5 #Apps That Will Make #Traveling #Easier

Everyone knows that travel is easier than ever thanks to technology. But we also recognize that everyone is trying to put out an app that solves travel issues for average people. This creates a huge glut of technology — most of which is unnecessary.

But not all of these apps are useless. Some of them prove we really do live in a time when traveling is easier and more accessible. Here are five apps that will make traveling easier.

Citymapper

The one drawback to Citymapper is its somewhat limited scope. It only has about 40 cities mapped out — with Europe and the U.S. getting most of the attention. But if you’re in any of those cities, this app is easily the best way to get around. Public transit has been fully integrated into the app with features such as maps and departure and arrival times for different transportation services. It will even take car and bike share programs into account when planning out your route. If you don’t have data at your location, the offline functionality’s complete enough that it’s nearly impossible to get lost. In the worst scenario, you’d get to your destination slightly slower than if you’d been able to get online. Android | iOS

FREE NOW

The success of ride-hailing apps such as Uber or Lyft isn’t linked to the vehicles or the drivers — it’s the accessibility. Being able to call a taxi by pulling up an app and tapping a few buttons is great. FREE NOW (formerly myTaxi) has all that with the added benefit that you’re calling real taxi drivers who comply with government regulations and aren’t involved in the implications of the “independent contractor” label. You can also choose to pay cash without incurring any penalties or inconveniencing anyone.

The app’s only available in Europe right now with nine countries available, but at the very least, it can show cab companies how to effectively fight against ride-hailing apps. Android | iOS

HomeAway Vacation Rentals

HomeAway is pretty much an Airbnb alternative with a tighter focus on vacation rentals. The app has more unique places to stay like historic mansions or picturesque beach houses, which gives you better control over the style of your trip. If you use HomeAway, it’s unlikely you’ll be spending the night in hotel chains or generic apartments. Added bonus — the prices also aren’t too unreasonable. Android | iOS

Trabee Pocket

The worst part of traveling — apart from the physical act of getting yourself from one place to another — is keeping your budget in mind. With Trabee Pocket, you get to see exactly where the money is coming from and going, which makes it much easier to travel within your means. The app can also account for currency exchanges, so you’re not jumping back and forth between web pages trying to figure out how much you just spent. Trabee Pocket might not completely banish your nagging worries about finances, but it makes them a lot quieter and you feel more responsible with your funds. Android | iOS

Guides by Lonely Planet

Lonely Planet has been an authority in the world of travel guides for nearly 50 years, which really says something about the publishing company’s strength. Lonely Planet made the transition from strictly paper publishing to digital publishing extremely well. Their website is a great resource for planning out an itinerary and the Guides by Lonely Planet app is basically a mobile version of those same guides with the added benefit of being able to function offline. This is the kind of app that you could give to someone before dropping them in the middle of a foreign city with no preplanned itinerary and still have them count their trip as a success. It’s also a godsend for travelers who prefer to fly by the seat of their pants. Android | iOS

CREDIT: thediscoverer

#10 #Safest #Cities in the #World

As with anything, traveling comes with its risks. Odds are, you’ve heard some stories of tourists becoming victims of crimes or being taken advantage of on their holidays. Unfortunately, crime exists in all parts of the world and it can sometimes be difficult to avoid. However, book your holiday in one of the 10 cities listed below and you have extremely good odds of enjoying a peaceful and incident-free adventure. Check out some of the safest cities in the world that also double as excellent vacation destinations.

1. Tokyo, Japan

The bigger the city, the more dangerous it is? Not true for Tokyo. This city has a population of over 13 million and it’s still one of the safest cities on the planet. In terms of how well your cyber security is protected, Tokyo is ranked on top. This means identity theft is super rare and digital privacy is highly respected and protected. The low crime rates are probably related to the fact that the majority of the Tokyo residents are considered “upper-middle class.” What’s more? Tokyo boasts a world-famous nightlife scene which can be enjoyed worry-free!

2. Singapore

The number of violent crimes, theft, and level of police engagement is the lowest in the world in Singapore. If that doesn’t make you feel safe, we don’t know what will. In fact, Singapore reported a 135-day completely crime-free streak in 2017. The small island nation has close to 100,000 surveillance cameras positioned around the city, keeping citizens honest and majorly deterring those who are tempted to stray. Because of their super-safe environment, Singaporeans really trust each other. It’s not uncommon to see shops without windows, locks, or doors!

3. Amsterdam, Netherlands

This city is probably best known for its liberal and legal use of marijuana and a notorious red-light district. Despite this (or could it be because of it?!) Amsterdam has been named one of the safest cities in the world. The city’s infrastructure is some of the best in the world. Amsterdam has high-quality buildings and roads, while simultaneously boasting a low number of car accidents and excellent air quality. Perhaps this is due to another one of the city’s trademarks – the biking culture!

4. Stockholm, Sweden

The capital of Sweden proudly presents itself as the safest country in all of Europe. How does Stockholm keep its nearly 1 million residents in check? Thanks to an extremely effective police force, the crime rate is uber-low here. There may be the occasional petty theft or pickpocket incident, however violent crime is impressively low. Stockholm is also one of the best cities in the world when it comes to protecting its people’s cyber privacy and health security.

5. Osaka, Japan

If safety is your top priority when you’re traveling, Japan is a great choice. Osaka is the second Japanese city to make our list of safest cities in the world. The city of roughly 2.6 million shares some similar characteristics with Tokyo. Osaka is home to a wealthy population, is considered to be the second safest city in the world in terms of violent crime (just behind Singapore), and has an excellent health care system ensuring its residents are well cared for. To clarify: safe doesn’t mean boring. Osaka’s got a happenin’ nightlife and stylish restaurant scene that rivals the likes of Paris and New York City.

6. Munich, Germany

Party at the biggest beer festival in the world, learn something at a world-class museum, and admire ancient architecture in Munich all without a care in the world. This German city is ranked as one of the safest cities for tourists to visit. Solo female travelers can feel especially comfortable in Munich and the risk of being mugged or scammed is very low. Additionally, airport security is tight – just be patient and remember it’s for your own protection!

7. Reykjavik, Iceland

The land of the Northern Lights is a super popular travel destination for those who crave a unique holiday. Even better, traveling around the scenic Icelandic capital is hassle and worry-free thanks to the Reykjavik’s safety rating. There are literally no “bad areas” in the city and homelessness, drugs, and crime are essentially non-existent. Reykjavik is an easy country for new travelers to explore as there is very very little chance of being ripped off by dishonest locals or being pickpocketed or mugged.

8. Vienna, Austria

The riverside Austrian capital boasts imperial palaces, art galleries, museums, and oozes modern culture that appeals to travelers from every corner of the world. Vienna was also the home of Mozart and Beethoven, giving it even more clout. The icing on the cake is that visitors can enjoy the charms of the city in peace. Violent crimes and muggings are rare here. Just take the normal precautions against pickpockets and be logical when it comes to bargaining with locals and you’ll easily avoid getting robbed or scammed.

9. Niagara Falls, Canada

One of the most internationally recognized places in North America is also one of the safest. The locals are very friendly to visitors and violent crime is practically nil. The only thing tourists really need to be careful of is the water and mist around the famous falls, which can cause slippery conditions. Keep your footing and a holiday here is all gravy. By the way, the city of Niagara Falls isn’t just a pretty (waterfall) face – it’s also renowned for its breweries, wineries, boutiques, casinos, and festivals. Is there any reason not to visit this Canadian wonderland?

10. Abu Dhabi, UAE

Interestingly, over half of this middle-eastern city’s population is made up of ex-pats! Foreigners flock to Abu Dhabi for business opportunities, but end up staying because of its extremely safe and easy-going atmosphere. Ritzy, glitzy and at the same time traditional and charming, Abu Dhabi is one of the safest cities in the middle east as well as the world. Travelers have a very low risk of being mugged, pickpocketed, or scammed and women report feeling just as safe in Abu Dhabi as they do in other European and North American cities.

How to #Protect Yourself in a #Foreign #Country

Traveling is exciting, but it still involves a certain amount of risk. Traveling outside your comfort zone and exploring an unfamiliar destination is inherently risky. This is part of what makes it so fun, but you still need to stay safe. If you’re traveling to a new destination, keep these tips in mind on how to protect yourself in a foreign country.

Keep Scanned Copies of Important Documents

Whether someone manages to steal some of your important documents or you just forget them in the hostel, losing your travel documents can be a major headache. To avoid this pain, make sure to scan and copy your passport, tickets, driver’s license, and any other documents you may need, like your travel itinerary or copies of hotel reservations. Make sure to scan the back of everything as well. This can make your life much easier if you happen to lose your passport or something of equal importance.

Try to Blend in

One of the easiest ways to protect yourself while traveling is to avoid standing out. Dressing like the locals and avoiding typical tourist apparel can help keep you from becoming an easy mark. Instead of dressing to impress, opt for a more casual dress code. This will help you avoid the attention of pickpockets or purse snatchers. As a bonus, dressing casually means you’ll probably be more comfortable. Just leave the bright white sneakers at home.

Stay in Well-Lit Areas

While experiencing the nightlife of a major city can be one of the more exciting parts of travel, it can also be risky. To stay safe, make sure not to venture too far into the dark. Staying out of sight can make you easy prey for criminals, so instead, stick to well-lit, crowded areas. If this means you can’t explore the part of a city you really wanted to see, just visit the area in the daytime instead. This is far less risky, plus you’ll be able to see more in the daylight.

Buy Traveler’s Insurance

Traveler’s insurance offers plenty of benefits. Whether you have a medical emergency or just need to cancel your trip early to return home, your insurance can help you recoup some of your losses. It doesn’t cover everything, but it’s better to have it and not need it than the other way around. Different plans cover different aspects of travel, so don’t just pick the first traveler’s insurance you find. Make sure to compare a few different plans and decide on what you need.

Use Credit Cards Instead of Cash or Debit

If a thief steals your wallet, cash money is as good as gone. Even if you don’t carry cash, a debit card effectively gives them direct access to your bank account. Using a credit card while traveling offers much more protection. If your credit card is stolen, you can easily freeze your credit. This means that you might be inconvenienced, but you don’t stand to face the same losses as if your cash is stolen. If you do carry cash, be sure to scatter it among your belongings and not keep it stored in one place. That way, if you lose your wallet, you still have some money stocked away in your suitcase, backpack, even the soles of your shoes.

Let Friends and Family Know Your Itinerary

It’s never a good idea to travel without letting anyone know you’re leaving. If you’re headed somewhere where you may be concerned for your safety, this is doubly true. When your friends or family know you’re traveling, they’re more likely to answer a call from a foreign country. Send them a copy of your travel itinerary so they can keep track of the news in the areas you’re visiting. If you need help for any reason, it’s good to have certain people know you may be trying to get in touch with them.

Keep an Eye on Your Belongings

This may sound like a given, but some people tend to leave their bags or luggage lying around. If you’re not directly holding on to a bag, make sure you keep a very close eye on it. Even seeing that you’re watching your luggage can be enough to deter a potential thief. Setting something down for just a few seconds might seem relatively risk free, but a few seconds is all it takes for someone to grab your bag and run.

Lock Your Bags

Locking your bags isn’t as easy as it used to be. If you plan to check them, you need to use a TSA-approved lock which, in turn, makes it easier for thieves to open your bags. That said, even the appearance of a lock on your bag can be enough to deter criminals. If you’re not checking your bag, you can use sturdier locks. You can also buy a lock once you’ve arrived at your destination to be safe.

Don’t Zone Out on Your Phone

One of the key aspects to staying safe no matter where you are is to be aware of your surroundings. You can’t do this if you’re busy staring at your phone. You may be used to losing yourself in your phone on public transit at home, but don’t do this while traveling. If you need to check your phone, try to get to a safe area first. If you’re traveling with someone else, have them keep an eye out while you post your photos to Instagram or update your friends. Otherwise, try to duck inside an alcove or similar space where your back is protected.

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