Ariel Spooner by Ariel Spooner

Workflows by Meir Ezra - Dynamic Process Control

arielspooner — 2015-08-12 08:47:07 UTC

The only way to evaluate a company and its personnel is by their results – this is the only thing that doesn’t lie – the results!!!! You either has fifty agreements signed or not… you either installed or not… you either won the court case or not. The Reports module tells the tell of the company’s and the staff’s results… an invaluable module.

The Dashboard Module – Many organizations collect a lot of data… Actually, the problem with most computerized systems (having been created by programmers and not executives) is that the input-output relation is bad… meaning you enter data much more than the data you get out.

The TimeMaker Dashboard module provides a personalized view of what interests YOU. It allows any user to set up an unlimited number of dashboards and put on those dashboards statistics, reports, the Matrix, etc…. it provides multiple viewpoints FAST, therefore allowing you to see the key data you really need.

Org Chart – Organization are a complex organism. They are born, they grow, get sick, shrink and die. Due to this process, organizations must learn how to improve so as to not perish when the next organizational disease comes around – and they always come sooner or later.

Financial Expansion

arielspooner — 2015-08-21 02:07:33 UTC

A seminar by Meir Ezra

Finance is the subject of controlling or handling the money of an organization, country or individual.

Being able to use the laws of finance will ensure you will control money, and therefore, will have money.

While finance is a very important subject, it is a simple subject; and yet most people seem to have a lot of problems with controlling or handling money.

This seminar will teach you the exact technology of controlling your finances - and therefore the result will be financial success.

By learning the rules to viability and prosperity, you will become the cause, and no longer the effect, over your personal and business finances.

Finance has a very exact set of SIMPLE rules that, if followed, you simply can not fail. If you ever failed financially, you violated these rules. And they are so simple!

Learn these rules and follow them and you cannot fail!

Furthermore, this seminar will teach you the truth about wealth; what the most successful entrepreneurs in the world do so as to continually expand; how to be able to buy anything you want; how to control expenditure; how to increase income; how to ensure you and your company never spend more than you make; and how exactly to “make it before you spend it”.

This and much more will be taught in the Financial Expansion seminar.

You need this seminar if:

* You are worried about money.

* You don’t have as much money as you’d like.

* You owe more than you make.

* Money just seems to be something you need to work hard for.

* You lost money and don’t seem to be able to recover.

* And if you have any financial struggle of any kind whatsoever… We will fix it – guaranteed!

Maritime Legal Services in Panama

arielspooner — 2015-10-26 05:04:15 UTC

The largest merchant marine fleet in the world (by dimensions and tonnage) flies the Panamanian flag. Huge shipping companies, as well as yacht and pleasure ship owners, choose Panama for registration due to the multiple ship registry advantages it offers. Through Mossack Fonseca, you can access ship registration and other legal services related to Panama’s maritime industry.

Find out below why Panama should be your first choice for ship registration and other maritime industry services.

Panama and its Maritime Tradition

The Republic of Panama has a great maritime tradition. Aside from the Panama Canal, which celebrated 100 years of operation in August 2014, an open registry system was adopted in early 1917. This transformed Panama into the state with the largest merchant marine fleet worldwide, both for dimensions and tonnage. Moreover, Panama has a modern maritime port cargo network, mainly at the extremities of the interoceanic waterways, providing important cargo transshipment services to and from South America and the east coast of the United States of America.

Ship Registry in Panama

Panama’s Ship Registry is one of the oldest open registry systems in the world. It was established in 1917, only three years after the inauguration of the Panama Canal. This structure permits the registration of any merchant, fishing or pleasure vessel under the Panamanian flag, without having to pay any minimum fee for Panamanian ship ownership, or fulfill any national operating requirements, other than those which must be met for ship registry, that is: guarantee compliance with appropriate seaworthiness standards, legal security relating to the ship’s title of ownership, facility to transfer ownership, and guarantee ship credits.

The Panama Ship Registry is a worldwide leader that satisfies the requirements listed above and more. A Panama ship ownership title grants full legal security and its ship mortgage offers exceptional stability for a creditor’s guarantee as regards the ship’s credits. The solidity of the title and speediness with which the creditor can process its credit and ship mortgage are crucial factors that have led the most prestigious banks and insurance companies in the world to have maximum trust in the Panamanian ship registration system.

Another advantage of the Panamanian registry system is the large network of consular offices maintained by the Republic of Panama around the world. Panama has over 120 consulates, including 70 devoted exclusively to the merchant marine, in cities and maritime centers of great importance worldwide. Panama’s consulates, particularly those located in cities engaged in the maritime and port industry, are well prepared to handle provisional ship registration requests in an effective and speedy manner.

In addition, the Panama Maritime Authority offers incentives both to ships that are already registered and to new registrations. Discounts are offered for customer loyalty, good practices, new registrations, fleets, and new construction, among others.

The Panamanian registration system is fast and easy. Provisional registration can be done with copies of documents and it takes only one business day. This provisional registration is valid for six months. During this period, a permanent ship registration must be made. This speedy provisional registration permits the shipping company to register and operate ships immediately, while permanent registration formalities are processed.

Maritime Services Offered by Mossack Fonseca

To meet your maritime legal service’s needs, our firm has an experienced team of lawyers specialized in the requirements, challenges, and procedures of the maritime industry.

Our main services in this sector include:

Ship and yacht registration
Assistance in the purchase-sale of ships and yachts
Change of ownership
Change of dimensions
Obtaining special licenses and permits to navigate in Panamanian waters
Renewal of patents and payment of taxes for ships
Legal opinions
Maritime litigation
Escrow service
Assistance in drafting contracts
Obtaining technical certificates
Registration and cancellation of ship mortgages
Other related services

If you have any questions or need further information, please do not hesitate to contact your local Mossack Fonseca Office, or email us at IWillson@mossfon.com or Akourany@mossfon.com

Certified Otolaryngology by Richard Isaacs, MD

arielspooner — 2015-12-21 01:35:08 UTC

Richard S. Isaacs, MD is a otolaryngology in Sacramento , CA.

Phone number: (916) 688-2000

Profile

Specialties: Otolaryngology (License# G75756 CA )

Gender: Male

Locations

6600 Bruceville Rd

Sacramento , CA 95823

Phone: (916) 688-2000

Facilities

Kaiser Health Plan Pediatric Phy

6600 Bruceville Road

Sacamento , CA 95823

Phone (916) 688-2000

Kaiser Foundation Hospital South Sacramento

6600 Bruceville Road

Sacamento , CA 95823

Phone (916) 688-2000

Kaiser Health Plan #1 New Pharmacy #601

6600 Bruceville Road

Sacamento , CA 95823

Phone (916) 688-2000

Kaiser Fdn Hsp Inp Phy 60a

6600 Bruceville Road

Sacamento , CA 95823

Phone (916) 688-2000

The Permanente Medical Group, Inc.

6600 Bruceville Road

Sacamento , CA 95823

Phone (916) 688-2000

Kaiser Permanente

6600 Bruceville Road

Sacamento , CA 95823

Phone (916) 688-2000

Kaiser Permanente South Sacramento

1225 F St Apt C

Sacramento , CA 95814

Phone (916) 688-2000

Kaiser Permanente Pharmacy #607

6600 Bruceville Rd Bldg 2, Fl 1, Rm M2041

Sacramento ,CA 95823

Phone (916) 688-2000

Kaiser 2 Refill Wc Pharmacy 602

6600 Bruceville Rd

Sacramento ,CA 95823

Phone (916) 688-2000

Dr. Richard Isaacs: Medical Profile

arielspooner — 2016-01-22 06:13:36 UTC

Otolaryngology (ENT) Sacramento, CA

Physician-in-Chief / Director, The Permanente Medical Group, Board of Directors, Oakland, CA

SUMMARY

Professional Background

“I joined Kaiser Permanente in 1995 and have Advanced Certification in Head and Neck Oncologic Surgery. My specialties include: orbital, nasal, and maxillofacial surgery, as well as thyroid and parathyroid surgery. I function as a regional resource for the management of advanced tumors of the head and neck and provide the otolaryngologic approach for tumors at the skull base. Additionally, I am trained in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive surgery and perform rhinoplasty, blepharoplasty, otoplasty, and rhytidectomy. I have an interest in post-tumor facial reconstruction and facial reanimation surgery. I am a Fellow of the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, and also a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons.

I received my Bachelor of Science degree, with Distinction, from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, and my Doctor of Medicine degree, with Honors, from Wayne State University in Detroit. Then, I completed my Otolaryngology training in New York at the Manhattan Eye, Ear, and Throat Hospital / New York Hospital-Cornell Medical College. Subsequently, I received additional Head and Neck Oncologic and Skull Base Surgical training from Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and The University of California, Davis. I am also a 2004 graduate of the Kenan-Flagler School of Business Advanced Leadership Program, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill and the University of California, San Francisco, CHCF Advanced Leadership Program. “

Roles

“In April of 2005, I was appointed to the Physician-In-Chief and Chief-of-Staff positions for the South Sacramento and Elk Grove Medical Facilities. I am very fortunate to be able to continue my head and neck surgical practice and I greatly enjoy my administrative position as well. I provide leadership to our 450 physicians/providers and more than 2000 nurses and staff who care for the 200,000 Kaiser Permanente members in the South Sacramento/Elk Grove area.”

CLINICAL SPECIALTIES & INTERESTS

Otolaryngology (ENT): General Otolaryngology/ENT, Head & Neck Microvascular Surgery, Head & Neck Oncologic Surgery

EDUCATION & TRAINING

* University of California Davis

* Cornell University Medical College

* Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center

* St Vincent's Hospital and Medical Center

* Wayne State University School of Medicine

CERTIFICATIONS & LICENSURE

* CA State Medical License

1992 – 2016

* American Board of Otolaryngology

Otolaryngology

AWARDS, HONORS, & RECOGNITION

* Fellow (FAAO-HNS) American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery

* Presidents Award for Scientific Exhibit: "Skull Base Surgical Approaches to Distal Carotid Aneurisms." American Academy of Otolaryngology

* Top MD Consumers Checkbook

Bacall Associates: Booking Online - Airline & Hotel Travel Scams

arielspooner — 2016-04-27 06:57:52 UTC

While booking plane tickets and hotel rooms can be pretty straightforward, it’s important to know exactly who you’re dealing with. At first glance, some websites may seem like the real deal, but they’re not. Peter Greenberg explains how to recognize when a site is running a scam—and gives his advice on how you can avoid them.

Online Hotel Booking Scams

Every day, American consumers book 480 hote l rooms per minute online. A majority of those online bookings are done through reputable OTAs—Online Travel Agencies—such as Expedia, Orbitz, Travelocity, and Kayak.

But a growing number of bookings are made on confusing third party websites that sound legitimate, but aren’t. There are about 2.5 million questionable bookings, representing more than $220 million in revenue.

It all comes down to websites that often pop up as paid advertising in search results and appear—some say in a deceptive way—similar to a hotel’s actual booking website. Many even prominently display hotel logos while minimizing the appearance of their own logos.

Essentially, these are third party websites trying to pass themselves off as actual hotels. So a growing number of consumers think they are booking a room directly at a Hilton hotel—offering great reduced rates—and it turns out they’re totally out of luck.

The images on the website may look like a brand such as a Hilton created them—as well as the quoted rate. But if you study the top of the ad, the number listed is not for the hotel, but rather for the third party website. So you may think you’re calling the hotel, but in reality, you’re not.

Then you arrive at the hotel to discover your reservation never actually existed, or the room you asked for doesn’t exist…even though you’ve already paid for the room.

Or, you may have a valid room reservation, but then discover that the hotel never got your request for two double beds, or a no smoking room or a handicapped accessible room. Worse, the rate you were quoted doesn’t exist, but your credit card was charged.

Or you find out you then can’t cancel the reservation, and these sites rarely have customer service centers.

Some go by the name of “reservation-desk.com/hilton,” or “Hilton.reservationcounter.com.” At first glance it seems like these websites belong to Hilton, but they don’t.

Translation: the AHLA (American Hotel and Lodging Association) claims that these third party websites are attempting to pass themselves off as the actual hotel. Earlier this week, five members of Congress sent a letter to the U.S. Department of Justice asking them to investigate the ongoing problem.

Peter’s Advice

Understand what a third party website is. Expedia, Priceline, and Hotels.com are not third party sites, they are aggregators that get their inventory directly from the hotels themselves.

Watch what happens when you search online. More often than not, these questionable websites show up in search results as paid ads. Do not click on them.

This can also apply to 1-800 toll-free numbers for “reservation centers” that want you to think you are calling Marriott, for example. But they are simply a third party site that will offer to make you a reservation for a Marriott.

Red flag.

The economic reality here is that the mainline hotels want you to book their websites only—let’s not forget there’s a profit motive here. What I am telling you to do is this: before you book on any third party website, have a conversation directly with the hotel itself. Ask them to verify that the website is valid, and perhaps just as important, that the rate they are offering is also valid.

Since room inventory changes by the minute at most hotels—remember, an unsold room is revenue the hotel will never recoup once the sun rises—you might just find that a phone conversation results in a much better rate, and you can skip the websites all together.

One other caveat: when booking a hotel room, it’s not just about the rate. It’s also about the conversation. Once you establish a rate you want to pay, the conversation isn’t over, it’s just getting started. Will the hotel throw in free Wi-Fi? Can your kids stay for free? Eat for free? Will the hotel waive the resort fee, or throw in free parking?

In an Internet world, my experience tells me that while it’s okay to research your travel online, it’s still essential to have the conversation—and with the hotel directly, not a third party reservation center.

The Airline Ticket Scam

Like the hotel booking problem, these online scams—which most recently surfaced in late 2013—are counting on logo and brand confusion.

Here’s how it works. You receive an official-looking letter—on official-looking letterhead from what appears to be a well known airline—claiming that you “have qualified for an award of two round-trip airline tickets. Congratulations. These tickets are valid for travel anywhere in the continental U.S. from any major international airport. The retail value of the award is $1400…”

To further motivate you, the letter says that the company has attempted to contact you many times without success and that they will have to offer the tickets to someone else. Then you are instructed to call a toll-free number to “claim” your award. If you do, there’s a small processing fee you’ll need to pay with your credit card.

Don’t do it.

Now, look more closely at the letter. The typeface of the letterhead looks real, but it was sent by “American Airways”, or “US Airlines.”

One small problem. Those airline names DO NOT EXIST. It’s American AIRLINES and US AIRWAYS, which means it’s a total scam. Yet, a lot of people fall for it. Why? It’s the continuing power and allure of travel, something most of us love to do.

But there are several rules you need to follow on these hotel and ticket scams….and it usually involves making just one very important phone call.

Peter’s Advice

It’s always good to research hotel rates and airline fares online. But before you hit “send” along with your credit card information, call the hotel directly—not the number listed on the website or letter, which may only go to that third party website.

Confirm both the validity of the website as well as the deal itself. The same thing applies to the airline ticket “offer.”

Any time you’re asked to use your credit card to “process” something that you’ve ostensibly won, that’s a clear warning that you’re about to be scammed. Call the airline and get them to confirm the actual “promotion” or sweepstakes. Nine times out of ten, there IS no promotion or sweepstakes.

Avoid Online Holiday Booking Scams by Bacall Associates

arielspooner — 2016-05-02 05:43:52 UTC

How to avoid online holiday booking scams

The post-Christmas rush for holiday bookings is in full swing, as are reports of fraudulent travel companies operating online. Do you know what to look out for to avoid being scammed?

The growth of holidays and flights available on the internet has provided a wealth of opportunities for the travelling public but it has also provided opportunities for fraudsters. At the start of each New Year fraudsters steal millions of pounds targeting holidaymakers who book their summer holidays online.

HOLIDAY BOOKING FRAUD

The criminals scam unsuspecting members of the public by posing as online travel agents and setting up fake travel booking websites. They can make large sums of money by taking payments for holiday, hotel and flight reservations that do not exist. This is common for bookings related to high profile events as well as holidays.

As a result, individual consumers are losing up to tens of thousands of pounds on phone bookings. They often do not discover they have been ripped off until it is too late and are unable to afford a replacement holiday. This has an impact on the health of the victims, as well as on their purses, due to added stress and worry.

The Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) has seen an increase in customer inquiries relating to fraud during January, the most popular month for consumers to search for cheap holiday bookings. In response, the association has released a helpful guide to the warning signs of fraud online.

1. Prices that is considerably lower than competitors

Although prices may vary slightly amongst different agents, flight and holiday prices are largely set and it is unlikely that one is drastically cheaper and genuine.

2. Low resolution and blurry logos for trade associations and credit card companies

If you are unsure, check with the protection organization or trade body that the company is still licensed to trade.

3. The only payment option is a bank transfer

This indicates that no bank is prepared to provide credit card facilities, but paying by credit card will protect your money.

4. Non-receipt of tickets

Always check the paperwork and be wary of companies that don't give any.

5. Check customer reviews and the website address

If a company is defrauding people, there is a good chance that consumers will post details of their experiences and warnings about the company online. An illegitimate website can be spotted by a slight change in the website domain.

Above all, always use your instincts. The sad truth is that if something seems too good to be true, it probably is. So the next time you want to book an exciting getaway online, take on board ABTA's warning signs to escape the scammers.

Cybersecurity Fraud Intelligence Lead – Vice President

arielspooner — 2016-06-01 05:38:22 UTC

The Cybersecurity organization’s objective is to ensure that JPMC is able to effectively detect, prevent, and respond to cyber threats against our technology infrastructure. The scope of Cybersecurity comprises detection and monitoring of threats and vulnerabilities, managing security incidents, and evolving our preventive infrastructure to keep ahead of the threat. We accomplish this through strong information security leadership and active collaboration with line of business information risk managers to provide high quality security solutions and services that are focused on improving the Firm’s risk posture.

The Cyber Fraud APAC and South America Lead will work closely with Fraud Intelligence teams within Cyber Security Operations to maintain and advance intelligence collection efforts, optimize reporting, and manage metrics production.

Responsibilities:

Lead efforts across Fraud Intelligence teams (card, banking, data automation) to expand the teams’ intelligence collection, optimize reporting to internal stakeholders, and assist in managing expanding metrics production efforts specific to the Asia Pacific and South American geographic areas
Act as the Fraud Intelligence lead representative in a multi-disciplinary security operations center (SOC)
Act as liaison between Corporate Cyber Security Operations-Fraud Intelligence and the various JPMC lines of business (LOBs)
Work closely with Cyber Security Operations teams to collaborate on a first in class intelligence program.
Maintain and advance knowledge of industry fraud trends
Conduct and manage detailed analysis and risk assessments on all issues affecting the Firm
Engage in problem solving, process improvement, and strategic planning initiatives
Continually identify and evaluate 3 rd party solutions to fraud problems facing the Firm
Author and edit intelligence reports and contribute to metrics production

Qualifications

5+ years of experience with at least 3 collecting and analyzing intelligence, conducting financial investigations, and/or working in banking technology, risk, or operations including APAC and South America

3+ years of experience collecting and analyzing intelligence, conducting financial investigations, and writing professional reports
Experience with large volumes of transactional data, conducting deep-dive analysis, and financial services industry products and services
Experience serving business stakeholders, managing cross collaboration, and leading teams
Strong knowledge of banking terms, phrases, and concepts
Prior cyber security and/or cyber threat experience a plus
The ability to work in a fast paced environment to include the translation of complex concepts and issues into messaging easily understood by senior leadership
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience
Prior threat intelligence/SOC experience a plus

People Skills:

Excellent people, time management, and organization skills
An ability to work with minimal direction and supervision-independently or in leadership role
Experience managing aggressive deadlines in a fast-paced environment
The ability to coordinate, work with, and gain the trust of business stakeholders to achieve a desired objective

Process Skills:

Strong attention to detail in conducting analysis combined with ability to accurately record full supporting documentation
An ability to leverage the efforts of multiple teams into a cohesive product/service
An ability to mitigate a vulnerability or issue by leveraging support from internal stakeholders in a collaborative approach
An ability to conduct critical analysis, form a hypothesis, and make recommendations to senior management
An ability to mitigate a vulnerability or issue by leveraging support from internal stakeholders in a collaborative approach

Communication Skills:

Excellent written and verbal communication skills are required
Able to articulate and visually present complex analysis results
Ability to communicate effectively with business representatives in explaining findings clearly and where necessary, in layman’s term

This position is anticipated to require the use of one or more High Security Access (HSA) systems. Users of these systems are subject to enhanced screening which includes both criminal and credit background checks, and/or other enhanced screening at the time of accepting the position and on an annual basis thereafter. The enhanced screening will need to be successfully completed prior to commencing employment or assignment.

J.P. Morgan is a place for talented people from all backgrounds and perspectives because our clients come from all backgrounds and perspectives. We encourage a culture of inclusion, where everyone’s opinion counts and all employees have the freedom to deliver their absolute best. This is why we work hard and invest in attracting and developing a diverse workforce. Learn more about our Business Resource Groups in how they help our employees build successful careers and reach their greatest potential.

Insurance Claim Investigators in Malaysia

arielspooner — 2016-06-22 03:32:46 UTC

Claims Investigators Singapore

There are numerous facts to elaborate about the incredible results obtained by using the claim investigation services provided by various kinds of claim investigators or insurance fraud investigators in order to fulfill entire investigative needs of victimized claimants who have suffered numerous financial or social losses due to bigger deception and cheatings by the clever and tactful people who are capable of using their guts and tricks for defrauding the innocent clients and companies by obtaining the compensation or remittance of numerous faked and staged claims though an indecent or unlawful act of forged, faked and unrealistic substance in getting an illegal or unreliable claim.

This is to tell you that this kind of situation are quite common in the insurance sector where majority of companies working for the insurance sector of Malaysia are frequently coming across this kind of problems at very large scale and the worst thing is that there is no curb on such practices and organizations are really forced to tolerate huge financial losses annually. While observing the various claim clearance processes taken up by the organizations in Malaysia, it is revealed that most of them have not incorporated a reliable and trustworthy system of examining the claims at the initial stages in order to verify the veracity and genuineness documents, statements and evidences enclosed with claims and tentative use of such practices without getting any kind of verification, has been pushing the organizations to have enormous financial losses.

This is the reason that existing insurance companies in Malaysia are taking the good use of wide ranges of claim investigation services provided by our insurance claim investigators who are considered worthy in verifying all kind of claims usually comes to them for any kind of compensation or remittance. There is absolutely no doubt that Insurance fraud investigation in Malaysia are some of the flawless people worthily utilized for proving the seamless claim investigation processes for confirming the authenticity of all kinds of claims often submitted by them for getting a compensation or a recovery of a loss, damage or a theft occurred in Malaysia.

It is proved that our claim Investigators are providing professional insurance claim investigation services to clients in all over Malaysia. The entire regions of Malaysia is looked after by reputed insurance investigative firms which are well-established through their trustworthy network and quite experienced in providing comprehensive insurance investigation services according to the locale. We maintain a network of our professional associates having corresponding offices in various parts of world. Our investigations and reports are quite descriptive in an objective to obtain the clear and convincing evidence. Our range of services includes:

Fraud claim investigations and insurance fraud investigation
Life insurance claim investigations
Accidental benefits/death claim investigations
Property loss claim investigations
Travel insurance claim investigations
Third-party claim investigations
Medical claim investigations
Personal claim investigations
Theft claim investigations
Subrogation and recovery investigations
Contestable death investigations
Fatal accident investigations
Motor vehicle crash investigation
Recovery of stolen vehicles
Insurance litigation support

Our associates are very well experienced in insurance claim investigations and well known in their respective locale. Consequently, we assure to give you the best and prompt service. Indeed we cover all over Malaysia including Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru, Kajang, Ipoh, Klang, Subang Jaya, Kuching, Petaling Jaya, Seremban, Georgetown, Malacca City, Kota Bharu, Kota Kinabalu, Kuantan, Sungai Petani, Batu Pahat, Tawau, Sandakan, Alor Setar, Kuala Terengganu. Kindly contact us on our email: info@claiminvestigators.com according to your requirement respectively.

Heimdal Security Company: 41 Amazing Internet Security Blogs You Should Be Reading

arielspooner — 2016-07-04 06:05:19 UTC

Introduction

How do we stay up-to-date with the latest security news? Where do we find the best security solutions to fight malware? Who can we follow to learn about the latest threats and online attacks so that we can protect ourselves?

With security in our minds, no matter we are common people or a big company name, we need to understand technology if we want to prevent data loss and privacy breaches.

But with so many security blogs out there, which one should we follow?

We have put together a list of security blogs from independent individuals and big names in the IT industry, so that you can benefit from their knowledge and insight. Therefore, if you need best practices, how-to articles, online safety research or the latest security news, feel free to bookmark this article and access it whenever you feel necessary.

1. Krebs on Security

Brian Krebs is the man behind Krebs on Security. Being hacked himself in 2001, he takes a personal interest in online security and is one of the well-known names in today’s security landscape. He covers topics from latest threats, privacy breaches and cyber-criminals to major security news.

2. Schneier on Security

Bruce Schneider is probably the most well-known name that you can recognize in our list, and was even called a “security guru” by The Economist. He wrote books, hundreds of articles, essays and security papers on security matters. At the same time, he is a known figure in the media environment which recognize him as an important voice for the online security, not only for his knowledge on the matter, but also because he knows how to express his opinions.

3. TaoSecurity

This security blog is run by Richard Bejtlich, Chief Security Officer at Mandiant and author of many books on security. With an extensive background on cyber-criminal world and malicious attacks on enterprise networks, he shares his experience on digital defense, network monitoring and detection on his security blog. Since a great number of network attacks come from China, he is specialized on Chinese online criminals.

4. US-CERT

This is the official website of the Department of Homeland Security, from USA.

Though it is not a classical security blog, its purpose is to improve Internet security by providing specialized and well detailed information on cyber-criminal activities, malware, phishing attempts and online threats. To use their own words: “US-CERT strives for a safer, stronger Internet for all Americans by responding to major incidents, analyzing threats, and exchanging critical cyber-security information with trusted partners around the world.”

5. Dark Reading

Dark Reading is a widely-read cyber security site that addresses professionals from the IT environment, security researchers and technology specialists. They use their experience and knowledge to provide articles, recommendations, news and information on IT security.

6. CIO

CIO is the place where you find news, information technology articles, insight and analysis on major data breaches and online threats. Covering multiple aspects of world wide web, it provides in-depth, content rich information for IT professionals and normal users.

7. Network Security Blog

Martin McKeay is the voice of this security blog, where you can find information and news on privacy and security issues. As Martin says: “I took up blogging as a means to extend my knowledge and test my ideas about security”.

8. Security Watch with Neil Rubenking

Known for his direct and witty style, Neil Rubenking is the man you have to listen if you search for technical advice on the main security solutions, from firewalls, antivirus and antispam products to full security suites. Detailed reports and sharp analysis of security programs place him be on your follow list if you look for this type if information.

9. Paul’s Security Weekly

Paul’s Security Weekly, founded by Paul Asadoorian, brings you security news, useful technical articles, research studies and valuable information on hacking and cyber-crime through various channels, from blog posts, videos to podcasts.

10. PCMag.com

One of the most popular sites in the software industry, PC Magazine comes with reviews and studies on the latest products for online security. For an objective analysis of a product you may be looking, don’t forget to look for the dedicated article on this website.

11. Wired

One of the classical North American publications reporting on technology and its role in culture, economy and politics, Wired approaches topics on online privacy, cyber-criminal threats, systems security and the latest alerts.

12. Forbe’s Firewall

Forbe’s Firewall comes from one of the leading media company in the online environment and provides strong analysis, reliable tools and real-time reports for cyber-security news and information on the latest online threats.

13. TechRepublic

TechRepublic provides large resources for the online industry, such as blog articles, forums, technical papers and security data. All the valuable information available helps IT professionals and technology leaders to come with the best decissions on their business processes.

14. Zero Day

The Zero Day security blog is important for all the people which are part of the IT industry and you should follow it to stay up-to-date with the latest security analysis, software vulnerabilities, malware attacks and network threats.

15. Securosis

Securosis is a security research and advisory company that offers security services for companies and organizations. At the same time, you can find on their security blog some useful articles and insight on managing and protecting online data.

16. The Guardian Information Security Hub

Known for its quality articles on world news, Guardian offers a section dedicated to information security for companies and individuals. To stay up-to-date with the latest articles and news on cyber security, make sure you follow this site.

17. Help Net Security

This security site is a popular place for data and security news and you can find here the latest information and articles related to the IT industry.

18. Techworld Security

The section dedicated to security on this site analyzes the latest malware threats and zero-day exploits. You can find here other important topics and subjects, such as security articles, how-to documents and software reviews.

19. Fox IT Security Blog

This security blog is a very good source of information on online security, technology news and cyber crime defense.

20. SC Magazine

SC Magazine comes in the IT environment with technical information and data analysis to fight the present online security threats. Their site provides testing results for e-mail security, mobile devices, cloud and web security.

21. Network Computing

The content of this security blog focuses on cloud technology and enterprise infrastructure systems. Its published articles cover security solutions on how to deliver applications and services for an increasingly large threat environment in the business world, news and expert advice.

22. Infosecurity Magazine

Infosecurity Magazine is an online magazine which covers not only security articles on popular topics, but is also dedicated to security strategy, valuable insights and technical approaches for the online industry.

23. SANS Institute AppSec Blog

This security site addresses the growing malware threats in the online world by providing training, research, certification and educational resources for IT specialists.

24. Threat Track Security

This security blog keeps you up-to-date with the latest innovations and developments in the IT industry, from security exploits to software vulnerabilities and cyber-criminal attempts.

25. CSO Online

CSO focuses on information technology, access management for enterprise servers, loss prevention, cybercriminal threats and software vulnerabilities.

Security blogs from software providers in the IT industry

26. Sophos security blog

Naked Security is Sophos’s award-winning threat news room, giving you news, opinion, advice and research on computer security issues and the latest internet threats. Naked Security is the blog of security company SOPHOS and the place where you can find news, research studies, advices and opinions. Categories range from mobile security threats to operating systems and malware articles. Naked Security is updated multiple times per day and receives around 1.5 million pageviews per month. It has won numerous awards and it is considered one of the best security blogs.

27. Kaspersky Lab’s ThreatPost

Threatpost is the leading security news website that is part of The Kaspersky Lab. Their articles cover important stories and relevant security news for the online world. They are recognized as an important source of news for online security in important newspapers and publications, such as New York Times, USA Today or The Wall Street Journal.

28. Kaspersky Lab’s Securelist

Securelist is a security blog run by Kaspersky Lab and it addresses a large audience, providing some of the best security subjects on cybercriminal activities and data stealing malware. You can find here security information that focuses on malware, phishing and other threats from the cyber security world.

29. Symantec Weblog

Symantec Weblog is a security blog from one of the biggest providers of security solutions world wide, Symantec. Using their technical knowledge and data collected along the years, they come with strong analysis reports and articles on security threats, online criminals, data stealing malware, system vulnerbilities and many others.

30. Google Online Security Blog

We are surrounded by Google products and services, from their search engine to their web browser, so it is normal to include their security blog in our list. It is a reliable security blog and even more, a reference point on online security and privacy we need to acknowledge.

31. Zone Alarm Cyber Security Blog

The security blog from ZoneAlarm, one of the well-known vendors of security products, provides valuable information on malware defense and online security. Using their experience on malware, this security blog generates malware alerts, practical security tips and the latest news in the IT industry.

32. F-Secure Safe & Savvy Blog

A security blog from F-Secure, a company dedicated to online content and privacy protection. On this security blog you will find helpful tips and advises on security issues, from protecting your personal identity to keeping your system safe.

33. HotforSecurity

The security blog from Bitdefender – one of the leading companies on online security solutions, covers various subjects from the IT world, from Internet scams, online spam and phishing to malware and data stealing software.

34. McAfee security blog

McAfee security blog provides the latest tips and techniques from security experts to keep you up-to-date with the latest malware trends in the online environment.

35. Microsoft Malware Protection Center

The Microsoft Malware Protection Center analyzes data from all over the world to provide insight and valuable information on fighting online threats in order to protect users from malware attacks and online crime.

36. SpiderLabs Security Blog

Investigators and researchers at Trustwave cover the latest technology news on this security blog. Gathering information from research and testing, they publish articles and security studies to fight online hackers and cyber-criminal threats.

37. Dell SecureWorks

The security blog from Dell SecureWorks provides the latest news and information for IT professionals and users that need to stay up-to-date with online threats and malware attacks.

38. Malwarebytes Security Blog

The Malwarebytes security blog articles cover the latest malware threats and cyber criminal attempts from the online world. You can find their articles on categories, from cyber-crime, exploits, hacking and malware analysis.

39. Trend Micro Simply Security

Trend Micro Simply Security site offers expert insights on cloud security, data safety, privacy protection and threat intelligence.

40. We Live Security

We Live Security, the Eset blog, is an online resource for cyber security articles and this blog covers a large network of security topics from emerging online threats to zero-day exploits.

41. CSIS Security Group Blog

The security blog from CSIS Security Group provides valuable information on malware attacks and online threats. Using the internal research data from their own security labs, their studies help users fight cyber-criminal threats.

Conclusions

We know our list is not perfect, there are so many other security blogs and top influencers in the IT industry that we have not included and we can not assume this list is complete. We try to stay in tune with the latest updates in the industry and we provided a few reasons why you should follow the security blogs above.

But, since the Internet world and the security landscape is changing all the time, so must we. So, help us improve our article, let us know what you think, we have no problem in making changes to our article and improve it for the benefit of all.

Bacall Development: The benefits of investing in commercial property

arielspooner — 2016-07-18 02:34:21 UTC

Safety is the main reason why some people invest in commercial property since it's the main interest of many. Based on recent reviews, commercial property will still perform for you even if the economy slows down, unlike in residential property. And when the economy is strong, commercial property increases its value and gives you a stable income.

But if you're still in doubt or just planning to start out in this venture, Bacall Development explains the benefits you can gain from investing in commercial property through the following paragraphs to help you make up your mind. The firm is a full-service commercial real estate company that has been involved in this field for decades.

Strong returns are not a surprise to some when it comes to commercial property. You can gain both income and capital growth in a commercial property since it provides strong and reliable returns. However, making a quick gain shouldn't be your only objective because this endeavor requires great effort and patience. You should take advantage of a growing investment over time where you can get a return consistently above inflation.

Aside from higher returns, commercial property is oftentimes more secure - a crucial point to others that can result in a steady income. Leasing commercial real estate usually ranges from three to ten years as opposed to short-term leases of residential properties.

Because of the mentioned benefits above, reviews state that the risk is lesser if you invest in commercial property than in residential property or the stock market. This data is based on overall analysis of both properties.

According to Bacall Development and its associates, commercial property can catch the attention of different sectors in the economy. Because of the dependence of retail property on consumer spending trends, it has the highest direct relationship to the economy, along with industrial properties. Office buildings are most likely to perform depending on long-term supply and demand. Exposure to various sectors can deliver great benefits to you and to avoid fraud as well.

Acquiring tax benefits is imaginable with a commercial property. Most commercial properties attract handy building allowances as well as depreciation allowances on plant equipment within the building.

Protection against inflation is also one of the benefits of investing in commercial property. Reviews reveal that commercial property has been considered as a good protection against inflation over the years. It has a good record of outpacing inflation over a long period of time.

Investment control? Yes, it's possible. You have a significant level of control over your investment in case you're an owner of a direct property. You have control on various areas such as change of use for the property, disposal, redevelopment, renovations, the terms of the lease, the type of tenant, and upgrading.

Furthermore, you have the ability to add value in a commercial property investment through improvement of the appearance, renovation, lease restructure, subdivision or enlargement, and upgrade. You can further leverage your commercial investments as you improve the property and it grows in value. By borrowing more against your improved equity, you can quickly be in a position to control a sizeable portfolio of properties.

However, Bacall Development needs you to know that there are still disadvantages in owning commercial properties. What are mentioned above could be the total opposite to others based on their individual experience. The firm suggests that you must choose the right commercial property to have a strong capital growth and gain a great rental return. You must know what makes a good commercial property.

Bacall Development: Tips for searching the ideal commercial property

arielspooner — 2016-08-17 02:56:46 UTC

Some say that location is the most important thing when looking for the perfect property for your business. But Bacall Development claims that there are other essential things to consider that are just or even more important as location. Looking for the perfect property for your business can be arduous, so the Bacall team suggests the following to help you find the right commercial property.

Location

Reviews show that location holds great importance to some business, but not to every business out there because it depends on the kind of business you have. For instance, location can set a great difference and can greatly contribute to the success or failure of your business in case you depend on customer contact in a retail setting. You must be in a place that is accessible and easy to find.

You may choose a serene location if you don’t see clients often at your site to offer a peaceful environment to your staff. With this, they can be more focused to finish their jobs. Bacall Development recommends a home office if you don’t have any employees on site and don’t expect visits from customers. This way, you can save on operating costs and provide potential tax savings.

Size

Make sure that the property fits your business well and works for the kind of business you have. Size is an important factor whether you’re just starting out or moving your business. If the site can accommodate your business then it can be an excellent choice for you. In order to avoid any added expense because of retrofitting, see to it that the place has been outfitted with wiring to meet your electrical and communication needs. Knowing the zoning ordinances of the area is also considered necessary.

Surroundings

Does the location of the property has a good neighborhood? Bacall Development needs you to prioritize the growth of your business, so even though the rent is high but the location is accessible and suits your needs, it is worth your money. Placing your business near similar businesses can do you good if you have a retail business. Consider a place that is convenient for your customers and offers the chance to combine trips and errands. Parking, safety, and traffic also have great influence to potential customers, so put them into mind. Comfort and safety are crucial for your customers and employees, so see to it that you will choose a property that offers both.

Cost

Is the property affordable to you? Begin looking at a commercial property for your business after having a particular budget in mind. Bacall associates rental suggests that you consider different alternatives such as renting an existing space, buying a lot and have control over the construction and design, and leasing a build-to-suit. You can buy an affordable piece of property for your business by stopping at the courthouse to get a list of business closings or property foreclosures.

Availability

Check if the property is really out there. You can schedule a consultation with a real estate broker to help you lessen your options in case you’re not certain how to find a commercial property. Going in person is also advisable if you’re going to visit some locations that caught your interest. This can help you do some evaluation on some issues that may affect your business such as competition, traffic, and overall convenience. Bacall Development recommends the use of online searching at real estate websites if you want to see what is available on the market without exerting too much effort.

Keep in mind that a good commercial property does not stay available for long, so be prepared to act quickly if you find one that really matches your business needs.

Online Security: Top Payment Options for Online Casinos

arielspooner — 2016-12-07 05:18:21 UTC

Finding your favorite casino games online is easy to do considering the loads of options to choose from. However, in order to make the most of your gambling experience online, it is ideal that you find a casino that offers you the safest, most reliable payment options. Security is an important consideration when trying to choosing an online casino. To make it easier on you, we’ve compiled a listing of the top payment options available through online casinos today. Look out for these options as they ensure your security comes first and that you have the best online gambling experience.

Credit Card

Credit is probably the most widely used form of payment across all online casinos. The great thing about credit card payment options is that you’ll find them at all casinos, so you’ll be able to play at any casino if this is your preferred method. Unfortunately, credit cards aren’t always the most secure option, as fraudulent behavior is often a cause for concern. Of all credit card options, we recommend Visa as it is accepted worldwide and is the safest of the bunch.

PayPal

Conveniency is at the core of PayPal’s business model, allowing for easy money transfer online. PayPal was founded in 1998 with the intention of making online shopping easier and hassle-free. Users of PayPal are now able to consolidate their multiple banking accounts under one convenient roof, so that they can transfer money or make payments through multiple accounts. For online casino members, the availability of PayPal makes their experience all that much more convenient. It’s much easier to play and gamble when you don’t have to worry about constantly having to rely on one single account. Additionally, PayPal is extremely secure and employs the strictest technology to prevent fraud and other suspicious behavior. Thus, it is no wonder that casino sites that accept paypal, listed on paypal-casinos.co, are a favorite among online casino goers. If we had to go with one option, PayPal would be our pick.

Neteller

Known as the leader in the e-wallet industry, Neteller is a highly reputable and widely used form of payment. Neteller makes it easy to transfer funds for services and is used as a virtual wallet for those who prefer veering away from banks. Knowing that you won’t have to plug in your account number in order to make a payment is a source of comfort for many, and Neteller allows for that. It is a convenient payment option that has become widely recognized within the online casino industry. It is relatively easy to come across, especially within the Canadian casino space online.

Visa Electron

Debit is also a common form of payment available on many online casinos worldwide. Visa Electron is the most reputable of the lot, ensuring security for all those using it. The card is easy to use and it serves as a sister card to the Visa debit card. The only difference between the two is that Visa Electron prevents the player from overdrawing, so they must be sure to have enough funds available when using their card. Most online casinos offer Visa Electron as a payment method. We highly recommend Visa Electron if you like to use your debit card and are looking for a secure form of debit.

These payment options are the most reliable options when making payments through online casinos. It is important to choose an option that is most convenient for you and keeps your security a priority. Always choose a trusted option so that you can make the most of your online casino experience.

Galveston Financial Capital: About Us

arielspooner — 2017-03-14 03:09:47 UTC

The Galveston County Small Business Development Center (GC SBDC) provides business consulting and training to help entrepreneurs and small business owners at every stage of your business development. Our assistance is customized to your needs, whether you need help evaluating financing alternatives, developing a loan package, reviewing and updating your business plan, or improving productivity and profitability. We can also help you evaluate new market opportunities selling to federal, state and local governments or to customers outside the United States.

Visit us at our GC SBDC facility to meet with one of our expert consultants for a free, hands-on, one-on-one consulting session, or to attend one of our practical workshops led by experienced entrepreneurs to learn and expand your knowledge of critical business tools and technology skills. We'll also customize training just for you, to be held on site or at your location.

arielspooner — 2017-03-17 02:14:57 UTC

Galveston Things To Do

Before you go, here are some of the most entertaining things to do on Galveston Island.

The Beach

There is plenty of room to lay out and the water stays a comfortable temperature due to its southern location. While it is a little murky and the waves are small, you can hop on a boogie board or inner tube and float around. You may even be able to catch some waves that are big enough to surf. It’s definitely recommended to bring plenty of water and some food, as the beach gets pretty warm especially in the summer time. For those who are looking for the best beach to go to, many tourists and locals recommend Stewart Beach

Moody Gardens

For those who love the beauty of exotic nature, Moody Gardens should be the first stop on your travel list of activities. This nature and discovery center, which is geared towards kids, is an awesome place for family friendly fun. From outside, you will see multiple large pyramids, each of them containing a different theme. You can enter the discovery pyramid, the aquarium pyramid, a rainforest pyramid. Overall, it’s a great place for families to adventure around in.

The Strand

Galveston’s historic Strand has many different restaurants, activities and other things to excite locals and tourists alike. Back in the early days of Galveston, the Strand is where the locals came for a night out on the town. There are still some hotels, trendy restaurants, an amazing candy shop, and a large chess board where you can play life-size chess. They also have their Mardi-Gras celebration here, which has been called the second best Mardi-Gras outside of New Orleans! Don’t forget to take in all of the historic buildings while your there, because you will see a lot of historical state landmark plaques!

Galveston Financial Capital: About The GC SBDC

arielspooner — 2017-03-20 01:56:28 UTC

What is the SBDC?

The Galveston County Small Business Development Center (GC SBDC) provides free business consulting and affordable training seminars to small and medium-sized business owners and managers. The GC SBDC is a business consulting and training center of the UH SBDC Network, which serves 32 counties in Southeast Texas through 15 business consulting and training centers.

How can the center help my new business?

The GC SBDC offers affordable training seminars on business topics for start-up and pre-venture entrepreneurs. Our training seminars are designed to help broaden your business knowledge and are focused on business basics that will help you make your business a success. GC SBDC consultants help entrepreneurs assess their business idea and assist with the creation of a solid business plan at no cost.

My business has been established for some time. How can the center help me?

GC SBDC consultants help business owners develop strategies, attract customers, increase sales and improve productivity and profitability, all at no cost. Our consultants have extensive, practical experience in varied fields, including marketing, finance, retail and management.

Our center offers affordable training seminars taught by instructors who share their practical business experience with you. Business topics include marketing, finance, management, computers, taxes and executive skills enhancement.

The GC SBDC also offers specialty assistance for entrepreneurs wanting to sell to the government, do business internationally, or commercialize their technology.

Does the center charge for its services?

GC SBDC offers free consulting and very affordable training seminars and workshops.

Jakarta Capital Indonesia Travel Review: A Travel Guide To The Thriving Capital of Indonesia

arielspooner — 2017-04-19 02:43:33 UTC

Jakarta, with its traffic-plagued streets, high-rise buildings and persistent blanket of smog, may at first seem like a not-so interesting destination that can easily confuse and confound Pinoy travelers. But beneath its unappealing façade and rough surface, you will find a diverse and multicultural megalopolis filled with unexpectedly delightful corners, colorful attractions as well as remarkably positive and good-natured citizens.

And, with a little travel planning and help from Skyscanner, you can surely have a blast and a hassle-free memorable trip in Indonesia’s thriving capital.

Why visit Jakarta?

Jakarta isn’t normally the first place that pops into mind, when Pinoys imagine of travel destinations in Indonesia. Hardly a relaxing and scenic vacation spot, the economic dynamo of Indonesia boasts no palm-lined avenues and gorgeous beaches, in spite of its coastal and sub-equatorial profile. Not to mention, it is a humid, populous and immense urban sprawl known for its maddening traffic.

But, the “Big Durian” has a plethora of rewarding experiences and spellbinding diversions that compensate for its flaws, should the more adventurous Pinoy travelers accept its challenges, sensations and sights. While it’s no oil painting, the city has tons of hipster markets and a fascinating colonial history that’s totally worth exploring. What’s more, it has a flourishing culinary scene, and an electric world-class nightlife circuit, making Jakarta one of the most dynamic cities in Southeast Asia.

A colorful mixture of customs, dialects and cultures, Jakarta is also praised for its ultra accommodating and hospitable locals. As a matter of fact, the citizens here are so friendly that you are bound to create lasting friendships.

Documents needed to travel to Jakarta

You don’t need to go through the hassles of securing a visa, to set foot on this buzzing and colorful Indonesian hub. After all, any Juan with a Philippine passport that’s valid for 6 months following the departure date will be granted visa on arrival in Indonesia.

Keep in mind, though, this kind of visa is valid only for 30 days and is applicable to social visits, leisure, government visits as well as for people who are attending conferences, seminars and convention. Furthermore, it’s nonconvertible, non-extendable and can’t be used for employment purposes.

Though you can enter Jakarta without a visa, you still need to present a few supporting travel documents, and go through an interview at the immigration counter. For those who are traveling overseas for the first time, it may take a while for you to get through the immigration officer, meaning you should prepare your documents beforehand and check-in early. For the most part, these are the documents that the immigration officer from a Philippine airport will ask from you.

· PRC ID (if you have one)

· Proof of employment/business certificate

· A Philippine passport (valid at least 6 months following your departure date)

· Credit card (if you have one)

· A confirmed travel itinerary

· Back-and-forth tickets

· Proof of accommodations

· Show money (at least 13,000 PHP for a 4-day trip)

How to get to Jakarta

Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific offer daily flights from Manila to Soekarno Hatta International Airport – Jakarta’s main international gateway. Travel duration from Manila to Jakarta is about 4 hours. Likewise, Singapore Airlines has connecting flights to Jakarta with a layover in Singapore. Travel time for this route is around 6 hours and 40 minutes.

Upon your arrival at the airport, you may get to the city center via DAMRI shuttle buses, which connect international passengers to numerous destinations in Jakarta. Depending on the type of seat and location of your drop off, a ticket person for this bus ride will cost you 25,000 to 35,000 IDR (91 to 250 PHP). The bus service is air-conditioned, comfortable, reliable, and operates until midnight.

To get tickets for this bus ride, head to the left after going out of the Terminal 2 building, until you see DAMRI bus stops and ticket booths.

When to go and visit Jakarta

Jakarta, with its tropical climate, is a good year-round destination, though floods can affect the city during the wet season. The dry season, which starts from May and ends in September, is arguably the best time to visit Jakarta. With a friendly low average temperature of 30°C (86°F), you can easily tour the city without having to worry about getting wet on the dry months. But, make no mistake about it – visiting Jakarta during the wet season can be quite a pleasant experience as well, once you get used to the frequent rains.

Important Bahasa words and phrases

Since English is not widely spoken in the archipelago, it’s essential for you to learn a bit of Bahasa Indonesia, when visiting Jakarta. Here are a few words and phrases in Bahasa that may come in handy in your trip!

· Selamat dating – welcome

· Apa kabar – how are you?

· Di mana? – where?

· Ya – yes

· Tidak – no

· Makasi/ Terima kasih – Thank you

· Maaf – sorry

· Masuk – enter/entrance

· Berapa?- how many/how much?

· Anda – you

· Saya – we/me/I

· Disini – here

· Boleh – possible/can

Getting around

· Walking or biking – Sidewalks are not well-maintained and well-connected in Jakarta, so cycling and walking on its busy streets are not recommended.

· Car rental – With its perpetual gridlocked traffic jams, hiring a car, and driving through the city may not be such a good idea, especially if you’re on a rush, and short on time.

· Taxi – Taxis are, in general, reliable and affordable, as long as you use a reputable taxi company, like the Blue Bird group.

· Bajaj – It’s Jakarta’s version of Thailand’s famous tuk-tuk. They are a fairly popular option in Jakarta, as they can weave through the city’s interminable traffic jams, just like motorbikes do.

· Tour Bus – Nicknamed as “City Tour Jakarta”, these buses are double deckers that will take you to some of the city’s places of interest for free.

Other things to keep in mind

· Don’t drink tap water wherever you are in Jakarta.

· The local currency is Indonesian rupiah (IDR or Rp). For an updated IDR to PHP conversion, check out themoneyconverter.com/IDR/PHP.

· Jakarta is credit card friendly, with hotels, restaurants and shops mostly accepting Mastercard and Visa.

· Indonesians are generally laid-back, but there are customs and etiquette that you should be aware of, so that you won’t offend them. For instance, shoes should always be removed when entering mosques, temples and even some shops. Also, make sure your skirts and shoes cover the knees when in town, and avoid smooching in public with your partner.

· Electrical: 240 Volts, 50 Hertz

· Jakarta isn’t a dangerous place to roam around, but just like any modern city, there’s always an array of scammers out to prey on unsuspecting and naïve foreign tourists. Just be vigilant, use your common sense and you’ll get to dodge the city’s scams.

Things to do in Jakarta

· Explore the Ancol Dream Park.

· Get an up close look of the charming animals at the Ragunan Zoo.

· Discover the fascinating maritime history of Indonesia with a visit to Museum Bahari.

· Unwind at Taman Mini Indonesia.

· Visit the city’s other top museums, including the Wayang, Museum National, and National History Museum.

· Snap pictures of the city's beautiful landmarks, such as the Gegung Pancasila, Toka Merah, Mahkama Agung, and the towering Monas monuments.

· Be wowed by the intricate designs of Jakarta’s Islamic mosques, Buddhist temples and the Cathedral.

· Experience the city’s renowned nightlife scene by visiting cool spots like the Blowfish, Stadium, Jalan Jaksa and Blok M.

· Sample Jakarta’s mouthwatering street food.

arielspooner — 2017-04-21 03:57:40 UTC

Whether you're looking to make a permanent move out to the island, buy a vacation home for rental income, or are just curious what it costs to live by the shore, check out these five affordable Galveston homes:

3727 Avenue P: Built in 1922, this 1,292-square-foot Craftsman bungalow has been fully updated but maintains some of the original structure's features. Exposed brick walls in the kitchen and distressed wood floors lend this cozy home character.

3406 Avenue P: This 1,144-square-foot home, built in 1914, has two bedrooms and one full bath. Inside, coffered ceilings and dark-wood molding in the living spaces contrast with the kitchen's light, airy motif. It's true to its original condition, down to the paint colors: a specialist was able to track down the home's original hues.

1202 Church: Close to the Historic Strand District and the beach, this 2,540-square-foot house also has good leasing potential. Built in 1890, the historic structure has five bedrooms and three baths and is set on a 3,605-square-foot lot.

17615 Termini San Luis Pass: This townhome is being sold mostly furnished. The two-bedroom, three-bath house has 1,314 square feet of livable space, as well as a spacious deck. The newest home in this roundup, it was built in 1983.

4241 Pointe West: The highlight of this home is its ocean and bay views. Surrounded by green spaces and water panoramas just beyond, this 1,427-square-foot condominium is filled with windows to let in natural light. A deck offers a space to relax at this three-bedroom, two-bath home.

Galveston Capital Tourism and Marketing: Affordable Galveston homes that offer a charming getaway

arielspooner — 2017-04-21 03:57:45 UTC