Using CNNMoney’s Cost of Living Calculator, I compared the cost of living in Austin, Texas, population 790,390, with Seguin, Texas, population 25,175. The results were as follows:
Groceries will cost 2% more in Seguin
Housing will cost 8% less
Utilities will cost 6% less
Healthcare will cost 3% less
Another benefit I’ve noticed with living in the country is that one is less prone to lifestyle inflation. No one who lives down a gravel road wants to own a BMW. As long as I’ve lived here, I’ve never met “the Joneses,” so there’s zero compulsion to try to keep up with them.
I’ve also found that entertainment and recreation costs are lower — I can’t go to a shopping center, coffeehouse, restaurant, or the movies without a some significant drive time. If I lived around the block from a coffeehouse, I’d probably never make coffee at home. I also really get my money’s worth from my Netflix Watch Instant account.
Country life gives kids plenty of free entertainment, too. As a child, I didn’t have cable TV. I thought it was a drag — my friends would talk about shows on Nickelodeon and I was left out. When I’d launch a campaign to get cable, my dad would tell me to play outside or read a book. I spent hours playing with my best friend next door, hanging out in trees, and shaking hands/paws with the sweetest golden retriever that ever did live — shaking hands was her favorite trick. When I wasn’t doing those things, I was reading a book. (Dad might have refused to pay for 100 TV channels, but he never refused me a book.)
There’s also a certain independence that comes with country living. Homesteading is more likely to be an option, and you’re less likely to run into restrictions. I’ve heard of homeowner’s associations that don’t allow energy-saving tactics like hanging clothes on a clothesline to dry. In the country, you’re free to hang your shorts wherever you please.
Advantages of Being a City Mouse
Living in the country is great for tree-climbing and composting, however, there are some drawbacks. Cities come with more employment opportunities, for example. Many professionals would have to commute to a city to find work. A neurosurgeon won’t find work in a town of 2,400, and it’s just not a possibility for someone who has to commute to the city and be on call.
City life also gives you more options to lower your transportation expenses. Most cities have decent public transportation, and some have excellent public transportation that’s a much better option than driving your own vehicle. Car sharing, biking, and walking are all possibilities, which reduces costs like fuel and wear-and-tear on your vehicle (if you own one).
Finally, if you’re a city mouse, you’ll find it more convenient to network because you live where the action is, meaning you’ll probably do more networking and socializing. Done correctly, networking is a powerful tool that will improve your job prospects. With a wider network of people who live nearby, you’ll also find that it’s easier to have someone pet-sit while you’re in Europe (something very difficult for me to arrange where I live — I pay extra to compensate for the long drive) or give you a ride to work when your car is in the shop. Another example: Even though I know a couple of neighbors very well, it would be a big hassle to ask them for a lift to the airport because that would mean almost a 2-hour round-trip.
For my husband and me, the best living situation is having a home in the country that’s 30 minutes from city life. Sure, the drive can be a pain sometimes, but I feel like we get the small town life with many of the city benefits. Despite the drawbacks, the benefits to being a country mouse sway me more — plus, I really love that I can stand on my porch at night and look up at the Milky Way.
Readers, what have I left out? What are other ways that country life saves money? What about city life?
From golf simulators to wide open spaces filled with weight-lifting machines, these are the ten best apartment gyms in San Antonio.
Whether you’re working to tack on some muscle, hoping to get your sweat on or looking to play some beach volleyball from the comfort of your home, there’s an apartment fitness center in San Antonio that’s perfectly fitted to your needs.
You just need to know where to look to find it.
Source: Rent. / Cypress at Stone Oak
Boasting two state-of-the-art fitness centers, two swimming pools and a yoga studio, the workout resources at Cypress at Stone Oak are second to none. With large windows, high ceilings and motivational messaging on the wall, the fitness centers at Cypress at Stone Oak feel more like an expensive gym than an apartment complex workout room.
These Stone Oak apartments also back up to a golf course and are only a stone’s throw away from Bracken Nature Preserve. Bracken is a great place for hiking and features a cave that sees a mass exodus of bats each night. A great option to switch up your workout and get some steps in while seeing something new.
Source: Rent. / Celeste at La Cantera
With designer lighting, top-tier equipment and plenty of space to clear your mind and get your heart rate up, it’s obvious the design team behind Celeste at La Cantera takes their workouts seriously, or at least new future residents would.
Boasting a long row of elliptical machines, treadmills and even a Stairmaster, in addition to all of the other traditional trappings you’d find at a membership-based gym, the fitness center at La Cantera is one of the best places to enjoy a workout in the University of Texas at San Antonio area.
Source: Rent. / The Mark at Huebner Oaks
How many apartments have an indoor golf simulator? Not many. With temperatures regularly soaring into the triple digits, having an indoor option to (virtually) hit the links is essential for dedicated golfers. While this unique feature isn’t all that’s provided in terms of fitness at The Mark at Huebner Oaks, it does help to set them apart.
The Mark at Huebner Oaks also has an expansive fitness center with high ceilings and natural light in addition to a dedicated stretching/yoga area. With flatscreens on the walls and oversized ceiling fans overhead, this Huntington Place complex sets the standard for communal workout areas.
Source: Rent. / The View at Crown Ridge
The View at Crown Ridge is a great complex for active people to call home. The slanted ceiling gives the fitness center here an airy vibe and the windows make it so you don’t feel like you’re missing out on the day while you work your core or get your cardio in.
These Cross Mountain apartments are situated right next to Crownridge Canyon Park, one of North San Antonio’s best-kept secrets. This outdoor recreation area features walking paths, scenic bridges and beautiful rivers. Sound like a good way to spend a Sunday getting your sweat on, right?
Source: Rent. / The Estraya Westover Hills Apartments
The Estraya Westover Hills Apartments complex has one huge fitness center. With 200 units to serve, The Estraya went big and embraced a resort-style feel from the brightly colored gym. They packed it to the gills with high-quality equipment and paired it with a dreamy pool with a waterfall feature and tanning ledge. Estraya is a great place to be active and then kick back in comfort.
This Oak Creek area complex boasts professional quality stationary bikes, enough ellipticals to ensure waiting is never an issue and free weights for days. Long story short, this fitness center has it all.
Source: Rent. / 1800 Broadway
1800 Broadway invites people looking in the Westfort area to enjoy the best of what loft living has to offer. And the best of loft living includes a well-equipped, elegantly designed gym. The fitness Center at 1800 Broadway makes the most of its smaller footprint with multiple multipurpose machines that can support full workout circuits in and of themselves.
The other reason this Westfort complex makes the list is because of its proximity to the North River Walk, just a few blocks away. This scenic walking path provides the best of both worlds by being the premier spot to take a stroll and stop (more than a few times) for some shopping or a coffee.
Source: Rent. / The Mosaic
Drawing design inspiration from all around the world, The Mosaic has an aesthetic entirely of its own. That same aesthetic transitions to the fitness area where you’ll find high ceilings with exposed duct work, a versatile selection of workout equipment and extra equipment for plyometrics if that’s your thing.
Tucked away north of Downtown in Tobin Hill, The Mosaic is a workout warrior’s paradise thanks to its mix of traditional machines and newer CrossFit-inspired materials, this gym has it all to help you reach your fitness goals.
Source: Rent. / The Ranch at West End
The Ranch at West End may not have the largest gym on the list but what it may lack in size, it makes up for in alternative workout options. The Ranch at West End has a full-size beach volleyball court and a midsize circular basketball court, perfect for a game of HORSE or two on two with your neighbors.
The actual fitness center is nothing to scoff at either. Equipped with kettlebells, a calisthenic area and muscle-boosting machines, this Westcreek complex has the complete setup for anyone hoping to have options for physical activity right outside their door.
Source: Rent. / Vineyard Springs
Vineyard Springs is known for its large floor plans and those spacious spots are now supported by a brand-new fitness center. The on-site fitness center features a mirrored wall, a rowing machine and a conveniently placed TV that can be seen from nearly every machine and station in the gym.
Beyond a new gym, there is also an on-site trainer, educated with the skills to make sure you meet your fitness goals. And outside the gym are two bespoke pools that may be the best spots in all of The Vineyard to cool off after a long workout.
Source: Rent. / Cielo
What’s better than an elliptical with a pool view? Cielo’s light-filled gym leverages its prime location to ensure that anyone dedicated enough to take a trip to the gym gets rewarded with a relaxing pool view while they work up a sweat.
Cielo also backs up to Ladybird Johnson Park. Ladybird Johnson Park features large open fields, an expansive skatepark and a playground, making this park the perfect spot for a full day of active fun with the entire family. This Oak Grove complex really is a great spot for active people of all ages to call home.
San Antonio is calling
If you’re looking for an apartment in San Antonio and have a passion for personal fitness, start your search with this list. These aren’t all the apartments in Alamo City, but they are the ones with the best gyms. Get out there and find the perfect place with the gym that was built for you.
Featured image source: Rent. / Celeste at La Cantera
Inside: Do you have any ideas for things to do that are both fun and relaxing? This what do you do for fun guide has suggestions for answers. When asked by the interviewer, you will be prepared.
We all know the feeling. You’re at a networking event, or perhaps on a first date, and someone asks you the inevitable question:
What do you do for fun?
Your mind goes blank. You can’t think of anything interesting to say, so you mumble something about watching TV and call it a night.
Don’t worry, we’ve all been there.
However, when you are interviewing for a new job, you need to nail the sometimes awkward question.
So, the next time this happens, try one of these 13 conversation-starting responses:
How do you answer what I do for fun?
Answering the question “What do you do for fun?” during an interview is important because it provides insight into your personality and whether you would fit in with the company culture.
To answer the question effectively, it’s important, to be honest and showcase your unique interests and passions.
One way to answer is by discussing a hobby that relates to the job or demonstrates valuable skills.
Another option is to talk about a hobby that showcases your personality or values.
You could discuss a recent experience or accomplishment that you’re proud of, showing your drive and dedication.
In any case, be sure to keep your answer professional and engaging, while highlighting what makes you stand out as a candidate.
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How to Answer “What do you do for Fun” in an Interview
“What do you do for fun?” is a question that can throw many job seekers into a loop during an interview.
It’s not always easy to answer, especially if your hobbies and interests aren’t the most “conventional” or if you don’t have any hobbies at all.
Step 1: Be Honest
It is crucial to be honest when answering the question “What do you do for fun?” in an interview because it shows that you are an honorable candidate.
Being truthful demonstrates integrity, and it is a quality that people value.
Moreover, honesty prevents you from being caught in a lie, which can harm your credibility and chances of getting the job.
It is also vital to keep your answer simple and relevant to the job you are interviewing for. For instance, if you are applying for a position at a sports company, mentioning your interest in sports can make you stand out. However, it is essential to be genuine and not makeup stories to impress the interviewer.
Step 2: Show your passion
When answering the question “What do you do for fun?” in an interview, it’s important to showcase your passion and enthusiasm for the activity.
For example, if you enjoy hiking, you could explain how the beauty of nature and the physical challenge of the activity inspire you.
Additionally, you can mention how this passion translates to your work ethic, such as by demonstrating your dedication and perseverance in achieving your goals.
By highlighting your genuine interests and tying them to your professional skills, you can show the hiring manager that you are a well-rounded and committed individual.
Step 3: Pick one or two things
When answering this question, start by considering your hobbies and interests, then narrow it down to one or two that are relevant to the job you’re applying for.
Explain why you enjoy these activities and how they’ve helped you develop skills that could be beneficial in the workplace.
Keep your answer concise and enthusiastic, with a friendly tone.
Step 4: Emphasize how this will help you in your job
When it comes to talking about hobbies during a job interview, it’s important to make a connection between your interests and the job you’re applying for. This can demonstrate how your hobbies can be an asset to the company and how they can help you succeed in the role.
For example, if you’re applying for a marketing job and you enjoy painting, you could talk about how your creative skills from painting can be applied to your work. Similarly, if you’re part of a sports team, you could discuss how the teamwork and collaboration skills you’ve developed can translate into being a better team player in the workplace.
It’s also worth mentioning how your hobbies help you decompress and recharge after work. For instance, if you’re applying for a high-stress job, you could talk about how reading helps you unwind and come back to work feeling refreshed.
When mentioning your hobbies, it’s important to be truthful and genuine. Don’t make up interests that you don’t actually have just to impress the interviewer. This can backfire and cost you the job offer.
Step 5: Use necessary details only
For those who love to talk, this tip is for you! Make sure to detail only what the other person may be interested or that will give you a heads up.
Avoid oversharing or rambling by speaking about all of your hobbies.
Avoid cliche responses and discuss specifics about what you like to do for fun with friends or family. Remember to keep your answer positive and to the point, supported with a few brief details.
Step 6: Find common ground
During a job interview, it’s important to find common ground when answering the question “What do you do for fun?” This will help you stand out in the interviewer’s memory and establish a connection with them.
Look for shared interests and use them to your advantage.
If you notice the interviewer wearing a brand of clothing you like or supporting a sports team you also support, mention it and use it as a launching point for your answer.
Be honest and specific about your interests, and showcase any skills or values that you have gained through them.
The 13 best ways to answer “What do you do for fun?”
We all know the feeling.
You’re sitting in an interview, and the interviewer asks you a question that feels like it’s designed to trip you up. For some people, this question is “What do you do for fun?”
Answering this question well can be the difference between nailing the interview and not getting the job.
Here are some ideas to help you answer this possibly awkward question.
1. Start with Hobbies & Interests
When discussing your hobbies, aim to share areas that you are truly interested in and passionate about. This can lead to follow-up interview questions and potentially create a great relationship with the interviewer.
When asked about your hobbies in an interview, it is important to be truthful and genuine about your interests and hobbies outside of work.
It may be helpful to prepare in advance by brainstorming two to three hobbies that you enjoy and can speak passionately about.
If you happen to spot something in the interviewer’s appearance that indicates a shared hobby, such as a Garmin sports watch indicating a love for running or cycling, it can be beneficial to mention your own interest in that activity.
However, even if you do not spot anything obvious, sharing multiple hobbies can improve your chances of connecting with hiring managers.
2. Relate Your Personal Activities to the Job
When it comes to discussing your hobbies and interests during a job interview, it’s important to establish a connection between what you like to do for fun and the job you’re applying for.
This can be done by identifying common skills or attributes that apply to both your hobby and the job. For instance, if you’re an artist applying for a marketing job, you can talk about how your creative skills from painting can help you perform well at work. Similarly, if you’re part of a sports team, you can discuss how the collaboration and teamwork involved in the sport can directly translate into helping you become a better team player at work.
In addition to highlighting the skills and attributes that apply to both your hobby and the job, you can also discuss how your hobby helps you decompress and maintain a work-life balance. If you’re applying for a high-stress job, for instance, you can talk about how a simple hobby like reading helps you unwind and recharge, allowing you to come back to work feeling refreshed.
3. Be a Storyteller – Not the Interviewer
When asked this question, the interviewer wants to get to know your personality and how you communicate with others.
This is an interpersonal skill that will you help you to land the job.
You want to tell an intriguing story, but not go into the details that the other person finds boring. You want to be engaging – that shows your potential employer or date how you will interact with others.
Also, don’t be afraid to ask open-ended questions yourself.
4. Make Sure to Qualify what makes you special
When answering the question “What makes you unique?” during a job interview, it is important to provide a well-rounded view of yourself.
The interviewer wants to know what unique skills you could bring to the team. It is essential to ensure that your answer is positive and to the point.
You should not try to mention all of your interests or list them off.
By highlighting unique activities or lesser-known facts about your interests, you can make yourself stand out in the interviewer’s eyes, and the hobby may become your identifier when the hiring manager is making their decision.
Sample Example Answers to “What do you do for fun”
Here are some examples you can give to the hiring manager or your date:
1. Cook delicious meals
2. Bake goodies for others
3. Spend Time With Friends and Family
4. Get Out in Nature and go hiking, cycling, rock climbing, paddleboarding or skiing.
5. Singing or acting
6. Read for Pleasure
7. Watch Movies or TV Shows
8. Listen to podcasts or watch documentaries
9. Make Art
10. Meditate
11. Take Photos
12. Play Board Games
13. Plant a Garden
14. Listen to Music
15. Volunteer
16. Fishing
What to Avoid in Your Answer
When an interviewer asks you, “What do you do for fun?” this is not an invitation to launch into a list of your hobbies.
It’s actually a behavioral interview question, which is meant to reveal something about your character.
So, make sure you don’t do these things.
1. Avoid Clichés Like “I Like to Keep Busy”
It’s important to avoid clichés like “I like to keep busy” when answering the question “What do you do for fun?” in an interview or social setting because they provide no real information about who you are.
This answer makes it seem like the job or starting a new relationship is not important.
Avoid common clichés like “hanging out with friends” or “spending time with family” as they are too broad and uninteresting.
Choose to share things that you actually do for fun, make a connection where you can, and keep it simple and honest.
2. Don’t Mention Things You Don’t Actually Enjoy Doing
Avoid mentioning activities that you do not actually enjoy doing, as this can come across as insincere and potentially cost you the job.
Additionally, do not avoid the question or give an incomplete answer. Instead, be honest and share 1 or 2 things that you actually do for fun.
If an activity you enjoy relates to the company, mentioning it can make a positive impression.
This is especially true when applying for low stress jobs without a degree.
3. Don’t Be Self-Deprecating
Self-deprecation may make the person answering seem insecure or lacking in confidence. Instead, focusing on positive and confident answers can make a better impression on the interviewer.
It’s important to avoid self-deprecating answers when asked about what you do for fun because they can come across as negative and uninteresting. For example, talking about hobbies or interests that you are passionate about and that showcase your strengths can be a great way to show your personality and skills.
For instance, you might say that you enjoy hiking and exploring new trails in your free time, which demonstrates a sense of adventure and a willingness to take on challenges.
4. Don’t Try to Impress with Your Hobbies
Making up stories or pretending to be interested in something that you’re not can backfire and harm your credibility, self-esteem, and sense of integrity.
Instead, focus on sharing what you actually enjoy doing and tie your hobbies to skills that would fit the job. Even if your hobbies seem mundane to you, they can be extremely interesting to others.
Plus, being authentic and real can help you connect with the other person and avoid any damage control later on.
5. Don’t Include Unrelated Skills
When it comes to talking about hobbies or skills during a job interview, it’s best to tie them to the job you’re applying for. While it’s acceptable to mention hobbies that are not directly related to the job, it’s best to avoid discussing skills that are completely unrelated.
Talking about unrelated skills may give the impression that you’re not truly interested in the job or that you lack the necessary skills for the position.
For example, if you’re applying for a software engineering position, it’s probably not a good idea to talk about your love of painting. While painting may be a great hobby, it doesn’t have much relevance to the job you’re applying for. Instead, you could talk about your interest in coding and how you enjoy working on personal coding projects in your spare time.
6. Don’t Write About Hobbies that Are Too Exotic
Activities that are considered extreme or dangerous can make you appear as a risk to the company, and hobbies that could bring your morals into question, such as partying or drinking or many other things I’m not going to mention in this blog can paint you in a negative light.
It’s important to remember that as an employee, you will be a representative of the company, and any negative view of you could reflect poorly on the company.
Instead, focus on the more interesting and relevant hobbies that showcase your skills and personality.
7. Don’t Use Excuses for Not Having a Hobby
It’s essential to avoid making excuses for not having a hobby when answering the question “What do you do for fun?” during an interview because it can come across as uninteresting or lacking in personality.
However, It’s better, to be honest and admit that you don’t have any particular hobbies than to make up stories that might not be true.
Think of things you would do if you had more time in your day.
Those are your hobbies regardless of how much time you have dedicated in the past days.
Example Answers
Here are some example answers to get you started.
Example 1
One hobby I enjoy doing in my free time is hiking as it is a great way for me to unwind and reconnect with the outdoors. I find it to be a great way to exercise and explore nature.
I love the feeling of being surrounded by trees and fresh air, and the physical challenge of climbing hills and mountains. Once a month, I try to go hiking.
Example 2
One fun activity that I enjoy doing with a group of friends is playing board games. The sound of laughter and friendly banter fills the room as we gather around the table, each armed with our own game piece.
The competitive spirit is alive and well as we try to outwit each other and come out on top. But it’s not just about winning – it’s about spending time together, bonding over shared experiences, and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Whether it’s a classic game like Monopoly or a newer favorite like Settlers of Catan, board games provide the perfect opportunity for socializing and having fun with friends.
Example 3
One of my favorite activities to do with friends and family is going on picnics.
I love the feeling of laying out a blanket on a grassy field, surrounded by nature and good company. The sound of laughter and conversations mixed with the rustling of leaves and birds chirping creates a peaceful atmosphere.
Sharing delicious snacks and refreshing drinks while enjoying the scenery and each other’s company brings me immense joy.
FAQ
Adding hobbies to a resume can be beneficial for several reasons. It can give the employer a glimpse into your personality and interests, and can also highlight skills that may be relevant to the job.
When choosing which hobbies to include, it’s important to consider the job you’re applying for and tailor your hobbies accordingly.
For example, if you’re applying for a job in the arts, including hobbies such as painting or sculpture could demonstrate your creative abilities.
Similarly, if you’re applying for a job in a physically demanding field, including hobbies such as hiking or weightlifting could highlight your physical fitness.
Other hobbies that could be relevant to many jobs include volunteering, learning a new language, or participating in team sports.
Overall, the key is to choose hobbies that showcase your skills and interests, while also being relevant to the job you’re applying for.
This is another common question during an interview as it is a sneaky way to see where the person wants to be or plans to be around for a long period of time.
Here is a sample answer:
In five years, I see myself as a successful professional who is making meaningful contributions to my field. I am someone who is respected by my colleagues and clients alike for my expertise and professionalism.
To achieve these goals, I plan to continue learning and growing in my career, taking on new challenges, and seeking out opportunities to develop my skills. I will also prioritize self-care and make time for the people and activities that bring me joy and fulfillment.
Now, What do you Like to do for Fun?
This guide is to help you during an interview, but something you use in other relationships as well.
Honesty is always the best policy.
With these fun ideas, you will be able to answer the interviewer’s questions with ease.
So, the next time someone asks you what you do for fun, you will be able to answer with confidence.
Find ideas for what should I do today.
Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!
Recently, someone visiting an online forum confessed that their whole life had been a lie once they learned that a piton gun like the kind used in the film Cliffhanger that fires climbing pitons directly and securely into the rock does not exist. That brings them to wonder, what other cinematic cliches have misled us? Here are what others volunteered.
1. The Magical Ability to “Enhance” Photos
People unanimously agree that detectives in TV shows where they’re investigating a crime and conveniently have a magical “enhance” button that suddenly produces a high-definition image from what was before a pixelated mess are the biggest TV lie.
However, some people in the thread claim that this technology does exist now, though it wouldn’t be valid for investigation purposes because it relies on software that makes an educated guess to make blurry photos look clearer.
2. Telling the Bartender to “Leave the Bottle.”
How often have you heard “just leave the bottle” in a dramatically somber movie scene where the character is drowning their sorrows? Probably too often, considering it’s entirely made up!
As one person says, “I worked in a bar, and a person can’t just say ‘leave the bottle.’” Yeesh, imagine uttering this line in real life after getting your heart broken, only for the bartender to cringe at you and say, “we don’t do that here.”
3. Cars Automatically Exploding in a Crash
One moviegoer points out that most American action movies involve highly explosive cars that blow up on impact. They explain that this is an annoying trope because cars don’t automatically explode in every crash or fall from a cliff.
As pointed out by another critic, some other funny tropes involving cars in action movies are the idea that people can’t shoot you through a door if you hide behind it and cars explode when you shoot at them.
4. Gun Silencers That Make No Sound
Gun enthusiasts have long parodied the depiction of silencers on film. However, just because something is called a silencer doesn’t mean it silences the blaring sound of a gunshot. An enthusiast pointed out that while silencers exist in real life, they’re wildly misrepresented in cinema, and a second added, “I’ve heard they’re still pretty loud.”
My favorite comment is, “I saw John Wick 2. I know they are silent, and you can have a shootout in a crowded place, and no one will notice.” But, on the other hand, guns are so loud they can cause hearing loss if your ears aren’t adequately protected.
5. Needing to Wait 24-48 Hours to Report a Missing Person
This one is important to discuss because it can have devastating real-life consequences. One individual claims that despite the common trope that you must wait 24 to 48 hours to report a missing person, this is untrue and nothing more than a useful plot device.
A second commenter adds that it’s terrible to think how many people were misled into feeling powerless if a loved one goes missing because they believe they must wait to report it.
6. You Get One Phone Call When Arrested
I wasn’t aware of this, but supposedly you don’t just automatically get one phone call if you’re arrested as they portray in the movies. Someone claims you can inform someone of your detention, but you don’t necessarily do this yourself.
The police can make the call for you, even if the purpose of the call is to get a lawyer. Upon Googling, I discovered the number of phone calls you’re entitled to can vary wildly depending on the jurisdiction and severity of your crime — anywhere from zero to unlimited.
7. Immediately Extracting Bullets From Wounds
Chill out, John McClane. Did you know that immediately extracting bullets from your wounds is a profoundly bad idea? A few commenters pointed out that removing the bullet often makes things worse because the damage is done once the bullet is in there.
People have died from sepsis due to removing bullets from their wounds. Real doctors, one states, often leave the bullet and shrapnel in the body.
8. Chloroform That Instantly Knocks You Out
Another film buff points to the repetitive depiction of characters holding a chloroform-drenched rag up to a person’s mouth to induce unconsciousness instantly. According to one user, even a soaked item in chloroform would take five minutes of inhalation to knock someone out. Understandably though, five minutes of inhaling makes for boring cinema.
9. Extremely Bright Luminol For Crime Scenes
You know those bright neon colors that pop up all over a crime scene in a criminal investigation, revealing blood spatter? As it turns out, this is less luminous or miraculous looking than it is in the movies, as several suggest.
“Wait, what? So it doesn’t light up like a Christmas tree?” This user clarifies that you need a dark room, and you need to wear glasses and use UV light, and it still isn’t as fluorescent as shown in the movies. I know, how disappointing.
10. Splitting a Chain Link Fence By Driving Through It
One movie-watcher loves Horrible Bosses because it parodied the cliche that you can split open a chain link fence by driving through it. You’d, in all likelihood, destroy your car, not the fence.
Source: Reddit.
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We all know that person—the one whose entire identity seems to revolve around a single, seemingly arbitrary thing. Whether it’s the music they listen to or the way they dress, they embody the ideas and traits that go with it so much that it overshadows other parts of their personality. Do you ever wonder what would happen if these people took off those clothes and listened to something different? From judging others based on their appearance to defining yourself solely on how smart or popular you are, it turns out that relying on just one aspect of yourself as an indicator of your overall identity can be quite harmful.
1. Crossfit
One user posted, “Crossfit,”
Another Redditor replied, “An atheist, a vegan, and a cross fitter walk into a bar. I know because they all told me.”
“I don’t think I’ve ever heard an atheist bring up being an atheist without someone bringing up religion first,” a third commenter added.
One user also shared, “Ha, I was going to say this. I was an atheist for well over a decade, and almost nobody knew because I never brought it up. People don’t realize the level of Christian bigotry that’s unleashed when they find out you’re an atheist.”
2. “I’m Just Honest”
One Redditor shared his story, “I’m not an asshole, I’m just honest, and people can’t handle it. EDIT: I just want to say that though these people are a pain to deal with in life, I usually feel pretty bad for them. They are likely not just bad at reading social cues, but unlike the rest of us with this problem. They don’t even know that’s the issue. They’ve been burned by a life feeling they are always getting ‘mixed messages’ or being misled when people just tell them something they don’t want to hear in a polite, thoughtful way. They think all this polite shit is a smoke screen for deception, and the world would be better if people just walked around making definitive statements of fact with no emotional nuance—that’s what ‘honesty’ is to them. The thing is, missing social cues doesn’t make one immune to insensitive behavior (though they are enthusiastic practitioners themselves). So when they get what they think they want, they are not thankful. They feel angry and hurt the same way anyone else would. So, in the end, they just think the world is made up of either liars or assholes. It’s a sad way to live, really.”
Another user replied, “Funny, these people are never honest about nice things. ‘Hey, you! That’s a nice shirt. You can’t handle that? Tough shit, I’m just being honest.’”
3. The “Alpha Male”
One commenter shared, “My stepdad. One of these days, I’m gonna tell him exactly what I think of him, and he’s gonna get mad like the alpha male bitch he is cause he ‘can’t handle it.’ ‘You aren’t relevant in any situation unless you’re an asshole, and I think deep down you know it, which is why you make it your entire identity. Because you’re codependent as fuck and can’t stand the thought of being lonely. A weird roundabout way to get people to ‘like’ you, and one that will only work as long as you’re useful to them and do the things you constantly complain about having to do. Maybe if you tried therapy and took the time to actually built positive relationships with the people around you, you won’t feel so fucking insecure and like you have to leverage everything over their heads to get them to respect you.’”
Another added, “‘Like the alpha male bitch that he is,’ So I presume he took some idiotic advice from Andrew Tate?”
4. Religion and Politics
One user posted, “Religion and politics are the most common I notice these days as they get older. Other than that, sexuality, music, tv shows, guns, military, country.”
Another Redditor replied, “I’ve literally never met an atheist that makes it a notable part of their personality—maybe because I’m in a country where it’s pretty much standard.”
Another commenter agreed, “Religion and politics are arguably the most significant life-changing areas to exist.”
5. Time in the Military
One Redditor posted, “Their time in the military.”
Another added, “Also, their spouses in the military…👀”
One commenter mocked, “You will address me by my husband’s rank.” “
“Understood. ‘Second class and petty,’” a fourth replied.
Source: Reddit
Who is one actress you can never stand watching, no matter their role? After polling the internet, these were the top-voted actresses that people couldn’t stand watching.
10 Actresses People Despise Watching Regardless of Their Role
These 7 Celebrities are Genuinely Good People
We’ve all heard the famous adage that “no publicity is bad publicity,” and while it tends to be accurate, there are certainly exceptions. But what about those few stars who stay out of the limelight and get along without a hint of trouble?
These 7 Celebrities are Genuinely Good People
Have you ever known someone and thought you liked them—until you learned about their hobbies? Then you get to know them and then you’re like, “Wow, red flag.” Well, you’re not alone.
These 10 Activities Are an Immediate Red Flag
Some celebrities definitely seem to enjoy the limelight and keep working to stay in the public eye. While others quickly move out of the spotlight. Many of these actors and actresses stepped out of the spotlight to live a more private life without constant media pressures.
10 Celebrities That Made the Big Times Then Disappeared Off The Face of the Earth
We’ve all been there – sitting through a movie that we can’t help but cringe at, but somehow it still manages to hold a special place in our hearts.
These 10 Terrible Movies Are Still People’s Favorites
I earned $200 in less than an hour the other day, without removing any of my clothes. A bank gave me the money (or will, a few months from now) in exchange for opening a business checking account.
Why would a bank or a credit union give away that kind of money? To get people through the doors.
Once you’re there, bank officials hope you’ll take advantage of their other services, making you a loyal and profitable customer. Not to make that $200 sound like a gateway drug, but once a bank has you chances are you’ll be hooked. (Not always, though. More on that later.)
After all, that checking account is probably connected to a debit card. The customer might want a credit card, too. Down the road he might be in the market to finance a car, take out a small-business loan or apply for a mortgage.
If you’ve had just about enough of your current bank’s sneaky fees and indifferent service, this is a golden opportunity: Other banks will pay you to dance with them!
And if you prefer to dance with those what already brung you? Open a new account anyway, for the quick profit and/or to designate a dream. (More on that later, too.)
Getting Started
Naturally the banks don’t want you to open accounts just to get free fundage. Supermarkets don’t want you to buy just the loss leaders, either. But that’s the risk businesses take when they offer incentives. It would be cheaper for banks to offer toasters, the way they did in the old days, but most of us would rather have the cash.
I found one such offer in a “student survival kit” coupon book while attending the University of Washington. You may see posters at the bank you already use, walk by a sign at your local credit union, or even hear a radio or TV ad. Or do it the 21st-century way, by looking for bank promotions online.
Note: Some banks will check your credit report when you open an account, which is “usually a 5-point ding,” according to MSN Money columnist Liz Pulliam Weston, author of “Your Credit Score: How to Improve the 3-Digit Number That Shapes Your Financial Future.”
Each bank has a different set of conditions. You may have to deposit at least $100, or leave the account open for at least six months before your bonus comes through. You could be required to set up direct deposit, or to complete a certain number of transactions in a set time period.
This can be fairly easy to do. For example, the online checking account necessitated making several debit-card purchases. I used the card to buy a few small, cheap and necessary grocery items.
The Academy Award for “Best Gaming of the System” goes to an unknown frugalist posting at TipHero.com. He or she opened a $25 checking account to get a $50 supermarket gift card. Next the bank sweetened the deal: Write four checks and get another $25. So the account holder wrote four $1 checks — for cash.
Suppose you don’t have an extra $100 lying around loose. (Hi there, recent grads with huge student loans!) See if you can borrow from a relative or friend, with a written promise that once the bank makes good you’ll withdraw the original funds. Or just get creative about scraping together a few dollars here and there; for ideas, see my previous GRS column, “Think you can’t afford an emergency fund? Think again!”
Dodging the $1,500 Frisbee
In the past four years I’ve opened four other accounts just to get the bonuses:
A local credit union offered $25, which became the start-up funds for my contribution to my daughter’s no-frills wedding.
An online bank offered $50 to open a checking account
Two national banks that offered $75 and $100 for checking accounts
See a pattern here? The checking account is important to banks because it encourages you to set up direct deposit and online bill-pay.
Be very clear on the terms and conditions before you agree to the account. Is that free checking? Must you keep a minimum balance? Will you have to pay for a box of checks? (Those are cheaper if you buy them from check-printing companies, and cheaper still if you access such a company through a cash-back shopping site such as Mr. Rebates or Fat Wallet. That is, assuming you still write checks.)
Pay attention to that fine print or your bonus could drip right out of the account — and maybe even take some of your hard-earned funds with it. Just ask my boss: J.D. admitted in print to having paid about $1,500 in fees over the years for a simple checking account. (Of course, he did get a free Frisbee.)
“Take advantage of the offer while making sure it isn’t costing you money,” says Todd Sandler, of head of product strategy for ING Direct.
What’s the Catch?
My online bank account is still open but holds less than $20. If the bank nagged me to close it I guess I would. For now, it just sits there.
Money would still be sitting in one of those national-bank accounts if the institution hadn’t decided it would assess fees for accounts with (relatively) low balances. This announcement, incidentally, was on the back of the monthly statement. Sneaky bastards!
A small part of me wanted to keep that account open in case I ever move back to Alaska. But about seven-eighths of me was feeling uber-stressed: I was up to my hairline in deadline and unable to handle one more curveball. The last time that happened I wound up paying for ringtones I didn’t order, so I just closed the account.
Relax: Credit scores typically aren’t affected by bank account closures, according to Weston — unless, of course, the account was closed by the bank because you hung a lot of bad paper.
I closed the credit union account after my daughter’s DIY nuptials, because the closest branch was not convenient for making deposits. Which brings me to my list of potential drawbacks:
Scattered funds. Your money’s all over the map. Suppose you needed a big chunk of cash right away? (Job loss, bail bondsman.) Having to go to four or five different places could be a pain.
Scattered attention. If you haven’t made any recent deposits, it’s easy to ignore the statements. As noted above, you might lose money to newly created monthly fees.
No interest. Incentives tend to be for opening checking accounts, which usually don’t pay interest, or pay much of it, anyway. Not that savings accounts or certificates of deposit are sagging under the weight of interest payments, but you might be able to get a slightly higher percentage at some online banks.
Abandonment issues. Ignore an account long enough and it might be handed over to the state as “abandoned.” (Oh, and the bank gets to take a fee. How nice for it.) Generally it takes at least three years for that to happen, but laws vary; in Texas, for example, the rule is “one or more years.”
Let the Bank Buy the Drinks?
Maybe you’ll use the new financial institution for everyday bill-paying. But you could also designate the account, and its bonus bucks, for a specific goal:
Seed money for your emergency fund.
Vacation savings. Let the bank spring for $200 worth of margaritas on the beach.
College fund. Put in whatever you can during gestation, and add any checks from the delighted new grandparents. Later you can put it in a 529 account or whichever vehicle you choose.
Savings accounts for your kids. Watch for online bank promotions that offer not just bonuses for them, but also referral fees for you.
Snowflaking your debt.
Holiday shopping. That bonus is the start of a cash-only Christmas in 2012. (Hint: Use some of it to build an evergreen gift stash starting with the post-holiday clearance sales.)
Someday fund. Want to pay cash for your next car, or save a down payment for a home of your own? The longest journey begins with a single buck.
If you’re funding a dream, vow to beef up the account even if it’s $5 at a time. I did that, depositing into my credit-union account the proceeds from mystery shopping, manufacturer’s rebates and the occasional Craigslist sale. It wasn’t much — that was a tough couple of years — but as I recall I set aside a few hundred bucks. Every little bit helped, given that the bride was then on disability and the groom got laid off shortly before the wedding.
Of those four extra accounts, two are now closed and the online one might as well be. But the fourth one is not only active, but hopeful. It’s my own big-dreams fund: I call the account “Home” and have been squirreling away any extra money I can.
Note: You will have to pay income tax on the “free” money the bank gave you. But how else could somebody like me make $200 in an hour? Legally, I mean.
So I’ll pay my taxes with a smile, because what’s left is mine to keep. Yours too, if you start saving now. Bonus: You get to keep your clothes on.
More than one million wineries currently operate worldwide. Each produces at least three different wines, and plenty of them stomp out 20 or more.
That’s a lot of potential hangovers. But if you sip responsibly you can enjoy the taste, the history, and the geography of the grape without any concurrent headaches.
And if you have champagne tastes but a Boones Farm budget? Buy the fruit of the vine online. A discount comes in handy at this time of year, given the expenses associated with the holidays. In the next couple of weeks you might be:
Having people over for your only fancy meal of the year, which surely calls for a grown-up beverage
Making mulled wine or glogg for a holiday open house
Looking for a good deal on bubbly for New Year’s Eve
Or maybe you’re just an everyday wine enthusiast who likes a glass with dinner. No matter what your reason, there’s no need to pay through the nose, so to speak, for a decent bottle. Thanks to increased competition, better technology, and smarter winemaking, there’s never been a better time to be an oenophile, according to wine critic Natalie MacLean.
“I’m a wine cheapskate at heart. Why pay more than you have to for pleasure? These days you can get a wine that tastes twice as expensive as it costs,” says MacLean, author of Unquenchable: A Tipsy Quest for the World’s Best Bargain Wines.
Although talking with an experienced wine seller can be a pleasure, not everyone is lucky enough to live near a wine store, or even a liquor store or a supermarket that sells wine. And let’s face it: Your local booze emporium or grocery store probably doesn’t have the space to devote to a truly huge selection of vino.
Online sites like Wine.com and WineExpress.com have deep cellars, and sell enough of the stuff to offer discounts. Specialty sites exist, too, with somewhat smaller lists but interesting back-stories — and competitive prices.
Kissing vinous frogs It isn’t just the discount that’s attractive, but the chance to try dozens (or hundreds) of vintages you might not find in the local carafe-a-teria.
Don’t know where to start? The online sites make it easy:
You’ll see sections like “90 under $20,” i.e., bottles that have received 90 points or more from wine critics.
You can search by price point, by region, by type of wine — or even by clearance sales.
When you click on a wine title, the next screen may also include suggestions à la Amazon.com, “Customers who bought Mad Dog 20/20 also bought…”
Another way to find new varieties: Natalie MacLean and other wine critics have Facebook pages and Twitter feeds, as well as homepages. There you can learn their hottest (and cheapest!) new discoveries. MacLean tastes at least 30 varieties per day. Nice work if you can get it, huh? Yet as she puts it, “I’m kissing a lot of vinous frogs to find those princes for you.”
Or prospect at a specialty site like People’s Wine Market or the Accidental Wine Company, both of which offer discounted sips with interesting backstories. The former buys overstock vintages from artisan, environmentally-friendly wineries. “Overstock” means that only a few cases are left and a wine distributor won’t bother with such a small order. The producers sell it cheaply just to make back their production costs, according to company spokeswoman Ashley Sytsma.
Three varieties, “usually the last case or two in existence of that vintage,” are featured each week. The lowest price was $7; the most expensive was a 2006 Philippe Delavaux Grains Nobles for $49, which would normally retail for as much as $125 per bottle.
The Accidental Wine Company’s original niche could be described as “oops”: vintages whose labels were applied crookedly or got soaked by a bottle broken in transit. If I were an oenophile I’d be all over the scratch-and-dent stock, i.e., focusing on the inside of the bottle. (Then again, I bought “slightly irregular” cloth diapers for my daughter. True story.)
Accidental Wine still sells irregular vino but also sells end-of-season stock and other special deals. Some of the best prices aren’t advertised prominently on the site due to agreements made with the producers. A couple of recent examples:
2006 Six Sigma cabernet sauvignon for $12 (normally as much as $50)
Reds and whites bought in Spain last summer, $7 to $10 per bottle. “If it was made in America we’d be getting $20 a bottle,” says David Forbes, the “grape wrangler” who did the buying.
How to find non-posted prices? Poke around on the website, or e-mail the company ([email protected]) with the types or varieties you typically drink.
Finding the best prices If you already know which wine you want to buy, use a price comparison site such as PriceGrabber.com or CheapUncle.com. Type in “box of white zin” or whatever you’re looking for, and wait for prices to pop up.
These sites have online coupons to make the offers even more attractive. Or look for coupons through aggregators like Savings.com and RetailMeNot.com.
We now pause for a really stupid joke:
Q. What did the grape say when the elephant stepped on it?
A. Nothing — it just let out a little wine.
Before you place an order, check to see if the wineseller is affiliated with a cash-back shopping site such as Extrabux, Mr. Rebates or Fat Wallet. These sites also provide online coupons (including free or nearly free shipping) along with rebates of 3% to 7%.
Note: If shopping through a cash-back site, use only the coupons you find on that site. Any “outside” discount codes will void your rebate.
Aggregators like Cashback Comparison Tool or Cashbackmonitor.com offer side-by-side comparisons from some of the better-known cash-back sites; be sure to double-check the posted rates, which can change without warning.
Wine on wheels About that shipping: An order might be in transit for days. You might wonder whether your order will become a winesicle (North Dakota truck version) or an expensive bottle of vinegar (Florida truck version).
But all wine has to be shipped at some point, or it would never leave the vineyard.
The folks who do this for a living use extreme care, to the point of adding cold packs during certain times of the year.
Some sellers have a “hold until safe” option, i.e., they’ll store your purchase for weeks or months until the weather improves. Or you can opt to pay more for overnight delivery.
Note: Make sure your order will arrive when someone who’s at least 21 years old will be home to sign for it. No, it can’t be left on the back porch.
Obviously shipping adds to the per-bottle cost. But maybe not, thanks to deals and discounts like:
WineExpress.com ships some items free and offers 99-cent shipping for its “wine of the day.”
GetWineOnline.com has a “50/50 Club,” which means you can get half off standard shipping for an annual fee of $48.
Wine.com’s “Wine Steward-Ship” program provides a year’s unlimited shipping for $49.
UltimateWineShop.com has free shipping on some varieties if you buy in multiples of 12 (which could be a deal-breaker for some and an enabler for others).
Another way to keep costs low: Watch for social marketing deals. Recently I’ve seen deals like:
The “Holiday Gift Set” through LivingSocial, with two bottles of wine, two glasses, a gift bag and a “tasty treat” for $34
Four wines (three reds and a white) for $49 through KGB Deals
$70 worth of wine for $35 through Eversave
Watch for these deals, but be sure to do the math.
Tip: Depending on the social buying site you use, you can get credit for the next purchase or even an outright free order if friends buy using your referral code.
Haute sips or house swill? I am not suggesting that you ignore local winesellers. But casting your net a little further than the neighborhood state store or Safeway can improve your enjoyment of wine and stretch your fun budget.
Of course, plenty of people are perfectly happy with Charles Shaw or the super-cheap Aussie vintages to be found at the local liquor locker. A good friend of mine is content with boxed wine, which she cheerfully refers to as “the house swill.”
So if you have a proletarian palate and know that good stuff will be wasted on you, or if you simply can’t afford to dream past three-buck Chuck right now, then continue to do what works for you. But if you want to branch out a little, give the online vintners a try.
Myself, I never drink…wine. (Extra geek points if you got the Bela Lugosi reference before clicking on the link.) I don’t know red from white or white from plaid. I don’t know whether Night Train is an aperitif or a cough syrup. But vinous beverages sure are important to a lot of people. Hey, it’s in the Bible that you should drink a little wine for your stomach’s sake. And did Jesus turn the water into Kool-Aid, or 2% milk? He did not.
A bottle of wine is like any other non-essential treat. No one needs cable TV per se, and few of us would actually die without a piece of chocolate now and then. Knitters probably should consider using up the yarn they currently have, music lovers could back off on completing their Murray Perahia collections, and someone who owns four cats would do well to consider the cost of adding another.
But those small pleasures enhance our lives. That’s why we budget for them. So go ahead: Crank up “The Big Bang Theory.” Enjoy some chocolate and a kitten (not together). Craft a scarf while listening to The Goldberg Variations. And enjoy an affordable chardonnay or merlot whenever you want. Wine: It’s not just for breakfast anymore.
An adorable gingerbread cottage in Oak Bluffs, MA, is now available for $875,0000.
Known as The Pink House, for its bubblegum-hued exterior, the aesthetically unique residence is one of 312 Victorian cottages on Martha’s Vineyard. The brightly colored cottage was built in 1870 and comes with a storied history.
It’s part of what’s known as The Campground, a collection of homes originally created as a summer retreat with campsites for the Methodist Church. Over the years, the camping tents were removed and cottages were constructed around The Tabernacle. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, The Tabernacle now hosts religious services and year-round cultural events.
“Everyone who lives there loves it,” says listing agent Kyle Neyer, ofTea Lane Associates. “The home is located in the most iconic fairytale campground, and I think its pink color really sets it apart. It’s been painted various colors of pink since after the Depression.”
The home’s distinctly pink exterior and Gothic front door give way to a cozy, 697-square-foot interior that drips with charm.
From the lacy wood details to exposed-beam ceilings, the home’s history echoes throughout the all-white space.
“Most of the cottages are truly summer cottages, but this one is a year-round home,” Neyer says. “I would describe this home as a fairytale mixed with modern amenities.”
The home is bound by a ground lease, so a buyer rents the land from the Martha’s Vineyard Camp Meeting Association. The buyer will own the home but not the land beneath it.
“An association fee includes trash and snow removal as well as maintenance of the communal gardens,” Neyer explains. “There are some rental restrictions. You can only rent it out six weeks in the summer, from June to September. It’s a real thriving summer colony, and they want it to stay owner occupied.”
The main floor features a bright and open floor plan, including a living room with preserved-hardwood floors and an oversized picture window that overlooks the pink deck.
Just past the living room is an adorable dining area with a second Gothic door for outside access.
The nearby galley kitchen has arched ceilings, a Gothic window, and a few pink countertop appliances to offer flourishes of color and contrast to the all-white interior.
Two spacious bedrooms with sloped ceilings are found upstairs. The primary bedroom has a dormer window and another Gothic door that opens to a private terrace.
A guest bedroom features a stained-glass window with balcony access.
And a brick patio and garden out back make for the ideal spot to host summer barbecues.
Located just blocks from Oak Bluffs Harbor and Nantucket Sound, the property is a delightful retreat for anyone in the mood to embrace year-round vacation living.
“It’s pretty much turnkey and is being offered fully furnished, but it doesn’t have a TV,” Neyer notes. “There is so much going on there in the summer, from religious functions to music and art festivals. The history of the home is just so amazing. It’s a very special, magical place.”