How to find hiking trails near you

If you’re fairly new to hiking or looking to go to an unfamiliar park or city, you may be wondering how to locate places to go. “Navigation apps like AllTrails and GAIA are great resources for finding nearby hiking trails,” says Claire Ramsdell, adventure consultant for Wildland Trekking.

For anyone visiting or living near a national or state park, it’s easy to see a list of recommended hiking trails on their website. “The US Forest Service has an interactive map with hiking trails on it, plus campsite locations and other helpful information,” she adds. “Some trails or regions also have a special dedicated website, like Washington Trails Association, or White Blaze which is a forum for the Appalachian Trail.

Travel

5 Tips for National Park Road Trip

Have a great visit to any of America's national parks with these helpful tips

Sometimes, even typing “best hikes near X city” into Google can yield helpful results. You may end up getting some great recommendations from locals!

One word of caution: Not all online sources will be legitimate or share everything you need to know. “Many resources provide incorrect info that can put you in a bad situation, and others leave out key details such as where to park, how difficult the hike is, etc.,” cautions Nadine Gravis, an avid hiker and a travel advisor at the adventure travel booking platform 10 Adventures. “To avoid being led astray, I always recommend printed guide books or reputable online resources, like 10adventuers.com!”

Tips for choosing a trail

Once you’ve figured out where you want to go, there are some things that the pros say you should keep in mind when deciding on a trail or trails to take. First, consider both the season and the weather of the day you plan to hike. “You don’t want to get stuck on a mountain ridgeline if lightning is in the forecast, and likewise you don’t want to be hiking along the belly of a canyon if heavy rain is expected,” says Gravis.

In summer, especially in hot areas, it’s best to go on your hike very early in the morning and try to pick a trail that provides shade from the sun. Springtime, on the other hand, may still be too snowy at high mountain elevations, adds Ramsdell.

Next, try and do research on current trail conditions when possible. “There may have been recent rock fall that is now obstructing a section, or there may be an ongoing wildfire in the area,” explains Ramsdell. “This information is listed on the website of whichever agency administers the land (Bureau of Land Management, National Park Service, etc). You can also read recent trail reports from other hikers on sites like AllTrails.”

Finally, it’s best to consider your own experience and skill level to know if a trail is a good fit. If you’re just getting started, avoid those that are described as being “hard” or involve a lot of tiring elements. “Instead, begin with an easy hike and work your way up, slowly adding elevation or distance with each subsequent hike you take on,” suggests Gravis. “Quick tip: adding elevation is more challenging than adding distance!”

What to wear on a hike

For short hikes, comfortable shoes and clothing will be sufficient. But for those on longer trails, you may want to put more focus on your wardrobe—especially if it’s something you plan to regularly do. “Invest in hiking clothes that wick away sweat and dry quickly,” suggests Echo Wang, founder and CEO of Cool Travel Vibes.

Wearing the right socks can also make a different to help keep feet from getting blisters. Ramsdell suggests liner socks or double-layered socks, like wearing a thin inner sock so that a thicker outsider socks rubs the liner instead of your skin. Also smart: “Trim your toenails to avoid pain, especially going downhill,” adds Wang.

What to bring on a hike

Being prepared on a hike can help make the experience even better! Below, the pros share their favorite items and must-haves to bring along when you hit the trails:

1. Enough water. “Two liters is a good idea on most hikes,” advises Ramsdell. “You can probably get away with one liter for a lot of day hikes, but two is extra safe.”
2. A paper map. “Apps are great, but not 100% reliable,” says Alison Watta, creator and editor at Exploration Solo. “If there isn’t a paper map, but there’s a kiosk with a large map, take a photo.”
3. A quick snack, especially one with a quick hit of glucose or carbs. “You need something that’s easily digestible during intense exercise and heavier foods can make some hikers nauseous,” shares Ramsdell.
4. Duct tape. “It solves almost any problem with malfunctioning gear,” explains Ramsdell.
5. A tripod for photos. “It’s always great to be able to look back on hiking memories, and carrying a lightweight tripod means everyone can jump in for the photo op!” suggests Gravis.
6. Trekking poles. “New hikers also often forego trekking poles, but if hiking becomes a long term hobby, poles are really going to save your knees,” says Ramsdell. (Click through to find out how walking poles can help with weight loss!)
7. A rain cover for your backpack. “Having a rain tarp for your pack is essential as it will protect any electronics such as a satellite phone or your own smartphone, and will also protect the contents of your pack such as dry clothing and food items,” says Gravis.
8. A blister kit. “Known as ‘mole skin’, having this item in your first aid kit can make the difference between a very miserable/painful hike, and a great hike,” adds Gravis.

Keys to staying safe on a hike

It’s no secret that hiking means you get both the feel-good perks of spending time and nature, plus a host of physical benefits. It’s important, however, to stay safe on the trails, regardless of skill level and experience.

The first key? “Tell someone where you’re going and when to expect you back,” advises Gravis. This will ensure a friend or loved one has your location even if there’s no cell service.

Next, be prepared for hot weather hikes to avoid heat stroke or exhaustion. Ramsdell encourages you to wear a hat, sunscreen and avoid starting at noon!

Even if you have a lot of daylight to work with, if you think your hike may cut it close to sunset, there’s something you might want to carry in your pack. “Bring a headlamp in case your hike goes long and the sun starts to disappear,” suggests Gravis.

Finally, a bit of pre-hike prep can ensure the experience on the trail is as pleasant and comfortable as possible! A light walk and stretching the day before, along with warming up and stretching on the day of the hike, will also help significantly,” adds Wang.

For more travel fun, check out our Woman’s World travel booking site and keep reading!

“It’s Never Too Late To Enjoy Life” Say These 81-Year-Old Best Friends Who Traveled Around the World in 80 Days!

Sneaker Expert Agrees: These On Cloud Shoes Are Perfect for Travel

How to Stay Healthy While Traveling — 5 Proven, Natural Cures

1. How to shovel snow: Stick to ergonomic shovels

According to Dr. Glenn Russo, a spine specialist at Connecticut Orthopedics, “the shovels with curved handles can be helpful in allowing you to keep your back as straight as possible while shoveling,” Plus, he recommends using a plastic shovel over a metal one since they’re generally lighter weight and easier on your back and arms.

2. Spray your shovel with *this*

Did you know that a quick coat of spray cooking oil, regular oil or a lubricant like WD-40 will make shoveling that much easier? According to WD-40, “To prevent snow and ice from adhering to your snow shovel, spray the blade of the tool beforehand with WD-40 (Buy at Walmart, $11.98) . The multi-use formula helps the snow slide easily off the surface of the blade and makes your task a bit less daunting.” While you’re at it, spray around your car doors to prevent them from getting frozen shut during a snowstorm or particularly frigid night.

Watch this YouTube video from HAPPY HOME and GARDEN with John and Dawne shows how well a lubricant works:

3. How to shovel snow: Lay out a tarp *before* it snows

This of course will require a bit of forethought on your end, but if you’re concerned about a particular area getting overloaded with snow, try laying a tarp or a large garbage bag out over the walkway, driveway, staircase or porch before it snows. That way, you can lift or drag the tarp out of the way once the snow is finished falling — just don’t wait long enough to let it ice over.

This instagram story on countryhomes.charm shows how well it works!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Country Homes Charm (@countryhomes.charm)

4. Pay attention to your hand placement

Making shoveling easier on your back can be as simple as where you place your hands on the handle. “When you grip the shovel,” Dr. Russo says, “make sure your hands are at least shoulder-width apart. The distance between your hands will increase your leverage and reduce the strain on your body.”

5. How to shovel snow: Add a handle to save your back

If you find that your hands are slipping too much to keep them at an even distance apart, you can try an ergonomic handle attachment like Back-Saving Tool Handle Labor-Saving Ergonomic Shovel or Rake Handle Attachment (Buy on Amazon, $9.94) that fits onto the shaft of the shovel, giving you more leverage and making it easier on your back. Alternatively, you can seek out a shovel that has two handles to begin with like Snow Joe SJ-SHLV20 Shovelution 20-Inch, Strain-Reducing Snow Shovel w/ Spring Assisted Handle + Impact-Resistant Blade (Buy on Amazon, $30.19) — this one is highly-rated and reviewers note significantly less strain on their backs.

6. Make a de-icing solution

Sometimes, even with the best-laid plans, ice can freeze over in inconvenient places. Rock salt is certainly an option for walkways, but for removing snow and ice from smaller spots like your car windshields, mirrors and handles, you can also mix up a batch of de-icing solution with ingredients you likely already have at home. Home and family blogger, Jessica Keilman, of Mom4real.com recommends mixing 1 cup of water, and 1 cup of isopropyl alcohol in a spray bottle as a simple de-icing solution. Plus, you can add a few drops of dish soap to make the solution spread and move across surfaces easier. The active ingredient here is the alcohol, which is what commercial de-icers use to quickly melt away ice.

Life

Car Expert’s Easy DIY Spray Defrosts a Windshield Fast — No Scraping Required!

Plus, the visor trick that melts the ice even faster

7. How to shovel snow: Use a smaller shovel

This might sound counterintuitive, but it’s actually better for your back in the long run. Dr. Russo suggests “a shovel with a smaller blade as it limits the amount of snow you can lift which prevents you from lifting an excessively heavy load.”

8. Break out the leaf blower

Who says snow blowers are the only power towels to get snow cleared quickly and easily? Your leaf blower can do double duty by blowing freshly-fallen snow off of stairs and railings and can quickly clear a path before you sprinkle rock salt down to finish the job. This will only work with fresh snow, though, so you’ll want to be quick about it as the snow is falling.

9. How to shovel snow: Push it instead of lifting it

Depending on how much snow has fallen, Dr. Russo recommends pushing it out of the way as opposed to lifting and dumping it, which is easier on your body. “If you must lift,” he says, “be sure to do it properly. Squat with your legs shoulder-width apart, knees bent and back straight. Lift with your legs. Avoid bending at the waist. Scoop small amounts of snow and walk to where you want to drop it off. Do not throw the snow over your shoulder or to the side. This would require a twisting motion that stresses your back and could cause injury.”

For more outdoor tips, click through the links below!

The Simple Glue Trick That Adds Grip to Any Shoes to Help You Avoid Slips and Falls

Home Pros Reveal 4 Genius Gutter-Cleaning Hack

What is alum powder?

Alum powder, also known as crystallized potassium aluminum sulfate, is something you’ll find in the spice aisle of the grocery store (Buy from Walmart, $2.18). The white powder is traditionally used for pickling ingredients because it retains crispiness. In fact, Woman’s World’s Food Director Julie Miltenberger uses alum powder when she makes pickles. “This mildly sweet powder helps keep my homemade dill pickles crisp, so there’s that telltale snap when I bite into them.” Alum powder is also used as the acidic component of some commercial baking powders.

But cooking isn’t the only thing alum is known for these days. This pickling spice is also used in natural deodorants because it has moisture-blocking properties. You’ll find it in products labeled as “mineral deodorants.”

Besides these two most common uses, this versatile substance is capable of a lot more around the house and in your beauty routine. It can also be helpful in other baking tasks that may be less known. Here, 10 amazing alum powder uses.

1. Alum powder rejuvenates skin

No need to buy specialty beauty products to rejuvenate your skin: Alum powder is a great exfoliant! “Alum facilitates the removal of dead skin cells, making way for newer, rejuvenated skin,” shares Randall Higgins, pharmacist and skincare specialist at Good Glow. “Over a period of consistent use, one might observe a decline in the prominence of acne scars and dark spots.” Since alum is an astringent, it also temporarily shrinks pores and tightens skin.

To do: Mix 2 Tbs. of alum powder with 2 Tbs. of rose water (it calms skin) until it forms a paste. Clean your face, then apply the mixture and leave on for 10 minutes. Wash off with lukewarm water and pat dry to finish.

For more alum powder uses to tighten skin, watch the video below:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EsIbsor-clA

2. It helps preserve fruit

When you’re whipping up a delicious baked good using apples or pears, the fruit can began to brown when sliced and exposed to air. The save: “A sprinkle of alum powder can preserve their freshness and prevent discoloration,” says professional baker and chef Sarah Bridenstine of Baking Kneads. “This comes in handy, especially when prepping fruits in advance for pies or tarts.”  

3. Alum powder protects outdoor cushions

Over time, outdoor cushions can become ridden with mildew, especially when exposed to a lot of rain or outside moisture. An easy way to keep them in tip-top condition: Launder the cushions as usual, then soak them in a solution of 2 gallons of hot water and 1/2 pound of alum powder. Stir well until the alum is dissolved. Alum’s moisture-blocking ingredients will safeguard the material from any kind of water damage.

4. It nixes stains from a cutting board

After chopping some fresh tomatoes for your homemade salsa, your cutting board is covered in bright red stains that you worry will set. To remove them, make a paste of equal parts alum powder and lemon juice then use a sponge to rub at the stains. The acidic combination will break down and lift stains so all you have to do is rinse the cutting board with water.

5. Alum powder can be used to help with naturally dye fabric 

If you prefer to create natural dyes to color fabrics for your craft projects, alum powder can help! “By acting as a bonding agent, alum enhances the connection between your fabric and natural dyes made from various sources like purple cabbage, berries, onion skins and avocado pits,” shares natural dye expert Shellie Pomeroy of Silk & Willow. “This ensures a vibrant and long-lasting color in your textiles.” A good place to start: place ¼ cup of alum in the colored-water per one pound of fabric.  

6. It can be used as a DIY deodorant

Although there are deodorants you can buy that include alum powder, you can go right to the source to help cut down on sweat and control body odor! To do: Mix enough water with a small amount of alum powder to form a paste and apply it to underarms. Alum constricts sweat ducts in the skin to minimize sweating. It also creates a barrier that prevents underarm bacteria from multiplying, so you feel and smell fresh.

7. Alum powder ensures perfectly whipped egg whites

It seems like whenever a recipe calls for a stiff peak with your egg whites, it can be tough to get them just right. The baking secret: “Adding a pinch of alum powder can bolster the consistency, making your meringues, soufflés, and angel food cakes rise with pride,” shares Bridenstine. Just sprinkle it into your eggs before you begin whipping for best results!

8. It removes unpleasant odors

The salmon you made was delicious and you can’t wait to enjoy leftovers tomorrow. The only problem? The fish is stinking up your fridge! To cut down on smells, place a small bowl of alum powder on one of the fridge’s shelves. The powder will absorb odors so your fridge will smell fresh in no time.

9. Alum powder helps heal minor cuts

When you accidentally get a small nick, don’t rush to put on a bandage just yet. Once you’ve washed the cut, grab your jar of alum first. “Alum powder can be used as a natural astringent and antiseptic by dissolving a small amount in water and applying it to minor cuts and wounds to help stop bleeding and prevent infection,” says David McLean, owner of Soapstones Natural Skincare. It also helps accelerate the healing process to avoid any scarring.

10. It polishes utensils

“When combined with water to form a paste, alum powder becomes an effective agent for polishing copper and silver,” says Bridenstine. “By dissolving discoloration, it can restore the shine to both heirloom pieces or everyday kitchen utensils, making them look brand new.”

A version of this article originally appeared in our print magazine, Woman’s World.

To discover other spice cabinet staples that do double duty, keep reading:

These 5 Spices (Yes, Spices!) Firm Wrinkles, Slim Cankles, and More

Which Spices Rev Metabolism and Aid in Weight Loss? Here’s What the Research Says

Stressed All Day and Can’t Sleep at Night? Psychologist Says *This* Extract Can Solve Both Problems — Naturally

These 3 Spices Can Help With Gut Health

What to do with leftover lemons after zesting

Lemon zest is great for boosting citrus flavors in pasta, poultry and seafood dishes. But once you’ve grated off its bright exterior, you’re left with a sad, bald lemon. And now that its protective layer has been scraped off, it’s bound to dry out and go bad more quickly too. Instead of letting leftover lemons languish, extract the juice and put it to work in the following ways:

Ease your allergy symptoms

Allergy seasons are stretching longer every year, triggering sinus inflammation, sniffling and sneezing. To the rescue: lemon. One study from Cases Journal suggests that drinking lemon juice daily may alleviate allergic rhinitis symptoms like a runny nose and itchy, watery eyes. To try: Squeeze the juice of 1 lemon into a glass (or half a lemon if symptoms are mild) and dilute with enough water to make it palatable. Consume daily. 

Make your microwave work better

Believe it or not, food splatter in your microwave can make it work harder since it has to expend extra energy heating up the mess in addition to your meal. A super-simple way to keep it clean and running at its peak? Zap a microwave-safe bowl filled with water, some lemon juice and a drop of vinegar until steam forms on the window. Then wipe the inside with a soft cloth, and any stuck-on food will come off easily!

Lighten age spots

Age spots, those small, dark areas that appear on your skin as you age, can be lightened with lemon juice’s natural bleaching properties. Simply soak a cotton ball in freshly squeezed lemon juice and dab it on age spots twice daily. Your age spots should look lighter in two months.

Keep brain fog at bay

Squeeze fresh lemon juice into a glass of water for a refreshing zing. Doing so lowers your risk of dehydration and brain fog more effectively than sipping plain water. Women’s health expert Michelle Schoffro Cook, PhD, says fruit acids speed water absorption in the small intenstine. Bonus: Research states that the scent of lemon can boost your mood too.

What to do with leftover lemons after juicing

Lemon juice is a superstar in the kitchen — its tangy flavor pairs well with sweet and savory foods. But once you’ve juiced your lemons, you’re left with a hollow, empty ‘shell,’ that, let’s be honest, usually gets tossed. You can get a second life from your juiceless, leftover lemons and cut down on waste. See how the halves and peels can make your food, home, and beauty routine easier.

Get cutting boards squeaky clean

Because you use cutting boards to prep a variety of veggies and meats for dinner, they can take quite the beating. Some stronger odors, like garlic and onion, can tend to seep in too, making them look and smell bad. To restore your cutting board to its former glory, sprinkle it with some coarse salt and scrub it with a halved lemon. The citric acid will remove stains and kill bacteria, getting rid of bad odors.

Make the best lemonade ever

Next time you make lemonade, don’t throw away the lemons you’ve squeezed. They’re the secret to a superior sipper. “Even when I added plenty of lemon juice, my homemade lemonade always tasted more like lemon water,” says test kitchen associate Julia Harnishmacher, “Until my chef friend let me in on his secret ingredient: lemon peels. After juicing the scrubbed lemons, toss the rinds into an empty pitcher, cover with sugar and mash the peels with a wooden spoon. This technique, called muddling, releases flavorful citrus oils for an extra-lemony taste. Then just add the lemon juice and water.” 

Brighten yellow nails

Lemons may be yellow, but they can make sure your fingernails aren’t. To restore a brighter sheen to your nails, cut a 1-inch piece of lemon peel; scrub each nail with the rind for 30 seconds, let sit for 5 minutes, then rinse. Citric acid in the peel acts like a mild bleach to remove stains from nails so they appear instantly brighter. 

Get counters sparkling 

When life hands you lemons, it turns out you can get sparkling clean counters! Vera Peterson, president of Molly Maid, adds lemon peels to a jar, fills it with white vinegar and lets it sit for a week or two. Then she combines one part lemon-peel mixture with two parts water in a spray bottle, moistens down countertops and wipes clean with a cloth. The lemon and vinegar’s acids cut through grease and grime. Says Peterson, “It’s a fantastically fresh, all-natural and nontoxic cleaning solution.” If you want an extra, all-natural scent boost, add a sprig of fresh rosemary to the bottle as well.

Ward off bugs 

Nothing puts a damper on dining al fresco quite like creepy-crawly uninvited guests. To the rescue: lemon peels. Placing lemon peels around the patio table stops houseflies from landing on your food, thanks to the bug-repelling citronella and limonene found naturally in the rinds. 

Deodorize your trash can

Trash cans smell bad — that’s no surprise. But sometimes, buildup of grime and nasty bits can make it smell even worse. To keep the stink at bay, throw a few lemon peels into the bottom of your trash can next time you take out the trash. They will absorb bad smells and leave a fresh, citrus scent each time you throw something away.

It’s easy to find and download these apps online, so if you’ve hesitated with trying to learn a foreign language, here’s your chance. Taking up a second language is one of the best ways around to energize your brain. Whether you start in childhood or at an advanced age, it will make your thinking more plastic and adaptable, vastly improve your global communication skills, and improve your overall cognition. Studies show you can learn a language at any age. If you start young, it will make your brain better able to use that language fluently throughout your life. If you start at an advanced age, it will keep your brain active and continually engaged.

Here, with the helpful counsel of professor Alexander Argüelles, one of the world’s most famous polyglots and former group director of immersion language programs at Concordia Lingua Language Villages in Bemidji, Minnesota, we point you to eight of the best foreign language apps available today.

1. Duolingo

Available on Web, iOS, and Android for free or for a nominal monthly fee if you want no ads and several extras (Duolingo Plus), this app is my personal favorite. My friend Veronica Barlow introduced me to it back in 2013, and I’ve been using it daily ever since. It has refreshed my knowledge of French and Spanish, making me fluent again after a 40-year hiatus. I also started Italian in Duolingo from scratch, and after a few years, I’m ready to try reading Italian stories, magazines, and novels. Duo is an extremely well-organized way to learn a language, with trees of lessons rising naturally from beginning levels to intermediate and beyond.

These lessons cover almost everything you need to gain fluency in a language — every aspect of grammar and vocabulary from every part of life (school, work, food, restaurants, entertainment, politics, etc.). You both read and hear the language from native speakers constantly, and you are endlessly tasked with translating from the foreign language to English and vice versa. Duolingo keeps you motivated by making everything a competitive game, with various rewarding point (“lingot”) systems. You get lingots for how many days in a row you learn and for “leveling up” to more complex lessons in each category. Those studying French, Spanish, German, Portuguese, and Italian can read dozens of truly amusing short stories in the foreign language with a cast of recurring cartoon characters.

Potential Negatives

While the most popular languages like French, Spanish, German, and Mandarin have had their learning trees keep growing, other languages with fewer millions of users have smaller content teams. Also, because so much competition is built into the app, says Barlow, “It is easy to treat it like a game instead of a learning tool.”

2. Rosetta Stone (rosettastone.com)

Also available on Web, iOS, and Android, Rosetta Stone has been around for three decades and has a big reputation. It may be the first thing people think of when they want to learn a language outside of academic settings. You get a few lessons for free, then you can pay a low fee per month to study a language, or $179 lifetime for unlimited languages. Rosetta Stone relies on complete immersion — the way I learned French at UCLA — where everything is taught in the language you’re studying, and you’re given no English explanation as a crutch to help you along. It’s an intense and well-tested way to teach language, where you’re hearing only foreign language and voices. There’s also a phrase book with close to 200 different entries that come in handy when you’re traveling or staying abroad, and a speech-recognition engine is designed to help hone your accent.

Potential Negatives

Some users find that with the immersive method, they miss being able to translate directly to their own language and vice versa, and feel a little adrift without English guidance. Argüelles says, “It’s still just a kind of entrée, good if you have no experience but if you have any background and you’re not terrified of grammar, it could be tedious and basic.”

3. Pimsleur (pimsleur.com)

Argüelles says that like Rosetta Stone, Pimsleur offers real language courses, but he believes it will take you further. Built around conversational learning, it’s largely hands-free so you learn on the go. According to Pimsleur, this reflects how people actually learn their own language, by constantly listening and responding. The app, available for Web, iOS, and Android, maintains that you can reach an intermediate proficiency with just 30 minutes a day for 30 days. You get a week free, then it’s $14.95 a month for just audio or $20.95 a month for unlimited access to its whopping 51 languages. Pimsleur has five levels with 30 lessons each. “You can get a real foundation and be able to use the language to some degree,” says Argüelles. As a bonus, it includes languages like Pashto and Levantine Arabic, which you don’t find elsewhere.

Potential Negatives

“It’s an all-audio course, so you don’t have any text to look at, and for an adult learner, it’s easier to learn by looking at things,” Argüelles says. Also, when all you’re learning is conversations, you don’t get a full context for grammar and the roots of the language.

4. Beelinguap (beelinguap.com)

Here you learn by listening or singing to audiobooks presented by native speakers, meaning the highlighted text is in front of you as you listen to the audio. Your first lessons can be free, and for $22.99 a year, you can keep listening to and reading narratives, news, and songs in iOS or Android at beginning, intermediate, and advanced levels in 14 different languages.

Potential Negatives

May be too advanced for true beginners.

5. Storylearning (storylearning.com)

This app is one of Argüelles’ four personal recommendations, and as its name indicates, it teaches you through reading stories in the language of your choice, with 12 languages to choose from. This program is extremely in-depth and intense. Italian, for example, offers more than 1,000 hours of instruction, and you can’t complete all that without gaining some fluency. There are also many extras like grammar lessons and a list with explanations of Italian’s 120 most important adjectives.

Potential Negatives

The creator of the app, Olly Richards, is a relentless self-promoter, continually extolling
his programs. And these programs are extremely expensive. Each set of lessons in Italian might cost you $297 or more, and if you buy the Platinum package, which includes ALL Italian lessons, it will run you $1,997. So don’t choose this site unless you are totally committed to investing yourself in a language and are ready to shell out big bucks.

6. Assimil (assimil.com)

Argüelles considers this the best place online to comprehensively learn a language: It offers true language courses like Pimsleur and Rosetta Stone, but it also offers bilingual audio texts like Beelinguapp. It features total immersion lessons that teach you grammar intuitively, with review sessions that make sure you incorporate it all. “It’s just a really nice mixture of all of these things,” Argüelles says. And Assimil offers high-tech improvements, including a digital format that you can plug into your phone.

Assimil features about 70 different languages, 20 or 30 of which are available for English speakers, including particularly good ancient languages like Chinese, Japanese, and Korean. People can start learning languages from scratch with this app and go straight through to more advanced levels, using the language on their own. “After four or five months with 30 to 40 minutes a day of work, you can read novels in, say, French, German and Spanish, though it may take longer working in more complex languages like Korean or Japanese,” adds Argüelles.

Potential Negatives

Like storylearning.com, this is an intense investment in time and a considerable investment of money.

7. Italki (italki.com)

Once you have gone through a more basic language app, it may be time to start talking with a native speaker. Here, Argüelles recommends italki, which supplies users with human tutors. Of course, there are free apps that enable such international discourse, but he feels paying the fee of a true private tutor will take you much further in a shorter period of time.

Potential Negatives

italki is not for beginners and it’s probably going to be a real financial investment. On the other hand, private tutoring can be invaluable.

8. Lingq (Lingq.com)

Co-founded by Steve Kaufmann, a Canadian ex-diplomat and polyglot, this app has a vast library of texts in different languages. Supplements include lessons teaching you words and phrases related to the texts and a measuring tool to track your progress. You can also import your own foreign language texts into the app of whatever you find interesting, from novels to YouTube videos. Once you input that text into the app’s “machine learning” program, it will analyze the vocabulary for you and provide a lot of other learning tools. A favorite in the polyglot community, this app is especially strong in Korean, Japanese, and Chinese.

Potential Negatives

Not the best entry point for rank beginners. Also, the more texts you read in the library and the more texts you enter into the program, the more you’re going to spend.

A version of this article appeared in our partner magazine, Supercharge Your Brain, in 2022.

Tip #1: Avoid a dead battery with a full tank.

Cars typically require more fuel to start in the winter, so even a half-full tank can make it tougher for the battery to do its job, says auto mechanic Luis Johnson. To preserve your battery’s strength, just make sure your gas tank is topped off the night before a cold snap. Johnson also recommends replacing your battery every three to five years.

Tip #2: Clear an icy windshield with white vinegar.

No need to expend energy scraping ice off the front of your car, says former professional driver and creator of ELDFocus.com Arnold Chapman. His trick: Mix one part water to three parts white vinegar in a spray bottle and spritz the windshield. Vinegar lowers the freezing point of water, so the solution will melt the ice in a snap.

Tip #3: Unfreeze car doors with this spritz.

“Have WD-40 lying around? Spray it along the rubber around your car door before a cold night,” says Lauren Fix, The Car Coach®. WD-40 is a rust preventative that is often used to loosen and lubricate moving parts such as hinges, wheels, rollers, chains, and gears. “Its petroleum repels water, so it will keep the door seal moisture-free, preventing it from freezing shut overnight.”

Tip #4: Outsmart stuck wipers with rubbing alcohol.

When your wipers are stubbornly frozen tight to your windshield, unstick them instantly with a solution of one part water to three parts rubbing alcohol, advises mechanical engineer Mark Andrews, founder of MotorAsk.com. “Simply spray the wipers, and the alcohol will gently dislodge them in seconds.”

A version of this article originally appeared in our print magazine, Woman’s World.

Avoid long return lines.

Time your return strategically. This year, many stores, including Walmart and Target, are taking a cue from Amazon, which allows you to return items until January 31, 2023, if they were purchased between October 11 and December 25, 2022 — an extension on their 30-day post-purchase policy. To avoid the return crowds, which peak from December 26 to 30, just pick a midweek day in January, when fewer people hit the mall.

Snag a cash refund.

Wait for 30 days. Stores are more lenient about returns if you’re willing to accept store credit —but in some cases you can secure cash, says Colin Palfrey, CMO of personal finance site Crediful. “If within 30 days you can’t find something at the store that you want to buy with the credit — and there are no visible warnings on the receipt or a sign at the returns desk saying credit will not be converted into cash — the store must offer a cash refund.”

Sidestep restocking fees.

Share quality concerns. In most states, stores waive restocking fees (about 10-25 percent of the cost of an item just to take it back) if an item was damaged, arrived late, or the wrong one was sent to you. But, says consumer expert Andrea Woroch, most customer service departments will also work with you if the issue has to do with product quality — it didn’t live up to its expectation or description.

Outwit a lost receipt.

Pick the longer line. Lost a receipt? If you paid with a credit card, use your statement as proof of purchase, says consumer expert Paul Mallory. Paid in cash? Aim for when the lines are long (from Christmas to New Year’s). Cashiers are more likely to give you the cash back just to keep the lines moving.

Redeem unwanted credit.

Trade in your credit for gift cards. If you wound up with credit for a return to a store you never shop at, use it to buy a gift card via GiftCash.com, CardCash.com or ClipKard.com. These sites will offer you either a gift card to another store where you’re more likely to use it, or give you a cash refund worth up to 90 percent or more of the amount on the card.

Enjoy free food.

Before you hit the road, download the apps or bookmark the websites of restaurants you love along the way. Nine out of 10 major eateries now allow you to order meals electronically. This saves you time since you can schedule your order before you arrive and show up when it’s ready.

Plus, most eateries offer money-saving incentives to use their electronic ordering options, like surprise freebies and loyalty programs that earn you points you can apply toward free food. Ordering via apps and websites means restaurants can serve customers faster, so they’re happy to give out lots of holiday deals to encourage folks to use them. For example, Krispy Kreme recently offered app users a free donut, Panera gave away a free pastry and Sonic handed out half-price cheeseburgers and drinks.

Fly for under $100

The cost of airfare has risen steadily this year. Luckily, you don’t have to spend a bundle to fly, thanks to a growing number of low-budget airlines that fly all over the country for as little as $70 round trip. How do they do it? They offer a no-frills approach (for example, there may not be Wi-Fi), but the flight is comfortable and as safe as large airlines.

To find out if low-cost carriers head to your destination, visit Avelo, Breeze, Allegiant, Frontier, Southwest, Spirit, Sun Country, and Silver. Going where budget airlines don’t fly? If traveling with others, try booking tickets separately. Single-purchased seats often sell for less, and since airlines have a limited number of seats for each price point, if you buy more than what’s available in that range, all your seats are charged the higher price.

Best Tip to Save Money on Cars

Renting a car? Visit Auto Slash, which compares prices across major rental companies and lets you know if the price of a reservation you already made drops so you can rebook it at the lower cost!

In addition, this money-saving website gives you access to rental coupons from different companies. You can also search discounts based on your memberships, such as AAA or a rental company membership.

To make the most informed decision, check out websites like Costco Travel and Expedia as well. By comparing prices across multiple websites, you’ll have a much better chance of scoring a deal.

Spend less at the fuel pump.

You probably know to avoid gas stations located within two miles of a freeway. Their prices are highest since they’re the first stops travelers spot when looking to fill up. Well, a new study found an even better way to save: Head to a gas station that also offers a car wash or convenience store. These amenities subsidize the cost of fuel, allowing owners to charge less.

Also smart: Visit a gas station near a Costco, Sam’s Club or other discount gas retailer. The same study found nearby gas stations lower their prices to compete.

Nab a vacation rental for $100s less.

Renting a house, condo, or apartment can often cost you less than a hotel while offering more cash-saving amenities – like a full kitchen and laundry room. To save even more: Do an online search for the address of a vacation rental where you want to stay. Most hosts list their properties on more than one travel website, which can mean you could pay less in fees by finding a cheaper option. Some hosts also list their rentals on their own website for hundreds of dollars less than you’d find on a vacation rental booking site because they don’t have to pay hefty host charges when you book through them directly.

A version of this article originally appeared in our print magazine, Woman’s World.

Here are the 11 uses for diaper rash cream you may not have known about.

1. Diaper Rash Cream for Spots

Although some skincare gurus disagree, many have found that diaper rash cream (Buy at Walmart, $6.14) works well for those pesky zits that pop up, going as far as calling the product a “lifesaver.” To try it for yourself, just add a dab of cream on the spot in question and leave overnight.

Because of the high zinc oxide content in the cream, it’s a brilliant way of helping to tackle acne, especially when you’re on a budget. This is because the zinc content helps fight inflammation and infection.

Once a week, apply a thin layer of cream before bed and wash any excess off when you get up in the morning.

2. Defend the Dye

How annoying is that leftover hair-dye around your face after dying your hair? Well, just putting a layer of diaper rash cream on the common areas will prevent it from showing.

3. Ease Dog’s Rashes and Dry Patches

Diaper rash cream is recommended by many vets for any dry patches and rashes your dog may have. Make sure you rub in very well so your dog doesn’t lick it off!

4. Stop Thigh Chafing

Applying some diaper rash cream to your thighs will stop chafing in the hot summer and instantly make you more comfortable.

5. Shield Hands from Fake Tanner

When you want to add a summer glow to your skin there’s nothing worse than the residue left behind on your hands. Apply some cream to your hands before you apply your tan and it will act as a barrier. Say goodbye to any brown marks on your hands.

6. Use It as a Cheap Primer

Apply a tiny bit of diaper rash cream here and there before applying your foundation and your make up won’t sink into your skin.

7. Soothe Stings and Bites

Diaper rash cream is also the perfect remedy for your mosquito bites and wasp stings.

8. Protect Those Nails

The last thing you want to see is your perfect nails you just got done, ruined by washing the dishes. So protect them with diaper rash cream. Its water-repellent base creates a protective seal.

9. Relieve Sore Noses

For the flu and cold season, diaper rash cream is great to treat sore noses after blowing your nose a hundred times. Apply under the nose to get rid of dryness.

10. Reduce Scars

Diaper rash cream is also a good cover up for any scar or stretch marks. But, if it doesn’t work for you, and is causing more irritation, stop using the product.

11. Nix Pain After Plucking Eyebrows

Agh, there is nothing worse than the pain and soreness after plucking your eyebrows. Apply some cream to reduce the redness and the stinging. Try it out after waxing too.

This article originally appeared on our sister site, First For Women.