Most of us enjoy gathering in front of a roaring fireplace with family, friends, and pets during the holiday season. Unfortunately, many holiday traditions like these can affect your indoor air quality , triggering allergies and asthma. What causes winter allergies? Many particles and chemicals in your home can trigger allergy and asthma symptoms. The […]
Snowboards and sleds have become the latest additions to Chinese New Year travellers' luggage, alongside local specialties and gifts for family get-togethers.
Exams are over and school’s on holiday. Students around the country think to themselves, “Now what am I going to do with all this free time?” Sure, there are games to play, movies to watch, and homework to do. But there are also plenty of productive things to do during the school holidays. So we’ve come up with 12 productive things to do during the school holidays:
1. Reflect on the term gone by.
Take out a sheet of paper and answer these three questions:
· What did I do well in the past term?
· What did I not do so well in the past term?
· What will I do differently in the coming term?
2. Set process goals for the coming term.
This is a follow-up to Point #1.
Set process goals for the coming term instead of performance goals, because process goals are far more effective.
What’s the difference between the two types of goals?
Process goals are what you intend to do, while performance goals are what you intend to achieve.
3. Watch educational YouTube videos.
Here are a few of our favorite educational YouTube channels:
· MinutePhysics (all kinds of cool physics)
· CrashCourse (history, chemistry, astronomy, and much more)
· AsapSCIENCE (science topics ranging from biology to psychology
4. Watch documentaries.
You can watch thousands of high-quality documentaries for free at Documentary Heaven.
5. Volunteer.
Find a practical way to serve and contribute. You could volunteer to clean up the beach, help out at a nursing home or animal shelter, or deliver meals to the elderly.
6. Learn a new skill.
You could learn skills like…
· Public speaking
· Cooking
· Drawing
· Self-defense
· Negotiation
· Listening
· Positive thinking
7. Visit museums.
A trip to a museum will make you more knowledgeable, and you’ll probably leave feeling inspired too.
8. Read.
We recommend that you read these five books:
· How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
· A Grain of Wheat (Paperback) by Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o
· The Promised Land (Paperback) by Grace Ogot
· The Happy Student by Daniel Wong – International Edition
9. Pick up a new hobby.
You will probably feel bored at some point during the school holidays. That’s the time to pick up a new hobby like…
· Juggling
· Gardening
· Playing an instrument
· Dancing
· Photography
10. Reconnect with friends and family members.
Reconnect with friends and family members whom you didn’t get to spend much time with during the school term.
At the very least, send them a text or email to show them that you’re thinking of them.
11. Improve your writing skills.
Writing skills are important for academic success, and they’re even more important for career success. So work on your writing skills this school holiday.
12. Learn time management skills.
Get started with these three resources:
· Entrepreneur.com
· TopUniversities.com
· GoodLuckExams.com
Are you planning to visit some new places and spend quality time with your family this Dashain and Tihar vacations at a low budget? Then here are some destinations you won’t regret visiting:
Nagarkot
Nagarkot located a few kilometers away from the capital city is mostly popular for its altitude (2075 meters) and proximity to mountain ranges. Mt Everest, Mt Dhaulagiri, Mt Kanchenjunga, Mt Manaslu, Mt Ganesh, Mt Langtang, Mt Gaurishankar, Mt Choyo, Mt Loste and Mt Makalu can be witnessed from Nagarkot, a heaven for mountain lovers.There are plenty of hotels, some luxury, and small guest houses. Few days at 2000m can be a great experience to celebrate your vacations with loved ones.
Dhulikhel
Planning to escape from the busy streets of Kathmandu and have some adventure? Then Dhulikhel, a hill station some 30 km away from Kathmandu can be your next destination this Dashain and Tihar vacations.
Besides, one can spot more than 20 different mountain peaks from this tourism hub. Likewise, Dhulikhel is a combination of a variety of communities such as the Newars, Brahmins, Chhetris, Tamangs and Dalits in Nepal. The historic town houses beautiful old houses and temples too.
Adventurers can explore thrilling rafting on the Sunkoshi and the Bhotekoshi rivers. Hotels and resorts have been established in the city which range from budget class to luxury that won't let you down.
Sundarijal-Chisapani
If you are looking for a short trek or hike around Kathmandu Valley, then you won’t regret visiting Sundarijal-Chisapani trekking route. Slight up-hill trek in Shivapuri National Park area enjoying the view of Mt Langtang, Mt Ganesh and Mt Gaurishankar can be completed in a day. You can also extend your trek to Nagarkot from Chisapani if you want; that can be done in around 5-6 hrs. You won’t find any difficulties finding home stays, lodges and hotels for fooding and lodging at a reasonable price.
Kakani
Kakani just 23 km to the north-west of Kathmandu, right next to the Shivapuri National Park is a small village that has a lot in its favor and is definitely worth a visit. One can explore Tamnag and Gurung culture and the taste, mostly popular for strawberries and trout fish. Imagine enjoying the taste of strawberries, trout fish and local alcohol in the lap of Langtang and other mountain ranges of Helambu.
Daman-Chitlang
If you love camping and barbeques then Daman of Chitlang in Makwanpur district is probably the best place for you. It is an easily accessible and time saving destination. It also offers perfect mountain views with affordable and cozy home stays, resorts and lodges. Boating in Kulekhani can also be a perfect way to enjoy your stay.
Pokhara
Pokhara, one of the most visited and famous tourist hubs of Nepal, is no doubt a best destination for this Dashain and Tihar vacations. Pokhara is a full day’s bus ride from Kathmandu on Himalayan roads. Boating in Fewa and Begnas Lake, stunning mountain views that tower above Pokhara, adventurous activities such as paragliding and white-water rafting are the key attractions of Pokhara. Pokhara is also famous for its nightlife, restaurant, clubs, bars and trekking shops. Besides, you won’t regret visiting the Pokhara peace stupa for a great view of the lake, town, and mountains early in the morning.
Visitors can easily browse a wide range of hotels, lodges, resorts, home stays ranging from budget class to luxury class.
Sauraha
Sauraha, a popular holiday destination in Chitwan particularly famous for jungle activities like Elephant Ride, jungle safaris and Tharu villages along with western style hotels and resorts, restaurants, Internet cafes, and gift shops. It is also very popular for spotting one-horned rhinoceros, Bengal tiger, bears, leopards, crocodiles and monkeys amongst others, and hundreds of species of birds and butterflies. It is located 160 kms by road from Kathmandu. The good news is October and November are the best time to visit this place.
Lumbini
Lumbini is the birthplace of Lord Gautam Buddha. Stupas, temples and statues built to mark the birthplace of Buddha are the key attractions of this place.Besides the sacred Bodhi tree, and the pool adds to the beauty and religious significance of Lumbini. Likewise, Thai, Tibetan, Sri Lankan, and Myanmar temples, monasteries and pagodas along with the World Peace Pago draws thousands of visitors during this period of the year.
Janakpur
Strolingl through the historic Mithila city to experience the terai culture of southern Nepal and visit the grand Ram Janaki Temple in the center of the city is the best thing to do in Janakpur located in Dhanusha district.
The Janaki Temple is the main attraction of the city and draws large crowds of visitors.
Janakpur has been mentioned in the Ramayana as the birthplace of Sita, Ram’s consort. As Ram is believed to be the incarnation of Lord Vishnu, Sita is believed to be the incarnation of Goddess Laxmi.
Besides, diverse ethnic groups live in the district of Dhanusha such as the Yadavs, Teli, Brahmins, Kyastha, Tharu, Musahar, Rajput, and Chhetris and the region is considered the center of Mithila art and culture.
Janakpur is approximately 390 km and a 10-hour drive from Kathmandu.
Janakpur city has luxury hotels to budget accommodation and many types of restaurants that cater to visitors. Dharamshalas (accommodation for pilgrims) are also available. The delicious food here has a touch of Indian taste, which is suitable for the large number of Indian visitors. Varieties of sweets and vegetarian specialties are the norm. Other tourist facilities are also available in this city.
BRUSSELS, Nov 21: This was supposed to be the Christmas in Europe where family and friends could once again embrace holiday festivities and one another. Instead, the continent is the global epicenter of the COVID-19 pandemic as cases soar to record levels in many countries.
This was supposed to be the Christmas in Europe where family and friends could once again embrace holiday festivities and one another. Instead, the continent is the global epicenter of the COVID-19 pandemic as cases soar to record levels in many countries.
“The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes.”
Are you planning to visit some new places and spend quality time with your family this Dashain and Tihar vacations at a low budget? Then here are some destinations you won’t regret visiting:
Nagarkot
Nagarkot located a few kilometers away from the capital city is mostly popular for its altitude (2075 meters) and proximity to mountain ranges. Mt Everest, Mt Dhaulagiri, Mt Kanchenjunga, Mt Manaslu, Mt Ganesh, Mt Langtang, Mt Gaurishankar, Mt Choyo, Mt Loste and Mt Makalu can be witnessed from Nagarkot, a heaven for mountain lovers.There are plenty of hotels, some luxury, and small guest houses. Few days at 2000m can be a great experience to celebrate your vacations with loved ones.
Dhulikhel
Planning to escape from the busy streets of Kathmandu and have some adventure? Then Dhulikhel, a hill station some 30 km away from Kathmandu can be your next destination this Dashain and Tihar vacations.
Besides, one can spot more than 20 different mountain peaks from this tourism hub. Likewise, Dhulikhel is a combination of a variety of communities such as the Newars, Brahmins, Chhetris, Tamangs and Dalits in Nepal. The historic town houses beautiful old houses and temples too.
Adventurers can explore thrilling rafting on the Sunkoshi and the Bhotekoshi rivers. Hotels and resorts have been established in the city which range from budget class to luxury that won't let you down.
Sundarijal-Chisapani
If you are looking for a short trek or hike around Kathmandu Valley, then you won’t regret visiting Sundarijal-Chisapani trekking route. Slight up-hill trek in Shivapuri National Park area enjoying the view of Mt Langtang, Mt Ganesh and Mt Gaurishankar can be completed in a day. You can also extend your trek to Nagarkot from Chisapani if you want; that can be done in around 5-6 hrs. You won’t find any difficulties finding home stays, lodges and hotels for fooding and lodging at a reasonable price.
Kakani
Kakani just 23 km to the north-west of Kathmandu, right next to the Shivapuri National Park is a small village that has a lot in its favor and is definitely worth a visit. One can explore Tamnag and Gurung culture and the taste, mostly popular for strawberries and trout fish. Imagine enjoying the taste of strawberries, trout fish and local alcohol in the lap of Langtang and other mountain ranges of Helambu.
Daman-Chitlang
If you love camping and barbeques then Daman of Chitlang in Makwanpur district is probably the best place for you. It is an easily accessible and time saving destination. It also offers perfect mountain views with affordable and cozy home stays, resorts and lodges. Boating in Kulekhani can also be a perfect way to enjoy your stay.
Pokhara
Pokhara, one of the most visited and famous tourist hubs of Nepal, is no doubt a best destination for this Dashain and Tihar vacations. Pokhara is a full day’s bus ride from Kathmandu on Himalayan roads. Boating in Fewa and Begnas Lake, stunning mountain views that tower above Pokhara, adventurous activities such as paragliding and white-water rafting are the key attractions of Pokhara. Pokhara is also famous for its nightlife, restaurant, clubs, bars and trekking shops. Besides, you won’t regret visiting the Pokhara peace stupa for a great view of the lake, town, and mountains early in the morning.
Visitors can easily browse a wide range of hotels, lodges, resorts, home stays ranging from budget class to luxury class.
Sauraha
Sauraha, a popular holiday destination in Chitwan particularly famous for jungle activities like Elephant Ride, jungle safaris and Tharu villages along with western style hotels and resorts, restaurants, Internet cafes, and gift shops. It is also very popular for spotting one-horned rhinoceros, Bengal tiger, bears, leopards, crocodiles and monkeys amongst others, and hundreds of species of birds and butterflies. It is located 160 kms by road from Kathmandu. The good news is October and November are the best time to visit this place.
Lumbini
Lumbini is the birthplace of Lord Gautam Buddha. Stupas, temples and statues built to mark the birthplace of Buddha are the key attractions of this place.Besides the sacred Bodhi tree, and the pool adds to the beauty and religious significance of Lumbini. Likewise, Thai, Tibetan, Sri Lankan, and Myanmar temples, monasteries and pagodas along with the World Peace Pago draws thousands of visitors during this period of the year.
Janakpur
Strolingl through the historic Mithila city to experience the terai culture of southern Nepal and visit the grand Ram Janaki Temple in the center of the city is the best thing to do in Janakpur located in Dhanusha district.
The Janaki Temple is the main attraction of the city and draws large crowds of visitors.
Janakpur has been mentioned in the Ramayana as the birthplace of Sita, Ram’s consort. As Ram is believed to be the incarnation of Lord Vishnu, Sita is believed to be the incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi.
Besides, diverse ethnic groups live in the district of Dhanusha such as the Yadavs, Teli, Brahmins, Kyastha, Tharu, Musahar, Rajput, and Chhetris and the region is considered the center of Mithila art and culture.
Janakpur is approximately 390 km and a 10-hour drive from Kathmandu.
Janakpur city has luxury hotels to budget accommodation and many types of restaurants that cater to visitors. Dharamshalas (accommodation for pilgrims) are also available. The delicious food here has a touch of Indian taste, which is suitable for the large number of Indian visitors. Varieties of sweets and vegetarian specialties are the norm. Other tourist facilities are also available in this city.
KABUL, July 20: At least three rockets landed near the Afghan presidential palace on Tuesday as Ashraf Ghani and a group of other leaders marked the start of the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha with prayers in the garden.
Although there was no immediate claim of responsibility, it was the first rocket attack on Kabul since the Taliban launched a series of offensives to coincide with the final drawdown of foreign troops from the war-wracked country.
The early morning holiday calm was shattered by the sound of incoming rockets heard across the heavily fortified Green Zone that houses the presidential palace and several embassies, including the US mission.
In a video posted on the official palace Facebook page, dozens of men can be seen continuing with their prayers even as the rockets are heard overhead and exploding nearby.
President Ghani, dressed in traditional Afghan clothing and a turban, stands at the front and appears to not even flinch as the crowd bows together.
"The Taliban have proved that they have no will and intention for peace," he said in a speech afterwards.
Interior ministry spokesman Mirwais Stanikzai said three rockets appeared to have been fired from a pickup truck. One did not detonate, he said. "Based on our initial information, we have no casualties," he added.
The palace was attacked last year as hundreds of people gathered to watch Ghani's inauguration ceremony, prompting some to flee.
The jihadist Islamic State group (IS) claimed responsibility for that attack, with no reports of casualties.
Tuesday's attack coincides with a sweeping Taliban offensive across the country as foreign forces wind up a troop withdrawal scheduled to be complete by August 31.
It also comes a day after more than a dozen diplomatic missions in Kabul called for "an urgent end" to the insurgents' ruthless military offensive, saying it was at odds with claims they want to secure a political deal to end the conflict.
The statement follows another round of inconclusive talks in Doha over the weekend between the Afghan government and the Taliban that many hoped would kickstart the ailing peace process.
- Little progress -
"The Taliban's offensive is in direct contradiction to their claim to support a negotiated settlement," the statement read.
"It has resulted in loss of innocent Afghan lives, including through continued targeted killings, displacement of the civilian population, looting and burning of buildings, destruction of vital infrastructure, and damage to communication networks."
For months, the two sides have been meeting on and off in the Qatari capital but have achieved little, with talks appearing to have lost momentum as the militants make battlefield gains.
A joint statement late Sunday said they had agreed on the need to reach a "just solution", and to meet again next week.
"We also agreed that there should be no pause in the negotiations," Abdullah Abdullah, who oversees the Afghan government's delegation, told AFP on Monday.
He noted, however, that neither side was currently pursuing a joint ceasefire during the talks, despite urgent calls from Afghan civil society and the international community to end the fighting.
The Taliban and government have previously announced ceasefires during some religious holidays.
Following the weekend summit, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced that his administration hoped to start talks with the Taliban over the group's refusal to let Ankara run the Kabul airport after US troops withdraw from Afghanistan.
Turkey has been negotiating with US defence officials over an offer to secure the airport, which is key to allowing countries to retain a diplomatic presence in Afghanistan after the troop withdrawal.
Last week, the Taliban called Turkey's offer "reprehensible". Fighting, meanwhile, continued in Afghanistan, with both the Taliban and government claiming gains in various parts of the country.
Over the weekend, the Taliban's supreme leader Hibatullah Akhundzada said he "strenuously favours" a political settlement -- even as the hardline Islamist movement continues its offensives.
The Taliban has been capturing districts, seizing border crossings and encircling provincial capitals as foreign forces prepare to fully exit by late August.
In Washington, the State Department said that some 700 interpreters and their immediate family members who are fleeing Afghanistan will be relocated to an army base in the state of Virginia.
Muslims celebrated Eid al-Fitr in a subdued mood for a second year Thursday as the COVID-19 pandemic again forced mosque closings and family separations on the holiday marking the end of Islam's holiest month of Ramadan.
