10 Simple Steps to Reduce Your Daily Microplastic Consumption

10 Simple Ways to Reduce Microplastic Exposure from Your Everyday Life

Microplastics, tiny plastic particles, are increasingly polluting our environment and infiltrating our daily lives. While the issue may seem daunting, making simple changes to your routine can significantly reduce your exposure. Here are 10 easy ways to minimize microplastic intake:

1.  Start with your kitchen. Replace plastic spatulas and utensils with wooden, stainless steel, or bamboo alternatives. This is the easiest action you can take right now.

2. Remove microplastics- generating plastic cutting boards and replace them with glass, wood, or bamboo boards. Over time, plastic cutting boards can release tiny particles that mix with your food and, ultimately, your body.

3. I went through my cupboards and got rid of most of my plastic containers. Invest in glass or stainless-steel containers. Besides, you will probably only need to buy them once in your lifetime.

4. So-called safe water is no longer safe. Use a filter that removes microplastics from drinking water. Stay away from bottled waters, as they are the worst culprits.

5. Another area we often overlook is processed foods, which come in plastic packaging and contain microplastic additives. Try to limit these as much as possible.

6. This is very similar to #5. Fruits and vegetables that are wrapped in plastics may contain microplastics so replace them with fresh fruits and vegetables that are not wrapped in plastic.

7. I was buying sea salt as a better salt option, but was shocked to learn that I am ingesting more microplastics because our oceans are ruined. Opt for Clean Salt or salt that is less prone to plastic contamination.

8. I drink a few cups of tea daily and didn’t think of the microplastics in the tea bags. Now I remove the tea from the tea bag and put it in a stainless-steel tea diffuser to make tea.

9. Another common microplastic source is seafood. Be mindful on your seafood consumption and choose sustainably-sourced options.

10. Another common way to remove microplastic is to stay away from plastic straws and cutlery.

By incorporating these simple changes into your daily routine, you can significantly reduce your exposure to microplastics and contribute to a healthier planet. Remember, every small step counts!

Why You Should Use a Surge Protector Extension Cord While Traveling

The Importance of Surge-Proof Extension Cords for Travelers

I have been traveling for decades with a regular travel extension power strip, and it never crossed my mind to use a surge protection cord while traveling. I got lucky in many countries where it’s normal to have voltage hikers like Bangladesh, India, Morocco, Philippines, and Thailand. But I never had any issues.

Then I read an article about a traveler whose laptop got fried in Thailand due to a power surge.  A power surge is a sudden increase in voltage in an electrical circuit. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including lightning strikes, faulty wiring, and power grid fluctuations. When a power surge occurs, it can damage your electronic devices, such as laptops, smartphones, and cameras.

When traveling, it's crucial to prioritize the safety of electronic devices, especially when plugging them into unfamiliar power sources. A surge-proof extension cord shields devices from power fluctuations. These specialized extension cords feature multiple outlets, allowing you to charge several devices simultaneously. This is particularly useful in hotel rooms or airports with limited power outlets.

In searching for a portable, lightweight, and compact surge-proof extension cord, I found the Anker 2000J Surge Protector USB Power Strip. This is the lightest, minimal cord I could find. This cord is definitely slightly heavier than my non- surge protection power cord, but I don’t mind the slightly heavier weight and bulkiness to save my expensive electronic devices.

As a content creator, this is even more important because I don’t want to burn my laptop or phone in the middle of a trip and lose all my video files.

I will be trying my new Anker 2000J Surge Protector USB Power Strip on my next trip and will update you guys on my YouTube Channel .

Top 10 Airport Mistakes Travelers Make and Tips to Avoid Them

10 Common Airport Mistakes and How to Avoid Them for a Stress-Free Travel Experience

Avoiding some common mistakes can make traveling a lot smoother, stress-free, and enjoyable. Here are the top 10 simple mistakes travelers forget, especially navigating through airports.

1. Arriving Late – Most of us are guilty of this. Always allow plenty of time for check-in, security checks, and finding your gate. My own golden rule is I always arrive at least 4 hours before takeoff. I adjust the commute time to maintain this depending on where I am at.

2. Not Using Travel- or Flight-Tracking Apps – Using travel- and flight-tracking apps can significantly enhance your travel experience. These apps provide real-time updates on check-in times, flight delays, gate changes, baggage carousels, and more. I rely on apps like Kayak and TripIt to keep my travel plans organized and stress-free. These tools notify me of any changes and help me stay on top of things.

3. Overpacking – Always travel light. Packing too much can lead to excess baggage fees and difficulty maneuvering through the airport and your entire trip. I have many tips on packing light on my channel.

4. Ignoring Security Regulations – Follow local security regulations to go through airport security smoothly.

5. Forgetting Travel Documents – Make a list of the documents you need to carry and triple check before leaving home.

6. Not Understanding Baggage Policies - Different airlines have different baggage policies, including your connecting flights. Ensure your luggage meets the requirements.

7. Ignoring Layover Time - Make sure you have enough time between flights. I recommend at least 2 hours.

8. Not Using Airport Lounges - Take advantage of lounges to make your wait more comfortable. Many credit cards offer free lounges. Some lounges offer day passes, which can be a worthwhile investment for long layovers.

9. Not Keeping Eye on Belongings - Always keep an eye on your belongings to avoid losing them or becoming a target for theft. Use a secure bag and keep your valuables close to you.

10. Forgetting to Enjoy Your Trip – Don’t stress too much over your trip. It is important to enjoy this unique experience, as it won’t happen every day. 

First Impressions: McDonald's in Ao Nang, Krabi (Thailand)

First Time Trying McDonald's in Thailand: A Surprising Experience

After arriving at Ao Nang from Bangkok, we wanted snacks and coffee. As we were searching for a coffee shop, we saw a MacDonald’s and decided to try it right away. It was our first time trying the fast-food chain in this part of the world, and we were curious to see if there were any differences from our experiences back home.

Unlike the ubiquitous 7-Elevens scattered throughout Thailand, McDonald's offered a welcome change of pace. The restaurant itself was clean and modern, with the familiar ordering system featuring touchscreens and the option to pay by credit card. Deciding on a snack, we opted for a classic Americano coffee (sugar and creamer are apparently not included with Americano orders) and two cheeseburgers. I had noticed before that in Asia, they don’t recognize regular coffee like in North America and Americano is the closest thing that comes to a regular coffee.

Here's where things got interesting: the price. While McDonald's might be considered a budget option in many places, the cost in Ao Nang (and anywhere else in Thailand, as we found out later) surprised us. Each cheeseburger came in at 100 baht, which translates to roughly $4 CAD. Similarly, the Americano was 90 baht, or about $3.70 CAD. We noticed that a Quarter Pounder with Cheese was 170 THB (7 CAD) and a double Big Mac was 210 THB (8.50 CAD).

While the price tag was a lot higher than expected (Thailand is a place where food is very cheap), the convenience and familiarity of McDonald's were undeniable. It was a fun little pit stop on our Ao Nang adventure and a reminder that sometimes, a classic burger and coffee can hit the spot even when you're exploring a new and exciting place.

What Are the Top Countries to Visit in Southeast Asia

Countries You Must Visit in Southeast Asia: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Southeast Asia is a treasure trove of diverse cultures, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities. Here are the three top countries to visit in this enchanting region:

Thailand

I just completed my Thailand trip and I was blown away by the natural beauty and tourist-friendly demeanor of this country. Known for its bustling cities, serene beaches, and rich cultural heritage, Thailand offers something for everyone. Bangkok, the capital, is a city that never sleeps, replete with vibrant street life, grand palaces, and bustling markets.

The northern city of Chiang Mai is famous for its temples and mountainous landscapes, perfect for trekking and exploring local hill culture. The southern islands, such as Phuket, Krabi and Koh Samui, are renowned for their stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, ideal for diving and snorkeling.

Philippines

The Philippines is an archipelago of over 7,000 islands, each offering unique experiences. Manila, the capital, is a bustling metropolis with a rich history and vibrant nightlife.

For beach lovers, Boracay is a must-see with its powdery white sands and turquoise waters. Palawan, often referred to as the last frontier, boasts stunning limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, and some of the best diving spots in the world. The island of Siargao is a paradise for surfers and those looking to escape the crowds.

I have visited the Philippines 2 times so far and hope to visit more in the future.

Malaysia

Malaysia is a melting pot of cultures, offering a blend of modernity and tradition. Kuala Lumpur, the capital, is known for its iconic Petronas Twin Towers, bustling markets, and diverse culinary scene.

Penang, often called the food capital of Malaysia, offers a mix of colonial architecture, street art, and delicious street food. The island of Borneo, shared with Indonesia and Brunei, is home to some of the oldest rainforests in the world, offering unique wildlife experiences, including the chance to see orangutans in their natural habitat.

I will be visiting Malaysia next and can’t wait to set foot in this tourists’ favorite country.

Vietnam

Vietnam is a country of contrasts, from the bustling streets of Hanoi to the tranquil waters of Ha Long Bay.

The ancient town of Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its well-preserved architecture and vibrant lantern-lit streets. Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon, is a dynamic city with a rich history and a gateway to the Mekong Delta.

The northern region offers stunning landscapes, including the terraced rice fields of Sapa and the majestic limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay.

Although the infrastructure may not be as developed as Thailand and Malaysia, Vietnam is working hard to get there. Vietnam is now one of the top tourist hotspots in this region and I have plans to visit this incredible country shortly.