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What are Pokies and How Do You Play Them?

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What are Pokies and How Do You Play Them?

In the United Kingdom, they’re known as fruit machines. In the USA and most other countries, people call them slots. But talk to an Aussie or Kiwi, and they’ll tell you they’ve got the real name, pokies. 

Pokies are massively popular in both countries. When we look at New Zealand, 50% of the annual $7 billion spent on gambling can be exclusively attributed to pokies. And Australia may account for just 0.33% of the planet’s total population, but over 20% of all pokies can be found in the country. 

If you’re new to gambling in Australasia and haven’t the faintest about pokies, this guide has you covered. We’re going to give you an A to Z for the uninitiated, history lessons and all.

The History of Pokies in Australia and NZ 

Ever since the first Europeans landed on these shores, gambling has been a daily part of life for Kiwis and Aussies alike. Whether it’s a game of cards, local competitions, or large athletic tournaments, people have always enjoyed placing a cheeky bet on the results. 

Officially, gambling had a little bit of a hard time, to begin with. Religious groups in particular looked to curtail the individual’s freedom to place a bet or not, with bookies even being banned from horse racing in the early 20th century. 

Since the 1980s, however, both Australia and New Zealand enjoyed a period of deregulation. By the end of the decade, for example, the banned pokies were finally allowed to take their place in casinos all throughout New Zealand. 

They are now ubiquitous throughout both countries, found in pubs, restaurants, casinos, and bookies. And they’re now also increasingly available on the internet, with New Zealand’s SkyCity online casino being perhaps one of the most notable examples. Indeed, SkyCity represents one of the premier land-based casinos in New Zealand, one that had successfully established itself in the online sphere as well, with some of the best pokie/slot titles available. Moreover, SkyCity has recently broadened its selection of casino games, and now also offers bingo.

The Bread and Butter: How to Play Pokies 

Now that the history lesson is over, we’ve got what you’re really here for: an in-depth guide on how to join in on the fun you’ve been hearing about. In their most basic form, pokies are pretty easy to play. 

We’re pretty sure you’ve seen one when you’ve been out and about. It’s effectively a themed gambling machine that works entirely on chance. Old school pokies use a physical lever to spin, but now most models will have a button that you press. 

Once your spin is ‘activated’, you’re dazzled by the lights, sounds, stunning graphics, and the hope that perhaps it’s your turn to win a jackpot builds. You’re always looking for a combination of symbols to hit, whether it’s based on colour, type, or something else. 

With most games, 3 bonus symbols (sometimes 4!) will give you a special round of spins or games, all of which tend to result in big money prizes. With some games, an additional bonus game can be randomly activated. 

In some of the big casinos, pokies are almost like a VR video game experience. The chair itself is part of the game, shaking and moving based on what’s happening on screen. It’s almost like being on a theme park ride! 

But ultimately, the reason these games are so widely popular is that they’re super simple to play. There are no complicated rulebooks, no basic strategy you need to learn, it’s spin and play. The barrier to entry is effectively zero. 

When you go to a casino, you can often use either cash or your card to play. In some casinos, you can get a membership card for free, which gives you bonus points each and every time you spin. These can be turned into rewards. Depending on the casino, you can get free drinks, food, or gambling credit. 

Of course, for veteran players, there’s a little more to it than just spinning and hoping. Here are just a few strategies the vets employ to maximize the fun: 

Set a Budget (and Stick to It!)

Before you even set foot in a casino, whether it’s in person or virtually, always set a clear and strict budget. No matter what happens, even if red has hit 20 times in a row on the roulette wheel, walk away if you’ve hit your number. 

It’s important you stay in control of your spending when gambling. Don’t consider the money you spend as an investment or an easy way to make money. Instead, think of it as an entertainment fee. If you happen to win, great! It does happen often enough. But don’t count on it, or you may end up betting more than you can lose. 

Understand Jackpot Eligibility 

On progressive slot machines, you’ll see a big and fancy sign telling you just how much you can win. That jackpot can sometimes be worth millions of dollars. It’s part of the reason why these pokies are so popular. 

However, some games don’t always make it clear that you need to bet a minimum in order to be eligible for the biggest prizes. It’s not always the case, but double-check before you bet. 

Learn About Aristocrat Pokies: Australia’s Pride in Slot Gaming – https://free-online-pokies.net/aristocrat/

Go Bonus Hunting! 

Our last, but perhaps most valuable tip: sign up for as many bonuses as you can find. Of course, stick to the legit big-name players to be safe, but bonuses are a great way to pad your chances of winning. 

In general, online casinos will have better deals compared to land-based equivalents. There, you can find anything from free spins to no-deposit bets, which are a great way to extend the fun. And let’s not forget, those massive jackpots are also found in the virtual space, bringing select individuals massive windfalls over the last decade or so.  

Of course, remember to always play it safe. Double-check that the casino is secure, don’t bet more than you can afford to lose, and remember that having fun comes first. Good luck!

The GlamourBuff Team is a set of experienced writers associated with the Glamour Buff magazine, reporting world news, celebrity lifestyle, and exclusive Hollywood details.

LifeStyle

Investing in Quality: The Benefits of Full-Grain Leather in Women’s Bags

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Benefits of Full-grain Leather in Women's Bags

If you are looking for the best type of leather for women handbags, full-grain is a top choice. It is rugged and chic — appealing to a discerning audience that knows good things come from an upfront investment. Sites like Longchamp.com are famous of their quality leather bags and amazing craftsmanship, showing the beauty of full-grain leather. Now, let us explore the benefits of using full-grain leather in women’s bags. 

Unmatched Durability

Full-grain leather is justly recognized for remarkable longevity. While other materials might wear out, full-grain leather will develop a natural patina that makes it more beautiful over the years. Therefore, a bag made from this material can be used daily, and it will still maintain its overall shape for years to come. Made for women who are always on the go, a full-grain leather bag is a great and reliable companion that can sustain the hustle of everyday living while keeping its form. 

Timeless Elegance

Each bag features a truly unique grain detail in the leather. Natural products cannot be replaced with a duplicate item, so they have an identity of their own. A full-grain leather bag is a classic beauty; its elegance transcends seasonal trends to always be in style, which makes it an essential accessory for any woman. Whether you are on the go in casual wear or dressing up for a large party, the full-grain leather bag adds natural elegance to your outfit.

Sustainable Choice

As a natural and renewable material that is longer lasting than other leathers, full grain leather has become more popular in today’s eco-aware world. It is a co-product of the meat industry, meaning that it uses a portion of the resources from animals that are already being used for food. Additionally, as full-grain leather has a long lifespan and does not need to be regularly re-purchased, it reduces the purchase of disposable fashion items that clog up landfills. 

Greater Comfort and Functionality

Not only does a full-grain leather bag look great, but it also feels amazing. It shapes itself to your body the more you use it. Also, full-grain leather is water resistant, making it safer for your things during rainy days. Also, designers often combine this material with practical features like extra pockets, secure closures and adjustable straps to produce designs that are both stylish and functional. 

A Smart Investment

Most of the people say that full-grain leather bags are expensive and they are not wrong. Full-grain will last you years (and in some cases decades to come), which ultimately saves money in the long run. And, if you do end up choosing to sell it later on down the road, a good leather bag will hold its resell value very well.

Where to Find Quality Leather Bags

If you would like to acquire a bag from top full-grain leather makers, there are several trustworthy retailers and brands with expertise in crafting quality genuine leather goods. Longchamp is a top example. This high-quality leather bag manufacturer is popular for its stunning French sophistication and superior quality. The excellent quality of the pieces they offers testifies to Longchamp’s craftsmanship, offering consumers stylish and reliable items. 

Conclusion

Owning a full-grain leather bag is an investment that offers much more than just style. Ladies love it because it is durable, classic, friendly to environment, soft and comfortable. By selecting a long-lasting full-grain leather bag, you are not just adding a fashionable accessory but making an investment as well.

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Should I Break Up With My Partner Over Their Drinking?

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Should I Break Up With My Partner Over Their Drinking?

Alcoholism is an increasingly prominent part of life at the moment, with more people finding themselves suffering or entering rehab than ever before.

The likes of NHS rehab clinics are being overun with patients, but it can be a long journey to even get to that point and many people don’t even realise they have a problem with drinking. Which is problematic not only for them, but partners too.

A partner’s drinking habits can have a huge impact on a relationship and in many cases, the other half will consider breaking up, running away, or sticking around and ensuring they take the right course of action.

There’s no right or wrong answer in such cases, and it is a personal decision that involves many different factors. If this is the situation you find yourself in, here’s what you should consider.

Recognising Problem Drinking

The first step is to recognise that your partner does have a problem with drinking in the first place and the effect it’s having on them. There are many warning signs that a partner is drinking too much, including…

  • Frequent heavy drinking: If your partner often drinks to the point of drunkenness or relies on alcohol to get through daily activities, this could indicate a problem.
  • Mood swings or aggression: Alcohol can cause changes in mood, and if your partner becomes irritable, angry, or aggressive when drinking, this is a red flag.
  • Neglecting responsibilities: If your partner is frequently missing work, avoiding social obligations, or neglecting important tasks due to drinking, it’s a sign that alcohol is taking priority.
  • Health issues: Physical signs such as frequent hangovers, weight gain, or health problems linked to alcohol consumption can signal problematic drinking.
  • Denial or secrecy: If your partner hides their drinking, becomes defensive when asked about it, or denies how much they are consuming, this could suggest that they are aware of their problem but are unwilling or unable to address it.

Impact on the Relationship

If you’ve recognised that their drinking is becoming an issue, the next important step is to understand exactly how it’s affecting your relationship. Problem drinking can have a big impact on many different aspects of a relationship, often causing arguments and distress, as well as a number of other issues. You should think about…

  • Emotional distance: Alcohol can create a barrier between you and your partner, leading to feelings of isolation or emotional neglect.
  • Financial strain: Excessive drinking can result in financial problems, especially if your partner is spending large amounts of money on alcohol.
  • Resentment: If you find yourself taking on more responsibilities or constantly covering for your partner’s behaviour, you may begin to feel resentful. Over time, this resentment can damage your relationship beyond repair.
  • Lack of trust: Problem drinking can lead to broken promises, dishonesty, and secrecy, which can undermine the trust and security that are vital to a healthy relationship.

Communicating Your Concerns

If it is the case that your partner’s drinking is having a significant impact on your relationship, you should have a conversation with them and communicate your concerns. It’s a tricky conversation to have, but it’s so important to let them know how their drinking is affecting the relationship, as it’s likely they may not even be aware.

You should focus on how their behaviour makes you feel and the changes you see in them, as well as the relationship. Discuss your worries and the future of the relationship, while you should ensure that it is an open conversation with your partner able to express their feelings too. It may be that they are struggling to cope with certain stresses, anxieties or depression that is leading them to drinking in the first place, of which they may be cooperative in getting help.

Seeking Help

Help is an important port of call. If your partner is open to addressing their drinking then it may be that you want to remain in the relationship and support them. There are tons of resources available to help them, from going to rehab, speaking to doctors, seeing counsellors and attending support groups.

You can’t force your partner into change, it needs to come off their own back and they must be willing to take responsibility or it might be the time to exit the relationship.

Deciding Whether to Stay or Go

Ultimately, whether you stay in the relationship or not is a decision that only you can make. If your partner acknowledges their problem and is willing to seek help, it may be worth giving the relationship a chance. Recovery from alcohol addiction is possible, but it requires time, effort, and commitment from both partners.

However, if your partner refuses to address their drinking or if their behaviour continues to have a detrimental impact on your well-being, it may be time to consider ending the relationship. Staying in a relationship where addiction is present can be emotionally draining and harmful, and you must prioritise your own mental and emotional health.

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Styling a Lab Grown Diamond Tennis Necklace for Every Occasion

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Styling a Lab Grown Diamond Tennis Necklace for Every Occasion

Every day, you wake up and rush out of bed to get ready for work. Be honest with us and tell us how much time you have to plan your wardrobe for the day, including matching accessories? And it becomes quite a task if you have to attend an additional event planned for the night.

Well, let us take a guess: 5 minutes maximum? We believe you need jewelry that will allow you to leave the house fast without having to worry about whether it suits your outfit. This is when the sheer allure of lab grown diamond jewelry enters the picture.

One such jewelry piece that truly stands out is the breathtaking beauty of lab grown diamond tennis necklaces. These ethical dazzlers are the perfect addition to your staple jewelry collection. A lab diamond tennis necklace is the perfect jewelry piece that would allow you to dress up or down, depending on the occasion.

With that being said, in this article, we will help you with some mind-blowing tips on how you can style one of these necklaces for day and night!

A Smooth Transition from Day to Night

To be honest, all of us at least once must’ve encountered one such occasion where we had to rush to an event right after work. We get how daunting it can be to carry an extra pair of clothes and jewelry. If you are someone who does this quite often, then we are here to save you from that. We suggest that you wear that little party dress to work, but don’t worry, you can layer it with a good formal blazer suitable for work.

This way, you can just ditch the blazer when you leave for the event, and as for the jewelry, we would recommend that you go with a classic pair of diamond stud earrings and pair them with your lab diamond tennis necklace, which is somewhere around 12 inches so that it rests on your collarbone, and add a sparkling solitaire to add the finishing touch to your ensemble. Wait, let’s not forget a good pair of nude pumps to complement your overall look.

Styling Necklaces for Different Occasions

When we shop for jewelry suitable for everyday and special occasions too, one such piece that is worth investing in is a solitaire necklace. These necklaces feature a single diamond in the center, which exudes both radiance and luxury at the same time. There are different styles that you can explore when shopping for these necklaces, but a single solitaire diamond and halo-style pendant necklace truly stands out.

It doesn’t matter if you are styling these for a formal setting like an office or a casual gathering like a brunch date with your friends. A solitaire pendant will complement the occasion and setting. But wait, before you invest in lab diamond jewelry, we encourage you to check out the 4 C’s of a diamond and whether the diamond is certified.

This will ensure that you are getting the best value for your budget. If you are confused about how to buy the best lab diamond necklace, you can book an online appointment with our experts at Friendly Diamonds. We are sure they will help you get the best diamond jewelry available that fits your budget and style. With that, we come to the end of this article. We hope you enjoyed these amazing styling tips. 

Happy styling;)

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