The Hidden Danger of Posting Your Vacation on Social Media

Memorial Day is approaching, and I hope everyone has exciting plans, whether it's a vacation or a staycation!

I want to complete my video work and writing in the next few days so I can fully enjoy the holiday. However, I'm quite certain I'll find something else to keep me busy.

Imagine this: You’re on vacation, living your best life. During the trip, you're taking pictures and sharing all the fun you’re having on Facebook and Instagram.

After an unforgettable trip, you undertake the tiring journey of flights and Uber rides back home.

After hours of travel, you finally make it home, but something’s off. You approach your door, only to find it unlocked. As you walk in, you notice your belongings scattered and some items missing.

Your home has been burglarized while you were away.

Home burglary is a serious issue. According to the FBI, 2 million home burglaries occur each year in the US, and 7 out of 10 occur when the owner is away, like on vacation.

And then it dawns on you; while you were traveling, your house was being raided.

Here’s what happened

Burglars typically study people and houses before breaking in. Therefore, when you post about your trip on social media while you're away, you unwittingly give them crucial information. The intruders will know that your house is unoccupied!

Honestly, I understand the urge to post when away from home. And I do it too, especially since I’m a travel content creator.

Don't worry, I've got you covered. Here are some tips that will let you post about your trip on social media while ensuring your belongings remain safe:

• Post when you're home: Sharing while at home can deter burglars who might be watching your house, as they'll notice that someone is there. It's also a great way to reminisce and share your experiences when you aren't busy making new memories.
   
• Install a home security system: Security equipment such as outdoor cameras can deter criminals and encourage them to choose another target. Even a security sign in your window may cause them to second guess their actions.
   
• Arrange for house-sitting: Have a family member or friend stay at your place while you're away. Just ensure they don't host parties at your place. See previous statement about returning home with "belongings scattered and some items missing."
   
• Use timed lights: Set your lights on a timer to give the impression that you're home. Simple measures, like leaving the bathroom light on at night, can keep burglars away. They won't risk intruding if a light is on, as you could be awake.
   

Always remember that the information you share on social media is accessible to the public, so exercise caution!
 

Andrew

How do you make sure your house is safe when you’re away?

Cocktail of the Week

The Ramos Gin Fizz, originally called the New Orleans Fizz, was invented in 1888 by Henry C. Ramos at his Imperial Cabinet Saloon in New Orleans. This classic cocktail became famous for its frothy texture and elaborate preparation, often requiring a team of bartenders to shake it vigorously for several minutes.

Recipe and Preparation:

• Ingredients:
  • 2 oz gin
  • 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
  • 1 oz simple syrup
  • 1 oz heavy cream
  • 1 egg white
  • 3 drops orange flower water
  • Club soda
  • Ice
• Instructions:
  1. Combine gin, lemon juice, lime juice, simple syrup, heavy cream, egg white, and orange flower water in a shaker without ice.
  2. Dry shake vigorously for about 15 seconds to emulsify the ingredients.
  3. Add ice to the shaker and shake again for at least one minute, preferably two, to achieve a frothy texture.
  4. Strain into a chilled highball or Collins glass.
  5. Top with club soda to create a fizzy head.
  6. Garnish with a slice of lemon or a twist of orange.

Random Travel Thought

I wish traveling had a warning label: "Frequent travel can cause fatigue, irritability, and restlessness upon returning home."

Follow me on Instagram.

The Plug

Cheap flights:

• Going.com: This might be the only discounted flights website you need. It’s a paid service that sends you notifications when deals become available, but they expire in a couple of days so Act Fast!! 
• Secret Flying 🤫: This website emails you about free flight opportunities and even better… it doesn’t cost a thing!!
• Skyscanner: An older, but still reliable website that’s also *FREE* so there’s no reason not to use it. Use the "Explore the World" feature and set your departure date to "Whole Month" to find the cheapest deals.

Insurance:

• Safety Wing: I use Safety Wing as my travel insurance because the plans are flexible. You can easily insure a 1-week trip for like $11 dollars which is less than the cost of a cocktail at the bar.

Travel Gear

• Compression socks: Sitting for extended periods of time is not good for the body, so keep yourself healthy enough to go on more trips. Link
• Apple AirTags: Consider getting Apple AirTags for the peace of mind of always knowing where your luggage is. Link
• Smart Phone holder: It's a foldable sheet that can be used as a stand for your iPhone or iPad.Link
• Packing cubes: Having a separate container works wonders for keeping clothes wrinkle-free. It also makes packing/unpacking much easier.Link
• Donut Power Strip: Power outlets are always in demand, but sometimes they're in weird spots. I use this bagel because it's lightweight, and I don't have to think about it. Link
• Travel Case Organizer: Cable organizers can be a pain, but this is what I use to keep my cables organized. Link
• Backup batteries: I like these backup batteries because they have three important components for me: 1. They have enough power to recharge my phone multiple times at once, 2. Are small enough to put in my pocket, and 3. Are sturdy enough to survive a fall. Link
• Yoga Mat: I use this thin mat to get my stretching in even when I'm traveling. Link
• Jump Rope: It's so easy to bring a jump rope with you for exercise because it weighs almost nothing and takes up no space. Link
• Liquid IV: Great for hydration to keep you from dying. When you're traveling, it's time to live it up!  Link
  
  *Above are Affiliate links at no additional cost to you.

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