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deepanshi2207 · 2 years

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Galaxy Apartment Gurgaon

4 BHK AVAILABLE FOR SALE In Galaxy Apartment Gurgaon SEMI-FURNISHED

Floor = 1ST

Size = 2250 Sq. Ft.

The woodwork in all bedrooms and kitchen,

all balconies are iron grilled, gas pipeline, one covered car parking and

The whole ground floor in the society is parking

About Apartment

A luxurious residential complex, ( Galaxy Apartment Gurgaon) is located in sector 43 Gurugram. first, The Project closely shapes each important facility and is close to every significant area of the city, which makes the region under popularity for private foundations. Schools, universities, medical clinics, banks, ATMs, and shopping objections all are available inside and relatively close to the spot.

And second, Western International University is just 2-3 km Far from the apartment, and if talk about the hospitals the nearest hospital is Paras Hospital which is just 4-5 km far from the spot.

Project Advantage (Galaxy Apartment Gurgaon)

Connectivity:

Huda City Centre is just 1 km Far and 10 min drive

Infrastructure:

MG Road is 2 km Far and a 10 min drive.

National Highway 2 km and 10 min drive.

DLF Cyber City is 7 km Far and a 30 min drive.

Delhi Public School is 5 km Far and a 20 min drive.

Max Hospital is 5 km Far and a 20 min drive.

Indian Institute is just 5 km Far and a 25-30 min drive.

MGF Mega City Mall is just 5-7 km Far and a 15 – 20 min drive.

Neighborhood

DLF Phase IV is 2 km Far and just a 10 min drive.

DLF Phase 5 is 2 km Far and just a 10 min drive.

Sector 45 is 2 km Far and just a 10 min drive.

Amenities

Club House

Cafeteria

100% Power Back Up

Swimming Pool

Lift

Park View

Reserved Parking

Visitors Parking

Intercom Facility

Maintenance Staff

Banquet Hall

Gymnasium and furthermore.

USP (About Sector 43 )

Sector 43 is advanced and kept up with the region with both, skyscrapers and a low-ascent framework. It is an arranged area near the corporate center point of Gurgaon. The area is situated on Fairway Street and near MG street (Mehrauli-Gurgaon Street). Aside from this, it has medical clinical, instructive foundations, amusement zones, and hotels.

Nearby Employment Hubs

Numerous office spaces are located in Sector 43 And, which is situated along Golf Course Road’s well-known commercial corridor. Key business hubs close to the sector include Paras Downtown Centre, First Veritas Building, second Palm Springs Plaza, and One & Two Horizon Centre. Major corporations including Genpact, American Express, and Ernst & Young are close by. DLF Cyber City and Udyog Vihar, two other significant Gurgaon commercial areas, are located 7 to 10 kilometers apart from the neighborhood.

Physical Infrastructure

The area has convenient access to the NH-48, MG Road, and Golf Course Road main road networks. Sector 43 may therefore easily travel to and from Delhi and inside Gurgaon. The Huda City Center Yellow Line station, which easily links it with areas of South, Central, and North Delhi, is another good metro connection for the area. Additionally, the area features a quick metro station, Sector 42-43, that makes it simple to access Cyber City. The area is located 15 km from the IGI Airport and 9 km from Gurgaon Railway Station.

#Galaxy Apartment Gurgaon #peacehomes #real estate #new launch projects in gurgaon

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kaarimarket · 2 years

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IT’S HERE! We open our first-ever fashion exhibit at The Quorum, Gurugram✨ SEE YOU ALL! A two-day showcase of the best festive and contemporary selections by the freshest Indie labels from all over India! Standout collections from over 50 designers and over 2000 styles to choose from! MARK YOUR CALENDARS NOW! We hope to see you at our event! 📆30th Sept & 1st Oct 2022 ⏰11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. 📍The Quorum, Two Horizon Center, Golf Course Road, Gurugram #OgaanMarket #exhibition #festivewear #festivefashion #Gurgaon #shopping #Indianclothing #Quorum #festiveshopping #Diwalishopping (at The Quorum Gurgaon) https://www.instagram.com/p/CjHwj-ePIkM/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

#ogaanmarket #exhibition #festivewear #festivefashion #gurgaon #shopping #indianclothing #quorum #festiveshopping #diwalishopping

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pre-leased-property-in-gurgaon · 4 years

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#two horizon center golf course road #dlfhorizoncenter gurgaon twohorizoncenter officespace lease rent golfcourseroad

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petri808 · 2 years

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1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

@thenaluarchive Nalu Week 7-part story

With almost a week and a half under their belt, the four friends decided to have a lazy day with each doing their own thing. Levy’s boyfriend Gajeel finally had his day off from work and had driven over from Hilo to visit. So, he and Levy took off after lunch to cruise around the west side of the island. Maybe take in a movie at the Keahou theaters and dinner at one of the Kona restaurants. Around the same time they left, a friend of Gray’s named Loke picked him up to hang out and go surfing at a beach called Magic Sands. It wasn’t always the best place to surf, but it was king tides season so the waves were a little bigger than normal.

That left the newly established couple to their own devises.

“That’s a loveseat.” Natsu remarked at the theater’s seating. “A leather loveseat!”

“Well,” Lucy chuckled, “it’s called a luxury cinema for a reason.”

“And they bring our food to us?!” He plops down on the leather chair. “Sweet!”

Why do a Netflix and chill at home when you can get restaurant quality food and a movie theater experience combined? Waikoloa Luxury Cinemas at Queen’s Marketplace and their restaurant The Bistro offered such an experience with meals delivered during the previews. As the lights came down, and food been taken care of, Lucy snuggled up to Natsu. He put his arm around her shoulder and leaned his head against hers, settling in for the movie.

Although things still felt a little awkward, in truth… it really wasn’t. They’d been friends for two years, close friends for almost one, so spending time together was nothing new— just the cuddling part… which had been getting easier over the last couple of days. Lucy’s heart would still skip a beat at his touch, but she didn’t lose her composure as badly. Natsu for his part never pushed and allowed her to gain confidence in their new relationship on her terms.

After the movie ended, they walked back towards the condo. It wasn’t too far of a walk along tree lined sidewalks. They’d passed King Shops, another small shopping center. A golf course on one side of the road, condos and hotels on the other. Every so often Lucy would point out any historical sites, such as a field of ancient petroglyphs that had survived. When they reached Anaehoomalu beach park, the couple decided to take a detour.

Natsu took hold of Lucy’s hand as they walked the sandy white beach between the Hilton Waikoloa and the Waikoloa Marriott. Visitors were sparse on this work day, giving them a peaceful time just listening to the waves and enjoying each other’s company.

“I don’t remember the name,” Lucy pointed to an area between the beach and the Marriott, “but those are ancient fish ponds that the hotel helped to restore. It’s like the Hawaiian version of aqua farming.”

As they got closer, Lucy continued pointing out different features such as wooden slats that allowed water and baby fish to flow in from the ocean, but trapped the fish once they’d grown bigger in the ponds. “If you look closely there’s always eels,” she explained as they leaned over the rock wall that lined the pond. And sure enough, after a couple minutes Natsu could see a few popping they’re heads out of cracks.

They spent some time on the beach before heading to the condo once it got closer to dinner time. When they arrived back, no one had returned yet, so they stayed out on the patio to watch the sunset. It was a partial view of the ocean from the condo, but enough that one could watch the day slowly turning into night. The skies turned reddish orange, while the sun gained a slight greenish hue as it slowly sunk below the horizon.

“You’re hair looks like it’s on fire,” Natsu commented as the suns darkening rays bounced off of Lucy’s golden blonde hair.

Lucy blushed and tucked her hair back out of nervousness. “Really?” She asked sheepishly.

“Really,” Natsu smiled and squeezed her hand.

“I um…” Lucy started to speak, then stopped and kissed him instead. Just a quick one, as her eyes continued to communicate something else and her body leaned in closer.

Taking the hint, Natsu moved in, turning fully towards her while pulling her almost onto his lap. His fingers tangled into her crown as Lucy made moves of her own to wrap her arms around his neck. They’d forgotten all about the sunset. Their lips too wrapped up with one another’s in a full-blown make out session.

“I could…” Natsu mumbled between the kisses, “stay like this forever…”

Lucy sighed, “me, too.” Once the floodgates had opened, she started to realize just how much she’d really fallen for the man.

But the sound of keys and a door opening, eventually broke the spell.

“We should stop before…” Lucy grumped.

“I know,” Natsu sighed. “For now.”

“Before they tease us.” Lucy added.

He placed a hand on her cheek and gently smoothed his thumb over the skin, “do you really care?”

“Mmm, a little…”

“Pfft.” Natsu stood up and pulled her with him. “Then let’s hide in the bedroom,” he teased with a glint in his eye.

That made Lucy giggle as she squeezed his hand in return. They quickly ran past a surprised Gray to the upstairs bedroom and locked Lucy’s door.

“Well, guess I get the room to myself tonight,” Gray chuckled as he headed to his room. “But keep it down!” He yelled as he passed by theirs.

“Too bad, snowflake!”

Eh, they’ll be fine…

#nalu #nalu week 2022 #simply nalu 2022 #fairy tail #natsu dragneel #lucy heartfilia #nalu fanfiction #part 5

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bondoverby73-blog · 5 years

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Patriot's Microscope stage

Patriot's Phase Mt. software plc , SC Charleston, Confederacy Carolina has foresighted been a democratic tourist positioning. Disclosed barely a fistful of minutes from the of import downtown attractions, plainly good throughout the Frank Cooper River by signifies of the dangling Ravenel Bridgework is Patriot's Post. If you power be a omphalus vet or Navy raw sienna, you volition require to expend a running day, nigh potential two, at Patriot's Degree. How by and large do you arrest the expectation to digress about a supplier corresponding the USS Yorktown (CV-10)? What is more, they similarly throw the Seacoast Precaution cutter, USCGC Inghan (WHEC-35) heart-to-heart for Tours. Moreover on website is a Earthly concern Warfare II-- Korean Warfare capitulum Destroyer, the USS Laffey (DD-724). The Laffey gained a Head of state Unit Credit for legal action cancelled Okinawa, April sixteen, 1945. Provided for browsing is the USS Clamagore (SS-343). The Clamagore is diesel motor wedge developed near to windup of Existence State of war II but showed up a good deal also tardy to run across question. Right on up until it was changed with a fade of center submarines and decommissioned in 1975 and, it was a forepart business Italian sandwich during the Chilly War. USS Yorktown If you mightiness be pertaining to Charleston for a go to and then the USS Yorktown is a postulate to ensure. Looming on the apparent horizon scarce passim the haven from the Charleston historical district, it is hoodlum to girl come out on. From downtown Charleston it is a abbreviated vacation up Due east Alcove Avenue to the Ravenel Bridge-- the attend from the top of the inning rated is marvelous. Stay fresh in the apposite lane-- there are a ton of them on this raw bridge over and the quite a to commence with Key boulevard to the worthy leads to Patriot's Even. If you enterprise to view it wholly in 1 sting, the Yorktown by itself is a overall functional mean solar day. Be surefooted to wont your release for walks footgear. In that respect is a sound handle to see merely thither are qualified living quarters and shave measures. If you accept difficulty walk-to, climb up trig steps or you might be claustrophobic, this may mayhap not be the vacationist attractor for you. They let really ruined an undischarged job with signals and in that respect are wads of historic pictures of the "The Fighting Girl" and her predecessor the CV-Little Phoebe which was washed-up in the Battle of Center merely non ahead of it assisted problems the mass of the Asian country fade in the Pacific-- so much as 4 of their 6 war vessel. The Agitate of Middle all but in all likelihood sawed-off the warfare in the Pacific Ocean by at the rattling to the lowest degree 1 12 months, in all probability two. The USS Yorktown that resides at Patriot's Take down is the CV-ten. It was to a lesser extent than building and pattern at the Newport Selective information Shipbuilding & Graving dock Co. at the metre of the sinking feeling of the CV-quintuplet it was at outset was in all probability to be called the "Bon Homme Richard." With the exit of the CV-5, it was preferred to rename the ship the USS Yorktown. It performed a authoritative officiate in World Warfare II, the Korean Warfare and the Warfare in Viet Nam. The USS Yorktown is the oldest carrier go along to rudderless. Inner of the Yorktown is the Congressional Medal of Observe Museum which is instantly seemly renovated. On the hanger embellish is a mock up of the Phoebus 8 space vehicle that was pulled from the ocean by the aircraft help provider. On the hanger adorn is a flight of steps simulator that allows you to demesne an placement shuttle. Entirely through the transport you stool receive peeks of what day-to-twenty-four hour period existence on an carpenter's plane mailman was like. Oceanic abyss in the bowels of the astonishing embark is an attention-grabbing concealment of the Charleston shipyard and dry out bob. The confessedly mathematical group pleaser of the USS Yorktown is the flight of stairs dump. On the escape grace is a compartmentalisation of twenty pentad a variety of airplanes and helicopters consisting of: an A-Little Joe Skyhawk, an A-6 Intruder, an A-7 Corsair, an F-4 Phantom, an F-club Cougar, and an F-fourteen Tomcat-- the scarcely a forgetful while agone out paladin manufactured pop by Tomcat Cruise in "Top rated Gun." Cater your physical science extremity tv camera for this discontinue. Not fair are the plane challenging, the sights of Capital of West Virginia in essence throughout the alcove and the Ravenel Bridge deck are arresting. Discover: it tail end be middling long-winded on the trajectory bedight and it Crataegus laevigata comfortably go through 10 levels cooler than the Mt. Discriminate coastline. Vest suitably. If that insufficient setting for you, from Patriot's Go forth in Mt. Enjoyable you prat what is more learn a gravy holder journeying of Ft. Sumter-- the locating the American English Civic War began. In that location is also a diversion of a Annam interval home post to jaunt. Patriot's Take down besides features an 18 pickle business golfing course and some tops digs. Furthermore it is scarcely a few proceedings from Shem Brook and a several of the rather saint seafood feeding institutions not only when in Mt. Gratifying but in the absolute area. Patriots Bring out Armed service & Marine Museum 40 Patriots Direct Highway Wax Gratifying SC 29464-4377 1-866-831-1720 (bell costless). Located in essence a handful of transactions from the giving business district places, entirely throughout the Cooper River via the putt Ravenel Span is Patriot's Put. If you pass off to be a omphalos ex-serviceman or Army fiend, you testament hope to institutionalize a twenty-four hours, credibly deuce, at Patriot's Pose. If you pass off to be forthcoming to Capital of West Virginia for a encounter then the USS Yorktown is a get to ascertain. Rest in the finest lane-- in that location are a entirely set of them on this newly nosepiece and the real initial chief road to the proper potential difference customers to Patriot's Microscope stage. The USS Yorktown that lives at Patriot's Position is the CV-10.

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danithebookaholic-blog · 6 years

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SPOTLIGHT!

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The Bridal Chase

By Robert Downs

Publisher: Black Opal Books Publication Date: May 12, 2018 Genre: Mystery, Suspense

Synopsis:

Elisha Crimson thought her wedding day would be the happiest of her life. But losing her fiancé to two thugs in a dark sedan wasn’t part of the plan. She, along with the rest of the wedding party, can do nothing to stop the abrupt abduction, so she pursues at the first opportunity, navigating the West Virginia interstate in a white wedding dress behind the wheel of a pickup truck. But will she catch the sedan in time to save her one true love? Ronnie Washington had known his past would catch up with him, eventually, but he hadn’t expected it to happen on his wedding day. He hates enclosed spaces, and now he’s bouncing around in the trunk of a car after being abducted from the ceremony. His only hope is to talk his way out, but the thugs don’t seem inclined to listen. He knows Elisha will come after him, but, even if she catches them, what can she possibly do against men like these? Can these two unlikely heroes save the day, and the wedding, or is their life together over before it even starts?

Goodreads

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Excerpt:

Saturday, 2:45 p.m.:

Her long, white dress billowed around her. Mascara raced down her face, her eyes frazzled, and a tear formed as she took off at a dead run. Her brother tossed her his set of keys. She caught them in midair and didn’t even break stride. She peeled out of the parking lot, as a spray of gravel pinged a Mercedes, two BMWs, and a Lexus. Through the open window, the wind whipped her hair. Her green eyes were fixed at a distant point on the horizon. Her gaze was just a bit above the dashboard, as she slammed the pickup truck into second gear. A string of curse words emitted from her lips and smacked the wheel. The cup holder beside her held a plastic cup filled with spit, and she picked it up now. Tobacco juice flowed from her lips, and into its predetermined location.

Elisha Crimson flipped the air conditioner on high, even though it was only sixty degrees outside. She honked her horn, gestured with her free hand, and merged into the passing lane. A silver car swerved in front of her, and she screamed and pounded the steering wheel in agony. This time, she neglected to salute the idiot behind the wheel with a cell phone pressed to his ear.

Her eyes flipped to her rearview mirror, and the sea of cars behind her in an intricate rainbow of colors. The trail of cars resembled a python, and the road in front of her was a never-ending façade of red taillights. An accident loomed up ahead, so she slowed down. Two cars—neither one moving—in the right-hand lane were both torn to shreds in twisted metal and crumpled bumpers. Her mind raced, and adrenaline shook her right hand.

She grabbed the cup beside her and spit another glob of juice.

She’d nailed second gear within five hundred feet of the parking lot, and third came soon after. Fourth proved a bit more of a challenge, but now that was behind her as well. Her lips moved at a constant, steady pace, and the cup beside her filled quickly as well. The pouch stuffed between the passenger seat and her own was a third gone.

She hadn’t smiled since this morning with her hairdresser and sister in the same room, as her mother waited in the room next to hers. Elisha flipped the radio low and her voice high. A rapper spoke about life in the ghetto.

She held onto the steering wheel until her knuckles turned white, and her joints ached. A song came on the radio that reminded her of him, and she turned up the volume loud enough to rattle the frame. With the windows rolled down, the sound traveled toward the trees on either side of the highway. A motorcycle engine roared behind her, and she pushed the pedal all the way to the floor. She smacked her lips and tapped her forehead. She kept thoughts of her fiancé,

her wedding, and the family she left behind to herself and slammed down the lid. She discovered a ball cap within arm’s reach and thumped it on her head.

She floored it around an old Porsche and a Mercedes with custom wheels. She held one thought and then another—What would her family think? How could this be happening to her? Was her fiancé okay?— collecting them like stamps and compartmentalizing each one in her mind until such a time when she could gather them whole and shove forward with her life.

She’d known Ronnie’s past would catch up with them one day, but now was not the time for second guesses.

She kept one eye on the horizon and her goal in mind. Her whole world changed when a car pulled out in front of her. She veered to the left, the pickup nearly coming up on two wheels, the center of gravity shifting with brute force. And then she shoved the pickup hard to the right, as the center of gravity changed once again, and the whole cab moved and shook around her. The wind whipped through with blazing speed, and her knuckles locked against the wheel. She pinged to the right and careened to the left like a ping pong ball through a maze.

Steam rose up around her, and she hoped it wasn’t her own. She bit her lip and drew blood, and even managed to swallow a little of the chewing tobacco. Coughing and gagging and sick to her stomach, she had no idea how to continue onward. Only that she had to. If she failed, she couldn’t deal with the consequences.

She had insisted on a big wedding filled with a dessert buffet, two guitars, one ice sculpture, three photographers, and one deejay. Had she scaled back, she might have found herself in a different predicament than the one she currently found herself in the middle of. The voice on the radio called her a liar.

She discovered love at eighteen when it bit her on the ass and decided to hang around. The fucker, Ronnie Washington, had smiled at her, and her knees buckled in the heat and humidity. Unable to string a coherent sentence together for five minutes, she waited for him to walk away. But he didn’t. Ten minutes later, he asked her out, and she said yes before she gathered what remained of her senses. Six years later—the best six years of her life—he still asked her out, the romantic bastard. Sure, the ups and downs sucked, and he charmed her with all five of his senses, but dammit she loved him anyway. She loved him with her entire body, and still that didn’t seem like enough. Now, in her brother’s pickup, with her whole world abandoned at the golf course, and her fiancé kidnapped in a black piece of crap with four wheels, she shed more water beneath her eyelids.

If she failed to push forward with everything she had, she never stood a chance at success. Sure, she had failed at almost every corner and streetlight. Sure, failure pointed the barrel of its gun in her direction. But failure didn’t stand a chance this time. She’d find a way to succeed, even if it meant she exhausted every last possibility. Even if she didn’t have a damn clue how

she’d do it.

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Purchase:

Amazon / B&N / Kobo / iBooks

Author Bio:

Robert Downs aspired to be a writer before he realized how difficult the writing process was. Fortunately, he'd already fallen in love with the craft, otherwise his tales might never have seen print. Originally from West Virginia, he has lived in Virginia, Massachusetts, New Mexico, and now resides in California. When he’s not writing, Downs can be found reading, reviewing, traveling, or smiling. To find out more about his latest projects, or to reach out to him on the Internet, visit the author’s website: www.RobertDowns.net. THE BRIDAL CHASE is his seventh book and second novella.

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From one bookaholic to another, I hope I’ve helped you find your next fix. —Dani

Have a book you’d like to suggest or one you’d like me to review? Please feel free to leave your comments down below.

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dipulb3 · 4 years

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2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI review: Parting is such sweet sorrow

New Post has been published on https://appradab.com/2021-volkswagen-golf-gti-review-parting-is-such-sweet-sorrow/

2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI review: Parting is such sweet sorrow

Farewell, hot hatch.

Andrew Krok/Roadshow

The Volkswagen Golf GTI is one of the all-time greats, spending seven generations in the sweet spot between daily usability and an old-fashioned good time. In its final year before the introduction of an all-new eight generation, the Golf’s hot-hatch variant continues to remind us why it remains a darling of critics and car geeks alike.

Hatchback capaciousness

Fun and pragmatism in equal doses

Solid cabin tech

Don’t Like

One USB port

Can push into expensive territory

Just-OK fuel economy

Unassuming getup

The GTI doesn’t look much different than the Golf, but that’s fine, because it’s never been a shouty car. My Tornado Red tester does grab some eyes with its paint color, but most of the stuff that sets the GTI apart takes some effort to find, like the slightly more aggressive air intakes on the bumper, the sensible number of GTI badges or the trick red elements tucked into the LED headlights. Even the 18-inch alloy wheels are appropriately sized. It’s a look that flies under the radar, which is fine, because who really needs more points on their license?

My Autobahn-trim GTI foregoes the ubiquitous plaid seats in favor of something far less exciting: black leather. Honestly, that might be my biggest problem with the GTI. If it were possible to retain those excellent cloth seats on higher trims, I’d be a happy camper. That said, the leather-clad cushions aren’t bad, with plenty of support and heaters that fire up pretty quickly in chilly weather. The Golf is an inexpensive car, but the interior isn’t exactly bargain-basement; build quality is top-notch and most of the plastics aren’t offensively hard or unsightly. A smattering of piano-black trim breaks up the dashboard’s monotony, too.

From a family-car perspective, there’s plenty to like about the GTI. The rear seats have ample space and the hatchback’s flat roof provides more than enough headroom for all occupants. Its 16.5-cubic-foot cargo area is sufficiently sized for a family’s worth of groceries or a couple suitcases. Tchotchke storage is a little limited, with sizable door pockets but cramped cubbies in the center console and under the armrest. Thin A-pillars and an upright body means the GTI also offers up an impressive view, not only of the road ahead but also in every other direction.

It’s hard not to have fun

Not every sports car needs some sky-high output figure to return a large number of smiles per gallon. The GTI makes do with an amount that isn’t even considered sporty in many cars: Its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine puts out 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, which is more than enough to have a good time. Almost every spot on the tachometer is a good starting point for fun, as the four-pot spits out enough torque to push the GTI with sufficient haste, making it easy to slide into traffic from an on-ramp or shoot ahead at a green light. It’s an approachable kind of powerband, too, never feeling like it’s overwhelming the car (or the driver). Even the exhaust note is on the demure side, generating enough bass to sound interesting without so much as to alert the neighbors.

On my tester, that power makes its way to the front wheels through a six-speed manual transmission. The action between the gears is a little rubbery, but it’s not imprecise, accepting shifts whether they arrive with haste or not. The clutch pedal offers just enough bite-point feedback to make smooth starts possible every time and the throttle manipulation in any vehicle mode is sufficient to ensure rev-matched downshifts can be rattled off without upsetting everyone inside. The steering is direct, if a little light, but it feels perfectly matched to the rest of the GTI.

Like several other inexpensive good-time-mobiles, the GTI Autobahn packs a set of adaptive dampers. In Normal mode, the suspension does a good job preventing most of the road’s nastier elements from making a mess of the ride quality, aided by summer tires that buck the trend of eliminating unwanted millimeters of sidewall. In Sport mode and beyond, things get… stiff, but that’s by design. If you want to shut the door on body roll’s face, this is the way to do it, but as always, there’s a ride-quality tradeoff involved. No matter the mode, this front-drive hot hatch is a perennial hoot. Toss it into a corner, cackle as the two-liter’s torque pulls you out the other side, rinse and repeat. It’s front-wheel drive, so there are very few situations where overdriving results in anything other than a bit of understeer.

Despite a turbocharged engine that doesn’t break output records, the GTI isn’t the most efficient hatchback on the block. The EPA estimates my tester at 24 miles per gallon city and 32 mpg highway. While my city economy lands closer to 20 mpg, I have no problem stretching beyond the highway rating, seeing up to 35 mpg if I maintain a light foot and avoid spooling up the turbocharger.

The GTI’s cabin offers excellent visibility and a straightforward layout.

Andrew Krok/Roadshow

Straightforward, usable tech

All GTI trims make use of Volkswagen‘s MIB II infotainment system, with the base model rocking a 6.5-inch touchscreen while SE and Autobahn variants sporting a fancier, glass-covered 8-inch display. It’s an easy system to get used to, with a straightforward layout and a quick-access dock that disappears from the screen until your hand approaches. Navigation is available on the larger display, and while the graphics might feel old, destination entry is easy (whether using voice or the on-screen keyboard) and it can even recommend endpoints based on your prior activity.

Buyers also get five free years of VW’s Car-Net Remote Access connected-car tech, which allows owners to use a mobile app (available on both phones and smartwatches) to control the GTI’s door locks and headlights, and some models also include remote start. A 4G LTE hotspot powered by Verizon Wireless is also available, with prepaid plans costing about $20 per month.

For its final model year, VW makes forward collision warning, blind spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking and rear cross-traffic alert standard on all GTI variants. My Autobahn tester further enhances safety with standard adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist and parking sensors. Nothing works with too heavy a hand; even the lane-keeping assist does a pretty good job of subtly changing vehicle position without being annoying. There’s no advanced lane-centering, highway-driving trickery here, but what does come standard works very well for what it is.

VW’s in-car infotainment has been freshened up a few times over the course of the seventh-generation Golf, and the next-gen GTI should add even more technological doodads.

Andrew Krok/Roadshow

Down to brass tacks

While a manual-transmission GTI S can be had for $29,690 (including $995 for destination), the price can quickly reach quasi-wonky heights, with my 6MT Autobahn rolling out of the dealership with a $37,940 price tag. There’s a good deal of competition in this segment. There are older guards like the Civic Si, which is down on power but also down on price (and fun factor), but there’s neat new rivals on the horizon, like the Mazda3 Turbo, which will pack 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque in conjunction with all-wheel drive. The Subaru WRX is in there, too, but with a new one on the way, it might be worth holding off — then again, the same can be said of the GTI.

It’s always a shame to say goodbye to a beloved model, but there’s no need to weep over the 2021 Volkswagen GTI. While it remains one of my favorite cars thanks to its equal-dose blend of pragmatism and excitement, there’s a brand new one on the horizon and it’s likely to take all the good parts of the current model while enhancing the aesthetics, technology and more. But for now, the current model scratches just about every itch there is.

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streamingthruamerica · 5 years

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I wanted more time in Amsterdam, but time wouldn’t allow. I still had Germany to consider, and Bergen-Belsen was my first stop. Google Maps predicted a 4.5 hour drive. Then again, Google never consulted me about driving on the Autobahn.

I rented a SEAT Leon–a car I knew nothing about–but was assured by the agent that, “SEAT Leon is a useful car to get from point A to point B.”

“Never heard of it before. What kind of car is it…compared to more popular carmakers?” I asked.

“Think of it as a sportier Spanish version of a VW Golf,” he informed.

OK, I thought. That ought to do, and it seemed so appropriate considering how close the concentration camp is to Wolfsburg, home of the VW factory and largest automobile plant in the world.

For a third of the way, I had to watch my speed, before crossing the country border into Germany. But once A1 turned into A 30, I was off to the races. Ordinarily, 130 kmph (81 mph) is the top-posted speed limit on highways, but for many high performance vehicles, that’s akin to standing still. When clear of road frequent repairs, much of the Autobahn carries three lanes of traffic: trucks and turtles in the right lane; quasi-regulation speed in the middle lane; and Mach 1, bat-outta-hell speed in the left lane.

I waited patiently until I reached De Poppe, where I overtook a BMW 3, and throttled the accelerator as I pushed the transmission into top gear. This was life in the fast lane. When the speedometer crossed 170, I set my sights on the next middle-lane creeper, a Fiat 500. My cruising speed topped 190 and flattened. The Fiat was coming up fast on my right. I checked my mirrors, and suddenly discovered the front end of a Mercedes-AMG GT filling my rearview and flashing its headlights. Seriously?! Within seconds of passing the Fiat?!

I stood my ground–I was committed to passing the Fiat–it was my right! Of course, my tailgater thought the same. The roadster was so close, I could have been towing him. And now its syncopated horn was blaring. In my fantasy, it probably resembled a Grand Prix pas de deux, but in reality, it was German intimidation.

I sped past the Fiat and quickly crossed back to the middle. The Mercedes effortlessly blew by me doing no less than 240, and in a blink of an eye, my nemesis was beyond my driving horizon. Thereafter, I occasionally found my way back to the rocket lane, but I was content to run, where others were meant to fly.

Nevertheless, I managed to shave a half-hour off my run time as I took my exit. The scenery turned verdant green as I shot down the lonely country lane. Trees were filling in, crops were sprouting, and accents of color from wild flowers popped against a cloudless sky.

I was racing to Bergen-Belsen–not knowing what to expect–but once I sensed the immediacy of my arrival, I purposely down-shifted my anxiety to regain control of my emotions. I sat in the parking lot for a minute with the engine idling, thinking about the history of this place and its connection to my family, and the untold suffering and misery caused to so many others, that I wept. It wasn’t a long cry, but long enough to strengthen my resolve.

I entered the facility, where I met Simone, who sat behind the desk of the documentation center…

and I restated my purpose. She took my grandmother’s name and cross-checked it against the memorial registry. It’s estimated that more than 50,000 people died of starvation, disease, brutality and medical sadism while interned at Bergen-Belson. When British Allies liberated the camp on April, 15, 1945, they discovered over 60,000 prisoners, most of them sick or dying.

“You are very fortunate. Just before the Liberation, the Nazis destroyed most of their records to hide their crimes. We only have records for only half the prisoners held here, but lucky for you, your grandmother’s name is on the list,” she said with excitement.

And then she presented me with twin volumes…

and flagged the most significant page in Volume Two…

which caused my heart to race.

Because of limited time to see the exhibition hall, in search of supporting evidence.

Square window boxes dropped into the floor revealed personal items…

that were unearthed after the British incinerated the camp to control the spread of typhus that permeated the surroundings.

Walls of displays detailed the story of the horrors within…

Because of correspondence from Bernd Horstmann, curator of the museum’s Register of Names, I learned that Grandma Rose arrived from Westerbork on January 12, 1944 with 1,024 other Jews,

and was detained at the Star Camp, a subsidiary of the Exchange Camp…

Because Grandma Rose had value to the Nazis as a seamstress, she would most likely be deployed to the SS-owned Weaving Works,

which forced women to produce items from scrap materials,

in addition to repairing inmate uniforms.

Camp conditions at the Star Camp were considered better than other sections within Bergen-Belsen, however…

and the indignity was enough to drive to drive the prisoners mad.

Nevertheless, there was a code of conduct inside the huts, regardless of the barbarism on the outside. Having been relegated to Block 20, Grandma Rose was beholden to Jewish Elder, Joseph Weiss.

As surrounding concentration camps closed, Bergen-Belsen saw a dramatic increase in inmates. Originally intended as a Soviet POW camp for 20,000 prisoners, the camp population swelled beyond imagination and sustainability.

By April, 1945, the Third Reich learned that the Allies had broken German defenses from the west and the south as the Soviets were advancing from the east.

On April 7, 1945, Grandma Rose was among the first to be loaded onto a transport initially bound for Thereisenstadt,

but destined for the gas chambers.

Of course, no one knew where they were going or what to expect, except inhumane conditions, sickness and death.

After six days of unimaginable terror on the rails, Grandma Rose’s train was liberated near the German village of Farsleben on April 15, 1945 by American soldiers from the 743rd Tank Battalion of the 30th Infantry Division.

Still-unidentified women, moments after liberation, April 13, 1945. Courtesy of the Gross family

Maj. Frank Towers, who also took part in the liberation, organized the transfer of Grandma Rose and the other 2,500 released prisoners to a nearby town, Hillersleben, where they received medical treatment from Allied troops. She weighed 90 pounds when she admitted to the field hospital.

I had seen enough, but I needed to see more. I just didn’t know if I could process anymore at the time. But there was one last exhibit that I could not ignore inside the Film Tower, no matter how difficult it seemed.

Eventually, the museum was cleared at 5pm. As many as 10 other patrons filed through the exit and into their cars, leaving me with another couple to roam the cemetery grounds on a beautiful Spring afternoon.

There are no tombstones on the grounds, but there are government memorials…

and government tributes…

and personal markers.

scattered among a cluster of memorial mounds…

where the unknown remains of tens of thousands share a mass grave beneath the berm.

(please be advised of extremely graphic content)

I found solace inside the House of Silence, an outlying metal and glass edifice in the midst of a birch tree grove…

that offers a soaring meditation room…

for personal reflection.

and hundreds of tokens of healing and prayer.

A solemn oath to “never forget,” brings us one-step closer to “never again.”

Searching for Closure, Part 2 I wanted more time in Amsterdam, but time wouldn't allow. I still had Germany to consider, and Bergen-Belsen was my first stop.

#Autobahn #Bergen-Belsen #Germany #Holocaust #House of Silence #Judaism

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placestostayflorida · 5 years

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What County Is Anna Maria Island In

Contents

Anna maria island

Horizon. easter arrives

Anna maria sound

Anna maria island manatee

but perhaps nowhere on the planet is that time celebrated with more passion than anna maria island. Watching the sunset is a cherished ritual on this sleepy barrier island, about 20 miles west of …

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Ubering between an airport and Anna Maria Island may be this season’s popular arrival method … and it will be in a workshop format,” she said, noting that city and county officials will be invited …

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Welcome to Anna Maria Island The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce is your island gateway. Each year over 24,000 visitors walk through our doors, over 400,000 visitors explore our website and view over 800,000 pages annually, over 15,000 folks receive our island guidebook and over 12,000 people call us for visitor and business information.

Anna Maria Island Restaurants Yelp Beaches Of anna maria island manatee county emergency communications center officials said the helicopter, which was 10 – 15 feet off the water, crashed two miles off Manatee Public Beach just before 11 a.m. Witnesses on the … ANNA MARIA ISLAND, fla. — anna maria island could be the next beach community to add paid

Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island hosts meetings in Lowe Hall … 1:30 PM Keeton’s has long been a sponsor and supporter of the arts in Manatee County including our Guild. Get to know the talented …

“There is definitely a presence,’’ said Mansfield, who was vacationing on Anna Maria Island from Citrus County. Mansfield’s 5-year-old son Calyn was hardly deterred by the presence of red tide, …

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County work crews scrambled to quickly clean up the beach. Despite this, there were few beach goers on the island. The local economy is feeling the impact. The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce …

Anna Maria Island in Gulf Coast, Florida is a beach break that has inconsistent surf. Winter is the best time of year for surfing here. Works best in offshore winds from the southeast. Windswells are much more typical than groudswells and the best wave direction is from the west southwest.

The post What County Is Anna Maria Island In appeared first on CSITND Travel Blog.

#Anna Maria Post Island Office

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mybusinessmap · 5 years

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Whisky Samba Two Horizon Center, Golf Course Road

Address : Two Horizon Center, Golf Course Road, Gurgaon

Locality : Two Horizon Center, Golf Course Road

City : Gurgaon

Average cost for 2 : 2500

Currency : Indian Rupees(Rs.)

Table Booking : Yes

Online Delivery : No

Aggregate rating : 3.8. Good Votes : 127

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yummraj · 5 years

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Comorin (two horizon center, golf course road, gurgaon)

In a NUtshell

Being a big fan of Indian accent, went here with huge hopes (chef manish Mehrotra is common to both) – impressed but nowhere close to Indian accent, as different as Honda city & an entry level mercedes. Must mention that this restaurant is much cheaper than Indian accent but that does not make a difference to me. I judge the food based on the food itself – not its price, not its…

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#Casual Dining in Gurgaon #champaran meat #chef manish Mehrotra #comorin #eating out in Gurgaon #Gurgaon Restaurants #manish Mehrotra #Restaurants in Gurgaon #two horizon center restaurants #what to eat in gurgaon

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amandaknobleus · 6 years

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Charitable proceeds total more than $2 million from 2018 American Family Insurance Championship

The American Family Insurance Championship continues to exceed expectations in only its third year, surpassing the $2 million mark and raising $2,067,000 for charity in 2018, an increase of $442,000 (27 percent) over 2017.

Approximately half the proceeds will be distributed to the American Family Children’s Hospital in Madison, Wis., and more than 80 other primarily local charities will share the other approximately $1 million in varying amounts. By comparison, the 2017 event raised $1,625,000, and in 2016, the $1,089,500 total was the highest-ever for a first-year PGA TOUR Champions event.

2018 American Family Insurance Championship proceeds raised announced at event today

The grand total raised and charitable organization recipients were revealed at an event today held at American Family Insurance corporate headquarters. The event featured championship host/player Steve Stricker, his wife, Nicki, American Family Insurance Chair and CEO Jack Salzwedel, numerous tournament sponsors, and volunteers. Other special guests included representatives of the recipient organizations, and Bodhi O’Rourke, a former patient of the American Family Children’s’ Hospital. Bodhi hit the ceremonial first tee shot to start the 2018 tournament last June. (Pictured above is Steve and Nicki Stricker and the tournament team.)

“We are beyond grateful for the generosity we’ve experienced with the American Family Insurance Championship,” said Steve and Nicki Stricker. “Our team works hard to put together a first-class event for fans, and when the result is more than $4.7 million in charitable contributions in just three short years distributed to deserving non-profit organizations, we are both amazed and humbled.”

The third annual American Family Insurance Championship was held in June at University Ridge golf course in Madison, Wis. More than 65,000 spectators from 29 states attended during the three days of tournament play and nearly 1,200 volunteers from 13 states donated their time to take part in the event. The local economic impact of the tournament was estimated to be around $15 million.

“We’re honored to partner with Steve to host the American Family Insurance Championship that offers an outstanding professional golf experience for fans and, most importantly, a great opportunity to give so much back to the community,” said Jack Salzwedel, American Family Insurance chair and CEO. “Today’s announcement of more than $2 million raised from the 2018 event will help so many organizations whose goals are to build strong families and communities. And when they succeed, we all benefit.”

Who will benefit from the American Family Insurance Championship proceeds

In addition to the American Family Children’s Hospital in Madison, here is just a sample of the more than 80 other organizations addressing multiple needs in our communities and how the grant funds will be used (a complete list of organizations is at the end of this release)::

The First Tee of Southcentral Wisconsin and The First Tee of Southeast Wisconsin—Impact the lives of young people and their families by providing educational programs for youth that build character, instill life enhancing values and promote healthy choices through the game of golf. Southcentral Wisconsin / Southeast Wisconsin

East Madison Community Center-Serve—Serve at-risk minority youth and their families with an emphasis on education, fitness, nutrition, empowerment and leadership programs to promote positive opportunities and help develop strong families as well as a vibrant community.

REAP Food Group—Bring fresh, local, sustainably produced food to children, establish reliable markets for local farms using sustainable agriculture practices, and provide hands-on education in Madison classrooms.

Vera Court Neighborhood Center—Serve lower-income residents with free bilingual early childhood, academic-focused after school program, summer camp, food pantry and social services.

Operation Fresh Start—Provide disconnected youth a path to self-sufficiency through job skills, training and education. Operation Fresh Start addresses the core issues facing Dane County communities: education, employment, crime prevention, affordable housing and leadership development.

“The American Family Insurance Championship is a premier tournament on PGA TOUR Champions for many reasons, and its contributions to local charities are especially significant,“ said Greg McLaughlin, PGA TOUR Champions president. "With a passionate title sponsor and support from Nicki and Steve Stricker, the tournament grows every year and the Madison community is treated to a world-class sporting event that has an enormous impact on so many kids and families in the area.”

On Thursday, Dec. 6 the American Family Insurance Championship was awarded the prestigious President’s Award from the PGA TOUR Champions during their tournament meetings in Palm Springs, Cal, based on outstanding charitable giving, sales, attendance and economic impact. This is the tournament’s second award, as it received the 2016 Outstanding Achievement award in its inaugural year.

Next year’s event will be held June 15-23, 2019, with special events during the week and tournament play Friday-Sunday. Scott McCarron will return as defending champion and Stricker will play in the tournament for the third time.

Watch today’s event from Facebook. (Please use Chrome browser for viewing.)

# # #

About Steve Stricker American Family Insurance Foundation Established in 2013 when Steve Stricker became a brand ambassador for American Family Insurance, the mission of the foundation is to inspire and develop strong families and healthy kids so they can pursue their dreams. The foundation supports organizations that produce tangible outcomes that align with this mission. Web: www.amfamchampionship.com/foundation-and-charities/; Twitter: @StrickerFNDN

About the American Family Insurance Championship American Family Insurance, the PGA TOUR Champions and Wisconsin native Steve Stricker launched this professional golf tournament in June 2016. The American Family Insurance Championship, held annually at University Ridge Golf Course in Madison, Wis., features a 78-player field. Past champions include Scott McCarron (2018), Fred Couples (2017) and Kirk Triplett (2016). Championship week includes the three-day tournament, two Pro-Am competitions, 5k run/walk, charity concert and a special exhibition featuring celebrities from the sports and music industries. The 2019 event will be held June 15-23 with all proceeds allocated to the Steve Stricker American Family Insurance Foundation for distribution to the American Family Children’s Hospital and other charities. More than $2.7 million has been donated to charity since the inaugural event in 2016. For more information: Web: www.AmFamChampionship.com; Twitter: @AmFamChamp; Facebook: American Family Insurance Championship; Instagram: amfamchampionship #AmFamChamp

Full list of charitable organization receiving grants from 2018 proceeds

American Family Children’s Hospital

Access Community Health Centers Aldo Leopold Nature Center America Scores Milwaukee American Cancer Society American Heart Association American Junior Golf Association Autism Society of South Central Wisconsin Badger Childhood Cancer Network Badger Prairie Needs Network Balance and Believe Foundation Big Brothers Big Sisters of Dane County Blessings In A Backpack DeForest Blessings In A Backpack Poynette Boys and Girls Club of Dane County Centro Hispano of Dane County Children’s Dyslexia Center Madison Children’s Theater of Madison Church Health Services Community Coordinated Child Care Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin Cover Me Veterans Domestic Abuse Intervention Services East Madison Community Center Edgerton Community Outreach Edgewood High School of the Sacred Heart Evans Scholars Foundation Falk Elementary – Falk Family Resource Center Families in Transition Support Network Foundation For Madison’s Public Schools GiGi’s Playhouse Madison Gilda’s Club Madison Gio’s Garden Girl Scouts of Wisconsin Badgerland Hometown Heroes Horizon High School of Madison Irwin A. and Robert D. Goodman Community Center Junior Achievement of Wisconsin Lee Trevino Foundation Living Hope Food Pantry Madison Area Urban Ministry Madison Parks Foundation Madison Public Library Foundation Madison Reading Project Madison 4Kids Middleton Outreach Ministry More Smiles Wisconsin Nutrition and Health Associates Operation Fresh Start REACH-A-Child REAP Food Group RISE Wisconsin Ronald McDonald House Charities of Madison Sally J. Schnarr Foundation Second Harvest Foodbank of Southern Wisconsin Southwestern Wisconsin Community Action Program Sun Prairie Community Schools Sunshine Place Sustain Dane Tenney Nursery and Parent Center The First Tee of South Central Wisconsin The First Tee of Southeast Wisconsin The Golf Affect The River Food Pantry The Road Home Dane County Tri 4 Schools United Way of Dane County University of Illinois Foundation - Men’s Golf University of Southern Mississippi Foundation - Athletics University of Wisconsin Foundation - Alzheimer’s Research University of Wisconsin Foundation - American Family Children’s Hospital University of Wisconsin Foundation - Athletics University of Wisconsin Foundation - Carbone Cancer Center University of Wisconsin Foundation - Garding Against Cancer University of Wisconsin Whitewater Foundation - Women’s Golf Variety of Wisconsin Vera Court Neighborhood Center VSA Wisconsin West Madison Bible Church Wisconsin PGA Jr Foundation Wisconsin State Golf Association Foundation YMCA Dane County Youth Frontiers YWCA Madison

from Auto insurance Liberty, MO. David Lawson http://newsroom.amfam.com/charitable-proceeds-total-more-than-2-million-from-2018-american-family-insurance-championship/ from Auto Insurance Liberty, MO https://autoinsurancelibertymo.tumblr.com/post/180992273102

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eddiejpoplar · 6 years

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GREAT DRIVES: Touring the Scottish Highlands in a BMW 3 Series Touring

“When the day shall come that we do part,” he said softly, and turned to look at me, “if my last words are not ‘I love you’-ye’ll ken it was because I didna have time.”

Yes. You read that right. And now you have read just as much of Diana Gabaldon’s ‘Outlander’ as I have. So, let’s stop now.

For the uninitiated, Outlander is a series of historical romance novels set in the Scottish Highlands. The books have more recently spawned at least three seasons of a TV series which is currently sweeping through loungerooms around the world.

Now, I don’t want to stereotype fans of this content, I mean there’s action, violence, time travel, nudity, and kilts to pad out the historical romance, but let’s just put it out there that there may be a correlation between my wife’s obsession with this show and her ‘impromptu’ decision that we visit Scotland on our annual family holiday.

It is, after all, only a mere 10,000 miles away…

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Scotland

Tourism is a US$15bn cornerstone of the Scottish economy, and that figure is on the rise. In fact, Tourism Scotland has noted an almost 15 percent surge in international visitors between 2016 and 2017, citing the romantic series as a key driver.

It is helped in part that the content is essentially a stepping stone for more ‘mature’ Harry Potter fans, although in Outlander the only wand in use is under Jamie’s kilt…

Throw in the location of 007’s family home Skyfall, castles featured in Monty Python, Highlander and Braveheart, and of course that expansive world of witchcraft and wizardry from Hogwarts, and Scotland is a historical pop-culture extravaganza. And we haven’t even touched on golf trips!

Plus, what makes Scotland even better as a travel destination, is that it is best enjoyed from the ground as part of a touring holiday. So while my wife was scouting for shirtless, barrel-chested clansmen, my daughter and I could enjoy the stunning Highland landscape, with a bit of Loch Ness Monster hunting thrown in for good measure.

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Getting there

Aside from our New Zealand compatriots to the east, no one has further to travel to Scotland than us Aussies. A direct flight from Melbourne to the Scottish capital, Edinburgh (via the Middle East) is a pretty painful 25-hour experience.

That said, it is still a fair hike for those of you on the west coast of North America, with direct flights only available from Chicago and major east-coast hubs. And even then, it is still a 7-8 hour jaunt in the air.

Alternatively, if you are already in Europe you can leverage the excellent train network and make your way to Scotland as we did, by driving north from London.

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Our transport – BMW F31 320d xDrive M-Sport Touring

A number of rental firms including SixT and Avis, offer a selection from the BMW range, and so balancing a need for luggage space with a desire for driving enjoyment, we opted for a BMW F31 320d xDrive M-Sport Touring from Thrifty

It is not a bad trim for a hire car, and with the Mineral Grey paint and sole option addition of the Advanced Parking Package, would have retailed for just over £41,000 (US$53k) had it been a private purchase.

You know all that rhetoric you hear about cars being cheaper in Europe? Makes the equivalent 330i xDrive Touring available in North America for US$49k feel like a bit of a bargain now, huh?

It worked out to be about £68 per day for our seven-day hire (approx. A$125 / US$88) which is very comparable with rental car prices around the world, especially for a BMW!

Powered by a 2-litre, 4-cylinder turbo-diesel, with 190hp (142kW) on tap, the 320d might not scream ‘entertaining road trip car’, but the 50:50 weight distribution of the F31, and sub-2000rpm availability of a generous 295 ft-lb (400Nm) of torque, making it a balanced and responsive tourer.

More importantly, however, is the miserly fuel consumption claim of 67mpg (4.2L/100km) on a touring cycle. The Australian dollaridoo doesn’t travel as far in ‘ol Blighty as it used to, and at the equivalent of US$6 per gallon (A$2.15 per liter) for diesel, a Scottish driving holiday can become pretty expensive, pretty quickly!

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London to Edinburgh – East coast 409 miles (658km)

Heading north from London, the 400-mile trip up the A1(M) is a great introduction to driving in the UK. It’s not what you’d call an exciting journey, but if you are new to the right-hand side of the car and need to get the basics of roundabouts, lorries and the fact the speed limit is largely ignored, then it’s a good way to start.

The drive should take you about 7-hours, so make sure the family has enough snacks and iPad charge to last the journey, or get ready for an extended game of eye-spy. A quick hint, ‘C’ is usually for ‘cow’.

For trivia buffs, the A1 passes by RAF Wittering, the air base known as being the home of the Harrier Jump Jet, and near to Rippon and the Yorkshire Dales, countryside familiar to fans of the Downton Abbey television series.

You can safely tick along about 10km/h above the posted limit and not fall victim to stationary speed cameras or police patrols. However, the general approach to speed in the UK is to drive to the conditions. Sunny day? Those policing the limits tend to relax a little. Sleeting rain and fog? Slow down and take care, as unsafe driving is not tolerated.

The road itself is a mixture of freeway and dual carriageway, with the last leg in Scotland down to a one-up one-down A-road. It’s an easy and picturesque drive though, and you’ll find plenty of places to stop and take a break, not least of which is the huge St Andrew’s cross Saltire flag to denote crossing the land border from England to Scotland.

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Edinburgh to Inverness – East, and center 201 miles (323km) with the detour

There’s plenty to explore around the Scottish capital itself, but it is all best done on foot, or by using the efficient bus network. When you’ve had your fill of shortbread and haggis though, make the 170-mile run up to the Highland hub of Inverness.

On the way, golf fans can make a short detour to historic St Andrews on the east coast of the Fife Peninsula. The region here is largely rural, so get used to narrow B-roads with blind crests, surprise cattle grids and even more surprised cattle!

The balanced nature of the 3 Series is very much at home here too, the Touring flows easily through the winding curves, maintaining a solid pace along the sometimes-unpredictable roads. Complaints from the passengers are low too, and I can’t really take all the credit for that.

From Perth onto Inverness, I would suggest taking the route through the stunning Cairngorms National Park, rather than around the coast through Aberdeen.

The Cairngorms landscape is a mixture of barren mountains and pine forest and is simply spectacular. It feels almost Nordic, even in the summer, with some patches of snow still visible on the highest peaks.

To add another movie reference, and to help you picture the environment, the thrilling ‘plane-jack’ scene from The Dark Knight Returns was shot here. Bane approves.

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The NC 500 Up to 516 miles – 336 miles as driven (541km)

Inverness makes an excellent base from which to explore the Highlands. Much of the plot of the Outlander series is based here too, so if you are still required to find a specific cobbled lane or ancient battlefield to placate any traveling fan, then this is your place.

For a stunning introduction to the region, and for some solid driving, you can hit the North Coast 500 (NC500), a 516-mile long touring route around the top of the British landmass.

The route, which may be best enjoyed over a couple of days, explores the variety of landscape Scotland has to offer and takes you through some wonderful roads that wind and twist and climb through the raw Scottish countryside.

Pass castles like the stunning Dunrobin on the east coast, hit the ‘end of the road’ in John o’ Groats then travel across the wild north and west coasts. From mountains to glens, crystal clear lochs to farmland that extends beyond the horizon, you’ll travel for miles without seeing another vehicle and can be forgiven at times, for thinking you are the only people left in the world.

It is truly a world-class drive and one where I regularly wished I could trade four-wheels for just two. That said, even in our little Touring, we spent most of the run around 130km/h, relaxed in eighth gear, sipping a very modest 6-liters every 100km (39mpg).

The roads aren’t wide, but visibility is largely good, so overtaking slower campervans or cyclists is an easy task. Just make sure to give them plenty of room, and always be mindful that in wet or cold weather (which is most of the time) you can come upon patches of standing water or ice with little warning.

Here’s a touring tip too, unless you are on a dual carriageway or motorway, keep the car in Sport mode. Fuel use difference when running at 100km/h+ is negligible, and it readies the car for response when you need to make a short-looking overtake opportunity even shorter.

The NC500 is something of a tartan Route-66, so there is a terrific website supporting the drive, listing places to eat, stay and stop along the way. Worth a read before you visit!

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Loch Ness 157 miles (253km)

I mean, you are here, you just have to, right? Pull up on the side of the road, which traces the 23 mile (37km) long inland lake, and look for the infamous ‘monster’.

I’m not sure what, exactly, a monster looks like, but rest assured when traveling with a 9-year-old, any semi-submerged log, boat wake, shadow or even mild wave chop i from Performance Junk Blogger 6 https://ift.tt/2MAGMNQ via IFTTT

#IFTTT #Performance Junk Blogger 6

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