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Irie to Aurora: Van Life with Two Roaming Nomads

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I met Noami and Dustin one hot New Orleans day while moving a piano from one house to another.  Dustin was a project manager for a construction company and Noami was an environmental scientist studying the coastal systems in Louisiana.  They seemed like your average couple, but what I discovered throughout our friendship was that they were anything but average.  Like myself, they also suffered from a particularly strong and itching wanderlust.  For this, they found and created a pretty fascinating solution: why not get a van, hit the road, work remotely, and explore?

Thus was born their adventure, which they interestingly named “Irie to Aurora“.  Their time on the road is now nearing its first year of completion.  Along the way, they’ve amassed over 8,400 followers on Instagram.  Here’s a sneak peak into their #vanlife journey.

Who’s idea was this?  How did you come up with it?

I think the idea to buy a van and live on the road was both ours. When Dustin and I met it was one of the first things we talked about, and throughout our relationship, we fantasized about the idea until we finally took the leap. Best idea ever.

We both love to travel. We’ve taken road trips together as often as we could since before we were even dating. As our relationship grew, these trips became more frequent and for extended periods. We also followed other people on social media who were doing the same thing, living on the road. This inspired us to do what we had always dreamt of and talked about.

How long has this journey been and how long do you plan to continue?

It has been eleven months on the road and we would like to sustain this lifestyle for as long as we can.

How did you come up with the name “Irie to Aurora”?

Noami is from Trinidad, and the word Irie is slang meaning “powerful and pleasing; a state of feeling great.” Initially, when we planned the trip, our destination was Alaska to see the aurora borealis, hence Irie to Aurora.

What has been your greatest challenge to date?

Dustin works remotely so this requires us to stay on the grid most of the time and often hunt for wifi. His schedule is fluid, so finding a routine has been challenging.

What do you guys do for work while on the road?

Dustin currently works remotely as a construction estimator.  On the road Noami works odd jobs and freelance gigs online.

What have you been the most homesick for?

Overall, I don’t think we’ve been particularly homesick. There have been moments where we reminisce about New Orleans and miss the little things, like the food, and the music, and the people.

In what ways has this trip changed you individually and as a couple?

Living on the road and sharing 80 square feet has come with its fair share of challenges. But I think it has brought us closer together. We’ve learned each other’s strengths and weaknesses in ways we never thought we could. Living in such close quarters 24/7 has forced us to be more mindful of our attitudes and how we impact each other’s “space” because tempers do flare. We’re more compassionate with each other and with ourselves. We have created a space where simplicity can flourish, a lifestyle we have both come to value. Learning to let go and let be, keeping an open heart and mind is the everyday lesson and this attitude has led to so many new friendships and experiences. Overall, life on the road has been deeply transformative, it has brought us closer to ourselves and to each other. Dustin and I are better people because of this decision and we are so grateful for each other and our life together.

Plans for another road trip in the future?

I think the journey we’re on is perpetual. There will be a few pit stops along the way but that’s all part of it. However, we do have plans for Canada and maybe Central and South America, after Alaska of course.

What was your favorite place along the way?

Hmm… Choosing a favorite place is tough because each place is so unique with its own beauty, but we love Baja, Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, and Oregon.

Van life might not be for everyone, but their journey is enough to make you want to buy a one way ticket to a random spot on the globe.  In an increasingly interconnected world, the ability to be fluid with your roots was once an impossibility that the internet is now making possible.  Perhaps this is a leap we should all consider, at least once in our lives.  Just like Tolkien said, not all those who wander are lost.

What's up!? I'm Katrina. I'm wandering, collecting, witnessing and learning. I'm drawn to all things found at the intersection of art and technology. If I could go back in time, I think I'd be best friends with Mark Twain, Nikola Tesla and Cleopatra. When I'm not obsessing about the human endeavor or the nature of time, I'm probably cooking or dancing.

Lifestyle

BedStory® 12 Inch Memory Foam Hybrid Mattress

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mattress

Do you need a good night’s sleep but your mattress is ruining that? It’s time to find a brand-new mattress to relieve yourself of the stress of the day and doze off without a hitch. Learn more about the Bedstory 12-inch Memory Foam Hybrid Mattress and what people think about the product here!

BedStory

wave hybrid mattress
Image source: BedStory

BedStory has helped millions of sleepers get quality sleep with their mattresses, pillows, and toppers. Since 1983, the company has sold its products to over 90+ countries. Plus, they ensure that only state-of-the-art technology makes it to their products to improve people’s sleep. Additionally, their product line is made in the USA, ensuring quality standards are met every time new products are manufactured.

Specifications

bed specs

Price: $369.99 to 559.99 (tax included)

Mattress Sizes

The BedStory Memory Foam Hybrid Mattress comes in four sizes: twin, full, queen, and king. Plus, it comes in 12 or 14-inch sizes, too.

Mattress Layers

Have a restful sleep with six layers of comfort. The soft-knit fabric is on top that helps your mattress breathe. Plus, it keeps you cool while you sleep. It has a fire-resistant barrier and the gel bamboo charcoal memory foam. Plus, it has high-density foam, pocket springs, and base foam.

Lumbar Support

Have terrible back pain and want to alleviate it during sleep? BedStory has lumbar support embedded in its mattress. Pocket coils and orthopedic foam act as lumbar support while you slumber. 

Cooler and More Refreshing Sleep

Their memory foam infuses gel and bamboo, making it feel cool on your body as you sleep soundly. It’s also made out of knitted fabric to let the mattress breathe. Additionally, you don’t have to worry about odors since it has moisture-wicking and odor-reducing properties. Plus, it also dissipates heat.

Motion Isolation

Do you or your partner toss and turn all night long and can’t get a wink of sleep? BedStory reduces the noise of joints shuffling all around. It’s all because the springs absorb any noise that could disturb your slumber.

Mattress Expansion

Since this is a bed in a box, it will take time for your brand-new mattress to expand to its original state. The BedStory mattress expands within 48 to 72 hours.

Delivery, Warranty, and Return

Expect your brand-new BedStory Mattress to arrive within 2 to 5 business days! The wait will all be worth it once it arrives at your doorstep.

Your BedStory Memory Foam Hybrid Mattress will have a 10-year warranty.

Regarding returns, you can try sleeping on the new mattress for 30 nights’ worth of sleep. However, if you’re not fully satisfied with the mattress, a return is possible within a 100-night window.

Certifications

You’ll be safe and sound when sleeping on a BedStory mattress since it’s CetriPUR-US and OEKO-TEX Certified. This ensures that you’re sleeping on a mattress without any harmful chemicals.

Recommended Bedframes

BedStory suggests that you can place the memory foam mattress on a platform, box spring, or slatted frame bedframe for an optimized sleeping experience. You want to make sure that you’re putting the bed on a solid bedframe to let the mattress expand properly and let you sleep without any disruptions.

The Ideal Sleepers

woman sleeping

Like many products, the mattress isn’t a one-size-fits-all. Not everyone will enjoy their slumber with this mattress. However, it’s good to know who’ll love sleeping in this bed all day long.

  • Light and sensitive sleepers
  • Babies
  • Elders
  • People experiencing regular joint aches and pains

Maintaining The BedStory Mattress

woman making the bed

Most beds last seven to ten years. After all, it’s expensive to change mattresses regularly. During your sleep tenure with BedStory, you can care for it to make your mattress last long. Here are tips from BedStory to help you maintain the mattress.

  • Don’t eat on the bed
  • Use a vacuum to remove dirt or debris
  • Spot clean stains using detergent
  • Put a mattress protector
  • Rotate the mattress to avoid further wear and tear. Rotate it every 3 to 6 months
  • Air out the mattress
  • Don’t jump on the bed

What Do Sleepers Think?

reviews

BedStory sleepers love the mattress firmness. It’s medium-firm, so if you’re looking for something soft, you’re better off buying a mattress topper to make it soft. Plus, some sleepers find it easy to sleep faster. Additionally, you don’t have to worry about aches and pains upon waking up or during the middle of the night.

However, BedStory isn’t for everyone. For instance, some sleepers find that the mattress doesn’t expand or inflate to its actual size. Other sleepers say that firmness isn’t enough for them. Plus, other sleepers experience aches and pains while sleeping on this mattress.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the BEST mattress is essential to getting a good night’s sleep. The BedStory Memory Foam Hybrid Mattress could be the next mattress to grace your bedframe. Many sleepers rave over the mattress since they sleep easier, faster, and better. Plus, some experience less or no pain upon waking up, which is a game-changer for many sleepers. Finally, it’s value for money considering the specs. You don’t need to change your mattress regularly. Plus, you can return the mattress if it’s not a good fit!

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Lifestyle

6 Top Adventure Travel Destinations

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skydiving

Nothing makes your trip exciting than visiting the best adventure travel destinations. Adrenaline junkies are always on the lookout for places that offer thrilling experiences, beautiful landscapes and satisfying challenges. If you haven’t decided on the next travel adventure, here are 00 destinations you must look into. 

1. New Zealand

sky diving

New Zealand is known for its breathtaking landscapes and offers many adventurous activities. It’s one of the best places to try sky diving. Whether you want to go solo or do tandem sky diving, New Zealand is the next place to visit. You can enjoy a picturesque view over 144 islands in the Bay of Islands with Skydive Bay of Islands.

2. Nepal

everest hiking

If you’ve been dreaming about hopping on a place and trekking and climbing the mountains of the Himalayas, then book a trip to Nepal. This adventure activity is only for the experienced as Mount Everest isn’t for the faint of hearts. If you’re a novice climber, you can go as high as the Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit. However, the more serious climbers will go as far as the peaks of Mount Everest and Annapurna. 

3. Chile

glacier trekking

South America boasts some of the best adventure travel destinations, including Chile’s Torres del Pain National Park. You can start ice hiking the Grey Glacier from the Refugio Grey, beginning with a 15-minute zodiac boat ride to glacier’s western arm. Once you walk the glaciers, you can revel in its size and beauty. Enjoy peering into the deep blue crevasses or explore the magnificent ice caves. The more advanced ice hikers can even do a vertical ice climb!

4. Costa Rica

surfing

If you’re looking into the next surf and beach travel destination, hop on a plane to Costa Rica. Bring your surfboards to Pura Vida and enjoy the rich culture and simply contagious vibes. The stunning coastlines are laden with surf camps for the novice and experienced surfers. You’ll also enjoy a few restaurants and chic cafes to go about your work day. You can surf Costa Rica all year round on its two coasts and enjoy warm waters and a tropical climate. 

5. Australia

scuba diving

Australia offers both mountains and beaches for both the adventure seekers on these terrains. And it’s no surprise why The Great Barrier Reef gets more than 14 million recreational visitors yearly. Travelers enjoy fishing, sailing, boating, swimming, and snorkeling. But those who seek adrenaline rush go scuba diving in The Great Barrier Reef because it’s one of the best scuba diving destinationa in the world. It features an abundance of marine life divers won’t find in any other diving destinations. 

6. South Africa

shark cage diving

Experience the diverse wildlife in South Africa and indulge in activities like bungee jumping and shark cage diving. Marvel in the grandeur of these creatures and experience their presence up close inside a cage underwater. Visit South Africa’s popular shark cage diving hotspots like Port Elizabeth, Durban, Cape Town, Mossel Bay, and Gansbaai. 

Where to next?

Traveling to adventure destinations requires careful planning and consideration to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Research your destination thoroughly, including local customs, weather conditions, and any travel advisories. Plan your itinerary and activities in advance, but also be flexible to accommodate unexpected changes. Assess your physical fitness level, prepare accordingly, and enjoy!

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Lifestyle

Style Redefined: The 10 Best Men’s Apparel from SWET Tailor

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man sitting on a skateboard

Fashion trends come and go, but a timeless brand emerges that redefines style and excellence. SWET Tailor is established to create clothes for the modern guy. The company’s signature offerings include streamlined looks, comfortable designs, and muted tones with pops of color. Scroll down to explore the best men’s apparel from SWET Tailor that seamlessly merges comfort with elegance and individuality with global appeal. 

1. SWET Jogger

gray swet tailor jogger

Elevate your casual wardrobe with the SWET Jogger, perfect for your recreational lifestyle. SWET Jogger offers distinct quality and comfort. It is made from 100% Suprese™, a 96/4 cotton/spandex blend fabric by SWET Tailor. 

The jogger pants have an adjustable detailed drawstring waistband and a stitch articulation detail at the knee panel. In addition, the back zipper closure pocket and side zip pockets make it more versatile. 

SWET Jogger is available in eight colors and fits true to size from Small to XXL. 

Price: $99

2. Fairway Jogger 

black swet tailor jogger

Fairway Jogger features a “dress pants meets jogger” style. You don’t have to choose between a golf look or street style with this functional pant that looks great on and off the course. Made from an exceptionally lightweight fabric blend, it offers incredible comfort and style. Fairway Jogger has lined front and zipper back pockets with a hidden front zipper pocket.

Price: $119

3. All-In Polo

yellow polo shirt

This classic polo is one of SWET Tailor’s Bestsellers. You can wear this ultra-comfortable top from meetings to dinners. Tuck it in or not, SWET Tailor-made the All-in Polo in the perfect length to be styled either way. It has an adjustable 3-button placket and a self-fabric reinforced collar for extra comfort. Plus, there are 11 colors you can choose from. With this comfort, we bet you’ll purchase more than one! 

Price: $69

4. The Duo Jacket

dark blue swet tailor duo jacket

Jackets are a men’s fashion staple. Update your collection with The Duo Jacket by SWET Tailor. It may look like a classic denim jacket, but it’s not. This jacket is made from an exceptional fabric blend and combines traditional design and comfort. The Duo Jacket is available in Black, Navy, and Denim Grey. 

Price: $149

5. Lightweight SWET-Hoodie

pink swet tailor hoodie

From the jackets, let’s move to the trendy and functional hoodies. Stand out from the crowd with this crewneck sweatshirt in SWET Tailor’s 100% Suprese™ material. The hoodie has a custom-engineered 4-way stretch to recoil and rebound. It is lightweight enough to be styled under your favorite jacket. 

Price: $99

6. Duo Joggers

white swet tailor joggers

This White Duo Joggers is a perfect addition to your closet as you anticipate wearing your whites in spring or summer. Thanks to their modern jogger style, you can wear them anytime, anywhere. It features an elastic waistband and cuff for an easy fit, belt loops for versatility, and an inner waist drawstring for a polished look. 

Price: $129

7. Virtus Short

black swet tailor shorts

The Virtus Short is an effortless blending of classy and casual styles. The super lightweight fabric and sleek design make you want to own multiple pairs. Why not? SWET Tailor’s athleisure shorts are designed for comfort and style, always ready for your next adventure. 

Price: $99

8. Stretch Fleece Zip Hoodie

blue swet tailor zip hoodie

The Stretch Fleece Zip Hoodie is a perfect choice if you’re a zip hoodie guy. It’s one of the best fleece hoodies on the market today. The Stretch Fleece Zip Hoodie has two front pockets for comfort and rib contrast trims for a modern look. Elevate your wardrobe essentials today by adding this hoodie to your closet. 

Price: $99

9. Softest T-Shirt

light blue swet tailor t-shirt

This incredibly soft t-shirt guarantees a silky, lightweight feel. The Softest T-shirt is so comfortable you’ll never want to take it off. The rounded hem and short length help achieve a better fit that flatters any size. With 18 unique colors, you’ll start buying now and collect as many colors as you want! 

Price: $49

10. The “Classics” Bundle

swet tailor classics bundle

For an easy, convenient, and life-changing wardrobe upgrade, go for The “Classics” Bundle. With SWET Tailor’s men’s clothing bundles, we tick off the hassle out of your morning routine. Each set is packed with comfortable and versatile pieces designed to match perfectly with others. 

The “Classics” Bundle includes: 

  • One SWET-Shirt
  • One Pair of All-In Pants
  • One Pair of Duo Pants 

Price: $240

About SWET Tailor 

SWET Tailor is an American company established to redefine casual wear for a modern lifestyle. They believe that style and comfort must come together. With that goal in mind, SWET Tailor created a comfortable and office-ready collection of athleisure wear. The company offers versatile, stylish options that seamlessly transition from casual to formal.

SWET Tailor vs Lululemon and Other High-End Brands 

In the early days of the 20th century, there was only leisure. Then, as decades passed, came athletics. The popularity of sports such as golf, tennis, and jogging paved the way for a new clothing style—eventually, a clothing style known as athleisure was born. However, when athleisure was first introduced, the term was quite literal. It refers to athletic clothing to be worn at leisure. 

Fast-forward to 2023, sportswear as fashion clothing is linked with cultures worldwide, paving the way for more brands offering these apparel collections. 

SWET Tailor stands out in a competitive landscape alongside high-end brands like Lululemon. They are known for exceptionally high quality, good value clothing. Based on the reviews. Their clothing’s color survived several washes without fading. 

While Lululemon and other premium brands have established themselves in the market, SWET Tailor differentiates itself in several key aspects, such as: 

  • Redefine style
  • Craftmanship and detail
  • Commitment to versatility that seamlessly adapts to various lifestyles 
  • Global appeal

While Lululemon and similar brands have their market presence, SWET Tailor’s commitment to quality positions it as a captivating choice for those seeking a distinctive wardrobe.

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