Posts tagged with "Samantha Miduri"

Aerial Shot of Buckminster Fuller

CREATIVE MINDS TALKS × MIAMI DESIGN DISTRICT

On July 5th, Creative Minds Talks, in collaboration with Miami Design District, proudly presents Mayor Francis X. Suarez in conversation with Ximena Caminos. Mayor Suarez and Caminos will discuss art, tech, NFTs, and the future of Miami in the Miami Design District. 

Creative Minds Talks is a series of talks presented by Miami Design District featuring high-profile guests from the fashion, design, architecture, and art industries. The talks aim to pair two notable names from similar fields for a dialogue that serves to educate, inspire, entertain and promote creative fields of the cultural world.

Tickets are priced at $125; proceeds from all ticket sales will be donated to the Red Cross in support and solidarity with Ukraine.

Get your tickets HERE.

Credit Cards via Samantha Miduri for use by 360 Magazine

Best Credit Cards

By: Skyler Johnson

Having a good credit card is important, for a variety of reasons. There are so many doors that remain closed if you don’t have one. You can’t build credit, buy a house, or even a car. However, it’s hard to know which to choose from. There are many different options, some better than others. 360 has simplified the process and made a list of the ten best credit cards to have in 2022.

Chase Freedom Unlimited

Chase Freedom unlimited is an interested card, and pairs perfectly with Chase Sapphire.

PROS:

  • 1.5% cash back on all purchases, including small purchases like groceries and electronics on first $20,000 spent
  • 6.5% cash back on travel
  • 4.5% cash back on drug stores and dining.
  • No minimum to receive cash back.

CONS:

  • Foreign transaction fees

Credit Needed: Good to Excellent

Find more information HERE.

Capital One Venture

This card is designed for travelers, as several of the benefits are specifically catered to those who vacation a lot. Benefits are measured in “miles,” which can be redeemed for money to pay for travel costs.

PROS:

  • $600 for travel expenses after your first $3,000 spent.
  • 2x miles for everyday purchases
  • 5x miles for travel expenses.

CONS:

  • Annual Fee
  • No Intro 0% APR
  • High APR (15.99-23.99%)

Credit Needed: Good to Excellent

Find more information HERE.

Wells Fargo Active Cash

This card is known to be one of the best flat-rate cash rewards cards out there, meaning the cashback percentage doesn’t change because of money spent.

PROS:

  • $200 cash reward bonus after first $1,000 spent.
  • 2% unlimited cash rewards.
  • $600 dollar protection on your cell phone.
  • Benefits can be attained for prestigious hotels (The Pierre, The Peninsula Beverly Hills)

CONS:

  • 3% Foreign Transaction Fee
  • No Bonus Categories
  • High APR

Credit Needed: Good to Excellent

Find more information HERE.

Chase Sapphire Preferred

This card is primarily reliant on a points system. Points have to be transferred into cash during specific periods. It is mainly known for its excellent rewards, particularly for travel.

  • 60,000 points after first $4,000 spent ($750 dollars)
  • $50 rewards annually on hotels
  • 25% more value for airfare, hotels, car rentals, and cruises
  • Dashpass from Doordash ($0 delivery fees)

CONS:

  • Annual Fee
  • High APR
  • 1 Point per dollar base rate

Credit Needed: Good to Excellent

Find more information HERE.

Discover It Cash Back

This card is also known for the high cash back rate, with 5% on certain purchases, making it perfect for gas and restaurant purchases.

PROS:

  • 5% unlimited cash back on everyday purchases (Amazon, restaurants, gas) each quarter.
  • Rewards can be used at Amazon checkout.

CONS:

  • High Annual fee
  • Bonus Categories only activated quarterly
  • Cashback rate is limited to $1,500 per quarter

Credit Needed: Good to Excellent

Find more information HERE.

Citi Double Cash

This card is primarily known for its impressive cash back offering, 2% back on all purchases.

PROS:

  • 2% cash back for all purchases
  • 18 months of no APR, 13.99% to 23.99% thereafter.

CONS:

  • No One-Time Offer
  • Serious consequences if late on payment

Credit needed: Good to Excellent

Find more information HERE.

Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express

This is a great card for heavy streamers and long commuters. However, it’s the best for grocery shopping with 6% cash back.

PROS:

  • 6% cash back on select US streaming services and grocery stores
  • 3% on gas stations and transit.
  • 1% from all other purchases.

CONS:

  • Welcome bonus requires $3,000 dollars spent
  • High annual fee

Credit Needed: Good to Excellent

Find more information HERE.

American Express Platinum

This is another card designed for the traveler because of American Express Travel, which comes included.

PROS:

  • High reward potential on flights and hotels
  • Comprehensive airport access
  • Luxury travel benefits with Hilton, Marriot, etc.

CONS:

  • $695 Dollar annual fee
  • No Introductory APR

Credit Needed: Good to Excellent

Find more information HERE.

Blue Card Preferred

PROS:

  • 6% cashback at U.S. Supermarkets and on selected U.S. Streaming Subscription.
  • 3% flashback at U.S. gas stations
  • Welcome offer (Earn $350 back)
  • Low intro APR (0% Intro APR for the first 12 months)
  • Flexible payment
  • $25 per month towards Equinox Gym

Cons:

  • $95 Annual fee
  • 15.49%- 25.49% APR (after Intro APR)

Blue Card Everyday

PROS:

  • Welcome Offer (Earn $200 back)
  • 0% intro APR (For first 15 months)
  • 3% cash back on first $6000
  • 2% cash back at U.S. gas stations
  • 1% cash back on other purchases
  • No annual fee

CONS:

  • Low cash back rate
  • Up to 29.99% APR

Upgrade Visa Card with Cash Rewards

The Upgrade Visa Card is one of the best options for people with only fair credit, as you don’t need the highest credit score to attain.

PROS:

  • 1.5% cash back on purchases
  • $200 reward after opening a checking account and making 3 purchases.
  • Lowest APR is 8.99%
  • Fixed rate

CONS:

  • No welcome bonus
  • Highest APR is 29.99%
  • Less flexible payments

Credit Needed: Fair to Excellent

Find more information HERE.

Apple Card

This card is pretty good if you primarily visit vendors with Apple Pay, as it has pretty good cash back for those purchases.

PROS:

  • 3% Cash back on select purchases with Apple Pay
  • 2% Cash Back on other Apple Pay purchases
  • Low APR
  • No late fees

CONS:

  • Low cash back with physical card
  • Low signup bonus
  • Low Cash back rate

Credit Needed: Good to Excellent, though may accept lower scores

Find more information HERE.

Amazon Card

Like the Apple Card, the Amazon card is perfect for those making purchases from the card’s titular brand.

PROS:

  • 3% cash back on Amazon purchases
  • 2% cash back on gas stations, restaurants, drug stores
  • No annual fee

CONS:

  • Doesn’t offer 0% financing
  • Prime Membership not included

Credit Needed: Good to Excellent

Find more information HERE.

Citibank Diamond Preferred

This card is perfect for those who want to avoid interest on balance transfers, at least for the first 21 months.

PROS:

  • 0% APR for 12 months
  • 0% intro APR for balance transfers for 21 months
  • No annual fee

CONS:

  • No ongoing rewards
  • High regular APR
  • Foreign transaction fee

Credit Needed: Good to Excellent

Fine more information HERE.

Take These Three Bucket List Vacations Before You Die

Bucket lists are becoming a hot topic again, and with it comes the need for many to decide on their travel plans as soon as possible. Getting out and seeing the world is the best way to ensure you experience as much of this planet as possible before you have to leave it forever.

These are the top three vacation destinations that should be on your list when you’re planning it!

Kerry, Ireland

Although London is one of the top vacation spots globally, it’s time to leave England and enjoy some time in the gorgeous Irish countryside. Kerry, known as the Rose of Tralee, is one of the most beautiful areas on the planet. Endless rugged landscapes, and beautiful stretching water, make it feel like you’ve stepped into the garden of Eden.

This is an amazing space to allow yourself to feel like you’re getting in touch with nature, where deer and stag roam freely and endless tumbling waterfalls crash down onto the craggy rocks beneath them like works of art.  

If you want to take in as much beauty as possible, there’s a scenic drive called the Ring of Kerry, which you can take in just a day to explore picturesque coastlines and beautiful stretching land as far as you can see. This view deserves to be on everyone’s bucket lists, and the delicious food and friendly locals will ensure that you’ll want to add it back to your bucket list time and time again after you’ve left! 

Bali, Indonesia

Warm gorgeous clear waters, bright white sand, and perfect temperatures have made Bali a must-stop destination for years. This beautiful paradise is one of the most popular bucket list ideas for travelers.

You can enjoy beautiful endless beaches while you unwind from the world’s pressures. Friendly locals are excited to help you learn about their home, and the countless resorts ensure that you won’t be bored or wanting for anything while you’re here.

This is also an incredibly affordable option, giving you the chance to set aside the rest of your money for later and possibly sneak in another bucket list vacation!

Marrakesh, Morocco

Marrakesh is a gorgeous destination and one of the top vacation areas in the world because of how much it offers. From incredible historical sights and their deep cultural meaning to some of the best food on Earth: every step you take in Marrakesh will feel like you’re walking in paradise.  

This area has something for everyone, from shopping at the souks to enjoying golfing or hiking. If you want a bit of paradise in your life, you’ll find it in Marrakesh. Although this can be an expensive vacation for some, it’s worth it when you consider how much entertainment and beauty is possible from just one visit!

Seeing the World is the Best Bucket List Choice

Although there are some bucket list items people will argue over; the least controversial is travel. Traveling allows you to take in as much of the world as possible before you die, and honestly: who could ask for more?

How to choose the right shoes

Finding the right footwear can be very difficult. Even though you have likely been wearing shoes since you were a small child. Many people just plow on through shoes not caring too much whether they are right for their feet. 

The right footwear can keep your feet healthy, keep your body safe from injury and make your physical activity easier. It is so much easier to stay active when you have the right footwear that is appropriate to your feet, whether they be wide, slim, or sensitive. 

What should shoes do for you?

The right shoe should provide you with several services. It should cushion the feet nicely. The midsole is the main part of the shoe that is there to provide cushioning. They increase the amount of time that force takes to reach your body and allow it to adapt. However, this only works when your shoe supports your foot’s particular alignment when it touches the ground. 

Additionally, you should have a shoe that feels comfortable even on the first wear. It should fit well and not hold your feet too tightly. You should have at least 1-1.5cm at the end of the shoe and it should be wide enough to fit your feet. The key here is for it to feel snug and not tight

Considerations

Height Soles- Height soles is a shoe insert that can increase your height. You place it in the shoe instead of the original sole for a discreet height increase. The toe area of your shoes will remain flat, but the heel is a thick raised area. You can gain anywhere between 5-10cm to your height. 

Activities- what will you be using these shoes for? If they are being used for physical activities such as running, then this will impact the type of shoe you are shopping for. Shoes for running are usually more cushioned and wider so that your feet are more protected. Make sure you know what you are shopping for. 

Legs, feet, and joints- Your choice of footwear affect more than just your feet. If they are too tight, loose, and not supportive enough then you may be placing excessive stress on your feet, legs, ankles, and joints. This can lead to pain, bunions, shin splints, or postural issues. You need to make sure that you are wearing the right shoes for yourself. 

Shoe Supports

If you have ankle or feet problems, then you may need to make alterations to your shoes. This is okay to do. Shoes bought from the store aren’t guaranteed to suit everybody so altering them can help you. Fortunately, there are various shoe supports out there to consider. 

Heel cup- A heel cup can help alleviate pain beneath your heel. They are usually made of plastic, foam, or rubber and are made to provide extra support around the heel. This will help relieve pressure on any tenderness near or around your heel. 

Arch supports- Arch supports the treatment of pain in the foot and helps promote function in the lower legs. They are again made of foam or rubber and are worn inside your shoes. They are specially designed inserts that relieve pain in a certain area whilst also supporting the surrounding area. This can help alter foot alignment and function.

Metatarsal pad

A metatarsal pad is used to relieve pressure and pain from beneath the ball of the toes. A range of materials can be used for them, but they are usually made of foam so that the pad can affix to the insole near the most tender area. It can help to distribute the pressure that would be placed on the ball of the foot so that one area doesn’t suffer alone.  

One thing you should do is to talk to a healthcare professional about any problems with your feet. They will be able to diagnose what area is the problem and what the solution would be. This will help you decide on which footwear you need and can treat your symptoms before they get too bad. You can seek help from specialty shoe stores, podiatrists, and physiotherapists all of whom will have the knowledge you need. 

Finding the right footwear

Looking for shoes can be draining especially if when you purchase your new footwear, they make your feet uncomfortable and leave you in pain. You should take some time to research where your problems are coming from and to find which shoe suits your needs. This may mean getting rid of your one shoe for everything and getting multiple pairs for various occasions. 

 

illustration by Samantha Miduri for use by 360 Magazine

How to Wash White Shoes

By: Amanda Sanders

 Caring for white shoes requires special attention as dirt and stains are unavoidable and is easily visible on a white surface. Fortunately, there are many ways to bring a dirty pair of white shoes back to life and to its original color. Amanda Sanders, Celebrity Stylist, Fashion Consultant, and Lifestyle Expert at AmandaSanders.com, shares her top tips on how to best remove stains for different types of white shoes and get them to look good as new. 

  • Acknowledge that white shoes will eventually turn yellow. You can’t prevent sneakers from turning white to yellow because that naturally happens over time. However, there are ways to prevent debris from sticking which can add to the color change.
  • Be cautious about throwing shoes into the washing machine. I don’t recommend using the washing machine for shoes because it can warp and damage some of the shoes. When it comes to suede and leather white shoes, these materials can be completely damaged from the rinse cycle. Also, the heat from the washer can damage the glue that holds the soles together. It is better to air dry shoes by gathering newspapers, crinkling them, and inserting them into the shoe. Make sure to take out the laces and soles and let them sit overnight.
  • Use cleaning products that’s suited to the material of the shoe. To clean white leather, you can use a Mr. Clean sponge and neutral leather cream. Fun fact, leather sneakers can be air brushed white after a good professional cleaning! If you want to clean canvas and athletic shoes at home, dry brush it with a toothbrush to get rid of as much dirt and debris as you can. Then, mix warm water with a bit of laundry detergent like Arm & Hammer Odor Blasters and submerge the whole shoe in a bucket. Use the brush to scrub the mixture into stains, rinse off all residue, and air dry completely.
  • Opt for a laundry service for convenience. I love using a service like “Cobbler Concierge” as they will pick up and drop off your sneakers, looking new and fresh!

Myths About Traveling the World

Do you dream of the open road but find yourself held back by fear? Was that fear planted by many things you’ve heard over the years or impressions you’ve picked up here and there? There are many myths about travel that keep people from following their dreams, and below are just a few of them.

You Have to Be Rich

One of the most common misconceptions is that everyone who travels is rich. Not only is this untrue, but you are less likely to meet rich people while you’re traveling because they are saving money and working all the time. While it’s true that there’s a certain jet set lifestyle attainable only by the super-wealthy, most travelers are ordinary people. Many of them live and work abroad or work while they’re on the road.

Others have saved up for years while working very ordinary jobs, such as waiting tables. If you’ve got a professional job and other assets, such as a home, you’re already ahead of the game. You could even rent out your home while you’re on the road or tap into the equity in your home if you need to get more cash. To find out more about taking out a home equity loan and to learn about recent laws, you can review a guide about the process.

It’s Dangerous

Are there dangerous places in the world? Absolutely, and this includes countries where there is a great deal of political instability or very high crime. However, would it surprise you to learn that there are also countries that are considered much safer than the United States?

Paying attention to ways to stay safe is one of many expert traveling tips to think about. However, there are a lot of other factors to consider as well. Some countries are only dangerous in certain areas where tourists rarely venture. Of course, people aren’t the only danger. Bad weather, dangerous animals and other natural threats are out there too—but you probably have some of them at home as well. Do your research, be smart, and there’s no reason you can’t be as safe as you are in your hometown.

Language is a Barrier

It’s a false belief that everyone speaks English, but it’s also untrue that no one does. The big myth here though is that language is something that should keep you at home. Smart phone apps mean it’s easier than ever to make your way around without knowing any of the language, but it’s also very easy to learn a few basic, polite phrases in any language, which can take you a long way. You’d be surprised at how far you can get with this and gestures.

The key here is to practice travel etiquette and be respectful and not assume that everyone will be able to speak English. Even if you’ve just heard them do so with someone else, it’s polite to approach someone and ask if they speak English before launching into the rest of what you have to say. Preferably, you should ask this question in their language. Let go of your language-based fears and you’ll be surprised at the many ways you can connect with others.

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Travel illustration by Samantha Miduri for use by 360 Magazine

Top Hotels in Shanghai

By: Emily Bunn

As global travels begins to reopens, the world looks finally leave the confines of their homes. For those who are especially adventurous and looking to take a once-in-a-lifetime voyage, consider Shanghai. Shanghai has a wealth of tourist attractions – like the – as well as delicious cuisine, a lively culture, and beautiful views. For those looking to visit, after your long flight across the world, relax into the clean, cushioned beds and enjoy amazing amenities as these top boutique hotels in Shanghai. All of these hotels are centrally located, so travelers can enjoy all that the city has to offer right outside the lobby.

Amanyangyun Shanghai
Looking for some zen, peaceful relaxation, and rejuvenation? Consider staying at Amanyangyun. This boutique hotel is quaintly nestled on the city skirts of Shanghai. Guests can stay in authentic Antique Ming and Qing Dynasty villas in contemporary, luxury suites. Outside of the hotel, the a rescued forest of camphor trees and shimmering lake are the perfect locations for photographs, relaxing outdoors, and appreciating ecological conservation. Enjoy the view on the hotel’s open air, pool side relaxation terrace.

The hotel feature amenities including a spa, fine dining, a sauna, cold plunge pool, jacuzzi, 20-meter heated indoor swimming pool, a 28.5-meter heated outdoor swimming pool, a hair and beauty salon, treatment rooms, relaxation lounges, tea rooms, a pilates and yoga studio, and more!

For more information on this property, please visit their website HERE.

Mandarin Oriental Pudong Shanghai
If you’re looking for a five-star stay in a colorful, lively, and high-quality hotel, look no further than the Mandarin Oriental Pudong. This fine property is located on the serene banks of the Huangpu River, the heart of Pudong’s financial district. Guests get the best of both worlds, as they can easily explore the city, or chose to relax by the waterfront. If you venture outside your lavish suite, be sure to visit the hotel’s sunken bamboo garden.

Providing the utmost quality of service to their guests, the Mandarin Oriental Pudong offers delicious eats, calming spa treatments, a tea lounge, a salon, 25 meter indoor swimming pool, and a high-tech wellness center and exercise studio, among other amenities. If you’re looking to feel refreshed, check out the hotel’s many holistic beauty treatments and services.

For more information on this property, please visit their website HERE.

The Peninsula Shanghai

The Peninsula Shanghai stands out from other stays in Shanghai as the only luxury hotel in the city with a customized car fleet. The extent of the Peninsula’s luxuriousness doesn’t end there though – the hotel also boasts Michelin star-rated restaurants, the deluxe garden suite featuring views over the grounds of the former British Consulate, the Peninsula spa, a steam room, sauna, and a huge indoor, heated pool with an art-deco fireplace.

An exciting collaboration between the Peninsula and Sanrio’s Hello Kitty is again happening this year, now until August 31. With this exclusive stay option, guests can enjoy a limited-edition Hello Kitty and Pen Bear plush toy set and specialty themed amenities, including a bathrobe and slippers and more. Hello Kitty is partnering with the Peninsula’s mascot, The Peninsula Bear, to add an adorable touch to guests’ stays.

For more information on this property, please visit their website HERE.

Bellagio Shanghai
The Bellagio By MGM Shanghai balances celebrating traditional heritage with modern luxe. In the suites, guests can enjoy beautiful interior design, large windows to let in plenty of natural light, and breathtaking views of the Suzhou River. The hotel is also available to be booked for events, such as weddings, meetings, and entertaining.

Ameneties provides by the Bellagio Shanghai include a pool, spa, lounge, grand ballroom, and an atrium, which is equipped with state-of-the-art LEDs and an integrated audio system. The hotel also has three restaurants – LAGO (ran by award-wining Chef Julian Serrano, serving authentic Italian cuisine), Mansion on One (serving classic Cantonese delicacies and an authentic Peking Duck), and Café Bellagio (providing the classic American diner experience with modern sensibilities.)

For more information on this property, please visit their website HERE.

Bvlgari Hotel, Shanghai

Bvlgari Hotel, Shanghai is conveniently located between the bustling Shanghai city center and scenic riverbank views. This property is a part of the SUHE CREEK project, and features breathtaking views of the Bund and of Pudong’s dramatic skyline. However, the inside of the hotel – designed the renowned Italian architectural firm Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel – is just as breathtaking with its panoramic views, triple-height Ballroom ceilings, and stunning architectural details.

After exploring all of the sights and excites surrounding the hotel, guests are invited to enjoy the fine cuisine inside. Eateries on the property include Ristorante Niko Romito and Bar and the Bao Li Xuan restaurant. For further indulgence, unwind at the BVLGARI spa, fitness center, or workshop gymnasium.

For more information on this property, please visit their website HERE.

The Middle House
Stylish and sophisticated, The Middle House embraces all of the vibrancy of the surrounding city’s fine dining, art, and fashion scenes. Positioned both culturally and geographically in the heart of Shanghai, The Middle House is the ideal stay for those looking to truly experience where they are staying. Designed by Italian architect Piero Lissoni, the striking property exudes fashionable taste with its art collection, minimalist design, and atmospheric interior that ties in traditional Chinese decor elements.

A wide range of gastronomic experiences are available without even having to step out of the hotel. Enjoy continental cuisine at Cafe Gray Deluxe, Italian al fresco dining at Frasca, Cantonese, Sichuanese and Shanghainese cuisine at Sui Tang Li, or sneak away to the underground cocktail lounge at Sui Tang Shang. Afterwards, relax at the hotel’s pool, Mi Xun spa, gym, or yoga studio.

For more information on this property, please visit their website HERE.

Capella Shanghai, Jian Ye Li
Fashionably positioned at the intersection of Shanghainese courtyard living and Parisian design flair, Capella Shanghai, Jian Ye Li welcomes in guests to its luxurious urban sanctuary. The hotel boasts fine dining, with their three-Michelin star chef Pierre Gagnaire at Le Comptoir de Pierre Gagnaire. Other restaurants include la Terrace (offers many alcoholic beverages, with a focus on fine champagne), la Boulangerie (a french bakery), and le Bar (offers cocktails, with an emphasis on using seasonal ingredients.)

Those who stay at Capella are granted VIP treatment with from the property’s Capella Culturists, who provide specially-tailer, bespoke experiences for each individual stay. Culturists are historians, guardians, and native explorers of Shanghai, so they can provide the best recommendations for local restaurants, places, and people. Culturists will provide each guests with a full itinerary of activities and events hosted in the Living Room during their stay. They can even sign you up for an exploratory bike tour in the historical, surrounding area.

For more information on this property, please visit their website HERE.

The PuLi Hotel and Spa
An urban escape in downtown Shanghai, the PuLi Hotel knows how to create incredible guests experiences through their principals of “modern science” and “ancient healing.” Enjoy fine dining at the hotel’s Michelin starred restaurant, PHÉNIX eatery & bar, garden terrace restaurant, or bar.

Amenties at The PuLi include a 24-hour dedicated guest service specialist, in-room dining, concierge, laundry and valet services, and a Michelin-starred restaurant. Furthermore, the hotel’s Health Club is equipped with a state of the art gymnasium, micro bubble bath, sauna, steam room, pool, experiential showers, whirlpool, 25-metre heated infinity pool, and the UR SPA.

For more information on this property, please visit their website HERE.

The Sukhothai Shanghai
At The Sukhothai Shanghai, it is understood that hospitality is an art form. As such, the hotel prides itself on delivering a personality approach as according to each guests’ personal preference. Take a leisurely load off at the spa with a range of Southeast Asian-oriented body and facial treatments. If thats not your thing, visit the Cha House to observe colonial, baroque-style architecture.

Centrally located downtown, adjacent to two Grade-A office towers and a retail mall, guests are sure to stay entertained their whole trip. For travelers who prioritize business, the hotel’s Grand Shanghai Ballroom is available to be rented out for meetings, weddings and celebrations. The Sukhothai Shanghai knows how to expertly accommodate all of their guests, and as such, was awarded the 2021 Trip Advisor’s Traveler’s Choice Award.

For more information on this property, please visit their website HERE.

Park Hyatt Shanghai
One of the highest hotels in the world, located on floors 79 to 93 of the Shanghai World Financial Center (SWFC), the Park Hyatt Shanghai grants guests unbeatable, breathtaking city views. Positioned above the center of Shanghai’s Lujiazui business district, those who stay at the property are granted a scenic outlook over the city skyline and Huangpu River.

The property is comprised of 173 luxurious rooms, each of which are equipped with a work area, rain shower, and deep soaking tub. Also located within the property are several restaurants and the renowned Water’s Edge Spa. Upon arrival, guests will have access to amenities including free wifi, concierge service, a spa, room service, indoor infinity pool, laundry, meeting facilities, free parking, a fitness center, and more.

For more information on this property, please visit their website HERE.

illustration by Samantha Miduri for use by 360 Magazine

TikTok’s Explosive Growth

TikTok is world’s most popular mobile video app with 660 million downloads in 2020

Despite facing competition and privacy concerns, TikTok’s 2020 growth appears to have solidified. It has now emerged as the most popular mobile video platform for the last year.

Data acquired by Finbold indicates that TikTok was the most popular mobile video app in 2020 globally, with 660.12 million downloads. Singapore’s Likee trails TikTok, accounting for 270.3 million downloads, while SnackVideo ranks third with 233.57 million downloads.

Despite strong brand support and longevity, YouTube ranks fourth with 222.7 million downloads, while TikTok Lite ranks fifth with 141.89 million downloads.

Other mobile video apps with significant downloads include Moj (93.87 million downloads), Zili (84.11 million downloads), MX TakaTak (81.7 million downloads), Josh (78.13 million downloads), and Uvideo (74.95 million downloads).

Pandemic impacts TikTok’s growth 

TikTok’s growth was accelerated early last year and the report highlights some of the driving factors. According to the research report:

“The app experienced rapid growth in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, especially with the emerging lockdowns. During the lockdown, many people had to stay at home with apps like TikTok keeping people engaged leading to a snowballing effect.”

The app’s growth has also emerged from factors like the ability to offer users an alternative way of sharing content online by creating short videos with music, filters, and other captivating features.

TikTok’s growth has come amid increased challenges ranging from privacy concerns in the United States that saw the app almost get banned. Notably, the app was banned in India, losing a key market.

Furthermore, the app is still facing competition from established platforms like Facebook and Instagram.

Read the full story with statistics here

illustration by Samantha Miduri for use by 360 Magazine

Historic Underground Railroad Marker Unveiled in Niagara

The Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Commission (Commission) and the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation (NYSOPRHP) proudly unveiled a Historic Marker designating the former site of the Cataract House at a press conference on Thursday morning at the park area across from Red Coach Inn, 2 Buffalo Ave, Niagara Falls, NY 14303.

The importance of the Cataract House as the center of Underground Railroad activism in Niagara Falls cannot be overestimated. The African American waiters who worked as Underground Railroad agents made this site one of the most important Underground Railroad nodes in the entire nation. Famous cases included a failed rescue attempt in 1847 and the successful escapes of Cecilia Jane Reynolds (1847), a woman named Martha (1853), and waiter Patrick Sneed (1853). John Morrison, head waiter at the Cataract House, often ferried people across the river himself.

The Cataract House burned down in 1945 and was demolished in 1946. The Historic Marker for the former location of the hotel has been funded by a grant from the William G. Pomeroy Foundation.

“This Historic Marker will now designate a location that was important not only to our local heritage, but our national history as well,” said Saladin Allah, Visitor Experience Specialist, and Community Liaison at the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center, operated by the Commission. “Outside of our community, people may not know much about Niagara Falls beyond the Falls themselves. This Marker will help others realize the vital role our region played in the Underground Railroad and the rich history of Niagara Falls’ Black community. We hope that our representation of this site will help us continue to learn from the past so we can work toward a more just, equitable future.”

Congressman Brian Higgins agreed that the Marker represents an important aspect of the history of our city and country.

“The Cataract House was a pivotal station along the Underground Railroad and its story is told beautifully and poignantly through the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center,” he said. “This Historic Marker further shares the story of the powerful network of ‘conductors’ here in Niagara Falls who bravely helped people escape slavery along the road to freedom.”

The event was attended by several community leaders and local political officials, including City of Niagara Falls Mayor Robert Restaino.

“The Cataract House is an important part of the history of our City,” Mayor Restaino said. “It continues to show the significant impact of Niagara Falls in our national story. We appreciate the work of the Commission and NYSOPRHP in designating this Historic Marker for the Cataract House.”

Speakers at the event included: 

  • Saladin Allah
    • Visitor Experience Specialist & Community Liaison at Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center 
    • Descendant of freedom seeker Josiah Henson
  • Douglas J. Perrelli, Ph. D., RPA
    • Chair of NYS Board for Historic Preservation
    • President, New York Archaeological Council (NYAC)
    • Director, Archaeological Survey
    • Clinical Assistant Professor, Anthropology, University at Buffalo
  • Mark Mistretta, RLA
    • Western District Director, New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation
  • Assemblyman Angelo Morinello (R, C, I-Niagara Falls)
  • Robert M. Restaino, Mayor of Niagara Falls

Following the unveiling, visitors were invited to walk in the footsteps of freedom seekers from the hotel site to the brink of the Niagara River. For media files, visit here.

About the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Commission

The Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Commission Center manages the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Area, a part of the NYSOPRHP Heritage Area Program. The Commission also operates the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center, an award-winning experiential museum located inside the former 1863 U.S. Custom House attached to the Niagara Falls Amtrak Station. The Commission encourages and fosters the discovery, illumination, and celebration of the rich heritage of the Underground Railroad and the Abolitionist movement throughout the City of Niagara Falls and its environs. The center, which opened in May 2018 after 11 years of planning, is located inside the former 1863 U.S. Custom House attached to the Niagara Falls Amtrak station. The center sits adjacent to the location of the former International Suspension Bridge, a point of crossing for many freedom seekers including Harriet Tubman. 

The Heritage Center preserves the historic role of the people of Niagara Falls in facilitating freedom for the oppressed. The places and stories associated with this network of freedom seekers, free African Americans, and abolitionists evoke powerful themes in American history and celebrate the bravery of the men and women who risked their lives to achieve the most basic rights of liberty. Learn more here.

William G. Pomeroy Foundation

The William G. Pomeroy Foundation is committed to supporting the celebration and preservation of community history; and to raising awareness, supporting research, and improving the quality of care for patients and their families who are facing a blood cancer diagnosis.

illustration by Samantha Miduri for use by 360 Magazine

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