Newsletter Issue #449

Entrepreneur & Author

JeffCorbett.com

Cyber Scams Spike During the Holidays

“Here’s some ideas to protect yourself.”

——- 

The year-end holiday rush is officially here — and unfortunately, so is the spike in cyberattacks and scams targeting distracted shoppers.

A few smart precautions can go a long way toward protecting yourself.

In just a couple of decades, the internet has completely reshaped daily life. Things that would have sounded like science fiction in the late 1990s are now routine. Billions of us walk around with pocket-sized computers capable of taking high-resolution photos, running banking apps, and shopping worldwide in seconds. That convenience is incredible — but it has also opened doors for cybercriminals who are more sophisticated than ever.

Every home with an internet connection is a potential target. Awareness is your first line of defense, especially when it comes to recognizing common scams:

• Disaster relief scams:
Following major natural disasters, people are quick to donate and help. Cybercriminals exploit that goodwill by setting up fake charities with names that closely resemble legitimate nonprofits. Always verify before you give — tools like Charity Navigator make this easy.

• Phishing scams:
These remain one of the most common entry points for fraud. The Federal Trade Commission warns that scammers send emails or texts claiming there’s an issue with your bank, credit card, or tax return. According to the FBI, phishing scams cost victims nearly $60 million in a recent reporting period — proof that they’re still surprisingly effective.

• Formjacking:
This tactic targets online shoppers. A retailer’s website can be compromised without anyone realizing it, redirecting buyers to a fraudulent payment page. If even one letter in the URL is off (think Amzon.com instead of Amazon.com), stop immediately. That’s a classic sign of formjacking.

• Tech support and fake antivirus scams:
Typically, a pop-up claims your computer is infected and prompts you to download “fix” software. Once you click, the scammers have access — and often financial control.

The point is simple: when something feels “off,” it probably is.

Smart Precautions for Holiday Shopping

• Pay Securely: Use reputable third-party payment services such as PayPal, Zelle, or Venmo.
• Avoid Public Wi-Fi: Only shop using a secured internet connection — never at an airport, coffee shop, or hotel lobby.
• Update Your Software: New viruses emerge daily, and regular updates are your best protection.
• Check Statements: Review bank and credit card transactions frequently throughout the season.
• Use One Credit Card: Limiting exposure makes fraud easier to track and resolve quickly.

Stay vigilant, stay informed, and enjoy the holidays with confidence — not concern.

Enjoy this week’s edition, and be sure to check out our new feature
at the close of the newsletter: “Stories You May Have Missed.”

• To review other editions of our newsletter please see our website:  GlobalCommonCents.com
• For more about my personal wonderings please see my blog:  JeffCorbett.com
• Jeff Corbett Biography

Fresh Ideas to Kick Off Winter

“Inspiration for embracing winter’s first cold snap.”

——- 

Winter begins on Sunday, December 21, 2025, and ends on Friday, March 20, 2026.

Many people lament the arrival of winter, perhaps thinking the colder temperatures and shorter hours of sunlight will compromise their chances to have fun. Even though particularly chilly thermostat readings or stormy conditions can hamper some plans, when people dig deeper they may find that even the coldest days present opportunities for enjoyment.

When winter begins, the following activities can make for an entertaining way to celebrate the arrival of the season.

· Build a snow creation. Use the first significant snowfall of the season to organize a snowman, snowwoman, or snow-animal-making event or contest. Waterproof gloves are a necessary piece of equipment, as are buckets for moving snow, shovels, carving and shaping tools (which can be plastic cutlery), and accessories to dress up the final product.

· Go sledding on the best hills. Sledding is a popular wintertime activity that doesn’t require too much equipment. Sleds can be purchased at sporting goods stores or toy stores. Sledders of all ages should consider wearing helmets to protect against injury if they will be traversing especially steep hills.

· Host a winter block party. Many cities and towns across North America participate in WinterFest events, which run the gamut from food and craft festivals to sporting events. Individuals can take cues from these type of activities and plan neighborhood festivals right on their streets. Neighbors can wheel out their fire pits or utilize outdoor propane heaters to keep spots cozy. Hot cocoa and cider stations and warm treats can keep everyone from feeling too cold. Electric slow cookers can keep everything from soups to chilis to stews warm and participants can enjoy a buffet of hearty foods.

· Visit an ice rink. Whether a rink is indoors or outside, ice skating is a quintessential wintertime activity. Skaters of all skill levels can take to the ice and enjoy some exercise and laughs. Check local rink schedules to take advantage of open skate times when hockey games or practices are not dominating the ice.

· Mark the winter solstice. The winter solstice, also known as the start of astronomical winter, is the shortest day of sunlight on the calendar. It occurs when either of the Earth’s poles reaches maximum tilt away from the sun. In the Northern Hemisphere, this occurs on December 21, 2025. Because there will be only roughly seven hours of daylight, take steps to make the fact that the sun will set at its earliest a little easier to swallow. Kids can run around outdoors with glow sticks, while adults can deck their homes in twinkle lights if they are not decorated for Christmas. Lanterns, campfires and candles can be lit, and everyone can gather outdoors to chat and socialize.

There are plenty of ways to celebrate even this sometimes frigid season.

The cold months can feel long, but a little intention goes a long way in lifting your mood. Lean into simple pleasures — fresh air walks, warm drinks, good books, and staying connected with friends — and winter suddenly feels a lot brighter.

A European Hub for Family Asset Protection

“Why the Swiss Trust Company Business Model still matters in 2026.”  

——-

Switzerland remains one of the most respected jurisdictions in the world for finance, family asset protection, and cross-border business — and for good reason. Its long tradition of commercial stability, predictable courts, and strong privacy laws have made it a magnet for entrepreneurs seeking a global foothold. One of the more compelling structures available is the Swiss Trust Company (STC) — a pre-existing joint-stock corporation that provides an immediate operating platform in Europe. Vintage STCs, in particular, are valued because they carry history, credibility, and a commercial record that can serve as a trust-building tool when dealing with counterparties, banks, and advisors.

Acquiring an STC is a formal legal transfer, not a casual “name swap.” Ownership changes are executed through licensed Swiss attorneys and documented in the Swiss commercial registry. As Switzerland has tightened regulatory standards in recent years, proper compliance is not optional. Swiss law establishes minimum share capital requirements — CHF 100,000, with at least CHF 50,000 deposited — for joint-stock companies, which is why buyers should budget realistically. Professional fees, administrative support, and ongoing compliance typically bring the investment into six-figure territory, depending on the age and structure of the entity.

The Asset-Protection Advantage

The strongest motivator for buyers in 2026 is straightforward: smart asset protection in a stable jurisdiction. According to a 2024 report by Credit Suisse on global wealth trends, Switzerland consistently ranks as one of the world’s safest countries for long-term private capital. That reputation is backed by decades of legal continuity and a regulatory culture that values discretion without secrecy. For families who want to manage multigenerational assets, a Swiss Trust Company offers:

• A legally recognized corporate vehicle to manage family investments
• The ability to operate cross-border without forming a new entity from scratch
• Enhanced credibility for banking, custody, and consulting relationships
• A respected jurisdiction for holding and safeguarding private wealth

In 2026, asset protection is no longer simply about privacy — it’s about predictability, documentation, and lawful structure. A Swiss Trust Company provides those pillars. It can manage family assets internally, while also serving as a stepping stone if the owner later chooses to seek Swiss regulatory licensing to manage third-party funds.

Strategy, Not Secrecy

There is sometimes confusion about what an STC can and cannot do. Owning an STC does not exempt anyone from regulatory obligations; rather, it places owners in a system that expects governance, record-keeping, and transparency. Swiss regulators made this clear when the Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA) began tightening standards following global AML reforms. As FINMA noted in a 2023 circular on corporate conduct, “sound compliance and risk management are essential elements of sustainable business practice.” That principle applies directly to STC buyers.

Why Now?

Three converging forces make 2026 an interesting time to consider a Swiss Trust Company for asset protection:

1. Global political uncertainty: Families want non-correlated jurisdictions for estate planning and wealth storage.
2. Banking confidence in Switzerland: Long-term stability and conservative oversight remain attractive.
3. Turnkey European presence: Buyers can step in and operate immediately without waiting months to establish a new company.

In short, an STC is best suited for serious business owners, family offices, and cross-border investors who want a stable, compliant structure with a European address and history.

Seven AI Stocks to Watch in 2026

“Hardware, cloud infrastructure and enterprise players to keep on your radar.”

——-

Artificial intelligence continues to drive significant investment across global markets, and 2026 is shaping up to be another strong year for companies building the infrastructure behind this technology. Below are seven widely followed AI-related stocks with their current prices and symbols, along with brief context you can use for research and tracking.

NVIDIA (NVDA) ≈ US$182.08 NVIDIA remains the dominant force in AI computing, particularly in data-center GPUs. According to Nasdaq.com reporting, NVIDIA has become “the backbone of global AI infrastructure,” a statement that underscores why investors continue to track it closely.

Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) ≈ US$218.26  AMD is often viewed as the primary chip competitor to NVIDIA. The investment site The Motley Fool has repeatedly described AMD as a compelling alternative for “long-term AI infrastructure exposure,” especially as demand for high-performance computing increases.

Microsoft (MSFT) ≈ US$492.84 Microsoft remains one of the most diversified AI plays, from enterprise cloud to software integration. BuiltIn.com notes that Microsoft is considered a top “publicly traded AI company” due to ongoing AI development and large-scale corporate deployment.

Alphabet / Google (GOOGL) ≈ US$315.45 Alphabet continues to be a leading AI research and cloud player. The Motley Fool wrote that Alphabet should be viewed as a core “buy and hold long-term” AI stock because of its infrastructure depth and search-driven data assets.

Meta Platforms (META) ≈ US$644.94 Meta has made deep investments in AI, especially in large-scale content training and virtual infrastructure. StockAnalysis.com lists Meta among major “AI-driven technology companies” with potential long-term upside.

IBM (IBM) ≈ US$306.09 IBM provides enterprise AI and machine-learning products for corporate customers. MarketsandMarkets.com notes that IBM continues to position itself as a “global AI solutions provider,” with less volatility than pure growth plays.

ASML Holding (ASML) ≈ US$1,098.32 ASML manufactures essential semiconductor technology that supports AI chip production. The Motley Fool characterized ASML as one of the “key upstream companies” in the artificial intelligence supply chain.

Bottom Line

These companies cover multiple layers of the AI economy:

• High-performance chip manufacturing (NVIDIA, AMD, ASML)
• Cloud and enterprise deployment (Microsoft, Alphabet, IBM)
• Social-driven data and virtual infrastructure (Meta)

As always, this is not investment advice, simply a practical watch-list for readers who want exposure to AI trends in 2026. Prices change daily, and anyone considering investing should conduct independent research or consult a licensed financial advisor.

Please keep in mind this information should not be considered as financial advice. Investment decisions should be based on individual research and consultation with a qualified financial professional. The value of investments can fluctuate, and past performance is not indicative of future results. Always consider your risk tolerance and financial goals before making investment decisions.

Finding the Perfect Pet Sitter for the Holidays!

by Candace Smith
The Etiquette Blog
Candace Smith Etiquette

Biography:  Candace Smith, wife of Nobel Prize-Winner Professor Dr. Vernon Smith and owner of the extraordinary blog, “Etiquette for the Business of Life” as featured by BBC, Chicago Tribune and USA Today offers her insights.

“Travel is a big part of the holidays.”

——-

Hiring a pet sitter is a given in our busy world.  As devoted as you are to your pet, leaving them overnight will be necessary at some point.  Are you prepared?

Finding the Right Person

Some occasions may lend themselves to what I call a “built-in pet sitter”.  This is a trusted close friend or family member who knows you, your pet, and your home well enough to easily step in and take care of things while you’re away.

But when an angel such as this isn’t available, who will you turn to?  Finding the right person can be a challenge.  I recommend starting with a list of what you will need from the person you hire.

• Do you want them to stay in your home, or are daily visits sufficient?
• Will they be needed for household tasks or only for caring for your pet?
• What skills will they need in order to care for your pet?  If your pet has special needs or requires medications, this is a big consideration.
• What is your budget for paying this person?

Listing your answers to the above questions will give you a good starting point.

Getting to Know You
Meeting the person who will be visiting your home and caring for your pet (or pets) while you are not present is absolutely necessary. So is getting to know them – at least a little.

On the other side of the coin, it’s also necessary for you, the pet sitter, to get to know your client.  Will this be a person or family and pets that you will enjoy working with?

A preliminary phone conversation will reveal whether or not you have a good feeling about this potential relationship.  Do you find their voice, demeanor, and phone etiquette satisfactory? Are you comfortable speaking with them?  You can tell a lot about a person from a phone conversation.

Once they pass the phone conversation evaluation, it’s time to meet in person.  Both parties should make it clear that the meeting is for consideration purposes only. And make sure that your meeting includes the following:

• A proper introduction to the animals that will be cared for.  The caregiver should see them up close (cats are terrific at hiding) and should be given the pets’ names.
• Observation of interactions.  Does the pet seem comfortable with this new person?  Does the comfort level improve as the visit goes on?
• Assessment of skills.  Does the pet sitter indicate in conversation that they have certain care methods and techniques that will be compatible with your pet?  Find an opportunity to see this in action by making your meeting time in line with feeding or medication time and ask your potential care giver to help with the task to see how your pet responds.  You might also take your dog for a walk as you interview the person, letting them take the lead to help assess compatibility with your dog.
• A tour of the home.  Show the person who will care for your pet where food and water dishes, food, medications, treats, toys, etc. are kept and how they are given.  If they will be staying full-time while you are away, show them the sleeping arrangements, bathroom, and what is off limits.
• Don’t skip the details.  Even though this is a preliminary meeting, if detailed questions arise, don’t put off answering them.  If your care giver isn’t allowed to park her car in the driveway, go ahead and tell her.  If you are curious about how often the litterbox should be cleaned, go ahead and ask.  Details from either the client or the care giver can only be helpful.

Once you’ve met and consider moving forward with a good working relationship, it’s time to dig a little deeper.  Both parties should find out more about each other.  References and mutual acquaintances should be called.  And a scroll through social media accounts may reveal more as well.

A Great Pet Sitter
So, you’ve found a pet sitter you like and trust.  Or you’ve found a client whose pets you look forward to spending time with. Ensure everything goes smoothly with these tips.

For the Pet Parent:

• Before the day of arrival, provide a key, code, and any other entry instructions, including alternatives – just in case.
• Make sure your care giver has the name of your vet and the name of an emergency veterinarian clinic.
• Write down food quantities, feeding times, and medication times.  Especially if you have multiple pets, it’s important to also label food containers and medications.
• Leave the names of neighbors, friends, or back-up pet sitters in case they are needed.
• Provide all available forms of contact for yourself while you are away.

For the Pet Sitter:

• Communicate!  Let the pet parent know when you leave and arrive, or if you are staying in the home, what your daily schedule looks like.  Have all questions regarding the pets and the home answered before your client leaves.
• Keep the home tidy.  Even if cleaning isn’t on your task list, ensure that your client comes home to a neat and clean place.  Or at least as neat and clean as it was when they left it.
• Send pictures.  Sending the pet parent pictures of a happy, well cared-for pet will give them comfort.  However, do not post these pictures on your social media without the pet parent’s permission.
• Follow safety rules.  Make sure all food and cleaning supplies toxic to pets are put away appropriately, lock doors and windows, set alarms as directed, etc.
• Leave a daily log of events.  A written log of events, food consumption, medication reactions, behavior issues, and even cute anecdotes, will be helpful for pet parents.

Keeping pets and humans happy is a big job.  But when you show care and attention to both, you can consider it a job well done!

Setting Relocation Goals for 2026

by Morayma MaKay
Writer / Blogger & Content Creator
Adulthood Rewired

Biography:  Morayma Makay is a fashion model, mother, and writer.  She has
dedicated the last 20 years to working in the fashion and health fields as
both a researcher and content creator.

“A fresh start in the New Year.”     

——-

The start of a new year is a time for fresh beginnings! If you’re planning to relocate to a new city or state, this is the perfect opportunity to set meaningful goals that will help you navigate this new adventure with ease.

Here are a few great tips on how to set practical, achievable goals to ensure a successful move and start the next chapter of your life on the right foot.

1. Establish Your Moving Timeline and Budget

One of the first and most important goals is to create a timeline for your move and set a realistic budget. These two factors will guide much of your planning and preparation.

• Timeline: Decide when you need to relocate and break the process into manageable steps, such as finding a new home, giving notice at your current residence, and packing.
• Budget: Consider costs such as hiring movers, transportation, utility deposits, and initial expenses in your new location. Make it a goal to stick to your budget and set aside a contingency fund for unexpected costs.

2. Research Your New City or State

Moving to a new place often means adjusting to unfamiliar surroundings. Setting goals to learn about your new city or state can make the transition less daunting.

• Neighborhood Exploration: Research neighborhoods to find one that suits your lifestyle and preferences. Look into factors like safety, proximity to work or school, and access to amenities.
• Cost of Living: Get familiar with the cost of living in your new area to help you plan your finances. Understanding average rent, utilities, and grocery costs can prevent surprises.
• Local Attractions and Activities: Make it a goal to list a few attractions, restaurants, and activities to explore once you settle in. This can make your new city feel like home faster.

3. Organize Your Move Efficiently

Moving is a major task, and having a clear plan can reduce stress. Setting organizational goals will keep you on track.

• Declutter: Aim to sort through your belongings and donate, sell, or recycle items you no longer need. Decluttering before you pack saves time and money.
• Packing Schedule: Set goals for when to pack specific rooms or categories of items. For example, tackle seasonal or rarely used items first.
• Hire Professionals or Recruit Help: Decide whether you’ll hire movers or rely on friends and family. Book services early to avoid last-minute stress.

4. Plan Your Post-Move Adjustment

Moving isn’t just about getting to your new home—it’s about settling in and building a life there. Setting goals for post-move adjustment can help you integrate into your new environment more quickly.

• Find a Routine: Create a plan to establish a daily routine in your new city. This includes work, errands, and leisure activities that bring structure to your day.
• Meet New People: Make it a goal to join local clubs, attend community events, or explore social media groups tailored to your interests. Building a support network is essential for feeling at home.
• Explore Your Surroundings: Dedicate time to exploring your new neighborhood and discovering local shops, parks, and attractions. Familiarity breeds comfort.

5. Focus on Personal and Professional Growth

Relocating offers a unique chance to start fresh in other areas of life. Use this opportunity to set goals that align with your personal and professional aspirations.

• Career Goals: If you’re moving for work, set clear objectives for what you want to achieve in your new role. If you’re job hunting, plan to update your resume, network, and apply for positions regularly.
• Personal Development: Moving can be a time to invest in yourself. Consider setting goals like taking a class, picking up a new hobby, or focusing on physical fitness.
• Maintain Connections: Make it a goal to stay connected with loved ones back home. Regular phone calls, video chats, and visits can help ease feelings of homesickness.

6. Stay Flexible and Positive

Finally, remember that even with the best planning, unexpected challenges can arise. One of your goals should be to stay adaptable and maintain a positive outlook.

• Embrace the Adventure: View the move as an exciting chapter rather than a daunting task. Keeping a sense of curiosity can make the process enjoyable.
• Practice Self-Care: Moving can be physically and emotionally draining, so set goals to prioritize self-care. This could include regular exercise, journaling, or simply setting aside time to relax.

Whether you focus on logistics, personal development, embracing your new community, or all of the above, each goal you accomplish will bring you closer to making your new year—and new location—a wonderful success!

Holiday Gift Ideas for Your Athlete

“Suggestions for your family athlete.”

——-

Holiday shoppers know that few things can match the joy of finding the perfect gift for a loved one. Whether that loved one is a tiny tot who can’t wait to unwrap this year’s must-have toy or an adult hoping to find the latest gadget under the tree on Christmas morning, the thrill of giving a great gift is part of what makes the holiday season so enjoyable.

Friends and family members may fall into certain categories, and that can make holiday shopping a little easier. For example, loved ones who can’t wait to sit down with a good book would no doubt appreciate a new e-reader or the latest bestseller. When it comes to gifting the family athlete, the following ideas can provide the inspiration shoppers need to put a smile on the face of fitness-minded friends and family members .

· Weighted vest: Weighted vests have gained popularity in recent years. Available from a variety of manufacturers and for athletes of varying skill levels, weighted vests can be ideal for athletes who want to burn more calories and build strength during their workouts. This can be an especially useful gift for endurance athletes who want their training sessions to mimic the challenges posed by nature or difficult competitive terrains.

· Noise-canceling headphones or earbuds: Many athletes relish their workouts not only as opportunities to zero in on their fitness goals, but also as chances to block out distractions and clear their heads for an hour or two each day. Noise-cancelling headphones or earbuds effectively block out external noises, allowing athletes to direct all of their focus on their workouts and training sessions.

· Energy drinks: Though it might not seem like the most exciting gift to unwrap on Christmas morning, energy drinks are vital to many fitness enthusiasts’ athletic endeavors. For example, endurance athletes may appreciate a tub of Osmo Active Hydration Performance Drink Mix, which contains an optimal ratio of sucrose, glucose and electrolytes, helping athletes improve their endurance and power while reducing instances of cramping and fatigue. Energy drinks make for a perfect stocking stuffer.

· Home gym equipment:  Home gym equipment can help athletes continue to build their own private home gyms, making items like kettle bells, dumbbells, weight benches, and resistance bands great items to put under the tree this holiday season.

It’s never been easier to shop for the family athlete during the holiday season. A heightened focus on fitness ensures there’s something for every type of athlete on your holiday shopping list

Traditional European Holiday Drinks

“Creative ideas for your holiday from Europe.”

——-

Europe offers a wide variety of traditional holiday drinks that reflect the region’s diverse cultures and tastes.

Here are some favorites:

1. Mulled Wine (Glühwein): A staple at Christmas markets, this warm drink is made with red wine, spices like cinnamon and cloves, and citrus. Variations include the Scandinavian Glögg, which often has vodka or aquavit for added strength .

2. Eierpunsch: A German version of eggnog made with Eierlikör (egg liqueur), white wine, sugar, and spices, often topped with whipped cream .

3. Feuerzangenbowle: A theatrical German drink where a sugar cone soaked in rum is set on fire, dripping caramelized sugar into a pot of mulled wine .

4. Hot Buttered Rum: Popular in various countries, this warm drink combines rum with butter, sugar, and spices for a rich and cozy treat .

5. Hot Chocolate Variations: In Germany, you’ll find versions like the “Tote Tante” (hot chocolate with rum) or spiced hot chocolate with cinnamon and cardamom .

6. Jagertee: Originating from Austria, this hot drink mixes black tea with rum, wine, and spices, perfect for cold winter nights .

7. Advocaat-based Drinks (Snowball): A retro favorite in the UK and Netherlands, this creamy cocktail mixes advocaat (a brandy-based egg liqueur) with lemonade .

8. Wassail: An English tradition, this mulled cider combines apple flavors with spices and is often associated with caroling.

Each of these drinks adds a festive warmth to winter celebrations. If you’d like to explore recipes or learn more about their history, google the exact recipes and see their many interesting variations.

Prolong the Life of Your Poinsettias

“Proper care tips” 

——- 

With proper care poinsettia plants can continue to thrive and bring warmth and beauty to a home long after the holiday decorations have been tucked away.

Poinsettias and their rich red, white or variegated color schemes are the ideal backdrop for Christmas celebrations. In fact, poinsettias are among the most popular decorative flowers during the holiday season.

According to a recent USDA Floriculture Statistics report, poinsettias accounted for about one-quarter (23 percent) of all flowering potted plant sales that year. Roughly 34 million poinsettia plants are sold in a given season. Indigenous to Central America, the plant was introduced to North America in the 1820s when Joel Roberts Poinsett, the first United States Minister to Mexico, brought the red-and-green plant back with him from a trip abroad.

While millions of poinsettias will be purchased for the holiday season, many mistakenly think their utility ends once New Year’s Day has come and gone. But with proper care poinsettia plants can continue to thrive and bring warmth and beauty to a home long after the holiday decorations have been tucked away.

· Choose a hearty plant. Experts with the University of Vermont Extension Department of Plant and Soil Science say that many people mistake the plant’s leaves for its flowers. The red, white or pink bracts are actually modified leaves. The flowers of the plant are the yellow clustered buds in the center called “cyathia.” Choose poinsettia plants that have buds which are, ideally, not yet open.

· Keep the temperature consistent. Poinsettias prefer a room temperature between 60 and 68 F during the day and 10 degrees cooler at night. Humidity levels between 20 and 50 percent are ideal. Group plants on water-filled trays full of pebbles to help increase humidity levels.

· Place near sunlight. The United Kingdom-based Perrywood floral company advises placing poinsettia plants near a bright windowsill but not in direct sunlight. Do not let a poinsettia touch cold window panes.

· Avoid drafts. The plants are sensitive to drafts and changes in temperature. So it’s best to keep poinsettias away from drafty doors, windows, radiators, or fireplaces.

· Don’t drown the roots. Wait until the surface of the compost dries out before watering the plant anew. Also, the decorative foil wrapper that covers pots can trap water and lead to root rot. Remove it or poke holes in the bottom to allow for drainage.

· Cut back plants. Come mid-March, cut back the plant by half to encourage new shoots, suggests the University of Illinois Extension. The plants also can be placed outside in the spring after the risk of frost has passed. Bring poinsettias back in around mid-September to early October to force them to bloom again.

Cities Known for Spectacular Holiday Celebrations

“Discover festive hotspots worth adding to your travel wish-list.” 

——-

Public holiday celebrations are popular affairs each December. Communities big and small come together during the holiday season, which is a big part of what makes the final month of the year such a special time.

Travel enthusiasts who also happen to love the holiday season may want to take their festive outlook on the road and visit any of the many cities across North America with notable holiday celebrations.

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania: Given its namesake, it’s perhaps no great surprise that this city in eastern Pennsylvania goes all out for the holiday season. Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem is a holiday market featuring live music, offerings from skilled artisans, collectibles from Germany (the country’s holiday markets are inspiration for Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem), and more. More information about the celebration in Bethlehem can be found at steelstacks.org/festivals/christkindlmarkt-bethlehem/.

Kennebunkport, Maine: Where else but Maine might visitors watch in awe as Santa Claus arrives in town via lobster boat? That unique tradition is just one of many events that make the Christmas Prelude in Kennebunkport a must-see for any holiday season enthusiast. And while fireworks might be most often associated with warm weather holidays like Independence Day, Kennebunkport hosts an annual Christmas Fireworks Display as well, making a December visit to this coastal town in southern Maine a truly unique experience. More information is available at Christmasprelude.com.

Québec City, Canada: Québec is a beautiful and historic city at any time of year, but it’s especially magical during the holiday season, when the city’s cobbled streets, numerous cafes and German Christmas market combine to make visitors feel as though they have stepped back in time. The Christmas Market is spread out across various locations throughout the city. Christmas choirs add to the throwback appeal, which might prove even greater if visitors are lucky enough to experience a little snowfall during their visit, a weather event that is not uncommon in Québec during the month of December. More information is available at quebec-cite.com/en/what-to-do-quebec-city/christmas.

New York City:  From the Rockefeller Center tree to the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, NYC fully embraces the season with lights, markets, skating rinks, and world-class window displays along Fifth Avenue.

Vienna: Famous for its traditional Christmas markets, classical concerts, and elegant old-world atmosphere, Vienna turns the holidays into a cultural experience filled with music, pastries, and warm mulled wine in historic squares.

These are just five of the many notable locales holiday enthusiasts may want to add their travel-inspired seasonal bucket lists.

"Global Common Cents"

Wealth, Health & Performance!

“Challenging Traditional Thought to Gain Elite Performance”

Global Common Cents is an online periodical published by Corb7 International Inc. offering cutting-edge content across various categories critical to entrepreneurs and anyone who wishes to stay inform on such topics as International Business, Fitness, Cuisine, Leisure & Style, Lifestyle, Motivation, and Travel.

Published every Wednesday at 4:15 am Pacific Time / United States.

We also offer our site (listed below) which features articles, past & present newsletters, and recurring sections like “Popular Posts” and “Latest Posts,” with contributions from various writers and experts. The platform aims to provide readers with informative and engaging content on topics ranging from financial matters and etiquette to well-being and travel experiences. Founded by Jeff Corbett, it also offers resources like free e-books and explores trending topics, encouraging readers to stay informed through its newsletter and social media presence.

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