5 #Popular #Travel #Destinations #Everyone #Needs to #Visit #Once

Around the world, travelers gravitate towards the Eiffel Tower, Rome’s mighty Coliseum, and Australia’s precious Great Barrier Reef. While wandering off the beaten path has become a mission for many, the beauty and grandeur of the world’s most popular destinations still often outshine the crowds. Here are five popular tourist destinations that should still make it onto your bucket list.

New York City, New York, United States

New York City is a trendsetter in the arts, fashion and dining categories. Its grid of streets offers a smorgasbord of choices from Michelin-starred restaurants to unassuming $1 pizza joints. Explore the boroughs where iconic yellow cabs roam, traversing through Brooklyn, Tribeca and Queens and discovering each neighborhood’s unique personality. Spend your afternoon laying on the immaculate lawns of Manhattan’s urban oasis of Central Park with fresh bagels from a nearby deli, or nibbling on cotton candy on Coney Island. When night falls, the city is bedazzled in neon lights. Quintessential to any NYC experience is a night out on Broadway, clapping along to an acclaimed musical or sharing laughs with the audience at an improv show. Visit during the Christmas holidays for an air of romance, when plazas convert into outdoor ice rinks and horse drawn carriages trot down the snow blanketed streets.

The best part about New York City is that no matter how many times you’ve been before there’s still something new to discover. New clubs and bars, restaurants, hotels, shows and more make this city feel fresh every time you stop through.

Florence, Italy

Traipse the city’s delicate web of narrow alleyways and you’ll discover overwhelming evidence of the Renaissance in each monument, internationally-recognized museum brimming with works by Michelangelo and da Vinci and fresco-adorned cathedral. Shop (or window shop) for fine jewelry in the stores that line the Ponte Vecchio, and hang out on the banks of the Arno river with some rich and creamy pistachio gelato. Interspersed with atmospheric piazzas and elegant cathedrals, Florence was made for every kind of traveler. Make your way to one of Florence’s many delightful eateries and warm up with a hearty bowl of ribollita — a hearty bread and vegetable soup — or gorge on a succulently grilled Florentine steak seasoned to perfection, paired with a glass of house Chianti. Beguiling Florence is a destination of fine Tuscan culinary indulgence and rich history. And despite the tourists that flock here every summer, it’s one Italian hotspot you shouldn’t miss.

Tokyo, Japan

Incredibly modern yet rooted in tradition, Tokyo is a city of parallels — where stand-up ramen bars share the sidewalk with fine dining establishments featuring perfectly marbled Kobe beef. Where the timeworn traditions of observing cherry blossoms and sumo wrestling contrast modern Japanese entertainment of zany robot shows and karaoke. The city plays host to an eclectic collection of themed cafes that allow visitors to immerse themselves in diverse worlds in the span of an afternoon. Relax in an onsen, a volcanically heated hot spring, then shop among cosplayers in the perpetually moving district of Shibuya, where the city’s infatuation with manga and their thriving pop scene add depth to Tokyo’s complex culture. Like New York, Tokyo is constantly evolving, reaching for newer and more elaborate spectacles in all spheres of life.

Maui, Hawaii, United States

A dynamic landscape of verdant valleys and otherworldly volcanic slopes, Maui is an island of stunning geographical diversity. Encircled by the Pacific and blessed with a pristine coastline, Maui is a premiere destination for beach bums and water sports enthusiasts. The island is also a haven for nature lovers, with a sizable network of trails that transport hikers past rotating windmills and along rugged terrain. Road trippers embark on the Road to Hana, a drive of harrowing hairpin turns that unveil a treasure trove of sparkling red and black sand beaches, secluded coves and silky waterfalls. Budget time to witness golden sunrises or fiery sunsets that transform into a dark night sky of dancing stars atop Maui’s active shield volcano of Haleakala. While parts of the island can get overcrowded, especially during peak travel seasons, if you travel smart you can miss the crowds and enjoy the wonders that this island holds.

Prague, Czech Republic

Irresistibly charming, Prague is an urban wanderer’s delight. The city is a mishmash of architectural styles, as demonstrated by the solid piers of St. Longin’s Rotunda in Romanesque form, the soaring spires of the Gothic Vitus Cathedral and the glory of the Baroque Saint Cajetan Church. From Staré Město, Prague’s Old Town Square, wander on the cobbled streets towards the 14th-century Charles Bridge for a romantic stroll and find yourself admiring the enchanting Prague Castle. Though drawing in hordes of tourists year round, it’s possible to find peace by strolling through neighborhoods like Vinohrady, and meandering away from the center to uncover charming cafes, secluded gardens and pubs frequented by locals.

CREDIT: thediscoverer

#10 #Beaches to See Before You #Die

When aren’t you in a tropical state of mind? Even as snow storms pummel the northern hemisphere, images of sandy beaches and sunshine continue to pop up on our phones, beckoning us to get away. And while we love the mountains and city, there’s something about the beach that screams “vacation time.”

If you’re thinking about escaping to the beach in the future, I recommend going big or staying home. TripAdvisor just released its list of best beaches in the world. The ranking is based on the millions of reviews and opinions collected about the world’s beaches over a year.

Pick one of these, and remember to leave your coat at home — you won’t need it where you’re going.

1. Baia do Sancho, Brazil

Located on the small island of Fernando de Noronha, Baia do Sancho was rated “excellent” by 91 percent of reviewers. People love this beach for its beautiful, bright waters and its isolated, tropical surroundings. In fact, the beach is part of the national park Parque Nacional Marinho de Fernando de Noronha, so while you have to pay an environmental tax to get in, the end destination is totally worth it. If you can hold out a little longer, the best time to visit the secluded beach is during the rainy season, from April to June, to catch a glimpse of two waterfalls forming off a nearby cliff.

2. Varadero Beach, Cuba

With steady weather ranging between 60 and 80 degrees Farenheit, white beaches and calm waters, it’s no wonder Varadero Beach makes it to No. 2. The beach is simply stunning, and the water is warm and soothing, almost like dipping into a bath. Covering 13 miles, Varadero Beach offers the perfect respite for the busy traveler.

3. Eagle Beach, Aruba

Eagle Beach is exactly what you picture when you think of a Caribbean beach. Complete with white sands, cerulean waters and Aruba’s famous divi divi trees, it looks like it was plucked from a travel brochure. This highly-rated beach is so large it rarely feels crowded, feeling like a private beach wherever you post up. The beach is also the prime spot for Aruba’s nesting turtles, who make their way to the ocean from May to November.

4. La Concha Beach, Spain

The crescent-shaped La Concha Beach separates the sea from the Spanish city of San Sebastian. Its urban border makes it easy to transition between the city and the natural beauty of the bay. One traveller called it “This is a gorgeous stretch of beach with the background of mountains and a lovely promenade beside it.” Whether you’re strolling along the sand or hiking for views in the mountains surrounding the bay, you’ll want to make sure you have enough space on your camera for all the photos.

5. Grace Bay Beach, Turks and Caicos

Grace Bay Beach is known for its soft stripe of white sand bordered by thickets of trees on one side and those crystal blue waters you always want to see on your beach vacation. This beach in Providenciales stretches 13 miles and has some of the softest sand in the Bahamas. Though resorts and restaurants are easily accessible, the beach feels isolated and tranquil, creating a relaxing haven just for you.

6. Clearwater Beach, United States

The only U.S. beach to top the list is, no surprise, in Florida. Overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, the warm waters of Clearwater Beach offer a safe haven for those fleeing their daily life. Dolphins swim so close to the shore you can usually spot them from where you’re sunbathing on your towel. Plus, all the nearby restaurants make it easy to spend your entire day here.

7. Spiaggia dei Conigli, Italy

Surrounded by a rocky cliffs and outcroppings, Spiaggia dei Conigli in Siciliy feels like your very own little secret. Translated as “Rabbit Beach”, this spot features a rugged coastline that spills into a narrow sliver of sand.  You can surf waves with schools of fish, or hike to the top of the nearby hills to drink in the whole scene. It can be hard to believe, but pinch yourself — it’s real.

8. Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman

Seven Mile Beach is the place to go if you want to get a little adventurous in paradise. Try parasailing in the bright water, or watch the sunset on a dinner cruise. If you get tired of the ocean (as if that’s possible), you can make the easy switch to the pool at your resort for a slight change of scenery. But I doubt you’ll need it. One reviewer called the Seven Mile Beach “heaven on earth.”

9. Playa Norte, Mexico

Playa Norte on Isla Mujeres makes it easy to feel like you’re far, far away from your regular life. Featuring beautiful water, fine sand, and a ban on motorized water activities, Playa Norte puts an emphasis on the peaceful tranquility of the ocean. Nearby food and drink options will keep you satiated but you’ll still enjoy minimal crowds in this oasis.

10. Seven Mile Beach, Jamaica

Not to be confused with the other seven-mile beach on this list, the Seven Mile Beach in Negril, Jamaica has something to keep you busy at every interval. Loungers are available right on the sand, and bars, restaurant and entertainment are in no short supply. Walk along the beach between venues and soak up the sun you’re probably missing back home.

CREDIT: thediscoverer

How #habits #affect your #mental #health?

New research reveals a list of everyday activities that can bring on feelings of isolation or lift spirits

Depression affects around 10 per cent of the population at any given time, according to the Office for National Statistics, and is now second only to high blood pressure among the most common conditions recorded by GPs.

But while bereavement, unemployment and illness are common triggers for low mood, experts say everyday activities — from what we eat and drink to spending too much time online — could also contribute to leaving you feeling down.

So what’s affecting the way you think? Here are some possibilities, and what can you do about the impact they have on you.

Taking antibiotics

Certain groups of antibiotics, including quinolones and penicillin, are linked to depression, say scientists.

A large Tel Aviv University study of British patients found that taking just one course of antibiotics can raise the risk of depression and anxiety by around a quarter. And taking between two and five courses raises the risk by nearly half, they reported in The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry. It’s thought that disrupting the balance of bacteria in the gut can harm the way in which the brain cells communicate.

BOOST YOUR MOOD

A major proportion of your immune system actually lies in your gut in the form of friendly bacteria, and antibiotics can wipe these out — automatically weakening your immune system.

Restore the balance by promoting the production of good bacteria when taking antibiotics by eating live yogurt (containing lactobacillus, for example), or fermented foods such as sauerkraut, kefir and miso.

Always online?

Swedish researchers found that those who spend long hours in front of a computer screen or on their phones (up to 150 hours a week) reported more depression, possibly due to sleep deprivation and lack of face-toface communication.

And a separate study by University of Michigan psychologist Ethan Kross found a direct correlation between time spent on social media and feelings of dissatisfaction, loneliness and isolation.

BOOST YOUR MOOD

Don’t visit a social network when feeling sad or dissatisfied with your present situation as, chances are, it will only make you feel more sorry for yourself and more depressed. Consider deactivating your account temporarily or unfollowing those who make you feel worse.

Pick up a bestseller instead. Those who read books regularly are, on average, happier and more satisfied with life, according to a study by reading charity BookTrust.

Too many coffee breaks

In the same way that sugary and fatty foods can leave you on a rollercoaster of emotion, coffee and high-caffeine energy drinks, too, can impact the way you feel, warns nutritionist Patrick Holford, author of Feel Good Factor.

Consuming caffeine sets off a stress response in your brain, which then stimulates the production of adrenaline, making you more alert, he says.

“In the long term, however, too much caffeine throughout the day causes constant adrenal overload,” he adds. “As a consequence, an increasing number of people are suffering from chronic anxiety, panic attacks, low mood, insomnia and stress-related weight gain.”

BOOST YOUR MOOD

Cut back on caffeinated drinks and eliminate them completely after 4pm. Instead, try herbal teas.

Not eating your greens

Those who eat the least fresh fruit and vegetables are most likely to become depressed, according to a University College London study.

The high levels of antioxidants found in fresh produce help prevent free radical damage to cells, including those in the brain.

BOOST YOUR MOOD

Find ways to sneak extra fruit and vegetables into your meals.

Eating just one extra portion of berries, greens or salad boosts one’s mental wellbeing by the same amount as walking for an additional 10 minutes for seven days a week, over four weeks, say researchers.

And, adding 10 additional portions of fruit and vegetables to your daily diet has the same effect on emotional wellbeing as going from unemployment into a job.

Is #Sunflower #Oil #Healthy?

Sunflower oil is one of the most prevalent cooking oils in the world.

It is also easy to hear claims that sunflower oil is “heart-healthy” cooking oil, but is there truth to this?

This article provides an in-depth guide to sunflower oil and its nutritional and chemical properties.

What Is Sunflower Oil?

Sunflower oil is an edible oil made from the seeds of the sunflower plant (Helianthus annuus).

This oil is one of the most common vegetable oils, and global production hit 19.45 million metric tons in 2019 (1).

The fat content of sunflower oil is primarily unsaturated fat, and it is mainly a source of omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids.

Uses

Food companies widely use sunflower oil in their packaged food products, particularly in snacks like potato chips.

Since the oil is cheap, it is common to find sunflower oil in homes. The oil is often used for frying and sauteing.

How Is It Made?

The majority of commercial sunflower oil goes through a lengthy production process which involves refining, bleaching, and deodorization (2).

For this reason, the oil is also known as an RBD oil; a refined, bleached, and deodorized oil.

This production process involves following the steps below in order;

• Cleaning to remove any impurities from the oil and then heating and drying the seeds.

• The mechanical pressing of the seeds to extract 50-75% of the oil.

• Next, the leftover seed meal is treated with solvents such as hexane to extract more oil.

• After extracting all the oil, the added solvents need removing from the oil via a heat and steam distillation system.

• Following this, the sunflower oil undergoes degumming, bleaching, and deodorizing processes to make it edible and give it the required color and aroma.

Key Point: Sunflower oil is a common refined vegetable oil used around the world.

Nutrition Facts

Before we discuss the oil’s relative health properties, here are the full nutritional values for an average serving of sunflower oil.

The source of the nutrition data is the USDA’s National Nutrient Database (3).

Nutrition Facts For Sunflower Oil (Per tbsp Serving)

Calories/Nutrient	Amount
Calories	120 kcal
Carbohydrate	0 g
Fat	13.60 g
Saturated Fat	1.40 g
Monounsaturated Fat	2.65 g
Polyunsaturated Fat	8.94 g
Omega-3 Fatty Acids	–
Omega-6 Fatty Acids	8.87 g
Protein	0 g
Vitamin E	5.59 mg (28% DV)
Vitamin K	0.7 mcg (1% DV)

Fatty Acid Profile

• Palmitic acid and stearic acid are the main saturated fatty acids in sunflower oil.

• Oleic acid is the source of the monounsaturated fatty acids.

• Linoleic acid is the polyunsaturated fat.

Key Point: As shown in the nutritional values, sunflower oil is a pure source of fat, and it contains significant amounts of omega-6.

Does It Have Any Benefits?

Like with any isolated source of fat, there is not a lot of nutritional value in sunflower oil.

However, the oil does contain a reasonable amount of vitamin E, which is a fat-soluble vitamin with antioxidant properties (4).

Generally speaking, most fats contain vitamin E as it helps to protect the fatty acids from oxidizing (5).

Aside from this vitamin E content, the oil is also widely available and affordable.

However, there are also some important concerns to consider regarding sunflower oil and the fatty acids it contains.

Key Point: Sunflower oil contains a moderate amount of vitamin E.

Sunflower Oil Has Poor Oxidative Stability, and May Produce Large Amounts of Polar Compounds

On the negative side, one of the biggest concerns surrounding sunflower oil is that it can generate polar compounds (oxidation products such as aldehydes) when heated.

Research suggests that consuming these polar compounds can cause oxidative stress in the body. On this note, oxidative stress can raise the long-term risk of various chronic diseases (6).

An independent lab recently conducted an extensive study to test the oxidative stability of popular cooking oils. In this study, the researchers heated the various oils to different temperatures to see the effects this had on the oil (7).

Unfortunately, this study showed that sunflower oil produces large amounts of oxidation products, and particularly so during longer cooking times.

For example, tests showed that sunflower oil contains around 6% polar compounds in its raw state.

After heating for 30 minutes at 180°C (356°F), this rose to 10%. At the three hour mark, sunflower oil contained a higher percentage of polar compounds (17-18%) than any other cooking oil.

Sunflower Oil Versus Other Cooking Oils

The table below demonstrates how sunflower oil compared to various other cooking oils regarding oxidative stability and changes in polar compounds after cooking;

In summary, the data here show that (7);

• Sunflower oil contained the third most polar compounds out of any oil before heating.

• After heating, sunflower oil’s polar compound content increased more than any other cooking oil.

• Sunflower oil had the least oxidative stability out of all the oils. It was slightly less stable than grapeseed oil, which had the second lowest oxidative stability. It was significantly more prone to oxidation than the other oils.

Also, there is another recent study that compared the oxidative stability of sunflower oil to three other options;

• Camellia oil
• Perilla oil
• Palm oil

Among these four oils, palm oil had the highest oxidative stability, and sunflower oil had the lowest (8).

Why Is Sunflower Oil Prone To Oxidation?

Three primary factors can influence the oxidative stability of a type of fat;

• The level of saturation (polyunsaturated fats have the lowest oxidative stability) (9).

• Vitamin E content of the fat (10).

• Polyphenols (refined sunflower oil barely contains any) (11).

Key Point: Regular sunflower oil has poor oxidative stability and appears to generate various polar compounds when heated.

Sunflower Oil Contains Large Amounts of Omega-6 and Significantly Impacts the Omega-6 To Omega-3 Ratio

A single tablespoon of sunflower oil contains nearly nine grams of omega-6 and virtually no omega-3.

Omega-6 is one of two essential fatty acids that the human body requires to function. This fatty acid plays a crucial role in growth and development, wound healing, and more (12).

Generally speaking, omega-6 has pro-inflammatory properties. In contrast, omega-3 has anti-inflammatory biological functions (12, 13).

However, despite being essential, we only need small amounts of omega-6, and some researchers believe that excessive amounts could be harmful.

The reason for this is disagreed upon, however.

Why Might the Omega-6 To Omega-3 Ratio Matter?

Some researchers believe that an imbalanced ratio of omega-6 to omega-3, which can be up to 20:1 in the modern diet, can put the body into a pro-inflammatory state. By comparison, the evolutionary ratio was approximately 1:1 (14).

In this regard, excessive amounts of omega-6 may impair the biological activity of omega-3.

Linoleic acid (the primary omega-6 fatty acid) can block the uptake of DHA and EPA (omega-3 from animal sources) into tissues. Additionally, linoleic acid also competes with alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) for absorption. ALA is an omega-3 precursor found in plant foods (15).

That said, this issue is still not fully understood, and contrasting evidence exists.

For instance, some studies show that high blood levels of linoleic acid (omega-6) do not increase markers of inflammation. However, this research only took absolute omega-6 status into account, and the omega-3 status of the participants was not clear (16, 17).

For those who wish to maintain a more balanced omega-6 to 3 ratio, sunflower oil is not an ideal choice.

Key Point: Sunflower oil is exceptionally high in omega-6 fatty acids. Excessive intake of omega-6 compared to omega-3 may potentially have adverse effects.

High Oleic Sunflower Oil May Be a Healthier Option

For those who wish to use sunflower oil, it is worth noting that there is a different type available: high oleic sunflower oil.

‘High oleic’ means that the fat contains high amounts of oleic acid (at the expense of the polyunsaturated omega-6 content). This high oleic oil is made by the conventional breeding of sunflower plants to produce seeds that are rich in oleic acid.

Oleic acid is a monounsaturated fatty acid which we can also find in extra virgin olive oil (18, 19).

There are several benefits of high oleic sunflower oil compared to the regular version;

• It has an entirely different fatty acid profile, and it is much lower in omega-6 (20).

• High-oleic sunflower oil has much greater oxidative stability compared to the regular version. The oil is more shelf-stable and less prone to oxidation during cooking (21).

How Does High Oleic Sunflower Oil Compare To Regular Sunflower Oil?

The table below shows how the fatty acid profiles of regular and high-oleic sunflower oil differ per tablespoon serving (3, 22);

Fatty Acid Profile of Regular Sunflower Oil vs. High Oleic Sunflower Oil

Type of Fat	Regular Sunflower Oil	High Oleic Sunflower Oil
Saturated	1.40 g	1.38 g
Monounsaturated	2.65 g	11.7 g
Polyunsaturated	8.94 g	0.53 g
Omega-3	–	26.9 mg
Omega-6	8870 mg	505 mg

As we can see, the high oleic version of the oil is much lower in omega-6.

Therefore, it should provide better heat stability.

Key Point: There is a high oleic version of sunflower oil which offers many benefits over the standard oil.

Final Thoughts

Overall, regular sunflower oil has more drawbacks than benefits.

While the high oleic variety offers numerous improvements, it is probably better to stick to more proven cooking oils.

For a like-for-like alternative, extra virgin olive oil is one of the most evidence-backed oils.

Aside from this, other cooking oils that have excellent oxidative stability include animal fats and coconut oil.

Credit: nutritionadvance

The 11 most #beautiful #train #stations around the #world

TRAVELING BY TRAIN is a time-tested method to enjoy seeing parts of countries we may not otherwise experience. Whether commuting or taking a long-distance journey, architecture, history, and artful aesthetics can make that wait for the next train pass in no time at all.

Here are some of the most beautiful, inside and out, train stations around the world.

1. Estação de São Bento, Porto, Portugal

The first train pulled into the station in São Bento in 1896. Architect Marques da Silva drew inspiration from Parisian architecture for its exterior and, inside, artist Jorge Colaço spent 14 years crafting a massive azulejo tile mural.

Even those in a hurry slow down to gaze upon its 20,000 hand-painted, tin-glazed, blue and white tiles. This is a busy destination for trains heading to the suburbs of Porto, as well as to and from Portugal’s capital city of Lisbon.

2. Antwerp Centraal Station, Antwerp, Belgium

Officially noted by the media as one of the world’s most beautiful railway station, this stone-clad terminal was originally constructed between 1895-1905.

Designer Louis Delacenserie designed the building using over 20 types of marble and stone. The impressive multi-level glass and iron vaulted ceiling survived the V-2 bombs of World War II. Delacenserie definitely used his imagination in the creation of this space: it can be assigned no particular architectural style other than just being simply stunning.

3. Grand Central Terminal, New York City, New York

The world’s largest train station welcomes travelers beneath the ticking face of the world’s largest Tiffany clock. Over the rush of the workday crowds, an aquamarine ceiling bends with six gold-leafed signs of the zodiac, famously painted in reverse order.

Built by Cornelius Vanderbilt in 1871, customers can still purchase tickets through the original gold barred ticket windows and entertain themselves during layovers with whispering galleries, secret bars, and a stop at its ever-popular Oyster Bar.

4. Estación de Madrid Atocha, Madrid, Spain

This station’s most striking feature is the lush greenery of the tropical garden growing in its main concourse. It was Madrid‘s first and largest train station when built in 1851, but a 1992 fire forced the building of a more modern structure adjacent to the historical one.

Though trains now leave from the new building, the original Atocha station structure is alive with shops, cafes, and even a nightclub.

5. St. Pancras International, London, England

The imposing Victorian structure has a red-brick, Gothic facade that is unyielding. But the station softens inside, where one can grab a seat at Europe’s longest champagne bar.

The massive station took 20 years to build and, upon its completion in 1868, it was for some time the largest enclosed space in the world. Seemingly untouched by the battering of bombs in World War II, St. Pancras is a gateway to Britain’s National Rail network.

6. Gare de Lyon, Paris, France

Commissioned for the 1900 World Exposition, this station is an exemplary standard of period architecture with fine Beaux-Arts details. Trains head to destinations in the south of France, as well as Switzerland, Italy, Spain, and Germany. Over the decades, its famous clock tower has overseen the regular comings and goings of millions, including Jean Cocteau, Salvador Dali, and Brigitte Bardot.

7. Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, Mumbai, India

Built to honor Queen Victoria, construction of this massive station was completed in 1888. A fusion of Western and Eastern styles, the palace-like exterior served as a symbol of Bombay’s prestige within the British Empire and has earned it a spot on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The terminal now connects Mumbai and its suburbs with an impressive 3 million commuters passing through it each day.

8. Dunedin Railway Station, Dunedin, New Zealand

Architect George Troup became known as “Gingerbread George” after the completion of this ornate, Flemish Renaissance-style station in 1906.

Constructed of basalt from the small town of Kokonga and white Oamaru stone, it has become a regular stop for tourists looking for photo opportunities and a jump-off point for scenic trips on the local Dunedin line.

9. Kanazawa Station, Kanazawa, Japan

Originally opened in 1898, this station became internationally known when the modern tsuzumi(drum) entrance to the station was unveiled in 2005. A dome of aluminum and glass shelters travelers from the weather while also filtering light into the shops and restaurants inside.

The introduction of such large-scale modern architecture to this traditional town was not particularly well-received at the time but has since attracted its fair share of admirers.

10. Helsinki Central Station, Helsinki, Finland

Originally built in 1862, this station proved to be too small for its needs, so in 1904, a contest was opened for a new design. Of the 21 entries, a design of National Romanticism was chosen, sparking a debate over public building design, many calling for a more modern, practical look. Luckily, the winning architect, Eliel Saarinen, was happy to oblige. Clad mostly in Finnish granite, this station opened in 1919 and is emblematic of Saarinen’s signature Art Nouveau style. Four massive sentry statues holding spherical lights oversee coming and goings of hundreds of thousands of commuters each day.

11. Liège-Guillemins Station, Liège, Belgium

Just outside of Brussels lies Liège, Belgium‘s third-largest city, and its gateway for high-speed trains across Europe. The first railway station of Liège-Guillemins was inaugurated in May 1842 but this most current inception was introduced in 2009.

The design of glass, steel, and white concrete by Santiago Calatrava has earned accolades in contemporary architecture, and the light that permeates the structure makes a long, commute much kinder. 

CREDIT: matadornetwork

#Top #Ten #Beaches In The #World

Be it a budding traveller, or even a seasoned one, beaches never seem to leave the bucket lists of them, and rightly so! While some travellers incline toward wide, open beaches with crowds of activities and individuals to see, others lean toward more of abandoned shorelines with quiet waters.

For all sorts of you beach lovers, we have curated a list of top ten beaches in the world, which includes the lively ones as well as the serene ones!

1. Maundays Bay, Anguilla

Considered one of the best beaches in the world by seasoned travellers, it is hard to believe that this beach is rarely ever crowded, which gives you serenity lovers an incentive to visit the beach as long as it remains that way!

It is considered that tiny Anguilla has the best beaches in the Caribbean, and a very decent food scene. So, we suggest that you don’t miss out on this!

Where to stay: best Hotels in Anguilla:

1. Malliouhana, Auberge Resorts Collection.
2. Royal Palms Holiday Suites Hotel, Anguilla.
3. Carimar Beach Club.
4. Hotel Le Toiny, St Barths.
5. Christopher St Barth.
6. Quintessence Hotel, Relais & Chateaux.

2. Baia do Sancho, Fernando de Noronha, Brazil

Baia do Sancho is located on a small island of Fernando de Noronha in Brazil. Agreed upon as one of the most picturesque beaches one can think of, Baia do Sancho is inundated with the turquoise waters and vibrantly coloured fauna hidden behind proud cliffs. Its laurels include being rated as the number one beach in a lot of travel blogs!

3. Blue Lagoon, Fiji

This beach is one of the most peaceful beaches there are! This pristine and serene location is something Fiji is proud of. Indulge in Snorkelling, Scuba Diving and whatnot! Giving you an overwhelming, natural fantasy, Blue Lagoon, Fiji is a beach you cannot miss exploring!

4. Kiawah Island, South Carolina , United States

Kiawah Island, a mostly private, gated community, a very brief drive from Charleston International Airport is a low-country winner. East and West Beach, combined, expand for 10 miles along the Atlantic. Public beach access is at Beachwalker County Park, at the famous island’s far southern end. The sand is flat, the water is not very deep, there are lifeguards on duty all the time, and you can rent beach chairs and umbrellas rentals.

5. Radhanagar Beach, India

One of India’s most beautiful and most acclaimed beaches, Radhanagar is a stunning stretch of sugar-white sand on Havelock Island, which is a part of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, off India’s eastern shore. The sand is bordered by a verdant forest, and thriving coral reefs offer great snorkeling.

6. Anakena Beach, Easter Island, Chile

This beach on the infamous Easter Island in Chile, far out into the large Pacific Ocean, has soft coral sands and crystal clear water. A considerable amount of palm trees in the sand offer shade, and eight of the island’s famous storied stone statues look over this earlier sacred land of the island’s noble family.

7. Whitehaven Beach, Australia

Whitehaven Beach, very correctly juxtaposed, has really pretty white sands, dark green rainforests, and crystal clear waters. It’s a wild island, part of the Great Barrier Reef, and by far the most beautiful location to experience in Australia, beach-wise.

8. Navagio Beach, Greece

A very picturesque setting awaits you at Navagio Beach, an exposed cove on the famous coast of Zakynthos. Tourists and travellers come from all corners of the world to grab photos of the incredibly famous ship wreck, called Panagiotis. The deep blue water is spectacular, and in contrast to the white cliffs and sand.

9. Anse Lazio, Praslin, Seychelles

Very popular as a honeymoon spot, Anse Lazio draws travellers from all around the world because it’s secluded, romantic and oh-so-pretty! The Seychelles are located in the centre of the beautiful Indian Ocean, north of Madagascar. Anse Lazio beach is located in the northwest of Praslin Island and has some of the best diving in the world!

10. El Nido, Philippines

Considered as a spectacular pristine beauty, this serene location needs to be in your bucket list! This place is without any debate, beautiful beyond measure. With beaches stretching for miles, this place is a true breath-taker. Shockingly, El Nido remains steadily under the radar, even though it continues to rank highly in rankings when it comes to the best beaches in the world. With the bluest of waters and one of the best places to watch the sunset with your special someone, this is one location you do not want to miss!

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We hope to have satisfied your inner wanderlust’s appetite by putting together top 10 beaches in the world! Pack your swimwear and snorkelling equipment, and get ready for exploring a few of the best beaches our world has to offer!

Credit: ceoworld

#Google launches ‘#Bolo’ to #tutor #children to #read #Hindi, #English

• Google’s Bolo app, which is being launched in India first, uses speech recognition and text-to-speech technology
• Bolo will be available on Google Play Store in India for all smartphones running Android 4.4 (Kit Kat) and higher

Tech giant Google Wednesday unveiled a new app ‘Bolo’ that aims to help children in primary school learn to read in Hindi and English.

The free app, which is being launched in India first, uses Google’s speech recognition and text-to-speech technology.

The app features an animated character ‘Diya’, who encourages children to read stories aloud and helps if the child is unable to pronounce a word. It also lauds the reader when he/she completes the reading.

“We have designed the app to work offline, so users need to just download the under 50MB app once and then they have access to close to 100 stories in Hindi and English that the children can read out loud and improve their reading skills,” Google India Product Manager Nitin Kashyap told PTI.

Bolo will be available on Google Play Store in India for all smartphones running Android 4.4 (Kit Kat) and higher, he added.

Citing the annual ASER 2018 report, Kashyap said, it was found that only half of students enrolled in grade 5 in rural India can confidently read a grade 2 level textbook.

“Lack of reading ability can significantly impact further education, and ultimately children’s ability to realise their full potential. Limited access to quality material, under-resourced infrastructure, and barriers to learning outside the classroom are some of the challenges that children often face,” he added.

Google piloted the ‘Bolo’ app in about 200 villages in Uttar Pradesh and the early results are very encouraging with 64 per cent of children showing an improvement in reading proficiency in just three months, Kashyap said.

“We are now actively working with a number of non-profit partners to take the app to more people across the country who could benefit from it,” he said.

Kashyap said the company is also looking at expanding the app to other Indic languages like Bengali, soon.

To ensure safety of the child, all personal information always stays on device. The users are also not asked for details like email ID and gender for logging into the app.

“This story has been published from a livemint feed without modifications to the text.”

5 #Mistakes to Avoid in Your Next #Interview

Interviewing is often a fraught exercise. You’re threading the needle between selling yourself and your accomplishments, while also being humble and self-aware. Say too much and you’re unlikeable. Say too little and people wonder if you have the skills.

Keep in mind that the interviewer hasn’t done your job at your company, and they can’t read your mind. So, instead of simply listing out all the things you did at your last job, speak to the value that your work added to the team, product, or company.

And be authentic. While the pressure of the interview can make it hard to really be yourself, try to shake off the nerves. The connection you forge with your interviewer(s) can have a big impact.

So, want to nail your next interview? Read on for five of the most common mistakes I’ve seen while interviewing hundreds of candidates at Facebook.

1. Being Unprepared

During an interview for a role on the Facebook Marketplace team:

Interviewer: What are your thoughts on the Marketplace experience?

Candidate: I’ve never used it.

I would understand if the product were an enterprise service, but this is a consumer product. Buying or selling something on Marketplace takes a short amount of time and money.

The Lesson: By not bothering to familiarize yourself with the product or the space, the interviewer is left wondering if you even want the job since you didn’t put in the time to test out the experience.

2. Appearing Apathetic

During an interview at Facebook for a Product Management role:

Interviewer: What makes you want to work at Facebook?

Candidate: A recruiter reached out to me, so I thought I would come in.

The interviewer has invested their energy and passion into the company they are at, and they want to hire someone who has the same commitment and excitement. Hearing you say you don’t really have a particular interest in their company is an instant turn off.

The Lesson: If you are unsure of your interest, say you are excited about the opportunity to learn more rather than give a half-hearted reply.

3. Focusing on the Wrong Things

Interviewer: What are you looking for in your next role?

Candidate: Growing my scope and managing a larger product set.

Scope and impact go hand in hand. Proving yourself makes it possible for you to grow your influence. Interviewers want to work with someone humble and willing to learn, not someone who sees the job as a stepping stone to something more.

The Lesson: Explain how you want to further the company and the team, not just yourself. Show you’re a team player by explaining how you’ve successfully managed projects through to the end.

4. Lacking Self-Awareness

During an interview called Leadership + Drive where they test for self-awareness and willingness to take feedback.

Interviewer: What area do you want to work on? What is your biggest gap?

Candidate: I work too hard and care too much.

This is not a trick question. What really is your greatest weakness? Couching it in a positive response makes interviewers think you are not self-aware enough to provide an answer, which means you are not open to growth. Our culture at Faceboook encourages us to “be open” and we look for people aware of their areas of growth.

The Lesson: By sharing what you are working on and what clear, concrete steps you are taking to improve, you will build a connection with the interviewer and humanize your challenges.

5. Selling Rather Than Listening

Interviewer: We have struggled with product market fit on this product for months.

Candidate: That’s easy. I have done it a dozen times before, here’s how.

A strong candidate is a great listener. Asking and learning what meaning is behind the question is important. Show you are intellectually curious and want to adapt new information.

The Lesson: When you’re in an interview, listen to the question, but also consider the rationale behind it. The interviewer is asking the question to learn more about your skill set. How you respond says a lot about your ability to not only answer the obvious question, but also your deductive reasoning skills.

When I leave a great candidate at the end of an interview, I can’t wait to work with them. There is a ‘fear of missing out’ feeling on all of the incredible things I can imagine them doing.

So, during your next interview demonstrate that you will bring a level of commitment and energy to the job by showing a passion for the space, the company, and the people. Enable an interviewer to see your mindset, flexibility, and self-awareness so they know you can listen to feedback and grow. And, connect with them on a human level. Show you are someone they would love to work in the trenches with everyday.

The No. 1 #Way To #Bungle A #Job #Interview

Just about every time I walk into a Starbucks these days, I run into someone preparing for a job interview—and almost always they’re amped up on caffeine and headed for disaster. No matter how much they rehearse and prepare, they can’t avoid the No. 1 way to mess up a job interview: failing to master the mental game.

And it happened again.

While in a Starbucks the other day, I spotted a young man in a suit and tie, lip-syncing and gesturing with his hands—clearly rehearsing for something. Suddenly, he rushed away, leaving his laptop and briefcase on the table.

Fifteen minutes later, he returned—face pale, jacket off, shirt damp with sweat. He thanked me for keeping an eye on his stuff: “I threw up. This always happens to me before a job interview.”

This guy was a classic example of a disaster in the making: going over and over his resume, as if the hundredth time he practices saying he’s a “self-starter” and a “team player” with a “can-do attitude” will be the key to success. Making it worse, he already had a track record of interview failure. “It’s happened four times in a row,” he admitted. “I know what I want to say, but when I get in the interview I just freeze.”

When he went back to his one-man-show rehearsal, silently going through his “script,” I just had to stop him. “Sorry, but you need to change your approach—and fast.”  Here’s what I told him:

Get out of your own head: In the best case, a job interview is somewhere between a trip to Disneyland and a visit to the dentist to get your wisdom teeth extracted. You’re looking forward to it, but you also dread it. In the worst case (such as this guy), it’s all dentist, peering into the farthest reaches of your gum line and calmly saying, “You might feel a pinch (code for “this is going to hurt like hell”). Stop psyching yourself out!

You’re not auditioning for The Voice: At the eleventh hour, there’s nothing on your resume that you haven’t read countless times before. Stop rehearsing! This isn’t time to decide how to answer the predictable, standard questions about your accomplishments, strengths and weaknesses, or how you picture yourself contributing. You should know that long before. In the hours before the interview, it’s not about content—it’s about composure.

You’re not being interrogated. No one is going to shine a light in your eyes and ask you where you were the night of the fourteenth. It’s a conversation, pure and simple. It starts from the moment you arrive. Smile at people, make small talk with everyone. Observe your surroundings and pick up on any detail—a picture on the wall, the view—that you can comment on to break the ice. During the interview, don’t wait until the end to ask questions. Make sure it’s a give-and-take between you and the interviewer(s). You’ll feel more relaxed and in control.

Think about your dog (or another loved one): No matter how much you want the job, this interview is not the most important thing in your life. Family, friends, your pet all outrank it, because they reflect who you are as a person. Keep a picture of what matters most to you on your phone or in your pocket. Just before heading into the interview, take a last look at that photo to keep your perspective about who loves you. Think about when the interview is over and you’re going home to see your family, relaxing with friends, walking your dog. Imagine how you’ll feel then. Picturing a successful outcome will go a long way to achieving that reality.

Breaking the cycle. The young man at Starbucks had more than two hours before his job interview two blocks away. If he sat there through 120 agonizing minutes, I doubted he’d even make it through building security. He needed to break his pattern. I asked him about his passion and interests outside of work—who he was, not just what he did. “Art,” he said, without hesitation. Across the street from the Starbucks was a museum. I reached in my pocket, pulled out a twenty and insisted he let me treat him to admission. “Go look at something beautiful,” I told him. “Change your thinking.” He protested a little—breaking the rehearsal habit was tough—then put away his resume, picked up his briefcase, thanked me, and headed for the door.

Later in the day, I received an email. “Loved the museum—great art. And, I’m headed for round two next week!!”

After conquering the mental game (and some stomach issues), nailing the interview was easy.

CREDIT: FORBES

#Full #list of #Indian #public and #bank #holidays in #2019

Full list of public and bank holidays in 2019 in India.

Planning trips and going on adventure in the new year in your mind? Or booking your travelling arrangements soon enough to be with your families when the holidays come around in 2019? You will need a complete list of public holidays to set your plan in motion

Here you go then –

January 2019

1 Jan       Tuesday     New Year’s Day

13 Jan     Sunday      Guru Govind Singh Jayanti

13 Jan     Sunday      Lohri

14 Jan     Monday     Makar Sankranti

15 Jan     Tuesday     Pongal

26 Jan     Saturday    Republic Day

February 2019

10 Feb     Sunday       Vasant Panchami

19 Feb     Tuesday      Shivaji Jayanti

19 Feb     Tuesday      Guru Ravidas Jayanti

 March 2019

1 Mar       Friday              Maharishi Dayanand Saraswati Jayanti

4 Mar       Monday          Maha Shivaratri/Shivaratri

21 Mar     Thursday         March Equinox

20 Mar     Wednesday     Holika Dahana

21 Mar     Thursday         Holi

21 Mar     Thursday         Dolyatra

21 Mar     Thursday         Hazarat Ali’s Birthday

April 2019

6 Apr        Saturday        Chaitra Sukhladi

13 Apr      Saturday        Rama Navami

14 Apr      Sunday           Vaisakhi/Mesadi

14 Apr      Sunday           Ambedkar Jayanti

17 Apr      Wednesday    Mahavir Jayanti

18 Apr      Thursday        Maundy Thursday

19 Apr      Friday             Good Friday

21 Apr      Sunday           Easter Day

May 2019

1 May       Wednesday   May Day

18 May     Saturday         Buddha Purnima/Vesak

31 May     Friday             Jamat Ul-Vida

June 2019

5 Jun        Wednesday    Ramzan Id/Eid-ul-Fitar

21 Jun      Friday             June Solstice

July 2019

4 Jul         Thursday           Rath Yatra

August 2019

4 Aug       Sunday                Friendship Day

12 Aug     Monday              Bakr Id/Eid ul-Adha

15 Aug     Thursday             Independence Day

15 Aug     Thursday             Raksha Bandhan (Rakhi)

17 Aug     Saturday             Parsi New Year

24 Aug     Saturday             Janmashtami

September 2019

2 Sep         Monday               Ganesh Chaturthi/Vinayaka Chaturthi

10 Sep       Tuesday               Muharram/Ashura

11 Sep       Wednesday          Onam

23 Sep       Monday               September Equinox Season

October 2019

2 Oct          Wednesday         Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti

5 Oct          Saturday              Maha Saptami

6 Oct          Sunday                Maha Ashtami

7 Oct          Monday               Maha Navami

8 Oct          Tuesday               Dussehra

13 Oct        Sunday                Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti

17 Oct        Thursday             Karaka Chaturthi (Karva Chauth)

27 Oct        Sunday                Naraka Chaturdasi

27 Oct        Sunday                Diwali/Deepavali

28 Oct        Monday               Govardhan Puja

29 Oct        Tuesday               Bhai Duj

31 Oct        Thursday             Halloween

November 2019

2 Nov        Saturday               Chhat  Puja (Pratihar Sashthi/Surya Sashthi)

10 Nov      Sunday                  Milad un-Nabi/Id-e-Milad

12 Nov      Tuesday                 Guru Nanak Jayanti

24 Nov      Sunday                  Guru Tegh Bahadur’s Martyrdom Day

December 2019

22 Dec       Sunday                  December  Solstice Season

23 Dec       Monday                 First Day of Hanukkah

24 Dec       Tuesday                 Christmas Eve

25 Dec       Wednesday            Christmas

30 Dec       Monday                  Last day of Hanukkah

31 Dec       Tuesday                  New Year’s Eve