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5 Viral Outdoor Destinations Everyone’s Talking About in 2025

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5 Viral Outdoor Destinations Everyone’s Talking About in 2025


Lots of us get our travel inspiration from following other outdoor adventurers on social media. Seeing viral outdoor destinations can encourage us to get outdoors ourselves to view the stunning scenery and try the epic recreation opportunities we see online.

We’ve rounded up five viral outdoor destinations for you to consider, and we also have some tips to make sure these places stay beautiful and pristine despite the influx of visitors.

Crested Butte, Colorado

Like many Colorado mountain towns, Crested Butte is a former mining town. It sits in a valley, surrounded by the dramatic peaks of the Rocky Mountains. It’s about a 4 1/2 hour drive from Denver, but the drive itself is a gorgeous part of your trip! You’ll take 285 south, through Buena Vista and up Cottonwood Pass through the mountains.

The town has hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and other warm-weather outdoor activities in summer, and skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and other cold-weather activities in winter. But one of the big draws is the Crested Butte Wildflower Festival each July. Visitors can take photography, painting, and cooking classes or go on guided hikes through the kaleidoscope of colors around this town.

After you’ve explored the views and nature around Crested Butte, save time to check out the restaurants, bars, galleries, and shops in the historic downtown area.

Why It’s Going Viral

Crested Butte is known as the wildflower capital of Colorado. When you hike or explore the area in summer, you’ll find a brilliant variety of flowers in all sizes and colors. It’s also stunning in fall, when the leaves turn.

All of this beautiful foliage also leads to some eye-catching Instagram photos and TikTok videos. The area just pops on-screen, so it’s no wonder it’s going viral.

Best Outdoor Recreation Activities

While in Crested Butte, there are a variety of activities you can enjoy. If you’re a serious hiker, you can hike West Maroon Pass. It’s a 7-8 mile trek one-way (most people arrange a shuttle to get back), with 2,500 feet of elevation gain so it’s not for beginners! You’ll want to go later in June through early fall when a lot of snow has melted. The wildflowers in July are breathtaking.

Crested Butte is also a popular place for mountain biking, with lots of scenic trails through the mountains and wildflowers. In winter, enjoy skiing, fat tire snow biking, cross-country skiing, and other winter activities.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Jackson Hole is a marvelous blend of rugged outdoor adventures and upscale pampering. It’s another valley surrounded by mountains – the Tetons to the west and the Gros Ventre Range to the east. The Snake River flows through the valley and offers even more possibilities for outdoor recreation.

You can reach the town by flying into the Jackson Hole Airport, which is inside Grand Teton National Park, 7 miles north of town. The airport has flights to and from Denver, Salt Lake City, Dallas, Chicago, New York, and other hubs. Salt Lake City is about a 5-hour drive from Jackson Hole, and Denver is a 9 to 10-hour drive.

Jackson Hole is the gateway to Grand Teton National Park, and is about 90 minutes to two hours from the south entrance to Yellowstone National Park. The town offers a mix of wild outdoor adventures and upscale shopping, dining, and luxury experiences. You can spend the day outside rafting, hiking, or fishing, and then unwind with a relaxing massage or a great meal.

Best Outdoor Recreation Activities

There are so many opportunities for outdoor recreation that your biggest challenge will be narrowing down your list! You can book a wildlife safari to catch a glimpse of the animals that live in this region. Go whitewater rafting on the Snake River. Head out on a breathtaking hike or mountain bike ride. Fish, canoe, kayak, or swim in the river or the lakes that dot the area. In the winter, you can go skiing or snowboarding at Jackson Hole Resort. You can also go snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or hiking through a winter wonderland.

There are also lots of places to camp in Jackson Hole, so it’s easy to plan an RV road trip to the area!

Burney Falls, California

Burney Falls is in Northern California, inside McArthur-Burney Falls State Park in Shasta County. The park is within the Cascade Range and the Modoc Plateau, and is about an hour from Lassen Volcanic National Park. Along with seeing the falls, you can enjoy the sparkling streams and you can swim, boat, and fish in nearby Lake Britton.

Burney Falls is about 60 miles west of Redding, California, and about four hours from Sacramento or the Lake Tahoe area.

Why It’s Internet Famous

The falls are unique because visitors don’t just see water pour over the top of them. The water also seeps out of the cliff face from underground springs, so there are hundreds of smaller rivulets. The 129-foot-tall waterfalls look like a curtain of water as they cascade into a striking turquoise pool below. In fact, they’re so unusual that Teddy Roosevelt reportedly dubbed them the “eighth wonder of the world.” They’re also surrounded by moss-covered rocks and forest, so that you feel like you’re in an enchanted forest as you walk.

The main falls overlook is just a short, paved walk from the parking area. You’ll get a dramatic view of the entire waterfall. There’s also a Falls Loop Trail that’s a 1.2-mile loop to the base of the falls. The trail is moderately difficult, but it gives you several perspectives of the waterfall.

Best Outdoor Recreation Activities

There are about 5 miles of hiking trails in the state park, including connections to the Pacific Crest Trail. You can also trout fish in Burney Creek, go boating or swimming in Lake Britton, or camp at the park.

Kanab, Utah

Kanab is in Southern Utah, and is a desert town surrounded by the striking red rocks that this region is known for. You’ll find slot canyons, rock formations, and sprawling desert in Kanab, and it’s close to several of Utah’s five national parks. More than 100 Western films, including many starring John Wayne, were shot in Kanab from the 1920s through the 1970s because of the town’s historic-looking Western storefronts and scenery.

Kanab is about a 90-minute drive from the St. George Regional Airport, about a four-hour drive from Las Vegas, and about a five-hour drive from Salt Lake City.

It’s also just 35 miles from Zion National Park, 75 miles from Bryce Canyon National Park, and 80 miles from the north rim of the Grand Canyon.

Kanab is a great destination dupe for Zion National Park. You’ll find a lot of similar landscapes in Kanab, including slot canyons, sand dunes, and stark desert hikes without the crowds of one of the most-visited national parks.

Outdoor Recreation

Kanab is home to lots of hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing. Explore Peek-a-Boo Canyon, which has a 0.7-mile short hike through the slot canyon, with orange sandstone walls rising on both sides. Visit Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, where you can wander the dunes and get amazing photos. You can also cycle the scenic byways in the area, visit Moqui Caves, and walk through the Belly of the Dragon sandstone tunnel.

The Enchantments, Washington

The Enchantments are part of a high-alpine basin in the Cascade Mountains near Leavenworth, Washington. You’ll be surrounded by soaring granite peaks, sparkling alpine lakes, brilliant fall foliage, and colorful wildflower meadows in late spring and summer. You might also glimpse mountain goats, elk, bears, marmots, pikas, and other wildlife.

The Enchantments are about a 3-hour drive from Seattle, which is also where you’ll find the closest airport.

Why It’s Viral

You can only access The Enchantments by hiking into the basin. The easiest day hike option is still moderately difficult – a hike to Colchuck Lake. It’s about an 8-mile round-trip hike, with 2,300 feet of elevation gain. You’ll be rewarded with views of the beautiful turquoise lake in the shadow of Dragontail Peak. Many people say this is the best day hike option to see the scenery of the area without having to get a special permit. You can also hike to Lake Viviane or Isolation Lake, but those are more strenuous and may require a backcountry permit.

Because the area is remote and can’t be accessed by car, you’ll get untouched scenery, more wildlife, beautiful wildflowers, and a more serene experience.

Outdoor Recreation

You can hike the Enchantments Thru-Hike, which is 18 miles long and has 4,500 feet of elevation gain. Hikers arrange a ride back from the other end of the trail. Many hikers do this extremely strenuous hike in one day, but you can also apply for a permit via lottery to do this as an overnight backpacking trip.

Visitors to The Enchantments can also go fishing in the area, and there are several other hiking options as well.

Tips for Visiting Viral Outdoor Spots

If you’re headed to viral outdoor destinations or any other popular spot, there are a few things to know to make your trip pleasant for you and everyone else.

  • Leave No Trace: Follow Leave No Trace principles so that everyone after you can enjoy the area as well! Pack out your trash and dispose of waste properly. Camp and walk on durable surfaces where you won’t damage plant life. Minimize your campfire impact. Don’t feed wildlife – even by accident! Keep your food and smellable items like lotion or sunscreen in bear canisters or other bear-proof containers.
  • Travel In The Off-Season: If you want to avoid crowds in popular areas, try going during less popular times. Many places are less crowded early in the morning or after 4 pm. These areas can also be less crowded before Memorial Day and after Labor Day – the traditional summer season is often the busiest time for tourists.
  • Check Permit Requirements, Trail Conditions, and Other Reservations: Areas like The Enchantments require permits for certain regions or activities like backpacking. Some national parks and other popular spots now require timed entry permits or reservations. And events like Crested Butte’s wildflower festival may require reservations for classes or workshops.

There’s a reason these areas are viral – they’re gorgeous destinations that are well worth a visit! You’ll just want to make sure you balance the excitement of visiting them with the responsibility we all have to preserve them for future generations.

Plan your trip now to these spots, so you’re ready for the next wave of viral destinations! Consider renting an RV from RVshare to help you travel to these destinations and camp comfortably while you’re there.





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Tesla AI6 chips will start sample production at surprising Samsung site

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Tesla AI6 chips will start sample production at surprising Samsung site


Starship Flight 10 was a huge success for SpaceX. When both the Super Heavy booster and the Starship Upper Stage successfully landed on their designated splashdown zones, the space community was celebrating.

The largest and most powerful rocket in the world had successfully completed its tenth test flight. And this time around, there were no rapid unscheduled disassemblies during the mission.

As per SpaceX in a statement following Flight 10, “every major objective was met, providing critical data to inform designs of the next generation Starship and Super Heavy.” The private space enterprise also stated that Flight 10 provided valuable data by stressing the limits of Starship’s capabilities.

With all of Flight 10’s mission objectives met, one would think that it would be pretty easy to cover the story of Starship’s successful tenth test flight. But that’s where one would be wrong, because Elon Musk companies, whether it be Tesla or SpaceX or xAI, tend to attract negative slant from mainstream media outlets.

This was in full force with Starship Flight 10’s coverage. Take the BBC’s Facebook post about the fight test, which read “Elon Musk’s giant rocket, earmarked for use in a 2027 mission to the Moon, has had multiple catastrophic failures in previous launches.” CNN was more direct with its slant, writing “SpaceX’s troubled Starship prototype pulls off successful flight after months of explosive mishaps” on its headline. 

While some media outlets evidently adopted a negative slant towards Starship’s Flight 10 results, several other media sources actually published surprisingly positive articles about the successful test flight. The most notable of which is arguably the New York Times, which featured a headline that read “SpaceX’s Giant Mars Rocket Completes Nearly Flawless Test Flight.” Fox News also ran with a notably positive headline that read “SpaceX succeeds at third Starship test flight attempt after multiple scrubs.”

Having covered Elon Musk-related companies for the better part of a decade now, I have learned that mainstream coverage of any of his companies tends to be sprinkled with varying degrees of negative slant. The reasons behind this may never be fully explained, but it is just the way things are. This is why, when milestones such as Starship’s Flight 10 actually happen and mainstream media coverage becomes somewhat objective, I can’t help but be amazed. 

After all, it takes one heck of a company led by one heck of a leader to force objectivity on an entity that has proven subjective over the years. And that, if any, is all the proof one could need about the undeniable success of Starship Flight 10.





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Unveiling the Pinnacle of Luxury: Passport BMW’s Exec and Courtesy Demos

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Unveiling the Pinnacle of Luxury: Passport BMW’s Exec and Courtesy Demos


Unveiling the Pinnacle of Luxury: Passport BMW’s Exec and Courtesy Demos

Rev up your engines and fasten your seatbelts! We are about to take you on a thrilling ride through the luxurious world of BMW. When it comes to experiencing the pinnacle of automotive engineering and design, Passport BMW is the destination that transcends expectations. This renowned BMW dealership not only offers an impressive inventory of new and pre-owned BMW vehicles but also provides two exceptional programs – Exec and Courtesy Demos – that elevate the car buying experience to a whole new level.

1. The BMW Exec Demo Program: A Taste of Excellence

Imagine getting behind the wheel of a BMW that exudes elegance and cutting-edge technology without the price tag of a brand-new vehicle. That’s precisely what the BMW Exec Demo Program at Passport BMW offers to its esteemed clientele. Exec stands for Executive, and indeed, these vehicles are a reflection of BMW’s commitment to providing an executive-level driving experience.

But what exactly is an Exec Demo? It is a vehicle that has been gently driven by dealership executives, and senior management, or used for short-term purposes such as test drives or VIP transport. As a result, these cars typically have low mileage and are in impeccable condition, making them an excellent alternative for those who crave the luxury of a BMW without the brand-new price.

The benefits of the BMW Exec Demo Program extend beyond the exceptional value. With these vehicles being recent models, they often come equipped with the latest technology, safety features, and performance enhancements. Furthermore, since they were meticulously cared for by the dealership, you can have the peace of mind that you’re acquiring a car that has been thoroughly inspected and maintained.

2. The BMW Courtesy Demo Program: Courtesy on Four Wheels

If you thought the Exec Demo Program was impressive, the BMW Courtesy Demo Program takes the concept of luxury to another dimension. As the name suggests, the Courtesy Demo Program offers customers a courteous opportunity to experience BMW’s finest models for an extended period.

These vehicles are often provided to Passport BMW customers who are awaiting the arrival of their custom-ordered BMW or their vehicles undergoing scheduled service. This gesture of courtesy ensures that customers continue to enjoy the BMW experience while their vehicles are taken care of by expert technicians.

Unlike traditional test drives, which are usually brief, the BMW Courtesy Demo Program allows potential buyers to truly immerse themselves in the BMW lifestyle for a more comprehensive evaluation. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or daily commuting, these courtesy demos grant an in-depth understanding of the BMW’s performance, comfort, and innovation.

3. The Passport BMW Difference: Excellence and Beyond

At Passport BMW, the commitment to excellence goes far beyond the remarkable vehicles they offer. Their dedication to customer satisfaction and the desire to create a memorable buying experience sets them apart from the rest.

When you step into Passport BMW, you are welcomed by a team of knowledgeable and passionate BMW experts who are more than willing to assist you in finding the perfect vehicle that suits your lifestyle and preferences. Whether you have questions about specific models, financing options, or BMW’s advanced technology features, their team is there to provide the answers and guidance you need.

Moreover, Passport BMW’s dedication to customer care extends to its top-notch service and maintenance facilities. Their factory-trained technicians use genuine BMW parts and cutting-edge diagnostic equipment to ensure your BMW continues to perform at its peak.

Unleash the Power of BMW with Passport

In conclusion, if you’re ready to experience the thrill of driving a BMW and indulging in the epitome of luxury and performance, Passport BMW’s Exec and Courtesy Demo Programs are the ideal avenues to begin your journey.

With the BMW Exec Demo Program, you can embrace the excellence of a BMW at a remarkable value, while the Courtesy Demo Program offers you the courtesy of enjoying the BMW experience to the fullest. Combine that with Passport BMW’s exceptional customer service, and you have a recipe for an unforgettable automotive experience.

At Passport BMW, the road ahead is not just a destination; it’s an exhilarating voyage that celebrates the essence of BMW’s engineering and innovation. Visit Passport BMW today and unlock the door to a world of unparalleled luxury and driving pleasure. Happy driving! Click here to browse our current Exec and Courtesy Demos


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Next Volkswagen Golf R to be the most powerful Golf yet

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Next Volkswagen Golf R to be the most powerful Golf yet


Volkswagen is reportedly working on a new Golf R, which will be the final ICE version of the popular hatchback. It will also be the most powerful Golf ever made.

According to Autocar, the next VW Golf R will be powered by a turbocharged 5-cylinder engine from the Audi RS3. This 2.5-litre unit produces 389 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque, whereas the current Golf R’s 2.0-liter turbo-petrol engine makes 324 hp and 295 lb-ft.

In order to fit the bigger 5-cylinder unit, VW will have to make a few changes under the bonnet of the Golf. The suspension will need to be firmed up to support the extra weight, and it will get beefier brakes.

Volkswagen Golf R 333-1

The new VW Golf R is scheduled to debut in 2027, which means the 5-cylinder engine will have to comply with the Euro 7 emission regulations. This would require more modifications, such as a recalibrated ECU, a new particulate filter and NOx sensors, among others.

Prototypes of the Golf R have already been spotted at the Nurburgring. The test car was seen sporting a roof spoiler, hood vents, and quad exhausts. It appeared to have a lower ride height and was fitted with bigger wheels and brakes.

Source: Autocar



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It’s Wise to Invest in Personal Branding

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It’s Wise to Invest in Personal Branding


When I was filling
out the Nomination Form for the UPAA Distinguished Alumnus Awards early
this year, I had a chance to reflect on my career. A friend who won the
Lifetime Achievement Award in 2023 said, “You were a trailblazer. Your category
should be for ‘Leadership in It Development.’” That was my brand!

How I
Got My Brand

Without
knowing it, I had developed a personal brand.

After
training with NCR and IBM, I applied with SGV&Co. I became the Marketing
Manager of the Institute of Advanced Computer Technology, its computer training
unit. That made my name synonymous with innovative things as we marketed our brand-new
courses and seminars, introducing the technology to the country.

When the
Development Academy of the Philippines sought a Vice President to introduce
more automation to government agencies, my name came up. The DAP President
invited me to become its VP for IT Applications.

Similarly,
my name reappeared when MegaLink, a consortium of banks, was formed. The Board
invited me to become the General Manager of the pioneering ATM switch.

Then,
Liwayway Vinzons-Chato, the newly appointed BIR Commissioner, asked industry
leaders for someone to help her automate the agency. They gave her my name. She
invited me to become one of her three Deputy Commissioners.

After launching
the country’s revenue system in two years, the SAP Singapore Regional Office asked me to return to the private sector as MD of SAP to introduce the groundbreaking German ERP software in the Philippines.  

Two years
later, when six conglomerates formed the consortium BayanTrade to launch a
pioneering e-procurement hub in the country, they persuaded me to leave SAP.

Finally,
when Comelec wanted to move to automated elections, they asked for the
recommendation of the Dean of the UP College of Public Administration. I was then
a Doctorate in Public Administration Program student, and she recommended
me.

Increasingly,
trailblazing became attached to my name. In a competitive landscape, establishing a personal
brand like this is a necessity. Creating a unique and compelling identity
differentiates you from the competition and attracts the right opportunities.

Benefits
of Personal Branding and How to Make One

Here are
some of the benefits of establishing a personal brand:

1. Establish
credibility and authority. Your name is associated with expertise and
trustworthiness.

2. Build
trust and rapport, leading to many connections.

3.
Differentiate yourself, stand out, and showcase your uniqueness.

4. Attract the
best opportunities that align with your skills, goals, and values.

Here are
some steps I took that probably helped me build a strong brand without knowing it:

1. Shared my
expertise through written articles or speaking engagements.

2. Built relationships
with people in the IT industry and attended relevant events. I even led
associations and founded new ones.

3. Told my
story through compelling narratives about my journey, successes, and lessons
learned.

In today’s overloaded
information landscape, however, these additional steps have become crucial:

1. Define
your target audience so you can tailor your brand message.

2. Identify
your unique value proposition or what makes you different.

3. Create a
robust online presence through a professional website, good social media
profiles, and a consistent online persona.

4. Maintain
a consistent image across all platforms.

As I shifted
from a technology executive to a freelance writer, I unconsciously followed
these same steps. I do not randomly post on Facebook or LinkedIn, for example.
I always plan my posts and make sure they are well-constructed, with good
photos to accompany the text (although I need to catch up in using videos).

Doing this takes
patience, persistence, and authenticity, requiring time and effort, but it is
worth it. I successfully switched from an IT executive to a travel
writer.

Best
Books on Personal Branding

To learn
more about personal branding, I asked Gemini, Google’s AI platform, to give me
the five best books. Here is the output, complete with the gist
of each book:

“1.
“Reinventing You: Define Your Brand, Imagine Your Future” by Dorie
Clark

This book
provides a comprehensive guide to building a solid personal brand, covering self-discovery, online presence, networking, storytelling, and
adaptability.

2.
“Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action”
by Simon Sinek

It is
focused on leadership but offers valuable insights into personal branding,
especially the importance of understanding your “why” and
communicating it effectively to connect with others.

3.
“Platform: Get Noticed in the Age of Attention Economy” by Mike
Stelzner

This book
helps you understand how to build an online platform and leverage digital
channels to enhance your brand by creating content, engaging with the audience,
and growing your following.

4.
“Personal Branding for Dummies” by Paul Argenti

As the title
suggests, it offers a beginner-friendly introduction to personal branding, covering
essential concepts and providing a step-by-step guide for building a brand.

5. “The
7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen Covey

I was pleased
to find this fifth book mentioned. It was my Bible when I was working. I read
it several times and presented talks on it when invited. Although not
specifically about personal branding, this classic book offers personal effectiveness, integrity, and relationship principles. When applied to any niche you
choose, a personal brand will emerge.  



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Designing body kits and accessories

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Designing body kits and accessories


Drive have gained a lot of experience in designing body kits and accessories for cars and vans.

Aftermarket Parts

The UK’s automotive aftermarket category is thriving with a large number of companies selling products. More often than not they are conversion companies designing the parts inhouse. Some turn to studios like drive who are experienced in designing and engineering aftermarket parts. Unique designs providing tuning houses and independent conversion companies successful product lines. Thus enabling them to become market leaders in the UK’s lucrative aftermarket sector, worth over £21 billion per year.

Styling Kits

While there are a lot of people who are happy with their ‘forecourt’ product, many want to enhance or personalise their vehicles beyond the factory options.  They are either looking to improve on performance or enhance the styling be that subtle or bold.  Whatever the taste of the individual, the demand is for parts designed and made to the highest quality. 

designing body kits and accessories for cars and vans

Conversion Companies

At Drive, our track record working with vehicle manufacturers, known as OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) and low volume specialists, places us in a unique position to support styling houses or conversion companies wanting to create their own product lines for cars and vans. 

designing body kits and accessories for cars and vans

Designing Body Kits and Accessories for cars and vans

Utilising our expertise and knowledge of designing aftermarket accessories, we support projects from concept sketch to final product delivery.  We develop creative concepts with design and engineering understanding for manufacture. With industry connections for production, we add measurable value to our clients’ businesses.

Injection Moulded Parts

Depending on the desired design language and business positioning we create appropriate car and van body kit designs. We can use the same brand language as the OEM and deliver mass produced injection moulded parts. This allows us to replicate the original fixing methods and crucial placement of any sensors.  This approach allows our clients the assurance of fit enabling quick turn around. 

designing body kits and accessories van body kit and accessories

Composite Parts

For the more extreme designs for limited editions or lower production numbers, the more suitable or cost effective route may well be production of composite or carbon fibre parts.

Design Partner

We are confident that drive are the perfect design partner to help create a differentiating product line of aftermarket accessories adding a significant revenue stream to your business. If you are thinking of designing body kits and accessories, get in touch and we’ll be happy to discuss your plans.

Design Development

2023 Market Report



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US Open Green Initiatives: A Fan Perspective

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US Open Green Initiatives: A Fan Perspective


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Last Updated on: 27th August 2025, 01:16 am

Having lived in Queens for over two decades, I have always wanted to go to the nearby US Open Tennis Championships, but something always seemed to come up. Last week, I finally made it out for Fan Week. I was able to watch intense qualifying matches and some of the world’s best players practice, like former champion and local phenom Naomi Osaka.

However, beyond all the action on the courts, I was also interested in what efforts were being made at this high-profile event to be more environmentally friendly. Looking at the green initiatives on their website, the list is too extensive to go into detail here. From efficient LEED Certified stadiums down to recycling used racket string, the amount of effort that went into reducing the environmental impact had to be significant. However, the execution was even more impressive.

Transportation

Getting there is easy. Transfer to the 7, get off at Mets Willets Point station, walk the opposite direction from Citi Field, and you are there. Alternatively, LIRR trains and buses also stop there. Not only is taking electrified mass transit possible here, but it’s also often faster, more convenient, and much less expensive than the $40 parking fee.

For a major live event with international participants, some air travel is unavoidable. However, hosting the event at a major international hub not only increases convenience but also reduces emissions from air travel. A substantial part of total air travel emissions come from takeoff and landing. By reducing the number of stops and reducing the distance travelled by using a more direct path, emissions from flying can be significantly reduced. If I was planning a major live event and trying to reduce carbon emissions, selecting a location with convenient mass transit and direct flights would be a key consideration.

Reducing Waste

There was a clear effort to eliminate single-use plastic waste. Food packaging and napkins tended to be made from compostable recycled paper, often with environmental messages. Ticketing was paperless, with complimentary mobile chargers available to borrow ensuring that people still had enough charge to get into the events.

The plastic cutlery given out with product samples and within the food court was made from compostable PLA. PLA (or Polylactic Acid) is a polymer of the same chemical that makes your muscles sore after lifting weights and makes yogurt taste tangy. It is still a thermoplastic (often used for 3D printing), but not all plastics are created equal. PLA is derived from carbohydrates in plants, rather than from petroleum, and it avoids many of the problematic chemicals found in other plastics. It is not perfect and does not break down quickly in low temperatures or low oxygen levels. However, it biodegrades in the warm, oxygen-rich environment of commercial composting, and New York City has municipal composting.

Cocktails were served in souvenir plastic glasses that were of sufficient quality that people actually wanted to take them home and reuse them. I personally didn’t see any of them being thrown away. There were some product samples, but they were also of high enough quality and utility that they didn’t just end up in the trash. For example, the sunscreen samples from La Roche-Posay were, in my opinion, some of the best I have ever used and a good size for travel.

Meanwhile, people were allowed to bring in water bottles, and filling stations were more convenient than waiting in line to buy water. I saw more people using refillable bottles than buying bottles. Plastic water bottles were still available from Evian, but they were made out of 100% recycled PET. The $7–9 cost also provided an incentive to refill rather than buy. Recycling receptacles were also prolific, and New York City has municipal recycling.

Merchandise & Clothing

Beyond the recycled water bottles, some of the merchandise was also made from recycled plastic. In addition, the Polo-branded ball crew uniforms were made from recycled plastic. I assume (or at least hope) that these uniforms were comfortable, as the ball crew had to stand in the hot sun for hours at a time. Items made out of recycled plastic are important, as it creates a market and increases the likelihood that items sorted for plastic recycling are actually recycled, rather than ending up in waste streams. Moving forward, it would be great to see more recycled plastic items being offered.

Electric Vehicles

While the electric vehicle people use in NYC the most is a subway train, Cadillac had a display with only electric vehicles. Clearly, they were taking a page out of Tesla’s playbook to create their own four-letter acronym. They did not overemphasize the environmental aspect, and several people seemed surprised to find out that the vehicles they were looking at were EVs. I sat in an enormous ~$155,000 Escalade IQ. While this kind of vehicle is largely irrelevant to me personally and undoubtedly not the most efficient EV on the road, the emissions savings compared to a similarly massive ICE vehicle must be significant.

Final Thoughts

After the qualifying matches died down for the day, we went one stop up to Flushing Main Street to grab some Vietnamese food. Over dinner, I asked a friend who was with us what she thought about the green initiatives at the US Open. She had no idea what I was talking about. When I went through some of the different aspects, the response was that it just made sense and wasn’t noticeable if you were not looking for it.

The seemingly effortless execution of the green initiatives was perhaps the most impressive part. Environmental impact was being reduced while the experience was made better and more convenient. It didn’t try to attract massive attention and didn’t come off as greenwashing. It just made sense when you thought about it, but you didn’t have to think about it.

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Mposed240 Build & Member Intro (TNM Gang) *PICS*

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Mposed240 Build & Member Intro (TNM Gang) *PICS*


BIMMERPOST

Hello everyone! I am a new member here who has watched and read from the sidelines for a few months now. I finally got the car to where I wanted it after 6 months of ownership, which leads me here today.

I want to start off by saying this forum has been helpful in many aspects as I’m new to the BMW world. I have always loved and owned sports cars. Throughout multiple posts and reads, this site has definitely helped me build this car, so thank you to all! Some of you have some great advice, ideas and some very sick rides! �� ��

I will be posting here throughout the life of owning this car and answering any questions I can along the way, if I’m ever of any help. I hope to continue to modify the car and move onto performance upgrades if that’s what the long term plan becomes. For now, I want to enjoy the car and not hassle with BMW over my warranty. �� Hopefully cruise and hit some car shows & meets.

I put this car together for my wife with intentions to grow a bond in something I enjoy, which is cars and seat time behind them. I want to think to myself that I’ve put “some” thought into this build from a cosmetic perspective and tried to shop the best parts I saw fit. I must say the car has performed awesome and has exceeded our expectations. I look forward to chatting and getting to know the G42 & 2 Series World! I hope you enjoy the car for what it’s worth.

2023 BMW M240i

List of mods: (Cosmetic Only)
-Custom 20” 3pc BBS LM by AR Motorwerkz
-H&R Springs
-Essentials Carbon Fiber Front Spoiler
-Essentials Side Skirts w/ Winglets Carbon
-Turner Motorsports Oil Skid Plate
-Tre Carbon Fiber Steering Wheel Overlay
-Tre Carbon Fiber Center Console Overlay
-Tre Carbon Fiber Rear Spoiler
-Essentials Red Start/Stop Engine Button
-M Motorsport License Plate Holder Carbon
-M Motorsport Alcantara Arm Rest
-M Motorsport Alcantara Knee Pads
-M Motorsport Door Latch Pins
-M Motorsport Front & Rear Floor-mats
-M Fender Badge Logos
-Open Throttle Door Logo Lights M240i
-OEM Fire Extinguisher Paint to Match
-Golden Wrench Oil Cap Paint to Match
-Golden Wrench Coolant Caps P2M
-Golden Wrench Windshield Wiper Cap P2M
-Carbonex Paint to Match Hood Latch
-Down Star Titanium Engine Dress Up Kit
-Ind Engine Cover Carbon Fiber P2M
-Ind ECU / Battery Cover Carbon Fiber P2M
-Ind Front Reflector Delete Paint to Match
-AutoTechNik Cooling Shroud P2M Carbon
-JQ Werks Madtrace CS MagPaddleShifters
-Xpel PPF w/ Ceramic Coatings
-Sun Visor Warning Label Delete
-Rear Badge Black Out
-Racesio Shoulder Seatbelt Straps

Shout out to Ron AR_Motorwerkz for holding it down on the wheel & tire package, you put the �� on top boss!

Another thank you to Ryan IND-Distribution so so helpful Sir! ��

More photos and updates in the future ��Attachment 3806648

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Last edited by Mposed240; Yesterday at 10:30 AM..


Reason: Typos





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How To Detect Car Faults Early – The Car Spotter Blog

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How To Detect Car Faults Early – The Car Spotter Blog


Partnered Post

In many cases, it’s beneficial to fix car faults early. Even if they don’t seem that serious, they could get worse over time and have a knock-on effect on other parts of your car. 

Of course, being able to repair problems early involves being able to detect these problems early. Sometimes the signs of a problem can be subtle at first. This post details just a few of the warning signs to look out for to help you stay on top of maintenance. 

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Warning lights

Warning lights are the most obvious sign that something is wrong with your car. These are the yellow and red lights that flash up on your dashboard.

Because these warning lights are universal, it’s easy to look up and learn a lot of them. For some warning lights such as ‘low tire pressure’, you may be able to easily solve the problem by checking your tire air pressure and filling up with air if needed. Others may require you to visit a mechanic to diagnose and fix.

Sometimes warning lights can malfunction. A mechanic will be able to tell if you have an electrical issue or if it’s a genuine problem. Just make sure that you don’t ignore warning lights under the assumption that they are an electrical glitch. 

Fluid puddles

Got puddles collecting under your vehicle after you’ve parked? It’s actually quite normal for vehicles to drip water after a long drive – this is usually condensation from the exhaust pipe or air conditioning unit. You should however worry, if fluid seems to be coming from somewhere else and doesn’t look like water.

Puddles of brown, black or amber liquid are typically engine oil. If you spot this type of leak, it’s important to get your vehicle into a repair centre as soon as possible. Other fluids to watch out for are engine coolant, battery fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid and window washer fluid. 

Strange noises

Cars produce all kinds of noises. As we get used to driving a certain car, we will quickly pick up on which sounds are normal and which are abnormal. It’s important to not ignore sounds that may seem unusual – as they could be a sign of a mechanical problem. 

What types of sounds should you be listening out for? Squealing, grinding, clicking, rattling and hissing sounds are usually all signs of problems. You should be particularly wary of sounds when braking, steering, changing gear or reversing – don’t allow these noises to get worse, as you could be causing more damage. 

Odd smells

Our sense of smell can also help us to pick up on potential car faults. If an unusual smell can’t be easily traced to anything inside or outside your car, consider whether it is the car itself producing that smell.

Burning smells are clearly the most serious smells – you should pull over as soon as you smell burning, turn off the engine, get out and call roadside assistance if this happens. Burning rubber could meanwhile be a tyre issue, while smells from air conditioning could be due to mould or bacteria. Other failing parts can produce other smells ranging from rotten egg smells to plastic burning smells. Don’t ignore these odours – they could be the first sign that something is wrong. 

Steering issues

Cars can experience many different steering issues, which can affect the control that you have over your vehicle. It’s important to pay attention to how the car’s steering feels. If the vehicle is pulling over to the side, slipping or feeling very stiff, it could be time to take it into a repair centre.

Steering issues could be due to low power steering fluid, a damaged power steering belt or suspension/tire issues. A professional mechanic will be able to diagnose the problem and fix it before it potentially becomes dangerous. When driving a new car, be wary that responsiveness can vary from vehicle to vehicle – you may not always know if there is a steering problem, however it could be worth looking up a review of the car to see what others think of the car’s normal steering. 

Unusual vibrations

All cars vibrate a little – but are they The Beach Boys type of vibrations, or are they bad vibrations? Changes in vibrations are usually a sign that something is wrong. If the steering wheel or gear stick is vibrating, it could be due to a lack of lubrication or worn parts. More general vibrations around the car could be the result of suspension issues. In either case, it’s worth getting these problems checked out.

Vibrations often cause knock-on damage by shaking parts loose or causing parts to rub. This is why it’s important not to ignore vibrations around your vehicle. 

Servicing

Getting a professional to fully inspect your vehicle every year is one of the best ways to detect issues early. An MOT only looks at a few vital areas of your vehicle. A full car service on the other hand is much more detailed – plus you can usually get services like an oil change and fluid top up included. 

Some repair centres are able to carry out servicing on a range of vehicles. Others specialise in servicing for certain vehicles such as Range Rover servicing – and may have extra niche tools and knowledge to help detect faults. Some people get a service done at the same time as their MOT, while others schedule it at a different time of the year to spread out the cost. One of the best times to do it could be before embarking on a very long journey, so that you can repair any faults before you set off. 

Visual inspections

You may be able to spot certain problems simply by walking around the vehicle and occasionally checking under the bonnet. Most people never really take a close look at their tyres, but it can be worth doing occasionally to make sure that there’s no excessive wear or other damage. Similarly, you may be able to spot faults with components under the bonnet simply by looking at them (such as corrosion or leaks). 

Try to do this every month if you can. It will help you to keep track of the condition of your vehicle and you’ll have a better idea as to when an issue may have occurred. 





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World’s only 2013 Aston Martin Bertone Jet 2+2 headed to auction

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World’s only 2013 Aston Martin Bertone Jet 2+2 headed to auction


The last concept car produced by legendary Italian design house Bertone is up for grabs.

That car, the Aston Martin Bertone Jet 2+2, is scheduled to be auctioned off by Dore & Rees on Mar. 29. Unveiled at the 2013 Geneva auto show, it was slated to go into production, according to the auction house, but Bertone’s bankruptcy the following year halted those plans.

2013 Aston Martin Bertone Jet 2+2 concept (image via Dore & Rees)

2013 Aston Martin Bertone Jet 2+2 concept (image via Dore & Rees)

A shooting-brake version of the Aston Martin Rapide, the Jet 2+2 was commissioned by Aston collector Barry Weir to help celebrate the automaker’s century, and to mark 60 years of collaboration between the British automaker and Bertone.

The Jet 2+2 was inspired by the Bertone Jet 2 concept 2004, which was based on the first-generation Aston Martin Vanquish and was retained by Bertone after its tour of the auto-show circuit. It was even dusted off and updated to be displayed alongside the Jet 2+2 at the 2013 Geneva show. The Jet 2 itself was inspired by the Bertone Jet, and Aston Martin DB4-based concept shown in Geneva in 1961.

2013 Aston Martin Bertone Jet 2+2 concept (image via Dore & Rees)

2013 Aston Martin Bertone Jet 2+2 concept (image via Dore & Rees)

The concept is fully drivable, showing 24,169 miles, according to the auction listing. It’s mechanically identical to a standard Rapide, boasting the same 6.0-liter V-12 producing 476 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. That will get this one-off Aston from 0-62 mph in an estimated 5.3 seconds.

Aston Martin planned to build 10 customer cars, according to the auction listing, but Bertone shut down before they could be completed, making the Jet 2+2 one-of-a-kind.  The Bertone name was revived in 2022 for the GB110 supercar project, with plans for 33 cars designed to run on fuel produced from waste plastic.



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