#how to make the most of your visit to each attraction of Statue of Unity

[halidays]

How to Plan a Perfect Trip to the Statue of Unity, the World’s Tallest Statue

Did you also know that the Statue of Unity is the tallest statue in the world at 182 meters i.e. 597 feet. This statue is almost twice the height of the Statue of Liberty in New York. The Statue of Unity is a giant statue of Indian politician and freedom activist Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel i.e. Iron Man of India. He was the first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister of independent India. Visit…

[statueofunitypackage]

Planning Your Visit: Statue of Unity Ticket Booking Made Easy

The Statue of Unity, a monumental tribute to India's first Deputy Prime Minister, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, stands as an architectural marvel and a symbol of unity. Located in the Indian state of Gujarat, near the Sardar Sarovar Dam, this statue attracts millions of visitors each year. To ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience, the Statue of Unity offers an efficient online ticket booking system.

Statue of Unity: A Majestic Tribute

The Statue of Unity, unveiled on October 31, 2018, is the tallest statue in the world, soaring to a height of 182 meters (600 feet). It not only pays homage to Sardar Patel, also known as the 'Iron Man of India,' but it also serves as a reminder of the nation's unity and diversity. Positioned against the picturesque backdrop of the Narmada River, the statue is a visual spectacle that attracts history enthusiasts, tourists, and patriots alike.

Why Book Tickets Online?

In the digital age, online ticket booking has become an integral part of planning any visit to popular tourist destinations. The Statue of Unity is no exception. Statue of Unity ticket booking offers visitors a range of advantages, making the entire process more convenient, time-efficient, and user-friendly.

Convenience:

Booking tickets online allows visitors to plan their trip from the comfort of their homes. Whether you are a local resident or a traveler from afar, the online platform eliminates the need to stand in long queues, providing a hassle-free experience.

Time-Efficiency:

Time is of the essence, especially when exploring a destination with numerous attractions. Online ticket booking enables visitors to save time by avoiding delays at the ticket counter, ensuring more time to marvel at the statue and explore the surrounding areas.

Flexibility:

Online booking platforms typically offer flexibility in terms of choosing the date and time of your visit. This ensures that visitors can plan their itinerary according to their preferences and availability.

Secure Transactions:

With secure payment gateways, Statue of Unity online ticket booking guarantees the safety of your financial transactions. This adds an extra layer of confidence for visitors concerned about the security of their personal information.

How to Book Tickets Online?

Booking tickets for the Statue of Unity online is a straightforward process. Most likely, the official website dedicated to the statue's tourism provides a user-friendly platform for visitors to book their tickets seamlessly. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Visit the Official Website:

Start by navigating to the official website statueofunitypackage.in dedicated to the Statue of Unity Package. This is the most reliable source for accurate information and secure transactions.

Choose Your Category:

Different categories of tickets may be available, such as general entry, express entry, or special packages. Select the category that best suits your preferences and requirements.

Select Date and Time:

Depending on availability, choose the date and time for your visit. This ensures that you can plan your trip with precision and avoid any last-minute disappointments.

Enter Visitor Details:

Provide accurate information for all visitors, including names and any other details required for the booking. This ensures a smooth entry process when you arrive at the site.

Payment Process:

Once you've entered all the necessary details, proceed to the secure payment gateway to complete your transaction. Make sure the payment method you're using is safe and reliable..

Confirmation:

 Following a successful payment, you ought to get a ticket or an email confirming receipt.. Make sure to keep this document handy as you will need it for entry to the Statue of Unity.

Tips for a Memorable Visit

To make the most of your visit to the Statue of Unity, consider these additional tips:

Plan Ahead:

Research the various attractions and activities available at the site. Planning ahead ensures that you can make the most of your time and experience everything the Statue of Unity has to offer.

Check for Special Events:

The Statue of Unity often hosts special events and exhibitions. Check the schedule to see if any events align with your visit for a more enriching experience.

Explore Surrounding Areas:

The vicinity of the statue is rich in natural beauty and offers panoramic views. Take some time to explore the surroundings, including the Sardar Sarovar Dam and the scenic Narmada River.

Respect Guidelines:

Respect the directives and regulations issued by the authorities. This ensures the safety of visitors and the preservation of the monument for future generations.

Conclusion

The Statue of Unity is more than just a colossal structure; it is a symbol of unity, strength, and the spirit of a nation. Booking tickets online not only enhances the overall experience but also reflects the seamless integration of technology in modern tourism. So, whether you're a history enthusiast, a patriot, or a curious traveler, the Statue of Unity promises an awe-inspiring journey, made even more accessible through online ticket booking. Plan your visit, witness history, and stand in awe of this magnificent testament to the unity of a diverse and vibrant nation.

[angel-ixily]

A Stroll Later

paring(s): passerine!Technoblade x female!Reader

Mentions/Appearances: passerine!Tommy, passerine!Wilbur, passerine!Phil

Warnings: mentions of blood, mentions of murder, fluff

Summary: Y/N visits Technoblade in the training pavilion and decides to invite him on a nice stroll through the castle gardens.

POV: Third Person

It was yet another peaceful day in the Valley. Villagers walking throughout the town happily, the smell of the freshly made bread attracting them to the bakery. Enthusiastic kids running through the streets excitedly. A girl with pink hair had just sold flowers to a man who was buying flowers for his anniversary. She waved at him as she left and began to tend to some flowers outside. She looked on towards the castle.

Inside, lived a King, a Prince, a God, and a Princess who lived in unity amongst each other.

Well on most days they did.

Tommy flew across the training pavilion and landed into a tall concrete statue in the corner, shattering it to pieces. He clumsily stumbled up and grabbed onto his sword, ready to go for another round.

He ran towards his trainer, who had his sword at the ready, a smirk on his face. He liked the determination of his student, but truly wondered how much this kid could take. Tommy already had bruises forming on his left cheek, a bump on his forehead, and a split lip. Technoblade was sure that there were many more bruises surrounding his body. He was also sure that at least one of his ribs would be broken. Maybe some internal bleeding somewhere. But nonetheless, Tommy had some strength in him that his older brother, Wilbur, never had. Not saying Wilbur wasn't strong nor a fighter, but after a blow like that, he would have never of gotten up.

Tommy clashed his sword with Techno's, the both of them facing each other, gritting their teeth. Techno took a step back, releasing the pressure on his sword, making Tommy fall forward. Techno jabbed the hilt of his sword onto Tommy's back, causing him to fall to the ground. He landed with a thud and a grunt. Techno chuckled lowly. He was going to say something but something else caught his attention.

"Kill him."

"Go on. Do it. Give him the final blow."

"Blood for the blood god."

"Jab your sword into his back. Feel it go through his flesh and through his organs. Imagine the blood."

"Stab him. Kill him."

Techno froze in place, the voices continuing to speak. He got taken out of it when Tommy jabbed his hilt into Techno's stomach and pulled on his legs. Techno fell on his backside and Tommy scrambled up, facing the tip of his sword near Techno's head. Techno looked blankly up to the blonde prince. After a moment, a smile broke onto Tommy's face.

"I did it! I won! You fell at my hand! Not even Wilbur could beat you, but I did! Oh, wait until he hears that I-" Techno sideswiped Tommy's leg and Tommy, once again, fell to the ground. Techno stood slowly, keeping his face neutral.

"There is never room for victory, Tommy. In war, you can beat someone, but you can't win. There is never winning', there are only more enemies. Make sure the enemy can't hurt you or fight back before you decide to think about celebrating." Technoblade lectured. Tommy sighed in defeat and then groaned, leaning his head back. He stayed like that for a moment, catching his breath. He looked back over to Techno, an excited look on his face.

"Best 2 outta 5?" He asked, basically pleading at this point. Technoblade only shook his head before placing out a hand for Tommy.

"Training is done for the day. Go to the infirmary and," Techno looked Tommy up and down judgmentally. Tommy looked really hideous right now. Techno almost felt bad for messing him up like that.

Almost.

"Yeah just...fix whatever is going' on right there." He motioned to Tommy's wounds and Tommy just nodded. He took Techno's wavering hand and helped Tommy pull himself up.

"I'll see you later, Techno! I'll be here to train tomorrow by 6! Be here!" Tommy yelled as he walked off. Techno rolled his eyes. It should have been him yelling for Tommy to be here. Techno was always here. The training pavilion was basically his bedroom.

When he heard the big doors shut signifying the young prince was gone, Techno sighed and picked up the remaining sword. He was in deep thought at this point, anxious about the voices in his head telling him to kill Tommy.

He was so deep in thought, that he didn't hear the princess walking in from the gardens.

She had just come back from her morning stroll through the Valley and had decided it would be her interest to take a stroll through the gardens. However, she wasn't expecting to see anybody in the pavilion. She was surprised that Wilbur hadn't called his teacher up already to talk to him.

But here he was, in his glory. Ever since her father had brought her here at the age of 12, Technoblade hadn't changed at all. The only thing that had changed about him, was a sapphire earring that Tommy had given to him as a joke about a week ago. She giggled at that.

Techno had walked towards the wall where he placed the sword in a frame. He wanted to clear his mind off of the voices whispering in his head about anarchy and murder. It was at these times where he felt like he needed to do what they asked just so they would go away, but he knew that's not what he wanted. He could never hurt Tommy or Wilbur. And he definitely couldn't hurt Y/N, the princess.

It's not as if Y/N was more important than Tommy or Wilbur, he cared for those boys equally. But would it be childish to say that he had a puppy crush on Y/N? She came when she was 12 to escape a war in her kingdom, and she had been here ever since. He obviously paid no attention to her at first, but as she got older, he had begun to notice her more often. Not only was she the most beautiful person he had ever seen, but she was also the kindest person he had ever met. It almost made him wary of her, but at least the voices would shut up when he was around her. He took another breath and ran a hand through his braid. He wished she was around him right now.

A small, "Hey Techno." came from behind him and he grabbed one of the swords in the frame to use as defense. There stood Y/N scared as all hell. Her terrified eyes glanced from Techno to the tip of the sword that was inches from her face. Techno immediately put the sword down.

"I'm sorry...it's a force of habit, I guess." He said sheepishly. At least he assumed it was sheepishly. Knowing him, it had probably sounded more on the monotone side then sheepish. He turned around to put the sword back in it's frame.

"It's fine. I just wasn't expecting to get my head sliced off today." She laughed to herself and Techno closed the frame to prevent himself from murdering anyone. He turned back around to face her.

"You look like your day has been eventful." She commented. She looked around and slightly frowned. "Where's Tommy?" She asked. She moved her head to look up to Techno. She looked so small compared to him. He stood at a towering 6'2 while she was in the 5 feet range.

Techno ignored his weird thoughts of height difference and just nodded off to the 2 doors leading into the castle. "I ended training for the day. He's off to the infirmary but knowing him he probably skipped right up to Wilbur's quarters to annoy him. He thinks the nurse in the infirmary is annoying."

Y/N shook her head, a smile lay on her face. "Of course he does. That's practical of him." Techno nodded in agreement. He didn't really know what to reply with. He wanted to say something to break the awkward silence, but again, he didn't know how to reply. But he wanted to talk to her.

"I was just about to go take a stroll in the gardens if you would like to join me. But if you're busy, that's fine." Techno tilted his head at her question. He looked at the doors where Tommy exited and hoped that nobody would enter.

"I have nothing else planned for the day unless Tommy decides to bother me, so I'm all yours if that's what you want." Y/N nodded and she began to head towards the garden doors. Techno followed after her.

The gardens looked beautiful at this time of day. The bright colors of the plants and flowers looked atypical and Y/N couldn't help but look over, or up, to Techno. His bright pink hair, his sapphire earring, his red eyes, the golden and silver jewels hanging from hid neck and hands. His light pink skin basically glowed in the light. He looked like a flower, himself.

Techno glanced down to her, catching her staring. The awestruck look on her face was hidden behind e/c eyes. He sighed. "Is something wrong, your majesty?" He asked her. She blinked, zoning back into reality.

"I..yes. Yes, I'm fine. I'm just thinking." She excused herself, turning her head to stare right in front of her. A tree in the shape of Tommy caught her eye. She almost laughed at the absurdity of it.

"You're thinking while staring at me?" He questioned. She looked to him innocently. He caught her eyes.

"Why, yes! It's basically the only way to truly think anymore. You are the very thought of inspiration." She joked. Techno let out an amused breath.

"Glad I could be of service." He mumbled loud enough so she could hear. They stopped walking near the middle of the gardens where a statue of the previous King, Phil, had stood. Surrounding the entrance of the area were all of the previous kings excluding the current King, Wilbur. Wilbur hadn't been to the gardens since he had turned 16. Y/N frowned.

"I remember when we were kids, Wilbur and I. We would run around these gardens while my father would talk to his father about monarchial issues or whatever they called it. When Tommy was 3, we asked for a giant statue of Phil to be put in the gardens. It used to be at the entrance where Phil could see it from his quarters, but after he...left...Wilbur had it moved here because he couldn't bare to see it out of his window," Y/N paused, stepping closer to the statue. She looked up at the giant figure while Techno stared at her. He wasn't sure if he was admiring her, or enchanted by her voice. But she continued, much to Techno's liking. "It broke my heart to see him leave his children. They didn't have anyone who was willing to stay with them but..." She turned to look at Techno. She didn't need to finish for him to know what she was going to say. He shrugged.

"It's not really a big deal. It wasn't right of Phil to leave. They needed me, so I stayed." Y/N made her way back to Techno, now standing in front of him. She took his hands into hers.

"I think it is a big deal. You see how Tommy looks up you and admires you. You see how Wilbur is thankful of you. And I enjoy your company. You're a good man, Technoblade. And I lo-" She caught herself and stared off to the side behind him. She sighed and looked back up to him confidently. "I appreciate you for that." Techno smiled. He knew what she was going to say.

"Say what you were gonna say." He told her. She looked at him surprised. "Go on. Say it." He ordered her with a soft voice. He let go of her hand and ran his hand through a strand of her hair.

Y/N's face was now red and she looked down shyly. She didn't want to say that she 'loved' him, but you had to let it out sometime. "I love you, Technoblade. I've been attracted to you since I was 16, but I was far too young." She replied. Techno only smirked, his heart feeling light. He felt as if he could fly away, but he didn't show it. On the outside, he looked as calm as he would any other day. He leaned in closer to her, his mouth near her ear.

"I love you too." He whispered in her ear. It was as if it was their secret. Nobody else had to know but them in this moment. He pulled away from her ear and she let out a breath of relief.

"I honestly never thought that I'd hear those words from you. You always seem so...serious," She looked at him for a moment before she realized what she said. "I'm sorry! I didn't mean to make it seem like you were incapable of love, I know that you care about us a lot, but I never thought I'd hear you say it to-" Techno rolled his eyes and smashed his lips onto hers. Y/N rambling was the only excuse to do this. He'd honestly hoped she would ramble and get flustered so that he could kiss her.

She melted into the kiss and almost out of habit, wrapped her arms around his neck. His hands went to her waist, pulling her closer to him. And they knew, this was where they both wanted to be.

~ "Oh yeah! And Will, I TOTALLY knocked him down! I jabbed my sword into his stomach and..." Wilbur tuned out his brother. He loved him to the moon and back, but he really didn't feel like listening to his insane story about beating Techno. Nobody beat Techno.

Wilbur placed his attention out the large window facing the gardens. He smiled. It was a beautiful day and the sun was shining down on them magnificently. He shifted his gaze to two people walking through one of the paths. They were linked in arms and extremely close.

Wilbur's smiled increased. "Oh no way." He said, standing up. He walked closer to the window and looked out. The two were Techno and Y/N. He knew that Y/N had a crush on their trainer, and it was quite obvious that Techno reciprocated those feelings, but he thought it would be hidden until the day they both had died.

This caught Tommy's attention and he stopped talking, his thoughts surrounding what on earth was more important than his epic victory. He hopped off the desk and looked out into the gardens. He saw nothing at first until he saw the two together. His face fell into one of disgust.

~

The castle halls were silent. A maid carrying some sheets and blankets walking through the hall into Lady Y/N's room.

A loud, "WHAT THE FUCK!?" from the King's quarters next door made her drop the bedding out of surprise.

[j-amespotter]

★ august [pt. 1] - s. b.

“you weren’t mine to lose.”

Pairing: Sirius Black x Slytherin!Reader, Regulus Black x Reader (mentioned)

x. x. x.

Summary: As one of the Order of the Phoenix’s freshest recruits, love certainly was not on Sirius Black’s mind the summer after he finished school – especially not with a Slytherin, who just happened to be his brother’s girlfriend.

Genre/Warnings: angst, alcohol, language, mentions of death & war, infidelity, implied smut 

Word Count: 3.1k

A/N: august but from the guy’s pov?? i think yes. this was the first one-shot i wrote for this series so let me know what you think! lmk if you wanna be added to my taglist. p.s. i do not condone cheating!!!!!! 

masterlist

Your lips were centimeters apart. It seemed too late to change course, but he had to ask. He had never done something so reckless, which for him, was saying something. “Are you sure?”

He was scared of the answer. One look at you told him you were scared of answering. “We’ve never… I mean, I’ve never done this before,” you whispered. Your noses grazed against each other, tantalizingly close. 

His hand hovered underneath your robes. It felt large against your bare stomach. “We can stop.” 

“I don’t want to stop.” With one hand around his neck and the other on his chest, you tugged him closer. The moment your lips met erased his doubts so fully that if he stopped to think about it, it would have scared him.

Your shoes slipped off as he delicately lifted you off of your feet. Gently, he laid you down on his bed and paused to stare at how small and trusting you looked in the moment. It was only your fifth visit to his flat, yet you already looked like you belonged. He would never have expected someone from his forgotten life to fit into his current one so unquestionably. 

*One Week Earlier*

It was getting easier and easier to slip away from Regulus these days. While you were accustomed to seeing less of each other during the summer holidays, now you were more distant than ever. You knew why, of course. Being a Slytherin, you were privy to an entire host of secrets – Regulus was too. Hogwarts’ rowdiest, most divided class graduated just a month earlier, and many of your friends, if you could even call them that, had chosen a side in this war. His side. 

You knew Regulus agreed with the Dark Lord’s philosophies and marveled at his promises. However, it was not until this school year that you realized exactly how much your boyfriend worshipped the elusive man responsible for the murders of so many innocent people. He would scour the Daily Prophet for news, eager but not uneasy. He trailed after Snape, Avery, and Mulciber, and the whisperings about the three of them were hardly positive. It was rumored that all of them had been "marked." You didn’t know exactly what that meant but worried Regulus was next. 

He sensed your fear but didn’t say much to soothe you. Perhaps he thought he could convince you to join him – or, at least, stand by his side as he signed away his services. You weren’t interested. In fact, you were terrified. Though your family was prominent, prosperous, and pureblood, they never participated in what your father coined to be “blood politics.” Your indifference, which occasionally transformed into blatant disgust, over the growingly common prejudice among your peers ostracized you from your fellow Slytherins. You managed to keep your reservations to yourself for the sake of House unity but could no longer remain silent. Not when your childhood love drifted further and further away from you. 

It was slow, but of course, there was a final straw. In his last letter, Regulus wrote that his cousin Bella was teaching him how to duel “the proper way.” As someone who saw nothing substandard in your Defense Against the Dark Arts education thus far, you could only imagine what Bellatrix Lestrange would consider to be the “proper” way to duel. You had limited experience with the woman, having only caught glimpses of her as a child at Grimmauld Place and as Regulus’s date to her wedding. Nonetheless, the rumors about her were becoming increasingly hard to ignore.

So you sought the one person you thought may listen to you. Of course, there was the issue of finding him. You had no idea where he lived, though you doubted he would be thrilled to meet you, especially at his place of residence. You thought of writing to him but could not risk seeing and sending the words you had not yet uttered aloud. 

Ultimately, you decided that the best course of action was to find him in public, no matter how difficult it would be. You knew if you willed it hard enough, fate would bring him to you – and you understood the power of your love better than anyone. 

It took six days of solitary walks through Diagon Alley for you to finally find him. It wasn’t easy at all. You managed to keep your parents at bay by entrusting your safety with your pureblood Slytherin status. However, what was once the most bustling shopping center in the Wizarding World became drearier by day. More wanted posters appeared on brick walls as the number of disappearances grew. Within days, there were fewer groups of visitors for you to huddle behind without drawing suspicion. 

He was in the Leaky Cauldron with a shorter man, someone you recognized to be Peter Pettigrew. They were huddled together but deep in conversation. Actually, it seemed as though he was doing most of the talking. You found yourself staring at his muscular, tattooed arms as he gestured wildly at Pettigrew, who stared at him with wonder, excitement, and apprehension all at once. Despite the normal-looking exchange, both men gripped their wands tightly and took turns periodically glancing over their shoulders. 

Peter was too far away for you to read his lips, but checked his watch and jumped in surprise. You inched closer, hoping to find an in for your mission. Finally, you were close enough to hear his parting words. “Sorry, Padfoot... Mum’s waiting for me. You know how she gets, especially now.” 

“Alright, mate. Get home safe. I’ll see you… when I see you.” 

You were not stupid. You had no idea what that meant, but judging by Peter’s stiff nod, there was definitely a predetermined meeting time and place that they could not risk anyone overhearing. Given the circumstances, you could hardly blame them. 

Your interaction with Sirius Black was limited, but you had heard enough about him to know that he was reckless, devil-may-care, and according to his brother, inconsiderate of everyone’s feelings. Hearing the sincerity in his goodbye to his friend sounded quite the opposite, or perhaps was just a sign of the times. 

Peter scurried away and out of sight. You saw Sirius reach for a pouch in his pocket, out of which he scooped a handful of Sickles. They clattered onto the table. Before he finished counting his change, you slid into the seat across from him. 

Startled, Sirius stood and pointed his wand at you. His motions were seamless. It was as if he could kill you with a single swish. You hardly had time to wonder if you would be as skilled with your wand as he seemed to be when you finished school. “Listen, I just want to talk. Please sit down.” There weren’t too many other customers in the pub, but there was no doubt your exchange was attracting attention. 

Sirius sneered at you. “Why would I want to talk to you? Did he send you? Whatever it is, I don’t want to hear it.”

It surprised you that he knew who you were. Regulus was convinced that Sirius abandoned the Black family once and for all and did not care for his extracurricular activities. Granted, much of your scheme relied on the fact that he did. “No, he didn’t send me. I need to talk to you about him, actually. In private.”

He looked apprehensive but curious. You sighed in relief as he lowered his wand and sat down, “Whatever you have to say, you can say it here.” 

“Please,” you tried again. “I’m no threat to you.” 

He stared at you, and in his pale eyes you saw something so familiar yet so foreign. “Fine. Follow me.” 

He swiftly led you out of the pub. Although you were eager, you maintained an acceptable distance from him. The air was sticky; you could feel your flushed cheeks. You always hated summer because of the unbearable weather and because it was always the longest you would spend apart from Regulus. However, you found yourself entranced by the way Sirius’s neckline glistened. There was a warm glow radiating off of the little bits of his exposed skin, slightly tanner than his brother’s. You were surprised at how easy it was to distinguish these details. You always considered yourself to be too young for and morally above noticing Regulus’s physique. It was far too shallow to remark on a man's physical beauty and far too desperate when all you could see were his neck and arms. 

“Get your license yet?” 

You shook your head. “No, not yet.” 

“Okay,” said Sirius, extending a hand. “I’ll take you with me.” 

You were used to Side-Along Apparition, so your surprise was more at your surroundings. You landed on a street in front of a very tall building. Craning your neck to observe the one in front of you, you asked, “Where are we?” 

“London,” he answered vaguely. He had not let go of your hand. 

“I figured. But this looks like a Muggle building.” 

“Got a problem with that?” He snapped, and as if he had just realized what he was doing, he let go of your hand as if it was rotting. 

You internally groaned at how sweaty it was. “N-No. I’ve just never been around here, that’s all.” 

You waited for a snarky response, but received none. Instead, he pushed open the door of the building and led your to what you could only assume was his flat. 

“I would say make yourself at home, but don’t.” Sirius did not have guests often, and when he did, they definitely did not include his little brother’s girlfriend. Damn, he thought to himself. Wait until James hears about this. 

You were still in school – although, so was he, just a month earlier. But you were in a rival house. And worst of all, he had seen you in the same position, perched onto a sofa with inquisitive eyes, when you both were children at his parents’ house. It was curious to him that you looked just as out of place then as you did now. 

“I know this is strange, but I have no other choice.” Your voice broke off and for the tiniest millisecond, he felt sorry for you. “I think he’s… I mean I feel that… that R-Regulus is planning on joining the Dark Lord.” “Call him Voldemort, will you?” Sirius interrupted irritably. 

You flinched. “I really shouldn’t.”

Though he was annoyed, he understood and did not probe you further. “Listen, I don’t know what you thought trying to find me, or even how you found me for that matter, but I can’t help you. I know what you’re worried about and you’re probably right to be worried. But I tried talking to him before I ran – I mean, left. He won’t budge. He’s in too deep. Sorry,” he added. 

Your eyes glossed over. “I figured you’d say that.” Tears streamed down your rosy cheeks. “S-Sorry, I don’t mean to load this on you. I just feel so alone sometimes. And so scared for him. He really has no idea what he’s getting himself into, does he?”

Sirius stared at you, contemplating whether he should tell you what his dim-witted brother was really getting himself into. He only started to see it for himself now. “I’m not sure what I should tell you, but I understand. If you want to talk about it…” 

You glanced at him in wonder, cocking your head to the side. “Er, thanks. But I should get home. My parents must be worried. Can I Floo out of here?” 

You looked even more upset than before, and Sirius felt guilty for leaving everything so unresolved. Although, should he really care about your feelings? Anyone who willingly chose to spend time with a tosser like Regulus probably deserved whatever hell he would put them through… although… 

“Yeah, I installed one,” he said, gesturing to the fireplace. 

Wiping your eyes nimbly, you stood and smoothed the front of your robes. “Thank you. Sorry if it was a bother.”

“No problem. I know… I know that you aren’t like them. And I know what you’re going through. Probably better than anyone.”

You smiled at him, and without warning, his stomach flipped. It couldn’t have been the first time he’d seen you smile, but it was definitely the first time you smiled at him. Maybe you had once before when you were children. For now, all Sirius seemed to hone in on was the soft dimple on your right cheek and the way your eyes lit up almost automatically. 

“If you ever need to talk about it, you can always come around here.” He knew it was strange for him to offer you that, but you had known each other for so long. You both had the same doubts… perhaps you lacked the bravery to act on them as he did, though he could hardly fault you for that. 

“Thank you, Sirius,” you said softly. 

☆

It was more than sex. You would spend hours talking, entangled in his bedsheets, watching the sunrise together for several mornings in a row. Sirius glanced warily at the clock on his bedside table. “Where do your parents think you are?”

You were drawing circles on his bare chest. “I told them I was with him.” 

Despite being the reason you sought him out, it became an unspoken rule between the two of you to not mention his name. The subject of Regulus and, by extension, the war became as taboo as saying Lord Voldemort. 

He hated it. He tried to convince himself that he was acting on lust, that he just needed to relieve his stress of the war and Order training, but he couldn’t. Not when every time you arrived unannounced, he scribbled excuses to get out of dinner with the Potters, or drinks with the boys, or hell, even Order meetings. 

Sirius wished he could explain it to James. Surely, his best friend would convince him of the stupidity of engaging in an affair with his brother’s girlfriend. But then he would watch you wearing his shirt, sipping wine, and dancing barefoot in his kitchen. He would imagine you wrapping your arms around his waist on his new motorcycle and his insides would implode. Then, he would decide that he did not want to be dissuaded. He was falling for you. One look at you told him you were falling for him too. 

“Where have you been, mate? The parents are driving me up a wall about you. Lily’s convinced you’ve got a girlfriend or something,” joked James. 

They were sitting in the pub on a night Sirius knew you had a family function to attend. He swallowed bitterly as he wondered whether or not Regulus would be there. Were you together right now? Did you confess? Was he angry? Were you crying?

Noticing his best friend’s silence, James raised an eyebrow. “Do you? Have a girlfriend or something?”

Sirius knew he could not lie to James, but he debated exactly how much he wanted to delve into the subject. “Or something.” Before he could he stop himself, the secrets were spilling off of his tongue. 

When he finished, Sirius wasn’t sure if he felt better or worse. He tried to focus on James’s hazel eyes as they widened at every turn in the story. “Mate… you’re fucked.”

He tried not to ponder at these words too hard in the hopes that he wouldn’t splinch himself Apparating back to his flat. It didn’t shock him to see you there – he had allowed you too much access to everything and he had no intention of taking it back.

Emerald green dress robes were slipping off of your shoulders. With pearls draped around your neck and pieces of hair straying out of your topknot, Sirius could not help but swoon at how beautiful you looked. He wondered briefly what it would have been like if you had chosen him over Regulus. What if there was no foul play? Would you be happy? Or would you run away, as you had with his brother?

He was still tipsy. James’s warnings ran scattered in his brain, ringing like a siren. But they mattered little now that you were in front of him. “How was–” 

“I don’t want to talk about it,” you interrupted. Then you stepped forward and tugged at his half-unbuttoned shirt, pressing your lips against his. “Make me forget.” 

“Consider it done.” 

Your bare limbs tangled together as you shared wine-drunk, open-mouthed, sporadic kisses, giggling and whispering words of sensual encouragement. How did you become so in sync in a matter of weeks? Sirius had never fallen this hard. “I’m yours, (Y/N).” 

You hummed in satisfaction, fingers wound up in his hair. 

“I mean it,” he urged. “I love you.” 

You didn’t respond. Strange, he thought to himself. You never hesitated in reciprocating, ever. When he jumped, you jumped with him, no questions asked. He glanced at the clock from over your shoulder and watched it strike midnight. It was the first of September. “You’re due at King’s Cross today, aren’t you?”

You nodded, not meeting his eyes. 

He chuckled darkly. All of a sudden, he felt cold and strangled. He wanted to push you far away and yet, pull you close to him so you had no hope of escaping. “Will you write to me?” 

“Sirius…” 

“Don’t,” he snapped. “Don’t say my name like that. I should have known… fucking snake.” 

He hadn’t let go of you. “I’m sorry darling,” you whispered, “but I can’t give up on him yet.” 

It was all he had to hear. He couldn’t think of how he was going to recover from this, not when you were lying right in front of him. “I think you should go.” 

“M-Maybe someday we can–” “Forget it.” He should have seen this coming from the second you walked up to him in the pub. You had come to him for Regulus and now you were leaving him for Regulus. Yet another bit of happiness his brother snatched away from him. But even so... he was your first and Regulus would never know. He would never know that you lost yourself in him. His no-good elder brother. But none of that mattered now, not when you were going back to him. After all, at the end of the day, you were his. 

I should have known. Sirius silently cursed at himself, watching the retreating figure of the girl he had fallen in love with. He should have known that you were always on borrowed time. You were gone quicker than the seasons change, and left with him your sweaty, sun-kissed memories. 

PART 2

Taglist: @iwritesiriusly @mads-bri @she-seeks-magic @sarcasticallywitty15 @lunalovecroft @fific7 @u-no-poo​

[narmadatentcity]

Guide: How to reach the Statue of Unity

The Statue of Unity, standing tall and proud in the western state of Gujarat, India, has emerged as one of the world's most captivating landmarks. This colossal tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the architect of India's unity, attracts millions of visitors each year. However, reaching this magnificent statue can be an adventure in itself. In this blog post, we will guide you through the various transportation options available and provide you with essential information to make your journey to the Statue of Unity a memorable one.

If you are planning to visit the statue of unity then we recommended you book your sou tickets online to avoid a long queue.

Air Travel:

The nearest airport to the Statue of Unity is the Vadodara Airport, located approximately 90 kilometers away. It offers regular domestic flight services to major cities in India. Once you land at Vadodara, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the statue. Alternatively, if you are coming from an international destination, you can fly to the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad and then proceed to the Statue of Unity by road.

Train Travel:

For those who prefer rail travel, the nearest railway station to the Statue of Unity is Vadodara Junction. It is well-connected to major cities across India and serves as a major transit point. From Vadodara, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the statue. Another option is to take a train to Bharuch Junction and then continue the journey by road to the statue.

Road Travel:

Road travel is a popular choice for reaching the Statue of Unity. The statue is located in the Kevadiya region, about 200 kilometers from Ahmedabad and approximately 90 kilometers from Vadodara. The state government has developed a well-connected network of roads leading to the statue. You can hire a taxi or self-drive from Ahmedabad or Vadodara, which offers a comfortable and convenient option. Additionally, various bus services are available from both cities to transport visitors to the statue. It is advisable to book your transportation in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to avoid any last-minute hassles.

River Travel:

For a unique and scenic experience, you can opt for river travel to reach the Statue of Unity. The Sardar Sarovar Dam, located near the statue, offers ferry services that connect various destinations, including Shreshtha Bharat Bhavan, located on the river island of Sadhu Bet. These ferry services provide a breathtaking view of the statue from the river, allowing you to admire its grandeur up close. This mode of transport adds an extra element of excitement and beauty to your journey.

Conclusion:

Reaching the Statue of Unity is an adventure worth embarking upon. Whether you choose to travel by air, train, road, or river, each mode of transport presents its own unique experiences and perspectives. The Gujarat government has invested in infrastructure development to ensure smooth connectivity and accessibility to this magnificent monument. Plan your trip in advance, considering factors such as the distance, transportation options, and peak tourist seasons, to ensure a hassle-free and memorable visit to the Statue of Unity. Prepare yourself to be awestruck by this engineering marvel that symbolizes unity, strength, and the indomitable spirit of a nation.

[deepbelievercollectorlove]

Assessment of The Canadian Red Cross Social Media: Person B

Audience: We should be keeping two groups of audience in mind. One group is the Canadian Red Cross itself, and the other group are those the organization Is trying to attract. This would include the Canadian society as a whole as the organization tries to protect vulnerable people against disasters, as well as those who would like to actively contribute through donations, volunteering and education.

Three suggestions for improvement:

Add a table of contents

Add subheadings in the methodology section

Add information about the organization in the introduction, ie the organization's mission and vision statements.

Strength: There are social sharing buttons on news items posted on their website blog.

Abstract

The report summarizes the social media usage of the Canadian Red Cross, a not-for-profit organization that helps in national and international emergencies and disasters (Canadian Red Cross, 2019). This report utilizes background information on social media marketing strategies and comparison to similar non-for-profits, such as the American Red Cross, in order to assess their social media methods, perceived media strategies, and uses. A thorough analysis of the Canadian Red Cross official website and social media platforms suggests that the not-for-profit successfully provides accessibility through donation options and information on volunteer opportunities but may benefit from increasing engagement of users on platforms such as Instagram. Through increased engagement with social media platforms, the hope is that more users will be prompted to use the donation and volunteer options that are easily promoted and accessible.

Introduction

As part of the largest humanitarian network in the world, the Canadian Red Cross’ mission is to improve the lives of vulnerable people in Canada. Operating under the principles of humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity and universality, the Canadian Red Cross helps in emergencies and disasters in Canada, provides community health services, and violence, bullying and abuse prevention, supports migrant and refugee services, Restoring Family Links, and International Humanitarian Law.

The advent of technology has allowed organizations, like the Canadian Red Cross, the ability to spread up to date information to the public through social media. Particularly, social media is no longer just a tool or amusement, it’s a life-saving device in disaster response and recovery in which the Canadian Red Cross has tried to take advantage of. The purpose of the following report is to analyze the social media usage of the Canadian Red Cross to determine the effectiveness of their social media strategies and make recommendations to improve their presence online.

 Literature Review

Social Media Strategies for Non-profits (Johnston, 2017)

Engagement is a priority in ensuring proper social media usage

Respond to questions, comments, and posts tagging the organization

Choose an audience

Create content that targets the audience

The “general public” is not a good audience to have

Types of content

Organization should share a variety of posts across platforms

Provide sample content

This is content that users are prompted to share to their own social media

Make this content easy to access and share

Figure 1. Breakdown of how to properly allocate time on social media for non-profits

Social Media for Nonprofits: How to Make an Impact with Little Budget (Dopson, 2018)

Post interactive content to encourage engagement

Run Twitter polls

Host a Q&A session through Instagram Stories

Post a Facebook survey

Ask your audience to share their story through a normal status update

Include hashtags to increase your reach 

Create your own hashtag and build a strong following by getting involved

Or jump onto a popular hashtag and make it your own

Use visuals to drive website traffic (Figure 2)

Figure 2. A bar graph representing the effect of a visual aid. Facebook posts with an image see 2.3 times more engagement.

Make it easy for followers to donate

When you’re looking for people to make a donation after finding you through social media, it’s likely they’ll need to click-through to your website.

American Red Cross

Frequently posts on Twitter and Facebook, with less frequent posting on Instagram

Consistent use of logos and page name

Links all social media sites (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter) on the bottom of the website

Methodology

Determining Social Media Presence

 Our research methodology began by visiting https://www.redcross.ca/ to determine the organization’s objectives, mission and vision statements as well as determine the social media outlets used by the Canadian Red Cross.

 Analysis of Social Media Outlets

The organization's presence on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram were then analyzed individually by visiting each outlet separately. To determine what other people were saying about the Canadian Red Cross Twitter searches, social mention, and google news was used.

 Comparing the Canadian Red Cross with Competitors

Using a google search, competitors of the organization were identified. The competitor’s presence on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram was then analyzed individually by visiting each outlet separately.

Results

Website:

Provides links to Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram on the top of the homepage

More strategic placement in comparison to the American Red Cross

Tweets show up directly on the website

There are social sharing buttons on news items posted on their website (Figure 3).

 Figure 3. A news story posted on the Canadian Red Cross website blog. The share button to Facebook is highlighted.

 Instagram:

Saves stories under relevant titles using the “Highlight” feature

Links website in bio

A few comments are posted on the photos

Uses hashtags to expand their reach

 Facebook:

Responds to comments and concerns left on posts in a timely manner (Figure 4)

The option to “donate” is at the top of the Facebook page, alongside an option to create a Facebook fundraiser to prompt one’s friends to donate

 “About” section contains the purpose of the Canadian Red Cross, as well as the hours during which they respond to inquiries

Link to website under the “about” section

The frequency in which similar posts occur is sometimes too often. Specifically, on February 5, Facebook posted about flooding prevention and safety tips, all of which were posted around the same time.

Figure 4. The Canadian Red Cross response to a user complaint left on a Facebook post.

Twitter:

Organization tweets and retweets frequently on a day-to-day basis

Account has a large number of followers

Most tweets do not have a large number of retweets or favourites

 Link to website in the bio

Competitor Analysis

Discussion

 Through analyzing the online presence of the Canadian Red Cross, we were able to determine what is working, what is failing, and what can be improved across their social media channels. The results show that the Canadian Red Cross takes advantage of the “share” button on their website and social media platforms. When an individual shares one of the posts, the organization and content is getting introduced to an entirely new group of people. Additionally, when a reader shares your post on social media, they are creating a link to your blog post and to your website. As your number of social shares continues to grow, so does your number of naturally occurring backlinks. The Canadian Red Cross successfully use a variety of content (videos, photos, polls etc) posted across their social media platforms which provides the opportunity to see a flood of volunteer registration form submissions or clicks to the donation page.

The results also show a lack of engagement. Although there are some responses to Facebook comments (Figure 4), there is a general lack of engagement with tweets and Instagram posts. As well, the organization does not post “sample content” that is promoted to be shared by users. Stories about flooding were posted from The Canadian Red Cross Facebook in a short time frame and since the content of the posts was very similar, it may have been better suited throughout the day. Patel (2016) writes that the consequence of posting on Facebook more than twice a day will result in 50% fewer clicks per post.

Conclusion

The evaluation of social media is crucial to the Canadian Red Cross. The findings of this report show that the Canadian Red Cross has successfully used features such as donation buttons and easily accessible information on volunteering in an attempt to increase involvement with their organization. However, it is noted that the Canadian Red Cross Instagram is less active than their other social media sites and many of the Instagram and Twitter posts lack engagement (comments, reposts, favourites/likes) from users. A limitation of this report was the absence of communication with the Canadian Red Cross social media marketing team.

Recommendations

The Canadian Red Cross would benefit from including more infographics and videos on their Instagram page.

 The Instagram and Facebook accounts could be linked in order to increase the crossover of information on separate platforms.

The Canadian Red Cross would benefit from Hootsuite, a social media site that helps keep track of content that is necessary to the public (Hootsuite Media Inc, 2019).

References

Dopson, E. (2018). Social media for nonprofits: how to make an impact with little budget.Retrieved from https://www.sendible.com/insights/social-media-for-nonprofits.

Canadian Red Cross. (2019). About Us. Retrieved from https://www.redcross.ca/about-us

 Hootsuite Media Inc. (2019) Social Media Marketing & Management Dashboard. Retrieved From https://hootsuite.com/

Johnston, A. (2017). A Strategic Guide to Social Media for Nonprofits. Retrieved from https://sproutsocial.com/insights/nonprofit-social-media-guide/

Patel, N. (2016). How frequently you should post on social media according to the pros. Retrieved from https://www.forbes.com/sites/neilpatel/2016/09/12/how-frequently-you-should-post-on-social-media-according-to-the-pros/#2c386a2f240f

[royvelasco]

Top Things to Do in Penang

Penang is a very remarkable place for me as aside from being the starting point of my “Traveling Indochina Pt. 2” series (Click HERE for my Pt. 1), it also serves as the first place I did solo traveling outside the Philippines. Mixed emotions were being felt that time as it’ll be my first time to travel solo abroad. Though I was quite nervous, I was more excited at that time. And did I mention that I’ll also be celebrating my 27th birthday here?! 😉

How to Get to Penang, Malaysia: There is no direct flight from the Philippines to Penang. You need to have a layover in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia or Singapore then take a flight to Penang. (Click HERE to know how you can get to George Town from Penang International Airport.) Taking a flight would be the easiest and most convenient way yet can be the most expensive. Good thing I was able to score a cheap roundtrip fare (KL-Penang-KL) for only around RM55 (PHP700 / USD14). If budget doesn’t permit for an additional flight, you can opt to arrive in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia then take a 6-hour bus ride or an ETS train ride for around 3.5 hours to Butterworth then take a ferry to George Town.

If you have a couple of days to experience this wonderful Malaysian state, below are the top things to do in Penang that are surely perfect for first time travelers:

1. Eat!

I don’t know anyone who goes to Penang not trying its delicacies. Penang is considered unofficially as the food capital of Malaysia or even of the whole Asia so everyone who travels to this place is looking forward for a gastronomical experience. It’s actually the reason why I planned visiting this amazing place. Since I both love traveling and eating, Penang is definitely a perfect place for people like me! You should not leave this place without trying Char Koay Teow, Curry Mee, and Bean Sprout Chicken!

Click HERE to know more about the best foods I tried on this trip.

  2. Wander Around George Town

Penang’s capital, George Town, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008 and at the same time, one of the most developed states in the country making it a popular tourist destination. 

What I love about this place is it is very diverse with cultures such as Malaysian, Chinese, and Indian. You can see a Hindu temple a few meters away from a mosque which both are just a walk away from a Catholic church and a Chinese temple. This place is really interesting and pleasant as you can see unity despite of the differences.

Masjid Kapitan Keling (Kapitan Keling Mosque)

Kuan Yin Teng (Goddess of Mercy Temple)

Kew Leong Tong Temple

Han Jiang Ancestral Temple

St. George's Church

3. Check Out the Different Street Arts Scattered Around George Town

Aside from the delicious cuisine, the fun and imaginative art sights of this place are also one of the reasons why people flock to Penang. You can see countless colorful street arts and interestingly humorous steel-rod sculptures dispersed around George Town. Grab a free “Marking George Town” map and hop on to your bicycle to roam around the city for these wonderful art pieces. Trust me, each spot is Instagram-worthy! 😉

  4. See Penang on Bird’s Eye View from the Top of Penang Hill

As what the saying goes, you've never been to Penang unless you've been to Penang Hill. This tourist spot offers the best viewpoint of the island. It is somehow like Victoria’s Peak in Hong Kong. Though some might say that Penang Hill may not be as glamorous as Victoria’s Peak, this destination still provides a breathtaking view together with various exciting activities that one can try.

There is no admission fee to Penang Hill but you need to pay for the funicular train ride that will take you to the top. Round trip fare is RM30 (PHP398 / USD7.7) for adults.

How To Get Here: Take the Rapid Penang Bus 204 since this is the only bus that will take you to Penang Hill station. Their bus transit is definitely convenient and cheap but can still be quite complicated specially for tourists, so I recommend just taking an Uber or Grab ride. They are so inexpensive yet safe in Malaysia and I could say the most convenient mode of transportation if you’re touring around the place. I had a fast and comfortable Uber ride for only RM9.60 (PHP127 / USD2.4) from my accommodation in the city center to Penang Hill which is already in the outskirts.

  5. Visit Kek Lok Si Temple

Another amazing sight to see on the outskirts of the city and just a stone-throw away from Penang Hill is Kek Lok Si Temple. It’s a Buddhist temple that considered as the best-known temple on the island that also offers an impressive view. 

There is no fee to be collected except for the RM2 (PHP26 / USD0.5) to enter the 7-story pagoda and the RM3 (PHP39 / USD0.7) per way charge for the elevator lift to the giant bronze statue. The thrifty in me decided not to go to the pagoda but it’s said to offer great views from the top.

The giant bronze statue is a must see though. The status is massive and said to be the largest statue of Guanyin in the world.

The ignorance in me was shocked upon seeing this Nazi symbol on the Buddha’s chest. It’s actually the symbol for “wan” which represents auspiciousness, purity, and perfect accomplishment.

Tip: The famous Sister Curry Mee and Air Itam Asam Laksa are just nearby so make sure to have a stop to try their delectable dishes.

How To Get Here: Take Rapid Penang Bus 203 or 204 from Komtar (or any designated bus stop). Kek Lok Si Temple is somewhere near the last stop which will drop you off at the end of Jalan Pasar. A quick Uber ride took me to Sister Curry Mee from Penang Hill Bus Station for only around RM4.35 (PHP57 / USD1.1). I had my lunch first prior going to Kek Lok Si Temple which is just a walk away from Sister Curry Mee.

  6. Take a Stroll Along the Clan Jetties

The Clan Jetties is actually a Chinese settlement area in the waterfront. Different clans have lived here for the longest time and now also considered as a tourist attraction in Penang.

Built by the clansmen of the past, the clan jetties were segregated into distinct communities of Chinese people that arrived in George Town in search for a better future. Denoted by the clan surnames such as Chew, Tan, Lee, Ong, Lim, New, and Yeoh, the jetties were traditionally occupied by people of that surname and the descendants of which still occupy the homes which line the jetties to this day.

The area doesn’t look fancy at all since it’s just a community of humble wooden houses built on stilts connected with wooden walkways. Stereotypically, the place looks quite sketchy as well. But what makes it impressive aside from its history is the cleanliness of the surroundings. It’s actually safe to roam around as well. But please do take note that this is still a residential place with private properties so always practice discipline and respect.

  7. Experience the Opulent Life in The Blue Mansion and Pinang Peranakan Mansion

Experience grandeur and get to know more about some of the most prestigious persons in Penang from the past by having a tour in the Blue Mansion and/or Pinang Peranakan Mansion. I was able to visit both mansions and had a full cultural experience.

Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion or simply, The Blue Mansion is renowned as one of the 10 greatest mansions in the world and a UNESCO winner of “Most Excellent Project”. The story began in the late 19th Century, where Cheong Fatt Tze, one of the richest industrialists in South East Asia and known as the Rockefeller of the East, aspired to house his descendants in a home that personifies the essence of majesty and elegance. 

This mansion is not just a historical site but also serves as a hotel and a restaurant. It’s actually included on “The World’s 100 Greatest Hotels” list by Flight Network Canada 2017.

Admission price is RM17 (PHP225 / USD4.3) per adult with English-guided tours scheduled at 11AM, 2PM, and 3:30PM.

I was able to catch the 2PM tour and our guide was knowledgeable enough to tell the story about the mansion and its owner. Cheong Fatt Tze grew to become one of the most historic, colorful, and recognizable personalities in the world on his era. He was a Chinese descendant but was well traveled yet chose Penang to build the most elaborate of his homes wherein he raised his families.

After my tour in the Blue Mansion, I went straight to Pinang Peranakan Mansion. Admission fee for adults is a little bit steeper for RM20 (PHP265 / USD5) which includes guided tours to the mansion itself, the Straits Chinese Jewellery Museum, the Chung Keng Kwee Ancestral Temple, and the Nyonya Kitchen. Visiting hours is daily from 9:30AM to 5:00PM.

Not as bright as the Blue Mansion from the exterior, Pinang Peranakan Mansion is more impressive and affluent looking though on the inside. It also has more of a museum-vibe. It was once the home of Chung Keng Kwee who became the richest man in Penang in the late 19th century. This mansion depicts a typical home of a rich Peranakan of more than a century ago, recreating the opulent lifestyle of these locally acculturated Chinese people. Peranakan are straits-born Chinese who were the descendants of Chinese immigrants who came to the Malay archipelago.

Though I find Cheong Fatt Tze and his mansion more interesting, Pinang Peranakan Mansion is definitely more picturesque and the tour was more dynamic combined with a visit on an adjoined jewellery shop and temple.

  Tip: Don’t stress yourselves touring around Penang by learning their bus system or even walking under the heat of the sun. If you’re here for just a few days, Uber and Grab are your perfect travel buddies. My Grab ride from the Blue Mansion to Pinang Peranakan Mansion just took me around 5 minutes for only RM4 (PHP53 / USD1).

  Penang will always be a memorable place for me. Aside from it’s the very first destination I went solo traveling with outside my country, the rich and vibrant culture and incredible gastronomical experience were surely what sold this great island to me. If I could have just a few more days to spend, I will surely visit other places nearby like Penang National Park, Batu Ferringhi Beach, and maybe even Langkawi. My short 2-night stay was definitely fast-paced and leaving the island made me blue. But at the same time, I was already prepared to move on and I was ecstatic to get to my next destination. 😉

Next Post: How to Get to George Town from Penang International Airport?

DISCLAIMER: Prices may change depending on the exchange rate, season, and/or inflation.

NOTE: I own all the images used in this blog post unless otherwise stated. Please don’t use these for any purposes, unless you acknowledge the owner. Thank you.

[megamanishashekhawat-blog]

yantra mantra

https://vashikaran.mobi/yantra-mantra/

yantra mantra

Yantra is the Sanskrit word for an extraordinary framework, especially graphs or decorations anticipated that would have secretive powers in prophetic or captivated favorable circumstances in the Tantric traditions of the Indian religions.

Mantras are motivations or rhythms of the awareness. They make vibrations in the soul. Their influences, impact, system and method of working are each a secret.

Tantras, alludes to various and changed sacred texts relating to any of a few recondite customs established in Hindu and Buddhist theory. The religious society of the Tantras is basically Hindu, and Buddhist Tantric material can be demonstrated to have been gotten from Hindu sources. We at Rudra Centre offer you books with illustrations on tantras mantras and yantras that will teach you the real effects of these mystical tools and get the best benefits from it.

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Key Difference: Mantra refers to a combination of words that is chanted in a particular order; it is believed that on chanting these mantras, the desired results can be achieved. Yantra refers to devices that are used for balancing of mind. Tantra defines rituals and meditation acts that can be used to get the freedom from uncontrollably recurring problems.

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Yantra, mantra and tantra are all Sanskrit words and each defines a different element. The Hinduism and Buddhism have been associated with these words. They are very frequently used in Indian sciences, mythology, religion and occult practices. They are used in context to balance of mind and with the spiritual powers. The energy of the universe is supposed to be the driving force of every action performed and these elements focus in using this energy through different mediums. Due to various interpretations, it is very difficult to explain the differences. However, the basic differences can still be observed.

Mantra is a Sanskrit word meaning manas – mind, consciousness, soul + tra, trayate – to free. It is a Sanskrit sound, syllable, word or groups of words that is considered capable of creating transformations. However, the task that a mantra is capable of performing has been interpreted differently in different regions. Hindu Mantra also evolved into writing forms and later with the advent of Buddhism in China, the China also achieved cultural unity by writing it with flexible characters. Mantra represents divinities or cosmic powers and is known to create huge influences through the sound vibrations.

Yantra

The word yantra has two roots: tra emanating from trayati, meaning liberation, to make free, to awaken; yan, meaning instrument, something you use in order to make something happen. Therefore, a yantra is an instrument, a key to open up particular parts of the mind, to extend our consciousness, to make us aware of our godliness, to make us aware of ‘I am that’.

There are different kinds of yantras:

The architechtronic yantra.Ever since prehistoric times, holy relics, temples, churches and houses of God have been constructed according to a yantric ground plan, with the aim of creating an energetic field wherein visitors could calm problematic thoughts and emotions, enabling them to be exposed to cosmic energy, in other words, godly energy. Facing towards the east, where the sun rises, is the general rule. It is interesting to study the maps and wind directions of temples and churches: where is the entrance, where is the altar? An Indian medicine wheel, stone circles, the birth yantra and the labyrinth all belong to this category.

The astrological yantra.This is intended for use with the planets, in order to obtain knowledge about the forces that affect us. In India, nine of the planets in the horoscope are used in order to discover what the most auspicious and inauspicious circumstances are, for example, the best choice for a marriage partner, the best day for a commercial transaction, which day a journey should be avoided, etc.

The numerical yantra.This is often worn on the person as a talisman, or lies on the place of pooja (the house altar). This yantra contains lucky numbers or letter combinations for the person concerned.

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The yantra as instrument for meditation. This is constructed from a square with portals forming the foundation. On the inside are circles, triangles, lotus petals and squares, which are in themselves yantras. The yantra is created from subtle elemental sounds, mantra, which create both name and form, bringing name and form to life. Each yantra has a mantra, a sound that expands thought, man(as), and liberates, tra(yati). The repetition of a mantra liberates all thoughts, such as ‘when, why, how is that possible’, etc. and allows the revelation of the highest spirit. There are countless mantras. There are godly mantras and there are malicious mantras which unleash calamity. The effect depends on the spiritual development of the practitioner.

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Mantra yoga is a branch of yoga that gives instruction in the knowledge of mantra. Everyone is able to repeat a mantra for themselves. This is called japa. The singing of mantra in a group is much stronger and is called kirtan. The practising of asana and pranayama with mudras and bandhas helps to create the right state to repeat a mantra and to open us up to a higher consciousness, to our higher nature.

The copying and colouring in of existing yantras is a way to create order in our lives and to change our way of thinking, our emotions and our personality which manifests in our relationship to the outside world. There is no chaos in creation; usually we are the ones who make chaos. Working with yantras can open our eyes to what lies hidden in our under- and un-consciousness. The under-consciousness manifests itself through images and emotions, such as those in dreams.

If we feel attracted to yantra and/or mantra it is advisable to become aware of the regulations given to us by the wise men and rishis. It is said that it is sensible to look for a guru, someone who has travelled through the infinite, unmapped area of the higher consciousness, who knows the pitfalls and diversions and who is able to show us the safe path, by giving us a personal mantra. Rather than giving us a complex accompanying yantra, the guru usually prescribes a holy symbol, the ishta devata, to direct the attention to while practising japa. Shortly afterwards the symbol and the mantra form a protection for us in our life. Everything that we need will come to us.

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She travelled everywhere in India and Nepal, making sketches and drawings wherever she went; upon her return to Varanasi her inspirations were converted into sculptures. Whilst visiting the Elephanta grottoes, in Mumbai, she was overcome by something very strange. Standing in front of a beautiful statue of Lord Shiva, she witnessed the appearance of stars and rays of light. Using pencil and paper, she drew what had been revealed to her: it was the form of the Shiva Yantra. From that moment on she regarded all the holy images in another light and discovered the pattern of the yantras. After this experience, she produced exclusively statues of Indian gods, goddesses and yantras.

Godly energies are manifested in anthropomorphic statues of gods and goddesses; their characteristics, qualities and strengths depicted in the number of arms, heads, eyes and in other attributes which they carry in the hands, or in the gesture made by the hands (mudra). The essences of all these strengths are combined in abstract form in a yantra.

Above all, those who are of sober character and have an interest in mathematics are attracted to yantras. For most westerners the sweet or bloodthirsty sword and skull carrying characters are incomprehensible. I grew up with holy statues of the Roman Catholic tradition and view the tradition of the statues in India as an enrichment. Through meditation, trataka on the images, the study of the attributes that they carry and through the repetition of mantras changes in our consciousness can take place – and I speak now from my own experience – which normally, despite whatever therapy we follow, would take ten lives or more to occur.

Mantra

Every mantra has a yantra and a related divinity. Knowledge of Indian astrology (Jyotish), along with the planetary forces which exercise a negative karmic influence upon us, is necessary in order to find the correct mantra and yantra for us at a particular moment in time. A guru sees with the blink of an eye the ‘now’ of the student. He or she knows immediately which mantra is needed in order to process and transform past karma in the best way possible. Upon request, the student will receive an initiation into mantra.

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A mantra is a word, its effect is minimal, but when mantra initiation takes place, the guru places a holy blessing on the mantra. This makes all the difference. During mantra initiation, the guru brings the mantra to life and the psychological transformation of the student commences. Afterwards it is up to the student what he or she does with this grace.

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Working with yantras is a way to unfold deeper and higher levels of consciousness. Let us begin at the beginning: the drawing and colouring in of a basic yantra. This is a square, possibly with portals, on which trataka can be done. It is practical to have a sheet of white, square paper on which you can attach a colored folder. Make a small, black dot in the middle of the colored folder, on which you can direct your attention during the meditation exercise.

The square symbolizes earth and embodies all our instinctive motives and emotions, our problems, our karma. It is our earthly arena. The problem with a square is that it is difficult to stir into action. An earthquake must take place in order to get it turning.

When we practice yoga we enter a process which changes our consciousness, from being directed towards the outside world, intellect, materialism (the western world), and this allows the square to turn on its axle. As a result our attention becomes directed towards the inner world, wisdom and the everlasting (the eastern world).

For example, in the Bagala-mukhi yantra the two squares go through a process of unfolding the chakras and come to rest inside the circle of the godly lotus. A great deal needs to happen before one gets to this stage. When someone has succeeded in realizing this yantra within themselves, their life changes one hundred percent.

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From this basic square, the earthly arena, the forces begin to turn like the sails of a windmill and tranquillity can be found in the heart of the lotus. The earthly square is still present, nobody can see from the outside that the person has changed: the same name, the same face, the same pair of glasses etc., yet the person’s life has experienced a radical revolution.

Yantras are in vogue at the moment. They are symbols of godly, cosmic forces. They can affect us like thunder and lightning. In the western world, we have the tendency to overindulge ourselves, jumping into things at the deep end and, as a result, we see that yantras are sometimes misused. If I see a yantra hanging on a toilet wall, I ask myself if this is misplaced. If somebody hangs a series of yantras in their bedroom, I ask myself if this is wise.

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Yantras belong in the place where pooja is practised – the temple in the house, the place where yoga and meditation are practised. There is always a curtain hanging in front of the Buddhist tangkas, which is opened during meditation then drawn again afterwards.

My personal choice of yantra for this period in time is the Shiva Yantra, along with its mantra Om Nama Shivaya. I consider Shiva to be the patron saint of yoga practitioners. Shiva represents the highest godly consciousness that we are able to attain. Also dedicated to Shiva are the Maha Mrityunjaya Yantra, and its mantra, used for healing in the broadest sense of the word.

[flyindianow-blog]

9 Must-Visit Spiritual Spots to Experience in India

India is vigorously diverse; whether it's climate, food, community or religion. Among these, religion is the soul of India, inviting several to India from the UK. The 1000 years of religious austerity describe the country as mystical and ritualistic, deeply rooted in beliefs and spiritual thoughts. Down the years, with the rise of trade, economy and technology, man has become more work oriented, busy in earning bread than divine supplication.

 The fact is proven when tourists from the four corners of the globe embark on a spiritual journey to India. From the east to the west and north to south, every spot of this country sizzles with symbolic pilgrimage sites. A journey to these holy sites is considered as a boon and blessing.

 Time and time again, the west always looks towards the east for spiritual enrichment, with India being the central hub of religion To explore the true Indian spirituality, book in advance and consider visiting these places:

 The Himalayan Chardham Yatra (Tour of Four Pilgrim Spots)

This spiritual tour is one of the most popular and revered tours in India. 'Chardham' is associated with the four major temples of the Himalayan region - Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri. The divine Yatra begins from April – May and is open till Diwali (October-November) each year.

As per Hindu mythology and present belief, the corrupt world burdens the soul with sin and journey to the Char Dham (four holy spots) is the opportunity to get sins washed and attain Moksha (salvation).

 Amarnath Yatra

Amarnath is on the top of every devotee's travel list. At least, once the entire lifetime a Hindu wishes to embark towards Amarnath. Dedicated to Shiva, this temple is located in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir and the spiritual tour takes place in the months of July and August.

The cave's significance goes back to those times when Shiva chose this isolated spot to narrate the secret of immortality and the formation of the universe to his wife, Parvati.

 Amarnath does not have direct trains. The station closest is Jammu, which is 110 miles from Amarnath. From Jammu, you can take a cab either to Baltal or Pahalgam. From Baltal, it is a trek of (9.3 miles) to reach Amarnath. If you're adventurous enough, this is going to be a journey of a lifetime.

 Vaishno Devi Yatra

Another popular journey desired by every Indian Hindu. Located again in Jammu and Kashmir, this spiritual journey requires strong dedication, devotion and zeal.

It is believed that Vaishno Devi sat in prayers so that Rama could gain victory against Ravana. Due to the victory and blessings of Rama, Vaishno Devi attained mortality, attracting thousands of pilgrims to the temple situated there.

 You can take a flight train or a bus to reach Vaishno Devi. Jammu Airport is the closest airport serving Katra. Once you de-board the plane, you can reach Katra in an hour and from here, enjoy a helicopter ride to the holy place.

Regular buses also ply at affordable rates from New Delhi and other places. Train is the considered to be the most scenic. The Katra railway station is the nearest from the holy cave. The fares are extremely reasonable but book early to avoid hassles.

 Rath Yatra

Rath Yatra or Drawing the Chariot is a famous event that takes place in Puri, Orissa. The festival takes places in the month of July, and it is participated by millions of people. So, make sure you make your flight bookings to India much in advance.

The gigantic chariots are decorated beautifully and the three deities are placed on top of them. Held by strong ropes, the chariots are drawn by the devotees while the musical instruments resound at the background.

 Bodhgaya

Bodhgaya is the most popular destination in the world for Buddhists as it is the place where The Buddha reached enlightenment. Cherish your meditation under the Bodhi tree, visit the temples and monasteries, admire Buddhist architecture from various Buddhist countries and enjoy your stay at the peaceful meditation centre Root Institute.

By train, Gaya is the closest rail head, which is 8 miles from Bodh Gaya. Once you reach Gaya, a taxi will easily take you to the holy town. A few major attractions closer to Bodhgaya are The Mahabodhi Temple, Great Buddha Status, Tibetan Refugee Market, Thai Monastery, Muchalinda Lake, Chinese Temple, Kundan Bazaar and much more.

 Varanasi

Located in the state of Uttar Pradesh, Varanasi bloomed as an important industrial centre, producing and manufacturing silk, ivory, perfumes and muslin. Other than that, it is one of the seven pious cities bearing an ancient history and charm. Famed as the city of Shiva, a belief goes around that anyone dying in Varanasi will be free from the reincarnation cycle.

The riverside ghats openly reveal several rituals, attracting not only the locals but international travellers too. Staying at a riverside hotel is highly recommended to get the best views. Suryauday Haveli, Jukaso Ganges, Ganges View hotel, Kedareswar Bed & Breakfast are a few recommended hotels overlooking the Ganges in Varanasi. Do not miss the evening aarti or the evening Riverside worship. It's a spectacle beyond words.

 Rishikesh

How can we conclude without mentioning Rishikesh (Lord of the senses), the birth place of Yoga. Located in the Himalayan foothills, situated on banks of the River Ganges, Rishikesh lures seekers of peace and knowledge, and also Daredevil rafters.

 The town is filled with yoga institutes and ashrams. Check out the Beetles ashram and sip coffee at a roadside cafe, overlooking the Ganges. Not far from Rishikesh, lies the quaint town of Haridwar (gateway to God). With cheap airline tickets to India experience a holy dip in the Ganges and witness the evening prayers at the river.

 The Southern Spirituality

 Moving down South, the religious features, festivals and temples carry a different wonder. Get to admire 'Bridge on the Indian Ocean' at Rameshwaram, located on an enchanting island. This is the place where Rama created a bridge across the sea to reach Sri Lanka. Explore Rameshwaram, Agnitheertham and Dhanushkodi Temple, top religious sites in that vicinity along with ancient monuments and its architecture.

 Auroville – An Ecstatic World in Itself

Pondicherry is home to several religious spots, drawing visitors from everywhere. Get exposed to an amalgam of various traditions, the magnificence of the temples and other notable landmarks. 

If you wish to step away from the spiritual world for sometime, you can explore Auroville City, which is located at a distance of 4.9 miles, amidst a forest, close to beach areas. Named after Sri Aurobindo, the word 'Ville' originates from the French Language with French roots and culture. The concept of Auroville took shape to realise human unity and experiment transformation of consciousness and sustainable living.

 Off late, religious places in India have become extremely popular with the juveniles. Once you step into the spiritual soul, the feel is awesome, which keeps pulling you back time and time again. These favourite and inspirational destinations of respective faiths not only help increase the sacred experience in India but also boost tourism.

 Since you are acquainted with the touristy devout places in India, go pack your bags and embark on the spiritual hunt with Flights to India. Do share your immaculate experiences with us.

[wavenetinfo]

Within days of taking the French presidency, Emmanuel Macron faced a string of diplomatic tests — pushing the Paris climate deal on a skeptical Donald Trump, rallying European allies to do more to fight Syria’s extremists, and now hosting Vladimir Putin.

Europe has a lot riding on Macron’s diplomatic performance. So far, it appears, so good.

Macron struck up an unusually chummy rapport in his first meetings with Trump, winning a handshake contest and the U.S. leader’s cellphone number, despite their stark political differences.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel, too, is warming to the energetic Macron — they’ve already met three times in the two weeks since Macron took office — and is pinning hopes on him to boost Europe’s economy and unity.

Macron is eager to dispel doubts about his presidential stature that have dogged him since he launched a wild-card presidential bid just six months ago.

During his very first days in office, he visited Berlin and a French military base in Mali, where the country’s troops are fighting Islamic extremism. Then over this past week, he cemented his status as a new global player at a NATO summit in Brussels and a Group of Seven summit in Italy.

While he has never held elected office before, Macron was helped by his comfortable English and backstage knowledge of international summits gained as top economic adviser to predecessor Francois Hollande from 2012 to 2014, then as his economy minister.

Beyond the important issues Macron’s tackling, his body language drew the most public attention on his summit outings.

The most symbolic image was his handshake with Trump at their first meeting, in Brussels. After some friendly chatter, the two gripped each other’s hands so tightly before the cameras that their jaws seemed to clench. It looked like Trump was ready to pull away first, but Macron wasn’t quite ready to disengage.

The next day at the G-7 summit in Sicily, Macron attracted attention for his friendly interactions with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

At their bilateral meeting, Macron, 39, and Trudeau, 45, went on a terrace overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, were they posed for photographers, surrounded by flowers.

Macron showed proximity with other leaders, joking and making a gentle tap on the arm a habit. He often paid special attention to Merkel —as if making efforts to embody the French-German friendship. Germany is hoping Macron jumpstarts France’s economy, a pillar of European unity and the shared euro currency.

British Prime Minister Theresa May was visibly touched when Macron addressed his condolences in English following the Manchester attack that killed 22 people.

“We were very shocked, because … we know how this can hurt the people of your country, but more generally for Europe. Because they attack our young, and very young people,” Macron told her.

Both leaders pushed to get a separate, unanimous statement on the fight against terrorism by the G-7. The text is appealing to internet providers and social media companies to more actively fight extremism, an issue widely promoted by Macron during his presidential campaign.

Macron has promised to discuss the Syria crisis on Monday with Russia’s president when he visits the royal palace in Versailles. That may be Macron’s toughest test so far, amid tensions over Moscow’s role in fighting in Syria and Ukraine, and after Putin openly supported rival French candidate Marine Le Pen of the far-right National Front party.

“Russia invaded Ukraine,” Macron told a news conference Saturday.

On Syria, where extremists plotted attacks against France and where Europe’s migrant crisis began, he said, “I said at the G-7 table that I don’t regard it as a collective victory that on Syria … not one of us was capable of being around the table. You have Russia, Iran and Turkey. That is a defeat.”

“So we must talk to Russia to change the framework for getting out of the military crisis in Syria and to build a much more collective and integrated inclusive political solution,” he added.

The G-7 called on Russia to respect Ukraine’s sovereignty and said they “stand ready to take further restrictive measures in order to increase costs on Russia should its actions so require.”

Macron promised he will have a “demanding dialogue with Russia, but it means having a dialogue.”

At the end of the G-7, Macron appeared to soften his stance on the climate talks, the most problematic issue between the U.S. and the six other nations. Macron showed unfailing optimism.

While Merkel called the G-7 climate talks “very difficult, if not to say, very unsatisfactory,” Macron said “I think Mr. Trump is someone who is pragmatic and so I have good hopes that having considered the arguments put forward by various people and his country’s own interest he will confirm his commitment (to the accord) — in his own time.”

“I saw someone who listens and who is willing to work,” he added. “For Mr. Trump and myself, it was a first experience. I think he saw the purpose of these multilateral discussions.”

Optimism, and an almost constant smile on the face, are part of Macron’s strategy French voters are now getting used to.

The French leader was especially careful to avoid diplomatic or political faux-pas only two weeks before crucial legislative elections. Macron needs to get a majority at France’s lower house of parliament to fully implement his pro-European, pro-free market agenda.

Meanwhile, his wife Brigitte Macron experienced the role of first lady, symbolizing easygoing French chic, and at ease with other spouses, especially with Melania Trump with whom she was seen chatting.

———

Angela Charlton reported from Brussels.

28 May 2017 | 9:33 am

Source : ABC News

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[floraexplorer]

In Celebration of Paris in the Spring

When you grow up in the UK, Paris is an extremely common city to visit.

I’ve spent a lot of time here over the years: school trips with History of Art class to the Louvre and a sneaky visit to the top of the Eiffel Tower, covered in snow; grumpily dragging my feet three steps behind my parents on family holidays; InterRailing with friends when our most crucial objective was finding a cheap hostel on the Parisian outskirts and eating our body weight in frites.

If you see a city often enough, it can lead to taking that place for granted – but occasionally it’s good to step back and remember why a city like this one is so special. Why does it keep attracting so many visitors, year after year?

For months, France has been on a knife edge

The general election between Emmanuel Macron and Marine le Pen has given stark definition to how severely politics has divided the country.

Yet with the result that France’s newest president is one who advocates liberalism, unity and above all, hope, millions are breathing a sigh of relief – so I thought it was high time to celebrate with a bit of Parisian beauty.

Especially in springtime.

Paris welcomes those who love walking

Make no mistake, Paris is one huge city. Yet I still always choose to walk around it as much as possible!

Perhaps it’s because my sense of direction isn’t great, and I get lost before I know what’s happened – or maybe its because I tend to feel like photographing the Metro stations instead of actually riding said Metro?

In the spring it’s immediately more tempting to wander through Paris by foot, anyhow.

There’s something about poker-straight Parisian streets which suddenly burst out into large open roundabouts topped with fountains and perfectly manicured topiary; something about the curving buildings with their regimented rows of windows; something about the pale stone contrasting with bright blue skies…

On second thought, walking is the best way to stop and contemplate Paris. Perhaps it’s that.

The architecture is straight out of the movies

On my most recent trip to Paris (travelling through the city on a Chilean band’s music tour), I had a sudden surge of appreciation for Europe’s architecture. Moving so quickly through the continent meant I noticed the differences between countries more immediately – and France’s buildings are some of the most beautiful!

In case you’d forgotten, Paris is also famous for one of the world’s most iconic architectural marvels.

The Eiffel Tower, a beast of interlaced metal, is always visible wherever you go in the city, and is a rather perfect spot for an impromptu picnic amongst the wildflowers.

Paris is practically overwhelmed with art

The cultural heritage which Paris boasts can be best summed up by its love of art. It makes me supremely happy to see the hordes of tourists wandering the Louvre complex, pressing their palms to its iconic glass pyramid, and even craning their necks to see just a little bit more of Mona Lisa’s face.

Although it might be a slight case of tourists feeling obligated to visit art galleries simply because they’re the ‘touristy thing to do’, being absorbed by art in a city like Paris can only be a good thing.

There’s so much art to be found outdoors, too – like the open-air park filled with Rodin sculptures, the intricately carved fountains, the surprising amount of street art, and the golden statues which stand guard on the bridges crisscrossing the Siene.

No matter what direction you walk, you’ll eventually find yourself in Jardin des Tuileries, huge sprawling public gardens dotted with statues. Here Parisians sunbathe, take a cat nap or simply sit and enjoy the atmosphere.

I say simple, but it’s a pretty popular pastime.

Paris has street markets at seemingly every turn

I’m a true sucker for a street market, and have serendipitously been blessed with the eagle eyes necessary to spot one at a hundred paces. Great news for me; bad news for anyone I happen to be travelling with.

At this little spot beside the Siene, I bargained for a few pairs of handmade earrings, gazed at huge chunks of amber being used to balance elegant woven scarves, lost myself amongst countless prints of old French maps and adverts for tobacco, alcohol, Evian water and 1920s cruise liners.

Then I got really excited about a dusty table filled with collections of rusted daggers and ancient pistols, and clutched an undated photo of men playing around in a Parisian street for much too long.

For someone obsessed with storytelling, these kinds of objects (and their possible backstories) are my kind of gold dust.

French food is undeniably delicious

For some reason, Paris practically begs you to indulge in its local food. From macarons and petit fours to  crepes, galettes and baguettes, French cuisine is the epitomy of casual gluttony.

You can start your day by munching on a pain au chocolate, accidentally pick up a boxful of tartiflette from a stall outside the Pompidou, have your eyes (and stomach) tempted by a delicious-looking Croque Monsieur two hours later and still find utter joy in walking down a side street and being swept into a cheese shop purely by its smell. 

And as for my most favourite and satisfying Parisian sight?

Watching people actually queue for their daily baguette at the local boulangerie and carrying the resulting spear of bread around, with absolutely no trace of irony.

Paris’s quintessential ‘French-ness’ is undeniable

France’s stereotypical charm – baguettes, berets, even the occasional sniffy attitude – is what makes this city so fascinating for me.

There are numerous similarities to London, too: filled with little neighbourhoods which each have their own distinctive characters and are completely individual, yet all still channelling the same French vibe.

From smiling buskers on street corners to to casual typing on stone balconies (and even the crowds of happily posing tourists), Paris is a really fantastic place for people-watching.

Paris, the city of love

Regardless of your political proclivity, there’s no doubt that Paris is just ‘one of those cities': a place where millions come each year, either to celebrate something special or simply to explore.

It’s a city of love – clearly evident from the ‘love locks’ which weighed down a Parisian bridge so much that they had to be removed – and it’s why Paris is so special.

Love is everything. And I’ve wandered this city too often with the people I love to see Paris any other way.

  Have you been to Paris in the spring? What’s your favourite thing about the city?

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