by pankaj | Jun 12, 2024 | Blog, City/State Tour, Latest Post, Travel Tips
There are numerous climate zones in our world, and for those of you who like it hot, there is nothing like bright sun and warm nights. If you’re a heat seeker on a quest for the perfect summer getaway, stop right here! Here’s a sizzling list of the 10 hottest places on Earth, along with what makes them burn and the fiery experiences they offer
- Death Valley, California, USA: The holder of the title ‘world’s hottest’ has the record of the highest temperature in the world that is 56.7°C (134°F) in 1913. This desert valley is a hot and dry location that features arid plains, large sand mounds, and saline plains, which makes it suitable for people who can endure heat. For hikers of Death Valley, the journey is in hiking through this harsh terrain to see the beautiful sights such as the lowest altitude point in North America known as Badwater Basin or the sculpted rocks of Zabriskie Point.
- Kebili, Tunisia: The town of Kebili rises from the middle of the Sahara desert, and the climate is characterized by extremely high temperatures in summer exceeding 55 degrees Celsius (131 Fahrenheit). This old town gives a feel of the desert region through the palm trees, traditional circulation structures, and the opportunity to have the feel of the desert through the safari. Apart from the 4×4 desert safari to the dunes, Kebili offers travelers a cultural experience where one can get to see and learn about the local dress code, the κεffieh, and get to taste local food such as bricka, a pastry stuffed with meat or seafood.
- Turbat, Pakistan: This city is located in Balochistan province, and this area is well known for high temperatures, with temperatures often exceeding 53°C (128.7°F). Turbat has a rich cultural element, and it is quite interesting to see how people developed to survive in such a climatic environment. The visitors can do this firsthand by visiting a colorful Thursday Bazaar or driving along the Makran Coastal Highway with gorgeous views of the Arabian Sea.
- Lut Desert, Iran: This huge lowland area includes Dasht-e Lut, called by some satellite temperature measurements the hottest place on the planet. Though the official ground temperatures have not been as high as those recorded in Death Valley, Lut Desert can boast of its hot reputation. It boasts spectacular calderas and extraordinary rock patterns known as yardangs, which have been carved by blistering winds. Visiting the Lut Desert is strictly prohibited without a permit and escort because of the harsh climate. For those who dare enter, they will be met with some of the largest star-shaped sand formations called Keluts and the desolate beauty of this wasteland.
- Dallol, Ethiopia: This volcanic region situated in the Danakil Depression is not just hot but is uniquely extraordinary. A location with colorful acidic hot springs, geysers, and fuming fumaroles that are significantly over 40°C (104°F). Dallol is a geologist’s paradise and an extraordinary thermal wonderland. Even getting to Dallol is a sort of a story since it can be accessed only through crossing incredibly hot desert. However, the view of this otherworldly environment, which is painted in the shades of yellow, green, and orange, is worth it.
- El Azizia, Libya: This small town also set the record of the highest temperature ever recorded in Africa in 1922 with a record high of 58°C (136°F). El Azizia shows traditional Libyan architecture with adobe houses as well as a different pace of life comparing to the cities. For the adventurous, the large area of the Wadi Faregh system of dry valleys with beautiful rocks are diversions from the hot town core.
- Dallol, Ethiopia: The area is not only hot in terms of climate and geology but also has a rich history. Originally, it was a potash mining outpost, and the harsh climate demanded that the town be abandoned. Old mining equipment and crumbling structures that litter the landscape capture people’s fight against the forces of nature.
- Titul, Pakistan: Titul is a town situated in the Sindh province of Pakistan where summers are extremely hot, with temperatures as high as 50°C (122 °F). It is an agricultural town which provides an opportunity to observe the remnants of the prehistoric Indus Valley civilization and numerous archaeological sites. Some of the sites of interest include the Makli Necropolis that has been accredited as a World Heritage Site through UNESCO and the mord-era decorated tombs of the Sindh rulers.
- Kebili, Tunisia : Apart from the extreme temperature, Kebili and its surroundings offer an opportunity to visit the Chott el Djerid – the Great Salt Lake of Tunisia, where a multitude of photographers and nature lovers can take astonishing sunrise and sunset shots.
- Lut Desert, Iran : The Lut Desert extends beyond hot temperatures; it is also the perfect location for anyone who loves stargazing. The sky in Lut Desert is as clear as could be owing to the lack of artificial lights and dry weather and is filled with billions of stars along with the Milky Way galaxy.
Thus, for those who love the heat and the spirit of the search for hot places, this selection will provide a perfect start. Thus, it is important to know that preparation and protection are always necessary while attempting to traverse these areas. However, for the traveler who is willing to take the heat and visit the hot destinations of our world, the experience is unique.
by pankaj | May 10, 2024 | Blog, Garden, Latest Post, Travel Tips
Japan is a theme park paradise, featuring thrilling rollercoasters, cute character encounters, and mind-blowing stories you’ll never find anywhere else. On top of the usual attractions of Universal Studios Japan and Tokyo Disneyland, there is another strange yet fun world of funny parks to be discovered. Here are 10 amazing theme parks in Japan you’ve got to visit
- Ghibli Park
Discover the magical world of Studio Ghibli in this new park. Experience sections based on the well-known movies, such as My Neighbor Totoro and Spirited Away, with imaginative attractions, displays meant to interact, and a chance to meet your favorite characters. Get immersed in nature as you wander through Dondoko Forest, hop on the Catbus for sight-seeing, and let the tales of Ghibli catch you wistfully.
- Sanrio Puroland
Hello Kitty fans, put a smile on your face! This indoor park is a Sanrio paradise, a colorful park where you can find rides, shows, and meet-and-greets with Hello Kitty, My Melody, and all your favorite friends. The Lady Kitty House teacup ride at the park can be enjoyed by spinning around and singing at the Friendship Land show at the same time, and kawaii overload at Puroland is a must.
- Nago Pineapple Park
Okinawa isn’t only about beaches. Indulge in a walk to this unusual pineapple-themed park. Find out how the fruit is grown by being in fun and educational exhibits, ride the pineapple-shaped cart around the fields, and of course, enjoy all the things pineapple just as a pineapple soft serve or a pineapple hat on here.
- Moominvalley Park
Moomin children young and adults will love this surreal park created on the base of the characters from the Finnish Fairytales. Discover Moomintroll’s home, a lovely blue cabin surrounded by the trees, and encounter the amenable inhabitants such as the imaginative Snufkin and the wise Moominmamma. Wander through the picturesque surroundings that were actually taken from the books. Make a magical boat trip on Riverbank Cart or unleash your creativity in the playgrounds built especially for the kids.
- Huis Ten Bosch
Little Netherlands in a Japan land, Huis Ten Bosch is a place to enjoy canals, windmills, and European-style architecture. Take a gondola ride over the flower-crowned canals, which look like Amsterdam, discover the shimmering display of lights coming to life at night, and get a sense of “the Dutch” with some traditional stroopwafels (syrup waffles).
- Aqua Park Shinagawa
Skip the heat and the crowds at this unusual indoor water park in Tokyo. Feel the adrenaline rush as you plunge down water slides such as the “Black Hole” and “Caribbean Cyclone” while enjoying your relaxing moments in the wave pools and melting away into the tropics with faux palm trees and simulated sun rays right in the middle of the city.
- Edo Wonderland
Journey into the past to land of the Edo period (1603-1868) at this historical theme park. Dress up as a samurai, enjoy seeing kabuki theater and ninja performances as well as being a part of the numerous sights and sounds of old Japan. Savor street food belonging to that era, compete with others in samurai swordsmanship classes, and engage with the fascinating history.
- Yokohama Cosmo World
Brighten up those adrenal glands at this lakeside park with hair-raising rollercoasters like the thrilling “Do-Dodonpa” that will take you from 0 to 180 km/h in 1.56 seconds. Admit to the giant Ferris wheel called “Cosmo Clock 21” for a full view of Yokohama and its surrounding bay and pep up your excitement by taking part in numerous carnival games.
- Nijigen No Mori
Anime and manga fans are definitely going to be thrilled by this park which is devoted to their favorite heroes. Ride a zipline into the mouth of Godzilla for an incredible stunt that you will never forget and soar through the sky using a grappling gear inspired by the Attack on Titan as an exciting attraction. Also, experience interactive exhibits based on many different series like Naruto and ワンピース (One Piece).
- Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo – The Making of Harry Potter
Walk into the enchanting Harry Potter universe at this amazing studio experience. Discover the legendary spots, like the Great Hall with the floating candles and the Gryffindor common room, and peek into the secrets behind the scenes, as you see the costumes, props, and other special effects up close and personal. Make sure you try out a Butterbeer at the recreated Backlot café and pick up cool memorabilia at the themed shops.
This displays only a small fraction of the distinctive themed parks that Japan has. Whether it is meeting cartoon characters or exploring historical periods or diving into the world of anime, there is one such place for every adrenaline freak, pop culture fan, and history lover. Well, pack your bags, gear up with an adventurous spirit, and get ready to plunge into a universe full of theme parks.
by pankaj | May 10, 2024 | Blog, Business, Ecommerce, India, Latest Post
Each and every one of us knows Apple iPhones as global sensations, and the stores that sell them are booming businesses. Although the details of sales data are kept secret, there are certain stores which are clearly incredibly popular. Let’s take a closer look at 8 of the world’s top iPhone-selling stores and what makes them successful.
- Apple Fifth Avenue, New York City, USA
This world-famous glass cube serves as a beacon and a significant place of interest on its own. Its Fifth Avenue address on one of the world’s most expensive retail streets is the ultimate assurance for strong foot traffic. Innovative glass cube design, a commitment of Apple to aesthetics, adds another reason to visit the store for technology lovers and makes the iPhones one of the best-selling with it.
- Apple Champs-Élysées, Paris, France
Located on the very famous Champs-Élysées street, the store enjoys a large international customer base. The architectural design, with its floor-to-ceiling windows, shows the elegance and refinement of the Parisian road. Trilingual staff make it a smooth buying experience for tourists and locals around the world and consequently, make it an important player in iPhone sales globally.
- Apple Ginza, Tokyo, Japan
Located at the heart of fashion-forward Ginza district, the prestigious neighborhood aligned with luxury brands and world-class department stores, Apple Ginza store is an unmistakable symbol of the brand’s feature in Asia. The design embraces the city’s modern outlook while the service-oriented staff attracts a technologically savvy customer base. Combined with location, design, and services offered makes it a big seller for iPhones in the Asian market.
- Apple Pudong, Shanghai, China
The Apple Pudong Store within Shanghai’s financial business district is the ideal place to benefit from the huge market that China offers to Apple products. The store being at the proximity of corporate offices and affluent neighborhoods has a high traffic of customers who go for the latest iPhones. The store’s design exhibits a function and efficiency character which is prevalent in the fast-paced Shanghai financial area.
- Apple Covent Garden, London, England
This remarkable Apple premium retail store is located in London’s Covent Garden district, which is popular among tourists for its energetic street performances and high-end shops. It is a must-visit destination for iPhone users. The historical site, once a theater, delivers charm while the hospitality and knowledge of the staff make it the choice for top-selling iPhones.
By all means, mega flagship stores usually occupy the headlines, the winning formula in iPhone sales is not restricted to the megalosities within big cities. Regional retailers are among the shops that have specialized in attending to particular customer groups or rendering high-quality customer service. These stores often act as anchors in their communities, fostering a loyal customer base
- Apple Jungfrusstrasse, Zurich, Switzerland
Switzerland is characterized by a high GDP and a population which is very keen on Apple products. The Apple Jungfrusstrasse store, built into the Bahnhofstrasse, the lavish shopping district of Zurich, provides for this distinguished clientele. The design of the store is in the Swiss style and minimalistic, thus reflecting the Swiss personality; the staff, for their part, provide excellent service in multiple languages.
- Apple ION Orchard, Singapore
Singapore is one of the top tech hubs in Southeast Asia and the Apple ION Orchard store is an illustration of the brand’s emphasis on this fast-growing market. The store which has set up in ION Orchard mall, a top luxury shopping destination, has a beautiful design and exciting features like an interactive video wall that highlights Apple products. A staff that is able to speak many languages guarantees a smooth shopping experience for a wide range of clients. It is, therefore, the top seller in Southeast Asia.
- Apple Dubai Mall, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Dubai is a huge shopper’s paradise, with the Apple Dubai Mall store being the pinnacle of luxury. Sited in the world’s biggest shopping mall, it delicately targets the most refining crowd who are after the newest iPhones. The opulent surroundings with a marble floor and high ceiling are compatible with the reputation of the personality of Dubai Mall. Customers experience the best service due to the skilled workers who make the buying process of these high-end customers easy.
- Apple Sydney, Sydney, Australia
This flagship store in the CBD of Sydney is a must-visit destination for iPhone shoppers in Australia. The glazed, modern design projects the city’s dynamic atmosphere. An emphasis on the user experience is the main driver behind the establishment of features such as a Genius Bar for technical support and interactive displays which deliver the product information, making it a top destination for both casual browsers and serious buyers. This integration of the factors places it as the number one retailer of iPhones in Australia.
It must be emphasized that this list is not exhaustive, and, probably, some other stores might also be worth paying attention to. Things like location, store design, and customer service are what make a store successful. This is only a fraction of the number of Apple stores that sell Apples around the globe, which provide an attractive combination of location, design, and customer service which make them the leaders in iPhone sales.
by pankaj | May 10, 2024 | Beaches, Blog, Latest Post, Latest Trend, Vacations & Leisure
The wide ocean, with its surface covering more than 70%, is one of the parts of the Earth that remain mostly unexplored. This hermitage is home to innumerable living creatures, of which many are yet to be found. Each year, researchers uncover some new species of animals, provoking our minds beyond the imaginable. Here are 10 of the most captivating recently discovered marine dwellers:
- T. Sponge (Advhena magnifica)
Picture the environment of the deep sea known as the “Forest of the Weird”. This is the location where explorers came across the E.T. Sponge; a white, bulbous creature with two dots positioned on a long elongated stem. Its weird, extraordinary form symbolizes the mysterious beauty that is usually found on the ocean floor.
- Fighting Elvis Worms (genus Stygohadal)
This worm’s ferocious-sounding name is perfectly accurate. These creatures have found their habitat in the Mariana Trench, the deepest part of the earth’s ocean depths. They attack using their sharp jaws that are combined with strong bites for survival in these extreme conditions.
- Tiny Tree-of-Life Tardigrade (ParamicroTARDIS nana)
Tardigrades, also referred to as water bears, boast of their resilience. This new species is the smallest member of the Tardigrada phylum that has so far been discovered in such a vast space as the ocean depths. TARDIS is an affectionate name given by the character, which represents the possibility of enormous things dwelling in the smallest forms.
- Patrick Sea Star (Attenborough yıldız)
This sea star, being named after the beloved cartoon character for its similarity, is adorned with knobby arms and is usually found in the Aegean Sea. This exciting finding is yet another example of efforts to classify the amazing richness among starfish types.
- Blobfish (Psychrolutes marinus
Despite its not being the most outstanding looking, it serves as a fine specimen of adaptation. Its gelatinous body allows it to sustain the extreme pressure of the abyssal area.
Creatures of Myths and Legend
Monster tales about the abyssal predators have been captivating our imagination for centuries. Some of these stories are the source of truth, real beings that were discovered in the sea showing similarities to legendary beasts.
- Vampire Squid (Vampyroteuthis infernalis)
It is a jet-black cephalopod which lives in the twilight zone of the ocean where the sunlight hardly penetrates. Given the bioluminescent red spots and filaments that can be retracted, this animal could easily be mistaken for a character from a gothic novel, playing its role as a predator of any organic matter that falls into the sea.
- Goblin Shark (Mitsukurina owstonii)
This jaw-dropping shark is the oldest, and looks prehistoric, with a pink, protruding snout and rows of razor-sharp serrated teeth. It is a living fossil. Living in the absolute depth of sea, its encounter is rare giving the aura of uniqueness to its presence.
A World of Concealment
Oceans are home to many different habitats which pose major challenges to the organisms who live there. While others do so by mimicking their environment, becoming nature camouflage specialists.
- Flamboyant Cuttlefish (Thysanoteuthis flamboyant)
This marvelous cuttlefish is a resident of coral reefs in the Indo-Pacific region. When threatened it unravels its multi-color body with huge bio-luminescent organisms into a spectacular display that startles predators making it get away.
- Transparent Sea Cucumber (Cucumaria japonica)
This transparent sea cucumber employs the strategy of near-invisibility to escape predators. Its entire body is almost transparent so that light can go through it without much bending.
- Leafy Seadragon (Phyllopteryx taeniolatus)
Blending in perfectly, the leafy seadragon has leaves for disguise, each of which also has leafy protrusions. Such an approach makes it virtually indistinguishable from the kelp forest setting and therefore eludes potential predators.
Giants of the Deep
The fact that the ocean is so vast is a place for creatures that have spectacular size and are only recently being discovered.
- Colossal Squid (Mesonychoteuthis hamiltoni)
The colossal squid, a distinct type of giant squid, is assumed to be the world’s biggest invertebrate animal. They are believed to be over 45 feet in length; still, they mostly stay enigmatic and unstudied. Researchers are clinging to patches of DNA found in predators and camera images taken by submersibles to assemble their existence.
This list is just a small preview of the hidden treasures found in the deep parts of the ocean. New discoveries will continue to be made, and many species are entirely unknown. By keeping on our endeavors of exploring the ocean depths, a lot more bizarre creatures that we can never imagine to exist will keep on emerging, refining our knowledge of marine life and its diversity. The future world ocean exploration is captivating as much as the exotic worlds these discoveries unfold. It also reminds us that the Earth holds as the profound secrets as we would search among the stars.
by pankaj | May 10, 2024 | Blog, Business, Ecommerce, India, Latest Post
Coffee – the key component of many people’s mornings and afternoons – has an illustrious heritage and varied genesis. From the misty mountains of Guatemala to the volcanic slopes of Indonesia, where particular places produce coffee beans cherished for their individuality and excellence. Let’s embark on a global coffee adventure, exploring the top 10 caffeine plantation areas:
- Brazil: The Unchallenged Monarch
Brazil is the top producer in coffee, and this country manufactures as much as 2.65 million metric tons yearly. Brazil also provides original Arabica beans from the Cerrado region. They are known for their distinctive smooth, harmonious flavor with hints of honey and hazelnut, but not at all like the ‘in your face’ image associated sometimes with Brazilian coffee.
- Vietnam: Robusta Champion
Vietnam is second to this only with 1.65 million metric tons per year. Here, Robusta reigns supreme. These beans are known for their rich flavor, more caffeine, and special ground-like aroma. Vietnamese coffee traditionally has a strong and creamy taste whether served hot or iced with sweetened condensed milk, which is the best way to begin the morning.
- Colombia: The Peak Of Perfection
Colombian coffee is known synonymously with quality, providing 810,000 metric tonnes per annum. Grown at high altitudes, especially in the Andean region around Medellin, Colombian varietals are known for distinct acidity, full body, and pronounced flavors that can be nutty, chocolatey, and even citrusy or floral. Colombian Supremo types are highly appreciated for their standard quality and rich flavor.
- Indonesia: A Coffee Archipelago
The existence of volcanic soil and diverse growing conditions across the Indonesian archipelago is the main factor for the country’s big coffee output, which is estimated at 660,000 metric tons per year. Each island has its own distinctive posture. Sumatran Mandheling, which grows in the rich volcanic soils of Sumatra, is known for its earthy, herbal cup, while the Sulawesi Toraja, produced in the mountainous Toraja region of Sulawesi, is loved for its full-bodied, almost winey flavor with a bit of spice.
- Honduras: Beyond the Bean Belt
Honduran coffee production surpasses 580,000 metric tons. Honduras has not been a part of the top-notch bean belt based in Central America. However, in recent years, this has changed, and this country now has a reputation for producing Arabica beans of very high quality. The Copan Ruinas region in Honduras is a perfect example of the right climate and altitude, which leads to coffees with complex, well-balanced flavors having tones of chocolate, citrus, and caramel.
- Ethiopia: The Origin of Coffee
Ethiopia, the birthplace of coffee connoisseurs, is responsible for the yearly contribution of 384,000 metric tons. Known for its heirloom Arabica varieties with floral and fruity notes, Ethiopia Yirgacheffe, a variety from the southern highlands cherished by coffee lovers. This kind of bean has a bright acidity together with citrus and blueberry characters, and also a rather distinctive floral scent, which point to their ancient conventions.
- India: A Land of Diversity in Coffee
While India has a production of 348,000 metric tons, the country extends beyond the ordinary cup of coffee, catering to a multitude of preferences. The Indian coffee varies from strong, chicory-infused South Indian filter coffee which is popular in the Karnataka and Kerala regions to unique monsooned Malabar beans that are exposed to the monsoon winds of the Malabar Coast. Indian coffee is certainly proof of the rich coffee culture in the country.
- Uganda: A Rising Star
The coffee production in Uganda reaches a remarkable 288,000 metric tons a year. Although Robusta is a widespread variety, especially around Lake Victoria, specialty Arabica beans from the mountainous farming areas of Bugisu region are becoming known. Beans from this country brew a rich, velvety cup with flavors of chocolate and berries which is a nice advantage from this East African country.
- Mexico: Shade-Grown Gems
Arabica bean from Mexico’s shade-grown Arabica beans, which are grown under the canopy of rainforests in Chiapas and Veracruz, produce 234,0000 metric tons each year. Renowned for its outstanding acidity, flavor notes of chocolate, spices, and slight smokiness, Mexican coffee offers a unique experience. Sometimes taken standalone as a brewed pour-over or a traditional “Cafe de Olla” mixed with cinnamon and cloves, Mexican coffee is an entree of adventure in every sip.
- Guatemala: Volcanic Perfection
The last one is Guatemala producing 225,000 metric tons of coffee a year. Guatemalan Antigua coffee beans, from Antigua Valley, which is volcanic, are acclaimed for their high acidity, light citrus and chocolate notes, and smooth finish. Similarly, another Guatemalan location, Huehuetenango, which is well known, produces a full-bodied coffee with a touch of spice and a lot of stone fruits flavor. These high-altitude, shade-grown coffee beans are a witness to the fact that Guatemala takes the quality standards in its coffee production very seriously.
Hence, whenever you next brew a cup of coffee, take time to reflect on the location where coffee beans are grown. Whether it is from the giant plantations of Brazil to the little and precise farms of Ethiopia, every cup is a window to the farmer’s hard work, knowledge about the climate, and their struggles for the best cup of coffee. The world of coffee offers a diverse range of flavors and regions to satisfy any coffee lover.
