Category: Destinations

FIFA World Cup 2022 Qatar: How Dubai will benefit

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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While the UAE did not make the cut for the World Cup in Qatar, they stand to benefit greatly from an influx of spectators in their hotels, restaurants, and transportation options.

It is believed that fans would choose to remain in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, rather than in small Gulf neighbour Qatar, for the duration of the event in November and December.

Many analysts believe that fans would flock to Dubai instead of Qatar because of the country’s high lodging rates and the city’s more liberal climate, which includes a greater supply of alcohol.

At least 30 round-trip flights per day will be operated by FlyDubai to Doha, which is just an hour’s drive and is part of a total of 160 shuttle routes from towns in the asset Gulf.

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The gain in wealth or prosperity

Some cultural norms in Dubai, such as those regarding alcohol use and modesty in dress, are more permissive than in other places.

Just two years have passed since Doha and the UAE were at loggerheads over a regional embargo that separated Qatar from its neighbours, and yet the country stands to reap significant economic benefits and reflect considerable reflected glory from hosting the very first World Cup on Arab territory.

According to the Dubai Sports Council, the city might see as many as one million World Cup visitors. Given that Qatar anticipates a comparable amount, the forecast may be too optimistic.

Still, the city of Dubai is getting ready with fan zones established in parks, beaches, the financial district, and hotels offering discounted rates.

Shuttle flights and transportation to and from the airport and designated fan areas are included in such packages.

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With a World Cup ticket, visitors visiting the United Arab Emirates may get a multiple-entry visa for only 100 dirhams ($27).

Riders on the World Cup subway

It’s safe to assume that the influx of World Cup visitors to Dubai won’t be the sole source of transportation in the city. Innumerable individuals from all walks of life have travelled great distances in hopes of seeing this unforgettable event.

Among the reasons given for preferring to remain in Dubai during the games, ‘convenience’ was highlighted by Expat Sport, an organisation authorised by FIFA to offer match luxury packages for the Doha tournament.

The proximity of the two cities, with just an hour separating them by air, and the availability of frequent shuttle service between them.

In Dubai, football fans will have their own hotel on the artificial Palm island, which is designed like a frond.

ALSO READ: Travel now, pay Later: 5 things you need to know before opting for the scheme

Bookings from countries including Mexico, the United Kingdom, Europe, and India have increased recently. In such a short time, we anticipate having all available room nights reserved.

Sheikh Mohammed, Emir of Dubai and Vice President of the United Arab Emirates, stated on Sunday that hotel occupancy rates in the UAE are already 40% higher than they were before COVID-19 struck in 2019, with a “great tourist performance” predicted this winter.

Official statistics show that as of May, Dubai was home to 769 hotels totalling more than 140,000 guest rooms, a considerable increase from the beginning of the year.

Doha, a metropolis of 2.4 million, will get shuttle flights from Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Oman to ease the burden on available lodging.

Nonetheless, compared to other Gulf nations, Dubai has an edge due to its already substantial status as a tourism hotspot.

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

3 Mins Read

Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

The increasing popularity of South Korea as a student exchange destination

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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South Korea, a little nation in the middle of Asia, appears often in the media. Whether it’s the country’s tumultuous relationship with its northern neighbour, the global popularity of K-pop, the excellence of Korean dramas, the deliciousness of Korean cuisine, or the country’s astounding 97% Internet penetration rate, South Korea is seldom out of the news.

The Republic of Korea, from which sprung such multinational conglomerates as Samsung, Hyundai, KIA, etc., is widely admired not just for its prodigiously successful businesses but also for its highly educated populace (98% literacy rate) and sophisticated work culture.

In recent years, South Korea has gained widespread attention as a promising new location for overseas students to pursue higher education. The world’s 10th biggest economy is quickly becoming a top destination for international students, thanks to the inclusion of at least 40 institutions in the most recent QS Rankings list.

Squid Game, a smashing success on Netflix in South Korea, starred Anupam Tripathi, an Indian actor, as Abdul Ali. Tripathi attended Korea University in Seoul on a full scholarship.

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India’s foreign ministry has estimated that there are over 1,300 Indian scholars now enrolled in universities in South Korea. So, why has it suddenly become everyone’s favourite place to further their foreign education?

Optimal educational benchmarks

Higher education in South Korea is renowned for its strict adherence to academic standards. The nation is a major economic player, and it requires a trained labour force in order to maintain its current rate of success.

In terms of the number of articles included in the Science Citation Index in 2021, South Korea placed 13th worldwide. South Korean universities provide instruction in a diverse array of fields, including but not limited to the arts and design, economics and business, science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. In South Korea, there are three tiers of universities and colleges that provide advanced degrees. Universities often provide programs leading to the master’s and doctorate levels.

There are national universities that are controlled by the federal government, public universities that are run by state or regional governments, and private colleges that are funded by charitable organisations. According to QS World University Rankings, Seoul National University has the highest concentration of foreign students. The Korea Advanced Institute, Yonsei University, and Korea University are just a few more of the country’s excellent educational institutions.

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The education ministry specifies precise standards for schools on faculty makeup, curriculum, infrastructure, and degree conferral, among other things, in order to preserve the best quality of education.

Most colleges and institutions offer classes taught in English. Many colleges and universities now provide basic Korean language classes for non-native speakers. With its Study in Korea program, the Korean government hopes to attract 200,000 foreign students to enrol in Korean colleges by 2023.

Cost-effective housing, tuition, and subsidies

The cost of life and education in South Korea is low. Tuition is the single largest expenditure for every overseas student. Scholarships to enrol in South Korea are widely offered to students from India. Financial aid is available for Indian students studying in Korea via programs like the Global Korea Scholarship and the Asian Students’ Scholarship in Korea.

In addition, students often rely on internships and part-time work to help them pay for school. Working hours are limited to 20 per week while in school but are unrestricted when on vacation with a D-2 Student Visa for South Korea. When they graduate, students may apply for the D-10 visa that would allow them to begin their job search immediately.

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To facilitate the immigration of foreign students interested in studying the entertainment and cultural industries, the government plans to develop the ‘Hallyu visa,’ which is equivalent to the UK’s HPI visa. The term ‘Hallyu,’ which means ‘Korean wave’ in English, is often used to attract more top performers from across the world.

‘K-pop’ and ‘K-dramas’ have given Korea a lot of soft power.

Global audiences are huge fans of Korean media and entertainment. South Korean culture has spread over the globe because of exports like K-pop, K-drama, and Korean cuisine, notably in India. BTS and BLACKPINK both have huge followings in India.

Netflix found that interest in Korean dramas in India has increased by 370 percent in the last year. In part because of South Korea’s soft power, members of Generation Z are following their interests and visiting or studying in the nation.

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Safety considerations and other aspects have also been important. On the Secure Cities Index 2021, South Korea’s capital, Seoul, placed 25th, indicating that the nation is generally safe.

One of Asia’s most developed economies, South Korea ranks fourth in the region. A centre of scientific discovery and technology development. Students looking to launch an international career will find the country’s extensive and diverse business sector to be an interesting and promising option.

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

3 Mins Read

Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

US visa wait time for Indian citizens to be reduced by mid-2023

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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A senior official at the US embassy stated on Thursday that the number of people waiting for American visas is estimated to reach approximately 1.2 million by the summer of 2023. Washington places a premium on its relationship with India (for visa issuance). By midway through 2019, the official added, they hoped to get things back to how they were before Covid-19.

When limitations on travel due to the coronavirus were eased, India was one of the only nations to see a significant increase in applications for US visas.

Also Read: All packed but still waiting? All you need to know about travel plans impacted by visa delays

The US is expanding the number of “dropbox” locations and adding additional staff in light of the lengthy wait times for visa issuance, the source said.

The goal is to hand out 100,000 visas each and every month.

According to the source, the United States has prioritised H (H1B) and L (L) category visas for Indians, and approximately 1,000,000 spots were issued lately for individuals seeking to renew their visas.

Some categories’ wait times have been reduced from 450 days to nine months or less.

The officials also said that the nine-month wait period for B1 and B2 (commercial and tourist) visas is being reduced. The source said that India will overtake China to become the second country to get the most visas from the United States. As of right now, China and Mexico have surpassed India.

The source also said that priority is being given to students’ visas in order to reduce waiting times, particularly for those students seeking renewals. The US Department of State’s “drop box” service is what foreign nationals utilise to renew their visas without having to undergo the traditional visa interview.

Also Read: UAE changes visa rules: Here is what you need to know

All candidates who have received a US visa within the past four years are qualified to use the drop box service. In the last year, the United States has granted around 82,000 visas.

Approximately 1.2 million visas might be issued to Indian citizens by next summer, according to officials. The problem of lengthy US visa queues has been raised by India with the United States.

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

3 Mins Read

Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

United Kingdom to get the first Jumanji theme park

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Can you recall the exciting events in the movie Jumanji, particularly Alan Parrish’s efforts to escape the board game? Most of us remember viewing that adventure film as kids and thinking it was both thrilling and terrifying.

There was a time when it was a popular action-adventure film starring Robin Williams plus a few hordes of CGI beasts. After then, a new version (and sequel) with The Rock, Jack Black, and a slew of incredibly realistic computer-generated animals made for a hilarious comedic escapade. And now the UK is getting its very own Jumanji rollercoaster, fashioned like a jaguar!

The announcement of a Globe of Jumanji theme park at Chessington World of Adventures, in partnership with Sony Pictures Entertainment, the film company behind the brand, is making headlines throughout the world.

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Within Chessington proper, a £17 million construction called World of Jumanji is the first ever Jumanji-themed site at an amusement park.

The concept graphic shows an impressive 55-foot reproduction of the Jaguar Shrine from Jumanji: Welcome to Jungle, but details on what will be inside are still a bit murky, with the press release promising ‘wild rides, exciting attractions, and drama-filled experiences.

According to the film, this was formerly the residence of the legendary Jaguar’s Eye. There was a central concept in the movie about returning the diamond and breaking a curse, and it seems like that’s going to be the case here as well (at least while you’re not on the rollercoaster).

The park’s development will cost about £17 million, and it will include several activities that appeal to visitors of all ages. This park is sure to amaze youngsters of all ages, and it will bring adults back to their own carefree days.

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Also, the park’s Chessington Zoo houses over a thousand animals, including Sumatran tigers and sea lions. Even though Chessington Adventure Resort currently stands as one of the top adventure parks in the world, the new Jumanji park will only make it better.

For those who have never been, Chessington is a theme park near Kingston upon Thames that has forty different rides and attractions in addition to a zoo, an aquarium, and two hotels. The cheapest available tickets cost £36.

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

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Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

Top 5 things you should consider before deciding on workation in Ladakh

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Tired of working indoors when you can be laying on the grass under the bright blue sky or playing on the beach or warming yourself in a fireplace whilst watching snow-capped mountains? With the remote working setup, digital nomad lifestyle and freelance employment type, you can work from absolutely anywhere. It’s time to leverage this opportunity in your favour. What if we told you that you can work from the highest peak in the world, enjoy the picturesque landscape and still make money? Let’s show you the top five things you need to know for your next workation trip to Ladakh.

Best time to visit

If you are not familiar with freezing cold and your body doesn’t respond to cold, you might want to stay in Ladakh between June and September. Even during this time, it is advisable for you to carry warm wear, as the nights may be cold. If you want to enjoy the wintry abode during its peak winter, then pack as many layers as possible, because it’ll be terribly cold even in the mornings.

Stays and food

There are plenty of affordable accommodations for you if you travel alone or with a partner. For one person, dorms are available at INR 400/day and nominal hotel rooms can cost around INR 1500/day. Based on the amenities you want, the style you prefer and the location you need, pricing will vary. All hostels or stays have a restaurant or fully functioning kitchen, so food won’t be a problem. However, if you want to try other authentic food varieties of the region, you can try the local cafes or restaurants. If you are working during the day, the hostel or stay itself provides breakfast and lunch, so you don’t miss working hours in search of food.

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Internet

Most accommodations have free stable Internet connectivity, however, it’s best to check with them for the speed of the Internet. In Leh and other commercial centres of Ladakh, you can expect good WiFi and mobile connectivity, where you can even use your hotspot if there’s a glitch in the WiFi. An important point to be noted here is that the state of Jammu and Kashmir does not allow prepaid SIM cards in their region, so you need to switch your prepaid to postpaid before coming to Ladakh.

BSNL, the national telecom provider, has a stronghold in Ladakh, followed by Airtel. Jio connection is available but its bandwidth has to be checked with the host or stay owner beforehand.

With Ladakh becoming a preferred workation spot, a lot of people are flocking towards the serene spot. So, there might be a competition to get connected to the Internet during working hours. If you start working earlier than the rest, you can finish important tasks before others start consuming the Internet.

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Ergonomics

Based on your choice of accommodation, you might have varying amenities. It’s better to carry a slim portable table so that you are ergonomically supported during the workation and your back doesn’t feel pressured.

Transport

Due to Ladakh being a difficult terrain, transportation cost is very high. If you can bargain and get your way, the better. If you bring your own vehicle, much of your transport cost can be curtailed. If not, it’s best to optimally plan your stay and travel so as to minimise spending on transport alone.

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Venturing out

Days are longer in Ladakh during summer. So, you can venture out after a hectic workday, to witness the snow-capped mountains, or tranquil monasteries or just absorb the breathtaking beauty of the place, and travel extensively during the weekends.

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

3 Mins Read

Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

IRCTC brings budget winter tour packages for Rajasthan; check details

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Winter is the best time to visit Rajasthan, which is also known as the Land of the Kings. If you are planning a winter vacation with your family or friends, IRCTC has brought some budget-friendly tours for you.

The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), a subsidiary of Indian Railways, has introduced some of the cheapest and best options to visit Rajasthan. Here is a look at some of the most budget-friendly options.

Jaipur-Ajmer-Pushkar- Udaipur-Jaipur (NJH074): Starting from Rs 9,715.

The tour for 4 Nights/5 Days includes some of the most popular and scenic cities of Rajasthan. The starting price of the budget tour is Rs 9,715 and the upcoming date of the journey is November 21.

Overview of the tour

The tour covers four popular destinations of Rajasthan including Jaipur, Ajmer, Pushkar, and Udaipur.

Jaipur, popularly known as the Pink City, is the capital and largest city of Rajasthan that reflects the taste of the Rajputs and the royal families and the package includes sightseeing of Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, City Palace and Amer Fort.

Ajmer is surrounded by the Aravalli Mountains, and the city is an oasis wrapped in green hills, the package includes a visit to the Dargah Sharif.

Pushkar is one of the oldest cities in India, which lies on the shore of Pushkar Lake. The package includes sightseeing and a visit to Eklingji and Haldighati.

The last destination is Udaipur also known as the City of Lakes. Travellers will get a chance to visit the City Palace and Saheliyon ki Bari.

The package includes:

Pick up and drop to Railway Station/Bus Stand/Airport and Sightseeing in AC Cab.

4 Breakfasts only.

AC accommodation in hotels.

Jaipur- Ranthambore-Jaipur (NJH089): Starting from Rs 6,495

The tour for 2 Nights and 3 Days is an exclusive opportunity to visit one of the biggest and most renowned national parks in India. The nearest date of the journey for this tour is November 21.

The National Park is in the Sawai Madhopur district of southeastern Rajasthan, is famous for its tiger population. Travellers will get to see Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar and City Palace in Jaipur along with Jal Mahal, Nahargarh Fort and Amer Fort. In Ranthambore, travellers will get to do an early morning safari and sightseeing of Ranthambore Fort. However, the tour price does not include the cost of the Jungle Safari at Ranthambore National Park.

The package includes:

Pick up and drop to Railway Station/Bus Stand/Airport and Sightseeing in AC Cab.

2 Breakfasts.

AC accommodation in hotels.

Toll, parking, and all applicable taxes for the above services.

Jaipur-Ajmer-Pushkar-Udaipur-Jodhpur-Jaipur (NJH078): Starting from Rs 1,4650

The tour for 6 nights and 7 days brings an opportunity to travel to some of the most scenic and historic places in Rajasthan, including Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, Dargah Sharif and Umaid Bhawan Museum. The nearest date of the journey is November 21.

Apart from Ajmer, Pushkar and Udaipur, travellers will get a chance to visit Jodhpur which is known as the ‘Sun City’ for the bright, sunny weather it enjoys all year.

Package Includes:

Pick up and drop to Railway Station/Bus Stand/Airport and Sightseeing in AC Cab.

6 Breakfasts only.

AC accommodation in hotels.

Toll, parking and all applicable taxes for the above services.

NOTE

For all the above-mentioned tour packages, the price does not include:

Any Train/ Air fare.

Any portage at hotels, tips, insurance, mineral water, telephone charges, laundry, and all items of personal nature.

Any still / video camera fees or any activities suggested in the itinerary are chargeable direct.

Any additional meals/meals, sightseeing and activities other than those mentioned in the itinerary.

Monument entry fees.

Any service not specified in inclusions.

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

3 Mins Read

Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

The 5 most memorable road trips in Rajasthan

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Most of the images that come to mind when we think about Rajasthan include deserts, castles, garrisons, and the region’s rich cultural heritage. The food of Rajasthan has become a popular topic of conversation. As a travel enthusiast, you already know how incredible road journeys in Rajasthan can be. Taking a road trip is a fantastic way to see a lot of different sights. You may decide between day tours and multi-day excursions. You may also plan your road journey throughout this beautiful state with the use of a Rajasthan road map. Here are a few examples of fantastic road excursions you may take in Rajasthan.

I. From New Delhi to Jaipur

Your travel from Delhi to Rajasthan will begin in Delhi, and the drive to the state capital of Jaipur should take around 5 hours. It’s one of the finest road trips since you can leave Delhi before sunrise and be in Jaipur before lunchtime. Many of the Pink City’s sights may be seen in one day. Along the route, you’ll find a number of convenient stops where you may rest and get some refreshments. The journey can be completed in only two days, making it ideal for a weekend getaway.

Travelling from Delhi to Jaipur will take you 281 kilometres.

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Pataudi, Bhiwadi, Neemrana Fort, Alwar Fort, and Sariska Tiger Reserve are a few stops along the way from Delhi to Jaipur (Alwar)

Old Rao Dhaba (Bhiwadi), Haldiram’s, Just Desi (Kotputili, Rajasthan), Rtdc Midway Cafe & Motel (Behror), and Kotputili (Rajasthan) are some of the best restaurants in the area.

2. Traveling from Jaisalmer to Jodhpur

One of the most enjoyable road trips is between Jaisalmer and Jodhpur. From the “golden city” to the “blue city,” you’ll pass through several small towns and get a glimpse of rural Rajasthan.  Longewala, Pokharan, Tanot Mata Temple, Khichan, and Osian are just a few of the sights you may see on your excursion. In Jodhpur, you may see the Umaid Bhavan Palace, Rao Jodha Desert Park, Jaswant ThadaMehrangarh Fort, etc.

The road trip from Jaisalmer to Jodhpur is 281.3 kilometres.

Along the route from Jaisalmer to Jodhpur, you may stop at the Tanot Mata Temple, the Longewala, the Pokharan Fort, Osian, Khichan, the Mehrangarh Fort, the Jaisalmer Fort, and the Umaid Bhawan Palace.

Also Read: Royal cities in India: Visit these destinations that were once ruled by Maharajas

Motel Pokaran Rtdc Midway and Manvar Resort are three of the finest dining establishments in the area (Jodhpur-Jaisalmer Highway)

3. Traveling from Udaipur to Pushkar

It’s possible to take a lengthy yet fascinating road journey from Udaipur to Pushkar. You should expect it to take you approximately 5-6 hours to make the trip there and back, maybe a bit more if you stop for food and rest along the way. Start off in Udaipur and make a pit break in Ranakpur to see the beautiful Jain temple there. In addition to the over 400 temples in Pushkar, the nearby city of Ajmer is also worth seeing.

Two hundred and seventy-seven kilometres separate Udaipur from Pushkar.

Pushkar Lake, the Varaha Temple, Brahma’s Temple, Merta City, Naga Pahar, Mahadev Temple, Lake Pichola, Saheliyon Ki Bari, Lake Palace, and many more attractions may be seen along the route from Udaipur to Pushkar.

Khamma Ghani, The Foodflix, Shree Bherunath, Yashika Resort, Jammu Himachal, Annpurana, and Jammu Himachal are some of the best restaurants in the area.

4. Traveling from Chittorgarh to the Kumbhalgarh Fort

The drive between the forts of Chittorgarh and Kumbhalgarh will be an unforgettable experience. If you like exploring forts, your experience will be unforgettable. Travellers may enjoy the sights of temples like the Ranakpur Jain temple and others along the route to Kumbhalgarh. Chittorgarh and Kumbhalgarh both provide a wide range of sights and activities for visitors. Palaces and forts made of stone at these two locations include intricate carvings and stunning architecture that will leave you in awe. The Aravalli Mountains provide a stunning backdrop for the already stunning Kumbhalgarh Fort.

Chittorgarh is 163.9 kilometers away from Kumbhalgarh.

From Chittorgarh to Kumbhalgarh, there are many historical sites to see, including the forts and palaces along the way.

Also Read: From Lake Naini to China Peak: Visiting the Indian lake district of Nainital

Chittorgarh Fort Haveli, 1458 AD Kumbhalgarh & Restaurant, Vinayak Restaurant, and Pangat Restaurant are some of the finest dining establishments in the area.

5. From Udaipur to Abu Mount

Travelling to Mount Abu by car from Udaipur is likely to be a soothing experience. Since there is just one hill station in all of Rajasthan, Mount Abu was traditionally a summer retreat for the state’s royal family. Today, visitors come from all over the world to see the site. Mount Abu is a popular tourist destination because of its beautiful lakes, ancient temples, and mild climate. To go to Mount Abu from Udaipur would take around three hours of travel time. Mount Abu is also a fantastic destination for outdoor activities like hiking and camping.

A total of 163 kilometres separate Udaipur and Mount Abu.

Sirohi National Park, Udaipur City Palace, Ranakpur Temple, Kumbhalgarh Fort, The trading center in Pali, and Rajsamand Lake are only a few of the attractions between Udaipur and Mount Abu.

Restaurants like Hotel Kunal’s, Jodhpur Bhojnalaya, Gyan Sarovar’s, Wok by the Lake, and Jhumar’s are some of the best in the area.

You can’t take a road trip across Rajasthan without being immersed in the region’s history, culture, and rich tradition. Because of this, a trip to this area will be full of interesting experiences. The indigenous culture of Rajasthan takes great pleasure in welcoming and accommodating visitors, making every road journey across the state an enjoyable experience.

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

3 Mins Read

Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

From Changlang in Arunachal Pradesh to J&K’s Ice Kingdom – 5 destinations ideal for Digital Detox

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Living without the Internet in this day and age, when everything that takes our eye is a possible Instagram post, is like being in a real-life horror film. Have you ever been doing something completely outside of the virtual environment when you suddenly felt the want to check your phone to see whether you’d missed something important?

Our constant connectedness may be wearing us down. The terrible aspect is that even when on vacation, we feel obligated to keep our “friends” in the loop about what we are up to and how much fun we are having. But if we are on vacation to relax and recharge our own batteries, why do people feel this pressure? Yet every time we are served a tasty dish or see a breathtaking sunrise or sunset, the first thing we do is go into our pockets for our “smartphones” and snap a photo instead of savouring the experience and taking it all in with our own two eyes. In our pursuit of what society considers to be the “ideal” existence, we are neglecting the basics.

Some of us may find this to be the perfect solution. We have compiled a set of locations with spotty mobile phones and internet connections, providing you with the ideal pretext for taking a quick getaway. Allow us to handle it in your stead.

Also Read: Exciting journeys between hill destinations and remote locations of Uttarakhand

Here are 5 locations where you won’t have any network coverage—ideal for a digital detox.

1.  The town of Changlang in Arunachal Pradesh

Tourism to the North Atlantic’s outlying islands has been on the upswing as of late. Many people have been drawn to Arunachal Pradesh recently because of its vast, untouched beauty. Given the great lengths, one must go to reach their objective via road, there are still many uncharted regions.

Changlang is one such stunning location. There are several interesting locations, such as the “Lake of No Return” and the “Hell’s Pass” town. It’s OK to ignore a call from the city when nature beckons, I’m sure.

2. Kheerganga in the state of Himachal Pradesh

Kheerganga, far from the noise of the city, is perched on one of Himachal Pradesh’s highest peaks and is only accessible by a two-hour hike. Any car will only transport you to Barshaini, where your only option will be to rely on your own calf muscles. Once you make it to the top, you’ll find a gorgeous meadow that’s full of friendly faces and good energy. There are towering mountains on all sides, and a nearby hot spring beckons weary travellers to relax in its soothing waters.

Also Read: Unwind with Stone Therapy at these 4 spas in India

In Keerganga, you can expect a relaxing vacation with no cell phone reception. You may utilize Freecharge vouchers to get your devices up and running again after you’ve returned to regular society.

3. J&K’s Ice Kingdom in Zanskar

Jammu & Kashmir often referred to as “paradise on earth,” is dotted with several tourist hotspots. But the Ice Kingdom is really awe-inspiring and a natural wonder. This place appears like it may have been plucked right out of an “Ice Age” movie. The most exciting aspect about going there is… In the rapids, you may ride a raft. It may seem scary, what with the freezing water and the 28 kilometres of rapids, yet you can do it without any problems at all.

4. Chitkul, located in the state of Himachal Pradesh

How does a trip to the final hamlet before entering Tibet seem like a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life? Chitkul, far from the beaten path of popular tourist destinations like Himachal and Manali, offers a view that is unforgettable. This community is far off from any economic activity, and hence, their prying eyes.

5. The Sikkimese town of Lungthung-Dhupidhara

Sikkim, the snow-covered region, is an ideal vacation destination. The Lungthung-Dhupidhara area of Sikkim is something that everyone should see at least once in their lives, even if the more popular tourist destinations are already packed. From this side of Sikkim, you can also see the Kanchenjunga range in all its stunning glory.

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If you have been needing a break from your always buzzing phone and your laptop’s inability to connect to a Wi-Fi network, you’ve found it. As there is no data service available in this area, you will be limited to taking pictures with your phone or camera. As such, by all means, disconnect from society.

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Zalipie, a rare gem! Wonderful flower paintings adorn every surface of this tranquil Polish village

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Hidden in Lesser Poland, nestled among the greenery, Mia and I embarked upon a journey to uncover this concealed treasure trove. It was 2016 and I had just met her in a hostel in Krakow with a book about Poland in her hand. She was from Japan, travelling across the country. I was just in the city for a couple of days. I took interest in the book she was reading and she told me about the rare places mentioned there. Her eyes were set on the beautiful floral pics. The place was a small village where we had to go by bus. I, as usual, was always game for an adventurous trip to nowhere. With no further ado, we set out on the voyage to the unknown. What we found out, still burns fresh in my memories like a sweet perfume, and whenever I need respite, they take me back to a tranquil place of comfort.

Located in Dbrowa County in the Lesser Poland Voivodeship in southeastern Poland, the little hamlet of Zalipie is a rural community. Nearby cities include Olesno, located 5 km (3 miles) to the west, Dbrowa Tarnowska, located 8 km (5 miles) to the north-west, and Kraków, the regional capital, located 68 km (42 miles) to the east.

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The houses are famously painted with regional designs. Among the finest instances of this custom is the house where the Polish artist.

Zalipie is a remote Maopolska town located about 35 km north of Tarnów, and it is here that Polish folk art practices are possibly the most vibrant. Zalipie is one of the most gorgeous sites you can ever brandish a camera, thanks to the ladies who have been decorating their houses with vibrant, flowery designs since the late 19 Century.

What’s the story behind the town’s colourful moniker?

It is a longstanding custom in this community, affectionately referred to as ‘The Painted Village,’ to paint elaborate flower designs on any unfinished surface of stone or wood. Although there is little evidence to back up the legend, it is often held that the practice of spraying flowers on one’s walls dates back to the days when smoke and soot emanated from everyone’s modest wood-burning stoves. Women in Zalipie simply painted flowers over the soot stains that emerged on the outside and interior walls of their houses. Brushes were fashioned from cow hair, and paint was made from lard and food colouring.

This delightfully distinct custom was eventually handed down from one age to the next. As women looked to the outdoors and local legends for subject matter, their paintings grew in scale and vibrancy.

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Even while Zalipie is famous all throughout Poland and makes for a great Instagram photo op, it is still somewhat off from the typical tourist route, so you can expect to be greeted with friendly faces and plenty of questions from the locals. Residents are kind and often welcome tourists inside their houses to show off their collections of art.

A Polish woman saw us and invited us to her home. She didn’t know much English but we still spoke in gestures. She served us some tea and showed us the art she made. We bought a few souvenirs for ourselves- some things I still hold precious in my collection of items from different countries.

Wreaths and garlands painted on the walls, ceilings, beams, and flowers decorating the stoves, tablecloths, fireplaces, doorframes, pots, and vases are all possibilities. Straw spiders strung from the rafters and colourful paper flowers may also be seen as works of handicraft, often found in proximity to or even under holy symbols. If you have a car as well as some time to see Poland, you should definitely add this peaceful wonder to your itinerary, since there are few travel experiences more true to life.

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KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

In Singapore? Check out these top 3 activities to do

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

Listen to the Article (6 Minutes)

Despite its relatively modest size in comparison to other Asian nations, Singapore has a great deal to offer visitors from all walks of life, whether they’re looking to save money or splurge. Because of its compact size, the city-state may be explored thoroughly in a few days by visitors of any and all interests.

When travelling independently or as a woman, Singapore is among the safest destinations. Listed here are some of the top activities to do and items to bring with you on a trip to Singapore. You hate packing, right? Using a tech survival kit and other checklists might help you remember all that has to be done.

The Top 3 Activities in Singapore

1. View the waterfront at Marina Bay Sands

The Marina Bay Sands is a world-famous hotel that you’ve definitely heard of or seen. Anyone visiting Singapore for the sights, shops, or food must stop by this edifice. The infamous infinity rooftop pool is open to hotel guests alone. SkyPark Observation Deck is located immediately next to the pool, and it may be accessed for a modest price. 

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The scenery is breathtaking at any time of day, but on cool evenings everything really comes alive. Locals typically recommend taking a walk along the Marina Bay promenade after dark since the view is more picturesque and there are light displays.

The nicest aspect of staying in Marina Bay is its proximity to other popular tourist destinations including The Fullerton Hotel, Gardens by the Bay, and the Esplanade. You should put on sunscreen if you intend to do a lot of walking about throughout the day.

If you’re planning a trip to Singapore, keep in mind that the temperature may get to a scorching 34 degrees celsius, so pack light, loose-fitting clothing.

2. Try the local cuisine

The fact that four big races are held in Singapore is quite remarkable. That’s why it’s great that there are so many cuisines to choose from. Little India, Chinatown, and Kampong Glam are the three districts to see in Singapore if you’re pressed for time. In these districts, you may sample dishes and pick up mementoes that are exclusive to Singapore’s many different ethnic groups.

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In case any of the food outlets or smaller stores you want to visit don’t take credit cards or other forms of contactless payment, it’s a good idea to be prepared with cash. When packing for Singapore, don’t forget to bring along any necessary electronic accessories, such as a portable charger.

3. Go shopping for unique items

As was previously noted, shopping in Singapore is diverse and accessible to a wide range of visitors’ wallets. Orchard Road is famous for its abundance of malls selling high-end goods from well-known companies, as well as its abundance of smaller, locally-owned businesses selling unique, handmade goods. Design Orchard is another option if you’re interested in purchasing locally-made goods.

If your trip to Singapore involves a weekend, you won’t have any trouble finding exciting activities to partake in. While masks are no longer required in private spaces in Singapore, they are nonetheless mandatory on public transportation and in certain hospitals.

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KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow