Author: Bob Lin

To use Google Wallet as a digital wallet for making payments, follow these steps:

1. Download and Install Google Wallet:

• Android: Google Wallet is usually pre-installed on most Android devices, but if not, download it from the Google Play Store.
• iPhone: You can download Google Wallet from the App Store.

2. Set Up Google Wallet:

• Open the Google Wallet app.
• Sign in with your Google account.
• Follow the on-screen prompts to set up a payment method, like linking your credit card, debit card, or bank account.
  • You will be asked to verify your card or bank account with a one-time verification code via SMS or email.
• If your bank supports it, you may also add loyalty cards, transit passes, or gift cards.

3. Adding a Payment Method:

• In the app, tap Payment and then + Add Payment Method.
• Select Add a card and follow the steps to enter your card details.
• Complete verification by receiving a code from your bank.

4. How to Make Payments with Google Wallet:

• In-Store Payments:
  • Ensure NFC (Near Field Communication) is enabled on your phone.
  • Unlock your phone and hold it near the payment terminal.
  • Your phone will automatically send payment through your default payment method.
• Online Payments:
  • At checkout on supported websites or apps, choose Google Wallet as your payment method.
  • Confirm the payment via your phone.

5. Using Google Wallet for Peer-to-Peer Payments:

• You can send and receive money from friends and family by entering their email or phone number linked to their Google Wallet account.
• Go to Send on the home screen, then enter the recipient’s information and the amount.

6. Security:

• Google Wallet doesn’t send your actual card number during a transaction. Instead, it uses a virtual account number to protect your personal details.
• Always ensure your phone is secure with a screen lock, such as a password, PIN, or fingerprint.

7. Check Transaction History:

• You can view past transactions by going to the Activity tab in the Google Wallet app.

Google Wallet is accepted at a wide range of retailers and online merchants, and you can use it at any location that supports contactless payments.

Wireless Android Auto is a convenient way to connect your phone to your car without using a USB cable. Here’s how to set it up and use it:

1. Check Compatibility

• Phone: Ensure your phone supports wireless Android Auto. Wireless connections are supported on most devices running Android 11 and above, but some phones with Android 9 or 10 may work with specific brands like Samsung or Google Pixel.
• Car: Confirm that your car supports wireless Android Auto. Most newer car models or aftermarket head units support it, but it’s good to check your car’s manual or the manufacturer’s website for confirmation.

2. Enable Wireless Android Auto

• On your phone, go to Settings and type Android Auto in the search bar.
• Tap on Android Auto and look for the option that says “Enable wireless projection” or something similar. Make sure this is turned on.

3. Set Up Bluetooth and Wi-Fi

• Ensure both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are turned on in your phone’s settings.
• Your phone uses Bluetooth to establish a connection with your car and Wi-Fi to maintain a stable data transfer between your phone and the infotainment system.

4. Initial USB Setup (First-Time Connection)

• The first time you use wireless Android Auto, you may need to connect your phone via USB cable to set it up.
• Connect your phone to the car using a USB cable and follow the setup prompts on both the phone and the car’s infotainment screen.

5. Disconnect USB and Connect Wirelessly

• After the initial setup, disconnect the USB cable. Your car and phone should now be ready for wireless Android Auto.
• On your car’s infotainment system, look for the Android Auto icon or menu.

6. Automatic Connection

• From now on, whenever your phone is in proximity to your car and Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are enabled, your phone should automatically connect wirelessly to Android Auto.
• You will see the Android Auto interface appear on your car’s screen without needing to plug in the USB cable.

Additional Tips:

• Reconnect Manually: If the wireless connection doesn’t start automatically, go to your phone’s Bluetooth settings and manually select your car’s infotainment system from the list of paired devices.
• Battery Use: Wireless Android Auto may drain your phone’s battery faster. Consider using a wireless phone charger while driving to keep your battery charged.

Yes, as a senior citizen living in Illinois, you may be eligible for property tax reductions through several programs designed to assist older homeowners. Here are the main options you can consider:

1. Senior Citizens Homestead Exemption

• Eligibility: Homeowners aged 65 or older.
• Benefit: Reduces the equalized assessed value (EAV) of your property by $5,000 to $8,000, depending on your county.
• How to Apply: Contact your local township or county assessor’s office to obtain an application. Once approved, the exemption typically renews automatically each year.

2. Senior Citizens Assessment Freeze Homestead Exemption

• Eligibility:
  • Must be 65 years of age or older.
  • Have a total household income of $65,000 or less.
  • Own and occupy the property as your principal residence.
• Benefit: Freezes the EAV of your property, preventing increases due to inflation or market changes. Note that this doesn’t freeze your tax rate, so your tax bill may still fluctuate.
• How to Apply: You need to file an application annually with your local assessor’s office.

3. Senior Citizens Real Estate Tax Deferral Program

• Eligibility:
  • Age 65 or older.
  • Annual household income of $65,000 or less.
  • Must have adequate equity in the property.
• Benefit: Allows you to defer all or part of your property taxes until the property is sold or upon your passing. Deferred taxes accrue simple interest at a rate set by the state (usually around 6%).
• How to Apply: Applications are submitted to your county treasurer’s office, typically by March 1st each year.

4. General Homestead Exemption

• Eligibility: Illinois homeowners who occupy their property as their primary residence.
• Benefit: Reduces the EAV of your property by $6,000.
• How to Apply: Usually applied automatically, but check with your assessor’s office to confirm.

Next Steps

• Contact Local Officials: Since programs can vary slightly by county, reach out to your local township or county assessor’s office for specific information and application forms.
• Prepare Documentation: You may need proof of age, income, and residency when applying.
• Be Mindful of Deadlines: Application deadlines can vary, so it’s important to submit your forms on time.

These programs are designed to help senior homeowners like yourself reduce their property tax burden. By taking advantage of these exemptions, you can potentially save a significant amount on your annual property taxes.

To delete old pairings from your Honda CRV’s Bluetooth settings, follow these detailed steps:

1. Access the Infotainment System:
   • Turn on your Honda CRV and keep it in Park mode.
   • On your car’s touchscreen, press the Home button to bring up the main menu.
2. Navigate to the Bluetooth Settings:
   • From the main menu, tap on Settings.
   • Select Phone or Connections (depending on your CRV’s model year and software version).
   • Look for the Bluetooth Device List or Paired Devices option.
3. Find the phone:
   • You should see a list of all devices that are paired with your car.
   • Look for your Samsung S22 in the list of paired devices.
4. Delete the Pairing:
   • Select your Samsung S22 from the list.
   • You should see an option to Remove, Delete, or Unpair the device. Tap on that option to remove the Samsung S22 from the paired list.
5. Confirm the Action:
   • The system may ask for confirmation to delete the pairing. Confirm that you want to remove the device.
6. Restart Bluetooth Pairing:
   • After removing the old pairing, try to pair your Samsung S22 again using the car’s Add Bluetooth Device option.

Renting a car for a self-drive trip to see fall colors in Japan can be a great idea, especially if you want flexibility and the ability to explore more remote or less crowded areas. Here are some pros and cons to consider:

Pros of Renting a Car in Japan:

1. Flexibility: You can travel at your own pace, stop wherever you want, and access scenic spots that may not be reachable by public transport.
2. Access to Remote Areas: Many of Japan’s best fall color spots, like those in the countryside or mountains, are easier to reach by car.
3. Convenience: No need to worry about train schedules or crowded public transportation, especially in peak fall season.

Cons of Renting a Car:

1. Driving on the Left Side: Japan drives on the left side of the road, which may take time to adjust to if you’re used to driving on the right.
2. Navigation: While many GPS systems in rental cars have English options, navigating can still be tricky, especially in rural areas.
3. Parking: In cities and popular tourist spots, parking can be expensive or hard to find.
4. Tolls: Highways in Japan have tolls, which can add up.

Best Regions for Self-Drive Fall Color Viewing:

• Nikko (north of Tokyo) has beautiful roads through mountains and lakes.
• Hakone (near Mount Fuji) offers scenic driving routes.
• Hokkaido (northern Japan) is great for wide-open roads and expansive nature.
• Kyoto and Nara: While these areas have good public transport, renting a car can help you explore less-touristy temples and parks.

Final Thoughts:

If you enjoy driving and want to explore beyond the popular spots, renting a car is a great option. However, if you’re mainly visiting cities like Tokyo or Kyoto, public transportation is excellent, and a car may not be necessary.

Boston has a well-connected public transportation system known as the MBTA (“The T”). Here’s how you can use it and what to expect in terms of costs:

1. Types of Public Transportation:

• Subway (The T): The fastest way to get around the city, with four main lines: Red, Orange, Blue, and Green. Each line serves different parts of the city.
• Buses: Extensive routes cover areas the subway doesn’t reach.
• Commuter Rail: For trips to nearby suburbs or cities.
• Ferry: Serves specific locations around Boston Harbor.

2. Fares:

• CharlieCard (Recommended): This is a reusable smart card that gives you a discount on fares. You can get one at major T stations and add the money to the card. Simply tap it on the fare gates to activate it. You can reload the card with more money at vending machines when needed.
  • Subway Fare with CharlieCard: $2.40 per ride.
  • Bus Fare with CharlieCard: $1.70 per ride.
• CharlieTicket: A paper ticket you can buy at vending machines in stations.
  • Subway Fare with CharlieTicket: $2.90 per ride.
  • Bus Fare with CharlieTicket: $2.00 per ride.
• Day or Week Passes:
  • 1-Day Pass: $11.00 (unlimited subway and bus rides).
  • 7-Day Pass: $22.50 (unlimited subway and bus rides).

3. How to Use It:

• Subway (The T):
  1. Enter the station, find the vending machine, and either reload your CharlieCard or buy a CharlieTicket.
  2. Tap the CharlieCard or insert your ticket at the gates to access the platform.
  3. Trains run frequently, and you can check schedules on the MBTA website or use apps like Google Maps for real-time info.
• Buses:
  1. Pay by tapping your CharlieCard or inserting cash into the fare box at the front.
  2. Buses accept coins, but no change is given, so it’s better to use a CharlieCard.
• Commuter Rail and Ferries:
  1. Fares vary by distance traveled, and you can use a CharlieTicket or buy tickets through the “mTicket” app.

4. Where to Get a CharlieCard or CharlieTicket:

• Major T stations like Downtown Crossing, Back Bay, and Park Street.
• Local convenience stores also sometimes carry CharlieCards.

5. Useful Apps:

• MBTA mTicket (for commuter rail and ferry tickets).
• Transit App or Google Maps (for real-time directions and schedules).
• MBTA Tracker (for subway and bus arrival times).

这里是推荐的哈当厄尔峡湾自驾游路线：

第一天：卑尔根到诺勒姆松 (1.5小时)

• 亮点：从卑尔根出发，探索这座城市的联合国教科文组织列出的布吕根码头，参观弗洛伊恩山。
• 开车前往诺勒姆松：沿着峡湾行驶，途中可以在瀑布景点停留，比如Steinsdalsfossen瀑布，你可以从瀑布后面走过。

第二天：诺勒姆松到埃德峡湾 (2.5小时)

• 哈当厄尔峡湾：沿着哈当厄尔峡湾行驶，经过美丽的自然景观和果园。
• Fossli酒店和Vøringsfossen瀑布：参观挪威最著名的瀑布之一Vøringsfossen。
• 埃德峡湾：游览哈当厄尔高原自然中心，在这个风景如画的峡湾小镇散步。

第三天：埃德峡湾到奥达 (1.5小时)

• Måbødalen峡谷：欣赏壮丽的峡谷风光，途中过更多的瀑布景点。
• 奥达：这是通往Folgefonna冰川的门户。你可以进行冰川徒步旅行，或者在镇上享受美丽的景色。

第四天：奥达到洛夫图斯 (1小时)

• 洛夫图斯：以苹果园闻名，拥有Folgefonna冰川的绝美景色。你可以进行短途徒步，或者在峡湾边休息放松。

第五天：洛夫图斯到卑尔根 (2.5小时)

• 返回卑尔根：在回程中，可以绕道小村庄或进行额外的徒步旅行。结束旅程时，可以继续探索卑尔根，或者参加一次峡湾游轮旅行。

实用提示：

• 轮渡：有些峡湾部分可能需要乘坐短途轮渡，请提前查看时刻表。
• 道路情况：道路维护良好，但有些较窄，尤其是在弯道和隧道处要小心驾驶。
• 最佳旅行时间：夏季（6月至8月）是最佳的天气和交通通行期，秋季也有美丽的自然色彩。

A self-drive tour of the Hardanger Fjords in Norway offers stunning views, natural beauty, and charming villages. Here’s a suggested route for your tour:

Day 1: Bergen to Norheimsund (1.5 hours)

• Highlights: Start in Bergen, explore the city’s UNESCO-listed Bryggen wharf, and visit Mount Fløyen.
• Drive to Norheimsund: A scenic drive along the fjord, with stops at waterfalls like Steinsdalsfossen, where you can walk behind the falls.

Day 2: Norheimsund to Eidfjord (2.5 hours)

• Hardangerfjord: Drive along the Hardangerfjord, passing through beautiful landscapes and orchards.
• Fossli Hotel & Vøringsfossen: Stop at Vøringsfossen, one of Norway’s most famous waterfalls.
• Eidfjord: Visit the Hardangervidda Nature Center and take a walk in this picturesque fjord town.

Day 3: Eidfjord to Odda (1.5 hours)

• Måbødalen Valley: Enjoy the dramatic valley scenery and more waterfall stops along the way.
• Odda: The gateway to the Folgefonna Glacier. You can do a glacier hike if you’re adventurous or just enjoy the views from town.

Day 4: Odda to Lofthus (1 hour)

• Lofthus: Known for its apple orchards, with stunning views of Folgefonna. Take a short hike or relax by the fjord.

Day 5: Lofthus to Bergen (2.5 hours)

• Return to Bergen: On your way back, consider detours to small villages or additional hikes. Finish your journey by exploring more of Bergen or taking a fjord cruise.

Practical Tips:

• Ferries: Some parts of the fjords might require short ferry rides, so check schedules in advance.
• Road conditions: Roads are well-maintained, but can be narrow. Drive carefully, especially around bends and tunnels.
• Best time to visit: Summer (June-August) is ideal for weather and accessibility, though autumn also offers beautiful colors.

哥本哈根的交通

哥本哈根的交通非常方便，尤其是地铁和火车，适合游客与当地居民出行。主要的交通方式包括地铁、公交和火车，各类票卡选项多样化，适应不同需求。以下是交通的归纳：

地铁

• 哥本哈根地铁有两条主要线路：M1和M2，覆盖市区及部分郊区。
• 地铁全天24小时运营，高峰时段每6分钟一班，夜间每20分钟一班。
• 地铁票价按区域计费，机场位于第4区，市区主要景点位于1区。

火车

• 火车适合从机场或城市内主要车站前往市区，尤其适合前往哥本哈根中央火车站。
• 乘坐火车也是前往郊区（如罗斯基勒、赫尔辛格等）的最佳方式。

票价与票种

1. 单程票：按区域收费，例如跨越2区为24克朗，跨越3区为36克朗。
2. City Pass小通票：包含1-4区，适合机场往返及市区出行，24小时80克朗，48小时150克朗等。
3. City Pass大通票：包含1-99区，适合远途出行，24小时160克朗起。
4. 哥本哈根卡（Copenhagen Card）：适合游客，提供公交无限次乘坐和80多处景点的免费参观。

机场交通

• 从哥本哈根机场可以搭乘地铁或火车，约15分钟到市中心。
• 机场到市区的单程票价为36克朗，需购买三区票。

公交

• 哥本哈根市内的公交车也非常便捷，市区主要景点集中在1区和2区内，24克朗的两区票可以在1小时15分钟内免费换乘。

你可以通过自助售票机、便利店、或公交车上直接购票，并可下载相关APP如Rejseplanen和DOT Tickets来方便规划和购买票券。

YouTube allows users to download videos through its mobile app, but only if you have YouTube Premium or the video is available for offline viewing in your region. Here’s how the process works and what you need to know:

How YouTube Downloads Work:

1. YouTube Premium Members: If you have a YouTube Premium subscription, you can download most videos for offline viewing on your YouTube app on iOS and Android.
2. Availability by Region: Some videos are made available for offline downloads without needing Premium, depending on the video owner or region.
3. Offline Mode: You can download the video to your device but must open the YouTube app to watch it. The video is stored within the app and cannot be accessed in your file system.

How to Download a YouTube Video:

1. Open the YouTube app.
2. Navigate to the video you want to download.
3. Tap the Download button (usually below the video).
4. Choose the resolution (higher resolutions take more storage space).
5. Once downloaded, you can find the video in the Library or Downloads tab.

How to Watch a Downloaded Video:

1. Open the YouTube app.
2. Go to the Library section.
3. Tap on Downloads.
4. Play any of the videos listed.

Important Notes:

• You can only watch downloaded videos offline within the YouTube app. The download is not stored in your phone’s gallery or file system.
• Downloaded videos expire after 30 days, or if the video is removed from YouTube.
• You need to reconnect to the internet at least once every 30 days to renew your access to the downloads.