Unveiling the Hidden Gems: Discover the Top Summer Destinations in India for 2023

GANGTOK, SIKKIM The beautiful city of Gangtok is the capital of Sikkim. Gangtok is nestled in the eastern Himalayan range and located approximately at an altitude of 5,400 feet above sea level. The average temperature during summer ranges between 18 degree to 25 degree During the summer season, one can enjoy the clear and breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks. The Rhododendron flowers in full bloom make for a great sight uplifting your mood instantly. Rise early to witness the first rays of the sun hit the earth. Feel the cool breeze, and soak in the beauty of the snow-capped mountains and the mist lifting over the green hills. This is an experience in itself if you plan to spend a romantic summer getaway with your loved ones. For people looking for some adventure, you could always spend a day trekking, mountain biking, paragliding, enjoying river rafting, or going on an epic yak safari. Best time to visit: April to June Things to do in Gangtok: camping, boating, river rafting, biking, hiking, trekking, shopping and much more SRINAGAR, JAMMU & KASHMIR Srinagar is the summer capital of Jammu & Kashmir. Situated in the Kashmir valley, this beautiful city lies on the banks of river Jhelum. Often referred to as “Paradise on Earth”, Srinagar is the perfect summer destination in India. The average temperature during summer in Srinagar ranges between 14 degrees to 27 degrees.Srinagar will not keep you locked indoors in your luxurious stays. Step out to soak in the warm and comfortable sun. For the romantics, a lazy boat ride on the Dal Lake could be a perfect start to your trip. Want more? Pay a visit to watch flowers in full bloom at the Nishat and Shalimar Gardens. They might just inspire you to write a few lines for your loved ones. If you want to get one with nature, head to Chatpal. Situated in The Shangas district, Chatpal is known for its lush green forests, gorgeous peaks and mesmerizing river streams. And for those who love architecture and design, a visit to the Mughal Garden is an absolute must. Best time to visit: April to September Things to do in Srinagar: Shopping, trekking, hiking, camping, boat rides, fishing, photography and much more THEKKADY, KERALA Nestled in the Western Ghats, Thekkady lies in the Idukki district of Kerala. It is also popular for its beautiful mountains, rich wildlife and wide range of aromatic spices. Summertime is perfect for your to visit Thekkady if you are a wildlife enthusiast. Naturally beautiful,Thekkady is blessed with an abundant number of wildlife animals and birds. It is also for its tiger reserve which forms one of the splendiferous wildlife reserves in India. For those who seek more thrill and adventure, you must sign up for an exciting off-road trip in a jeep. The vehicle takes you on a memorable ride across off-road tracks including rocks and non-existent paths. The trip is worth experiencing once. And for those who are looking for a more relaxed experience, you can always check into a comfortable stay. Head out for occasional tours in and around Thekkady, taste local flavours and delicacies and explore markets for some great shopping. Best time to visit: March to June Things to do in Thekkady: boat rides, bamboo rafting, wildlife safaris, bird watching, nature walks, and much more

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Destination Travel

EXPERIENCE OF A LIFETIME part-11

Our pick of some of the best hotels and properties that you must visit in the year 2023 We hoped you enjoyed our coverage of some of the best properties that you ought to visit this year. We received such great options that we had to split this feature in two issues. If you havent seen our previous listing, we urge you to visit our website. Continuing on with our coverage, we were actually spoilt for choices. Here’s our final list of properties that really deserve a visit this year. So sit back and enjoy our feature. We would be absolutely delighted if you do decide to visit one of these properties! FOUR SEASONS BENGALURU LOCATION: Bengaluru BRIEF DESCRIPTION: An urban resort in India’s tech capital, The Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru at Embassy One is Bengaluru’s destination of choice for gourmet dining, bespoke private residences and a luxury experience. Located in North Bengaluru, home to some of Bengaluru’s largest corporate tech parks, the centrally located space is a combination of legendary Four Seasons hospitality with private residences, office space, retail, dining and entertainment. REASONS TO VISIT: The luxurious Four Season Bengaluru is just minutes away from the Kempegowda International Airport. Moreover, the property is in close proximity to major IT Parks – Manyata Tech Park being the closest. Spend a relaxed evening at the award- winning bar, Copitas. The bar is chic and an intimate hub serves some of the best unusual cocktails and delicious light bites. They have also been featured as one of Asia’s 50 Best Bars, this is the place to experience uber-luxeartisanal craft cocktails. BEST TIME TO VISIT: All year round NEARBY ATTRACTIONS: Take a stroll at Cubbon Park, also known as Sri Chamarajendra Park which is just a few kilometres away. You could spend your mornings at the hub of Bengaluru, Brigade Road which is just 7.5 km away. Make sure you visit the Bengaluru Palace for a little lesson in history. FOUR SEASONS MALDIVES AT LANDAA GIRAAVARU LOCATION: Landaa Giraavaru, Maldives BRIEF DESCRIPTION: Lying in the Maldives’ first UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru provides a sense of freedom, space, and tranquillity—a feeling that might not easily be seen in sync with family resorts. It is one of the world’s most beautiful islands where iridescent blues, jungle greens and dazzling whites meet innovation, conservation, and wellness. The indoor-outdoor living accommodations of Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru feature direct beach or lagoon access. Open-air living and dining spaces with huge pools allow multigenerational groups to kick back and savour luxurious island living, while the wellbeing haven, AyurMa—guided by a team of Ayurvedic doctors, naturopaths, and yoga therapists— offers transformational treatments and shared Planetary Wellbeing experiences for parents and children. REASONS TO VISIT: Embark on a magical underwater adventure in search of turtles at the Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru or sail across the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve to a secluded beach for an idyllic snorkelling and picnic excursion. The resort has also launched the Maldives’ first Hologram Room: an interactive opportunity for the whole family to swim with whales, spot sea horses and explore the life-size underwater environment via a range of experiences and games.To satisfy your gastronomic cravings, sample a specially curated menu at Blu Beach Club, marrying Tuscan delights with Maldivian and island-grown products. This legendary all-day hangout serves up sophisticated Italian cuisine, spectacular sunsets and an unbeatable ambience. Chill under poolside cabanas as you savour Neapolitan pizza, authentic gelato and menus crafted by Michelin-distinguished Italian chef Gaetano Trovato. For authentic Arabian food, Al Barakat is a definite experience. In addition to these, there is Seabar, Fuego Grill and Café Landaa that guests can pick and choose from. BEST TIME TO VISIT: The best time to visit the Maldives is between November and April. The climate is warm and tropical, with average highs at a consistent 29°C to 31°C year-round and average lows rarely falling below 24°C. January to April are the driest months, with little rain and low humidity, making this the perfect time to take a trip.

With its stunning architecture, historical monuments, and spiritual sites, India is a popular destination for tourists and history enthusiasts. In this article, we’ll explore some of the top destinations in India with historical significance that will leave you amazed.

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Culture and Heritage

THE PRIDE OF INDIA part-IV

With its stunning architecture, historical monuments, and spiritual sites, India is a popular destination for tourists and history enthusiasts. In this article, we’ll explore some of the top destinations in India with historical significance that will leave you amazed. MAHABALIPURAM Mahabalipuram, also known as Mamallapuram, is a town known for its rich history, culture, and fantastic architectural wonders. Mahabalipuram is home to several UNESCO World Heritage structures, including the Pancha Rathas, Shore Temple, and the Varaha Cave Temple. These structures are over 1,000 years old and exhibit the excellent architecture of the Pallava dynasty. The town is located on the coast, which offers visitors the chance to relax on the sandy beaches and frolic in the Bay of Bengal waves. Indulging in adventurous water sports like jet skiing, banana boat rides, and surfing is also an exciting activity to try. Mahabalipuram is known for its handicrafts, especially stone carving. Visitors can watch the skilful artisans carve intricate designs from stone and even purchase their creations as souvenirs. The town’s cuisine is worth trying. The delicious local dishes cooked with traditional spices and flavours will leave your taste buds wanting more. MEENAKSHI AMMAN TEMPLE Meenakshi Amman Temple is one of the most iconic temples of India, located in the heart of Madurai, Tamil Nadu. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar, who are considered to be the embodiment of divine power, beauty, and wisdom. The serene and spiritual ambience of the temple is deeply calming and refreshing. The intricate details on the temple walls will leave you in awe. It’s a great place to capture photographs and selfies. The temple is huge and stretches over sixty thousand square meters, with several enormous mandapams (pillared halls), a large tank, and several smaller shrines. Exploring the entire temple complex will take you at least two to three hours. The temple is home to several festivals throughout the year, the most famous being the Meenakshi Thirukalyanam which takes place in April or May. During this festival, the whole city comes alive with a carnival- like atmosphere, and the temple becomes the center stage of the festivities. This festival attracts millions of devotees from all over India and the world.

ON MY BUCKET LIST A sneak peek into SeniorWorld’s curated list of the top ten travel destinations voted by senior citizens for the year 2023!

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Destination Travel

ON MY BUCKET LIST part-11

A sneak peek into SeniorWorld’s curated list of the top ten travel destinations voted by senior citizens for the year 2023! UMNGOT RIVER, MEGHALAYA The Umngot river which flows near the Indo-Bangladesh border is a crystal clear river – one of the cleanest rivers in Asia that flows through the cleanest village of Asia – Mawlynnong. This Indian village, also known as God’s own garden, boasts a 100% literacy rate. Meghalaya is scenic and an ideal Northeast vacation spot for senior citizens as it offers a mix of sightseeing, trekking, adventure and picturesque views. ANDAMAN ISLANDS One of the most prominent reasons to visit Andaman is its natural beauty and tranquillity. The Andaman Islands are known for their pristine beaches, crystal clear waters, lush green forests, and diverse marine life, making it an ideal destination for seniors looking to relax and unwind in a peaceful environment. This place also offers several opportunities for seniors to engage in various activities such as snorkelling, scuba diving, trekking, bird watching, and more, which can be both refreshing and rejuvenating for them. MUNNAR, KERALA The most picturesque hill station in Southern India, Munnar offers a perfect getaway for pleasant weather, verdant valleys, virgin forests, savannah, rolling hills, streams, waterfalls, winding walkways and lush tea and spice plantations. Trekking, camping, and staying in a treehouse are some of the activities to explore for a surreal experience. August receives a good amount of rainfall which enhances the spectacular beauty of this hill station in Kerala to another level, making it an ideal holiday spot. BALI, INDONESIA Bali is known for its warm hospitality, friendly locals, and slower pace of life, which can be a welcome change for seniors who may be looking to escape the stress of their daily routine. The island’s beautiful beaches, breathtaking landscapes, and lush green rice terraces offer a perfect setting for travellers to relax and unwind in a serene environment. There are several wellness retreats, yoga centres, and spas, which provide seniors with anopportunity to rejuvenate and focus on their well-being.

EXPERIENCE OF A LIFETIME Our pick of some of the best hotels and properties that you must visit in the year 2023

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Destination Travel

EXPERIENCE OF A LIFETIME part-1

Our pick of some of the best hotels and properties that you must visit in the year 2023 We hoped you enjoyed our coverage of some of the best properties that you ought to visit this year. We received such great options that we had to split this feature in two issues. If you havent seen our previous listing, we urge you to visit our website. Continuing on with our coverage, we were actually spoilt for choices. Here’s our final list of properties that really deserve a visit this year. So sit back and enjoy our feature. We would be absolutely delighted if you do decide to visit one of these properties! FOUR SEASONS MALDIVES AT KUDA HURAA LOCATION: Kuda Huraa, Maldives BRIEF DESCRIPTION: The Four Seasons Resorts Maldives at Kuda Huraa is an award-winning luxury property that beckons guests with the welcoming embrace of a lagoon, flower gardens, and a private spa island in a charming setting of a Maldivian village. Tastefully designed, there is an infinity pool overlooking the clear waters of the Maldives where guests can spend the entire afternoon lounging on the outdoor deck, sipping cocktails, and enjoying occasional dips in the pool and the view of the endless ocean. Extending across three majestic islands, this opulent resort is home to the Maldives’ first private spa island, a world-class surfing tournament and an impressive sea turtle conservation sanctuary. REASONS TO VISIT: Experience the charm of being surrounded by crystal waters at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa. Centrally located amongst the country’s most celebrated surf breaks, a surfing holiday at Kuda Huraa is an exceptional experience. Idyllic beauty, island spa, sumptuous dining, unrivalled Four Seasons service and world-class surf are what the resort is known for. BEST TIME TO VISIT: The best time to visit the Maldives is between November and April. The climate is warm and tropical, with average highs at a consistent 29°C to 31°C year-round and average lows rarely falling below 24°C. January to April are the driest months, withlittle rain and low humidity, making this the perfect time to take a trip. NEARBY ATTRACTIONS: Located at a slight distance from the main resort, one must sail across the blue waters, and step onto a green island to soak up the ethereal whites. THE KUMAON LOCATION: Kasar Devi region of Uttarakhand BRIEF DESCRIPTION: The Kumaon is a transformative luxury retreat tucked away in Kasar Devi region of Uttarakhand. It is surrounded by the spectacular undulating hills and rich biodiversity with unparalleled views of the mighty Himalayan range. Conceptualised by Dr. Vikrom Mathur, one of the co- founders, whose profound love for the region and special relationship with its people goes back to his childhood days. He has researched and written about environment, society and development for the past 20+ years. Genesis of The Kumaon is rooted in his passionate beliefs as well as interest in the region’s ecology and its coupling with the culture and livelihoods of local communities. REASONS TO VISIT: The comfortable and secluded setting of The Kumaon provides a perfect ambience forstargazing where one can fully immerse in the beauty of the mysterious night sky. The experiential journey at The Kumaon is a natural paradise where one can explore the rich biodiversity and unchartered landscapes with retreat as a base camp. Locally sourced, farm fresh produce makes for a splendid culinary experience at The Kumaon. While one can go foraging for various ingredients in the forests with the team, insights into the sustainable local cuisine can be found in complex fibre and biodynamic superfoods that are native to the region. One can try a variety of produce like protein-rich black soybean daal, bhaang chutney made with ground cannabis seeds, and millet flatbreads! A combination of indoor or al fresco dining can be enjoyed at the gourmet restaurant that sits in a cantilevered structure of floor- to-ceiling glass with an adjoining main terrace area. A formidable juxtaposition of minimalism and modernism, The Kumaon is uniquely crafted as a secluded private sanctuary. Award-winning Zowa Architects from Sri Lanka – Pradeep Kodikara and Jineshi Samaraweera, have taken their love for nature, natural materials and minimalism to weave these together into contemporary design aspects that reflect at The Kumaon. NEARBY ATTRACTIONS: From The Nanda Devi temple that sits on the top of Crank’s ridge, to the Chitai Golu Devta bell temple, one can visit these sacred sites frequented by the local worshippers. Then there is the nearby town of Almora with an old-world charm and secrets from history.

NEXT STEP FORWARD… Industry guru Alok Bansal answers all important questions on upskilling and how it can lead young professionals on a successful career path

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Trends

NEXT STEP FORWARD…

Industry guru Alok Bansal answers all important questions on upskilling and how it can lead young professionals on a successful career path The world is constantly changing. We are thrown with new challenges and demands each passing day. Hence it is extremely important to stay updatedand to upgrade ourselves to stay relevant in this competitive world. This month, we have our Mr Alok Bansal, Managing Director (Visionet Systems India) & Global Head (BFSI Busines) to help you understand the essence of upskilling. How will upskilling help in preparing professionals in the country? I hope that these 30 Skill India centres will help bridge the gap between academic degrees and employability in the post-pandemic, hyper-digitized job market. Without skill-development systems and frequent upskilling modules, the potential of India’s demographic dividend cannot be utilized fully. Conventional education does not really prepare young professionals to join industries where new-age technologies like AI, Machine Learning, coding, Robotics, Mechatronics, IOT, 3D printing, drones, etc., and soft skills are becoming increasingly important. I am glad that Budget 2023 envisions the skilling of lakhs of youth within the next three years by offering them on-job training, industry partnerships, and courses that align with the needs of the industry. Ihope this will also contribute to healthy employment generation while taking into consideration micro and macroeconomic conditions so that collectively we can stride towards the long-term goal of a $5 trillion economy. What has been the current situation of skilling in the country? The unemployment figures are indicative of massive skilling gaps and I welcome the government’s increased focus on this issue. There is a supply and demand faultline that I hope the vision of the current budget will repair. We cannot also forget that there exists a digital as well as gender inequity when it comes to diverse employment and entrepreneurial opportunities. This is why Visionet introduced a free-skilling initiative ‘Unnati for India’ in May 2020 to empower young men and women in tier 2 and 3 cities who aspire to work in the technology sector or to start their own businesses via digital platforms but do not have the requisite skills. Our workforce has also absorbed a large number of trainees, including a large number of women, who had joined ‘Unnati for India.’ For the economy to grow in a sustainable manner, it is essential for women to get equal access to technological skills. Has the government achieved the previous target for skilling people in the country? Only the relevant government department can answer that question accurately. According to the Ministerof State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Mahendra Nath Pandey, the government has met its skilling goals by training 1.07 crore youth by January 2021. I also welcome the increased emphasis on skilling that this budget is promising. As a country with a youth population of over 65%, we cannot afford spiralling unemployment rates and growing skill gaps. As I have said repeatedly, one way to reap our demographic advantage is through the skill development of the youth. Last year the Pradhan Mantri National Apprenticeship Mela was also launched and I believe, offering apprenticeships is the most effective way to skill young aspirants. As a leader, I am cognizant of the increasing demand for professionals who are proficient in new age skills and so we are also doing our bit to formally upskill more employees within the company and also absorb as many freshly skilled trainees as possible. I truly believe, if our youth are skilled and empowered to take on the global workforce, India will soon develop into a formidable growth engine where all citizens have equal opportunities to grow and thrive

Plumbing is an important aspect of a perfect home. Here are some important tips that you should consider and incorporate at the design stage itself

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Trends

PLUMBING: A STEP TOWARDS A PERFECT HOME

Plumbing is an important aspect of a perfect home. Here are some important tips that you should consider and incorporate at the design stage itself Plumbing is one building service area that needs careful planning before starting construction as plumbing is the only service in a building which is directly connected to human health and hygiene. Improper plumbing planning can lead to various hygiene issues as well as leakages and seepages in the building which might even require re- modelling, resulting in high costs.To avoid such situations, you must consider the 5 following points and incorporate them at the design stage only. Ensure 24*7 water supply and adequate pressure in your water taps: Ensure your interior designer plans for sufficient water storage or for 24/7 water supply with proper pipe sizes to have adequate water based on 135 litres per head per day. Too little water pressure will not give you sufficient water. On the other hand, excessive water pressure can lead to wasting a lot of water and black splash. Remember to clean your aerator device or filter on the tip of the tap periodically to remove the dirt and dust accumulated there resulting in free flow. Incorporate systems that test potable water frequently to help get clean and hygienic water:Please ensure that you are getting your drinkable water tested frequently. About 3.77 crore Indians are annually affected by waterborne diseases, 15 Lakh children die of diarrhoea, and 7.3 crore working days are lost, leading to a huge economic burden on the nation’s economy. Plan accident-free and odour-free bathrooms: The bathroom is one area where maximum accidents occur due to slipping. A wet floor can sometimes cause a fatal injury, especially with slippery material like granite. Installing grip handles near the toilet seat and in the bathing area is an absolute must. These are particularly handy for the elderly and senior citizens.All sewage systems must be planned in such a manner that there is no foul smell and your waste goes away in a hygienic manner. Unfortunately, this is often neglected to save some money while designing your bathrooms and toilets Water-energy nexus: All sanitaryware and water fixture units should be water efficient as there is a water and energy nexus. Water-saving plumbing fixtures and sanitaryware are not only a better choice for conserving water but also energy and thereby saving money. Using low-flow fixtures and fittings that dispense less water at the source is recommended to save water and energy by way of transportation of water, pumping and treatment. Plan a rainwater harvesting arrangement on your premises, if possible: Rainwater harvesting enables us to collect and store rainwater for future use. If possible, ensure that your premises have a rainwater harvesting system installed in them. The collected rainwater can be either used to recharge your underground aquifers or can be used for alternate uses like gardening, flushing or cooling towers etc. The best place to install your rainwater harvesting system is next to the roof drain pipe or the down-spout. This is the place where most of the rainwater is diverted

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Technology

FOR A SAFE AND SECURE FUTURE

Make the internet experience safe and secure for your kids. Learn everything you should know about cyberbullying Being online has many benefits. However, like many things in life, it comes with risks that you need to protect against. If you experience cyberbullying, you may want to delete certain apps or stay offline for a while to give yourself time to recover. But getting off the Internet is not a long-term solution. You did nothing wrong, so why should you be disadvantaged? It may even send the bullies the wrong signal — encouraging their unacceptable behaviour. We all want cyberbullying to stop, which is one of the reasons reporting cyberbullying is so important. But creating the Internet we want goes beyond calling out bullying. We need to be thoughtful about what we share or say that may hurt others. We need to be kind to one another online and in real life. We need to be thoughtful about what we share or say that may hurt others as the first line of defence against cyberbullying start from us and It’s up to all of us! “Generations of children have now grown up in the internet age, and cyberspace has therefore become both a source of opportunities and an arena for the safeguarding of child rights and protection from new forms of risk. Children make up one-third of internet users globally. let’s do all we can to make the internet an outlet for self- expression, creativity, education, and connections with each other, without threats of bullying and violations of privacy. On Safer Internet Day, UNICEF calls on children and young people, parents, teachers, policymakers, tech innovators, and businesses to come together to createa safer, healthier digital world for our children,” said Cynthia McCaffrey, UNICEF India Representative. Here are answers to some of the most common questions about online bullying and advice on ways to deal with it. What is cyberbullying? Cyberbullying is bullying with the use of digital technologies. It can take place on social media, messaging platforms, gaming platforms and mobile phones. It is repeated behaviour, aimed at scaring, angering or shaming those who are targeted. Examples include:  Spreading lies about or posting embarrassing photos or videos of someone on social media Sending hurtful, abusive or threatening messages, images or videos via messaging platforms Impersonating someone and sending mean messages to others on their behalf or through fake accounts.Face-to-face bullying and cyberbullying can often happen alongside each other. But cyberbullying leaves a digital footprint – a record that can prove useful and provide evidence to help stop the abuse. Am I being bullied online? How do you tell the difference between a joke and bullying? All friends joke around with each other, but sometimes it’s hard to tell if someone is just having fun or trying to hurt you, especially online. But if you feel hurt or think others are laughing at you instead of with you, then the joke has gone too far. If it continues even after you’ve asked the person to stop and you are still feeling upset about it, then this could be bullying. And when the bullying takes place online, it can result in unwanted attention from a wide range of people including strangers. Call it what you will – if you feel bad and it doesn’t stop, then it’s worth getting help. Stoppingcyberbullying is not just about calling out bullies, it’s also about recognizing that everyone deserves respect – online and in real life. What are the effects of cyberbullying? When online bullying happens it can feel as if there’s no escape. The effects can last a long time and affect a person in many ways:  Mentally – feeling upset, embarrassed, stupid, even afraid or angry Emotionally – feeling ashamed or losing interest in the things you love Physically – loss of sleep, or experiencing symptoms like stomach aches and headaches Cyberbullying can affect us in many ways. But these can be overcome and people can regain their confidence and health. How can cyberbullying affect mental health? Cyberbullying can make a person start to feel ashamed, nervous, anxious and insecure about what people say or think about. This can lead to withdrawing from friends and family. People can lose motivation to do the things that they usually enjoy doing and feel isolated from the people they love and trust. This can perpetuate negative feelings and thoughts which can adversely affect mental health and well-being.  Skipping school is a common effect of cyberbullying and can affect the mental health of young people who turn to substances like alcohol and drugs or violent behaviour to deal with their psychological and physical pain. The effects of cyberbullying on mental health can vary depending on the medium through which it happens. For example, bullying via text messaging orthrough pictures or videos on social media platforms has proven to be very harmful to adolescents. Talking to a friend, family member or school counsellor you trust can be a first step to getting help. Are there any online anti-bullying tools for children or young people? Each social platform offers different tools that allow users to restrict who can comment on or view their posts or who can connect automatically as a friend, and report cases of bullying. Many of them involve simple steps to block, mute or report cyberbullying. Social media companies also provide educational tools and guidance for children, parents and teachers to learn about risks and ways to stay safe online. However, the first line of defence against cyberbullying could be you. Think about where cyberbullying happens in your community and ways you can help – by raising your voice, calling out bullies, reaching out to trusted adults or creating awareness of the issue. Even a simple act of kindness can go a long way. How to prevent personal information from being used for cyberbullying on social media? Think twice before posting or sharing anything on digital platforms. Don’t give out personal details such

Escape to Paradise: Unveiling Unforgettable Getaways for Your Dream Vacation in 2023!

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Destination Travel

Unveiling Unforgettable Getaways for Your Dream Vacation in 2023!

RAFFLES UDAIPUR LOCATION: Udaipur, Rajasthan BRIEF DESCRIPTION: Located in the romantic and historic city of Udaipur, Rajasthan, the hotel is reminiscent of a grand country estate that brings aprivate oasis experience on an island. A scenic 20-minute drive from the airport, followed by a gentle and calming boat ride, transports guests from the real world to thesurreal. The 101 rooms and suites offer unhindered, breathtaking views of the lake and captivating sunsets. Bespoke dining venues and programs offer unparalleled gastronomy. REASONS TO VISIT: For those on a constant quest for peace, calmness and discovery, the mystical island of Raffles Udaipur is an all-encompassing destination for a luxurious staycation. Nestled on a 21 acres private island on the magnificent Udai Sagar Lake in the midst of the Aravali Hills, this country estate is equipped with all you could need for an opulent and serene stay. From unparalleled gastronomic indulgences and emotional well-being to wholesome activities for the little ones, soak into an illustrious haven of revitalizing experiences during your stay at Raffles Udaipur. Every experience at the hotel is discrete and charming, ensuring guests enjoy an extraordinary emotional luxury quintessentially associated with the Raffles brand. BEST TIME TO VISIT: All year round NEARBY ATTRACTIONS: Other tourist attractions comprise lakes, mountains, spiritual destinations and animal reserves that one can explore while in Udaipur like Ravla Khempur Walk, Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Heritage Sightseeing, City Palace Udaipur, Vintage Collection Of Classic Car Museum, Eklingji Temple, Shrinathji Temple, Karni Mata among others. THE MIRAGE HERITAGE HOME STAY LOCATION: Andretta Pottery Artist Village, Himachal Pradesh BRIEF DESCRIPTION: The Mirage is set amongst dense foliage in the artist’s colony of Andretta. The property offers state-of-the-art accommodations for solo travellers and families, along with yoga and wellness retreats.All the cottages are made from mud giving guests a unique experience of one of India’s traditional methods of architecture. Meals prepared here give our guests a chance to indulge in local flavours and global cuisines as our chefs have been trained to specialise in multiple cuisines over the years. REASONS TO VISIT: For travellers who are looking to have the beautiful Dhauladhar mountain range all day long nestled in the lap of nature. Come home to the mirage for some peace, calm and get one with nature. BEST TIME TO VISIT: All year long. But having said that, monsoons can be difficult as flights often get delayed and cancelled due to rains in Himachal. NEARBY ATTRACTIONS: Andretta is home to one of India’s oldest pottery studios. The village also lets you enter into a time capsule by visiting Norah Richards’s Home, and Sobha Singh’s art Museum. For nature lovers you have, forest hikes, waterfall treks, and scenic sunsets to cherish.

Unveiling the Best Summer Destinations in India for 2023: Your Ultimate Guide to Memorable Adventures and Relaxing Getaways

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Destination Travel

Unveiling the Best Summer Destinations in India for 2023: Your Ultimate Guide to Memorable Adventures and Relaxing Getaways

Summer is just around the corner. And, before you are caught off guard about your next summer vacation plans, we have something just for you. This time, we have shortlisted a few summer destinations in India for the year 2023. These holiday destinations are spread across all corners of our nation and have something for everybody. From adventure trips with friends to quiet family outings, we have everything that you ever wanted on a trip. So sit back, grab a cup of coffee and browse through our recommendations. OOTY, TAMIL NADU Located in the Nilgiri Hills, Ooty or Udhagamandalam (official name) is popularly known as the “Queen of Hill Stations”. Ideally, Ooty is an all-year-round destination but it is also considered a perfect summer destination. The temperature in Ooty in summer is around 23 degrees to 31 degrees One thing that is hard to miss in Ooty is the acres and acres of lush green patches peppered with great parks and beautiful bungalows. It gives you a feeling as if you have been transported to a beautiful village in Europe. Once here, make sure you book a ride on the cute hill train to experience Ooty like never before. You could also spend a day at a lake with loved ones enjoying a boat ride or spending a few hours in a boathouse You could visit a few national parks, gardens or temples depending on how you would want to spend your day. Best time to visit: April to June Things to do in Ooty: trekking, boating, camping, birdwatching, tour around a botanical garden, waterfalls, national parks, and much more KALIMPONG, WEST BENGAL Situated at an altitude of approximately around 1,250 metres, Kalimpong is a beautiful hill station in West Bengal. Nestled in the gorgeous Himalayanmountain ranges, Kalimpong is popular for trekking, its beautiful Buddhist monasteries and gorgeous colonial architecture. The temperature in summer ranges anywhere between 12 degree and 22 degree making it a perfect summer destination. Plan a trip to Deolo Hill and get mesmerized by the breathtaking view of snow-capped Kanchenjunga and the Himalayan mountains. Get one with nature and wildlife by planning a trip to Neora Valley National Park. Or simply get in touch with a few trekking groups and plan a great day trekking at some popular spots in Kalimpong. To know more about local culture and traditions, you could also plan a visit to a few popular monasteries such as the Tharpa Choling Monastery or the Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Monastery, popular for its rare Tibetan Buddhists scriptures. Best time to visit: March to May Things to do in Kalimpong: trekking, shopping, wildlife safari, visiting monasteries, temples, gardens, parks and much more MATHERAN, MAHARASHTRA Located in the Western Ghats, Matheran is one of the smallest hill stations in India. It is also probably Asia’s only automobile-free destination. While other cities in Maharashtra experience scorching summer sun,Matheran on the other hand offers a pleasant summer experience. The average temperature in this part of the world ranges between 22 degrees to 34 degrees. People flock here to witness the sun rise and set at popular points such as Louisa Point, Charlotte Lake, Prabal Fort, One Tree Hill Point, Alexander Point, Irshalgad Fort and much more. Make sure to experience the toy train ride in Matheran, this experience will definitely be the highlight of your trip. You could plan trekking expeditions or enjoy horse riding in Matheran. Rent a cycle and rediscover the simple joys of life as you cycle through the lanes and bylanes of Matheran. Try and reach out to local tour guides to experience some local flavours. Best time to visit: March to June Things to do in Matheran: Riding the toy train, cycling, horse riding, shopping and much more

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