The Tower of the Koutoubia Mosque

Posted on by Dan Hill

Featuring a sandstone minaret that’s 226ft (69m) tall, tower of the koutoubia mosque is a Marrakech icon. Although non-Muslims can’t enter, they can explore the lush orange tree gardens surrounding this famous temple.

Five times a day, a muezzin’s voice rises above the din of Djemaa el Fna to call the faithful to prayer. The mosque’s incredible tower is a monumental cheat sheet of Moorish ornament: scalloped keystone arches, jagged merlon crenelations, and mathematically pleasing proportions.

History

The tower of the koutoubia mosque is one of the most famous landmarks in Marrakech. It was built during the 12th century by the Almohad dynasty during the Hispano-Moresque period and was modeled after the Giralda of Seville and the Hassan Tower of Rabat.

It is also renowned for its golden spire, which has six rooms that are situated one on top of another. Local legend has it that the spire was originally made of gold, but that the wife of the Almohad sultan Yacoub el Mansour melted down her gold jewelry as a punishment for eating during Ramadan and donated the money to build the minaret.

The spire is adorned with three gold spheres that are believed to represent the holy cities of Mecca, Medina, and Jerusalem. Non-Muslims are not allowed inside the mosque or its minaret, but can admire it from outside. A kaleidoscope of columns and white arches make up the prayer corridors that are divided into 17 different naves. The pulpit is a work of art that was donated by the Almoravid Sultan Ali ben Youssef.

Architecture

The mosque’s design reflects the rich cultural heritage of Marrakech, an ancient city that has always been at the intersection of spirituality and commerce. The juxtaposition of these different pursuits, from seeking enlightenment to exchanging products and ideas in the marketplace, is reflected by its architectural grandeur and captivating silhouette against the azure sky.

The Koutoubia is renowned for its iconic minaret, which reaches 77 meters high and dominates the city’s skyline. It was built during the twelfth century by the Almohad Caliph Yaqub al-Mansur. The name “Koutoubia” comes from the Arabic word for bookseller, as it was originally located near a book market.

The tower is crafted from sandstone and features six floors connected by ramps, making it a remarkable feat of engineering for its time. The tower also serves as a signal for the muezzin, who announces prayer times by calling out from the top. Many other minarets, including the Giralda in Seville and the Hassan Minaret in Rabat, were inspired by this unique structure.

Interior

The Koutoubia Mosque is a major landmark in Marrakech. It’s surrounded by lush gardens, a tranquil retreat from the city’s bustle. Unfortunately, non-Muslims are not allowed inside the mosque or minaret (only Muslims may enter).

The mosque was originally built by the Almoravid dynasty in 1120. But it was not oriented correctly with Mecca, which caused the Almohad dynasty caliph Yaqub el-Mansur to rebuild the mosque in 1184. The new design was based on the archetypal Islamic hypostyle mosque, which features three wide central naves with 17 parallel transverse naves.

The soaring minaret is the most prominent feature of this remarkable mosque. It’s composed of six rooms placed one on top of the other and is accessed through a ramp located underneath the mosque’s dome. Its unique construction made it a model for future mosque designs, including the Giralda tower in Seville and the Hassan Tower in Rabat. Legend tells of a forbidden love between the architect and the Caliph’s daughter, expressed in secret symbols and messages in the mosque’s intricate designs.

Exterior

The Koutoubia is an iconic visual focal point of Marrakesh. It is a must-see for all visitors to the city. Its unique architecture has inspired many imitations, and its captivating beauty attracts visitors from all over the world.

Six rooms on top of each other form the interior of this incredible tower. The muezzin would climb these stairs to deliver the call to prayer. The mosque is also topped with a spire that is adorned with four copper globes. The local legend says that these were originally made of gold, but the wife of the Almohad Caliph Yacoub al-Mansur melted down her own jewellery as a self-imposed penance after eating four grapes during Ramadan.

While non-Muslims are not allowed inside the mosque, they can admire the exterior and its incredible minaret from the outside. It is especially stunning at night, when it is beautifully illuminated. Guests can also visit the serene Menara Gardens adjacent to the Koutoubia Mosque.

5 Best Healthy Breakfast Ideas

Posted on by Dan Hill

Lean proteins, like those found in egg, chicken and fish, as well as beans, legumes, nuts, seeds and unsweetened yogurt are all good choices for a nutritionally balanced breakfast, dietitians say.

Try these savory-sweet recipes, such as a veggie and protein-packed egg casserole or sweet potato toast topped with ham, a poached egg and a drizzle of hollandaise sauce. Or mix up your mornings with smoothies and acai bowls.

1. Eggs

Eggs are a cheap, protein-rich breakfast that can keep you full until lunchtime. A breakfast of scrambled eggs and whole-grain toast or a veggie frittata is packed with vitamins, minerals and lean protein. Just be sure to choose the right egg recipes for you (such as this ultimate savory stir fry, or a spinach, feta and sriracha frittata). If you’re a fan of eggs but want to try something different, a baked breakfast casserole is another option. You can even make these breakfast-on-a-slice muffins in advance for a grab-and-go option.

Boost the protein in your morning meal with this smoothie recipe, which includes Greek yogurt and berries. It’s also a great way to get more veggies in the morning. Just make sure you’re using a non-dairy milk (such as almond or coconut) and watch the added sugars in your other breakfast ingredients, including cereals, bagels, yogurt parfaits, granola and coffee.

2. Oatmeal

Oatmeal has a bad rap, but it’s a hearty breakfast that’s packed with soluble fiber and vitamin-rich minerals, says nutritionist . Oats also offer antioxidants called avenanthramides, which may help prevent high blood pressure.

A bowl of oats can be topped with fruit, nuts or a swirl of nut butter for protein and healthy fat. Toss in some chia seeds, hemp or ground flax for added nutrients and omega-3 fatty acids. You can even try adding in some veggies like sliced greens or carrot sticks for more vegetables in your morning meal.

Whether you prefer quick grab-and-go options or big batch meal prep recipes, these healthy breakfast ideas will satisfy your cravings. From veggie scrambles to power-packed waffles and even oat-based muffins, these nutritious meals will give you the energy you need for your day.

3. Greek Yogurt

Whether you’re a fan of sweet or savory, there’s something to love about this cultured dairy powerhouse. It’s perfect in smoothies, complements fruit and whole-grain cereals in oatmeal bowls and can be used in place of sour cream to save you 78 calories per tablespoon (and 7 grams of saturated fat) when making tacos or dips.

Use a low-sugar plain or vanilla yogurt and mix in some protein powder, collagen peptides, or chia seeds to make a nutritious breakfast on the go. Try this organic variety from Wallaby, which our testers can’t stop eating (it also has a 4.5-star rating on Walmart!).

Layered with berries, peanut butter granola and homemade or store-bought granola, this easy breakfast looks more fancy than it is. Toss a handful of nuts or your favorite trail mix on top for more crunch and a protein boost. This is a great way to use up those last few spoonfuls of granola that are clinging for dear life at the bottom of the jar. Add a drizzle of honey for more sweetness.

4. Nuts & Seeds

Nuts and seeds provide plant protein as well as healthy fats, fibre and minerals such as iron, zinc, magnesium, copper and selenium. They are a favourite among people who follow plant-forward eating patterns such as Mediterranean and Paleo. They are high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats (the ‘good’ fats), which can help reduce low density lipoprotein cholesterol, also known as bad cholesterol, in the blood, which is linked to heart disease.

Seeds, including chia, flax and sunflower seeds, are also rich in nutrients. They are low in saturated fats and, like nuts, contain omega-3 fatty acids.

The nutrient profiles of different nuts and seeds vary, so try adding a variety to your breakfast routine. Avoid roasted and salted nuts if possible, as the heating process damages some of their nutrients. Instead, choose dry roasted or raw varieties. Seek a store that stocks a wide selection of fresh, unadulterated, raw nuts and seeds, or buy them online from a trusted source. Alternatively, you can make your own toasted nuts or seeds at home by placing them in a toaster oven or on a baking sheet in the oven for five to 10 minutes.

5. Fruit

Fruit is a tasty way to start the day and helps meet your “five a day” requirement. Try a bright medley of berries or citrus fruits for an easy-to-make and visually appealing breakfast.

Add sliced fruits to oatmeal, Greek yogurt parfaits and chia pudding for quick and healthy options. You can also top whole grain toast with nut butter and sliced fruit for a filling breakfast.

For a fruit smoothie, choose plain over flavored varieties to limit added sugar. Christa Brown, M.S., RDN, recommends adding kefir, which provides calcium and probiotics. This smoothie recipe is a perfect on-the-go option.

Try a new way to enjoy the classic combo of fruit and yogurt with this breakfast casserole, which includes eggs, sausage and cheese. During the weekend, you can prepare the dish ahead of time in your slow cooker and serve it warm for a quick grab-and-go breakfast. You can even whip up these berry pancakes or this strawberry banana granola bread ahead of time. Make sure to pair these dishes with a cup of cold brew coffee.

Pensacola Boat Rentals

Posted on by Dan Hill
boat rentals pensacola

Boating is one of the best things to do on a vacation to Pensacola Beach. Enjoy the sunshine and the view from a Pensacola boat rental. There are many options available, from pontoon boats to yachts.

Whether you want to cruise to see dolphins or just relax on deck, a boating trip is a great way to enjoy Florida’s beaches.

Sailboat

Sailboats evoke romantic notions of afternoons on breezy bays, hard-core racing and historical re-enactment on tall ships. But today’s sailboats are incredibly versatile and can be used for many different purposes.

Pensacola is surrounded by sparkling waters and breathtaking beaches, making it an ideal place for boating. You can cruise around on a pontoon rental or charter a yacht to see the city from a new perspective. For a more private experience, you can hire a captain and crew to arrange a bachelorette party, family vacation or wedding.

You can also rent a sailboat to watch dolphins in the water. This activity is popular with tourists and locals alike. You’ll often find pods of dolphins swimming close to the shoreline. It’s also a great way to take in the stunning sunsets. You can even go parasailing to fly over the waters. But make sure you bring a waterproof camera to capture your memories! It’s best to avoid taking photos using flash, since it may disturb the marine wildlife.

Pontoon

When you think of boating, a pontoon is likely the first thing that comes to mind. These boats are designed to float on the water and have a deck for people to relax and enjoy the view. They are great for families and groups of friends. They are also ideal for different water sports, including tubing, skiing and wakeboarding.

Pontoons are built with tubes that help them float. They can be standard pontoons or tri-toons, which have three interconnected tubes on the bottom of the deck. These are great for larger groups and can go faster than standard pontoons. They are also a great choice for people who want to do watersports that require towing.

Another benefit of pontoons is that they are easy to clean. Most are made of marine vinyl, which is able to resist mildew and other outdoor elements. They can easily be hosed down and wiped down after each use. They are also perfect for stopping at a water front restaurant to grab a bite to eat!

Tritoon

Tritoons are boats that have three tubes instead of two. They are rated for higher horsepower, and are perfect for tubing or water skiing. They are also more stable than pontoons in choppy water. However, the extra tube may make a tritoon more expensive than a pontoon.

Tri-toons are also more spacious, which makes them great for family trips. They can hold more people, and often have extra features like couch-like seating and a sundeck. They can also be customized with a grill, bathroom, and more.

Paul and Shawn are truck drivers who love the beach. They met at work and decided to combine their skillsets to create a business they enjoy. They now offer Pensacola Beach boat rentals for tourists and locals alike. Their boats are the perfect way to experience the Gulf of Mexico. They provide an exciting, safe, and fun activity that the entire family can enjoy. They also provide all required safety equipment.

Yacht

A trip to Pensacola isn’t complete without cruising around the beautiful coastal beaches in one of the city’s many boat rentals. From budget-friendly pontoons to luxury yachts, there is a rental out there for every occasion. Chartering a yacht is an especially great way to host private events like bachelorette parties, weddings, and family reunions. A professional captain will ensure that your guests have a blast on the water and take in the sights of Pensacola from the unique perspective of a yacht.

Paul and Shawn are truck drivers who love to vacation on the beach. They have been renting out their pontoon for several years and now they are looking to make it a full-time lifestyle. They’re incredibly excited about the future of their business and hope that others will share their passion for boating in Florida. Their customers love their service and they’re always eager to help. Their customers have referred their friends and family to them and they’ve been able to make a real impact on the local economy.

How to Make a Charitable Contribution

Posted on by Dan Hill
make a charitable contribution

Many taxpayers can take a tax deduction for charitable donations made to qualified organizations. Make sure the organization you’re giving to is legitimate by checking the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search.

The IRS requires that you get contemporaneous written acknowledgement of your donation for cash and property donations worth $250 or more, and a qualified appraisal for noncash property donations valued at $500 or more. Also, be careful not to donate via wire transfers or gift cards, as scammers often use these methods.

Donations of Cash

Cash donations are an easy and versatile form of charitable giving. They allow donors to remove the value of their donation from their taxable income, and they provide businesses and nonprofits with an immediate benefit. Because of this, it’s important that both businesses and individuals keep accurate records of their cash contributions to meet IRS requirements for tax deductions.

Donations of cash are generally deductible up to 60% of a taxpayer’s adjusted gross income. This percentage can vary depending on the type of donation and the recipient. For example, if you donate to a charity that gives donors a free gift in return, like a tote bag or dinner, you must subtract the value of the gift from your donation.

The IRS requires that you maintain qualifying documentation for any monetary donation, which could include a receipt from the charity with the date, amount and name of the organization, a bank statement or credit card statement, or a canceled check. Often, it is best to get all of this information together at one time for the benefit of your tax return preparer.

Donations of Property

For donors who are willing to part with tangible personal property, such as old clothing or a car, the tax code provides generous deductions. Tangible personal property generally includes any item that can be touched or seen, including furniture, books, jewelry and coin and stamp collections.

Real estate is another asset class that offers significant tax benefits when donated to charity. For example, a CCIM who helps clients dispose of under-utilized assets can obtain a significant charitable deduction based on current fair market value rather than original purchase price.

Special rules can apply when donating certain types of property, such as a conservation easement, food inventories and patents. Donors wishing to donate these properties must make sure that the charity has legally enforceable rights to preserve and use them in accordance with the donor’s intent. Moreover, the property must not be sold for profit. For these reasons, it is generally better for the donor to contribute these properties only if they are free of debt.

Donations of Securities

Donating securities can be a great way to make a charitable contribution, especially for individuals with highly appreciated investments. Publicly traded stock, mutual funds and bonds can be donated directly to charity, resulting in a tax receipt for their fair market value (FMV). By eliminating the capital gains tax liability that would be generated by a sale of these assets, this strategy can help maximize the impact of your gift.

Depending on the individual’s federal and provincial marginal tax rates, this can result in significant tax savings compared to selling the securities and contributing the after-tax proceeds. It is also an effective strategy to use in conjunction with strategies such as tax loss selling during periods of market decline and portfolio rebalancing.

To facilitate the donation of securities, it is usually a good idea to donate them through a donor-advised fund, such as one offered by RBC or other institutions like Fidelity Investments or Vanguard. This can be a convenient and cost-effective way to manage a large number of assets, while retaining the ability to make a wide range of investments.

Donations of Goods

While cash and stocks are the most common types of charitable donations, goods can also be given. The IRS places limits on how much of a donation of goods can be claimed, and the items must be in good condition. A qualified appraiser should be consulted when donating expensive goods such as cars or boats.

Donations of household items, clothing and certain other personal property can be claimed as a charitable deduction. When making a noncash donation, keep records that show the date of the donation, the name of the charity and the monetary value of the donation. You should have two or more proofs of the donation, including a charge card transaction record and an email or letter from the charity.

Business owners can experience a number of benefits from routinely giving back to the community. For example, Squareup reports that a company’s brand image improves when it donates. Employees also appreciate that their employer cares about the community and supports philanthropy.

Top 5 Trip Planners For RVers

Posted on by Dan Hill
RV trip planner USA

There are so many locations on my bucket list that I want to visit, and it’s amazing that there are often multiple ways to get to them! Whether it be by RV or car.

This is where the RV LIFE Trip Wizard comes in! It creates routes that are unique for your RV – helping you avoid low bridges, propane restrictions and steep grades.

1. Google Maps

Whether you are an RV newbie or a seasoned traveler, Google Maps can help you create and save a custom trip plan. This free tool can help you figure out the best routes based on distance and your personal preferences. For example, you can create a layer for lighthouses and other attractions that you want to visit on your road trip.

Using Google’s Street View feature can also be helpful. It can help you scout out county roads and see if they are suitable for larger vehicles. This can help you avoid any potential challenges and feel confident on your trip.

Other great RV trip planning apps and websites include The Dyrt and Roadtrippers. These tools can help you find RV parks, choose routes without low bridges, and even find great gas prices or use company like https://rvadventure-usa.com/ for best experience

2. Google Earth

A virtual globe, road atlas and three-dimensional topographical map all rolled into one, Google Earth can help you plan your RV trip with a cornucopia of useful information. Use it to select paved or unpaved roads, secluded versus campground settings and more.

Then choose the definite things you want to see and do along the way. This might be a must-see attraction like the Grand Canyon or a national park. Or perhaps you’ll be going to a fair or taking in some local culture.

Other features include cost estimations for fuel and campground fees, visual trip planning with the ability to save and edit itineraries and share them with friends, and turn-by-turn navigation that’s compatible with most GPS units. Upgrade to the Pro version and get additional map overlays such as BLM, US Forest Service and National Park boundaries.

3. RV Trip Wizard

RV Trip Wizard is the best trip planner for RVers. It maps out your route and allows you to search for campgrounds, truck & rest stops, dump stations, RV supplies and low bridges that will fit your rig.

The program takes your rig’s height, length and weight into consideration as well as whether you’re carrying propane so that it avoids routes with tunnels that are too tight or too long. You can also input your preferred number of hours to drive per day and fuel cost to help you stay within budget.

It also includes free places to stop like state rest areas, casinos and Walmarts which are useful for those times when you just need to pull over for a few hours but don’t want to pay for a full-blown campground. It is available on a computer, tablet or phone and costs a very reasonable $59 a year.

4. Gas Buddy

This app will give you the best RV gas prices and help you budget for your trip. It will also let you know about any ferries, tunnels, bridges, or toll roads that may be on your route.

One of the most important things to remember when planning a road trip is to choose a destination that is within your budget. It is also a good idea to choose a place that has some things to do or see. It is a great idea to plan for multiple days so that you have time for all of the things that you want to do.

Another tip is to always keep an eye on your fuel levels and to check your awning and slides regularly. These little tasks can save you a lot of money in the long run.

5. Harvest Hosts

Whether you’re an RVer seeking new experiences or looking to test your boondocking skills, Harvest Hosts can help you find unique dry camping locations. You can stay for free at wineries, distilleries, farms, and other businesses that open their property to travelers who have a Harvest Hosts membership.

The yearly fee is $99, but you’ll be able to pay it off after just a few stays. To qualify, your vehicle must be 100% self-contained with its own water and sewage systems.

To make a reservation, you’ll need to contact the host at least 24 hours in advance of your visit. You’ll also need to bring a gift such as a bottle of wine or fresh produce. In exchange, you’ll get a free night of parking.

Hot Spots Charters: The Ultimate Pensacola Fishing Experience.

Posted on by Dan Hill

Pensacola, Florida is well-known for its fishing opportunities. With its location on the Gulf of Mexico, Pensacola offers a variety of fishing experiences, from inshore to offshore, and attracts anglers from all over the world. For those looking to book a fishing charter in Pensacola, one company that stands out is Hot Spots Charters.

Hot Spots Charters is a locally-owned and operated fishing charter company that has been serving the Pensacola area for over 20 years. The company offers a variety of fishing charters, from inshore to offshore, and can accommodate anglers of all skill levels.

One of the reasons Hot Spots Charters stands out is its experienced captains. All of the company’s captains are licensed and have extensive knowledge of the Pensacola fishing waters. They know where the fish are biting and can provide valuable tips and techniques to help anglers land a catch.

Another reason to choose Hot Spots Charters is its commitment to customer service. The company prides itself on providing a personalized experience for each customer, and its captains go above and beyond to ensure that anglers have a great time on the water. From providing top-quality gear to cleaning and filleting the catch at the end of the trip, Hot Spots Charters takes care of every detail.

Hot Spots Charters also offers a variety of fishing charters to choose from. Inshore charters are great for families and beginners, as they stay close to shore and target species like redfish, trout, and flounder. Offshore charters, on the other hand, are for more experienced anglers and target species like tuna, snapper, and grouper.

For those looking for a unique fishing experience, Hot Spots Charters also offers night fishing charters. These trips take place after dark and target species like snapper, grouper, and amberjack. Night fishing charters are a great way to beat the heat and experience a different side of Pensacola fishing.

In conclusion, Pensacola fishing charters offer an exciting and unique way to experience the beauty of the Gulf of Mexico. Hot Spots Charters is a standout company in the Pensacola fishing scene, with its experienced captains and commitment to customer service. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, Hot Spots Charters has a fishing charter that will meet your needs and provide a memorable experience on the water.

If you’re planning a trip to Pensacola and want to experience the thrill of fishing on the Gulf of Mexico, consider booking a charter with Hot Spots Charters. With their expertise and commitment to customer service, you’re sure to have a great time on the water and come home with a catch to remember.