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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.

Learn About Paying A Personal Loan Off Early

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A personal loan is something that can be very helpful to a lot of people. When you are in need of money, you may not be sure how you are going to get those funds. That is when you may have learned about personal loans, and how you can use those to your advantage. Now you are wondering whether you can pay back the loan in quick time.

Paying Back Personal Loans

When you get a personal loan, you likely entered into an agreement about when you would be paying back the money. Most of these involve monthly installments, where you are paying a small amount each month and eventually your balance is paid. It can take anywhere from one year to a few years depending on your terms.

There may be situations where you are thinking about paying off the loan sooner. Perhaps you have come into some money, or maybe you are wanting to get this loan out of the way so it is not on your mind anymore.

Paying A Personal Loan Off Early

Many people ask, can you pay off a personal loan early, and it is a legitimate question. The answer is that in 99 percent of cases, you are free to pay off a loan as early as you want.

There are some cases where you may be charged a prepayment penalty, but it is usually less than what you would pay in interest if you paid the loan on time.

The only question you have to ask yourself is whether you are in a financial position to do so. Some people get the idea in their mind that a loan must be paid off right away, and it results in them using too much of their savings on that repayment.

What you must ask is whether you have the money to make the full repayment of the loan, and whether or not doing so would benefit you.

Advantages of Early Repayments

One of the most significant advantages of paying back a loan quicker is avoiding interest payments. When you take out a loan, you are agreeing to an annual interest rate on the balance that is left at the end of each month.

That means if you have money left following each payment, you are going to get an interest charge at the end of the next month on that balance.

If two people borrow $1,000 with the same annual interest rate, but one person pays off the loan in six months compared to twelve months, they would make fewer interest payments.

Another advantage to repaying a loan quickly is that you no longer have it hanging over your head. Perhaps your mental and emotional health is suffering from being in such debt, and you cannot wait for the day that your loan is paid off.

Taking care of the problem early would alleviate you from a lot of that tension. But you must be smart about how you pay back any loan.

Deciding on When to Pay Off a Loan

Perhaps you received a financial windfall at work or through a government tax refund. That is money you can use to pay back your loan, but it could also be put to other uses.

Is the loan you are thinking of paying off your only debt? If you have other debt, you should consider the interest rates on those loans or credit cards. There is no sense in paying off one loan in its entirety if it prevents you from making regular payments on other debt.

Being strategic about repayments is the only way that you can preserve your financial situation. Sometimes it is better to pay off a loan over time, rather than putting all your money into one basket.

Avoid Future Financial Problems

Think about the reason why you borrowed money in the first place. Was it to manage your regular expenses or to pay bills? If that is the case, you may be better served by putting unexpected earnings into your savings account, rather than paying off loans in their entirety.

You can never be sure about how much you will earn in the future. Perhaps you may need some of those savings a few months down the line.

The choice of paying off a loan early is one that is entirely up to the borrower. Unless you have huge interest charges on that loan, it is not necessarily the best course of action to pay a loan off early. You may be better off putting that money in savings or using it to pay other debt.

Amethyst Stone Meaning, Value & History

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Amethysts have been used by humans for millennia as decorative adornments, and this particular example of quartz is widely appreciated for its eye-catching violet hue and its alluring shimmer.

If you are keen to find out more about amethysts, read on for an introduction to everything you could ever want to know about this type of semi precious stone, from its etymology and history to its symbolism and meaning in modern culture.

Creation, location & value

Amethysts are found in several places around the world, sourced from the geodes that are left behind after volcanic activity has occurred.

The largest producer is Brazil, but there are also amethysts mined in places like Madagascar, South Korea, Russia and Canada, to name but a few.

The popularity of amethyst rings for women means that there is always plenty of demand for this gem, and it is the richness of the color which plays the biggest role in determining the value of individual stones. The deep purples of the amethysts mined in Siberia make them amongst the most sought-after and expensive, while also meaning that the carat count is not as relevant to cost as it is with other gems.

Jewelry set with amethysts can still be costly, although this typically comes down to the inclusion of other precious gems and rare metals, rather than the amethyst itself.

History & name explanation

While there is no specific evidence of humanity having interacted with amethysts in the unknowable mists of prehistory, it is safe to assume that any of our ancestors that found it would have been just as enamored with the glittering, shimmering color of these stones.

Thankfully the Ancient Egyptians are well-documented users of amethysts, and would go a step further than 21st century designers by choosing to use them as a medium for engraving. Etching images and symbols into the stones took expert craft skills and is a testament to how advanced this civilization was.

The name itself is actually derived from the language spoken in Ancient Greece, with the literal translation being ‘not drunk’. This entertaining etymology came about because Greeks believed that by wearing an amethyst around their neck, they would be able to stave off the effects of imbibing too much alcohol. Clearly preventing inebriation is not something that amethysts can actually do, but it is intriguing to see what attributes the ancient peoples of the Mediterranean ascribed to these stones.

From these earlier uses, amethysts would continue to spread globally over the course of many centuries, appearing in Britain during the middle ages and even being adopted in the Anglican branch of Christianity specifically because of their alleged anti-intoxication capabilities.

Interpretations & birthstone status

It is not just drunkenness which is legendarily avoided by wearing amethysts; throughout history a number of different capabilities have been associated with these stones.

One claim is that they can be used to ensure that the wearer maintains a level head, even when the circumstances around them might give them cause to go a little haywire.

Others believe that amethyst is packed with healing powers, allowing it to do everything from reducing anxiety and annoyance to pulling people out of pits of despair and grief. It could even improve your memory and make you more ambitious and motivated, if you buy into the more outlandish claims.

Irrespective of your position on the actual abilities amethyst brings to the table, there is no doubting that it is widely known as the birthstone for the month of February. While you do not need to have been born in this window to wear amethyst jewelry, if you are a February baby then it could be the push you need to pick between several precious stones when buying your next piece.

Jewelry uses & synthetic production

We have touched upon the various ways in which amethysts have been harnessed throughout history to enhance and augment jewelry of many types, and it is worth looking at the sheer variety that is on offer today to show how far the industry has come.

It is not common for amethysts to be used in engagement and wedding rings, as well as in everything from necklaces and earrings to bracelets and beyond.

While amethyst is semiprecious in nature, it works well when used alongside diamonds, since the brilliance of the latter’s crisp white reflectivity is a great counterpoint to the deep purples of the former.

Another point to mention is that lab-grown amethysts are a possibility, and are essentially indistinguishable to their naturally-occurring counterparts, without the use of equipment and techniques that are prohibitively expensive for general use. This is less of a problem than in the context of lab-grown diamond detection, for example, since amethysts are not at rare and can be mined with relative ease, as discussed above. Even so, it is worth being aware of this before you buy amethyst jewelry, so that you know exactly what you are getting ahead of committing to an order.

Sister stones

The quartz family of which amethyst is arguably the most famous member is fairly large, and color is the distinguishing factor between the varieties.

If violet is not for you, then yellows of citrine could tick the right boxes instead. The pinky hues of rose quartz is another popular option, while the gothic styling of smoky quartz is an intriguing alternative to the more radiant siblings on show.

Ultimately you need to consider all of your options and use your own aesthetic eye and tastes to determine whether amethyst is the right stone for you. There are also other things to keep in mind, such as the kind of cut that the stone should come in, and the metal in which it should be set to deliver the best results.

There is no wrong choice here, but rather a wonderful world of gemstones to discover, each with its own history, meaning and cultural importance which could sway you if it clicks with your personality.

8 Ways to Shop Online Smart and Safe

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Introduction

The past couple of decades has seen brick-and-mortar become overshadowed by their online counterparts. And while some shops have been able to avoid this—the popularity of Microcenter among tech enthusiasts has kept it alive—many stores have either closed down or have shifted their focus onto online storefronts.

This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, either! But learning the ins-and-outs of online shopping can take a while, and newer online shoppers are often tricked or scammed into spending more than they actually need to. Today, let’s go over a few tips and tricks for online shoppers that will work in 2021 and beyond.

8 Tips for Online Shoppers

1. Use a VPN for Regional Pricing

Not all currencies are equal in value. Therefore, products are priced differently from country to country. This is especially true for software such as video games and creativity programs, which regulate prices depending on where the software is being sold.

Unfortunately for some countries, these changes in price means spending more on a product thousands or millions of others spent less money on. There is one trick, however, that works a majority of the time: VPNs.

Virtual Private Networks allow you to change your server location, essentially tricking websites into thinking you’re located in a country of your choice. In other words, a VPN download allows you to get the best pricing available.

Be careful where you do this, however. Certain software storefronts like Steam ban accounts that are involved in doing this. And yes, you will most likely be detected.

2. Set Alerts For In-Demand Items

Certain products—products like new graphics cards or processors, for example—sell out quickly, and the recent COVID pandemic has hurt shipping times enough to ensure that many won’t be able to get their hands on certain products until the middle or end of this year.

To avoid playing the waiting game, set up alerts for products you want on multiple storefronts. Sites like Amazon, Newegg, Best Buy, and other online merchants allow you to receive emails or texts whenever a product you want becomes available.

3. Download Honey for Potential Savings

Online storefronts can’t and don’t tell you everything about a product, especially when it comes to pricing. If Amazon were to display the price history of its own products, that would hurt sales. Therefore, that data is off-limits to consumers. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t programs dedicated to doing that.

Honey, a shopping-dedicated app, displays the pricing history of products for most major online storefronts. Honey will tell you if you’re receiving the best price or if the product is at its “historical low”.

Along with a product’s price history, Honey will also automatically enter potential savings coupons, though these codes are iffy at best.

4. Wait for the Nearest Holiday

Sometimes you want a product then and now. However, certain products and equipment are best bought during certain holidays. For example, TV purchases are best done during Black Friday or major sporting events such as the Superbowl.

Take a look at what you’re hoping to purchase and when you think it may go on sale. If there’s a holiday near, it’s best to wait and see if it goes on sale. But there is one downside to this: the product you want may sell out on said holiday (such as a Black Friday deal).

It’s certainly risky waiting for a sales holiday, but hey, if you want a deal, you have to take risks! And waiting for the holidays before making a purchase is a low-risk tactic.

5. Invest in Smart Rewards Programs

If you find yourself shopping on a certain website, think about joining their smart rewards program. A good example of such a program would be Best Buy’s membership program, which rewards you the more purchases you make, offering you discounts and coupons.

Other online storefronts may offer optional subscriptions—Amazon Prime, for instance—that reward subscribers with free access to services and offer early deals. The point is, if you use a website frequently, make sure you’re being rewarded for it.

6. Sign Up for Promotional Deals

Keeping up with all the deals websites release to the public on a daily basis is difficult, if not outright impossible. Fortunately, most shopping sites let users sign up for promotional deals and offers that they would receive either through email or text.

Some of these sites may even allow users to filter the type of promotional deals they receive. If not, however, that’s ok! You may be able to find deals you never even thought about looking for!

7. Look Out for Cashback Offers

Companies love offering cashback offers on their products. But why would a store like losing money? Well, they don’t!

Despite some products being sold with cashback offers, many buyers never cash out due to the frustrating process of receiving said cashback. Usually, fulfilling a cashback offer requires the buyer to sign and mail a form to the company—a process many don’t want to put themselves through because it’s so dated and time-consuming

But if you happen to come across an item you want and it’s being sold with a cashback offer, then why not use it? Even if you never use it, it’s nice to have the option.

8. Be on the Lookout for Coupon Codes

Earlier, I mentioned Honey and one of its features that applies discount codes at checkout. I also mentioned that Honey’s discount codes are, at best, finicky, and at worst, useless.

If you desire a more personal touch to discount codes, then check out the multitude of sites that are dedicated to logging coupons and discount codes for various sites.

That said, not all of the codes found on these sites will work, but many of them are user-entered, meaning there’s a decent chance at least one of them works.

Conclusion

Online shopping is the same thing as regular shopping, except you can shop from the safety of your couch instead of going out. And just like in-person shopping, there are ways to find the best deals. With these tips, your online shopping experience will see a major improvement.

Rolex Watches are Still the Ultimate Fashion Accessory

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Rolex is among the most renowned brands on the planet. It was established in London in 1905 but is now headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. What makes Rolex unique is its unwavering dedication to the niche craft of luxury watchmaking.

The brand only makes watches, but this has not prevented it from being a sign of wealth and elegance in contemporary culture. This may be attributed to the fact that so many famous personalities have been linked to Rolex watches across time.

It’s definitely an item that signifies prestige, not just a watch. Maybe this is the rationale for the long-lasting popularity of the company.

What Makes Rolex Special?

You might think Rolex watches are going out of style now, since their only real feature that can also be accomplished via your smartphone. That raises the question, ‘Why are Rolex watches so pricey? When you focus on the lengthy method of making only one Rolex watch, you could start thinking that they’re actually reasonably priced!

The components Rolex requires to create its watches are not used by anybody else in the industry. For most brands of the world, their steel timepieces use mostly 316L, a form of stainless steel, in their manufacturing process.

Rolex, on the other hand, chooses to use 904L steel for its watches. This form of steel is much more complicated to process than its 316L equivalent, and the production cost is also considerably higher.

Rolex’s expertise in luxury watches and time-tested knowledge makes it the first company in the world to be able to manufacture its products in this way, and the outcome is a stylish design that rises above its rivals. In addition, the organization has set up a range of testing laboratories to help establish strategies for streamlining and developing its products.

The watches are constructed using advanced equipment and then finished by human hands to give it an immaculate look. All these considerations contribute to grant Rolex watches a high end starting price as well.

How Much Will a Rolex Cost?

Rolex watches are designed to be luxurious products that will last for decades, and it is no wonder that this model has a high value. The affordable models start at about £5,000, but for antique timepieces and the new styles, you might have to surpass £15,000 to land the watch you like.

One of the advantages of owning a Rolex watch is that it can be used as a kind of savings. Many models are expected to hang on to their popularity, and some iconic pieces, such as the Datejust or the Daytona, are proven to increase in value. If you are trying to assess the worth of a particular Rolex watch, the first move is to locate its serial and model code.

Where Should You Buy a Rolex From?

If you’ve chosen to take the plunge to purchase your own Rolex watch, there are a range of choices to consider. If you can manage it, the ideal choice is to order directly from one of the manufacturer’s approved outlets at a full cost. Even so, you can still choose to buy a pre-owned Rolex at a cheaper price.

A highly desired brand, such as Rolex, will have many forgeries and fakes on the market as well, and a new buyer may find it difficult to access the marketplace.
The easiest approach is to buy from a reliable professional buyer who has many consumer ratings for reputation. These sellers are experienced in the purchasing and sale of premium products and also have experts available to analyze the commodity so that reasonable value can be calculated.

In Conclusion

A Rolex can mean a lot to the outside world. The picture of class, reputation, and riches is all that Rolex has to do. What is more significant, though, is the impact it has on you, the wearer.

It’s really one of the most special and personal things you can buy for yourself, and this timeless watch will never go out of style!

Going the Distance: Tips for Handling Car Troubles on Road Trips

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Road trips are a rite of passage, whether you’re loading up with your whole family or you’re traveling cross country with friends. But your scenic road trip will come to a screeching halt if car troubles pop up.

You can’t avoid every car problem, but you can take steps to prep your car before you leave to minimize the risk of problems. Knowing how to handle common car problems during your trip can help you get back on the road faster.

Check out these road trip driving tips to help you avoid car problems.

Get a Tune Up

Never leave for a road trip without getting a tune up. If you skip this important step, you’ll quickly find out what happens when you don’t take care of your car.

When you skip tune ups, your vehicle is more likely to have common car problems, such as engine stalling, loss of power, and rough idling. It can also decrease your fuel efficiency, which increases the cost of your road trip.

During a tune up, your mechanic checks over the engine to clean it and repair any issues. Many items, such as spark plugs, filters, and hoses, might need to be replaced during the tune up to prevent more serious problems and to keep your car running smoothly. The mechanic also checks and tops off the necessary fluids.

Mention any issues you’ve noticed when you get your tune up, such as the car having trouble starting or any noises or odors you’ve noticed. Your mechanic can investigate those issues and fix them before they become major expenses.

Check the Basics

If you’ve had a recent tune up, it’s a good idea to do a little checking up yourself before hitting the road. Check the headlights, brake lights, and turning signals to ensure all of the bulbs are working. Replace any burnt out light bulbs before your trip to keep you and your passengers safe.

Schedule an oil change if you’re due for one. Consider how many miles you’ll drive on your trip if you’re close to needing an oil change, and schedule it early before the trip if you’ll come close to the recommended mileage before you get home. Use the dipstick to ensure your car has plenty of oil and to make sure it’s not black or gritty, which indicates the need for a change.

Check the coolant level and top it off if it’s low. When the coolant is low, your vehicle is more likely to overheat.

It’s also a good idea to top off your windshield fluid to ensure you can clean the windows if they get dirty. Inspect your windshield wipers and replace them if they look worn.

Prepare for a Flat Tire

Flat tires are common, but you can reduce your risks of having one and plan ahead in case you have a flat. Ensure you have a spare tire in your vehicle as well as a jack and a lug wrench to change a flat if needed. If you’ve never changed a flat tire, look up videos and check out the equipment in your vehicle to prepare yourself.

Before your trip, inspect your tires to ensure they’re in good condition as worn tires can result in a flat or blowout. Rotating tires every 5,000 miles helps them last longer and wear more evenly. If you haven’t rotated your tires recently, consider having it done before your trip.

Check the tire pressure in your tires to ensure they’re at the proper inflation according to your owner’s manual or the sticker on the door jamb. Not only is a properly inflated tire safer for long distance driving, it also improves your gas mileage. When your tires are inflated correctly, your gas mileage gets an average boost of 0.6% and as much as 3%.

Plan for Gas Stops

While not a mechanical failure, running out of gas is another common car problem that can happen on a road trip. If you run out of gas, you could be stranded on the side of the road for quite some time waiting for help.

When planning your route, look for good places to stop for gas, especially if you’re traveling in a remote area with long distances between towns. If you don’t plan accordingly, you might find yourself on empty with no gas station for miles.

Avoid letting your tank get too low before refilling, even in more populated areas. You never know when you’ll get stuck in rush hour traffic, construction, or other delays that keep you on the road longer than expected.

Research the Terrain

If you’re heading out into the wilderness, pay attention to the terrain in which you’ll be driving. Rough roads can increase the chances of tire damage. They can also affect the alignment of your car and put extra strain on your vehicle’s struts.

If you’re not used to driving on rough terrain, slow down significantly to ensure you can keep the vehicle under control. Slower driving can also reduce the risk of damage to the vehicle. If the road is in a remote area, it could be difficult to call for help if your vehicle gets damaged or you go off of the road.

Pack Emergency Supplies

You can’t do much if your car troubles involve major mechanical failures, but you can be prepared for minor issues with a few tools and supplies. Keep jumper cables in your car in case your battery dies while you’re traveling. Keep car chargers for your phone to keep it charged in case you need to call for help.

Pack a fire extinguisher in case a small fire breaks out in your vehicle. Reflective triangles and a reflective vest help make you and your vehicle more visible at night if you’re stuck on the side of the road.

For a winter road trip, pack blankets and warm items in case you have car troubles that keep you stranded. Cat litter can work for giving you traction if you get stuck.

Avoid Road Trip Car Troubles

With the proper prep and supplies, you can avoid major road trip car troubles to keep things running smoothly. Embark with your car in tiptop condition and keep an eye on things during long distance driving to spot problems early.

Explore the rest of our site for more useful information.

ROOTS OF FIGHT

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Roots Of Fight and global superstar Conor McGregor announced the launch of a new clothing collection honoring the fighter’s roots. The capsule collection makes it’s debut ahead of McGregor’s highly anticipated match up against Dustin Poirier on January 23^rd.

Considered one of the most fashionable men in sports and entertainment, McGregor joins the lifestyle and apparel brand that pays tribute to heroes and legends of the fight world such as Bruce Lee, Muhammed Ali, Duran, Sugar Ray Robinson, Rocky Marciano, Joe Frazier, and more. Much like the moments in McGregor’s career that have launched him to where he is today, Roots of Fight highlights the moments of these icons and all they stand for. They celebrate the unending fight at the root of every human triumph.

With this collection, Roots of Fight pays respect to the undeniable force of nature that is Conor McGregor. The collection features a variety of styles including tees, a thermal, hoody and sweatpants. Retailing for $48 – $85, the full collection will be available exclusively on rootsoffight.com starting today through January 23^rd. All proceeds from the sales of the collection will go towards the Children’s Health Foundation Crumlin in Ireland.

ABOUT CONOR MCGREGOR

Conor Anthony McGregor is a professional boxer and mixed martial artist who has gained fame from his success in fighting. He is a former champion for the Ultimate Fighting Championship featherweight and lightweight competitions. As of December 24, 2020, McGregor was ranked fourth in the UFC lightweight rankings. He is also the biggest pay-per-view draw in MMA history and is known for his fight against Floyd Mayweather Jr. McGregor also founded Proper No. Twelve Irish Whiskey.

11 Interesting Facts About Ford Mustangs

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Since Ford introduced the sports car to the American public in 1964, the car has sold more than 10 million times and firmly established itself as the epitome of American sports car design.

There are several facts about Ford Mustangs that you may find fascinating. You can learn more by checking out our list here.

1. Mustang Was Not the Only Name Considered

Ford designer John Najjar, a fan of the World War II P-51 Mustang fighter plane, is credited with suggesting the Mustang name.

However, Ford designers and executives considered at least two other front runners before selecting Mustang: Cougar and Torino. Panther is also said to have made the shortlist.

Ford design leaders initially did not prefer the name Mustang. The first Mustang prototype was named the Cougar.

Ford engaged advertising agency J. Walter Thompson to research the proposed names, and Mustang proved the market’s preference.

Account Executive Frank Thomas said the American public liked the name “because it had the excitement of wide-open spaces and was American as all hell.”

2. Mustangs Gallop Left

The Ford design team present several Mustang logos, including one based on the Knight chess piece.

After deciding on what became the famous galloping horse logo that we know today, the question became – should the logo be galloping left or right?

Ford designer Phil Clark first drew the logo facing left. But many Ford designers preferred the horse galloping right because racehorses gallop right on the track.

Legendary Ford boss Lee Iacocca settled the debate saying “the Mustang is a wild horse, not a domesticated racer.”

3. The Mustang Was Meant for the Everyday Person

The Ford Mustang was introduced to the public in 1964 with its price prominently displayed on all print advertising – $2,368.

This price was $1000 lower than the nearest competition.

True to its market, Gail Brown, a Chicago schoolteacher, bought the first retail Mustang. She still owns the car today.

Even today, visit stevemarshfordsales.com and learn that the Mustang is priced below its punch.

4. The Mustang Introduced the American Sports Car and Beat the Competition

Ford originally forecast about 100,000 Mustang sales in the first year. More than 400,000 Mustang’s ultimately sold in the year.

The market for American sports cars was a race between car manufacturers and Ford brought a winning package that allowed the Mustang to dominate throughout the 1960s.

Plymouth, a Chrysler brand, beat the Mustang to market by two weeks, introducing the Mustang’s then closest rival, the Barracuda.

The Mustang and the Barracuda were both based on established economy cars – the Mustang built on the Ford Falcon, and the Barracuda carried the Plymouth Valiant heritage.

Ford outperformed Plymouth in this race on two fronts – options and design.

Ford unveiled three Mustang body styles – coupe, convertible, and fastback. Ford also offered varied engines ranging from economy to high performance.

Plymouth offered a single Barracuda.

Mustang design also beat the Barracuda’s design.

Many historical car enthusiasts praise the design of the Barracuda but suggest that the car simply did not push design boundaries as Mustang did.

By the mid-1960s, Chevrolet introduced the Camero and Pontiac brought the Firebird. The competition for American sports car supremacy had begun.

5. The Mustang Unveiled With a Media Blitz

Before the design of the first Mustang was finalized, Buhlie Ford, a nephew of Henry Ford II, took a Mustang convertible on a drive and parked the car in front of the Detroit Free Press. The Free Press published photos in what was considered a marketing coup.

Ford then unveiled its new Mustang with a media blitz.

The day before its public unveiling, on April 16, 1964, Ford released an advertising campaign on the three major TV networks. 29 million Americans were introduced to the Mustang that day.

The next day, when the car was officially unveiled in New York, Mustang ads ran in more than 2,600 newspapers.

The same month, April of 1964, the Mustang appeared on the cover of both Time and Newsweek. Lee Iacocca credited the Mustang’s cover presence with selling 100,000 extra cars.

6. The Mustang Joined the Military

Ford sold the Mustang to U.S. military personnel based in Germany through the military PX system between 1964 and 1978.

The Mustang sold to American soldiers was called the Ford T5 and was trademarked in Germany by truckmaker Krupp.

7. The Mustang and Ford’s Italian Connection

In the 1960s and 1970s, Ford’s design and engineering teams battled with Italian car manufacturers such as Ferrari to be the world’s renowned car designers and producers.

For more information on this epic battle, do yourself a favor and watch Matt Damon and Christian Bale in Ford vs. Ferrari.

Beginning in 1975, teams at Ford’s Dearborn headquarters and at the Ford-owned Italian Ghia studio competed to design the car’s all-new, third-generation body.

The final design, known as the Fox body, ultimately included inputs from both the American and Italian teams.

8. Ford Almost Introduced a Mustang Station Wagon

Ford, on several occasions, considered four-door or front-wheel editions of the Mustang family.

In 1964, Ford designed at least one four-door Mustang sedan that could have been included in the car’s initial launch.

Since 1964, Ford has designed at least three versions of a Mustang station wagon. All three designs made it as far in the design process as full-sized clay models.

One station wagon concept even made it as far as a functional prototype.

9. The Mustang Is a Movie Star

Mustangs have appeared in films and on TV shows more than 3,300 times in the past 50 years, according to Iceland Mustang Club’s research.

Steve McQueen’s Mustang 1968 Ford Mustang GT 390 in Bullitt might be the most famous Hollywood appearance.

10. The Mustang Goes to the Races

The Mustang has served as the official pace car of the Indianapolis 500 on three occasions — in 1964, 1979, and 1994.

11. This Mustang – What You Miss Most in the White House

Former U.S. President Bill Clinton said the hardest thing to leave behind when he became U.S. President was his ice blue Mustang convertible.

In 1994, Clinton briefly drove his beloved Mustang around Charlotte Motor Speedway, where the then head of the Mustang Club of American called the President “a rabid Mustanger like the rest of us.”

Learn Facts About Ford and Become a Rabid Mustanger

Since that famous press conference in 1964, the Mustang has become a part of Americana.

The Mustang is different – it is a wild horse, not a domesticated racehorse. It still brings the excitement of wide-open spaces and was American as all hell.

Visit your local dealership for a test drive and you will see why. Learn more about the history of this legendary car and you might find yourself a rabid Mustanger.

Classic casino games – why they’ve stood the test of time

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One of the largest and most successful industries in the world is the casino industry, both brick and mortar and online. The physical and online casino industry is currently worth an estimated $227 billion, with online casinos alone bringing in $46 billion of that number. If a person were to compare the casino landscape from 20 years ago to today, it is vastly different as the industry continues to move online.

Even the iconic physical slot machines have been replaced with digitalized slot machines with algorithms predicting a win or loss. Although, in spite of all the technological advancements and the fact that every casino game has now moved online, they’re all practically still the same. It might not be easy to tell they’re the same with the graphics and game modes now offered on popular casinos like Vera & John, according to Manekineko Casino Vera & John offer over 350 slot games. So, it’s clear that slots have stood the test of time no matter the type of casino you play at now, whether in person or at home from your mobile. It is obviously to some degree due to the popularity of the classic casino games, and that they were designed in such a way to withstand the test of time, although there could be other factors that we’re going to look at.

Familiarity

When someone brings up the image of a casino in their mind, many people would think of rows of slot machines, table games such as blackjack, poker and the iconic roulette wheel, even without having visited a casino before or played any of the games. This is because these games have become imprinted on people’s memory, whether it be through books, stories, movies or television series; there is an expectation of what a casino should look like, and as a result, these are the games that are provided. In addition to these games becoming iconic, the online casino industry needs them to maintain their initial success.

This is because the games are familiar to those new to playing casino games, and also for the experienced gamblers moving online, which is critical for online casinos since they are relatively new, and new games might not gain the same traction as the classics.

Some don’t require skill and are fun

Some casino games are designed in such a way to be fun and not require skill, such as slots, which is something that every new gambler needs; a simple game to introduce them to gambling. Games like slots, baccarat and bingo are all engaging yet simple, and offer fast gameplay that doesn’t require much in the way of strategy. These games are perfect for someone just looking to pass the time, or to test their luck.

Although even slot games have changed dramatically over the years to maintain their relevance, whether it be by the added animations or the many themes, such as celebrities, sports or superheroes. Some slot games are even adopting video game themes to appeal to a younger audience, and bingo is vastly different too.

The odds are better

In terms of people wanting to win money, the classic table games give the best odds, even online. Games like blackjack have an average house edge of 0.5%, video poker has a house edge of 0.46% and roulette is 5.26%. To give an example, a person could play blackjack with a $200 bankroll and bet $2 per hand, and be able to play for over 4 hours if they use basic strategy.

This kind of low house edge is extremely appealing for many gamblers, especially those who don’t have a lot of experience. In addition to the house edge, all of the games listed above include a social factor, which is extremely important for the entertainment value of the game.

Things might be changing

With all of that being said, things might be changing though, as the more experienced gamblers become less. Millennials are slowly becoming the main customer base for the casino industry, and because of that, a few games are slowly becoming less popular. Studies show that millennials are interested in games with strategy and skill, and find games like blackjack and slot unfair and uninteresting.

Even Las Vegas is not really a gambling destination anymore, but a party destination, with room revenue from hotels being almost the same as the revenue from casinos, indicating that millennials are more interested in partying than gambling. Online gambling however shows an increase in the popularity of poker and sports betting, virtual and real, amongst millennials. However, traditional, classic casino games are not going anywhere, any time soon.

Be sure to check out gclub for more information about the aforementioned.

Setouchi in Japan

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The region of Setouchi in Japan is curious, cool, creative and boasts an impressive level of experiences. It’s the authentic side of Japan that awaits with a restorative element that is unparalleled, offering countless experiences to choose from. Seven prefectures spanning the idyllic Seto Inland Sea, making it the iyllic blend of explorations across land and sea…close your eyes and begin to dream after considering inspirational ideas…

Eat your way through Setouchi…Kagawa is known as the Udon Prefecture. Home to these slurp-worthy thick white noodles and boasting the highest number of udon restauuranst in Japan. Sanuki udon has a square shape and flat edges and is native to Kagawa, comprised of wheat, salt, soy sauce and dry sardine- try your hand at creating them with a master chef or hop around to sample it at multiple eateries. And, naturally, no journey to Setouchi is complete without tasting the famed Wagyu Beef in Shimani, known the world over. Juicy, tender and stellar. Consider pairing it with a glass of Japanese wine at the Chateau Misen winery

Luxe it up overnight…Aman + Adrian Zecha have teamed up on a stellar collaboration to launch a new ryokan-inspired hotel brand in Japan called Azumi- the first will open on an island in Setouchi along the Seto Inland Sea- a fusion of culture, harmony, wellness and exceptional design

Hit all the power spots where mystical energy flows on a northern drive route, stopping at temples, shrines and cultural sites in Tottori, Shimani and Yamaguchi, or take the eastern route for the most ridiculously gorgeous views through Okayama, Hyogo and Tokushima (NB- a power spot for romance as it’s shaped like a heart)

Pick fruit in Yamaguchi! Apple, Mandarin orange; Blueberry; Pear; Strawberry; Grape and wrap it up at a stay at Nagato Yumoto Onsen and the Otozure ryokan, welcoming guests for 600 _ years and truly the setting of a brilliant love story from hundreds of years ago. A gorgeously designed property with a true sense of place, focused on toji, hot spring recouperation.

Chill in a hot spring and completelty surrender to a natural therapeutic experience at Kaike Onsen in Tottori, the highest hot spring source in the prefecture, and take a stroll on the beach afterward before digging into a huge pot of fresh rich meaty snow crabs, a specialty of the region (best season Nov- Mar). Misasa Onsen is a great hot spring alternative, with water rumored to be extremely healing.

Cycle the famed Shimanami Kaido….do all 70 KM or book a support car or boat bike ride back if you just want a taste. This exceptional route is a cyclist’s paradise, treating riders to impossibly gorgeous views between the islands of Shikoku and Honshu.

Get your Sake on with a hop around 7 of Hiroshima’s best breweries along Saijo Sakagura Dori and the Fujii Shuzo Brewery Exchange Hall in Takehara city. Sample to your delight and compare with the contenders for the winner of the day.

Get greeted by a white rabbit at Hakuto Beach in Tottori…just one of the ubiquitous sculptures and art installations found across multiple islands in Setouchi. The legend has it the rabbit of Inaba was crying because it suffered from threats from alligators but today, it’s a welcoming symbol to travelers who arrive to dig into watersports or trek through caves, across cliffs, discovering unusual rock formations.

Connect with Setouchi Tourism in Japan for more info.

The Wagyu Olympics are a thing. A competition is held every few years to distinguish the most impressive meat of the highest calibre. Olive Wagyu currently holds one of these celebrated distinctions. Native to Shodoshima Island in the peaceful Setouchi region of Japan, both locals and foodies alike travel on carefully curated travels in large numbers just to get a taste.

Olive Wagyu is one of the world’s rarest culinary luxuries, and it’s no wonder why. Only a limited amount is produced each year, all residing in Shodoshima which is home to Japan’s olive oil producers. Special pressed and dried olive peels are mixed into the cows’ food, resulting in a beef that is extraordinary tender and can at times cost over US $250 per filet. It contains higher levels of healthy fat than any other Japanese beef, and is sourced exclusively from a collection of only three small local and traditional farms.

It’s a legendary feat to find Olive Wagyu. Journeys are currently being curated and centered around this exquisite cut, combined with some of the other culinary wonders that Setouchi offers year-round.

How to Stay Awake During a Long Layover So You Don’t Miss Your Flight

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The comfort on board planes has significantly improved compared to a couple of decades ago, especially during long-haul flights. Today, you can watch video content on streaming services on your phone or other device. Most airlines even offer access to wifi these days, That means you can play free no deposit bingo, read the latest news, or even respond to business emails to save some time.

While the actual flight might be more enjoyable than in the past, a problem occurs when you have a long layover. Nobody likes to wait for hours until their next plane arrives and they take off to their final destination. However, sometimes it is the only option for the intrepid traveler. Here is what you can do to pass the time quickly and ensure you don’t miss the next flight!

Do You Have Enough Time to Explore the City?

Here is the first thing to ask yourself – how many hours will the layover last? You might have ten hours between the flights, but you need to be at the airport for an hour or two before the next flight. That is something to consider when calculating if you have enough time to leave the airport.

If you have several hours to spare, there is no reason why you shouldn’t explore the city. It might be a unique opportunity because who knows when you will find yourself in that location again.

The experts advise designing your city exploration plan in advance. You probably won’t have time for everything, so focus on sight or two that you want to see the most, with perhaps a meal away from the typical airport fare. Additionally, make sure that you return to the airport by the specified time. Make sure to leave some wiggle room in case something goes wrong, such as your taxi getting in a traffic jam while taking you back to the airport. It’s better to be at the lounge an hour or two earlier than to risk missing your flight. Remember – this is only a layover. It isn’t worth missing your ride to your final destination!

Your Gadgets Are Your Best Friend

It’s vital that your mobile phone is fully charged and capable of enduring active use while you are waiting for the next flight. Your cellphone will allow you to check-in with your friends and loved ones and talk to them. You will also need it for other activities we suggest later in the article. Anyone living in the modern age understands the essential nature of a cellphone while traveling. If you are traveling to a foreign country, you might want to consider being prepared with a SIM card for your destination(s). Otherwise, you might be swarmed with hidden fees.

Apart from a mobile phone, you might be carrying a laptop, tablet, or another device. All these can be useful to pass the time, so make sure you have sufficient battery. The alternative is to find a place to charge at the airport, which can be a restaurant or coffee shop. Additionally, you can be prepared by bringing your own portable charger. These are an essential gadget for any traveler – some suitcases even come with them built in these days!

Here is what you can do with these devices:

Respond to business emails and finish work-related tasks – you have time to spare, so why wouldn’t you use it intelligently and complete those work-related things you’d like to avoid while on vacation? Whether it’s responding to emails or writing a draft of a meeting, all it takes is finding a quiet place where you can focus.
Play games – mobile phones and tablets feature games that can keep you interested for hours. If there is a game you love playing at the moment, you will have several hours to enjoy it, which is a true blessing.
Watch TV shows and movies – the odds are the airport has high-speed internet, so how about watching a few episodes of your favourite show?
Listen to music – you will need headphones because you don’t want to disturb the passengers, but listening to your favourite tunes is another option. Furthermore, you can also listen to podcasts and other content.

Make a Game Out of People Watching

Some people find it a bit strange, but others believe this is a creative way of passing the time. The idea is to position yourself in a place where people often pass by, and the airport is the perfect location for that. Your task is to watch a person and see what you can guess about them. Some find coming up with elaborate backstories for different travelers quite amusing.

Perhaps you can guess where they came from and then see what their luggage says. Make sure that you do the entire watching discreetly because it should never be one’s intent to make another traveler uncomfortable.

Freshen Up for Your Next Flight

Most airports have large toilets where you can invest some time to freshen yourself up to feel better. You probably have carry-on luggage that includes your skincare and other cosmetic products. Even a couple of wet wipes, a mouthwash and a swipe of deodorant might do the trick.

If you want to take things to the next level, discover if the airport offers showers or spa services. Many airports where layovers are common include these facilities as they want the layover passengers to feel comfortable. You can get your batteries charged and energized by having a hot shower or getting yourself a massage to relax after a tiresome flight. Why approach the next step of your journey feeling overly foggy, when you can approach it pampered and prepared?

Are You Feeling Hungry?

The next thing to consider is whether you could use a nice meal. Most airports offer multiple restaurants and fast food facilities, but the time of day (or night) will effect which of them are open. If it’s the middle of the night, the odds are that only a late-night snack bar will be available, which is better than nothing. Treat yourself to a coffee, and healthy snacks such as a granola bar or fruit to keep you feeling energized.

However, if you find yourself at the airport in the afternoon, you can probably pick between multiple options. Since you are not in a rush, take some time to think and go with the restaurant that seems most tempting. It may even be an excellent opportunity try the local cuisine.

Read a Book

Did you start reading a book on your first flight and didn’t have time to finish it? If you can’t wait to see what happens next, how about reading it now? If it is an interesting read, it will help keep you wide awake and engaged in your surroundings. That’s the entire point – finding an activity you find attractive ensures you don’t fall asleep.

Books are a convenient way of passing the time but don’t forget to pick them carefully. If you need to start a new book and you find it boring, you might become sleepy. That’s why choosing the right title is imperative, so go with those books you know you will like. Many airports offer bookstores where you can browse numerous titles if you are in the market for something new.

Conclusion

It’s not pleasant when you have to wait for hours for the next flight. However, we staying awake can be easier if you engage in entertaining activities. Apart from ensuring that you don’t fall asleep, time will pass more quickly until you finally hear that boarding call to your final destination.

You want to plan your layover before heading on a trip. Make sure all devices like smartphones and laptops are charged and don’t hesitate to bring books and headphones to listen to music. It’s all about designing a layover plan that suits your preferences, as that one increases the odds of staying awake for as long as necessary.