Retiring in a country is a crucially decision that almost everyone has to make at some point.

Upon retiring, a lot of retirees may find the transition difficult. This list may help them find the best country to retire to if they are planning to retire outside the United States.  This compilation is based on the average monthly cost of living expenses and the safeness of the country. Searching for the cheapest place to retire may be one of the easiest tasks however, finding a comfortable and safe place to live in is probably difficult. It is not that easy to find a comfortable environment that checks the entire list for the retirees. However if one is only looking for a safe and comfortable place to live in, listed below are the best option for you.

10. Romania

Romania is among the lowest costs of living in the world, ranking as 101^st most expensive country to live in. The monthly cost of living for a single person in Romania is $1000. It is also among the top safest country across the world placing on the 25^th spot. Romania is a great country for US residents to retire to since it is one of the countries in Europe where English is widely used and spoken. Romania places 16^th for English proficiency across Europe, better than countries in the continent such as Italy, Greece, Spain and France.

9. Poland

Poland is considered to be among the most economically developed countries in the area of Eastern Europe. The country ranks as the 24^th safest country to live in and 79th most expensive country in the world. The average monthly cost of living in Poland is around $1,000. Although the English language is only fairly spoken in the country with about 40% of the locals speaking the language, a lot of people are still choosing to retire and move to the country because of good balance of the quality of life in the country.

8. Australia

Australia ranks as the 16^th safest country in the world and also ranked 16^th as the most expensive country. The average monthly cost of living in Australia is around $3,000. Although it might be a little expensive to live in the country, Australia is considered to be the 4^th happiest country in world. The people in the country are known to be envied because of their carefree lifestyle and way of living.

7. Netherlands

Netherlands ranks as the 14^th safest country in the world but it is also among the most expensive country to live in taking the 17^th spot. The monthly cost of living in Netherlands is around $2700. Although it might be an expensive country to live in, people from the United States can comfortably live in the country since the English language is widely used and spoken by about 90% of the population. The quality of life in the country is good as well with a life revolving around biking.

6. Malaysia

Malaysia ranks as the 23^rd safest country in the world however it is among the cheapest country to live in as it is placed on 92^nd spot of the most expensive country in the world. Malaysia is the only Asian country on the list and generally, the people in the country knows how to speak English. The country is friendly and comfortable place to live in with a relatively low crime rate. The monthly cost of living in Malaysia is around $500.

5. Canada

Canada ranks as the 10^th safest country in the world however it is among the most expensive country to live in placing on the 31st spot. Living in Canada might be too expensive, the costs of living in Canada vary in each city, on the average, the monthly cost of living expenses is around $2,200 to $2,500 in the rural areas. Although living in Canada might be a little expensive, the country has a great reputation for being friendly and safe place to live in.

4. Slovenia

On the average, the cost of living in Slovenia is about 27.87% lower than in the United States. The country ranks 43^rd most expensive country in the world and the cost of living in the country averages to about $1,500. Slovenia is considered safe and stable to live in according to the website Smart Asset website. Slovenia is known to have the lowest crime rate in the world, ranking as the 5^th safest country in the world. The locals of the country is said to be welcoming and friendly especially to foreigners.

3. Austria

The cost of living in Austria is about $2,200, which places the country on the 24^th place as the most expensive country in the world. It might be among the most expensive countries to live in but it is also among the safest countries in the world placing on the 6^th place. The quality of life in Austria is high and even a recent survey has placed Austria on the 2^nd spot for the best quality of life. Vienna has bested other cities in the world as the Most Livable City in the world for ten years now.

2. New Zealand

On the average, the cost of living in New Zealand is about 5.68% higher than United States, ranking as 23^rd most expensive country in the world. The average monthly cost of living in New Zealand is around $2,500. Although living in New Zealand might be a little bit more expensive, it ranks as the 2^nd safest country in the world. New Zealand is known for its quality of life combined with great ambiance as numerous wonderful beaches, national park and bike trail surrounds even the biggest cities.

1. Portugal

On the average, the cost of living in Portugal is reportedly 35.76% lower than in the United States, ranking as 56^th most expensive country in the world. The monthly cost of living in Portugal is around $1,500. Portugal is said to be the 2^nd cheapest country to live in the Western Europe area, it ranks 15^th out of 16 countries. It was also reported about a third of Portuguese people can speak English. The nation of Portugal is among the safest countries in the world placing on the 4^th place this year. The sandy beaches and warm weather of the country will surely welcome the retirees from the US.

The La La Land has some of the finest restaurants in the whole wide world.

When it comes to fine dining in Los Angeles, it’s expected that celebrities only eat at the most expensive restaurants in town. Some celebs have loved the restaurant business so much that they have even embarked on business ventures and have gone on to lead a successful chain of restaurants, such as Robert De Niro with the Nobu restaurant franchise. But what is it that keeps some of Hollywood’s most popular A-list actors dishing out hundreds per person for a five-course meal? Could it be the exotic blend of cuisines or is it merely the perks of being situated in the Los Angeles area? Whatever keeps the money rolling in, here are ten of the most expensive restaurants in Los Angeles.

10. Providence

Providence is a high-end seafood restaurant located at 5955 Melrose Avenue in Los Angeles, California. Owned by the legendary Chef Michael Cimarusti, he has set his restaurant in a class of its own with a tasty array of seafood platters. Among his many awards and accolades, they include being listed among the Top 50 Restaurants in The United States by Gourmet Magazine, the Best Seafood Restaurant by Los Angeles Magazine, as well as two Michelin stars for starters. A seating price per head at this exquisite fine-dining restaurant starts at $120 and can go up to $325. Big names such as Brad Pitt and Sarah Jessica Parker are among those who frequent this high-caliber food spot.

9. The Penthouse At Mastro’s

Located in the celebrity capital of Beverly Hills, California, The Penthouse at Mastro’s is an upscale steakhouse around the Beverly Canon Gardens area. Serving an exceptional selection of dishes such as fillet steaks, fish curry, crispy duck, squid ink pasta, and tasty butter cakes, this penthouse paradise is known for attracting celebrities such as rapper T.I., Jamie Foxx, and Jessica Simpson who have become regulars to the 90210 hot spot. There’s no doubt that this is a favorite for many Hollywood actors as Mastro’s Steakhouse has been spotted countless times in the background of paparazzi celebrity interviews. The prices range somewhere around $61.00 per person and there are about twelve restaurant locations spread from the West to the East coast of the U.S.

8. 71 Above

While guests may be enticed by the superb food selection of dishes like the Steak Tartare, seafood scallops, and suckling food loin at 71 Above, the main reason visitors don’t mind paying $78 per person is the view of downtown Los Angeles that promises to leave anyone smitten. Perched high above the US Bank Tower on the 54th floor of the building that was once ranked as the tallest in L.A. If you’re looking to knock the ball out of the park on the first date, this is where you want to take your love interest. Perhaps this is Kanye’s secret weapon to getting all the models!

7. Soho House West Hollywood

Just like a real-life re-enactment of Tom Cruise’s Eyes Wide Shut drama mystery film, Soho House West Hollywood has a determined selection of Hollywood stars they allow into their British-founded, members-only club. Believe it or not, the highest price tag in this restaurant isn’t a superb entre or a deluxe three-course meal. It’s actually a membership fee of $1800 a year per club or $2400 if you want to visit all nine club locations around the world. What’s more spectacular about Soho House is that they’re extremely selective – not everyone makes the cut as a member. Among the Hollywood celebrities who are known members are Justin Timberlake, Jessica Biel, Ben Silverman, and Sylvester Stallone.

6. Nobu Los Angeles

Not all celebrities are desperate to be qualified for a special club membership. Why try to fit into a club to eat fancy food when you could start your own restaurant? This was the thought process of Robert De Niro in 1994 when he founded Nobu Restaurant with celebrity chef Nobu Matsuhisa, restaurateur Drew Nieporent, and investor Meir Tepe. The restaurant chain offers specialized Japanese cuisine and now boasts an extensive chain of 50 restaurants worldwide including 13 hotels as of 2020. Nobu Los Angeles is by far one of the most popular, being patronized by celebrities such as Drake, Bon Jovi, Justin Bieber, Mary J. Blige, Eva Longoria, and many others. The average price ranger per head is between $20 and $80, which isn’t bad for the type of crowd that frequently dines at the establishment.

5. Il Cielo

If you’re looking for somewhere offering a menu with uniquely refreshing tastes in the Beverly Hills area, Il Cielo will be the best option. Located in Beverly Hills, California, the restaurant blends traditional Italian dishes with the flair of Japan. The dishes of Chef Sasake are truly remarkable in feature, with an equally remarkable price starting at $88 to $118 per head. The charming romantic spot is also home to very many Hollywood celebrities, including Brooke Mueller, Paris Hilton, rapper Tyga, Jennifer Aniston, Ellen DeGeneres, Colin Farrell, and Christian Bale. The restaurant has also been featured as a setting in many Hollywood videos, such as Legally Blonde and Adam Sandler’s Spanglish as well as TV shows like Entourage.

4. Perch

Located on the 15th floor of an old office building at 448 South Hill Street in Los Angeles, CA, Perch is an ideal name for the rooftop restaurant and bar. The outdoor patio dining is an attractive spot for celebrities or anyone looking to enjoy a slice of the high life, literally! Overlooking Perishing Square, the restaurant serves three succulent French-inspired menus – the first is a three-course Brunch at $45 per person; the second is a four-course dinner menu at $65 per person, and the third is another four-course dinner menu at $75 per person. Even Pitch Perfect actress Brittany Snow was found basking in the ambiance of the elevated diner.

3. Fogo De Chao Brazillian Steakhouse

If you ever felt the need to branch out from traditional North American dishes and try something with more of a Brazilian twist, then Fogo de Chao may very well be the change you’re looking for. Conveniently located in the heart of downtown Los Angeles, the Brazilian steakhouse is known for practicing its centuries-old slow-roasting churrasco technique for producing high-quality meat. While it isn’t your typical place to spot a celebrity, it still makes for a great experience for either friends or family. Prices usually range anywhere from $31 to $50 per person.

2. The Rooftop At The Wayfarer

The Rooftop at The Wayfarer in downtown Los Angeles is the epitome of what an urban oasis would be. Ideally located on the roof of The Wayfarer building on 813 South Flower Street in Los Angeles, CA, you are given a pristine view of the surrounding skyscrapers while feasting on a meal that you have the chance to construct personally, or you can opt for one of the chef’s delightful meals. The average price of the 10-course menu can run close to $70.00 per person, but it’s all worth it for the price!

1. Vespertine

Located in the Culver City area of Los Angeles, Vespertine is described as a non-conformist, non-culture fine dining restaurant, both in terms of the building’s architecture and cuisine. The best was saved for last in regards to the pricing for this fine dining experience, a whopping $250 per person, exclusive of a cocktail! Admittedly, people visit this place for the sheer experience, which features unconventional plating and food preparation at the hands of the restaurant’s executive chef, Jordan Khan. Compared to other fine-dining restaurants around the world, this one is in class all its own when it comes to breaking the mold of modern dining.

People love it when brands create candid content. If you’re a founder or marketer looking to establish an authentic relationship with your audience, then self-recorded videos are something you should experiment with.

Are you hesitant about trying it out? If the only thing holding you back from videoing yourself is the lack of equipment, then don’t fret. You can make good content while filming on your phone.

On the other hand, if you’re worried about the actual process of recording yourself on video, then don’t sweat it. You’ll get the hang of it in no time.

In this post, we’ll walk you through 10 tips so you can nail your first take.

Tips for recording yourself on video

1. Find the perfect spot

• Pick a quiet location with plenty of sunlight or indoor lighting.
• If you’re going to sit down for the video, use a chair that doesn’t swivel or squeak.
• Avoid spots where there’s an echo.
• Turn off the fan and air conditioner to minimize noise.
• Pick a non-distracting background.

Here’s a great example from Wired’s editor-in-chief Nicholas Thompson.

elf on video, then don’t sweat it. You’ll get the hang of it in no time.

In this post, we’ll walk you through 10 tips so you can nail your first take.

Tips for recording yourself on video

1. Find the perfect spot

Pick a quiet location with plenty of sunlight or indoor lighting.
If you’re going to sit down for the video, use a chair that doesn’t swivel or squeak.
Avoid spots where there’s an echo.
Turn off the fan and air conditioner to minimize noise.
Pick a non-distracting background.

Here’s a great example from Wired’s editor-in-chief Nicholas Thompson.

2. Think about what you’ll wear

• Don’t wear clothes that blend in with the background.
• Avoid patterns like stripes.
• Don’t wear a shiny outfit.
• Keep accessories like jewelry to a minimum.
• Make sure your accessories don’t interfere with the audio.

3. Technical specifications

• Resolution: select either 1080 HD or 4K.
• Frame rate: Most videos are shot at the standard 30 fps. For smoother footage, you can select 60 fps.
• If you’re not sure about these specs, then don’t worry. The default setting should work just fine.

4. Set up your smartphone

• To avoid shaky footage, don’t hold your phone in your hand while recording yourself.
• Use a tripod with a smartphone clip and set your device up on a steady surface.
• Keep your smartphone camera at eye level. The results will not do you justice if your device is looking up or down at you.

5. Shoot in landscape mode

• A video shot in landscape format fits well into most social media newsfeeds and looks good on video hosting platforms like YouTube and Vimeo.
• Horizontal videos are generally more aesthetically pleasing and don’t induce claustrophobia. If you upload a video shot vertically on platforms that are more landscape friendly, your video will have vertical bars on the sides.
  An exception to the rule: if you’re going to post your video as a story on social media, then go with portrait mode.

6. Pay attention to composition

• Don’t keep the camera so close that your face fills up the entire frame.
• If you’re talking directly to your audience, look into the camera and position yourself in the center. This creates symmetry.
• If you’re having a conversation with someone off-camera, then keep the rule of thirds in mind.
  The principle behind this rule is that things look better when you put points of interest on the thirds of your frame; especially where the lines intersect.
  So, divide the screen into three vertical sections; then, if you’re talking to someone on the left of the camera, you should position yourself in the right third of the frame.
• Don’t forget about the headroom. Typically, you don’t want the top of your head leaving the frame.

7. Get a microphone

• A microphone isn’t necessary, but it would be worth it.
• You could try the Lavalier clip-on microphone for smartphones. It’s omnidirectional and has a high-quality condenser.

8. To zoom, or not to zoom

• Don’t use the digital zoom feature. You’ll lose details and appear pixilated.
• If your device has an optical zoom or a telephoto lens, then the zoom feature will work better.

9. Pay attention to lighting

• Ideally, film yourself in daylight.
• If you’re indoors, position yourself so that the windows are facing you.
• Avoid overhead lighting and backlight.
• Don’t use your phone’s flash.
• Clip-on ring lights are also a good option.
• If you’re indoors and there isn’t enough natural light, you could position two lamps at 45 degree angles from the front of your face and place your smartphone in the middle.
• If you want to go all out, use the three-point lighting setup.

10. Edit your video

If you follow the videoing tips we’ve mentioned in this piece, your video will already be off to a good start, but good editing can take your content to a whole new level.

Install a free video editing software, such as Adobe Premiere Clip, Wondershare FilmoraGo, or Magisto, and polish your content. (All three software are available for both Android and iOS devices.)

Here are some editing basics you should make use of:

• Trim: In the industry, we call it top and tail. It means cutting out some unnecessary footage at the start and at the end of the video.
• Cut: If you fumbled while talking, you could correct it by cutting.
• Add text: you can make your video more eye-catching with text. Add your social media handles too if you’d like.
• Add a thumbnail and an end card: most free video editing software will let you add a thumbnail and an end card for your video. The end card would be a good place to add your video CTA, too.
• Add music – Some video editing apps come with a library of music and sound, if you’d prefer to upload your own track, you can do that as well.

Bonus tips

For those of you who aren’t used to being filmed, these tips will come in handy

• Keep your hand movements to a minimum and don’t cross your arms.
• Whether you’re sitting or standing, pay attention to your posture.
• Relax your shoulders
• If you’re going to use your device’s back camera, use a placeholder to set up the shot.
• Keep a glass of water nearby for clearing your throat.

Bottom line

If all of this seems like too much work, you could always hire a professional video production company to create great content for you.

It may not be the cheapest route, but a good agency will deliver great videos every time so you won’t have to risk having your brand associated with bad quality content.

If you’re interested in working with video marketing professionals, then get in touch with us. We’ve been in the business for over 10 years and we’d love to help you out with your video content goals.

If you desire an all five-star service and experience, staying in a luxury hotel is the perfect way to sample the lifestyle of the rich. Featuring stunning architecture, world class amenities and fine dining, luxury hotels offer an exceptional experience for the elite. For the most tasteful luxury travelers, the experts at Property Turkey have compiled a list of the top 7 most luxurious hotels in the world.

1. Mardan Palace, Turkey

Mardan Palace is a luxury hotel based in Lara, Antalya with a reported cost of approximately $1.4 billion. With over 560 hotel rooms, it is commonly known as Europe’s most expensive luxury resort.

Facilities include a 12,000 sq ft spa, 4 aquariums, 5 acres of pool plus a personal beach for the guests with sand imported from Egypt. Perfect for travelers wishing to combine comfort with luxury, the hotel includes velvet lined furniture, exotic wood floors and marble bathroom interiors.

2. Burj Al Arab, Dubai

Built to represent the sail of an Arabian dhow, the Burj Al Arab is the seventh tallest hotel in the world. Easily one of the most outrageously extravagant hotels in the world, it features a pillow menu with nine types of pillows for the guest to choose from, 24-carat gold leaf walls and full-sized Hermes amenities in every suite.

Whilst the official rating of the hotel is 5-star (the highest hotel rating there is), it is widely referred to as a seven-star hotel. This magnificent destination offers world class service-right down to the chauffeur driven Rolls Royce service.

3. Atlantis Paradise, Bahamas

Welcome to paradise. As one of the most stunning hotels in the Caribbean, Atlantis island resort features 11 swimming pools, a magnificent water park, 18-hole golf course, 21 restaurants, gym, tennis courts, a spa and even a Pilates and yoga studio. With a whole array of activities from family friendly fun to after dark nightlife, there is truly something for everyone at this awesome resort.

4. Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi

Located in the heart of Abu Dhabi, Emirates Palace is a lavish, golden exterior property overlooking the shores of the Arabian Gulf. Offering an array of worldwide cuisines, 1.3km of private beach land, a private marina and coral rooms with garden views, this iconic hotel welcomes guests into a world of indulgence. Emirates Palace is a testament to Abu Dhabi, showcasing Arabian culture at its finest via its whopping three-billion-dollar construction.

5. The Plaza, New York City

Based in midtown Manhattan, The Plaza has been one of New York’s most treasured landmarks since 1969. For over 100 years, the hotel has welcomed guests from around the world, including dignitaries, Hollywood royalty and world leaders.

Providing a luxurious backdrop for famous blockbusters, guests can indulge in an opulent five star stay whilst being conveniently situated near New York City Center, Rockefeller Center, the Radio City Music Hall and Central Park.

6. Westin Excelsior, Rome

Offering the true ‘Roman Emperor’ experience, The Westin Excelsior is not only a luxury hotel but a prized landmark too. Featuring Empire style furniture, indoor swimming pools styled after Pompeian baths and bohemian chandeliers, the Westin Excelsior has become a symbol for Italian opulence. Also famed for its Café Doney, the lounge bar often has opera singers as entertainment during Sunday brunch.

7. The Palms, Las Vegas

Situated near the Las Vegas Strip, The Palms offers uncompromising service and prides itself on being ‘different in design’. As one of Las Vegas’ most ambitious projects, the hotel and casino underwent a jaw-dropping $690million renovation to make The Palms one of the world’s most sought after luxury destinations. Featuring artwork from Andy Warhol and Jean- Michel Basquiat in the lobby, a $3million scotch inventory, a rooftop nightclub and fine dining in Michelin-starred restaurants.