Tag: Michael Gortenburg

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How to Prepare for a Long-Haul Flight

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here.

Traveling to faraway destinations expands our perspective, but sometimes getting there can be rough. Some of the flights to these destinations can reach up to 24 hours, making for an unpleasant experience no matter how well seasoned of a traveler you are. Here are some of my tips on how to prepare for a long-haul flight:

Move Around When You Can

Take advantage of your time in the terminal while you can. Before getting on the plane, take a lap around the terminal and try to get in as many steps as you can before boarding. When it’s safe to move in the cabin, try to stretch briefly in the aisles periodically. It’s never comfortable being cooped up in the same position for long, so don’t forget to stretch your muscles.

Pack Your Own Snacks

Depending on which airline you use, long-haul flights are more likely to provide meals and snacks for you to choose from. However, if their meal selection isn’t up to your taste and their snacks do little to satisfy your appetite, your own snacks will help keep your stomach happy during your travels.

Stay Hydrated

Airplane bathrooms are never ideal to use, but with that many hours of travel ahead of you, it’s best to make proper hydration a priority. Don’t skimp out on drinking water because you want to avoid the bathroom at all costs. You don’t want to arrive at your destination with a headache. Instead, drink water regularly so you can be ready to take on your itinerary when you land.

Try to Adjust Your Sleep Schedule

Jet lag when traveling for long periods of time across time zones is inevitable. But with so much time on your hands, you may as well try to adjust your schedule while you can. Better now than in the middle of your vacation. Try taking something natural like a melatonin pill to help you fall asleep outside your usual timeframe.

Get Your Entertainment Ready

Download any music, movies, or TV shows in case the in-flight Wi-Fi is down, or the provided movie selection isn’t to your taste. The last thing you want is to be stuck for ten or more hours with nothing to do because you forgot to download your favorite movies or shows beforehand.

If you prepare properly for a long-haul flight, you can make the most of your time and savor it as part of the travel experience. 

If you want to read more of my traveling tips and tricks, check out my blog here.

Michael Gortenburg, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri.

Also follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing.

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How to Exercise More Often

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here. 

Exercise is undoubtedly vital to staying healthy, but it’s easy for busy people to let it fall by the wayside. According to the CDC, only 28 percent of Americans exercise as often as they should. I know it’s not just a matter of telling you to make time for it, so here are some tips on how to exercise more often:

Exercise with a friend

It’s much easier to feel motivated to exercise when someone else is there to hold you accountable. Unlike an exercise class full of strangers, you’ll feel more comfortable expressing your limits at the gym or while working out outdoors. It’s also a chance to catch up with your friend more consistently.

Sign up for a class 

If you’re like me, you are more inclined to participate after signing up for a class. Cancellation fees can be an excellent motivator for getting out the door and going to class. There are plenty of options for you to find, from spin classes to Zumba to rowing. No matter where you are in your fitness journey, there’s sure to be a class that fits your comfort level.

Find something you want to do 

Exercise doesn’t have to be a chore. There are plenty of serotonin-producing activities that are fun and healthy. If you like to dance, there are plenty of classes and free tutorials on Youtube you can use as a starting point in your fitness journey. If you have mobility issues and find exercise painful, consider a swim aerobics class. Even just a 30-minute walk around the neighborhood is great for getting outside and raising your heartrate.

Don’t push too hard too fast

Everyone has to start somewhere. It can be easy to get fixated on your long-term health goals and forget the smaller steps it takes to reach them. If it’s been a while since you exercised regularly, start slow. You might be tempted to go hard right from the start, but whatever exercise you’re doing should be part of a lifelong commitment to staying active, and it’s much harder to do that if you burn out early.

Exercise is a great lifelong habit, but it can be challenging to maintain when forcing yourself to do something you don’t enjoy. I hope these tips help you figure out where to add exercise to your routine.

If you want some ideas for gifts for sports fans, check out my blog herehttps://michaelgortenburg.com/2023/12/21/the-best-gifts-for-any-sports-fan/.

Michael Gortenburg, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri. 


Also follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing.

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The Best Gifts for Any Sports Fan

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here. 

Any sports fan is likely to already own merchandise from their favorite team so finding a new sports-themed gift they’ll like can be difficult. Here are some suggestions for those looking to get something for the sports lovers in their lives.

Cooler

Whether someone’s tailgating or hosting a watch party at home, coolers are a sports game essential. No one wants to drink warm beers during the game. Whether it’s shelling out for a Yeti or grabbing a budget friendly Igloo, there’s options that fit any price range. The sports fan you’re shopping for will be grateful for the addition to their collection.

Noise Reduction Earplugs

Everyone loves to hear the roar of the crowd at sports games but exposing yourself to that much noise often enough can cause damage to your ears. Earplugs will still let them hear the roar of the crowd without developing an earache afterward. If you’ve got a sports fan frequenting games, consider buying them a pair of noise reduction earplugs. Their ears will be sure to thank you. 

Ticket Diary

For the sentimental type, a ticket diary might be the perfect way for them to capture every big game they go to. Long gone are the days of haphazard stacks of ticket stubs. Instead, this album can help organize and display their tickets, so no memory gets misplaced.

BBQ Equipment

Another tailgating essential, cooking barbecue is a surefire way to elevate any sports fan’s game experience. Whether it’s a set of grilling utensils or even a small portable grill that can fit in their trunk, there’s plenty of useful accessories to choose from. No one wants to pay the high prices of stadium food so making sure to eat before the big game is needed for anyone to save money. Gifting barbecue equipment can take your tailgate to the next level for the upcoming season.

Buying a gift for someone you love isn’t always easy. You want to make sure you get them something that they’ll love and appreciate. I hope that, with these gifts, you’ll be able to elevate the experience of any sports fan in your life.

And if you or your sports fan find yourselves visiting Kansas City anytime soon, learn more about visiting Kauffman Stadium here.

Michael Gortenburg, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri. 


Also follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing.

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How to Save Money When Traveling

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here. 

As an avid traveler myself, I know that traveling is one of the most gratifying experiences one can have. You get to see new places, meet new people and learn new things. However, I’m also aware it can be a pretty expensive undertaking. Here are some ways you can save money on your next trip. 

Plan Early 

Hotel and airline prices are cheaper the further out you go from your travel date, so make sure to book them as soon as you know when you’ll be traveling. This will especially come in handy if you’re planning on traveling close to the holidays, as you’ll be able to beat the inevitable rush of people scrambling for last-minute tickets. 

Never Forget Your Points and Miles 

You might have plenty of points saved up to cover your airfare completely. Before you empty your wallet on hotel or airline tickets, check to see what points you might have waiting in your back pocket. 

Check Discount Travel Sites 

When booking experiences or reservations for the location you’re traveling to, do a quick search on Groupon to see if there’s a discount you could utilize. Tours may have group discounts available or some restaurants in the area may even be running a deal while you’re visiting. These websites will be helpful to find all sorts of savings. 

Set a Budget 

Setting a strict budget for traveling is a great way to hold yourself accountable. I know the urge to buy souvenirs while you’re out traveling is a strong one, but having a budget to curb it can be very helpful. It’ll also help you cut out anything extra you might not actually want. 

Car Rentals 

Renting a car when you’re traveling can be an expensive undertaking, but relying on Ubers or public transportation might not be the best option either. Payment for Ubers can stack up and depending on where you’re visiting, public transit might not be reliable. I recommend checking out cheaper options for car rentals like Costco, Autoslash, or Turo to find a better deal. 

Traveling always takes a decent amount of planning, but especially so when you’re trying to save money. There’s plenty of options for people trying to save money on trips. Just make sure you give yourself enough time to plan and you’ll have a perfect (and budget-friendly) travel plan ready in no time. 

If you want to see more of my traveling tips and tricks, check out my blog here. 

Michael Gortenburg, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri. 

Also follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing.

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Travel Notes: Canada

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here. 

I’ve been fortunate to travel well outside the bounds of Kansas City. Traveling is an incredible opportunity to broaden your experiences and gain a greater perspective of the world. I always enjoy soaking up the culture and noteworthy attractions wherever I end up. One of my favorite trips has been to Canada. With stunning views and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s easy to suggest it as your next travel destination. If you’re looking to travel there soon, here’s my take on the people, food, and my favorite sights the country has to offer! 

The People 

The infamous stereotype about Canadians’ kindness rang true during my journey. Locals were eager to show me and other tourists the best places to go for food and other. Everywhere I visited felt welcoming and inviting for those visiting for the first time. Don’t be afraid to reach out! Some of the best moments I’ve had when traveling were getting to connect with people from all over the globe. 

The Food 

During my trip, I sampled some of Canada’s famous poutine and was very impressed. The fries are salty and savory like most cheese fries here in the States, but the gravy really does provide a unique spin on it!

If you’ve never tried real maple syrup, make it a priority the next time you’re in Canada. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll never go back to store-bought. You can even drizzle a little on a slice of pizza, just like the locals. 

The Sights 

Canada has some remarkable nature for those of all ages to admire. Algonquin National Park for starters is a provincial park established in 1893, making it the oldest in all of Canada. Visit the various lakes to observe the wildlife or get a better view of sights like the Oxtongue River by hiking one of the park’s many trails. 

The Toronto Zoo is the largest zoo in Canada, housing over 5,000 animals from over 500 species. This is a great spot for any nature lovers looking to get up close to animals or families looking for a good place to take the kids. Though nothing can beat the Kansas City Zoo, Toronto provides visitors the opportunity to observe the most taxonomically diverse group of animals in the world. 

My personal favorite sight was by and far Niagara Falls. Getting to witness the powerful rush of the water is an exhilarating experience, just make sure to steer clear of the edge of the river. You and your family can catch a cruise to the base of the falls or get a view from above atop the Skylon Tower. 

If it is your first time traveling outside the country, consider visiting our neighbors to the north. There are enough similarities to the U.S. to ease you into international traveling with enough new tastes and sights to give you a great experience. 

Michael Gortenburg, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri. 

Also follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing. 

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The Most Beautiful Destinations to Visit This Time of Year

Hello, it’s Michael Gortenburg! 

Whenever you’re planning a trip, you should always know what it is you’re looking for. As a seasoned traveler myself, I want to share some of my favorite places in the U.S. to visit this time of year. 

Burlington, VT  

This charming New England town is nothing short of picturesque in the Fall season. Those looking for an unobstructed view of their fall foliage can take a scenic drive on one of the nearby mountain passes. Though Smuggler’s Notch is the most famous, I prefer the Centennial Woods Natural Area for a wider area to explore.  If you’re able to be there past the first snowfall of the season, you can go skiing or snowboarding at one of the two local mountains just a few miles out of town. Traffic for the ski resorts tends to pick up in the winter months so now’s the best time to get in some good time on the slopes. 

Williamsburg, VA 

If you’re looking for a more historical getaway, consider visiting colonial Williamsburg. Cooler weather makes traversing this snapshot in history far more enjoyable than the humid summer months. You can grab a nice cup of homemade cider or hot chocolate to sip on as you stroll down Gloucester Street. When you’re not watching reenactments or touring the Governor’s Palace, there are plenty of taverns and stores around to keep you busy. Gorgeous fall foliage provides the perfect backdrop as you tour through Jamestown and the Yorktown Battlefield. 

Key West, FL  

If you’re seeking a beach destination to hide away from the cold, then Key West is your perfect destination. Now’s the perfect time to visit for those seeking a quieter experience with the summer crowd gone. The weather also cools down to the more comfortable high 70s, a nice respite from the humid summer months. Stunning beaches always make for a nice opportunity to peacefully unwind. There’s also much less rain this time of year so you can take your time strolling down Duval Street without having to worry about packing an umbrella. And if you love a great key lime pie, there’s no better place than its namesake. Take your pick of some of the best pies on the island! 

Texas Hill Country 

If you’re seeking out beautiful views with manageable temperatures, central Texas has many great opportunities for more active vacationers! The Lost Maples State Natural Area is a great spot to admire the changing colors of the trees. Texas’ trees change their color later than most of the country, so you’ll be able to witness beautiful autumn colors past late into the season. 

Each season brings a unique experience to places all across the United States. If you’re looking for a retreat from the cold, consider a place that’ll keep you warm. Figure out what Fall vacation you want and look for the best destination for that experience. 

Michael Gortenburg, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri. 

Also follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing. 

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My Favorite Museums I’ve Visited

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here.

Museums capture different aspects of our culture and provide a perfect option for those who are looking to learn as they travel. As a frequent traveler, I love taking the opportunity to visit museums that cover different aspects of history. Whenever I get the chance to visit a museum and learn something new, I take it. Here are some of my favorite museums that I’ve visited: 

American Museum of Natural History 

Watch the history of the natural world unfold before you at the American Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C. Visitors can learn about and observe various extinct and endangered animals. The Tyrannosaurus Rex and Mammoth skeletons were highlights when I visited and are sure to capture your attention. 

Smithsonian Institution 

Located in Washington D.C., the Smithsonian Institution is the world’s largest museum and research complex. Plus, If you want a cost-effective option for sight-seeing in the nation’s capital, admission to Smithsonian museums is free. I recommend the Entertainment Nation exhibit at the National Museum of American History where Dorothy’s red ruby slippers from “The Wizard of Oz” are on full display.  

Exploratorium 

The Exploratorium located in San Francisco, California, provides visitors with unique tools and experiences so visitors can let their curiosity take them where they want to go. Visit the monochromatic room to learn about reflecting the light or use a microscope to view fish eggs in development. This museum will be sure to satisfy any curious mind. 

International Spy Museum 

The International Spy Museum provides visitors with an exciting look at espionage throughout history. Come face to face with spymasters from the past as you learn about the gadgets and techniques they used to influence others. For those with kids, this is a surefire choice that’s both exciting and informative. 

American Jazz Museum 

The final museum on this list is located in my hometown of Kansas City. The American Jazz Museum collects and preserves the sights and sounds of Jazz music. This museum helps keep these music legends alive through live performances, exhibits, community events, and more. Located in the historic 18th and Vine district, it’s a sure treat for any music history fan. 

Next time you’re in one of these cities, make sure to stop by one of these museums. You’ll learn more about history and have a fun time doing it. 

If you want to learn more of my tricks when traveling, check out my blog about it here. 

Michael Gortenburg, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri. 
Also follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing.

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Best Bookstores in Kansas City

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here.

As a reader myself, I always appreciate browsing through bookstores to find my next read. Kansas City is full of wonderful options that any book lover will enjoy. Here are some of the best bookstores Kansas City has to offer: 

Prospero’s Books 

At Prospero’s Books, three floors are filled to the brim with books for your next read. With plenty of restaurants and bars close by, you can grab a quick bite to eat as you stroll through the aisles. Readings, book releases, and art openings are just a few of the fun events open to the public. 

Afterword Tavern & Shelves 

Afterword serves a side of beer and a bite to eat along with your book purchase. Grab food with a friend and talk about the book you’re looking for. Or better yet, break out your newly purchased book and jump in as you relax with a nice glass of wine. 

Wise Blood Booksellers 

This bookstore is nestled inside a record store and provides new and used books for customers to browse through. They have various genres and a great selection of music to choose from so you can listen to your new book with the perfect soundtrack. 

Flagship Books 

This small, neighborhood bookstore is a nice respite during a busy day. They supply books across all genres and even offer a “Big Open Book Club” where readers can come and discuss whatever it is they’ve been reading. Drop in to hear readings from local Kansas City writers and pick up a book of your own. 

Rainy Day Books 

What I loved about Rainy Day Books was the personalized recommendations from staff. If you’re looking for a new read but can’t nail down what it is you’re looking for, staff will figure out the perfect book for you. This is especially helpful when out shopping for gifts. Rainy Day Books hosts over 300 author events yearly so be sure to stop in for a reading. 

Bookstores give literature fans the perfect space to discuss and appreciate the books they love. Next time you’re in Kansas City, be sure to stop by one of these stores to find your next read. 

If you want to know what books to buy when you’re visiting, check out this list of some of my favorites. Or, check out this blog if you want to figure out how to read more often.  

Michael Gortenburg, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri. 
Also follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing.

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Things I Never Travel Without

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here. 

No one wants to forget something important when they travel. Forgetting a small item can cause a slight annoyance or cause big problems. Either way, you want to fully enjoy your hard-earned trip without worrying about something small. Here are some of the things I make sure never to travel without. 

Cash

I know many of us have come to rely on using our credit cards, but it’s good to always have cash on hand when traveling. Bring an amount you’re comfortable having handy for any impromptu purchases that need it. You don’t want to miss out on fun opportunities while traveling because the vendor only took bills. Not to mention, if you’re traveling abroad, cash is useful for currency exchanges when you need it most. 

Comfortable Shoes 

I understand the urge to look stylish while traveling, but making room in your luggage for more than just dress shoes is essential. If you’re like me, you’ll be doing a lot of exploring during you travels. Your feet will thank you when they’re not covered in blisters after the first day.  

Phone Charger 

In a world where nearly everyone’s got similar phone models, it’s usually easy to find someone nearby with a charger you can borrow. However, your own phone charger is just as important. When you’re traveling, make sure you bring your charger with you. You’ll need your phone for reservations and directions. You don’t want to get lost in a new place with no way to contact the people you’re with, so make sure your charger is ready to go. I always try to bring a portable charger with me so I can power up without an outlet!

Hand Sanitizer 

Travel is exciting, but it’s also quite dirty. It’s a small thing you might not think about when packing for your travels, but I’ve found this tiny bottle to be one of my most frequently used items. People I travel with are always eager to borrow some. I recommend keeping a travel-size bottle on hand for any instance where clean hands are a must. 

A Copy of Important Items

While I always make sure to have my driver’s license, or passport when necessary, on hand when I’m traveling, it’s important to consider what you’ll do if you misplace it. I recommend a paper copy of whatever could keep you from getting to the destination and back home safely and easily in your bag. There’s a lot of value in having all your important documents on your phone, but if that gets misplaced, you’ll want a backup plan. 

These are just a few items you won’t know you need until you do. When packing for trips, it’s always better to be safe than sorry!

Make sure to take a look at some of my other traveling tips here. 

Michael Gortenburg, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri. 
Also follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing.

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2023 Mystery and Thriller Novels I’m Looking Forward To Reading

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here. 

Anyone who knows me knows I love an excellent edge-of-your-seat read. Needing to know what happens next is a great motivator that gets me reading more. Here are some mystery and thriller books debuting in 2023 that I can’t wait to dive into. 

“Just the Nicest Couple” by Mary Kubica 

Tension abounds in this thriller as a wife searches for her missing husband and finds that the couple they were close to knows more than they’re letting on. Alternating perspectives between Nina, looking desperately for her husband, and Christian, the other husband trying to cover it up to protect his wife, will make for an exciting read. 

“The Shards” by Bret Easton Ellis 

From the same author that crafted “American Psycho,” this thriller follows a teenage Bret on his journey from adolescence to adulthood. Bret finds himself in the middle of a tight-knit group of friends and a budding obsession with a new student, Mallory, just as a serial killer in Los Angeles targets teenagers. This story is set to fuse fiction with Bret Easton Ellis’ reality, making for an intriguing ride. 

“The Angel Maker” by Alex North 

This suspenseful new thriller follows a sister fighting to bring her missing brother home from a serial killer who seems to know the future. Katie Shaw and Detective Laurence Page try to make sense of the brutal actions of a notorious killer whose actions have haunted the Shaws for years. 

“Exiles” by Jane Harper 

Federal investigator, Aaron Falk, finds himself in South Australian wine country navigating the tight-knit family of a woman who went missing a year before. Long-ago truths threaten to emerge as Falk questions some people closest to him. This is the third book in the “Aaron Falk” series and is sure to be a heart-pounding installment. 

“The Kind Worth Saving” by Peter Swanson 

Private investigator Henry Kimball must investigate the husband of a woman from his past, only to be confronted with memories of the worst day of his life. Scared a murderer he thought was buried in his past is now closer than ever, he must investigate further into an infidelity case now turned homicide. This thrilling ca-and-mouse chase is the long-awaited second installment following Henry Kimball and Lily Kintner. 

If mystery isn’t your genre, seek the books that will excite you to read. These are just a few great reads that will be released in 2023 and I’m looking forward to including them in my collection. If you want tips on reading more, check out my blog about it here. 

While you’re waiting for these books’ releases, look at some of my other favorite mysteries and thrillers. 

Michael Gortenburg, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri. 
Also follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing.