Published on: 22 February 2016
Last Updated on: 29 May 2021
Congratulations! You made it through another holiday season, hopefully, unscathed by fraudulent use of your credit cards.
While the winter holiday season is generally a time full of goodwill, a time when people try to see the best in each other (or at least be less pessimistic), criminals aren’t dissuaded by the thought of getting coal in their stockings. They think nothing of the problems that their unlawful behavior causes for the rest of us. In 2014, criminals cost Americans nearly $15 billion over the holiday season through credit card fraud, retail theft, fraudulent returns, and even counterfeit money. There’s no way of calculating the amount of time lost by victims of credit card fraud in the resulting hassle of straightening out the situation with their credit card company or the police.
It’s never too early to start getting ready for next winter’s holidays, and many of the sensible shopping tips designed to keep your financial information safe can be practiced at any time of the year. As with many things in life, making the effort to take precautions can save you a lot of aggravation in the long run. When you are out shopping, stay alert. Don’t leave your wallet in your coat or in your purse unattended – not to use the dressing room, go back to the buffet line or visit the restroom. Don’t leave it in plain sight in your car, either. Criminals who want to steal your personal information are very good at watching and waiting for you to step away. They are also known to work in teams with one person distracting you while another snatches your wallet. Many times, purchases are made before the card’s owner even knows it’s missing.
Of course, many of us prefer the convenience of shopping online. A recent study shows that card, not present (CNP) fraud attempts occurred in 2015 in one out of every 86 transactions, up significantly from one of every 114 transactions the previous year. Furthermore, the popularity of “buy online and pick up in-store” is a fresh opportunity for many cyber thieves, because most retailers don’t mandate re-running cards when consumers come for their purchases.
While banks and credit card companies absorbed 90 percent of the fraudulent transactions reported in 2014, unsuspecting consumers continue to put themselves at risk by browsing in free Wi-Fi zones, using public mobile hotspots, or shopping online at unverified websites. Also, clicking on links in emails rather than going to the websites of well-known retailers by typing them in the address bar can lead to trouble. All of these scenarios make it much easier for hackers to intercept online transactions, passwords and financial information.
Credit cards are preferable to cash, which could be counterfeit and is virtually impossible to track and to debit cards, which do not offer much protection against future loss. And credit card companies are supposed to help their clients in cases of fraudulent use. If you suspect someone has hijacked your card or card number, notify your card issuer immediately to cancel the card and arrange for a replacement. Most card companies cap your liability at zero dollars if you report the unauthorized credit card charges soon after discovering them, and under the Fair Credit Billing Act, you can be held liable only for the first $50. You should also file a police report.
If you have several credit cards, stick to using just one for shopping to help contain the damage in case the worst happens. And it never hurts to check your credit report. Federal law allows you to get a free copy of your credit report every 12 months from the three credit reporting companies. Consider spacing out your requests to every four months to ensure year-round coverage. The reports can be requested by visiting the annual credit report website, by calling 1-877-322-8228, or by writing to:
Annual Credit Request Service
PO. Box 105281
Atlanta, GA 30348-5281
While credit card fraud cases tend to increase around the winter holidays, your personal and financial information can be misappropriated at any time. By being vigilant, you should be able to prevent thieves from stealing your identity and ruining your cheer, any day of the year.
About the Author
Thomas Bunch is a business bankruptcy attorney in Lexington, Ky at the Bunch and Brock Law Firm. He has served Central Kentucky for over 5 decades and is an active participant in the Lexington Community.
Abdul Aziz Mondol is a professional blogger who is having a colossal interest in writing blogs and other jones of calligraphies. In terms of his professional commitments, he loves to share content related to business, finance, technology, and the gaming niche.
Israel captures a person’s imagination at first sight. This is the place to come across the myriad colors and wonders of nature. If the various sacred sites strewn across the region strike the spiritual chord in you, then the wonderful shiny beaches enliven your stay. This place also displays its cosmopolitan side at its various bars, cafes and beaches at Tel Aviv, and at the boutique wineries of the Galilee region.
Naturally, experiencing the best of what Israel has to offer is a pretty daunting task. However, with the list of things to do in Israel described in this blog, you can be rest assured that every moment in Israel will seem like a celebration.
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Red Sea Star
Image source: Pinimg.com
Ever heard of underwater dining? Red Sea Star, the underwater restaurant, brings that wild imagination to life. Created 10 years ago, it constitutes a combination of two areas. The one above called the Metro Bar, offers splendid views of the Gulf of Aqaba, while the underwater area, called the Red Sea Star (so-called because it resembles the shape of a star), consists of an underground bar, including a floor covered in sand.
Beit Guvrin Caves
Beit Guvrin Caves were excavated from an area that was once called the Israeli cities of Maresha and Beit Guvrin. Archaeologists have come across many caves that spanned across several eras, from the Sidonian and Israelite to the Roman. Some of the caves may have served as hideouts and defenses. The highlight of these caves are the painted burial rooms created by the Sidonians. A Roman amphitheater, standing above the ground ruins of the city of Maresha, is an attraction in its own right.
Rosh HaNikra Grottoes
Image source: ravelingisrael.com
Rosh HaNikra Grottoes, located on the coast in proximity to Lebanon’s border, was once a diver’s delight. The pure blue waters found in the caves here are as much of an attraction as a mystery.
The caves were formed through millennia of strong waves crashing against the soft chalk cliffs on the Mediterranean Sea. The gondola cars that operate here transport the riders from the top of the white cliffs to the bottom in just around two minutes. Naturally, this site is one of the most prominent tourist attractions in Israel.
Shrine of the Book
Israel’s Shrine of the Book, part of Israel Museum, was constructed in 1965. It houses ancient biblical parchments known as the Dead Sea Scrolls. This modern womb-like shrine has been created in the modernist line of architecture.
The exterior assumes a rounded peak with sculpted striations lapping up its walls, while the spacious interiors display the Dead Sea Scrolls the year-round. The glass cases on the outer ring of the shrine contain pages, but, it’s the central display which resembles a giant Torah scroll, that hogs the limelight.
Tel Hazor
A tour to Israel must involve visiting Tel Hazor, a UNESCO designated World Heritage Site located over the ruins of an ancient city. Occupying over 200 acres just north of the Sea of Galilee, this region has yielded some incredible archaeological finds.
Some of the major attractions for the tourists here are the Solomonic city gates, a restored Late Bronze Age Temple and the city acropolis. The Canaanite Orthostat and Stele Temples are other sites that are worth visiting.
Makhtesh Ramon
Image source: igoogledisrael.com
Israel is full of bizarre geological formations called makhteshim (craters), and one of them is Makhtesh Ramon. Extending to 40km in length and possessing a width of almost 10km, it is undoubtedly Israel’s largest national park – Ramon Nature Reserve.
Visits and expeditions to this region can be conducted from the valley’s only town, Mitzpe Ramon (Ramon Observation Point), albeit visitors should avoid the mid-day heat. The best way of experiencing the magic of this place is staying overnight in one of the hand-woven tents and enjoying the company of the Bedouin herders.
Dialogue in the Dark
How about going blind for a day? Well, not literally! Dialogue in the Dark, an exhibition funded by former journalist Andreas Heinecke, consists of a series of pitch-black galleries which require visitors to experience their surroundings through visionless stimuli.
The visitors here are guided by blind or partially sighted persons who orient them to the surroundings, thereby providing a heightened sense of security in the darkened environment. The completion of the tour is followed by a conversation between the guide and vision-restored visitors.
Atlit Yam
Your holidays to Israel are incomplete without a visit to Atlit Yam, which contains the submerged ruins of a Neolithic coastal settlement. Dating back to 6900-6300 BC, these underwater excavations have unearthed wells, graves, and houses.
This historic site was discovered by marine archaeologist Ehud Galili and holds several unique fascinations. One of these is the seven megaliths arranged in a semi-circle encircling a freshwater spring, located in the center of the settlement.
Saba's Little Museum
Saba’s Little Museum is a wonderful museum located in the Jerusalem Hills. Its uniqueness arises from the various items that trace the history of the Jewish people and their way of life from Biblical times until today.
Stuffed in a small cluster of warehouses, this museum contains a collection of items ranging from memorabilia and junk to modern appliances. Children’s toy cars, vintage radio sets, along with some barrels and rusted steel cooking barrels are some of the items that a visitor comes across.
Meah Shearim
To get a glimpse of the ultra-conservative lifestyle of Jews, head to Meah Shearim. This neighborhood in Israel is home to the ultra-orthodox Haredim. A visitor can easily recognize this neighborhood by the community that resides in it – black suits with matching hats, full beards, and long and curling sidelocks known as eyes. You may end up buying Jewish texts with a high discount and gorging on some traditional baked goods.
Golden Calf Altar
The Golden Calf Altar was an idol made by Aaron for the Israelites during the absence of Moses. However, most of Israel’s idols were destroyed by the Assyrians when they raided them for their gold in 722 BC. Although visitors can no longer view the Golden Calf as it once existed, they can explore the ruins of the main sanctuary where the calf could have been located. Besides, visitors can also examine the numerous standing stone shrines that line the gate to the city.
Yad Layeled Children’s Memorial Museum
Among the many tourist places in Israel, this one will move your soul and heart completely. Yad Layeled Children’s Memorial Museum is a moving memorial to the 1.5 million Jewish children who were victims of the Holocaust. Visitors are shown various exhibits which include films, period artifacts and the testimonies of children who had to live during those frightening times.
Ein Bokek beach
Image source:.deadsea.com
The Ein Bokek Beach is a wonderful stretch of fine, golden sand that attracts a steady stream of visitors the year-round. The beach is equipped with various facilities like beach showers, changing rooms, lifeguards, etc. It’s a wonderful place to while your time and enjoy the pleasures of the beach.
Shahrazad
Want to taste some authentic Middle Eastern cuisine? Go to Shahrazad. This Middle Eastern restaurant in Haifa serves authentic cuisine of the region with an indigenous twist. An example of this is the dish “mansaf” (rice with ground lamb, tangy goat yogurt, pine nuts, saffron, and nutmeg), which is served with ordinary falafel balls. The tamarind juice here is another great stuff to try out.
Mount of the Beatitudes
This spectacular Roman Catholic Church, built-in 1937, stands on a site where it’s popularly believed that Lord Jesus delivered his Sermon on the Mount. The sermon’s opening lines begin with the phrase “Blessed are.”
The octagonal church inside which is looked after by Franciscan nuns are commemorated in the stained glass just below the dome, with the seven virtues being represented around the altar. Besides, the wonderful balcony and gardens provide spectacular views of the Sea of Galilee.
Hecht Museum
Hecht Museum is one of the many amazing places to visit in Israel. However, the one collection that stands out is the Ma'agan Mikhael Shipwreck – the well-preserved remains of a 13.5m long merchant ship from 400 BC. Apart from these, the archaeology section also contains an entire section on the Phoenicians. Besides, Israelite, Moabite and Phoenician seals from the First Temple period and an incredible collection of ancient coins can also be found here.
Al-Jazzar Mosque
Al-Jazzar Mosque, built-in 1781 in typical Ottoman Turkish style, is the third most important mosque in Israel and the Palestinian territories. The mosque is distinguished by its enormous green dome and is accented with a graceful pencil minaret. Somewhere around the base of the minaret, one can find the small twin-domed building which contains the sarcophagi of Al-Jazzar and his adopted son and successor, Suleyman.
Tabor Winery
To know the ins and outs of wine processing, and sampling some of the best wine to be found anywhere, visit the Tabor Winery. It has gained a legendary reputation both for its red and white wine and produces almost two million bottles a year. Apart from been given a free tasting of the wine, visitors are provided with guided tours for groups of 10 or more. The winery also runs one-and-a-half-hour grape harvests from late July to August.
Beit She’an National Park
To get a glimpse of what life was like during the Roman Empire, visit the Beit She’ a National Park. The opulence and grandeur that surrounded the everyday life of the Romans is reflected through the colonnaded streets, a 7,000-seat theatre which looks the same as it did 1800 years ago, two stone columns and two bathhouses. The incredible part about all of them is that they lie exactly where they fell during the Galilee earthquake of 749 AD.
Centre International Marie de Nazareth
Any tour to Israel inevitably involves a visit to the Centre International Marie de Nazareth. Located across the street from the Basilica of the Annunciation, this place serves as a venue for ecumenical work among Christians, besides the promotion of inter-faith dialogue. Built by Chemin Neuf, a Roman Catholic community-based in France, this fabulous cultural center consists of peaceful rooftop gardens which contain plants mentioned in the Bible. They offer amazing 360-degree panoramas.
Agamon HaHula
Your holidays in Israel are incomplete without a visit to Agamon HaHula – one of Israel’s favorite parks, located in Hula Valley. To see an unbelievable amount of storks, pelicans, and cranes, you need to head to this place right away. This crane-watching opportunity really comes as a privilege. Comfortably seated in your vehicle, you can view these magnificent creatures from the closest range possible. The other birds that can be seen here occasionally include pelicans and storks.
Bahai Gardens
Visited by over half a million visitors a year, the Bahai Gardens are one of the major tourist attractions in Israel. Their unique design, which combines geometrical shapes with the conservation of natural and historic landscape features, enchants the visitors to no end. In July 2008, these gardens were included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List for being holy places possessing outstanding universal value. The gardens comprise a staircase of 129 terraces which extend all the way up the northern slope of Mount Carmel.
Yad Vashem
A visit to the Yad Vashem memorial in Jerusalem will move your inner spirit and overwhelm your emotions like never before. This memorial is dedicated to the six million Jews who died at the hands of Nazis. One can find the names and personal details of millions of victims recorded in the Hall of Names. The centerpiece of the museum is the Holocaust History Museum, which lies on the lower level. Exploring the entire museum takes about three hours in total.
Ancient Galilee Boat
To come across a fascinating piece of history during your holidays in Israel, visit the Yigal Alon Museum, where you will stumble upon the ancient Galilee boat. The discovery of this boat was made by a local fisherman in 1986 when the waters of the Sea of Galilee were at their lowest ebb. The fishing vessel measures 8.2m in length and is made from 12 kinds of recycled wood. Wall panels and three short films tell the amazing story of its discovery and preservation. It’s said that this boat was used by the members of Jesus’s ministry.
Said Abu Elafia & Sons
You cannot be in Israel and not visit Said Abu Elafia & Sons – one of the best bakeries of Tel Aviv. Established in 1880, this bakery spans across four generations. Visitors love to gorge on its bourekas (stuffed bread with sheep’s cheese), sambusas (filled pastries) and a unique Arab oven-baked pizza-like concoction filled with eggs, tomato, cheese and olives.
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Going beyond the confines of first-class airline cabins, private jet charters offer unparalleled luxury and convenience, setting a new standard in travel experiences.
Imagine stepping aboard a meticulously designed aircraft, where every detail has been meticulously crafted to create an ambiance of indulgence and sophistication.
From plush leather seats to bespoke amenities, private jets redefine the meaning of luxury, enveloping passengers in a world of comfort and exclusivity.
But not just the lavish interiors set private jet charters apart. The true essence of the experience lies in the unparalleled level of service and flexibility afforded to passengers.
With a private jet charter, you can create your own schedule, bypassing the constraints of commercial flight itineraries.
Whether embarking on a business trip, planning a family vacation, or attending a special event, private jet charters offer the utmost convenience and flexibility, ensuring that your travel plans align perfectly with your needs and desires.
In this article, we will delve deeper into the realm of private jet charters, exploring the unmatched luxury, personalized service, and endless possibilities these exclusive travel experiences offer.
How Are Private Jets Setting New Standards In Luxury Travel?
Private jets are setting new standards in luxury travel by offering many benefits that elevate the travel experience to unprecedented levels of opulence and convenience.
Here are some key ways in which private jets are revolutionizing luxury travel:
Exclusivity And Privacy
Private jets provide an exclusive and intimate environment for travelers, allowing them to enjoy complete privacy throughout their journey.
With no other passengers on board except for their chosen companions, travelers can relax, work, or socialize without disruptions or distractions.
Customization And Flexibility
Private jet charters offer flexibility in terms of travel itineraries. Passengers have the ability to customize their flight plans, including departure times, destinations, and even the choice of airports.
This flexibility enables travelers to optimize their schedules, accommodate last-minute changes, and maximize their time.
Enhanced Comfort And Luxury
Private jets are designed to provide the utmost comfort and luxury. Lavish interiors, plush seating arrangements, and state-of-the-art amenities create an ambiance of indulgence.
Passengers can enjoy spacious cabins, personalized entertainment systems, and gourmet catering options catering to their preferences.
Time-Saving And Efficiency
Private jet charters eliminate many of the hassles associated with commercial air travel. Passengers can arrive at smaller, more convenient airports, allowing faster check-ins and expedited security procedures.
Additionally, private jets offer direct flights to remote or exclusive destinations that may not be easily accessible by commercial airlines, saving valuable time and offering a seamless travel experience.
Personalized Service
Private jet charters emphasize personalized service, catering to each passenger's specific needs and preferences.
From the moment of booking to the completion of the journey, the crew members ensure that every detail is taken care of, creating a highly tailored and memorable experience for travelers.
Safety And Security
Private jet operators adhere to stringent safety standards and employ experienced pilots and crew members who undergo rigorous training and certification.
With access to exclusive airport facilities, private jets offer enhanced security measures and ensure the safety and well-being of passengers throughout the journey.
Access To Exclusive Destinations
Private jets open up a world of possibilities by granting access to smaller, more exclusive airports and destinations.
Travelers can explore remote islands, secluded retreats, or private resorts that commercial airlines may not serve, allowing for unique and off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Closing Thoughts!
Private jet charters have raised the bar for luxury travel, setting a new standard that exceeds the expectations of even the most discerning travelers.
The exclusivity, flexibility, safety, and onboard amenities provided by private jet charters create an unrivaled experience beyond the destination itself.
By offering personalized service, luxurious accommodations, and access to exclusive locations, private jet charters transform travel into an extraordinary adventure, where every aspect of the journey is curated to perfection.
So, the next time you embark on a travel endeavor, consider a private jet charter's unparalleled luxury and convenience and let yourself soar to new heights of indulgence and refinement.
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Situated on Florida's northeastern coast, Jacksonville has been moving in the right direction for years. Although many people use this place as a jumping off point for nearby beach attractions, this city is worthy of a weekend vacation in its own right. Whether you're into fine dining, museums, or wildlife, you'll find something to keep you entertained on a trip through this mega city. Let's take a closer look at how to best enjoy a weekend vacation in the "River City."
Where To Stay In Jacksonville:
Anyone planning on staying in the heart of Downtown Jacksonville should look for hotels along the St James River. Not only will these hotels give you easy access to most of the city's top tourist draws, but they also have fantastic views and exceptional amenities. One such hotel is the four-star Omni Jacksonville Hotel at 245 Water Street. Another luxury hotel to consider is the four-star Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront, which is located at 225 E Coastline Drive. Expect to pay around $130 per night at either of these hotels.
People who want more of a budget-friendly option might want to consider the Country Inn & Suites by Radisson at 5945 Youngerman Circle East. This three-star hotel is not directly on the St James River, but it is close to many restaurants and has high ratings from online reviewers. Rates for rooms at the Country Inn & Suites typically hovers around $90 per night.
What To Do In Jacksonville:
The main attractions in Jacksonville, of course, are the surrounding beaches. The most popular of these beaches include Ponte Vedra Beach, Amelia Island, and Jacksonville Beach, all of which are within a 40-minute drive of central Jacksonville. By the way, if you're a golfing fanatic, then you must check out the exceptional PGA golf range at the Ponte Vedra Beach Resorts.
One of the most fascinating historical attractions in Jacksonville proper is the Kingsley Plantation. Built in the 18th century, this 32,000-acre plantation once housed 200 slaves who were forced to pick cotton, cut sugar cane, and pick various citrus fruits. On a tour of this facility, you'll gain a better understanding of northeastern Florida's past in a pristine natural setting.
Adults traveling to Jacksonville with kids should schedule a few hours at the Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens. This top-rated tourist attraction measures almost 120 acres and contains well over 2,000 exotic mammals, birds, reptiles, and more! You can visit the Jacksonville Zoo between 9 AM – 5 PM on weekdays and on the weekends from 9 AM – 6 PM. Tickets for adults cost just under $20 per person and kids between 3 – 12-years-old could enter for $14.95 each.
If you're in the mood to see a live show while in Jacksonville, then be sure to check out what's going on at St Johns River State College's Thrasher-Horne Center. The Thrasher-Horne Center frequently produces professional Broadway musicals as well as live music, kid-friendly entertainment, and special events. To pre-order tickets, you could visit the Thrasher-Horne Center's main website at www.thcenter.org.
Where To Eat There:
Unsurprisingly, seafood is Jacksonville's main culinary specialty. One dive in southern Jacksonville that's earned quite the reputation for its seafood selection is Clark's Fish Camp. In addition to this restaurant's crab cakes and crawfish, Clark's Fish Camp has earned quite the reputation for its colorful taxidermies and its proximity to a few Florida alligators.
For fine dining in Jacksonville, take a look at the menu at Restaurant Orsay. Modeled on a Parisian bistro, the Restaurant Orsay mainly serves French-inspired seafood dishes with a Southern flair. A few of the most famous entrées at Restaurant Orsay include the lobster pot pie, Carolina trout, and bouillabaisse. Restaurant Orsay also has an extensive wine and cocktail menu as well as a raw bar.
In the mood for some Southern BBQ? If so, then look no further than Jacksonville's Southern Charm. There's nothing fancy about this restaurant; here you'll find huge portions of finger-licking good Southern specialties like fried chicken, BBQ ribs, and fried shrimp served buffet style. Just be sure to bring a big appetite if you're planning on visiting this restaurant.=
Lastly, no list of Jacksonville restaurants is complete without mentioning the highly-reviewed Terra Gaucha Brazilian Steakhouse. As the name suggests, this chain restaurant is best known for its Latin-inspired steaks, but waiters will also bring plenty of other fire-roasted meats and seafood straight to your table. Customers at Gaucha Brazilian Steakhouse also enjoy unlimited access to a gourmet salad and hot bar.
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