In this article, we’ll delve into the differences between civet coffee and regular coffee, explore its safety for consumption, and consider the ethical considerations surrounding its production.

More interesting article: What Chinese food is not spicy? spicy, cold dish food

What is civet coffee?

Civet coffee, also known as Kopi Luwak, is a unique and highly prized type of coffee that originates from Indonesia and other parts of Southeast Asia. What makes civet coffee so special is its unusual production process and distinct flavour profile.

First things first, let’s talk about the critter behind this coffee craze: the civet. Civets are small, nocturnal mammals that somewhat resemble a cross between a cat and a mongoose. These creatures have a penchant for coffee cherries, the fruit that contains coffee beans. When they feast on ripe coffee cherries, they digest the outer layers of the fruit but cannot fully digest the beans inside. The beans then pass through their digestive system, undergoing fermentation and enzymatic reactions along the way.

Now, here’s where it gets interesting. After the civet has done its part, the coffee beans are collected from its droppings. Yes, you read that correctly. The beans are carefully cleaned, processed, and roasted to create what is known as civet coffee.

You might be wondering, why would anyone want to drink coffee that has passed through an animal’s digestive system? Well, it turns out that this unusual journey through the civet’s digestive tract actually imparts unique flavours to the coffee beans. Some coffee enthusiasts describe civet coffee as having a smooth, rich, and slightly earthy flavour with hints of chocolate and caramel. The fermentation process during digestion is said to remove some of the bitterness typically associated with coffee, resulting in a milder brew.

Despite its unique flavour profile and the labour-intensive process involved in its production, civet coffee commands a premium price tag. It is often considered one of the most expensive coffees in the world, with prices reaching hundreds of dollars per pound.

However, the popularity of civet coffee has also raised concerns about animal welfare and sustainability. In the past, civets were often kept in captivity and force-fed coffee cherries to produce larger quantities of civet coffee. This practice, known as civet farming, has been criticized for its ethical implications and potential harm to the animals involved.

In response to these concerns, many coffee producers now focus on ethically sourced civet coffee, where the beans are collected from wild civet droppings rather than from captive animals. This approach ensures that civet coffee production remains sustainable and minimizes harm to the animals.

What’s the difference between civet coffee and regular coffee?

Civet coffee and regular coffee may seem similar at first glance, but there are several key differences that set them apart. Let’s break it down in an easy-to-understand way.

1. Production Process:
   • Civet Coffee: Civet coffee, also known as Kopi Luwak, undergoes a unique production process. It starts with civets, small nocturnal mammals, consuming ripe coffee cherries. The beans inside these cherries pass through the civet’s digestive system, where they undergo fermentation and enzymatic reactions. After being excreted, the beans are collected, cleaned, processed, and roasted to produce civet coffee.
   • Regular Coffee: Regular coffee, on the other hand, follows a more conventional production process. Coffee beans are harvested from coffee trees, typically by hand or using mechanical methods. The beans are then processed to remove the outer layers of the cherry, dried, sorted, roasted, and ground to produce coffee.
2. Flavor Profile:
   • Civet Coffee: The journey through the civet’s digestive system imparts unique flavours to civet coffee. It is often described as having a smooth, rich, and slightly earthy taste with hints of chocolate and caramel. The fermentation process during digestion also helps reduce the bitterness commonly associated with coffee.
   • Regular Coffee: Regular coffee can vary widely in flavour depending on factors such as the coffee bean variety, growing conditions, processing methods, and roasting techniques. However, it generally exhibits more traditional coffee flavours, ranging from nutty and fruity to bold and bitter, depending on the roast and brewing method.
3. Price and Availability:
   • Civet Coffee: Due to its labour-intensive production process and limited availability, civet coffee is considered one of the most expensive coffees in the world. Prices can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars per pound, depending on factors such as quality and rarity.
   • Regular Coffee: Regular coffee is much more widely available and affordable compared to civet coffee. It is produced on a large scale in coffee-growing regions around the world and is available in various forms, including whole beans, ground coffee, and instant coffee, at a range of price points to suit different budgets.
4. Ethical Considerations:
   • Civet Coffee: The production of civet coffee has raised ethical concerns in the past, particularly regarding civet farming practices where civets were kept in captivity and force-fed coffee cherries. However, many producers now focus on ethically sourced civet coffee, collecting beans from wild civet droppings to ensure the well-being of the animals involved.
   • Regular Coffee: While regular coffee production does not involve animals in the same way as civet coffee, it still has its own set of ethical considerations, such as fair trade practices, environmental sustainability, and labour rights for coffee farmers and workers.

While both civet coffee and regular coffee share the common trait of being brewed from coffee beans, they differ significantly in terms of the production process, flavour profile, price, availability, and ethical considerations. Whether you prefer the unique taste of civet coffee or the familiarity of regular coffee ultimately comes down to personal preference and values.

Is civet coffee safe to drink?

Civet coffee is generally considered safe to drink when produced and handled properly. However, there are some considerations to keep in mind:

1. Hygiene and Processing: The safety of civet coffee largely depends on how it is collected, processed, and handled. Proper hygiene practices during collection and processing are crucial to minimize the risk of contamination and ensure that the coffee is safe for consumption.
2. Quality Control: It’s important to source civet coffee from reputable producers who adhere to strict quality control standards. Ethical and responsible producers prioritize cleanliness, sanitation, and quality throughout the production process to ensure the safety of their coffee.
3. Health Risks: While the idea of coffee beans passing through a civet’s digestive system may seem unappealing, the fermentation and enzymatic reactions that occur during digestion can actually contribute to the unique flavor profile of civet coffee. From a health perspective, the digestive process typically removes harmful bacteria and pathogens from the beans.
4. Regulations and Standards: In regions where civet coffee is produced and sold, there may be regulations and standards in place to ensure food safety and quality. It’s important to familiarize yourself with these regulations and purchase civet coffee from reputable sources that comply with industry standards.
5. Allergies and Sensitivities: As with any food or beverage, individuals with allergies or sensitivities to coffee or its components should exercise caution when consuming civet coffee. Additionally, people with gastrointestinal conditions or sensitivities may want to consult with a healthcare professional before trying civet coffee.

When produced responsibly and handled with care, civet coffee is generally safe to drink. However, consumers should be mindful of sourcing civet coffee from reputable producers, practising good hygiene when brewing and serving the coffee, and considering individual health considerations before indulging in this unique beverage.

In conclusion

Civet coffee provides a unique window into the speciality coffee scene with its distinctive production method and complex taste that distinguishes it from ordinary coffee. While generally considered safe when properly produced and handled, it’s wise for consumers to be vigilant and obtain it from trusted producers who emphasize quality and cleanliness.

Additionally, the ethical issues linked to civet coffee production underscore the need for conscientious sourcing and sustainable methods to protect the welfare of the animals and communities involved. Whether captivated by its singular flavours or its rare charm, civet coffee beckons us to delve into the confluence of nature, tradition, and gastronomic intrigue that defines the coffee experience.

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You’re not alone in this struggle. Many of us focus on what we should do, but when was the last time you thought about what you shouldn’t do?

Perhaps, the key to regaining control of your time and your sanity lies in mastering the concept of ‘Not-To-Do’ lists. Let’s delve into this idea, which could potentially transform your life.

Why To-Do Lists Aren’t Sufficient To be clear, to-do lists have their purpose. They help us organise our tasks, give us a sense of control, and provide a satisfying feeling when we check off completed items.

However, don’t be fooled by that sense of accomplishment. As productivity expert David Allen notes, “You can do anything, but not everything.“

Also read: What is Workplace Stress? How to Beat Stress in the Workplace?

So, are all the items on your to-do list genuinely worth your time?

Here’s the surprising part: studies reveal that 41% of the items on to-do lists never get done. Even worse, these unfinished tasks tend to weigh on your mind, creating mental clutter due to something called the Zeigarnik effect.

This means you’re essentially setting yourself up for stress and inefficiency.

The heart of the issue is this: to-do lists often make you focus on many unimportant tasks rather than the critical few. Try applying this principle: the Pareto Principle. It suggests that roughly 80% of your results come from just 20% of your tasks.

So, why not prioritise that 20%?

Identify the high-impact activities that align with your goals and eliminate the fluff that’s just filling up your to-do list.

Instead of completing those unimportant tasks, recognise that they don’t serve you, and simply cross them off your list. Make space for what truly matters.

As we move from understanding the ‘why’ to exploring the ‘how,’ let’s see how a ‘Not-To-Do’ list can be the game-changer you didn’t realise you needed. Ready to get started?

Escape the Trap with a ‘Not-To-Do’ List

We’ve explored the drawbacks of the common to-do list. Now, let’s change the game.

Introducing the ‘Not-To-Do’ list, a simple but powerful concept often overlooked in the world of productivity.

We’re often busy being good at many things, but what’s preventing us from achieving greatness? It’s frequently the things we’re good at but shouldn’t be doing.

Focus on what you need to avoid, and you will unlock more time and concentration. You’re not just trimming away at inefficiencies; you’re going to the root of the problem.

The average person spends about 2.5 hours per day on social media. That’s equivalent to 5 years and 4 months over a lifetime! Imagine what you could achieve by reclaiming even a fraction of that time.

Here’s how to start your ‘Not-To-Do’ list:

1. Identify Time-Drainers: Which activities or distractions consume significant portions of your time?
2. Recognise Emotional Triggers: Are there actions that leave you feeling drained or stressed?
3. Prioritise: Rank these activities by their negative impact on your life.
4. List three activities you’ll actively avoid this week. Put the list where you’ll see it regularly, like next to your work area, on your fridge, or as wallpaper on your phone. Make it visible, and review it daily to observe how your focus improves when you’re not caught up in these time-wasting activities.

This isn’t just about eliminating time-wasters; it’s about nurturing your focus for activities that truly deserve your time and energy.

Finding Balance

If you’re still with me, you’re probably intrigued by the idea of a ‘Not-To-Do’ list and maybe even excited about it.

But hold on, I’m not suggesting you toss your to-do list out the window. Even Warren Buffett, one of the most successful investors ever, emphasises balance. He once said, “The difference between successful people and really successful people is that really successful people say no to almost everything.”

So, it’s not about choosing one list over the other; it’s about finding a balance between them. Think of them as the yin and yang of productivity – opposite yet complementary. Research shows that multitasking can reduce productivity by as much as 40%. That’s right; your to-do list might not only be insufficient but also counterproductive if it leads to multitasking.

Here’s a twist in your routine: Create a to-do list as you usually do, but this time, create a ‘Not-To-Do’ list right alongside it. For every high-impact task on your to-do list, identify a low-impact task on your ‘Not-To-Do’ list. This gives you a clear visual guide to balance your day for maximum effectiveness.

So, with this fresh perspective, are you ready to harmonise your life and work with well-thought-out, balanced lists?

In summary

As we wrap up this enlightening discussion, let’s remember what brought us here in the first place: the desire to achieve more, do more, and paradoxically, waste less.

After all, isn’t the essence of life about continually refining how we spend our precious time?

The ball is in your court now. You know what to do – and what not to do. Are you ready to make it count?

The post The Era of ‘To-Do List’ Has Ended. It’s Time To Start Doing The ‘Not-To-Do List’ appeared first on MT Mag - creative to real life stories.

If you have a job where you spend at least eight hours a day sitting at a desk and a family with two or more children, you’re likely familiar with the effects of stress. Losing a job and struggling to find a new one can also be incredibly stressful. It’s not just work that causes stress; various factors can pile up and make workplace stress worse.

Stress is more common today than ever before. Recent statistics show that approximately one million Americans miss work due to stress, and over 93% of workers feel stressed while on the job, affecting their personal lives. According to the Mental Health Foundation, 51% of adults who experience stress also feel depressed, and 61% feel anxious. But what exactly is stress?

What is Workplace Stress?

In simple terms, stress is the feeling of being overwhelmed or under pressure. In some cases, short-term stress can actually boost productivity and help people achieve their goals. However, stress becomes harmful when it becomes a long-lasting issue.

Chronic and harmful stress usually results from poorly managing short-term anxiety or dealing with ongoing stressors. Common causes of workplace stress include a hostile work environment, changes in leadership, low wages, and excessive workloads. Lack of social support and personal problems can make this stress even worse. It’s essential to know that prolonged stress can weaken your immune system, increase the risk of heart disease, and lead to changes in behaviour. So, how can you cope with or reduce workplace stress?

Also read: The Type of Healing Undertaken By a Physiotherapist in Castle Hill

7 Ways to Beat Workplace Stress

It’s important to understand that workplace stress can’t be completely eliminated, but you can effectively manage it with these tips:

1. Identify Your Stressors:
   • Figure out what’s causing your stress at work. It could be heavy workloads, discrimination, or low pay. Ethical issues like harassment or segregation can also be sources of stress.
   • Take action by reporting problems to management or seeking mental health support. Being proactive can help reduce workplace stress.
2. Be More Intentional:
   • Approach your work and life with intention. Set goals and make to-do lists to guide your daily activities.
   • Start your day with a positive mindset and maintain it throughout the day. A growth mindset can help you see challenges as opportunities rather than threats, reducing stress.
3. Leverage Productivity Tools:
   • Use modern productivity tools to streamline tasks and save time. Collaboration, time management, project management, and communication tools can make your work more efficient.
   • These tools not only automate repetitive tasks but also help you track productivity and work flexibly from anywhere.
4. Talk to HR or Your Supervisor:
   • Engage HR or your manager to address workplace issues like bias, segregation, tight deadlines, or a hostile environment.
   • For concerns about working conditions, HR managers can make adjustments that eliminate stressors.
5. Take Deep Breaths:
   • When feeling overwhelmed, take deep breaths. Deep breathing increases oxygen in your blood, calming your mind and reducing stress hormones.
   • A brief break, some deep breaths, and a change of scenery can help you approach tasks with a clearer, less stressed perspective.
6. Exercise Regularly:
   • Regular exercise has both short-term and long-term health benefits, including boosting your immunity and enhancing mood, concentration, and critical thinking.
   • Exercise reduces the stress hormone cortisol and increases endorphins, the “feel-good” hormones, making stressful situations seem more manageable.
7. Prioritise Rest and Sleep:
   • Make sure to get at least eight hours of sleep each night. Quality sleep recharges your brain and helps you better cope with stress.
   • Rest is essential for your overall well-being, especially when facing the demands of a busy work life.

Final Thought

In summary, workplace stress is common, but it becomes a problem when it persists and affects various aspects of your life. If you find yourself constantly stressed, take action to eliminate stressors and apply effective coping strategies to improve your quality of life and overall well-being.

The post What is Workplace Stress? How to Beat Stress in the Workplace? appeared first on MT Mag - creative to real life stories.

If you are thinking about creating and maintaining a playground, read on to find out more…

How do you make an awesome playground?

Once you know you want to build a playground, and where you want to build it, there are several elements that should be taken into account. Not all children are alike and will like the same things, and not all areas are set out in the same way. However, if you consider these steps you should be well on your way to creating an awesome playground for any child to enjoy.

1 – Consider different types of play

A big push has been made in the last few years to understand the different ways that children learn and play. Some kids are all about visuals, others sound, and others like to create or imagine instead. Your playground should try and incorporate as many options as possible, to entertain the most children. Here are some of the main ways to play and how you might represent them:

• Active play – space and equipment for running, jumping, spinning and climbing.
• Imaginative play – playhouses, ships, kitchens where you can play a role.
• Manipulative play – sandboxes, blocks, water systems for pouring, sifting, stacking etc.
• Creative play – musical instruments/ items that make noises, places you can draw and paint.
• Sensory play – things you can touch, smell, hear, and that you can explore for yourself.
• Reflective play – places where you can relax, be quiet, and reflect like a quiet bench in a garden.

2 – Think about the elements you enjoyed the most

While not all playgrounds have to have the customary swings and slides, there is a reason they tend to remain in most areas. Kids love them, and they are good for various ages and games. One tip is to avoid overdesigning the space. If you have a perfect idea of what your playground should look like, and how it should be played with, you aren’t looking through the eyes of a child.

Remember that children don’t always play the way we expect them to, so try and avoid too many specifics. Yes, the slide may be a slide to you, but to a kid, it could be a snake or a rainbow instead. Stick with bold colours and leave the specifics to their imaginations.

3 – Remember where you are

It is wonderful to have a theme for your playground, but often you will want it to fit in with or reflect your local area. Using a boat or undersea theme for a playground by water, for example, would absolutely class as awesome.

Ideally, you should aim to fit your playground in with the spirit and style of the community. If you go for a playhouse, base it on the way houses are built where you are. If you have a shop, go for a local brand, and so on.

4 – Go with the flow – but don’t forget a few surprises!

Playgrounds should have a natural flow, going from the swings to the slide, from the monkey bars to the see-saw. There should be spaces to run, to enjoy the trees and plants, to have an adventure. When you are setting up your space, think about how this flows and how to make sure it is natural and makes sense.

That being said, kids will always do something unexpected, and they like the unexpected too! Throw in some different textures, some handles to turn or buttons to press. A hidden mural or different perspective can make the children feel like they are in on a secret, and they are sure to love it even more.

5 – Don’t forget the basics!

As well as the so-called basics of what you would expect to play on in a playground such as the playing equipment itself, remember all the important components that perhaps aren’t so glamorous. These include:

• Shade – kids (and adults) need plenty of shade in their playground to shelter from the sun.
• Toilets – always a good idea!
• Water – a drinking fountain or similar can really make your playground feel more welcoming and thoughtful than one without.
• Bins – people are going to make a mess, and having bins encourages cleanliness.
• Soft flooring/ protective coverings – there are many types of cheap flooring, but a good playground will have some sort of protective flooring. This could be bark, sand, rubber tiles or Astro-turf.
• Adult seating – it’s tough enough being a parent without the occasional rest, so make sure you put in a few benches for them as well.

How do you maintain a playground?

Now that you have your playground, it is essential to maintain it correctly. You need to:

• Keep it clean
• Watch for hazards
• Refresh or check the ground material
• Check that safety rules are up and visible
• Check all equipment and so on.

As you can see, this is hugely important and not easy or really possible to do by yourself. The best option is to hire an experienced playground maintenance and renovations company. They will make sure that your playground is as safe and maintained as it can be at all times.

What are the most common hazards in playgrounds?

Some hazards in a playground are hard to prevent. It is likely that at some point, a couple of children charging around will bump into each other, for example. The key is to prevent what you can and minimize the damage from what you cannot. Some of the major common hazards in a playground are:

• Broken or damaged equipment
• Uneven walkways
• Lack of protection underfoot
• Sharp or pointed surfaces
• Insects nests or hives
• Rusted or worn-away parts

Final thoughts

With so much to think about even after you have designed and created your ideal playground, it is understandable why so many people look to the experts to help out. By hiring a competent and reliable maintenance company to check over and repair your playground, you are doing all you can to keep your playground safe and hazard free, the way it needs to be.

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With so many terms being thrown at you, it is sometimes important to slow down and consider exactly what we want to achieve, and how to get there. Here we will take a thorough look at sustainability, what it means and why it is important for you and the environment.

What is sustainability?

In essence, sustainability means what it says. It is the idea of sustaining, or maintaining something, to keep it at a certain level. In terms of the environment, sustainability is the avoidance of depleting natural resources. The goal is to maintain a balance so that we are creating as much as we are using, so that we don’t run out and the planet and future generations don’t suffer.

In the 1980s, the United Nations defined sustainability as “meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs”.

Economic development needs to happen. So many countries are struggling to feed themselves, to grow their economies and trying to meet the needs of their people. But the environment must also be a priority for the present and the future.

There is a growing understanding that we must all do our part to achieve sustainability for so many reasons, and in a variety of ways. There are several areas considered priorities of sustainability, firstly through the three pillars, which are:

• Environmental
• Economical
• Social

Here we will focus more on environmental sustainability.

Why is sustainability important? 

Sustainability is not only important, but it is also vital for our continued progress, happiness and indeed our very survival. There are many reasons and factors that can be considered here, but in broad strokes, sustainability is important because:

• Society depends on the natural resources we are using up – By making extraction methods and how we use these resources more sustainable, we will have continued access to the very materials that help our society to function.
• Industrial practices are harming the environment – This further reduces the available resources that we all need.
• Growing populations have their own developing needs – As there are more people, so there will be a higher need for these resources.

If we damage the soil too much food won’t grow, and then we won’t be able to feed ourselves. Likewise, if we use up all the fuel then we will starve due to the inability to farm, transport and keep produce. You get the idea.

At the end of the day, we have one planet and one finite set of resources. By achieving sustainability, we ensure that the planet has time to replenish itself so that we don’t run out of what we need, and neither does the Earth.

How do you achieve sustainability?

Arguably there are two ways to achieve sustainability. The first is to reduce how much of nature’s resources you are using. The second is to increase efficiency, decreasing the amount that gets wasted in the process.

For the former, moves like reducing the number of older cars, increasing the use of green energies and alternative fuels and coming down on big polluters are all big ways to move towards sustainability. Green energy like solar power and wind are far more sustainable than fossil fuels, and far better for the environment overall.

One of the best ways to achieve sustainability is by everyone doing their part. At home, at work, governmental and international levels, there is so much that each of us can do. Some examples of how you can make a difference are:

• Through composting – Whether you buy an electric composter, get a compost bin for your garden or recycle your organic matter through commercial composting, you are taking a huge step in the right direction.
• Through reducing your water usage – Many people think taking a shower is enough of a step, but even a 10 minute shower is as bad as taking a bath. Try taking a 4 minute shower and you will save upwards of 40 litres of water in one go.
• Through going plastic-free – we have long been told to bring reusable bags to the supermarket. Now try and apply that everywhere from pre-packaged veg to online shopping and single-use water bottles.
• Through shopping smart – reducing what you buy is one way to help, though that doesn’t mean going cold or hungry. Try and buy only as much food as you will eat, consider getting your clothes second-hand, and ask yourself if you need something before you buy it.
• ●      Through driving less – there are many modes of transport available for a lot of people including cycling, buses, trains and metros. They are all better than driving yourself, but if you have to drive, and are on the lookout for a new car, pick a greener option if you can, and carpool whenever possible.
• Through reducing your energy bills – You can turn down your heating, benefit from tinted windows, increase your insulation, only boil the water you need and on and on. Every day, every choice, you can take steps towards sustainability.

When it comes to increasing efficiency, you can also see this in the removal of older cars from the roads, rising standards and constant technological improvements. These all move us away from older inefficient strategies to more sustainable uses of resources and energy.

Final thoughts

As you can see, sustainability is still not the easiest of subjects to wrap your head around. Just remember that the aim is to stop using more natural resources than the Earth can replenish. To achieve sustainability is to use less today, so that future generations may have more in years to come. However you do your part, start working towards sustainability today.

The post What is sustainability, why is it important and how do you achieve it? appeared first on MT Mag - creative to real life stories.

Things to do in Port Douglas

Visit the Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system and can be explored by snorkelling or scuba diving. You’ll have the opportunity to experience a variety of marine life, including colourful fish, sea turtles and even whales!
A visit to Port Douglas wouldn’t be complete without visiting this natural wonderland.

Go on a Rainforest Tour

The Daintree Rainforest is the largest continuous area of tropical rainforest in Australia. It’s also home to some of the most diverse wildlife in the world, including over 1,500 species of birds and some 400 species of plants. To get a closer look at these impressive numbers and see what makes this place so special, take a guided tour through the forest with one of Port Douglas’ many local operators. You’ll learn about its lush vegetation, diverse wildlife and breathtaking views on your way through this natural wonderland!

Take a Cruise

• Cruise along the coast of Port Douglas and explore the nearby islands, reefs and beaches.
• Take a day trip to Magnetic Island, located just off Port Douglas’ doorstep.

Explore the Town

If you’re looking for things to do in Port Douglas, Queensland, there is no better way to get acquainted with the town than by exploring it on foot. The town itself is small enough that walking around will take no more than an hour or two, but there are plenty of shops and restaurants along the way that make it worth your while.

If you’re looking for a place to start, head over to The Esplanade where you’ll find many shops selling souvenirs and gifts as well as restaurants serving up local favourites like fresh seafood and tropical fruit smoothies (a must-try!). From here, continue down towards Four Mile Beach where there are even more places for shopping or dining–or just relaxing on one of their colourful beach chairs!

Visit the Wildlife Park

• Visit the Wildlife Habitat and get up close and personal with some of Australia’s native animals.
• Learn about Australia’s unique wildlife by watching a show at the Crocodile Adventures Amphitheatre, where you can see crocodiles jump out of the water and feed them from your seat!
• See koalas in their natural habitat at Koala Gardens, where you can also learn about other Australian animals such as kangaroos and dingoes (wild dogs).

Relax at the Beach

• Take in the stunning views
• Relax on the sand
• Enjoy a swim or snorkel

Take a Hike

If you’re looking for a way to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise at the same time, then hiking is an excellent choice. There are many trails in Port Douglas that will show you some of the most beautiful landscapes Australia has to offer. One such trail is called “The Valley of Lagoons,” which takes hikers through rainforests and along waterfalls before ending at a beachfront location where they can swim or snorkel. This hike will take about two hours and is rated as a moderate difficulty by TripAdvisor reviewers:

Go Fishing

If you’re looking for a way to relax and unwind, fishing is the perfect activity. You can head out on a boat or take advantage of one of the many private piers in Port Douglas. There are plenty of fish to catch off the coast, including barramundi, mackerel and trevally.

Enjoy the Nightlife

When it comes to nightlife, Port Douglas has something for everyone. If you’re looking for a quiet drink with friends or want to dance the night away, there are plenty of options available.
There are many bars and clubs in Port Douglas that cater to all tastes. You can enjoy live music at places like The Backyard Bar and Grill or get your groove on at Club Tropicana. If you’re looking for something more intimate, try out one of the many restaurants that offer live jazz performances throughout dinner service!

Take a Day Trip

If you have the time, it’s worth taking a day trip to nearby towns such as Cairns, Mossman and Cape Tribulation. You’ll be able to experience some unique experiences that are not available in Port Douglas itself.

If you’re flying into Cairns Airport, getting to Port Douglas is a breeze. Here are a few options for transportation:

Getting Around

Shuttle Bus

One of the most convenient ways to get from Cairns Airport to Port Douglas is by taking a shuttle bus. These shuttle buses run regularly and can take you directly to your accommodation in Port Douglas. The journey takes about an hour and prices vary depending on the company and your destination. 

Car Rental

If you prefer to have your own vehicle to explore the region, renting a car is a great option. Several car rental companies operate at Cairns Airport, including Avis, Budget, Hertz, and Thrifty. The drive to Port Douglas from Cairns Airport takes around an hour and is relatively straightforward, with the main highway being well-signposted.

Private Transfer

If you’re looking for a more comfortable and personalized option, you can book a private transfer from Cairns Airport to Port Douglas. Several companies offer this service. These companies provide a range of vehicles from luxury sedans to minibuses and can accommodate individuals or groups of any size.

The post Things to do in Port Douglas appeared first on MT Mag - creative to real life stories.

When it comes to flooring many of the materials and types may cost far more than you are willing to pay, especially when that type may well need replacing after a few years.

Here we will take a look at the cheapest and most durable flooring on the market and help you find that perfect new floor without having to sell the house to buy it.

What is the cheapest way to do flooring?

Within each kind of flooring you will find cheaper and more expensive examples, so shopping around and choosing to buy from a quality yet great value places like DIY Floorboards is your best bet for finding the right deal for you.

In terms of the cheapest possible product, that would most likely be sheet vinyl, which comes in a long roll and can supposedly be swiftly and easily be laid out on top of your current floor (depending on the state of the floor and many other factors). Sheet vinyl can be found for less than $2 per square foot, making it a real bargain, but it does have a few downsides. 

Vinyl is waterproof, so you shouldn’t have to worry much about excess moisture, but it can be damaged. If you cut your vinyl, drop something hot on it or otherwise mar or tear your floor, you will have to replace it. Because it is one long strip, you would have to redo the entire floor, whereas if you had gone for planks or tiles you could replace only the offending area.

If you like vinyl, and the price tag, but would prefer it came in a more manageable shape, you can always get plank or tile vinyl instead. These kinds of flooring are easier to install, hard-wearing and still waterproof, making them excellent value for money.

Traditionally vinyl floors could be seen as fake or plastic looking, and there is no point in spending money on a new floor if it looks like it’s been there for decades. However, new technology has improved the look and feel of vinyl in leaps and bounds, and top-quality vinyl planks and tiles can now seem almost indistinguishable from the materials they emulate.

There is of course a variety of price points here depending on the quality of the flooring and which you go for, but a small amount more spent now could end up saving you having to replace your floor later, and can make a real difference aesthetically.

Another fantastic option is laminate, which is again far cheaper and more affordable than real wood flooring, but can look almost as beautiful. You can find laminate flooring for less than $3 per square foot, but for higher-quality products that look more realistic, you may have to pay a little more.

If you look hard enough, you can find low-cost flooring in a variety of materials including carpet and tile, but the cheapest and best option around is really vinyl flooring in whichever form you prefer to buy.

What is the most durable type of flooring?

Funnily enough, the best and most affordable types of flooring also happen to be among the most durable options on the market. Vinyl flooring in general is waterproof, which puts it a step above a lot of other materials that you can buy. Even real wood will warp and can grow mouldy if exposed to too much damp, while vinyl will last and last.

Opting for luxury vinyl means that as well as being waterproof, your floors will also be hardwearing, scratch resistant and able to take heavy foot traffic, pets, and anything else you can throw at them. The protective and wear layers as well as the rigid core make vinyl planks and hybrid floors the best choice in terms of durability.

Hardwood is a great choice for durability, and if it does get scratched or worn you can always give it a sand down or refinish it – something you can’t do with hybrid or engineered wood. That being said, the latter is much less likely to scratch in the first place with its incredible resistant layer protecting the plank.

Laminate can be a great choice, but you should double-check how waterproof the kind you buy is, and it often is not a good choice for bathrooms and moisture-rich environments. You can find waterproof laminate though, and it is worth the extra cost as without this extra protection you could soon see warping and swelling at the joints where moisture has leeched in.

Certain types of carpet and tile are also wonderfully durable, but in terms of the flooring that can take water, wear and tear the best, luxury vinyl and hybrid floors are the most hardwearing and long-lasting options for you today.

What is the most popular flooring choice?

At the moment, the most popular flooring choice is arguably wide planks in grey tones, either laminate, luxury vinyl or hybrid. The colour allows you to easily pair your floor with any furniture, and it gives the room a classy yet neutral look that should continue to look gorgeous for decades to come.

Real wood floors are still revered and longed for by many, but the costs involved can put them far out of reach for lots of people, and with such incredibly realistic alternatives available, it is no wonder that so many people choose to go for luxury vinyl flooring instead.

Conclusion 

If you are looking to redo your floors in the cheapest way possible, you will be able to find options for bargain prices in several different materials. If you are willing and able to pay a little bit more, however, you could get yourself a stunning, long-lasting and durable floor that fits the fashions and looks timeless for affordable prices from the right sellers.

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What type of paint is used in commercial buildings?

The exact right kind of paint for your commercial building will depend largely on where exactly you will be painting. There are many varieties for you to choose from, and each is tailored towards different conditions and has its own pros and cons. Whether you are looking to conceal flaws in the wall underneath, wish for the most durable option, or are simply looking for a low-cost lick of paint, there is the right choice for you here.

Flat Paint

Flat paint is an ideal lower-cost option, easy to apply and great for covering up any small imperfections in the wall at the same time. Very much a concealer paint, if you have any stains or blemishes that other paints would not help to hide, flat paint will get the job done. It is also easy to touch up and apply another coat in the future.

The downside to flat paint is that it is not as easy to clean as the other options available, and is weak in the areas of moisture resistance and durability. If you are in a busy environment where the level of wear is key, flat paint may not be the best choice for you.

Satin Paint

Another good option for your commercial building is satin paint. This comes with a subtle shine that brings an extra level of light and brightness to your building. It is also easier to clean and lasts longer than flat paint in high-traffic areas. With a mid-sheen finish and its level of durability, satin paint is an excellent choice for many areas in your commercial building.

However, this kind of paint does require more preparation than flat paint. You must make sure that your walls are sanded down, and clean of any grease, dirt, or chips that will show up under any coats that you apply. It is also usually more expensive than flat paint, though the improved look and prolonged likely use can make this a worthwhile expenditure.

Gloss and Semi-Gloss Paint

A wonderful choice for its final look, high level of durability and easiness to clean, gloss and even semi-gloss paints are one of the favourite types of paint for many buildings. The quality of the paint means that you won’t have to repaint as often and the sheen will brighten any room.

This kind of paint again requires a great deal of preparation. It is also essential that it is applied correctly. A bad paint job with gloss is harder to correct, while a professional job done by a company like Platinum 3 Commercial Painting in Brisbane will leave your building looking fantastic. In this case, the extra initial expense is well worth it in the long run.

Another potential issue is that when you paint a commercial building you must consider how long it will take to paint and to dry before you can open again for business. Choosing a latex paint in gloss or semi-gloss will give you the same excellent finish while drying in a shorter time, so make sure to check the kind of gloss you want before buying.

How often should you paint a commercial building?

The general industry standard for painting commercial buildings is once every 3-5 years, though there are many factors that can impact this time frame. Regular painting is essential to protect the outside of the property as well as the inside, to keep it looking fresh and clean and to help prevent structural damage. Overexposure to sunlight may cause your paint to fade and shorten the timeline until your next coat is required, while little-used or less-lit buildings may have longer gaps between repainting.

While your building may not require painting that often for structural and protection reasons, you may also choose to repaint more often for aesthetics. A coat of paint can revitalise a property, inspire your team to work harder and make it more welcoming for possible clients. There are many benefits to repainting your building, though roughly every 3-5 years should be sufficient.

What is the best colour for commercial buildings?

The best colour for your commercial building will depend entirely on what it is you are trying to achieve. There are no shortage of colours for you to choose from, indeed today you can find everything under the sun and create your own shades fairly easily. If you have a personal preference there should be no trouble in finding the right colour for you.

Different colours can often mean different outcomes or provoke different feelings in customers and staff. Green is supposed to be a very relaxing colour, lighter colours will promote the feeling of space and airiness, and blue and orange are said to help your staff feel motivated and increase efficiency.

For a timeless and professional yet approachable look, most commercial buildings lean towards a neutral colour palate, but the choice is up to you.

Conclusion

To Sum Up:

• There are many different types of paint and finishes available depending on the kind of building you have, how durable it needs to be, and how much you wish to spend.
• Gloss or semi-gloss paints are often the best, tending to be long-lasting and easy to clean.
• You should repaint your commercial building every 3-5 years depending on how faded or worn it is looking as well as personal preference.
• The choice of colour is up to you, but neutral colours are a safe option.

Painting your commercial building can have a huge impact on your property. You may wish to join the myriad of other businesses that do it right and have it professionally painted. You will see how much better it looks immediately, notice that it won’t need touching up and time soon, and see that it was the right choice for you.

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Do – Start slowly

A swimming pool is a lot more than a hole in the ground with water in it.  Uncovering your pool and filling it with water does not mean that it is ready to use, in fact it is definitely unsanitary and might even be dangerous.  The pool will need to be cleaned, both of debris and chemically, then the pump needs to be on and running long enough to pull pretty much all of the water in your pool through the filters.  This adds to the cleaning and gets your pool to a reasonable point where it should be safe enough.

Don’t – Ignore the pH level

The pH level in the water is one of the biggest management tasks pool owners face.  This tells you how acidic or alkaline the water currently is and as such regular checks are essential as if the pH level deviates one way or the other it can irritate eyes and skin or worse.  Testing kits are widely available and make monitoring the pH level simple and rebalancing it is just a case of introducing the relevant chemicals to the water.

Do – Use algaecide

Algae is one of the biggest threats to a clean pool.  It builds up on the sides of the pool and in the pipes, pump and filters which can lead to discoloured water, bad smells and even sickness for swimmers.  Using algaecide to treat a problem before it grows out of hand is an absolute must and treatments aren’t complicated or expensive.  But if algae is allowed to take hold then the cost or repair and refurbishment will be a lot more than a bottle of chemical treatment.

Don’t – Be afraid of basic maintenance and repair

Patching loose grout or replacing broken tiles should be a task that pool owners get comfortable performing.  These are relatively simple and low cost repairs that prolong the life of the pool, providing a better all round experience.  For bigger problems or more substantial repairs then knowing when to call in the experts is a skill all of its own.

There is plenty to know about owning a pool, but these four simple tips are a great place to start.  Forgetting that a pool is actually a careful balancing act of numerous factors is a surefire way to shorten the life of the pool and, in a more severe case, cause serious sickness in swimmers.  Hopefully, this is a great starting point to ensure that you look after your pool so that you can enjoy it safely.

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Let’s start with comfort 

Australia is hot. That’s a fact. It’s so hot in fact, that during the summer months the heat can at times become unbearable. By having your windows tinted, you can significantly improve the comfort in your home. The tinted windows will invariably reduce the impact of the sun coming through into your home, making the temperature more manageable.

Reduced energy bills 

Leading onto improved levels of comfort in your home, tinted windows will also mean reduced energy bills. This is largely due to the fact that you won’t need to have your AC’s blasting out cool air all day to combat the heat. Certainly, tinted windows aren’t going to be a guaranteed substitute to an air conditioning unit, but they do make a huge difference. 

Over time, what you save on your energy bills each month, will begin to offer you a ROI. 

Environmentally friendly 

Of course, if you’re using your AC units a significant amount less, then you’ll be doing your bit for the environment. Reduced energy bills and less demand for electricity can only help to reduce your carbon footprint. Perfect if your conscious about climate change! 

Additional privacy 

Don’t you just hate it when somebody walks past your house and has a little nose through the window whilst you’re trying to relax with your family? By having tinted windows installed, nobody will be able to see into your home from the outside. Or at least, not during the day. Naturally, if it’s dark outside and you have your lights on then there will be a certain amount of visibility. That said, what else are curtains for if not for privacy of an evening? 

Security 

In addition to privacy offering you greater security (largely due to the fact that potential burglars won’t be able to see your belongings), the durable nature of tinted film adds to the security as well. This is because they are incredibly resistant to shattering. So, should someone attempt to break into your house through a window, they’re going to have a tough time of it. 

Shatter resistant 

If in the event of an earthquake, or an accident, your windows will be significantly less likely to shatter. And should they break for any reason, they won’t smash into a million pieces as the tinted film will hold the shards of glass together. 

Find a suitable window tinting company to invite into your home 

If you’re interested in benefiting from tinted windows, then you’ll need to find a suitable window tinting company to assist you. Look online and you’ll find a wealth of reliable companies. Once you’re settled on a company that you like the look of, you can get to work in improving the aesthetic appeal, safety and privacy of your home. 

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