#Sightseeing Booking Engine

[peekofhistory]

汉服复兴之路 History of Hanfu Revival Movement

History of Hanfu:

“Hanfu" as a technical term refers to traditional clothing worn by the Han ethnic group in China （Han = Han ethnic group, Fu = clothing).

The last Dynasty of China, Qing, saw a ruling class of the Manchu ethnic group who had attacked the Ming Dynasty from the North and ultimately achieved victory. This resulted in a forceful change of attire from "Han" clothing to "Man" clothing and fashion:

This included men being forced to shave the front half of their heads, leaving a long braid in the back (those who refused were beheaded)(四爷，借用一下您的盛世美颜😂) :

Therefore, technically, "Hanfu" had not been worn in China since the end of the Ming Dynasty (1616 AD).

Following the establishment of the current People's Republic of China (1949 AD) the country busied itself with development and economic growth. By the early 2000's China had undergone 2 rounds of economic reform and saw an economy that was flourishing. This left people with more time and money to revisit the country's vast history and rich culture (it's difficult to think about culture or history when you're trying to put food on the table).

Hanfu revival movement:

On November 22, 2003, an electric engineer by the name of Wang Letian (王乐天) strode through the streets of Deng Zhou wearing a Quju robe . This was the first time someone wore Hanfu for a casual outing since almost 400 years ago. Although, looking back, the design wasn't historically accurate, and the clothing seemed ill-fitting, this robe had been hand-sewn by Wang Letian and his friends, all of whom had a passion for Hanfu.

At the time, people laughed when they saw him in the streets, it looked so odd and strange among the sweaters and jeans that had become the norm, but Wang Letian had started a snowball of Hanfu revival. The internet spread photos of him wearing Hanfu through the streets and by chance, a Singaporean reporter, Zhang Congxing (张从兴), came across the photos. He wrote an article in the newspaper Lianhe Morning Report (联合早报) which became the first news article recorded of the current movement to revive Hanfu.

Following that, interest in Hanfu grew. People (especially young people) dug through history books, visited museums, and broke out the sewing kits. Today, Hanfu can often be seen around sightseeing locations and in historic cities like Xi'an. Although most people still aren't wearing it out and about daily, it's not uncommon to see someone wearing a Mamian Skirt (from Ming dynasty) with a blouse heading to work.

There are still some who think it's odd and strange (including my dad 😑), but the revival in Hanfu indicates a confidence and pride many young people have in China's own history and culture, something that had been often neglected over the past 100 years due to continuous wars and political chaos.

As a kid, I loved period dramas and would drape a bed sheet around my shoulders pretending it's a cape. I'd admire the beautiful hair styles on TV, wondering how it was done. Never did I dream one day I'd be able to purchase my own Hanfu and have a suitcase of hair buns and accessories 🤣🤣

[meiplays]

Title: Queen of the Damned Sanctuary – Part 5

Warnings: spicy (but SFW), slowburn, possessive, and loaded with tension. Word count: ~2,300.

*. : ｡✿ * ﾟ * .: ｡ ✿ * ﾟ * . : ｡ ✿ **. : ｡✿ * ﾟ * .: ｡

Scene: The Hunt Ends

Negan’s jaw is locked tight.

Leather gloves clench around the handlebars of his motorcycle, knuckles creaking under the strain. Wind tears at his jacket, the engine growling beneath him like something alive. His jaw grinds tighter with each turn of the road. Dust whips behind him, kicked up by the thick tires ripping over gravel and brush.

He’s not sightseeing.

He’s hunting.

He followed the tracks — barely-there wheel ruts in the dirt, thin and crooked, carved by Daryl’s goddamn bike. The same one you took when you left. Every bend in the road was another reminder that you chose to run. And it’s been days. Long, bitter, sleepless days.

He doesn’t even smoke anymore, but hell if he hasn’t thought about lighting up just to feel something burn.

You slipped through his fingers like smoke.

But not for long.

Negan yanks the throttle harder. His hair’s wild under his helmet, wind-blown and sweat-damp. His heart’s beating loud, but it’s not panic. It’s anger. Hunger. Possession wrapped in heat. He’s past fury now — he’s focused.

You don’t just disappear on a man like Negan. Not after looking at him the way you did that night in the hallway. Not after he let you get that close to the part of him he doesn’t show anybody.

You left a note.

“I need to remember who I was before I became someone else's prize.”

And that? That nearly destroyed him.

But he wasn’t going to let it end him.

He rides until the trees thicken, until the sun slants low through the branches, bleeding gold into the earth. That’s when he sees it—tucked behind a wall of overgrowth like it was meant to stay hidden from the world. A loft. Two stories. Handmade steps. Ivy crawling up the porch railings like it belongs there.

It’s beautiful.

And so are you.

He doesn’t breathe for a second.

You’re curled in a rattan swing chair on the balcony, legs folded beneath you. A book’s in your hands, worn at the corners like you’ve read it a hundred times. Your dog lies at your feet, belly up and twitching in sleep. A string of soft lights flicker above your head, blinking like fireflies in the dusk.

But it’s you — your body, your posture, your goddamn peace — that nearly breaks him.

You’re wearing mint green Juicy Couture shorts, the soft fabric hugging your hips like it was painted on. The matching crop top clings to your ribs, riding up just enough to tease the soft curve of your waist. You stretch lazily, oblivious, and his breath hitches at the bare skin that peeks out.

His tongue presses against his teeth.

He grips the handlebars harder.

“Fuck,” he mutters.

You look happy. Untouched. Like you’ve forgotten everything that came before this place — including him.

That hurts.

But it also makes him want to rip the world in half just to remind you who you belong to.

He kills the engine and dismounts silently, boots sinking into moss and dirt. The woods around the house muffle everything, but he moves like a shadow anyway. Quiet. Intent. Stalking.

Negan takes the long way around, circling to the side stairs you probably never lock. He tests the balcony door handle — and it gives under his grip.

Of course it does.

Inside, it smells like you. Clean linen, faded perfume, and something soft and warm like honey. He steps in slow, gaze sweeping the living room until it lands on the low bed under the windows.

And there you are.

You must’ve come inside while he was circling. The book’s on the floor. You’re sprawled sideways, one arm thrown over your pillow, the other resting on your dog’s back. He’s at your side, still snoozing peacefully, unaware of the storm that’s just stepped into the room.

Negan doesn’t move right away.

He just looks at you.

So soft. So still. Like you haven’t burned yourself into the back of his brain and made it impossible to think about anything else. He lets his eyes trace the shape of your legs, the curve of your shoulder, the messy halo of hair on your pillow.

And then he moves.

Quick.

Sure.

You jolt awake when strong arms scoop you up like you weigh nothing. The room blurs and spins, and before you can scream, you’re dropped onto the bed — not rough, but not gentle either.

Your dog barks once, startled, before retreating under the table. Your eyes are wide when you look up.

And then you see him.

Negan.

Standing at the foot of your bed, breathing hard, leather jacket dusted with dirt and heat, wild hair clinging to his forehead, and eyes so dark with fury they barely look human.

“Negan…?”

His voice comes low. Gravel, smoke, and something deeper.

“You run all the way out here just to pretend I don’t exist?”

You push yourself up, back pressing against the wall. “You—how did you find me?”

“You really think I wouldn’t?” He laughs once, sharp. “I told you I’d give you space. I didn’t say I’d let you vanish like a goddamn ghost.”

Your heart thuds in your chest. There’s something electric in the air. Not danger — not exactly. But something hot. Tense. Loaded.

“You—” you swallow. “You shouldn’t be here.”

“Too bad, sweetheart.” His voice softens just a little, dark velvet. “You don’t get to haunt my world and think I won’t tear through yours to find you.”

You shift beneath his stare. His eyes rake over you slowly. Not in a gross way. In a way that makes your skin heat from the inside out.

“Look at you,” he mutters. “Lyin’ here like some kind of woodsy angel in mint green temptation.”

Your breath catches.

He kneels on the bed — slow, predatory — until he’s right in front of you. His hands settle on either side of your hips, not touching yet, just hovering.

“I watched you out there for ten minutes,” he admits, low and steady. “Couldn’t even breathe. You looked so fuckin’ peaceful. Like you didn’t miss me at all.”

His face is close now. Too close.

You look down.

“I needed to remember who I was.”

He scoffs. “You remembered who you were by runnin’ off with Dixon’s bike and hidin’ in a damn fairy-tale cabin?”

You blink.

“That note,” he says, “that note broke me in half.”

He leans closer, finally brushing his knuckles down your thigh. Your skin jumps under the touch.

“You don’t leave me like that,” he growls. “You don’t give me everything and then rip it away. Not when I already started needing you like air.”

You’re shaking now. Not from fear. From feeling.

Your voice is soft. “I didn’t know if I wanted you… or if I just wanted to feel wanted.”

He freezes.

And then he lifts your chin, slowly, until your eyes meet.

“You think I’m just some man who wants a warm body next to him?” he murmurs. “You think I’d cross every mile of this damn wasteland for someone I didn’t want with every inch of my fuckin’ soul?”

Your lips part.

“Negan—”

“I don’t care if you hate me,” he whispers, mouth ghosting over your cheek. “But don’t you dare pretend I didn’t see the real you. Don’t you pretend you weren’t beggin’ for someone to look past the walls.”

You suck in a breath.

“And now you’re hidin’ again.”

He pulls back just enough to see your face.

“You ran away from something good. Somethin’ real. And I’m not lettin’ you do it again.”

You look at him — really look at him.

Hair messy. Eyes rimmed red. Hands callused and twitching from restraint.

“You came all this way,” you say quietly. “Just for me.”

“No,” he says. “I came all this way because I can’t breathe without you.”

The silence that follows is so thick it vibrates.

And then you nod.

Just once.

“I didn’t stop wanting you,” you say. “I just didn’t know how to survive it.”

He leans in, and his forehead touches yours. His hand cups the back of your head, fingers sinking into your hair like he never wants to let go again.

“You don’t have to survive it,” he breathes. “You just have to stay.”

Your heart pounds so hard it hurts.

“I’m here,” you whisper.

And he smiles — not wide. Not cocky. Just relieved.

“Good,” he says, voice raw. “Because next time you run? I’m chaining your ass to the bed.”

You laugh, tears in your eyes.

And for a long time, neither of you move. You just sit there, tangled up in breath and silence and everything unsaid.

He doesn’t kiss you.

Not yet.

Because this isn’t over.

But it’s a start.

~

[beardedmrbean]

Aviation experts have suggested the rotor of a sightseeing helicopter suffered "catastrophic failure" before it plunged into the Hudson River Thursday, killing a tech company CEO, his wife and three children, as well as the pilot.

Agustín Escobar, a top Siemens official in Spain, his wife, Merce Camprubi Montal, and their three children, aged 4, 5, and 11 years old, were sightseeing aboard a single-engine Bell 206 helicopter operated by New York Helicopter when the aircraft tumbled from the sky and crashed.

The cause remains under investigation by the FAA, however video from an eyewitness, obtained by USA TODAY, appeared to show the rotor detach from the helicopter, leading aviation experts to opine catastrophic failure to the main rotor, with questions swirling over the aircraft's possible "Jesus nut," a widely used term in aviation referring to a key part of the aircraft that could, if it fails, be deadly.

Advertisement

Here's what to know about the Jesus nut:

What is a Jesus nut?

The Jesus nut is the main rotor holding nut, or pin, that holds the main rotor to the mast of some helicopters, according to science and tech website Technology.org.

The nut is a fist-sized steel part that, according to the website, was created during the Vietnam War. One such reference of the Jesus nut was in the book "Chickenhawk" by Robert Mason, a pilot in the Vietnam War who spoke of his fears of the Jesus nut detaching from a helicopter. He noted in his book of another pilot "banking very hard to the left," leading him to fear the helicopter's body would "disconnect from the rotos, that the Jesus nut would break."

The term, more generally, can also be referred to any component that is a single point of failure and whose breakdown would be catastrophic, with many connecting the term to the "only thing left to do would be to pray for Jesus." That belief was mentioned in the novel "Grunt Slang in Vietnam: Words of the War" by Gordon Rottman, a Green Beret in Vietnam who has written over 130 books.

Video of helicopter crash in NYC

An eyewitness captured video during the moment the helicopter fell to the water, appearing to twist rapidly as it did so. Moments after, a rotor is seen falling, detached from the aircraft. See the video, obtained by USA TODAY:

[rwbyazre]

What does team CRMN do in their free time? Also I love AZRE!! You’re a great writer :)

Thanks, I'm glad you love AZRE so much!

Since Team CRMN are pretty much the same in the reboot and original, they have very same hobbies and personalities.

Chase is very much an active soul. He loves being out and about, and loves doing things involving his hands. So, he's actually really creative with the arts, music, engineering. So long as you aren't keeping him behind a desk, he's up for doing a lotta stuff for fun.

Similar with Roxanne, though she isn't as adventerous as her twin. Roxanne would pretty much stick around home, hitting the gym, practicing her skills, but she's a baker! She likes how precise everything is and finds it a great stress relief.

Just don't try her version of creme bruleé.

Mauve is a bookworm but she can't stand horror books. She prefers fantasy, typical LOTR type of stories, because they give her a chance to just leave reality for a while. Put on some classical, pull up a beanbag, and she would hang out all day long with a good book.

Other than that, she writes fanfiction of the books she reads. It's a bit embaressing for her, since she's fairly new at writing herself, but she loves it and would absolutely geek out about that stuff with Blake when they would meet.

And Niccolo really depends on which alter is at the front. When it's the Niccolo alter, he just likes walking around town and sightseeing, taking photographs of architecture or nature. Scrapbooking is how he keeps all his memories, even when it's not Niccolo looking at them.

[artknifeandglue]

as shattered stars shine: DVD Commentary (5/12)

Last bit of commentary on Eggsy's half of the story before we progress to Harry's half.

The cabin walls dull the roar of the engines to a muted hum in the background. Harry sits next to him, a perfect picture of ease, The Picture of Dorian Gray in hand and martini in the glass perched in the drink holder between him and the cabin wall. Whatever easy calm Harry has, Eggsy thinks, he’d like some of it. The leather chair, usually comfortable enough to fall asleep in, is off somehow in a way he can’t explain, and no amount of shifting or adjusting seems to alleviate it or diminish the budding headache only just beginning to throb in his temples. He crosses his legs for the who-fucking-knows-th time in ten minutes, only to uncross them thirty seconds later and cross his arms instead. They’ve left the mission dossiers in Merlin’s office — too much of a security risk compared to the safety of Kingsman glasses — but that leaves his hands one less thing to fidget with. Eggsy toys with the bullet-back closure of his cufflink, opening and closing it again and again.

Probably a good time to mention that every book title featured in this fic is deliberate. All of them contain some sort of Faustian bargain (trading your soul/everything for a particular goal). Also, Dorian Gray is one of my favourite books.

Harry’s quiet laugh interrupts the comfortable lull of almost-nap. “Are you falling asleep on me?” His thumb strokes gently against Eggsy’s scalp, all soft touch and fond caress that makes Eggsy want to melt into a puddle here and never get up. He shifts slightly, finds an even more comfortable spot an inch to his left on Harry’s lap, and settles back in for a proper nap. “Do you need anything?” Harry asks.

Eyes closed, Eggsy thinks of the firm muscle of Harry’s thigh under his head, the warmth of Harry’s palm against the back of his head, the cedarwood hints of cologne that smells like home, like Harry. In answer, he shakes his head no and thinks only a lifetime with you.

A lifetime like this. God, what a prospect.

Sweet moment! Immediately followed by–

He dreams a little dream, a thoroughly uneventful one. They’re in Arthur’s office, a blazing fire warming the room while the winter moon scatters its light across the lawn, Eggsy sitting in an armchair with a drink in one hand and his phone in the other. Harry sits at his desk, poring over yet another document under the light of his desk lamp, the first hints of tiredness creeping into his furrowed brow. He reaches for the tumbler to his left, takes a small sip of whisky, and sets the drink back down on its wooden coaster. The hearth bathes the room in orange-red, light reflecting off the signet ring on Eggsy’s hand, the mirror-smooth toecaps of his oxfords, the curved surfaces of three glasses of scotch.

That can’t be right.

Eggsy blinks at the third glass of scotch sitting next to the decanter, a drink with no owner in a room at full capacity. Amidst the silence, someone knocks on the door, and then the ground gives way—

The half-weightlessness of descent tugs at his core, and he opens his eyes to Harry’s hand on his shoulder. Another moment of mid-air suspense, and then landing gear hits runway and gravity renews its inexorable demand as the force of deceleration pushes him back into the leather seat and presses heavy on his chest.

–Ominous dream! One goal that I had throughout the fic was to make moments like this unsettling but also have a real-world explanation for them, so the characters themselves aren’t always fully sure what’s happening. Therein lies the horror, I suppose? This isn’t specifically a horror fic, but I hope that vibe came through.

Prague turns out to be just as beautiful as Google Images shows, and Eggsy takes advantage of the mission to go sightseeing with Harry in tow. It isn’t often that anyone gets to do the tourist clichés on the clock, but they’re also supposed to be Andrew and Michael Tate, married couple on holiday, so it’s several birds with one stone, really. Eggsy gets a blank cheque to play up the obnoxious-tourist-in-love act to hell and back, pout at Harry all day in the hope of kisses, steal bites of his ice cream and beam brightly at him before doing it again. Knowing that Harry let him get away with it and even indulges him every single time only makes it better, and Eggsy goes the extra mile to be publicly, sickeningly sappy just because he can, and because Merlin absolutely hates having to watch it. Being paid to sit in the city square half-draped on his boyfriend and demanding kisses all day is great, but there is also literally nothing else to do, and the occasional aggrieved sigh or snarky comment from Merlin helps break up the monotony of watching their target.

I love Prague. Not sure Prague loves me back after what I do with it in this fic. Featuring also: Hartwin raising Merlin’s blood pressure for kicks.

Instead, here they are in the familiar waltz of gunshots and knives, a dance so familiar Eggsy wonders sometimes if it were branded into his soul before his life even began, if he was meant to end up here next to Harry all this while. He doesn’t manage to stop the grin that creeps up on his face when Harry clubs one of their attackers with the butt of his gun and shoves him directly into the path of a shot Eggsy fires, blind but for the trust that there will be a mark for the bullet to find at the end of its path. Another man charges at them and stumbles backwards, blood spilling from first a gunshot and then a knife wound that opens a second later as Harry snatches the man’s knife and plunges it into the vulnerable flesh between the fourth and fifth rib. “I already got him,” Eggsy calls over the chaos.

“You could have picked someone else to shoot, dearest. I was already going to stab him,” Harry points out casually as he plants a bullet into the last man’s chest almost entirely without looking. With a flick of his wrist, he tosses the knife back down the corridor, where it clatters to the ground and skids away from them both, and that really shouldn’t be as hot as Eggsy finds it.

Battle boyfriends!

Eggsy snickers under his breath, knowing full well Merlin’s opinion of repetitive questions. The bad-tempered reply comes in almost immediately, all threat and no action. “Ask me again and I’ll make sure Cardinal flies off the second you reach the roof.” Eggsy laughs and turns to look at Harry, warmth bubbling up in his chest. Harry still looks absolutely perfect, pristine suit and oxfords, not a hair out of place. They’re almost there, Eggsy knows, almost out of here, and then they’ll be done with the mission. One day to themselves in a beautiful city, just them and nothing else, so perfect and already within reach—

He rounds the corner to find himself staring down the barrel of a gun.

Motto of this fic might as well be Don’t Get Comfortable, because things have a habit of going south the moment they do. In keeping with the sort of “your fate isn’t up to you” idea, Eggsy isn’t outclassed or outbattled; he’s simply in the wrong damn place at the wrong damn time, and that’s what gets him killed.

Tangentially, this isn’t the first time I’ve featured a pilot with a codename in Kingsman fic (nor will it be the last!), but have a headcanon with approximately zero relevance to the movies: all the Kingsman pilots have bird codenames.  

The drink is half gone by the time Eggsy finds his voice again. “I’m dead, then?”

The other man purses his lips in thought. “At the moment? Yep.” Firelight glints off the facets of Eggsy’s glass, casting red and orange glimmers that dance with the slightest movement alongside the flickering shadows.

“You shot me?”

“What do you take me for? Obviously not. I’m hurt you’d even think that.”

Mephisto the gentleman devil! As mentioned previously, he actually isn’t responsible for Eggsy’s death here, nor did he engineer the circumstances necessary for it to happen. He does point out to Eggsy earlier in Chapter 4 that Kingsman is a dangerous business, and at the end of the day, it isn’t divine/demonic intervention that leads to the events of chapter 5, but rather the humans themselves. Mephisto here is an opportunistic bystander to human affairs.

The man sips smugly at his scotch, watching Eggsy with eyes like polished obsidian, black and cold and unyielding. “You see, the living aren’t done with you. You might have some idea how this goes.”

Eggsy’s blood runs cold. “No.”

“Oh, yes. He’s a much better negotiator, too.”

“No. No, no, no.” Eggsy is on his feet, hands balled into trembling fists by his side. “You can’t have him, don’t you dare—”

The shadows stretch and creep across the walls, inching along the shelves as the fire dims and the room darkens. “I’m afraid that’s not up to you.” The visitor stands, those long legs uncrossing and straightening before he takes a step forward to close the distance between them, his triumphant sneer inches from Eggsy’s face. Long slender fingers reach for the lapels of Eggsy’s jacket and straighten them, tugging lightly at the fabric and brushing a spot of lint away. “You see,” the man croons, saccharine-sweet and sickening, “he’s already made me an offer I can’t refuse.”

So this is the most blatant “powerless in the face of the cosmos” moment in the entire fic. This scene takes places simultaneously with Harry’s rooftop scene in chapter 12, which leaves Eggsy unable to stop Harry from making his own deal with the Devil. Also, it’s worth pointing out that Eggsy isn’t a bad negotiator per se – Harry has the benefit of seeing the full picture and recognising what Mephisto wants, but Eggsy did specify that Mephisto wasn’t allowed to cheat and kill Harry. Genre-savvy protagonists!

Lips brush against the back of his hand, still held gently in Harry’s, and Eggsy understands.

Of course he does. He’s had his own moment of knowing what it’s like to lose the one you love and then barely, just barely get them back at a painfully high cost. Once Harry’s own bargain is made, all the secrets and doubts and fears they’ve been keeping from one another (mostly Mephisto lmao) disappear, leaving only the two of them together for the rest of their lives. In a sense, that’s the happy ending they both wanted, except it’s come at so high a cost to both of them that it isn’t a perfect storybook ending. Worth it, though? Yes.

[kajaawa2]

Meghalaya Tourism: An Ideal Travel Guide

Meghalaya, meaning "the abode of clouds", is a paradise for nature lovers. This hill station in Northeast India has captivated travelers worldwide with its truly magnificent and enchanting skies. Nestled in the Himalayas, Meghalaya shares its borders with Bangladesh to the east and south and Assam to the north.

Unforgettable Experiences Await

Meghalaya boasts a plethora of tourist attractions, from towering hills and valleys to countless lakes, cascading waterfalls, pitch-black caves, and sacred forests. Panoramic views, misty hills, terraced slopes, flowing waterfalls, and serpentine rivers are sure to enthrall your soul.

Meghalaya will awaken all your senses. From cultural highlights to heart-pounding adventures, numerous unforgettable encounters await the curious traveler.

Cultural Tapestry

Meghalaya's cultural tapestry is woven with numerous threads. The vibrant traditional festivals are a fantastic way to experience the uniqueness of the state's indigenous population. Soak in the customs of the locals and the breathtaking views while learning about the message each festival conveys. Explore some of the state's local history while sampling the various cuisines it has to offer. Get lost in the area's markets and take advantage of the burgeoning nightlife scene. Meghalaya is renowned for its contemporary cultural celebrations that honor local and international artistic talent. Expect a showcase of music, art, intriguing cultural customs, and more.

Top Tourist Destinations

Popular tourist spots in Meghalaya include Shillong, Tura, Jowai, Cherrapunjee, Nongpoh, and Baghmara. There are numerous tourist attractions in Meghalaya that are worth a visit, including:

Shillong (Scotland of the East): Explore Shillong Peak, Elephant Falls, Ward's Lake, Don Bosco Museum, and Umiam Lake.

Cherrapunjee (One of the wettest places on Earth): Witness the awe-inspiring Dain-Thlen, Kynrem, Nohkalikai waterfalls, and the marvel of engineering - Double Decker Living Root Bridge. Explore Mawsmai Cave, Seven Sister Falls, and Wei Sawdong Falls.

Mawsynram (Another contender for the wettest place on Earth): Visit the famed Jakrem Hot Spring and the Mawjymbuin Cave.

Mawlynnong (Asia's Cleanest Village): Experience serenity amidst spotless surroundings and explore the Living Root Bridge and Balancing Rock.

Dawki (Crystal-clear Dawki River): Enjoy kayaking, snorkeling, and camping by the river in Shnongpdeng Village. Take in the scenic beauty of the Dawki River and the Indo-Bangladesh Border.

Best Time to Visit:

March to June: Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing and adventure activities.

July to September: Perfect for relaxation and enjoying the beauty of the rainy season.

October to November: Witness the vibrant cherry blossoms in autumn.

December to February: Ideal for hiking excursions and exploring nearby locations.

How to Reach Meghalaya:

By Train: The nearest train station is Guwahati (Assam), 180 kilometers away. Taxis or buses can take you to Meghalaya from Guwahati.

By Air: Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati (Assam) is the nearest major airport. Taxis can take you to Meghalaya from the airport.

By Road: Major cities are well-connected to Meghalaya by roadways.

Travel Tips:

Research local permits required for specific activities.

Book your accommodations in advance, especially during peak season.

Pack essentials like rain gear and comfortable shoes.

Plan your itinerary based on your interests and time constraints.

Budget for your trip, including transportation, accommodation, food, and activities.

Sample the local cuisine - a delightful way to experience the culture.

Respect local customs and traditions.

Rainfall in Meghalaya:

Meghalaya receives an average annual rainfall of 1,150 millimeters. The state lives up to its name, with the sky rarely remaining cloud-free.

Weather in Meghalaya:

Meghalaya boasts pleasant weather year-round with an average temperature of 24°C. The monsoon season brings ample rainfall, enhancing the beauty of the natural landscape. Winters are dry with moderate temperatures.

Ready to Explore?

Meghalaya, with its stunning beauty, rich culture, and diverse experiences, is a destination that will leave you mesmerized. Let Kajaawa Tours & Cabs craft your dream Meghalaya adventure and help you discover the hidden gems of this incredible state!

[umichenginabroad]

Week 4: Snorkeling and Venezia

Ciao again!

This past week featured a fun field trip for Intro to Marine Bio and my first big week adventure! For the first field trip, we explored different habitats in Ieranto Bay, a marine conservation area only accessible through kayaking or by hiking down. We took the hiking route, taking in the picturesque landscape as we went.

Around 45 minutes later we got down to the bay and split into three groups to rotate through the day’s activities. My group had free time first; I spent the hour at the beach, swimming and enjoying the lovely clear water. Kayaking came next. Although we couldn’t cross the entire bay due to strong winds, we kayaked to another section, going in and out of a few caves and observing different marine habitats. I loved exploring the caves, especially one where it was so low you had to use your hands instead of the paddle to navigate! Lastly, our professor guided us in snorkeling, pointing out several key organisms and marine structures we had discussed in class. This might’ve been my favorite part as I loved diving down to look at everything up close (I even swam through an underwater tunnel lined with bright orange corals!)

(views of the bay during the hike down)

(four of us representing UMich in Ieranto Bay with the water and cliff in the background)

Over the weekend, I visited Venice and a few of the surrounding islands with some friends. I can honestly say it was the most unique place I’ve been so far. Wandering around and getting lost was so fun as there was something neat around every corner. We stayed the night in Naples Friday as we had a very early train Saturday morning (yay 4 am wake up). The train ride went smoothly and 5 hours later we emerged in The Floating City.

(Pictures of the colorful Venetian houses lining the edges of canals)

We took in the sights and wandered around for the afternoon before getting dinner (the pasta was delicious) and gelato (also delicious). Sunday morning, a few of us got up bright and early to see St. Mark’s basilica before the rush (slept in until 5am this time). My jaw was practically on the floor from admiring the intricate ceiling mosaics and it was worth every second of sacrificed sleep. Even today, creating artwork like it would be an impressive feat, let alone in the 11th century when the Church was constructed.

(Part of the outside of St. Mark's Basilica featuring ornate mosaics and paintings)

After some morning sightseeing, we booked a boat tour for 20 euros each to take us to Murano and Burano, two smaller islands known for their glass and lace making, respectively. Our stop in Murano also included a live glass blowing demonstration! I am now the proud owner of a hand-made Venetian glass bead bracelet and an adorable glass snail (name is still pending). Burano was very quaint with canals lined with vibrant houses and filled with cafes and small shops highlighting their handmade lace.

(First picture of a glass blowing presentation on Murano, the other two pictures of the canals of Burano. Yes, the tower in the third pic is leaning, it's not a crooked picture!)

Once back on the main island, we did a little shopping, ate some more yummy pasta, and took in the sights again before heading back to the main bus station to board our overnight bus, beginning our trek back to Sorrento. I lucked out and had both seats to myself on the bus, allowing me to get some much needed shut eye as I had my physics midterm that same morning!

I am already missing the charming streets and enchanting canals of Venice, but I have an exciting week and another weekend adventure ahead to keep me busy!

Arrivederci,

Marika Ruppart

Mechanical Engineering

Engineering in Sorrento, Italy

[usafphantom2]

Major General Robert “Bob” Behler

The General entered the Air Force in 1972 as a distinguished graduate of the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps program. He is a magna cum laude graduate of the College of Engineering. He is a command pilot with over 5,000 flying hours in 65 aircraft types, including the SR-71 and U-2. He has impeccable credentials as a former fighter pilot, test pilot, engineer and most importantly, a former SR 71 pilot. Bob puts a little things into the book that no one else would really know such as, “I’m down to my last shot of.”TEB” and using Blackbird diplomacy as a distraction.(sonic booms)

General Behler helped with the information in the recently released fictional book Tom Clancy “Weapons Grade” by Don Bentley.

I was excited while reading this book because the SR-71 is back in the air. Flying! Just as good as new. There are some computerized adjustments to the SR-71 backseat. The pilot’s cockpit remains analog. A difference is a table with a computerized tablet in the Pilots cockpit so that Bob can see what his backseater Charlie, is also seeing.

Charlie is not one of the Air Force esteemed former RSO’s’ but instead a mechanical engineering, computer whiz in his 20s who considers Bob a fossil..

They do bridge the generation gap together after one disaster after another happens at the speed of 2000 +miles an hour in the SR-71 this happens, when Bob (Snake) gives Charlie his handle( Cowboy).

Bob and Charlie are flying in formation with the Convair an unmanned aerial aircraft that can fly hypersonicy. A quote from the book”Tom Clancy Weapons Grade” by Don Bentley “The Habu’s air speed record has finally been broken. It was broken by the Corvair….We’re at Mach four and climbing to Mach five.” Bob was just fine with flying the Habu the way he had 30 years ago but as much as he wanted to pretend otherwise, Bob had become quite enamored with the tablet that displayed the imagery that Charlie was collecting. Why is the SR 71 Blackbird back in the sky? The SR-71 is flying chase after the Convair UCAV. Who else could try keep up with them?

This time around the Blackbird SR-71 is not the celebrity. That honor belong to the sleek black form that just shattered the air breathing speed record that stood for 50 years. However, ‘’That no man or woman will ever be, sitting in the cockpits to hear the thundering engines that drove the vehicle to the ragged edge of speed. This fact diminishes the glory. Because the Convair had no cockpits. Bob knew that he was lucky to be standing in this hangar with the Habu This beauty came together with slide rules, and number two pencils. As the story continues Colonel Buehler receives a phone call from the White House asking his opinion of the UCAV.( Unmanned combat aerial vehicle). The weapons system that the Corvar was trying to become would fill a new role in America’s arsenal. The President of the United States of America decides that he wants Bob to suit up and fly the Habu on one more mission. i’m not going to give away what happens next but I will give you an example of how beautifully Don Bentley writes.” Although the Blackbirds thick windows didn’t make for a great sightseeing Bob was only 200 feet from the Convair had no problem picking out its distinct shape. The UCAV Resembled nothing so much as an ethereal spirit,an ink blot rendered across a canvas of blue. Though he could see no difference in the vehicles flight profile as the onboard computer assumed control the aircraft felt different to Bob with live munitions and no human in the loop Convair seemed like an attack dog who’s leash had just been on unclipped”

I certainly enjoyed the book but please remember this is fiction. There are no SR- 71s flying anywhere. Perhaps in the future, though we may see a movie that re-create some of the magic that we all remember in the SR -71.

Written by Linda Sheffield

@Habubrats71 via X

[charlotteswebbbbb]

What’s the vibe? #57

News:

Matchesfashion has gone into administration and they’ve also cut their workforce by half. So Farfetch sold, Net-A-Porter looking for a buyer, MyTheresa and SSense doing okay I assume?

What are the jobs of the future? Where is truly safe from risk? No where but here are some suggestions for jobs always needed: health/care, food, agriculture, public transportation, engineering, artists, craftspeople. Will expand upon this later on with more research but this is something to chew on.

Miu Miu is in my eyes, now, a brand for women of all ages, a brand that plays with the idea of youth and intellect and I guess customers really like it. From BOF this weekend….

“Prada Group released [its annual report] yesterday, with an eye-popping 82 percent uptick in Q4 sales at Miu Miu, the main driver of growth is ready-to-wear, up 24 percent year over year, and up 64 percent versus 2021, compared to 3 percent and 25 percent growth in leather goods, respectively.”

What was also great was the ideal Miu Miu customer walking the runway….Meet Dr Qin Huilan

The post continues on: "Therefore, I also want to encourage everyone who is confused at a certain point, never give up on your dreams! Before the age of 70, I only cared about my patients as a doctor. Who would have thought that at the age of 70, I would be standing here on the runway today? Come on! Look! This is Paris! Look! This is miumiu’s runway! Look! This is 70-year-old Qin. #miumiu"

Living the "brand values" as they say.

Thread of thought: Kate Middleton conspiracy theories > lack of trust in British society > interpersonal relationships - "do we even believe each other?" > I'll see it to believe it culture > low hope? during an election year. Feels like the slog but I also feel like this is why people are latching onto these theories so quickly. But the photoshop was terrible and honestly, the news agencies killing the photo does not bode well for the family regardless of outcome.

In the theatre:

Bluets @ Royal Theatre (Fri 17 May - Sat 29 Jun 2024)

Slave Play (29 June - 21 September 2024) - sort of controversial but will be hyped and seen.

Person of the Week:

Fromm Studio - 3D artists, Vince Ibay and Jessica Miller, located in London (Barcelona also). They also just had an exhibition at Mother (@downstairsatmother) which finished 3rd March.

Reading List:

Really interesting as the guy who ran it said he wanted to quit because of the "enshittification" of the internet?

from the ft article!!!

"But in case you want to be more precise, let’s examine how enshittification works. It’s a three-stage process: first, platforms are good to their users. Then they abuse their users to make things better for their business customers. Finally, they abuse those business customers to claw back all the value for themselves. Then, there is a fourth stage: they die."

also

[thunderclaw100]

Bio: Orieon is the son of Eva and tallest Red. The youngest in his litter. Though his increase of height may make him look like he’s the oldest to some folks. Orieon doesn’t suit wit the whole* “runt of the littler”concept because it never shows in him. His mother spoils him a lot when he and his siblings were very young. He was also the most clingiest, too. Orieon is a dreamer. He wants a future that is would be great for everyone. He noticed that other aliens seem to despise him because he reminds them of his father, who he later meets. Orieon and the rest of his littermates were unexpected and unregistered in the system. Eva kept kept them away from public eyes for a while after people in the refugee camp are speculating that she purposely got pregnant in order to have her residency quicker than others since the neutraliens have a policy that prevents them from turning away a pregnant female in need of help, regardless of what race she is. Orieon started showing signs of growing only after his second week of being alive. He may look like a full blooded irken, but part of his mentality is that of his vortian side. During their time Eva kept her kids to herself, Orieon only had his brother and sisters as his close companion. There wasn’t too much to do at home, other than picking at each other or trying to get mom’s attention and coddle with her. Orion has an interest in genetic engineering. Ever since he learned from his father that he and the rest of the Irken race are born from cloning factories, he wants to take part in that field as well as being an Air Force pilot for the neutralien military. He already seems to have that skill when he was young and almost took off with one of the neutralien’s spaceships. It got Orieon scolded by his mother but also acknowledged by the person who brought him back home. One would say he has a bright future ahead of him. That he took to heart. Finding out that he’s half Irken and vortian made him embrace both sides of his bloodline. That and the culture of planet Neutra. It’s also why he’s into history and reads a lot of books nowadays.

Likes: Making friends, snacks, smoothies, pizza, adventuring, sightseeing, advance technology, visiting cultural exhibits,learning more about his bloodline background, reading,video games,sports.

Dislikes: Being compared to his father, threats to his family,things not going his way, polluted water,his brother’s arrogance, seeing his mother cry,betrayal.

Personality: kind, clingy, sarcastic,shy,flamboyant, easygoing,loyal, short-tempered,adventurous.

*RELATIONSHIPS*

Eva: He loves his mother dearly and would do anything to make her proud of him. Orieon wants to make up the years she had spent spoiling him as little. Her instincts to do that is common to some female vortians. She would stay in her nest and nurse him while her other children are already playing around her. Whenever he’s feeling doubtful and discouraged, it was Eva who would take care of him. When he popped the question about who fathered him, Eva hesitated to give her son a proper answer. Orieon is quick to defend his mother, even at the most littlest things that turn against her. Eva can’t help my visualize tallest Red doing this. Orieon biggest fear is loosing her. He almost did after the neutralien authorities took her in for questioning about her keeping a fugitive in her house. He heard them tell her that if Eva is doing this, she will be locked up and then deported off the planet. Leaving her kids to be taken by the system and put in a group home until further documents are in place. Orieon and his siblings help around the house when Eva’s not around and do their own thing afterwards.

Tallest Red: When Orieon met him, he was so shocked at how identical they are. Minus their light and dark skin tone differences and their eyes are two different shades of the same color. Orieon only ever heard stories about how his father is a courageous and powerful person, who lead his own army and own countless lands. He is honored by all and is traveling across the galaxy to leave his foot print on the planets he wish to make allies with. Sadly this was not true and his mother was only hiding the real truth about his father in order to protect him. Eva couldn’t tell her children all the horrible details about tallest Red until after he came over to her house. Red met his son and thought he saw a miniature version of himself, back in his elite training days. He asked if he knew who he was and what it means to be his son. Red told his children everything about himself and fill in the blanks that Eva left out. It kinda shattered Orieon’s reality that his father was actually a planet conqueror. He did not want to believe it at first but soon after this reveal, Orieon did not want to be around him. Not like Jovian, who’s been doing his best to earn their father’s praise and attention. Eva had to literally jump between the two when they started fighting each other. Causing her to be injured. One good thing they have in common is that they both are protective of Eva. Red is still new to this whole affection thing and it took spending time with his family to help him understand that.

Bellatrix: He sees a lot of his mother in his older sister. These two keep each other happy and content. Bella finds her brother’s silly antics cute. Orieon likes to set the mood and cheer everyone up. When everyone went to the education program for the foreign aliens that came to planet Neutra, Bellatrix and Orieon got the highest scores there. This is good because these scores will be saved for them and built up over time until they graduate. He had a few haywires with his pak that his sister fixed for him. She’s the only person to know that Orieon can’t read vortian, so she studies with him. Bella was also the one scolding him and Jovian when they were arguing and fighting. She’s the voice is Eva in some way. Speaking up when things get rough for them. Orion admires her for that and the love she shares.

Jovian: His obnoxious older brother, who he often teases from time to time. Jovian is self-centered, narcissistic and a rude boy. It would take a patience of a godly saint to put up with him and his crazy antics. Being the second oldest, he believes he should have the first pick of everything. Eva has had her hands full with this little troublemaker and it continues until Jovian joins the neutralien’s military sector. Having his own unit at his command. Orieon constantly gets into petty arguments with him and it would end up with them fighting physically. Orieon made it slip when he mocked Jovian for being small and that their father likes him better. This ended with them both being grounded by their mother. Their relationship is a little shaky but they balance out on common grounds. Like caring and protecting their mother. Have the same interest in advance technology and science. Food and their heritage.

Nixy:

Dib: This human confuse him. He has never met someone who’s species is so young and outdated. He got to know Dib after he and Zim landed on planet Neutra. When they met, Orieon could barely understand him. He was speaking a different language. Turns out it was Irken. He got to learn that after spending time with Zim. The human boy felt a little unease when he met Orieon because of his similar look to tallest Red. He would avert eye contact when the irken hybrid stares at him. Dib eventually realized that this kid’s not Red and will never be like his dangerous father. He sat down with Orieon and his siblings and began to talk about his home planet, Earth. He thought that it was silly that humans live such a lifestyle and wonders why they never thought about extending their knowledge to other planets. That and why their lifespans are so short. Orieon also got the chance to know what happened on the massive from him. That there’s a battle to be fought against the Irken empire. Before he left the planet with Zim. Dib gave a communication address to Orieon, so that they can always keep in touch and he can let him now how Eva’s doing. Giving him updates here and there.

Zim: He only heard the stories from Sepher and Bob about this specific Irken. That Zim is a destructive force of nature and that he thrives off of causing trouble for everyone he come ls in contact with. Orieon is weary of him being around his family but after spending some time with him for a day, he learns that Zim is not all at fault for his own actions. He can’t help being a defective. Zim taught Orieon how to read and speak Irken. And just like his older brother and sisters, he got to know more about his Irken culture from him. Excited that not only did Zim gave him new knowledge about the other side of his family but he also gave each of them their own Irken tablet.(Except for Nixy. She designed hers and with her own symbol marking on the back of it.) Orieon hasn’t disregarded any of Zim’s past deeds but he’ll acknowledge the ones he does now. If what Dib said is true, then he’ll be well taken care of on Earth.

Zora: Orieon was still small at the time and only just left his mother’s coddleness and her nest to join his littermates in playing around in their room. Orieon got adventurous and slipped out of the house. He went as far as to the open fields and from there he met a little neutralien girl named, Zora. He had never seen her around before and neither did she. He got to know her a little after they took off chasing after little glowing buggies that light up the night. Illuminating a pathway in a bright light of blue to them. Orieon felt shy because this is his first interaction with a girl, other than his two sisters. Zora was kind to him and did not fear him like most other aliens have since they saw him. Orieon had to lie to his mom about his little escaped act that night and even now still hides the fact that he has a crush on Zora. He hasn’t seen her since she’s been picked up by her family. They’ve put her in the medical school, where she will be on and off the field. Treating patients. Orieon misses her but would get calls from Zora on his gauntlet.especially during his own training time.

*EXTRA*

•Orieon got his name from an old friend of Eva’s.

•Just like his older brother, Orieon is a mamma’s boy.

• He had Nixy upgrade the translator in his pak.

•Orieon grooms his antennas often.

•He screeches like a raptor.

•Orieon has his first crush with a neutralien girl.

•Him and His brother are the ones among their siblings who can’t touch water.

•He and Bellatrix are comfort buddies.

• Orieon and Jovian are at a sibling war with each other. They try to out due one another.

• He eats pretty much anything except soft slop.

•Has a soft spot for some animals.

•Orieon grew to be the exact height as his father.

*DIALAUGE*

“I can’t believe that I’m related to a jerk! I don’t know what you did to her but you made my mom cry! In fact, whenever she even looks at me, she sees YOU! No wonder I’m wing scorn so much!”

“Just admit it. You’re jealous because mom gives me more love than you, Jovian.”

“Stop projecting yourself onto me! You may be my father but I’m NOTHING like you!”

“Old ancient historic books like these need to be preserved at all cost. We can’t let this important information be lost forever. Who would want to forget how their species came to be?”

“Bella? I envy you for not having to put up with others calling you a half breed. Me and Jovian can’t even walk as far as the snack vending machine without someone calling us out and wanting to kill us for looking irken. Calling us freaks and insulting our mother for having us here on this planet.”

“I want to do my part in changing the world! I know it’s a big step for someone who’s only ten years old. But I want to help this planet grow stronger, more advanced than ever before! I know about the threats towards it and it’s only a matter of time before trouble comes our way. We’ll need a fighting force!”

“Ouch! Is this really how a pak suppose to be installed? Right through my spine? I thought irkens wore some magnetic plate on their backs that makes the pak work and send wave signal to the brain in order to function it mentally. Not this drilling sensation that feels like my back’s gonna spit in half!”

“Mom? I was wondering if you can tell me about dad? I’ve seen other kids with both of their parents and it made me want to know about him. Does he look like any of us? Is dad an Irken or a vortian?”

“You speak to me as if I’m not important, but I am. My father is the one person you don’t want to cross. If he knew what you said to me here, he’ll be sure your life is forfeit. So you’re either with me or against me!”

[omsaitours01]

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[nilehospitality445782946252]

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RevPAR

GOPPAR

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[heritagecabs1]

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[luxuryurbaniahire]

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Opting for 12 Seater Urbania hire services is a smart choice for a variety of travel needs. Here's why:

1. Group Travel Made Easy

When traveling in a group, coordinating multiple vehicles can be stressful. Hiring a 12 seater Urbania ensures everyone travels together, making it a more organized and enjoyable experience. Whether it’s a weekend getaway, pilgrimage tour, or airport transfer, a single vehicle reduces the hassle and saves time.

2. Unmatched Comfort and Space

The Urbania is designed for maximum comfort. With reclining seats, air conditioning, large windows, and ample legroom, it feels more like a lounge on wheels. The seating layout allows passengers to relax throughout the journey, especially on long routes.

3. Affordable Luxury

Hiring a 12 seater Urbania gives you the benefits of a premium vehicle without burning a hole in your pocket. The cost per person becomes very reasonable when split among the group, making it a practical and economical option for luxury travel.

4. Versatile Use

Whether it’s a business meeting out of town, a wedding shuttle for guests, or a sightseeing trip across Rajasthan, the 12 Seater Urbania can adapt to all kinds of travel plans. Event organizers and tour operators prefer it for its flexibility and presentable design.

Features of 12 Seater Urbania

High Roof and Spacious Interiors: Provides ample headroom and space for passengers and luggage.

Advanced Suspension: Ensures smooth rides even on uneven terrain.

Dual AC Vents: Keeps the entire cabin cool and comfortable.

Modern Entertainment System: Keeps travelers engaged throughout the journey.

Superior Build Quality: Durable, reliable, and stylish – ideal for professional and personal use.

Ideal Occasions for Hiring a 12 Seater Urbania

If you’re wondering whether a 12 seater Urbania is the right choice for your next event, here are a few perfect scenarios:

Weddings and Family Functions Guarantee your guests a timely and comfortable arrival with reliable group transport. The Urbania offers a premium look that matches the elegance of your big day.

Corporate Events and Business Travel Impress your clients or executives with a luxurious, punctual, and comfortable ride.

Pilgrimages and Spiritual Tours When embarking on extended spiritual journeys, spacious seating and travel comfort become vital. The Urbania is ideal for such trips.

Airport and Railway Transfers Avoid the chaos of multiple taxis with a single, coordinated transfer service for your group.

City Tours and Outstation Trips From Jaipur to Jodhpur, or Delhi to Agra, the 12 Seater Urbania offers a smooth ride across distances.

Things to Consider Before Booking

When you plan to book a 12 Seater Urbania hire, keep the following in mind:

Reputation of Service Provider: Always book through a reputed transport company with positive customer reviews.

Vehicle Condition: Ensure that the Urbania provided is well-maintained, clean, and fully functional.

Driver Experience: A skilled and courteous driver can make your journey much more pleasant.

Pricing and Inclusions: Check if the fare includes tolls, parking, and driver allowance to avoid hidden charges.

Book 12 Seater Urbania Hire with Ease

Today, many service providers offer 12 Seater Urbania hire across India, particularly in cities like Jaipur, Delhi, Udaipur, and Mumbai. Most bookings can be made online, with options to customize the package according to your schedule and needs.

For premium service, professional drivers, and reliable vehicles, choose companies that specialize in Urbania rentals and understand the importance of punctuality, hygiene, and customer care.

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking a perfect blend of space, luxury, and convenience, 12 Seater Urbania hire is your go-to solution. It eliminates the stress of managing travel logistics for groups, ensures a comfortable journey, and adds a touch of sophistication to your event.

So the next time you’re planning a group trip or event, consider hiring a 12 seater Urbania. It’s more than just transportation – it’s a travel experience you’ll remember.

[umichenginabroad]

Week 2: Recovering from COVID, Naples, Florence, Classes

Hey everyone, welcome back to this week's blog post! 

I spent the majority of this week sick with covid along with all of my roommates, so the weekdays mostly consisted of going to class, coming back home, eating, going to the beach, and playing one too many card games with my roommates. But being sick did give me a chance to become more familiar with Sorrento and update my family and friends on what I’ve been up to.

On one of our nighttime walks this week, my roommates and I discovered a new way to get to the beach from our apartment through a tunnel which took less than five minutes!

Over the weekend, my roommates and I did our first weekend trip to Naples and Florence – it was an adventure to say the absolute least. 

We immediately noticed how different Naples was from our expectations. While it was a more touristy, urban version of Sorrento like I’d imagined, it was also more dirty, unsafe, and riddled with construction. We booked hotels for this trip without researching enough — our airbnb was an hour walk from the center of Naples and we majorly overestimated our walking abilities in 95 degree heat. 

We stumbled across some type of aerial arts show - not exactly sure what was going on here but I was starstruck by the woman playing the violon while suspended in the air.

The next day, we headed to Florence after nearly missing our train because we taxied to the wrong train station in Naples (shoutout to our heaven-sent taxi driver). We spent the day sightseeing and window shopping.

Pitti Palace (Art Museum)

Giotto’s Bell Tower

My favorite place we went to in Florence: a bookstore called Giunti Odeon. It was the largest bookstore I’ve ever been to and had auditorium-like seating upstairs with a movie going on.

Despite the positives, this trip had many complications — namely when we found black mold all over our hotel ceiling in Florence and had to switch hotels at midnight because we couldn’t breathe, when we lost our passports (the hotel found them), and when we accidentally booked our train from Florence to Naples after the last train from Naples to Sorrento left... I could go on and on. It was our first trip outside of Sorrento, let’s hope the next ones go smoother!

Classes

Both of my classes (Physics 2 and an entrepreneurship class) meet 3-4 times a week for 2-3 hours. Because I’m familiar with the 50-minute or 1-hour-20-minute length of Michigan classes, this class structure took some getting used to. But we have a break or two in each class, and I sometimes use that time to walk on the beach with my classmates. They are also a lot stricter about absences here — each of my classes only allow two excused absences. This week, I have midterms in both classes, and I cannot imagine being nearly as at ease if I had a week with two midterms at Michigan. Even though I’ve only been here for a short time, the difficulty of these classes is pretty incomparable to Michigan. Physics will go on the whole 10 weeks of the program, but my entrepreneurship class is ending in the beginning of July. I’ll be starting a mini internship then at Villa Azzura (a medical device company in Naples), so stay tuned for details about that. 

Food

This is a traditional Florentine dish - Parpadelle with Wild Boar Sauce from a restaurant in Florence called Osteria Antica Mescita San Niccolo

My new favorite snack (shoutout to my roommate Reese) - cantalope wrapped in prosciutto!

That’s about all the updates I have for this week. Thanks for reading and see you next time!

Tiya Madhavan

Biomedical Engineering

Engineering in Sorrento

[expeditionengineering]

Is there is any affordable Greenland skiing in Canada ?

 Greenland Skiing: The Untouched Frontier

Greenland skiing isn’t just about snow—it’s about scale. It’s about wide-open landscapes that stretch beyond the horizon, glacier-carved peaks that rise abruptly from icy fjords, and a silence so complete you can hear your heartbeat on the skin track. For skiers looking for raw, remote adventure, Greenland is the real deal.

Far from the lift lines and manicured slopes of traditional resorts, Greenland offers something deeper: authentic wilderness skiing in one of the most remote and awe-inspiring corners of the planet.

Where the Mountains Meet the Ice

The coastal mountains of Greenland, especially in the east and northwest, provide thousands of vertical meters of skiable terrain. Steep couloirs, mellow glacier descents, and alpine ridges make this a paradise for ski tourers of all levels—if you’re ready for the challenge.

With Expedition Engineering, these aren’t just sightseeing trips—they're expeditions. Using boats to access remote fjords or setting up mobile base camps in the mountains, each journey is customized to follow the best snow, safest conditions, and most rewarding routes.

Powered by Planning, Driven by Adventure

Greenland’s terrain demands respect—and precision. Expedition Engineering blends meticulous expedition planning with deep mountain experience. Guides monitor weather systems, avalanche risks, and local conditions daily to ensure safety while maximizing the adventure.

From ski-and-sail itineraries along the Arctic coast to multi-day glacier traverses deep in the interior, every Greenland skiing trip is both a physical and logistical feat—handled with care, knowledge, and a passion for exploration.

The Soul of the Arctic

Greenland is not just a destination—it’s a state of mind. Skiing here means waking up to drifting sea ice, skiing past ancient glaciers, and sharing quiet moments with your team under endless skies. The experience leaves a lasting impression—one rooted not in adrenaline, but in connection with the wild.

The isolation, the beauty, and the sheer immensity of the Arctic landscape transform each descent into something unforgettable.

Conclusion: More Than a Ski Trip

Greenland skiing is not for those looking for comfort and convenience—it’s for those drawn to the unknown, the untamed, and the unforgettable. It’s where technical skill meets expedition mindset, and where every summit earned feels like a personal victory.

With Expedition Engineering, you're not just booking a trip—you’re joining a rare kind of journey, one that few have experienced and even fewer forget. In Greenland, skiing becomes more than sport. It becomes story.