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Are You Ready To Eat Sadhya? Image source Hindustan Times on Google Sadhya is not an easy dish, it often means hours of work in a humid kitchen, grinding coconuts and spices, slicing bananas and starring pots of payasam. Worry not. There is a ready-to-eat Onam hack to the rescue. The pack by Kerala-based packaged food and meals company Tasty Nibbles comes with 13 dishes--cooked Matta rice, sambhar, avail, loan, kalan, koottu curry, cabbage thoran, tender mango pickle, banana chips, puli inji, and three varieties of instant payasam and it has an 18-month shelf life. All you need to do is open up the packets, heat them in boiling water and lay out your banana leaves for the meal. The Sadya pack costs Rs. 1,500 and can be ordered online. The Non-Vegetarian Sadhya While the Onam Sadhya is largely regarded as a vegetarian meal, in some parts of Kerala, the Sadhya is incomplete without non-vegetarian elements. In parts of Kannur and the Malabar region, an Onam Sadhya can include fried fish or prawns, as well as chicken, mutton and beef appetisers. The Raw Onam Sadhya Though an Onam Sadhya is considered a healthy meal, given its balance of nutrients and flavours, some take it a notch higher by keeping the Sadhya completely raw. Pathayam (Press Road, near Secretariat Statue, Palayam, Thiruvananthapuram; call 8921645056), an organic and raw food restaurant in Thiruvananthapuram, offers a raw Onam Sadhya for a detox. Rice flakes mixed with nuts are used in place of boiled rice, and the vegetable preparations are replaced with salads of sprouts and grated carrots. Also, the showstopping payasam is made by mixing jaggery powder, coconut milk and fruits. If you’re inclined to experiments of this sort, you could celebrate this Onam with some elements of the Sadhya turned raw. The In-Flight Sadhya. The Emirates Onam Sadhya The Akasa Air Onam specialsIt’s not uncommon for airlines to celebrate Onam mid-air. Emirates, for instance, has provided an in-flight Onam Sadhya for years. This year, the airline is offering its special Sadhya onboard flights on the Kochi-Dubai and Thiruvananthapuram-Dubai routes. The elaborate meal includes all the Onam classics, like sharara upperi, kaalan, cucumber pachadi, inji puli, avial and eriserry, along with non-vegetarian options like chicken and mutton sukha. And, of course, there’s also palada pradhaman and parippu payasam to wrap up the meal. Akasa Air is also providing Onam specials onboard all its flights in August.

Thailand is a tropical destination that has a specific period when it's best to visit. The ideal time to visit Thailand is from December to March. However, even on the sunniest days, a short and heavy downpour can occur. The rainy season is from May to October. During this period, monsoons blow in from all directions, and the rain is heavy and sporadic in the first few months, while in the final months of the rainy season, it's more consistent. Thailand's shoulder season is from April to June and then again from September to October. The temperature peaks country-wide around April. You don't have to compete for a prime spot on the best beaches in Thailand and go with the hotel rates that will be lower. However, business and ferry services on the smaller Islands, especially on the Andaman Sea side, will shit down as the low season approaches. The period from September to October falls with heavy rain but fewer crowds. If you're looking for the cheapest time to visit Thailand, it coincides with the rainy season. If you're willing to deal with unpredictable weather, you could bag a few hotel deals visiting Thailand during this time. We recommend going during the shoulder season. The best Thai islands in the Gulf of Thailand, such as Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao, get less rain than the rest of the country, even in the rainy season. They're at their best from the end of January until mid-March. The freshest month is January, great for after the Christmas and NYE party chaos. February is the driest month, one of the sunniest, and the heat is still bearable. March is sunny and dry too. The European and American summer break crowds hit the Gulf islands (Koh Samui, Koh Pha-Ngan, and Koh Tao) in July-August, so heading here in September usually hits the sweet spot for both crowds and weather. Over on Thailand's west coast and the Andaman Sea, where you'll find the Thai islands of Phuket, Krabi, Koh Lanta, and Koh Phi Phi, the optimum time for a beach holiday is slightly earlier, in December and January. During these months, fresher weather, maximum sunshine, and minimum rainfall combine to create the best climate for a beach holiday. Bangkok is humid practically all the time, but the best time to visit Thailand's capital is in December and January. During this time, it's dry and has a relatively bearable 31-32ºC average during the day and 20ºC at night (the coolest Bangkok ever gets). However, July and August are also great months to visit Bangkok when there are great hotel deals to be had, and the rain only lasts for a short while in the afternoon. Avoid the months of April and September. April is unbearably hot and humid, while September is hot and torrentially wet. Image source Flare on Google Chiang Mai and the lovely little town of Pai, in Thailand's cooler north, have a more pleasant climate than Bangkok and the south. December to February is the best time to visit Chiang Mai and Pai for lovely sunny days (around 29ºC) and cooler evenings (the temperature dips to 13ºC and even lower in the highlands, so dig out some warm clothes if you're trekking).

Image source JustWatch on Google The second trailer for The Hunger Games prequel: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, has been released. This trailer offers us another sneak peek at Hunter Schafer's debut on the big screen as Tigris Snow. While the Euphoria star had a voice role in an animated film last year, she has yet to appear in a feature film. But in this trailer, we get a brief glimpse of her character, Tigris Snow, accompanying her younger cousin, Coriolanus Snow, up some stairs. The rest of the trailer mainly follows the younger Snow, who is the future bloodthirsty president of Panem, raising ethical questions about the nature of the Hunger Games themselves. The Hunger Games against each other in a flight to the death. The Games serve as punishment for a past rebellion against the wealthy Capitol. The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes serves as a prequel to the main Hunger Games trilogy, based on Suzanne Collins ' 2020 novel of the same name. The nearly three-minute-long trailer offers us limited plot details but more ethical questions about the Hunger Games. Snow's cousin, Tigris, appears to serve as the moral compass of the story. In one scene, she implores Coriolanus to imagine being the tribute from District 12 and asks him to care for her and value her. Afterwards, Coriolanus volunteers to serve as a get her out of the Games. But the odds of that promise coming true seem to be getting slimmer and slimmer as the trailer progresses. At the end of the trailer, Dr Volumnia Gaul, the inventor of the Games, asks once again, "What are the Hunger Games for?" it appears as though Snow, now with a trimmed head and covered in a grey Capitol uniform, will have an entirely different answer, leading to a philosophical twist. The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes promises to deliver the visual splendour of the original movies with a philosophical twist, and the fact that we're here to support Schafer in her on-screen debut makes it a perfect holiday season viewing. The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes will hit theatres on November 17.

Image source OpenMediaHub on Google Netflix's Squid Game has been a massive hit which is presenting a harrowing critique of capitalist greed and economic exploitation. In a surprising move, Netflix has now announced the production of the reality series, Squid Game: The Challenge, based on the dystopian world of the original show. The second season of the show is set to release on November 22 and boasts the largest cast and highest cash prize in reality TV history. The show will feature 456 real players who will compete in a series of games inspired by the original, coupled with new additions, with the hopes of winning a staggering $4.56 million. The players' strategic alliances and character will be put to the test while they attempt to avoid being eliminated. The stakes are high, but no one will die. Image source Netflix on Google The reality show is a chilling social experiment that will consist of 10 episodes, set to release on November 22, 2021, as revealed in the first teaser for the series, which came out on September 22. In the teaser, we see the players eyeing the massive prize money, climbing up the pastel-coloured staircases, and racing towards Young-hee, the series motion-sensing doll from "Red Light, Green Light." For those wondering about the fate of Seong Gi-hun, Netflix has greenlit another series of Squid Game, introducing a fresh batch of contestants dispatched to the island in hopes of winning a whopping 45 billion won. According to Hwang Dong-hyuk's social media announcement, Gi-hun, the Front Man, and the man in the suit with Ddakji might make a comeback. Additionally, viewers will be introduced to Young-hee's boyfriend, Cheol-su. Cho Sang-Woo's words ring true: "We've already come too far to end this now."

Image source Flickr on Google Boats in the Brahmaputra river, during sunset in Guwahati, Assam "Navigating the Brahmaputra River in Assam is no easy feat, requiring a skilled team to traverse its ever-morphing channels. However, aboard the &Beyond Assam Brahmaputra Cruise, guests can enjoy a carefully crafted itinerary that reflects the shared values of ecotourism giant &Beyond and Indo-British company Assam Bengal Navigation. The elegant 18-suite ABN Charaidew II ship offers all amenities, including a gym, spa, an expansive sun deck, dining room, and lounge, as well as a daily changing menu of Continental classics and Assamese fare. Onboard naturalists and historians take guests through daily excursions, offering context and background for all pit stops along the river. The Brahmaputra is one of India’s few “male” rivers, fierce in its flow, giving and taking life in equal measure. It is a vast, braided river that dominates the landscape of northeastern India, Tibet, and Bangladesh.“river of sorrow” and the regular reminders via prime-time news of its wild and wilful flooding. “I spot a majestic rhino pensively staring into the distance and it looks like a regal beast with an armoured carapace, ready for battle” Kaziranga National Park Image source Prime on Google That evening aboard the ship, we drink gin-and-orange cocktails that the bartender has christened ‘Brahmaputra Sunset’. The cocktail mirrors the sky—a deep orange fading into a pale pink. There is a song playing on a speaker and I recognise the baritone of Bhupen Hazarika, one of the state’s most famous singers and unanimously regarded as the Bard of Brahmaputra. It is an apt song to hear on a boat and echoes all the suffering, love and reverence that this river inspires— A skiff (boat) makes its way home, its boatmen thrown into relief against the technicolour sky. Day fades and the river runs a burnished silver under a full moon. The Brahmaputra's frequent flooding means few villages or towns exist right on its banks. There are no electric lights and the darkness is punctuated by the diamond glimmer of the constellations. We anchor by a sandbank, one of the many unmappable land masses on the river whose edges are constantly deteriorated and carried off as tiny pieces of flotsam. It exists today but might be gone next winter. GIF source Giphy on Google For two millennia, settlements have developed along the Brahmaputra’s fertile banks and also vanished due to its flooding and erosion. Our cruise takes us downstream past the palaces, temples and grand monuments built by the erstwhile Ahoms, the ruling dynasty of Assam till the 19th century. We pass fields resplendent with lai xaak (mustard greens) and joha saul (an indigenous variety of rice) which also find their way into our everyday meals on the ship. The younger boys and girls wear puffer jackets, their phones have Bollywood playlists and motorbikes are parked in the backyards of their stilt homes. Yet, their traditions and life on the river remain unchanged. Taste robust cups of Assam tea in colonial bungalows built by European traders in the 1800s. Ever so often in the monsoon, the floods play havoc destroying crops and yield. For those who live here, the Brahmaputra is where they prey, live and die. Here, transience is accepted as a way of life. It is fitting that life in the Brahmaputra mirrors the divine Hindu trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva and their cosmic functions of creation, preservation and destruction. The Brahmaputra's largest settled island with a population of over 160,000 where the river is constantly encroaching on what was once a home, a rice field, or a village school. One-horned rhinoceros Living with the erring flow of the Brahmaputra is not limited to humans alone. The animals of the Assam valley have also learnt to adapt to its changing course. The state's most well-known nature reserve and UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kaziranga National Park, is located on the Brahmaputra. Famous for its big five: rhinoceros, tigers, elephants, water buffalo and swamp deer, this park's varied landscape and flora are the creation of the Brahmaputra—from its swampy swamps, bells or riverine lakes to tropical forest and grasslands. Forest ranger Anil Rongpa Kaziranga National Park is home to many animals that are adapted to survive the annual monsoon floods. The floodwaters bring life to the park and replenish its water bodies. The animals swim to higher ground to escape the rising waters and return when the levels recede. The park's forest authorities have taken steps to aid this natural process by creating safer animal corridors and elevated areas for the animals to rest within the boundaries. Watchtowers positioned across the park enable its forest rangers to keep an eye on injured animals and poachers. Kaziranga National Park is home to many animals that are adapted to survive the annual monsoon floods. The floodwaters bring life to the park and replenish its water bodies. The animals swim to higher ground to escape the rising waters and return when the levels recede. The park's forest authorities have taken steps to help this natural process by creating safer animal corridors and elevated areas for the animals to rest within these boundaries. Moreover, watchtowers positioned across the park enable its forest rangers to keep an eye on injured animals and poachers. On the last day of a cruise on the Brahmaputra river, a crewman spots a tiger. Although the tiger is long gone by the time the author comes up to the deck, there is still much to see. A herd of swamp deer is visible amid the stubby trees of Kaziranga’s northern zone. A group of egrets flies overhead. A raft carrying bamboo floats past. The author's ship follows a ferry carrying locals, their groceries, motorbikes, and a clay idol. The boats on the Brahmaputra have been following this route for centuries.

Last few weeks ago, I went to Sitara Himalaya, a luxury estate close to Manali, with several well-being offerings, including yoga. I loved to receive the services they were providing. I love travelling like every traveller, but on the other side, I nurture my body and soul especially, when I surround myself with nature. So, I chose to forego yoga, my first love, and utilise the fresh mountain air for a more pressing requirement for sleep. As per a 2019 survey conducted across 12 countries, over 62 per cent of the population is unable to sleep well. India is now the second-most sleep-deprived nation after Japan. “There are four main reasons for (sleep) deprivation—social changes, including lifestyle and work patterns; nervous changes due to stress and related conditions; nutritional issues; and post-COVID symptoms. Image source Fransiskus Filbert Mangundap on Unsplash Food at Kalari Rasayana in KeralaDr Joel Kahn, a holistic cardiologist, once told me that most people expect sleep to come as soon as they close their eyes. But sleep, just like a holiday, needs to be planned. That might explain why sleep tourism has been on the rise over the past few years. Whether it’s traditional panchakarma to cure anidra (sleeplessness) at Kalari Rasayana in Kerala or the lavender sleep balm at Westin Resort & Spa, Himalayas, there are options across the country to help you reset and refresh. Food at Kalari Rasayana in Kerala Dr. Joel Kahn, once told me that most people expect sleep to come as soon as they close their eyes. But sleep, just like a holiday, needs to be planned. That's why sleep tourism has been on the rise over the past few years. It's traditional panchakarma to cure (sleeplessness) at Kalari Rasayana in Kerala or the lavender sleep balm at Westine Resort & Spa, Himalayas, there are options across the country to help you reset and refresh. “People expect sleep to come as soon as they close their eyes. But it needs to be planned” The sleep programme at Ananda in the Himalayas uses a multidisciplinary approach. Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), yoga, and emotional healing therapies work in harmony for long-term benefits. The Ayurvedic Brahmana diet helps increase Kapha in the body. The Kapha types are known to sleep better than their fiery pitta or anxious vata counterparts. Treatments like Shirodhara and Netra tarpan relax the mind and the eyes. Foot and body massages decrease the Vata element. Yoga is practised in the morning to reset the body clock. TCM also comes into the fold, guided by Dr. Jitender Uniyal, one of the leading TCM practitioners in India. My sleep was so restful that I remember it even today. Sharing his wisdom. In TCM, jujube seeds are used for insomnia, which you can consume before bedtime or chop raw seeds and add them to soups. Two to four seeds are required per person. Six senses Vana In Dehradun Ananda in the Himalayas Six Senses offers a sleep programme at both Vana in Dehradun and Fort Barwara in Rajasthan. Developed with renowned experts such as Dr Michael Breus, who’s written books like The Sleep Doctor’s Diet Plan and Good Night, it includes practices such as yoga, breathwork, Tibetan therapies (at Vana), massages, reflexology, and physiotherapy. The programme tracks sleep and includes evidence-based remedies like a diet with magnesium-rich foods such as bananas, walnuts, and avocados. Its dried banana peel tea, rich in L-tryptophan, raises serotonin levels to help you sleep faster. Being in touch with the five elements is also prioritised at Prakriti Shakti, using naturopathic remedies. Whether it's yoga facing the sunlight hills of Panchalimedu, acupressure walks, mud baths, or banana-leaf body wraps, the elements of nature help relax the mind and body. The kind of light you expose yourself to first thing in the morning determines the quality of your sleep at night. Atmantan Wellness Centre I prioritised rest during travel. About 42 per cent of travellers complain about sleep-related discomfort. As sleep is one of the main pillars of wellness at Atmantan Wellness Centre. There are remedies like chiropractic mattresses, therapeutic salt baths with rose and geranium, Ayurvedic massages and therapies, sound baths, acupuncture, and pranic healing. Atmantan Wellness CentreOf course, everyone has a different way to unwind and even activities like hiking, nature walks, and fishing can help reset your inner clock. The key is to tune it with circadian rhythms.

“Everything I brew, I brew it for you.” What is easy to choose, Coffee or Chai? Do coffee and tea compete with one another? Will one of them fall short in their matchup? When we express love, we cannot speak with arrogance. Even if you love your nation, its citizens, and its culture, you only know how to cherish them. Similarly. When we discuss tea and coffee, we mean that these two beverages are quite common in their regions and are often consumed with morning meals, though they may be made in different ways to suit different preferences. The origins of Chai and Coffee are distinct "Chai" "Chai" GIF source Good Morning Wallpapers on Google Although chai is an Indian beverage, other civilizations, especially China, have had an impact on it. For thousands of years, it has been grown and consumed there. In reality, according to some historians, tea was initially found in China, where it was consumed medicinally. The British started dealing with China in the early 1800s and spread tea throughout the West. Tea was traditionally made in the UK with milk and sugar because the British enjoyed it that way. "Coffee" GIF source Tenor on Google Around 800 AD, the Ethiopian goat herder Kaldi introduced coffee to his country. It was well-known in Persia, Egypt, Syria, and Turkey by the 16th century. Europe first experienced coffee in the 17th century. In the ensuing 30 years, Austria, Germany, Spain, and the rest of Europe all adopted coffee as a cultural standard. Brazil is currently the world’s largest coffee grower, having grown into one of the top-producing nations by the middle of the 18th century. Which drink provides a greater energy boost - chai or coffee? By promoting mental clarity and a slight boost in energy, caffeine can help set the tone for the day. Breaking a morning coffee habit is difficult. Whether a person selects chai or coffee to boost his energy depends on his or her habits. Chai contains less caffeine than coffee, so you can drink a few additional cups without getting the caffeine jitters. A regular cup of chai tea contains about 40mg of caffeine, but an average cup of coffee contains about 120mg, so you’d have to drink about 3 cups of chai tea to receive the same quantity of caffeine as your coffee. Chai and Coffee preparation methods, new ingredients Formulators began developing new compounds using both coffee and chai (tea), and instant powders are the most cost-effective choice. Flavoured syrups or flavoured extracts, spices, chocolate, or powdered milk are all choices. Brew tea’s adaptability enables the production of trendy beverages such as a complex-flavored chai latte or a tea-infused hard seltzer. Exchange of beverage cultures Although coffee is favoured in Western and Arab civilizations and chai in Asian cultures, now they have begun to embrace each other’s beverages. Chai, in many forms, became available in American cafés. Coffee shops around the country eventually began serving chai lattes, chai tea lattes, mocha chai lattes, vanilla chai lattes, and spicy chai beverages, alongside coffee classics like caramel lattes and hot chocolates. Most speciality coffee shop menus now include some kind of chai-based drink. Asian Trend Coffee production and exporting, as well as local coffee-drinking customs, are firmly integrated in many Asian nations. Indonesia is Asia’s second-largest coffee producer, and the café sector is growing. In recent years, Japan has seen an increase in coffee consumption. Asia’s largest market for coffee is Japan. Now if anyone asks you a question, what do you prefer the most: chai or coffee? What will your answer be?

In the world of the advanced era, the market is pervaded with an oversupply of camera options. But, if you are a traveller, having the best pixel camera can capture and gather the pictures you always want to keep safe in your life. When planning a journey, whether a soul-searching solo trip or a fun-filled family vacation, every traveller wants to ensure they capture each precious moment. Yet, picking the perfect travel companion in camera form isn't merely about megapixels or a reputable brand; it's about choosing a device tailored to individual preferences, requirements, and the nature of the journey. Here's a comprehensive guide, diving deep into 10 crucial benchmarks that could be instrumental in making your decision. Image source B&H on Google 1. Weight & Size — The Essence of Portability When wanderlust strikes, whether you’re meandering through bustling European streets or embarking on a challenging Himalayan trek, cumbersome equipment can be a drag, both figuratively and literally. An ideal travel camera is one that effortlessly fits into your daily backpack or even the pocket of your jeans. It should be so conveniently sized that it never feels like an obligation but rather an extension of your hand, ready to capture a fleeting moment. 2. Sensor Size — Delving into Image Quality At the heart of every photograph’s quality lies the camera’s sensor. This little piece of technology plays a pivotal role, especially when shooting in challenging light conditions. A larger sensor generally implies better image quality, capturing more light and details, which can be particularly beneficial during twilight photography or in dimly lit interiors of historical monuments. 🔹 Nuances: However, there’s a catch. A larger sensor usually entails a heftier and bulkier camera body. Therefore, it becomes essential to strike a balance — do you prioritize image quality or portability? 3. Battery Life — Ensuring Uninterrupted Adventures Image source Dariusz Sankowski on Unsplash Picture this: you’re waiting for that perfect sunset, the sky painted in hues of oranges and purples, and just as you’re about to capture the moment, your camera dies. Extended battery life ensures you’re always ready, and your adventures go uninterrupted. 🔹 Practical Advice: Always, and I mean always, carry a spare. While cameras today boast impressive battery lives, having a backup ensures you’re prepared for those extended shooting days. 4. Video Capabilities — Narrating Stories Beyond Stills The modern traveller doesn’t just capture stills. With the rise of vlogging and storytelling, high-definition video capabilities have become paramount. The allure of 4K video recording, combined with image stabilization, can turn your travel videos into cinematic masterpieces. 🔹 In-Depth Insight: It’s not just about resolution. Features like high dynamic range, frame rates, and autofocus speed can make a world of difference in your video quality. If you’re inclined towards creating video memories, prioritize these features. 5. Durability — Crafting Adventures, Rain or Shine Nature is unpredictable. One moment it’s a clear day, and the next, you might find yourself amidst a desert storm or a tropical downpour. While the adventure adds to the thrill, you’d want a camera that withstands these elements. 🔹 Factors to Consider: Weather sealing, dust resistance, and even shockproof designs can be the difference between returning with incredible shots or a broken camera. 6. Connectivity — Instant Sharing in a Connected World In this age of social media, staying connected has its advantages. Beyond just instant sharing, the ease of transferring photos to devices or cloud storage without the need for a computer is a boon for the tech-savvy traveller. 🔹 Emerging Trends: NFC, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth have transitioned from luxury features to almost mandatory inclusions in modern cameras, enabling seamless sharing and even remote camera control. 7. User-Friendly Interface — Time is Essence Travel often presents fleeting moments. The spontaneous carnival parade, the hawk swooping down for its catch, or the heartwarming smile of a local — you need a camera that responds as spontaneously as you do. 🔹 Factors to think about carefully: A cluttered menu or complex settings can be the difference between capturing a moment and a missed opportunity. Hence, an intuitive interface, easily accessible buttons, and quick response time are crucial. 8. Versatility — Adapting to Every Scenario Your travel journey could encompass the azure blues of the oceans, the vastness of the deserts, or the bustling life of a metropolitan. Each scenario demands a different photographic approach. 🔹 Versatility Explored: Interchangeable lenses, wide dynamic ranges, in-camera editing features, and more can transform your photographic experience, offering you a broader canvas to paint your memories on. 9. Price Point — A Balance Between Desire and Practicality Travelling encompasses various expenditures. Accommodation, food, experiences, and souvenirs — every aspect demands a portion of your budget. While you shouldn’t compromise on capturing your memories, it’s essential to ensure you’re getting value for your money. Image source Dariusz Sankowski on Unsplash 🔹 Smart Shopping: Sometimes, last year’s model or a lesser-known brand can offer a delightful balance of features and affordability. Thorough research and waiting for sales can also be beneficial. 10. Reviews & Recommendations — Learning from Fellow Travellers In the era of the internet, firsthand experiences of fellow travellers can be your guiding light. Reviews, forum discussions, and personal recommendations can offer a more transparent picture than any advertisement. 🔹 Engage: Dive into communities, attend photography workshops, and interact with seasoned travellers to gain insights that spec sheets often miss. Choosing the right travel camera is a blend of technical specs, personal preferences, and real-world functionality. It’s an investment in preserving memories. While this guide provides a roadmap, the journey of selection is deeply personal. Reflect on these points, align them with your needs, and let your chosen camera be a witness to your tales of wanderlust.

Online travel services have revolutionized the way we plan and book our vacations. With the convenience and flexibility that they offer, more and more travellers are opting to use online travel services over local travel agents. Here are some of the benefits of using online travel services: GIF source Effectlab on Google 1# Convenience: One of the biggest benefits of using online travel services is the convenience they offer. With just a few clicks of a button, you can research and book your entire vacation, from flights and hotels to activities and transportation. This eliminates the need to take time out of your busy schedule to visit a local travel agent. 2# Price Comparison: Online travel services offer a wide variety of options and the ability to compare prices from multiple sources. This allows you to find the best deals and get the most value for your money. 3# Personalization: Online travel services allow you to personalize your vacation to suit your specific needs and preferences. You can choose from a wide variety of options, such as flight times, hotel amenities, and activities, to create a vacation that is tailored to your specific needs.' 4# Reviews and ratings: Online travel services also provide customer reviews and ratings, which can be very helpful in making a decision. This allows you to read about the experiences of other travellers and make an informed decision about the quality of the service and the destination. 5# 24/7 Availability: Online travel services are available 24/7, which means you can research and book your vacation at any time, day or night. This eliminates the need to work around the schedule of a local travel agent. 6# Access to a wide variety of options: Online travel services provide access to a wide variety of options, such as flights, hotels, vacation rentals, and activities. This allows you to find the perfect vacation package to suit your needs and budget. 7# No pressure: Online travel services allow you to take your time and make your own decisions without feeling pressured by a salesperson. This can be particularly beneficial for those who are not confident in their ability to make decisions quickly or who prefer to research and plan their vacations. 8# Access to deals and discounts: Online travel services often offer exclusive deals and discounts that are not available through local travel agents. This can help you save money and get more value for your money. 9# Easy to make changes: Online travel services make it easy to make changes to your vacation plans, such as changing flight times or hotel accommodations. This eliminates the need to contact a local travel agent and can save you time and hassle. 10# Mobile App Availability: Many online travel services offer mobile apps, which allow you to book and manage your vacation from your mobile device, giving you the flexibility to make changes or check on your booking from wherever you are. In conclusion, online travel services offer a wide variety of benefits over local travel agents. From convenience and price comparison to personalization and 24/7 availability, online travel services have made it easier than ever before to plan and book the perfect vacation. However, it's always good to double-check the reviews and ratings of the company you're using, to ensure that you're getting quality service.

Welcome to the land of the Pharaohs! Egypt, a country soaked in history and culture, promises a journey like no other. From the breathtaking pyramids to the serene Nile River, there is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be explored. If you're planning a trip to this fascinating country, don't miss out on these top 10 attractions that will leave you mesmerised. Image source Pinterest on Google The Great Pyramids of Giza: The Great Pyramids of Giza, also known as the Pyramid of Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure, are the most famous attractions in Egypt. These ancient structures are over 4,500 years old and are considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The Sphinx: The Sphinx is a massive statue of a lion with the head of a man. It is located near the pyramids and is believed to have been built during the reign of Pharaoh Khafre. The Valley of the Kings: The Valley of the Kings is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is home to the tombs of many of Egypt's pharaohs, including Tutankhamun. The Egyptian Museum: The Egyptian Museum in Cairo is a must-see for anyone interested in ancient Egyptian history. It houses over 120,000 artefacts, including the famous mask of Tutankhamun. The Temple of KarnAK: The Temple of KarnAK is the largest temple complex in Egypt and is dedicated to the god Amun. It contains many buildings and monuments, including the Great Temple of Amun and the Temple of Khonsu. The Temple of Luxor: The Temple of Luxor is another ancient temple complex dedicated to the god Amun. It is located on the east bank of the Nile River and is known for its beautiful statues and hieroglyphics. The Abu Simbel Temples: The Abu Simbel Temples are two massive temples located in southern Egypt. They were built during the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II and are known for their massive statues of the pharaoh. The Red Sea: The Red Sea is famous for its clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. It is a popular destination for snorkelling and diving. The Nile River: The Nile River is the longest river in the world and is the lifeblood of Egypt. Taking a cruise on the Nile is a great way to see the country and learn about its history. The Citadel of Saladin: The Citadel of Saladin is a medieval fortress located in Cairo. It was built in the 12th century and offers stunning views of the city. Egypt is a country filled with natural beauty and ancient history, and these top 10 attractions are just the tip of the iceberg. Whether you're interested in ancient history, natural beauty, or simply want to experience a different culture, Egypt is a destination that should not be missed.

In Mission: Impossible — Dead Reckoning Part One, Ethan Hunt and his team embark on a journey across the globe, travelling different cities using various modes of transportation. The team's excitement at witnessing the world's beauty is palpable as they visit locations such as Abu Dhabi, Venice, Rome, and the Austrian Alps. In an interview, production designer Gary Freeman elaborates on the challenges and opportunities of shooting in these different locations. Freeman reveals that the team selected the Midfield Terminal at Abu Dhabi International Airport to shoot a chase sequence in the film. Although the location was not yet operational or using the advanced technology to make a perfect shot during filming. The vast expanse of the terminal provided a unique opportunity to shoot in never-before-seen locations. Freeman explains that the team had to install everything from high-end shopping to make it look like the airport was up and running. They were able to shoot in various areas of the terminal, including the baggage handling area, the tarmac, and the roof. The team also filmed in Rome, where they had exclusive access to areas surrounding the Colosseum and the Spanish Steps. The city was partially closed down to shoot chase scenes, and the team adapted to the locations by having Ethan reverse down to a lowered street guarded by a gate in an attempt to escape. The team also filmed in Venice, where a new boat with orange seats, was brought to their attention by a friend of Tom Cruise's who was used to shoot scenes in a region called the Arsenale, a large marina for boats. Image source Marca.com on Google The candles that line the exterior of Doge's Palace are LED and remote-controlled. Doge's palace, the Palazzo Ducale, which is an incredibly popular tourist spot. But they do rent it out for private parties at might you see in the movies. It was a race against time each evening because once they shut the doors on the tourists we would have just a couple hours to prep the locations. A particular challenge was all the candles that we placed around the perimeter of the building—Venice as a whole is effectively an ancient monument and it’s been built mostly out of wood so we weren’t allowed to use double-wick candles as we wanted. Those are LED candles that we could control with a remote. The candles were also part of our mission to make Venice have a more sinister quality than Rome; we wanted it to feel almost like a horror movie. That extends to the fight sequence on Ponte Minich, a pedestrian bridge, between [Rebecca Ferguson’s Ilsa Faust and Esai Morales’s Gabriel]. It’s a lovely bridge during the day it’s very romantic, but you fill it with fog in the dark and it becomes a place of death. We had to be very quiet because we were shooting through the night and we didn't want to disturb anybody. But strangely, the quietness of the crew and the unit just added to the atmosphere. It evoked a sort of quality that would have been difficult to obtain anywhere else. And we were shooting during a very strict COVID protocol era. We had a very unique situation where we were wandering around the streets of Venice which are normally filled with thousands and thousands of paying tourists, and we had the streets to ourselves. It was like we were being taken back 200 years

Victoria may seem to be the Aussie land of slow living, its mystical air with mosaics beachful spots and abundant wildlife it is a gem of a tourist attraction. A day in Victoria and you will be planning a couple of dates with your friends because wine is not? Or, you may crave long drives on the iconic stretch of Ocean Road and stop by a random cafe to get a quick bite or explore the new food on Australia's fine tasters. And if you are big on road trips (or not), let me tell you something Victoria has come with THE BEST ROUTES for a long drive. Start like the perfect travel escape? Start curating a playlist because this itinerary will have a week of your life relaxing in this beautiful part of Australia. DAY 1: All the Way from Melbourne to Lorne Image source Mantra on Google On your arrival in Torquay, sign up for a savoury Aussie brunch and coffee. Not very far from the town is the ever so sprightly Bells Beach where you may want to have quiet leisure or jump in for surfing. Drive easy to enjoy the spectacular coastline view by the Great Ocean Road. You will reach Lorne in time for sunset after which you can spend the remaining time at a local café – or call it a day! DAY 2: Hello there! Lorne Put on your explorer's hat and explore Lorne and its peripheries all day long. Start with a nine-kilometre drive to Erskine Falls, this is such a majestic waterfall that falls into the Erskine River with a 30-metre-long plunge. Add in more stellar mist-filled beauty of the location, and go hiking. The fern-green nuance and mist-hugged waters will be a stunning backdrop for Instagram photos. Drive back to Lorne for a breakfast munch at the Bottle of Milk or Swing Bridge Cafe. Channel your energy into a quiet walk to the sound of waves. And in time for a sundowner, explore a new restaurant for dinner. DAY 3: Instagram-worthy Views, Nature, and Port Campbell In the dawn, start driving from Lorne towards the Apollo Bay. This road trip is full of striking coastline views and offers ample stop-offs just to capture gorgeous vistas. In the glow of dawn, start driving from Lorne towards the Apollo Bay. This road trip is full of striking coastline views and offers ample stop-offs just to capture gorgeous vistas. Halfway between Lorne and Apollo Bay is the beautiful Kennett River hugging the Great Ocean Road. With soft blows of the winds serenading the atmosphere, this river is a visual treat for nature enthusiasts and definitely a must-see spot. Make your way towards the Otway National Park and Hopetoun Falls, a 30-metre-long cascade that breaks to a rocky pool covered in emerald hunch. Say yes to a little adventure with ziplining at the Otways Treetop Fly Adventure before heading to Port Campbell. DAY 4: Grandeur of 12 Apostles and Ice-Cream for Surprise! Image source Tripadvisor on Google 12 Apostles, or should we say the best part of the entire Great Ocean Road drive, make a perpetual show before your eyes as you head towards Halls Gap. While there are only 8 left, these spectacles are a no-miss. Follow one golden rule: reach this location a little early in the morning to cosy up to its best sight. Port Campbell is next Image source The Great Ocean Road Studios on Google Grab something scrumptious from the famous Grassroots Deli Cafe on your way to the Grampians and have a quick retreat at London Bridge. Hit the road to Halls Gap in Grampians, but don’t forget to take away Ice-Cream in Timboon, a cute little town famous for all things dairy. DAY 5: The Larger-than-Life Grampians The Grampians breathe a whole new life into road trips and for all good reasons, have a stronghold as a stop-off point. Get on your wheels early to witness the awe-inspiring rays of sunrise gently touching the mountains at Boroka--a brisk walk away. Spend some time to have a newfound love for rock art and history along with native flora and fauna. Don't miss to watch the sheer beauty cascading against the green backdrop at Mackenzie Falls, which is located not far from the Grampians. Mark your way back to Halls Gap for some lunch. From Harvest to Black Panther, there are plenty of options to choose from. Head to Zunsteins, a historic site turned popular picnic area, to see kangaroos. Slow it down at the Rields with some drinks. Dimpy dwell in the scarlet hues of sunset as this lookout unfolds. DAY 6: Walks and Daylesford Start your morning with a 3-hour roundtrip to Pinnacles and Grand Canyon Walk, one of the best short walks in the region and a beautiful mosaic of gorges and wildflowers with beautiful wallabies meandering around. This location has a series of magnificent rocks that seem to be painting a charming backdrop for all your photographs. But the thrill snakes in only when you hit up a gutsy walk up to the cliff that unveils the panoramic views of Halls Gap. While this sounds like some serious legwork (and it includes climbing ladders, too), the culmination of your journey will make it all worth the ache. On your way to Daylesford, take a trip to Bunjil’s Shelter, one of the most important cultural sites in the country. Relish in some baked delights at the popular Pyrenees Café. After arriving in Daylesford, rewind with a walk to Lake Daylesford. Call it a night with a savoury dinner at Koukla (or Jackie’s on Vincent). DAY 7: A Day Getting to Know the Town & Then, Melbourne Daylesford has one-of-a-kind glamour to it. From vogue perching on its bustling shops to musings jazzing up art galleries, the town has charmed many Aussies for different reasons. While mineral springs are one way to sing praises of Daylesford, we suggest exploring the streets like a local and splurging a little on souvenirs. If time permits, take a trip to Convent Gallery which is known as the ‘most beautiful gallery in Australia’. Indulge in a delicious brunch at Poncho and if you may, give into those pastries at the Wombat Hill House Café. With some shopping and body fuelled by good food, drive back to Melbourne.