American Van Lines

Three Suggestions on Where to Watch the Super Bowl

American Van Lines — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 23:26:17 +0000

Super Bowl XLVI is at our heels and the nation is buzzing with excitement. Polls are being done, predictions are being made, and everyone has become an amateur sports analyst. Countless people across America are planning their Super Bowl parties. Some have just made a long distance move to a new city and are settling in. Still, they will be cooking, decorating, and getting their houses prepared for the big game. The fact is, the Super Bowl is a pretty big deal, kind of like an unofficial national holiday. It remains the most watched three hours of television each year, making it a crucial event for advertisers. In fact, the average price per thirty-second ad is somewhere in the neigborhood of $3.5 million. Safe to say, businesses are hoping to cash-in on the Super Bowl. Football fans are looking forward to a great game with entertaining commercials. So, with all the excitement in the air, the question begs to be asked; where is the best place to watch the game and with whom? Here are three suggestions for how to get in on the excitement:

Go to a friends house:

Few things can be more fun and exciting than getting together with close friends and fellow football fans to watch the big game. Watching the Super Bowl at a friend or family members house is always a great way to kick back and enjoy it to the fullest. If you are attending someone’s Super Bowl party, be sure to bring a dish. Make something or pick up something at the store on your way. Just feel free to ask them beforehand so you are not bringing an item that is already being covered by another person.

Suggest your house:

It is not too late to offer up your house for the game. It is still a few days away and you still have time to tidy up your house and make the necessary adjustments to accomodate all of your guests. It is easy to assume that people already have plans but the truth is you never know until you ask. You might really be saving people from watching it elsewhere, in a place they would rather not be. Offering up your home is a great way to take the initiative and it always comes back around. Make sure you have plenty of food and refreshments. Consider suggesting a pot luck style event, where people can bring one item. This is a great way to save money and still make it exciting.

Sports bar:

If no one in your inner circle of football fans is planning a get-together at their home, suggest a local sports bar. Sports bars all over the country will be open for business and probably will be packed with fans. It’s always fun to watch a sporting event surrounded by fans of the game. Just make sure you get there early if you hope to find decent seats. This will save you some stress and discomfort. Have fun and be safe.

Be sure to find American Van Lines on Facebook or follow us on Twitter @americanvanline to learn more about how we can help with your next move. Our certified, professional movers are ready to assist you.

The Best Companies to Work for in America

American Van Lines — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 00:33:53 +0000

Everyone wants to love what they do for a living. People want to wake up in the morning and feel great about the work they do. Loving what you do everyday also proves to be very good for one’s emotional and physical health. It builds confidence and allows you to have the positive energy and enthusiasm needed to perform your duties efficiently. There are plenty of incredible companies out there that most people would long to work for. Perhaps you are making a long distance move to hunt down that great new job. If so, check out our list of some of the best places to work.

Google

Google is always mentioned as one of Fortune’s best companies to work for. The internet giant is one of the most sought after places of employment in the world. People from all over the world consistently apply for positions at any of Google’s many locations. The perks, from free gourmet meals to free haircuts, game rooms and free dry cleaning, keep morale high. It’s a wonder how any actual work gets done!

DreamWorks Animation

Working at a company like DreamWorks can feel like just that, a dream. From software engineers to modelers and effects animators, the salaries are great and the atmosphere positive. DreamWorks is a company that invests a great deal into its employees, from their personal to their professional growth. It’s an excellent place to learn and contribute. From movie-related perks to art development events, DreamWorks does their part in keeping their people excited and motivated.

Whole Foods Market

Fortune has named Whole Foods Market one of the best places to work for over 15 years now. They do a great deal to keep team members happy. From great salary to health benefits, Whole Foods continues to grow and expand. There is a great deal of room to advance and grow with the company, which is always something that is attractive to an employee.

Starbucks

These days, Starbucks is pretty much a household name. It started out about the coffee but has grown into so much more than that. It’s practically a way of life. The thing is, the company made drinking coffee into an actual event, something to be done with friends in a place with ambiance. Due to this fact, employees are offered more than just a job, but the chance to share in an experience. The company offers competitive pay, great insurance benefits, support resources for childcare, emergency financial aid, and even adoption assistance. Not to mention a free pound of coffee every week. Sounds pretty sweet, right?

Zappos.com

Zappos is an internet store that sells shoes, clothing, and more. Established in 1999, Zappos is a company that exceeds in the areas of service and customer care. They are also very adamant about preserving the culture of employee appreciation and encouraging growth. They offer competitive salaries, benefits, and a great atmosphere to work and thrive in.

Fuel-Efficient Vehicles and their Benefits

admin — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 18:38:31 +0000

With gas prices constantly rising and fluctuating, people are always looking for creative ways to save on gas. Truth be told, there are many options out there; from car-pooling and utilizing public transportation to riding a bike to work or, if one is not terribly far from their destination, walking. Some people are even choosing to sell their gas guzzling cars and buying themselves motorcycles or scooters, modes of transportation that will save some money in the long haul. Whatever your method may be for saving, the fact is there are many choices. One of them, to be sure, is driving a more fuel efficient vehicle. This is something that may, additionally, save you a pretty penny on a long distance move.

Over the last several years, economy cars have been steadily gaining in popularity. There are plenty of benefits to them and no shortage of conversation surrounding the idea. They, for one, are much better for the economy. Also, they are much more cost effective in terms of fuel. With gas prices, in some states, coming close to $5 a gallon, there has never been a better time to look into a fuel-efficient ride. And with everyone talking about hybrids and electric cars, it doesn’t hurt to know something about the reason behind this surge of interest in these types of vehicles. Below are some of the most popular ones on the market today.

Hyundai Accent

Cost: $9,98
Fuel economy: 30 mpg

Kia Rio

Cost: $12,295
Fuel economy: 31 mpg

Smart Fortwo Coupe

Cost: $12,490
Fuel economy: 36 mpg

Toyota Yaris

Cost: $12,855 ($13,615 for the sedan)
Fuel economy: 32 mpg

Ford Fiesta

Cost: $13,320
Fuel economy: 33 mpg

Mazda 2

Cost: $14,180
Fuel economy: 32 mpg

Hyundai Elantra

Cost: $15,000
Fuel economy: 33 mpg

Kia Forte Eco

Cost: $14,995
Fuel economy: 30 mpg

Honda Fit

Cost: $15,100
Fuel economy: 31 mpg

Nissan Sentra

Cost: $15,520
Fuel economy: 30 mpg

These are some of your best options for fuel efficiency, price, and also style. If you are serious about saving on gas and still want to ride in a nice vehicle, there are plenty of options out there in the market today. All of the vehicles highlighted above get, at the very least, 30 miles per gallon or better. These are great numbers when it comes to mileage. If you are planning on making a long distance move anytime soon, looking into an energy efficient vehicle may be a great thing for you on your new venture. You may be very happy you chose to do so in the long run.

Three Sites to Help You with your Online Shopping

American Van Lines — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 19:23:26 +0000

These days you can pretty much do anything online. You can order your dinner, purchase movie tickets, do your taxes, and organize your long distance move – all in a matter of just a few minutes! It is becoming increasingly unnecessary to do certain things in the traditional way, in the way we did them years ago. Why wait in a long line at the airport when you can just check-in on the web, from home? Shopping, for instance, has been completely revolutionized and reshaped by the internet world. You can find the most amazing deals from places all across the world with the touch of a key. Everything is, so to speak, at your fingertips. If you are new to the online shopping scene, check out some of the most popular spots on the internet to help you find what you want at the best prices available. Whether you are looking for clothes, electronics, or household items, these are three of some of the most frequented sites on the web.

Amazon

You can pretty much get anything on Amazon. From groceries to music, books, and automobiles, Amazon is pretty much a one stop shop. They have countless different departments and carry anything you can possible want. There are many reasons why shopping on Amazon is a great experience. From a wide variety of items to thorough and helpful customer service, it is no wonder that Amazon is one of the most popular sites for shoppers across the world.

eBay

Similar to Amazon, eBay has a wide range of items and plenty of them in stock. One of the great things about eBay is the fact that there are a number of sellers you can do business with at any given time. You can bid on hot items and rate the sellers you work with. Opening up your own store, additionally, can be a great way to even sell your own items and be in control of your inventory. Being that they are an online auction website, items can go quick. Therefore, if you find an item or product that you really want, make sure you bid on it with haste or it will be gone.

Overstock

Founded in 1997, Overstock is an online retailer that sells new as well as returned or surplus merchandise. In January of 2010, the company was rated #2 for best customer service. Forbes, in the same year, also named it one of the top ten places to work in America. Overstock has a large range of items ranging from entertainment to furniture and household goods. The prices are great and the website is very easy to navigate, making it a great shopping experience overall.

These three sites should help you on your shopping adventures. Remember to do your research and shop wisely. There are many great deals out there and you can be the one to find them.

The Most Expensive Restaurants in the World

American Van Lines — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 21:13:01 +0000

Safe to say, everyone likes to eat. Many of us love to eat. Many of us would consider an evening at a restaurant, surrounded by close friends and great food, the epitome of the perfect outing. Trying new places to chow down is always an exciting thing. As you open the menu, you are confronted, so to speak, by a variety of delicious-sounding items in a place you have never dined. For the most part, people choose what restaurants to go to based on preference, comfort, or budget. As we know, the world has many bog-ticket establishments. Check out our round-up of some of the most expensive restaurants in the world. It may give you some ideas for your long distance move…or not.

Restaurant Gordon Ramsay

The most luxurious meal in London can be found at Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, located in Chelsea. Chef Ramsay opened it in 1981 and since then, it has become one of the most revered establishments in the world. The $224 (not counting drinks and gratuity) seven-course dinner in the most high-priced around. From roasted foie gras to roasted duck breast with rutabaga and honey, this place is considered a delight.

Beige

Located in Tokyo, Beige sits on the top floor of the Chanel building. Beige serves primarily French food with a seasonal Japanese flair. The restaurant changes hour by hour, in terms of décor, constantly evolving and keeping things fresh. The cep and matsutake mushroom menu peeks at about $259 per person. Upon finishing their meal, each guest receives chocolates in the shape of Chanel buttons.

Masa

Located in New York, Masa is a place you go to for a full experience, not just a meal. The well-designed yet comfortable atmosphere is a place to drink, relax, and spend some time in. Masa boasts a mellow ambiance and offerings, such as Wagyu beef tataki/with perigord truffle or a Lobster risotto and royal trumpets served with perigord truffle. If you go big, you’re likely to shell out about $350 per person.

The French Laundry

In the San Francisco Bay area sits The French Laundry, a Napa Valley treat offering, for one, nine-course meals. It’s a well-respected establishment and, per person, can set you back about $240 including gratuity. Just make sure you make reservations, which you can do two-months in advance.

Toque!

Montreal is not without its fair share of big-ticket restaurants. Toque, set in Old Montreal, is famous for its delectable seven-course meal with amazing presentation. From duck foie gras, to a variety of meats, vegetables, and seafood, Toque! is a sure win.

The Best Spots for Pizza in South Florida

American Van Lines — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 20:26:43 +0000

Since the beginning of time, pizza establishments everywhere have claimed to have the best pie around. They say things like, “New York Style Pizza”, “Freshest Ingredients”, and “Best in the City”. The truth is, people are very passionate about their pizza and how they like it served. Not to mention they are passionate about the places they are loyal to. It’s not that people aren’t open minded or willing to try new things, they just simply hold firm to their favorite places and root for them. South Florida, being the melting pot that it is, is excellent for food lovers from all over the world. When it comes to pizza, there is no shortage of great spots to visit for a slice. Check out our list of some of the best in the area. It can be useful information to remember for you vacation or long distance move.

Mona Lisa Coal Oven Pizza
Mona Lisa Coal Oven Pizza is a little shop in Deerfield Beach known for its great pie and mafioso style design. Inside you will find pictures of old gangsters and mafia men decorating the walls. They stand out for the magical things they can do with dough. They have a superb slice that is fresh and hand crafted.

Cafe La Buca
This place has got a mean slice. Everything is made fresh and you can tell in your very first bite. At Cafe La Buca they use an Italian flour that is so excellent and the mozzarella they use to prepare their pies is simply second to none.

Luigi’s Coal Oven Pizza
One thing that immediately stands out about Luigi’s is the hospitality and top-notch service. The place boasts a creative modern design and serves some of the best pizza you will have. Large slices of Neapolitan style pizza. You cannot beat the fresh ingredients and perfect crust at Luigi’s Coal Oven Pizza.

Rey’s Pizza
Rey’s is a home town favorite and a staple in Miami. They specialize in Cuban style pizza pies and it is truly an experience. Everything is made fresh and homemade and the shop has a great staff who is always friendly and knowledgeable.

Sicilian Oven
Sicilian Oven is surely as crowd pleaser. Located in Lighthouse Point, they offer delectable wood fire pies with the perfect blend of cheese, tomatoes, and dough. Wood fired pies can be tricky and demand a great deal of attention when preparing. Sicilian Oven does it right.

Be sure to find American Van Lines on Facebook or follow us on Twitter @americanvanline to learn more about how we can help with your next move. Our certified, professional movers are ready to assist you.

In Search of the Best Burger in SoFlo

American Van Lines — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 21:02:36 +0000

Few people can deny the appeal of a great burger. On some days, there is simply no substitute for a fresh, fully loaded burger. On some days, nothing can satisfy the craving for a burger better than, well, a burger. Some people, chefs, dedicate their life to pursuit of the perfect burger. People wonder if this feat can ever be achieved. Others believe it has been done already and then and proceed to make their recommendation. The art of the burger is something that inspires great loyalty from people. Some will grow very passionate when having conversations about who makes the best one. Check out out list of some of the best spots in South Florida. These are places to check out of you’re local or are planning a long distance move to the Sunshine State.

Le Tub

Years ago, Esquire named Le Tub’s large, char-grilled burgers among the best in the whole nation. Since then, Le Tub has been on everyone’s radar, including burger devotee, Oprah Winfrey. The 13-ounce hunk of deliciousness is not to be denied. Perhaps what makes Le Tub so appealing too, aside from their great burgers and other excellent menu items, is the service. The vibe is very friendly and pleasant, which makes you want to keep going back for a fix.

BurgerFi

BurgerFi is a place that everyone seems to be talking about these days. With four locations in South Florida (Lauderdale by the Sea, Delray Beach, Ft. Lauderdale, Coral Springs) BurgerFi has been marking its territory as of late. The restaurant holds firm to the concept of fresh ingredients and natural angus. The prices are very reasonable and most importantly the burger is excellent.

Charm City Burgers

For under $5, you simply cannot beat a burger from Charm City. Located in Deerfield Beach, Charm City has been drawing crowds, with chef Mike Saperstein at the helm. It’s a small, well designed place close to the beach with great burgers. What’s not to like?

Rok: Brgr

Located in Ft. Lauderdale, Rok: Brgr is building its reputation as one of the best burger joints in South Florida. They take what they do seriously, with no attitude. They pride themselves on being a “burger bar and gastropub with a modern approach.” Their ten-ounce burgers are simply amazing, serve on a brioche bun. You simply cannot go wrong with “minced bacon mixed in with the beef.”

Bites GastroTruck

If you are looking for some on-the-go curbside dining, you can never go wrong with Bites. Their burger is just excellent. And for $7.50 a pop, Bites is where you want to be when that burger craving will not leave you.

Five Most Bicycle Friendly Cities in America

American Van Lines — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 00:30:29 +0000

There are countless benefits to bicycle riding. It is an excellent way to exercise, build muscle tone, and increase your stamina. It is, all in all, a very fun way to burn calories and stay alert. Bicycling has been known to be a great stress reliever as well, since being outside in the fresh air can only be beneficial to ones physical and mental health. The benefits on the environment are also very valuable. If you are planning a long distance move, this is a great way to get and stay in shape.

Bicycling is a culture unto itself. As a result, there are many cities and towns throughout the nation and world that are conducive to bicycling. From bike shops to trails, and bike lanes on roads, some places are simply more bicycle friendly than others. Check out our list of the top five cities for cycling in America.

Minneapolis

Considered the very best city in America for cycling, Minneapolis is packed to the full with great bike shops and bike culture. The city government is intent on getting more of the city’s residents on bikes and continuing to grow and improve its already stellar cycling reputation. Minneapolis, in fact, along with St. Paul, has 84 miles of dedicated bike paths and also 44 miles of lanes designated for bikes on the streets of the city.

Portland

Portland, Oregon is a very unique city with tons of personality. The city places a heavy influence on outdoor activities such as bicycling. The Portland Bureau of Transportation, in fact, is very encouraging on making bicycling a party of everyday life for Portland residents. Portland has 324 miles of bike ways. Portland also has the highest share of bike commuters out of all the large US Cities.

Boulder

Boulder, Colorado is also one of the best cities in the nation for bicycling. The infrastructure in the city encourages bike riding and the people are well aware of the benefits. There are numerous bike paths and also very many bike blogs dedicated to the bicycle culture in Boulder. These are very helpful in providing news and tips for the city’s riders.

Seattle

The northwest is likely the most bike friendly region in the nation. Seattle, even with its many hills, is a bike riders paradise. There are several trails and tours that are meant to educate riders in the city on bike culture and safety. The scenery in Seattle is excellent for biking and there are always people out and about; running, walking their dogs, skateboarding, and biking.

Eugene

Eugene is one of the most beautiful cities in America. So of course, the cycling will only be complimented by the beauty and creativity of the city. There are always bike events being held in the area. The backcountry roads and landscapes, consequently, make for a truly breathtaking place to ride and take in all of the sites. On any given day you will see riders out showing off their uniquely designed bikes and making conversation. It’s a great place for riders.

How to Get Comfortable in a New City

American Van Lines — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 23:56:51 +0000

Moving to a new city can be an exciting, yet, strange thing. If you have lived someplace for a long time, you most likely have become accustomed to certain things and places. There are familiar restaurants that you love, parks you may frequent, specific movie theaters you prefer, etc. Moving to a new and unfamiliar place, consequently, does not have a great deal of that yet. It takes time. If you are in the middle of making a long distance move, seeking out new places to go for your enjoyment and leisure may take some time and research. Making sure that you are comfortable in your new surroundings is, of course, essential. Check out some tips on how to effectively go about living and getting acclimated to a new place.

Do Research

Researching your new city is very important. There are countless websites dedicated to specific cities which will help you navigate your move comfortably. Many of them give a great deal of knowledge and advice as to things like where to get the best burgers in town, the best gym to work out in, etc. The internet is packed to the full with valuable information that will make your move all the more easier to endure and appreciate.

Take Walks

There is no substitute for taking good, long walks. Especially when moving into a new city. There is so much to discover when you are in a new place and walks can be the best way to do so. There are so many things that can be missed and overlooked when you are simply driving around in your vehicle, casually. Walking around allows you to more intimately take in your surroundings and notice things you many not notice otherwise. Little shops, fantastic neighborhoods, parks tucked in behind shopping plazas. These are things you may come across during your walks. If your new city is considered a very “walkable” city, that is even better. Make sure you take advantage of what your new home has to offer by experiencing it at a slower pace.

Ask Around

Though this seems like an obvious thing, many people are simply not so inclined to asking simple questions to people they do not know. However, confiding in a neighbor to recommend their favorite pizza spot or favorite movie theater can help a lot. Locals are the best people to recommend these sorts of things. Many locals, in fact, would be eager to share their favorite restaurants, nightclubs, etc. People, for the most part, enjoy helping others with their recommendations on where to go in their city.

Take advantage of these tips and you should be in for a much easier move and transition.

Best Independent Coffee Shops in America

American Van Lines — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 20:01:46 +0000

Like many people in the world, we love our coffee. If you love your coffee, too, and feel strongly about it, you know that the perfect accompaniment to a great cup is a comfortable, vibrant surrounding. Coffee culture is all around us. From the chains now drawing customers in with books, music, and cozy seating, it is apparent that coffee is big business. And while it should mostly be about the actual coffee, there is no doubt that a great atmosphere can go a long way. If you are planning a long distance move or even a vacation, perhaps you will be keeping an eye out for places to get your coffee. There are plenty of independent coffee shops around the nation doing it right, providing the best of both worlds; delicious coffee as well as ambiance. Check out our list of some of the best in shops in America.

Intelligentisia

Los Angeles, California

With ten locations and counting (all in California, New York, Atlanta, and Chicago) Intelligentsia is a hub for creatives/coffee lovers. All their locations boast excellent and comfortable design and attract locals and out-of-towners alike. Make sure you look up their locations and find one to visit.

The Beat

Las Vegas, Nevada

The Beat is located in the center of Las Vegas, amidst the hustle and bustle and energy of the city. Located on the main floor of the Emergency Arts building, it is surrounded by galleries and studios. They host several events at The Beat, including fashion shows and open mics. The customers have good reason to keep coming back.

Caffe Trieste

San Francisco, California

Started in 1956, this little shop was the first espresso coffee house to open on the west coast. It has a simple design, friendly, staff, and a great list of menu items. For years they have put on Saturday afternoon concerts. The shop does a great job to attract customers with great coffee and personality.

Black Gold

Brooklyn, New York

A coffee shop/record store/antiques shop, Black Gold is one of the most creative and unique spots in America. They stock an array of items that add to the personality and overall appeal of the shop. The staff is always knowledgeable and friendly. You can’t go wrong with Black Gold.

Espresso Vivace

Seattle, Washington

Seattle is a city packed to the full with coffee houses. It’s a creatively charged city with many entrepreneurs who deal in the business of coffee. And while many of them are good and even great, Espresso Vivace stands out among the rest. The place is extremely well-designed and comfortable at the same time. They take what they do seriously and it shows in not only the upkeep of the shop, but in the coffee and deserts. If you are ever in the area, do yourself a favor and stop in.

Be sure to find American Van Lines on Facebook or follow us on Twitter @americanvanline to learn more about how we can help with your next move. Our certified, professional movers are ready to assist you.