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Driving in high winds is much less challenging for those in smaller cars, such as Kias, than those in SUVs and other larger vehicles. It can still be dangerous, however. You share the road with other drivers, after all, and roadside hazards are always a factor. You should take windy driving conditions seriously. more Watch for Larger Vehicles Even if you're having minimal difficulties keeping your car in your own lane, other vehicles may not be as fortunate. High-sided vehicles, such as trucks, can easily lose control when hit by a strong gust of wind. Watch for trucks that can't seem to keep a straight line, and be sure to give them a wide berth. Some truck drivers are better than others, plus their differing rigs and cargo weights can make certain runs more challenging than others. Be especially vigilant around any RVs and cars or trucks pulling travel trailers. Driving these vehicles doesn't require a commercial driver's license, yet they are just as dangerous in high winds as those that professionals drive. Keep an eye out for trailer sway, wandering outside of lanes, and other warning signs. Stay Alert Don't fix your gaze on the car ahead. Instead, constantly monitor your side mirrors and rearview. Most importantly, look for debris on the road's surface ahead and watch the sides of the road for any branches or other hazards that can enter your path. Check the trees on the side of the road for an indication of how bad the wind is — since it's easy to lose track when you have all your windows up. Also be watchful for other drivers. If you see a car or truck that's struggling to stay in their lane, keep your distance. The best driver in the world can still become involved in an accident if someone else loses control. Keep Both Hands on the Wheel This may seem like an obvious one. However, without even thinking about it, we often tend to use one hand to steer and the other to fiddle with controls or hold a coffee cup. A strong gust can easily pull the steering wheel to one side, so always use both hands and keep a firm grip when things get windy. Slow Down It's tempting to speed up so you get to your destination (and the safety it provides) more quickly, but this can be a bad idea. It's easier to maintain control at lower speeds. Plus, wind can push you from behind, causing unexpected acceleration. You may even consider stopping completely — by finding a safe place to pull over and wait out the storm. Keep Your Distance Collisions only occur when someone (or something) gets too close. Avoid the lane that's closest to the side of the road and the hazards it can introduce. Don't ride next to other drivers. Instead, adopt a "staggered" pattern in case someone gets blown into a neighboring lane. Try to keep empty space around you on all sides. Driving in high winds can be hazardous. Stay mindful of other drivers and your surroundings. If you play it safe, you'll get to your destination in one piece.   Image via Flickr by I_nJ0I

The American history of Orangeburg, South Carolina, stretches back over 300 years to when a man named George Sterling set up a fur trading post in 1704. Thanks to its fertile soils and convenient location on the Edisto River, Orangeburg quickly blossomed into a successful settlement for farming and trade. It's no wonder that several local locations appear on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). Some of Orangeburg's historic offerings might surprise you. more Orangeburg County Jail The imposing architecture of Orangeburg County Jail was crafted in a Gothic design way back in 1857. It took three years to build. A mere five years after its completion, Union troops led by General William T. Sherman torched the building. Its exterior was restored soon after, however. The building highly resembles a fortress, featuring turrets, towers, and arched, narrow windows. The design was quite fitting, considering its use — many convicts were imprisoned there, and its central tower was where most executions took place. It was inducted into the NRHP in 1973. All-Star Triangle Bowl One would hardly expect a bowling alley to make the NRHP, but this historic location — first built in the 1960s — made the list in 1996. Though the bowling alley closed its doors to the public in 2007 due to financial troubles, it still remains on the register. All-Star was the location of the infamous Orangeburg Massacre that took place in 1968 during the Civil Rights Movement. Unlike most of the integrated public places in town, the privately owned All-Star refused to allow people of color to bowl there. The manager claimed that All-Star was exempt from the laws established in 1964 by the Civil Rights Act. Since there was a snack bar inside, locals claimed that it fell under the terms of the Act and was breaking the law. This sparked a series of protests that culminated in a confrontation at nearby South Carolina State College (SCSC) in which three were killed and 27 were injured. Dukes Gymnasium This two-story brick building sits on the SCSC campus and was erected in 1931. It made the NRHP in 1985. It features a five-bay brick arcade in front, a full basement, and a red-tiled gabled roof. It's framed in steel and has a concrete water table that runs between the first story and the basement. The buiding is notable for its ties to Miller Whittaker, a groundbreaking African American architect. It was first conceived by John Blanche, an SCSC student of mechanical arts, for his graduate thesis. Whittaker supervised the design, and instructors at the college participated in the construction efforts. It's still in use today, mostly as offices for the sports department and for intercollegiate women's volleyball competitions. With its many historic locations, Orangeburg is a haven for those who love to peer into the past and relive the days of yore. The NRHP is an excellent guide for those who crave this knowledge, and there are literally dozens of locations in the area to choose from. Explore, learn, and enjoy!   Image via Wikimedia Commons by Ammodramus

The endless forms (and their six-point-font fine print) can make car financing a daunting experience. It's tempting to sign whatever is shoved in front of you, grab those keys, and start enjoying your purchase. Beware! Bad auto financing decisions can follow you around for years. Fortunately, many common mistakes can be avoided. more Going the Path of Least Resistance It's all too easy to accept whatever financing company the seller recommends. They're likely getting kickbacks for setting up these loans, so it's to their advantage to provide a loan service. It may not be the best option for you, however. Instead of waiting for the day of purchase, secure financing beforehand. Check with banks or credit unions you already have a relationship with, such as the one that's providing your mortgage or your current auto loan. Falling into the "Hidden Fees" Trap The sticker price isn't all you pay when you buy a car. You'll also need to pay for the tags, sales tax, and any closing costs. A fee is also required to file the car's title. Some dealerships may mark these up, so be sure to ask before you sign. One particularly dangerous trap is the "document fee" typically tacked on to the loan. This fee covers the costs of filling out, processing, and filing paperwork associated with the purchase. The fee is a common way for sellers to inflate costs without your knowledge. Ask about these types of fees, and get an "out-the-door" price in writing before you commit. Not Using Your Bargaining Power Remember that prices aren't set in stone. Dealerships price their vehicles to allow for some wiggle room when buyers want to haggle. If you see a great price in print or online, grab a screenshot or something else you can present in person. Give your local dealership a chance to match (or beat) that price. You'd be surprised at the flexibility they can offer. If you've got your own financing set up already, don't let on about it. Your salesperson will probably assume that you'll go with their in-house loan company. The kickback they'll expect out of the loan will factor into their numbers as they bargain with you. Once you get a price in writing, that's when you'll cheerfully announce that you already have a loan from your own source. Refusing to Walk Away You're the customer. The dealership depends on your business. Never buy a car at the last minute, and always have a backup plan in mind. This allows you to do the most important thing — turn around and leave. Don't be unreasonable in your expectations, but be sure to get a deal that you'll be happy with in the years to come. The last thing you want is to feel regret every time you get behind the wheel of your shiny new car. Buying a new car is already a stressful experience, and securing a loan only adds more pressure. By doing your homework in advance and going in with a confident mindset, you can get a loan that will satisfy both you and the dealership.   Image via Flickr by perzonseo

Once a year, nature transforms ordinary trees into explosions of auburn, yellow, gold, and an infinite number of other shades — some of which have no name, nor do they need any. "Beautiful" is the only word necessary. Orangeburg's southern locale harbors many species of trees that are gorgeously colored by nature's paintbrush every fall. There are many amazing spots where this annual splendor can be enjoyed. more Magnolia Plantation & Gardens Located in nearby Charleston, this magnificent garden is a slice of history. It dates back to the time before the Revolutionary War, and its Barbados Tropical Garden is the oldest garden in the entire country. Its 400 acres are home to a camellia maze, a Biblical Garden, and awe-inspiring examples of topiary art. Magnolia is the only garden in the entire state that's been graced with Travel + Leisure Magazine's coveted "America's Most Beautiful Gardens" award. Especially exciting to fall color enthusiasts is the Audobon Swamp Garden. Walk among 60 acres of blackwater cypress and take a stroll across a boardwalk through their tupelo swamp. There you can see the spectacular tupelo trees that are known for their vivid displays of orange, crimson, purple, and yellow — often on the same branches. Edisto Memorial Gardens Edisto Memorial Gardens is framed by endless stands of deciduous trees, creating a lush backdrop for the Gardens themselves. At any given time, guests can see at least 75 labeled species of roses found in over four dozen huge beds. The Gardens spans over 150 acres and is a must-see for lovers of flowers and fall. The grounds are also home to a butterfly garden, a wetlands area, and a serenity garden perfect for meditation and escape. If you're visiting in late November, be sure to check out the Children's Garden Christmas display that is offered each year around Thanksgiving. Visitors are treated to a massive drive-through light display with thousands upon thousands of still and animated images to delight the senses. Youngsters will enjoy the Kid's Walk which features interactive light displays. Best of all, the Children's Garden Christmas display is free! Hopeland Gardens A short drive away in Aiken is this horticultural haven that was presented as a gift to the city in 1969. The 14-acre estate is now a public garden that's home to oak trees over a century old. Revel in the shifting colors of deodar cedars and magnolia trees. It's no wonder that the Aiken Garden Club is headquartered here. Of the many features this garden boasts, you'll find a walking labyrinth, gorgeous fountains, a gazebo, wetlands, swings, and a reflection pool. The network of paths makes for excellent strolling amongst the lush foliage as you take in the camellias, azalea, and Japanese iris flowers against a backdrop of leafy fall hues. There's no denying the natural beauty of South Carolina. With gardens such as these, you'll find no other place in the country that's quite as perfect for enjoying the shifting seasons. Fall colors abound in the state, regardless of where you go — but gardens such as these are pure, distilled magic.   Image via Flickr by Kirt Edblom

Whether you're preparing for a road trip or just going through a routine cleaning, your vehicle's interior is the key to an enjoyable ride. A quality car vacuum is, therefore, an essential tool — one that's worth careful research. So how do you know which model is right for you? Here are three tips to help you find the best vacuum for your budget. more Consider Your Unique Needs Do you have a large family, or do you carpool with coworkers on the weekdays? Do you spend your weekends camping or mudding? Your lifestyle will largely dictate the right vacuum for you, so consider that first. The importance of every other vacuum feature covered in this list — weight, tank capacity, and corded or cordless — will depend on how much work you'll need out of the unit.   You should also prioritize your needs and be prepared to nix the features on the bottom of your list to help meet your budget. For example, if mobility is a top concern, consider compromising on tank capacity or suction power to find something in your price range.   A good starting point for your research is to look at top brands. From there, you'll want to narrow your search by reviewing the pros and cons of whatever models capture your interest. Check the Weight and Tank Capacity A lighter vacuum is typically ideal for a car, especially if you plan on doing spot cleaning on the road. Another option is a unit that you'll keep in the garage. Either way, the weight and tank capacity are critical. A larger tank typically means a heavier unit, and smaller tanks afford greater maneuverability and portability — but you will have to empty the tank more frequently.   If you plan to clean up immediately when a spill occurs, a smaller and more mobile machine is your best bet. If you're looking for a unit capable of a seasonal deep clean, something heavier and with a larger tank is a better choice. Regardless of weight, a 5- to 8-gallon tank should work for frequent cleanings. A larger capacity is useful for a big family or an infrequent vacuumer. Decide: Corded or Cordless? If you're leaning toward a corded model, consider the length of the cord and whether this is a viable option for your needs. Some are cheaper and allow for greater power (and you won't have to worry about battery life), but you won't be able to use these without a place to plug them in.   Another option is to pick up a corded vacuum and an adapter to run it through your car's electric system. Carefully check reviews for firsthand information regarding battery life and power if you prefer a cordless model. A 12-volt model is powerful enough to thoroughly clean a car. Pick the Perfect Vacuum The two best sources to help inform your decision are user reviews and personal experience. Read several reviews and personal accounts regarding the vacuums you're interested in and, if possible, check out your favorite models in person. This is the best way to know if a unit will suit your needs, so visit some local shops before you commit to your next car vacuum!   Image via Flickr by Marina

Most drivers know how important engine oil is, but what distinguishes modern engine oil from those of the past may not be common knowledge. It can be easy to assume that issues affecting older engines still apply today. Before performing a DIY oil change or visiting a mechanic for scheduled maintenance, learn about these four modern engine oil myths and the truth behind them. more Myth #1: Mixing in Additives Will Improve Your Vehicle's Performance It's true that oil additives can improve your vehicle's performance, but you probably don't need to add them yourself. The misconception is that you need to add additional material to your vehicle's recommended oil to get the promised performance results.   Check your owner's manual. Unless you have a high-performance engine or other unique need, the oils recommended there will be all that's necessary to achieve optimal performance. This is because many modern oils already have the additives needed to boost your car's performance by optimizing the oil's viscosity index or keeping the engine sludge-free. Yes, additives will improve your vehicle's performance. No, you shouldn't need to mix them in yourself. Myth #2: Synthetic Oils Cause Leaks Some drivers may want to work exclusively with petroleum-based oils because they think that synthetic oils will cause leaks. Although it's true that synthetic oils affected engine seals in vehicles circa 1970, this is no longer a concern with newer cars and modern oils. Again, check your owner's manual to confirm which oils will work with your engine. Synthetics are perfectly safe if appropriate for your vehicle. Myth #3: You Must Change Your Oil Every 3,000 Miles This is a popular misconception that's absolutely incorrect given the technological strides that have been made with modern oils and engines. Vehicles do not need an oil change every 3,000 miles. Instead, you should consult your owner's manual for more information about ideal change intervals. Note that today's engines and oils can go without a change for approximately 8,000 miles, though this will vary depending on use and other factors. Myth #4: If the Oil Is Dirty, It Needs to Be Changed Early one morning, you perform a quick engine check in your garage. You pull out the dipstick, and, as you clean the gauge, you notice that the oil is very dark. Do you need an oil change? Nope! Though dark or even black oil indicates use, it doesn't tell a driver much more than that. Yet again, you should follow the oil change interval requirements listed in your owner's manual. Your oil should have no problem hitting that mark regardless of its transparency. Change Your Oil the Right Way Using the incorrect oil will obviously not be good for your car, so it's important to check your owner's manual and conduct research as needed. You can also take your car to a local dealership in South Carolina for more information. There you can speak with a mechanic, get answers to any questions you have, and schedule an oil change if one is due.   Image via Flickr by Torsten Scholz

Columbia, South Carolina, is full of amazing attractions, including several world-class restaurants and bars. In particular, there are many unique places to grab a bite and a drink in Five Points. This neighborhood is a youthful part of Columbia frequented by college students. Here are four cool college bars to check out, including some special promotions and other features that set them apart. more Publico Kitchen & Tap This recently opened restaurant is an excellent choice if you want a friendly and social experience alongside an excellent selection of craft beers and a wide variety of foods. Fusion Tacos are a popular choice here, and the restaurant recently announced a brunch menu available on Sundays from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cocktail and drink specials (such as the You Want S'More Cold Brew Coffee) are also available during this time.   The spectacular patio seating rounds out the open and social atmosphere of this location, making it a fantastic stop in the Five Points neighborhood. The establishment also takes reservations for private events and parties. It is located at 2013 Greene St. Breakers Bar & Grill This is another excellent option if you are craving a stiff drink and a full meal. Dubbed "Five Point's premier frozen drink bar," Breakers Bar & Grill is another local favorite and features a newly unveiled loyalty program. After signing up, patrons can earn loyalty points that can be cashed in for free drinks. Members of the reward program also receive a birthday reward, are entered to win a free drink voucher every time they close their tabs, and can take advantage of $1 drink specials on Tuesday nights.   All guests can enjoy drink specials on Fiesta Thursdays. The bar and restaurant is located at 801 Harden St. Delaney's Music Pub If you want more of a focus on culture and beer, go to Delaney's Music Pub! Located at 741 Saluda Ave., this is a full-on Irish pub offering a selection of 27 beers on tap. If you are hungry, you can pick from an impressive array of appetizers, soups, sandwiches, and entrees — though you might prefer a burger or steak, since the restaurant exclusively serves Braveheart brand Angus beef. The pub is open daily from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. Delaney's Speakeasy Delany's Speakeasy, a jazz club associated with Delaney's Music Pub, hosts live jazz every Thursday and Saturday. It is just down the street at 711 Saluda Ave. Delany's Speakeasy has a prohibition-inspired atmosphere that shows through everything from the music played to the whiskeys and scotches available behind the counter. Find the Perfect Bar in Five Points There are many more options in this unique neighborhood, ranging from full-service restaurants to kitsch dive bars and themed establishments such as The Cotton Gin (clad in Roaring Twenties flare) and The Thirsty Parrot (the only tiki bar in the city). Whether you are passing through or are a resident looking for something new, stop by one of these excellent restaurants and bars for an incredible experience in Columbia, South Carolina!   Image via Flickr by Angie Garret

Where would you go for an adrenaline-fueled adventure? New Zealand? Borneo? Alaska? Luckily, there are plenty of opportunities for excitement right here in the United States mainland. If Columbia, South Carolina, isn't on your list of the best places for adrenalin junkies, add it now! There are many outdoor experiences in and near Columbia that you'll love, such as white water rafting on the Saluda River and riding the water slides at Palmetto Falls Water Park. Here are three experiences that will get your heart pumping in South Carolina. more White Water Rafting on the Saluda River There are numerous spots for kayaking and canoeing in South Carolina, but if you're craving something more intense, you won't be disappointed. The Saluda River is a 200-mile tributary of the Congaree River. Though there are plenty of spots for outdoor activities along its banks, there are also stretches that only experienced paddlers can safely navigate.   River access is available along Lake Murray Dam to the Broad/Congaree confluence. From there, you can enjoy an 11-mile stretch of rapids that are up to Class 4 difficulty (requiring exceptional rafting experience). The most challenging rapids are the Blast o'matic and Mill Race Rapids. If you need to recover with something more relaxing, the area around the Saluda River is perfect for hiking, kayaking, fishing, and biking. Slip and Slide at Palmetto Falls Water Park Palmetto Falls Water Park is an excellent family destination. It features an expansive main pool, a lazy river, and plenty of smaller slides, pools, and attractions for kids. Of course, there are also some monstrous slides that you'll want to conquer! There's a large corkscrew water slide and two large speed slides to get your heart rate up. The water park is located at 6511 Marion Ave. in Columbia. It's open to the public from Tuesday to Friday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Daily passes are $9.50, and family and individual season passes are also available. Technical Mountain Biking in Sunset Prep your bike, pack your gear, and put together everything you'll need for the most challenging trail in the state. From Columbia, get on Interstate 26 heading east and make your way to Sunset, South Carolina. This city is on the North Carolina/South Carolina border, and the trail offers some incredible views of Lake Jocassee. But the sights aren't why expert mountain bikers frequent these trails.   Horse Pasture and Bootleg Road are the only double black diamond–rated mountain biking trails in the state. This 12-mile venture is incredibly thrilling, and those who are up for the challenge will be rewarded with some incredible views of the country. The next most difficult trails are Oconee State Park (Sumter National Forest) in Mountain Rest and Coquina in Wedgefield. These are both black diamond rated. Start Your Adventure in Columbia, South Carolina Columbia is an excellent destination, whether you want to spend your days relaxing by a lake, speeding down a steep trail, or surging river. South Carolina has a bit of everything, and adrenaline junkies won't be left out!   Image via Flickr by U.S. Army

Orangeburg gets some serious heat and humidity in these summer months. Unless you like to spend your summer dripping in sweat, you have a few options for cooling off. You can either spend your summers blasting air conditioning in your home (which your wallet won't like), or find a great place to go for a dip and cool off.   Orangeburg and its surrounding area are full of beautiful state parks with swimming holes for you to cool off in. If you're leaning toward the latter, to take a dip and cool off, here are four of the best swimming pools and lakes in the Orangeburg area. more Aiken State Park This park has over 1,000 acres of blackwater river, forest, and swampland. It is perfect for family fun or the naturalist in all of us. It has a designated swimming area that is buoyed off and is open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Swimming here is free with admission to the park. For more fun on the water, Aiken State Park also offers canoeing and fishing! Colleton State Park Colleton State Park offers one of the longest free-flowing blackwater rivers in the country. This park gives you ample opportunity to swim in the Edisto River, but do so at your own risk, as there are no lifeguards on duty.   For more excitement at Colleton State Park, try your hand at some relaxing activities, such as fishing, kayaking, bird-watching, or biking along the trails. Check out all the amenities they have to offer on the South Carolina Parks website. Givhans Ferry State Park This park is connected to Colleton State Park by the serene Edisto River. It is open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and admission to the park is $5 per adult or $3.25 per child. The riverbanks at this park are heritage trust sites and, therefore, they are protected due to several species of rare plants along the riverside. Be sure to check out these beautiful pieces of nature while you go for your swim! Poinsett State Park This free-to-enter park is located north of Orangeburg and offers a unique combination of nature and history. Built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1930, Poinsett Park has an extensive trail system, hardwood forests, and an overall mixed ecosystem with thriving plant and wildlife. Be sure to check out their calendar of events for fun activities you can check out in the park. Open year-round from 9 a.m. until dark, you can swim, rent boats, or go paddle boarding out on the water! Looking for a pool? The Orangeburg Country Club pool is a great place to cool down and a perfect place for kids. They offer a water fun zone that is open and supervised Tuesday through Sunday by certified lifeguards.   All these great swimming spots are located an hour or less from central Orangeburg. This makes them great for a day trip or weekend should you choose to enjoy the variety of activities many of these parks offer.   Image Via Flickr by huggleperson

Promoted by GQ Magazine as a "street style icon," the new Kia Stinger has certainly circulated huge buzz in recent months leading up to its official 2018 release. To see what all the hype is about, let's take a look at some of the things we know so far about the Stinger and some of the features this exciting new model boasts. more The Brains Behind the Machine Chief design officer Peter Schreyer is responsible for the Stinger's unique interior and exterior look. In the past, he has worked on many Audi models. Schreyer certainly knows how to take the best features from a variety of sources and blend them together to create something original, stylish, and roadworthy.   Albert Biermann, the former Vice President of Engineering at the BMW M division, also collaborated with Kia to head the Stinger's performance team. With these influential movers and shakers at the helm of the Stinger's creation, it's no wonder this is the model many people are greatly anticipating. Powerhouse Performance The Stinger was tested at the Nürburgring complex in Germany, a test which involved over 10,000 kilometers. Though not exactly known for their sports-oriented vehicles, Kia seems to be taking a slightly new direction with the Stinger, and it has incorporated some specs it hopes will make sports car enthusiasts turn their heads and take notice.   The Stinger's most powerful engine is a 3.3-liter twin turbo V6, which is said to go from zero to 60 miles per hour in about five seconds. With a wheelbase of 114.4, it trumps the BMW 4 Series as well as the Audi A5. The Stinger also features Brembo vented disc brakes and a dynamic eight-speed automatic transmission with five drive modes. What's Inside? The Kia Stinger comes with much intuitive and safety technology, including autonomous emergency braking, blind spot detection, and a Driver Attention Alert, a fatigue sensor that alerts the driver if he or she gets too tired behind the wheel. It also offers plenty of legroom. The seats are leather and contoured with the driver's seat being easily adjustable for maximum comfort.   Something that is a first for any Kia sedan model is the Stinger's impressive All-Wheel-Drive feature. This allows the car to adapt to changing roads and driving conditions electronically. While this may not matter to everyone, drivers in the North will certainly appreciate it. Price Range Prices are set to undercut those from the European, American, and Asian market. The Stinger's MSRP is expected to start at $33,000 — much less expensive than the starting price for the BMW 4 series. This will no doubt make the Stinger an appealing option, particularly considering its performance, for many enthusiasts.   The design of the Kia Stinger boasts the talent and creativity of a number of intellectual players. On top of this, its sleek interior greatly complements its elegant exterior. Its enhanced performance and driver-conscious features adapt to your needs. It is no wonder then that the Stinger is expected to be the highest-performance production vehicle in Kia's history.   Image Via Flickr by Chad Horwedel