Top Wildlife Sanctuaries in Sikkim

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November 7, 2016

Sikkim’s is popular as a tourist destination and is rising substantially as various people want to explore its multiple dimensions. One such dimension is its rich flora and fauna which helps the visitors to connect with the nature during their stay in this state.

The wildlife and vegetation of Sikkim is so vast that its information is penned down in the form of multiple books which include ‘Flora of Sikkim,’ by Ramesh Chandra Srivastava, ‘The Butterflies of Sikkim Himalaya and their natural history,’ by Meena Haribal and ‘Birds of Sikkim,’ by Salim Ali.

Some of the popular Sikkim Tourism places where visitors can experience the surreal beauty of Sikkim include:

Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary

This wildlife sanctuary is located on the eastern part of the Sikkim and is home to some rare and endangered species of plants. The ground slipper orchid and Rhododendron niveum (Sikkim’s state tree) are also introduced here for protection of these species. Species of musk deer, Himalayan black beer and red panda etc can also be located in this sanctuary.

Kanchenjunga National Park

Also referred as Khangchendzonga National Park or Kanchenjunga Biosphere Reserve, this place is a combination of Biosphere reserve and a national park. The place is home to myriad mammal species which include slot bear, Himalayan black bear, Red panda (state animal of Sikkim) and barking deer etc. it is also home to numerous reptiles like Russell’s viper and rat snake. The place abodes about 550 bird species like osprey, lammergeyer, Green pigeon and Asian Emerald cuckoo.

This park has mixed forest type with trees like birch, maple and fir etc. various herbs and medicinal plants are also present at higher altitudes.

Trekking and lodging are some of the activities performed among this stunning natural region by the tourists.

The Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary

This wildlife sanctuary is a paradise for nature photographers and wildlife lovers. It is home to numerous lovely bird species like scaly laughing thrush, hill partridge and chestnut crowned warbler and many more. Mammals which can be sighted easily in this region include red panda, barking deer and yellow throated marten to name a few. It is advised to hire a guide in this sanctuary when visiting first time as the trails of this region are quite confusing and complex.

Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary

This is bit underrated sanctuary of Sikkim where one gets lost in the beauty of colourful floral species like orchids and rhododendrons. All the bright coloured flowers including pink, maroon, cream, purple and red etc can be spotted within this sanctuary making it a must visit for nature photographers and seekers of beauty.

Sikkim International Flower Festival – Tourists can also experience the floral heritage of Sikkim through this tourism festival which is held each year during the month of March or April. The festival boasts numerous species of trees, ferns, orchids and rhododendrons.

So, its awe inspiring scenic places can fill tourist’s mind with calmness and pleasure forever and must be the part of travel itinerary when customizing your Wildlife Tours in India

Of Ruins and Open Fields in Hampi

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Caleidoscope

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November 4, 2016

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Author – Shweta Gurjar

I was in Bangalore when I decided to stop by Hampi. Halfway from Pune, it seemed like a perfect stop over. A long 10-hour bus ride brought us to Hospet. It was 8.30pm and the sun was long gone, and further rickshaw ride to Hampi seemed like riding into nothingness. Checked into my dorm room, but the place was surrounded with darkness. The only light that shone brightly in this small town was from the Virupaksha Temple, located 100 meters away from my room.

Day ends early in this part of town. I was lucky enough to find a ‘chaiwala’ at 10pm to refresh, and had luckily collected enough street food at various bus stops to make for dinner. It was too dark to see anything anyway and sleep was the best option.

Woke up at 6am to the sunrise and the shadow of the tall detailed temple. My first sight of Hampi was brown with overcast sky with shades of grey and green trees. Big boulders reaching the sky lay all about, as if a construction site of super giants. The Virupaksha Temple was filled with friendly pilgrims and I joined them in chanting mantras. The temple is huge, filled with muggy smell and dark corners. All pillars and floors are carved in single tall rocks, and through every door, there was something interesting to see or a new deity to greet. Across are the Bear Sanctuary and the Nandi Monolith.

Life in Hampi can be divided into 3 different lifestyles: the religious and conservative, the hippie, and the secluded. After a night of religious and conservative experience, I checked into the farthest guesthouse, on the outskirts to experience nature at Hampi. A quick ride across the river in round straw and bamboo boats, a rented bike at the other end, long winding roads led to the guesthouse nestled in the never ending paddy and sugarcane fields. Huge boulders spread across, cutting off the view at the horizon.

The ruins in Hampi are widely spread across the radius of 10kms, of which are mostly green open fields of paddy, palms, and coconuts. The guesthouses are beautifully placed such that rooms are either in the centre of a field or overlooking it. Private, loaded with nature, and relaxing! Every guesthouse has its own restaurant with typical food of pasta, parathas, and falafel, and everyone serves beer, so complete nourishment is guaranteed. However, my craving for a South Indian thali remained unattainable.

The architecture of the ruins and other monuments in Hampi is a bombardment of art. They are spread all across the town. Of them, my favourite remain the Hazara Rama Temple that has carved Ramayana on its stony walls, right from the top to bottom. It is said that if you make ‘three pradakshinas’ around this temple, then you have read the entire Ramayana. Adjacent to it is the Mint Garden surrounded by open never ending fields, ruins, an overcast sky, and nature at its best! And my most favourite is the famous Vitthala Temple, with Kali sitting in her chariot made of stone. It is said that King Krishnadevaraya was very fond of music, and so he build the Vitthala Temple with pillars that made music. They don’t allow us to touch these pillars now, but I was lucky enough to sneakily tap to the music of tabla, flute, veena and horse gallops… until I was escorted out!

Other than the ruins of Hampi are its beautiful treks. It’s okay if you’re not a trek person, but do not miss out on the Monkey Temple. A soaring height almost reaching the sky, the Anegundi Hill is the birthplace of Lord Hanuman. Painted in white, the never ending stairs offer a spectacular view every few feet up. The Tungabhadra (Pampa) River winds spectacularly through Hampi. Many monkeys inhabit this hill, and they love to steal junk food of cookies over coconuts. At the hill top, the energy of the place is amazing, with an added bonus of the view of entire Hampi.

My last days were spend in the hippie part of Hampi, relaxing on the hammock between tall coconut trees, and huts made of bamboo and hay. The local people of Hampi are simple, helpful, yet business minded making it a little too commercial. I can’t complain though, because this place is one of a kind, as if made from magic.

A to Z of Breads from Around the World [Infographic]

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Caleidoscope

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November 3, 2016

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In these troubled times, it can be heart-warming to remember there are some human basics that unite the peaceful majority of us across cultures – and one such element is the simple enjoyment of bread. The history of bread stretches back across millennia, so it is heartening to note the varied and imaginative ways that this staple food has evolved in different regions.

Take the Hembesha bread of Eritrea in northeast Africa, for example. A flat, round, spicy bread, it is best served with tea and honey, making for a complex but tasty treat. In Russia, where the weather is not quite the same, their ‘Qistibi’ flatbread is served instead with mashed potato or meat sauce. A more warming alternative which has emerged from a similar base.

It’s a fascinating world to explore once you get into it, and whether you’re planning to travel, to prepare some foreign dishes at home, or you’re just interested in learning a bit more about how the rest of the world conduct their daily lives, you’ll be fascinated by this new infographic guide to the breads from around the world: how they are prepared, designed, garnished and eaten. It’s a feast for the eyes!

Best Tasting Low-Carb & Keto Diet Foods

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Caleidoscope

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November 1, 2016

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I started a low carbohydrate diet because of a health issue (fibromyalgia), and it was easy at first, but not as easy as I started to get better, and therefore didn’t have as much motivation.

Plus, I wanted to be eating what my family and friends were eating around me.

These days, although I am not still on a ‘diet,’ I do prefer to eat more low and moderate carb, and I am ALWAYS on the lookout for a yummy and fun low-carbohydrate meal.

Let me share with you the all the yummy, fun, good-tasting, low carb food I have found. And please, if you don’t see your favorite on the list, leave me a comment!

I am back on the low carb diet because I had high blood pressure in my current pregnancy, so I am fully low-carb again.

Which IS The Best Low Carb Diet?

I do a cross between Atkin, Keto Diet and Protein Power, but I think to get started Keto Diet is the best because it’s not too restrictive and tells you EXACTLY why low carb diets work.

Also, I am taking low carb protein powder. I like Perfect Keto brand. HealhNerdy is writing a few great articles on a topic and some in-depth reviews of Perfect Keto for weight loss and ketosis.

My Favorite Low Carb Foods

Low-Carb Pasta (and my favorite low-carb pasta)!

The best tasting low-carb pasta is hands-down Dream fields. It only has 5 grams digestible carbs per serving, and it feels marvelous – easily as good as any regular pasta. I feed it to my family (none of whom are eating low-carb), and they don’t know the difference. They have no idea.

I buy it by the case to keep costs down.

I once read on the Internet that a woman who had diabetes and checking her blood sugar after she ate it had no rise in blood sugar the first time, but when she reheated it she did have a little increase in blood sugar, so I never heat it. I make as much as I can eat at a time.

Try it; I think you’ll like it 🙂

Ooh, lately I signed up with dream fields to get a taste and tell kit. They send you a bunch of coupons for a dollar off to give to your friends. The newspaper inserts have also had coupons for 55 cents off, so that helps with costs too. Combine a coupon with a sale, and it’s almost like you are buying regular pasta.

Combine a $1 off coupon with a doubler at Albertsons, and the price is down to .99 a box – BETTER than regular pasta 🙂

Without a taste and tell kit, you can get a $1 off coupon just for signing up for the newsletter at the website.

(digestible carbs … they wrap the pasta carbs in inulin, so your body thinks they are fiber I believe – this is how it keeps your blood sugar from spiking.)

When I am serious about just low carb, I don’t eat this. But it’s okay for maintenance.

Low Carb Bread

I’ve tried a few low-carb bread versions, and none of them are exactly like regular bread, how can they be?

But, there is one low-carb bread that is TRULY low carb (only 1 gram net carbs) and still can be toasted or dipped in soup and taste quite right. It’s OK on sandwiches too, but I like only one slice. Otherwise, it can overwhelm whatever is in it.

It’s Julian’s Smart Carb #1. Check it out. 🙂

I can’t wait to try Julian’s new coconut Paleo Bread and Almond Paleo bread – they are both low carb. They will be out soon.

There is also smart carb #2; it has raisins and cinnamon and only 2 grams of carbs per slice. This is what I’m eating now. It tastes perfect and smells lovely when toasting.

I’m back on smart carb number 1 – if anyone has tried the keto bread, I would love to hear from you.

Update! I tried the paleo bread made with coconut flour! It’s exciting and tasty. A little eggy – almost like a pancake.

It only has 1 gram of carbohydrates per slice. I will review it in more detail soon after I eat it a few more times.

I had it under eggs this morning. It was good. It has a bit of an ammonia smell after being toasted. It may be from the psyllium or the apple cider vinegar – not sure. It doesn’t taste like ammonia, smells like it.

Low Carbohydrate Milk

This is the milk I drink. I get it in the refrigerated section of fred meyers or the health food store but if you have to get it online, this is shelf-stable.

It is SOOOOO GOOOD for you. After I started drinking at least a cup a day – an abcessed tooth I had reversed itself. I try to drink as much as possible. It has one gram of carbs in it. If you aren’t eating any or much sugar it may taste slightly sweet to you. it does to me.

Best Tasting Low Carb Chocolate

This is an easy one. Chocoperfection! At only 2 grams net carbs, this is the truly low carb. I like the milk chocolate one the best. It tastes quite good and has a perfect chocolate-bar texture. This is another one to buy in bulk to keep costs down.

The sweeteners in this chocolate – erythritol, and inulin, have recently started bothering my stomach, so I don’t eat these anymore 🙁 I’m not sure why. I think it’s just the Inulin, which is pure fiber. Erythritol seems to be ok for me.

Best Tasting Low Carbohydrate Tortilla Wrap

The Mission Carb Balance White Flour Tortillas taste good. I love them. They taste so good you have to wonder … 🙂

Just FYI, I’m on a strict low carb diet right now to control blood pressure while pregnant. I am NOT eating these right now because I don’t think it is low carb enough for my plan.

I will go back to eating them again after I give birth. They are great with some meatloaf and cheese or chicken salad. It’s almost like “normal” eating.

Best Low Carb Sugar Substitute

So, I like Xylitol and Erythritol. What do you want to use as a low carb sugar substitute? Vote here.

Keto Milk Shakes

You can also enjoy delicious Keto milk shakes from Konscious Keto to make your diet a easy and tastey. It helps to curb your craving and keeps you feeling full for hours.

Exploring the Best Cities of California

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Caleidoscope

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November 1, 2016

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Best Cities of California — Image – Pixabay

To the west of the United States, bordered by the Pacific Ocean, California represents the allure of a “world end”, both highly urbanized and very wild. Sea, mountain and desert are at the gates of cities, themselves rather open to nature.

California is at first familiar clichés that are exported with emphasis: the sprawling megacity of Los Angeles; Hollywood movie stars; joggers and rollers of Venice Beach; the San Francisco hills traveled by cable cars ; the sirens of Santa Barbara and the surfers of Malibu; the famous Golden Gate Bridge and the most high-tech companies in the world concentrated in the Silicon Valley campaign.

California also offers a kaleidoscope of wild and majestic landscapes: the relentless desert of Death Valley, the extraordinary park of Yosemite, the forests that rise to the sky of Sequoia National Park, the misty cliffs battered by the swell of Big Sur.

Blue skies and mild temperatures almost year-round (except the sea, rather cool!) Give California an incomparable quality of life, source of economic and migratory dynamism that makes it the engine of the American dream.

Here are some California cities you should travel to

San Francisco

San Francisco is a city that is incomparably different from the rest of the United States in its cultural diversity, unconventionality, tolerance, and outward-looking outlook.

Beyond the way of life, its singularity is also found in urbanism. Compared to other cities, the city center is not crushed by skyscrapers. In many neighborhoods, Victorian homes still stand. Sown at the mercy of the famous hills and streets (very) sloping, they undeniably contribute to make San Francisco one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

It will enchant you, for sure, with its human size, its many neighborhoods (as different in their decor and atmosphere as their population), its great museums, its cultural and culinary scene, its cable cars that hit the streets , its beaches and parks, to the iconic Golden Gate Glowing in the axis of the bay.

Rich city, San Francisco has an average income more than 50% higher than the national average. But not everything is rosy. Some corners, like the Tenderloin, at the west margins of the Downtown, concentrate the abandoned by the hundreds. Hotels choices are also diverse here, you can find hotels in San Francisco for any budget.

San Francisco has the coolest climate on the California coast. In July-August, fog banks, derived from the thermal difference between the overheated Californian lands and the cold waters of the Pacific, sometimes envelop the city for days, exfoliating to the Golden Gate. San Francisco has earned another nickname: Fog City!

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a huge city – it’s actually a lot of cities, right? – and full of super different places from each other. Santa Monica and her pier of American series. Venice with its beautiful canals, the coolest US streets, the most eclectic boardwalk, Californication locations and the best tater tots of our lives. Hollywood with its amazing homes and cinema views. Downtown Beverly Hills . Malibu . Del Rey . It’s a lot to do, see, know and experience. We spent a week in LA and it was definitely not enough. Even if you need a car to get around the longest distance of the city, it is a delight to stroll through the neighborhoods as if they were really small towns.

Anaheim

Located south of Los Angeles, Anaheim is one of California’s most visited tourist destinations, thanks to Disney’s Disneyland California park complex. With a total of over 18 million tourists a year, the city stands out for its attractions and entertainment for all audiences.

In addition to having Disney, Anaheim is also suitable for sports fans, as throughout the season it is possible to follow good games of baseball and hockey, among others. To top it off, the city also has a lively nightlife full of options. Anaheim has many themed restaurants, such as Palapa, which specializes in Hawaiian food with a seafood-filled menu, and Mi Casa, which is considered one of the best Mexican restaurants in the region. On the other hand, those who are interested in a typical American food with hamburgers and fries, Umami Burger is one of the most popular among tourists.

San Diego

My favorite city in the entire state , San Diego is a great place for a family outing, as the county – the first in the US, bordering Tijuana , Mexico – offers attractions for all tastes, pockets and ages.

Although less well known than some others, this is the second largest city in the state and the eighth in the country, with about 1.3 million inhabitants.

Much of its culture reflects its proximity to Mexico, so you can find a variety of Mexican cuisine restaurants in the area, as well as Latinos from all over the city living and dine in San Diego .

The city is the destination of many young people around the world who want to study English – like me, a few years ago – as well as American students from some of its universities. Thus, the city is very young and has attractions that mainly think of this public.

Artrepreneurs Flourish at Sunday Soul Sante

By

Levine Lawrence

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October 25, 2016

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Where would you go to buy the trendiest apparel and fashion accessories? Which is the best flea market for buying some eco-friendly products and organic food? Where can you listen to soulful music while munching away at some delicious food? How about one ultimate destination where you can have all these under one roof in Bengaluru? That must be Sunday Soul Sante!

There is no doubt that Sunday Soul Sante has become the most awaited event in the cultural calendar of our erstwhile Bangalore. Earlier, there were some great cultural festivals like Bengaluru Habba, Vasanta Habba and others, but none of them have survived today. Fortunately, Asha Rao a noted art curator established a new tradition called Sunday Soul Sante, which brings together artisans, musicians, gourmet chefs, fashion designers at one place to showcase their collections.

Continuing this tradition, this Diwali’s Sunday Soul Sante was truly a shop-a-holic’s dream come true – trendy clothes, accessories, colourful jewellery, paintings, decorative items, t-shirts with quirky messages, psychedelic handicrafts, organic food, goodies made of recycled products and lots more. In addition there was steady flow of beer, food, music, a fashion show to top it all! Around 300 booths showcased the traditional and contemporary art works of ‘artrepreneurs’ at the ITPB grounds in Whitefield.

Here are some vignettes of this year’s Sunday Soul Sante –

Needle Doodle

Needle Doodle, as the name suggests is an amazing collection of handcrafted handbags and vanity bags. The majority of their bags were made from eco-friendly jute and cotton blend material which had a soft feel unlike the regular jute fabric. Further, there were handbags made out of denim material that were embellished with detachable coloured tassels in beads, feathers, chains, etc. I was particularly attracted to a handy pouch of tote bag made of silk that can be folded into a pouch. Kavita Jain is the designer who runs Needle Doodle with help of a few artisans who create such beautiful designer bags. https://www.facebook.com/NeedleDoodle/

LataSita

Upcycling old worn sarees is not a new concept, but what LataSita creates from old worn sarees is to be seen to be believed! Meghna Nayak, the designer behind this fashion boutique creates such funky designer clothes that women were raving about it across the fair. She established this social enterprise that wants to play fair by engaging underprivileged tailors in producing some exquisite designs and in turn create an ethical fashion brand. LataSita makes both pret and custom designs with worn saris, and the price range varies from Rs.2,250 to Rs.15,000.
https://www.facebook.com/latasita/

Zilpakala

These cute cup plants and wacky pots by Zilpakala appealed to the green enthusiast in me! We all have a gardener hidden within us, but our cramped urban spaces don’t allow us to any gardening. Realising this need, Raji Krishna founded Zilpakala in 2012 for helping people to have a small green space inside their homes and offices. They provide various options of colourful terracotta pots, ceramic cups, terrariums that are not only are environment friendly, but also beautifully decorated.
https://www.facebook.com/ZilpAkala/

Mug Aur Mooch

Mug Aur Mooch is a social enterprise that produces some jazzy stationery material. How jazzy? How about a crocodile shaped paper clip, or a psychedelic sequined notebook, or a handcrafted Rakhi gift?! Anushri and Akshay are the cute couple that create these trendy stationery items in Koramangala, Bengaluru that truly trigger our imagination with some intricate geometrical patterns and lovable animal motifs.
https://www.facebook.com/mugaurmooch

Gypsy Soul

Gypsy Soul is Balepet, Bengaluru based company that produces an interesting product highly useful for photo display. They offer magnetic steel ropes that can display photos in an interesting way without affecting the visibility of images. Apart from these magnetic ropes, they have a range of cloth covered notebooks and scribble pads.

Ozel Bir Sey

Ozel Bir Sey presented some exquisite potlis and clutches handcrafted from embroidered and zari material. We could observed that each of their bags were painstakingly curated from a diverse range of handcrafted cloth material and they were made to order.
https://ozel-bir-sey.myshopify.com/

Serve With Style

Serve With Style was a collection of some wonderful glassware by Mumbai-based designer, Anushree Saraf. Some of the noteworthy designer glasses were skull-shaped beer mug, face-shaped glass, soup bowls, icecream cups, etc. however, the most happening design was a bulb-shaped juice bottle with sipper!

Kingdom Of Calm

But some of the wackiest and funkiest products on display were with Kingdom Of Calm, led by Ayush and Mustafa. Most of their products were in a niche product category of their own – Hindu Baba shaped wall hooks, lotus-shaped Buddha air fresheners, Calm organic cotton t-shirts, Tibetan Mandala flags, wall scrolls, cork wood coasters, etc. The wackiest of them all were the Calminions – bunch of calm Minions donning Hindu god avatars!
https://kingdomofcalm.com/

Factfile –
Image sources –
https://www.facebook.com/sundaysoulsante/
https://www.facebook.com/sundaysoulsante
https://www.facebook.com/woavinstudio/

8 Benefits of Flying By Private Jet Charter

By

Caleidoscope

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October 23, 2016

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Benefits of Flying By Private Jet Charter

Private jets may well feel like the privilege of the rich and famous but they are quietly becoming more popular and widespread. Rather than dealing with the hassle of commercial airplanes, a rising number of travellers are opting for a private jet charter instead. If you’ve never explored the potential, you may be surprised at just how accessible a private jet is. It’s very affordable, especially when you take into account the other cost benefits, and when you fly as a group it’s even more economical. To find out more about this luxurious but accessible means of transport, take a look at the top eight benefits we’ve listed below.

#1: Opulent and comfortable

The interior of a private jet is something that dreams are made of, with incredible comfort and high-quality finishing wherever you look. The interior of a private jet is specifically designed to create a relaxing environment, whether you plan on working, napping or watching a film. You’ll find all the equipment you need from an entertainment library to WiFi and phones. And what’s more, you can control the ambient settings for the interior of the cabin so you’ll always feel just right.

#2: Flexible scheduling

Private Jet Charter | Benefits | Aviation

If you’re constantly dashing around, you’ll have probably experienced the heart-pounding panic of trying to make your flight on time. With a private jet, you can just take it easy as everything is on your schedule. If you’re running late and need to delay take-off, simply let the pilot know – it’s that easy. You only need a few hours to organise a private jet so you can flex your schedule around changing priorities. If things change while you’re in the air and you need to alter your destination, that’s possible too. Using a private jet is nothing like a commercial flight as it puts you totally in control.

#3: Smooth transitions

Getting through for take-off and then the landing process can be arduous and time-consuming as you have to deal with long queues and wait for your luggage at the airport. When you fly on a private jet, you’ll have a very different experience. Before you take-off you’ll have the benefit of a luxury private lounge which includes not just WiFi and complimentary hot food, but showers and other facilities too. You’ll be chauffeured directly to the jet when it’s ready and upon arrival, there will be transport waiting to take you through the airport quickly.

#4: Very affordable

There is a perception that a private jet is an expensive option but prices may not be as high as you think. When you factor in other savings, such as having to arrange overnight hotel stays due to awkward flight times, you may find that the difference is very little. The cost-effectiveness of a private jet is even better when you’re flying in a group. This is because on a commercial plane you’ll have to pay for each seat but on a private jet, you’re hiring the whole plane so the price is unchanged no matter whether there’s 1 passenger or 10. When split among a group, a private jet is often cheaper than a commercial plane – and it offers a much more enjoyable experience too.

#5: Faster flights

There are no restrictions on private jets so you can fly out of any airfield you choose. This means you have a greater choice of destination and take-off so you can pick the places which are the most convenient, with less need for onward ground travel. Small planes are also able to climb more quickly which allows them to avoid overused routes. The plane is not tied to a predetermined route so they’re able to take advantage of any time-savings and get you to your location much faster.

#6: Privacy

If you’re planning on working during your trip, then privacy could be a real issue. With a private jet charter you can hold meetings or simply carry on working at your laptop without worrying about breaching confidentiality. Only the best crew are hired by top private jet firms so you can count on absolute discretion while you’re on board.

#7: Overhead locker space

Many passengers have experienced the pain of trying to squash their hand luggage into the overhead locker space and struggling to fit it in. You won’t have this worry on a private jet as whether you’ve got large suitcases, musical instruments or lots of hand luggage there’s plenty of room for your belongings.

#8: Travel with your pet

If you’re taking your pet with you, the thought of them being holed up in the draughty and unpleasant cargo area can be an uncomfortable idea. The experience can be distressing for your pet and you may even consider leaving them behind rather than exposing them to such undesirable conditions. On a private jet, your pet travels where they belong, right beside you! You won’t need to worry about poor ventilation or plunging temperatures, as your furry friend can enjoy the same luxurious level of comfort as you.

Find out more

A private jet charter isn’t out of reach for anyone, despite their exclusive reputation. Take a look for yourself and discover how affordable private jet travel really is, and the many benefits you could be enjoying next time you fly.

4 Tips for Home Interiors that Standout

By

Caleidoscope

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October 19, 2016

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Interior designing is the most exciting yet challenging task once you have a home ready to move in. However, is there any standard process to follow when it comes to home interior designing? If you interact with any experienced designer, you will realise that they don’t follow any specific rule or guidelines for the process. Definitely, they take inspirations from different interior décor ideas. It all depends on how creatively one can think and implement these ideas. Following your intuition is crucial in this aspect. In addition If the interior space is limited and you are willing to add more space to you living space you could opt for Edwardian conservatory, which comes in different sizes and budget. Conservatory is the best option to add a little bit of private space to your living space.

However, if you are planning to decorate your home interiors on your own, ensure that the approach taken is up to the mark. Here are few essential tips to make the home interior decoration better and appealing:

Pick the right paint colour, but it must be the last stage of decoration

Surprised? Picking the paint colour right at the beginning may create some limitations to the designing part. It may not be the ideal option to consider. There are limitless options available when you go out to pick the colours. There are different shades, tones and tints for every single colour you would find in there. Remember, each one of these colour tones will look different from one home interior to another. It is mainly because of the varying light sources that reflect on the walls to create the ultimate impression. What may look great on your wall would never come with assurance to look perfectly rippling on your neighbour’s house interior. You would always look for shades that can best complement your artwork, rug, upholstery and everything that’s used for interior decoration purpose. Picking the colour can be done best, if the home décor items are actually present in the interior space.

Create some free space for your furniture to breathe

It would never be a great idea to overcrowd the room with a lot of furniture and other items. Keep some free space to let your furniture items breathe. For that perfect gracious living, you need to manoeuvre some space with much ease. Never fill the space with lots of furniture items. Rather, have fewer but great quality and unique designer furniture pieces. This will make the interior home furnishing look sober and breathable.

The height of artworks must be appropriate

You must ensure that the artworks are placed at the right height. Visit any museum or gallery and you would find artwork being hanged or placed perfectly at the midline, while being 55-60 inches from the floor. This ensures for the best of the viewing experience. If you have a room with high ceilings, there can be some kind of eagerness to hang the artwork higher. But remember, the artwork placement distance must depend on the level of the human eyesight and not on the scale of the structure.

Being too theme-oriented can prove to be harmful

Please, don’t be too theme oriented for your interiors. You will end up lacking individuality and uniqueness. Try to look for fusion settings without congesting your interior space. Take reference from different themes, but don’t consider any single option for the entire home interior. Integrate a couple of themes to create something unique and innovative. You must select the right star to make it the perfect focal point for anchoring your room. The other items will play a secondary role in the process. If you plan to make every single item take the focal point of attraction, the ultimate result would be creating a dull visual noisy scenario.

Author Bio: Barrack Diego is an interior décor consultant and home furnishing expert. He has been working as a B2B furnishings guide for the last 25 years. He is also a regular columnist for several home furnishing and lifestyle magazines.

In The Abode of Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple – Srirangam

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Caleidoscope

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October 14, 2016

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Indian architecture and spirituality have both been referred to with quite a bit of reverence since millennia. In the temples of India, we find magnificent examples of either.

Ranganathaswamy temple in Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, is an important example of the same. This has been described as the home to Lord Ranganatha, which is Lord Vishnu in a reclining pose.

The pose itself has a deep rooted significance. As per Alwar, the tradition of Tamil poet saints, this one of the eight Swayambu Kshetras of Lord Vishnu. The glory of the temple is such, that it has been praised by each of the Alwar saints in their hymns. The numbers of hymns combined is 247, in praise of the temple and Lord Ranganatha.

The Ranganathaswamy temple also has a fascinating bit of history associated with it. Visiting the temple is not just a divine experience for the devotees; it fascinates historians from across the world as well. The history of the temple goes right back to 3rd century B.C. Some historians nevertheless believe that it was in the 9th century AD that the temple was built. The dynasty that built the temple was the Gangas, based in Talakadu, on the banks of the river Kaveri. Across the centuries that would follow, the temple would come across as a hub for culture and religion.

The Srirangam temple has been very often referred to as the world’s largest functioning Hindu temple. It is spread across a 155 acres complex, and features the tallest Gopuram in all of South India. The Rajgopuram at the temple is a staggering 237 feet above the complex. It moves up in 11 ascending tiers.

The location of the temple, right at the junction of two rivers made it a relatively easy point of access for invaders. It was invaded many times over the course of its history. The shrine stayed an important centre for Bhakti Movement through times.

The format in which we find the temple today is a result of a number of reconstructions and revamps. In the late 14th century, the temple was rebuilt. A number of additions were also made to the prevailing structure of the times, in 16th, 17th and 21st centuries.

The Ranganathaswamy temple is reminiscent of the cultural exchange and diversity which used to prevail centuries back, at the time when the temple was constructed. There are a number of languages in which 800 inscriptions are sculpted over the temple. They include Tamil, Kannada, Oriya, Marathi, Telugu and Sanskrit. They come across as fascinating specimens for linguistics. The scripts used for creating these inscriptions are Tamil and Grantha. Grantha is a script which was used to write Sanskrit, in the 6th century by the scholars of Tamil Nadu and Kerala.

Beyond the vast historical significance of Ranganathaswamy temple, the monument is also recognized for its exquisite architecture. Its complex is the largest among all functional Hindu temples, and is a true specimen of the ancient Dravidian style of architecture.

It is over 155 acres that the temple is spread over. Within the complex are seven Parikramas, walking through which is undoubtedly a spiritual experience. It is the seven chakras in the body that the seven Parikramas represent.

Within the compound area, there are 50 sub sannithees in total. The temple also features 21 astounding Gopurams and 39 huge pavilions. Each artifact within the temple is reminiscent of the culture that prevailed during the medieval era. Some of the other top attractions of the temple include scenic representation from Hindu sculptures, and depiction of the lives of religious scholars.

Among the most spectacular architectural marvels within the temple is a complex hall that has 1000 pillars. It was built during the 13th and 15th centuries using granite. The granite structure includes a hall, along with water tanks towards the centre. There are eight pillars over here which have been carved using a single stone. Over them are inscribed sculptures regarding warriors in action.

When a visitor comes to the Ranganathaswamy temple, he finds an opportunity to worship lord Ranganathaswamy right within his abode. It is in a reclining pose that Lord Vishnu rests over the Adishesha. Adishesha is a coiled serpent that has 5 hoods. This idol is unique in many ways. It has been crafted using the most pious of materials, they include thailam, which is a paste made from musk, along with stucco. Other ingredients within the idol are sandal, jaggery, honey and camphor.

It is with a gold plated vimanam or a crown tower that the sanctum is adorned. This is shaped just like OM in Tamil. Over the gable, one comes across paravasudeva, who is the Supreme Being. One also comes across an etching of Ramanuja, an 11th century scholar.

There are essentially 50 sub sannithees within the temple complex. They primarily involve segregated formats of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. Other shrines are dedicated to Bhakti and Alwar poet saints, and religious scholars. A few of the shrines are dedicated to deities such as Gopal Krishna, Narasimha, Rama, Sridevi and Bhudevi.

There are a number of special features in the Ranganathaswamy temple Tiruchirappalli which fascinate visitors regarding the civic facilities that used to prevail over here through the medieval era. One finds huge water tanks and granaries over here.

There are 12 water tanks over here in total. Among them, the Surya Soc is named after the Sun Lord. It makes a part of the visit itinerary for the temple for every single tourist. Another important tank over here is the Chandra Pushkarani, named after the moon. Together, these two tanks can hold 2 million liters of water combined. The temple kitchen hence is always well equipped to serve visitors and the local population alike.

There are number of temple chariots over here as well, which play a very important role during special occasions and festivities. The most significant among them are Sesha Vahana, Hanumantha Vahana, Simha Vahana and Garuda Vahana.

Srirangam temple timings are 5:00 am to 9:30 pm every day. Timings for Aarti/Puja are variable, so they must be checked before visiting the temple.

Accentuate Your looks With Stunning Traditional Maheshwari Sarees

By

Caleidoscope

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October 12, 2016

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Maheshwari saree is pure silk and cotton fabric woven with brocade or zari designs that are lightweight with a glossy finish. Most of these designs have checks, floral borders, and stripes. Maheshwari sarees were first produced in Maheshwar in Madhya Pradesh in the 18^th Century.

Initially, these sarees were made from pure silk; however, cotton was later blended with silk to make stunning sarees, dupattas, and salwar kameez attires. Traditional Maheshwari sarees are sought after sarees that have an interesting background. It’s believed that Queen Rani Ahilya Bai Holkar ordered craftsmen from Surat and Malwa to design a nine-yard special saree to gift her relatives and royal guests. Heavy work Maheshwari sarees were made as special gifts from the royal family to their guests. Later, the silk was replaced with cotton and made available to other women but still maintaining the saree’s elegance and classy look.

Varieties of Maheshwari saree

The designs of the forts in Madhya Pradesh have inspired the motifs, weaves, and techniques used on the Maheshwari sarees. The Mat pattern (chattai) and the Chameli flower pattern (Chameli ka phool) are popular designs found on these sarees. Most of these sarees are either a variety of checks and stripes or plain with beautiful borders. Maheswari sarees are in five main categories. The plain sarees include the Baingani Chandrakala and Chandrakala, whereas the striped and checked category includes the Beli, Chandratala, and Pardi sarees.

Unique Qualities of Maheshwari saree

Initially, the Maheshwari saree didn’t have a wide variety of colours to use in its design. The authentic colours of the Maheshwari saree were maroon, red, black, purple or green. Nowadays, gold and silver threads together with lighter colours can now be found on these sarees at stylecaret. These sarees will give you an effortless graceful and classy look to any wedding, religious festival, parties or conference. Their lightweight feature makes them suitable to wear all year round. A unique characteristic of this saree is the reversible border which means you can wear the saree from either of the two sides. When it comes to age women of all ages can wear this saree. The older women prefer the plain type while the middle-aged and young women prefer the contemporary type with motifs and metallic borders.

The following Maheshwari sarees will make you feel like a queen.

Pink and blue Chanderi Maheshwari saree

The combination of the light blue shade with the powder pink colour makes this saree a sight to behold. The blue shade is embellished with golden butis with golden zari on the pallu. The blue and pink border on this saree gives it a uniqueness that many sarees don’t have. This saree is a beautiful creation to wear to a wedding or as ethnic wear.

Sky blue and green handloom Mheshwari saree

This breathtaking blue and green handloom Maheshwari saree have a perfect combination of colours that have a calming effect on you. Its light gold zari border has a light green colour with hues of sky blue that gives it a graceful look.

Maroon Maheshwari silk saree

The deep shade of maroon combined and a dark blue tone are two tones that emit royalty. The sheen on this stunning saree can be seen depending on which side the light is. The border and the pallu have a golden coloured zari that makes this exquisite saree perfect to wear to religious events, weddings or parties.

Blue Tussar silk Maheshwari saree with hand block print

This Maheshwari saree is made in Tussar silk with a very stylish border. This comfortable and soft saree has a blend of blue with chalky white zigzag hand block print that makes it very appealing. This lovely saree can be worn on a daily basis or to any event.

Handloom dark pink Maheshwari saree

This saree sports lustrous dark magenta and wine colours that give it an alluring look with a touch of class. The deep shades of colours give this saree a rich and majestic quality and the woven golden paisley design makes it perfect to wear to an evening party. You can also wear this elegant ensemble as festive or ethnic wear.

Khushnuma pure silk Maheshwari saree

This beautiful silk saree sports vibrant colours that are filled with the warmth of the sunset and beautiful summer evenings. The lustrous and rich colours and textures have a nice harmony with each other which sets this saree apart. This is the perfect ensemble for you to wear to a wedding or any occasion that you want to stand out and be noticed.

Maheshwari purple cotton silk saree

This Maheshwari saree has a royal look that sports the purple colour with a metallic shade of grey. This saree has a simple pallu while alternating stripes of gold and purple are woven on the lower section of the saree. The contrasting stripes of gold and purple have an amazing effect that is very eye-catching. Pair this gorgeous saree with a matching blouse and traditional accessories to give you a royal look.

Black Maheshwari silk saree with pink border

If you are looking for a beautiful saree to wear to a special evening function, this stunning black silk saree will be perfect. It has stripes of brown and gold on its border and a hot pink border for that modern touch. This saree is very soft and light perfect to wear to weddings or special occasions.

Aqua blue Maheshwari printed cotton saree

This beautiful saree sports stunning brocade work with a gold tree design and contrasting designs of pink and yellow coloured birds in flight. This aqua blue cotton Maheshwari saree has soothing colours that can be worn during the summer season.

Black Maheshwari silk saree with orange and pink border

The beautiful and lustrous sheen on this blacksaree gives it an exquisite look that will make heads turn at weddings or parties. The mango motifs and golden zari border are woven on the pink and orange border make this saree one of a kind. Pair it with a contrasting coloured blouse to get a royal look.

Conclusion

Maheshwari sarees are filled with character and beauty to accentuate your look.