#Cheap Solar System Victoria

[termina04]

Who Has the Lowest Price for Electricity in Australia?

“There’s no loyalty discount in electricity—only a loyalty penalty.” If you’ve heard that phrase before, it’s probably because it’s true. The lowest price for electricity in Australia isn’t about sticking with the same provider—it’s about knowing when to switch.

Quick Answer:

As of 2025, ReAmped Energy, GloBird Energy, and OVO Energy are consistently offering some of the lowest electricity rates in Australia. However, the actual cheapest provider depends on your postcode, usage habits, and whether you have solar panels. Prices vary significantly across states, and what’s cheapest for a Melbourne flat may not be for a Brisbane house.

Why is it so hard to find the “lowest” electricity price?

Because retailers price differently for different locations, user types, and meter setups. A plan that looks affordable in Sydney’s Inner West might be totally uncompetitive in Wagga or Fremantle. Then you’ve got:

Usage rates (per kWh)

Daily supply charges

Solar feed-in tariffs

Conditional discounts

Controlled load or time-of-use pricing

And to top it off? Most retailers rename plans every few months to shuffle comparison rankings. Sneaky, but legal.

What does a cheap electricity plan actually look like?

Let’s break it down with some 2025 benchmarks (these fluctuate quarterly): StateUsage Rate (c/kWh)Daily Charge ($)Feed-in Tariff (c/kWh)NSW21–240.95–1.055–8VIC20–230.90–1.007–10QLD22–251.00–1.156–9SA23–261.05–1.206–10

A plan is considered “low-cost” if it falls at the bottom end of both usage rate and daily charge—especially if it doesn’t lock you into tricky discount conditions.

Which electricity providers are offering the lowest rates?

1. ReAmped Energy

Best for: Households who don’t mind managing their plan online.

Why it's cheap: No call centres, no fluff—just rock-bottom rates.

Heads-up: You’ll need to pay via direct debit and go fully digital.

2. GloBird Energy

Best for: VIC and SA households after consistent savings.

Why it's cheap: Lower-than-average daily charges.

Heads-up: Plans change often, so stay alert for new names.

3. OVO Energy

Best for: Customers who want green power and competitive rates.

Why it's cheap: Good feed-in tariffs, low base rates.

Heads-up: App and billing are improving but not perfect yet.

4. Tango Energy (VIC only)

Best for: Locked-in rates with no conditional discounts.

Why it's cheap: Transparent billing—no gotchas.

Heads-up: Not available outside Victoria.

Case Study: Two Families, Two Cities

Family A – Brisbane suburban home with solar (5kW system)

Plan chosen: AGL Solar Savers

Annual bill: $1,200

Feed-in credit earned: $380

Net result: $820/year

Family B – Melbourne apartment, no solar

Plan chosen: ReAmped Standard

Annual bill: $1,130

Discounts applied: None—just low base rates

Net result: Still cheaper than bigger players

The key difference? Usage pattern, plan structure, and solar capability. A plan that suits one family might quietly overcharge another.

Should I switch providers regularly?

Short answer: Yes.

Many Australians are paying what’s been called the “loyalty tax.” That’s the price you pay for not shopping around every 12 months. Electricity retailers often reserve the best deals for new customers and shift loyal customers to less competitive default offers once the honeymoon period ends.

You can save $200 to $400 a year just by switching based on your usage data. And with tools like Energy Made Easy and Victoria Energy Compare, switching has never been simpler.

What role does an energy broker play?

Think of an energy broker like a personal shopper for power plans. They scan the entire market and recommend options based on your location, usage profile, and meter type. The good ones stay impartial, working for you—not for the energy retailers.

In fact, some small businesses and savvy homeowners use brokers to avoid time-consuming comparisons and hidden plan conditions. They’re particularly helpful when managing multiple properties, solar + battery setups, or commercial usage tiers.

If you're tired of reading PDFs and trying to work out time-of-use rates, an energy broker can be your shortcut to smart savings.

Quick FAQ: Getting the Best Electricity Price

Q: Will I lose power if I switch providers? Nope. The electricity supply continues uninterrupted.

Q: Are smaller retailers trustworthy? Yes, as long as they’re listed on government comparison sites like Energy Made Easy. They still source from the national grid—just bill you differently.

Q: How do I know what’s right for my home? Check your last 3–6 bills. Look at your average daily usage and compare that to plan rates in your area.

Final Reflection

If your electricity bill feels higher than it should be—it probably is. The cheapest deal in your area could be hiding behind a confusing plan name or buried in the fine print. And while there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, the effort to check or switch is worth it. Because in 2025, the real cost isn’t the kilowatts—it’s sticking with a plan that’s quietly burning your wallet.

Sometimes, saving money on electricity is less about who’s cheapest, and more about whether you’re even looking.

[sunenergy0321]

How Much Does a 10kW Solar Battery Cost in Australia?

With electricity prices rising and the demand for energy independence growing, more Australian homeowners and businesses are turning to solar energy combined with battery storage. A 10kW solar battery system is a popular choice for those looking to store excess solar power for use during peak times or after sunset. But one of the most frequently asked questions is: How much does a 10kW solar battery cost in Australia?

What is a 10kW Solar Battery?

Before diving into costs, let’s clarify what a 10kW battery system means.

A 10kW solar battery refers to a battery storage system capable of delivering 10 kilowatts of power. However, more importantly for everyday use is the battery’s storage capacity, which is measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh). For example, a battery rated at 10kW might have a storage capacity of 13.5kWh, meaning it can deliver 10 kilowatts of power at any moment and store up to 13.5kWh of electricity.

Power vs. Capacity

Power (kW): How much electricity the battery can deliver at a given time.

Capacity (kWh): How much electricity the battery can store overall.

When people refer to a “10kW battery system,” they usually mean a battery that can integrate well with a 10kW solar panel system, storing enough energy to power a typical household through the evening and into the night.

Average Cost of a 10kW Solar Battery in Australia (2024–2025)

The cost of a 10kW solar battery in Australia can vary depending on the brand, installation complexity, inverter type, and location. However, as of 2024–2025, here’s a breakdown of estimated costs:

Average price range (installed): $9,000 — $15,000 AUD

These prices include both the battery hardware and the installation costs, but may vary depending on system requirements, electrical upgrades, and whether you’re retrofitting or building a new system.

Factors Influencing the Cost of a 10kW Solar Battery

Battery Brand and Technology

Premium brands like Tesla or Sonnen typically cost more but offer better warranties and performance.

Newer lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries may cost slightly more upfront but offer longer lifespans and better thermal stability.

Installation Costs

A straightforward installation costs less.

Complex wiring, older switchboards, or limited access may increase labor costs.

Hybrid vs. AC-Coupled Systems

Hybrid systems (battery + solar inverter combo) are more integrated and can be more cost-effective.

AC-coupled systems (retrofit) may cost more due to the need for additional components.

Battery Size (kWh)

While you’re shopping for a “10kW” system, it’s important to consider the total storage (kWh). Higher capacity batteries cost more but give you longer backup durations.

Government Incentives

Various Australian states offer rebates or zero-interest loans, significantly reducing upfront costs.

Rebates & Incentives That Lower the Cost

1. Solar Battery Rebate (Victoria)

Eligible homeowners can receive up to $2,950 off a battery system. This significantly reduces the cost of a 10kW solar battery.

2. South Australia Home Battery Scheme

Though the scheme ended in late 2023, many SA households already took advantage of subsidies of up to $4,000.

3. Queensland Battery Booster Rebate

Offers eligible homeowners rebates up to $4,000 toward solar batteries in 2024–25.

4. Australian Federal Subsidies

While there’s currently no federal battery rebate, you can still claim STCs (Small-scale Technology Certificates) for your solar PV system — indirectly helping offset costs when bundled with battery storage.

Is a 10kW Solar Battery Worth It?

Let’s break it down:

Pros

Energy Independence: Less reliance on the grid and protection against blackouts.

Time-of-Use Savings: Store energy when electricity is cheap and use it during peak times.

Increased Solar Self-Consumption: Maximize the value of your solar panels.

Eco-Friendly: Reduced carbon footprint and cleaner energy use.

Cons

Upfront Cost: A $10,000–$15,000 investment may take years to pay back.

Payback Period: Typically 8–12 years depending on your energy usage and feed-in tariffs.

Battery Degradation: Over 10 years, most batteries lose around 20–30% capacity.

Payback Period and ROI for 10kW Solar Battery Systems

Let’s assume:

Daily electricity usage: 25kWh

Solar system: 10kW generating ~35kWh/day

Battery: 13.5kWh storage

Peak tariff: $0.35/kWh

Feed-in tariff: $0.08/kWh

If you store 13.5kWh instead of exporting at $0.08/kWh, you save:

$0.35 — $0.08 = $0.27 per kWh

$0.27 × 13.5kWh = $3.64 saved/day

$3.64 × 365 = $1,328/year

Payback Time = $13,000 ÷ $1,328 ≈ 9.8 years

However, if electricity rates rise or incentives apply, the payback time can drop to 7–9 years, making batteries more financially viable.

Should You Buy a 10kW Solar Battery in 2024?

Here are a few key considerations:

✅ Yes, if:

You have a large solar system (8kW+)

You’re on a time-of-use tariff or have low feed-in tariffs

You want blackout protection or off-grid capability

You plan to stay in your home long-term

❌ Maybe not yet, if:

You’re exporting little energy to the grid

Upfront costs are a barrier

Your feed-in tariffs are still high

You plan to move within a few years

Best 10kW Solar Battery Brands in Australia

1. Tesla Powerwall 2

Capacity: 13.5kWh

AC-coupled

10-year warranty

Premium pricing but high efficiency and advanced features

2. SonnenBatterie Evo

Capacity: 11–12kWh

German-engineered, known for longevity

Can be used in off-grid and hybrid systems

3. Alpha ESS

Capacity: 10.3kWh+

Australian support

Great value and performance balance

4. BYD Battery-Box

Modular and scalable

Popular in commercial and residential installs

Compatible with leading inverters

5. LG Chem RESU

Capacity: 9.8–12.4kWh

Compact and efficient

AC or DC-coupled options

Tips to Reduce Your Battery Installation Costs

Bundle with Solar Panels: Many installers offer discounts for bundled solar + battery systems.

Shop Around: Get quotes from multiple Clean Energy Council-accredited installers.

Utilize Incentives: Take advantage of state rebates and interest-free loans.

Choose the Right Size: Oversizing can lead to longer payback periods. Match your battery to your solar output and energy needs.

Check Warranty & Support: Choose brands that offer at least 10-year warranties and local customer support.

Final Thoughts

While the upfront cost of a 10kW solar battery system in Australia ranges between $9,000 and $15,000, the long-term benefits can outweigh the initial investment for many homeowners. With electricity prices rising, time-of-use tariffs becoming the norm, and solar rebates still available in several states, now is a smart time to consider adding battery storage to your solar setup.

Whether you’re looking for energy independence, blackout protection, or simply a more sustainable lifestyle, a 10kW solar battery could be a solid investment in your home and future.

Ads Solar — Powering a Greener Future Across Australia

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Our expert team ensures seamless installations using top-tier products and CEC-accredited installers, giving you long-term energy savings and peace of mind. Whether you’re looking to reduce electricity bills, embrace sustainable living, or add battery storage for energy independence, Ads Solar is here to help.

With flexible finance options, unbeatable warranties, and industry-leading customer support, we make the switch to solar simple and stress-free. Join thousands of Australians who are already saving with solar — choose Ads Solar and start powering your future today.

[scotianostra]

On 10th July 1802 Robert Chambers, the Scottish naturalist and publisher, was born.

Robert Chambers was a prolific journalist of Edinburgh. A well-know literary and intellectual figure at his time, he is primarily remembered today as the then secret author of Vestiges of the Natural History of Creation, a work which caused a great sensation in the Victorian era. The book sold remarkably well – over 20,000 copies in a decade, making it one of the best-sellers of its time. Abraham Lincoln and Queen Victoria read it; so did poets like Alfred Tennyson and Elizabeth Barrett Browning, statesmen like William Gladstone and Benjamin Disraeli, basically anyone who was anyone back in the day!  

Critical responses ran the gamut from enthusiasm to damnation. “Like a breath of fresh air to workmen in a crowded factory,” said the politically liberal medical journal, the Lancet. Fellow Scot, Physicist Sir David Brewster warned that Vestiges stood a “fair chance of poisoning the fountains of science, and sapping the foundations of religion.”

Not until 1884 was the author officially revealed to be Robert Chambers, one of the most successful publishers of the era. Chambers had chosen anonymity for a very pragmatic reason: he feared, and with reason, that the controversy over the book would hurt his publishing business. Chambers interest in science was well known, and a few people – including Charles Darwin – had already guessed that he was “Mr. Vestiges.” However, only seven people were told who the author was during his lifetime.

Vestiges proved to be as controversial as its author expected. Integrating research in the burgeoning sciences of anthropology, geology, astronomy, biology, economics, and chemistry, it was the first attempt to connect the natural sciences to a history of creation. Remember most people back then believed that god created everything, and Vestiges challenged this, it was 15 years before the equally controversial, for the time, Origin of the Species by Darwin appeared. But what was in this controversial book? It began with an explanation of the nebular hypothesis of the formation of the Solar System, and went on from there to present a grand picture of the progressive evolution of life on Earth. Chambers practical experience with science was limited, and he included much in this book that more experienced scientists found ludicrous.

Chambers book contains little that proved of lasting scientific value. Yet it demonstrated that many of the concerns that Darwin was thinking about were well known to the public. It showed Darwin what obstacles he would have to overcome to win wide acceptance for his own theory of evolution.

Robert Chambers was born in the small town of Peebles in Scotland. Though his family was fairly well-off at first, the collapse of his father’s business pushed the family into poverty. In 1818, Robert and his older brother William took a few cheap Bibles and schoolbooks and set up a book stall on an Edinburgh street. The brothers managed to survive and expand their business, until W. & R. Chambers had become the most successful publishing houses in Scotland. The firm printed books of general interest, and helped feed the growing taste for popularisations of science and culture. Both brothers wrote as well as published, producing the well-known weekly magazine Chambers’s Edinburgh Journal.

Robert’s main interest was at first Scottish history and folklore; he even wrote a book on Scottish humour. Meanwhile, he had taught himself the basics of geology and botany, a very learned man. He also liked to relax, he was a keen golfer and was elected an Honorary Member of The Musselburgh Golf Club.

Robert Chambers died on 17 March 1871 in St Andrews and is buried in the cathedral grounds, there is also a memorial window was also erected to Robert by his brother William in St Giles on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, next to a larger window to William himself, placed at the time of his restoration of the Kirk. The pair of windows lie in the northern transept. The firm he started with his brother, W. R. Chambers still trades nowadays and is part of Chambers Harrap Publishers Ltd, it’s Edinburgh office only recently closed and has been relocated to London. it’s flagship publication was The Chambers Dictionary, I remember our family owning one and making use of it regularly during games of scrabble.

[continuo-docs]

Music reviews by Laurent Fairon, July 2021 Epsilon-Delta – Music for Recurring Decimals (March 2021) Dino Felipe – The Gardeners (June 2021) Shane Cooper – Happenstance (June 2021) RhaD – Metamusic (June 2021) Angel Bat Dawid – Hush Harbor Mixtape Vol. 1 Doxology (June 2021) Ron Nagorcka – Lovregana - Music From A Tasmanian Forest (July 2021)

Epsilon-Delta – Music for Recurring Decimals (433 Records) https://433records.bandcamp.com/album/music-for-recurring-decimals Lovely collection of short, poetic synth sequences build on simple mathematical algorithms by Hong Kong mathematician Addy Choi working under the Epsilon-Delta alias. Algorithms are based on decimal fractions like 4/7, 7/9 or 3/11, using the resulting digits as the basis for the sequence. Far from being arid or too cerebral, the tracks are poetic and varied thanks to the beautiful MIDI synth sounds chosen by the programmer, who is also a clever musician apparently. Tracks may be repetitive but the album isn't. This is textbook Systems Music as practiced in the U.K. during the 1980s by the likes of The Dead Goldfish Ensemble or The Lost Jockey. Exquisite album.

Dino Felipe – The Gardeners (self release) https://dino-felipe.bandcamp.com/album/the-gardeners Mini-LP of 16 very short tracks by Miami-based electronic musician with previous full length releases on ¡Mayday! and Schematic. The music on The Gardeners is based on samples, sound collages, occasional beats and various sound treatments like speed modification, sound stretching, accumulation, heavy reverb, or else. Felipe thus creates colorful and humorous vignettes based on ethnic music snippets, found vocals, musique concrète or cheap electronic sounds. Glitch-y textures abound, as well as grotesque sounds and weird juxtapositions, the music being deliciously direction-less and erratic.

Shane Cooper – Happenstance (Kit Records) https://kitrecs.bandcamp.com/album/happenstance Gorgeous ambient, ethnic and experimental jazz music by South African double bass player and multi-instrumentalist Shane Cooper. The album is actually constructed as a collage of short excerpts from sessions recorded with Johannesburg guest musicians in 2020. The whole project was commissioned by contemporary artist William Kentridge's The Centre for the Less Good Idea, an artist run facility he founded in Johannesburg to promote local independent art projects. Cooper obviously selected the interesting and relevant parts from two days' worth of collective improvisations and the 2 side-long tracks of Happenstance are bursting with ideas and surprises. The 1st side is rather varied in instrumentation, including superb piano and cello parts, lush Rhodes electric keyboard notes and incredible South African traditional instruments played by Cara Stacey. The music is moody and adventurous, jumping gracefully all over the place. The flip side is more about exploring rhythm textures and deep bass sounds and features Shane Cooper on double bass along 3 percussionists. The collage technique is applied here as well, producing pleasant mood changes and exciting U-turns. Cooper delivers a variety of sounds on his instrument, from walking bass lines to long-held notes played with arco (briefly played backward at some point), and also performs beautiful electric bass guitar parts with reverb. The non-linearity and unpredictability of the collage strategy used in Happenstance ensures the music is keeping away from jazz music's clichés and each new listen is surprising and interesting. Two more episodes were recorded during these sessions and are available on YouTube and other platforms, like the vocal only piece called 'Tongues'.

RhaD – Metamusic (Unexplained Sounds Group) https://unexplainedsoundsgroup.bandcamp.com/album/metamusic Standing for Research for Historical Audio Documents, RhaD is a musical project by Italian music activist Raffaele Pezzella, also known as electronic music producer Sonologyst, as well as Unexplained Sounds Group label director and publisher, not to mention radio host and sound researcher, among others. Metamusic is a 40mn sound collage of mysterious radio transmissions, found vocals, spoken words, vintage electronic sounds and a number of guest stars on classical music instruments like organ, guitar, bass or piano – respectively Michael Bonaventure, Stefan Schmidt, Daniel Barbiero, Francesco Arrighi and Mara Lepore. Adroitly avoiding any ca 2021 digital artifact along the way, Metamusic's sound design is bringing the listener back to the glorious 1960s and '70s, yet the music sounds rather timeless to these ears. Metamusic recreates the sound of early European avantgarde with plenty of tape manipulations, sound collages, buzzing sounds, French spoken word and contemporary classical music instruments. The sound crafting is superb, the collage technique creating an ever-changing musical soundscape full of weird sounds, grotesque sound manipulations and Surrealist juxtapositions. What's not to love?

Angel Bat Dawid – Hush Harbor Mixtape Vol. 1 Doxology (International Anthem) https://intlanthem.bandcamp.com/album/hush-harbor-mixtape-vol-1-doxology Very personal and original album by Angel Bat Dawid, a US clarinet player, singer, electronic musician and DJ from Chicago. Created with a few sounds and a minimum of means, devoid of spectacular solo outing, these mostly desolate tracks form a meditative musical travelogue through the Black people psyche. Track titles deal with themes of slavery, racism, and Black culture tropes, though neither the occasional lyrics nor the strange music on offer here can pass for angry or vindicatory, the music being far too personal for that. The clarinet confers a neo-classical atmosphere to some of the tracks, sometimes interestingly contrasted with synthesizer sounds or electronic beats. Harmonica and vocals on Autotune also contribute to the unique sound signature of this album, with occasional hints at gospel and rural blues. Playing in continuous mode in a kind of stream-of-consciousness style, the music would work just fine as a soundtrack to a Kara Walker exhibition—Bat Dawid actually composed the soundtrack to a Yoko Ono outdoor installation in 2020. On a side note, she also released the Harkening Etudes mini album on Longform Editions earlier in April 2021, where her classically-trained clarinet playing is contrasted with sampled piano accompaniment and electronically processed vocals in a series of short, bizarre classical music études, also worth checking out.

Ron Nagorcka – Lovregana - Music From A Tasmanian Forest (Invisibilia) https://invisibilia.bandcamp.com/album/lovregana-music-from-a-tasmanian-forest-1990-soundscapes-from-wilderness-1988 This CD reissue combines 2 cassette tapes of manipulated field recordings by Australian composer Ron Nagorcka, born 1948, namely 'Lovregana - Music from a Tasmanian Forest', 1990, and 'Soundscapes from Wilderness', from 1988. Both are based on bird recordings from northern Tasmania island, where Nagorcka relocated in 1988, building himself a house and makeshift, solar-powered recording studio deep in the primeval forest. On Lovregana, short samples of bird songs are run through a sampler and harmonized in just intonation, producing eerie soundscapes of disembodied and supernatural bird singing. The music is reconstructing a fictional and artificial forest populated by dozens of birds, some far in the distance, some near ; some slowly developing a song, others performing in sudden bursts, with a variety and unpredictability akin to actual birds in nature. To this, Nagorcka adds minimal electronic loops in the background, dreamy synthesizer notes in strange tunings and discreet didgeridoo playing, all very well integrated to the sampled bird songs. These tracks are thus poetical evocations of a primeval forest via electronic sounds. While Lovregana's tracks more or less focused on one specific bird song at a time, the two tracks of 'Soundscapes from Wilderness' take a more holistic approach to nature recordings. The 1st track, 'Black Forest, Victoria', is a reconstruction of the deep forest sounds via the accumulation of various field recordings, creating a particularly dense soundscape through layers and layers of nature recordings. Here again, the natural-vs-artificial dichotomy is what interests the composer, and arguably this forest never existed, it was rather reconstructed in the studio. The 2nd track, 'Rainforest in Northern Tasmania', uses forest sounds as the basis for slow, mysterious didgeridoo improvisations, perhaps examining how the musician can dialog with the environment, being a part of it, being one with it. The superb didjeridoo playing is what fascinates most here.   .     .     .

[thethingssafhaslearnedsofar]

52 things I learned in 2019

Each year humanity produces 1,000 times more transistors than grains of rice and wheat combined. [Mark P Mills]

The maths of queuing are absolutely brutal and counter-intuitive. [John D Cook]

Emojis are starting to appear in evidence in court cases, and lawyers are worried: “When emoji symbols are strung together, we don’t have a reliable way of interpreting their meaning.” (In 2017, an Israeli judge had to decide if one emoji-filled message constituted a verbal contract) [Eric Goldman]

Harbinger customers are customers who buy products that tend to fail. They group together, forming harbinger zip codes. If households in those zip codes buy a product, it is likely to fail. If they back a political candidate, they are likely to lose the election. [Simester, Tucker & Yang]

Baijiu is the world’s most popular spirit, with 10bn litres sold each year, almost entirely in China. The second most popular spirit in the world is vodka, with just 5bn litres sold. [Feyi Fawehinmi]

A Python script, an Instagram account and quite a bit of free time can get you free meals in New York City. [Chris Buetti]

At least three private companies have fallen victim to ‘deep fake’ audio fraud. In each case, a computerised voice clone of the company CEO “called a senior financial officer to request an urgent money transfer.” [Kaveh Waddell, Jennifer A. Kingson]

Drunk shopping could be a $45bn /year industry, and only 6% of people regret their drunk purchases. [Zachary Crockett]

Placebos are so effective that placebo placebos work: A pain cream with no active ingredients worked even when not used by the patient. Just owning the cream was enough to reduce pain. [Victoria Wai-lanYeung]

Since the 1960s, British motorways have been deliberately designed by computer as series of long curves, rather than straight lines. This is done for both safety (less hypnotic) and aesthetic (“sculpture on an exciting, grand scale”) reasons. [Joe Moran]

Between 1880 and 1916, Ireland had its own timezone, which was 25m 21s behind Greenwich Mean Time. After the Easter Rising, the House of Commons in London introduced GMT in Ireland and abolished Dublin Mean Time [Elena Goukassian]

Drug names are changing: X and Z names (Prozac, Seroxat) are giving way to names ending in O or A (Natesto, Qsymia) which are more appealing to speakers of Romance languages in Europe and South America. [Pascaline Faure]

The UK male suicide rate is the lowest since accurate records began in 1981. [Office for National Statistics]

The goal of walking 10,000 steps per day may have originated when a Japanese pedometer manufacturer noticed that the 万 symbol (which means 10,000) looks a little like someone walking. The actual health merits of that number ‘have never been validated by research.’ [Amanda Mull]

People hate asking sensitive questions. However, it turns out that people don’t hate being asked sensitive questions. So talking around difficult questions in research interviews is a waste of time and money. [Hart, VanEpps, Schweitzer]

The Korean Police force includes five labradors who are clones of ‘Quinn’, a bomb-sniffing dog who found fame after finding a missing girl’s body in a 2007 kidnapping. [Kim Tong-hyung]

As mobile phones became mainstream in the US in the early 1990s, the murder rate fell sharply. Street drug dealing became less popular, so gang-related turf wars were less common. (Other factors were also involved, obviously.) [Alexis C. Madrigal]

Mechanical devices to cheat your phone pedometer (for health insurance fraud or vanity) are now all over AliExpress. [Matthew Brennan]

In 2017 Google and Facebook lost $100 million between them to one scammer who sent them fake invoices. [Jeff John Roberts] [found by TomBot*]

Teenagers with acne get higher marks, are more likely to complete college and, if female, eventually get paid more than people without teenage acne. [Hugo M. Mialon & Erik T. Nesson]

72% of classical musicians have taken beta blockers for performance anxiety. [Composed]

Black women in the United States die in childbirth at roughly the same rate as women in Mongolia. [Annie Lowrey]

Sometime in the 1990s, it seems the US forgot how to make a critical component of some nuclear warheads. [Nick Baumann]

“Mushrooms and truffles are fungi, more closely related to humans than they are to plants.” [Lynne Peskoe-Yang]

In the US Northwest, rain can damage the fruit on cherry trees. So helicopter pilots are paid to fly over the orchards, using their downdraft to dry the fruit as it ripens. For the pilots, it’s a risky but potentially profitable job. [Maria Langer]

Gravitricity is a Scottish startup planning to store energy by lifting huge weights up a disused mine shaft when electricity is cheap, dropping them down to generate power when it is expensive. Using a 12,000 tonne weight (roughly the weight of the Eiffel tower), it should be half as expensive as equivalent lithium ion battery. [Jillian Ambrose]

Spotify pays by the song. Two three minute songs are twice as profitable as one six minute song. So songs are getting shorter. [Dan Kopf]

Fashion++ is a Facebook-funded computer vision project that looks at a photo of your outfit and suggests ‘minimal edits for outfit improvement’ like tucking in a shirt or removing an accessory. [Wei-Lin Hsiao & co] (In 2019, Fluxx helped launch Vogue Business.)

Three million students at US schools don’t have the internet at home. [Michael Melia & co]

No babies born in Britain in 2016 were named Nigel. [Jonathan Ore] (Correction: Robert Colvile, who broke the original story, points out that there could have been one or two Nigels in 2016 — the ONS only reports names with three or more examples)

Using machine learning, researchers can now predict how likely an individual is to be involve in a car accident by looking at the image of their home address on Google Street View. [Kinga Kita-Wojciechowska]

In 2018, the Nigerian government spent more on subsidies for petrol than on health, education, or defence. [Andrew S Nevin]

According to WaterAid research, women spend 97 billion hours a year looking for a safe place to go to the loo. That equals 46 million working years, which is the same workforce as Germany, the fourth largest economy in the world. [Caroline Criado Perez via Tanya Gold]

28% of people like the smell of (their own) urine after eating asparagus.[Rolf Degen]

AliBaba is investing $15m to research Chinese dialects, hoping to improve the performance of their voice recognition systems. [Emma Lee]

At least half of the effort of most AI projects goes on data labelling, and that’s often done in rural Indian villages. [Anand Murali]

Worldwide, growth in the fragrance industry is lagging behind cosmetics and skincare products. Why? ‘You can’t smell a selfie’. [Andrea Felsted and Sarah Halzack]

CD sales still make up 78% of music revenue in Japan (compared with less than 30% in the UK). Japanese pop fans have been encouraged to buy multiple copies of their favourite releases to win rewards (buy 2,000 copies, win a night at a hot spring with your favourite star). One 32 year-old fan was charged with illegally dumping 585 copies of a CD on the side of a mountain. [Mark Mulligan] [found by TomBot*]

Two disgruntled game developers wrote a script to generate and release identical but differently-named slot machine apps (sample names: Deer Antler Spray Slots, 3D Ravioli Slots). Eventually, the slot machine apps earned them $50,000. [Alex Schwartz & Ziba Scott]

80% of prisoners released late 2018 in a presidential pardon have opted to return to Kinshasa’s infamous Makala jail due to lack of means to live. [Olivier Kalume]

Disco, a Japanese high tech manufacturing company, has introduced an internal billing and payment system, where every cost is charged back to workers. Renting a conference room costs $100. “People really cut back on useless meetings,” says one staffer. [Yuji Nakamura & Yuki Furukawa]

A man who bought the personalised number plate NULL has received over $12,000 of parking fines, because the system records ‘NULL’ when no numberplate has been recorded. [Jack Morse]

The islands of Orkney generate 120% of their energy needs using wind and solar. However, 57% of homes in Orkney are in fuel poverty, where a household spends more than 10% of income on fuel. [Chris Silver] (This year I worked briefly with Community Energy Scotland on a project with Energy Systems Catapult)

Some blind people can understand speech that is almost three times faster than the fastest speech sighted people can understand. They can use speech synthesisers set at at 800 words per minute (conversational speech is 120–150 wpm). Research suggests that a section of the brain that normally responds to light is re-mapped in blind people to process sound. [Austin Hicks & R Douglas Fields]

SpottedRisk is a disgrace insurance company built on data: “Firstborns are at slightly higher risk of disgrace, as are those… who’ve suffered recent breakups — until the passage of time sends the bereft partner back down the ‘risk-decay curve.’” [Boris Kachka]

SDAM (Severely Deficient Autobiographical Memory) is a rare syndrome where otherwise healthy, high-functioning people are unable to remember events from their own life. There is also an exhausting syndrome called Highly Superior Autobiographical Memory, where people can remember precise details about every single day of their life. [Palumbo & Alain]

“Polling by phone has become very expensive, as the number of Americans willing to respond to unexpected or unknown callers has dropped. In the mid-to-late-20th century response rates were as high as 70%… [falling to] a mere 6% of the people it tried to survey in 2018.” [The Economist]

In 2012, only one sports team (Manchester United) was worth more than $2bn. Today, there are 52 sports teams worth more than $2bn. [Kurt Badenhausen]

Flamin’ Hot Cheetos were invented by a cleaner at a Frito-Lay factory. He’s now VP of multicultural sales for PepsiCo America. [Zachary Crockett]

Six reluctant Chinese hitmen who hired each other to carry out a murder went to jail when their outsourcing scheme collapsed. [Eric Cheung]

Fast fashion is hitting the wiping rags businesses, because some clothing is just too badly made to be sold as rags. [Adam Minter] (In January, Fluxx worked with Fibretrace to develop new ways to make the circular economy work in fashion.)

Asking ‘What questions do you have for me?’ can be dramatically more effective than ‘Any questions?’ at the end of a talk. (Many more good tips in this thread. [Jacqueline Antonovich]

[jhoingail-blog]

Looking for the cheap solar system victoria ? We are the top Australia based company and we provide solar system victoria at very reasonable price, to know more about us and about our offers Reenetsolar here you will surely get interesting proposals which you will unquestionably like.

[scotianostra]

On 10th July 1802 Robert Chambers, the Scottish naturalist and publisher, was born.

Robert Chambers was a prolific journalist of Edinburgh. A well-know literary and intellectual figure at his time, he is primarily remembered today as the then secret author of Vestiges of the Natural History of Creation, a work which caused a great sensation in the Victorian era. The book sold remarkably well -- over 20,000 copies in a decade, making it one of the best-sellers of its time. Abraham Lincoln and Queen Victoria read it; so did poets like Alfred Tennyson and Elizabeth Barrett Browning, statesmen like William Gladstone and Benjamin Disraeli, basically anyone who was anyone back in the day!  Critical responses ran the gamut from enthusiasm to damnation. "Like a breath of fresh air to workmen in a crowded factory," said the politically liberal medical journal, the Lancet. Physicist Sir David Brewster warned that Vestiges stood a "fair chance of poisoning the fountains of science, and sapping the foundations of religion." Not until 1884 was the author officially revealed to be Robert Chambers, one of the most successful publishers in Britain. Chambers had chosen anonymity for a very pragmatic reason: he feared, and with reason, that the controversy over the book would hurt his publishing business. Chambers's interest in science was well known, and a few people -- including Charles Darwin -- had already guessed that he was "Mr. Vestiges." However, only seven people were told who the author was during Chambers's lifetime.

Vestiges proved to be as controversial as its author expected. Integrating research in the burgeoning sciences of anthropology, geology, astronomy, biology, economics, and chemistry, it was the first attempt to connect the natural sciences to a history of creation. Remember most people back then believed that god created everything, and Vestiges challenged this, it was 15 years before the equally controversial, for the time, Origin of the Species by Darwin appeared. But what was in this controversial book? It began with an explanation of the nebular hypothesis of the formation of the Solar System, and went on from there to present a grand picture of the progressive evolution of life on Earth. Chambers's practical experience with science was limited, and he included much in this book that more experienced scientists found ludicrous.

Chambers's book contains little that proved of lasting scientific value. Yet it demonstrated that many of the concerns that Darwin was thinking about were well known to the British public. It showed Darwin what obstacles he would have to overcome to win wide acceptance for his own theory of evolution.

Robert Chambers was born in the small town of Peebles in Scotland. Though his family was fairly well-off at first, the collapse of his father's business pushed the family into poverty. In 1818, Robert and his older brother William took a few cheap Bibles and schoolbooks and set up a book stall on an Edinburgh street. The brothers managed to survive and expand their business, until W. & R. Chambers had become one of the most successful publishing houses in Britain. The firm printed books of general interest, and helped feed the growing taste for popularizations of science and culture. Both brothers wrote as well as published, producing the well-known weekly magazine Chambers's Edinburgh Journal.

Robert's main interest was at first Scottish history and folklore; he even wrote a book on Scottish humor. Meanwhile, he had taught himself the basics of geology and botany, a very learned man. He also liked to relax, he was a keen golfer and was elected an Honorary Member of The Musselburgh Golf Club. 

Robert Chambers died on 17 March 1871 in St Andrews and is buried in the cathedral grounds, there is also a memorial window was also erected to Robert by his brother William in St Giles on Edinburgh's Royal Mile, next to a larger window to William himself, placed at the time of his restoration of the Kirk. The pair of windows lie in the northern transept.The firm he started with his brother, W. R. Chambers still trades nowadays and is part of Chambers Harrap Publishers Ltd, it's Edinburgh office only recently closed and has been relocated to London. it's flagship publication was The Chambers Dictionary, I remember our family owning one and making use of it regularly during games of scrabble.

[endeavoursolar]

Three Reasons Why You Should Consider Solar Energy For Your Home

Solar Energy is an excellent renewable energy alternative that can help your home and fight climate change at the same time. In addition to reducing your electricity costs, solar power is also an excellent investment. To learn more about the benefits of installing solar power at your home, read on. Here are three reasons why you should consider solar energy Victoria in your home.

Solar Energy is a Fantastic Renewable Energy Alternative

If you're thinking about switching to renewable energy, you're in the right place. In Victoria, more than 40% of homes now have solar panels through the Solar Homes program or other providers. In the cities of Wodonga, Shepparton, and Wangaratta, the percentage is nearly half! In these cities, the Solar Homes program is credited with increasing the percentage of homes with solar panels from 14 per cent to 22 per cent!

It Reduces Electricity Costs

In Victoria, the government is introducing a new solar rebate program designed to help Victorians deal with high electricity costs. The scheme will cut carbon emissions by almost 4 million tonnes, the equivalent of taking 4.6 million cars off the road, and help achieve the state's goal of generating 12.5% of its electricity needs from renewable sources by 2025. To take advantage of the rebate, eligible Victorians can receive up to 50% off the cost of installing a solar panel system. But there are two main requirements that must be met before you can claim a rebate.

It Combats Climate Change

Solar energy has become a popular way to help combat climate change. In Victoria, more than 1 million households have solar panels on their roofs. The state is also home to the largest battery in the Southern Hemisphere - the 300 megawatt "Victorian Big Battery" - and many smaller community batteries. In a recent greenhouse gas emissions report, the state showed that it was on track to reduce emissions 30 percent below 2005 levels by 2020. Moreover, the state government has made plans to accelerate the transition away from coal and set new targets for offshore wind energy.

It's a Good Investment

Installing a solar panel is an investment that will pay for itself within five to six years. The solar panel uses sunlight to produce renewable electricity, which lowers energy bills while benefiting the environment. While solar panels aren't cheap, they're also more efficient and are becoming more affordable each year. Plus, the Victorian government offers a rebate on solar panels.

It's Easy to Install

If you're considering a solar installation, the first thing to do is research the cost and size of the solar panel. Many solar installers offer interest-free loans and easy payment plans. You can also read online reviews to find out which installers are the most affordable. Once you've done your research, you can get excited about solar power.

It's Affordable

Solar panels in Victoria can cost as little as $3,900. The cost of a small system should be less than $3,000, and a larger one can cost as much as $8,000. These figures include installation costs, but don't include rebates offered by state governments. As a result, the cost of solar energy in Victoria is likely to be much lower than the average.

It's Reliable

There are some benefits of solar energy. The installation of solar panels in a home can be relatively inexpensive. Costs have decreased significantly in recent years, with the typical payback time for a 6.6kW solar system being between three and five years. Payback times can vary, however, depending on the brand and location. The average cost of electricity in Victoria is 22c per kWh, and a solar system installed at a home could save a home owner between $106 and $130 a month.

Endeavour Solar is committed to provide quality solar system installations, every time. We aim to provide the pre-sale and after-sale support that gives you confidence in your decision to install a solar system.

[poolenick-blog]

Soak in spectacular natural sights and rich cultures when you travel to Cape Town! After all, South Africa’s oldest city is home to breathtaking landscapes like Chapman’s Peak and Table Mountain — and more adventurous travelers can also go paragliding from Lion’s Head and Signal Hill.

Activities to do around Cape Town?

Check out these ‘top things to do in Cape Town‘ for fun activities and tours!

…Or do you prefer a place to stay that is either a whole apartment or house that’s perfect for getaways with family and friends? If so, booking with AirBnB is your best choice.

And if you sign up with this link, you can get $40 FREE on your first booking! .title-bar:after, .title-bar:before, .title-bar:after, .title-bar:before, h2{ border-color: }

Best Hotels in Cape Town

» Best Budget Hotels in Cape Town «

+ Aloha Lodge

» See the BEST price deal & read reviews at Agoda, Booking.com or HostelWorld » You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates

Enjoy the simple and chic interior design of this hostel. Choose among a shared dorm, private room, or a quaint 2-bedroom cottage and then bask in the sun as you walk to the nearby Milnerton Beach and Lagoon Beach.

What to love: The nearby white sand beaches Address: 6 Algoa Road, Milnerton Closest landmark: Ratanga Junction Price starts from: $10~

+ Big Blue Backpackers » See the BEST price deal & read reviews at Agoda, Booking.com or HostelWorld » You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates

Experience staying in a Victorian mansion here at Big Blue Backpackers Hostel. Guests can enjoy brightly painted rooms and comfy beds far from the lounge and games room.

What to love: The convenient location near V&A Waterfront Address: 7 Vesperdene Road, Green Point, Green Poin Closest landmark: MyCiTi Station Cape Town Stadium Price starts from: $10~

+ Atlantic Point Backpackers » See the BEST price deal & read reviews at Agoda, Booking.com or HostelWorld » You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates

Stay a night or two here in one of the best hostels in Cape Town. Unwind by the patio with some braai, cook up a meal in their well-stocked kitchen, or arrange tours through the travel desk.

What to love: The helpful travel desk Address: 2 Cavalcade Road, Green Point, Green Point Closest landmark: MyCiTi Station Cape Town Stadium Price starts from: $15~

+ The B.I.G Backpackers » See the BEST price deal & read reviews at Agoda, Booking.com or HostelWorld » You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates

Make friends with other backpackers in this top-rated boutique hostel. Easily access shops, restaurants, and clubs near Signal Hill, or join the hostel’s B.I.G. Night Out event. Enjoy a complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and daily housekeeping of your room.

What to love: The stylish interior design Address: 18 Thornhill Road, Green Point Closest landmark: MyCiTi Station Cape Town Stadium Price starts from: $30~

+ The Surf Shack » See the BEST price deal & read reviews at Agoda or HostelWorld » You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates

Feel right at home with this relaxed atmosphere that’s made for surfers. Whip up your own meal in the fully equipped communal kitchen and braai (barbecue) area, or lounge by the patio and swimming pool.

What to love: The homey surroundings Address: 1 Stirling Rd, Bloubergstrand Closest landmark: Bloubergstrand Beach Price starts from: $40~ » Best Mid-Range Hotels in Cape Town «

+ Glen Boutique Hotel & Spa » See the BEST price deal & read reviews at Agoda or Booking.com » You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates

Delight in its beautifully furnished rooms, plush seating, private balcony and even an iMac desktop computer in your room. Explore the city in a stunning convertible with the hotel’s luxury car rental.

What to love: The luxurious facilities Address: 3 The Glen, Sea Point, Sea Point Closest landmark: Piazza St John Price starts from: $70~

+ Cape Heritage Hotel » See the BEST price deal & read reviews at Agoda or Booking.com » You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates

Discover one the 4-star hotels in Cape Town. You’ll be close to tourist attractions like Bree Street, Long Street, and Greenmarket Square. Take a dip in the rooftop jacuzzi pool, or roam the courtyard, which features the oldest living grapevine in South Africa!

What to love: The old world touches and courtyard Address: 90 Bree Street, Cape Town Central Closest landmark: The African Portrait Art Gallery Price starts from: $80~

+ Hotel Verde Cape Town Airport » See the BEST price deal & read reviews at Agoda or Booking.com » You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates

You’ll be amazed by “Africa’s greenest hotel” and its environment-friendly systems – which include the use of gray water, wind turbines, and solar panels. Work up a sweat on the jogging trail and go for a dip in the natural rock pool.

What to love: The eco-friendly technology Address: 15 Michigan Street, Airport Industria, 7490 Matroosfontein Closest landmark: MyCiTi Station Cape Town International Airport Price starts from: $85~

+ Blackheath Lodge » See the BEST price deal & read reviews at Agoda or Booking.com » You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates

A Victorian guest house dating back from the 19th century. Take it easy in a stylish bedroom decked in elegant patterns and regal furnishing. Enjoy personalized service with restaurant recommendations from the staff or get a delicious breakfast on the whitewashed patio overlooking the garden.

What to love: The complimentary mobile phone Address: 6 Blackheath Road, Sea Point Closest landmark: Green Point Urban Park Price starts from: $130~

+ Derwent House Boutique Hotel » See the BEST price deal & read reviews at Agoda or Booking.com » You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates

This boutique hotel features an outdoor jacuzzi, a swimming pool, and a well-stocked honesty bar for your beverage needs. Enjoy little touches like free afternoon tea and cakes, complimentary mobile phone for travel, and a free glass of wine at night.

What to love: The central location Address: 14A Derwent Road, Gardens, Cape Town Central Closest landmark: Christopher Moller Gallery Price starts from: $140~ » Best Luxury Hotels in Cape Town «

+ Atlanticview Cape Town Boutique Hotel » See the BEST price deal & read reviews at Agoda or Booking.com » You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates

Live like royalty with top-class facilities like Tempur mattresses, solar-heated infinity pools, and airport and local transfers in a Mercedes. You’ll also love little surprises like complimentary wine with canapes and a breakfast tray.

What to love: The spectacular view from Infinity Suite Address: 31 Francolin Road, Camps Bay Closest landmark: Theatre On The Bay Price starts from: $130~

+ Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel » See the BEST price deal & read reviews at Agoda or Booking.com » You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates

Be captivated by its iconic pastel pink buildings and luxe furnishing. This dreamy, colonial-era building is located in a vast garden estate dotted with tropical trees.

What to love: The famous high tea experience Address: 76 Orange Street, Gardens Closest landmark: Labia Theatre Price starts from: $190~

+ Gondwana Game Reserve » See the BEST price deal & read reviews at Agoda or Booking.com » You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates

Less than a 4-hour drive from Cape Town, this is the best place near the city where you can enjoy an 11,000-hectare private game reserve. If you’re lucky, you might find free-roaming elephants, zebras, and lions outside your private Khoisan-inspired villa!

What to love: The safari location Address: Heuningklip Farm, Herbertsdale, 6505 Kleinberg Closest landmark: Robinson Pass Price starts from: $250~

+ Cape Grace Hotel & Spa » See the BEST price deal & read reviews at Agoda or Booking.com » You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates

Treat yourself to this 5-star hotel with splendid views of the harbor. Check out your room’s classic elegant interiors, adorned with antique decor, carpeted floors, and a luxe marble bathroom. Other facilities include African-inspired spa treatments, a fitness studio, and complimentary car service.

What to love: The picturesque harbor view Address: West Quay Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Waterfront Closest landmark: Clock Tower Retail Centre Price starts from: $500~

+ One&Only Cape Town » See the BEST price deal & read reviews at Agoda or Booking.com » You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates

With panoramic views of the lagoon and Table Mountain, dine at the iconic Nobu Restaurant, which serves Japanese fusion dishes. Or indulge in delectable South African cuisine at Reuben Restaurant What to love: The 5-star treatment Address: Dock Road, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Waterfront Closest landmark: Two Oceans Aquarium Price starts from: $540~ .title-bar:after, .title-bar:before, .title-bar:after, .title-bar:before, h2{ border-color: }

Overall

Whether you’re looking for a budget hostel or a boutique hotel, I hope this list is helpful on your visit to the wonderful multicultural city of Cape Town.

How about you?

What do you think of these hotels in Cape Town?

Which would you like to stay in the most?

Or have you stayed in any of these hotels before? How was it?

Did you like this article? Follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or YouTube and be notified about my newest posts and updates!

The post The Best Hotels in Cape Town, South Africa: Cheap to Luxury Picks appeared first on I am Aileen.

[shannrussell-blog1]

Australia is a giant country, with more camping opportunities spread throughout than you’d be able to explore in a lifetime. Whether it’s in the high country of Victoria, or on a pristine beach tucked away in the southwest of WA you’ll find some world-class camping locations.

However, not all of them have running water, flushing toilets and hot showers. In fact, many have none of the above! In this post, we look at what it takes to be a self-sufficient camper, which allows you to camp in places where the facilities are lacking, or non-existent.

What’s the point of being self-sufficient?

You might think it’s a ridiculous idea to even consider going to a campsite without the facilities you’d get in a caravan park. The thing is though, if you are self-sufficient, you have your own gear and don’t need to be dependent on others providing it. It’s not a case of going without.

This dramatically opens up your options for where you can camp, and has a number of other benefits that we will look into below.

Self-sufficiency means you can experience campsites like this, that are further off the beaten track. Photo: Aaron Schubert

Make sure you are comfortable

I’m not going to suggest for a minute you should be camping like a cave man (although if that’s your style, go for it!).

Camping has this horrible stigma attached to it that’s uncomfortable. Some people firmly believe if you are going camping for the weekend you’ll be cold, uncomfortable and roughing it. The reality is this couldn’t be further from the truth, providing you have the right gear and know how to use it properly.

Nothing will ruin an amazing camping trip than being uncomfortable. Whether that’s getting wet and cold, being blasted by the wind, not being able to go to the toilet comfortably, or having a terrible sleep each night, there’s a huge range of ways that your camping trip can be uncomfortable. I firmly believe you should be comfortable when camping.

What are the benefits of self-sufficient camping?

There are many advantages of camping in a self-sufficient manner. Some are financial, and others are purely for a better experience. Either way, you are able to mix it up as you feel like doing so.

Our self-sufficient set up at Murchison House Station. Photo: Aaron Schubert

It’s much cheaper

There’s no doubt that if you provide your own facilities, the cost is cheaper. Caravan Parks, in particular, are the perfect example. I rang around a few months back and was priced $192 for 3 nights on an unpowered site for 2 adults and a baby. That’s not even on the high end either! Some caravan parks in peak season charge up to $100 per night.

Camping has historically been a cheap way to have a fantastic holiday, but when you’re paying more in camping fees than you would be if you rented a house, something is not right.

In many cases, self-sufficient camping allows for free camping entirely. If it’s in a national park, or shire run site, you will get charged $5 – $10 per person per night, which is still excellent value for money.

Usually, the less available facilities, the cheaper the camping is.

Escape the hordes of people

I like to interact with others, but when it comes to camping I’ve always found it’s much more enjoyable to have your own slice of paradise. I’d rather not be able to see any other campers –  to truly get away from everything and relax with friends and family.

Australia is a big place so there’s no reason why you can’t have your own slice for a few days at a time!

Caravan sites are great, but it’s great to be able to have your own space so you can relax. Photo: Aaron Schubert

Better locations

There’s no doubt that there are some truly spectacular campsites available with the facilities you need. However, in my experience, there’s often a better campsite up the road if you’re self-sufficient. Looking back at our camping experiences, the best ones have been in truly mind-boggling locations that you’d only go to if you were self-sufficient.

What do you need to be self-sufficient?

In actual fact, you don’t need anything overly fancy to be self-sufficient. People have lived off the land for years in a very simple lifestyle. Vary what you have based on how you want to live, but below are the basics.

Drinking water

At home, it’s easy to turn the tap on and get clean drinking water out. When you are camping though, it’s a luxury that’s often not available. Sometimes you can get water from creeks and rivers, and this is easily used for dish washing and showers. The simplest way to have clean drinking water when you’re camping though is to take it with you.

Options start off atwater bottles, which are cheap and straight forward. From there, you move into water tanks and bladders, and finally, reverse osmosis units and filtration systems. Some people split their water storage into drinking and non-drinking containers. Whatever the case, take enough clean drinking water and some more in case something goes wrong.

Our water tank and soap dispenser for washing our hands on the road. Photo: Aaron Schubert

Toilets

There are thousands of toilets in Australia. The problem though is there’s not usually one where you want to camp! Most Shire and national park run sites will have a drop toilet, but if you haven’t got access to one – what are your options?

The simplest and cheapest option is to dig a hole and do your business in it. You need a shovel, some toilet paper and a bit of time. Dig it at least 30cm deep, make sure all toilet paper is well buried (or burnt if safe to do so), and cover it in. Don’t go near creeks, rivers or lakes and populated walkways, and make sure it’s left clean.

Beyond that, you can get a huge array of portable toilets and stands to sit on. It’s not that hard, but it’s something that people need to urgent their attention to, as it’s becoming a massive problem out bush.

Don’t rely on public toilets, make sure you have a few options for going to the toilet when going off the grid. Photo: Aaron Schubert

Shower/bathing facilities

You can go a couple of days without a wash, but it gets a bit feral beyond that. Water is always an issue, as it’s heavy and hard to carry with you. That said, if you can get it from a creek or river, you won’t have any issues having a shower or wash. When water is short, just use a flannel and bucket to clean yourself. Boil the kettle and mix it with some cold water in a bucket. Alternatively, if you have access to a fire you can warm water in a stainless bucket.

When water is short, just use a flannel and bucket to clean yourself. Boil the kettle and mix it with some cold water in a bucket. Alternatively, if you have access to a fire you can warm water in a stainless bucket.

The cheap , which are very luxurious options!

Bathing facilities can be scarce, so a simple and effective option is a solar shower bag. Photo: Aaron Schubert

Lighting and 12V power

Never have we lived in a world where there’s better access to cheap, quality and efficient lighting options for camping. Headlamps, Lanterns and LED strip lighting are amazing, and lighting is no longer an issue when camping.

12V power has come along in leaps and bounds, and you can actually run a wide variety of gear off-grid without much difficulty.

Lighting is no problem, as there are plenty of 12V powered lighting options available now. Photo: Aaron Schubert

Warmth

There’s no doubt about it –  you have to be warm when camping. Fortunately, this is normally fairly easy if you dress appropriately. Bring clothing to suit the location you’re going to and make sure your sleeping bag is rated low enough. If it’s cold, you can usually have a campfire which goes a long way to staying comfortable.

Grey water collection

Some official ‘self-sufficient’ campsites require you to collect any grey water (dishwater and shower water). If this is the case, collect it in a tank or jerry can and take it out.

Knowledge

You have to understand how to use the gear you have, and when a decision needs to be made. If you can see a massive storm front in, perhaps it’s a good idea to delay the camping trip! A lot of this comes from experience. The best way to learn is to get out there and learn it as you go!

Consider how you’re planning on storing and refrigerating food on your trip. Photo: Aaron Schubert

Food

The food you eat when camping off the grid is going to be different to what you have at home. It doesn’t have to be vastly different, just think about your options for refrigeration, cooking, and cleaning. Some food lasts a long time, and others will perish quickly. 12V and gas fridges are easily run today out of a 4WD and open your food options up substantially.

Shelter

There have never been more choices for comfortable, self-sufficient camping in Australia. Tents have come a long way, and then there are more shelters, such as camper trailers, hybrids and caravans on the market than you can poke a stick at. These vary wildly in price and features, so get something that suits your needs and budget.

You’ve got so many options for shelter, here’s our tent set up at the most Western point of WA. Photo: Aaron Schubert

Initial expense vs return

You can’t deny that camping off the grid requires more gear. There is an initial expense required, how much depends vastly on how you want to do it, but if you’re camping regularly away from facilities you will save a fortune. For those who’ve done a lot of camping and travelling, you’d know fuel is usually the biggest cost, with food and camping fees next in line. Do a lot of free camping, and you’ll pay for your gear many times over.

The general guide for travelling around Australia as a family is anywhere from $450 – $1200 per week. If you are self-sufficient, you can easily save several hundred dollars a week in camping fees alone.

Start slow and progress forward

If you haven’t done much camping before, start slow and work your way up. Caravan parks are a fantastic place to camp, and when you know you are comfortable and what you have works, move onto a campsite with only a toilet, and then one without any facilities at all.

We’ve got an amazing country to explore, so see you out there! Let me know what you’ve got to make self-sufficient camping easier!

The post How to be a Self-Sufficient Camper appeared first on Snowys Blog.

[sprgroup]

Get Best Plumbing Services for Your House

For a house to be running correctly, you need good structure, wiring and most importantly, excellent plumbing. Without a nice plumbing job, it will be hard to survive, even with leaks and broken taps. So, you should all look for a plumbing company which can do the job right and for the best price. Moreover, they should have a warranty for their work. This aspect keeps your mind at peace, knowing that you do not need to check the taps and pipes frequently.

SPR Plumbing and Refrigeration is one of the leading professional plumbing contractors based in the Latrobe Valley. They have been servicing the plumbing needs of Gippsland and Metropolitan for a long time. They have the best experienced and committed staffs, who have served in this industry for years and knows what the customer expects from them. They see the trust and value the customers are giving them and never disappoints them. Their service is available round the clock, even if it is a small thing like to fix a leaky tap or something more substantial on a scale like roofing or water tanks. Many available services are roofing, plumbing, gas fitting, solar hot water, air-conditioning, new homes, maintenance, commercial and water tanks.

 The main thing about these kinds of services is the quality of the types of equipment used. That is, if you use the wrong type of tile or a cheap tile, it may not affect you in the short run, but, in the long run; you will be in real trouble. Here at SPR Plumbing and Refrigeration, the experts will help you when you are confused, and you don’t have to be worried as they use the best quality materials available in the market. Moreover, they select what is best for your house and will make sure that it fits your budget. They were contacted by the Department of Housing Victoria to test tenant’s heaters for Carbon monoxide leakage within the expanse of Latrobe Valley. You don’t need to get worried to get your gas heater services every two years if you have bought them from this company because they will come for check-ups when it is needed.

 The greatest thing about this company is that they work with the best and updated technology. They have the latest drain camera technology, which will help you to locate the problems in your drain and sewer. Well, there is a good-bye to the tiring hours of labour to find the problem in your drainage. Moreover, the high-pressure water jetting system will clear all the blockages in the drainage. This is far better and cooler than the regular drainage system. If there is any problem with your pipes or if there is a sudden break, you can call SPR, and the experts will be within your home, fixing the problem and finishing off before you know it. You can call these professional plumbing contractors even if it is a small leak because small leaks unattended can cause more significant leaks, which can cause considerable damage and money. That is the level of service they are aiming to achieve. You can look upon the website and look through the services as well as the kind words of the customers.

[goldcoastdreams]

Make a splash with a cool pool

This glamorous plunge pool in Elsternwick starred on TV reno show The Block in 2017. All pools pictured are by Franklin Pools. Pictures: Patrick Redmond Did you spend the summer holidays wishing youd taken the plunge and put in a pool? Its never too late there is always next summer to look forward to! So, where to start? First thing is to determine what you want out of your pool, says award-winning landscape designer and director of Franklin Pools David Franklin. Do you want a family-sized pool where playtime is the focus? Or do you work during the day and come home late at night? In this case, youre probably looking for something you can just slip in and out of, so a plunge pool may be more suitable, said Mr Franklin, known for his work on TV renovating shows Reno Rumble and The Block. Here, Mr Franklin shares important points to consider before putting in a pool.

Consider what size pool you really need. Location Check if your site has easy access, otherwise you might need building equipment and even the pool craned in, adding to the cost. Dirt from the pool dig might also need to be craned out. Mr Franklin recommended not having the pool in the centre of the backyard because it made the garden space less usable. Instead, locate it to the side and integrate it with the natural surroundings, while still allowing enough space for other garden activities. Dont put it too far from the house, he said. Bring it closer to your home and outdoor dining area so it becomes a feature you can enjoy when entertaining. He advised looking at the design and site together, not separately. Think about what size best suits your home and garden layout, which is where a pool builder with a landscape-design background can really help.

Locate your pool to the side of the yard and integrate the landscaping. Tiles Mr Franklin said lining the pool with glass tiles was definitely on trend, particularly blue tiles, which he said beautifully captured a holiday-resort feel. At least 95 per cent of our pools now are fully tiled. It gives a better look, better finish and keeps the inside of the pool cleaner, he said. However, he urged people to be wary of cheap glass-tile imports, which had been known to fall off.

Blue tiles will capture a resort-style feel. Costs Apart from excavation, other costs include design and landscaping and, of course, day-to-day running and maintenance. I would look at using a three-speed water pump. You can get ones that start on a high speed then drop this down to a lower speed, making it more economical to run, Mr Franklin said. And invest in a quality robotic cleaner because nobody likes spending time cleaning the pool. Alternatively, he said, an in-built pool-cleaning system was a smart move but more costly and had to be considered at the design stage. In terms of structure, fibre-glass pools are cheaper as they are made off-site, while concrete pools are pricier because theyre poured on-site.

Take all the costs, including maintenance, into account. Design Mr Franklin said to carefully consider the design of the area adjoining the pool and what could be added to extend your pleasure. Think about adding features, such as a day bed or seating, where you can relax beside the water. Glass windows in the pool are also popular because they provide transparency and make the pool feel bigger, he said. Youll be able to see straight into the pool from inside the house as well, which adds to the wow factor. Consider creating different levels in and around the pool. It makes the design look interesting and makes the pool fun. It also provides areas where you can sit and talk, even when in the water. Also consider a hand-poured, honed-concrete ledge. It will create a shadow-line effect that defines the perimeter and is something the kids can use to jump into the water. It looks fantastic and creates the effect that the pool is virtually floating, Mr Franklin said.

Adding features such as a day bed will heighten your enjoyment. Mistake to avoid All too often, people want pools that are too big and far too deep. Theyre after a 10m x 8m pool thats eight-foot (2.4m) deep all the way through. It makes the pool unplayable, Mr Franklin said. Tips for new pools Here is more advice from Mr Franklin for those considering putting in a pool: Install an app on your phone to remotely clean the pool and set the water temperature. This way, the pool will be ready to enjoy as soon as you get home. Set lights on a timer so the pool becomes a garden feature at night. Break up hard and soft surfaces to create design balance and make the colour of the water pop. Think paving with an area of decking. Go for a magnesium-based water treatment. Natural filtration systems, especially ones with an ozone element, are healthier on the skin, have no odour and give the cleanest, clearest water. Combine solar and gas systems to heat the pool and spa. Solar will generally do most of the work and is very cost efficient. Gas heating can boost the temperature quickly if it hasnt quite reached your ideal. www.franklinpools.com.au

Include different levels and set lights on a timer so your pool is a garden feature at night. https://www.couriermail.com.au/real-estate/victoria/set-yourself-up-for-next-summer-with-a-cool-pool/news-story/ce9e2ffc42361079acc0d076aad91711

[sunstationau]

Residential solar power is becoming increasingly more and more popular these days. The major advantages are clean, cheap, renewable, and environment friendly electricity. Contact Sun Station For Residential Solar System Installation In Victoria.

http://sunstation.com.au/aboutus.html

[mattthompson9874-blog]

Beginners guide to solar panel

#1 The three main components of a solar power system installation Solar power systems are comprised of:

The panels, which can either be polycrystalline or monocrystalline. The two main types of solar panel technology in use for residential homes – there’s also a third type, cast mono, that’s a hybrid of the two. It doesn’t matter if you get a mono or a poly panel. What is important is you buy a good brand that will last 25+ years installed on your roof. There are good budget brands and good premium brands. But there are also ‘no-name’ panels that are re-badged junk, and are unlikely to last more than 3-5 years on an Australian roof. Avoid installing those modules at all costs.

Pro-tip: Don’t stress over solar panel technology. Mono- and polycrystalline are both as good in Australian climates. You can choose to install a budget (think Kia), regular (think Toyota) or premium (think BMW) solar panel brand. You generally get what you pay for. Related Articles : https://www.solarafter.com

You probably don’t know a good panel brand from a lemon, and why should you? Here’s a handy cheat sheet of most of the popular solar panel brands in Australia, so you can see where they sit in the market. The list is not exhaustive – if you’re not sure about a brand, ask me – but the following chart represents over 90% of what’s being quoted in 2019 in Australia (and is more or less a safe bet): The second main component of a solar power system installation is the inverter, which can be either a string inverter (around the size of a briefcase) or microinverters, which are approximately the size of a paperback book.

A string inverter is installed on a wall and all the solar panels connect to it. A microinverter goes on the back of each solar panel. There is also a third option, power optimisers, that are kind of a hybrid between the two. You can read about the pros and cons of each inverter choice in a detailed article here.

Pro-tip: Never mount a string inverter where it will be in full sun. Choose a shaded spot, a cool garage, or ask the installer to build a simple shade over the inverter. Direct intense sunlight kills inverters, because it cooks them – and Australia’s sun is particularly harsh. The job of the inverter is to convert the DC electricity solar panels produce into 230V AC electricity, which is what everything in your home uses. How Do I Know If My Roof Is Suitable For Solar Panels https://www.solarafter.com/how-do-i-know-if-my-roof-is-suitable-for-solar-panels

The inverter is the component most likely to fail in a solar power system installation in the first 10-15 years. This is because they work hard all day, and they do wear out.

So even if you are on a limited budget, I’d recommend considering a premium-end inverter.

Here’s a run-down of the popular inverter brands in Australia right now, and where they sit on in terms of price and quality (again – this list is not exhaustive, but any reputable installer has a 95% chance of quoting you one of the following brands):

Pro Tip: You can, and should, install up to 33% more panels than the inverter is rated at. For example, I would recommend installing 4kW of panels with a 3kW inverter. You’ll get 33% more solar rebate and lots more power in winter, mornings and evenings. It’s a very efficient use of the inverter. Also, in many areas, the smaller the inverter, the easier it is to get permission to connect to the mains electricity grid. The third main component of a solar power system installation is the racking/mounting. This is what is securely attached to your roof supports, and what your solar panels are mounted on.

There are a wide variety of racking brands out there. The difference between a budget end brand and a premium end brand is around $100 per kilowatt of solar power installed.

The chart below shows brands we’re familiar with, and where they sit in a spectrum of price:

#2 The most important thing to measure before you get solar power: how much electricity you use in your home, and when you use it. When solar electricity is generated by your panels, it will first be used by appliances in your home, with any surplus solar energy exported to the grid. Your electricity retailer will pay you a small amount (around 7-20c) for each kWh your installation exports to the grid.

It is better to use the solar power generated by your system than export it. Self-consumed electricity saves about 30c per kWh as you don’t have to buy that energy from the grid. Exported electricity earns a ‘feed in tariff’ of about 7-20c per kWh.

So self-consumed solar energy is about 2-3x more valuable than exported solar electricity.

Pro Tip: Shop around for feed-in tariffs. They can vary from 0c to 20c depending on the retailer.

This means Australian households using a lot of electricity during the day, or can set their appliances to run on timers, are a natural fit for solar panels and can see very short paybacks of 3-5 years (20-25% returns). If you are at home during the day or have pool pumps that run all day, your self-consumption can be up to 65% (with exports only 35%) and a solar power system installation is likely to be a very good investment. If you are not at home during the day, you will typically self-consume about 20% of the output of an appropriately sized solar power system installation, pushing the simple payback out to 6-8 years.

Bear in mind that this is still a 12-15% return on your investment. Avoid any solar energy company that calculates your payback based on 100% self-consumption. Practically no-one has 100% self-consumption. The company is being dishonest in order to get your sale. Pro Tip: Your electricity bill only tells you how much energy you use every month, or 3 months. If you live in Victoria, you can ask your retailer to give you a spreadsheet of your electricity use every half hour. If you live elsewhere, you can buy (and get an electrician to install) an energy monitor to collect this data for a few weeks before you get a quote. A good installer can use this data to more accurately size your solar system for optimum savings.

#3 How many solar panels should you buy?

My answer to this question has changed considerably compared to just a few years ago.

This is because prices for solar installation have fallen considerably, electricity prices have risen, and feed-in tariffs (what you’re paid for exporting excess electricity generation) have also risen.

The only limitations now are your budget, what your roof can properly fit, and the amount your DNSP (Distributed Network Service Provider) allows you to install. Do Solar Work In Places That Gets Snow https://www.solarafter.com/do-solar-work-in-winter-or-in-places-that-gets-snow

For most homes, the minimum you should consider is buying 6.6 kW of panels (approx. 22 in total) with a 5 kW inverter.

The biggest regret I’ve heard from solar power owners is they didn’t factor in how winter and overcast days limit their savings. They wish they’d installed more panels when they had the chance. It’s expensive and complicated to add panels after the install, while adding solar panels to the initial quote can be surprisingly cheap. I’ve written about this topic in more detail here.

#4 The solar rebate: still very much alive and kicking – and generous. The famous Australian federal ‘solar rebate’ (technically known as the ‘STC scheme’) acts as a point-of-sale discount off the final cost of a solar power system installation. The subsidy is worth about $600 per kW of solar panels installed, but this will vary depending on where you live.

As an example, a 6kW system attracts around $3,600 in rebates. Anyone can claim the rebate, even if you’ve already bought solar power systems in the past and want to buy a new system.

The only restrictions on claiming the rebate are: • Your system installation must be less than 100kW in size. • You get it installed and designed by a Clean Energy Council (CEC) accredited professional (you can ask the installer on the day to provide proof of accreditation!) • You use panels and solar inverters approved for use in Australia by the Clean Energy Council (such as the ones I mentioned in #1).

The federal solar rebate is slowly being phased out.  It reduced by one tenth of today’s value every January until it goes to zero in 2031. For Victorians, the Labor government introduced a state-level rebate that currently offers eligible recipients (up to) an extra $1,888 off the cost of a solar system.

Pro Tip: The federal rebate is based on the number of solar panels, not the size of the inverter in the installation. This often makes adding panels over and above the inverter rating very worthwhile. Don’t worry – it is safe and approved by the regulators (up to 133% of inverter capacity). Ask your installer about ‘oversizing’ your panel array. Any good installer will know exactly what you mean. Untrained commission-only sales people won’t.

#5 Don’t get the ‘rebate’ and the ‘feed in tariff’ confused We’ve already learned the ‘feed-in tariff’ is the rate you are paid for solar electricity you export into the grid.

Between 2009 and 2012, people signed up to generous feed-in tariffs that paid them anywhere between 20c per kWh and 66c per kWh of electricity exported. These generous tariffs were designed to kick-start the solar energy industry when solar power systems were much more expensive.

Solar energy systems have reduced in price by 80% in Australia since 2008, and the feed-in tariffs have reduced to 7c – 20c, depending on your retailer.

This reduction is why you see so many people screaming ‘solar power isn’t worth it anymore! The rebate has been massively reduced!’ They’re actually confusing the rebate with the feed-in tariff. The federal rebate is still alive and kicking and isn’t being reduced significantly anytime soon.

We’ve run the numbers, and even with these low feed in tariffs it’s not difficult to get a 5 year payback on your solar energy system.

[topfygad]

Cheap to Luxury Picks – I am Aileen

Soak in spectacular natural sights and rich cultures when you travel to Cape Town! After all, South Africa’s oldest city is home to breathtaking landscapes like Chapman’s Peak and Table Mountain — and more adventurous travelers can also go paragliding from Lion’s Head and Signal Hill. (Hotels in Cape Town)

There’s also the Insta-worthy neighborhood of Bo-Kaap, which is lined with pastel-hued houses and delightful cafes. And of course, given its multicultural history, Cape Town is also a haven for foodies with dishes like boerewors (sausages) and bobotie (minced meat pie).

So are you heading to the “Mother City” soon? Check out this list of Cape Town’s top accommodations: from affordable backpacker’s hostels to five-star hotels!

.

Activities to do around Cape Town?

…Or do you prefer a place to stay that is either a whole apartment or house that’s perfect for getaways with family and friends? If so, booking with AirBnB is your best choice.

And if you sign up with this link, you can get $40 FREE on your first booking! .

.

<![CDATA[#bxtitle_1415674727.box-title.box-title-line-middle .title-bar:after, #bxtitle_1415674727.box-title.box-title-line-middle .title-bar:before, #bxtitle_1415674727.box-title.box-title-line-around .title-bar:after, #bxtitle_1415674727.box-title.box-title-line-around .title-bar:before, #bxtitle_1415674727.box-title.box-title-line-around h2 border-color: #ed2665 ]]>

» Best Budget Hotels in Cape Town «

+ Aloha Lodge » See the BEST price deal & read reviews at Agoda, Booking.com or HostelWorld » You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates

Enjoy the simple and chic interior design of this hostel. Choose among a shared dorm, private room, or a quaint 2-bedroom cottage and then bask in the sun as you walk to the nearby Milnerton Beach and Lagoon Beach.

What to love: The nearby white sand beaches Address: 6 Algoa Road, Milnerton Closest landmark: Ratanga Junction Price starts from: $10~

+ Big Blue Backpackers » See the BEST price deal & read reviews at Agoda, Booking.com or HostelWorld » You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates

Experience staying in a Victorian mansion here at Big Blue Backpackers Hostel. Guests can enjoy brightly painted rooms and comfy beds far from the lounge and games room.

What to love: The convenient location near V&A Waterfront Address: 7 Vesperdene Road, Green Point, Green Poin Closest landmark: MyCiTi Station Cape Town Stadium Price starts from: $10~

+ Atlantic Point Backpackers » See the BEST price deal & read reviews at Agoda, Booking.com or HostelWorld » You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates

Stay a night or two here in one of the best hostels in Cape Town. Unwind by the patio with some braai, cook up a meal in their well-stocked kitchen, or arrange tours through the travel desk.

What to love: The helpful travel desk Address: 2 Cavalcade Road, Green Point, Green Point Closest landmark: MyCiTi Station Cape Town Stadium Price starts from: $15~

+ The B.I.G Backpackers » See the BEST price deal & read reviews at Agoda, Booking.com or HostelWorld » You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates

Make friends with other backpackers in this top-rated boutique hostel. Easily access shops, restaurants, and clubs near Signal Hill, or join the hostel’s B.I.G. Night Out event. Enjoy a complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and daily housekeeping of your room.

What to love: The stylish interior design Address: 18 Thornhill Road, Green Point Closest landmark: MyCiTi Station Cape Town Stadium Price starts from: $30~

+ The Surf Shack » See the BEST price deal & read reviews at Agoda or HostelWorld » You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates

Feel right at home with this relaxed atmosphere that’s made for surfers. Whip up your own meal in the fully equipped communal kitchen and braai (barbecue) area, or lounge by the patio and swimming pool.

What to love: The homey surroundings Address: 1 Stirling Rd, Bloubergstrand Closest landmark: Bloubergstrand Beach Price starts from: $40~ . .

» Best Mid-Range Hotels in Cape Town «

+ Glen Boutique Hotel & Spa » See the BEST price deal & read reviews at Agoda or Booking.com » You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates

Delight in its beautifully furnished rooms, plush seating, private balcony and even an iMac desktop computer in your room. Explore the city in a stunning convertible with the hotel’s luxury car rental.

What to love: The luxurious facilities Address: 3 The Glen, Sea Point, Sea Point Closest landmark: Piazza St John Price starts from: $70~

+ Cape Heritage Hotel » See the BEST price deal & read reviews at Agoda or Booking.com » You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates

Discover one the 4-star hotels in Cape Town. You’ll be close to tourist attractions like Bree Street, Long Street, and Greenmarket Square. Take a dip in the rooftop jacuzzi pool, or roam the courtyard, which features the oldest living grapevine in South Africa!

What to love: The old world touches and courtyard Address: 90 Bree Street, Cape Town Central Closest landmark: The African Portrait Art Gallery Price starts from: $80~

+ Hotel Verde Cape Town Airport » See the BEST price deal & read reviews at Agoda or Booking.com » You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates

You’ll be amazed by “Africa’s greenest hotel” and its environment-friendly systems – which include the use of gray water, wind turbines, and solar panels. Work up a sweat on the jogging trail and go for a dip in the natural rock pool.

What to love: The eco-friendly technology Address: 15 Michigan Street, Airport Industria, 7490 Matroosfontein Closest landmark: MyCiTi Station Cape Town International Airport Price starts from: $85~

+ Blackheath Lodge » See the BEST price deal & read reviews at Agoda or Booking.com » You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates

A Victorian guest house dating back from the 19th century. Take it easy in a stylish bedroom decked in elegant patterns and regal furnishing. Enjoy personalized service with restaurant recommendations from the staff or get a delicious breakfast on the whitewashed patio overlooking the garden.

What to love: The complimentary mobile phone Address: 6 Blackheath Road, Sea Point Closest landmark: Green Point Urban Park Price starts from: $130~

+ Derwent House Boutique Hotel » See the BEST price deal & read reviews at Agoda or Booking.com » You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates

This boutique hotel features an outdoor jacuzzi, a swimming pool, and a well-stocked honesty bar for your beverage needs. Enjoy little touches like free afternoon tea and cakes, complimentary mobile phone for travel, and a free glass of wine at night.

What to love: The central location Address: 14A Derwent Road, Gardens, Cape Town Central Closest landmark: Christopher Moller Gallery Price starts from: $140~ .

» Best Luxury Hotels in Cape Town «

+ Atlanticview Cape Town Boutique Hotel » See the BEST price deal & read reviews at Agoda or Booking.com » You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates

Live like royalty with top-class facilities like Tempur mattresses, solar-heated infinity pools, and airport and local transfers in a Mercedes. You’ll also love little surprises like complimentary wine with canapes and a breakfast tray.

What to love: The spectacular view from Infinity Suite Address: 31 Francolin Road, Camps Bay Closest landmark: Theatre On The Bay Price starts from: $130~

+ Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel » See the BEST price deal & read reviews at Agoda or Booking.com » You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates

Be captivated by its iconic pastel pink buildings and luxe furnishing. This dreamy, colonial-era building is located in a vast garden estate dotted with tropical trees.

What to love: The famous high tea experience Address: 76 Orange Street, Gardens Closest landmark: Labia Theatre Price starts from: $190~

+ Gondwana Game Reserve » See the BEST price deal & read reviews at Agoda or Booking.com » You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates

Less than a 4-hour drive from Cape Town, this is the best place near the city where you can enjoy an 11,000-hectare private game reserve. If you’re lucky, you might find free-roaming elephants, zebras, and lions outside your private Khoisan-inspired villa!

What to love: The safari location Address: Heuningklip Farm, Herbertsdale, 6505 Kleinberg Closest landmark: Robinson Pass Price starts from: $250~

+ Cape Grace Hotel & Spa » See the BEST price deal & read reviews at Agoda or Booking.com » You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates

Treat yourself to this 5-star hotel with splendid views of the harbor. Check out your room’s classic elegant interiors, adorned with antique decor, carpeted floors, and a luxe marble bathroom. Other facilities include African-inspired spa treatments, a fitness studio, and complimentary car service.

What to love: The picturesque harbor view Address: West Quay Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Waterfront Closest landmark: Clock Tower Retail Centre Price starts from: $500~

+ One&Only Cape Town » See the BEST price deal & read reviews at Agoda or Booking.com » You can also check HotelsCombined to compare rates

With panoramic views of the lagoon and Table Mountain, dine at the iconic Nobu Restaurant, which serves Japanese fusion dishes. Or indulge in delectable South African cuisine at Reuben Restaurant What to love: The 5-star treatment Address: Dock Road, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Waterfront Closest landmark: Two Oceans Aquarium Price starts from: $540~ . .

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Whether you’re looking for a budget hostel or a boutique hotel, I hope this list is helpful on your visit to the wonderful multicultural city of Cape Town.

What do you think of these hotels in Cape Town?

Which would you like to stay in the most?

Or have you stayed in any of these hotels before? How was it?

Did you like this article? Follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or YouTube and be notified about my newest posts and updates!

source http://cheaprtravels.com/cheap-to-luxury-picks-i-am-aileen-2/

[wasandisls-blog]

Elevated transit v.s. Road transit

This Startup Wants To Replace Cars (And Subways) With Elevated Pods; as published by FastCompany, 9 May 2018. Transit X’s plan would set up fast-moving, solar-powered personal transit (PRT) to whisk you anywhere you wanted to go without stops within the network.

"A startup called Transit X argues that we need a different form of mass transit to get people to stop driving. The company’s system, which it says will soon be deployed in the Philippines, will use networks of lightweight, automated, solar-powered pods. Each small pod car is large enough for up to five people, and suspended from a narrow elevated rail 14 feet (or higher) above the ground..."

        in pod sizes for people or freight and handicapped (on demand)

Read more: 

"...the system would reduce or eliminate most of the costs of public transportation–it doesn’t need land or drivers or fuel, the simple vehicles need less maintenance than other vehicles, and construction is far cheaper than building something like a subway system. The company believes its system is cheap enough to finance itself. The company will pay cities 5% in fees and taxes for the right to an easement for the space it uses. The startup plans to demonstrate a pilot system in Boston in late 2018."

LS comment: The CRD "company" could be Victoria BC Transit or Wilson?