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alecmagnuslwb · 4 years

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The Great Marriage License Mystery

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Magnus groans, back feeling like hell. He lifts himself up and immediately falls off the couch landing directly on his back onto a stack of red solo cups.

“Fuck,” he shouts out as he rolls to the side to lift himself up, a party mask on a stick digging into his side.

“Stop being so loud,” a female voice he knows well grumbles from above. Magnus finally lifts himself up into a sitting position to see Isabelle lying face down surrounded by a nest of multi colored feather boas on the couch opposite the one he’d just fallen from.

Magnus finds the inner strength to stand looking around the room. It’s his apartment, not that he remembers coming home at all, and it’s a wreck. Cups, half empty bottles of liquor and an array of party favors from the evening’s festivities cover every surface. His paintings on the walls are crooked, the strip of photobooth pictures that he and Alec had taken on their trip to Tokyo for their one-month anniversary are sitting sadly in a puddle of something. He walks over squinting his eyes against the sunlight streaming in and pics up the photo strip shaking them out best he can.

He sniffs them confirming the liquid to be vodka and not something worse. He pins them back up on the corkboard where they belong smiling at the happy looks on their faces despite the fact his head feels like there’s a tiny gnome with a hatchet running around inside of it.

Isabelle shifts on the couch lying on her back now.

“Did we die?” she asks eyes still closed.

“Unfortunately not,” Magnus says picking up a pink cowboy hat from the chair nearest to him and plopping down into it heavily.

“What time is it?” she asks pulling a few of the feather boas around her like a blanket.

Magnus looks down at his watch about to answer when his bedroom door suddenly slams open. A flash of long red hair streaks across the apartment headed straight for the bathroom.

Clary shuts the door behind her and an unfortunate heaving sound follows. Izzy sits up quickly eager to get to her fiancée, a decision she clearly immediately regrets if the way she woozily lies back down is anything to go by.

The bathroom door swings open a moment later, Alec steps out looking disheveled as hell wearing a Hunter’s moon t-shirt he definitely hadn’t been wearing when the night before had started.

“I don’t recommend sleeping in a bathtub when you’re 6”4,” he says voice gravelly from misuse. He squints his eyes grabbing a pair of sunglasses laying on the table as he walks past it and slips them on. “You might want to check on your fiancée, she’s throwing up half her body in there.”

Alec sits down heavily on the couch beside his sister patting her on the shoulder. She nods, takes a deep breath and centers herself standing up slowly. This time she makes it picking her way through the trash littering the floor her 8-inch heels somehow still secured to her feet.

“Your weddings in like four hours, just a reminder!” Magnus shouts and wishes he hadn’t. Judging from the way Alec plugs his ears and Izzy flips him off no one else does either. Hangovers all around it seems, a sign of a good bachelorette party.

Magnus listens for a few moments to Isabelle softly reassuring Clary, heels clicking on the tile of the bathroom floor. He looks over at his boyfriend once again heaving himself to stand and flop down beside him on the bed of boas.

“Good morning baby,” Alec grumbles lifting his arm and wrapping it around Magnus’ shoulders. Magnus hums reaching up and entangling his fingers with Alec’s. He shifts enough to toss his legs over Alec’s and looks down noticing a piece of white paper sticking out from his pocket.

He raises his eyebrows leaning back enough to pull the paper from his pocket. He unfolds it and practically jolts up from the couch. In looping script that looks like Isabelle’s is his name and what appears to be one half of a marriage license.

“Ummm Magnus!” Isabelle yells rushing out of the bathroom and directly to them on the couch. Alec shifts seemingly having fallen back asleep. She shakes a piece of paper in his face almost identical to his half. “This was in MY pocket.”

Magnus takes it from her lining it up with his. A piece of the full sheet is still missing only the last name Lightwood on Isabelle’s section the first name missing. She falls beside him seeing the almost full document.

“There’s no way,” he says laughing nervously. There’s no way.

Isabelle is just as alert as he in now, eyes in a panic. Alec sits up taking off his sunglasses. He looks from the papers to Magnus’s eyes, his eyes just as wide as his sisters.

“I also have this,” she says holding up her left hand revealing a diamond band on her thumb. “It’s stuck.”

“That’s one of mine,” Magnus says looking down at one of his empty fingers. “Oh, shit that’s one of mine.”

Alec falls back into the couch, no longer pressed into Magnus’ side.

“Oh my god, oh my god, oh my god,” Isabelle says dropping her head into her hands.

Clary comes out of the bathroom, eye makeup resembling a raccoon with a huge bottle of mouth wash in her hands. Chairman Meow appears circling around her socked feet trying to trip her up, she takes it in stride and steps over him easily.

“Just in case,” she says when she notices Alec judging the bottle. “So, I’m guessing from those repetitive oh my gods it’s not us that got married last night.”

“No,” Isabelle moans dramatically throwing herself on the ground, arms tossed over her eyes. “I married my brother’s boyfriend probably as a dumb joke or something the night before my wedding. Jace will never let me live this down.”

“We don’t know that. It just says Lightwood, it could be us!” Magnus argues looking at his boyfriend uncertainly. Alec looks a little bit like a deer in the headlights so Magnus scrambles. He’s not really sure what’s the better option: accidentally marrying your boyfriend of two months in a drunken stupor or marrying your boyfriend’s sister as a joke in a drunken stupor. At least he hopes it was a dumb joke if it’s the latter, the former well he’s not sure if he and Alec are ready to get into that no matter how quickly their relationship has progressed. “Or you know it’s fake, fake is an option.”

Clary steps over inspecting the paper.

“Paper’s too high quality for a fake,” she shrugs sitting down on the coffee table. Magnus gives her a pointed look, making it clear she’s not helping this situation.

The four of them sit there silently for a while. Alec is the first to speak up.

“Okay, what does everyone remember from last night? Let’s piece this together,” he says reasonably opening the floor to whoever wants to start.

It takes about twenty minutes but they get a vague timeline from memory and other evidence pulled from their pockets. They scour the apartment as they talk making hangover remedies while desperately searching for the missing piece of the license.

So far they’ve determined things started here, pre-gaming with cocktails and dinner then it was the Hunter’s Moon where Magnus absolutely demolished Alec in a series of pool games. That’s when Alec lost his shirt as well, a beer spilled on him by Jace who’d already had far too much to drink. Magnus had forgotten the detail, but Alec recalls it with annoyed clarity.

After the Hunter’s Moon, Jace had been sent home in a cab, Maia, Bat and the rest of their friends had come along with them to Pandemonium and that was where things got blurry. By 11:30 their friends had all called it a night, but the four of them had hit the dancefloor. Dancing then turned into competition when Izzy had challenged Magnus and Alec to a couple’s tequila shot off. Magnus assumes they won considering how Clary handles her liquor.

Then it all goes well and truly blank for them all. Clary’s phone is missing entirely, Alec’s is dead and seemingly has been since at least midnight. Izzy’s phone is just a series of back and forth drunken texts with Jace that are increasingly sarcastic and misspelled.

Magnus is the only one with a possible lead. There’s evidence of a Lyft being called that took them to the venue where Izzy and Clary are getting married in mere hours and a 15-minute call with Raphael somewhere around one in the morning.

Magnus dials his number immediately hoping for answers.

“You asked me to go through the whole ceremony,” Raphael says after five minutes of making fun of them all. Magnus’ childhood best friend never did finish the process of becoming a full-blown preacher, not finding it for him in the end, but he’s ordained for weddings and had happily offered to do the ceremony when Clary and Izzy still hadn’t found someone two weeks before.

“Why?” the four ask in frustrated unison.

“Dios, I don’t know. You were all trashed but you insisted, so to get you to leave me alone because some of us who are involved in this wedding wanted to get a good night’s rest, I went through the whole thing, start to finish,” he explains.

“Did vows get exchanged or anything?�� Alec asks.

“Not really, but you did all say ‘I do’ at some point I couldn’t tell who though, I’m pretty sure you were all outside,” Raphael answers. “Which in theory I guess would mean someone got married, but not that it matters I mean ordained or not without a license it’s not legally binding.”

They all sigh.

“That’s the problem,” Magnus grumbles. They end the call after that saying goodbyes and see you soons.

“Alright,” Alec says sounding the level headed big brother and leader he always is. “Here’s the plan’ everyone needs to shower first. We’re short on time so that means couples, no funny business though. Raphael said we were outside, so that probably means we couldn’t get into the venue when we decided to go. Magnus and I can ask around while the two of you get ready since we have to be there anyways.”

Everyone nods their heads in agreement.

“And what do we do if it was us that got married?” Magnus asks gesturing between him and Izzy.

They’re all silent. Clary is the first to pipe up, taking this whole situation surprisingly well. Maybe throwing up half of one’s body weight brings clarity.

“I mean only the four of us saw it, it hasn’t been officially filed, just signed and if we give Raphael permission to mock us about it for the rest of our lives he won’t say anything,” she reasons.

She grabs Izzy’s hand pulling her to the shower leaving no room for argument.

Magnus blows out a long breath leaning against the kitchen counter where they’d all gathered. Alec joins him, crossing his arms.

“Are you mad I may have accidentally married your sister?” Magnus says quietly.

Alec snorts.

“No, we were all beyond drunk last night and knowing you and Izzy it was some competitive dare that went a step too far.”

Magnus chuckles, that does sound like them.

“And what if,” he pauses a little worried. “What if it was us that accidentally got married?”

Alec turns reaching up to pull a piece of confetti from Magnus’ hair. His hand slides down brushing Magnus’ cheek.

“Then we got married,” he shrugs.

Isabelle’s phone rings breaking the moment, on today of all days he’s fairly certain she’d appreciate them picking it up. It’s the caterer and the call takes long enough that he and Alec have barely five minutes for a shared shower before calling a cab to get to the venue. They don’t get to talk about Alec’s casual shrug about them being married like it wouldn’t be a big deal.

Once they’re at the venue people start filing in Maryse and Maia take charge of Isabelle while Clary is drifted away by Simon and Jace. They both lock eyes with Magnus and Alec trusting them to get answers or burn the pieces of marriage license before the days over.

Alec is the first to be fully ready so he heads around to ask the staff some questions. He eventually is led to the night security guard who simply shrugs saying he’d fallen asleep on the job. The only evidence that they were even there is in the form of Magnus’ Lyft history and a feather boa exactly like the ones in Magnus’ apartment tangled in a bush outside. Alec sends him a picture of it attached with the message, ‘I have a feeling we’re going to be finding these around New York for the rest of the year.’

Everything goes by in a rush after that. Magnus never gets the chance to bring up anything to Alec as they take their places as groomsmen.

The wedding is beautiful, Raphael does an excellent job so much so that Clary’s stepdad bursts into tears only two lines in. Clary and Izzy exchange vows that make everyone else cry and Izzy dips Clary as they kiss to everyone’s delight. They look the happiest they’ve ever been, clearly no longer thinking about the possible mistake marriage that was.

Magnus however can’t think of anything else. The sun has fallen and the cake has been cut by the time he gets a moment alone with Alec. He steps outside for some fresh air just beside the bushes where the feather boa still flaps in the wind and Alec slips out behind him. Two long arms wrap around his waist and Magnus leans back into a strong chest.

They stand there quietly, the muffled sound of music behind them.

“You know,” Magnus says eventually. “You were pretty casual about the concept of us being accidentally married this morning.”

Alec once again the picture of nonchalance just shrugs.

“I mean at first it was a lot, but once the worst of the hangover subsided I realized if it was us well, that’s not the worst thing. I love you; I have intentions to be with you for as long as you’ll have me so that works.”

Magnus shifts so that Alec is standing in front of him eyes a little glassy. Alec takes the tears to be a bad thing.

“I get it though if it’s way too soon to be thinking or saying anything like that, or,” Alec freezes as Magnus puts a finger in front of his lips.

“I feel the same way,” he smiles. “I mean it’s not ideal and like Clary said it’s not official till it’s filed, but I do feel the same way. I have no doubt in my mind we’re heading that way one day.”

Alec smiles kissing the tip of Magnus’ finger where it still rests against his lips. He pulls Magnus into a hug. Magnus rests his chin on Alec’s shoulder eyes still open and that’s when he spots it. The feather boa shifts in the wind and a small white piece of paper is revealed skewered on the prickly end of the bush.

He pulls back from Alec leaping down the two small steps to pick the piece of paper from the bush.

“Well I’ll be damned,” he says snatching up the sliver of paper and flipping it over. The missing piece of the license. Alec steps over, joining him.

“Is that?” he starts looking over Magnus’ shoulder.

Magnus nods holding it up for Alec to read. Alec smiles, pulling the Lightwood piece he’d been holding onto from his pocket as Magnus does the same with his part.

Alexander the missing piece reads in Isabelle’s looping script.

“Guess your stuck with me now,” Magnus says with a smirk.

Alec rolls his eyes fondly.

“Technically it hasn’t been filed, so not officially,” he jokes, pulling Magnus in by the waist. “Plus it’s in three pieces I don’t think the courthouse is going to accept it.”

“Pfft, just needs a little tape,” Magnus says gathering the three pieces of paper and folding them carefully before placing them in the inner pocket of his wine-red jacket a compliment to Alec’s black one and Isabelle’s deep red dress. “Plus, Clary’s stepdad is the Mayor, we can totally get some strings pulled.”

Alec laughs shifting to drape his arms over Magnus’ shoulders.

“You mean it?” he asks.

Magnus nods. “We have to have a party bigger than this one at some point though,” he says gesturing back to the reception hall. “I have a reputation to uphold.”

“Of course,” Alec says seriously. “So we’re gonna be Mr. and Mr. Lightwood then?”

Magnus hums tapping a finger to his chin in thought.

“I was thinking Mr. and Mr. Bane actually.”

“I like the sound of that,” Alec says before pulling Magnus into a kiss.

They never do piece together the night exactly. Eventually Izzy gets the ring off her thumb and it fits Alec’s ring finger perfectly they discover, Magnus in turn realizes he has an exact double of it that he starts wearing himself. Why Isabelle filled out the license or if they kissed after they said I do or even actually said it is never truly answered.

Their actual marriage will be a mystery for the rest of their lives, but Magnus does get his party an acceptable six months after Clary and Izzy’s.

#my fic #malec #clizzy #shadowhunters #malec fic #clizzy fic #magnus bane #alec lightwood #clary fray #isabelle lightwood #raphael santiago

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lionsthunder · 3 years

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Belated Nashville Post

I had a GREAT time with my friends. It just happened to be located in Nashville.

Loved catching up with Kim, MC, and Victoria. We had such productive, thoughtful, adult, deep conversations that were my favorite parts of the whole trip. Every single space of that airbnb was used & oh, was it used. The sofa bed was out the whole time, the one bedroom was always open because it connected to the only bathroom. We were considerate, taking quick showers (which only had one sided glass so half of it was open), announcing our stinky poops (MC), taking turns like pros, etc.

But the highlight was this table right off of the kitchen nook that only seated 2 - but 3 if you added the chair that was in the “living” room - and 4 if one of us sat on the kitchen table. :) So many conversations were had randomly (mostly between Victoria & I, the early risers) as our day started, stalled, and winded down. It was a small, intimate space with lovely bright-ass sunshine when we opened the blinds (only when everyone was awake).

I just love these ladies and would travel again with them ANYTIME.

A quick rundown of our days: FRIYAY: landed & went to The Horn where we had bomb chai & sambusas. Then we were appalled at the prices of lyft/uber. Kim quickly became the lyft queen while Victoria reigned over all restaurants and eats. Kim crashed at airbnb because she was still adjusting from night to day shift :( this was the start of the great talks at the roundtable as we waited for her 2 hr nap. Afterwards we went to Nashville’s Farmer Market & after that, we walked to Broadway. I was blown by the elevations & the hills, y’all XD And on the way to Broadway, a man encountered us as we were eyeing this whiskey bar which eventually pushed us into this moody, back-lit pink whiskey bar, run by women (woman bouncer and errything). The bar was a great start. When we hit Broadway, though, HOLY MOLY. There were hundreds of people, no diversity, and I was the only one wearing a mask lmao. I was so overwhelmed; y’all, I haven’t seen that many people in like 1.5 years. We ended up walking almost the whole strip before settling in at Lucky Bastard Saloon. SATURDAY: We started our day off at Acme Feed & Seed with Charles “Wigg” Walker with some good ol’ daytime live music. He was wonderful, seasoned, with a great sense of humor. We walked around a bit more, did some light shopping, then went kayaking/stand-up paddle boarding at a gorgeous lake east of Nashville. I chose to kayak because I didn’t know what the water quality was going to be like & the last thing I wanted to do was fall in the water, but Kim, MC, and Victoria SUP-ed. Lmao - Kim was a natural, but MC hated it and her face was priceless the whole time. At the end though, I thought all the ladies rocked it XD The Comedy Bar was up next & we were seated at the front which shooketh us a little bit. We are a bunch of introverts and the last thing we wanted was to be roasted. The hubs later corrected me by saying they don’t roast, they “crowd worked” ahaha & it was a blast. SUNDAY: Ok y’all, I’m getting a little tired typing everything out so will list the events: Drag N’ Brunch, Belle Meade Winery tour, eating at the Husk (farm to table) MONDAY: Walked 11th ave, ate at Milk & Honey, headed to the airport & I hopped on an earlier standby flight home to HTX 💕

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roguestarsailor · 2 years

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The shows itself is not terrible! Vegas is quite organized in the way it needs to be here. I am still upset with how much I’ve spent and it’s wild to me the one who booked the spot did not even know how the lay of the land is versus the other folks have been to Vegas and were dragging their feet at planning so we all booked this place that’s so far from the action, so inconvenient in every single way.

I’m upset about this group dynamic. I actually wouldn’t mind spending time as a group more but the girl who asked me to come on this trip with actually hates them or at least want to minimize interaction with them (ask me why she said yes in the first fucken place!!). My confession is that I am making excuses to her so that I can spend more time with them. I’m sorry but I’m really tired of this shit and her company. Which is mostly complaining about everyone in the group and the absolute chore of having to hang out with them (ask me why she said yes in the first place!!!). I’m jealous but also a bit annoyed with how loud her voice is and it seems when she’s nervous is gets louder.

This hotel room is stupid as shit. Everything here is luxury wannabe. The toilet is a fucken closet and the walls are so so so thin — every sound is amplified! I am sharing the room with the girl and she won’t ever leave the room to hang out with the others so I will never be able to poop in peace! The ceiling fan is drying out my eyes and I’m cold as shit but she needs the room to be subzero to sleep. The shower is completely glass and they decided to put a window on the wall that divides the bathroom and the bed so everyone can see who’s showering?? Sexy for couples I guess????? Every single thing in this room screams McMansion chic but somehow very appropriate for Vegas.

So talking to some of the Lyft/Uber drivers and any stranger I’ve spoken to here, I always ask what’s your favorite thing about Vegas or what do you like about living in Vegas. The best answer is this guy who was born in “chicago” (Des Plaines) and moved out when he was young to LV and then moved back there for a year or two and then left again to permanently reside in Vegas tells me that he loves that there’s so much to do in LV, can easily drive across LV in 40 min to 1hr, can easy drive anywhere, loves the heat and sun all year round, can tan all the time and can afford a home. Which I’m like sir you get that and more in chicago (maybe less about the housing part and heat) but I didn’t want to say if your metric for living is Des Plaines, IL vs LV then of course LV is gonna sound great. Since I didn’t grow up with cars being so casually used, I don’t understand how people complain about being in the cold and yet love the heat but just constantly drive around to get anywhere. The only pleasant time they spend in the heat is their backyard or by the pool. There’s no way they are ok with spending time in the heat doing anything; it’s just lazing around or driving a car around (idk can’t be me personally)! Anyways, didn’t sell me on this desert hellscape.

I said my goal was to say no more and prioritize my feelings over others at my expense and my energy. But I failed those two goals so fucken hate. I’ve never regretted my decision so much. FOMO? Fear of not living my life? Felt bad for that girl who didn’t know anyone else going? Ok I said yes because of BTS concert but tell me why I didn’t do my own research. It BTS didn’t happen, I would have been here and I think it would have been the absolute worst.

I genuinely enjoyed yesterday more though. Living on the strip would have made it easy to get to the main attraction. It will cost more for room but potentially easier to get anywhere. Might honestly even out the same as how much we’re e spending doing rideshares everywhere. The performances were amazing. Well chippendales were meh and I didn’t particularly enjoy it (the men can’t really dance, they just grind of things to loud music, but excellent male form from behind tho). BUT BTS AND JABBAWAUKEES WERE SO GOOD! Genuinely had such a good time and it was so so good! Mob museum was really cool but gruesome in a way that made me feel heavier and nervous as I moved through the gallery. Fremont was a lovely place and I would have much rather stayed there the entire time. Felt less screaming for your money but the lack of shade was disgusting!! Anyways, it’s not all negative but I am afraid of the bill that’s coming soon. I’ve never been more excited to get on an airplane to leave though.

#amandathoughts #my souvenir here is most definitely gonna be covid #i wore my mask for the most part #it feels silly to wear it that much when the group didn’t wear it #so if one of us catches covid then it will spread to all of us anyways #i hate it #las Vegas #travel

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the-steve-stevenson-experience · 3 years

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Dress For Where You Are Going, Not Where You've Been

Day 1:

With two hours of sleep I am ready to get a Lyft and head to the train to the plane. I use Lyft because Uber sucks. Not so much as a rider, but I drove for those fuckers for a few years, and that is an entirely different experience. Lyft says my driver is hard of hearing or deaf, and they even added a link to a short tutorial on how to say "Hello" and "Thank You" in American Sign Language. I'm bilingual now! I get to the train, and come to find out that this bitch doesn't run this early, or this late, however it feels for you. I just woke up, so it's early. It's gonna be another hour before the next train comes through. That would be a solid half an hour after I wanted to be at the airport. I'm already running a little behind my own internal schedule. So see all you motherfuckers who think I'm being rude by being late! I might be, but I do it to myself too. I call another Lyft, and get to the airport.

(Note to self: next time have the driver drop me off at United, it's closer to security, and I don't need to check-in)

There is literally three people in the line for security, including me. This is why I like these super early flights. I breeze through. Get on the train, one that is running, and get to my gate. I still have half an hour before we board, so that small bit of concern back at the other train station was unwarranted, but how do you know in that moment? We worry about shit because either we have experience that says, "Oh shit! This could be a problem. Or, people have told us some shit that causes us to think, "Oh shit! I think this might become a problem." I don't like to worry, but also, I never know what's going to happen.

(It occurs to me that I am not afraid of the unknown, but of what my mind makes up in absence of knowing. I need to learn to live with uncertainty and ambiguity.)

I have time for coffee. If there were any place open. This is what sucks about these super early flights. They say the plane is completely full, great. Love that. I get to my seat, an isle exit row seat. It's just me and another dude, no one in the middle. So, it's not "completely" full. Turns out, dude is a American Airlines flight attendant flying to Miami to start his work week, or whatever they have. I'm on American, btw. He is watching old Doctor Who episodes all the way there. Not the old old ones, the old new ones. The first one was when the Ponds died. I so loved Amy and Rory. I couldn't stop sneaking peeks. So emotional.

(Just to say, on a four hour flight, and we get one little bottle of water, and one little bag of pretzels. Man! I want some coffee)

We land, roll up to a gate, and come to find out, it is the same gate I need to be at for my connecting flight. This has never in the history of aviation happened to me! I have all the time in the world. And, I wonder how I'm actually going to fuck this up. I use the bathroom, and walk down a ways, get some coffee, and walk back. I still have all the time in the world. I get on the plane, and as the dude across from me tells me, he is a pilot for American, we are on the same damn plane as the one I just got off of. New crew tho. Cool. I know this one works. This has never happened to me before either. I am sitting just one row in front of where I was sitting. Isle exit row seat. Those are the best. This time I have the whole row to myself, so I scootch over to the middle seat. When you have the whole row to yourself, these are the best seats. Pull the arm rest up, and it's just like first class.

(except we ain't getting fucking dinner like those motherfuckers are)

We land in Belize City. No fancy walkways here, just steps, and it just rained, so it's super humid, and wet. I go through the customs line showing my vaccination card like I'm cool. I was informed that when I return to my home country of the United States of America, I will have to have a negative Covid test done within 72 hours of my departure. Even if I have been vaccinated? Yes, even if you have been vaccinated. So, let me get this straight. I just walked off a plane in a country that has had less than 13K Covid cases, and slightly more than 300 deaths, who makes everyone wear a mask in public, and I just came from a country where it's a little more *cough cough* chaotic, and all I needed was my vaccination card. But, to go back to the country I just came from, I need to get tested, even if I have been vaccinated? Because I'm so much more likely to bring Covid back from Belize, than to bring it to Belize.

('Murica doesn't make a lot of sense sometimes)

I get out of the airport, find a taxi, tell him I'm going to San Pedro, and need to get to the water taxi. He asks if I have my ticket already. Which is his way of finding out if he can take me to whatever one he wants. Maybe he gets a kickback.

(I used to get kickbacks from a particular strip club in Denver when I drove Uber. I brought some gentlemen to this club one night, and the valet guy says, "Hold on and we'll get you paid." I'm like, what? He told me they pay something like $5 a person if we drop people off there over the other clubs. That was incentive enough to get me to recommend this place to people who hadn't already made up their minds where they were going)

This particular water taxi takes only cash, and has no ATM. So, they send me with the "Chief of Security" over to an ATM. We walk over this ancient bridge. He tells me this is the oldest bridge in Central America. I find it, at the same time, believable, and unbelievable. It's a swing bridge, he says. It swings, rather than raise up when a boat goes through. But, he said, it's so old that it doesn't work anymore. And, they had to hand crack that bitch! I get my cash, and ask for a place to eat, and Chief walks me down to a joint he recommends. On the way he stops to talk to a guy he says is his son. He tells me that when I come back to leave not to call a taxi, that his son will take me. I get to the restaurant. It's busy. A guy comes over and tells me it will be about 15 minutes before I can order, as they are just getting caught up with the rush they just had. Wasn't that long of a wait, and some pretty good wings and frozen lemonade. On my way out the guy says that I should use this other water taxi, not the one I am using, as they break down a lot.

(So far, the taxi driver recommends the water taxi, the water taxi recommends a different taxi driver. The water taxi recommends a restaurant, and the restaurant recommends a different water taxi)

The trip was bumpy, the seats were hard, but it wasn't as hot as I thought. There was enough breeze blowing through. The boat was pretty full. We also delivered some cargo, and dropped people off at Cay Caulker. I will check that place out this week. We make it to Ambergris Cay, and San Pedro town. Melinda, my Airbnb host is waiting for me. We take her golf cart, that is the overwhelmingly preferred method of transportation here, over to the condo. I get settled, and decide to go walk around and find a spot for dinner. I go to a place she recommended, Palapa's Bar and Grill. It's at the end of a pier, over the water.

(In Mexico, everything was on the beach, here there are things on the water, like literally out over the water. There is stuff on the beach too)

After dinner I sat on a little wall looking out into the darkness over the Caribbean Sea. Some dude strolls right up and sits down next to me. No invitation, no asking, just plops right down. He has this bandage thing around his jaw and head, like someone busted his jaw. He talks to me a little, says some shit about being brought back to life every two years, I swear that's what he said, but I wasn't paying a lot of attention to him. He asked for a dollar. That's like .50 cents US. I gave him some coin I had in my pocket. Then asked for another dollar, because Coke was $1.25. I'm like, "Dude. You asked for a dollar, now you're changing it up." I gave him another one, and said, "Now this all you get." Like he's my kid or something. As I walked back to the condo, I pass him on the street. We nod to each other. I'm of course shocked to see that he has, not a Coke, but a beer in his hand.

#travel #belize #caribbean #beach #culture

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instabangreview · 7 years

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Sex Bucket List: Top Spots To Bang Before You’re Old AF!

I’ve been known to do some off the wall stuff over the years. That same approach is definitely applicable to my hookup and casual sex life as well. When you’re young, you don’t really have much care in the world. Well, you, of course, care whether or not you’re getting laid but that’s about it. I typically prefer to live life to the fullest which is why I like to have sex at as many locations as possible.

To be blunt, the only thing that comes close to being as exciting as having sex with many willing horny women is having sex in multiple locations. If you are in a relationship, sex in different locations can help you maintain passion and spontaneity. If you’re single and using a dating network to meet people to bang, then setting “sex spot goals” is a way to get others excited about meeting you. Believe it or not, it actually makes you more appealing to some people out there.

Last but not least, a change of scenery will do more for your sex life than you realize. Here are 45 suggestions for anyone looking to hook up in a new place. Before you read the list, my final piece of advice would be to do yourself a favor and do these things while you’re young and have the energy to do so. Some of them may require more physical finesse than others.

Places To Bang Before Your Die!

The list is not in any particular order so don’t think you need to cross things off one by one. Instead, just do your best to tackle what appeals most to you.

1. In a seedy motel. 2. In a lavish or high-end hotel. Trust me, high-end hotel sex is the absolute best! 3. In a “haunted” hotel/house. (Be sure to tell her the story first) 4. Go to a park after hours. 5. In a parking garage, outside of your car. 6. At a bar or club, in the bathroom. 7. In a fancy restaurant bathroom. 8. In a fast food restaurant bathroom. 9. In a large library, outside of busy hours. 10. In an abandoned building. 11. Floating in a body of water. 12. Sneak off to another area of the house during a house party. 13. Hike to a secluded location with a great view. 14. In a cabin in the middle of the woods. 15. Zipped up in a sleeping bag together while camping. 16. On the mat during a game of nude Twister. 17. On a wrestling mat. Strip while wrestling. This one can get a bit kinky actually! 18. On a yoga mat during challenging positions. Can someone say downward doggy style, lol. 19. At an outdoor music festival. I did it at Austin City Limits last year. It was incredible. 20. In a party bus or back seat of a limousine. 21. At a pool party (in or out of the pool). The excitement of hiding it is almost overwhelming. You’ll notice that I didn’t say a jacuzzi or hot tub. Find out why right here. 22. Everyone needs to Netflix and chill sometimes. 23. In the back seat like you did when you were younger. 24. Sneak on to a football or baseball field late at night. 25. In an old theater or auditorium, on the stage. 26. At a friend’s wedding, pretty much anywhere you can duck away from the crowd. 27. On a small boat, in the middle of the water. 28. Mile-high sex in an airplane is always a good idea, but be very careful not to get caught. 29. On an island. I prefer the bahamas! 30. On your desk, in your office, after hours. 31. Everyone has fantasized about joining the Mile-High Club but what about in a private jet? Now that’s a baller move! 32. In the back of a pickup truck after a little off-roading. 33. In the back of a motorhome or RV while a friend is driving. 34. On a waterbed, if you can find someone who still has one. 35. Not afraid of heights, then how about doing it on the roof of a house or building. 36. On the roof of a car. 37. In the shower can be a challenge, but it’s amazing in the right position. 38. Anywhere outside of your hotel in a foreign country. 39. In a bunk bed, on top. 40. On a blanket in the middle of a huge empty field in some rural area. 41. At a professional sporting event. Yes, this one is super tough to pull off. 42. At a food and wine festival. 43. This one’s easy but in a swingers club. 44. In the bathroom or supply closet at your job! 45. In the back of a Taxi cab. You can try in a Lyft or Uber too, just be sure to tip them well.

I want to make it perfectly clear that if you decide to pursue any of these very achievable goals and you get caught, then you’re on your own. I’m sorry but I can’t be held responsible for you trying to bang someone in a crazy place. However, I’ll be the first one to say that you should definitely go for it! Looking to connect with someone willing to do it, then do so by joining this site today.

The post Sex Bucket List: Top Spots To Bang Before You’re Old AF! appeared first on Instabang.org.

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thistherapylife · 7 years

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So I think it was you (I follow a couple therapy blogs) that mentioned they won't see any patients while they're in an altered state (non-prescribed drugs, alcohol, etc) for ethical reasons. Can you explain the reasons for that (is it, patients might not have their proper boundaries and do things they'll regret in session, or what?) and is there a hard line or a bit of a judgment call (if I fuck up and forget I have an appointment and have a beer before going, do they have to send me home)?

There was a delay in answering this because I had to pull out my law and ethics textbook and poll some of my therapist friends. Because this had been part of my licensing exam and I was looking for justification. See this is why I love getting these asks - it keeps me sharp. Not seeing intoxicated clients happens for a lot of reasons and I’ll go through them.

1) It’s a judgement call. Usually. If you are working for agency or a hospital (like me), then you may be bound by the rule of the agency or hospital. Because we work primarily with minors, we are not allowed to see intoxicated clients. Have I probably had a session with a kid who smokes weed before school when I’ve seen them at lunch? Yeah sure - but I’ve been seeing most of my caseload at the agency for a while so they will tell me even though they know I will stop the session. So because of where I work, I don’t have the wiggle room I have in private practice.

2) It is unethical to do therapy with someone who can’t consent, barring emergency, lifesaving treatment. So if you show up to therapy off your tits drunk or high as a kite - you aren’t really consenting to therapy because you aren’t able to consent period. Just before we have gotten informed consent in prior sessions - it’s not consent forever. One of my therapist friends who I think is a total baller said, “A lot of therapy is about intention and accountability. I think if someone is so intoxicated they can’t be intentional or accountable - or they’re avoiding those two things through their intoxication - that’s a problem. Even if it helps with disclosure, that disclosure needs to be intentional and accountable, or you have little basis to move forward.” And I 100% agree. She summed up my thoughts pretty perfectly. Disclosure that you can only share when you are really drunk means that the therapist needs to work on the safety of the room and relationship and have patience.

3) It can be physical safety concern if you are visibly intoxicated. What is this person like when they are drunk? Are they going to get angry and put themselves or me in danger? Another colleague spoke about a client who would consistently attempt to run through traffic when intoxicated. So that’s dangerous. Are you so drunk you are going to lose consciousness? Throw up and choke? Will we have to call 911 because you’ve stripped to your undies and are throwing chairs in the lobby? All of those actions have consequences that could take weeks or months to sort out. You are just unpredictable when you are intoxicated and your reaction may change. It’s also a physical safety concern for us. Clients experience maternal/paternal transference as well as erotic transference. With erotic transference, alcohol may lower a client’s inhibitions and they may try to touch/kiss/etc (a colleague I trust had this happen to him - he was an agency in a group office setting so he was able to get out but it effectively ended the therapy between the two. The client was enraged that he refused her sexual overtures and he was worried about being sued.) Each therapist has their own history and aggressive or sexualized behavior may not bother them. But it would bother some of us.

4) Substances can make you more emotionally volatile too. Reactions can be bigger and more intense which if you are dealing with someone who is suicidal or at risk in other ways is a problem. If you are in a group setting, you could be triggering other clients struggling with either sobriety or recovery from trauma inflicted by another while drunk.

5) Seeing intoxicated clients is an enormous liability issue. Therapy on the therapist’s side isn’t just about the relationship with client and all that good stuff - it’s also about managing risk. You want to protect yourself in your records and because of the issues mentioned above you could be putting your license at risk. If they can’t remember the session and are assault after session, that puts in you a bad position. And like I love my clients but I need my license to make a living and still owe a fuckton of loans so I’m not going to risk it.

6) In some states, if you are too intoxicated to drive but have driven to therapy, your therapist may be required to report you the police if you are planning to get back into your car (due to credible harm to other). I am really uncomfortable with this but that’s the state law where I live and I think it’s kinda gross. I would rather lyft/taxi the client home and pro-rate the fee to them.

Lastly - The consensus from people I know who work in recovery, addiction or chronically homeless population is in favor of seeing people when they are intoxicated provided they are with it enough to understand what’s going on. In some programs and community mental health settings, refusing to work with intoxicated people would have resulted in many people not being served. Another friend stated that “Also, everyone is stoned CONSTANTLY in post-2015 Washington. So there’s that too.” Which should also be considered.

I’m not touching on deliberate, planned intoxication - because that is something very different. There is some great PTSD trials right now regarding a day long therapy with a client who takes drugs (I want to say it was ecstasy) in your presence and then you go at the hard stuff.

TLDR; if you have a beer before therapy, it’ll probably be fine as long as your therapist/agency doesn’t have a 24 hours prior sobriety clause in the informed consent. If you are worried, find out where your therapist stands. Talk about it.

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cumgetyourlife · 5 years

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July 31st Thoughts

Today the last day of July in the year 2019; I'm feeling pressure getting into school, but I know there is a way if I make it. I have an opportunity to get my money elsewhere for the same pay. Less hours so I can go to school. So I'm taking the leap. I quite Firebirds and it feel good. Also my boyfriend and mom has elevated me to do so.

My boyfriend Donte, which is starting to feel like it belongs to me and starting to feel good to say. This boyfriend word. Thinking about all the ain't shit niggas I have experience sexually and asexually. Also knowing that's how I got to me and a grander version of me. I feel bad that I put myself through so much bull shit.

Bull shit that was unnecessary. Following trends, society standards, putting myself at the bottom just say I started from the bottom now I'm here. When everyone had to start from some point. Bottom is irrelevant.

But this guy who attaches himself with me to do great things. It's like talking to myself and loving myself. He reminds me of that. That everyone is like me and I the same as them. We keep this experience going.

He makes me think of We. The wholeness of just us and the world. My family and his. Joining. I haven't thought about this since 2016 when my PTSD was at its peak with people, and living in a box of my family ideas of me. Asking for help but getting very Generic answers. A boy/man who claim to want to be with me but still fucking around with these hoes. My family's thought and words clouded my judgment of myself. Money short far in between. Helping everyone else to get nothing in return over and over and over again.

I kept saying that this isn't my story this isn't me. Thinking I should change be like them to have more. And to think I was ready to be a wife to someone's son.

After I done let someone son come in my space after he slept with other people. I don't think about it so he could be there. Just be there in my space. And yeah be was there but not really and I knew it.

All because We as society pushed me from the truthfulness and fullness of me. I knew if I didn't love myself fully I couldn't love someone else but what happened when my Bill's where due and my dude did not get his ex pregnant but her friend. My roommate trying to pimp me out or what felt like bragging right to my friend is a bad buych and a stripper; so she can be my personal stripper. But when that didn't work and the stripping dollars was short money or wasn't what she thought, I was everything but saved. Body torn up. Can't move home cuz I do work at the strip club to make something. While teaching dance classes, Lyft driving, and learning how to teach yoga for more money to continue to dance.

Sad.

Still thinking I can join forces with just anyone son who got they funds up. Trying to build with these thug niggas cuz they like smart pretty girls. But deep down they just are users and abusers to every female. But throw a fucking fit when you discover the truth in them. I've seen grown men turned to boys over pussy. Seeing how women are deal the fuckery that some of these grown ass men because of a drug issues, parents issues, lack of self love and care.

But I say that's ok because I am a healer so I can take you in for a few. See my rent is do and I can help heal your wounds temporarily. My smile makes it sound good. And my touch so perfectly remarkable the results of healing limitless. Person after person again I deposit into people without any thing in return.

So I try again only this time I will only receive. No more playing to please. I need I need I need. But I saw a path of the Stereotype of these hoes we call our sister and mothers. I wanted to change that image in the little black girls face that I taught.

I had to change and I did. It was hard and again I hate that I put myself through that. But this boyfriend of mine he makes all of those thoughts and feelings disappear. At 1 point in my journey I thought that love was over that true love didn't exist. I gave up on finding a husband who would honor not just me but the vows that we make to each other. And someone who sticks to it and not waivers. I gave up on the possibility of good men and good people. So much to the point I felt like I was becoming darkness. The very poison that was killing me. I felt like I had a pimp these hoes out because that's what they want. I felt like I had to be rude to people because us what they respond to. I felt like in order for my voice to be heard I had to be THAT bitch.

Not only just THAT bitch but a savage bitch who doesn't take no. Slaps the shit out of you just because you said no. But Noooooooooooooooooo I get in my Lyft home and my driver ask would I like to smoke. He had a presence that was like I'm here for you. Always. That vibration felt similar to vibration I would bring to people. Why it's like I'm in a dream. Can I still have dreams. My cold shell of protection melts and juju called love renters in my soul.

This can't be. But how? I let that dream hope and any thoughts of a good man go a while a go. Why him and why now? Who the fuck is guy. Why is so not tainted or not pretending that he is something that he isn't. Is he real? I will figure out later, but first let's smoke and it to know what he's all about.

He's 3 years younger than me and kinda green to a lot like flying on a plane when I have flew a plane. But what is it here. Is it his articulation of the way he speaks. Or the fact he has only been to two states she whole life. Is he gay? No gay vibe..... fuck boy? No not that either.

He looks clean and smells like spray and weed. Great combination. He seems tall and smart enough that I only have to explain my thoughts ways ideas once. The kinda of guy you make cookies for/ with. The kinda guy who runs my feet after work. The kinda one woman man. The kinda guy that you can screw over but if you did, you're just a hoe. The kinda guy I need. The kinda guy I let go. That didn't exist.

My boyfriend!!

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mikebrackett · 5 years

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5 Most Popular Spring Break Destinations — And Where to Go Instead

Whether you’re a winter lover or the type who groans at the first sign of snowfall, it’s hard to deny the excitement of an oncoming spring. The sun is shining, the birds are singing and even better, spring break is around the corner. After all, who among us couldn’t use a spring break getaway after a long, blustering winter?

About 42% of families take a vacation over spring break, according to a 2017 study by New York University School of Professional Studies. And a 2018 TripAdvisor/Viator/Offers.com survey shows that number increases to 53% among millennials.

Travel is fun, fulfilling and can even teach you a thing or two. But it’s also a great way to spend more than you mean to, especially in the super popular destinations so many of us flock to in March and April. Considering that most students are already graduating with five-figure debt totals, it’s worthwhile to find the cheapest getaway possible.

So we decided to pair up some of the hottest spring break spots (based on a study by travel insurance firm Allianz Global Assistance) with alternative options, where you can find the same amount of fun for a fraction of the funds.

Ready to get going? Here’s where to set your sights — and your GPS.

1. Mexico

Whether it’s Cancún, Cabo San Lucas or some other surf-and-sand scene, Mexico is a spring break classic for a reason. The tropical climate is sure to warm you up, even after months of icy weather, and let’s face it: Who doesn’t love margaritas?

But an international flight can be costly, even if you get an all-expenses-included resort package once you arrive. And if you’re looking for warm, sandy beaches, you don’t actually have to go south of the border.

Where to go instead: Key Largo

It doesn’t get more scenic than the Florida Keys, and by staying a few miles north of the popular Key West, you’ll avoid souped-up spring break prices. Caroline Savon, founder of Well and Often Travel, suggests using the money you save on the flight to rent a killer beach house.

And if you absolutely must get out of the country, she says, consider heading even farther south than Mexico.

“Belize is a good international substitute,” she said, and although the flight might run you about the same, the atmosphere will be way less chaotic. “The beaches are incredible, everything is laid back, prices are very reasonable and there’s some amazing diving!”

2. Orlando

What destination inhabits the Venn diagram circle where young families, college students and retirees overlap?

It’s Disney World. And yes, it’s more expensive than ever.

Where to go instead: Tampa

If you’re looking for a Florida vacation and are willing to skip Chef Mickey’s, consider continuing southward past Orlando. Tampa offers the same fun-in-the-sun climate with much better beach access, and you can still get in some rollercoaster time at Busch Gardens, where a ticket starts at $79.99, as opposed to Disney’s $109+.

You can stash that extra cash for later or spend some of your savings on authentic Cuban cigars and cuisine. And as a native Floridian, this writer contends that Tampa beats the heck out of Orlando in the nightlife department. Tampa’s Ybor City neighborhood is not only a cultural gem, but a never-ending party, with clubs ranging from pop music dance halls to industrial and Goth hangouts.

3. Las Vegas

What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas, they say, but so will a big chunk of your spring break budget if you’re not careful. Between expensive drinks on the Strip and gambling the night away, there are plenty of ways to make your carefully saved trip funds — or worse, your student loan check — disappear in Sin City.

Where to go instead: Reno

If you’re looking for a Nevada experience that might be a little gentler on your wallet, consider heading to Reno instead. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant, for example, could cost you 20% less than in Vegas, according to user-generated data at Numbeo. And you can still take your chance on the penny slots that show up at every gas station, grocery store and not-quite-so-famous casino.

“Reno is super close to Lake Tahoe,” Savon added, “and the Nevada side has casinos and gambling along with the insanely beautiful backdrop of the clear blue lake and mountains.” That makes this trip a home run for adventurers of both the indoorsy and outdoorsy persuasions.

4. New York

Although it’s no beatific beachfront, we’re not surprised that New York is a top spring break destination. After all, what can’t you do in the Big Apple?

Well, save money, for one thing. It’s true that there’s no place like New York City, but that goes for both its excitement and its expense.

Where to go instead: Montreal

This may sound like a strange switch, but hear us out. While Montreal may boast a fraction of the population of New York City, its many delights are also available at a fraction of Big Apple prices.

In springtime, the hard freeze the city is known for is starting to melt off, with daytime temperatures hovering between 35-50 degrees. In other words, it’s sweater weather, and you’ll still get to wear those cute, chunky booties — just like the fashionable Montrealers you’ll meet.

Although nothing can compete with Broadway, there’s plenty of live entertainment to be found in town, including live music and stage shows large and small across the city’s many venues. Plus, this Canadian city is renowned for its bagels, and you can exchange your Katz’s Delicatessen pastrami for a smoked meat sandwich from Schwartz’s. (Both are best served on rye.)

And finally: French accents. Need we say more, mon cher?

5. Los Angeles

The City of Angels is a popular destination for spring break and beyond. After all, the weather is pretty much always perfect.

But it’s also one of the most expensive and congested cities in America … and not the only southern Californian vacation option.

Where to go instead: San Diego

Who wants to battle LA’s infamous traffic when you could be spending your spring break with sea lions at La Jolla? There’s still plenty of nightlife to be had in the Gaslamp Quarter, plus the proximity to Mexico means the eats are authentic and the tequila is strong. ¡Disfruta!

Spring break doesn’t have to break the bank

As this article seeks to illustrate, the world is awash with great travel destinations. You can have a great time without choosing the spendiest on the list.

And considering that spring break’s popularity among college students and millennials, there’s good reason to choose a cheaper option: Today’s graduates average about $25,000 in student loan debt — and even more if they attend private or for-profit institutions.

Although everyone needs to cut loose from time to time, finding less expensive alternatives is a great way to get ahead of those staggering debt totals, which means you’ll be able to afford more adventures in the future. Plus, there are plenty of ways to save without wrecking your lifestyle. I mean, who can argue with a trip to Tampa or San Diego?

Bon voyage and happy saving!

Want to earn extra money? Here are the best side hustle opportunities!

CompanyType of WorkRequirements RidesharingCar and smartphone

Become a Lyft Driver

Rent out your carOwn a vehicle

List Your Car

Rent out spaceRoom to host guests

Become an Airbnb host

Odd jobsSmartphone

Become a TaskRabbit Tasker

DeliveriesSmartphone

Become a Postmates Worker

Our team at Student Loan Hero works hard to find and recommend products and services that we believe are of high quality and will make a positive impact in your life. We sometimes earn a sales commission or advertising fee when recommending various products and services to you. Similar to when you are being sold any product or service, be sure to read the fine print understand what you are buying, and consult a licensed professional if you have any concerns. Student Loan Hero is not a lender or investment advisor. We are not involved in the loan approval or investment process, nor do we make credit or investment related decisions. The rates and terms listed on our website are estimates and are subject to change at any time. Please do your homework and let us know if you have any questions or concerns.

The post 5 Most Popular Spring Break Destinations — And Where to Go Instead appeared first on Student Loan Hero.

from Updates About Loans https://studentloanhero.com/featured/popular-spring-break-destinations-instead/

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aaronsniderus · 5 years

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5 Most Popular Spring Break Destinations — And Where to Go Instead

Ready to get going? Here’s where to set your sights — and your GPS.

1. Mexico

Where to go instead: Key Largo

And if you absolutely must get out of the country, she says, consider heading even farther south than Mexico.

2. Orlando

What destination inhabits the Venn diagram circle where young families, college students and retirees overlap?

It’s Disney World. And yes, it’s more expensive than ever.

Where to go instead: Tampa

3. Las Vegas

Where to go instead: Reno

4. New York

Although it’s no beatific beachfront, we’re not surprised that New York is a top spring break destination. After all, what can’t you do in the Big Apple?

Well, save money, for one thing. It’s true that there’s no place like New York City, but that goes for both its excitement and its expense.

Where to go instead: Montreal

This may sound like a strange switch, but hear us out. While Montreal may boast a fraction of the population of New York City, its many delights are also available at a fraction of Big Apple prices.

And finally: French accents. Need we say more, mon cher?

5. Los Angeles

The City of Angels is a popular destination for spring break and beyond. After all, the weather is pretty much always perfect.

But it’s also one of the most expensive and congested cities in America … and not the only southern Californian vacation option.

Where to go instead: San Diego

Spring break doesn’t have to break the bank

As this article seeks to illustrate, the world is awash with great travel destinations. You can have a great time without choosing the spendiest on the list.

Bon voyage and happy saving!

Want to earn extra money? Here are the best side hustle opportunities!

CompanyType of WorkRequirements RidesharingCar and smartphone

Become a Lyft Driver

Rent out your carOwn a vehicle

List Your Car

Rent out spaceRoom to host guests

Become an Airbnb host

Odd jobsSmartphone

Become a TaskRabbit Tasker

DeliveriesSmartphone

Become a Postmates Worker

The post 5 Most Popular Spring Break Destinations — And Where to Go Instead appeared first on Student Loan Hero.

from Updates About Loans https://studentloanhero.com/featured/popular-spring-break-destinations-instead/

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aaltjebarisca · 5 years

Text

5 Most Popular Spring Break Destinations — And Where to Go Instead

Ready to get going? Here’s where to set your sights — and your GPS.

1. Mexico

Where to go instead: Key Largo

And if you absolutely must get out of the country, she says, consider heading even farther south than Mexico.

2. Orlando

What destination inhabits the Venn diagram circle where young families, college students and retirees overlap?

It’s Disney World. And yes, it’s more expensive than ever.

Where to go instead: Tampa

3. Las Vegas

Where to go instead: Reno

4. New York

Although it’s no beatific beachfront, we’re not surprised that New York is a top spring break destination. After all, what can’t you do in the Big Apple?

Well, save money, for one thing. It’s true that there’s no place like New York City, but that goes for both its excitement and its expense.

Where to go instead: Montreal

This may sound like a strange switch, but hear us out. While Montreal may boast a fraction of the population of New York City, its many delights are also available at a fraction of Big Apple prices.

And finally: French accents. Need we say more, mon cher?

5. Los Angeles

The City of Angels is a popular destination for spring break and beyond. After all, the weather is pretty much always perfect.

But it’s also one of the most expensive and congested cities in America … and not the only southern Californian vacation option.

Where to go instead: San Diego

Spring break doesn’t have to break the bank

As this article seeks to illustrate, the world is awash with great travel destinations. You can have a great time without choosing the spendiest on the list.

Bon voyage and happy saving!

Want to earn extra money? Here are the best side hustle opportunities!

CompanyType of WorkRequirements RidesharingCar and smartphone

Become a Lyft Driver

Rent out your carOwn a vehicle

List Your Car

Rent out spaceRoom to host guests

Become an Airbnb host

Odd jobsSmartphone

Become a TaskRabbit Tasker

DeliveriesSmartphone

Become a Postmates Worker

The post 5 Most Popular Spring Break Destinations — And Where to Go Instead appeared first on Student Loan Hero.

from Updates About Loans https://studentloanhero.com/featured/popular-spring-break-destinations-instead/

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kennethherrerablog · 6 years

Text

The Perfect Weekend Getaway? It Might Just Be Puerto Rico

When you’re wandering around Old San Juan, you’ll feel worlds away from the United States.

Quaint cobblestone streets. Murmurs of Spanish. Centuries-old fortresses.

But the capital of Puerto Rico is just a few hours by plane — and because the island is a U.S. territory, you won’t need a passport to get there.

You can also use your cell phone and spend U.S. dollars, and since almost everyone speaks flawless English, you won’t need to worry if you don’t speak Spanish (though most people will happily let you practice).

I recently spent 10 days in this tropical paradise. It makes a perfect weekend getaway for Americans seeking exotic sights, sounds and tastes without having to travel far from home.

What to Expect

As you probably know, Puerto Rico was devastated by Hurricane Maria in September 2017. The storm caused $90 billion in damage, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Many residents went without power for almost a year.

Given all the negative news coverage, I wasn’t sure what to expect. What would it look like? Would there be hot water and electricity? Would restaurants and hotels be open?

When I hopped off the plane, I was surprised to see that San Juan looks, well, normal. Restaurants, hotels and attractions are open, and the city has been welcoming cruise ships for months.

I’m not saying the work in Puerto Rico is done. It is $71 billion in debt, and the island faces myriad challenges. While I hope you’ll take some time to learn about the territory before visiting, that’s not what this article is about.

So, instead of diving into Puerto Rico’s politics and history, I’ll just assure you: The average tourist can have a perfectly lovely visit.

And you should, because one of the best ways to support the island is to spend money there. Puerto Ricans are some of the friendliest people I’ve encountered in my travels; they will likely welcome you with a smile.

When to Go

The temperature in San Juan is around 75 to 85 degrees year-round.

High tourist season lasts from mid-December to mid-April and comes with bigger crowds and prices. Spring’s shoulder season (mid-April to June) has fewer crowds.

It’s hurricane season from June to November, though that shouldn’t necessarily deter you from visiting. The weather can still be great, and you can find discounted rates on hotels, according to U.S. News & World Report.

What to Do

You won’t find yourself hurting for activities while visiting San Juan. Here’s a sampling of offerings in this historic seaside town.

Old San Juan

For most visitors, simply wandering the charming streets of Old San Juan could provide days of entertainment.

With 16th- and 17th-century architecture, swaying palm trees, blue cobblestones and stray cats sleeping on stoops, you’ll feel far removed from big-box stores and strip malls.

Stop into stores, sit in one of the many plazas, grab a cup of world-class coffee from Cuatros Sombras and watch the world go by.

Museums and Attractions

History lovers, rejoice! San Juan’s museums are incredibly affordable.

Entrance to the San Juan National Historic Site, which includes the 16th-century El Morro Fort and Fort San Cristóbal, is $7. La Casa Blanca, the oldest continuously occupied house in the western hemisphere, costs just $3 to enter.

Ready to spice up your day of history? Take a $15 historical tour of the Bacardi rum distillery.

Beaches

When it comes to beaches, you usually have to get out of the city to find beautiful ones. But that’s not the case here.

Neighborhoods like Condado, Ocean Park and Isla Verde all have pristine beaches and are just minutes from Old San Juan. Many visitors choose to book waterfront hotels here.

But even if you don’t stay by the beach, set aside at least a half day to enjoy the sun, surf and white sand while pretending you’re in a Puerto Rican postcard.

Day Trips

To get out of the city, the most budget-friendly option is to rent a car. (When I looked, it was only $17 per day.)

You can then cruise 30 miles to El Yunque, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. Most of its trails closed after Maria, but they’ve been steadily reopening. Even so, you can always take in its lush surroundings and waterfalls.

On your way back, hit up Piñones, a beachside town famous for its laid-back food kiosks.

Where to Eat and Drink

Although you don’t hear about it as much as other foodie destinations (yet!), Puerto Rico’s culinary scene has got it going on.

Its most famous dish is “mofongo”: garlicky fried plantains, sometimes shaped into a bowl and filled with meat and broth. You can find it anywhere from hole-in-the-wall establishments to fine-dining restaurants.

As far as budget options go, here were a few of my favorite spots:

Lote 23: This industrial lot is filled with over a dozen food kiosks — it’s an absolute must visit. Be sure to try manchego croquettes at Croqueteria (two for $4) and homemade cashew milk lattes at Cafe Regina ($7). El Jangiri’s poke bowls ($8-$12) are also excellent.

La Bombonera: One of the oldest restaurants in San Juan, this bakery has been open since 1902. Its most famous offering is the “mallorca”, a flaky pastry filled with cheese and topped with powdered sugar ($3.95). Yum.

Café Manolín: Stop by this unpretentious local joint to sample chicken mofongo ($10.95) and “empanada de lomillo”, or breaded beef steak ($11.95).

Señor Paleta: In San Juan’s tropical climate, you’ll probably get a hankering for something cold. This gourmet popsicle shop has a range of inventive flavors; my favorite was Nutella-filled strawberry ($4).

Barrachina: This restaurant claims to have invented the piña colada. Although another bar in the area claims it, too, all you really need to know is the piña coladas here ($8) are delicioso. Sit at the bar in the courtyard, and you’re guaranteed to have a good time.

La Placita de Santurce: For a fun night out, grab a beer ($2) and wander around this lively bar area, where the streets fill with locals and tourists alike. It’s perfect for people-watching — and if you stay late enough, you’ll undoubtedly see some spontaneous salsa dancing.

Where to Stay

When deciding where to stay in San Juan, you’ll face a tough decision: old town or the beach. While Old San Juan offers plenty of charm, staying at the beach is, well, staying at the beach.

The good news is that most options are fairly close together, and by choosing one, you’ll probably only be a $5 to $7 car ride from the other.

Since Old San Juan is small, its accommodation choices aren’t as robust as elsewhere in the city. Some reasonably priced options I found were the Fortaleza Guest House and the Decanter Hotel.

You can also choose an Airbnb, but be mindful that it isn’t always best for a city’s residents.

Large, resort-style hotels abound in Condado, a touristy beach area a few miles east of Old San Juan. I’d recommend staying a little further afield, though; you’ll get more for your money, and won’t, be sleeping at a Holiday Inn in Puerto Rico.

Here are two wonderful options:

Nomada Urban Beach Hostel

This trendy hostel is located just a few blocks from the beach. It has a fabulous rooftop — complete with hammocks and lounge chairs — that overlooks the ocean. It also has a shared kitchen, allowing you to cook meals to save money.

Even though I’m past the point of sleeping in dorms, I often still book private rooms at hostels. They’re a great way to enjoy the low rates and sociability of a hostel without listening to other people snore.

Here are its nightly rates:

Dorm bed: $32 and up

Rooftop tent: $45 and up

Private room: $64 and up

Deluxe private room: $88 and up

The Dreamcatcher Hotel

This boutique vegetarian bed-and-breakfast feels like it’s out of an Instagram catalog. (I know that’s not a thing, but if it were, this hotel would play a starring role.)

Each room is uniquely decorated with vintage finds, and the grounds, filled with plants and hammocks, ooze tranquility. Rates depend on which room you book but start at $89. You can opt for fresh vegetarian breakfasts ($11) and also make use of a shared kitchen.

How to Get to San Juan

Many airlines, including Southwest, Spirit and JetBlue, offer daily departures to San Juan. (Note that with Spirit, you’ll have to pay extra for all luggage, including carry-ons.)

When looking at flights about a month out from my trip, here are some round-trip rates I found:

From Chicago O’Hare: $279 (Spirit)

From Newark: $307 (JetBlue, direct)

From Baltimore: $331 (JetBlue, direct)

From Atlanta: $182 (Spirit)

Once you get there, renting a car isn’t necessary if you’re just staying for the weekend.

Ubers and Lyfts are plentiful and cheap — with the exception of arriving at the airport, when you’ll have to take an official taxi to your hotel. Within the city, walking and biking are great options; some hotels even offer free bike rentals.

Although you won’t get to see everything in Puerto Rico in a weekend, you can always save things for your next trip. Because, once you go — there will always be a next trip.

Susan Shain is a freelance writer and digital nomad. She covers travel, food and personal finance (basically, how to save money so you can travel more and eat more). Visit her blog at susanshain.com, or say hi on Twitter @susan_shain.

This was originally published on The Penny Hoarder, which helps millions of readers worldwide earn and save money by sharing unique job opportunities, personal stories, freebies and more. The Inc. 5000 ranked The Penny Hoarder as the fastest-growing private media company in the U.S. in 2017.

The Penny Hoarder Promise: We provide accurate, reliable information. Here’s why you can trust us and how we make money.

The Perfect Weekend Getaway? It Might Just Be Puerto Rico published first on https://justinbetreviews.tumblr.com/

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marcuspc-blog · 6 years

Text

The Perfect Weekend Getaway? It Might Just Be Puerto Rico

When youâre wandering around Old San Juan, youâll feel worlds away from the United States.

Quaint cobblestone streets. Murmurs of Spanish. Centuries-old fortresses.

But the capital of Puerto Rico is just a few hours by plane â and because the island is a U.S. territory, you wonât need a passport to get there.

You can also use your cell phone and spend U.S. dollars, and since almost everyone speaks flawless English, you wonât need to worry if you donât speak Spanish (though most people will happily let you practice).

I recently spent 10 days in this tropical paradise. It makes a perfect weekend getaway for Americans seeking exotic sights, sounds and tastes without having to travel far from home.

What to Expect

Given all the negative news coverage, I wasnât sure what to expect. What would it look like? Would there be hot water and electricity? Would restaurants and hotels be open?

When I hopped off the plane, I was surprised to see that San Juan looks, well, normal. Restaurants, hotels and attractions are open, and the city has been welcoming cruise ships for months.

Iâm not saying the work in Puerto Rico is done. It is $71 billion in debt, and the island faces myriad challenges. While I hope youâll take some time to learn about the territory before visiting, thatâs not what this article is about.

So, instead of diving into Puerto Ricoâs politics and history, Iâll just assure you: The average tourist can have a perfectly lovely visit. Â

And you should, because one of the best ways to support the island is to spend money there. Puerto Ricans are some of the friendliest people Iâve encountered in my travels; they will likely welcome you with a smile.

When to Go

The temperature in San Juan is around 75 to 85 degrees year-round.

High tourist season lasts from mid-December to mid-April and comes with bigger crowds and prices. Springâs shoulder season (mid-April to June) has fewer crowds.

Itâs hurricane season from June to November, though that shouldnât necessarily deter you from visiting. The weather can still be great, and you can find discounted rates on hotels, according to U.S. News & World Report.

What to Do

You wonât find yourself hurting for activities while visiting San Juan. Hereâs a sampling of offerings in this historic seaside town.

Old San Juan

For most visitors, simply wandering the charming streets of Old San Juan could provide days of entertainment.

With 16th- and 17th-century architecture, swaying palm trees, blue cobblestones and stray cats sleeping on stoops, youâll feel far removed from big-box stores and strip malls.

Stop into stores, sit in one of the many plazas, grab a cup of world-class coffee from Cuatros Sombras and watch the world go by.

Museums and Attractions

History lovers, rejoice! San Juanâs museums are incredibly affordable.

Entrance to the San Juan National Historic Site, which includes the 16th-century El Morro Fort and Fort San CristÃ³bal, is $7. La Casa Blanca, the oldest continuously occupied house in the western hemisphere, costs just $3 to enter. Â

Ready to spice up your day of history? Take a $15 historical tour of the Bacardi rum distillery.

Beaches

When it comes to beaches, you usually have to get out of the city to find beautiful ones. But thatâs not the case here.

Neighborhoods like Condado, Ocean Park and Isla Verde all have pristine beaches and are just minutes from Old San Juan. Many visitors choose to book waterfront hotels here.

But even if you donât stay by the beach, set aside at least a half day to enjoy the sun, surf and white sand while pretending youâre in a Puerto Rican postcard.

Day Trips

To get out of the city, the most budget-friendly option is to rent a car. (When I looked, it was only $17 per day.)

You can then cruise 30 miles to El Yunque, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. Most of its trails closed after Maria, but theyâve been steadily reopening. Even so, you can always take in its lush surroundings and waterfalls.

On your way back, hit up PiÃ±ones, a beachside town famous for its laid-back food kiosks.

Where to Eat and Drink

Although you donât hear about it as much as other foodie destinations (yet!), Puerto Ricoâs culinary scene has got it going on.

Its most famous dish is âmofongoâ: garlicky fried plantains, sometimes shaped into a bowl and filled with meat and broth. You can find it anywhere from hole-in-the-wall establishments to fine-dining restaurants. Â

As far as budget options go, here were a few of my favorite spots:

Lote 23: This industrial lot is filled with over a dozen food kiosks â itâs an absolute must visit. Be sure to try manchego croquettes at Croqueteria (two for $4) and homemade cashew milk lattes at Cafe Regina ($7). El Jangiriâs poke bowls ($8-$12) are also excellent.

La Bombonera: One of the oldest restaurants in San Juan, this bakery has been open since 1902. Its most famous offering is the âmallorcaâ, a flaky pastry filled with cheese and topped with powdered sugar ($3.95). Yum.

CafÃ© ManolÃn: Stop by this unpretentious local joint to sample chicken mofongo ($10.95) and âempanada de lomilloâ, or breaded beef steak ($11.95).

SeÃ±or Paleta: In San Juanâs tropical climate, youâll probably get a hankering for something cold. This gourmet popsicle shop has a range of inventive flavors; my favorite was Nutella-filled strawberry ($4).

Barrachina: This restaurant claims to have invented the piÃ±a colada. Although another bar in the area claims it, too, all you really need to know is the piÃ±a coladas here ($8) are delicioso. Sit at the bar in the courtyard, and youâre guaranteed to have a good time.

La Placita de Santurce: For a fun night out, grab a beer ($2) and wander around this lively bar area, where the streets fill with locals and tourists alike. Itâs perfect for people-watching â and if you stay late enough, youâll undoubtedly see some spontaneous salsa dancing.

Where to Stay

When deciding where to stay in San Juan, youâll face a tough decision: old town or the beach. While Old San Juan offers plenty of charm, staying at the beach is, well, staying at the beach.

The good news is that most options are fairly close together, and by choosing one, youâll probably only be a $5 to $7 car ride from the other.

Since Old San Juan is small, its accommodation choices arenât as robust as elsewhere in the city. Some reasonably priced options I found were the Fortaleza Guest House and the Decanter Hotel.

You can also choose an Airbnb, but be mindful that it isnât always best for a cityâs residents.

Large, resort-style hotels abound in Condado, a touristy beach area a few miles east of Old San Juan. Iâd recommend staying a little further afield, though; youâll get more for your money, and wonât, be sleeping at a Holiday Inn in Puerto Rico.

Here are two wonderful options:

Nomada Urban Beach Hostel

This trendy hostel is located just a few blocks from the beach. It has a fabulous rooftop â complete with hammocks and lounge chairs â that overlooks the ocean. It also has a shared kitchen, allowing you to cook meals to save money.

Even though Iâm past the point of sleeping in dorms, I often still book private rooms at hostels. Theyâre a great way to enjoy the low rates and sociability of a hostel without listening to other people snore.

Here are its nightly rates:

Dorm bed: $32 and up

Rooftop tent: $45 and up

Private room: $64 and up

Deluxe private room: $88 and up

The Dreamcatcher Hotel

This boutique vegetarian bed-and-breakfast feels like itâs out of an Instagram catalog. (I know thatâs not a thing, but if it were, this hotel would play a starring role.)

How to Get to San Juan

Many airlines, including Southwest, Spirit and JetBlue, offer daily departures to San Juan. (Note that with Spirit, youâll have to pay extra for all luggage, including carry-ons.)

When looking at flights about a month out from my trip, here are some round-trip rates I found:

From Chicago OâHare: $279 (Spirit)

From Newark: $307 (JetBlue, direct)

From Baltimore: $331 (JetBlue, direct)

From Atlanta: $182 (Spirit)

Once you get there, renting a car isnât necessary if youâre just staying for the weekend.

Ubers and Lyfts are plentiful and cheap â with the exception of arriving at the airport, when youâll have to take an official taxi to your hotel. Within the city, walking and biking are great options; some hotels even offer free bike rentals.

Although you wonât get to see everything in Puerto Rico in a weekend, you can always save things for your next trip. Because, once you go â there will always be a next trip.

The Penny Hoarder Promise: We provide accurate, reliable information. Here's why you can trust us and how we make money.

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cathrynstreich · 6 years

Text

Reading the Market Trends…and Responding

At first glance, Bob Eidson’s path in the real estate business may look a little circuitous. But upon closer inspection, it was exactly the route needed to bring him to where he stands today, ahead of the curve on one the industry’s most up-and-coming opportunities: the investment property/Airbnb model. Here, Eidson shares how his frontline experience in the recession-era mortgage space readied him for real estate success back in his hometown of Lexington, Ky., where he tapped into his passion for creating urban infill development and read the signs on where the market was headed next.

Maria Patterson: Your background in real estate is very varied, but let’s start at the beginning. How did you first get started? Bob Eidson: I bought my first two properties when I was 19. After school and military service, I started as a young analyst with a West Coast hedge fund that specialized in complex real estate debt assets. Those guys understood the collateral better than anyone I’ve ever known. I then joined a group out of business school where the emphasis was placed on avoiding foreclosure and keeping people in their homes. We partnered with the California Association of REALTORS® and Prospect Mortgage, and started training REALTORS® in short sales. And on the nights/weekends, I was volunteering with Los Angeles Neighborhood Housing Services to help counsel those facing imminent foreclosure. Those two experiences opened the door for me to then jump into the largest opportunity to make a significant impact to millions of homeowners: join Bank of America and grow their short sale business 100 times.

MP: That’s when the industry was trying to wrap their minds around HAMP/HAFA, right? BE: Correct. Bank of America wanted to massively increase their short sale business, so I joined a Corporate Strategy group tasked with increasing short sales 100 times. Bank of America had acquired Merrill Lynch & Countrywide, and had the nation’s largest portfolio (about 13 million mortgages). I spent two years on the strategy side coming up with the people, processes and technology for how to go from being the worst bank at doing short sales to being the best. Bank of America went from last place to first place in the HAFA (Home Affordable Foreclosure Alternatives) short sale program. Last I checked, they still held that first-place position.

MP: So what led you back to Kentucky? BE: Bank of America right-sized its portfolio, so I left and got into commercial real estate and development. I moved back to Kentucky, where I had ownership in a bar and the Bourbon Review (a publication covering the world of Bourbon and American whiskey). I immediately started two real estate funds for urban infill redevelopment in tier-two and tier-three markets in the Southeast, Emerge Property & Emerge Development. We focused more on downtown core redevelopment opportunities. All of our developments offered affordable housing as well as market-rate housing. I was looking for opportunities where we thought predominantly millennial and service-based employees wanted to live, in and near the core of a downtown. These are places with high walkability scores. Further, we looked for locations that were close to or adjacent to a greenway transit corridor.

MP: Why was it important for you to develop in these types of walkable communities? BE: You have to interpret the trends and embrace them. I happen to believe that people want a lot more development around transit routes. While working for Bank of America, I moved to Uptown Dallas, and the Katy Trail opened the month I moved there. I watched this trail become a vein of energy for all walks of life and all socioeconomic backgrounds. So when I moved back to Kentucky, I wanted to develop our real estate based on similar opportunities. We believe that the future is brighter if we get people out of gated communities and living amongst each other in or near walkable areas.

Shipping containers are recycled as multifamily housing units.

MP: I understand you’ve made some innovative use of shipping containers… BE: Yes, we have completed six construction projects using old shipping containers. We just finished a multifamily concept for Emerge Development. This marks our third year of doing a project with shipping containers, and the knowledge curve has been steep! Our most recent project features four bedrooms in each of four shipping containers. The building has a stick-built core, which synthesized our evolution in thinking about shipping containers. We realized penetrations were costly, so this project features some floor-to-ceiling windows on the second floor, which will offer a stunning view of Lexington’s skyline. Further, the roof makes the structure look like a futuristic race car in a 3D view. Almost everyone grew up with Legos, so the use of them is so intuitive. One thing we’ve learned the hard way is that a little container goes a long way!

MP: Speaking of staying ahead of trend, tell us about your foray into the Airbnb market. BE: A year or so ago, a REALTOR® told us we might want to look into Airbnb. We were building affordable, rental and luxury townhomes with which we could serve multiple segments of the Airbnb market. We put one of our properties up on the site, and within the first 24 hours, we completely booked a 12-plex—12 one-bedroom apartments.

Within a week, we had 60 dates booked and we could never have imagined all the use-case scenarios. Right away, someone booked for all of October, November and December while they were renovating their home. We had a traveling nurse who came to town every other week to work four days in a row, and booked those dates for six months in advance. Corporations are using them purely as a place for people to bring clients to for entertaining as a third corporate space. We have an Airbnb that’s being rented to six guys who work for a FinTech start-up. They congregate here at random intervals; one is in Cincinnati, one is in Chattanooga, and one in Louisiana. None of them live here, but they come and go as needed.

MP: What implications does the Airbnb model have for the rental market? BE: I love this question! I think the 12-month lease will go away 10 years from now, as there will continue to be more specialty situations. The duration of median stay will extend. We’re at a tipping point where we’re all using something like Airbnb, whether it’s Uber/Lyft/Turo—everything makes sense to go to that peer-to-peer platform. Also, the shortage of time for everyone is becoming more acute, and the days of filling out clunky paperwork are ending. Everything needs to be seamless. There will be a further aggregation of the labor economy and the housing economy, and those will start to work in parallel.

MP: Do you see any other parallels between Airbnb and the rideshare ecosystem? BE: It’s funny, I just gave a keynote speech on this. The legacy hospitality business was different from the legacy cab business; the service standards were quite high, in a relative sense. When Uber/Lyft came along, the customer experience was 1,000 times better than what it was before. Think about it: Hasn’t your worst Uber/Lyft been better than your best cab ride? Now, compare the contrast with Airbnb and the legacy hospitality business. I think Uber/Lyft were such a force multiplier, in terms of value perception, that people switched almost overnight. With Airbnb, there are still people who prefer to use credit card points, or their favorite corporate hotel brand, when they’re booking travel. The adoption curve has been steep, nonetheless. I see the legacy hospitality business losing marketshare to Airbnb, slowly, over the next 10 years.

MP: How does your connection to the bourbon business tie in to your real estate business? BE: The frontier of our tourism economy is experiences. Half of the Airbnb guests are coming here for bourbon. I understand what the bourbon consumer, tourist and traveler wants. We’re listening and doing focus groups and the applications are all hyperlocal. That is part of the cool factor with Airbnb. Our most successful Airbnb unit is simply called “Bourbon, Bourbon, Bourbon!”

Look at the big-box hotels. All the trends are toward delivering a local theme…and they’re doing a mediocre job at it. People want to stay like a local. No one says, “I want to stay in some agnostic hotel and eat at a restaurant in a strip mall.” People want to stay at a hip place and go to a hipster coffee joint or a funky burger place. Localism is driving consumer preference and there’s a massive opportunity for disruptors to find authentic ways to do that. Airbnb is such an efficient marketplace for expressing creativity, and the best operators are able infuse the localism with good service.

MP: So what advice would you give for real estate professionals wanting to tap into the Airbnb movement? BE: Understand what your area is known for. It’s the age-old adage “Play to your strengths.” For us, it’s also University of Kentucky athletics, the equestrian industry and Keeneland, and, lastly, medical tourism. Lexington has excellent hospitals and people come from all over Kentucky for healthcare reasons. Nurses come for employment and patients come for treatment. I bought a townhome close to a hospital as a place that patients could rent as an Airbnb.

You also have to find people that understand hospitality and service—you have to start there. You have to be ready to answer questions within 5-10 minutes, even if the question is “Do you have any Q-Tips?”; and messaging through the Airbnb app is critical. Responsiveness 24/7 is a must—and you need someone who is going to walk each unit before a new guest checks in.

You also need to build to scale. I started with one unit and that went great, so I added another unit, and grew from there and needed additional scales, like three subcontractors to do the cleanings, or “turns” as their known amongst Airbnb operators. We used to manage 5-6 units; now we’re managing 68 of our own Airbnb units across five geographic locations, and we manage another 115 Airbnb units for other people, as well.

MP: Can you give us some numbers, for the analytical readers out there? BE: Yeah, sure can. We had 80 percent occupancy in the third quarter. That was an all-time high for us, and we won’t do that every quarter. But it’s averaged 67 percent for the trailing 12 calendar months. In the beginning, when I was modeling the likely revenue scenarios, I never imagined occupancy numbers over 50 percent.

MP: OK, but what about the expenses? Don’t you have at least double the operating expenses? BE: The increased OpEx (operating expenses) we have seen is 93 percent. In some cases, you can actually reduce some OpEx categories. We compared utility bills of the same building that was previously a short-term rental to what the current utility usage has been during its time in service as a short-term rental—we reduced utility expenses by 8 percent year-over-year. So with nearly a 200-percent increase in revenue, and about a 100-percent increase in OpEx, you have effectively doubled your profit. Now every sub-market performs a little differently, but we see similar numbers across our portfolio, which spans five different markets.

MP: So what should someone do if they’re thinking seriously about converting a unit, or buying a unit, for the short-term rental market? BE: For the average person reading this thinking, “I don’t have time to change sheets or answer questions at all hours of the night,” I would say the following: Get in the game! Soon! There are best-in-class management companies emerging in this space at the local and national level. We are exploring a relationship with Evolve, which is one of the nation’s fastest-growing short-term rental management companies. Further, there are some super-intuitive “bolt-on” technology solutions to help automate much of this. We use TurnoverBnB.com to help coordinate turns with independent contractors. We also use Smartbnb to automate our messaging. Guests receive check-in/check-out instructions, and greetings on their second day of a stay with an offer to provide some local guidance on places to eat/shop. If guests ask a question about traveling with a pet, then Smartbnb has some AI features that will copy/paste information about your pet policy to the guest in the form of a direct message through Airbnb.

Take my advice: Get in the game. Rent out a spare bedroom, or your lake house or beach condo. Don’t get a value photographer, by the way—getting a professional photographer with experience in vacation rentals or other staging applications is recommended. They can optimize the light and really help you to promote what makes your property unique. It’s all about authenticity.

For more information, please visit www.linkedin.com/in/successhacker/.

Maria Patterson is RISMedia’s executive editor. Email her your real estate news ideas at [email protected]. For the latest real estate news and trends, bookmark RISMedia.com.

The post Reading the Market Trends…and Responding appeared first on RISMedia.

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elbaaguayo770-blog · 7 years

Text

home town nudes - Never Lose Your Karups Pics Again

Hi Y’all, It’s been awhile since I’ve shared any stories of my Lyft driving slut adventures. I’ve had some very enjoyable experiences sucking and fucking guys of all shapes and sizes karups I’ve met but one really sticks out. Well actually it’s a whole bunch of sticks, sticking out I was contacted through my Adult Friend Finder account by a young guy whose friend was getting married and he wanted me to drive them around to strip clubs, join them and perhaps have some fun after but no commitments. He promised a very nice tip and after camming with him on the site I decided to say yes. I’ll skip over the all strip club stops and get straight to their private party in a king suite at the Courtyard Marriott by SeaTac. We all walked in and they had already been there at the start of the night so there was plenty of beer, liquor and weed. I partook in the festivities and was feeling very good very quickly. They were all ameature sex’d up from the strip clubs and suggested I get naked. Hmm it was blunt but okay, I’m game. They were all hot, great shape and very eager to please me. I was a little hesitant, but, what the hell. I pulled off my top, undid my bra, and took it off. "There you go, boys. I hope you like", I told them. It was the point of no return now. I knew that getting partially naked with 4 young guys was bound to lead to something. I had already told myself that I was going to play the night however it played. Evan, who organized the whole thing, then told me, "Now get totally naked." Evan came back with, "Are you going to let us have sex with you?" I kind of knew this all would go somewhere, but the bluntness of the question kind of surprised me. I said, "With all of you?" Evan said, "Yes." I replied,"Do you all just want to have some fun out here in the living room?." Evan said, "One at a time, we’re not into the gangbang thing. We each just want to fuck you" This was a bit foreign to my slutty ways but I could see they were all a bit nervous and honestly very young. I looked around at them and said, "Someone will need to go get condoms." Then Todd, the youngest looking but most eager, spoke up, "I have some in my car, and enough for everyone." I asked him to go get them, and give them to me. When Todd returned with the condoms, I told them, "Ok, here is how this is going to work. I will take the condoms, and go inside to the bedroom and get ready. You guys decide who is going to go first, and the order. Give me ten minutes and send the first one in. Ok?" Evan said, "That works for me." I picked up my top and bra and went into the room with the condoms. Along the way I found a bottle of bourbon, poured myself a glass, and took a couple very large gulps. I put some more bourbon in the glass, and took it to the bedroom with me. I got my KY Jelly tube out of my purse, and put it on the stand by the bed where I had placed the condoms. I took off my shorts and panties, got in bed, and covered myself with the sheet. I dont really know why I covered myself. It just seemed like the thing to do, I guess. Then, there was a knock on the door. It was Eric, similar to my husband’s name karup dreams but with a much bigger cock lol. They had sent Eric in first. He was very nervous. "How did you get the pleasure of being first?" I asked him. He said "The guys said it was my bachelor party to I get to go first as a present." I’d totally forgot Eric was evening the one getting married. I felt a bit guilty but he seemed excited to have a go. I sat up and moved my legs over the side so I could sit on the bed. The sheet came down to my lap so Eric could now see my tits. I told him to come closer. "You are very nervous arent you?" I asked him. He replied, "Yes maam." I asked him, "Have you had had much experience with girls?" He said, "No, I havent ever had sex before." I asked him further, "Do you still want to do this?" Eric replied, "Yes I do. Is it ok?" I told him to come closer and I would undo his pants for him if he wanted. He came closer to me. I undid his pants, and pulled them and his underwear down. He pulled them off and kicked them aside. His dick was sticking straight up nice and big. I asked him if he wanted to take off his shirt. He did. karups pics I asked him if he wanted me to put the condom on for him, or if he wanted to do it. He told me I could do it. I got a condom out of the package, and started rolling it down over his home town nudes dick. My hand was wrapped around his dick while I was moving it down. When I got it about halfway on, he started cumming into the condom. I said, "Oopsie. Kind of got excited there didnt you?" He said, "Sorry, I couldnt help it." I told him, "Dont worry about it. I can fix it. You will be just fine." I took the condom off, and put it in the wastebasket. I said, "Im sure you will like how I fix this for you." I took his dick in my hand, leaned over, and licked the head of his dick. Then I put my mouth over it and moved my head down on it. His dick perked right back up. I moved my mouth off of his dick and said, "There, good as new. Want to try again?" He said, "Yes, I do." I took another condom out of the package, and rolled it onto his dick. I put some KY jelly around the condom. I told him this is for lubrication so it will feel good to me when he goes inside me. I lay down on the bed and told him to get on top of me. I told him "Dont be nervous. Everyone is nervous at first, thats normal." He got on me. I spread my legs and guided his dick to my pussy. He pushed it in, and started moving in and out. I have to say he did feel good. He was going a little slow, and that was good. He didnt say a word during all of this. I started moaning for him and told him he felt good in me, and he was doing just fine. He started to quicken his pace and thrusting in me harder. It wasnt very long at all before he started to cum. He pushed his dick in me as far as he could and kept it there during his orgasm. I could feel his dick twitching inside me as he shot his cum into the condom. He pulled out of me. I asked him, "How do you feel now, Eric?" He said, "Great. That was wonderful. I had only dreamed about this." I said, "Good, Im glad you enjoyed it. Would you want to take the condom off, and put it in the wastebasket please?" He did, and then he put his clothes on. I told him, "Thank you, Eric, you were wonderful." He said, "No thank you, I will never forget you." I asked him, "Whos coming in next?" Eric said, "I dont know, they just all told me to go first then they would figure out whos next." Then Eric went out the door. I took another big hit from the bourbon. About 5 minutes after Eric left the door was opened and it was Evan. I was standing taking a sip of bourbon when he walked in. He got an automatic full frontal nude view of me. "I see you pulled the second longest straw." I said to him. Evan replied, "No, I just told them I was going second. I have wanted you ever since I saw you on your Tumblr and heard you moved to Seattle. I love screwing older women. Let the party begin, baby." "How would you like to do it?" I asked him. Evan replied, "I want to start fucking you from behind. I like to see my dick going into your pussy." I responded to him, "Start fucking? What do you mean by start fucking?" Evan replied, "I mean I will fuck you from behind first, I will fuck you from on top of you after that, or any other position I want for that matter. You will find I have more control than poor little Eric." "Ok", I replied, "do you want to put the condom on yourself, or would you prefer I put it on you. Some guys like for me to put it on for them." Evan said, "I dont want to use a condom. I want to go bareback." I replied, "Nope, not going to happen. You arent putting your dick in me without a condom on. How do I know where your dick has been? You only have one choice if you plan to use your dick on me." "Ok", he gruffly replied. "It will just make me last longer before I cum. Im sure you will like that." I replied, "We will see. Ive been with tough guys before. Heres your condom." I handed Evan the condom package. Evan took off his clothes. His dick wasnt all that hard yet. He told me to sit on the side of the bed and suck his dick. I sat on the bed. Evan moved over in front of me. I took his dick with my hand and put his dick in my mouth. I held the shaft of his dick while I moved my head back and forth on it. I could feel it begin to stiffen in my mouth. Evan was being quite a butt, but he did have a nice dick. It seemed bigger than normal while it was soft. It was really growing in my mouth. When it got all the way hard, I couldnt get all of it in my mouth without gagging. Ive experienced bigger dicks than Evans, but not very many. Evan pulled his dick out of my mouth. Evan said, "You are sure a good cocksucker." I responded, "Ive never had a complaint. Im happy you approve. When you get the condom on I want to put a little KY on it. I think Im going to need it." I was lubricated from Erics dick, but I wanted to be sure to put on more KY since Evans dick was so much bigger. Evan put the condom on, and I applied the KY to his covered shaft. "Lean over with your hands on the bed and your legs spread", Evan told me. I did as he told me. He put his finger in my pussy. "You feel pretty wet already. Little Eric must have done you good." Evan said. Then I could feel the head of Evans dick at my pussy. He slowly pushed it in until he had it all the way in me. Im glad he put it slow when he started. That would make it much better as he got heated up. He said, "I like to put it in slow at first because women were complaining it hurt if I slammed it in to hard and fast. Plus, I like to feel it slide in your pussy, then hold it there to feel your pussy with my whole dick in you." Then Evan put his hands on both of my hips and held me there. He put his dick in me, sliding it all the way in slow, and held it there just like he said. He was big, and stretched me. I was glad he did what he said he liked to do. Then he started moving it out and back in. Almost all the way out and then all the way back in. He started gong increasingly harder and faster. My arms collapsed under me. I fell to my elbows on the bed. Evan was holding me up by my hips karups pounding me. This was surreal. I wanted him to stop, but I didnt. He was brutal with me, but he wasnt. I wanted it to hurt, but it didnt. All of a sudden he stopped, pulled out of me, and let go of my hips. I didnt expect that, and fell to the floor. I was breathing hard, and my heart was pounding. "What are you doing to me", I gasped to him. "Giving you what you want", he told me. He picked me up and laid me on the bed with my legs hanging over the side. He was standing on the floor and pulled my legs up to his shoulders with my pussy totally exposed to him. He was tall enough he was able to lift my ass off the bed. He put his dick in me and started ramming me hard, pushing me back against the bed with each thrust. I didnt know if I could take it, but I didnt want him to stop. It had been a long time since I had been fucked this hard. Then, I could feel it. It was a volcano building inside me. I could feel my orgasm grow. I didnt want him to stop now. I started moaning uncontrollably. Evan just fucked me harder telling me he knew I wanted it this way. Then it came. My body lifted and tightened. It was like lightening was going through every nerve of my body. I couldnt help the moans that came from me. I dont know how long it lasted, but it felt like it wouldnt stop. Evan just kept pounding my pussy. When it was over I was totally spent. I went limp. I was done. My strength was gone. I had to tell him to stop. I could hardly breathe. "Evan stop. Im done, Ive had enough." I gasped. "Not yet, Im not done yet. " He told me. Then he pulled his dick out of me. I could catch a breath. He moved my legs over onto the bed, spread them, and got on top of me. "Wrap your legs around me "he said. With a near whisper I told him I couldnt. I didnt have the strength. He spread my legs, put his dick in me, and went right back to ramming in me hard and fast. You are one good fuck he gasped as he was thrusting free pictures of naked women having sex into me. I couldnt talk. I was being pounded into the bed. Evan was a very strong guy. "Oh! Im cumming "he growled. He put one last hard thrust into me, held it there, and moaned loudly, getting his orgasm. When he was done, he pulled out of me and fell off beside me on the bed breathing very hard. I couldnt talk. I was just lying there, limp. "That was one good fuck", Evan said to me. "I cant do another one", I barely whispered to him. Evan replied, "You have to. You have two more to fuck. There is no way they are going to let you off the hook now". "Whos next?" I asked. "Big Jim is next. Dont worry, Big Jim is a puppy dog", he said. "Oh I sure hope so", I gasped back to him. "Tell Jim to give me 10 minutes. I need a little break". Evan took off the condom, threw it in the waste basket, put his clothes on, and said, "Jen, I said it before, but Im going to say it again. You are one good fuck." I replied, "Im glad you enjoyed it. You about killed me though. Tell Jim to give me a few, ok? Evan took off the condom, threw it in the waste basket, put his clothes on, and said, "Jen, I said it before, but Im going to say it again. You are one good fuck." I replied, "Im glad you enjoyed it. You about killed me though. Tell Jim to give me a few, ok? If you like my adventure so far let me know and I’ll be happy to share the rest. Would you fuck me like this? Kisses, J

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nofomoartworld · 7 years

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Art F City: L.A. Art Diary Week Four (Everyone Loves Eames, Erotic Art, and More)

Screenprint by Polkela, seen at Co-Lab Gallery.

In his fourth week in Los Angeles, Michael Anthony Farley discovers that there’s not enough to do on weekdays and way too much to do on weekends. Here’s how he spent the weekend. Everyone loves Ray and Charles Eames, and erotic art.

Catch up on Week One, Week Two (and Week Two, Part Two), and Week Three.

Friday 7/14

I am working from a Starbucks in a nondescript strip mall near a Gold Line station in Pasadena. I stand in line for my second coffee, and give my name to the barista, when the man behind me asks “Michael? Michael what?” I turn around and realize I’ve just run into an old buddy from art school in Baltimore who I haven’t seen since we graduated. We chat about how we both ended up in the same suburban California Starbucks, thousands of miles from our hometown.

He moved out here to work in visual effects on films. Now, he’s attending a graduate program at the Art Center College of Design a few blocks away, learning virtual reality skills for the coming boom in demand. He tells me that he, like all the contract artists who work on big blockbusters, is under constant surveillance by the studios to make sure footage doesn’t leak as it did in the X-Men Origins: Wolverine debacle. I immediately start mentally formulating the plot of a William Gibson-esque thriller.

Hopping on the Gold Line back into the city, I transfer to the subway, on my way to the Expo Line—the newest and arguably most-praised piece of L.A.’s odd rail network. It’s irritating that you have to pay for each transfer (bringing the cost of a three-line rail trip to about the same as a Lyft line ride) but otherwise I’m pretty impressed by how much smoother and cleaner L.A.’s trains are than aging East Coast systems. I feel slightly vindicated for my uncommon decision to take public transit when I look down out the window of the elevated train and see untold millions of cars sitting in seemingly endless gridlock. The opening I’m heading to (oddly, the sole art event I could find on a Friday evening) is at The Landing, a gallery about 16 miles Southwest from my starting point. Google Maps tells me the trip will take around an hour and a half by public transit. Not wanting to repeat my usual mistake of showing up too late for L.A.’s early-to-bed art scene, I plan to get there around 6 p.m.

(L-R) Ryan Fenchel, “Sidereal Procession, the Adept in Public”; Don Edler, “Chaise Lounge for Celeste and Unmonumental Table,” 2017 (with John Zane Zappas Ashtray); Gary Knox Bennett, “Pair of Eames Chairs Assemblage,” 1959.

By some strange magic of perfectly-timed transfers, I actually arrive to the opening early. For about half an hour I’m the only one in the gallery, and the staff are shocked that I beat rush hour traffic and found parking. I explain that I took the train, which has an elevated station nearly directly above the gallery.

“Wow. What’s that like? I didn’t know anyone used it!”’

I wouldn’t say the train was packed, but it was far from empty. The opening on the other hand, remains pretty dead for the majority of time I hang around, which is confusing because the show is great and they’ve laid out the most impressive buffet of snacks I have ever seen (another strike of good luck, since my opening/dinner buddy cancelled on me last minute).

Gabrielle Garland

The group show, The Useful and the Decorative, pays tribute to The Landing’s former identity as a design gallery. It’s a collection of art objects that allude to functional designwares from plates to furniture. It’s right up my alley, as I love both painterly surfaces and midcentury modernism—two things that are rarely conflated outside of nonrepresentational painting. Here, though, design classics such as Le Corbusier’s chaise lounge and the much-treasured Eames recliner populate endearingly wonky paintings of interiors by Gabrielle Garland. She’s cleverly balanced expressive brushwork with subjects iconic enough to be legible despite warped perspective. There are no figures in the paintings. Staring into each domestic space, I imagine this is what it must be like to take an ayahuasca trip in one of those immaculate California homes from the pages of Dwell. It occurs to me that’s probably not an uncommon occurrence.

Don Edler, “Anthropocentric Tablet and Chablet Tair,” 2017.

The other highlight of the show is Don Edler’s work, which “fossilizes” contemporary design objects on the verge of obsolescence in hydrocal—iPhones, calculators, credit cards, and so forth. One piece in particular, “Anthropocentric Tablet” reminds me of Michael Jones McKean’s recent dystopic anthropology museum at The Contemporary. In both installations, there’s a sense that the world as we know it will disappear, and our material culture will be a cryptic piece of archeology for another to interpret.

I take the train back Downtown and an old friend from Baltimore, Neale, picks me up at the end of the line to catch up. We’re sitting on his balcony in a particularly picturesque corner of Echo Park when I notice a friend from Berlin has checked in on Instagram a few blocks away. I message my friend, filmmaker Yony Leyser, and find out he’s in town touring his documentary Queercore: How to Punk a Revolution. He invites us to an event at the Tom of Finland Foundation nearby and we decide to walk over.

In the garden of the Tom of Finland house.

As I should’ve come to expect by now, the walk takes far longer than we anticipated and everyone’s already hopping in Ubers by the time we arrive. Tom of Finland’s former home strikes me as surprisingly cutesy (a sentence I never thought I would type). Neale explains, “Navigating L.A. by Google Maps always fucks me up because you zoom in and there are grids within grids and the blocks are huge. It’s like watching Powers of 10.” Despite its Bermuda-Triangle-like navigational challenges, Los Angeles constantly redeems itself with Eames references.

We’re given an address to a secret-ish warehouse venue downtown, where a mini-festival of queer erotic performance art and video screenings is taking place. As soon as we arrive, someone wins a door prize comprised of various dildos. A performer described as “a proudly non-binary artist who prefers to be identified by their LinkedIn profile” begins lip-synching to Alice DeeJay’s 1999 club hit “Better Off Alone” while presenting their anus.

Having spent my day criss-crossing vast distances, I am deliriously tired. We’re being steered to some chill-out installation apparently intended to re-center our sexual qis or realign our erotic chakras or cleanse our auras (or something with crystals?). I’m told there’s no alcohol and I realize I probably can’t get through whatever this is without it. Yony disappears on foot to find an open liquor store. We warn him that after midnight in L.A. is the equivalent of 4 A.M. in any other city, but he persists.

He rounds a dark corner and it’s the last we see of him.

Saturday 7/15

Bodega Vendetta

I wake up on Neale’s couch and walk another deceptively far, scorching hot “10 blocks” to a friend-of-a-friend’s apartment who is a curator. He shows me this drawing by Bodega Vendetta and never have I wished more that a work on paper was an animated GIF.

Over the course of hours, I receive multiple conflicting texts from friends encouraging me to attend different events that all begin around the same time many miles apart. An art magazine release party! An opening in Culver City! An opening an hour away in the opposite direction! A party at a collector’s house! A party at a gallerist’s house! Yony’s screening! A party that’s “the L.A. pop-up of Club Glam”! (I am told that saying something is “The L.A. pop-up of _____” lends it credence, even if it’s a thing that hasn’t actually existed anywhere else.) I think about all the weeknights I’ve spent looking for something (anything) to do here and realize L.A. has the most extreme case of problematic weekend-loading I have ever encountered.

Megan St. Clair “FIRST PLANT,” oil on wood. Houseplant art is alive and well at Co-Lab Gallery.

I settle on attending The Co-Lab Gallery’s closing party with Liz Eldridge because I have heard good things from several friends about the Highland Park institution. Many of my peers in Los Angeles have small but impressive art collections, and a big chunk of those works came from Co-Lab. The gallery functions more like a retail space than a traditional white cube model—it’s jam-packed with art hung salon-style, with tables full of ceramics and racks of prints and other artist-made knick-knacks. This is a display strategy that normally would drive me crazy, but here it works because so much of the art is actually good and the volume allows the gallery to keep prices accessible. There are a handful of paintings priced under $100 that I’m seriously tempted to buy, but remember that figure represents about one week’s worth of necessary Uber rides here. I’m slightly ashamed that I’ve allowed L.A. to add another step in Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs.

Anti-gentrification wheat pastes in front of The Co-Lab Gallery.

I’m introduced to gallerist Kristin Hector, who first opened the space in Koreatown seven years ago, but has been in Highland Park for the past three. I ask her why the gallery is closing, and she blurts out “It’s not gentrification backlash! Everyone always assumes that!” (As in many pockets of East L.A., art galleries such as Co-Lab and “hipster” businesses like coffee shops and yoga studios along York Boulevard are frequently targeted by anti-gentrification graffiti.)

She explains that she wants to move into a larger space and shift the focus of the practice. I ask her if the jam-packed hang is indicative of every show or just a “going-out-of-business” sale vibe.

“Oh this is what all of our group shows are like!” she explains, between shouting out unthinkably reasonable prices across the room, “I love so many different aesthetics. It’s fun to see different styles come together—this is a good example,” she gestures to a wall of paintings that alternate between provisional painting, expressionist figuration, and realism, “Always colorful! Always a little ridiculous, and sometimes dark but vibrant!”

Liz and our friend Brittney are enthusiastically flipping through a rack of prints and other works on paper, asking each other for advice. Since wall space is already at a premium in Liz’s sunny Craftsman bungalow, I suggest investing in one painting for the same price as several cheaper pieces. We move around the room, deliberating. We’re both drawn to Julian Tan’s small acrylic paintings on panel. Each is obsessively jam-packed with detail, describing chaotic domestic spaces. (Naturally, as in the Gabrielle Garland paintings from the night before, Eames chairs make cameos. I start to think that if all artists in L.A. have such comfortable and tasteful furniture, it makes sense people become homebodies when they move here from cramped East Coast apartments).

Julian Tan’s cryptically detailed acrylic on wood paintings.

Liz—ever the dramaturg—begins excitedly fabricating narratives for each mise-en-scène: “This is clearly a room of privilege; it’s a kid who doesn’t understand what he has! I feel like this is the teenage fantasy of someone who grows up to be in the alt-right,” gesturing to an interior full of swords, video games, and other boy toys. Then, “Wait, is he making meth in this one? Meth AND an Eames chair?”

The paintings are all hypnotically captivating, but one detail (other than the titular cinematic reference) draws me to “2001 IS ON, LET’S CHILL”. On the coffee table a copy of Haruki Murakami’s “1Q84” is described with a remarkable economy of tiny brush strokes. It’s one of my personal favorite books of the past few years, so I could spot its signature cover anywhere, but Tan’s ability to squeeze so much charmingly shaky detail into a few square millimeters is still impressive. Its inclusion also complicates the “bro-iness” of the other objects in the homes—one of the book’s main plot lines is in essence a feminist revenge tale.

Liz ends up purchasing the piece (and plenty of works on paper too) and we leave ecstatically talking about how good owning art feels. On the way out, we overhear that the gallery’s new reincarnation will actually be as an art rental facility for film sets in North Hollywood, close to Studio City and its endless sound stages. At first we’re disheartened to hear that—Co-Lab seems to have filled a niche position in the city wherein young creative types could actually afford to support their peers. I then remember Mel Chin’s collective GALA Committee, which infiltrated the set dressing of Melrose Place with conceptual artworks. Kristin Hector seems to have a penchant for curating works with sneaky details, and I’m optimistic Co-Lab’s next incarnation might carry that torch.

L.A., after all, owes its cultural gravitas to the intersections of art and spectacle, counterculture and schlock. Who knows what books might show up on the coffee tables of shitty sitcoms and soap operas in the years to come? As we dive ever deeper into this latest battle of the culture wars, tactics like that will only become more vital than the first time around.

Detail from Julian Tan’s “2001 IS ON, LET’S CHILL,” Acrylic on wood.

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