About 360 MAGAZINE

360 MAGAZINE is an award-winning international publishing on popular culture and design. We introduce avant trademarks to efficacious architects. We are a LGBTQIA2S+ friendly publication--officially recognized by the NGLCC. Our core demographic ranges from 19 to 39-year-old college-educated trendsetters within their respective international communities. The pages in this art book satisfy their strong interests including music, art, travel, auto, health, fashion, tech, philanthropy, design, food and entrepreneurship. It's an introspective digital/print/tablet portrait series, which encapsulates artists/brands/entities who embody the true essence of our publication- empowerment, equality, sensuality and most important of all, humanity within a global society.

Advanced Security Training for Enhanced Personal Protection

Personal safety issues are on the rise, from hacking to outright physical injury in public. You can’t count on older guard systems, such as primitive locks or basic defensive moves, to protect yourself. From 2020 to 2023, the reported violent crimes increased in cities, according to a 2024 Bureau of Justice Statistics report that indicated the necessity for superior readiness. Ancient methods are not often effective when countering advanced threats. In this article, you’ll explore how the best security training gives you on-the-job skills, mindset readiness, and professional advice from a highly ranked executive protection service to keep you safe from harm.

The New Standard for Personal Safety

Increasing threats like random attacks and targeted violence call for more than just precautions. City streets, the office environment, and the travel industry are at risk from threats that need an active response. Stock self-defense training or pepper spray will not deter sophisticated situations like stalking, corporate espionage, or civil unrest. You require realistic training designed for real-world challenges, integrating physical skill with mental toughness to effectively deal with high-risk scenarios.

Inside Advanced Security Training: What It Really Involves

Advanced security training is not merely self-defense; it teaches you functional skills such as threat assessment, tactical movement, and awareness of the situation. You learn to identify threats from crowds, evaluate risk in unfamiliar places, and tactically retreat from harm. Psychological preparation also counts. Training focuses on decision-making in a crisis so you remain composed and make quick decisions. Following a police study, those trained in situational awareness are more likely to de-escalate conflict successfully, underlining the importance of security training.

Partnering with Professionals: Why a Top-Rated Executive Protection Agency Matters

A top-rated executive protection agency can tailor training to your corporate executive, public official, or private life. The firms examine your threats by assessing your travel habits or public profile and create programs to counter them. For instance, an engaging client may train in situations regarding evading paparazzi or responding to a workplace intruder, whereas a travel client learns about traveling in hostile regions overseas. Real-world situations verify their impact because trained practitioners safely evacuated clients from areas where protests and foiled kidnapper attempts occurred, using acquired skills gained via rigorous training.

Beyond the Basics: Specialized Techniques Taught in Elite Programs 

Elite specialized training includes instruction in advanced skills such as surveillance detection, counter-surveillance, and evasive driving. You are taught to determine if someone is following you, detect hidden cameras, or shake a tail in the city. Evasive driving includes rapid driving maneuvers for evading pursuers without injury. Do you know why learning when to increase protection is critical? The training instructs you when to summon professional units for high-risk calls, such as credible threats or mass events. Counter-surveillance training decreases the success rate of targeted attacks.

Investing in Your Future Safety Starts Now

Selecting the best executive protection service involves asking intelligent questions: Do they customize training to fit your requirements? What is their history in real-life situations? Do they provide after-training support? Investing in cutting-edge security training prepares you to handle threats confidently, ranging from daily threats to periodic crises. Begin by looking for professional agencies and speaking with them about your concerns. Preparation makes you the boss, allowing you to be prepared for whatever opportunities come your way.

Modern Business Challenges and How IT Consultation Services Provide Solutions

Business today is not like before. Innovations, growing customer demands, and increasing competition are shifting how business is done and doing it at an unprecedented speed. Be it retail, healthcare, finance, or any other field, change is constant. To remain relevant, a business must be flexible and adaptive and use advanced technologies promptly.

Staying updated with everything in New Jersey’s fast-moving and competitive markets can be challenging. It’s the reason many companies are looking to professionals for assistance. The do-it-yourself approach is proving to be highly ineffective. For most companies, solid strategies and effective implementations are best acquired with the help of an IT consulting in New Jersey

Challenges

A. Rapid Technological Changes

Technology is progressing at an unusual rate. What is viewed as state of the art today may be obsolete by next year. Knowing when and what to invest in becomes even harder. Without a defined IT strategy, the chances are high that one will spend time and resources on achieving the wrong objectives.

B. Cybersecurity Threats

Cybersecurity threats are a potent and periodically evolving danger as we journey through the digital world. Just a single data breach can cost millions. Safeguarding your business is more than buying anti-viruses; rather, it’s investing in a full-blown, ever-vigilant cyberwarfare mechanism.

C. Managing Remote and Hybrid Workforces

Working from home is a powerful tool but comes with its unique challenges. Moreover, teams from different geographies need to collaborate effortlessly and without risk. The absence of the right framework from technology to policy easily results in productivity black holes or catastrophic risks.

D. Data Overload and Management

By definition, data is uncontaminated information in which an alphanumeric character is idle. If delicately handled, data becomes truly powerful. Now more than ever, businesses require sophisticated systems capable of transforming unrefined data into actionable strategies, paving the way for informed decisions that propel progress.

E. Balancing IT Costs with Growth Goals

Your expenses in technology services should accelerate your growth; they shouldn’t be a drain on profits. Striking the right balance between an absolute necessity and an optional extra is the challenge. You must have appropriate planning and infrastructure in place today while positioning and preparing your firm for the anticipated growth tomorrow, all without wasting resources.

Solution: IT consulting in New Jersey

Engaging with a reputable IT consulting company in New Jersey adds more value than just service procurement: it is an investment that provides a strategic partner capable of appreciating business nuances and industry trends. Expert consultants like Tekscape address IT needs with practical, current, and proactive approaches to business challenges. With their assistance, you can:

  • Create a strategic plan for technology investment that meets corporate goals.
  • Bolster your organization’s cybersecurity defenses.
  • Implement robust remote-working systems.
  • Organize data warehouse optimization and make effective decision-making strategies.
  • Maximize IT spending efficiency without compromising the desired quality of service.

Since they are based in New Jersey, these consultants understand at what pace, under what pressures, and in what competitive landscape local businesses operate. This local knowledge helps provide faster responses and support tailored to clients’ real life needs and not just the industry standards.

Conclusion

Every day brings new challenges for any business – as the world of business is ever-changing. Each organization is required to have a working IT strategy. An appropriate IT strategy is no longer a luxury but an absolute necessity. Falling behind is unacceptable.

Work with local professionals who have the right experience to provide realistic and tailored recommendations to your business and geographical location. Their solutions are not generic; they are customized to your business’s specific challenges. Relying on New Jersey IT consulting firms could be one of the best decisions for your company. In this respect, New Jersey IT consulting firms go beyond problem-solving; they work on turning obstacles into possibilities, making strategic decisions, and readying the organization for the future. With the proper team backing you up, it is no longer a question of just getting by but instead having the tools to truly flourish.

Department of Labor Denounces Unemployment Benefits for Illegal Immigrants

U.S. Secretary of Labor Chavez-DeRemer warns states that people could lose federal funds if illegal immigrants allowed access to unemployment benefits.

U.S. Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer is urging governors to comply with President Trump’s directives, ensuring tax dollars are not spent on encouraging or rewarding illegal immigration. In a letter sent today, the secretary reminds all states that failing to fulfill existing legal obligations will result in the loss of federal funding through the Title III UI administrative grant.

“Our nation’s unemployment benefits exist solely for workers who are eligible to receive them,” Secretary Chavez-DeRemer wrote. “Unemployment benefits are not a handout for those in our country illegally.”

The Secretary’s reminder comes after the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration sent a letter last week to state unemployment insurance administrators, urging them to use the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s SAVE immigration database. Offered at no cost because of an action by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, this system will ensure states can verify the immigration status of individuals who file claims and indicate whether they are U.S. citizens.

“I am committed to ensuring that the U.S. Department of Labor enforces the law and will personally work to safeguard Americans’ hard-earned tax dollars. I look forward to working with you on this effort,” Secretary Chavez-DeRemer concluded in the letter.

Read the Secretary’s full letter to governors.

How To Transform Your Vacation With High-End Travel Choices

Smart travelers aren’t just going on vacation anymore—they’re curating unforgettable escapes. While a good getaway helps you unwind, a great one feels like it was made just for you. Think: private flights, once-in-a-lifetime stays, or itineraries crafted to appeal to your every desire.

Making these high-end choices enhances comfort for these travelers—it redefines the whole experience from start to finish, making it extraordinary.

Make Your Trip Feel Like It Was Made for You

Planning a trip that truly caters to your every whim starts with flexibility and a commitment to infusing thoughtful touches whenever possible. That might mean taking an intentional detour through Mexico City’s route most striking architecture, visiting a design hotel crawl across Scandinavia, or embracing an unplugged week of realigning in Bali with daily yoga and plant-based dining.

Today, travelers are making an effort to scour the internet for travel consultants who take the time to get to know their preferences—everything from their favorite cuisines to their sleep habits and even music tastes. Services like Black Tomato, for instance, design entire journeys around your passions. Their “Bring It Back” program goes as far as curating travel based on emotions or memories people want to recapture. Holiday design that’s intimately yours.

It’s a way of traveling that’s less about checking boxes and all about living through experiences that you actually care about.

Leave the Terminals Behind

The private jet charter services market has grown rapidly, from $21.24 billion in 2024 to $24.28 billion in 2025 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.3%. It’s proof that how you get to your destination plays a significant role in how your vacation unfolds. 

Private Jet Charter brands like ACS have become popular for upgrading travel because they offer comfort, flexibility, and a tranquil environment from the moment you leave home—the perfect stepping stone to the perfect getaway. With private flights, you take hold of the reins, plan your schedule, choose departure points a stone’s throw away from home, and arrive feeling more relaxed and refreshed.

When you charter a private plane, you can reach destinations not well-served by commercial airlines. Among them are small islands, rural lodges, and backcountry ski resorts. These off-the-beaten-path places are the key to creating memories you will always cherish as incomparable. Plus, with customizable aircraft options, you can select a cabin that fits your group’s size and vibe, whether flying solo or with friends and family.

Don’t Just Stay, Immerse Yourself

If how you travel is the perfect stepping stone to the perfect holiday, where you stay is the make-or-break decision for your entire trip. That’s why many travelers choose accommodations with a one-of-a-kind charm—where the property becomes part of the destination.

For example, the Amangiri resort in Utah blends into the dramatic desert landscape with minimalist luxury suites and private plunge pools. It’s a different world carved out just for you. In Italy, Castello di Reschio is a restored 1,000-year-old castle-turned-boutique hotel in Umbria with riding stables, olive groves, and open-air art installations.

Looking for more privacy? Luxury vacation rentals offer the space of a private home with the ease of five-star service. Companies like onefinestay and The Mysa Collection offer fully staffed villas with chefs, housekeepers, and even wellness specialists. Imagine a private chef preparing local seafood on the terrace of a villa in Mykonos, or a personal butler attending to your every need while arranging a poolside wine tasting in Napa Valley.

These stays don’t just provide a place to sleep—they create a sense of connection with the location seldom found in brochures.

Let Someone Else Handle the Details

When you’re on the road, having real-time support can make everything feel effortless. In today’s world, lifestyle aspirations continue to evolve, which has paved the way for high-end concierge services that help make these desires for a higher standard of holiday life a reality. High-end concierge services help make the unexpected feel manageable, and the ordinary feel special.

For example, companies like John Paul Group and Quintessentially provide 24/7 lifestyle management—securing hard-to-get reservations at top restaurants, arranging access to private art galleries or fashion showrooms, and coordinating last-minute itinerary changes. They are the gatekeepers to the precious moments you’re seeking.

Luxury hotels like The Peninsula or Four Seasons also offer destination-specific concierges who can organize exclusive cultural experiences, such as a private sushi class in Tokyo or a guided after-hours tour of a Paris museum.

Some travelers also work with personal travel advisors who remain available throughout the trip, checking in to offer spontaneous upgrades or help rebook missed connections. This quiet safety net gives travelers the freedom to enjoy and explore.

The Key to Your Favorite Holiday Keepsakes

High-end travel isn’t just about luxury. It isn’t about the gloss, glitz, and glamour—it’s about the mementos and keepsakes of a time you will always hope to relive that you gain. It demands intention. Every thoughtful upgrade, from how you fly to where you stay, creates space for a smoother, richer experience. The key is to lean on the support of specialists and experts so that time away feels like it’s truly yours.

Jessie J No Secrets artwork via 360 MAGAZINE.

Jessie J – No Secrets

JESSIE J RETURNS WITH NEW MUSIC: “NO SECRETS” OUT NOW + “LIVING MY BEST LIFE” COMING MAY 16

Grammy Nominated, multi-platinum recording artist Jessie J makes her highly anticipated return with “No Secrets,” her first release in four years. Out now via Darco Artist Partnerships (D.A.P), the song marks a bold reintroduction to one of pop’s most powerful and beloved voices. “No Secrets” will be followed by “Living My Best Life,” a vibrant Ryan Tedder-produced anthem, arriving May 16.

“No Secrets” is a deeply personal, open invitation into the highs and lows of Jessie J’s life over the past few years. The track explores themes of loss, trauma, and the pressure of living life online, blending raw vulnerability with a playful wink at today’s culture of oversharing. Produced by Los Hendrix (SZA, Brent Faiyaz) and Jesse Boykins III, the song leans into Jessie’s soulful alt-R&B side, with her signature powerhouse vocals and soul-baring lyricism front and center.

“This song is super personal, but I hope it can be relative to anyone’s life,” says Jessie. “I’m a very honest person; I say it how it is and I share with the world a lot of things that most people don’t, but always with a little humor. Humor is key. The music has really gotten me through.”

On May 16, Jessie shifts gears with “Living My Best Life,” a joyful, 80s-leaning throwback full of confidence and catharsis. The track came to her while driving through Los Angeles, Whitney and Prince blasting through her speakers. 

“I love the sense of moving upwards, so ‘Living My Best Life’ has that same feeling,” Jessie explains. “It feels timeless, classic, 80s. It makes you want to dance.”

To mark this new chapter, Jessie will take the stage for an intimate acoustic show on May 20 at London’s iconic Union Chapel. The sold-out performance will offer fans an exclusive first listen to her new music, woven together with beloved hits and the candid charisma that’s defined her global appeal.

FOLLOW JESSIE J:

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | FACEBOOK

The Complete Guide to Portable Concentrate Devices

Portable concentrate devices have revolutionized how cannabis enthusiasts enjoy their favorite extracts. 

With concentrate vapes, enjoying concentrates is still exciting, yet also discreet and incredibly convenient. Whether you’re a concentrated connoisseur or just beginning your journey, our complete guide to portable concentrate devices is for you.  

What Makes These Devices So Popular?

Portable vaporizers for concentrates are experiencing a surge in popularity. But what’s behind this growing interest in portable concentrate vapes? 

As with other portable vapes, they offer the perfect balance of functionality and convenience. Traditional rigs just don’t compare. Unlike bulky smoking apparatuses, these compact and portable devices allow users to enjoy concentrates like rosin, wax, and resin discreetly and on the go. 

These sleek devices can fit comfortably in your pocket but still deliver a powerful experience. And there’s no need for torches and complicated setups, because there’s no burning involved. Portable vapes designed for concentrates thus offer more convenience and versatility.

Most concentrate vapes have three main components: a battery, an atomizer, and a mouthpiece. But modern dab pens sometimes have advanced heating technology that preserves complex flavor profiles and minimizes waste. 

Understanding Heating Elements and Chambers

The heating element and chamber design are the heart of every portable concentrate vape. Vaporizers use either convection heating elements or conduction coils to heat the concentrate in the chamber. These components can be made of a variety of materials. 

The chamber design can impact not only performance but also ease of cleaning and maintenance requirements. Quartz coils deliver rapid heating. Ceramic, and although slower to heat up, provides more even heat distribution and better heat retention. 

Higher-end portable models feature temperature control settings, allowing users to customize their experience based on their preference and on concentrate consistency. In such vapes, a titanium coil may be used.

Battery Life and Charging Considerations

Nothing disrupts the vaping experience more than a dead battery mid-session. This is why premium concentrate vaporizers typically feature lithium-ion batteries ranging from 650mAh to 1100mAh. Remember, the higher the capacity, the longer you can use your vape between charges. 

When selecting your perfect device, consider your usage patterns. Are you a frequent traveler? You might need a device with a longer battery life. Just an occasional user? A more compact model with a smaller battery will probably be fine. 

Most devices utilize USB-C technology for faster charging times, with full charges typically taking anywhere from 45-90 minutes. And many manufacturers now incorporate battery-saving features like auto-shutoff and standby modes to maximize usage time between charges.

Accessories to Enhance Your Experience

With the right portable vape accessories, you can transform a good vaping experience into an exceptional one. So check out the wide selection of accessories available to you. 

Super sleek vape pens offer the most discretion and portability. And you can still enjoy the design of a vape pen with concentrates, with a wax dab pen. Click here to buy now, and you’ll soon elevate your sessions to new heights.

Struggling to get the hang of loading up your vape? Don’t worry. Specialized loading tools make the process cleaner and more efficient. Concerned about dropping your device while exploring and sightseeing on vacation? Don’t be. Vape manufacturers and suppliers usually sell protective carry cases. 

For the tech-savvy user, Bluetooth-enabled models can pair with smartphone apps.

Selecting the Right Concentrates

The concentrate you choose will significantly impact your overall vaping experience. Distillate, isolate, resin, rosin, shatter, crumble, wax, budders; it’s your choice. More refined concentrates usually work best. 

That said, concentrate vapes are not all the same; some are better suited to certain types of concentrate than others. Liquid concentrates may require specialized chambers to prevent leaking, after all. And solid concentrates might benefit from pre-heating features. 

When pairing concentrates with your device, consider the heating element and chamber designs and materials. Check if customizable temperature settings are available. 

Routine Cleaning and Maintenance 

Regularly clean and maintain your device for optimal performance.  It also ensures a clean flavor in each smoke session and a longer device lifespan. Premium models may include cleaning materials and spares. But if your device did not come with these, you can use your cleaning items. I

It’s not that complicated. After each session, gently clean the components with a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol while the device is still warm. This removes residual concentrate from the chamber and the mouthpiece. It also prevents flavor contamination between different concentrates.

Side note: isopropyl alcohol is a popular choice for other cleaning hacks, too. 

For frequent users, a weekly deep cleaning is also recommended. This involves disassembling the various components and soaking non-electronic parts in lukewarm water. You can add a drop of dish soap to the water, but be sure to rinse the components thoroughly afterward and pat gently or air dry. 

Cityscape of Phnom Penh by Vaughn Lowery for 360 MAGAZINE.

Inside the World of VIP Perks

What True Luxury Looks Like Today

We often jump to material goods like designer luggage, watches, and vehicles when we think of luxury. However, in the world of VIP perks, luxury encompasses far more than material items. It’s a whole way of living and experiencing the world, with an entirely different level of treatment than the average person would receive. 

But how did this shift from possessions to experiences happen? We can trace it to shifting consumer demands and brands seeking to stay relevant and ahead of the curve. Modern luxury meets—and exceeds—these demands through exclusive offers and experiences both online and in person. Only a select few have access to these offers from brands.

The Shift from Possessions to Experiences

Although luxury industries now prioritise experiences, they are still driven, in part, by brands that offer physical items. As consumers have increasingly adopted online purchases, this has posed a hurdle for luxury brands because their customers still receive high-quality products but miss out on traditional luxury experiences. Brands have adapted how they present themselves to craft unique experiences and offer select customers perks to continue to set themselves apart and deliver an air of lavishness and exclusivity even through an online experience. For instance, they use new technologies to craft personal offers and recommendations and leverage augmented and virtual reality to shape a more unique and personalised experience.

Brands have also adapted by creating in-person experiences that can compete with the ease of shopping online, and part of this appeal is that the experience may not be focused on shopping. Instead, it’s about creating a memorable, immersive event that connects customers with the brand. Luxury brands entice customers with celebrity-hosted events, private screenings, and exclusive product previews. 

Even traditional luxury experiences have evolved to remain prestigious. This has led luxury travel and hospitality brands to reach new heights in how they pamper clients. Where materials and finishes would have defined luxury in the past, hotels, airlines, and other modes of travel are now embracing a new definition of luxury—one that prioritises the quality of service their clients experience. 

While quality materials are still present, luxury today prioritises experiences over gold-plated finishes, crystal chandeliers, and an expansive use of marble. Instead, it’s about creating memories and anticipating every possible want and need. Like online experiences, luxury brands personalise every interaction.

These shifts appear in exclusive brand offerings, not those available to the general public. These novel experiences and opportunities are reserved for the VIPs who make frequent purchases from luxury brands, elevating the notion of loyalty reward programs to a whole new level.

Modern Luxury Perks for VIPs

Exclusivity and personalisation converge for VIPs in the perks businesses offer them. These perks cater to high rollers who spend as if money is no object, making many of these out of reach for most people. You’ll likely recognise parallels between these perks and those offered by most loyalty reward programs, like those from a major department store or clothing brand. These ways of connecting with customers are highly effective marketing strategies for luxury and budget brands alike.

Early and Priority Access

VIPs are given priority access to experience new offers, from art shows and fashion shows to newly constructed luxury hotels, while being wined and dined. It’s not just being the first to access something, but also being the first to experience the full VIP treatment.

Discounts, Contests, and Promotions

Luxury brands offer their VIPs exclusive discounts, contests, and promotions such as private events, free trips, or concert tickets. This encourages customer engagement and creates opportunities for unique experiences that endear them to the brand.

Exclusive Merchandise and Gifts

While limited-edition merchandise is found across different businesses, luxury brands reserve limited-edition merchandise for their most prestigious customers. Additionally, these clients may have opportunities for personalised products tailored to their preferences and customisations to existing offers. For instance, Louis Vuitton allows VIPs to select the leather and lining material for a custom designer bag. VIPs at luxury brands may also receive gifts alongside their purchases, which are curated to complement and enhance the gift. For example, a jewellery box can be included with the purchase of a necklace.

VIP Lounges

VIPs at events like conferences, sports games, or concerts are provided with private access lounges. These lounges offer comfortable amenities, including food and drinks, and space where they can privately watch the action unfold or participate in meet-and-greets with keynote speakers, athletes, or artists. It adds extra personalisation and care to what may already be a thrilling experience, making it even more enjoyable and memorable.

Personalised Support and Seamless Convenience

From dedicated customer service to personal concierges and premium delivery for orders, some brands offer VIPs seamless convenience to make the customer service experience exceptional. For instance, VIPs of online gaming sites are offered financial flexibility. They enjoy increased limits and faster processing times, so their enjoyment of online platforms has as few disruptions as possible. While most people who game online might go looking for casinos that accept PayPal to maximise convenience around processing times and deposit limits, for VIPs, these concerns are barely a thought. The process of spending is made virtually frictionless. 

The Future of Luxury

As with other industries, the luxury industry constantly changes as new trends and technologies emerge. Gen Z has particularly influenced the luxury industry as their purchasing power grows. The generation is driven by meaningful and personalised experiences, which means the emphasis on personalisation in luxury will only continue to be prioritised. But this isn’t the only factor impacting the future of luxury offers. Evolving technologies and shifting consumer values are impacting luxury industries as well.

Technology is creating new avenues for delivering luxury experiences through curated shopping, streaming, and entertainment platforms. It also delivers luxury tech products, like wearable tech from Gucci and Hermès, that add style, convenience, and functionality. AI will likely shape luxury experiences, streamlining personalised offerings and creating more immersive online experiences.

Evolving consumer values have increased demand for sustainable initiatives prioritising social responsibility and the environment. This will likely continue to influence how brands deliver their offers and experiences.

Modern luxury has shifted to deliver unique and lavish perks to VIPs. The cornerstones of making people feel pampered and spoiled—exclusivity and personalisation—are more prominent than ever, and their importance will only continue to grow.

Cityscape of Phnom Penh by Vaughn Lowery for 360 MAGAZINE.

Creative Eco-Friendly Travel Tips for Your Next Vacation

Traveling can be very harmful to the environment. Many eco-conscious people have stopped using airplanes and reduced their major vacations entirely. You don’t have to sacrifice travel for the environment, however. There are a ton of ways you can reduce your carbon footprint and give back to the environment while enjoying a full, happy vacation. If you’re wondering where you can improve your eco-travel habits, you’ll want to get creative and get some research under your belt.

Prioritize Sustainable Lodging

Many hotels or rentals have green certifications to prove their dedication to reducing resource waste and providing more eco-friendly service. Whether you prefer a hotel or an Airbnb, be sure to research the most sustainable options in the destination you’re headed to. It may be even more sustainable to rent from locally-owned eco lodges or park model cabins made with natural materials. If you want to go above and beyond, find lodging with composting toilets, renewable energy, and water conservation systems. Camping in nature or using an electric RV can also help you travel and sleep sustainably.

Rent an Electric Vehicle

Whether you want to road trip in an RV or travel around town on your own terms, consider renting or buying an electric vehicle for a cleaner travel method instead of making long distances in your gas vehicle. Electric cars use rechargeable batteries instead of polluting the air with fossil fuels. You’ll pay more money to rent or buy a new car instead of using your own, but you’ll be contributing to less environmental harm. 

Eliminate Plastic in Your Luggage

It’s not unusual to bring toiletries in a plastic zip bag or to have single-use plastic travel items. Try to eliminate your use of these items unless you’re reusing them over and over again. Single-use plastics overflow landfills, as they don’t break down naturally in the environment. If you want single-use items, consider recyclable materials like paper, cardboard, or glass. You can also implement reusable items, like fabric laundry bags or metal water bottles. The less plastic you use, the better for the environment.

Bring Your Towels and Toiletries

If you’re staying in lodging that provides towels and toiletries for you, consider skipping them. Most free toiletries in places like hotels are made of single-use plastic, and the more you consume, the more plastic is tossed in landfills. Using hotel towels contributes to excessive water use, as they need to wash towels with each room cleaning. Bringing your own towels skips the need for hotels to clean their own. Alternatively, make sure your hotel towels aren’t washed each time by requesting housekeeping to skip towel laundry until you check out.

Bring Along Reusable Items

On vacation, you’ll be eating, drinking, and shopping. Bringing reusable utensils, straws, and shopping bags significantly reduces the amount of plastic you’ll be tossing away with each takeout meal or shopping trip. The more items you can reuse, the fewer materials are made for mass distribution. There are many stylish reusable travel items, such as fabric lunchboxes, bamboo utensils, and metal straws. All of these items can be continuously reused and repurposed, then recycled at the end of their lifespan.

Use Public Transportation, Walk, or Bike

Cars may be more convenient, but using gas vehicles contributes to air pollution. The most eco-friendly travel methods are walking and biking; consider using these methods within reason whenever possible. Certain public transportation methods are considered more eco-friendly than others, such as electric light rails in certain cities. Check what travel options are available to you and compare their carbon footprints. Create an itinerary to prioritize biking or walking distances whenever you’re able to.

Choose Natural Destinations

Many people travel to urban hubs and entertainment centers like New York City or Las Vegas. While there are many eco-friendly developments in these cities, the best way to reduce your carbon footprint is to go natural. Choose a camping retreat or rent an eco-friendly beachside cabin. When your vacation involves the great outdoors, you can enjoy what the natural world has to offer without overloading power grids or contributing to urban heat island effects. It’s a chance to discover the beauty of nature and embark on a new adventure. 

Treat the Environment With Respect

Wherever you choose to visit, it’s crucial to treat the destination and environment with respect. Avoid littering, respect local laws, and don’t contribute to excessive resource waste. Conserve water and energy whenever possible. If desired, you can even volunteer to help local communities and environments when traveling. It’s our collective responsibility to preserve the beauty of our planet.

Consider Eco-Tourist Programs

Some destinations have eco-tourist programs that provide incentives for visitors who use eco-friendly practices. Recycling or conserving water in some destinations may allow you to receive prizes or unlock exclusive destinations. Look up green travel initiatives in your area or areas you’re looking to visit to see if there are any programs where you’re going.

Conclusion

You don’t have to completely abstain from traveling if you want to live an eco-friendly lifestyle. There are many simple ways to be more conscious about your travel pollution and carbon footprint. Electric vehicles are much better options than gas-powered vehicles, but walking, biking, or using eco-friendly transit is the optimal solution. Reuse whatever you can and aim to reduce single-use plastics on every occasion you can. Careful planning and research can help you enjoy a stress-free vacation in harmony with the world around you.

Cannabis article image captured by Vaughn Lowery in Phnom Penh Cambodia via 360 MAGAZINE.

How Businesses Can Navigate Growth Amid Rising Tariffs and Economic Uncertainty

By Ben Johnston, Chief Operating Officer of Kapitus

Businesses face a number of challenges today, including the residual effects of ongoing inflation and elevated cost of capital due to a higher interest rate environment; the impact of proposed tariffs driving up the cost of materials; and a tight labor market making it challenging to hire skilled workers. These factors combine to make it a tricky landscape for business growth. Here are a few key things to consider. 

Tariffs: 

President Trump has proposed considerable tariffs on the import of foreign goods and materials across our largest trading partners. Tariffs of this scale and breadth could, over time, make manufacturing in the U.S. more economic relative to importing goods and materials from abroad. But in the short to medium term, these tariffs are likely to drive inflation significantly higher and cause significant disruption to the global supply chain, threatening many U.S. businesses who rely on the global supply chain to source the components, raw materials, and finished products they sell. We can expect these tariffs to both spur inflation and lower overall consumption, slowing the economy.

Businesses that import critical goods and materials from abroad should determine if it is possible to source these goods and materials domestically. If domestic production would prove uneconomic, business owners will need to pay close attention to the tariffs being levied and which countries they are impacting most. Working quickly to move production from one country to another could prove valuable should certain countries receive stiffer tariffs than others with similar production capabilities.

Growth and Expansion:

Businesses should be judicious in their expansion plans right now. In uncertain economic times it is important to focus on services that provide a demonstrated value to customers. Before expanding services or opening a new facility or new office space, it is important to thoroughly test the market to determine demand and pricing power. Make sure that anticipated sales will more than cover anticipated expenses and be sure to have access to sufficient capital to cover several months of operating expenses in case sales take longer to materialize.

For businesses who borrow money to purchase inventory, acquire equipment, and fund expansion, it is important to maintain multiple financing relationships. Banks have been pulling back from lending to businesses, and having contacts at multiple lending institutions can help secure the fastest and lowest-cost capital when borrowing is required. We have also seen the equipment finance market impacted by banks’ reduced willingness to lend, making it more difficult for business owners to finance their equipment purchases. If businesses are having trouble obtaining financing they should:

  1. Speak to as many potential financing sources as possible.
  2. If purchasing equipment, work with the equipment vendor to explore financing options through that vendor’s financing partnerships.
  3. Talk to the local bank to understand their lending criteria and collateral requirements for commercial loans.
  4. If those resources don’t prove fruitful, there are a number of independent non-bank lenders that are willing to lend money quickly, albeit at higher rates than a bank.

Fortunately, businesses with strong credit profiles and a history of financing essential use equipment have quality options both with banks and non-bank lenders.  However, business owners should expect a higher cost of capital than in years past and therefore should calculate the cost of the financing relative to the expected profits that the financing will generate, to ensure a positive return on investment.

Cutting Costs Through Efficiency:

There is no silver bullet for cutting costs without compromising efficiency. However, businesses looking to reduce overhead while maintaining or increasing efficiency will likely need to do so through automation. Accessing new technologies that allow businesses to operate with fewer employees and faster processes will make the business leaner and more scalable. Examples of scalable technologies being employed by businesses today include: installing software that can better manage inventory; implementing robotic processing tools to perform repetitive tasks inside warehouses or processing facilities; and deploying AI tools to allow employees to access critical information and draft standard communication faster and more accurately. These investments save time and allow the business to operate with fewer employees, reducing friction created by growth and allowing the business to operate at a lower cost-base.

With ongoing inflation, it is prudent for business owners to look for ways to lower overhead costs, capitalize on potential efficiencies, and consider offerings that may be more appealing to customers in a slowing economy.  Here are some things to consider:

  • Inventory: Assess current inventory levels and review job needs frequently so that you aren’t holding more inventory than you need to operate. 
  • Cashflow: In uncertain economic times, it is important to pay close attention to cashflow. Businesses should ensure that they have sufficient cash on hand to weather a prolonged period of reduced sales. This means exploring improved payment terms with vendors, working with financing companies to understand what financing is available to the business, and looking closely at ways to turn fixed expenses into variable ones. 

About the Author:

Ben Johnston is the Chief Operating Officer of Kapitus, one of the most reliable and respected names in small business financing.  Kapitus provides growth capital to small businesses and has provided over $7 billion to over 50,000 small businesses since 2006. Kapitus offers multiple loan products to small businesses, including SBA loans, revenue-based financing, equipment financing, cash-flow based factoring, revolving lines of credit, and invoice factoring.

How do Google Ads Management Services Continuously Optimize Campaign Performance?

In today’s fiercely competitive digital landscape, businesses can’t afford to run ads on autopilot. That’s where Google Ads Management services come into play. These expert-driven solutions are designed to fine-tune and enhance your campaigns every single day. From keyword selection to ROI tracking, every element is meticulously managed to ensure your ad budget delivers maximum returns.

Let’s explore how these services keep your Google Ads campaigns performing at their peak—day in, day out.

Understanding the Role of Google Ads Management Services

Professional Google Ads Management services act as the driving force behind campaign optimization. These services align your advertising strategy with overarching business goals—whether it’s driving leads, boosting sales, or increasing brand awareness.

They handle everything from campaign setup and structure to real-time optimization, enabling businesses to focus on growth while experts maximize every dollar spent on ads. A seasoned team ensures that your ads remain relevant, cost-effective, and competitive.

Strategic Keyword Research and Refinement

Keywords are the heart of every Google Ads campaign. Google Ads managers consistently update and refine keyword strategies to include long-tail, transactional, and high-intent phrases. They also use negative keywords to eliminate irrelevant traffic, reducing wasted spend.

Additionally, keywords are adapted to seasonal trends or emerging search behaviors. This proactive approach keeps your ads in front of the right audience at the right time, ensuring continuous performance gains.

A/B Testing and Performance Experimentation

Nothing is left to chance. Google Ads experts run A/B tests on headlines, ad copy, call-to-action (CTA) phrases, and even visuals. This method reveals which elements resonate most with your target audience.

Landing pages are also tested for relevance and conversion impact. The data collected through experiments helps inform future strategies, ensuring every component of the ad ecosystem is optimized for results.

Bid Management and Smart Bidding Strategies

Bid strategies make or break ad performance. Google Ads managers analyze performance data and choose between manual bidding for precision or Smart Bidding for scalability.

Smart bidding uses machine learning to optimize bids for conversions or conversion value. Professionals also adjust bids based on device type, time of day, and user location—ensuring the right offer reaches the right user at the right time.

Ad Copy Optimization for Engagement and Conversion

The difference between a click and a scroll-past often lies in the ad copy. Google Ads Management services continuously tweak messaging to stay fresh, relevant, and compelling.

They also use dynamic keyword insertion, countdown timers, and various ad extensions to grab attention and build urgency. This directly influences click-through and conversion rates.

Audience Targeting and Segmentation

Effective targeting is the backbone of efficient ad spend. Google Ads managers go beyond basic demographics by segmenting audiences based on interests, behaviors, and purchase intent.

Advanced strategies like remarketing and customer match bring users back into the funnel, making sure no opportunity is missed. These tactics drastically improve campaign efficiency and lower cost-per-acquisition (CPA).

Conversion Tracking and Attribution Models

To optimize campaigns, you need to know what’s working. Conversion tracking is meticulously set up to monitor actions like form submissions, purchases, or calls.

Experts use data-driven attribution models to assign value to each user touchpoint, ensuring smarter decisions. This offers deeper insight than the outdated last-click attribution model.

Geo-targeting and Local Optimization Techniques

Location-based targeting allows businesses to zero in on specific geographic areas. Google Ads managers tailor campaigns for cities, neighborhoods, or even postcodes, aligning messaging with local intent.

They also set ad schedules and adjust bids based on region-specific performance data. This localized approach minimizes waste and maximizes impact.

Continuous Monitoring and Real-Time Adjustments

Google Ads isn’t a set-it-and-forget-it platform. Management services constantly monitor campaigns for fluctuations in cost-per-click (CPC), CTR, impressions, and conversions.

They set thresholds and alerts that trigger immediate action when performance dips, ensuring your budget is never misused. This real-time responsiveness is key to continuous optimization.

Leveraging Data Analytics and Reports

Analytics play a crucial role in shaping campaign strategies. Managers use in-depth reports to analyze conversion paths, bounce rates, and user interactions.

These insights allow them to identify underperforming areas and opportunities for growth, turning raw data into actionable changes that boost performance.

Quality Score Optimization Techniques

A high Quality Score translates into lower costs and better ad placements. Google Ads managers enhance Quality Scores by improving CTR, ad relevance, and the user experience on landing pages.

They continually align ad copy with keywords and refine landing page content to ensure seamless messaging throughout the conversion journey.

Budget Allocation and ROI Optimization

Every dollar matters. Managers constantly evaluate which campaigns are delivering the best ROI and reallocate budgets to prioritize those top performers.

This approach ensures no money is wasted on underwhelming ads. Instead, resources are used where they’ll make the most impact—driving conversions and maximizing return on ad spend (ROAS).

Integration with SEO and Content Strategies

Paid search and organic search are two sides of the same coin. By integrating Google Ads with broader strategies like SEO packages and content marketing, businesses create a cohesive digital presence.

For example, aligning keywords across ads and landing pages improves both Quality Scores and organic rankings—creating synergy that enhances visibility and performance.

Using Automation and AI in Campaign Management

Automation tools and Google Ads scripts help scale and manage complex accounts. From automating bid adjustments to pausing underperforming keywords, these AI tools save time and reduce human error.

Campaigns also benefit from machine learning algorithms that adapt in real-time based on user behavior and conversion patterns.

Compliance with Google Policies and Ad Guidelines

Nothing derails a campaign faster than policy violations. Management services stay updated with Google’s advertising guidelines to ensure ads are compliant and ethical.

This proactive compliance prevents ad disapprovals and account suspensions—keeping your campaigns running smoothly and your brand reputation intact.

Reporting to Clients and Stakeholders

Transparency builds trust. Google Ads Management services provide detailed performance reports that highlight key metrics, insights, and recommendations.

Monthly or bi-weekly meetings ensure clients understand campaign progress and upcoming strategies. This ongoing communication aligns expectations and fosters long-term success.

The Value of Professional Google Ads Management Services

Hiring professionals isn’t just about convenience—it’s a strategic investment. Expert Google Ads managers bring years of experience, access to premium tools, and insights from managing multiple industries.

Partnering with an experienced SEO company that offers both SEO and Google Ads services ensures a well-rounded approach to digital marketing that drives sustained growth.