Friday, March 23, 2012

The Advantages of Watching Movies at the Cinema

One of the most popular leisure activities of all time is movie watching. May the film genre be drama, action, fiction, documentary or comedy, watching movies is a relaxing way to break free from our daily activities, studies, work and other routines for at least two good hours.

Gone are the days when movie watching choices are limited to cinemas. The entertainment industry continues to grow by coming up with different forms of digital technologies allowing audiences to choose how to consume movies other than the cinema screens. This posed a challenge to movie theater attendance in general. Today, we can also reap the benefits of movie entertainment through the internet, home-theater technology and video rentals. While some would argue that these alternatives are becoming increasingly popular because they are somewhat economical and readily available, many still believe that going to cinemas and theaters with a bucket of popcorns and large soda is still the best way to enjoy the wonders of movie watching. Let’s find out why:


You can always rely on cinemas to always have the latest movie offerings. Be one of the first people to know the buzz in moviedom by watching the most anticipated movies as they officially come out for release by stepping into your favorite cinema. People like talking about movies as a means of socialization. Achieving firsthand movie enjoyment can be used as a social instrument to associate oneself to others and get acquainted.

Watching a movie with a lot of other people can be boatloads of fun. Sure, there will be instances that some people would inevitably talk or make all sorts of noises while the movie is still running but for the most part, experiencing varying and similar reactions from fellow viewers can be very enjoyable.
There are many home-theater systems out there that have amazing sound system and 3D capabilities. Needless to say, owning and maintaining such equipment can be pretty expensive. One can simply afford experiencing what home theater systems can offer without having to purchase one by going to the cinema. In addition, even the most advanced home theater systems can’t exactly replicate the way cinemas can make you feel like you’re part of the film. Nothing beats the giant screen, larger than life sound experience and high level of quality viewing that cinemas can offer.

Though it can’t be argued that watching movies at home by yourself or with your family and friends is still a fun experience, interacting with all sorts of people and personalities at a movie theater brings movie watching to another level. Don’t stay cooped up, get out and go see a movie today!

The Mandarin Shopping Centre houses Hoyts Cinema, one of the leading entertainment companies in Australia. It is the only place to watch the latest and most-talked about movie releases in Chatswood! Visit their website to check out current movie line-ups and to conveniently book tickets in seconds.

Friday, February 24, 2012

Grocery Shopping Tips To Stay On Budget

Sometimes, a trip to the grocery store can be a very expensive weekly chore. We all love good food and stepping into that food haven where almost everything looks appetizing can make you deviate from your shopping budget. You’ll be surprised that even the most budget conscious buyer can end up scratching their head at the counter with a filled up shopping cart.

If you’re reading this, chances are, you have tendencies of spending too much at the grocery store more than you’re supposed to. Stick to your budget and stay financially fit by avoiding the common spending pitfalls with these simple tips below:

Make a Grocery Checklist
Plan your weekly meals ahead in order to make a grocery shopping list based on the menu you’re going to cook. This way, you can control what food and ingredients are going to make it to your shopping cart on your next trip to the grocery store. It’s also a good idea to place the list on your refrigerator door and add the things you have already run out of on it so that you will only buy the stuff you really need. The additional benefit is that it will prevent you from forgetting something really important. It’s going to cost you more once realize you need to make another trip to the grocery store because you forgot one essential kitchen staple that you just can’t live without like that non-fat milk for your morning brewed coffee. The plan is to write out a grocery list and stick to it.



Use Coupons Wisely
Coupons will always make it sound like you’re going to save a substantial part of your grocery budget. This is true if the coupon corresponds to a product that you always buy. In general, you have to use coupons wisely since most of them are nothing more than motivational marketing ticket to lure you from purchasing new products that you may not necessarily need. This makes them an obstacle from sticking to your list. Try to restrict yourself from using them because it offers a nice price. Always ask yourself if you really need it and if it’s even worth buying.

Bulk Up
Buying grocery items in bulk will not only help you save money on your grocery bill, it will also help you save time (and even fuel) as well. Instead of a going to the grocery store on a weekly basis, make that every two weeks. Think of the products that will bring no hassle for stocking up like detergents, soaps, salt, paper towels and food that will not go bad within two weeks. Before you do this, also consider if you have enough place in the kitchen cabinets and cupboards to store all of them.