Why Planning Your Holiday in Advance is the Best Move

 

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We love spontaneity in our holiday trips. There is something special to grabbing your laptop or taking out your phone because a weekend just opened up and you’ve got a chance to travel. But sometimes, we forget how spontaneity is a double-edged sword. When you don’t have time to plan, you end up taking what you can get - and often, that’s not conducive to a great holiday. Instead, what we’re going to deal with today is the pleasure of taking your time to really plan a holiday, whether it’s overseas or domestic, and why it leads to a better break.

A tailored experience: Flexibility and variety

When you don’t have time to plan, your choices aren’t so much narrowed down as you just don’t have time to think about them. Planning in advance, whether it’s a couple of months or half a year, means you can get every detail right and remake any plans that don’t quite work. Instead of booking any hotel you can find with capacity, you can check out short term rentals that allow you to enjoy the break in comfort and research the area for places of interest. You can talk to whoever you may be traveling with and canvass opinion on what they would like to do, ensuring a holiday that suits everyone.

The financial edge: Save big by booking ahead

We’ve all seen TV plots where someone wins big brownie points by booking a spontaneous getaway to somewhere glamorous. “We don’t have time to pack, just pick something up at the airport”, they might exclaim. Yes, that sounds amazing. Right up until the moment the credit card bill lands and they get extreme buyer’s remorse. By planning a holiday well in advance, you may lose that Hollywood thrill, but you also lose the incredible mark-ups you’ll pay on travel, accommodation, and anything else that needs to be booked. Months ahead, you can usually get a great rental for the same price that you’d pay for a motel at 24 hours’ notice.

Reduced stress: Dodging emergencies and surprises

Booking opportunistically can lead to some great holidays, but can equally end with you walking into a series of less than pleasant surprises. You’ll just book a ride share from the airport to your accommodation? Great idea, but you picked the one weekend when the carnival’s in town and the few drivers you can get have raised their prices. Or something much simpler, like you call your friend to ask them to house-sit and they tell you they have a prior engagement. When you plan ahead, it doesn’t just make Plan A stronger - it gives you space to make Plans B, C and D too.

The joy of anticipation: Enhancing the experience

Building anticipation too much never helped anything, admittedly, but a dim gray day can certainly be enlivened by daydreaming about the trip that is on the horizon. If you’re waiting on hold for an interminable spell, time to Google pictures of the view from your holiday home! With weeks or months between booking and traveling, you could even learn some basics (and some less basic things) of the language of the place you’re visiting. You can create itineraries in your head and on paper, too. Studies have shown that anticipation can have a beneficial effect on your mental health, and it’s not hard to see why.

Deck the Halls (and the Table): Your Guide to Effortless Holiday Entertaining

 The holidays are a time for joy, family, friends, and of course, delicious food! But between the gift shopping, decorating, and travel, hosting a holiday party can feel overwhelming. Fear not, fellow merrymakers! With a little planning and these tasty recipes, you can throw a stress-free and festive gathering that will leave your guests raving.

Appetizers: The Art of the Finger Food

The key to effortless entertaining is serving appetizers that are easy to make and eat. A beautiful platter of cheese and crackers is always a crowd-pleaser, but why not add a touch of holiday flair? Consider whipping up some bacon-wrapped sweet potato bites for a sweet and savory twist, or try elegant grape, walnut, and labneh crostini drizzled with spicy honey.

Don't Forget the Classics!

For those who crave tradition, there's always room for classic hors d'oeuvres. Deviled eggs get a festive makeover with a sprinkle of paprika or a dollop of caviar. Miniature quiches filled with sausage and cheese are a hearty option, while crostini topped with pesto and cherry tomatoes offer a burst of fresh flavor.

Here are some tasty holiday appetizer ideas to try. Click thru the links to find the full recipe. You will want to pin a few to your holiday party board.

Now, let's get cooking! Here are some recipe ideas to get you started...

Filet Mignon Skewers with Rosemary by Give It Some Thyme

Fried Crab Claws by The Cagle Diaries

Lemon Asparagus Tart by Barth Bakery

Zucchini Pastry Cupcakes by DIY Candy

Lentil Stuffed Mushrooms by Cook Eat Live Love

Cream of Sardine Tapas by A Taste For Travel

Chicken Liver Mousse with Bacon Jam by Went Here 8 This

Creamy Asparagus Puffs by Ketchup with Linda

Potato Roses by Curry Trail

Pesto Toast with Cannellini Beans and Potatoes by The Pypers Kitchen

Spicy Pork Tenderloin with Lima Crema Crostini by Cook What You Love

Whipped Goat Cheese Crostini by Tao of Spice

Mississippi Sin Dip by Spend with Pennies

Grilled Shrimp and Avocado Appetizers by The Castaway Kitchen

Baked Pears with Gorgonzola by Happy Kitchen

The Main Event: Make it Merry and Make it Easy

For the main course, you have options! A slow cooker is your best friend during the holidays. Toss in a roast with vegetables and let it simmer while you decorate or wrap last-minute gifts. Stuffed shells or a vegetarian lasagna are great crowd-pleasers, and can be prepped ahead of time.

Think Outside the Box (or Casserole Dish!)

Feeling adventurous? Offer a selection of international flavors! A platter of hummus and pita bread with various toppings is a crowd-pleaser, and pairs well with festive cocktails. For a heartier option, consider a sheet-pan curry with roasted vegetables and chickpeas.

Sweet Endings: A Delicious Tradition

No holiday party is complete without dessert! Opt for a classic like chocolate chip cookies or sugar cookies cut into festive shapes. Mini cheesecakes or a cranberry crumb pie add a touch of elegance, while a simple fruit salad with a drizzle of honey is light and refreshing.

The Final Touches: It's All in the Details

The key to effortless entertaining is creating a festive atmosphere. String some fairy lights, put on a playlist of your favorite holiday tunes, and light some scented candles. Don't forget to set out festive napkins and plates – even small details can make a big impact!

With these recipes and tips, you're well on your way to throwing a holiday party that's both merry and manageable. So relax, gather your loved ones, and savor the delicious memories you'll create together!

Find my favorite holiday posts here:

Mickey Mouse Gift Tags

Holiday Breakfast Recipes

Christmas Cheesecake Recipes

Christmas Gnome Craft

Four Ways To Make Halloween Fun For Your Family This Year

 Halloween can be a fun time of the year for all of the family. From dressing up to trick or treating, there are many ways that you can make this holiday exciting without it being too stressful or costly. Your family enjoys staying in for nice cozy activities, or they like to head out to drink and treat. 

Let's have a look at some of the easy ways you can make sure that Halloween is fun and packed full of memories this year: 

Have A Halloween Themed Movie Night 

A spooky movie night is a fantastic way to get into the spirit of Halloween together as a family. Get all your family together, make some popcorn, and choose a Halloween classic such as Hocus Pocus or Hotel Transylvania to create a cozy movie night with blankets and pillows. If you're feeling brave enough, you could even dim the lights to give your living room a bit of a spooky feel. Having some themed snacks such as Halloween cupcakes or toasted pumpkin seeds. If you have older children you can always watch a scarier film late in the evening too. 

Decorate Your Home 

Another great way to create a great atmosphere for Halloween is to transform your home into a mini haunted house. Get all of the family involved and decorate your front garden windows and living room with a few Halloween-themed items. You could even create some homemade decorations such as cutout bats, spooky lanterns, or paper ghosts. If you want to go the extra mile, you may even think about getting some outdoor inflatables to create a haunted garden display. Check out a Halloween store for all the latest trends and accessories.

Pumpkin Picking And Carving 

A great way to celebrate Halloween is to head out and go pumpkin picking at a local farm. Any farms now decorate and prepare their Farm for Halloween so that you can visit the pumpkin patch and experience a family-filled spooky day. Pumpkin carving is also a staple at Halloween, and it helps to bring the whole family together. Set up a carving station at home or set up a pumpkin painting station and decorate it with stickers.

DIY Halloween Costumes 

Rather than buying ready-made costumes from the shop, think about making your own. You can use all sorts from around your home. DIY costumes are great for children to get creative and for them to feel accomplished with piecing together their own outfit. 

For example, you could use an old bed sheet and turn it into a ghost. If you need some extra accessories, you might find a few things at a Halloween store for inspiration. 

Conclusion 

As you can see, there are many things that you can do to make Halloween fun for your family this year. Is there anything you would do? It would be great to hear about it in the comments below. 

The Best Holiday Films to Watch in the Heat for An Amazing Christmas In July Party

 

Christmas in July is similar to the Christmas holiday festival held in December but is celebrated in the middle of the year; come with decorations, sending 2024 Christmas cards, gifts, and holiday movies. With the current heat of summer, a Christmas in July party can help one cool off and enjoy the festivities at the same time. Below is a list of the best holiday movies to watch during Christmas in July celebration and why they are ideal.

The ELF

The Elf is one of the best Christmas movies that you can watch during the Christmas in July celebrations. The movie features Will Ferrell as Buddy the main character who was raised by elves in the North Pole, This movie is funny and heartwarming movie where the star searches for his true self and spreads the holiday spirit in New York. 

Why It's Perfect

The movie “Elf” is one of the funniest and joyful movies that you can enjoy as a family during this festive holiday celebrated on July 25th. Due to its happy and playful tone, the show can be watched during the summer while keeping the viewer in a light-hearted and cheerful mood.

Home Alone (1990)

This movie features an eight-year-old boy (Kevin McCallister). The boy finds himself home alone after his parents leaves to enjoy the holiday. He has to outwit two dimwit thieves and defend his house with the help of various traps. This is a good movie that you can enjoy with your kids during the Christmas in July festivity. 

Why It's Perfect

 There is a lot of fun in the mischief and adventure brought about in the movie “Home Alone”. If you want to escape the summer heat, the best option is to organize a family dinner and eventually watch this movie together. 

National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" (1989)

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation is a comedy film released in 1989. Griswold’s plan to have a big family Christmas as expected was bound to be a big disaster. The main actors are Chevy Chase and this is a comedy that explores how dysfunctional the family can be especially during gatherings.

Why It's Perfect

This classic provokes lot of laughter and feeling of nostalgia. It is just a reminder that every family gathering is a potential mess, no matter the time of the year.

The Holiday" (2006)

Besides sending business holiday cards to your colleagues at work, watching this movie can bring a sense of fulfilment during the Christmas in July celebrations. Two women from two different countries, United States of America and the United Kingdom, exchange residences for the Christmas holidays with the intention of leaving behind their respective problems in their relationships. Yes, they both learn to see life in a different way and of course, they each experience love in a way they never thought possible.

Why It's Perfect

In “The Holiday,” there is some romance, and snow, and the beauty of winter, which is perfect for giving the audience the feeling of Christmas in July. However, the movie is rated and is most probably not fit for younger kids. 

"Love Actually" (2003)

This movie is a comedy about selection of eight completely different couples and their experience of their intimate lives linked only by some connecting moments and placed in the month before Christmas in London, England.

Why It's Perfect

 ” Love Actually” can be cited as a multi-plot romantic comedy that is filled with messages and different appeals to the general audience. Being a comedy romantic drama, it will suit a mixed audience at your summer party very well.

Christmas in July Film

Christmas in July is a 1940 film directed by Preston Sturges following an ambitious clerk who was tricked into believing he has won $25,000 in a contest held by a coffee factory. The star began using his believed winnings to fulfil some of his dreams.

Why it’s perfect

Christmas in July movie blends perfectly with the July festival held  on 25th July of each year to celebrate Christmas. The movie fits the whole family gathering during these festivals which means you can watch with children and adults alike.

Holiday Breakfast Recipes: Start Your Day off Right

 The holidays are a time for family, friends, and good food. And what better way to start your day off right than with a delicious holiday breakfast?

Here are a few of our favorite holiday breakfast recipes:

Slow Cooker Breakfast Casserole by Dish In the Kitchen

Buffalo Chicken Crescent Rolls by Julie’s Eats and Treats 

Easy Breakfast Bake by Where is My Spoon

Chicken Pot Pie Buns by Dancing Through the Rain

Taco Crescent Ring by Frugal Fun Times

Sausage and Egg Crescents by Viral Recipes

Ham, Cheese and Broccoli Crescents by xoxo Bella 

Jalapeno Popper Crescent Cups by Spend with Pennies

Meatball Bites by Knife and Paddles

Ham and Cheese Crescent Ring by Feast for a Fraction

Crab and Cream Cheese Cups by Centsless Meals

Gyro Pockets by 365 Days of Baking

Chicken Crescents by Kitchen Fun With My 3 Sons 

Sausage and Cheese Crescent Squares by Grits and Gouda

Cream Cheese Veggie Pizza by I Heart Vegetables

These are just a few of the many delicious holiday breakfast recipes out there. So next time you're looking for a way to start your day off right, reach for one of these recipes and enjoy!

Here are some additional tips for making the perfect holiday breakfast:

• Use fresh ingredients whenever possible. Fresh ingredients will give your breakfast a bright and flavorful taste.
• Don't be afraid to get creative. There are endless possibilities when it comes to holiday breakfasts, so have fun and experiment with different flavors and combinations.
• Garnish your breakfast with festive toppings. A little bit of garnish can go a long way in making your breakfast look and taste more festive.

With these tips in mind, you're sure to make a delicious holiday breakfast that everyone will love. Here are some additional tips for making Christmas breakfast a breeze:

• Plan ahead. The night before Christmas, take some time to gather your ingredients and prepare any necessary dishes. This will save you time in the morning and help you relax and enjoy your breakfast with your family and friends.
• Delegate tasks. If you have children, get them involved in the preparation of Christmas breakfast. This is a great way to start their day off on the right foot and teach them about the importance of family and tradition.
• Don't forget the coffee! Coffee is a must-have for any Christmas breakfast. Make sure to have plenty on hand for everyone to enjoy.

With a little planning and preparation, Christmas breakfast can be a delicious and festive way to start your holiday. So gather your family and friends, enjoy a delicious meal, and make some wonderful memories that will last a lifetime.

Check out these easy recipe ideas:

Unique Nachos

3 Ingredient Biscuits

Snickerdoodle Cake

Gorgeous Cranberry Cocktails: The Perfect Holiday Drink

Cranberries are a classic holiday ingredient, and for good reason. They're tart, sweet, and festive, and they make for delicious cocktails. Whether you're looking for a refreshing drink to enjoy by the fire or a boozy punch to serve at your holiday party, there's a cranberry cocktail out there for you. Here are a few of our favorite cranberry cocktail recipes:

Cranberry Gin Fizz by Cup of Zest

Chai Cranberry Bourbon Smash by Burrata and Bubbles

Cranberry Christmas Punch by Curry Trail

Smoked Orange and Cranberry Cocktails by Stef’s Eats and Sweets

Cranberry Orange Margaritas by Cooking with Curls

Cranberry Gin Cocktail by Baking Ginger

Christmas Morning Mimosas by Persnickety Plates

Poinsettia Mimosa by Limoncello Kitchen

Woo Woo Cocktail by Mom Foodie

Pineapple Cranberry Mezcal Margaritas by Gastronom

Apple Cranberry Mules by Made with Happy

Cranberry Hard Ginger Ale by Easy Party Cocktails

Cranberry Old Fashioned by Three Olives Branch

Cranberry Tequila Spritzers by Sustain My Cooking Habit

Cranberry Mojito Punch by Sugar + Soul

These are just a few of the many delicious cranberry cocktail recipes out there. So next time you're looking for a festive drink to enjoy, reach for some cranberries and get mixing!

Here are some additional tips for making the perfect cranberry cocktail:

• Use fresh cranberries whenever possible. They'll add a brighter flavor and color to your drink.
• Don't be afraid to experiment with different flavors. Cranberry juice pairs well with a variety of spirits, so have fun and try different combinations.
• Garnish your cocktails with fresh cranberries, citrus slices, or herbs for a festive touch.

With these tips in mind, you're sure to make delicious cranberry cocktails that everyone will love.

Find more favorite cocktail recipes here:

Sour Apple Margaritas

Haunting Halloween Cocktails

A Guide to Thai Food – What you Need to Know

 Of the many cuisines around the world, Thai must be up there with the best; strong tastes are evident, with spicy, sweet and sour dishes that you won’t forget in a hurry. There are good reasons why you will find Thai restaurants in every western city and in this short article, we describe some of the better-known Thai dishes that you should explore.

Thai curry

There are so many Thai curries, it would be impossible to list them all, here are some of the favourites:

Masaman curry – Made with coconut cream, masaman can be made with chicken, pork, beef or shrimp and has a very distinct flavour. One of the few Thai dishes that includes potatoes, with peanuts also being a favourite ingredient.

Penang curry – Penang is another coconut cream curry, made with chicken, pork or beef, this is traditionally a southern dish that is normally very spicy. A firm favourite with foreigners, this most unusual taste is something everyone should experience at least once in their life.

Green curry – Made with coconut cream, chicken, pork or beef, this green dish can be very spicy, with a selection of vegetables.

Spicy soup

Tom Yam is a very spicy soup that can be made with chicken, pork, beef or seafood, which is perhaps the most popular. Squeeze half a lemon for a sour taste and the dish is consumed with Thai Jasmine rice and is delicious. If you are looking for Tom Yam recipes, Google has you covered, indeed the number one search engine can tell you all about the history of Thai cuisine, while there are many fruits that you can try while holidaying in the Land of Smiles. If you visit the street markets in tourist areas, don’t be surprised to see sex toys and vibrators for sale (which are technically illegal), so we don’t recommend making a purchase. There are online adult stores in Australia, which is a discreet way to stock up with sex toys.

Pad Thai

A very famous Thai dish that is made with noodles, with meat or seafood and egg added. Fried in a wok, pad Thai is like a national dish that is prepared nationwide and is not generally spicy. 

Spicy salad

Papaya salad is one of the Thai national dishes and it is extremely spicy, with small crabs and dried shrimp added. Som tam is the Thai name for this dish, while in the northeast (Isan), there is a spicy salad called ‘larb’, which can be made with pork, chicken or beef.

Noodles

If you love noodles, you will adore Thailand, where noodle stalls are on every corner, made with chicken, beef or pork, there are also beansprouts and when you sit down to eat, the full list of condiments is on the table.

Other Thai delights include BBQ chicken on a stick, eaten with sticky rice, pork satay with a delicious sauce and fried rice, which is very popular, especially with foreigners who do not like spicy food. 

If you are planning a holiday in the Royal Kingdom of Thailand, get ready for a unique culinary experience; there are so many Thai fruits that we couldn’t possibly name them all and Thai desserts are awesome.