Summer is here everyone and so is the intense sun so it’s about that time that we talk about how important sunscreen is.   There are certain things about sunscreen that we all should know and we made this helpful list to inform the masses. We’ll share insights, hassle free tricks and clear up some common misunderstandings about sunscreen.

No Skimping

It’s important to get sunscreen on every part of skin that gets sunlight, which includes your hairline, scalp and ears. Dermatologists see skin cancer pop up in these spots more often than any other. That’s a direct reflection of how people often skimp in these danger zones.

Anti-ager

Sunscreen doesn’t only keep you from getting torched by the summer sun; it also acts as an anti-ager. Yes, sunscreen makes you look younger, awesome! No need to get Botox injections, instead just use some facial sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher everyday, even on a cloudy day. Sun exposure really messes up your skin especially after years of neglecting sunscreen. If you want healthy looking and feeling skin for years, just use sunscreen.

Tan equals damage

Remember that no matter how pretty your tan is it is still skin damage. The sun’s rays are powerful and no amount of base tan will help you out. Keep SPF on anytime you go into the sun, just to be safe.

SPF Sprays are good

Don’t worry about spray tans not covering you; as long as you follow the instructions, the spray actually does its job. I do the 1:3 rule, that’s spraying 1-inch from the skin and I make 3 passes with the spray.

Higher SPF the Better

The SPF is usually much lower than it’s marked because of user error. I tend to go with an SPF around 50 because when using a SPF of 30 it’s really only about 15. We usually don’t apply a thick enough layer to actually get the listed SPF.

Umbrellas don’t have SPF

Umbrellas may block some of the sun’s harmful rays but more UV rays make it through than you think. That’s why umbrellas are never substitutes for good old-fashioned sunscreen. Umbrellas are great, don’t get me wrong, but they need to be used along with sunscreen instead of replacing it.

Baseball caps are not great

Sure baseball caps block the sun from your eyes, but they do nothing for the rest of your head and neck, which is why a sun hat is exponentially better.

Rash guards

Stop wearing a white T-shirt to keep the sun off of your tender skin and try a rash guard instead. Did you know that a white T-shirt only has an SPF of 7 and when that shirt gets wet it drops the number to 3. Wow, that’s not very good, so now you’ll understand why rash guards are the way to go. They have sun protection built in and won’t make your skin break out from friction.

Skin cancer

Just using sunscreen won’t guarantee anyone from not getting sun damage or cancer; it will only help prevent it.

Just use sunscreen and you won’t have to worry about all the negative effects the sun can and will have on your body.

Romantic getaways are important to keeping the fire in relationships burning bright so take our advice and add some romance into your life. Take your lover on a passionate adventure and keep your sensual juices flowing. Valentine’s Day isn’t the only time a year to show your love, so step your game up and treat your special someone to a week end they won’t soon forget. We found the most sensual and romantic weekend getaway spots all lovers should check out.

San Francisco

The city by the bay keeps lovers coming back with its foggy setting and breathtaking views. What’s more romantic than taking a stroll through Golden Gate park with your special someone, the distinctive skyline in the distance and a cool breeze in the air? The cities eateries are world class and the overall small size of the city makes it seem that much more romantic.

Charleston

The old town feel, cobblestone streets and oak tree lined streets makes Charleston, South Carolina a dream location. Take a romantic horse drawn carriage ride after a nice dinner of soul food and look for shooting stars as you enjoy each other’s company. The southern charm of this city will rub off on you and your mate will take notice.

Sedona

A Sedona Arizona spa weekend getaway is the perfect way to say, “I love you,” to your special someone. The incredible views from everywhere will put you in the romantic mood pretty quick. Enjoy a nice glass of wine, a couple’s massage and the piece and quit this little town provides.

Poconos

Nature loving couples from all around flock to the Poconos mountains for weekend trips all year long. The region has some great wineries, hiking trails and cute little bed and breakfasts are scattered all over. Find a waterfall on a hike and have a romantic picnic next to it.

Napa

Get yourself two tickets to the Napa Valley Wine Train and call it a day. The train takes people on a 25-mile ride through the beautiful countryside and stops at numerous wineries for your alcohol consumption. What’s a better way to get your partner in the mood than a few bottles of wine?

New Orleans

New Orleans isn’t just a party city; it has romance pouring out of every building. The rich history combined with outstanding architecture makes walking around a dream. Enjoy a few cocktails; some amazing live jazz music and an excellent meal, without doing any research. The city is made for tourism and it features some really romantic spots.

The Keys

The Florida Keys are as far south in the US as you can go and it’s like visiting a deserted island in some spots. Feel like you and your liver are the only people on the planet and enjoy each other fully. The weather is great, the bars are eclectic and the seafood couldn’t be fresher.

Take care of your loved one and they will return the favor. Everyone likes to be wined and dined, so make the first move and book a trip today.

When many people think of taking a European vacation they probably imagine strolling along the Seine with their lover, or seeing Michelangelo’s David in Florence. I mean, those are both two amazing things to do. However most people would even consider traveling to Ukraine. It is a country at war, the winters tend to be unbearable, and Eastern Europeans have a reputation of being unfriendly. All that being said, Ukraine is still an underrated tourist destination and one that should be on travelers radar.

What Is There To Do In Ukraine?

Ukraine is a large country. In fact, it’s the largest country entirely in Europe. This means that there is something for everyone! From adventure travelers to those just looking to relax, you can spend months exploring the country and still not tire of things to see and do.

If you are looking for a city break you can’t skip out on the capital of Kyiv, nor the cultural capital of Lviv. For adrenaline junkies you can go skiing in Bukovel, or white water rafting in Vorokhta. And if you are just a good old nature lover then camping by the sunken city of Bakota or the uninhabited Dzharylhach island could be for you.

5 Amazing Places To Visit In Ukraine

1. Lviv – A Beautiful City In Western Ukraine

The cultural capital of Lviv has a storied history. From being the capital of the kingdom of Rus to a part of Poland, the pearl of the Austrian Empire to the gem of an independent Ukraine. There are so many things to do in Lviv almost anyone can have a great time.

For dining I highly recommend a trip to the most popular restaurant in Lviv, Kryivka. This restaurant in a bunker under Rynok square is themed, but don’t let that put you off. The walls are papered with interesting artefacts from one of the most tumultous periods in Lviv history. Youc an see old military medals, propaganda posters, and plenty of old (non-functioning) weapons.

2. Bakota – A Less Than Easy Place To Go Camping Like A Local

The site of a submerged city, Bakota, is currently a reservoir connecting to the Bug river. This is a very popular camping spot for Ukrainians and there are plenty of activities you can do. I like to just relax and enjoy nature, but you can go boating, fishing, or hiking the cliffs around the area.

You will need a car to get there as public transportation doesn’t really exist, but that just means you’ll have to do a bit of car camping.

3. Dzharylhach Island – The Largest Island In The Black Sea

Dzharylhach Island is an uninhabited island in the Kherson region of Ukraine that is another beautiful place to camp. You can only get there by taking a ferry from the mainland, and there are no accommodations other than tents. Rest on the soft white sand or play with the dolphins that come very close to shore.

If you do spend some time there you have to try the island specialty – stingray borsch! This soup is made daily by the shanty little cafe near the pier. And don’t forget to see the sunset by the famous Dzharylhach Lighthouse!

4. The Pink Lake – One Of The Most Unique Places In All Ukraine

Located on Arabatska Strilka, about 6 hours by bus from Kherson City, is one of my absolute favorite places in the whole country. Officially named Henichesk Lake, this natural pink lake is an amazing sight to behold.

The color is due to a non-harmful bacteria that thrives in the high salt content of the lake. Many people even take salt home to cook with it, I know I brought a few kilos back! Make sure to wade out as far as you can go so you can see the most naturally pink section.

5. Kyiv – The Capital Of Ukraine

No list about places to see in Ukraine would be complete without Kyiv. A capital going back all the way to Kievan Rus, the city is a mix of classic Eastern European architecture and ugly Soviet commie-blocks. However don’t let the ugliness deter you. The city is lively and fun if you know how to do it right.

Spend some time at the Bukta food center on the Dniper river, or hit up an amazing pool party in the warm months. Walk through beautifully manicured parks and see the Mariinsky Palace, or visit the Pechersk Lavra – an historic cave monastery filled with the bodies of Orthodox saints.

About the author:

Alona Tiunina is a travel blogger from Ukraine who has been to (almost) every region in the country. When she is not traveling she enjoys binge watching Netflix and scouring airline tickets for her next trip.