u/phantomesque_2414

hi,

I have a few questions regarding sending a parcel to USA , this is the first time I am sending any sort of parcel other than small domestic postcards a few years ago (some of which are still not delivered 😭)

I wanted to send a package of small handmade items like keychains and bracelets as well as some fan merch I bought to friend in the USA. The problem is that the parcel must reach by 30th July, because the person will be moving and will not be reachable after that.

Is it advisable to send via any India Post Service? The website says 3-5 days and online reviews say to extend the estimate to 10 days. Still, is it reliable? Or is it better to send via private courier. (Which google says have offers between 2-3k but the offical apps/websites for the two most famous ones gave me a quote around 8-10k)

What is the last date I can send the parcel to make sure it reaches on time? Some of the gifts I am working on are not ready yet, so I wanted to know how much time I have.

Will the recipient have to pay customs duty?

Also, I was thinking of also adding cookies from my favourite bakery (they have a long expiry date). Will that hinder the process due to excessive checking at the border?

And lastly, do I have to be prepared with any specific forms to before going to the post office? Or will they provide it, like the valuation declaration thing I found while researching online - how does that work with gifts?

Sorry for the long message, I just want to be clear :)

I am making an escape room at home for the first time for my sister's 13th birthday. She's really into Vampire Diaries (😭🙏) at the moment so I want to make something on the theme. Around 3-6 people in all.

There are a few constraints because I can't spend much on equipment, and can't make any permanent changes to the walls, so no hooks and all. I will probably be able to get a few number combination locks and maybe some caution tape, but otherwise really looking to diy from stuff like cardboards and other things that I might have lying around.

I found a great post from here while researching so I'm gonna use that as inspo as well (here )but I've only been to an escape room thrice and with people in their late teens so I am feeling a bit lost on what kind of puzzles are too tough/easy. I want it to make them think a little bit but also not have them get stuck on a puzzle for too long and lose momentum.

The area can be across two rooms which are joined by a connecting balcony. Unfortunately I don't think they have keys to be unlocked with just the door locks from the inner side. I've attached a layout of the are but alas I am not a design/architecture student so be warned.

Any ideas for puzzles and a would be greatly appreciated, especially ones that serve as decor as well.

and also the main/final reward(?) or like. what are they solving for if that makes sense.

Also sorry if I used the wrong flair I haven't used this app in years.

gift package within time limit

Puzzle ideas for vampire/Paranormal themed escape room at home