#Border Tourism In India

[nadabetindo-pakborder]

Nadabet Indo-Pak Border | Seema Darshan Nadabet Witness the pride and honor as our soldiers hold the Indian Flag high at Nadabet Indo-Pak Border.

[marvinjsm]

Indo Pak Border…. Longewala..

Marvin Jasialmer

Indo Pak Border Jaisalmer

[rockdesignbd]

India - Bangladesh friendship gate. #reyes #bangladesh #india #meghalaya #border #travel #indiabangladeshborder #tamabil #tourism (at Tamabil Boder INDIA Bangladesh Friendship Gate) https://www.instagram.com/p/ClQerDTvWWm/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[science-of-politics19]

India is constructing 2000 km highway worth 40000 crore counter China

To monitor China's activities along the Mcmahon line, the Indian government will build a frontier highway worth 40,000 crores. Approximately 2000 kilometers long highway will become a permanent ground position line of India in front of China. https://scienceofpolitics.in/india-constructing-2000-km-highway-worth-40000-crore-counter-china/

[sayruq]

So, I've had people asking, why does it matter if rockets are fired towards Tel Aviv and other settlements when they cause a fraction of the damage done by an Israeli missile?

Psychological warfare - the rocket barrages eliminate any sense of security that Israelis might have during the war. It reminds them that there's a price for the occupation of Palestine. I can't tell you how many videos I've seen of people in luxury resorts and other high class lodgings shouting and fleeing in fear at a rocket from Gaza or Yemen. It makes it hard for them to go about their daily life ignoring what is happening. Furthermore it undermines the strength of the IDF. Netanyahu can go on TV and claim to have complete control over Gaza but a rocket barrage undoes that easily. A rocket barrage tells Israelis and the rest of the world that not only is Hamas (and the other groups) still intact, it has enough of a stockpile to still bomb parts of Israel over 50 days into the conflict. Israeli media is constantly shocked every time this happens because there's always the assumption that Palestinians are unprepared in every way for the conflict we're seeing today. It forces them to take the threat posed by the Resistance very seriously which of course leads to the existential meltdowns you see on Israeli social media accounts.

De-settlement - There are hundreds of thousands of internally displaced settlers right now. Most of them are unwilling to return because the settlements are still getting hit and it's obvious the IDF is struggling to get things under control. The annexation of Palestinian land and the formation of settlements has led to a great deal of violence towards Palestinians in both Gaza and the West Bank. Hence, why forcing settlers to evacuate is seen as a great success by the Resistance and their supporters. Hezbollah, for example, has mentioned that several times while doing debriefs of their efforts in the conflict

Hits to the economy - if the settlers are evacuated, who will run local businesses? Not to mention underpaid and overworked foreign migrant workers have fled the country while exploited Gazan workers are trapped in Gaza. Israel is trying to combat this by making deals with countries like India and Mali to get tens of thousands of workers but it's not going to be enough especially the longer this conflict goes on. There's also the fact that tourism won't recover to pre war levels due to security concerns. The same thing with foreign capital leaving the country. Israel is too unstable and evidently incapable of regaining that stability (by quickly defeating the Palestinian resistance) which makes it risky to invest in Israeli businesses.

Logistical nightmare - Gazan rockets are cheap to produce, Israeli interceptor missiles are not. Israel is spending more to stop the barrages of rockets than the Resistance has spent probably in the past 5 years. It's the same issue on the Northern border to Lebanon and whenever Yemen sends its long range missiles. It's not like both Israel, America and Europe have endless supplies of weapons and ammunition, they sent most of their stockpiles to Ukraine. The longer this goes on, the more dire things will get but we're already seeing the strain

[kummatty]

I put together a little reading list for break bc there's soooo much I want and need to read, its obviously too long and subject to the whims of my brain but some of it will be read;

cross stitch, jazmina barrera trans. christina mcsweeney

out of the sugar factory, dorothee elmiger trans. megan ewing

brotherless night, v.v. ganeshananthan

a mercy, toni morrison

happy stories, mostly, norman erikson pasaribu trans. tiffany tsao

gate of the sun, elias khoury

after the last sky: palestinian lives, edward said

discourse on colonialism, aimé césaire trans. joan pinkham

necropolitics, achille mbembe

securing paradise: tourism and militarism in hawai'i and the philippenes, vernadette vicuña gonzalez

the jakarta method: washington's anticommunist crusade and the mass murder program that shaped our world, vincent bevins

partitioning palestine: british policymaking at the end of empire, penny sinanoglou

maroon nation: a history of revolutionary haiti, johnhenry gonzalez

in theory: classes, nations, literatures, aijaz ahmad

jungle passports: fences, mobility, and citizenship at the northeast india-bangladesh border, malini sur

finally got the news: the printed legacy of the u.s. radical left, 1970–1979, ed. brad duncan

[hoperaypegasus]

Savannah Speculation

So, Team Wild Fang wasn’t always the representatives of the entire African continent. They originally started off just as the reps from a fictional country called Savannah. Now, the information we are really told about this country sums up to this: it’s small, poor, has very few people, and really, really needs trade partners. 

Out of all the groups we see, they are one of two groups with blended blended countries of origin (Kyoya and Benkei from Japan, Nile hinted at from Egypt, and Demure from a primarily grasslands country), the other being the EU representatives. 

However, unlike Team Excalibur, they only started out being representative of one country, who apparently had so few bladers that they had to turn to opening the selection tournament to make a mark on the global stage.

So what’s the backstory of Savannah? What put the small country in such a tight spot? And where in Africa is it even located? Well, with a little research and a whole ton of hyperfixation, I believe I have a pretty solid theory.

One: Savannah’s Location

We are told that Savannah is a small African country. However, since Africa is the second largest continent, that really does not help us much. All it did was eliminate the other continents.

The first hints towards Savannah’s exact location are its climate. The area around Rock City (the location of the selection tournament), appears to mostly fall into the semi arid type of climate. Therefore, we can cancel out all areas that are purely arid or grassland, leaving us with this search area.

Now that doesn’t look as helpful as it actually is, because our darling dearest Beyblade loves dramatic opening shots. And from that, we know there is a more arid are of the country as well, further narrowing it down to places with both. And Kyoya walks through a more arid area, however, it is primarily rocks, not just sand. Which is a huge clue, as there are four deserts within Africa that have a large amount of rocks in them: The Kalahari, The Karoo, The Chalbi, and The Guban. These narrow our map of possible locations to look like this.

Now, we are looking at exactly five countries that could have given up some of their land to form Savannah. In the south, we have Namibia, Botswana, and South Africa. And in the east, we have Kenya and Somalia. I’m going to go ahead and eliminate South Africa off this list as it rejoined the British Empire after the end of Apartheid in 1994, which is really recent, as well as it being a huge and well known country around the world so it would likely remain untouched.

Next to go is Botswana. This is mainly due to how it is hinted that Wild Fang arrived in Japan by boat. Now, I understand that they were likely coming from India, but we also see Rock City. That is Savannah’s capital and if they had an airport, it is likely to be there. But we see no signs of one, so I’m choosing to believe their main mode of transport off the continent was boat and Botswana is landlocked.

Now we’re down to Namibia, Kenya, and Somalia. Now we focus on the other aspects of Savannah we know. That it’s really, really, poor. That eliminates Namibia off the list in my opinion because they are already well know in the diamond industry and any splinter country off them would likely immediately be absorbed into it as well. So we’re down to Kenya and Somalia. 

Kenya does have a larger GDP than Namibia. However, Kenya has a large amount of tourism industry in its borders, which functions (according to what i read) as one of its primary sources of income. A splinter country would not have that infrastructure ready and judging by how all officials we see are in military-esque uniforms, the country is pretty new. It would have to rely on another main source of income that is common in Kenya, agriculture.

Somalia has the lowest GDP of the final two countries and its main source of income is agriculture, specifically livestock. Easier to set up in a young country, and decently easy to integrate into the trade market of, agriculture is my best guess on what Savannah’s main export is.

Now you are realizing that both of those countries seem to fit all the requirements, and you’d be right. So here’s my final purposed location for Savannah: right in-between the two.

The semi arid and arid climates line up perfectly, as does the naval transportation and rocky deserts. Savannah is a newly formed country between Kenya and Somalia.

Two: Savannah’s Origins

We’re into the speculation section now. 

I’ve mentioned Savannah as a newly formed country a few times, and this is mainly due to unlike nearly every other county, it does not have trade partners. It has no economic support from others and is clearly struggling. They do not care about accurately representing their country’s culture (ie the open to all selection tournament). And that could be because they don’t have a single central country culture yet. The country is still setting into its new role as one, and any representative would settle into that role with it, so it does not matter their country of origin (and the rep team probably were granted citizenship as soon as they were selected, meaning they are now at least dual citizens there). 

Another hint that the country is really newly formed is that fact that all officials we see are in military clothing. Now, government officials with military backgrounds aren’t odd, but literally every official we see are in uniform. That’s really common after a fight for independence in particular, as people seen as hero’s are likely to get elected into office. 

So, they recently won a war or battle of some kind for independence and are still coming up with their identity. They are very accepting of outside aid at the current moment (due to financial situations). It is also likely that they flourished during the World Championships and are in much better shape than when we first see them due to Wild Fang’s success.

Purposed Savannahian Stuff

National Animal: Lion (Hence the team name being Wild Fang since we see names being chosen for teams)

National Plant: Acacia Trees (The only large plants there we see)

National Languages: Swahili, Somali, Arabic, and English

Citizen’s Title: Savannahian

Exports: Agriculture (primarily livestock and fish) and Natural Resources (jewels)

Flag: 

[kajaawa2]

Meghalaya Tourism: An Ideal Travel Guide

Meghalaya, meaning "the abode of clouds", is a paradise for nature lovers. This hill station in Northeast India has captivated travelers worldwide with its truly magnificent and enchanting skies. Nestled in the Himalayas, Meghalaya shares its borders with Bangladesh to the east and south and Assam to the north.

Unforgettable Experiences Await

Meghalaya boasts a plethora of tourist attractions, from towering hills and valleys to countless lakes, cascading waterfalls, pitch-black caves, and sacred forests. Panoramic views, misty hills, terraced slopes, flowing waterfalls, and serpentine rivers are sure to enthrall your soul.

Meghalaya will awaken all your senses. From cultural highlights to heart-pounding adventures, numerous unforgettable encounters await the curious traveler.

Cultural Tapestry

Meghalaya's cultural tapestry is woven with numerous threads. The vibrant traditional festivals are a fantastic way to experience the uniqueness of the state's indigenous population. Soak in the customs of the locals and the breathtaking views while learning about the message each festival conveys. Explore some of the state's local history while sampling the various cuisines it has to offer. Get lost in the area's markets and take advantage of the burgeoning nightlife scene. Meghalaya is renowned for its contemporary cultural celebrations that honor local and international artistic talent. Expect a showcase of music, art, intriguing cultural customs, and more.

Top Tourist Destinations

Popular tourist spots in Meghalaya include Shillong, Tura, Jowai, Cherrapunjee, Nongpoh, and Baghmara. There are numerous tourist attractions in Meghalaya that are worth a visit, including:

Shillong (Scotland of the East): Explore Shillong Peak, Elephant Falls, Ward's Lake, Don Bosco Museum, and Umiam Lake.

Cherrapunjee (One of the wettest places on Earth): Witness the awe-inspiring Dain-Thlen, Kynrem, Nohkalikai waterfalls, and the marvel of engineering - Double Decker Living Root Bridge. Explore Mawsmai Cave, Seven Sister Falls, and Wei Sawdong Falls.

Mawsynram (Another contender for the wettest place on Earth): Visit the famed Jakrem Hot Spring and the Mawjymbuin Cave.

Mawlynnong (Asia's Cleanest Village): Experience serenity amidst spotless surroundings and explore the Living Root Bridge and Balancing Rock.

Dawki (Crystal-clear Dawki River): Enjoy kayaking, snorkeling, and camping by the river in Shnongpdeng Village. Take in the scenic beauty of the Dawki River and the Indo-Bangladesh Border.

Best Time to Visit:

March to June: Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing and adventure activities.

July to September: Perfect for relaxation and enjoying the beauty of the rainy season.

October to November: Witness the vibrant cherry blossoms in autumn.

December to February: Ideal for hiking excursions and exploring nearby locations.

How to Reach Meghalaya:

By Train: The nearest train station is Guwahati (Assam), 180 kilometers away. Taxis or buses can take you to Meghalaya from Guwahati.

By Air: Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati (Assam) is the nearest major airport. Taxis can take you to Meghalaya from the airport.

By Road: Major cities are well-connected to Meghalaya by roadways.

Travel Tips:

Research local permits required for specific activities.

Book your accommodations in advance, especially during peak season.

Pack essentials like rain gear and comfortable shoes.

Plan your itinerary based on your interests and time constraints.

Budget for your trip, including transportation, accommodation, food, and activities.

Sample the local cuisine - a delightful way to experience the culture.

Respect local customs and traditions.

Rainfall in Meghalaya:

Meghalaya receives an average annual rainfall of 1,150 millimeters. The state lives up to its name, with the sky rarely remaining cloud-free.

Weather in Meghalaya:

Meghalaya boasts pleasant weather year-round with an average temperature of 24°C. The monsoon season brings ample rainfall, enhancing the beauty of the natural landscape. Winters are dry with moderate temperatures.

Ready to Explore?

Meghalaya, with its stunning beauty, rich culture, and diverse experiences, is a destination that will leave you mesmerized. Let Kajaawa Tours & Cabs craft your dream Meghalaya adventure and help you discover the hidden gems of this incredible state!

[thesamsaraholidays]

Wonders of Leh Ladakh with The Samsara Holidays: Your Ultimate B2B Partner

Explore Leh Ladakh like never before with The Samsara Holidays' exclusive B2B packages!

Ladakh's unique landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and adventurous opportunities make it a popular destination for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and those seeking a glimpse into Tibetan-Buddhist culture.

Ladakh is a region in the northernmost part of India, located in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. It is renowned for its stunning landscapes, high-altitude mountain passes, ancient monasteries, and unique cultural heritage. 

Here is some information about Ladakh:

Geographical Location: Ladakh is situated in the Indian Himalayas, bordered by Pakistan to the west and China to the east. It is nestled between the Karakoram and Great Himalayan mountain ranges.

Capital: The capital of Ladakh is Leh, which is located at an altitude of around 3,500 meters (11,500 feet) above sea level. Leh serves as the administrative and cultural center of the region.

Landscapes: Ladakh is known for its breathtaking landscapes, including rugged mountains, vast barren valleys, deep gorges, and crystal-clear lakes. The region is often referred to as the "Land of High Passes" due to its numerous mountain passes, such as Khardung La and Chang La, which offer spectacular views.

Buddhist Influence: Ladakh has a strong Buddhist influence, with numerous ancient monasteries scattered across the region. These monasteries, such as Hemis, Thiksey, and Alchi, are not only religious centers but also architectural marvels, showcasing intricate artwork and valuable Buddhist relics.

Adventure Tourism: Ladakh attracts adventure enthusiasts from around the world. It offers various thrilling activities, including trekking, mountaineering, river rafting, and biking. The challenging terrain and high-altitude passes provide opportunities for adrenaline-pumping adventures.

Festivals: Ladakh celebrates several vibrant festivals that showcase the region's cultural traditions. The most famous festival is the Hemis Festival, held at Hemis Monastery, featuring colorful masked dances, music, and rituals. Other notable festivals include Losar (Tibetan New Year) and Dosmoche.

Local Cuisine: Ladakhi cuisine is influenced by Tibetan and Central Asian flavors. Popular dishes include Thukpa (noodle soup), Momos (steamed dumplings), Skyu (a hearty stew), and Butter Tea. The cuisine often incorporates locally grown barley, wheat, vegetables, and dairy products.

Climate: Ladakh experiences a cold desert climate due to its high altitude. Summers (June to September) are mild with pleasant daytime temperatures, while winters (October to april) are extremely cold, and many areas become inaccessible due to heavy snowfall.

Accessibility: Ladakh can be accessed by road and air. Major Indian cities are connected to the region by the Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh. The two primary highways that link Ladakh to the rest of the nation are the Leh-Manali Highway and the Srinagar-Leh Highway.

Inner Line Permit: To access some restricted regions in Ladakh, visitors who are not nationals or residents of India must get an Inner Line Permit (ILP). The Leh government's authority or authorized travel agencies can provide the permit.

Discover why The Samsara Holidays is your go-to choice for unforgettable B2B experiences in Leh Ladakh.

Bullet Points:

Customized B2B Packages For Ladakh curated to meet the diverse needs of your clients.

An extensive network of trusted partners ensures seamless travel arrangements.

Unparalleled expertise in crafting memorable journeys through the breathtaking landscapes of Leh Ladakh.

A dedicated support team is available 24/7 to assist you at every step of the way.

Conclusion

With The Samsara Holidays, embark on a journey of discovery and adventure in Leh Ladakh that leaves a lasting impression on your clients.

Call to Action

Ready to elevate your travel business? Contact us today to learn more about our exclusive B2B packages for Leh Ladakh!

[piduai]

Men travelling to SEA is heavily associated with sex tourism too. I've heard stories about men going there just to fuck minors (barf)

i think it's a bit of a different issue, sex tourism (loaded ghouls passing borders in order to pay for the right to rape impoverished women and girls, sometimes boys) is definitely a thing that has gained immense popularity in the last few decades, and sea countries are star destinations for that, but it was more about the imperialist mindset of making enough money in your own home country to retire and live like a king in one of the countries whose economies your own people destroyed.

it's disgusting though, in the last decade wife shopping has also been on the rise. americans or western europeans travelling to southeast asia/eastern europe for a "submissive asian/slavic wife", meeting women there, promising them visas in their own rich countries, marrying them and taking them home and deeming themselves their lords and masters. the woman typically doesn't speak the language and has no kin or friends in the new country, so her husband can do to her whatever he wants. it's sickening really and i wish these men, and the rest of the sex tourists, were asked for their purposes when entering the country and shot on sight.

to be honest i think the retirement thing is something rather unique to the japanese. i'm not saying it def does not happen ever, but i find it hard to imagine a wealthy muscovite choosing to pass their last years in mine or any other post-soviet country that is still suffering the consequences of the russian conquest. bri'ish "people" living as expats in india is definitely a thing, but i feel like it's young ones "on spiritual journeys" who go back to their holes after a few years anyway, not a mildly successful ex businessman pension aged fart's first choice retirement plan. frenchoids don't go to algeria, spaniards don't go to el salvador. oh but i did hear about americans retiring in latam countries. as mentioned though for the japanese it happens, i mean it's definitely not all over the place nor THAT often, but it's anecdotal enough for even me to know a real life example. maybe because sea countries are overall popular tourist destinations? the philippines, thailand, vietnam, indonesia are known for their beaches and resorts and laid back lifestyles. old bones seek warmth and relaxation. maybe the tropical climate is also what lures americans into puerto rico... after all "moving close to the sea" IS a retirement fantasy for many people all over the world and has been for hundreds of years. but again this is all but speculative, maybe i'm wrong and it does happen often with other colonizers too idk.

[goltravel]

Where is Maldives located?

Situated in the azure expanse of the Indian Ocean, the Maldives is a sovereign nation with a unique identity, distinct from its neighboring countries. Let’s delve into the enchanting realm of the Maldives and explore why it stands as an independent entity, separate from India.

Geographical Splendor

The Maldives is an archipelago of coral islands scattered across the equator. Its mesmerizing coral atolls, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters contribute to its distinct geographical charm. While the Maldives shares proximity with India, its geographical features and island formations set it apart as a breathtaking and independent nation.

Sovereign Governance

The Maldives operates as an independent nation with its own government, constitution, and administrative structure. The capital city, Male, serves as the political and economic hub, orchestrating the governance of the archipelago. The Maldivian government oversees the diverse cultural heritage, economic activities, and diplomatic relations that define the nation.

Rich Cultural Heritage

Embracing a unique blend of South Asian, African, and Arab influences, the Maldives has cultivated a rich cultural heritage over centuries. The Maldivian people, with their distinct language and traditions, have shaped an identity that stands proudly on its own. This cultural diversity is a testament to the nation’s autonomy and resilience.

Independent Diplomacy

The Maldives engages in its own diplomatic relations, forming alliances and collaborations on a global scale. While India and the Maldives share historical ties and diplomatic partnerships, the Maldives actively participates in international forums, contributing to global discussions and issues that impact the world.

Economic Autonomy

The Maldives has developed its own economy, primarily driven by tourism, fisheries, and trade. The tourism sector, in particular, plays a pivotal role in the Maldivian economy, attracting visitors from around the world to experience the unique allure of the islands. The nation’s economic independence contributes to its self-sufficiency and resilience.

Environmental Stewardship

As a nation comprised of low-lying coral islands, the Maldives faces unique environmental challenges, particularly in the context of climate change and rising sea levels. The Maldives actively participates in global environmental initiatives and advocates for sustainable practices, emphasizing its commitment to protecting its fragile ecosystem.

Shared History, Distinct Destiny

While India and the Maldives share historical connections and cultural affinities, the Maldives has carved its own destiny as an independent and vibrant nation. Its distinct geographical, political, economic, and cultural facets contribute to a narrative that goes beyond borders, celebrating the singular identity of the Maldives in the tapestry of the Indian Ocean.

The Maldives is not a part of India but stands as a unique and independent nation, showcasing its own rich heritage, governance, diplomacy, economy, and environmental stewardship. As we explore the allure of the Maldives, let’s appreciate the beauty of its autonomy and the richness of its singular identity in the global landscape

We are Gol Travels dealing with Maldives and Lakshadweep Packages

[nadabetindo-pakborder]

Nadabet Seema Darshan, situated in Gujarat, stands as a testament to India’s rich cultural heritage and historical significance. Located near the India-Pakistan border, Nadabet Seema Darshan holds immense importance as a symbol of national pride and unity.

[vannrajresorts]

Pench National Park: Explore Wildlife Wonderland

Located in the southeastern foothills of the Satpuda Mountains, Pench National Park invites nature enthusiasts to explore its diverse ecosystems. The park, named after the winding Pench River, spans the southeast border of Madhya Pradesh and seamlessly extends into Maharashtra. Covering 758 sq km of pristine wilderness, it is divided into the 299 sq km Indira Priyadarshini Pench Nationwide Park and the 464 sq km Mowgli Pench Sanctuary.

For an immersive adventure in dense forests, encountering wildlife and marveling at nature's beauty, consider booking a Pench safari online. Ensure your reservation for an extraordinary journey into the heart of the wilderness.

Flora & Fauna at Pench National Park:

Pench's undulating hills and valleys are mainly covered by dry deciduous forest, transitioning to lush greenery near the Pench River. Dominant tree species include Teak, Mahua, Tendu, Flame of the Forest, Golden Shower, and Bamboo.

The park provides a habitat for 39 mammal species, 13 reptile species, and 3 amphibian species. Commonly sighted animals include chital, sambar, wild boar, jackal, Indian leopard, sloth bear, wild dog, jungle cat, and gaur. With over 300 bird species, including migratory birds, Pench offers a rich birdlife experience.

Location of Pench National Park: Spanning 758 sq km in the lower southern Satpura hills, Pench National Park is divided by the Pench River into Seoni and Chhindwara districts. Accessible near Turia Gate, Seoni district, Kurai, Madhya Pradesh, the park can be reached via air, road, and railway. Inquire or contact provided phone numbers for Pench safari bookings.

History of Pench National Park:

Declared a sanctuary in 1977 and a national park in 1983, Pench became the 19th tiger reserve in India. In 2011, it was recognized as the "Best Managed Park" by Madhya Pradesh Tourism. Pench's biodiversity has inspired renowned authors and, notably, Rudyard Kipling's classic 'The Jungle Book.'

How to Reach:

Nagpur airport (93 km) and Seoni Railway Station (30 km) serve as convenient entry points. Make an online Pench safari booking in advance for easy transit from these hubs. Buses and jeeps are available at Seoni bus stand for swift park access.

Lakes in Pench:

Explore Khokha Lake, Junewani Talao, and the picturesque lake area of Bodha Nala. Enhance your adventure with an online Pench safari booking, ensuring an immersive experience in renowned spots like Baghin Nala, known for tiger sightings.

Best Season to Visit:

Plan your Pench safari booking between November and May for a captivating experience. Note that the park remains closed in July, August, and September.

Land of Tigers:

Embark on a Pench jungle safari for a chance to witness the significant Bengal Tiger population, with approximately 40 tigers as per the latest Tiger Census.

Different Bird Species:

Experience vibrant birdlife at Pench National Park, home to over 210 species, including migratory birds. Book your Pench safari for an unforgettable encounter.

Other Animals:

Embark on a thrilling journey with a safari booking in Pench, home to approximately 39 mammal species, 13 reptile species, and 3 amphibian species. Encounter Chital, Sambar, Nilgai, wild boar, and Jackal among common wildlife sightings.

Why Make a Pench Safari Booking at Vannraj Resorts? Discover the reasons for a Pench National Park safari booking with Vannraj Resorts:

Immersive Jungle Experience: Expert naturalists guide you through Pench, sharing extensive knowledge about the diverse flora and fauna.

Night Safari Adventure: Explore Pench’s wildlife from a different perspective with knowledgeable guides.

Stargazing under the Pench Sky: Enjoy a mesmerizing stargazing session away from urban lights.

Wildlife Photography Tips: Learn valuable tips and tricks from experienced naturalists and wildlife photographers.

Luxurious Accommodations: Unwind in comfortable and stylish accommodations surrounded by the natural beauty of Pench at Vannraj Resorts.

[beardedmrbean]

Brownsville, Texas — Federal officials say more than 200 patients could be at risk of fungal meningitis after having surgical procedures at clinics in a Mexico border city.

The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Wednesday it is collaborating with the Mexican Ministry of Health and U.S. state and local health departments to respond to the outbreak among patients who traveled to Matamoros, across the border from Brownsville, Texas.

Officials have identified and closed two clinics linked to the outbreak, River Side Surgical Center and Clinica K-3.

The Mexican Ministry of Health sent the CDC a list of 221 U.S. patients who might be at risk for meningitis based on their recorded surgical procedures at either clinic from January to May 13. Three additional patients not on the list have also been identified, bringing the total of people in the United States known to have potential exposure to 224, the CDC said.

The CDC is working with more than two dozen state and local health departments to contact people with potential exposure and urge them to go to their nearest medical facility for testing. Meningitis testing includes an MRI and a lumbar puncture, also called a spinal tap.

Last week, the CDC issued a warning to U.S. residents to cancel surgeries in Matamoros, saying five people from Texas who had procedures there developed suspected cases of fungal meningitis. One of them died. A second person with a suspected case has also died, the CDC said Wednesday.

Meningitis is the swelling of the protective covering of the brain and spinal cord and should be treated urgently. Symptoms include fever, headache, a stiff neck, nausea, vomiting, confusion and sensitivity to light. Cases of meningitis can be caused by viruses, bacteria, trauma or fungi.

Patients in the Texas cases started showing symptoms three days to six weeks after surgery in Matamoros.

People leaving the U.S. for prescription drugs, dental procedures, surgeries and other medical treatment - also known as medical tourism - is common, experts say. Mexico, Canada, India and Thailand are all popular destinations.

[walkingshoes009]

The Cave of Veda Vyasa…!! At a distance of 5.5 km from Badrinath Bus Stand, Vyas Cave is an ancient cave located on the banks of Saraswati River at Mana village in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. Mana is the last Indian village situated at Indo-China Border. Vyas Gufa is believed to be the place where sage Vyas composed the Mahabharata epic with the help of Lord Ganesha. He also composed 18 Puranas, Brahma Sutras and four Vedas. Maharishi Vyas statue is installed in the caves and worshiped by the pilgrims. A distinct feature of the temple is the roof which resembles the pages from the collection of his holy scripts. There is also an interesting story related to the place that explains the broken tusk of Lord Ganesh. When Vyas was composing Mahabharata, he needed someone to take down his dictation and asked the learned Ganesha for the same. Ganesh agreed but he had a condition - that Vyas would not stop even for a moment or else he would stop writing and leave. Vyas dictating as fast as he could and Ganesh bent down over the script pages. Finally, his reed pen broke. To which, he broke off a part of his tusk to be used as a pen thereon. Ganesha cave is also located in nearby area below the Vyas cave. Near this temple, is a natural rock that rests over the river known as Bhim pul. Further 3 km upward climb from Vyas Gufa is another cave called the Muchukand Gufa. It is associated with the story of Lord Krishna who had tactfully led to the demise of the demon Kaal Yawan here by Sage Muchukand. It is said that the footprints of Lord Krishna can still be seen in the cave. . . . . . #vyas #vedvyas #mana #cave #badrinath #uttarakhand #rohitgpt009 #tourism #mountain #india #indianvillage #mandir #temple (at Vyas Gufa) https://www.instagram.com/p/CqHw1bzPglM/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[coochiequeens]

Holy….this raises so many questions. How does it impact the development of the child long term to kept in limbs away from the birth mother and not handed over to the bio parents for months after birth? Will the baby have US citizenship since it was born and spent its first months here? How will daughters fare after arriving in China?  

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, California — Inside a three-story pastel mansion in this quiet suburb south of Los Angeles, Auntie Wang cradles a 2-week-old baby girl named Echo.

"The more time you spend with her, the more she is attached to you," says Auntie Wang, who moved to the United States seven years ago from China. "You hold her, play with her, engage with her and look, she responds to you."

The 58-year-old clucks and coos at the baby in obvious delight. But for all the affection, she is not the baby's mother or even a relative. She is a hired nanny whose job is to care for Echo and other babies like her born through surrogacy — where a woman carries and gives birth to a baby for another couple or individual.

Auntie Wang does not want to share her full name because of the sensitivity and legal issues around surrogacy in her home country.

The agency she works for, called Fat Daddy, specializes in these services for clients in China — where providing surrogacy is effectively prohibited.

The company is one part of a well-established industry centered in California that also includes the controversial service of bringing Chinese mothers to the U.S. to give birth to their children, known as "birth tourism."

But for nearly three years, the whole industry has been upended by the coronavirus pandemic and China's travel restrictions, which have been among the tightest in the world. In 2020, Beijing completely shut the country's border to contain COVID-19 and has never fully reopened them.

That has meant Chinese parents cannot fly to the U.S. to meet or vet their surrogate in person. Instead, clients have had to send their reproductive samples — eggs, sperm or both — via special delivery to the U.S. so the surrogacy can take place.

China's "zero-COVID" policies and recent passport restrictions have also made it nearly impossible for many Chinese parents to then travel to the U.S. to pick up their newborn babies.

So, for nannies like Auntie Wang, that has meant a lot more work. Whereas before the pandemic, she looked after the babies for up to six weeks, now such care often stretches to several months while the Fat Daddy agency works to arrange flights and the Chinese residency papers required to transport the babies to China.

They're coming to America, where surrogacy is legal in most states

One family caught up in the bureaucracy is 1-year-old Lucy, born in the U.S., and her parents back in China. 

"Getting a [U.S.] visa took Lucy's mother four months," explains Sunny, a Fat Daddy employee who manages the house where surrogate babies and their caretakers live.She wants to use only her first name in the story to avoid being identified because providing surrogacy is illegal in China. "But her flights from China keep getting canceled."

In the U.S., Chinese couples can easily pay more than $100,000 for surrogacy — high costs that include lodging, catering and transportation.

Cheaper options exist in Thailand, Cambodia, India and Russia. In recent years, Ukraine had become a major center for the industry, but after Russia invaded the country, at least 19 surrogate babies destined for China were left stranded.

Rather than look abroad, some Chinese parents seeksurrogacy services from underground providers in China. One study estimates that a decade ago, up to 500 businesses were operating surreptitiously.

But people using the services had few legal rights if the provider did not hand over the baby — or if the biological parents decided to split custody.

For Chinese parents with the financial means, a popular option remains the U.S., where surrogacy is legal in most states.

"America has everything. America is a good country — as long as you know what you want," says one Chinese birth tourism agent based in California. He does not want to give his name because China bans providing such services. "Having children in the U.S. will always bring advantages, because America is a country for immigrants."

It is difficult to know how many Chinese couples use surrogacy services in California because the state's health department says it does not keep track. But NPR spoke to several agencies that suggested there were hundreds, if not thousands of cases in the state a year.

The co-founder of Fat Daddy, Zheng, says there are many reasons clients want to use his company's services.

He says China used to limit couples to just one child (now the limit is three), so wealthy couples used to have their second or even third child in the U.S. Another reason is that unmarried women and non-heterosexual couples often have a hard time having children or adopting legally.

Having a baby, even via surrogate in the U.S., also grantsthe child coveted American citizenship. Perhaps surprisingly, Zheng says the growing competition between the U.S. and China has actually made American citizenship more attractive to many families.

"In the foreseeable future, China and the U.S. will definitely be the two strongest countries in the world," he says. "If the U.S. is not the first, then China will be and it will definitely be a win-win situation for your children in the future if they have both these nationalities."

Before the pandemic, Zheng says, Chinese demand for surrogacy and birth tourism services was so high he used to rent out entire apartment buildings for Chinese families.

And according to another agent — who only gave her name as Lulu for fear of retribution for speaking frankly about Chinese politics and surrogacy — many of her clients were "high-level Communist Party officials and celebrities" with money and power who wanted their children to have American citizenship. In China it is illegal for citizens to be dual nationals.

Some are going for DIY birth tourism

Only the most determined of prospective Chinese parents are trickling into the U.S. these days.

One of them is Lily, a lawyer from Baotou, Inner Mongolia. She does not want to use her full name because the issue of birth tourism is sensitive in China.

Lily is doing what the industry calls a DIY — do-it-yourself — birth tourism experience; renting her own house and hiring a full-time nanny to look after her toddler Gordon, who was born in the U.S.

When NPR met Lily in May, she was pregnant with a second child. The family planned to spend another six months in the U.S. after the birth before returning home.

"There are all-around advantages in the U.S.; freedom of speech, a sense of security," she says, explaining her decision. "My child is definitely better off if they have these options."

She also half-jokes that she also came to the U.S. because she wanted a pain-free birth. "It is difficult to get full epidurals in China!" she says.

But many aren't as lucky as Lily. Parents using surrogacy will have a long wait before they can see their babies.

Now many of the babies are flown back to China under the supervision of a dedicated nanny provided by the agencies.

For Auntie Wang, seeing the babies she's looked after for many months is always a hugely emotional moment.

"Oh, we cry when we say goodbye to these children! It is painful to part with them. They're like our own," says Auntie Wang. "It is like this for all the nannies. After even just a month you have an emotional bond with them."