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By Kristina Brewer 25 Mar, 2020
While Americans are increasingly isolated from one another during the coronavirus pandemic, we can take comfort in the companionship of our pets — and even have some fun while we’re at it. “I think in times of uncertainty and fear, you latch onto the things that are constant,” Dr. Marty Becker, a veterinarian and founder of Fear Free Happy Homes, told TODAY. “It’s that predictability when we come home from work or shopping — or even the next room — and our pets greet us like conquering heroes or rock stars. That’s rooted in unconditional love and loyalty, and laughter as well. … They’re actually good for us. It’s all about emotional well-being.” Play Games Since most dogs are food-driven, there are many games you can play together. Try creating a scent hunt by hiding little bits of kibble or treats around the home — under the bed, at the side of a dresser, or the top of stairs. Dogs absolutely love a game of hide-and-go-seek! Fun for Homebound Kids If children are home from school, they can create do-it-yourself projects and make toys for their pets. Cats love batting at feathers tied to the end of a stick or string because it engages their prey drive. You can even use those delivery boxes. Just cut holes in a box to create a whack-a-mole game for your dog. Grooming & Pupcakes Pets often enjoy being combed or brushed or having a smear of peanut butter or squeeze cheese on the side of the tub during a bath. You can try cooking pet-friendly recipes for treats or “pupcakes” as a special reward. Or if your pet is on a diet, snack together on carrots, blueberries or apples. At mealtime, instead of using a bowl, scatter kibble in the yard to engage their hunting instincts. Photograph Your Pet You can also use treats to get the perfect Instagram photo of your dog. Here are some dog photo tips from the experts: • Remember to get down on their level to see what they see. • Look for interesting angles. Don’t photograph the obvious. • Look for light. Window light is absolutely beautiful and watch for those sun rays streaming through your window blinds and landing on your dog or cat. • Photograph your pet with other friends in the house, whether it be another pet, stuffed animal or human. • Fast shutter speed and great light always help, which can be tricky when indoors. Having your pet next to a window will help with that. #WorkingFromHome Photos When working at home, consider pulling another chair next to your desk so your pet can sit right beside you. It makes for terrific #WorkingFromHome photos when you need a break. As West Ventura County's premier full-service Property Management, ReMax Gold Coast , we have represent several pet friendly long-term rentals in the area including The Mellow Yellow Bungalow located in Hollywood Beach. Just call us at +1 (805) 832-4075 and we’ll help you find the perfect home with your four-legged family members.
By Kristina Brewer 23 Mar, 2020
The Award-Winning Yoga Channel Studio is now broadcasting yoga classes LIVE. Here’s what students have to say about the new online classes: • "It was awesome. Thanks so much!" • "How fantastic to share and see virtually friends and to have our dogs with us!" • “Super easy to set up from my home laptop and lots of fun.” Message from Yoga Channel Studio Steward It was clear to the Yoga Studio steward, Aurora, that everyone needed some community and connection right now. “I understand, that for most of us, this is not our first choice in taking yoga classes,” explains Aurora, “but it is what we have to offer right now. We hope that you support us, even if it is not your first choice, in understanding that if you don't support these classes now, there might not be any IN STUDIO YOGA CLASSES in the future.” As everyone knows, what WE do now, will determine our future, including the future of the popular healing space in Port Hueneme. In the three years since Aurora has become the steward of the Yoga Channel, she has had to maneuver three major national disasters. “Each time, the studio has taken a hit,” Aurora said. “The studio will not sustain itself without community support. TODAY. And let's not forget about your instructors, whose livelihood may depend on their teaching. If you have the means, please continue to support them and the studio. If not, please share this newsletter or some of our social media posts. Now students from anywhere can take our classes!” How to Join To join in one of the LIVE Yoga classes from anywhere, just register and LOGIN TO YOUR STUDENT PORTAL HERE to PRE-REGISTER for your class. You can also access your STUDENT PORTAL, through the website's homepage . Once, you have done this, you will have the option on the STUDIO SCHEDULE to "VIEW BROADCAST." When you click on the VIEW BROADCAST link, a window in ZOOM will appear for your class. Depending on your device, you may have to add the program. Remember, when you register for your classes to login to your account. Joining from your laptop or computer, may provide a more fulfilling experience. If you join from your mobile device, the class disappears from the schedule once it starts, so join early. Early registrants will be provided an email link, as a backup, prior to the start of class. As West Ventura County's premier full-service Property Management, ReMax Gold Coast , we are committed to bringing our long-term renters the most updated community info in light of the coronavirus. Meantime, if you are looking for a new place to live, we’re here to help. Just call us at +1 (805) 832-4075. We also oversee some of the best vacation rentals in the area so when the time comes to get back outside, contact us.
By Kristina Brewer 19 Mar, 2020
Since the coronavirus outbreak, more and more people are working from home. That means our renters need a workable home office. Here’s how to create a snazzy one that will make you look forward to clocking in. 1) The essentials Some experts have said there are only two essentials for a functional home office: a comfortable chair and a door that closes. Most people, however, probably have a few more requirements. Basic elements of designing a room include smart space planning, adequate lighting and sufficient storage. When setting up your home office, also consider functionality and comfort. 2) Get horizontal Start with your work surface. Stock desk units come in a variety of materials but may be difficult to fit in with your room. Modular office furniture is more flexible and comes in many styles. Or look to repurposed furniture. With some judicious changes, you can turn flea market finds and antiques into acceptable home office elements. Don’t hesitate to make a piece your own with a simple coat of paint in your favorite color. 3) Take a seat Chairs need to be functional, but an office chair isn’t your only choice. If you’ll be spending a lot of time working in the office, consider including a lounge chair or chaise. It will make a comfortable spot for reading or coffee breaks. For your desk, choose a chair with an adjustable seat and armrests to protect your spine and help reduce aches and injuries. To personalize it, add a throw pillow to coordinate with window coverings or other decorative elements in the room. 4) Essential details Make a list of everything you need, from pencils and paper clips to research materials and file folders. Pick a color scheme and purchase the necessities in your favorite palette. Measure all the electronic equipment you’ll require to determine where it will fit best. And make sure you add some favorite framed photos or artwork to inspire you. To create softness and texture underfoot, layer on an area rug to anchor your space. 5) Light it up Natural light is great, and we have it in abundance here in Ventura County. But you’ll still need ambient and task lighting too. Here is another opportunity to add a bit of personal style to your space via lamp shades, crystals and fixture finishes. Watch out for the possibility of glare, especially when finding a place for your computer screen. If your office space doesn’t have a door, you can establish a sense of privacy by the way you orient your work surface or by using a screen or file cabinets to mark off the area. RE/MAX Gold Coast represents home rentals in prime areas of Ventura County with the perfect space to set up your home office. Our portfolio includes the Boat Dock Unfurnished Home located in Mandalay Bay pictured at the top of this blog. With 1510 square feet, and three bedrooms, three baths, there’s plenty of room in this fully furnished rental. Upstairs, you’ll find custom built office space complete with bookcases and a desk. Or, if you need more than one office, you could covert one of the three bedrooms into a fully functioning office. We have other rental homes in prime spots from Hollywood Beach, Silverstrand, Port Hueneme, Oxnard Shores, Seabridge and Westport, to Mandalay Bay, Oxnard homes and condos, Ventura Keys, Pier Pont, Faria, Solimar & Rincon BeachPark beaches and Ventura and Camarillo. Just call us at +1 (805) 832-4075 and we’ll help you find the perfect home for you to set up the perfect home office. Share your favorite ways to spruce your office space — we can’t wait to see what you come up with!
By Kristina Brewer 17 Mar, 2020
As more and more people are quarantining themselves in light of the coronavirus, RE/MAX Gold Coast is arming our long term and vacation renters with some ideas of what to do. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to entertain yourself when you're stuck at home. Here are 50 things to do: Here are 50 Things To-do On A Boring Day at Home: 1. Listen to music. If you’re a music lover, it can lift up your spirits like nothing else can. 2. Watch TV. It’s good to be a couch-potato once in a while. 3. Read a newspaper. It would not only help you pass your time but also increase your awareness. 4. Build Your Own Website. Here is a Guide To Get An Optimized WordPress Site Started In Under One Hour 5. Create a new recipe. Whether you’re into cooking or not, try creating your own recipe. Experiment with different ingredients and be creative! 6 . Exercise. Even if you don’t feel like exercising, doing a few jumping jacks and stretching exercises will keep you going for the rest of the day. 7. Browse and Shop Amazon Best Sellers – You never know what cool and trendy things you can get on Amazon. 8 . Write a short story. Think of a plot, the characters and then go with the flow. 9. Groom your pet. Play, feed and spend time with him/her. 10. Read a book. If you don’t have a good one you can always Get A Book Right Now with digital downloads. I also recommend a Kindle Reader if you don’t already have one. 11 . Do the crossword puzzle in the daily newspaper. These puzzles are a good workout for the brain. 12. Have a bubble bath/aroma therapy bath. It’s a fun way to rejuvenate and relax. 13. Call and speak to your long-distance friend or family. 14 . Browse the web. Check your e-mail or search for information about different countries and cultures. You can also browse the Wikipedia for great information. They have a random article button. 15. Clean up your house. Remember that huge cleaning session you’ve been thinking about for months but never find the time to do? 16 . Write/create your own song. Then, sing it out loud in your room. 17. Cook for your family. Prepare your or their favorite meal. They’ll appreciate your gesture! 18 . Gather up a few friends and have a picnic in your backyard. You can also plan the ultimate barbecue! 19 . Rearrange the furniture in your room/home. If not the heavy bed or the tables, try moving the chairs, small tables etc., for a fresh look to the room. 20. Look through old family scrapbooks, yearbooks and photo books. Basically, indulge in nostalgia. 21 . We often reach out for junk food when we’re bored. This time try making something healthy to drink. Make a smoothie or a fresh, homemade fruit juice. 22 . Re-organize your Facebook profile. Re-organize your files on the computer (takes a lot of time but after a while it gets fun). 23 . Make a collage out of old magazines or newspaper pictures. Remember, the collage should have a theme to it, else it would look meaningless. 24 . Browse YouTube. 25 . Make a list of things you want to do before you die. This may also include things that you want to do within a month or six months. 26. Make a mixed CD of your favorite songs and title it “The soundtrack of my life”. Include your all-time favorite songs. 27 . Do your laundry. It’s tiring but you will be relieved once it’s done! 28. Treat yourself to a yummy dessert. If you can make it at home, nothing like it. 29. Do some baking. Bake a cake, some cookies or anything else that you enjoy eating and would love to share with your family/friends. 30 . Learn a new language. Learning a few words every day can help a lot. Look for the best online classes. 31. Do some research on subjects that interest you. There are lots curious facts to learn about the world. 32 . Paint a picture. Go crazy and paint your art out! Who knows someone may want to buy it and you can earn a few bucks too! 33. Watch stupid videos and standup comedy videos. They keep you laughing and laughing is never wrong! 34. Create and design your personal website. 35. Re-organize your bookshelf. Make sure you clean the outside of each book. This way you will spend more time in this activity, and you won’t have to clean it again for a few weeks. 36 . If you have a movie collection, watch an old favorite one again. Munch on your favorite snacks while enjoying the movie. Bliss! 37. Unwind at the garden. Gardening can be really rejuvenating for some. 38 . Create a card for your loved one. Sounds emotional, but why not? 39 . Create your own jewelry by mixing and matching. You can do the same thing with your clothes. Mix n match to create new outfits out of your current wardrobe. 40. Play the piano or other instruments. 41. Chat with friends via the internet. Chatting online is a cheap way of talking your heart out to a friend. 42 . Play online games. There are a few websites that let you play for free and have some very interesting games to play. 43 . Start a blog. This way you can connect with new people every day! 44. Make a list of things you need to buy at the grocery store. A list saves time, money and energy while shopping. 45. Take pictures. Make up your own little sets and work the lights in the house. 46. Create your own scrapbook. Yes, it can be fun, and you can flaunt it later. 47. Dance inside your room. Play your favorite dance cd and practice all those moves you wanted to show-off but couldn’t get them right. Now is the time to practice! 48. Sit next to your window and enjoy a cup of coffee while looking outside. 49. Learn a new skill. It could be anything from pottery to sound/video editing. All of the learning stuff can be done online. 50. Make a list of things you want to do before you die. It could be stupid, weird or wild. Go crazy! Do you have any ideas to add? As you know, tremendous worldwide efforts are being made to fight Covid-19. If you have any questions or concerns when it comes to our long term or vacation rentals in West Ventura, please call us at +1 (805) 832-4075. And please, stay healthy!
By Kristina Brewer 12 Mar, 2020
When it comes to the Coronavirus that is spreading worldwide, Ventura County is prepared. The county has implemented a Coronavirus Hotline, 805-465-6650, that has all the updated information residents and visitors need. The Ventura County Department of Public Health (Public Health) is cooperating with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to respond to recent reports of a novel (new) coronavirus. Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses, some causing respiratory illness in people and others that circulate mostly among animals. Common symptoms in an infected person include fever, cough and shortness of breath or difficulty breathing. Be Prepared What should motivate us to prepare for the new coronavirus is not fear of our own personal risk, argues Zeynep Tufekci at Scientific American. “You should prepare because your neighbors need you to prepare—especially your elderly neighbors, your neighbors who work at hospitals, your neighbors with chronic illnesses, and your neighbors who may not have the means or the time to prepare because of lack of resources or time.” Those who live here should absolutely have a stockpile of nonperishable food items—FEMA recommends up to two weeks’ worth, plus enough water and other supplies ranging from medication to pet food to diapers. In addition, buy latex or nitrile latex disposable gloves for use when going shopping, using the gasoline pump, and all other outside activity that require you to come in contact with contaminated areas. You should also stock up now with hand sanitizers. Look for alcohol-based and greater than 60% alcohol to be effective. Pick up some zinc lozenges too. These lozenges have been proven to be effective in blocking coronavirus (and most other viruses) from multiplying in your throat and nasopharynx. Protect Yourself and the Community Besides getting your flu shot, make an emergency contact sheet with relevant nearby resources. Work from home, discuss childcare strategies with your neighbors in case schools do close. In fact, you might want to go so far as to set up a group text with your neighbors now. In addition, public health agencies advise the following: 1) NO HANDSHAKING. Use a fist bump, slight bow, elbow bump, etc. 2) Use ONLY your knuckle to touch light switches. elevator buttons, etc.. Lift the gasoline dispenser with a paper towel or use a disposable glove. 3) Open doors with your closed fist or hip - do not grasp the handle with your hand, unless there is no other way to open the door. Especially important on bathroom and post office/commercial doors. 4) Use disinfectant wipes at the stores when they are available, including wiping the handle and child seat in grocery carts. 5) Wash your hands with soap for 10-20 seconds and/or use a greater than 60% alcohol-based hand sanitizer whenever you return home from ANY activity that involves locations where other people have been. 6) Keep a bottle of sanitizer available at each of your home's entrances. AND in your car for use after getting gas or touching other contaminated objects when you can't immediately wash your hands. 7) If possible, cough or sneeze into a disposable tissue and discard. Use your elbow only if you have to. The clothing on your elbow will contain infectious virus that can be passed on for up to a week or more. Tremendous worldwide efforts are being made to fight Covid-19 and Ventura County is just one county that has its own hotline with updated info for both residents and visitors alike. If you want to live or vacation in Hollywood Beach, Silverstrand, Port Hueneme, Mandalay Shores, Oxnard Shores, Seabridge, Westport, Mandalay Bay, Oxnard homes and condos, Ventura Keys, Pier Pont, Faria, Solimar & Rincon BeachPark beaches and Ventura and Camarillo, just call us at +1 (805) 832-4075. And please, stay healthy!
By Kristina Brewer 10 Mar, 2020
American adults are increasingly sharing a home with other adults with whom they are not romantically involved. What began in the wake of the Great Recession is even more prevalent nearly a decade later. This arrangement, known as “doubling up” or shared living, is comprised of nearly 79 million adults living in a shared household which includes about 25 million adults who own or rent the household. An additional 10 million adults are the spouse or unmarried partner of the head of the household. Another 40 million, or 16% of all adults, are the “extra adult” in the shared household. This share living in someone else’s household is up from 14% in 1995. Admittedly, there are pros and cons of having a roommate, which is why we’ve made a list of them for you to help in this all-important life decision. PRO: Save Money on Rent and Utilities A big advantage of having a roommate is the ability to split the cost of rent and utilities. This means that you’ll be able to afford a nicer, larger apartment than you could if you were living by yourself. You can also split the cost of other shared items, like groceries. Make sure that you come to an agreement with your roommate about these shared costs before embarking on a journey together. CON: They May Miss Payments The problem with splitting the cost of rent and utilities is that they have to be paid whether or not your roommate can afford it that month. If your roommate is not reliable when it comes to making payments, it could end up costing you. When deciding on a roommate, consider their work history. Do they frequently quit, or get fired, from their job? Do they have a history of debt or making late payments? These factors might not just leave you with a larger bill than you expected but could dramatically impact your credit history. PRO: They Help You Clean It’s a lot easier to clean your apartment when you can split the chores with another person. If you’re really lucky, you’ll be able to avoid doing the chores you like the least. It’s a good idea to make some sort of a chore chart to keep both you and your roommate accountable. CON: They Help Make a Mess Two people living in one apartment also means it’s twice as likely to get messy. Dishes can pile up and trash bins may overflow, and it can be easy for roommates to pass the blame and responsibility off on to each other. If you know your roommate before you move in, and they are a generally messy person, it is likely they will continue to be messy, regardless of moving into a new place. PRO: Built-in Friends Having a roommate means there’s always someone there to hang out with or talk to when you come home from a long day at work. Nothings says “home” quite like watching movie marathons together in your pajamas. CON: Built-in Enemies On the other hand, if you and your roommate don’t get along, it can make for a very uncomfortable living situation. Be careful about who you choose as a roommate to avoid this issue altogether. Note: If you are attracted to your potential roommate, you should strongly consider choosing someone else to live with. Hooking up with a roommate could be a potential recipe for disaster. PRO: Shared Furnishings If you’re renting your first apartment, purchasing all the necessary furniture and kitchen supplies can be expensive. Pooling your resources with a roommate will make the process of furnishing your apartment much easier. However, when it comes time to go your separate ways, you might run into some problems regarding possession of the belongings you initially split. It’s a good idea to agree upon ownership and a possible buyout agreement before splitting high-ticket items. CON: Less Privacy When you have a roommate, you have very little privacy. Your bedroom may be the only place you can go to be alone, and if your roommate has boundary issues, that may not even be true. If you prefer solitude, living with a roommate is not for you. RE/MAX Gold Coast represents home rentals in prime areas of Ventura County. Our portfolio includes the rental pictured at the top of this blog located in Mandalay Shores. With 1510 square feet, and three bedrooms, three baths, there’s plenty of room in this fully furnished rental. We have other homes in prime spots from Hollywood Beach, Silverstrand, Port Hueneme, Oxnard Shores, Seabridge and Westport, to Mandalay Bay, Oxnard homes and condos, Ventura Keys, Pier Pont, Faria, Solimar & Rincon BeachPark beaches and Ventura and Camarillo. Just call us at +1 (805) 832-4075 and we’ll help you find the perfect home for you and your roomies!
By Kristina Brewer 05 Mar, 2020
On March 5, 1980, U.S. President Jimmy Carter signed Public Law 96-199, officially establishing Channel Islands National Park (CINP), encompassing five islands — Anacapa, Santa Barbara, San Miguel, Santa Cruz and Santa Rosa islands — off the coast of California, as well as the waters within one nautical mile of each island. It was the culmination of nearly 50 years of efforts to bring attention to and preserve this precious island and marine ecosystem. This week, the nation’s 40th national park commemorates its 40th anniversary with exciting events this weekend. Celebrations begin this evening, March 5, with a lecture by CINP Superintendent Ethan McKinley, who will speak to where the park is now, and what the future holds. The lecture will start at 7 p.m. at the Robert J. Lagomarsino Visitor Center at Ventura Harbor. All Day Celebration, Saturday, March 7 McKinley will give his lecture again as part of the CINP’s all-day celebration on Saturday, March 7. Here’s what else you can expect that day: • The California native plant sale will kick off the event at 9:00am and run until 1:00pm. • Santa Barbara Museum of National History Paleontologist Dr. Jonathan Hoffman will provide a lecture on the recently discovered sea cow fossil on Santa Rosa Island. • Channel Islands descendent, Julie Tumamait-Stenslie will share Chumash storytelling at 10:30am and 1:30pm. • Segments from the 2016 documentary, West of the West: Tales from California’s Channel Islands, will be shown throughout the day. • Dock tours will be available for the public. Film fans will want to check out the 2016 documentary, ***West of the West: Tales from California’s Channel Islands. The documentary examines the history and people of the islands, and segments will be screened at the center throughout the day. In addition, CINP will offer a variety of crafts and interactive programs for kids as well as dock tours of the vessels used by National Park Service biologists. Channel Islands National Park is one of our region’s most important ecosystems, offering a thriving kelp forest, rich waters that support migratory and other species and a safe environment in which marine mammals and birds can breed. It’s like nowhere else on Earth. This weekend, let’s celebrate our luck in having it right here. For schedule of events, visit www.venturaharborvillage.com/event/channel-islands-national-park-celebrates-40-years/ . For anyone who wants to live or vacation nearby, RE/MAX Gold Coast represent rentals in prime spots that are just a boat ride away from Channel Islands National Park. If you want to live or vacation near this gem, just call us at +1 (805) 832-4075.
By Kristina Brewer 03 Mar, 2020
St Patrick’s Day is a global celebration of Irish culture that happens every year on March 17. It particularly remembers St Patrick, one of Ireland’s patron saints who ministered Christianity in Ireland during the fifth century. Today, St Patrick’s Day is celebrated in countries with people of Irish descent including right here in West Ventura. Here are three events that will bring out the Irish in anyone: 1) 2nd Annual Shamrocks & Shenanigans Virtual 4 miler event There’s no better way to celebrate St. Patrick's Day than completing the 2nd Annual Shamrocks & Shenanigans Virtual 4 miler event. Celebrate the day and the “Luck of the Irish” with runners from all 50 states and around the world. Complete each distance one at a time or if you're feeling lucky complete all 4 miles. Either way, runners are encouraged you to wear their finest St. Patrick's Day attire and have fun! Your virtual event can be completed any time from March 1st, 2020 until March 31st, 2020. Along with your Official Tyvek Race Bib, your Shamrocks & Shenanigans 4 Miler Finisher Medal will include 4 leaf mile markers to be added to your finishers medal. Complete all 4 miles at once or 1 mile at a time! 2) 5th Annual Camarillo Old Town Association Beer March 2020 The Camarillo Old Town Association’s (COTA) 5th Annual Beer March will feature over 20 craft breweries that will partner with local downtown businesses. Fun community day of live entertainment for family and friends who will get their ‘Irish on’. Beer drinkers, 21 years of age and over, will receive a beer glass as a keepsake. New this year!! VIP Upgrade includes early check in at 11:00 am at Studio Channel Islands Art Gallery. You will get to come into our VIP lounge and Experience the Flavors of Old Town. This will include food and drink from our beloved Camarillo Old Town restaurants!! Come and taste the "Flavors of Old Town" only for our VIP's! Advanced Tickets $39, at the door $45. For cash sales please email info@camarillooldtown.com or stop by the office at 1820 Ventura Blvd. 3) Saint Patrick's Day Pajama Party by Lavenderwood Yoga at Eden Gardens Goat Yoga is catching fire! And...you KNOW you WANT to try it. St. Patrick’s Day is your big chance! Just meet other yoga (and goat) enthusiasts at Eden Gardens We began with a single weekly class, and now, we are conducting several classes per week. Whether you are an experienced Yogi or a beginner, yoga while relaxing with goats will give you a whole new kinda zen. Remember to bring a yoga mat or towel along with bottled water. Consider wearing a hat and applying sunscreen as we are outdoors. We are located in the large parking area directly south of Eden Gardens. Please enter through the second gate, NOT the main entrance to Eden Gardens. Additionally, please DO NOT park in the circular parking upon entering Eden Gardens, which is specifically reserved for the guests of Eden Gardens. There is NO parking on Eden Gardens Lane. Considering a move to the place with all the St Patrick's Day action? Then contact West Ventura County's premier full-service Property Management, ReMax Gold Coast . We represent premier long-term rentals in Hollywood Beach, Silverstrand, Mandalay Shores, Port Hueneme, Oxnard Shores, Seabridge, Westport, Mandalay Bay, Oxnard homes and condos, Ventura Keys, Pier Pont, Faria, Solimar & Rincon BeachPark beaches and Ventura and Camarillo, please call us at +1 (805) 832-4075. We also oversee some of the best vacation rentals in the area. If you’re planning to move or looking for the perfect vacation home , be sure to check out our list of exception properties. Happy St Patrick's Day!
By Kristina Brewer 28 Feb, 2020
From décor to artwork, to mermaid fashions, pottery and gifts, Mermaid Month is packed with the joys of being a mermaid at heart! Visits with LIVE mermaids, make some mermaid crafts and a join in the official Mermaid Parade at the Ventura Harbor Village . Mermaid Meet & Greets Take a free photo with a live mermaid! The Mermaid Meet & Greets will be (weather pending): • Saturday, March 7 | 1pm to 4pm • Saturday, March 21 | 1pm to 4pm Arts and Crafts Take part in the complimentary craft stations courtesy of Macaroni Kid (while supplies last) as well as live entertainment at Harbor Village. You can expect face painting, selfie stations, exotic birds, scavengers hunts, giveaways & more! Mermaid Parade Join in the fun! Mermaid attire is encouraged all month long and especially on March 21st for the Mermaid Parade! Dress up in your sea-themed or mermaid attire and join in The annual Mermaid/Merman Parade around the Village on Saturday, March 21 at 1 PM. Meet at the Kelp Corridor (near Village Carousel & Arcade). Coastal Mermaid Treasure Hunting Ventura Harbor Village’s 16 coastal boutiques all feature wonderful ocean-inspired wear, accessories, art, or décor. Channel your inner- mermaid for specials and sales during March is Mermaid Month. Live Artisans Enjoy the following artisans during Mermaid Month: Ventura Potters Guild Gallery, live ceramist demonstration Saturday, March 21, with artist Ellen Williams. Artist Tina O’Brien of Mermaid Gallery has free Saturday Art Demos planned during mermaid scheduled Meet & Greets, 1-4pm on Saturdays March 7th & 21st. Mermaid Activities & Happenings Don’t miss the Mermaid Gallery Kids coloring activity table from 1-4 pm on Saturdays and Sundays throughout March. Dress up as a Mermaid or Merman and get 15 minutes Over Time on any rental at Ventura Boat Rentals. Plus, Ventura Boat Rentals offers a Harbor Tour like no other with a Mermaid on board on March 21st at 4:30pm! Other Mermaid Fun! On March 21st The Greek Mediterranean Steak & Seafood will have free Belly Dancing Lessons from 1-4pm. The Ultimate Escape Rooms: Play any escape room Mon-Thurs in the month of March for $20/person. Use Promo Code: MERMAIDMONTH Mermaids Welcome RE/MAX Gold Coast represent rentals long term and vacation rentals in prime spots including Hollywood Beach, Silverstrand, Port Hueneme, Mandalay Shores, Oxnard Shores, Seabridge, Westport, Mandalay Bay, Oxnard homes and condos, Ventura Keys, Pier Pont, Faria, Solimar & Rincon BeachPark beaches and Ventura and Camarillo. Just call us at +1 (805) 832-4075. We leave you with some wise advice from a Mermaid: ~Get your tail to the beach ~Be Shore of yourself ~Make Waves ~Catch a Sea Breeze ~Avoid Pier Pressure ~Always Sea Life’s Beauty ~Come out of your Shell ~Take Time to Coast
By Kristina Brewer 25 Feb, 2020
You don’t need to be traveling to Timbuktu to write a travel diary. Your writing can start with a family vacation or a weekend getaway to California’s West Ventura. Travel journals are a place where you can write about trips you have taken, what you learned during and the experiences you had. It is a collection of adventures, stories, memories and discovery. It doesn’t matter where you're going or who you’re traveling with, an online trip journal can come anywhere. Every type of traveler can find a journal that's well-suited for them to record and reflect on their experiences exploring the world. From extreme planners to spontaneous trip-takers, nature-lovers, museum-goers, roadtrippers, jet-setters, and more ahead — scroll forward to turn the page on your next adventure. You can even find journal software that allows you to access your journal from any computer, smartphone or tablet. Enter Penzu , your FREE travel journal app; all you need is your mobile phone or tablet and can write in in it, with or without WiFi. You never have to miss an entry or forget a moment, as Penzu can come with you around the world. No internet necessary. Here are 5 tips to get the most out of journaling: 1. Use your journal to plan your trip Your trip journal can begin before your trip has even started. Use your journal to start planning the things you want to do. It can be anything from a cool restaurant you want to eat at, a hike you want to go on or different sights you want to see. Write down whatever is on your trip checklist, so you don’t forget it. Once you know what you want to do, do some research and figure out the best way to do it. If you want to go see a special monument, figure out the best way to get there and put it in your journal. If you want to do some cool activities, write down the contact information of the people, places or tours that facilitate them. Your journal is also a great place to keep the contact information of your accommodations and transportation. 2. Write about what you imagine it will be like Sometimes when you travel, your destination is wildly different than what you expected. Maybe you expected the local food to be bad and it turned out to be delicious. Maybe you imagined the town to be smaller than it actually is. Maybe you thought you would be more comfortable with the language. Whatever it is, think about writing it down before you arrive. It will be interesting to compare these predictions to what you actually experienced. 3. Write during your trip It is always easier to remember things when they are fresh in your brain, so try and write as much as you can while traveling; every day if you can. Your journal entries don’t have to be long, but let them highlight what you feel was most important or exciting. How did you feel during your visit to the local market? What did you smell, taste and hear? Did you learn something new from the person you spoke to at the bar? Were you surprised by the clothes people were wearing? What was the view from the top of the mountain like? Before you go to bed, try and recall what you did that day, what you thought and how you felt. This will serve as a great way to remember more from your trip but will also help you reflect and grow from what you encountered. 4. Add pictures to your journal Even though your journal is meant for writing, pictures are still worth a thousand words. Combining pictures with your first-hand accounts of what they represent, or what happened when they were taken, will make for an even more comprehensive narrative of your travels. Don’t worry about gluing or taping anything either. Penzu allows you to upload pictures straight into your online travel journal, so you can keep your pictures and words connected and organized. 5. Write about your trip after you leave Since you write about your trip before you arrive, you should also write about it after you leave. • What was it like? • What did you learn? • What surprised you? • What disappointed you? It is important to reflect on your travels, so you can retain new understandings and apply them to future adventures. This is also a great way to learn about yourself, other people you may have travelled with and how you can grow. Step back from all the things you did and try to see the big picture. It may surprise you. 10 Travel Journal Ideas To Inspire You The blank pages of your travel journal may not be serving as great inspiration, but your entries regarding your trip to West Ventura should! Here are 10 travel journal ideas to get those creative juices flowing, kick-start your writing and help you get the most out of your travels: 1. Why are you going? Not every trip needs an explanation and not every vacation needs a justification. People travel for all sorts of different reasons or for no reason at all, but if your travel has purpose, write about it. Even if you’re traveling for the sake of it, that is a reason worth talking about too. 2. Write about your expectations. As we mentioned above, expectations can wildly differ from reality, especially when going somewhere you’ve never been or going with someone you have never travelled with before. Jot down what you think the trip will be like or hope it will be like. 3. What are you going to do? Write about the things you want to do, the sights you want to see, the music you want to dance to, the food you want to taste. Writing it all down will get you excited and help you not to forget. 4. Write about the people. Did you meet anyone new? Did you make a new friend? Were the locals welcoming? Did you learn something new from a stranger? Did you learn something new from a friend? People can really make a trip. Whether you came with them, or met them there, write about how the people you encountered affected your experience. 5. Write about the food. Just because you call it your travel diary, doesn’t mean it can’t double as a food diary. If there are any foods you loved, dishes you hated or recipes you can’t live without, write them down to remember them all. Maybe some new fare you tried will influence your tastes when you return home. 6. The ups and the downs. What did you like most about the trip? What did you like the least? 7. Write about yourself. Reflect on the new experiences you had, what made you uncomfortable and what enticed you. Did you learn anything new about yourself on the trip? Did being somewhere else expose something you hadn’t seen in yourself before? Traveling can help people grow. Think about your journey and if it helped you grow in any way. 8. Write your own travel guide. If you knew friends were going to the same place, what would you tell them to do? Write down your recommendations and the stuff that should not be missed. 9. What would you have changed? Is there anything about the trip you would have changed? Is there anything else you wish you did? Anything you wish you didn’t do? Write about your travels and how you can improve them for the next time you go away. 10. Where do you want to go next? We hope traveling back to West Ventura makes the top of that list. As you can see, a travel journal is a must. You get the journal and allow RE/MAX Gold Coast to help you find the perfect vacation home in West Ventura . We have rentals in prime spots including Hollywood Beach, Silverstrand, Port Hueneme, Mandalay Shores, Oxnard Shores, Seabridge, Westport, Mandalay Bay, Oxnard homes and condos, Ventura Keys, Pier Pont, Faria, Solimar & Rincon BeachPark beaches and Ventura and Camarillo. Just call us at +1 (805) 832-4075.
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