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Living in Jamaica — 5 tips for earning, learning and staying safe

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Jamaica’s crystal-clear Caribbean waters beaches and chilled-out culture make it a tourist magnet.

But living in this island paradise is a more complex proposition which can be really rewarding — provided you plan properly.

If the thought of spending a year or two as a Jamdown resident floats your boat, here are five insider tips for earning, learning and staying safe.

1. Work

If you come from a nation with a social security safety net and plenty of job opportunities, life in Jamaica is far more focused on survival — so it’s absolutely vital that you secure steady work before you set off.

One top tip for immigrants is grabbing a position with your local embassy or consulate — for example, working at The British High Commission in Kingston can be interesting and reasonably well-paid. But be warned – if you’re recruited locally instead of being posted from your home nation, your terms and conditions won’t be as generous.

2. Accommodation

Crime in Jamaica isn’t nearly as rife as sensational press headlines would have you believe, but it’s still a significant factor.

Capital Kingston offers far more job opportunities than other metropolitan areas and jobs are few and far between in rural areas outwith international hotels. So discuss the safest areas to stay with local consular staff before making the move and avoid any hotspots highlighted by official government foreign travel advice.

3. Network

The best approach for long term travellers to Jamaica is to maintain an open heart and open eyes — take the opportunity to make new friends but don’t be naïve and place yourself in vulnerable situations.

One of the best ways to avoid pitfalls is by seeking advice from expats on a site like InterNations where you’ll grab tips on everything from the cost of living to the best nightlife and entrepreneurial opportunities. These groups also organise regular events where you can meet likeminded incomers in person.

4. Party

If you spend an extended time in Jamaica and don’t attend any parties or festivals, you’re really missing out on some of the most vibesy and unique experiences on the planet.

And provided you attend events in company and make travel and accommodation arrangements beforehand, it’s a perfectly safe place to let your hair down.

If you love roots reggae, Rebel Salute is one of the best live music events to soak in the superb atmosphere — there’s no alcohol allowed at this Rastafarian-inspired event, but vegan food and herbal supplements ensure you’ll have a terrific time nonetheless.

5. Study

 

If you want to keep an iron in the educational fire and upskill for a new job once you return home, Jamaica’s excellent broadband speed and service mean studying online is child’s play.

Earning an online degree from a uni like Anglia Ruskin Distance Learning ensures you’ll have plenty of time to work, socialise and return home with a vocational qualification under your belt.

And you might even connect with classmates from other exotic locations who inspire your next travel adventure!

That’s our list! Add your own tips for living in Jamaica in the comments section.

4 places to see exotic animals

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If you are passionate about wildlife and want to take your travel binoculars to gaze at some of the most wondrous species out there, we’re here to give you a hand. Some of those we’ve included in our list can be jotted down on a list of the weirdest animals in the world, but some are downright beautiful and will captivate you with their looks and behavior.

Without further ado, here are four places where you can see exotic animals.

West Virginia and Red Pandas

Even though it is located in the United States, the zoo where red pandas live is one of the most unique destinations you can travel to. Of course, visiting them does come at a cost, because for two people, you’ll have to pay as much as $165 for the ticket. For this price, you can even interact with the animals, which is an experience you will enjoy, for sure.

Visitors are advised that the little pandas might try to climb on them in order to get fed. Keep in mind that you are only allowed to feed the animals what the zoo staff recommends. It will be difficult for you to avoid taking one in your arms and giving it a hug.

Serengeti, Tanzania

We couldn’t make up our minds about the most interesting animal species you could see here, and that’s because it has a population of 2 million wild ones composed of gazelles, zebras, as well as predators such as cheetahs, leopards, lions, and crocodiles.

Besides, the giraffes and elephants will sweep you off of your feet, especially if you’ve never seen any before. Going to Serengeti will be an experience you might never forget. Just keep in mind that you can’t see these species up-close, especially if they are predators.

Uganda

It’s pretty difficult to get to see Uganda’s mountain gorillas, and that’s because you’ll have to do a lot of climbing to get there. There are porters that will carry your bags for a fee, however, so that might make it easier.

Mountain gorillas are among the critically endangered species currently inhabiting the Earth. If you do decide to take a trip to Uganda, it will be an amazing experience, and that’s because you can get a glimpse of tender moments between a gorilla mother and her son or daughter. These animals do not like interacting with humans and they will avoid contact with them, although at times they might not even care less as long as you do not invade their space.

Northern India

The snow leopard resides in some parts of Northern India, but it is so elusive that you might not be able to get to see one. However, if you can’t hold back, you can camp in some areas and wait for the predator to make his or her appearance. It’s often that leopards stalk bharals, so you should ask around to see where you can set up camp and take your photos.

4 Errors That Music Producers Usually Make

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It is fine if you make a mistake in your career. However, if you repeat it multiple times even after understanding the reason, then it is problematic. Such mistakes are common in industries where creativity is needed, especially in the music profession. If you are an aspiring music producer, then it is possible that you are making one or more of the mistakes described in this post. Remember that you need to understand such errors and rethink over your strategy so that such mishaps are avoided in your career. After all, you do not want your career to jeopardize due to a careless activity that you could have ignored in the first place.

Being overconfident

Some artists think that they are more knowledgeable about a field than they actually are. This phenomenon has been termed as Dunning-Kruger effect. Thus, it is important that you do not act overconfidently during your career. Learn to accept where you lack so that you can improve them by taking classes and learning from experts. If you can understand your faults, you will surely get over them after committing to a stricter schedule and overcoming your weaknesses.

Promoting too much

While promoting yourself and your music creations is important for developing your fan base, it is not advisable to over exaggerate it. The best strategy is to promote the best songs created by you. Nobody loves average-sounding music, so it is futile to spend hundreds and thousands of dollars on such music. Instead, inspect all your songs and filter out the best ones with the help of a variety of listeners. Learn what they say about your music, so that you can also improve the areas that lack creativity. Are you planning to enter the music industry? View Job Description to learn more about this field.

Prioritizing fanciness over basic skills

You may feel impressed by the diversified list of music enhancing techniques used today, but this does not mean that such effects should be added to your songs in abundance. Keep it balanced so that the listeners can appreciate your natural talent as well. In fact, strengthening your basics over supportive effects is a better strategy to gain the love and admiration of your fans. Do understand that the music industry appreciates originality, which can only come when you are clear about the basics used in this profession.

Giving up early

Understand that surviving in the music industry is not at all easy. You will frequently face failures despite working hard and that too without any mistakes. However, you should understand that giving up early in this field would be your biggest mistake. Try to improve your music by surveying about what the people want to hear. Feel them through their hearts and create your music accordingly.

A career in music requires you to be patient, diligent, and positive at all times. Moreover, try to be better against your own self, instead of competing with other artists. Never compare your career with them or it will only depress and demotivate you.

The 5 Fastest Diesel Vehicles In 2018

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Source

When people hear the word diesel, they may instantly think of an old pickup truck. However, this is no longer the case. Now, some of the world’s fastest and most exciting cars are diesel-powered and are desired by drivers all over the world. They look good, drive smoothly, and are even considered environmentally friendly.

  1. Audi A7 3.0 TDi 310

Audi has long had a great reputation for producing fast diesel cars, so it’s no surprise to see the German automaker on this list. Its flagship model in the A7 range is an uber-stylish coupe, which churns out an impressive 309 bhp. An eight-speed transmission allows it to hit 155 mph, while a  quarter-mile sprint can be done in under 15 seconds. With an advanced AWD system for maximum stability and safety, drivers will feel completely in control regardless of their speed.

  1. BMW 640d XDrive

Matching the A7 with a top speed of 155 mph, but with slightly quicker acceleration, BMW’s impressive 640d XDrive is a powerful car. The sleek coupe’s two-liter turbo-diesel engine is extremely efficient, allowing it to offer a power-to-weight ratio of over 160 bhp per ton. It can also manage the 0-60 sprint in five seconds flat. The XDrive system automatically shifts power distribution between front and rear, depending on the conditions.

  1. Maserati Quattroporte 3.0 V6

The Germans don’t have it all when it comes to high-speed diesel cars, and the Quattroporte adds a touch of Italian flair. A classic rear-wheel drive transmission and a three-liter, 24-valve engine with over 440 foot-pounds of torque, give this Maserati immense power. With a top speed of 157 mph and the fabled Maserati trident emblazoned on the grill, the Quattroporte will turn plenty of heads.

  1. Porsche Panamera Diesel 3.0 V6

Although the Panamera has a similar basic setup to the Maserati, its slightly lower curb weight, and incredible torque of almost 480 foot-pounds, propel it to a mighty 161 mph. Featuring Porsche’s rear-wheel drive transmission and a stunning turbocharged V6 power unit, the Panamera makes for a smooth and fast driving experience.  You can visit blacksmokemedia.com to learn about more V6 vehicles.

  1. Audi R8 6.0 Quattro V12

While the previous four cars are relatively close in performance, one stands far above the rest: the top-of-the-range Audi A8. This spectacular diesel boasts a V12 engine rated at a staggering 500 bhp. It’s no surprise that this car can hit 60 mph from rest in a lightning-fast 4.2 seconds. The Audi can go on to hit a max speed of 186 mph. It’s also a pure enthusiast’s car, with a six-speed stick-shift gearbox and a two-door coupe format.

Conclusion

Having considered these five outstanding cars, it should be clear just why diesel vehicles are now so popular with performance lovers. These cars aren’t just about saving fuel on city streets: they’re about a great driving experience and the ability to go fast whenever needed. The next time you think of a diesel engine,  imagine it as a sleek performance car, rather than an old pickup truck.

How to Prepare for the Big Casinos of Las Vegas

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When you hear about the city of Las Vegas, what is the first thing that comes to your mind? It’s definitely the insane nightlife, the drinking ‘till you pass out’ and of course, the most important one is gambling in the biggest and most luxurious casinos ever. When it comes to gambling in Las Vegas, everyone expects to win the big bucks. I mean that would be a dream come true, wouldn’t it? So here are a few tips and tricks on how to prepare yourself for a big win!

1. Online Games

Thanks to the internet, we have sites that we can spend our time on, just for entertainment or to learn as well. Playing online casino games is the best way to prepare and educate yourself about the way these games work. Aside from that, you could learn a few tricks on how to beat the system and win the big bucks. As long as it’s fun play, the choice of website or the country it is located in should be none of your concern. It just means you have as many chances to meet online casino UK players at the tables, as you are to meet Las Vegas natives – regardless, playing there will teach you all you need to know if you pay attention.

2. Choose a Game

There are loads of games to choose from in a casino. From tables for poker, blackjack, roulette to an insane amount of slot machines, there just seems to be no end. Make sure you know which games have a higher percentage of winnings and of course you should know how to play the game. Go online, take your pick and play away until you’ve learnt every trick in the book.

3. People

Learn about what kind of people gamble at these casinos. There are people who play with small stakes, just for fun, but are still hoping for a big win. There are also people who put a lot of money on the table wanting to look confident, but they don’t. And last but not least, there are people who are just pros. You definitely want to stay away from them, because they can use your way of breathing as enough of a tell to know your hand. Consider this and choose a table which actually gives you a chance at winning.

4. Free Drinks

There are a few basic principles all casinos abide by – no clocks, no windows, and free drinks to the customers playing the games. Make sure you are fully aware of the fact that free drinks are being offered left and right, but act upon our advisement and refrain from alcohol during game play. After all, the basis of the casino’s strategy revolves around getting players drunk and unable to make smart decisions so that their bets can turn into easy money for the house.

Use these tips to get you started, and learn anything else you can find along the way – the more you know about them, the better. Ultimately, you might end up cashing out thanks to these points.