Rick Steves’ Love for India: A Surprising Favorite Destination

Rick Steves, a household name in European travel, is widely recognized for his deep expertise in exploring the continent. The renowned author, TV and radio show host spends countless days each year traveling across Europe, offering guidance through his articles, videos, and podcasts. His recommendations are trusted worldwide, and his opinions on Europe’s most and least appealing destinations carry significant weight.

Yet, for someone synonymous with Europe, it may come as a surprise that Steves’ favorite country to visit isn’t European. Instead, he names India as his top travel destination—a place he describes with unparalleled admiration.

In a heartfelt blog post, Steves shared how his journey to India profoundly transformed his perspective on life. “India wallops anyone’s self-assuredness,” he wrote. “India rearranged my cultural furniture. My confidence that I understood such basics to life as time, joy, love, pain, and music was shaken. I was humbled in a way that made me a better person.” His vivid reflection resonates with many Western travelers who find themselves similarly awed by India’s unique blend of chaos, beauty, and culture.

Preparing for Your First Visit to India

Unlike planning a trip to Portugal or Japan, preparing for India requires more than booking flights and accommodations. The country’s immense geographical and cultural diversity makes it feel like a subcontinent rather than a single nation. This diversity is encapsulated in the Indian Constitution, which officially recognizes 22 languages, with demands for 38 additional ones. Such linguistic and cultural richness can feel overwhelming to first-time visitors.

Traveling to India, especially for Westerners, can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. In an episode of “Travel With Rick Steves,” he discussed the potential culture shock with India travel expert Serena Singh. “The culture shock for an American [who] has never been out of our Western culture to drop into India [is] actually dangerous because you don’t know how you’re going to handle it,” Steves explained.

To bridge this cultural gap, Steves suggests engaging with locals in conversation. English is widely spoken, and showing interest in cricket—the nation’s most popular sport—can quickly spark lively discussions. Finding “places of refuge” is another way to ease into the Indian experience. These spots, such as hotel lobbies or modern cinemas, provide a respite from the heat while offering glimpses into local culture. Steves highlights India’s cinema industry, one of the largest globally, as a great way to relax in a climate-controlled environment while immersing oneself in Indian culture.

Where First-Time Visitors Should Go

For those new to India, Steves and Singh recommend starting in the southern part of the country. The north, while culturally rich, is often more tourist-heavy and susceptible to scams targeting travelers. In contrast, the south offers a more tranquil experience, complete with stunning coastal regions like Kerala. This area is perfect for budget-friendly vacations and features picturesque beaches and islands that should be on every traveler’s list.

Kerala stands out as Steves’ favorite region in India. Its complex history, blending religious and political influences, adds depth to its appeal. For an unforgettable experience, Singh suggests a backwater cruise through Kerala’s extensive network of canals and waterways. This serene activity offers a uniquely Indian perspective on life and culture.

However, cultural tourists should not skip India’s northern regions. The north is home to Rajasthan, a state known for its royal heritage, forts, and palaces. This area remains one of India’s most popular tourist destinations, offering a vivid glimpse into its rich history. Steves emphasizes the importance of being open to the unexpected during your travels in India. “Whatever you do,” he advises, “be open to whatever India brings your way, and the country and its people will stay with you for life.”

Final Thoughts

Rick Steves’ love for India showcases the profound impact the country can have on travelers. From its breathtaking diversity to its deeply rooted culture, India offers a journey like no other. Whether you’re exploring the laid-back southern beaches or the majestic forts of Rajasthan, embracing India’s surprises will leave you with memories that last a lifetime.

Launch of Pravasi Bharatiya Express Train – 9 January 2025, New Delhi

The Pravasi Bharatiya Express is a special state-of-the-art Tourist Train exclusively designed for the Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs only) that will travel to multiple destinations of prominent touristic interest and religious importance all over India for a period of 3 weeks starting on January 09, 2025 starting from the Safdarjung Railway Station in New Delhi. The date of January 09, 2025 has been chosen to commemorate the return of Mahatma Gandhi from South Africa to India on this date in the year 1915.

The Pravasi Bharatiya Express will travel to Ayodhya, Patna, Gaya, Varanasi, Mahabalipuram, Rameshwaram, Madurai, Kochi, Goa, Ekta Nagar (Kevadia), Ajmer, Pushkar and Agra. The train would have a maximum capacity for 156 passengers. The special conducted tour is being organised under the Pravasi Teerth Darshan Yojana (PTDY) scheme of the Ministry of External Affairs in collaboration with the M/s Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC). The purpose of the aforesaid tour is to connect the Indian Diaspora (PIOs only in the age group of 45-65 years) to their roots.

We seek nominations from all interested participants, with preference being accorded to PIOs for whom it is financially difficult to visit India on their own. Nominees will need to bear only 10% of their return airfares to avail of this scheme, that is to be launched by Ministry of External Affairs on January 09, 2025.

Kindly send your nominations at [email protected] latest by December 6, 2024 along with copy of Passport and OCI card.

Kerala Launches Heli-Tourism Policy to Boost Tourism Industry

The Kerala government has unveiled a new heli-tourism policy aimed at enhancing accessibility to tourist destinations across the state. The policy was approved at the weekly cabinet meeting presided over by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, as reported by IANS and shared by several online news outlets.

Under this new initiative, the state plans to establish a helicopter network connecting various tourist locations, providing tourists with a quicker and more convenient way to access these destinations. The introduction of this policy will also include the creation of essential infrastructure for helicopter services, such as heliports, stations, and helipads, to support the network.

The government anticipates that with this comprehensive policy in place, helicopter operators will show renewed interest in launching services that link Kerala’s popular tourist spots. “With a clear-cut policy now on the use of helicopters in tourism, there is going to be renewed interest from the helicopter operators to commence operations linking the numerous tourism spots,” said a government spokesperson.

Tourism has long been a major contributor to Kerala’s economy, and the government expects the heli-tourism policy to attract significant private investment into the state. This move is seen as a catalyst to further boost the tourism industry, which continues to be a major revenue generator for the region.

The lack of a formal heli-tourism policy in the past had impacted some large-scale projects. Several prominent ayurveda operators, who had envisioned setting up luxury resorts offering ayurveda packages at scenic and serene locations, were forced to abandon their plans due to the absence of necessary infrastructure and regulations. This gap in policy, however, is now being addressed with the launch of the heli-tourism initiative.

The Kerala Tourism Department has been consistently working on diversifying and refining its tourism offerings. Over the years, the state has seen the growth of unique attractions like houseboats, caravan tourism, and adventure tourism, with increasing demands for a well-organized helicopter tourism framework to cater to the influx of visitors. “Over the years, the Kerala Tourism Department has been fine-tuning their much in-demand products like houseboats, caravan tourism, promoting adventure destinations, and all the time there were demands of having a well-planned policy for operations of helicopters,” noted an industry insider.

Last year, Kerala experienced a significant surge in tourism, with 2.1 crore domestic tourists visiting the state. The number of international tourists also saw a remarkable increase, reaching 649,000. The Kerala Tourism Board has set an ambitious target for this year, aiming to attract 2.2 crore domestic tourists and 800,000 international visitors. “The Kerala government is expecting to host 2.2 crore domestic and 8 lakh international travellers this financial year,” the Tourism Minister, P.A. Mohammed Riyas, stated.

While the tourism sector faced a challenging period due to the global Covid-19 pandemic, the outlook for the industry is now improving. Under the leadership of Tourism Minister P.A. Mohammed Riyas, the state government is introducing innovative policies aimed at revitalizing the sector and making Kerala an even more attractive destination for both domestic and international travelers. The heli-tourism policy is expected to play a significant role in this rejuvenation.

As Kerala works to boost its tourism industry post-pandemic, the introduction of this heli-tourism policy is seen as a step forward in modernizing the state’s tourism infrastructure. With the combined potential of enhanced accessibility, new investments, and a growing range of tourist experiences, the state aims to solidify its position as a top travel destination in India and beyond.

Transforming Northeast India’s Tourism Landscape with Iconic Destinations

Meghalaya, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Sikkim, and Tripura are spearheading a remarkable tourism project in India. With an ambitious investment of INR 800 crore, these northeastern states are gearing up to establish eight iconic tourist destinations. This initiative aims to showcase the untapped beauty of the region, bolster local economies, and provide alternatives to overcrowded attractions, representing a transformative moment for India’s tourism industry.

The Indian government’s plan is part of a broader effort to highlight lesser-known destinations and alleviate the pressure on popular tourist sites. The budget of approximately INR 800 crore has been allocated to develop unique locations across these six states, with the Department of Expenditure already disbursing 66% of the funds to kickstart the project. This initiative is anticipated to redefine tourism in the Northeast by converting hidden gems into world-class attractions.

Bringing Hidden Gems to the Forefront

The selected sites span six states—Meghalaya, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Sikkim, and Tripura—each offering distinct cultural and natural experiences. The goal is to ease the burden on well-trodden tourist spots while showcasing the diversity of the region. The Ministry of Tourism, overseeing the project, has set a two-year timeline, with the final phase expected to conclude before March 2026.

Among the chosen destinations, Nathula in Sikkim will provide visitors with a unique border experience, offering a mix of history and natural beauty. In Tripura, the 51 Shakti Peethas Park will highlight the state’s rich cultural heritage, creating a spiritual and cultural attraction. Loktak Lake in Manipur, famous as the “floating lake,” will undergo a revitalization to attract eco-tourism enthusiasts.

Umiam Lake in Shillong, a favorite among nature lovers, will also see developments to enhance its appeal. Meanwhile, the Assam State Zoo in Guwahati will be upgraded to offer a better experience for families and wildlife enthusiasts. Siang Eco-retreat in Arunachal Pradesh will focus on eco-tourism, providing visitors with sustainable travel options while preserving the natural environment.

Part of a Nationwide Tourism Initiative

This northeastern initiative is not an isolated effort but part of a larger national scheme. Across 23 states, 40 destinations have been selected for development under a total budget of INR 3,295 crore. The project received an overwhelming response, with 87 proposals amounting to over INR 8,000 crore submitted by the October 2024 deadline. After a rigorous evaluation process, the Ministry of Tourism finalized the 40 most impactful proposals.

The government’s innovative approach includes providing interest-free, long-term loans to ensure the financial viability of these projects. In addition to improving infrastructure, the plan emphasizes global branding and marketing to position these destinations as must-visit sites for international travelers.

“By focusing on branding and marketing, we aim to make these destinations globally recognized and highly sought after,” said a government official involved in the initiative.

Economic and Cultural Transformation in the Northeast

The initiative is more than just infrastructure development; it represents an effort to create unforgettable tourism experiences while boosting local economies. As these destinations are developed, they are expected to generate employment opportunities and attract travelers from across the world. The Ministry of Tourism is also encouraging collaboration with private investors, fostering a sustainable development approach that balances growth with environmental and cultural preservation.

The Northeast’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty have often been overshadowed by more popular tourist spots in other parts of India. This initiative aims to change that by shining a spotlight on the region’s unique offerings. The development of these lesser-known destinations is set to redefine the Northeast’s appeal, attracting visitors looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences.

“This is not just about developing sites; it’s about sharing the unique stories, preserving the vibrant culture, and building a future where tourism benefits both people and the places they visit,” said a senior tourism official.

Building a Sustainable Future for Tourism

The eight destinations being developed under this plan will serve as a blueprint for sustainable tourism in India. By focusing on eco-tourism and cultural preservation, the government is ensuring that these projects do not merely attract visitors but also respect and protect the region’s heritage and environment.

One of the standout aspects of the initiative is its emphasis on collaboration. Local communities are being brought into the fold, ensuring that they benefit directly from the tourism boom. This includes creating jobs, promoting local crafts, and developing infrastructure that supports both tourism and everyday life.

“The goal is to ensure that tourism doesn’t just benefit visitors but also uplifts the communities that call these places home,” explained an official.

A Promising New Chapter for Northeast India

For both tourists and locals, this initiative marks the beginning of an exciting chapter in Northeast India’s tourism story. The region, often described as India’s best-kept secret, is finally getting the attention it deserves. Travelers will have the opportunity to explore destinations that offer not just stunning landscapes but also rich cultural experiences that are unique to the Northeast.

As the project progresses, it is expected to redefine how tourists perceive the region. The promise of eco-friendly travel, coupled with immersive cultural experiences, will make the Northeast a magnet for travelers seeking something beyond conventional tourist spots.

This initiative is more than just an investment in tourism; it is an investment in the future of the Northeast. By transforming these destinations into iconic tourist sites, the government is creating opportunities for growth, preservation, and global recognition. It is a step toward a future where tourism not only enriches lives but also protects and celebrates the cultural and natural heritage of India’s Northeast.

Indian Travelers Shift Focus to Asian Destinations Post-Pandemic

The recovery of India’s economy after the COVID-19 pandemic has sparked a surge in international travel, with many Indians now increasingly opting for Asian destinations. This growth in overseas vacations is driven by a growing middle class with higher disposable incomes and an ambitious younger population. According to travel industry experts, the trend of traveling abroad has expanded throughout the year, with more people choosing short-term trips to nearby Asian countries.

“Earlier travel picked up in the summer and festive seasons, but post the pandemic we have observed that Indians travel throughout the year. Younger Indians want to do multiple short-haul holidays while older people want to do longer overseas holidays,” said Neil Patel, co-founder of Veena World, a Mumbai-based travel agency. This shift reflects the changing travel habits of Indian tourists, with an increasing preference for both short getaways and longer vacations abroad.

While Europe has traditionally been a favorite vacation destination for many Indians, it is no longer the top choice for all travelers. Many Indians are now exploring new destinations across Asia, including countries like Japan, Vietnam, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Central Asian republics like Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, and Georgia. These places are attracting Indian travelers not just because of their affordability but also due to the ease of travel compared to Europe.

Some Indians find the complex visa processes and paperwork for European countries to be cumbersome. In contrast, the cost of traveling to Asian destinations tends to be more affordable, making them an appealing choice for budget-conscious travelers. Kumkum Sharma and her husband, Vinayak Gawankar, from Mumbai, who vacationed in Europe in 2022, now prefer Southeast Asia. The couple visited Singapore and Malaysia in 2022 and traveled to Vietnam and Thailand this year.

“Europe is slightly expensive. After getting married, much of our budget goes into household expenses, so we decided Southeast Asian countries are better. You get to experience a new culture as well,” said Gawankar, a marketing consultant. Sharma, a corporate employee, added that traveling through Southeast Asia was more convenient for them. “Traveling through Southeast Asian countries is definitely friendlier for Indians. Also, you need more time and more planning to travel to Europe,” she said.

In another example, Kalyani Jagwani, a homemaker from Kolkata, and her husband, Devanand, a businessman, traveled to Japan for two weeks in October. Their trip took them to popular destinations such as Kyoto, Tokyo, and Hakone, which is known for its hot springs and scenic beauty.

“We had already visited Europe a few times and we wanted a new experience. And we were really attracted by the videos we saw of the fall season when the landscape turns beautiful,” Kalyani Jagwani explained. For many, such destinations offer a blend of rich culture and natural beauty, which continues to draw Indian tourists.

As the number of Indian travelers continues to rise, several Asian countries have been actively marketing their destinations to Indian tourists. Some countries are offering visa-free entry to Indian citizens, while budget airlines are expanding their routes from India. For example, Vietair, a Vietnamese budget airline, expanded its services to smaller Indian cities two years ago, significantly increasing the number of visitors to Vietnam. This year, nearly half a million Indian tourists are expected to visit Vietnam, attracted by budget-friendly fares that are often priced under $400.

Thailand, another popular destination for Indian tourists, made headlines in November 2023 when it eliminated visa requirements for Indians for a year, and just last month, the facility was extended indefinitely. As a result, tourism from India to Thailand has surged. In comparison to one million Indian tourists visiting Thailand a decade ago, more than 1.5 million had visited by October of this year. Similarly, Sri Lanka has allowed visa-free entry for Indian nationals, while Japan has simplified the visa application process by introducing an e-visa.

In the Middle East, countries like the United Arab Emirates are actively courting Indian tourists with the help of Bollywood celebrities. India’s film industry, particularly Bollywood, has long influenced the travel choices of Indian tourists. Ranveer Singh, a top Bollywood actor, is now promoting Abu Dhabi, a destination that he once promoted as the perfect holiday destination for Indian tourists. Similarly, actors Saif Ali Khan and his daughter, Sara Ali Khan, are helping promote Dubai to Indian tourists. Countries in the region are also inviting influencers and travel writers in larger numbers to publicize their destinations.

For those with more disposable income, distant destinations are becoming an increasingly popular option. Sumitra Senapaty, who runs a travel club called “Women on Wanderlust,” reports that her clients are seeking more off-the-beaten-path destinations.

“They are tired of doing the usual touristy places and want to go to different places. This year, I have organized vacations to Easter Island and Puerto Natales in Chile, Patagonia in South America, and Azores, a Portuguese archipelago,” she said. This reflects the growing demand among Indian travelers for more unique and unconventional holiday experiences.

According to a report by MakeMyTrip, a leading online travel agency in India, the number of Indians taking two or more overseas trips grew by 32% last year. This increase in overseas travel is part of a broader trend in which more Indians are prioritizing experiences over material goods.

“I think people want to live in the moment, because we don’t know what tomorrow brings,” said Patel from Veena World, emphasizing that the pandemic has led to a shift in consumer behavior, where people are spending more on creating memories through travel.

“As incomes increase, people want to invest more in experiences – this is the big change we have seen post the pandemic,” he added.

Many travelers now seek authentic cultural experiences during their trips. Kalyani Jagwani shared how her trip to Japan allowed her to immerse herself in Japanese culture. In addition to visiting famous tourist spots like monasteries and gardens, the Jagwanis spent a day in a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn that offers a glimpse into Japan’s history.

“We slept on the floor on mattresses, had typical Japanese food, and a traditional bath with mineral salts,” she recalled. “It was a novelty experience that plugged us into Japanese culture.”

This evolving trend of international travel by Indians reflects not only a shift in preferences but also the deepening cultural exploration that many travelers now seek when venturing beyond their borders.

Indian Ministry of Tourism Launches Campaigns to Promote Inbound Tourism

The Indian Ministry of Tourism has introduced several new initiatives to boost international tourism, focusing on showcasing the country’s cultural richness and diverse travel experiences. Union Minister for Tourism and Culture, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, presented the Ministry’s plans during a session in the Rajya Sabha, underlining the importance of these efforts in enhancing India’s visibility on the global tourism map.

One of the Ministry’s key strategies includes India’s active participation in major international travel fairs and exhibitions, which are essential platforms for attracting potential tourists. These events include the World Travel Market (WTM) in London, ITB Berlin, and the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai. By engaging in these prestigious gatherings, India seeks to present its tourism offerings to a global audience and strengthen its position in the competitive tourism industry.

In addition to these events, the Ministry has launched the ‘Chalo India’ initiative, aiming to involve the Indian diaspora in promoting the country’s tourism. Through this program, Indian nationals living abroad are encouraged to become ambassadors of the ‘Incredible India’ campaign. The initiative motivates these individuals to invite five non-Indian friends to visit India each year. To support this effort, the government has introduced a provision of 100,000 complimentary e-visas for foreign tourists who are referred by Indian nationals through the program, making it easier for visitors to travel to India.

Revamping the digital presence is another critical component of the Ministry’s promotional activities. On September 27, 2024, the Ministry launched a redesigned version of the Incredible India website, which now includes the newly introduced Incredible India Content Hub. This centralized online platform offers a wealth of resources, including high-quality images, videos, brochures, and newsletters. These materials are available for use by travel media, tour operators, and other tourism stakeholders, helping to enhance India’s global marketing efforts.

The upgraded website is designed to be a comprehensive resource for travelers, with features focused on improving the visitor experience. The Ministry aims to position this portal as a one-stop solution, offering rich multimedia content that can be used across various marketing channels to attract tourists. By equipping travel professionals and influencers with these resources, the Ministry intends to enhance India’s appeal as a travel destination worldwide.

In a further effort to generate authentic promotional content, the Ministry has introduced the Hospitality Programme. This initiative invites social media influencers, tour operators, and opinion leaders to visit India, providing them with firsthand experiences of the country’s diverse offerings. The goal is to create genuine digital content and testimonials that will resonate with global audiences and spark increased interest in visiting India.

The success of these initiatives is further supported by a collaborative approach with state governments and 20 identified overseas Indian missions. By aligning national and regional campaigns with global travel trends, this coordinated effort aims to ensure that India’s tourism promotion reaches key international markets effectively. The partnership between the Ministry and state governments also ensures that the campaigns reflect India’s regional diversity, which is a significant aspect of the country’s tourism appeal.

Sustainability and cultural preservation are also central to India’s tourism promotion. The Ministry emphasizes that India offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity, making it an attractive destination for travelers seeking both cultural enrichment and contemporary experiences. In presenting India as a sustainable and culturally rich destination, the Ministry is aiming to position the country as a top choice for tourists interested in responsible and meaningful travel.

While the Ministry plays a central role in promoting tourism, it has clarified that it does not regulate the pricing structure of tourism services provided by private stakeholders. This ensures that the tourism sector remains flexible and responsive to market dynamics while maintaining the core values of India’s travel offerings.

The Indian Ministry of Tourism’s comprehensive promotional campaign focuses on enhancing India’s global appeal through strategic participation in international travel fairs, leveraging the Indian diaspora, expanding its digital presence, and collaborating with regional and international partners. These efforts aim to highlight the rich cultural heritage of India while positioning the country as a modern, sustainable, and attractive destination for international tourists.

Transforming Indian Tourism: Gajendra Singh Shekhawat’s Vision for a Global Destination

Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, India’s Minister of Culture and Tourism, is spearheading a transformative agenda to position India as a premier global destination in the wake of a robust post-pandemic tourism rebound. Drawing from his extensive background in water conservation and agriculture, Shekhawat envisions a tourism and hospitality sector that not only drives economic growth but also celebrates India’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Cultural Heritage: The Bedrock of Tourism

“Tourism in India is embedded in our culture and DNA,” Shekhawat remarked during an interview in Delhi, underscoring the country’s historical connection to travel. He highlighted how ancient pilgrimage routes and diverse traditions continue to attract travelers globally. With infrastructural advancements under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, including 150,000 kilometers of new roads and a doubling of airports, India is better equipped than ever to cater to this growing interest. These developments, he asserts, are vital in improving India’s global tourism standing.

Domestic Tourism and the Emerging Middle Class

Shekhawat emphasized the importance of domestic tourism, propelled by the rise of a burgeoning middle class. “More than 25 crore people have risen above the poverty line, significantly increasing the size of the middle-income group,” he noted. This aspirational segment is expected to drive demand for diverse travel experiences within the country, ensuring steady growth in the tourism sector.

Sustainability as a Core Principle

Sustainability is central to Shekhawat’s tourism strategy. Leveraging his expertise from the Ministry of Jal Shakti, he has prioritized eco-friendly initiatives to preserve India’s natural and cultural heritage. “We must balance preservation with promotion,” he said, detailing efforts to establish eco-resorts, nature reserves, and guided adventure experiences adhering to strict environmental guidelines.

One notable innovation is the “green leaf concept,” a five-leaf rating system recognizing hotels adopting sustainable practices like water recycling and sanitation. This initiative aims to foster environmentally responsible tourism while enhancing the traveler’s experience.

Technology Integration for Enhanced Travel

Shekhawat highlighted the launch of Incredible India’s digital platform, which simplifies travel planning by offering destination search, itinerary customization, and booking services. Virtual tours and comprehensive travel guides are also part of the Ministry’s digital transformation efforts, making Indian tourism more accessible to tech-savvy visitors. “Our digital platforms are gateways to India,” he explained, emphasizing their role in attracting and accommodating global tourists.

Addressing Workforce Challenges

The hospitality sector, significantly impacted by the pandemic, faces a shortage of skilled manpower. To bridge this gap, Shekhawat’s ministry has partnered with hotel chains through memorandums of understanding (MOUs) to align training with industry requirements. Programs like ‘Pariyatan Mitra’ and ‘Pariyatan Didi’ train local youth as cultural ambassadors, enriching the visitor experience with engaging narratives.

Collaborative Infrastructure Development

Infrastructure development remains a cornerstone of Shekhawat’s vision. By collaborating with state governments and other ministries, his team is addressing issues like over-tourism in popular destinations. The Ministry promotes lesser-known locales and invests in local infrastructure to create a balanced tourism ecosystem. States like Goa, Jammu and Kashmir, and Rajasthan have already benefited from these initiatives. Additionally, a special budgetary scheme offers states a 50-year interest-free loan for tourism infrastructure development, without adding to their debt burdens.

Attracting Investments and Promoting Niche Tourism

The tourism sector’s allowance of 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) has attracted $18 billion in foreign investments over the past two years, signaling robust growth potential. Shekhawat praised Rajasthan’s comprehensive hospitality policies, which serve as a model for other states. Niche markets like adventure, wedding, and wellness tourism are also gaining traction, further diversifying India’s tourism offerings.

Shekhawat sees India’s wellness traditions, rooted in Ayurveda and yoga, as unique assets with global appeal. Similarly, medical tourism is expected to flourish, driven by India’s growing credibility in healthcare.

The Road Ahead

Tourism currently contributes about 6-7% to India’s GDP, but Shekhawat anticipates this figure could rise to double digits with better integration of formal and informal sector data. By 2047, he envisions tourism evolving into a $3 trillion industry. Encouraging young professionals to join this dynamic field, he remarked, “Tourism and hospitality are set to become the biggest drivers of India’s economy.”

Shekhawat’s vision aligns economic growth with cultural preservation, sustainability, and innovation, ensuring a thriving tourism sector that doubles as a source of national pride and a beacon for global progress.

Five Indian Villages Honoured for Responsible Tourism

The Ministry of Tourism in India annually acknowledges villages through the Best Tourism Villages Competition. This initiative aims to celebrate rural destinations that excel in tourism while upholding sustainable practices. The competition highlights villages that have committed to sustainability across social, economic, and environmental aspects. In 2024, the Indian government recognized winners in eight categories, including community-based tourism, adventure tourism, vibrant villages, crafts, agri-tourism, spiritual and wellness tourism, heritage, and responsible tourism. Among these categories, five villages stood out for their exemplary work in responsible tourism, focusing on eco-friendly practices, community engagement, and preserving their cultural heritage.

Below are the five villages that were honoured for their exceptional contributions to responsible tourism.

Ladpura Khas, Madhya Pradesh

Ladpura Khas, located near Orchha, Madhya Pradesh, is the first village to be recognized under the Responsible Tourism Mission in the state. Visitors to this village are invited to experience the unique Bundeli culture and build meaningful connections with the local tribal communities. The village is known for its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage, making it a standout rural destination.

In terms of infrastructure, Ladpura Khas offers traditional homestays that allow tourists to stay in accommodations that reflect the area’s architectural heritage. This emphasis on preserving local culture while promoting tourism has made Ladpura Khas an attractive location for those interested in responsible travel. The Responsible Tourism Mission has worked to integrate the village’s cultural and natural elements into the visitor experience. This holistic approach ensures that tourists not only explore the physical beauty of the area but also gain an understanding of its deep-rooted traditions and local way of life.

Dudhani, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu

Dudhani, a scenic village located in Dadra and Nagar Haveli, has gained recognition for its dedication to sustainable tourism. The village is particularly known for its eco-friendly initiatives, which focus on environmental preservation and responsible travel. One of the village’s main attractions is Dudhani Lake, where visitors can engage in various water-based activities while learning about the region’s commitment to sustainability.

Dudhani has successfully combined tourism with environmental awareness. By promoting responsible travel, the village encourages tourists to appreciate the natural beauty of the area while also ensuring that their presence has minimal negative impact on the environment. The local culture is also intricately woven into the tourism experience, allowing visitors to interact with the community and gain insights into their traditional way of life. The village’s efforts in responsible tourism are rooted in maintaining a balance between tourist activities and environmental conservation, making it a role model for other rural destinations.

Kadalundi, Kerala

Kadalundi, located in Kerala’s Kozhikode district, has undergone a remarkable transformation thanks to the Kerala Responsible Tourism Mission’s STREET (Sustainable Tangible Responsible Experiential Ethnic Tourism) project. This initiative has positioned Kadalundi as a model destination for sustainable and responsible tourism, supported by the active participation of the local community. One of the village’s unique offerings is the theme-based streets, where visitors can explore different aspects of the local culture.

Kadalundi’s backwater boating experiences allow tourists to enjoy the natural beauty of the region while supporting local businesses that offer traditional foods and crafts. The “One Tourist One Tree” initiative, which encourages visitors to plant a tree, has also significantly contributed to reforestation efforts in the village. Through this program, Kadalundi has enhanced its green cover and demonstrated its commitment to environmental sustainability. The village’s focus on promoting inclusive growth ensures that the benefits of tourism are shared among all members of the community, making it a model for responsible travel.

Tar Village, Ladakh

In the remote region of Ladakh, Tar Village has been recognized for its innovative efforts in responsible tourism. This small village has embraced eco-friendly practices and community-based tourism to protect its fragile environment. Ladakh, known for its delicate ecosystem and unique culture, has faced challenges due to increasing tourism. However, Tar Village has set an example by promoting sustainable tourism that minimizes environmental impact while preserving its rich Ladakhi culture.

Visitors to Tar Village are encouraged to engage with the local community and learn about their customs and traditions. The village has developed eco-friendly infrastructure, including the use of renewable energy and sustainable waste management systems, to ensure that tourism does not harm the local environment. By focusing on both environmental preservation and cultural integrity, Tar Village has positioned itself as a leader in responsible travel within the Ladakh region.

Sabarvani, Madhya Pradesh

Sabarvani, located in the Chhindwara district of Madhya Pradesh, has become a popular tourism destination since 2019. The village’s natural beauty, combined with its commitment to cleanliness, has attracted international tourists seeking cultural experiences and tranquil escapes. Sabarvani offers visitors the opportunity to experience ethnic food, participate in agricultural activities, and immerse themselves in the local culture.

Nearby attractions, such as the Anhoni Hot Spring and the Satpura National Park buffer zone, further enhance the village’s appeal. These natural wonders offer tourists the chance to explore Madhya Pradesh’s rich biodiversity while supporting sustainable tourism initiatives. Sabarvani’s focus on maintaining a clean and green environment has made it a top choice for nature lovers and those seeking peaceful retreats. The village’s rapid growth as a tourism destination has been carefully managed to ensure that development aligns with the principles of responsible tourism.

Cruise Bharat Mission Launched to Boost India’s Cruise Tourism Industry

The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, recently inaugurated the ‘Cruise Bharat Mission’ at Mumbai port, aiming to significantly enhance India’s cruise tourism sector. This ambitious initiative is poised to revitalize both sea and river cruise tourism in India, with an objective to double the number of cruise passengers by 2029.

The mission is centered on increasing the number of cruise passengers across India’s waterways, particularly focusing on attracting over 1.5 million river cruise tourists. India’s vast network of more than 5,000 kilometers of operational waterways offers considerable potential for development, which the mission seeks to tap into.

Highlighting the importance of this initiative, Sonowal described the launch of Cruise Bharat as a pivotal moment for India’s maritime tourism industry. He pointed out the significant opportunity the nation has to exploit the largely untapped Blue Economy, given its extensive coastline and network of waterways. The minister also acknowledged that this initiative aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of fostering growth through sustainable and world-class infrastructure in the maritime sector.

Phased Implementation of Cruise Bharat Mission

The Cruise Bharat Mission is set to be implemented in three phases, starting from October 1, 2024, and running until March 31, 2029. These phases will mark a series of developmental milestones aimed at expanding and modernizing India’s cruise tourism infrastructure.

– Phase 1 will prioritize research, master planning, and forging alliances with neighboring countries to improve cruise tourism connectivity. The phase will also focus on modernizing existing ports, marinas, and destinations to optimize India’s cruise circuits.

– Phase 2 is designed to build on the existing infrastructure by developing new marinas, cruise terminals, and tourist destinations. This phase seeks to enhance the country’s capacity to host more cruise routes and engage high-potential cruise sites.

– Phase 3 will continue expanding marinas, terminals, and destinations while focusing on the integration of all cruise circuits within the Indian Subcontinent, symbolizing a matured ecosystem. By the end of this phase, the mission aims to fully develop India’s cruise tourism infrastructure.

The targets for these phases include increasing the number of sea cruise passengers from 0.5 million in Phase 1 to 1 million by Phase 3. Similarly, the sea cruise calls, which currently stand at 125, will grow to 500 by the end of Phase 3. Additionally, river cruise passengers are expected to rise from 0.5 million to 1.5 million. International cruise terminals will also expand from the current two to 10, and river cruise terminals will grow from 50 to 100. In total, the mission is projected to generate around 400,000 new jobs within the cruise sector.

By 2047, the mission aims to increase sea cruise passengers to 5 million, marking a dramatic rise from the 460,000 passengers expected in 2024. Cruise calls, which are projected to increase to 500 by 2030, will further rise to 1,100 by 2047. These targets were reported by Business Standard, which emphasized the long-term scope and impact of the mission.

Cruise Tourism Segments

The Cruise Bharat Mission outlines three distinct segments within the cruise tourism industry:

  1. Ocean & Harbour Cruise: This segment includes ocean cruises, coastal and deep-sea trips, as well as yachting and sailing adventures originating from various harbors along India’s vast coastline.
  1. River & Inland Cruise: This segment targets river and inland waterways, offering cruises that explore India’s intricate network of canals, backwaters, creeks, and lakes. The potential to draw tourists to lesser-explored water routes presents significant opportunities for growth.
  1. Island Cruise: Focusing on boutique cruises and live-aboard experiences, this segment caters to those interested in exploring India’s islands. It offers excursions to hidden gems, lighthouse tours, and inter-island cruises, catering to a niche market of travelers seeking unique maritime experiences.

The Cruise Bharat Mission’s comprehensive approach aims to utilize India’s abundant natural maritime resources to boost tourism, generate employment, and stimulate the economy. By expanding the infrastructure and offering new and diverse cruise experiences, the mission will establish India as a major destination for cruise tourism on the global stage.

Sarbananda Sonowal emphasized that the mission is not only about promoting tourism but also about creating sustainable opportunities in the maritime sector. “Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, our focus is on building a robust cruise tourism infrastructure that supports both economic growth and job creation,” he said.

With a detailed roadmap and phased implementation, the Cruise Bharat Mission sets ambitious targets that reflect India’s commitment to growing its cruise tourism industry. The initiative is expected to position India as a premier destination for cruise travelers, while also contributing to the country’s broader economic development plans through its focus on sustainable growth and world-class infrastructure.

India’s Tourism Sector Set to Create Millions of Jobs by 2025

India’s tourism industry is on track to create a significant number of employment opportunities in the coming years, according to a recent report. The sector is projected to generate around 39.5 million jobs by the end of this year, a figure expected to rise further to 42.3 million by 2025. This development highlights the tourism sector’s expanding role in the Indian economy.

The report, published by NLB Services, a company specializing in technology and digital talent solutions, reveals that direct employment will constitute 31% of the jobs created. These roles primarily include positions like tour guides, hotel staff, and tour operators. Sachin Alug, the CEO of NLB Services, emphasized the broad scope of employment that will be created within the sector.

On the other hand, indirect employment will make up the remaining 69%. “Indirect employment will involve roles such as local artisans, logistics and transport operators, supply chain workers, IT support for online booking systems, data analysis, and landscape maintenance,” said Alug. These jobs are crucial in supporting the growth and sustainability of the tourism industry.

The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) has also offered an optimistic outlook for India’s travel and tourism sector, projecting an annual GDP growth of 7.1% over the next decade. This growth rate signals the sector’s ability to positively impact the national economy. Currently, tourism contributes around $199.6 billion to India’s GDP, making it a critical industry for the country’s economic development.

The government has taken steps to bolster this important sector. In the Union Budget for the fiscal year 2025, an allocation of Rs 2,479 crore has been earmarked specifically for tourism. This funding aims to stimulate further growth, improve infrastructure, and attract both domestic and international tourists. The financial boost is expected to support various facets of the tourism industry and create new job opportunities.

One of the defining characteristics of the tourism sector is its multiplier effect on employment. “The tourism sector has a strong multiplier effect as each direct job in this field is expected to generate multiple indirect jobs,” added Alug. The widespread impact of tourism job creation means that it is not just confined to traditional roles but extends into various supporting industries as well.

Several emerging trends within the tourism industry are expected to fuel job creation. Adventure and wellness tourism, for example, are becoming increasingly popular as travelers seek experiences that combine exploration with personal well-being. Culinary tourism is another trend gaining traction, with tourists eager to sample local cuisines and immerse themselves in the unique flavors of different regions. These niches within the broader tourism sector are not only enhancing the visitor experience but are also driving demand for specialized services.

Spiritual tourism continues to be one of the key attractions for both domestic and international travelers. Cities like Varanasi, Rishikesh, and Bodh Gaya remain top destinations for visitors seeking spiritual and religious experiences. These locations have seen a steady influx of tourists over the years, and this trend is expected to continue, contributing significantly to the overall growth of the tourism sector.

India’s standing on the global stage is also noteworthy, particularly in medical tourism. The country currently ranks 10th on the Medical Tourism Index (MTI) for the years 2020-2021. With a reputation for providing affordable and high-quality medical treatments, India is expected to see continued growth in this area. This rise in medical tourism will lead to an increase in the number of healthcare professionals. The report forecasts a 12% rise in the number of nurses, a 10% increase in doctors, and a 15% growth in other healthcare staff. These figures reflect the importance of medical tourism as a subset of the broader tourism industry, and its potential to generate employment in the healthcare sector.

Additionally, a growing trend in the tourism industry is the expansion of the backpacker hostel market. These hostels, which are budget-friendly accommodations catering to younger travelers, are becoming increasingly popular across India. Backpacker hostels not only provide affordable lodging but also offer opportunities for socializing and cultural exchange, making them attractive to millennial and Gen Z travelers. “This segment will create opportunities for hostel managers, event coordinators, and digital marketers, contributing an additional 5% to overall employment in tourism,” explained Alug. The rise of such hostels is expected to diversify job roles within the sector, adding to the range of career paths available to those entering the tourism industry.

The report also highlights the importance of digital tools and services in shaping the future of tourism in India. With the increasing reliance on technology for bookings, travel planning, and customer service, there is a growing need for skilled professionals in IT support, data analysis, and digital marketing. As more tourists turn to online platforms for their travel needs, these technological roles will become essential for the industry’s continued growth and competitiveness on a global scale.

Overall, India’s tourism sector is not only a vital contributor to the economy but also a significant source of employment. With the creation of millions of jobs expected over the next few years, the industry offers opportunities for both direct and indirect employment. Emerging trends like wellness, culinary, and spiritual tourism, coupled with advancements in medical tourism and the growing backpacker market, are set to drive further growth. The government’s commitment to supporting the sector, evidenced by the substantial budget allocation, further strengthens the outlook for tourism in India. As Sachin Alug pointed out, the tourism sector’s job-creating potential extends well beyond the obvious roles, encompassing a broad range of industries and professions.

Looking ahead, the tourism sector in India is poised for robust growth. Its ability to adapt to changing traveler preferences and incorporate digital advancements will be key to sustaining this upward trajectory. Whether through traditional roles like tour operators or new opportunities in digital marketing and event coordination, the future of employment in tourism appears bright, offering diverse career options for millions of people.

Karnataka Tourism to Host San Francisco Roadshow to Strengthen Travel Ties

Karnataka is set to showcase its rich tourism potential by hosting a roadshow in San Francisco, California. The event aims to establish connections between the state’s tourism industry and the San Francisco travel sector, promoting Karnataka as a premier destination for American travelers. The roadshow is slated to take place at Tiya, a modern Indian restaurant in San Francisco, on September 5. This platform is expected to introduce the diverse attractions Karnataka has to offer and gain a deeper understanding of what appeals to American tourists.

The primary goal of this initiative is to solidify Karnataka’s presence on the global tourism map and cultivate strong relationships with key stakeholders in the San Francisco travel industry. These include travel agents, tour operators, and other professionals who play a crucial role in promoting destinations to potential visitors. By engaging with these industry insiders, Karnataka Tourism seeks to position the state as an essential stop for anyone looking to explore India’s unique landscapes, culture, and history.

Karnataka boasts a rich history, with several UNESCO World Heritage Sites that attract history buffs and culture enthusiasts. Among these sites, the ancient ruins of Hampi stand out, offering visitors a glimpse into the grandeur of India’s past. The meticulously carved temples of Belur and Halebidu are also major draws, showcasing the architectural splendor of centuries gone by. These temples are a testament to the craftsmanship and cultural richness that define much of Karnataka’s historical narrative.

In addition to its cultural and historical significance, Karnataka is renowned for its natural beauty. The scenic coffee plantations of Coorg, a hill station in the state, offer a serene retreat for those seeking a peaceful escape. Coorg’s lush greenery and cool climate make it an ideal destination for nature lovers and those looking to unwind. The Western Ghats, a mountain range that runs through Karnataka, is another gem, known for its mist-covered peaks and biodiversity. These mountains offer trekking opportunities for adventure seekers and a chance to explore the region’s rich flora and fauna.

Karnataka is also home to several national parks that are perfect for wildlife enthusiasts. Among them is Bandipur National Park, a famous tiger reserve where visitors can witness the majesty of tigers in their natural habitat. The park is also home to Asian elephants, providing a unique opportunity to observe these gentle giants in the wild. Nagarhole National Park, another popular wildlife destination, is celebrated for its biodiversity and offers thrilling safaris where visitors can spot a variety of wildlife species, including leopards, wild dogs, and deer.

The state capital, Bengaluru, plays a vital role in Karnataka’s tourism offerings. As a major hub in India’s thriving technology sector, Bengaluru offers a modern urban experience that contrasts with the state’s historical and natural attractions. The city’s cosmopolitan vibe, coupled with its vibrant nightlife, makes it a popular destination for both domestic and international travelers. Bengaluru is home to world-class museums, such as the National Gallery of Modern Art, as well as numerous shopping districts and cultural venues. This fusion of modernity and tradition gives the city a unique appeal, providing a well-rounded experience for visitors.

By organizing the San Francisco roadshow, Karnataka Tourism aims to attract American travelers who are looking for a mix of cultural immersion, natural beauty, and adventure. The roadshow is designed to cater to the interests of a wide range of tourists, from those seeking an in-depth exploration of India’s history to those in search of an adrenaline-pumping experience in the wilderness.

This roadshow is expected to play a pivotal role in increasing Karnataka’s visibility and appeal to international travelers, particularly those from the United States. The U.S. is a growing market for Indian tourism, with American travelers seeking both cultural experiences and opportunities for outdoor exploration. Karnataka’s wide array of offerings makes it an attractive destination for such tourists, as it provides a little bit of everything—from heritage sites and wildlife adventures to modern urban experiences.

Tourism officials believe that by forging connections with travel industry leaders in San Francisco, they can significantly boost the state’s profile as a must-visit destination. The event also presents an opportunity for Karnataka Tourism to gather valuable insights into the preferences and expectations of American tourists. By understanding what appeals most to this demographic, the state can tailor its marketing strategies to better meet the needs of U.S. travelers.

Furthermore, the roadshow is expected to lead to partnerships with American travel agents and tour operators, who can promote Karnataka as part of broader India travel packages. This collaboration could help Karnataka secure a more prominent place in international travel itineraries, drawing more visitors to the state’s diverse attractions. As tourism continues to be a major driver of economic growth, these efforts to promote Karnataka on a global stage could yield significant benefits for the state.

In the words of a Karnataka tourism official, “This roadshow is a key step in positioning Karnataka as a premier travel destination for American tourists. We are excited to showcase what our state has to offer and to build lasting relationships with the San Francisco travel community.” The official expressed confidence that the event would help elevate Karnataka’s standing in the competitive global tourism market.

Ultimately, the San Francisco roadshow represents a concerted effort by Karnataka Tourism to raise the state’s profile among international travelers, particularly those from the U.S. With its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities, Karnataka is well-positioned to capture the imagination of American tourists looking for a unique and unforgettable travel experience.

Karnataka’s roadshow in San Francisco is poised to strengthen ties between the state and the U.S. travel industry, paving the way for increased tourism and fostering deeper connections between the two regions. By showcasing its many attractions, from ancient temples to bustling cities, Karnataka is set to make a lasting impression on American travelers and establish itself as a top destination in India.

Champakkulam Boat Race: A Century-Old Tradition Anchored in Kerala’s Rich Heritage

The Champakkulam Boat Race, held in the tranquil village of Champakkulam in Kerala’s Alappuzha district, is an eagerly anticipated event that signifies the onset of Kerala’s boat race season. This historic race, which unfolds on the serene waters of the Pampa River, is the oldest boat race in Kerala, boasting a tradition that has been carried on for nearly four centuries. Generally occurring in June or July, the event draws vast crowds, all of whom gather to witness the thrilling sight of long, slender snake boats gracefully cutting through the water, all while ancient boat songs echo in the background, adding to the atmosphere of excitement.

The Champakkulam Boat Race is deeply rooted in local legend and cultural traditions. Its origins are linked to the re-dedication of the idol of the main deity at the Sree Krishna Swamy Temple in Ambalappuzha. According to the legend, the original idol at the temple was found to be impure, prompting the then king of Chembakassery to search for a suitable replacement. After much effort, a new idol was discovered at the Kurichi Karikkulam Parthasarathy Temple. With the approval of the temple’s custodians, the idol was transported to Ambalappuzha. However, due to the threat of bandit attacks during the night, the king ordered his minister, Parayil Menon, and his entourage to halt at Koyikkari, a family estate in Champakkulam, for the night. The next morning, the king himself led a grand procession to escort the idol to the temple. This significant event is commemorated every year through the Champakkulam Boat Race.

The race, which began as a local celebration of this historical event, has grown in prominence over the years. In 1927, the race was officially inaugurated by Mr. M. E. Watts, who was the Diwan of Travancore at that time. This marked the beginning of the race’s transformation from a local tradition into a major cultural event in Kerala. The race gained further recognition in 1952 when Sri Chithira Thirunal Bala Rama Varma, the last Maharaja of Travancore, attended the event and introduced the prestigious ‘Rajpramukhan Trophy’ for the race’s winner. This trophy added a competitive edge to the event, making it even more popular among locals and tourists alike.

The Champakkulam Boat Race is not just a sporting event but a cultural spectacle that showcases Kerala’s rich heritage. The race is a vibrant display of the community’s unity and the region’s age-old traditions. The boats, known as “chundan vallams” or snake boats, are marvels of craftsmanship, often measuring over 100 feet in length and requiring more than a hundred rowers to navigate. The synchronized rowing of the boatmen, accompanied by the rhythmic chanting of ancient boat songs, creates a mesmerizing sight that leaves the spectators in awe.

Every year, the race begins with a ceremonial procession of boats, each decorated with colorful parasols and traditional motifs, creating a festive atmosphere on the river. This procession is followed by the main event—the race itself. As the boats line up at the starting point, the anticipation in the air is palpable. The moment the race starts, the boats surge forward with incredible speed, driven by the collective effort of the rowers and the shouts of encouragement from the onlookers lining the riverbanks.

The Champakkulam Boat Race is more than just a competition; it is a celebration of Kerala’s cultural identity. It brings together people from all walks of life, fostering a sense of community and pride in their heritage. The race also attracts a significant number of tourists, both domestic and international, who come to witness this unique event. The influx of visitors during the race season provides a boost to the local economy, as businesses catering to tourists thrive during this time.

The race’s significance extends beyond the borders of Kerala, as it has become a symbol of the state’s cultural richness and the enduring spirit of its people. Over the years, the race has been featured in numerous travelogues, documentaries, and even films, further cementing its place in the cultural consciousness of the nation. It is not uncommon for dignitaries and celebrities to attend the event, adding to its prestige and appeal.

The continued success of the Champakkulam Boat Race is a testament to the dedication of the local community in preserving their traditions and passing them on to future generations. The event serves as a reminder of the region’s historical legacy and the importance of maintaining cultural practices that have stood the test of time. Each year, as the race unfolds, it rekindles a sense of pride and belonging among the people of Kerala, reinforcing their connection to their roots.

As the boats race to the finish line, the excitement reaches its peak. The winning team is greeted with cheers and applause, and the victors are awarded the coveted Rajpramukhan Trophy, a symbol of their hard-earned triumph. But in the end, the true winner is the culture and heritage of Kerala, which is celebrated and honored through this magnificent event.

The Champakkulam Boat Race is not merely a sporting event but a cultural festival that embodies the spirit of Kerala. Its origins in local legend, its evolution into a major cultural event, and its role in promoting Kerala’s heritage make it a significant part of the state’s identity. The race continues to draw people from all over the world, who come to witness the beauty and grandeur of this age-old tradition. Through the Champakkulam Boat Race, Kerala’s rich cultural tapestry is woven together, creating a legacy that will be cherished for generations to come.

China’s Expanding Tourism Influence Poses Challenges for Thailand and India

China’s rapid expansion in the tourism sector is increasingly challenging neighboring countries such as Thailand and India. Through aggressive strategies, including disruptive market tactics and the introduction of expansive visa-free travel policies, China is altering the tourism landscape across Asia, presenting a significant threat to the tourism industries of these countries.

Chinese Investments and Market-Disrupting Tours in Thailand

In Thailand, Chinese investments in the tourism sector have seen a rapid increase, particularly through small-scale operations that challenge local businesses. The Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) has expressed concerns about the rise of “market-busting tours,” where Chinese travel agencies use Thai nominees to establish businesses and offer tours at unsustainably low prices. These underpriced packages disrupt the market, making it difficult for local operators to remain competitive and harming Thailand’s reputation when these tours do not meet expectations.

Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn, the president of ATTA, stated, “These market-busting tours are even more damaging than the infamous ‘zero-dollar’ tours.” The situation becomes dire when these low-cost tours turn unprofitable, and tourists may be pressured into spending more or even held until they agree to pay additional fees, leading to negative experiences and tarnishing Thailand’s image as a tourist-friendly destination.

To counter these challenges, ATTA is advocating for the regulation of tour package prices to ensure they reflect true market conditions and promote fair competition. This move is crucial in protecting the local tourism industry from long-term harm. Meanwhile, the hotel sector appears to be less vulnerable due to its higher investment requirements and the fact that most Chinese investments in this area involve formal partnerships, making it more stable and less susceptible to such market disruptions.

China’s Expanding Visa-Free Policies and Their Regional Impact

Beyond its economic influence in Thailand, China is expanding its regional reach by implementing new visa-free travel policies as of August 2024, which are set to alter tourist flows in Asia. Starting in early 2024, China introduced a visa-free travel program that initially included 11 European countries, such as Spain, Italy, and France, along with Malaysia. The program has now expanded to include countries like Poland, Australia, and New Zealand. This visa-free policy, valid until the end of 2025, aims to attract more international visitors and further boost China’s tourism sector.

Citizens from Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Spain, and Switzerland are now able to enter China without a visa until the end of next year. This expansion is part of China’s broader strategy to encourage business travel, luxury tourism, and cultural exchanges. Additionally, China’s Hainan Province has opened up to visa-free travel for citizens of 59 countries, including significant markets like Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. This policy allows for stays of up to 30 days and aims to promote a variety of activities, ranging from tourism and business to medical treatment and sports competitions.

This initiative is expected to attract large numbers of tourists who might have otherwise chosen destinations such as Thailand and India, thereby intensifying competition in the regional tourism market. China has also introduced a 144-hour visa-free policy for citizens of 54 countries, allowing them to visit 23 major cities, including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Xi’an. This initiative is intended to boost short-term tourism and promote cultural exchange, potentially diverting tourists from other popular Asian destinations.

Furthermore, China has launched a new policy permitting visa-free entry for foreign tour groups arriving by cruise ships. Starting May 15, these groups can enter and stay in China for up to 15 days without a visa, according to the National Immigration Administration. This move is part of China’s broader strategy to attract more international visitors and strengthen its tourism sector, which has faced challenges in recent years. By easing entry requirements for cruise tourists, China aims to boost its appeal as a top destination and compete more effectively with neighboring countries like Thailand and India.

Thailand’s Strategic Visa Regulations

To maintain its status as a leading tourist destination, Thailand is implementing new visa regulations designed to attract a diverse range of international visitors. These measures, set to launch on July 15, 2024, include a 60-day visa-free scheme, an expanded Visa on Arrival (VOA) program, and the introduction of the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) aimed at remote workers, digital nomads, and students.

Thailand has witnessed a significant surge in tourist arrivals, with a 35% increase as of July 7, 2024, compared to the same period in 2023. This influx has bolstered the local economy, contributing approximately 858 billion baht ($24 billion). The primary sources of these tourists have been China, Malaysia, and India, demonstrating a strong interest in Thailand despite growing competition from China’s tourism sector.

The new visa waiver program expands eligibility to citizens from 93 nations, up from 57, allowing them to enter Thailand without a visa for up to 60 days. This initiative is part of Thailand’s broader strategy to enhance its appeal as a top destination for both tourists and short-term business visitors. The expanded VOA program now includes nationals from 31 countries, an increase from 19, allowing for short-term tourist visits of up to 15 days. The introduction of the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) is particularly noteworthy, as it targets long-term visitors, including remote workers and students, who can stay in Thailand for up to five years with multiple entries. This initiative positions Thailand as a hub for digital nomads and professionals seeking flexibility in their travel arrangements.

India’s Strategic Expansion of Visa Facilities

India, facing similar challenges from China’s expanding tourism influence, has also introduced new visa-on-arrival facilities and expanded its e-visa program. On August 5, 2024, Union Minister for Tourism and Culture, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, announced the launch of a visa-on-arrival facility for nationals of Japan, South Korea, and the UAE. This facility allows visitors to enter India for tourism, business, conferences, and medical purposes, with a stay of up to 60 days and the possibility of double entry.

The visa-on-arrival service is available at six major international airports across India—Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bangalore, and Hyderabad—making it easier for travelers from these countries to visit. This initiative is part of India’s broader strategy to attract more international visitors and boost its tourism sector.

In addition to the visa-on-arrival program, India has expanded its e-visa facility to 167 countries, allowing for entry through 30 designated international airports and six major seaports. This expansion significantly improves accessibility for travelers from around the world, positioning India as a more convenient and attractive destination.

India’s efforts to enhance its visa facilities reflect its commitment to competing in the increasingly competitive regional tourism market. By making travel more accessible, India aims to draw more visitors to its diverse cultural and natural attractions, from the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas to the sun-kissed beaches of Goa.

Navigating Regional Tourism Challenges

As China continues to expand its influence through aggressive tourism policies and strategic investments, neighboring countries like Thailand and India are responding with their own measures to remain competitive. Both nations are implementing new visa regulations and enhancing their tourism offerings to attract international visitors and maintain their appeal in a rapidly evolving regional landscape.

The competition for international tourists is intensifying, and the strategies adopted by these countries will play a crucial role in shaping the future of tourism in Asia. As Thailand and India strive to navigate these challenges, their ability to adapt and innovate will determine their success in the face of China’s growing dominance in the region.

Thailand Unveils Ambitious Three-Phase Plan to Revitalize Tourism and Boost Economy with New Visa Policies

The Thai government has rolled out a comprehensive three-phase economic stimulus plan aimed at revitalizing tourism and attracting foreign visitors by easing visa regulations. This decision emerged from a Cabinet meeting held on May 28, responding to the nation’s ongoing economic stagnation, sluggish GDP growth, and rising public debt.

During the meeting, there was a unanimous agreement that Thailand must generate new income streams by fully accelerating tourism policies. These policies are viewed as the sole economic driver capable of delivering rapid returns. The plan is segmented into three distinct phases, spanning 2024-2025.

Short-Term Measures (2024)

The primary goal of the short-term measures is to generate at least 3 trillion baht (81.91 billion USD) in tourism revenue by the end of 2024. Key components include:

– Visa Exemptions: Extending visa exemptions to tourists, business visitors, and short-term workers from 93 countries, an increase from the current 57. This extension permits stays of up to 60 days.

– Visa on Arrival (VOA): Expanding the VOA facility to 31 countries, up from 19.

– Destination Thailand Visa (DTV): Introducing a new visa category for foreigners wishing to stay longer and work remotely in Thailand. The DTV is aimed at skilled foreign talent, digital nomads, freelancers, and individuals participating in activities such as learning Muay Thai, cooking, sports training, medical treatment, seminars, and arts and music events.

The DTV offers numerous benefits:

– Eligibility for skilled talent, digital nomads, and those engaged in various activities.

– Inclusion of spouses and legal children under 20.

– Requirement of proof of financial support or a guarantee of at least 500,000 baht.

– Allowing stays of up to 180 days, with a visa fee of 10,000 baht, and the option to extend for another 180 days with an additional fee of 10,000 baht.

Improved Benefits for Foreign Students

Foreign students pursuing higher education degrees with a Non-Immigrant Visa (ED) will find it easier to secure work and remain in Thailand post-graduation. They can extend their stay for a year after graduation for job hunting, traveling, or other activities, provided they obtain certification from the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation.

Medium-Term Measures (September to December 2024)

– Restructuring Visa Categories: Reducing the number of Non-Immigrant visa categories from 17 to 7.

– Adjusting Long Stay Visa for Elderly: Revising criteria and conditions for elderly people wishing to retire in Thailand.

– Health Insurance Requirements: Lowering the health insurance requirement for Non-Immigrant visa (O-A) holders to pre-COVID-19 levels—40,000 baht for outpatients and 400,000 baht for inpatients.

– Expanding e-Visa Services: Doubling the number of Thai embassies, consulates, and trade offices offering e-Visa services from 47 to 94 by December 2024.

Long-Term Measures (Fully Implemented by June 2025)

– Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA): Developing an ETA system for foreign nationals eligible for visa exemption.

– Technological Integration: Utilizing technology and innovation to enhance the screening process for foreign nationals, integrating data with the Immigration Bureau.

Government spokesperson Chai Wacharong acknowledged that while these measures to facilitate tourism will lead to an estimated annual revenue loss of approximately 12.3 billion baht (335.7 million USD), the projected returns from increased tourism—estimated between 800 billion to 1 trillion baht (21.8 – 27.3 billion USD)—justified the Cabinet’s approval of the measures.

Summary of Measures

– Short-Term (2024): Immediate visa exemptions, expanded VOA, introduction of DTV, and benefits for foreign students.

– Medium-Term (September to December 2024): Restructuring visa categories, adjusting long stay visas for the elderly, reducing health insurance requirements, and expanding e-Visa services.

– Long-Term (June 2025): Developing ETA systems and enhancing immigration screening through technology.

The Thai government’s strategic focus on tourism as a key economic engine reflects a calculated approach to counteract the economic slowdown. By streamlining visa processes and introducing new visa categories, Thailand aims to attract a diverse range of visitors and long-term residents, thereby boosting the economy. The anticipated high returns from these tourism policies underscore the government’s commitment to revitalizing the nation’s economic landscape through targeted, phased measures.

Russia and India to Begin Talks on Visa-Free Group Tourism in June, Agreement Expected by Year-End

The initial discussions between Russia and India regarding the establishment of a visa-free group tourist exchange are set to commence in June, with the expectation of finalizing a bilateral agreement by the end of the year. This information was disclosed by Nikita Kondratyev, the Director of the Russian Economic Development Ministry’s Department of Multilateral Economic Cooperation and Special Projects, to the Russian state-owned news agency Sputnik.

“The process with group visa-free trips has moved a little. The Indian side returned with the answer that they are at the final stage of internal state coordination and asked us again for the latest draft of the document and promised to return in the very near future. I think we will hold the first consultations with them in June to discuss a draft agreement,” Kondratyev stated at the International Economic Forum ‘Russia–Islamic World: Kazan Forum 2024’ held in Kazan.

He further added, “We plan to sign by the end of the year.”

Previously, the ministry had indicated that it anticipates initiating visa-free tourist exchanges with India in 2024, following the precedents set by similar agreements with China and Iran.

On August 1, 2023, Russia and China commenced a visa-free group tourist exchange under an intergovernmental agreement. Simultaneously, a visa-free group tourist exchange between Russia and Iran also began on the same date.

Discover the Top 10 Retirement Destinations for 2024: From European Charms to Tropical Paradises

Finding an ideal retirement destination that combines affordability with excitement is a common aspiration for many individuals, particularly as they approach their golden years. While the United States offers numerous attractive retirement spots, relocating abroad often presents opportunities for cheaper housing, superior healthcare, and advantageous tax incentives, along with convenient access to some of the world’s most desirable cities and beaches.

The decision to retire in another country prompts the need to carefully consider the best place to settle down. To aid in this decision-making process, it’s beneficial to consult the 2024 Retirement Index provided by International Living—an annual compilation of destinations where retired couples can lead comfortable lives with as little as $2,300 per month.

This comprehensive index, now in its 33rd year, draws insights from a multitude of on-the-ground editors and correspondents worldwide. These insights, combined with personal experiences from the editors, inform rankings across seven key categories: Housing, Visas and Residence, Cost of Living, Development and Governance, Climate, Healthcare, and an Affinity Rating—a measure of overall contentment derived from factors such as expat community size and culinary diversity. The primary aim of the index is to identify locations where retirees can stretch their dollars further, enjoy a satisfying lifestyle, and immerse themselves in a new culture while retaining some sense of familiarity.

The top 10 countries for retirement in 2024 represent a diverse mix of cultural hubs in Europe and idyllic outdoor settings in Central and South America—destinations that hold appeal beyond retirement age. Let’s delve into the specifics of each country:

Colombia (Rank: 10)

Colombia boasts remarkable biodiversity, encompassing everything from beaches to the Amazon and the Andes, making it suitable for a wide range of preferences. Cities like Medellín, with its moderate climate and thriving expat community, offer appealing retirement options. Meanwhile, smaller towns like San Antonio de Pereira provide a slower pace of life. The cost of living in Colombia varies, with upscale neighborhoods in major cities commanding higher rents, while suburban areas offer more affordable options. The healthcare system, primarily managed by the Entidades Promotoras de Salud (EPS), is accessible and supplemented by private plans. Visa requirements include demonstrating income exceeding three times Colombia’s minimum wage.

France (Rank: 9)

France entices retirees with its rich culture and diverse landscapes, from glamorous coastal towns to picturesque countryside locales. Montpellier, a rapidly growing city, offers modern amenities and proximity to the Mediterranean Sea. Affordable living options are available outside major tourist hubs like Paris. France’s renowned healthcare system provides quality care at fixed government-regulated costs. Visa options include long-term visas requiring specified pension amounts or real estate investments.

Malaysia (Rank: 8)

Malaysia’s geographical diversity, spanning Peninsular Malaysia, Malaysian Borneo, and numerous islands, appeals to retirees seeking natural beauty and urban conveniences. Affordable living, vibrant street food culture, and easy access to neighboring Asian countries contribute to its allure. Housing options range from beachfront apartments to inland properties, with overall living expenses accommodating various budgets. Healthcare options include private insurance or out-of-pocket payments. Visa programs, such as MM2H, offer long-term residency to retirees meeting specified financial criteria.

Greece (Rank: 7)

Greece’s timeless appeal, characterized by its Mediterranean charm and rich history, makes it an enticing retirement destination. Expatriate communities and affordable housing options contribute to its popularity. Greece offers a favorable cost of living, particularly in regional areas, alongside a robust healthcare system. Visa options include residency programs based on real estate investments.

Ecuador (Rank: 6)

Ecuador combines favorable climate, cultural richness, and affordability, providing retirees with diverse experiences ranging from beachside relaxation to Andean adventures. Affordable housing options, coupled with accessible healthcare and visa programs like the 60-III Pensioner’s program, make it an attractive choice for retirees.

Spain (Rank: 5)

Spain offers retirees a high quality of life, boasting a pleasant climate, rich cultural heritage, and modern amenities. Coastal regions provide ample sunshine, while cities like Barcelona and Madrid offer cultural delights. Affordable living options are available, with healthcare accessible through public systems or private insurance. Visa options include residence permits or Golden Visas based on real estate investments.

Panama (Rank: 4)

Panama’s strategic location, coupled with its scenic beauty and expatriate-friendly communities, makes it a compelling choice for retirees. The Panama Pensionado visa offers discounts and benefits to retirees, with affordable living options available throughout the country. Healthcare services are well-developed, with residency requirements accommodating pension income thresholds.

Mexico (Rank: 3)

Mexico appeals to American retirees with its proximity, familiar amenities, and diverse landscapes. Affordable living, vibrant culture, and accessible healthcare make it an attractive retirement destination. Visa requirements include demonstrating pension income and applying through Mexican consulates.

Portugal (Rank: 2)

Portugal offers retirees a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and affordability. Coastal towns and inland regions provide diverse living options, with healthcare accessible through public systems or private insurance. Visa options include Golden Visas based on real estate investments or residence permits.

Costa Rica (Rank: 1)

Costa Rica’s natural splendor, coupled with its expat-friendly environment and relaxed lifestyle, earns it the top spot. Affordable living, abundant outdoor activities, and accessible healthcare contribute to its appeal. Visa requirements include demonstrating pension income and applying through Costa Rican immigration offices.

The 2024 Retirement Index showcases a range of attractive retirement destinations worldwide, catering to diverse preferences and budgets. From European cultural hubs to South American paradises, these countries offer retirees the opportunity to enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle amidst new experiences and adventures.

Consulate In New York Hosts Launch Of Chalo India Global Diaspora Program

The Indian Consulate in New York hosted a special event on March 7, 2024, that showcased the ‘Chalo India Global Diaspora Campaign’ launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Consulate In New York Hosts Launch Of Chalo India Global Diaspora ProgramIndia’s Consul General in New York Binaya S. Pradhan, speaking at March 7, 2024 event at Consulate. PHOTO: X @IndiainNewYork

The stately hall at the Indian Consulate was full, and during the event, a video showing the inauguration of the campaign by Prime Minister Modi in Jammu & Kashmir was presented to the audience.

Tourism in India is lagging despite good landscapes, history, culture, art, crafts, and music. We are still unable to attract more international tourists. In 2019, India attracted around 10.7 million tourists, which came down drastically due to Covid. Now, we have achieved around 70% of the pre-Covid level but India is receivingConsulate In New York Hosts Launch Of Chalo India Global Diaspora Program 3 only 2% in terms of tourist spending, which is around $20 billion.

India urges members of the Indian diaspora to act as Incredible India campaign ambassadors so that each Indian member living abroad can bring five non-Indians to India thereby giving a boost to Indian tourism. “The contributions of those Indian diaspora members who send more people to India will be recognized during the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in India and some awards will also be given to them in collaboration with the private sector.

Consul General of India in New York Binaya Srikant Pradhan, speaking at the event,  encouraged members of the Indian diaspora “to act as Incredible India’s ambassadors” and inspire their American friends, Indian and non-Indian, and their families to visit and explore India’s diversity and beauty, a post on X, formerly Twitter, India in New York said.

Surajkund Mela: A Colorful Celebration of Culture, Crafts, and Culinary Delights

Surajkund, translating to the “Lake of the Sun,” bears significant historical importance, deriving its name from the ancient reservoir constructed by King Suraj Pal of the Tomar dynasty in the 10th century.

Originating in 1987, the Surajkund Mela occurs annually in February, aiming to bolster tourism in Haryana by showcasing its rich handicrafts, handlooms, and cultural heritage.

The Surajkund Mela is a collaborative effort between the Surajkund Mela Authority, Haryana Tourism, and various Union Ministries including Tourism, Textiles, Culture, and External Affairs.

Since its inception, all states of India have actively participated in the fair, with one state typically designated as the Theme State.

Elevated to an international level in 2013 and renamed the “28th Surajkund International Crafts Mela,” the event attracted participation from over 15 countries, including those from Europe, Africa, and SAARC nations in 2014.

In 2015, a record-breaking 20 countries took part, with Lebanon as the Partner Nation and Chhattisgarh as the Theme State.

In the latest iteration in 2024, nearly 40 countries, including Tanzania, participated, providing attendees with glimpses into African culture alongside the cultural partnerships of all eight northeastern states.

Kicking off on February 1st, the Surajkund International Crafts Mela transforms Faridabad, Haryana, into a vibrant hub of colors, drum beats, and jubilation, celebrating Indian folk traditions and cultural heritage.

Drawing over a million visitors, including hundreds of thousands of foreigners, the Mela serves as a testament to global diversity, showcasing a plethora of arts, handicrafts, cuisines, and cultural tapestries.

As the world’s largest crafts fair, the Surajkund Mela celebrates India’s rich cultural fabric, offering designated areas for amusement, adventure sports, and joy rides, catering to visitors of all ages.

The event showcases some of India’s most exquisite handlooms and handicrafts, featuring handmade fabrics adorned in ethnic hues that captivate visitors’ attention.

Amidst cultural performances and exhibitions, the Mela serves as a custodian of heritage crafts, preserving traditional skills endangered by mass-produced imitations.

Visitors can engage in immersive experiences like getting their photos taken after donning the traditional ‘Haryanvi Pagdi’ at the Virasat Cultural Exhibition stall.

The exhibition also features displays of iron, brass, and wooden bells used for various animals, alongside wooden printing blocks and measurement scales from pre-Independence rural India.

The Surajkund Mela fosters cultural exchange and understanding through art and crafts, building bridges across borders.

Culinary delights from around the world await visitors at the multi-cuisine Food Court, offering an array of ethnic cuisines beloved by attendees.

India Showcases Wedding Destination Diversity: Consulate General in New York Hosts Webinar

The Indian Consulate General in New York recently organized a webinar titled ‘Wedding Destinations in India’ on February 17. The purpose of the session was to introduce various locations across India that offer a rich blend of music, local customs, culture, and a diverse range of settings including desert, forest, mountain, beach, palace, and spiritual locales, along with options for meditational retreats.

The event was graced by the presence of Consul General of India in New York, Binaya Srikanta Pradhan, Deputy Consul General of India, New York, Dr. Varun Jeph, and Parthip Thyagarajan, the CEO of WeddingSutra, a company specializing in providing comprehensive wedding information and inspiration to couples.

Dr. Jeph referred to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiative, “Wed in India,” which encourages affluent families, both within the country and abroad, to choose India as the venue for their family weddings.

CGI Pradhan emphasized India’s status as an ideal wedding tourism destination, stating, “When it comes to wedding tourism, I would say, India probably is the ideal destination.” He highlighted India’s diverse offerings suitable for weddings of all religions and budgets, ranging from the Himalayas and Kerala’s backwaters to Rajasthan’s forts and Orissa’s lakes, as well as the emerging tourism sector in the North East.

Thyagarajan outlined several popular wedding destinations and properties across India. He particularly emphasized the appeal of spiritual sites among Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), such as the Golden Temple in Amritsar and the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Shore Temple in Mahabalipuram. Thyagarajan also discussed the popularity of temple towns like Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh and Guruvayur in Kerala for weddings on auspicious days, noting that while they offer budget-friendly options, they come with challenges like limited room availability and dining choices.

Additionally, Thyagarajan highlighted Bengaluru’s growing popularity as an ideal wedding destination due to its favorable weather year-round and the availability of quality properties within a short distance from the airport, making it convenient for guests who prefer shorter travel times.

According to a report by WedMeGood, the wedding tourism industry surpassed the $75 billion mark during the 2023-2024 period. In 2023, the Ministry of Tourism launched a wedding tourism campaign aimed at promoting India as a preferred wedding destination and boosting tourism in the country.

The Historical Daulatabad Fort In Maharashtra

Daultabad Fort is also known as Deogiri Fort. “Hill of the Gods,” originally known as Devagiri, is situated atop a conical hill in the state of Maharashtra in the Daulatabad village near Aurangabad. This medieval Indian architecture is known for the steep slopes of history woven into its mighty walls.

History and architecture

The fort reached its glory during the Tughlaq dynasty, when Sultan Muhammad bin Tughlaq shifted his capital reign from Delhi to Devagiri.The Historical Daulatabad Fort In Maharashtra

Daulatabad is marked with a series of gates. The Maha Darwaza, or Grand Entrance, is a creation of military construction with a convoluted, maze-like layout to avert invaders. The clever use of defensive features like hidden traps and spiked gates demonstrates the fort’s designers’ strategic intelligence.

Tales

The fort was the seat of the Yadava dynasty for over a century, until Ala-ud-din Khilji, the Sultan of Delhi, conquered it. Ramachandradeva, the Yadava king, was permitted to rule as a vassal from this Fort. However, the consequences of Ramachandradeva’s action orders given by the Delhi sultanate at the time led to the assault by Ala-ud-din Khilji’s army. 

Harpaladeva, battling for the sultanate, gained control after the Yadavas lost all of their authority. Daulatabad was renamed Deogiri by Muhammad bin Tuqhlaq. He forcibly moved all of Delhi’s residents from Delhi to Daulatabad because he believed Daulatabad was in a superior location to Delhi. However, due to a severe water shortage, the residents had to travel back to Delhi once more. This incident is well-known in Indian history as a quintessential act of stupidity.

Things to do:

  • Chini Mahal and Royal Residences

Within the Fort’s remains is Chini Mahal, a building with appealing Persian tiles that used to be the royal family’s pleasure palace. An exciting look into the lifestyles of the monarchs who once called Daulatabad home could be observed by seeing the ruins of the royal apartments inside the fort.

  • Explore the entrance.
  • Sarawati Bawdi

Step-well, a set of stone steps descends to the water’s surface built inside a well.

  • Chand Minar

Persian blue tiles adorn the four-storey exterior of the Chand Minar. The Minar is closed to outside visitors.

  • Sunset Panorama

When the sun sets, it offers a breathtaking spectacle. The views from the Fort’s panoramic position create a captivating scene as the sun sets. It is observed that the fort’s shape contrasts with the evening sky’s golden tones, creating a scenic moment in the viewer’s life.

Lotus Temple In Delhi Proclaims Universality of Humanity

The incredible architectural marvel of Lotus Temple located in New Delhi, is a Baha’I House of Worship. In the early 21st century it was one of only nine mashriqs in the world.The Lotus Temple derives its name from its design. Like every other Bahāʾī mashriq, it is characterized by a nine-sided construction, in keeping with the Bahāʾī belief in the mystical properties of the number nine. Set on an elevated plinth in a 26-acre (10.5-hectare) expanse of landscaped gardens and surrounded by nine pools bordered by red sandstone walkways, the white marble edifice rises to a height of more than 130 feet (40 metres). 

The Lotus Temple complex comprises 27 independent marble “petals,” which are clustered into groups of three to form nine sides (through which open nine entrances into a central space) and into groups of nine to form three concentric rings. Petals in the first ring face outward, forming canopies over the nine entrances. The second ring covers the outer hall. In the innermost ring, the petals curve inward to partially enclose the central prayer hall, which accommodates about 2,500 people. The top of the structure appears open but actually contains a glass-and-steel roof that admits natural daylight. The overall effect is that of a floating lotus flower on the verge of blooming and surrounded by its leaves.

Lotus Temple In Delhi Proclaims Universality of Humanity

The teachings of the Baha’i faith hold that there is only one God, one religion, and one human race. The prominent lotus-like structure transcends all religious boundaries and welcomes humanity without any significant qualifications. The lotus temple is manifestation of Baha’iFaith’s principles, emphasizing unity, peace, and spiritual harmony. 

History and Architecture

The Lotus Temple was designed by the Iranian architect Fariborz Sahba. The architecture is a merged design inspired from both Eastern and Western styles. The structure consisted of 27 free-standing marble-clad petals. The petals were arranged in clusters of three to form nine sides. The aesthetic appeal of the temple serves as a metaphor to the interconnectedness of all religions. The foundation for the temple was laid by Ruhiyyih Khanum and dedicated the temple on 24t December 1986. The Lotus Temple was built with marble that came in over 10,000 distinct sizes.

Things to do

  • Tourist Attraction

The Lotus Temple is now a popular tourist destination in Delhi, drawing millions of people every year. Part of what makes it so popular is its unique architecture and calm atmosphere.

  • Spiritual Retreat

The Lotus Temple provides a striking contrast to the chaotic urban environment outside its gates with its surrounding verdant gardens and reflecting pools. The serene atmosphere encourages introspection and contemplation, making it a haven for anyone looking for comfort in the middle of a busy metropolis. With its serene surroundings, the Lotus Temple turns into a haven for people looking for spiritual renewal and inner serenity.

  • Architectural Excellence

The Lotus Temple is renowned for its brilliant architecture and has received many honours and awards. The creative combination of artistic imagination and technical perfection is demonstrated by the inventive design and material selection.

Maldives Struggles with Financial Crisis Amidst Escalating Tensions with India

Maldives is facing unexpected turmoil due to recent actions that strained its relations with India, resulting in the declaration of bankruptcy by the island nation. The dispute, worsened by President Mohammed Muizzu’s ‘India Out’ campaign, has led to a critical financial situation prompting Maldives to seek a bailout loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), exacerbating its economic woes.

President Muizzu’s ‘India Out’ campaign, aiming to remove Indian soldiers from Maldives and replace them with qualified technical staff from India by May 10, marked a significant escalation in tensions between the two countries. The situation worsened when three Maldivian ministers made controversial remarks about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to Lakshadweep.

Despite the subsequent expulsion of the three ministers, President Muizzu refrained from condemning their remarks, further straining India-Maldives relations. This deliberate provocation led to reports of Maldives declaring bankruptcy, prompting the government to turn to the IMF for financial assistance.

Under President Muizzu’s leadership, the once-positive relations between India and Maldives have dramatically shifted. His anti-India stance, evident in efforts to expel the Indian army and controversial ministerial comments, has severely strained diplomatic ties.

The fallout from these actions has caused widespread dissent among Indians, resulting in many canceling trips to Maldives, significantly impacting the nation’s tourism industry. India, previously a major source of tourists for Maldives, has seen a sharp decline in visitor numbers, slipping from the top spot to fifth place last year.

The combination of financial implications and strained diplomatic relations presents multifaceted challenges for Maldives, affecting both its economic stability and diplomatic standing.

Georgia’s Commissioner CB Yadav Announces Plans for Ramayana Museum and Lord Ram Temple; Extends Invitation to UP CM Yogi Adityanath

CB Yadav, the Commissioner of Georgia state in the United States, has announced plans to construct a Ramayana Museum and a temple dedicated to Lord Ram in Georgia. Currently on a tour in India, CB Yadav extended an invitation to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath of Uttar Pradesh for the groundbreaking ceremony of these projects in Georgia next year, which CM Yogi graciously accepted. During his visit to Lucknow, CB Yadav also met with Samajwadi Party national president and former Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav along with his wife Dimple Yadav at their residence, where CM Yogi was welcomed with mementos.

Chandrabhushan Yadav, also known as CB Yadav, hails from Badlapur in Jaunpur district, Uttar Pradesh, and currently serves as the first commissioner of Georgia state in the US. He arrived in India on January 28, visiting various places including the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi before heading to his ancestral village of Nevada Mukhlispur in Badlapur area to meet with family members, followed by his visit to Lucknow.

CB Yadav expressed his intention to build the Ramayana Museum and the grand temple of Lord Ram in Georgia following the construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya. He mentioned that construction work on these projects will commence soon and extended an official invitation to CM Yogi Adityanath for the Bhoomi Pujan scheduled for 2025.

Furthermore, CB Yadav emphasized the need to revitalize old temples and religious sites in India, mentioning plans to develop a guest house and basic amenities at the renowned Mata Shitala Chowkia Dham in Jaunpur.

Regarding his journey from Jaunpur to America, CB Yadav completed his education in Badlapur and Allahabad before obtaining a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from an engineering college in Maharashtra. He then migrated to Georgia in 2003, where he established a business with his wife and two sons. Over the years, CB Yadav has achieved success in business, notably with the support of Georgia Governor Brian Kemp, who helped him secure the position of the first commissioner of Georgia state. Recognized as a significant supporter of India in America, Governor Brian Kemp established the Georgian First Commission, on which CB Yadav serves, to facilitate small business growth by streamlining government regulations.

CB Yadav is not only active in politics but also manages several hotels and motels in Kingsland, Camden County, South Georgia. His journey from starting a small business in Camden city to owning multiple grocery stores and a motor business reflects his determination and entrepreneurial spirit.

Enhancements Planned for Batu Caves Accessibility: Escalator and Multipurpose Hall in the Works

The stewards of a historic Hindu religious enclave in Malaysia are gearing up to introduce an escalator as an alternative for visitors who may find it challenging to ascend the 272 steps leading to the temple and cave shrines at the Batu Caves. Nestled a short distance north of the capital city, Kuala Lumpur, this site, believed to be around 400 million years old, stands out with its iconic rainbow-colored staircase, a favorite backdrop for Instagram enthusiasts.

The Batu Caves are not only a prominent tourist hotspot but also serve as a sacred space for Hindu devotees, hosting the annual Thaipusam festival. Currently, reaching the temple nestled within a limestone cave at the summit requires climbing the aforementioned 272 steps. Recognizing the potential challenges this poses, the site’s management committee has expressed their intention to enhance accessibility by installing an escalator.

A spokesperson for the committee highlighted the motivation behind this initiative, stating, “Adding an escalator would make the site more accessible. We hope the government will assist us since this (escalator) will allow the disabled and elderly who are unable to climb the steps to reach the main temple.” These sentiments were echoed by temple committee chairman R. Nadarajah during a recent press conference. He further disclosed plans for the construction of the escalator and a new multipurpose hall, scheduled to commence post the upcoming Thaipusam festival on January 25.

Addressing concerns over the cost of these improvements, Nadarajah shared that the estimated expense for the multipurpose hall stands at approximately 35 million Malaysian Ringgit ($7.5 million), although he did not provide specific details regarding the cost of the escalator.

The Batu Caves, renowned for their captivating rainbow stairs, have become a must-visit destination for tourists in Malaysia. These stairs were meticulously painted as part of an initiative by the temple’s organizing committee to attract a larger audience to the site. This strategic move has indeed proven successful, with the colorful stairs gaining popularity, particularly among Instagram users.

While the rejuvenation of the Batu Caves has undoubtedly increased its allure, it has not been without controversy. The Malaysian heritage board has raised objections, contending that the stairs were painted before receiving official approval for the makeover. This adds a layer of complexity to the ongoing efforts to enhance the site’s accessibility, as the managing committee navigates both the demands of modern tourism and the preservation of historical and cultural integrity.

The custodians of the Batu Caves are embarking on a transformative journey to make this ancient religious site more inclusive. The planned escalator, alongside the multipurpose hall, aims to address the accessibility challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and the elderly. As the project unfolds after the Thaipusam festival, it will be interesting to observe how these enhancements contribute to the continued popularity of the Batu Caves while respecting the historical and cultural significance embedded in this iconic Malaysian landmark.

Lotus Temple  

The incredible architectural marvel of Lotus Temple located in New Delhi, is a Baha’I House of Worship. The teachings of the Baha’i faith hold that there is only one God, one religion, and one human race. The prominent lotus-like structure transcends all religious boundaries and welcomes humanity without any significant qualifications. The lotus temple is manifestation of Baha’iFaith’s principles, emphasizing unity, peace, and spiritual harmony.

History and Architecture

The lotus temple was designed by the Iranian architect Fariborz Sahba. The architecture is a merged design inspired from both Eastern and Western styles. The structure consisted of 27 free-standing marble-clad petals. The petals were arranged in clusters of three to form nine sides. The aesthetic appeal of the temple serves as a metaphor to the interconnectedness of all religions. The foundation for the temple was laid by Ruhiyyih Khanum and dedicated the temple on 24t December 1986. The Lotus Temple was built with marble that came in over 10,000 distinct sizes.

Things to do

  • Tourist Attraction

The Lotus Temple is now a popular tourist destination in Delhi, drawing millions of people each year. Part of what makes it so popular is its unique architecture and calm atmosphere.

  • Spiritual Retreat

The Lotus Temple provides a striking contrast to the chaotic urban environment outside its gates with its surrounding verdant gardens and reflecting pools. The serene atmosphere encourages introspection and contemplation, making it a haven for anyone looking for comfort in the middle of a busy metropolis. With its serene surroundings, the Lotus Temple turns into a haven for people looking for spiritual renewal and inner serenity.

  • Architectural Excellence

The Lotus Temple is renowned for its brilliant architecture and has received many honours and awards. The creative combination of artistic imagination and technical perfection is demonstrated by the inventive design and material selection.

Maldives Faces Tourism Boycott Amidst Controversial Remarks on Indian PM Modi

Maldives is grappling with a potential tourism crisis as one of its primary sources of income, Indian tourists, contemplates a boycott following derogatory comments made by three Maldives officials about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The controversy unfolded after Modi shared images on social media showcasing his time snorkeling and walking along the beaches of Lakshadweep, a southern Indian island chain. Although Modi did not explicitly mention the Maldives in his post, the effusive praise for Lakshadweep’s scenic beauty raised eyebrows, potentially diverting attention away from the popular Maldivian destination.

In response to Modi’s post, three Maldives officials, identified as deputy ministers with the Ministry of Youth Employment, Information, and Arts, described him as a “clown,” “terrorist,” and a “puppet of Israel,” according to Reuters. The Maldives government swiftly distanced itself from these comments, suspending the officials and emphasizing that their opinions were personal and did not reflect the government’s stance on the matter.

The incident comes at a delicate time, coinciding with Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu’s five-day visit to China, his first as president since winning the election in October. President Muizzu, known for his pro-China stance, aims to strengthen ties with Beijing and sign key agreements for trade, professional, and socioeconomic development during his visit. However, maintaining positive relations with India, Maldives’ closest neighbor and a crucial contributor to its tourism sector, remains essential.

Maldives heavily depends on tourism, with India being the largest source of tourists in recent years. In 2023, Indian tourists accounted for 11% of the country’s tourism market, making more than 209,000 trips to the Maldives. The officials’ disparaging remarks have triggered a backlash from Indian tourists, who have taken to social media to announce cancellations under the hashtag #BoycottMaldives. Prominent figures, including Bollywood actors and cricket players, have also encouraged travelers to explore local destinations, with the hashtag #ChaloLakshadweep gaining traction.

Bollywood star Akshay Kumar, known for his patriotic roles, condemned the Maldivian officials’ remarks as “hateful and racist” and urged people to support domestic tourism. He said, “We are good to our neighbors, but why should we tolerate such unprovoked hate? Let us decide to #ExploreIndianIslands and support our own tourism.”

In a significant move, Indian travel site EaseMyTrip announced the suspension of flight bookings to the Maldives, expressing solidarity with the nation. Nishant Pitti, CEO and co-founder of EaseMyTrip, stated, “In solidarity with our nation, @EaseMyTrip has suspended all Maldives flight bookings.” The Confederation of All India Traders, a prominent trade body, also called on its members to suspend business with the Maldives until an apology is issued or remedial measures are taken.

Maldives Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer denounced the officials’ remarks as “unacceptable” and emphasized the archipelago’s commitment to fostering positive and constructive dialogues with its partners. The Indian High Commission in the Maldives has reportedly raised concerns with the Maldivian Foreign Office over the issue.

Michael Kugelman, director of the South Asia Institute at the Wilson Center in Washington, noted that the swift action taken by the Maldives government to suspend the officials and disavow their comments underscores the importance it places on maintaining strong relations with India. Kugelman suggested that while challenges may arise, the new leadership in the Maldives aims to balance its relationships with both India and China, emphasizing the significance of preserving ties with its immediate neighbor.

Vettuvan Koil – Temple of the Slayer

Vettuvan Koil is a temple dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. The Dravidian-style temple is located in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu, precisely in the district of Thoothukudi, Kalugumalai. The monolithic temple is known for its rock-cut Pandyan architecture. The temple is claimed to have been an unfinished work in the early 8th century by the Pandya rulers.

The temple is currently maintained and administered by the Department of Archaeology of the government of Tamil Nadu.

History

It is believed that the temple was built in the 8th century, which was the early Pandyan era, under the leadership of Parandhagan Netunjadaiyan. It was built along the Kalugumalai Jain Beds. It’s a monument dedicated to Lord Shiva, and from the rectangular rock in Vettuvan Koil, a Dravida vimana is emerging. Not much history about Koil is available about the temple other than the myths and tales associated with it.

Vettuvan KoilGeography

The temple is perched atop a stone hillock towards the eastern side. It opens up a view to the east. The entry path lines the western hillside, the Kalugumalai Jain Beds (Highway 187). The upper section of the Vettuvan Koil was carved from a single granite rock. The carvings depicted various engravings of “Parsavadevatas,” or the attendant deities of Shiva. These included Goddess Uma, known for fertility, love, beauty, marriage, and children; Goddess Nandi, also known as the gate-guardian deity of Kailsa, the house of Lord Shiva; and artwork of various animals such as monkeys and lions. This architectural beauty creates the illusion of a lotus blossom in bloom.

Tales on Vettuvan Koil

The legend says that the temple was built over a rivalry between a father and son over superior architecture. It is believed that the son built the Murugan shrine, while the father built the Vettuvan Koil. When the son made fun of the koil, the father, out of anger, killed his son. The abandoned temple remains unfinished, followed by the grief of the father.

A different version of the story recites that the father attempted to impart trade knowledge to his son. The son, disregarding his father’s instructions, began carving the inner chambers of the koil. Enraged by his son’s disobedience and hearing the sound, the father killed him.

And with the legends came the names “Temple of the Slayer and “Heaven of Sculptors” for Vettuvan Koil.

Things to do at Vettuvan Koil

On reaching the temple, the viewers are treated to magnificent sculptures of Uma Maheswarar, Dakshinamoorthy, Vishnu, Brahma, and other lords that can be found atop the temple.

Other places nearby to visit during your time at Tirunelveli are:

  • Kanthimathi, or Nelaiyapper Temple, is known for its big size and intricate workmanship on stone. It gives a peaceful place for dharshan and prayers.
  • New Jerusalem Church
  • Ram’s Funn City is a soft play area mainly focused on kids.

Lord Thirukuttralanthar, a historic temple shaped like a conch with hal of paintings or Chitra Sabai of the 5 Sabais

Speeding Up America’s High-Speed Bullet Train

The 16-mile Kochi Metro from Aluva to Tripunithura, which has been hyped for twelve years and is yet to be completed, could be a “miracle” for Indians and especially to Keralites!

Alas, here is the first news of starting a new high-speed railway line from Las Vegas, Nevada, to Los Angeles, California, a distance of 218 miles running in 85 minutes! America doesn’t run big trains for passengers like in India for many reasons.

Getting from Los Angeles to Las Vegas, Nevada is always a hectic problem. After last week’s Thanksgiving festivities, on Monday, vehicles returning from Las Vegas were backed up for 15 miles. On most weekends, people from Los Angeles rush down the sprawling highway I-15 to Las Vegas, the entertainment city of the world, and return on Monday morning.

Going by flight is faster but more expensive. Driving costs less but is slower. However, in a few years here comes the best option.This traffic block in an American highway can be solved by running a bullet train that connects the two regions in just one and a half hours. Private rail company Brightline says it has led to a smart decision.

A train that draws visitors from across California to Nevada in half the time it takes by car. Rail operator Brightline West announced late last month that it had struck a deal with the High-Speed ​​Rail Labor Coalition to begin work on the nation’s first high-speed rail project. The all-electric train will connect a station in Apple Valley, east of downtown LA, to Las Vegas via Interstate 15. A train traveling at 200 mph takes about 85 minutes to travel 218 miles.

“Americans want high-speed rail and Brightline West, and the High-Speed ​​Rail Labor Coalition will make it happen,” said a statement from the coalition, which includes 13 rail labor unions representing 160,000 freight, regional, commuter, and passenger railroad workers in the US.

Brightline West, the developer of the high-speed rail connecting Las Vegas to Southern California, is unveiling a groundbreaking idea. Not only will the unionists and ministers not come out to disrupt the project like in our country, but they will be ready to complete the work within the time limit.

Construction is pending because Brightline is still awaiting the results of a grant application for $3.70 billion in federal funding. Developers say they hope to complete the project in time for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. The station in Rancho Cucamonga will connect to the Metrolink San Bernardino line that already runs to Los Angeles.

Newly built in four years, this railroad connecting the two bustling cities of Hollywood and the Sin City will be a milestone in American history.

“President Joe Biden on Friday hailed the promise of a long-awaited high-speed rail system between Las Vegas and Los Angeles and said $3 billion in federal funds awarded this week will ensure it gets built”.

Biden said. “Together we’re finally going to make high-speed rail happen between Las Vegas and Los Angeles. Folks, we’ve been talking about this project for decades, now, we’re really getting it done.”

GOLCONDA FORT

Golconda is a fortified citadel and ruined city located in the western outskirts of HyderabadTelangana, India. The fort was originally built by Kakatiya ruler Pratāparudra in the 11th century out of mud walls. It was ceded to the Bahmani Kings by Deo Rai, Rajah of Warangal during the reign of Sultan Muhammad Shah (1358–1375 A.D.) of the Bahmani Sultanate. The name Golconda is thought to originate from Telugu for “Cowherd’s Hill.”

The abandoned Golconda Fort, currently in ruins was added to UNESCO’s “tentative list” in 2014 along with other sites in the area. Golconda Fort is listed as an archaeological treasure on the official “List of Monuments” prepared by the Archaeological Survey of India under The Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act.[14] Golconda consists of four distinct forts with a 10 km (6.2 mi) long outer wall with 87 semicircular bastions (some still mounted with cannons), eight gateways, and four drawbridges, with a number of royal apartments and halls, temples, mosques, magazines, stables,

Old ruins surrounded by grass and small trees
Golconda Fort in Hyderabad, India.

Golconda used to be known as the ‘Diamond Capital of India,’ given the abundance of diamond mines. Out of the 38 diamond mines in the country, it is estimated that 23 are around Golconda Fort. It was believed that there was a hidden underground tunnel to the diamond mines. The mighty Koh-I-Noor diamond was stored in Golconda. Some of the most sought-after and well-known gems in the world, including Idol’s Eye, the Hope Diamond, Darya-i-noor, and the well-known Koo-i-noor, are known to have come from these mines.

History of Golconda Fort

The Golconda fort was known as ‘Mankal’. According to the data, the Golconda fort was initially a mud fort built by Pratāparudra of the Kakatiya Empire in the 11th century over the belief that a shephard boy who met an idol over the hilltop Golconda means “Cowherd’s Hill” in Telugu. The fort, built on a stone hilltop, was believed to defend the western region of the kingdom. Golconda was fortified and ruled by the Bahmani Sultans and then the ruling Qutub Shahi dynasty between the 14th and 17th centuries.

During the Bahamani Sultanate, Golconda slowly rose to prominence, and later in the early 17th century, Golconda established a prominent cotton-weaving industry. Cotton was manufactured in large quantities for both home and international use. Made from muslin and calico, a fine plain or patterned textile was created. There were two colours of plain cloth: white and brown, both bleached and dyed. These fabrics were exported to Europe and Persia. The prints used to create patterned textiles were created using natural dyes: indigo for blue, chay-root for red, and vegetable yellow. Exports of patterned textiles were mostly to Indonesia, Malaysia, and other eastern nations.

It was the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb who captured the final Golconda king, Abul Hassan Tana Shah, and forced the fort to collapse after an eight-month siege. The fort finally collapsed in 1687.

Geography at Golconda Fort

Golconda is made up of four separate forts with an outer wall that is 10 km (6.2 mi) long and has 87 semicircular bastions (some of which are still equipped with cannons), eight entrances, four drawbridges, and several royal chambers and apartments, as well as temples, mosques, depots, stables, and other structures inside.

The lowest wall is by “Fateh Darwaza” (known as the Victory Gate after Aurangzeb’s triumphant troop that entered the pathway). The walls are studded with enormous iron spikes to keep elephants from smashing them down.

Tales of Golconda

The story of the Koh-i-Noor travels from the Rajahs of Malwa, which subsequently went through the hands of several Indian kings, including the Mughal emperors, before being acquired by the British. The diamond was supposed to be so strong that owning it brought misfortune to its possessor and that it could topple entire kingdoms. There were rumours that the diamond was cursed and had the following inscription:

“He who owns this diamond will own the world, but he will also know all its misfortunes. Only God, or a woman, can wear it with impunity.”

Rumour has it that the fort is haunted by the king’s paramour. On the stage that was once hers, her ghost has been dancing. Even though there is no historical evidence to back up the stories of these curses, it is significant to remember that many of the owners of these diamonds were also prominent figures.

Things to do at Golconda

The visiting times at Golconda are from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Fateh Darwazaan (acoustic property): The ‘Bala Hisar’ pavilion, which is the highest point over a kilometre distant, is the place where one can clearly hear the reverberating handclap that occurs at a certain location beneath the dome at the entrance of ‘Fateh Darwazaan’’. This served as a warning in the event of an assault.

Water and ventilation systems: The fort’s water supply system has been cleverly constructed. Above-ground tanks hold varying volumes of water that are elevated by Persian wheels. The collected water is then employed by gravity to transport it throughout the citadel’s structure of stone aqueducts and earthen pipes to other mahals, other apartments, roof gardens, and fountains.

City view: The eight entrances lead to a fortress complex exquisitely designed with lush, green gardens set against the striking brown of the citadel walls. Witness the symmetry of the temples, troop barracks, royal apartments, stables, and courts. The twin cities of Secunderabad and Hyderabad, the Kala Mandir arbores of Premamathi Nritya Mandir and Taramathi Gana Mandir, and the thousand-step stairway up to the durbar hall are also visible from above.

Light and sound show: Every evening, a captivating light and sound display that portrays this magnificent fort’s illustrious past is presented to help you understand more about its history.

Nearby attractions include:

Walk through the famous ‘Charminar’

Tour at ‘Chowmahalla Palace’

Birla Mandir

5 Wedding Destinations In India

Undoubtedly, one of the most wonderful days in anyone’s life is getting married; it’s the moment when you and your spouse can celebrate your new beginning as a couple. And what better way to capture this unique moment in time than choose a beautiful location for the wedding?

Udaipur, Rajasthan

Because of the lakes and palaces scattered across the vast metropolis, this lovely location is appreciated by both Indians and visitors from other countries. Few cities can match the charm that Udaipur exudes thanks to its magnificent royal structures. Weddings in Udaipur are said to resemble magnificent fairy tales. Offering a hint of splendour, opulence, and monarchy, the Oberoi-Udai Vilas or the Jag Mandir palace are among the best venues for a marriage celebration. It easily becomes one of the most sought-after locations for Indian weddings.

The Backwaters of Kerala – Go A Little Offbeat

5 Wedding Destinations In India 2This kind and pleasant location Kerala is the destination for people who would rather have a small, intimate ceremony than a large, busy one. The tranquil, picturesque backwaters offer a view that will likely stay in your mind for a very long time. The ideal vacation for an Indian destination wedding. Imagine the backwaters, the gorgeous houseboats, and the beaches blanketed in coconut palm palms. Verdant!

Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Want to exchange vows under the sky blue skies, crystal clear lakes, and golden dunes, distant from the mainland? Consider the Nicobar and Andaman Islands. There are plenty of beachside resorts on Havelock Island where you can get married, even if the majority of the island is off-limits to visitors. It’s true that you may reserve an entire island resort and say your vows with the Indian Ocean as your backdrop. You should get married in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands all the more because of their pleasant climate.

Neemrana Fort – Just A Stone Throw Away From Delhi

This historic fort outside of Delhi is ideal for a photo session because of its striking architecture and the “shock and awe” factor that not many locations can match. Over the years, the Neemrana Fort Palace has gained a lot of popularity as a weekend retreat from Delhi to host a magnificent wedding ceremony and provide the bride and groom some priceless moments (and pictures). This location in India offers all you need for a destination wedding that will be remembered.

Goa – Wedding and Partying Hand In Hand

It’s impossible to consider being married by the sea without considering marrying your special someone in Goa. You can have a wide range of photos for your pre-wedding shoot because there are so many different locations to choose from, including immaculate beaches, spectacular sunsets, old churches, gorgeous resorts, and lush forests. Organizing haldi and mehndi celebrations by the pool, rain dances in the middle of the sea, or an endless night of cocktails on the beach are other ways to take advantage of Goa’s party atmosphere.

The Great Wall Of India

Towards the westerly range of Aravalli Hills in the Rajsamand district of the Western State of India, Rajasthan is located the Great Wall of India, known as Kumbhalgarh (or Kumbhal Fort). Built in the 15th century by Rana Kumbha, it is now a World Heritage Site.

The history of this Mewar fortress

It is thought that in the sixth century, King Samprati, the great-grandson of Mauryan Emperor Ashoka, constructed the first fort. It was not extensively documented until the invasion of Kumbhalgarh by Allauddin Khliji in 1303 AD.

The Kumbhalgarh Fort was built by Rana Kumbha, the Rajput clan of Sisodia. After conquering the entire Godwar plain from the Chauhan Rajputs of Nadols in the late 14th century, Rana Khumba built the new fort on top of the local small fort. The new fort, Kumbhalgarh, was built by the king of Mewar, Rana Khumba, and mainly separated the two clans of Mewar and Marwar. The fort was mainly used as a refuge for the rulers of Mewar.

The Great Wall Of India (FB)
Picture: FB

The famous architect of the time, “Mandan,” was called in by the Rana of Mewar for this special task. Mewar, the kingdom of Rana Kumbha, covered vast swathes of both Rajasthan and the former Madhya Pradesh, extending from Ranthambore in Rajasthan to Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh. Rana Kumbha is credited with building 32 of the province’s 84 forts, the greatest of which is Kumbhalgarh. Direct assaults were still impossible against the fort.

According to the documents, in 1576 Shahbaz Khan, between 1458 and 1467 Mahmud Khalji, in 1457 Ahmed Shah 1 of Gujarat, and in 1303 Allauddin Khalji, all attempted to invade the fort. All the attempts at invasion failed, and the fort also came to be known as the impregnable fort.

The inside of the palace is a perfect depiction of Rajputs in history. It is said that the two-story building features an amazing blue durbar hall. The men-only “Mardan” palace and the women-only “Sanana” palace are divided by a hallway. The “Sanana Palace is home to several stunning murals of crocodiles, camels, and elephants.

Geography of the Kumbhal Fort

The fort is built 3,600 feet above sea level on a hilltop over the Aravallli range. The fort is counted as the world’s second-longest wall, with a length of 36 km and a width of 15 m.The rampart is considered broad enough to walk eight horses side by side.

Tales of Kumbhal Fort

During the initial stage of the fort, Rana Khumba faced many obstacles, for which a sage named ‘Baid Baba’ advised the difficulty would be removed if a pure-hearted man came forward and sacrificed his life. Seeing that no one was willing to save the king, the sage himself came forward and gave his life with one request for a gateway to the fort for religious rituals. According to the sources, King Kumbha built a grand entrance named ‘HanumanPol’, which is believed to be built on the spot where the sage’s head fell after he was beheaded.

During 1457, when Gujarat’s Ahmed Shah 1 launched a vain attempt to capture the fort, there was local belief that the Banmata deity protected the Mewars from invasion. The temple was destroyed because of this.

Another story is that the enemy bought off a young florist. She had left flower petals to indicate the way along the hidden pathway. The girl was bricked alive into the exterior wall after the plot was thwarted. A fitting penalty that would have discouraged other betrayers! The wall appears to be the location of the woman’s execution because there is a little, white-painted outline of the woman there.

Things to see in Kumbhal Fort

Kumbhalgarh Fort

It is said that the Kumbhalgarh fort existed for centuries. The fort is spread over an area of 36 km with extending walls. Approximately, there are about 360 Jain and Hindu temples within the fort. A few of them are Neelkanth Mahadeo Temple, Bada Mahal, Parshuram Temple, Mammadev Temple, Muchchal Mahavir Temple, and Vedi Temple. The gates around the fort are locally called “pol”. Entry to the inner bastions is possible through Arret Pol, Halla Pol, and Hanuman Pol from the southern directions. The purpose of the walls’ varying colours is to display light. The inside walls are whiter and more glossy. You will see Bhairav Pol, Chaugan Pol, Nimboo Pol, and Phagra Pol farther up; each has a distinct significance. Observe that as you ascend, they get smaller, and beyond a certain point, neither horses nor elephants can get through.

There is a light and sound show for 45 minutes every evening at 6.45 p.m.The ticket charge for the show is Rs 75.

Neelkanth Mahadeo Temple

This temple, which honours Lord Shiva, is home to a six-foot-tall stone Shivlinga. Legend has it that Rana Kumbha used to often worship the goddess in this temple. The king used to sit on the temple floor to say prayers since he was so tall.

The pious king was slain by his own son while praying to the Lord in the same temple.

Badal Mahal (Palace of Clouds)

This two-story structure, known as the Mardana Mahal (for men) and the Zanana Mahal (for women), is perched atop Kumbhalgarh Fort. Pastel-coloured murals from the 19th century adorn the chambers.

The queens could witness court proceedings and other events in private because of Zanana Mahal’s stone mesh. The purpose of the rooms’ network of ducts and mesh was to draw in cold air and ventilate the interiors. The traditional method of creating “air conditioning”

The road trip, Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary, and Sand Dunes

The road from Udaipur to Kumbhalgarh takes you across the ‘Kathaar River’ and ‘Bageri Ka Naka’ dams, both renowned for their scenery. And the other one is ‘Hameri Pal,’ a lake known for its calm nature with fewer crowds. It is also known for the ‘Giant African Catfish.’

The Kumbhalgarh sanctuary is home to various wild animals like chinkara, leopard, sloth bear, antelope, jackal, sambhar, nilgai, and hyena. You can also spot various species of birds.

When you reach the summit of Kumbhalgarh Fort, you can see the stunning Aravali Hills for miles in all directions. In fine weather, you can even see the Marwar and the Thar desert dunes.

The giant lamp is used for light

According to legend, Maharana Kumbha would burn enormous lamps with 50 kg of “ghee” and 100 kg of cotton to keep farmers working in their fields at night. The lamps used to shine for miles because of how brilliant they were.

AAPI’s Historic 2019 Expedition to Antarctica

Several years of meticulous planning, discussions, and organization, came to fruition as 190 delegates of American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) Families and Friends from across the United States and India embarked on the Ocean Atlantic Ship operated by Albatros Expeditions on November 30th, 2019 from Ushuaia, the southernmost town on Earth in Argentina on a voyage to Antarctica, the seventh Continent, known as the Last Horizon on Earth.

The voyagers were welcomed on board by AAPI’s young and dynamic President, Dr. Suresh Reddy, who has been working very hard, coordinating the efforts with Vinod Gupta from the Travel Agency, ATG Tours, the crew and leadership of the Cruise and the AAPI leaders and members with varied interests and ages ranging from 10 to 90, who had flown in from around the world for this once in a lifetime memorable and historic voyage to the White Continent.

Earlier, the AAPI delegates had toured the beautiful and serene National Park in Ushuaia, on the world famous Route 3 that runs from Alaska to the southern tip of the world in Argentina. At the Park, Dr. Reddy led the AAPI delegates carrying the AAPI banner, spreading the message of Obesity Awareness, which is a major objective of Dr. Reddy’s Presidency, taking the message of Obesity Awareness Around the World.

On the Ship, immediately after settling down in each one’s cabin, the voyagers were invited to learn about safety on the ship and participated in a safety drill. Shelli Ogilvy, the Veteran Expedition Leader introduced the 22 Expedition Members with extensive maritime experiences from around the world, and over 60 other crew members to the voyagers.

The Ship carrying the sailors began its journey on November 30th, 2019 from the Ushuaia Sea Port with a prayer song to Lord Ganesh, chanted by Dr. Aarti Pandya from Atlanta, GA.

Later in the evening, the voyagers sat down for a sit down dinner at the elegantly laid tables at the Restaurant with delicious Indian Cuisine, prepared by Herbert Baretto, a Chef from Goa, India, specially flown in to meet the diverse needs of the Indians who are now the exclusive Voyagers on Ocean Atlantic.

The evenings are fun filled with members spending time together with their select friends and families, singing, playing cards games, discussing politics to medicine to healthcare and sharing jokes and snippets with one another in smaller groups. The cultural events included live music sung by Dr. Radhika from Chicago, Dr. Aarti Pandya and Dr. Badlani, in addition to several local talents of AA{I’s own, leading and vying to win the Anthakshri contest.

The finale on December 8th was a colorful Indian Dress Segment, where the adorable AAPI women and men walked the aile in elegantly dressed in Indian ethnic wear depicting different states of India. On December 7th evening, the voyagers had Black Tie Nite with many of them learning and playing Pokers until the early hours of the morning.

As the sun was still shining beyond midnight, members of the voyage were seen posing and taking pictures on board the ship with the background of the mighty ocean and the scenic mountains of Argentina at the background.

On December 1st morning, AAPI members were alerted to be mindful of the most turbulent Drake Passage, where the Pacific and the Atlantic Ocean merge, through which our ship was now sailing with winds gusting through over 50 kms an hour from the south west. The rough with fast moving sea currents contributing to a turbulent weather, several voyagers took shelter in anti-nausea meds.

Throughout the day, there were special safety classes periodically throughout the day, helping the voyagers on ways to navigate the zodiacs, the kayaks, the walks on the ice and snow once we reach our final destination. They were also educated on the many aspects of wildlife on Antarctica, the species, especially the varieties of penguins, the mammals and the birds that inhabit the Continent and the ways for the voyagers to deal with them. The participants were educated on the Antarctic Treaty, Climate Change and Impact, Whale Hunting, and many more relevant topics with scientific data by the Expedition Crew.

The evening was special for the voyagers as the Captain of the ship welcomed the delegates to the Ship and to the Expedition to Antarctica. He introduced his crew leaders to the loud applause from the delegates, as he toasted champagne for a safe and enjoyable journey to Antarctica.

On December 2nd morning, we woke up to milder weather and calmer ocean with the winds subsiding to about 20 kms an hour and ship sailing smoother with the temperatures below 7 degree Celsius. The crew on the ship described the sail to be the smoothest and the weather and wind conditions to be one of the calmest they have ever witnessed. However, the entire day was cloudy with the sun hiding behind the thick clouds upon the ocean.

AAPI in Antarctica

After sailing across the Pacific and the Atlantic Oceans and through the turbulent Drake Passage, and the South Ocean, finally, the day arrived for the Voyagers. The one they had been eagerly waiting for. On December 3rd, our ship, the Ocean Atlantic anchored on Danco Island, off the coast of the 7th Continent, Antarctica, officially discovered in 1820, although there is some controversy as to who sighted it first
The excitement of the voyagers had no bounds as they dressed up in their waterproof trousers, navy blue jackets, with hats and glouce and mufflers. They set out in groups marching off the Ship into the Zodiacs in tens in each Zodiac.

The wind and the ocean were calmer. The sun continued to hide behind thick clouds. The Expedition Crew from the ship drove the AAPI delegates to the shore on the island for the first time. The glaciers, mighty mountains covered with pristine and shiny snow, the icebergs on the ocean floating on the Bay, made the Zodiac ride to the shore a memorable experience for each.

As the voyagers walked to the shore on a narrow path on the soft snow surface, leading up the snowcapped mountains, it was a dream come true for all. The fresh water melting from the glaciers and the ice on the one side and on the other little rocks and mountains filled with snow, the Danco Island was picture perfect.

Head off in a Zodiac to view icebergs, or land on a beach studded with penguins. Kayak in the greatest silence on Earth. Take a long hike or a short walk on a shore lined with ghostly remnants of the whaling industry.

Penguins in small colonies of their own seemed unaffected by the voyagers landing onto the Penguin land. Hearing their unique and enchanting voices for the first time, as most of them sat steady, while a few walked from one end to the other, it was a scene everyone long dreamt to be part of, as it was another memorable experience in the life of everyone.

In the afternoon, after lunch and a lecture on the history of Antarctica, the Ocean Atlantic ship, travelling about 25 nautical miles, for the first time ever, landed on the Antarctic Continent as she reached the shores of Paradise Bay, a beautiful island, where the famous Brown Center, the Argentinian Research Station was located.

Trekking up the Hill on the snow and ice filled terrains, even as the serene and picturesque glaciers in vivid shapes and texture, it was mesmerizing and the Bay on either side, was breathtaking.
On December 4th morning, the voyagers got onto the Zodiacs and sailed to Port Lockroy, a sheltered harbor with a secure anchorage on the Antarctic Peninsula since its discovery in 1904. The Port also is home to a Museum and a British Post Office, where the early visitors to the Continent lived and explored the wildlife of the last Horizon. The Museum has preserved the antiques used by the early voyagers, who are an important part in the history of Antarctica.
Bright sun light flashing on the Lamoy Point on our way south towards the northern peninsula of the white Coneinent greeted us all this morning on December 5th. The greetings over the microphone at 6.15 woke us all up letting us know of the .mild weather conditions with 7 degrees celcius and 27 km s wind speed with bright sunny day was a welcome change from yesterday.

Immediately after breakfast we set out in small groups of ten on each Zodiac to cruise on the pristine blue waters of the Lamoy Bay.

Bright sun light flashing on the Lamoy Point on our way south towards the northern peninsula of the white Coneinent greeted us all this morning on December 5th. The greetings over the microphone at 6.15 woke us all up letting us know of the .mild weather conditions with 7 degrees celcius and 27 km s wind speed with bright sunny day was a welcome change from yesterday.

Immediately after breakfast we set out in small groups of ten on each Zodiac to cruise on the pristine blue waters of the Lamoy Bay.

The wind of 25 kms an hour made the waters of the Bay mildly rough as we set out from the ship. For the first time during the voyage, to the much delight of the AAPI delegates, the sun chose to come out from behind the clouds and shone brightly on the voyagers, making the snow shining and glowing with the rays of the sun filling the surface of the earth. It was delightful to see the Penguins close to the AAPI delegates, some of them walking beside them crossing their pathway.
After a lunch Barbeque on Deck Seven of the Ship, the Ocean Atlantic took us through the beautiful Lemaire Channel on the Continent. Braving the cold and gusty winds, the voyagers got together for a group picture of the entire voyager group on Deck Eight of the ship, as they were awed by the beautiful glaciers, the mighty snow-caped mountains, and the floating ice bergs.

It was an amazing experience as the Ship sailed through the Bay filled with Ice Sheet Rocks that are over a meter thick, slowly but steadily marching forward towards the Plenau Bay, where the 38 brave AAPI members had the unique experience of taking “Polar Plunge” in the Sea Water, which was 0.78 degree calcium while the rest of the AA{I delegates watched the brave men and women taking a memorable dip and swim back to the ship in the freezing cold waters of the Antarctic Continent.
This afternoon we were invited to climb up to the Decks 8 and 9 of the ship to view the entrance/passage to the famous Deception Island. Ad the ship sailed through this narrow path into the Island with majestic dark mountains on our right side while on the left snowcapped mountains overlooking the Bay. As the gusty winds made us shiver the voyagers standing on the top deck of the Atlantic Ocean posed for pictures while many others were lost in the stunning beauty created by Mother Nature for all of us to enjoy and cherish for ever.

The tallest mountain Mount Franceswithe height of 2300 meters high behind the backdrop, our zodiacs elegantly cruised fhrough the calmer waters to the mountain range called the Princes and the seven dwarfs.

The stunning views of the glaciers and the mountains and the soft and shiny snow spread across the shore led us all to the top of the snowy hills as we trekked to the top.

Colonies of penguins in smaller groups greeted us with their enchanting voices. We watched in awe as tiny penguins walking up flapping their feathers occasionally from the bottom of the hill to the top.
Many if us waited patiently to have an opportunity to view the eggs upon which the Penguins were sitting to hatch their eggs. Some were lucky to photograph a few couples mating while we were trying to figure out the male from female.

Leaving the breath taking landscapes was not an easy choice as we were soon called to embark on the zodiacs and return to Ocean Atlantic our ship as she was patiently waiting to take us to the next destination of our expedition to the Last Horizon.

We woke up this morni g on Friday December 6th to a bright and sunny day, calmer ocean with 9 kms of wind speed….a picture perfect day for expedition.
We went on zodiacs cruising through the blue waters of the Half Moon Island, a cluster of snowy mountains shaped as a half moon. Searching for wild life in the ocean with the voyagers looking out eagerly for any seals or whales did not seem to result in success as the sea animals and those on the shore seemed to hide in their resting places.
Finally the zodiac captains took us to the shore where for the first time we landed on dark stony surface full of rocks stones and pebbles. Our expedition crew leader reported that the shore was completely covered with ice and snow in the beginning of the season barely a month ago.

The glaciers and the imposing mighty mountains around us we hiked up the hill intruding sometimes into the Penguin Hoghways where we saw colonies of penguins resting under the bright sun. It was delightful to watch a few hopping on tiny rocks from one to another unnerved by the visitors from the Other Continents on earth.
A relaxing and rejuvenating morning walks across the island with breath taking views in abundance of Mother Nature will last a life time for everyone who has been part of the historic expedition to the 7th Continent.

After journeying about five hours we reached this evening at the Melchiors Island as the bright sun shining on us. On our way during lunch and later on the voyagers were thrilled to spot whales showing up their heads periodically.

The journey through the Bay was another memorable experience with the stunning landscape all along the route especially as the sun continued shine brightly on the snow peaked mountains turning the waters closer the glaciers turning from blue to green.

We had over an hour of zodiac cruise exploring the sea life on the Antarctic’s South Ocean.

For the first time we were delighted to watch different kinds of Penguins sitting on a single rock glazing at the ocean waters.
We spotted a few huge Cedder Seals resting on the rocks unmoved by the voyagers in several zodiacs watching them in awe.

The bright sun and the gentle breeze embracing the cheeks of the voyagers it was a perfect day to cruise and explore the White Continent.

190 Members of American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin AAPI under the leadership of Dr. Suresh Reddy and a over 50 strong crew and 22 member expedition team set on sail from Urshuaia the southernmost township on earth located in the beautiful country Argentina on Saturday November 30th 2019

The AAPI delegates came from across the United States with some members of the extended family of AAPI delegates coming from india on this once in a lifetime experience to the sea enth continent Antarctica.

Earlier the AAPI delegates spent a day in Urshuia touring the National Park and lake wearing yellow hats and shirts carrying a banner spreading the message of the need for obesity awareness.

On the ship the voyage to the White continent began with a Prayer song by Dr.Aarti Pandya from Atlanta to Lord Ganesha seeking his blessings and prayers to remove all obstacles out of the way.

The sit down dinner on the first night as the ship sailed through the passage towards the south ocean was an amazing experience even as the sun shone on the west until 11 pm.

The 2nd day the Voyagers were woken up by announcement from crew of heavy winds of 50 km an hour and rough sea as the majestic ship moved ahead with braving the tumultuous weather and mighty ocean.

The 2nd night on the ship was special with the captain hosting the dinner and the delegates interacting with the crew and the delegates.

AAPI’s Historic Expedition

Today, on December 4th, the voyagers got onto the Zodiacs and sailed to Port Lockroy, a sheltered harbor with a secure anchorage and the Antarctic Peninsula since its discovery in 1904. The Port also is home to a Museum and a British Post Office, where the early visitors to the Continent lived and explored the wildlife of the last Horizon. The Museum has preserved the antiques used by the early voyagers, which is an important role in the history of Antarctica.

The wind of 25 kms an hour made the waters of the Bay mildly rough as we set out from the ship. For the first time during the voyage, to the much delight of the AAPI delegates, the sun chose to come out from behind the clouds and shone brightly on the voyagers, making the snow shining and glowing with the rays of the sun filling the surface of the earth. It was delightful to see the Penguins close to the AAPI delegates, some of them walking beside them crossing their pathway.

After a lunch Barbeque on Deck Seven of the Ship, the Ocean Atlantic took us through the beautiful Lemaire Channel on the Continent. Braving the cold and gusty winds, the voyagers got together for a group picture of the entire voyager group on Deck Eight of the ship, as they were awed by the beautiful glaciers, the mighty snow-caped mountains, and the floating ice bergs.

It was an amazing experience as the Ship sailed through the Bay filled with Ice Sheet Rocks that are over a meter thick, slowly but steadily marching forward towards the Plenau Bay, where the 38 brave AAPI members had the unique experience of taking “Polar Plunge” in the Sea Water, which was 0.78 degree calcium while the rest of the AA{I delegates watched the brave men and women taking a memorable dip and swim back to the ship in the freezing cold waters of the Antarctic Continent.

Bright sun light flashing on the Lamiy Bay on our way up north towards the northern peninsula of the white Coneinent greeted us all this morning on December 5th. The greetings over the microphone at 6.15 woke us all up letting us know of the .mild weather conditions with 7 degrees celcius and 27 km s wind speed with bright sunny day was a welcome change from yesterday.

Immediately after breakfast we set out in small groups of ten on each Zodiac to cruise on the pristine blue waters of the Lamoy Bay.
The tallest mountain Mount Franceswithe height of 2300 meters high behind the backdrop, our zodiacs elegantly cruised fhrough the calmer waters to the mountain range called the Princes and the seven dwarfs.

The stunning views of the glaciers and the mountains and the soft and shiny snow spread across the shore led us all to the top of the snowy hills as we trekked to the top.

Colonies of penguins in smaller groups greeted us with their enchanting voices. We watched in awe as tiny penguins walking up flapping their feathers occasionally from the bottom of the hill to the top.
Many if us waited patiently to have an opportunity to view the eggs upon which the Penguins were sitting to hatch their eggs. Some were lucky to photograph a few couples mating while we were trying to figure out the male from female.

Leaving the breath taking landscapes was not an easy choice as we were soon called to embark on the zodiacs and return to Ocean Atlantic our ship as she was patiently waiting to take us to the next destination of our expedition to the Last Horizon.
After journeying about five hours we reached this evening at the Melchiors Island as the bright sun shining on us. On our way during lunch and later on the voyagers were thrilled to spot whales showing up their heads periodically.

The journey through the Bay was another memorable experience with the stunning landscape all along the route especially as the sun continued shine brightly on the snow peaked mountains turning the waters closer the glaciers turning from blue to green.

We had over an hour of zodiac cruise exploring the sea life on the Antarctic’s South Ocean.

For the first time we were delighted to watch different kinds of Penguins sitting on a single rock glazing at the ocean waters.
We spotted Seals resting on the rocks unmoved and unaffected by the voyagers in several zodiacs watching them in awe.

The bright sun and the gentle breeze embracing the voyagers it was a perfect day to cruise and explore the White Continent.
Sent from my Verizon, Samsung Galaxy smartphone

Bright sun light flashing on the Lamiy Bay on our way up north towards the northern peninsula of the white Coneinent greeted us all this morning on December 5th. The greetings over the microphone at 6.15 woke us all up letting us know of the .mild weather conditions with 7 degrees celcius and 27 km s wind speed with bright sunny day was a welcome change from yesterday.
Immediately after breakfast we set out in small groups of ten on each Zodiac to cruise on the pristine blue waters of the Lamoy Bay.
The tallest mountain Mount Franceswithe height of 2300 meters high behind the backdrop, our zodiacs elegantly cruised fhrough the calmer waters to the mountain range called the Princes and the seven dwarfs.

The stunning views of the glaciers and the mountains and the soft and shiny snow spread across the shore led us all to the top of the snowy hills as we trekked to the top.

Colonies of penguins in smaller groups greeted us with their enchanting voices. We watched in awe as tiny penguins walking up flapping their feathers occasionally from the bottom of the hill to the top.
Many if us waited patiently to have an opportunity to view the eggs upon which the Penguins were sitting to hatch their eggs. Some were lucky to photograph a few couples mating while we were trying to figure out the male from female.

Leaving the breath taking landscapes was not an easy choice as we were soon called to embark on the zodiacs and return to Ocean Atlantic our ship as she was patiently waiting to take us to the next destination of our expedition to the Last Horizon.

After journeying about five hours we reached this evening at the Melchiors Island as the bright sun shining on us. On our way during lunch and later on the voyagers were thrilled to spot whales showing up their heads periodically.

The journey through the Bay was another memorable experience with the stunning landscape all along the route especially as the sun continued shine brightly on the snow peaked mountains turning the waters closer the glaciers turning from blue to green.

We had over an hour of zodiac cruise exploring the sea life on the Antarctic’s South Ocean.

For the first time we were delighted to watch different kinds of Penguins sitting on a single rock glazing at the ocean waters.
We spotted a few huge Cedder Seals resting on the rocks unmoved by the voyagers in several zodiacs watching them in awe.

The bright sun and the gentle breeze embracing the cheeks of the voyagers it was a perfect day to cruise and explore the White Continent.
After journeying about five hours we reached this evening at the Melchiors Island as the bright sun shining on us. On our way during lunch and later on the voyagers were thrilled to spot whales showing up their heads periodically.

The journey through the Bay was another memorable experience with the stunning landscape all along the route especially as the sun continued shine brightly on the snow peaked mountains turning the waters closer the glaciers turning from blue to green.

We had over an hour of zodiac cruise exploring the sea life on the Antarctic’s South Ocean.

For the first time we were delighted to watch different kinds of Penguins sitting on a single rock glazing at the ocean waters.
We spotted a few huge Cedder Seals resting on the rocks unmoved by the voyagers in several zodiacs watching them in awe.

The bright sun and the gentle breeze embracing the cheeks of the voyagers it was a perfect day to cruise and explore the White Continent.
We woke up this morni g on Friday December 6th to a bright and sunny day, calmer ocean with 9 kms of wind speed….a picture perfect day for expedition.
We went on zodiacs cruising through the blue waters of the Half Moon Island, a cluster of snowy mountains shaped as a half moon. Searching for wild life in the ocean with the voyagers looking out eagerly for any seals or whales did not seem to result in success as the sea animals and those on the shore seemed to hide in their resting places.
Finally the zodiac captains took us to the shore where for the first time we landed on dark stony surface full of rocks stones and pebbles. Our expedition crew leader reported that the shore was completely covered with ice and snow in the beginning of the season barely a month ago.

The glaciers and the imposing mighty mountains around us we hiked up the hill intruding sometimes into the Penguin Hoghways where we saw colonies of penguins resting under the bright sun. It was delightful to watch a few hopping on tiny rocks from one to another unnerved by the visitors from the Other Continents on earth.
A relaxing and rejuvenating morning walks across the island with breath taking views in abundance of Mother Nature will last a life time for everyone who has been part of the historic expedition to the 7th Continent.

This afternoon we were invited to climb up to the Decks 8 and 9 to view the entrance/passage to the famous Deception Island. Ad the ship sailed through this narrow path into the Island with majestic dark mountains on our right side while on the left snowcapped mountains overlooking the Bay. As the guest winds made us shiver the voyagers standing on the top deck of the Atlantic Ocean posed for pictures while many others lost in the stunning beauty created by Mother Nature for all of us to enjoy and cherish for ever.

The final landing on the Last Horizon on Friday December 6th afternoon wa sdcc at the Deception Island for the AAPI Votagers.
An unusually bright shi ing sky with gentle winds welcomed us to the shore of the black sandy with little stones spread all along the 36 kms wide island.
The volcanic eruption here over 50 years ago has turne DC the island the mountains into dark colored. Saw a huge deal on the shore resting with birds and few penguins of the Contindnt enjoying the mild weather, the voyagers trekked up.the hill on the dark sand while the panoramic and breath taking views on the snowy mountains beyond the Bay hovering over blue waters of the Last Horizon.

Each evening at cocktail hour the entire expedition community gathers in the lounge for a ritual we call Recap. As you enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, various naturalists give talks, the undersea specialist may show video, and your expedition leader will outline the following day’s schedule.

penguins. Gentoo, Adelie, chinstraps in the thousands; rockhopper, macaroni and king penguins in the Falklands; and king penguins at a staggering scale in South Georgia.
We were all excited about the sightings of a rare black and a rare white penguin, as well as a lone Emperor colony at our farthest south.
Penguin behavior is endlessly fascinating. In the Antarctic spring, hundreds of gentoo penguins parade before us, reestablishing their bonds, mating, staking their claims, and thievishly stealing stones from one another for their nests.

The photo ops are simply incredible. And while penguins are delightful in films and nature documentaries, watching the often-madcap business of penguin life being lived around you is simultaneously uplifting and humbling: the animal kingdom indeed.
We’ll find it resting on ice floes, and often will have the opportunity to approach closely in Zodiacs for excellent photo ops. We’ll also likely be able to observe Weddell and crabeater seals, as well as Antarctic fur seals, whose populations have rebounded since the 1959 Antarctic Treaty and the 1972 Convention for the Conservation of Antarctic Seals.
Antarctic birds
See Arctic terns and other pelagic birds, including fulmars and petrels. The opportunity of a lifetime for bird lovers, however, lies in venturing further—into the lands of the albatross,
The beautiful black-browed albatross crowd the ledges
The wandering albatross, with the largest wingspan of any bird, is one of the many wildlife spectacles South Georgia affords.

We woke up sailing on choppy seas with northerly winds of 45 knots.
When we reached the western side of the island, we found ourselves at the top of the spectacular colony of rockhopper penguins, and black-browed albatross. Brown skuas flew over the colony while penguins, albatross, and shags took care of their eggs.
We spend a good bit of time photographing the birds and generally taking in such wonderful experience and close views of the wildlife.

Settling into the calm waters of Cierva Cove, we headed out for a morning of Zodiac cruising. As the ship disappeared behind us in the mist, we hugged the shoreline to enjoy views of the Argentine research station Base Primavera, rolling swell around dramatic icebergs, and an undisturbed colony of gentoo penguins going about their usual Sunday morning business.

Highlights of the morning included great sightings of Weddell seals snoozing on ice and swimming curiously in the turquoise waters. As the fog began to lift, dramatic mountain peaks showed through the clouds and we were treated to stunning views of the surrounding glaciers and impressive icebergs throughout the cove.
Dramatic sculpture-like structures made for fantastic photo opportunities, and it was tough to return in time for lunch from such a beautiful morning out on the water.
Before long, we lost count of the number of emperor penguins we laid our eyes on. Cut loose upon the sea ice, our guests took to skiing and snowshoeing to explore the icy landscape and spend time with a gaggle of the largest penguin species on our unique planet.

Today, Antarctica is certainly one of the ultimate tour destinations of the world. However, for more than 150 years after its discovery, Antarctica was too far, too remote, too extreme, too dangerous, and too expensive for all but the most stout-hearted explorers and adventurers.

Those people willing to risk everything for the tasks at hand and fortunate enough to have the financial backing of governments or wealthy organizations. Few simple travelers could dare venture into this domain. To go there meant outfitting an expedition, and necessitated making preparations for all kinds of contingencies.
The human history of Antarctica contains some of the most exciting stories of endeavor and persistence imaginable, and includes many survival tales of people overcoming almost unimaginable odds. It is also wrought with many heart-wrenching tragedies.
But, whatever their reasons for going to Antarctica, these people were first and foremost adventurers at heart. It has taken the efforts of these many expeditions and fearless explorers to reduce much of the Antarctic mystery and danger.

The ship could carry 92 passengers along with about 60 crew members, naturalists, and lecturers.
inflatable boats called Zodiacs provided the means for his passengers to get ashore almost anywhere, under a multitude of conditions.

There are two major types of ice in the polar regions, sea ice and glacial ice, and they form through different methods. Sea ice forms in oceanic water when the ambient temperature is lowered to the freezing point of salt water. Glacial ice (including ice caps) forms through the simple accumulation of snow which becomes compressed by its own weight into solid ice. Sea ice formation is a seasonal phenomenon (although individual pieces of sea ice may last for several years), while glacial ice is generally a long-term structure lasting decades, centuries, or even millennia.

If conditions are calm, the crystals join together, thicken, and form a fibrous structure called young ice.
Sea ice prevents the ocean waters from warming the coasts significantly. It is important to note that islands within the limits of Winter pack ice (such as the South Shetlands, South Orkneys, etc.) compare closely with the continent in seasonal temperatures, soils types, flora, and fauna.
Glaciation, however, is much more complicated. When snow accumulates over a period of many years (that is, it doesn’t melt away after one season), the buildup creates a thick deposit in which the overlying mass tends to compress the lower snow layers into solid ice. During this, the individual snowflakes change into granules, which fuse into crystals of ice. Often, the air between the flakes becomes trapped, thereby creating air bubbles within the ice crystals. In polar areas, this produces huge and massive ice caps that can overwhelm and cover the entire landscape, including even mountains. Eventually, the ice mass thickens to the point where it begins to move due to a combination of gravity and the shape and slope of the ground surface. On steeper slopes this can occur when the thickness of the combined snow and ice reaches 15 m (50 feet) in depth. This is often referred to as glacial ice. If the flowing ice is constrained by mountains, valley walls, or other land surface formations, it is known as a glacier.
Glacial ice is the world’s largest reservoir of fresh water, albeit in solid form. Nearly 99% of all glacial ice on Earth is contained within the huge ice sheets in the polar regions. In fact, this volume of ice is so large that if the ice sheets of both Greenland and Antarctica were to melt, it would cause sea levels to rise about 70 meters (230 ft). In addition to Antarctica, Greenland, Canada, Iceland, and Svalbard, there are also significant glaciers scattered around the world outside of polar regions, including Alaska and Chilean Patagonia.
Permanent ice probably began forming in Antarctica as early as Miocene times, perhaps 20 million years ago.

There are 17 species of penguins in the world and they have various qualities in common. They are all found in the southern hemisphere, although one species, the Galapagos penguin, actually ranges a few miles north of the equator. Penguins are the most aquatic of the sea birds, and they generally spend most of their lives at sea (except when molting or rearing young). All penguins are flightless and adapted for life in cold water, so even those found in the low latitudes are dependent upon cold water currents for their livelihood.

Except for the feet and perhaps bare patches on the face, the entire body is covered with small, dense, overlapping, scale-like feathers, and there is a downy tuft at the base of each feather which increases the heat retention abilities even more. Feathers account for about 80% of the penguins’ insulative properties, while fat provides the other 20%. Penguins have very high internal body temperatures (about 38° C, or 101° F), as well as high metabolic rates. With all this taken into account it is easy to understand how the Antarctic species in particular can survive, and even thrive, in a cold, harsh climate.

Around the Antarctic Peninsula, we commonly see gentoo (Pygoscelis papua), Adélie (Pygoscelis adeliae), chinstrap (Pygoscelis Antarctica), emperor (Aptenodytes forsteri), and rarely Macaroni (Eudyptes chrysolophus) penguins.

On South Georgia, we can see king (A. patagonica), gentoo (P. papua), chinstrap (P. Antarctica), and Macaroni (Eudyptes chrysolophus) penguins.

Whales (this term applies to all whales, dolphins, porpoises, etc.) are air breathing mammals, but have perfected the ability to live entirely in water over the past 50 to 60 million years.

European Travel Authorization System (ETIAS) Launch Delayed to Spring 2025 Due to IT Infrastructure Challenges

In 2016, the European Commission introduced a concept resembling a tourist visa, called the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS). This program was initially set to launch in early 2024 but has faced multiple delays. The EU’s Justice and Home Affairs Council announced on October 19th that the timeline had been adjusted again, pushing the launch to Spring 2025, citing the need for new technology. Initially, ETIAS was planned to be active in 2021 and was then rescheduled for November 2023.

The primary reason for these delays is the construction of another significant IT infrastructure in Europe, the Entry/Exit System (EES), intended to replace manual passport stamping with electronic registration. According to European Commission Spokesperson Anitta Hipper, ETIAS cannot launch until EES is fully operational, as it relies on EES data to identify potential risks. The contractor responsible for these IT systems, eu-LISA, estimates EES will launch in autumn 2024, with ETIAS following approximately six months later.

The delay is attributed to various factors, including delays in system development by the contractor and EU Member States’ preparations for the necessary equipment at border crossing points. The Commission is working closely with Member States and eu-LISA to minimize the impact of these delays and ensure interoperability.

When ETIAS is eventually implemented, travelers from visa-exempt countries, including the US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, will need to apply online before traveling to Europe. The application process for ETIAS is relatively quick and straightforward, costing only €7 (about $8) for a three-year approval. Travelers will complete an online form with their biographical information, travel history, and answer security questions. Most travelers will receive approval within an hour, although some may undergo additional security checks, which could take up to 96 hours.

Sojourner White, a remote social worker and travel content creator, who has lived in Europe and plans to return, sees ETIAS as a minor inconvenience, particularly for US citizens who enjoy passport privileges. However, she acknowledges that the constant rescheduling of the program’s launch may confuse travelers. She recommends that travelers stay informed through the US Department of State website and enroll in the Smart Travelers Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive notifications of travel-related changes while abroad.

15 October, 2023: A Bullet Could Have Killed Her

Mother sees her ever so precious niece in the hospital bed struggling to open her eyes and she wants to scream she sees the IV tubes she sees the wound in her niece’s shoulder ever so close to her neck but at least her niece is alive at least her niece did not have her leg blown off she did not have her head blown off she did not get decapitated at the neck all it is really is a bullet lodged in her shoulder it’s just that the bullet wound is giving Ariel so much pain that she cannot stay awake at least she is alive thankfully the gunman was shot down by the IDF after he had probably killed hundreds of others at the Yakhini enclave

Ariel is lucky she is alive she was not killed she was visiting a friend in Yakhini from her college she was sleeping over with her and then heading to a music festival nearby Ariel is lucky she did not go to that music festival because that was the first place Hamas went when they were attacking the other side of the border if she were there she would have been captured she would have been kidnapped she would have been raped over and over again Yakhini is a hamlet Yakhini is a settlement Yakhini was guarded by fences and officers like any other moshav Yakhini was meant to be safe but somehow the gunmen got in and killed a lot of people almost everyone but not Ariel and her friend whose father worked for the IDF

It has been over a week and Mother did not see Ariel in the hospital because Mother did not know she was even there Mother was afraid for her own life Mother wanted to stay put given that Hamas had breached all of southern Israel and was attacking and killing everyone and Mother really did not know what happened to Ariel Mother was calling her over and over again but Mother had so many other relatives to worry about all across the country and her mind was like a ping pong ball hitting back and forth wall against wall she could not concentrate she could not rest she was afraid she was going to die and she was afraid for her other loved ones as well

So when finally she was called by Mother’s cousin Rachel she came to know that Ariel was in the hospital for all these days of course she came to the hospital which was in Askelon the same city Mother lived in and Ariel was studying in and she asked to get permission to visit but she was not a close relative so it took a lot of calls from Rachel to the hospital to get them to let her in

Now she is seeing Ariel and she could scream so loud that it would cause her lungs to give out and she would faint she is used to seeing Ariel singing in the musicals making videos for her Instagram taking selfies with Mother for no reason always being full of gossip about celebrities Mother has never heard of always full of sass always full of things to say always full of live always full

She is not used to seeing Ariel in so much pain that she isn’t willing to greet her aunt

Ariel will recover says the doctor Ariel will soon be able to talk to her but Ariel is not used to having visitors and Ariel is still unable to manage the pain

Mother starts shouting at Ariel and the nurses have to chide her not to do such things

But Mother is livid Mother is so angry Mother wants to find that gunman and beat him with a brick on the side of the head it has been too long since the Jews have suffered and not just Mother and Father but the entire Jewish population it’s like Jews are born to be killed everyone wants to kill us everyone wants to exterminate us everyone wants to see us gassed to death and it was this way not for Mother but for her parents and her grandparents and everyone so many people did not make it so many people did not survive yes Mother and her family they survived they lived on but so many people were gassed to death were bombed to death were shot to death it’s always been a struggle it’s as if it’s meant to be this way for Jews to find it hard to survive and now it is beginning again now they have come and they are ready to shoot us all once more the whole world wants us dead and all because we choose to practice a religion that is different from theirs

Mother is tired of it all Mother is a human being Mother does not deserve to spend every day afraid Mother knows time and time again a day like this will repeat what has happened to Ariel will come to be her situation as well she will someday see gunman at her door she will probably be shot at as well because it happens every month every year all the time and different people die but people die nonetheless it is destiny it is fate it is like the only thing that will come to her because she was born a Jew and is in Israel

It is just that she does not want this fate for the younger generation she wants everyone to get along if the Palestinians want their land let them have their land but the land they are standing on now this is her land this is where her son was born and brought up this is what she has known as home her entire life she is not responsible for the decisions made nearly a century ago by countries so far far away countries that hated the Jews and wanted them shipped off thousands of kilometres to their promised land rather than having to give them equal rights in their own place Mother has nothing to do with this just because she was born a Jew and an Israeli doesn’t mean she should have to fear death each and every day

A bullet could have killed her and that would have been the end of Ariel this vivacious charming girl that was doing well in her studies that was probably going to be heading off to Tel Aviv after her studies in Askelon that had a bright future and was going to have one yet a future that could have ended nonetheless had that bullet hit her right in the middle of her forehead

Israel is bombing Gaza Israel is razing that land to the ground Mother is not an idiot she knows thousands there are dying thousands there too are in hospitals on the brink of life and death they are humans too they are just like Ariel they do not deserve what the army is doing to them

At the same time Ariel is Mother’s flesh and blood not these Palestinians and this is not about Palestine or Israel this is about Hamas a terrorist organisation that doesn’t care about any one life they just want what they want and they will kill anyone to get it in the name of Palestinian independence they would happily kill all the Jews of Israel they don’t care about the people who now inhabit this land they want to raze it so that the people who descend from those who lost their land a century ago could have it back

It doesn’t matter that there were other people who were born and brought up on it and call it home too

These people are the enemies because they see them the Israelis as enemies rather than people who would be willing to talk if the discourse was civil but the discourse is not civil the discourse is to kill them all and hang their decapitated heads on walls this is how Hamas thinks and they are all over Gaza no matter how many good Palestinians there are there is Hamas and they will keep crossing the border and killing hundreds here or there because that is what they want to do

This is not about Gaza this is about Hamas and they must be ended

The news blares on the other side of them on the TV hanging on the wall and Mother sees the buildings of Gaza smoking

Mother knows that they must get what they deserve and the war will not end until it ends this is not just a war this is not about human beings this is a battle between angels and devils Mother closes her eyes and she prays first for the safety of her family members and then for the recovery of Ariel and then for fire to burn all of Gaza off of the map because Mother wills it Mother wants them to feel the exact same physical anguish Ariel is in just as she wants them to feel the fear and anxiety Mother lives in every day she wants to transfer the feelings to them she no longer wants her family to have it she is feeling like a malakh she is feeling like a celestial being full of rage she wants to snap her fingers and cause them all to perish

Because Mother is suffering she wants them too to feel immeasurable pain

Air India Gets New Look

Air India, the-country’s second-biggest airline in terms of fleet size revealed its new brand logo and revamped identity on August 10, 2023. The rebranding comes as part of the airline’s five-year transformation roadmap, Vihaan.AI, which aims to position Air India as a world class airline.

“Our new livery and design features a palette of deep red, aubergine, gold highlights and a chakra-inspired pattern. Travellers will begin to see the new logo and design starting December 2023,” the airline said in a tweet. The aircraft windows have also changed, and reimagined into a gold window frame symbolizing a “window of possibilities.”

The new logo called, ‘The Vista’, is inspired by the peak of the gold window frame “signifying limitless possibilities,”

As per the release issued by the airline, the new logo called, ‘The Vista’, is inspired by the peak of the gold window frame “signifying limitless possibilities, progressiveness, and the airline’s bold, confident outlook for the future.” It replaces the old logo of a swan with orange spokes. All Air India airlines will be updated with the new branding by 2025.

Tata Sons chairman N Chandrasekaran said the new logo represents progressiveness and confidence. “Today is an important milestone, because the new Air India, the vision we have for the airline is also in the backdrop of a new resurgent India, where the aspirations of everyone are limitless,”

Revealing the bold new look of Air India.

Our new livery and design features a palette of deep red, aubergine, gold highlights and a chakra-inspired pattern. Travellers will begin to see the new logo and design starting December 2023.#FlyAI #NewAirIndia

Chandrasekaran said plans to revamp other aspects of the airline are in the works and the best of artificial intelligence and machine learning will be deployed at Air India.

Speaking on the revamped brand identity, Air India CEO & MD Campbell Wilson said, “Our transformative new brand reflects an ambition to make Air India a world-class airline serving guests from around the globe, and that represents a new India proudly on the global stage. The new Air India is bold, confident, and vibrant, but also warm and deeply rooted to its rich history and traditions that make Indian hospitality a global benchmark for standards in service.”

Latest Wonder MSG Sphere in Las Vegas

Most of the vacations are for adventurers and thrilling experiences. Some places automatically drag your mind and heart at ease. There are places you may wish to visit again, like Niagara Falls, the Grand Canyon of the United States, or the Azores of Portugal; places of inspiration are joy forever.

Let me introduce the series of my travelogue branded as TRAVELJOYS with the newest attraction at Las Vegas, the SinCity of the world.

It’s a wonder of technology and is being built in Las Vegas, called MSG Sphere, at least for the moment. Las Vegas has been known for years for its famous lights, but the skyline has changed forever. People cannot stop talking about the futuristic MSG Sphere which lit up Sin City for the first time on the 4th of July.

It squats on the Las Vegas skyline like an enormous spaceship, black and mysterious – until night falls, when it will glow like the Earth from space.” Reports CNN.

What is so astounding inside this sphere? The globe reportedly seats 18,000 people, featuring towering wraparound LED screens and 160,000 speakers to make everyone feel like they have the best seat in the house. The venue will also have vibrating chairs to match whatever is happening on screen.

A pedestrian walkway to the Venetian resort complex will connect the globe to the strip.

Some fun facts about MSG Sphere are as follows:

  • – The Sphere is now 366 feet tall and 516 feet wide at its widest point.
  • – The fourth largest global crawler crane, the DEMAG CC-8800, was used to build the Sphere. The crane took 18 days to assemble.
  • – The globe is embedded with the latest and highest resolution screen in the world with 19,000 by 13,500 pixels. That means they are 100 times clearer than today’s best HD TVs. The screen has an area larger than three football fields.
  • – The outside of the Sphere has about 600,000 square feet of programmable lighting screens.
  • – The venue will use an acoustic system utilizing “beamforming” technology with 160,000 ultra-directional speakers.
  • – The Sphere will also feature an infrasound haptic system enabling audiences to feel the sound.
  • – The venue also has haptic seats that can vibrate to match whatever is happening onscreen – an earthquake, for example – and 4D machines that can create wind, temperature, and even scent effects.
  • – The Sphere’s dome alone weighs 13,000 tons.
  • – The ginormous venue, which boasts 18,000 seats is entirely covered by LED screens which light up the Vegas strip in a way never seen before.

Seriously, it’s hard to believe this is real. The Sphere can fit in the entire Statue of Liberty inside the globe.

The MSG Sphere is scheduled to open for the public on 29 September with “U2:UV Achtung Baby Live at Sphere,” a series of 25 concerts built around the Irish band’s landmark 1991 album “Achtung Baby” and running through mid-December. It also will host exclusive screenings of “Postcard From Earth,” a film by Darren Aronofsky that promises to take full advantage of Sphere’s vast screen by offering viewers an eye-popping tour of the planet. The Sphere was fully illuminated for the first time Tuesday night to celebrate the Fourth of July. I anticipate some World Records will be broken at this marvelous MSG Sphere.

G20 Tourism Meeting Held in Kashmir Amid High Security

The G20 tourism conference is taking place in the Indian-controlled region of Kashmir under heavy security measures, drawing criticism from both China and Pakistan for hosting the event in the contentious area. The ongoing dispute between India and Pakistan over the Himalayan territory of Kashmir has lasted 75 years since their independence, with both nuclear powers claiming the entire region but only governing parts of it. Two out of the three full-scale wars fought between these nations have been over this territory.

The Indian-administered part of Kashmir, which is the nation’s sole Muslim-majority region, has experienced an armed uprising for decades as rebels demand either independence or unification with Pakistan. This conflict has resulted in the deaths of tens of thousands of civilians, soldiers, and Kashmiri insurgents. Authorities mentioned that security was heightened last week “to avoid any chance of terrorist attack during the G20” meeting, marking the first diplomatic event in the disputed area since New Delhi abolished its limited autonomy and assumed direct control in 2019.

Taking place on the banks of Dal Lake in Srinagar, the main city of the region, the three-day event commences Monday at a highly secured and expansive venue. Officials have prepared the area to demonstrate what they describe as “normalcy and peace returning” to the region by resurfacing roads leading to the site and illuminating electricity poles with the colors of India’s national flag.

On Monday, Srinagar seemed peaceful, with most security checkpoints either removed or disguised using G20 signage to create cubicle-like stations for security personnel. Authorities have also trained hundreds of officers in what they refer to as “invisible policing” for the event.

‘Graveyard calm’

However, officials closed the primary road leading to the convention center for civilian traffic and shut down numerous schools in the city. The security measures on Monday were in stark contrast to those implemented in the days preceding the event. A large security perimeter was established around the venue by the Dal Lake, with elite naval commandos patrolling the water in rubber boats.

Picture : TheUNN

India has been advocating for tourism within its part of Kashmir, attracting over a million visitors last year. Indian authorities hope that the G20 meeting will demonstrate how the 2019 alterations brought “peace and prosperity” to the region. Delegates will explore topics such as sustainable tourism and destination management. Additionally, side events focusing on ecotourism and the role of films in promoting tourist destinations are planned.

Harshvardhan Shringla, India’s chief coordinator for the G20, told reporters on Sunday, “We have the making of a unique meeting.” He highlighted that the event would feature the highest number of foreign delegates compared to previous tourism meetings held in West Bengal and Gujarat earlier this year.

However, Dr. Sheikh Showkat Hussain, a political analyst based in the region, told Al Jazeera that the G20 meeting would only hold significance for the people of Kashmir if there were a sense of normalcy. He stated, “Now, normalcy does not mean normalcy of a graveyard where you have restrictions on media, restrictions on people and people languishing in jails.” He added, “And at the same time you want to project to the world that everything is normal.”

China opts out No Chinese representatives will be present at the event. India and China are currently engaged in a military standoff along their mostly undefined border in the Ladakh region. Beijing lays claim to the entirety of the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh as part of its Tibet province and regards Kashmir as a disputed territory. “China firmly opposes holding any form of G20 meeting in disputed territory and will not attend such meetings,” foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin informed reporters on Friday.

Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Indonesia are also reportedly unlikely to participate, according to an AFP news agency report. India, which holds the G20 presidency for 2023, has scheduled over 100 meetings across the nation. China has already abstained from attending events in Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh.

Pakistan, a non-G20 member that governs a smaller portion of Kashmir, argued that hosting the tourism meeting in the territory contravenes international law, United Nations Security Council resolutions, and bilateral agreements. Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari stated last week that India was showcasing its “arrogance to the world” and that “it shows their pettiness,” eliciting a strong response from New Delhi. India accuses Pakistan of training and supporting armed insurgents in Kashmir, which Islamabad refutes.

Since India’s 2019 constitutional amendments, the rebellion in Kashmir has been largely suppressed, although young men continue to join the cause. However, dissent has been criminalized, media freedoms restricted, and public protests limited, leading critics to argue that India has severely curtailed civil liberties. Last week, UN Special Rapporteur on Minority Issues, Fernand de Varennes, said that New Delhi was attempting to use the G20 meeting to “portray an international seal of approval” on a situation that “should be decried and condemned.” India dismissed those remarks.

The increased security measures have caused frustration among residents, with hundreds detained in police stations and thousands, including shopkeepers, receiving calls from officials warning them against any “signs of protest or trouble.”

India Hosts G20 Tourism Meeting in Kashmir

India has defended its decision to host a Group of 20 (G20) meeting in Jammu and Kashmir, despite criticism from human rights groups and expected boycotts from some countries. Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, is scheduled to host a tourism meeting for G20 members, which the Indian government has marketed as an opportunity to showcase the region’s culture. It is the first international event of this scale to be held in the disputed, Muslim-majority region since India revoked its special status and split the former state into two federal territories in 2019.

China has said that it will not attend the meeting, citing its opposition to “holding any kind of G20 meetings in disputed territory “, according to Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin. Ladakh, which was previously part of the state, was separated and turned into another standalone territory. Ladakh is a disputed region along the Line of Actual Control, a de-facto border between India and China. Both countries claim parts of it.

Tensions along the de factor border have been simmering for more than 60 years and have spilled over into war before. In 1962 a month-long conflict ended in a Chinese victory and India losing thousands of square miles of territory. Other countries, including Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Turkey, were also expected to boycott the event.

Kashmir is one of the world’s most dangerous flashpoints. Claimed in its entirety by both India and Pakistan, the mountainous region has been the epicenter of more than 70 years of an often-violent territorial struggle between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. A de facto border called the Line of Control divides it between New Delhi and Islamabad.

In April, Pakistan criticized India’s decision to hold the tourism meeting in Kashmir, calling it an “irresponsible” move. Last week, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Minority Issues, Fernand de Varennes, said the Indian government was “seeking to normalize what some have described as a military operation by instrumentalizing a G20 meeting” in a region where fears of human rights violations and violence are rife.

India has been keen to position itself as a leader of emerging and developing nations since it assumed the G20 presidency. India, the world’s largest democracy with a population of more than 1.4 billion, has been pushing its international credentials, portraying Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a key player in the global order.

India’s tourism secretary, Arvind Singh, said the G20 meeting will not only “showcase (Kashmir’s) potential for tourism” but also “signal globally the restoration of stability and normalcy in the region.” India said the move to revoke Kashmir’s semi-autonomy was to ensure that the nation’s laws were equal for all citizens and to increase economic development in the region. India also alleged that separatist and terrorist groups were aided and abetted by Pakistan, and the move was to put an end to that.

However, rights groups and Pakistan claim that the Indian government’s unilateral move has resulted in human rights violations, including torture, extrajudicial killings, and restrictions on freedom of expression and assembly. The region has been under a military lockdown since August 2019, with mobile internet services shut down for most of that period.

In a statement on Twitter, India’s permanent mission to Geneva rejected de Varennes’s criticism, calling the allegations “baseless and unwarranted.” Earlier this month, India said the G20 meeting in Srinagar “aims to strengthen economic growth, preserve cultural heritage, and promote sustainable development of the region.”

The Indian government’s decision to hold a major international event in Kashmir has raised concerns, especially as the region remains under military lockdown, with a significant military presence. Some countries are boycotting the event, citing the disputed nature of the region. Despite criticism, India maintains that the move is aimed at promoting tourism and economic growth in the region while also signalling the restoration of stability and normalcy. The world will be watching, waiting to see if India can successfully promote tourism and economic development while dealing with the challenges presented by the conflict in the region.

Expedia Launches AI Chat Tool for Hotel Recommendations

Expedia has launched a plug-in in its app using the latest version of AI chat technology to recommend prospective hotels. Travelers can use the ChatGPT function to converse on the best destinations and hotels for their trip. The plug-in saves hotel recommendations to profiles on the Expedia app, adding them to users’ Trip Planning Boards.

The chat function offers a conversational way of shopping and searching for trips and aims to streamline the process. Hotel options are offered through small modules within the chat, and users can save recommended hotels to their profile. The tool is designed to help consumers do basic language discovery. Peter Kern, CEO of Expedia Group, describes the tool as a way to help travelers store options into their Trip Boards before decisions are made.

The ChatGPT plug-in of Expedia’s existing hotel search function both pull from Expedia’s proprietary hotel data, the main difference being a more conversational experience for users. The plug-in uses booking site’s smart-shopping algorithms and various data points like hotel availability, pricing, and machine-learning sorting. Expedia also used algorithms and AI functions to limit conversations to only travel booking.

In the current beta version of the plug-in, ChatGPT recommends and saves three to five different hotel options per search. In the future, the aim is to consistently offer five recommendations for every search as the technology becomes more accurate. “Our platform generates over 600 billion AI predictions a year,” says Rathi Murthy, Expedia Group’s Chief Technology Officer. The new tool utilizes the conversational aspects of the ChatGPT, taking advantage of the technology.

Accuracy has been an issue with early iterations of travel booking with ChatGPT, as have the recommendations being too broad. “ChatGPT’s lack of specificity is exhausting,” wrote Traveler contributor Ashlea Halperin, describing her use of the public version of the chatbot for planning her upcoming honeymoon in the Faroe Islands. The tool provided her with some useful information but nothing she could take as gospel.

Although the chatbot has created a buzz in the travel industry over how it might shift booking methods, the actual impact on travelers’ habits remains to be seen. Kern admits that “we don’t know if travelers will embrace it,” but believes the tool will solve for as many customers’ shopping preferences as possible.

The beta version of the plug-in uses the latest GPT-4 technology. It is now available for all iOS users of the latest version of the Expedia app. “Whether it enhances the discovery process or gets you there faster depends a lot on the person,” Kern says. “Really, we’re trying to solve for as many customers and as many ways they want to shop as we can, and we think there will be interest, and it will help people.”

In conclusion, the ChatGPT plug-in by Expedia is the newest addition to AI chat technology that helps recommend prospective hotels for travelers’ trips. The tool uses smart-shopping algorithms, machine-learning sorting, and various data points to suggest hotels to users on its conversational search function. The tool utilizes the conversational aspect of the ChatGPT technology, and although accuracy has been an issue in its early stages, Expedia is constantly improving it to be more specific and offering more recommendations based on user search. The tool is now available for all iOS users on the latest version of the Expedia app and aims to solve for as many customers and their preferred shopping methods as possible.

Hyderabad Airport Is World’s Most Punctual Airport

Aviation analytical firm, Cirium in a report has stated that the GMR Hyderabad International Airport Limited (GHIAL) is the only airport to achieve 90.43 percent on-time-performance (OTP) in March this year, making it the world’s most punctual airport.

Cirium said it reviewed more than 5 million flights globally during March, and the Hyderabad airport came on top both in the ‘Global Airports’ and ‘Large Airports’ categories being the only airport to cross the 90 percent mark.

The Hyderabad airport served 29 airlines and 77 routes and had 14,658 scheduled single-segment flights in March. Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International airport  came second at 86.14 percent OTP followed by Bogota’s El Dorado International airport in Colombia.

Over the years, GHIAL has brought in several first-of-its-kind technological innovations for the airport sector in the country, including the first-ever integrated and centralized Airport Operations Control Center (AOCC) and modern passenger information systems and technological initiatives.

In the medium and small airports category no Indian airports made it to the top 20. The country is one of the fastest growing aviation markets in the world, with passenger traffic reaching an all time high in 2022. Additionally, India has constructed more airports in the last decade than most of the countries globally, including both domestic and international facilities.

TSA Introduces Self-Service ID Scanners With Facial Recognition At Airports

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is implementing an updated ID scanner equipped with a biometric camera that uses facial recognition technology to confirm passengers’ identities. The new machines compare the facial scans of travelers to the photos on their driver’s license or passport and verify that they are a ticketed airline passenger. The machines are self-service, and travellers simply insert their ID into the machine and look at the camera. After their identity is validated, they are allowed to proceed to the security checkpoint. While the final approval is still with the security officer, this new technology is expected to make airport security checkpoints more seamless and quicker.

The new technology is already rolling out to airports, with a pilot version being trialed last fall at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in Washington, D.C. During the trial, which was open to TSA PreCheck travelers, the facial recognition scanners were tested as a potential solution to reduce touchpoints during the pandemic. However, the new scanners are now voluntary but accessible to everyone. Travelers are allowed to opt-out and request manual identity verification from the officer at the podium.

The TSA has invested $128 million in an initial batch of 1,500 of the new facial recognition scanners at 16 airports around the country. The TSA predicts that the number of travellers this summer season will be “comfortably above” pre-pandemic figures, making the technology’s implementation vital. The new facial recognition scanners are called credential authentication technology (CAT) machines. “This technology is valuable because it enhances detection capabilities for identifying fraudulent IDs such as driver’s licenses and passports at a checkpoint and it increases efficiency by automatically verifying a passenger’s identification,” Christopher Murgia, TSA’s federal security director for Maryland, said in a release.

The photos from the facial scans are only used to compare travelers’ picture IDs and are not saved or used for any other purposes, according to the TSA. In addition to driver’s licenses and passports, the machines can read thousands of different types of IDs, including permanent resident cards, U.S. visas, military common access cards, and Global Entry cards.

Travelers should still carry their boarding passes to the airport to show airline representatives at their departure gate to board the plane, even though the first-generation CAT machines eliminated the need for passengers to scan boarding passes at the podium pre-security.

Earlier this week, Baltimore-Washington International Airport was among the first facilities in the country to install the new scanners. However, the number of facilities with the new machines is likely to expand rapidly. Travelers are allowed to opt-out of using the new facial recognition scanners and request manual identity verification, making the process less intrusive. As the TSA implements more of the new CAT machines across the country, they are expected to make airport security checkpoints more efficient and less time-consuming for passengers.

Taj Mahal Night Viewing Tickets Now Available For Online Booking

Tourists visiting the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra can now book tickets for night viewing online. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has announced that tickets for night viewing of the monument will now be available online.

Previously, tourists could only purchase tickets for the night viewing of the Taj Mahal in person at the booking office. But with the introduction of online booking, visitors will now have the convenience of purchasing tickets from the comfort of their homes.

According to the ASI, the online booking facility has been launched to provide a hassle-free experience for visitors. The move is also expected to reduce overcrowding at the booking office and help manage the flow of visitors.

“The online ticket booking system has been introduced to provide convenience to tourists and reduce the rush at the booking counters,” said an ASI official.

The night viewing of the Taj Mahal is a popular activity among tourists visiting Agra. The monument is open for night viewing for five nights every month, including the full moon night and two nights before and after it.

Tourists are reminded that the night viewing of the Taj Mahal is subject to certain rules and regulations. Visitors are advised to read the guidelines carefully before booking their tickets.

“The night viewing of the Taj Mahal is subject to certain rules and regulations. Visitors are advised to read the guidelines carefully before booking their tickets,” said the ASI official.

This move by the ASI to introduce online ticket booking for the night viewing of the Taj Mahal is expected to improve the overall tourist experience and help promote tourism in the region.

Visitors can purchase tickets for the night viewing of the Taj Mahal online at https://asi.payumoney.com/.

AAHOA Announces Largest Trade Show in 34-Year History

The Asian American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA), the largest hotel owners association in the world with nearly 20,000 members, has announced that it plans to organize the largest ever Trade Show in history at AAHOACON23, April 11-14, 2023.

The 2019 AAHOA Convention & Trade Show, AAHOA’s previous biggest show to date, which celebrated the association’s 30-year anniversary, totaled 77,500 square feet of exhibit space. This year, with many weeks remaining for industry partners to secure space, AAHOACON23 already sits at 81,900 square feet of sold exhibit space, as it has already secured a record level of booth sales for the Tradeshow.

In addition, as of February 8, AAHOA has nearly doubled the registration total of Lifetime Members compared to AAHOACON22, and the organization is still on pace to exceed 2019 registration totals of more than 8,000 attendees, with 60+ days still to go until AAHOACON23.

This is an exciting time for AAHOA, as its annual flagship event, AAHOACON, has historically been the most highly anticipated “Super Bowl” event of the industry – an event created exclusively for hotel owners, with thousands of attendees, world-class entertainment, and hundreds of vendors ready to make deals with hoteliers.

Picture : Hospitality Net

“I’ve been in the exhibition business for a long time, and I’m so impressed to see the enthusiasm, excitement, and response from vendors who are looking to do business with AAHOA Members,” said AAHOA Vice President of Business Development Dennis Smith. “Our team is thrilled to reach this historical milestone, with the ultimate goal of connecting as many AAHOA Members as possible with the product and service providers who can help them make money, save money, protect their investments, and better serve their guests.”

Over the past several decades, AAHOACON has risen to be one of the marquee events in our industry, and is known for bringing hoteliers together for networking, learning, and deal-making on the trade show floor. Each year, million-dollar buying decisions are made at AAHOACON, and with AAHOA Members spending $50 billion with suppliers each year, it’s no surprise.

“I always look forward to the industry’s Super Bowl event, and this year, as I conclude my term as AAHOA Chairman, I’m proud of the work our association has done to prepare for the event and connect even more vendors directly with decision makers,” said AAHOA Chairman Nishant (Neal) Patel. “AAHOA Members spend billions of dollars each year with suppliers, and AAHOA plays an important role in connecting hoteliers directly with those who can help them run a better, more profitable, and more efficient business – AAHOACON is where deals are made.”

In addition to a trade show of historic proportions and projected high levels of attendance, AAHOACON23 will also feature 14 must-see educational sessions, three General Sessions with world class keynote speakers (soon to be announced), and three nights filled with incredible entertainment and top-level networking. As per tradition, on the second day, AAHOACON23 will also feature speeches and debates from the candidates running for the AAHOA Board of Directors.

“Our team has been working around the clock to ensure AAHOACON23 is one of our most successful conventions to date, and I applaud the entire AAHOA Team for helping our organization reach this historical milestone,” said AAHOA President & CEO Laura Lee Blake. “We have a passionate group of team members, board members, and volunteer leaders who bring this event to life each year. As the first AAHOACON in my role as President & CEO, I have directed the team to ensure it is spectacular. I am so looking forward to meeting all of our members and industry partners, and making AAHOACON23 one for the record books.”

The Convention will also feature 14 educational sessions, three General Sessions, and three nights of entertainment and networking. As per tradition, on the second day, AAHOACON23 will also feature speeches and debates from the candidates running for the AAHOA Board of Directors.

AAHOA is the largest hotel owners association in the nation, with Member-owned properties representing a significant part of the U.S. economy. AAHOA’s 20,000 members own 60% of the hotels in the United States and are responsible for 1.7% of the nation’s GDP. More than one million employees work at AAHOA member-owned hotels, earning $47 billion annually, and member-owned hotels support 4.2 million U.S. jobs across all sectors of the hospitality industry. YouthAAHOA’s mission is to advance and protect the business interests of hotel owners through advocacy, industry leadership, professional development, member benefits, and community engagement.

Saudi Arabia To Invest $500 Billion To Build A Futuristic City In The Desert

A mega-city featuring flying cars, high-speed rail instead of roads, robot maids, a giant artificial moon, and a resort with multimillion-dollar palaces is the vision of the Saudi Arabian crown prince and prime minister, Muhammed Bin Salman (MBS).

Saudi Arabia is building a futuristic city in the middle of a vast desert— from scratch. A vital element of the country’s Vision 2030 plan, the project is the brainchild of Saudi’s de facto leader, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, also known as MBS. The site covers an area of more than 10,000 square miles, about the same size as Massachusetts. And it could cost $500 billion to complete.

“So Mohammed bin Salman wants to project himself as a liberal leader within the conservative royal family in Saudi Arabia,” Ali Dogan, research fellow at the Leibniz-Zentrum Moderner Orient institute, told CNBC in an interview. “Neom is a mega project seen in Saudi Arabia and the young Saudi population as part of this liberalization process.”

The Neom project is far from without controversy, though. Critics say it’s another attempt by the crown prince to improve his image after U.S. intelligence officials concluded he was behind the 2018 killing of journalist and Saudi dissident Jamal Khashoggi. It also is being seen by some as a way to distract attention from Saudi Arabia’s human rights record.

The Saudi government has run into several challenges which keep pushing the project completion date further into the future, leading some to question the feasibility of Neom. One of the issues stalling construction is financing and cost. In 2020, foreign direct investment in Saudi Arabia increased to $5.4 billion, despite the pandemic; however, this figure is down from 2010 when foreign investment inflows totaled nearly $16 billion. Attracting potential investors is crucial to financing such a large project. There are also concerns about the cost of Neom being much greater than the original budgeted cost. The Saudi government planned to acquire two uninhabited islands from Egypt to create an island resort, and the estimated cost for this bridge alone was nearly $125 billion.

Naturally, many people are critical of MBS’s plans to build a new mega-city in the desert. One of the biggest issues critics have had is that this investment would be better spent on existing cities and infrastructure in Saudi Arabia. The former Saudi Arabian monarch, King Abdullah, planned on building a megaproject on the Red Sea to be a new financial and trading center called the King Abdullah Economic Center. In 2005, this city was intended to have a population of millions. This project is also a decade behind schedule and only has a population of thousands as opposed to the anticipated millions of people. Many critics have cited this failed project as why Saudi Arabia should instead invest in improving its infrastructure in existing cities.

The biggest criticism of Neom is the forced relocation of the Howeitat tribespeople. The proposed site for Neom is on land that 20,000 tribespeople have lived on for centuries. In recent years, the government has evicted people from the area, usually with the help of the Saudi armed forces. Often, these evictions are met with resistance by the Howeitat tribespeople. In 2020, three tribespeople were arrested and sentenced to death for resisting their relocation. Additionally, another man, Abdul Rahim al-Howeiti, was fatally shot for protesting the government’s eviction orders. These events highlight another concern that potential investors have with the project, that being the Saudi Arabian justice system. Planning documents reveal that in Neom, all judges will be selected and appointed by the king himself.

Additionally, Neom plans to utilize AI and facial recognition technologies to monitor its inhabitants. While Neom is claiming that laws will be based on best practices in business and economic law, incidents like these, as well as those such as the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018, make potential international investors hesitant to support this ongoing project. These plans still have a long way to go, and perhaps attitudes will change as the project continues to develop.

14 January, 2023: The Life Behind a Story

set in Desaguadero, Peru, from Son’s perspective

If I am going to try to tell this story, I am going to have to be brave. He is gone now. I have nothing to fear. But Desaguadero is a very small town, and he can find me easily. I am sure he is already combing the streets, looking for any excuse to go out of his way to kill me.

The location of this story is Desaguadero. The town is on a little bit of land connecting Peru to Bolivia right on the shores of Lake Titicaca. It is not a particularly scenic location. All of the houses look like hovels eternally being expanded on, and whatever viewpoints thrust out into the lake are blocked by these architectural obstructions. It doesn’t help that the protests have completely stalled the city. The protestors have dug up the road into the city, making it impossible to go anywhere or do anything. As for the people who have to live here, they are no longer going to work. They are just standing about, looking to get into a fight with anyone who looks disagreeable to them.

Crime is the result of a lack of opportunities. Crime is the result of a lack of options.

That is how the life of Francisco, or Paco, was born.Paco, a short man with spiky straight hair. Paco, a man of brown jeans and dusty shirts. Paco, born and raised in the suburbs of Puno… the suburbs of Cusco, in the centre of Desaguadero. He knew nothing about life except that life was a game and he was dealt the losing hand. There was a lot of abuse from his mother and father, there was a lot of anger directed towards him for no other reason other that his parents didn’t know any better. There was no one to help him remember the positivities of life. And so the only feeling that came to slit into his eyes was a constant sort of anger, that made him feel that anything he did was justified, and he deserved to hurt others. And so hurt others he did…

What am I writing?  I hope he never reads this… it sounds like I am out to slander him.

Though with what he did to me I should be filing a police report instead of sitting in my hotel room typing like this.

I said what I said, and I must commit to what I said I will do. I was not trying to lie when I told him I was a writer. I have been working these days as an English teacher, but I have also worked in many different fields over the course of my life, all to hide from my one true desire: to create something, a piece of art that could only come from myself. I tried acting and it didn’t get me anywhere. I tried directing but all I got was jealousy from seeing average talents work hard and become big stars. Writing has been the thing I’ve been trying to do since I was a teen. Scribbling little thoughts,  jotting in a notebook when I get bored, imagining stories for the thrill of it. None of it led to anything significant because I was just writing for the sake of trying.

Now I have something I must write, and yet none of it is coming out of me organically.

How can I begin to even consider what life is like for a Peruvian in one of these small towns, when I’ve only been here for a week?

The cold metal against my sideburn on an otherwise balmy day. The sound of the anxious waves crashing against the land. Thick sunlight.

That is what my experience was like. That is how I know Desaguadero. There have been some protests

against some political leader that have completely stalled the country. I don’t know the politician’s name. I don’t know why people are so angry. I’m just a traveller who has had my entire itinerary upended due to political events outside of my control. Of course being stuck in a small town with no way of getting out, it makes sense I would get bored. To make myself feel like I was doing something with my life I started taking walks in random directions, thinking that nothing bad had happened to me so far, so nothing bad was going to happen at all.

What is the reason why people want to kill or rob others?

I suppose I wouldn’t know, because I’ve never lived a life in which I was taught that to do such things is a necessity.

If I had stayed in Bolivia, I would have been revelling in the beauty of Lake Titicaca right now. Copacabana is like a version of Crete made by the Incas. Amantani feels like pure old country, untouched my modern life except for all the tourists who are camping out there. The weather is a little chilly so one needs one of those wool sweaters to feel comfortable. But all around are the expanses of a lake big enough to rival an ocean. There are stout wrinkled women walking about with their grandchildren, goats chewing under the most clay-shaped looking of hills, sun-kissed earth waiting to be savoured.

I chose to travel to Peru thinking I’d soon be seeing Arequipa, and Cusco, and instead I’ve gotten stranded here, in a town with nothing to offer. I should have been listening to the travel advisories. I should have stayed in La Paz until the political situation improved.

I felt a gust outside my window, and when I went to close it, I felt like there were eyes leering at me.

Could he really be waiting for me to finish my story, so that he can come take a look at it?

Desaguadero is only a few streets big. He must know where I’m staying. Not to mention given how long the protests have been going on for, I’m not going to be able to leave in the near future. I could be stuck here for many more weeks.

He could kill me, and with all the ruckus that is happening, people would think I just went missing.

I have to breathe. Or I have to go out and tell the police.

I should tell this damn story.

Paco Julio de la Santacruz was an angry lonely man. He grew up with a lot of poverty and abuse and that caused him to hate people abnormally. He saw foreigners as all the same no matter if they were white or brown, British or Filipino. They were rich people coming to his poor part of the world, and he had no regard for their life. He had a desperate and pathetic life that caused him to act out in violence. This is why he spotted out this particular fag, saw him as a weak and easy target, and threatened his life so that he could get him to empty his wallet.

I’m going to cry. This is not because my story is any good. This is because there’s a real story I have to tell before I can go anywhere with this.

I will write the truth for myself and leave it on the page. I can always delete it after I finish writing the actual story I’m trying to tell.

I was walking on the highway promenading towards what I thought was going to lead to one of an untouched viewpoint of the lake. It did ultimately lead to something like that. There were settlements here or there, but there were also people fishing, cleaning their clothes, and bathing. The pearly milky colour of the water shimmered as the weeds caught in the still shivered in the breeze. It was a stunning sight to behold. If I had been able to explore it without any further interruption I would have told myself I had found myself a proper treasure off the beaten path, one that required much more proper uncovering later on.

Except on the way back to my hotel I heard some footsteps. And when I finally got the sense to turn around the scuffles became fast paced. Soon there was a gun to my head and a hand covering my mouth.

He said something to me, but I don’t know how to speak Spanish. When I realised that he started shouting to me in English.

Money! Money!

I knew what that meant. I gave him all that I had. But he kept shouting it.

Money! Money!

I really had nothing left. I had to take out my wallet and show it. He didn’t like something about that. He slapped me with the gun.

Tonto…

I knew enough Spanish to know he was calling me an idiot. But then he was talking so quickly, he was slurring the words around like a drunk, and more importantly he had that venomous angry look of a murderer in his eyes.

He was going to kill me.

Immediately I started crying. He didn’t know a lick of English but I had to say what I was on my mind.

Please don’t kill me. I have so much more in my life to give. You can take my money, you can take my belongings, but don’t take my life. I haven’t done any of the things that I have aspired for myself. You see sir I’m a writer. There’s a story inside of me. Deep down I know it. But I haven’t taken the time to write it yet. So if you kill me there goes my story. I’m not the only one who is gone. Everything I wanted to create is gone as well. So don’t kill me please. Por favor.

Whatever I said was probably completely muffled by his hand. Nonetheless saying something with so much anxiety anguished something inside of him. He uncovered my mouth, only to wrap his arm around my chest, and to put his gun against my chin.  I had the feeling that at any moment he was going to pull the trigger.

So suddenly I said the following.

Sir, if you don’t kill me, I will tell your story. I will write about you. I will tell the entire world about all of the things you have gone through. I will make sure that the person you are becomes recorded in history. That’s the least I can do for you. Please let me live sir. Please let me live so I can tell the world your story.

Again, I was talking to a person who knew nothing of English. Again I was talking to a man who was most likely insane and ready to kill.

And yet something about it worked. I don’t know if it were divine intervention or a change in my chances, but the feeling in the air pacified. He pushed me off away from him and started taking a long look at me.  When I looked like I was about to speak he pointed that gun again and shouted at me. Of course I ran. I ran and I ran and I got back into my hotel and I shot up to the third floor and I locked the door to my room twice and I shut every window and I hid in the bathroom, and he wasn’t there. He had left me in peace so that I could go write.

Of course now I have no money in my wallet, and the people at reception keep knocking as if they are wondering when I’ll finally tell them what disturbed me to this extent. At some point I’ll tell them.

But for now I have to write this story. My life depends on it.

1st Tourism Track Meeting Of G20 Planned In Gujarat

The inaugural G20 Sherpa meeting will take place in Rajasthan’s Udaipur area during the first week of December.

The maiden meeting under the tourism track of the G20 conference is scheduled to be held in late January or early February 2023 at Rann of Kutch, Gujarat, Union Tourism Secretary Arvind Singh announced on Friday. As India takes over G20 leadership on December 1, the bloc has scheduled more than 200 meetings across various Indian cities.

Picture : Indian Express

As India hosts the G20 summit, sustainability will be one of the main priorities, according to Union Tourism Secretary Arvind Singh. The senior was speaking with reporters on the sidelines of an event at the UN House.

Udaipur district of Rajasthan will host the first meeting of G20 in the first week of December. The meeting of the G20 Sherpa will be the first of the meetings of G20 in India, an official said. The city has started the preparations with paintings on the walls depicting Indian culture and lighting up the heritage sites of the city.

The first meeting under the tourism track will be held in late January or early February in Rann of Kutch. “The second meeting (in this category) will be held in Siliguri, the third one in Srinagar, and the fourth one in Goa,” Singh added.

The tourism secretary told reporters that the preparations for the G20 meetings are “absolutely on track”.

He took part in a roundtable conference on Sustainable Tourism which was hosted by the Ministry of Tourism at the UN House. The roundtable conference brought together industry leaders, important stakeholders, participants from the environmental conservation sector, and NGOs to discuss a way forward.

The event was held in partnership with the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) and the Responsible Tourism Society of India (RTSOI) and was in alignment with the National Strategy for Sustainable Tourism and aims to increase engagement and participation of industry stakeholders in developing the sustainability of the tourism sector. Arvind Singh further added that it’s high time that India takes the leadership position in responsible tourism.

Neeraj Chopra is Switzerland Tourism’s Friendship Ambassador

Switzerland Tourism appoints Olympic Gold medalist Neeraj Chopra as its Friendship Ambassador. Chopra has often travelled to Switzerland for tournaments and training but this time, after his season ended, the Indian sports icon spent his days relaxing in the country while doing what he loves best – getting the adrenaline pumping! Among the top destinations that Chopra visited were Interlaken, Zermatt and Geneva.

As Switzerland Tourism’s ‘Friendship Ambassador’, Chopra will share his experiences in the country to showcase it as the ideal destination for outdoors and the best destination for hiking, biking, soft and extreme adventure and of course snow sports, for everyone be it beginners or seasoned pros.

“Switzerland is my favorite international holiday destination! It’s so beautiful everywhere you look! It was great spending time exploring the country after the season. I also wanted to show this country to my friends and family. It was the best place to relax after a hectic season for me. You feel refreshed anywhere in the country whether you are out in the mountains or even just strolling in the city! I But what got me excited was chance to experience the adventurous side of the country with my closest friends.

“I was thrilled to show them Interlaken and Zermatt which are well known for their adventure activities but also that it’s possible to enjoy the outdoors in Geneva which is Switzerland’s second-largest city. We tried everything from canyon swing to river rafting to paragliding and skydiving amongst other activities. And of course, it helps to know that Switzerland is the safest place for all sorts of adventure sports!” expressed Chopra.

Misha Gambetta, Director-India of Switzerland Tourism said, “India is a very important long-haul market for us! And it’s great to have a friendship ambassador from India representing Switzerland. Neeraj is an Indian icon and a very outdoorsy person, and he will be the perfect person to showcase the sporty and outdoor side of Switzerland as well as allow us to promote lesser-known sides of the country. We look forward to working towards a successful campaign with him.”

The athlete also donated his gold-winning javelin to The Olympic Museum in Lausanne, Switzerland in September this year. The museum founded by the International Olympic Committee in 1993 showcases the richness and diversity of Olympism through history, culture, design, technology, and sociology with sports as the main element. Mary Kom’s gloves as well as Dhyan Chand’s hockey was already a part of the exhibits at the Museum. (IANS)

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