A Painting of a Golden-Hearted Lady

The Ragunan Zoo (Jakarta, Indonesia) has the world’s largest conservation center of primates, the Schmutzer Primate Center. Schmutzer name taken from the name of the late Mrs. Pauline Antoinette Schmutzer-Versteegh (1924-1998), a Netherlands-blooded painter and animal lover who had golden heart and loved Indonesia. She was pleased to donate all her estate to the establishment of this new primate center.

Previously, she also had donated several times her wealth for the construction of various cages at Ragunan Zoo, such as cages of lions, tigers, bears, etc. Thanks to her  generosity, Jakarta has the largest primate center in the world with ​​13 hectares area.

 

How to Pick the Perfect Blinds

There are so many types of blinds, it can be hard to pick which one ticks all the boxes for what you want. From roller blinds to verticals and venetians, each has their own unique set of benefits and looks. Cost is also an important factor and installation needs to be considered. This guide will help put you on the right path, whether you are looking at blinds for a new home or to replace those you already have.

Different types of blinds

There are many different types of blinds for the inside of your home and it’s important to consider all of their benefits and how they fit your needs. These are the most popular choices today:

·    Venetian and vertical blinds are a highly popular and cost-effective choice. They are widely used in first homes and rental properties. Venetians can be made of timber or aluminium and can be partially or fully opened to let in light. Verticals work in a similar manner but are made of fabric. Both types come in cheaper and more expensive options and a range of colours – as always, you get what you pay for. They are generally not regarded as the best for blocking out the heat.

·         Roller blinds are a popular choice for their simplicity, blockout qualities and wide range of colour and style choices. They are ideal for homes that require privacy but can also be opened up to let in light and air. Their simple roller system makes them easy to use and ensures they last for a long time. They even come in double rollers with one layer of blockout and another that lets in the light while retaining privacy.

·    Roman blinds are similar to roller blinds but fold down in a different manner and come in a different range of styles. They have a classic, contemporary look that is perfect in formal areas and all other parts of the home. They have excellent blockout qualities as well.

Factors to consider

Style and colour are just the starting point when it comes to choosing blinds. A wide range of colours means all types can fit into a home’s existing décor or can be used to help add a real feature to any room. Knowing what you want the blinds to achieve is probably the most important thing you need to consider. While privacy is paramount, letting in the light and breeze also needs to be factored in – some blinds are going to do this better than others. Blocking out the heat and keeping in the warmth are also important to think about – roller blinds and roman blinds are generally going to be the best in this department.

Talk to an expert

Using the services of a blinds expert is of utmost importance. They can help you choose the right type of blind – even down to the colour – once they understand your needs. It’s easy to do most things online, but having a representative visit your home can have added benefits. They can help you take into account sliding doors, security screens, odd-sized windows and whether the blinds should be mounted inside the window frame or outside. Having the windows expertly measured by the people who supply and manufacture the blinds is also a big plus – you will never have to worry about the blinds not fitting properly.

So now you know the basic things to consider when shopping for your blinds. The most important thing is to choose something that’s timeless and above all, have fun with it!

Amaryllis in Black and White

A blooming Amaryllis, right on my late father's birthday

The Weekend in Black and White

An Easy Guide to Handle Residential Relocation Anxiety

Many people feel that relocation is a difficult task and requires extra effort and time. Moving to a new place with all household items is not something that can be done within a day. That is why, it can get you really bored and exhausted. But it is not always like that. Residential relocation can be simplified with the right guidance and organizing skills. Therefore, most people hire professional movers and packers who would carry out the entire process in a less complicated way. Trust me, this process can be made fun only if you know want it.

Professional assistance will take that load of your shoulders!

Expert movers and packers have hands-on experience in the relocation process. They are aware of all the do's and don'ts of home or office relocation. They provide comprehensive solutions to all relocation hassles. I mean, who does not want to make packing a smooth and enjoyable affair? Professional movers and packers offer you a range of solutions, keeping in mind your monetary constraints. Moving companies offer various services like, packing, loading, unpacking, insurance and legal documentation.

Residential relocation with pets:

Relocation can be made challenging when it comes to transporting pets. There is a lot of noise, chaos and confusion in the house which often leaves the pet bewildered. If you are travelling in your personal vehicle, then pets can be taken along. But, if its overseas relocation, pets have to be shipped by air or water. Do not transport pets in removal lorries or goods trucks. Pets often face health problems on long journeys. It is best to make them as comfortable as human beings while relocating. Keep the belongings of your pet in a bag and carry it instead of leaving it in the removal lorry.

Keep the medical records of your pet just in case..........

When it comes to relocation, your pet can get lost if there is no proper care taken. Make sure that you keep the medical records and microchip details of your pet in case it gets lost. All the veterinary reports should be kept and quarantine arrangements ensured as it may be a requirement in the new country.

Residential relocation can be fun!!

If you have a busy life and fail to devote time to family, then this is a great opportunity to spend quality time with family. You can get kids engaged in the task as well. They just need to be encouraged and sometimes you can bribe them with a movie or dinner! Both children and adults have can help each other in cleaning up and arranging duties. With pets, kids or other things residential relocation is always trouble-free with removals London.