#Temple Bar Urban Eats

[lokuhapuarachchi]

“Heraliya”

The other day, an unknown woman was waiting to buy “Kose” or “Heraliya” (jackfruit) at the Saturday market located at the bakery junction on Mirihana Road in Ratmalana. Although the urban community calls it Kos, my grandmother, who lived in a small village in Dompe decades ago in a coconut-thatched house with woven palm frond walls, introduced this dish to me as “Heraliya.” The jackfruit trees that lined the edge of our one-and-a-half-acre garden were massive by then, planted diligently by my grandfather. These trees met the food needs of many in the village. Boiled jackfruit paired with Kochchi sambal (Coconut Greenchily Chutney)  has been my favorite dish since then.

With those memories, I visited that land decades later, only to find not a single jackfruit tree remaining. Yet, one day while boiling jackfruit, a memory surfaced of a folktale my grandmother told me as a child.

One day, the altar of Shakra Devendra (God) was heated. Looking at the human world with divine wisdom, he sought to find someone in need of his help. He saw a poor, old woman in a small house, suffering from hunger. Shakra, disguised as a beggar, went to her house asking for food. The woman welcomed him, gave him water to drink, but confessed she had nothing to offer to eat. The beggar then pointed to a fruit hanging from a tree on her roof and asked her to pick it. She did so, cut the fruit, filled a pot with water, and placed it on the stove as he instructed.

As the pot boiled, the air filled with a fragrant aroma. The contents turned yellow, and the woman, curious, tasted a small piece. Unable to resist, she ate more and more, trying to hide her greed. The beggar, watching her slyly, finally exclaimed, “Heraliya,” (Cheating Woman)  and disappeared. From that day on, people began eating Heraliya or jackfruit as food—or so my grandmother’s story went.

Whatever the folklore she shared, the truth is that jackfruit has been a staple food in Asian communities, including Sri Lanka, for thousands of years. Its versatility, unique taste, and nutritional value made it indispensable. It is believed to have been cultivated in tropical countries like India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Malaysia for over 5,000 years. Historically, jackfruit has played a crucial role in the food and agriculture of these regions.

In India and Sri Lanka, jackfruit was often called "the poor man's food" due to its affordability and availability. Yet, it was equally revered for its ability to feed large families. In Kerala, South India, jackfruit has even been named the official state fruit due to its cultural significance and widespread consumption.

Jackfruit holds a sacred place in religious ceremonies across South Asia. The leaves and wood of the jackfruit tree are widely used in Hindu rituals. In Sri Lanka and South India, jackfruit wood is often carved into idols of deities. Its size and abundance are considered gifts from the gods, and in some communities, it is offered as part of temple offerings.

For centuries, jackfruit leaves, seeds, and roots have been used in Ayurveda and traditional Asian medicine to treat ailments ranging from skin disorders to digestive problems. Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, it is said to boost immunity, improve skin health, and help regulate blood sugar levels.

In the early 2000s, jackfruit began appearing in specialty stores in Western countries, initially canned or frozen. It gradually gained popularity in various forms, such as chips and snack bars. Its newfound fame has expanded beyond traditional culinary uses, cementing its place in health food and superfood categories.

One of the most important innovations that propelled jackfruit onto the global foodie scene is the freeze-drying process. Freeze-drying preserves the fruit’s natural flavor, texture, and nutrients while extending its shelf life. This modern preservation method enables jackfruit to be enjoyed year-round without refrigeration or artificial preservatives.

Remarkably, freeze-dried fruit retains about 98% of its nutrients, losing only 2%. The low-temperature process freezes the fruit’s moisture, which is then removed by evaporation, skipping the liquid phase. The result is a light, crisp texture that effortlessly captures the essence of fresh jackfruit.

This photograph of the woman at the Saturday market captures more than just a moment. It symbolizes the delicate intersection of tradition, nourishment, and labor. The central focus on the woman, balanced and thoughtful, suggests an introspective narrative, perhaps reflecting her role in the cyclical rhythms of everyday life. Her pink T-shirt, emblazoned with a serene image of the sun over waves, contrasts with the bustling activity around her, evoking themes of calm amidst chaos.

In the foreground, the jackfruit, locally revered as "Heraliya," becomes a symbolic focal point. Its versatility—prepared in countless forms, from pickles to curries—represents abundance and sustenance. The act of cutting and preparing jackfruit, as seen in the vendor’s hands in the southern corner of the market, is a quiet acknowledgment of the invisible labor that transforms raw potential into nourishment. Cutting jackfruit is an intimate process, combining skill and effort, embodying the resilience of those who bring this cherished fruit to their communities.

The interplay of light and shadow under the market canopy reflects a world of contrasts, emphasizing the market’s dual identity where modernity meets tradition. The woman’s purse and thoughtful posture capture a fleeting yet significant moment, reflecting her personal narrative within the collective hum of the market.

Viewed symbolically, this image invites reflection on the interconnectedness of roles: consumer and supplier, nature and humanity, individual and community. It honors the unseen stories within ordinary exchanges, celebrating their depth and quiet dignity.

Anuruddha Lokuhapuarachchi

[journaljotz]

Cheapest Places to Visit in America for Fun

Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean you have to compromise on adventure or experiences. The United States is home to numerous destinations that offer unique attractions and memorable activities without breaking the bank. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the cheapest places in America to visit, ensuring you can enjoy a fantastic getaway without spending a fortune.

1. New Orleans, Louisiana

Why It’s Affordable

New Orleans is renowned for its vibrant culture, live music, and delicious cuisine, and it can be surprisingly budget-friendly. The city offers many free or low-cost attractions, especially during the off-peak seasons.

Things to Do

Explore the French Quarter: Stroll through this iconic neighborhood, where you can enjoy live street performances and vibrant art scenes at no cost.

Visit City Park: This sprawling park features beautiful oak trees, walking trails, and free art exhibits at the New Orleans Museum of Art on Wednesdays.

Experience the Music Scene: Enjoy free live music at various bars and clubs throughout the city, particularly on Frenchmen Street.

Tips for Budget Travelers

Accommodations in New Orleans range from budget hotels to hostels. Look for deals on sites like Airbnb or Booking.com to find affordable lodging. Eating at local food trucks and casual eateries can also save you money while allowing you to taste authentic Creole cuisine.

2. San Antonio, Texas

Why It’s Affordable

San Antonio offers rich history, beautiful parks, and a lively cultural scene, making it a great budget travel destination.

Things to Do

Visit The Alamo: Admission to this historic site is free, allowing you to delve into Texas history without spending a dime.

Walk Along the River Walk: This picturesque pathway lined with shops and restaurants is perfect for leisurely strolls. While dining here can be pricey, you can enjoy the scenery at no cost.

Explore the Missions: The San Antonio Missions National Historical Park offers a chance to visit several UNESCO World Heritage Sites for free.

Tips for Budget Travelers

Consider staying at budget hotels or hostels in the downtown area to be close to attractions. Utilize public transportation or ride-sharing services to save on travel costs.

3. Asheville, North Carolina

Why It’s Affordable

Asheville is known for its stunning mountain views, vibrant arts scene, and outdoor activities, making it a budget-friendly destination for nature lovers and art enthusiasts alike.

Things to Do

Blue Ridge Parkway: This scenic drive offers breathtaking views and countless hiking opportunities. Many trails are free to access.

Visit Local Art Galleries: Asheville is home to numerous galleries showcasing local artists. Many of these galleries host free events and openings.

Explore the River Arts District: This area features working artists' studios, where you can watch artisans at work and even participate in workshops at low costs.

Tips for Budget Travelers

Camping in nearby national parks or staying in budget-friendly motels can significantly reduce your accommodation costs. Dining at local food trucks or casual eateries will also help keep your expenses down.

4. Salt Lake City, Utah

Why It’s Affordable

Salt Lake City combines urban culture with easy access to stunning natural landscapes, making it a versatile destination for budget travelers.

Things to Do

Visit Temple Square: This beautiful area is free to explore, featuring stunning gardens and historic buildings.

Enjoy Outdoor Activities: With proximity to the Wasatch Mountains, there are countless free hiking and biking trails available.

Explore Local Markets: Check out the Downtown Farmers Market for fresh produce and local goods, often at lower prices than typical grocery stores.

Tips for Budget Travelers

Look for budget accommodations in the city or consider camping in nearby state parks. Public transportation is reliable and affordable, making it easy to get around.

5. Chicago, Illinois

Why It’s Affordable

While Chicago is a large city with many high-end options, it also offers plenty of budget-friendly activities and attractions.

Things to Do

Millennium Park: Enjoy free concerts and events during the summer months, and don’t forget to take a photo with the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture, also known as "The Bean."

Art Institute of Chicago: Admission is free on certain days, allowing you to experience world-class art without spending a penny.

Chicago Riverwalk: Stroll along the riverwalk, where you can enjoy beautiful views of the city’s architecture and public art installations at no cost.

Tips for Budget Travelers

Consider staying in hostels or budget hotels outside the downtown area. Use public transportation, like the “L” train, to explore the city affordably.

6. Savannah, Georgia

Why It’s Affordable

Savannah’s historic charm and beautiful squares make it a picturesque destination that won’t strain your wallet.

Things to Do

Explore Forsyth Park: This 30-acre park is perfect for picnics, leisurely walks, and enjoying the iconic fountain—free of charge.

Visit Historic District: Walk through the charming streets and squares of Savannah’s historic district to soak in the architecture and ambiance.

Free Walking Tours: Many local companies offer pay-what-you-want walking tours, allowing you to learn about the city’s history without a hefty price tag.

Tips for Budget Travelers

Look for affordable accommodations in hostels or guesthouses. Enjoying local cuisine at casual eateries can also help you stick to your budget.

7. Portland, Oregon

Why It’s Affordable

Portland is known for its hip culture, craft beer scene, and access to nature, making it an appealing destination for budget travelers.

Things to Do

Visit Powell’s City of Books: This massive independent bookstore is free to enter and offers a cozy atmosphere for book lovers.

Explore the Food Cart Scene: Enjoy a meal from one of Portland’s many food carts, where you can sample diverse cuisine at budget-friendly prices.

Hiking in Forest Park: This expansive park features numerous free hiking trails, offering a fantastic way to enjoy the outdoors.

Tips for Budget Travelers

Stay in budget hotels or hostels, and consider using public transportation to get around the city. Many neighborhoods are walkable, allowing you to explore without spending on transportation.

Conclusion

Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing experiences. With a little planning, you can explore some of the cheapest places in America, each offering its own unique charm and attractions. From the vibrant streets of New Orleans to the serene landscapes of Asheville, these destinations provide endless opportunities for adventure without emptying your wallet. So pack your bags, set your budget, and embark on an unforgettable journey to discover the beauty of the U.S.!

[hong-kong-art-man]

Waning Interest In Nightlife—Our Past Glory And What Are The Challenges Of The Night-time Economy In Hong Kong?

Some said, “I am all about nightlife. I live during the night.” Some said, “In nightlife, you can become a star. While in the daytime, you can be a nobody.” Some said, “I don’t like going out. I hate clubs. I hate being around too many people.”

A clothes vendor in the well-known Temple Street Night Market in Hong Kong told South China Morning Post, “The Street seemed lifeless and quiet, with many other stallholders gone for the day. I have been running this stall for more than 40 years and business had never been this bad.” The newspaper reported that in better times, Temple Street presented a mix of old and new. It drew visitors who swarmed its numerous stalls selling clothes, souvenirs, jade, antiques and watches. Traditional fortune-tellers beckoned and Cantonese opera singers performed late into the night, while dai pai dong (‘hawkers’) food stalls dished out everything from chili crab to steamed fish. The subdued state of the street market reflects the situation across the city, alongside the trend of Hongkongers heading to mainland Chinese cities such as Shenzhen to enjoy weekends.

Last night, I went to Tsim Sha Tsui, the touristy area, to look for a restaurant at 9:30p.m. Some were closed. Many were preparing for closing. It was a deeply depressing scene.

Many in Hong Kong, since 1970s, had wandered around in the streets at night until they found no place to stay or nobody else to hang with at midnight.

Hong Kong used to be energetic, boisterous and loud after 8 p.m. The urban noise was constant. Neon lights were colourful, bright and reliable. Such signs took a rest only at AM hours. Shopping, dining, night-time snacking, singing, massage, clubbing and socializing were everywhere.

Some attributed the night-life decline to the lack of tourists who can afford. Some suggest that the lifestyle of people here have changed: they feel happier on emotional front at home. They would rather enjoy online shopping, watching Netflix, cooking, meeting cyber-friends and gym exercising—avoiding being overstimulated by others. Some put the blame on the poor economy of Hong Kong because people want to spend less. Some venue operators complain that there is a serious shortage of 20% manpower in Hong Kong and they cannot hire enough workers who are interested in night-shift work. Some lament that more than 200,000 people have emigrated from this city. Others explain the social phenomenon by the outflux of more than 300,000 local people on Saturday and Sunday for ‘weekend getaways’ to the Greater Bay Area cities in Guangdong. Some feel that the government’s controls on hawkers and street busking are too tight. Some comment that the local handicrafts sold are not attractive or creative.

A vibrant and mixed ‘night-time economy’ is important as it can encourage tourism, boost the local spending power and contribute to shaping trendy places where people want to live. This is why some youngsters like to live near Soho, Central. The night-time economy also makes a significant contribution to the employment situation. To the dismay of the government, people in Hong Kong tend to spend less and less. We are an aging population and more and more citizens survive on savings. Thus, saving money produces a sense of security, especially when people are older. Night activities which eat away at one’s bank balance is considered quite unnecessary. Economically, we are facing a recession. Consumptions inevitably slow down especially for expensive nightlife entertainments inclusive of pubs, bars, nightclubs and shows.

From a family’s point of view, it is not a good idea to suggest staying out late at night. Being out late at night can expose teenagers or girls to various safety hazards such as encountering bad people, getting involved in altercations, or becoming victims of crimes. Staying awake through the night takes a toll on physical health. Fatigue and low energy levels in the daytime may worsen work performance. Parents should return home early and spend more time with children. Children will feel that their parents value them. In the old days, a lot of parents in Hong Kong went back home after 10p.m. and the poor parent-child interactions would harm a child’s development. People should be attracted by the happy moments of a family, instead of the desire and seduction typically associated with night activities outside.

For myself, I want the services sector such as doctors, hairstylists, physiotherapists and herbal treatment centres to close later, ideally till 10p.m. Many people are like me—always in a rush during the day and it will be excellent if we could spend few hours after work on personal grooming and healing. Is this night-time economy?

London, New York, Paris and Amsterdam are the great cities, when it comes to ‘night-time cultural economy’. Cinemas, musicals, light shows, plays, stand-up comedies, opera, ballet, dance and concerts, are abundant and liven up the night. These cultural places make the whole area full of vitality. Look at the number of pizza restaurants in New York for a midnight snack! Hong Kong may follow and use evening cultural activities to captivate the younger tourists who are more educated.

In mainland China, some hospitals have extended their operating hours. The official said, “Any attempt to get people to spend more money at night is a good idea.” The thing to watch out is that the late-night operating hours may not necessarily bring the same ratio of income compared with day-time operating hours.

Ernest Hemingway told us, “Night is always darker before the dawn and life is the same.” Extending business hours will not help our economy much. Recalibrating the tourism fundamentals of Hong Kong towards cultural attractions is the more appropriate direction.

Maurice Lee

Chinese Version 中文版: https://www.patreon.com/posts/xiang-gang-60zhi-93391105?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link

Hong Kong Wanchai Night Market  https://youtu.be/OkRU0NKumz4?si=LfP0uMbzK8wQcXCG  Acknowledgement - hokoonho

Hong Kong Temple Street  https://youtu.be/zucAog03Ucc?si=b6kLiRf5J3NjEiw7  Acknowledgement   – 看見香港

Hong Kong at Night  https://youtu.be/01G05Z8rC1Y?si=ulmwG6iVMnyJNaz1  Acknowledgement-Island Hopper TV Travel Highlights

Sheung Wan Gala Point  https://youtu.be/y8dtrv0tJ1M?si=KzxOj20uBAi4f04A  Acknowledgement-Mike Ling

Song 《 兩相依》  https://youtu.be/Kvo9uOt405A?si=xjYR9-MwZXMefbTh  Acknowledgement – charmer0966

[sofiahotelhuahin]

Thailand's Top Honeymoon Hotels || SofiaHotelHuahin

Thailand is the perfect honeymoon vacation thanks to its stunning beaches, delectable cuisine, and luxurious accommodations.

Thailand is a wonderful honeymoon destination because it combines stunning island beaches, verdant forests, and urban jungles filled with mouthwatering food. The country also boasts romantic hotels to match. Bangkok, which is divided by the winding Chao Phraya River, has a unique restaurant and bar culture, as well as opulent hotels that make newlyweds feel like kings. Outside of the city, are picturesque islands, untamed forests, opulent getaways, and even elephants! entice couples to go on excursions and surrender to treatment in equal measure. It's difficult to think of a more memorable location than Thailand to honor your love given its legendary hospitality and breathtaking scenery.

Best Overall: Six Senses Yao Noi

This opulent island resort is a stunning beach getaway with a world-famous spa and is situated between tropical forests and the jewel-like Andaman Sea. Every suite and villa comes with a private pool, and there are extensive spa and wellness options available.

A 45-minute speedboat journey from Phuket's dock will get you to this five-star resort if total immersion in paradise is what you're looking for on your honeymoon. There is a lot to see, see, and eat at Six Senses Yao Noi, and each villa has a Guest Experience Maker assigned to it to help newlyweds make the most of their trip. Your GEM may arrange a variety of activities, including private beach picnics for two, kayak excursions around karst formations, boat tours to James Bond Island, and walks through mangroves. There are, however, countless opportunities to take it easy and be pampered here, so don't be afraid to unwind by the villa's own pool, lounge on the beach for an outdoor movie, schedule a couple's spa treatment, or enjoy a six-course meal beneath the stars. The resort has four dining options, including the Chef's Table, which is known for its excellent service and attracts couples.

Best Luxury: Amanpuri

True to its name, which translates to "place of peace," this opulent yet understated resort spreads out at ease over a former coconut plantation, offering plenty of space for intimate strolls. Nature's color palette is dominated by emerald and turquoise, while waves lap the sugary sand of the island peninsula. The accommodations are divided among 40 pavilions and 40 villas, each with magnificent architecture and prime sunset views (they also include private pools and personal cooks).

There is a tonne to do at Amanpuri for visitors. Try wakeboarding for a little of adventure; book a private yacht excursion for a romantic day spent with the wind in your hair; or visit the renowned spa for luxury. There are 30 Buddhist temples off-site; getting a customary blessing there can be a lovely way to commemorate your wedding. Additionally, you can go on a walk in a local national park to see gorillas in the wild. The hotel offers Japanese, Italian, and Southern Thai food, but what unites them all is the staff's willingness to go above and above and address you by name. Expect to leave as Aman junkies—very, very laid-back Aman junkies, if you haven't already.

Best Wellness: COMO Point Yamu

At this resort, the ocean is everything. From its dramatic vantage point on the tip of Cape Yamu, it offers breathtaking views of the Andaman Sea and the limestone isles of Phang Nga Bay. With a color scheme inspired by the sea and opulent decor created by Italian designer Paola Navone, the rooms are calm and restful. Pool villas with heavenly beds and Egyptian cotton linens are available as accommodations. They provide breathtaking views and are ideal for honeymooners.

Couples looking to be physically active and focus on wellness will find COMO Point Yamu to be the perfect destination. Along with meditation, paddleboarding, and kayaking, there are lessons in yoga, muay thai, and stretching. Numerous of the activities are free. It should be essential to receive body scrubs and massages at the renowned COMO Shambhala Retreat, and the three-hour Thai cookery lesson led by award-winning chefs will prepare you for culinary success when you wish to recreate your honeymoon at home.

Best Budget: The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon

The most Instagrammable hotel in Bangkok debuted in the striking King Power Mahanakhon Building in mid-2022. The SkyWalk, an observation platform with a large glass floor that protrudes from the structure and allows guests to view 1,030 feet straight down, is perched atop the skyscraper. Visitor admission to The Standard is free. In the vivid, Jamie Hayon–designed bolt-hole, 430-square-foot standard rooms come with spacious bathrooms and start under $200 per night. The delicious à la carte breakfast serves up coffee, fresh Thai coconuts and juices, and much more. The Standard has seven dining and drinking destinations, all completely unique and exciting—from the Chinese restaurant Mott 32 and the retro space-age Mexican place Ojo to the mouthwatering American-style steakhouse The Standard Grill. Round out your stay with relaxing sessions in the crimson steam room and sun-soaked afternoons by the terrace pool.

Best for Foodies:Sofiahotelhuahin

For your next trip to Thailand, the Sofia Hotel, which is in Hua Hin's city center, is the best place to stay. Our hotel offers the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and security, making you stay nothing short of exceptional.

As the best hotel in Hua Hin, The Sofia Hotel is dedicated to giving its clients the greatest services and amenities available. We are committed to providing you with a really extraordinary experience throughout your stay with us, from our gorgeously appointed guest rooms to our first-rate dining options.

At the Sofia Hotel, we place the utmost importance on your security and protection. Our hotel has cutting-edge security equipment and 24-hour security personnel to ensure that you always feel safe and secure while you're there.

We also offer practical transportation options to our visitors, such as shuttle services to nearby tourist attractions and landmarks. Whether you prefer to unwind at our hotel or explore the neighborhood, we have you covered.

To reach us out in offline mode do not forget to visit

Sofia Hotel Huahin        

100 / 3 - 6 Poonsuk Road Hua Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Thailand 77110

Email: sofiahuahin@gmail.com

Visit Our website — https://sofiahotelhuahin.com/

[sunesenteague39]

The Value Of Travel In Sri Lanka: My Detailed Budget Breakdown 2023

Where potential, Intrepid makes use of native transport options and conventional modes of transport - which often carry much less of an environmental influence, help small local operators and are heaps more enjoyable. Filtered water is a greater choice; try to use a refillable canteen or water bottle rather than shopping for bottled water. However, we proceed to strongly suggest that each one Intrepid vacationers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

If you're a Canadian citizen, but in addition a citizen of Sri Lanka, our capacity to give you consular services may be restricted whilst you're there.

For additional data, check out our Customer Service Portal.

Third class has benches and might match three folks per row versus two, however it’s not as dangerous as it sounds.

Even if you have not utilized for ETA can get a Visa on Arrival on arrival for Sri Lanka.

This place has lots to explore and gives a peek to the golden previous of this side of Sri Lanka. Trincomalee, amongst many comparable Sri Lanka tourist spots, is blessed with a wonderful seashore. If you are up for an underwater diving tour, then SLDT provides you with the most effective experience. Besides water sports, there are additionally many temples and seashores in Trincomalee. [newline]There's also a struggle cemetery which is surrounded by lush gardens, which makes it probably the greatest locations to see in Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka National Parks

Why not spend a carefree afternoon at Negombo Beach throughout your travels in Negombo? While on this enjoyable area, you can enjoy the seafood restaurants. Nothing says vacation like spending a lazy day at Unawatuna Beach, a well-liked seaside in Unawatuna. We have access to greater than 550 airline partners all through the world, so you've a great deal of choice when placing together your Sri Lanka escape. Our Sri Lanka packages, which start at just $873, are the perfect method to save a nice deal of cash. Pick your favorite hotels, flights and rental automobile to create your dream getaway.

You ought to think about your need to journey to this nation, territory or region based on family or business necessities, information of or familiarity with the area, and different elements. If you are already there, take into consideration whether or not you actually must be there. If https://happyturtlestravels.com/ do not want to be there, you should think about leaving. Credit playing cards are widely accepted in main urban and tourist centres. You might encounter difficulties in making Visa and MasterCard cash withdrawals.

Journey Advisory Ranges

Our tour leader Asanga was good and because of him I feel like I know Sri Lanka lots higher now. Everything was so nicely organised between every vacation spot in Sri Lanka that we did not have to assume about something. If you’re abroad and also you need emergency assist from the UK government, contact the closest British embassy, consulate or high commission.

Mirissa and Tangalla have a few of the greatest Sri Lanka beaches to relax and chill out. From Mirissa you can even take a whale watching tour to see sperm whales, blue whales and dolphins off the southern coast. Arugam Bay is one of the greatest seashores in Sri Lanka and sits on the east coast in its place relying on the season. Whilst, Unawatuna is a laid-back tourist scene of eating places, bars, hotels and quaint boutique bed and breakfasts. It can additionally be the bay where four turtles have made their house and can be seen aimlessly floating around their blue playground, especially late in the afternoon. For adventurous issues to do in Sri Lanka, you can surf, snorkel or dive at Hikkaduwa Beach, one of the country’s well-liked beaches because of its coral reef.

[lacontroller1991]

Blue Ain’t Your Color (Obi-Wan Kenobi x Reader)

Author’s note: Finding a gif of Obi-Wan that I haven’t used is becoming more impossible as I continue to write fics; Also this one is not a request.

Author’s note 2.0: Based on the song ‘Blue Ain’t Your Color’ by Keith Urban

Warnings: Binge Drinking; angst

Summary: Reader in Anakin’s girlfriend; however Anakin has been seeing Padme behind reader’s back and she finds out, which leads to her drinking problem, then Obi-Wan comes in and admits his feelings for reader.

I can see you over there

Starring at your drink

Watchin’ that ice sink

All alone tonight

And chances are 

You’re sittin’ here in this bar

‘Cause he ain’t gonna treat you right

Being with Anakin had it’s ups and downs. The downs being him sneaking off in the middle of the night to the the Senate building, to upper Coruscant, and to Padme. Although he didn’t know that you knew of his little love affair with the Naboo senator, the weight of keeping his little love affair on the down low weighed down on you, hence why you sat at a bar alone in the lower slums of Coruscant slinging back shot after shot, not noticing the piercing blue eyes that watched your every move.

Obi-Wan cowered in the corner of the dirty bar, hands clasped in his lap as he watched you drink yourself until you pass out; but tonight was different. Feeling the pair of eyes on you, you scanned the room looking for a possible threat only to see the ginger Jedi staring back at you. Turning back to the bartender, you motioned for two shots before making your way over to your lover’s master and sitting next to him.

“What are you doing here Obi-Wan?” You asked as best as you could, the alcohol already changing your motor functions. Politely refusing the drink, Obi-Wan looked at you with sadness as you shrugged and chugged down the two shots.

“I am making sure that you are alright,” Obi-Wan responded as you giggled and placed your head onto the table, looking up at him.

“Fine? I’m perfectly fine,” you stated before letting out a burp before a stream of giggles followed.

“Darling, you’re not fine. Let me help you.”

“No one can help me Obi-Wan, Anakin made sure of that.”

Well, it’s probably not my place

But I’m gonna say it anyway

‘Cause you look like

You haven’t felt the fire

Had a little fun

Hadn’t had a smile in a little while

Baby

Obi-Wan took your hands in his as he pulled you up, throwing you over his shoulder while you pounded against his back.

“Let me down, Kenobi.”

“No.”

Changing your tactics, you remained still as you and him walked up to his speeder. Setting you down in the passenger side, he strapped you in securely as to make sure that you in your drunken state didn’t try anything stupid while he was driving. Crossing your arms, you let out a huff as he began his way to the Jedi temple.

As you guys approached the temple, a familiar figure walked towards his speeder with R2 following closely behind.

“Don’t mind him, he’s not worth it (Y/N),” Obi-Wan tried to soothe your unease as you scoffed at his statement.

“I love him and I thought he loved me, but no it will always be that senator won't it? What is with you male Jedi and falling for a senator.”

“I’m not sure what you mean,” Obi-Wan stuttered, feeling a pang in his chest when you mentioned that you loved Anakin and when you admitted to knowing about him and the Duchess of Mandalore.

“Anakin with Padme, and you with Satine. Like, no wonder why Jedi aren’t supposed to form attachments,” you mumbled as he sighed, running a hand through his locks before looking back at you.

“I don’t love Satine, (Y/N), I love someone else,” confessing to the very thing he’s sworn to not do, you quirked an eyebrow before a wave of nausea hit you, hunching you over the side of his speeder and spilling out your stomach.

“Come on, darling let’s get you cleaned up.”

Blue looks good on the sky

Looks good on that neon buzzing’ on the wall

But darling, it don’t match your eyes

I’m tellin’ you

You don’t need that guy

It’s so black and white

He’s stealing’ your thunder

Baby, blue ain’t your color 

Stepping out of his refresher in his robes, you smelled tea wafting through the room as Obi-Wan cooked you some food. 

“(Y/N), you need to eat, it’ll help with your nausea,” placing the plate in front of you, Obi-Wan’s eyes lingered longer than they should have and you noticed this.

“Why do you keep staring at me?”

“It’s nothing,” turning away, Obi-Wan focused his mind of the boiling pot of tea that sat on the stove. Getting up, you walked up behind him and wrapped your arms around his waist.

“Obi, what are you not telling me,” you whispered into his ear as he poured two cups of tea.

“I love you. I hate that Anakin is tearing you down like this. I want to be the one you love, not him. Let me help you, we can be happy together,” Obi-Wan stated, grasping you in his hands as a blush crept along your face.

Well, I’ve had enough to drink

And it’s making me think

That I just might

Tell you that if I were a painter I wouldn’t change ya

I’d just paint you bright

Baby

“Obi, I don’t know what to say.”

“Don’t say anything, you’re not in the right mindset, go get some sleep,” he commanded as you nodded, laying down on his bed that he insisted you use for the night instead of walking back to your quarters. Quickly falling asleep, your mind began to fill with thoughts of what it could be like with Obi-Wan.

While you slept, Obi-Wan sat on the floor, hovering over the wooden boards, meditating on what to do once you woke up. Thoughts of you rejecting him or Anakin finding out about his feelings towards you plagued his mind as he grew frustrated with meditation. Giving up, Obi-Wan sat on his couch, watching you as you slept peacefully.

“She’s not going to remember any of this,” hanging his head low, Obi-Wan laid across the couch and slowly drifted to sleep.

‘Cause blue looks good on the sky

Looks good on the neon buzzin’ on the wall,

But darling it don’t match your eyes,

I’m telling you,

You don't need that guy

It’s so black and white

He’s stealing your thunder

Baby, Blue ain’t your color

Obi-Wan’s eyes fluttered opened, adjusting to the bright lights that shone through the window. Sitting up, he rubbed his eyes before turning around and looking for your sleeping form, only to see you missing as his bed make neatly up.

“Of course,” Obi-Wan muttered as he got up and got ready for the day.

Walking down the halls, a loud giggle caught his attention. Turning his head to the noise, he saw you hoisted in the air with Anakin’s arms wrapped around your waist.

“Put me down Ani,” you commanded as Anakin’s fingered continued to tickle into your side.

“Not a chance (Y/N). You broke our promise,” Anakin joked before Obi-Wan cleared his throat, jealousy raging through his veins.

“(Y/N), don’t you have somewhere to be this morning?” Obi-Wan asked as Anakin let you down, noticing how red your face got. You face never got like that near Obi-Wan.

“Something happen between you two?” Anakin asked as you shook your head, whispering a quick goodbye to Anakin and a slight nod to Obi-Wan before scurrying off to the training that your master had in place for you.

“Nothing happened, I drove her home last night. She was at the bar again drinking.”

“She’s always there,” Anakin mentioned as Obi-Wan stared at him with annoyance.

“And that doesn’t concern you?”

“Why should it? She’s responsible, plus Senator Amidala required my assistance last night.”

“Anakin, she has a drinking problem. What did Padme need so desperately at midnight that you could not watch (Y/N)?”

“What do you care anyways Obi-Wan?” Anakin asked with anger as Obi-Wan sighed and began to walk away.

“Because I actual care for her,” walking away, Obi-Wan ignored the perplexed look on his Padawan’s face and ignored the jealousy that surged through his veins.

Blue looks good on the sky

Looks good on the neon buzzin’ on the wall

But darling it don’t match your eyes,

I’m telling you,

You don’t need that guy

It’s so black and white

He’s stealing your thunder,

Baby, blue ain’t your color

Author’s Note 3.0: I hope you guys enjoyed this song fic as much as I did ❤️❤️

[benwaitingforsolo]

ben solo x reader - modern au fluff/comfort

“Just listen to my voice, focus on me,” and “hold my hand, I’m right here with you”

request from: @carloswilliamcarlos -  I’m gonna throw these prompts at you please: “Just listen to my voice, focus on me,” and “hold my hand, I’m right here with you” for Ben? Thanks for sharing!!

warnings: heat exhaustion? written loosely off of my many experiences lol - gender neutral reader

-

“I hate sand.” Ben stated angrily.

Ben truly was a city boy. He’d rather have hard concrete under his feet than loose sand.

You, on the other hand, were excited to leave the busy urban sounds and meet the noise of crashing waves. So excited, you neglected the precautionary measures one takes at the beach. Like, eating, drinking water, and applying sunscreen.

Ben wasn’t starkly pale, but his skin burned and rarely tanned. So, he applied sunscreen vigorously.

Ben’s a big guy, and in order to keep up his physique, he eats. A lot, and often.

And Ben had many water bottles packed, loaded with ice cubes to survive the sun.

By the time he had grabbed everything out of the car, you were already stripped and in the open water.

Ben loved seeing you happy, elated, to be away from the stressors of your daily lives. Laid out on the towels, under the umbrella, Ben pulled out a book and kept an eye on you in the water.

You shifted from laying in the shallow water, enjoying the waves hitting your body, to swimming to the far points of the water boundaries. Even with all your moving, Ben still kept track of where you were.

To you, it felt like brief moments passing by. In reality, you were prancing around the beach for nearly an hour.

The longer you were out, it took more energy to get from the buoy to the actual beach. And Ben could see the exhaustion in your body.

It was too much, the sun radiated in a sky with no clouds, the water flooded your ears and stung your eyes, and you were simply tired. As you were finally able to feel the ground under your feet, you tried your hardest to yell, “Ben!” It was nearly inaudible, but he still heard you.

Immediately, Ben dropped his book and ran to meet you by the water. Cares about the sand getting in between his toes, gone.

Your eyes grew heavy, and your head pounded, and the ringing in your ears grew incessant. Just lay down here, you thought, and down you went.

Before your knees hit the sand, you felt a steady pair of hands scoop under your arms. “Hold my hand, I’m right here with you,” you heard quietly, under the ringing. Not able to do much else, you lifted your heavy hand and found Ben’s.

Your body finally met the ground, but instead of sand, you felt the plush fabric of the towels Ben had packed lay underneath you, as he cradled you in his lap.

Overstimulated, your eyes fluttered aggressively, and your breather hitched rapidly. On top of that, you couldn’t tell if the tears running down your cheeks were your eyes’ instinct to flush out the salt, or your emotions taking over.

“Just listen to my voice, focus on me,”

You trust that voice, you love that voice, and when the cold lip of a water bottle met your lips, you didn’t push it away.

“Sweetheart, I’m so sorry, I shouldn’tve let you run out so quickly.” Ben murmured, running his fingers over your forehead. “God, you’re burning up, keep drinking. Are you hungry? Want to sit in some AC? I think I packed ibuprofen if you have a headache.”

The ringing in your ears and the pounding from your head began to cease. “You’re sorry? I was an idiot for just running around.” You said apologetically. “Can I have a granola bar, please?”

Ben brought the already-opened package to your lips to let you take a bite. He smiled and kissed you from your temple to your shoulder.

“I was just happy to see you happy, running around the beach.” Ben said, “Everything has been so stressful lately, you deserve a break like this.”

You grabbed a cold grape from the bag Ben had packed in the cooler. He did think of everything. “I don’t deserve you taking care of me like this.” You said while chewing the fruit.

“Sweetheart, taking care of you is all I want to do. And that means I should make sure you’re fed and hydrated before you run around the beach.”

“You’re too good for me, Solo.” You said, giving him a loving kiss to his lips.

-

thanks for reading! i hope you enjoyed it :) i appreciate feedback and welcome suggestions. additionally, if you have a request from this prompt list, shoot me a message or inbox me! they’re always open. 

hope you’re doing well 💕

[therainroguefanfiction]

⍚ HaikWeek!! 2020 ⍚ Day 6 (Nobuyuki Kai) Hating Goodbye

📑 Table of Contents | « Previous Day

Genre: Romance, Comedy, Friendship, Fluff, Slice of Life

Word Count: 3,136

Pairing: Reader x Kai

World: Haikyuu!!

Prompt: Favorite Moment/Scene/Match + Beginnings/Endings  

Author’s Note: Here is the next entry for @haikyuuweek2020​~ Oh boy, I think I fell even more in love with Kai in this fic ;_;) crap. Also, I re~ally love the training camp arc it makes me so happy~~!

━━━━━━༻⍚ 🏐 HaikWeek!! 2020 🏐 ⍚༺━━━━━━

“Wait, so you’re going to a training camp for an entire week?” you wondered, watching your boyfriend as he carefully folded his clothes into his bag.

“That’s right. We’re going to Shinzen high.”

“That sounds so fun!” you wrinkled your nose, sliding down in his desk chair. “What the hell am I supposed to do while you guys are gone?”

He hummed softly as he zipped up the bag, setting it by the end of the bed. “If you want, I can ask my cousin if she’ll bring you. It’s not a long trip.”

You sat up straight, eyes sparkling. “Is it okay for me to go? Since I’m not on the team.”

“I can double-check with Nekomata-sensei,” he pressed a soft kiss to your forehead, giving you a smile. “I’m sure he won’t mind, though.”

“Thank you so much, Yuki!” You threw your arms around his neck and he chuckled, meeting you halfway to claim your lips.

“You’re welcome. I’d be much happier if you were there, as well.”

“You make it sound like I’m your emotional support partner,” you teased, tugging on the collar of his shirt.

His eyes were warm as they met yours, his forehead resting against your own. His large hands held onto your hips, thumbs drawing soft circles against your skin. “In a way, you are. I feel much happier when you’re nearby. You keep my head clear during important moments and I’m able to push myself even harder.”

You felt your face growing hot at his sincere words, not expecting such an honest response. Though, what did you expect? Everything about Kai Nobuyuki was nothing short of soft and honest. You smiled, eyes shimmering with love as you tugged him closer, lips embracing in a slow, sensual kiss.

You had just finished packing up your bag when a knock sounded on the front door, echoing throughout the empty house. You nearly tripped over your feet going down the stairs in your excitement to answer the door.

Yuki’s cousin, Yua, stood there with a soft smile which brightened upon seeing you. “Good morning, Y/N. Are you ready to go?”

“I am!” you quickly slipped on your shoes before stepping outside, tugging the door closed behind you. “Thank you so much for driving me to Saitama, Yua-san. I promise I’ll pay you back.”

She giggled as she slid into the driver’s side, sticking the key into the ignition. The car started up with a soft rumble, the air conditioning ice cold as it hit your skin. “You’re practically family. Besides, I’m excited to visit the Dairyu-ji temple. It’s been so long since I was there.”

Your heart skipped a beat when she called you family and you practically melted right then and there. No one knew this about you, but you dreamed of one day marrying Yuki and being an official part of the Kai family. They were also so kind and gentle, minus his mother who had a lot of spunk, especially when it came to her life’s passions.

You stared out the window, watching the scenery blur as the car passed by. Though the trip was only about a forty-minute drive from Tokyo, depending on the traffic, you had never actually been there. You found yourself wondering if they had a statue of Saitama from One Punch Man.

The thought had you giggling.

Yua pulled up to Shinzen high school, giving you a smile. “I’ll be staying in Saitama for a few hours before returning home. If for any reason you need to return early, just text me okay? Have fun!”

“Thank you, Yua-san!” You gave her a small wave as you stepped out of the car, swinging your bag over your shoulder. You quickly sent a text to Yuki letting him know that you have arrived before you entered the school grounds, taking in the site.

Shinzen high was quite large, offering a variety of buildings that made it easy to get lost. And that’s exactly what you did. In just a few minute’s time, you were completely turned around. It almost felt as if you were an urban explorer and that made it kind of exciting for you.

Fifteen minutes passed before your boyfriend finally responded.

» ‘Sorry, hun, I was in a match. Where are you?’

« ‘About that…’

» ‘Did you get lost?’

« ‘Yes :(‘

» ‘Turn on your location for me, hun :) I’ll come get you’

You did as he asked, turning on your location before leaning back against the stone building. The sky above was a blinding blue, fluffy clouds drifting by on the soft breeze. Cicadas were chirping loudly in all directions, sure indications that summer had officially descended upon the earth.

You could smell Yuki’s familiar cologne mixed with the scent of sweat as he approached you, his warm hand sliding into your own. You gave him a sheepish smile, gently squeezing his hand. “Sorry, Yuki~”

“It’s okay, my love,” he responded softly, pressing a chaste kiss to your forehead. “I’ll always come to find you when you get lost.”

“You’re the best boyfriend in the world~”

“No, you’re the best partner in the world.” He booped you on the nose, giving you that closed-eye smile that you loved so much.

“Psssst. Y/N! Hey, hey Y/N!”

You blinked, looking up from your phone as you looked around for the source of the sound. Nishinoya Yuu, Karasuno’s libero, was hiding behind the bleachers, peering through the opening between seats as he called out your name.

He had a good reason for this, of course. After Tanaka and Noya started hitting on you the first time you met, the Nekoma team became super protective over you whenever they were nearby because of their loyalty towards Yuki. This continued despite the fact that both boys stopped hitting on you after finding out you were taken.

This was a shame, in your opinion, because you had really hit it off with the short libero and enjoyed his company.

You glanced at your team. They were playing a match against Fukuroudani, their backs to you and completely focused on the game. You moved closer to the end of the bleachers, trying to act casual as you looked at your phone. “What’s up, Nish?”

“I wanted to give you a heads up. After our matches today, we’re having a barbeque!”

“Really?” you responded with excitement, whipping around to face him while completely forgetting that you were supposed to be acting incognito. “Is that what you guys were acting like dorks over?”

“Yeah! We love meat over at Karasuno!”

You snickered. “That could be taken so many ways, Nish.”

He huffed, folding his arms over his chest. “But I get labeled the pervert?”

“Because you are.”

“So are you!”

“I never said I wasn’t,” you laughed. “Now go focus on your game, you dork. You guys are seriously behind.”

His nose wrinkled at the mention. “We’ve got this, don’t you worry!”

You chuckled at his reaction, reaching through the gap to ruffle his spikey hair.

Yamamoto caught movement from the corner of his eye and glanced over. At first, he didn’t think anything of you leaning over on the bleachers. He just assumed you had dropped something through the gap, but then he saw a flash of blonde and he realized that Karasuno’s libero was hidden behind them.

While he had no real qualms with the shorter male, even joining the Kiyoko fanclub, he was quite protective when it came to you because you were like his sibling plus you were dating his teammate.

His fist clenched in annoyance. “That little -”

He didn’t get far, though, Kuroo grabbing the back of his jersey. “Where are you going? We may have won the set but the match isn’t over.”

The tiger-haired boy pointed directly at you. “Nishinoya is alone with Y/N! There’s no telling what schemes he’s using to try and get with them!”

Kuroo raised a brow at Yuki who was wiping sweat from his face with the fluffy white towel around his neck. He glanced at you, the corners of his lips quirking up as he noticed the excited expression upon your face. “What’s going on?”

“Nishinoya is flirting with Y/N!”

“You don’t know that,” Kuroo sighed, though he too wanted to march over there when you reached through to ruffle the boy’s hair.

“What should we do, Kai?” Yamamoto turned to the older boy for instruction, but Yuki only chuckled softly in reply.

“I think you’re making a deal out of nothing. He may be a flirt, but he respects Y/N enough to not flirt with them knowing that they are dating me.”

“How can you be so sure of that?”

“I trust them,” Yuki smiled at you as you waved at Noya who bolted back over to his team. “Besides, they are close friends.”

“Eh?” Yamamoto’s eyes widened at this information.

“They text back and forth pretty often ever since our first practice match with them.”

“You’re okay with that?” Kuroo wondered, holding onto his chin. He couldn’t say for sure whether he’d be entirely happy with his partner texting another guy like that, especially one that had hit on them so strongly upon first meeting.

“Of course. As long as Y/N is happy, I’m happy.” Kai offered them a closed-eye smile before setting the towel onto the bench and returning to the court. The two boys could only watch him in wonder, unable to fully process how he could be so trusting and angelic.

“Bar-be-cue!!” Karasuno’s boys were the first to react when they stepped out of the gym to find the spread of food just waiting to be devoured.

Your own eyes lit up, mouth-watering at the heavenly scent of the meat being grilled. “Wow, so you were telling the truth.”

Noya huffed at you, folding his arms across his chest. “You thought I was lying?”

“Not lying perse, but I figured you had gotten your wires crossed. Wouldn’t be the first time,” you snickered, poking him in the shoulder.

“Rude!”

“While you two argue, I’m gonna eat your share of the meat!” Bokuto grinned as he rushed past toward one of the grills.

“No fair!” You both chorused, rushing after him. Thankfully, you were both able to secure some meat before he could eat it all, settling down beside one another.

“Did you read the latest chapter of Saki no Shita?” you glanced at him as you stuck a piece of meat into your mouth.

“No spoilers!” he all but shoved his hand into your face, brow furrowed. “I didn’t get to read it!”

Konoha scoffed as he approached the two of you, brow raised at the smaller male. “Don’t tell me you’re one of those people that binge read.”

You nodded, sending him a shifty look. “Yeah, those people are the worst. How can you wait so long to find out what happens?”

“Hey!” Noya cried indignantly, making you snicker.

“Binge reading is pretty fun,” Masaru commented with a smile as he joined the group, settling down on the grass across from your chair. “If you take breaks between the chapters, it feels like the story loses its oomph, you know?”

You tapped your chin, looking up at the afternoon sky. “I mean, I guess that makes sense. I feel like if I waited to binge read, I’d lose interest, though!”

He chuckled softly, bringing his fist to his mouth. “That’s valid! We all enjoy it the best way we can, after all.”

“See? He gets it!” Noya grinned. “And besides, I don’t binge it on purpose. Practice takes up a lot of my time so I usually pass out when I return home.”

“Oh yeah, that makes sense,” you nodded. “On the days I spend over at Yuki’s house, he usually falls asleep right after taking care of his younger siblings.”

Noya gasped dramatically, eyes wide as saucers. “You sleep under the same roof? How scandalous, Y/N!”

You scowled, tossing a piece of onion at him. “Not like that!”

He recoiled in disgust, bringing his feet up as if he had just witnessed a mouse scurrying across the floor. The flimsy chair was unable to handle the sudden movement, tipping backward. His arms flailed like a rooster as if that would somehow stop his fall.

“Nish!” you leaned over him when his back hit the ground, noticing how he managed to keep his paper plate up in the air, saving the little bit of meat he had left from hitting the ground. “Are you okay?”

Masaru sweatdropped from beside you. “Judging from the comical swirls in his eyes, I’d say not.”

“Well, if he’s down for the count…” Konoha grinned as he reached for the meat on Noya’s plate. “…I’ll just – hey!! Bokuto, what the hell?!”

You watched the owl of Fukuroudani snatch the meat from the plate, shoveling it into his mouth before Konoha could even register what had happened. And just like that, he darted away like a ninja, popping up beside Hinata and stealing a piece of meat over his shoulder. The poor first-year didn’t even notice, despite the desperate ramblings of Yachi who attempted to explain the theft.

Your eyes followed him as he darted around the group, stealing a piece of meat here and there, even from his own team members. Most people didn’t even notice his ninja-like moves. You sweatdropped, “He’s like the damn hamburglar.”

“The… what?” Masaru raised a brow in confusion.

“He’s an idiot is what he is,” Konoha muttered.

You were about to reply when you noticed the third-year approaching Yuki and Kuroo. “Oh hell nah!” Keeping your plate close to your chest, you weaved through the hulking boys like a plane flying through skyscrapers. You arrived just as Bokuto stole their meat off the grill, dashing away like the criminal that he was. “Bokuto, you little thief! Get back here!”

You tried to give chase, but a strong arm wrapped around your waist, keeping you in place. You pouted at your boyfriend. “Yuki~ Why’d you stop me?”

“I’d rather you spend the last of camp with me opposed to chasing Bokuto-san across the school,” his eyes twinkled with amusement as he pecked your cheek.

“And in case you can’t read between the lines,” Kuroo grinned at you, poking your forehead. “He doesn’t want you to get lost again.”

“Rude,” you huffed. “It happened once, okay.”

“It happened three times.”

“Three?” Yuki raised a brow in surprise, looking between the two of you.

Your face heated up at your secret being revealed like that and you tried to kick him in the shin but he just laughed and rushed off to make sure Kenma was eating properly.

“Three times, huh?” Yuki mused softly, tugging on the side of your shirt.

You pouted at him before looking down at the grill as he added more meat to replace what Bokuto had stolen. “For the record, only the first time was my fault. The second time, I trusted Nish to know where the vending machines were and the third time Eri-chan gave me the wrong directions to the bathrooms.”

He chuckled. “You should have just asked me, hun.”

“You were in games each time, though.”

“I still would have helped you.”

“That’s why I didn’t tell you,” you smiled, poking his side. “I know you would have left the game to help me!”

“Of course, I would.” His arms found their place around your body as he pulled you into a gentle kiss, his lips soft against yours. “Y/N, my love, you will always come first. No matter what.”

“Don’t let Kuroo or Yaku hear that,” you mused against his lips, a bright smile on your face.

You sniffled, wiping away the tears that were gathering in your ducts before they could fall. Noya stood across from you, his own eyes shimmering with tears.

“You take care of yourself, understood?” you sniffled again. “Make sure you read the next chapter so we can talk about it!”

“I will,” he nodded frantically, sniffling as he tried to hold back his tears. “Don’t stay up too late reading, your grades are trash.”

“So are yours!”

“I know!”

Ogano sweatdropped, leaning toward Nekoma’s captain and covering his mouth. “Are those two gonna be okay?”

Kuroo rubbed the back of his neck. “They certainly like to be dramatic…”

As if on cue, both of you burst into tears, throwing your arms around each other. Yamamoto and Tanaka appeared out of nowhere, trying to pry the two of you apart.

“Y/N, knock it off! You have a boyfriend already!!”

“Noya, let them go! They have a boyfriend already!!”

“I’m never letting go!” Noya cried, tightening his grip.

“My bestie!” You cried back, gripping the back of his shirt.

Yaku sighed, bringing his hand to his forehead. “You both act like you’re never going to see each other again…”

Suga chuckled nervously, rubbing the back of his neck. “Guys, you’re making a scene. People already think Karasuno is crazy…”

“Because you are,” Bokuto chirped happily, giving the grey-haired boy a thumbs up. “But it’s okay, Nekoma is, too!”

“What did you say, birdbrain?” Kuroo grinned sadistically making Bokuto stick his tongue out before darting behind Akaashi.

Yuki tapped Yamamoto on the shoulder and the younger boy released his hold on you, taking a step back so the older male could come up behind you. His hands were warm on your shoulders. “Hun, Karasuno needs to get back home. I know you’re going to miss him but you’ll see him again.”

“Promise?” you looked up at him with hopeful eyes, sniffling loudly.

“I promise,” he smiled softly, bringing his lips to your forehead. “We can even make plans to spend some time in Miyagi if you’d like. I’m sure Yua would love to go sightseeing there.”

“Come on, Noya, let them go.” Daichi appeared behind the libero, patting him on the shoulder. “We need to get going, we’ve got a long trip back.”

Reluctantly, the two of you released your grip on each other, exchanging sad looks as if a pair of twins were being separated. Noya’s arms wiggled in the air as Daichi dragged him toward the bus by the back of his shirt.

“Bokuto, why are you crying?” Akaashi deadpanned, not looking back at the boy that was sobbing into the back of his shoulder.

“It’s so sad!”

Tsuki rolled his eyes as he stepped toward the bus. “I’m surrounded by idiots.”

You turned around, burying your face into Yuki’s chest, arms wrapped around his waist. Your words were muffled by the cloth and hard to understand because of how soft you spoke. “I hate goodbyes and endings. They suck.”

Yuki hummed softly, running his fingers through your hair. “I know, hun. I know.”

━━━━━━༻⍚ 🏐 HaikWeek!! 2020 🏐 ⍚༺━━━━━━

» Next Day

📜 Read more by checking out my masterlist 📜

[roundtheworldrambles]

Luang Prabang, Laos - Part 1

Day 161 – Chiang Mai, Thailand to Luang Prabang, Laos

In the afternoon, I packed up my bag and hailed a Red Songthaew to Chiang Mai’s airport, boarding a small, propeller plane that would take me to Luang Prabang, Laos. The flight was short, about an hour and a half east, over the mountainous green highlands. The air outside was thick and hazy, caused by smoke from burning farmer’s fields. I learned that between February-April, this was fairly common for northern Thailand and Laos, as farmers burn their fields before reseeding the soil.

Arriving at the small, red roofed airport in Luang Prabang, I quickly passed through customs, paying for my visa on arrival with US dollars. It was an interesting visa experience for me, as the visa application fee varied depending on the home country of the traveller – with Canadians paying the highest amount of any listed country. After doing some research after the fact, it appears that this is based on the reciprocal cost a Laotian would need to pay to visit Canada. Furthermore, the visa costs are also apparently related to the amount of international aid provided to Laos, where citizens of countries which have provided a higher level of aid pay lower visa costs as a result. I had not given much thought to the reciprocity of international visas before my arrival in Laos, and this was an eye-opening, educational experience for me.

As I was negotiating for a ride into town in the arrivals hall, I had the very good fortune of meeting a fellow traveller from San Francisco, Tonya, who was also travelling by herself. We quickly found out that we were also staying at the same guesthouse, and became immediate friends! Sharing a ride into town on a multi-coloured tuk-tuk, we also realized that we had a very similar itinerary planned around Asia for the coming few months! After settling into our hostel for the evening, we headed out into the town as the sun was setting.

Luang Prabang

The small city of Luang Prabang is built on a peninsula at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers, surrounded by lush green mountains. Now a UNESCO World Heritage site, Luang Prabang was once the capital of the historic Lane Xang Kingdom from the 14th to 16th centuries (also known as the “Kingdom of a Million Elephants”). Luang Prabang was also a historic trade centre in Southeast Asia, given its proximity to the meandering Mekong Rivier, which runs for almost 5,000 km through China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam.

Luang Prabang is also known for being the centre for Buddhism in Laos, and has many active temples, or “Vats” scattered throughout the town centre. The town was part of a French protectorate between 1893 and 1954, and the colonial influences of this era can still be seen in the architecture throughout the urban centre. Modern day Luang Prabang showcases traditional and French colonial styles throughout the town. Given the current UNESCO protections, the historic town centre was also remarkably free of the overdevelopment that can come with tourism. It was evident to me that the town had taken great care to protect their cultural heritage and architecture, with conservation and sustainability in mind.

Luang Prabang Night Market

As evening fell, Tonya and I wandered over a short distance to Sisavangvong Road, the main street through the peninsula, which was bustling with a vibrant night market.  The street had been closed off to vehicles and scooters, and there were hundreds of red and blue covered stalls and bamboo mats lining the street, selling countless beautiful and unique wares. There was an incredible collection of handicrafts, ceramics, silks, clothing, antiques and other souvenirs for sale. Many of the items sold were handmade by ethnic groups in the nearby hills, although some stalls also sold cheap, imported trinkets. Overall, the market had a relaxed atmosphere, with the vendors typically waiting for the visitor to inquire about the items rather than making sales pitches. One stall in particular caught my eye – where the trader was selling jewellery and cutlery which were apparently made by recycling fragments of bombs which had been dropped on Laos by the United States during the Vietnam War.

I had no previous knowledge of the bombing campaign in Laos during the war, and was stunned to learn that there were close to 600,000 bombing campaigns in Laos between 1964-1973, with the goal to cut off supply lines along the Ho Chi Minh Trail running into Vietnam. To this day, there are estimated to be almost 80 million unexploded bombs throughout the country, which continue to kill innocent men, women and children who happen to come upon them – near half a century later. It sickened me to think about all of the bombs lying dormant in fields and forests throughout this picturesque, welcoming country.

Tonya and I briefly stopped by a money exchange to switch out our US dollars to Laotian Kip. The local denominations were huge - with banknote amounts ranging between K500 to K100,000. For the remainder of my time in Laos, this made it quite challenging to monitor just how much money I had, as the many “zeros” on the banknotes automatically tricked my brain into thinking I had more money than I actually did!

One of the Many Fresh Smoothie Stands in the Market

We spent the remainder of the evening browsing the night market, sampling spicy Laotian dishes at the food stalls along the street, and enjoying passionfruit smoothies. It was a great first day in Laos, and I was lucky to have equally terrific company with Tonya!

Day 162 – Luang Prabang

After grabbing breakfast at our hostel and befriending a few other travellers, Tonya and I headed out to explore town, passing first through the morning farmer’s market just along the street outside. The vendors start setting up before sunrise, and it was already busy as we walked through around 8:30am. Local produce and the catch-of-the-day were set up for sale on mats on the ground. Ready-to-eat snacks were also for sale, such as charcoal-grilled honeycomb, baelfruit, mung-bean rice cakes, Mok Pa (a dish cooked with catfish caught in the Mekong), Lao Khao Soi, various meats cooked in banana leaf, Khao Jee Pate (a Laotian take on a Banh Mi Baguette sandwich) barbecued frog, water buffalo sausage, coconut milk pancakes, young coconuts, various noodle dishes, and even grilled rat – just to name a few snacks! We enjoyed stolling along the street, chatting with the friendly vendors, and taking in the vibrant colours, sights and smells of the market.

We continued onwards to the bank of the Mekong River, lined with palm and banana trees. Long, shallow river boats churned through the milky brown water below. Beyond the wide, lazy river, we could see lush green mountains in the distance. As we walked along the embankment, various tour operators approached us, trying to sell us tours in these slow riverboats. While we were certainly interested, Tonya and I had done our research on reputable tours, and planned to purchase our trip up the Mekong for the following day.

Drying Orange Robes in a Monastery in Luang Prabang

Turning inland, we began to meander along the quieter streets of town, lined with traditional Lao houses and guesthomes, many of which were constructed with bamboo materials during the colonial period. The UNESCO protections in the town continued to be evident, as there were no high-rise buildings or large tour buses anywhere in the town centre. Tuk-tuks and scooters were by far the most common means of transportation for locals and visitors. As we walked, we occasionally passed some active Buddhist monasteries, and while we could not enter, we could see the laundered orange robes of the monks hanging out to dry.  

Wat Xieng Thong

We visited one of the best-known monasteries in the town centre, Wat Xieng Thong. Dating back to the 16th century, the temple complex housed a gilded ordination hall, with large, sweeping roofs, along with numerous stupas, chapels, a library, a drum tower, and a funeral carriage - historically used to carry the urns of Lao royalty. The architecture throughout Wat Xieng Thong was simply stunning, with every structure richly decorated with engravings, colourful mosaics, paintings, gilding and elaborate sculptures.  

A close-up of mosaics at Wat Xieng Thong

Ready for some shade and bite to eat, Tonya and I headed to the banks of the Nam Khan River, crossing a bamboo footbridge to the far bank. The bamboo bridges of Luang Prabang are built by local families on an annual basis, facilitating the journey to and from the old quarter of the city. Incredibly, though these bridges are solely built from bamboo and rope, they are very sturdy! As visitors to Luang Prabang, Tonya and I paid a small toll to cross the bridge, which contributes to the upkeep and annual bridge replacement.

Bamboo Bridge across the Nam Khan River

On the far banks of the river, we arrived at Dyen Sabai  – a restaurant recommended by a friend of mine from Western, Brandon - who had briefly lived abroad in Laos, and had generously given me all sorts of local recommendations! He had highly recommended that I visit Dyen Sabai for their Lao Buffalo Fondue. The setting was peaceful – Tonya and I sat on low futons at a riverside table, surrounded by a beautiful bamboo garden. The buffalo fondue dish turned out to be cooked in a similar way to Chinese hot pot/Korean BBQ. The servers prepared a small charcoal fire in a metal container built into the table, before placing a specialized cover overtop. This set-up allowed Tonya and I to cook the meat ourselves on the grill and cook the vegetables in the broth. It was a delicious (and interactive!) meal, a recommendation well worth it.

Buffalo Fondue at Dyen Sabai

After lunch, we traversed back over the bridge, and walked along the banks of the Nam Khan river to Utopia, a outdoor bar and bucket-list destination for any backpacker to the area (I think I had about 10 different friends recommend I go!). Tonya and I spent several hours of the late afternoon enjoying several Beer Lao while sitting on the floor cushions, chatting with other travellers and taking in the incredible ambiance of this lively riverside bar.

Nam Khan River

As evening began to fall, we returned to the town centre to climb Mount Phousi for sunset. A small mountain located in the heart of the historic town centre, Phou-si literally translates to “sacred hill”, and stands approximately 100m tall. While it was a bit of a climb to the top, I was happy for the exercise! Along the trail as we ascended were many gilded statues of Buddha, with a small temple and golden stupa at the summit. Arriving just on time for sunset, we took in an incredible 360-degree view of Luang Prabang, the Mekong River shimmering in a deep shade of orange, reflecting the mesmerizing sky above. The distant mountains were blanketed in a smoky haze from the burning of brush and farmers fields.  While the hill was packed with tourists who had the same idea as us – it was still a wonderful way to end a day of exploring the city. Ready to tuck into some more of Laos’ famous street food, Tonya and I returned to the night market along Sisavangvong Road, taking in the brightly lit red and blue booths framed by tall palm trees and the opulent Royal Palace. After sharing and sampling countless delicious dishes, we headed back to our hostel, stopping at a booth on the main road to purchase tickets for our boat trip up the Mekong River the following day. I crashed almost immediately, as I was planning to wake up before dawn to view the morning Almsgiving ceremony, a daily tradition of local Buddhist monks.

Sunset from Mount Phousi

[traveladventuresinnepal]

Sightseeing Tour in Kathmandu

Kathmandu is one of the top center points for free voyagers just as a significant vacationer location of Nepal. The valley is encircled by four slopes. They are Shivapuri, Phulchoki, Nagarjun, and Chandragiri. The different idea of Kathmandu will give you amazing encounters and is fit for providing food a wide range of vacationers. Known as one of the world's most established capitals, Kathmandu Valley has 7 UNESCO destinations in the legacy list. These 7 locales gloats of social and verifiable landmarks that speak to different time and systems.

The 7 legacy locales are; the Durbar Squares of Hanuman Dhoka, Patan and Bhaktapur, the stupas of Swayambhunath and Boudhanath, and the sanctuaries of Pashupatinath and Changu Narayan. These legacy locales hold a long history of confidence and conviction and their entrancing engineering will leave you stunned. Kathmandu is the doorway to a few journeys where you get the occasion to appreciate fabulous Himalayas of Nepal. Heading out to Kathmandu will leave you with loads of exceptional encounters of mountain ranges, scenes, verifiable landmarks, antiquated conventions, different culture, and so on

Activities

Pashupatinath Temple is a critical journey objective for Hindus around the globe. Arranged on the banks of the Bagmati River, the sanctuary is committed to Lord Shiva, one of the divine beings in the Hindu Trinity - Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. Master Pashupatinath is a manifestation of Lord Shiva, and his name means "Ruler, everything being equal."

Additionally, Changu Narayan Temple is another well known Hindu sanctuary devoted to Lord Vishnu. The sanctuary is viewed as the most established sanctuary throughout the entire existence of Nepal. The sanctuary was inherent third century BC and isUNESCO site patan durbar square situated on a peak in Bhaktapur. Swayambhunath Stupa, which is most likely over 2,500 years of age is the most established legacy of Kathmandu Valley on the UNESCO list. The Stupa has two eyes speaking to intelligence and sympathy and 13 rings speaking to the 13 stages of stepping stool prompting Nirvana. Another UNESCO recorded site is the Boudhanath Stupa. Worked around fifth century the stupa is a mandala-style structure and is perhaps the greatest landmark of Nepal. Boudhanath's region is brimming with social attractions, particularly Tibetan culture and antiques.

The 3 durbar squares of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur and Lalitpur were capitals of the three conditions of the valley. These durbar squares have the novel engineering and layered sanctuaries and many-sided works of wood and metals. The staggering engineering of these durbar squares will tempt you to wonder about their bombastic. Thamel is the top traveler zone where food, music, experience and a bit of personal opportunity arrive together. Wander around the entrancing roads of Thamel. You will discover heaps of shops offering everything from glass lines to Tibetan Singing Bowls. On the off chance that traveling is your strength, Thamel even sells journeying gear at moderate costs. For a quiet reprieve from the clamor of the city, you can go to Garden of Dreams, which is several minutes stroll from Thamel. The feel inside will loosen up your faculties, as you loosen up among the structures of the nursery.

Look into a boutique lodgings and gambling clubs. Boutique inns are extremely well known these days as a result of their structures and designs. The old Rana structures, Newari and Upper Mustang models are incorporated in these lodgings.

Food and Drinks

Probably the best thing about venturing out to a spot is to attempt its nourishments in kathmandufood. From different road sellers and side of the road cafés to significant inns serving different cooking styles is a strength of Kathmandu. Momo is considered as the most well known dish in Nepal. Dal Bhat is the conventional dish including rice, curry, pickles and vegetables.

Kathmandu is the best spot to evaluate Newari and Tibetan foods. Newari cooking has assortments of dishes to attempt like Chatamari (roti made with rice flour and various garnishes), Bara (seared lentil based bite), Choila (seared and spiced meat), Juju Dhau (meant King of Curds and is local to Bhaktapur), Samay Baji (a food platter of the previously mentioned dishes), and so forth Essentially, Tibetan foods incorporate Sha Phaley, Thenthuk, Tingmo, Gyurma, Masan, Tu (cake) and Laphing. Among them, Laphing is very well known. You can see different road merchants serving Laphing in the city of Boudhanath.

Shopping

You can have the best shopping involvement with Kathmandu. Top spots of shopping are Thamel, Asan and Indra Chowk. Shop sell different garments, made in Nepal items, ancient rarities and other exceptional keepsakes. Thanka artistic creations and sacred texts of divine beings are similarly well known.

In the event that you need to eat some nearby food or wish to purchase dabs and bangles, look at them at Indra Chowk. Thamel has gained notoriety for the garments and clothes. Generally known as "The Thamel Style", this dress style and business has been flourishing in Thamel.

Close by Places

Chandragiri Hill is a 2,540 meter high peak in the south-west of the valley. It has chronicled, strict and ecological importance. At the point when you get to the highest point of the view tower at Chandragiri Hills, you can get clearing perspectives on Nepal's Himalayas. Other than venerating Bhaleshwor Temple, you can likewise appreciate different attractions like kids' jungle gym, horse rides, shopping, and so forth The recently presented streetcar is the most convenDhulikel Kathmanduient approach to arrive at Chandragiri Hill. The base of the station is at Thankot. From that point, you take a 2.5 km trolley ride to arrive at the highest point of the station.

Lying 30 km east of Kathmandu and 21 km from Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Dhulikhel was at one time the focal point of Nepal-Tibet exchange. The unassuming community of Dhulikhel has numerous noticeable attractions that guests will appreciate. Some of them are Kali Temple, antiquated Newari houses, all encompassing Himalayas, Swet Bhairab Temple, Harisiddhi Temple, Narayan Temple, Gaukhureshwor Temple, Buddhists stupas and Shanti Ban. From Dhulikhel, the Himalayan pinnacles resemble the edge of a bowl - white, unadulterated and alluring. The pinnacles you will see from the overhang or cafés of Dhulikhel are Annapurna (8091 m), Lhotse (8516 m), Gaurishankar (7134 m), Ganesh Himal (7429 m) and Phuribichyachu (6637 m). Namo Buddha, a popular Buddhist journey site, is about an hour drive from Dhulikhel.

Situated in the northern piece of the Kathmandu Valley, Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park is the ninth public park in Nepal. It was set up in 2002. The essential target behind this park is to secure the valley's principle water source and untamed life. The recreation center restrains a few greenery and faunas. It is home to 318 types of fowls including Eurasian falcon owl, Slender-charged scimitar-motor-mouth, White-gorgeted flycatcher, Barred cuckoo-dove and Golden-throated barbet. It is a famous objective in the valley for feathered creature viewing and normal touring. Pokhara, Hetauda, Bharatpur and Bhairahawa are the absolute closest city to visit from Kathmandu. These urban communities are a portion of the top travel objections you would prefer not to pass up a great opportunity.

Affordable Holiday Packages with Buddha Holidays

Experience and Activities

There are many sanctuaries, places of worship and graveyards on the banks of the Bagmati River like Pashupatinath, Guheshwori, Gokarneshwor, Koteshwor Mahadev, Tripureshwor, Pachali Bhairav, Kalmochan and Jala Binayak Temple. Different strict areas arranged on the waterway bank are Shankhamul (juncture of Bagmati and Manohara streams), Kalmochan Ghat, Teku Dovan (conversion of Bagmati and Bishnumati waterways) and Sundari Ghat. Hindus incinerate the dead bodies at the banks of this heavenly stream, which you can likewise observe.Trishuli River is an ideal area to complete exciting advenRafting at trishuli riverture of boating. This mainstream boating spot is effectively available from Kathmandu and Pokhara. You can have the perspectives on the great little chasms, energizing rapids and a brief look at the trolley prompting the popular Hindu sanctuary, Manakamana.

Found 100 km away from Kathmandu, close to the Nepal Tibet guest, Bhote Koshi is another ideal spot to encounter boating and bungee hopping. Bhote Koshi is utilized for both boating and kayaking and viewed as the steepest waterway boating involvement with Nepal. Bhote Koshi's bungee hopping is remembered for the rundown of the Top 10 World's Highest Bungee.Nagarkot is situated on a ridge, 32 km north east of Kathmandu. It is an acclaimed visit for the time being remain, touring, cycling, traveling and short excursions. Encircled by the lavish green backwoods, it offers huge normal magnificence with all encompassing perspectives on the Himalayas. The cool and wonderful atmosphere adds to the beguiling vibe. It is a notable as an overnight objective, particularly to encounter the rising and setting sun.

For a trip of immeasurable scope, why not attempt a mountain trip with Buddha Air. The Everest Experience mountain flight takes off promptly in the first part of the day from Kathmandu and takes you to see the glorious pinnacles like Gauri Shankar, Cho Oyu, Nuptse, and the tallest mountain on the planet, Everest! Get a review of the mountains' highness from solace of your plane seat. To get full subtleties, you can visit Everest Experience.Kathmandu is a heaven for travelers. It offers you the best short and long journeys which will paralyze you with excellent perspectives on nature and mountains. Phulchowki, Helambu, Gosaikunda, Arun Valley, Everest Base Camp, Gokyo and Cho-la Pass journey are the absolute best trips you can begin from Kathmandu.

Culture

Considered as the first occupants of the Kathmandu Valley, Newars are individuals with different culture, conventions and exercises. The vast majority of the design of the social legacies and houses have immense Newari impacts. In the valley, there are Buddhist Newars and Hindu Newars, and their way of life is a combination of the two religions. Individuals can observer the intermixing of music, dance and religion in each social occasion. The best part is, you don't have to hold on to encounter them, there is continually something occurring in the valley.

Individuals in Kathmandu generally communicate in Nepali, and particular ethnic gatherings talk their first language. There are three significant religions continued in Kathmandu which are Hinduism, Buddhism and Christianity with more noteworthy thickness of Hindus. The significant celebrations commended here are Buddha Jayanti, Indra Jatra, Mha Puja, Gai Jatra, Bisket Jatra, Seto and Rato Macchindranath, Maha Shivaratri, Dashain, Tihar, Losar and so forth

Sightseeing in Kathmandu with Buddha Air

Buddha Air works every day departures from Kathmandu to 13 objections including Varanasi, Kolkata, India. Buddha Air has in excess of 90 flights for each day working from TIA, Kathmandu. Tribhuvan International Airport, otherwise called Kathmandu Airport is the sole worldwide air terminal of Nepal.

An outing to Kathmandu is not normal for some other you will involvement with Nepal. It will be extraordinary experience that will give you best occasions to dive into its different societies and a ceaseless rundown of objections to visit inside the valley. The recollections you make are the ones you will value until the end of time.

Source - Buddha Air

[carrollstreetstation]

blood: plasma pak: a level-by-level breakdown

EPISODE 6: POST-MORTEM

the last official episode of blood, crafted by monolith software themselves. similar to how duke nukem 3D's atomic edition eventually became the default version of the game on subsequent releases, the updates to blood that plasma pak bring are now standard to all digital re-releases.  in keeping with a trend among official expansions -- DLC or otherwise -- to reuse previously cut content, "post-mortem" is largely built on discarded levels present in the alpha, nearly all of it by james wilson with input from other monolith staff. as such, this episode could fairly be considered james wilson: the episode. (fun fact: in the game files this game is referred to as "civilian life." both names have their merits in my opinion.)

E6M1: welcome to your life (james wilson) starting things off similar to E3M1 (also by james) with an urban level, albeit a small one. zombies roam the street and back alley while the small department store is crowded with cultists and bloated butchers. a visit to the cash registers wins you a prize, which you may want to help clear out the bullshit. climbing to the roof triggers an air raid by some gargoyles. blood needs more urban levels and this is a nice little morsel.

E6M2: they are here (craig hubbard) craig hubbard returns for his only map for this episode, a sort of bland little corporate complex that doesn't really seem to have any businesses in it, save for a tiny little bar tucked away in a back hallway. most of the old alpha levels were fairly abstract, similar to doom; this isn't that bad, but it does have a banal vibe to it that feels like a precursor to the endless office complex in F.E.A.R. overall not a bad map, with some fun moments like an army of darkness reference in the bathroom, but otherwise not very memorable.

E6M3: public storage (james wilson) the last urban level for the episode, james has brought us the ever-popular crate maze. split across four main areas with multiple paths between, it's as straightforward as levels like these ever tend to get. kill things, get keys, use crates for cover, do some acrobatics, the whole bit. it finally culminates in a battle against a stone gargoyle who, with your relatively limited arsenal, will prove to be a real pain in the ass to put down. not the most exciting level.

E6M4: aqueducts (james wilson & nick newhard) if there's a level that exemplifies the featureless abstraction that is the old alpha levels, it's this one. ostensibly some kind of water/power facility (complete with turbines) it's largely a featureless maze with some underwater sections. the downstairs has been completely flooded (reminiscent of the flooded control rooms of duke nukem 3D's water treatment plant) but other than that there's nothing here to suggest that this is an actual place that people might exist in, until towards the very end when you come upon an old fashioned sailing ship (and sink it.) surprise mother spider ambush right before the exit is a lot less painful than the stone gargoyle. bit of a dull enterprise.

E6M5: the ruined temple (kevin kilstrom & james wilson) you start off underwater as per the end of the previous level. a frantic swim to a boardwalk lands you in the middle of an ambush around a small lake. if you can manage to clear it out and leave through a door upstairs in the little lakehouse you'll come upon a crumbling temple grounds. split into two parts, you'll largely be spending time in the region of a yawning chasm, lava boiling away at the bottom. not much to see here except for tons and tons of explosive barrels for no real reason, and a frantic ambush towards the end when hellhounds are sicced on you and you have to clear a safe space before a pair of gargoyle faces fill the chamber with fireballs. reminiscent of some of the later levels in episode 4, only not as fun.

E6M6: forbidden rituals (kevin kilstrom & james wilson) while obviously frankensteined together out of an alpha map, this is still an entertaining romp through a temple complex that's a little more detailed than some of the other maps in this set. a stone gargoyle jumps you again right off the bat but with luck you're better prepared for him this time. dynamite-tossing acolytes are out in force in this level, but they're almost as dangerous to themselves and each other as they are to you! the carnage culminates in you interrupting a creepy ritual and slaughtering all the participants, but even then you still have to make a quick excursion to get the key to the exit. they don't even bother to make you work for the secret exit anymore, though you'd be hard-pressed to actually find it if you don't know to shoot the symbol above the moon key door.

E6M9: forgotten catacombs (nick newhard & james wilson) catacombs so forgotten they're still full of cultists! this is one of the better levels in this particular set, despite the name and positioning as a secret level calling back to one of the main game's worse ones. a quick, twisty little map that won't eat up a lot of time, but you'll be faced with hordes of enemies. aesthetically it's pretty nice as well. a comparatively short map, but a bit of a breather after so much blanditude.

E6M7: the dungeon (james wilson & nick newhard) the last real level before the finale, "the dungeon" is a lengthy gothic nightmare modeled after the temple levels in the first episode. looking and playing a lot like a quake map, enemies come out of the woodwork as you try to clear out three distinct areas, each sealed off by a series of doors you unlock by matching symbols. it's a great-looking level that manages to be visually arresting despite its entirely subterranean setting.

E6M8: beauty and the beast (nick newhard & james wilson) the very last level in blood (if you did cryptic passage first.) you'd expect there to be a big, bombastic finale, right? hell, at least a lengthy ending level before a mediocre boss? not so much, no. the final level is essentially an arena map where you fight the cabal's newest chosen ones, who after taking a bit of damage turn into the werewolf-like "beasts" that serve as the game's final boss. provided you keep your distance and keep the pressure on, they're a pushover. all in all, a disappointing end.

final thoughts: much like today's DLC is typically geared towards maintaining engagement well after the game's release, so too does the plasma pak have the dual purpose of being an important patch to the game but also adding a fifth episode to justify charging for the update. given how much of the level design and aesthetic is left intact from the blood alpha, it's obvious that these levels were banged out in a hurry to pay the bills during the development of "claw" and "get medieval" -- neither of which anyone really remembers today. so while i can't say the episode really justifies its existence in spite of a few decent maps, it's the updates that the plasma pak brings that really make it shine.

[touristhai]

The Ultimate Guide to Nightlife at Bangkok

The city that never sleeps – Bangkok, has a lot many things to do when the sun goes down. It’s a bustling city with brilliant cuisine, welcoming people, and a thrilling nightlife experience. Bangkok is known to host numerous tourists globally every year.

With its mixture of exoticism, fable, sense of adventure, romance and excitement, the nightlife in Thailand is unique. Here are some ways you can enjoy to the fullest.

Explore Bangkok after dark 

1. Cruise along the Chao Phraya River

Cruising along the bloodline of Bangkok to explore its spectacular views is worth seeing and experiencing. Enjoy the Bangkok’s gust in night panorama and along the waters!

2.   Futuristic food adventure inside an airplane

Chang Chui Plane Night Market is a mix of artsy, urban and eccentricity. The decommissioned L-1011 TriStar Lockheed military plane has been turned into fine dining restaurant. The interiors are designed right out of a dystopian future. It is an altogether different food and dining experience.

3.  180° Sky Lounge

Take pleasure in the Bangkok city lights from the Grand Swiss Hotel 180° Sky Lounge. Check out the panoramic view of Bangkok from the rooftop restaurant as you munch on Thai food. Enjoy evening cocktails in comfort and relaxation with an all-you-can-eat dinner experience! 

4. The Asiatique  & Carabet

The Asiatique is a massive night bazaar with marvellous 1500 boutiques and about 40 lip smacking restaurants. It houses this super market all under one roof. The souk is full of charming storefronts and a wide range of fashionable Thai brands. You can shop inexpensive and affordable merchandise. Dine here from a huge selection of Italian, Thai and seafood restaurants.

The Asiatique is also the abode to the famous Calypso Cabaret show. Catch Bangkok’s best cabaret show that features the representations of famous Hollywood stars like Beyonce and Lady Gaga by the artists.

5. Thailand's history and culture at Siam Niramit cultural show

The world-class performance of Thailand’s history and culture by Siam Niramit is something you should not miss. With over 100 performers and 500 costumes involved, you will be blown away by the intricate and brightly-coloured sets and attire, all coming together to provide a storytelling experience that is out of this world.

6. SF World Cinema in CentralWorld

Get a stellar movie experience at SF World Cinema at CentralWorld Mall. There are two 90-seat VIP theatres that promise to give you ultimate luxury for the night. 

7.  Cruise the Chao Phraya: Princess Cruise

Wish to see the traditional and modern Bangkok? The Chao Phraya River is a perfect depiction of the same. It is surrounded by modern luxury hotel buildings, small huts, majestic temples and churches. Enjoy cruising in comfort on the King of Rivers while relishing on international dinner on the Princess Cruise. You can take pleasure in a enjoying a splendid view of historical landmarks such as the Emerald Buddha Temple and the Grand Palace live while listing to the soft saxophone tunes from your dinner table.

8. Enliven the Picasso in you in PaintBar

Are you a person who loves to paint or draw? You can unleash your creative power for the night with Paintbar. Simply book a date with your favorite canvas and draw, paint or chill while drinking with new friends. No skills necessary ’cause there will be an instructor to guide you.

9. The Trampoline park - Bounce

Enjoy hopping and flipping back and forth till the core of your heart. Play around like a kid for the night. There are often events where DJs play EDM music while you jump around and have fun.

10. Relax at an Onsen

Apart from the traditional Thai massage that is common in Bangkok, Onsen is something you can also try. Onsen (Japanese bathhouse) lets you take a dip in diverse onsen tubs, to achieve a healthy and relaxing massage which is quite beneficial for your skin!

11. Sunset Bars

There are three very similar bars - After Beach, Small Viewpoint and Baan Chom on Kata Hill overlooking Kata Noi Beach. They all play Bob Marley music and offer fantastic sunset views. At the southern end of there is a Ska Bar which is a lovely place to spend a starry night.

12. Moon Bar

Moon Bar is open from 5 pm to 1 am. Each table has an uninterrupted view of the setting sun. Have a lavish dinner here with an altogether serene experience. What you need to note here is there is a particular dress code you must follow.

13. Mixx Discotheque

Mixx Discotheque is a nightclub in the Na Kluea area of Pattaya. It is great for late night fun. There is no entry fee and the drinks are at fairly low rates. So head up with your gang of friends and enjoy the time of your life. 

Above were some of the places that could make the after evening in Bangkok a great experience. If you know any such places that could add to fun, enjoyment and adventure, do comment below.

For more information about Popular Tourist Places in Thailand

and Thailand Travel Blog visit us at tourismthailand.in

[alitheamateur]

The Grind-Chapter 28

The eve of fight night fell, and Colton was exhibiting extremely peculiar behavior. Not a bad type of peculiar necessarily, but the man just wasn’t his usual self. When I woke up to head for a swim at Temple, the bed was empty on his side and he hadn’t left a note, or word with my parents as to where he disappeared off to. In fact, according to mom, he must’ve left the house before 6 a.m. when she and dad left for their walk. It was a routine they had with the dog back home, and they had been continuing the morning exercise while on their visit to the city.

When I got to my locker at the gym, there was a single Peony taped to the handle, and a square yellow note tied to it’s stem. The easily identified chicken scratch belonged to the missing man in question, so I tore it open jaggedly to gather some answers.

   Livvy,

Enjoy your swim, & don’t you dare think of doing anything in the weight room. I told Cal to watch you. You have a noon appointment with that girl who does your hair, & a 10 a.m. massage too. I have some stuff to take care of today but be at home and dressed by 6 tonight. Wear that white dress I like.  The one from that party at the Pilot a couple months ago. And don’t eat. I’ll check in later. I LOVE YOU

C

Colton had been a lot of things the last year, but romantic was a new side. He rendered me speechless from heartbreak, pleasure, and laughter on a fair amount of occasions, but this was unfamiliar lands.  Never did I believe such a cynical, wild, tormented soul like his could conjure up the cleverness or the desire to throw together whatever plan he had in the works. But I’d obey the orders, and call mom to steam the crisp white, ankle-length, summer gown he referred to from the office gala event he suffered through as my plus-one, and it’s also the first instance he suckered me into bathroom sex in the family stall. The thin, flesh-hugging stretch of the drapery curved into me, and the low-cut of the back allowed him a subtle peep-show during the owners speech, which had him nearly feverish for a taste of me before the main course was served. I was chatting with Ryan who was seated at our dinner table, when Colton told me I looked a bit peaked and needed a few minutes of good ol’ fresh air. Thoroughly confused, I followed his lead as he took my hand guiding me through the bar area into the public pavilion of the venue. The details are a bit foggy, but I can’t forget the memory of his thirsty tongue licking a bead of summertime sweat from the valley between my breasts.

I concluded on returning to my natural blonde look at the salon, and sang the praises of the on-staff masseuse at SJS Salon on my way out the door. The unwind of my slow laps in the therapy pool, and the exceptional massage had me exuding peaceful relaxation. After the continual sessions’ day & night at the gym, in the cage, in the weight room, at the Pilot, some self-love and spa time was the perfect prescription for a Zen Liv. And I wanted all my tensions free and clear before I met up with Colton for this mysterious evening ahead, so I could fully enjoy the company of my perfectly imperfect companion. Wherever the pathway of our evening led, I knew I’d retire home once it was said and done feeling cherished, and probably horny.

I was puckering to smooth out a plentiful layer of rose-shaded smudge proof lipstick at my lighted vanity when I saw my mother peep around the unlatched door. I looked away from my own reflection to see hers smiling back at me from over my shoulder, as she brushed my hair back curious to discover my earring choice. This overly-feminine, lady-like and sophisticated side of her only child was a glimpse of the daughter she wanted 10 years ago when I was wearing sweats to school every day, and only wore heels for prom or homecoming dances. Mom stayed dressed to the nines every day of the week whether it be a run to the post-office or even a check of the mailbox, so seeing the vision of herself even more so in me now with sleek hair, and a posh taste in stilettos was probably the proudest she had been in a decade.

“Honey, you look excellent! Your little nose healed up just perfectly too, I see.”

Of course, mother. That’s what most important, ay’?

“Yep. It feels fine now. Thanks, mom.” I pursed my mouth, tucking both lips in a stark line and misted a lavish amount of Colton’s favorite perfume onto the exposure of my neck.

“Do you have any ideas what Colton has planned for you? You’re dressed awfully formal.” My mother asked turning her head to survey the final touches of accessory to my ensemble.

“He told me what to wear, and when to be ready to go, so that’s about the most I’m aware of. He’s been pretty shady today. And we both know he’s developed a keen talent for lying lately, seeing as how he managed to get you and daddy here.”

The last text I received from him at 2 o’clock that afternoon was a strange selfie of he and Andrew at the forefront of an impressive Styrofoam cup pyramid they’d apparently built on the display counter at The Grind. Those two had become quite the odd pairing lately, but I was happy Colton jived so well with at least one of my friends. I assumed he just went by the shop for his usual black coffee to-go, and Drew simply asked his assistance on a new merchandise display, which turned into the two of them goofing.

Mom checked her waterproof, step counting watch for the time as she followed be into the bedroom I shared with Colton. “It’s 5 minutes to 6 right now, Livvy. Have you talked to him?”

My heels clacked when transitioning from the carpet, to the tile down the hall. I clicked the unlock button of my cell to place a call to the very man sitting on an arm of the couch in an open stance, with those hefty forearms pushing in his knees. He stood upon hearing the soft tick of my heels step over the rug under the coffee table, and I was able to get a much desired, exploratory look at the very, very surprising dapper two-piece suit he sported. It was an oxford blue, atop a slightly wrinkled button-down shirt that he left casually, and very appealingly gaping open just enough to taunt me with his pecks. He was explicitly, lethal and delicious in the foreign dress of any sort of formal attire. Maybe more so even than those perfectly snug gray sweats I pulled off him on many an ‘afternoon delight’ occasion. That is, assuming I have to have him clothed at all.  

“Well hello there, Mr. Ritter. Someone is looking exceptionally handsome tonight, I see. I must say you wear this look well, babe.” I admired, pulling on the lapels of his jacket to situate the wrinkle of his shirt. I tenderly grazed a manicured nail over the freshly shaved goosebumps of his neck, and smiled romantically looking up to him under extended lashes.

“You two enjoy yourselves! Tony and I are going to grab some dinner, and we’ll lock up when we get back. I’m sure it’ll be a late night for you guys,” mom spoke up, still standing behind me undetected. Colton tilted around me to smile appreciatively at her before she turned in pursuit of the spare room where dad was napping.

“Will you ever walk into a room ‘n not instantly have me wantin’ to rip off whatever you wearin’, baby? You look…you look fuckin’ perfect, Liv. I mean that.” He fiddled with the every-day, dainty, gold letter pendant I wore as he spoke, then touched his pointer finger to the heart-shaped opening at the center of my satiny lips.

I wondered reasonably if we’d ever even make it passed the 4 walls of our bedroom seeing the adamant, alluding examinations we were trading in the silence of our family room.

“As long as you promise to replace whatever it is you just have to rip off, then be my guest by all means.” I popped one shoe-covered foot into the air, and boosted up on the other desperate to touch myself to his mouth.

“Get. The hell. Out. That. Door. Now. With ya’ teasin’ little ass.” Colton palmed the front of my dress to clutch over the warmness of my womanly center.

We altered his plan a bit, and decided my car would be the most practical option for transportation considering the height of my designer heels. Once we exited the driveway, I couldn’t help but blast him with pestering questions, and chatting.

“Just sit tight, ‘ight. We ain’t far. You can hold out a few minutes, Livvy. A surprise here ‘n there ain’t gonna kill ya’.”

I unhappily sat tight as advised and waited a drawn out 10-minute car ride that steered us to a parking meter on the street near The Grinds’ entrance on the sidewalk. The white light of the ‘open’ sign that would’ve typically been plugged in the window was powered off, along with the appearance of any other lights, or evidence of business behind the door.

“Colt? What are w-“

“No more questions, okay? Hold on.”

I watched him shove my keys from the ignition inside the pocket lining of his coat, to jog around and assist me from the passenger seat onto the concrete walkway.  I smelled something fishy, but I couldn’t place a sure finger on it just yet. With one arm clinging around my average size waist and the other holding my hand, we waited for the street sign to change then scurried along the crosswalk. Colton confirmed the time on his watch just as he gestured me to enter the strange darkness of the generally busy coffee shop.  

I couldn’t move much passed the entry mat laying in front of the doorway due to the pitch darkness of the room, so I waited intriguingly for my next instructions. Colton moved in behind me and stepped straight for the location of the light switch he was apparently familiar with. Rather than the hardwired overhead lights of the café igniting with the flipping on of electricity, twinkling, warm garden decorations on green strands taking their place. The dusky glow hanging over our heads bared a table for two waiting empty in the middle of the open floor, and some sort of urbane, bubbly beverage sweating inside a tin bucket of ice. Calm, lazy melodious music struck up, and I finally escaped my confusion to scan for Colton.

“These a’ for you, baby. The best, for the best.”

He offered me a familiar a pink, fluffy bouquet which had become his apparent staple over the last year, and I could smell the odorous fog from gift laying in my arms. Taking a closer look over his face, I noticed he’d groomed up exceptionally precise, and his beard had been combed and trimmed. Colton Ritter may have even been wearing hair product, Ladies and Gentlemen. His matured facial lines, and the barely detectable softening sag around his eyes added a story-telling detail to his aging mug, but I admired every frown line, and ghosting scar.

I rested my arms over his shoulders, dangling the hefty bouquet in my hand behind his back to settle in for a lengthy embrace when a begging, muffled reverberation of hunger grumbled from my empty stomach.

“Well, you did tell me not to eat, silly!” I patted over my angry insides to stifle its interruption.

“I got just the thing to fix ya’ right up. Here. Let’s get you in a seat and I’ll be back.” He took my hand, and I took the seat he offered up, placing the flowers in a waiting vase at the center of his table spread.

Colton lit four small tea-light candles with a zippo frim his pants pocket, and kissed the crown of my freshly washed hair.

“I like the blonde, by the way,” he winked dragging his feet backwards to disappear into the back kitchen.

A few clanging plates and some ruffling feet could be heard as I sat legs crossed, and chin rested on my elbows. Mother Liz always cut my arms with a slap when I would prop my elbows up onto the tables, chastising my etiquette or lack thereof. I repeatedly listed off a careful list of the ‘important dates’ to mark the many milestones of our relationship to assure I hadn’t forgotten some crucial event on this day. There had to be some reason Colton had gone to such odd, starry-eyed measures, and my nosey, sharp-witted journalistic side was beating me to death to get to the real story hidden under wraps.

STOP IT! Let the man have this. Don’t ruin it because you’re a meddlesome pest who can’t just enjoy a surprise.

Just then, a smell so aromatic and reeking of garlic wafted like a puffy cloud of deliciousness into my nose. I inhaled deeply through my nostrils to trace the yummy culprit, and found the man exiting a revolving door that hid the kitchen. He had two enormous, blotchy, grease-stained pizza boxes marked from my very favorite deep-dish joint stacked in one arm, and a covered Dutch oven dish cradled in the left arm. Colt’s tongue peeped like the head of a snake from the corner of his mouth, walking strategically careful so not to drop the hot contents of his clutches.

“So, since you trained so hard, and it nearly killed ya’ cuttin’ out all those carbs, I figured you’d maybe want some’n downright filthy ‘n covered in cheese to hit the spot. Drew tried to tell me I should get some fancy takeout from that place you two are always goin’ to, but I knew this would suit ya’.”

He opened one of the boxes to reveal a cheese deep-dish smothered in sliced, tender black olives.

“You want me to eat the whole thing?” I chuckled with a large goading laugh, and quarter-sized eyes.

“One fa’ you,” he answered sitting himself to open the other cardboard box in his place setting. “’and one fa’ me.” Colton rubbed his hands together anxiously, like a giddy boy about to dive into an ankle-deep mud puddle.

“But you may wanna save a lil’ room for this too, baby.”

I watched as he pulled the sturdy lid from top the black dish, and fluffy, warm steam rolled from the inside. Peeping over the edge in anticipation, I discovered a dark chocolate, gooey treat, topped with whole praline pecans and stringy caramel drizzles.

“Colt, you made that? All by yourself?!” I smiled adoringly when the look of utter pride beamed from his coy face.

It was a turtle dessert my mom taught me to make, and my absolute favorite. Colton had stayed been at my old apartment one night, back before the fight, and said he needed a ‘sugar fix’. The city was covered in powdery snow and muck, with temperatures reaching their lowest degree all winter. Neither of us could stand the thought of leaving the warm solace of my couch, so I whipped up that same dessert for him. We demolished the entire contents straight from the dish, sharing a spoon for vanilla bean ice cream on the side.

“Liz wrote the ingredients down for me, but I remembered pretty well how you made it that night. Don’t be gettin’ all wound up before ya’ even taste it now,” he tittered taking his first bite of pizza.

 We ate majority of each cheesy pie, (him asking for a slice of mine) then hysterically cackled for a good half hour after he sampled (and gagged on) a swig of my favorite merlot from a local winery. When our favorite Bob Dylan tune struck up on his iPod, I asked him to dance, and he obliged hugging me tightly with one arm, and gnawing on the last piece of pizza he clutched to in the other. The raw, real-life imperfections of the moment that would’ve had most females curling a lip in disgust, and trouncing far, far away from a man with such qualities as Colton Ritter, only had me needing his presence in my life more so.  

“How’d you pull this off Ritter? I must say, I didn’t know you had it in ya’, babe.” I muffled with a full mouth of his well-made chocolate cake as I dabbed the corners of my mouth.

“Just called in a favor to my pal Andrew, no biggie. The bastard only made me pay him 200 bucks to make up for his ‘lost profit.’” Colton used his most sardonic air quotes to underline Andrew’s no doubt tantrum for his role.

“You been workin’ so damn hard, Livvy. And I just wanted to do somethin’ to make you feel special. Help ya’ relax and take the edge off of a lil’ about tomorrow night. ‘N judging by those sexy, heavy little wine eyes you been givin’ me, I’d say I did a fine job.”

The excellence of the entire evening, hand-in-hand with now a present buzz of red wine after so many months, made the air around me feel as if it touched my skin like expensive cashmere. My insides felt as if they were humming with muggy decadence, and no unkind thought weighed on my mind.

“Oh God, stop it!” I covered my face, ashamed of his insinuating light-weight insult.

“You’re the most beautiful woman I’ve ever laid eyes on, Liv. I ain’t just sayin’ shit right now. I mean that. You’re perfect now, jus’ like this. And ya’ perfect on the couch with your face painted in one of those goopy masks you put on before you check your work email at night.” He leaned over the round table, mazing through the empty boxes, and melting candle wax staining the tablecloth to encase my fingers. Any fool could see there was nothing but earnest passion in his eyes, and a blatantly truthful, sureness in his voice.

“I love you. And don’t sell yourself so short! You are the perfect one. Even with all those demons, and whatever else is hiding in that head of yours.” I wanted to caress and pet his always warm cheek, but the distance between us caused me to settle for a tight squeeze of his hand, and a kiss to his scarred fingers.

“A perfect man wouldn’ta let somebody like you get away, baby.”

“Stop with that! We’re here now. Together. And we’re happy. Plus, there are more important things going on right now we should be worryin’ about.”

I knew I could back out of my fight right now, even the night before, and Colton would support my decision without hesitation, and anyone else who didn’t, would suffer at the hand of his consequence. The reality of what I knew I’d be doing only a few short hours from now, was a frightening one. But, one that I had agreed to for myself at the hands of no ones’ force. I wanted to make Colton proud of me for something more than just having my nose shoved in front of a computer screen 10+ hours a day. I had to prove to him, the world, my parents, and mainly myself that I was capable of greatness. That I had the potential to step out in faith, and achieve something like this with some courage like the old Liv.

“We’ve done everything in the gym we possibly coulda, baby. You’ve done everything. You need t’ believe in yourself like you were always tellin’ me. I’ll be there standin’ in that corner for you, I promise. And if ever you wanna cut it, just say the world ‘n we’ll walk outta there first round. You can do this, 2-1. Clear eyes, remember?”

“Thank you, Colton. For being the man that you are, and sticking with me through this even though we both know you hated the idea. And for all this God, it’s incredible, really. I’ve desperately needed some alone time with my guy.” I scooted to the front ledge of my chair, resting on the table to wink suggestively at the tantalizing specimen opposite my gazes.

“Calm ya’self, you dirty girl. I know wha’s goin’ on up in the head o’ yours. I got one more place I need to take you. Then, I can assure you…. I can really fuckin’ assure you, that I’m gonna get real good and close to every piece of your creamy skin under that dress.”

tags: @torialeysha @eap1935 @littleluna98 @mollybegger-blog

[arpithakgowda-blog]

Life of Bangaloreans

Hi All, This article is to give a brief outline of what is The LifeStyle in Bangalore.let us get started.

History of Bangalore

I am not new to Bangalore but I have seen it from my childhood because I’m from its neighbor city Ramanagar which was Bangalore rural before. The way Bangalore has grown from the past three decades is way beyond one can think. It is also called Silicon Valley of India where Bangalore is well known for its software Industries existence which is nothing but Information Technology.

Also, it is the oldest city that has a history of 500 years and the city is built by Nadaprabhu Kempegowda also it’s well-known for its weather which was used to be summer retreat place for Tippu sultan which is mentioned in the history.

Okay, let’s come back to our topic, in Bangalore we can see an employee getting the salary of rupees 5000 monthly to 5 lakhs the level of diversity it has and it has given place for all. Bangalore is a place once if they enter they don’t feel like going back to their place such a beautiful city it is.

What is the Lifestyle in Bangalore?

The Lifestyle in Bangalore always depends on their financial condition. Let us go from daily wagers or pushcart people or footpath sellers. These people expenditure depends on their daily income. Which will be in terms of hundreds starts from one to ten with this money only they have to balance their life or family which they do. Their life is quite good because they earn for the day and they spend it on the day but during any financial emergencies, they face a very difficult problem.

When it comes to small scale and medium scale business people their financial condition will be good so they can lead a life which they desire but not to a larger extent. Also, their children can have a good exposure to things in Bangalore might be related to education or anything. And when it comes to rich people their life is different. They might enjoy life but still, emotional stability might lack.

TECH CITY AND BANGALORE LIFE

As we know Bangalore is the IT hub of India. The city improved a lot after the migration of software industries. Also, people use to say if you through a stone on ten member’s five will be software guys to that extent the city is famous for software industry and when it comes to lifestyle of those techies weekly five days of working and the weekend is a rest routine which they can enjoy in their own way also the Bangalore is well known for nightlife nothing but pubs and bars without gender discrimination. As we know techies earn quite well compared to any other profession and also they spend money in the same way to enjoy the varieties of Bangalore I can say.

When it comes to The Lifestyle in Bangalore, The malls are gateways for the weekend for almost everyone who earns well because it is quite costly compared to any other place but for one time visit or for movies everyone can afford. And the ambiance of the malls, diversity of the products we can get over there is good. Many colleges going students also prefer to spend their weekends in malls.

BANGALORE LIFESTYLE WITH DIFFERENT FOODS

When it comes to food in Bangalore, We can get all varieties of different countries, states, and districts. Also, we can find food from twenty rupees to thousands depends on the place where we buy or where we go so people choose based on their interest, taste, and finance. Here we can find many types of food and there are many famous restaurants for food also like Mc Donald’s, KFC is famous for fast food. Many ice creams parlors also we can find and as we know some online food delivery applications like zomato, swiggy, food panda, uber eats, etc are associated with many hotel and restaurants in Bangalore which helps people to get food delivered to their doorstep which also changes the lifestyle of people and many people prefer visiting hotels and restaurants to feel the ambiance and freshness of food.

BANGALORE LIFESTYLE OF BACHELORS

The bachelor’s life in Bangalore is quite boring but it is much interesting because they lead the life they want their life is different than of families. If they live in paying guests means they might face some problems as they are away from their families also they might face some food-related problems except that if they find good roommates means it will be heaven for them with those friends. I spoke to many of my friends who stay in paying guest the common problem I was hearing was related to food also the quality of paying guest depends on the budget and area. When people get bored of this paying guest with their friend’s group they might rent a house where it is more comfortable than those paying guests.

TRANSPORTATION

The transportation in Bangalore has all the types from two-wheeler rent to the metro train. Let us talk about this in detail so the effect of transportation on lifestyle we can discuss here. Bangalore holds the second position in terms of two-wheelers holders in India after the New Delhi so we can imagine how the two-wheelers are flexible within the city for transportation purposes. For public transportation, we have BMTC buses. Every nook and corner of Bangalore can be reached by these BMTC buses also fare differs for AC and Non AC buses. Autos we can call it as nerves of the city wherever you want you can reach by auto at any timings. The middle class and high-class people will be having cars which are mainly for their transportation. Also the commercial transportation with the help of the internet we can see as ola, uber, vogo, drivezy, zoom, bounce, etc which are all available for rent and based on the time and distance charges varies. For fast traveling purposes within this trafficked city we can choose the metro train which goes without traffic and we can reach the destination as soon as possible.

CLIMATE

Some years ago Bangalore was well known for its weather where the effect the globalization, urbanization, pollution was less but now the scenario is changed also Bangalore was called by the name Garden city where the trees and parks in the city were more but now the number of trees is coming down due to the road extension deforestation commercial land buildings and all. So nowadays we cannot predict the weather of Bangalore it always changes also it is not according to the seasons which we know but the temperature will be around 25 degrees Celsius to 30 degrees. The weather will be nice during morning times in the afternoon it is hot again evening will be cool sometimes with rain.so the Bangaloreans should be always ready to face climate change and rain effects.

GARDEN CITY

Bangalore is also called Garden City for the presence of many gardens here. Which gives green beauty to the city. Two gigantic parks we can find in Bangalore one is Sri Chmarajendra park also known as Cubbon Park and Lalbagh Botanical Garden. Which are lungs of Bangalore we can say and it is relief, retreat place for Bangaloreans at weekends also it is a very good place for photoshoots for different purposes. When it comes to inside the city area we can find many small parks which are very useful for citizens to exercise, walk and to take rest during morning and evening times also we can find one more big park by name J P Park which is also lush green park and has small lake inside. People can spend their free time in any park and they can get relieved so these parks help in formalizing Bangaloreans lifestyle

TOURIST SPOTS

Inside the city, there are many tourism and visiting places are there those can be listed as follows

Bangalore Palace: it is a  royal residence open for events and visits which worth of doing there also it has spacious ground to conduct events

Tippu sultan summer palace: it is also a one-day visit tourist place inside the city

Bangalore Fort: It is quite near to Tippu sultan summer palace and very old stone fort

Sankey tank: it is man-made lake inside the city with good serene

Cubbon Park: it is for green lovers and photoholic people

Lalbagh: it is also a green lush park with a lake inside a very good place to spend time with nature

Lakes: we can find some beautiful lakes inside like ulsoor lake, madiwala lake, btm lake,hebbala lake, lumbini garden where people visit for scenic views, peace and calm.

Art of Living: it’s a spiritual center but worth visiting to get to know about Ayurveda and Nature

Pyramid Valley: Its located outside the city but very near as it is located at midst of green nature

Temples: Inside city we can find many temples which are very old means has existence from many decades which are worth visiting like Gavi gangadhareshrwara temple, Banashakari amma Temple, pancha lingeshwara temple, Kote venkataramana swamy temple, dodda basavanna temple, iskcon etc.,

The LifeStyle in Bangalore-Final words

To conclude Bangalore is a city everyone can live comfortably by enjoying amenities here but to some extent, the Lifestyle in Bangalore is little costlier when compared to other cities of India. Myself Arpitha Gowda, I’m a travel enthusiastic and Blogger.

https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/country_result.jsp?country=India

[korinsu-t-blog]

May 20 // Shibuya + Meiji Shrine

Got up super early again today, the jet lag is still strong but at least it’s not as bad later in the day. After lounging around all morning until 10 (I did cook some pasta on a tiny little burner, which was fun), we set out for two places: the Shibuya shopping district, and then a shrine to the Meiji Emperor, the man who almost singlehandedly ushered in the modernization of Japan within a single thirty-year reign. There was a lot of walking involved, but all in all it was pretty cool.

First, Shibuya. We got off the metro after a lengthy ride to find a statue of a famous dog, whose story you’ve probably read somewhere. It’s the one that would come to the station and wait for its owner every day, even after its owner passed away. I guess that dog sets the bar for getting a statue in your honor.

Shibuya was absolutely packed, but honestly I’m sorta getting used to defining new levels of crazy-jam-packed. You’ve got the subway packed, which is close but not uncomfortable. You’ve got the Shibuya packed, where it’s wide open and there’s a lot of people milling around but you can still make your own way. Then there’s the urban market hell that is Harajuku, where the alleys are tiny, the crowds are shoulder to shoulder, and it’s mass chaos.

After following Mr. Smith around Shibuya to a famous manga store (which didn’t open until noon), me and another guy named Austin split off on our own to do some looking around in a less conspicuous group. There’s still a lot of people staring at us, but they’re pretty good at hiding it. It’s very rare that you’ll actually turn around or catch someone’s eye and see them looking at you directly, but the other guys have noticed it a lot too. People always look right away though, it’s interesting. Anyways, Shibuya. We ended up on the fourth floor of a department store that was selling $8K suits and noped right out of there, then eventually found our way to a Uniqlo store that had some great shirts, all really inexpensive. Uniqlo is great, but it’s primarily JPN based and it’s hard to find their good stuff in america. After that, we wandered around a bit and decided to look for food. We happened to pass by a place roasting meat on a spinner like a gyro shop, and the rest was history- it was suuuuper good.

Portion sizes are very small here, but people make up for it by snacking a lot. If you move here though you’d get to a normal weight pretty fast, just cause it’s hard to find big portions and everything more or less just tops you off instead of making you super bloaty-full.

After Shibuya, we went on a twenty minute walk to a shrine to the Meiji Emperor. This was a Shinto shrine (Shintoism is the native religion of Japan, unlike the imported Buddhism) and after his death, the Meiji was deified, and got a cool temple to boot. This park is absolutely massive- 170 acres of forests and temple- despite being in Tokyo, the most stacked and demanding real estate market on the globe. Just goes to show you how important the work this guy did was to the people. It’s hard to describe what the forest is like, but it’s surreal how big it is. Everything is usually tight and homey, but then you get to the forest and the canopy is like five stories above you, everything is suddenly quiet, and it seems so massive in comparison to everywhere else. The Edo Museum was the only other time I’ve felt it, it’s really like stepping into an alternate slice of the world.

We saw an improv street performance as we were coming out of the forest, it was a lot of fun. A small four man group doing acrobatic tricks, it was a neat little ten minute show and a good break. After that, we walked to Harajuku, the ostensible home of youth culture and fashion of Japan. I don’t know how much I believed that, because it was more like market hell, if I’m being honest. Crazy packed, not too much stuff aimed at guys, and just not that great, especially to end the day. Maybe we went to the wrong part? I dunno.

Me and Austin ended up catching an early ride on the trains back to the apartments, but I think everyone is grouping up tonight to eat in and watch the game of thrones finale. Should be fun.

[The Shibuya mass crossing. The pedestrians have their own turn where all cars have to stop (it’s like a 9-way intersection) and people can cross and go whatever way they want. Also, that Starbucks used to be the largest in the world before one in China beat it. Starbucks is pretty big here, too.]

[Yes dad, I did find an outback. I’m pretty sure I’ll never see something like this again, because it was all the way off on a side street behind the 109 in Shibuya.]

[A cat cafe. I thought the poster was really cute. These are cafe’s with a bunch of cats roaming around in them, it’s a bit of a novelty here.]

[We passed by the 1964 Olympic Arena on our way from Shibuya to the Meiji shrine. Apparently it was once quite the marvel of engineering.]

[This is Austin. He’s a 4th-year Japanese / Psych dual major. I’m going to post at least one dumb picture of each person in the group by the end.]

[A shot of the inside of the shrine to the Meiji emperor. It’s hard to really get a feel for the size of this place, it’s so wide open and spacious compared to the rest of Tokyo that it feels like its own little corner of the world.]

-------

Reading analysis and stuff

So we had two readings, one on the Japanese explosion of soft power and the other on the modernization spurred on by the Meiji emperor.

The modernization one was pretty obvious- the emperor, reinstated by one of the clans after the Shogunate (dictatorship) was destroyed when its weakness against Western power became apparent, did massive work in writing charters and helping turn Japan into a Constitutional Monarchy. He honestly did a ton of work, and it’s fitting that they immortalized him with this forest and shrine right smack in the middle of Tokyo. He earned it.

Much more interesting though, was the reading on Japan’s rising influence in the modern world by means of soft power. You’ve probably heard of the term before. It’s not power in ships, armies, and weapons- it’s the power of setting trends that other people want to follow, making things other people want to consume, and- in part- determining the course of various aspects of global culture. For America, by far the most dominant source of soft power in the world, this comes from industries like film (Hollywood). Japan in particular has seen a huge rise in their soft power, primarily through projecting and cultivating their unique forms of media (manga, anime) and becoming the trendsetting culture of fashion in youth and young adults. Much like how the soft power of the west made the Japanese conform to their ideals of clothing, architecture, etc. under the Meiji emperor, so to has the cycle reversed and many countries are following the trends in clothing and media put forth by Japan. Their soft power, the ability to set trends and have others want to follow them, really is a marvel; and you can see many slices of how the country cultivates its power in the varieties of shopping districts and their brands that have a global, trendsetting presence. Japan has commoditized and weaponized its global appearance of “cute” factor, and it’s made their passive influence on global culture one of the few non-American sources that continues to grow, even to the point of setting trends for some parts of American and Western culture.

[curiousdamage]

The Thin Gold Line: Back of a Cop Car

Day 31 of writing challenge (I somehow skipped 14 last time.)  Inspired by a whump fic prompt of a victim dying, locked in the back of a car at an old gas station.

Fandom: Cagney and Lacey

I own nothing.

Warning: Violence described.

Isbecki bites off more than he can chew when he answers a dangerous call alone.

Victor held his hand against the stab wound in his stomach. Little good it was doing, judging by the amount of blood slipping through his fingers. He should just move his hand and bleed to death quicker, that is, if the pain in his head didn't do him in first.  No one was going to reach him.

The 911 call had been bogus. He'd caught the call for a 'burglary in progress' at the old gas station, even though he was technically off duty, as it was just a block off his usual route home. He had known something was wrong as soon as he’d pulled up. This place wasn’t just old. It was abandoned. Still, he'd gotten out and approached the building with caution. Might have been a mugging, or worse, misreported by a passerby. Could be still in progress, or an injured victim still around.

 He spun on his heels when he'd heard the woman screaming behind him. Before he could decipher exactly where the scream had come from, he felt as though his head had been split open as someone hit him from behind with what felt like a crowbar. He’d gone down hard and had been surrounded by five or six young men, hitting, kicking, and punching him until he couldn't even try to get up. Then they had dragged him over to his car and thrown him in the backseat, but not before one of them gave him a parting gift of a switchblade to the gut, then slammed the door essentially trapping him there to bleed to death. Spots were dancing in front of his eyes as he heard the radio crackle to life.

 "522 to base, 522 check in…,” the tinny voice called out.

 He'd love to. He slammed a weak fist against the thin piece of plexiglass separating the front seat from the back. They had been installed in all the undercover cars after a Detective from the 10th had been choked out by a perp with his handcuffs.  Though even without it, he wasn’t sure he'd have the strength to haul himself over the seat to answer.

Funny that something designed to save his life was going to aid in ending it.

"522, are you code 4?" the voice rang out again.

No, he wasn't Code 4.  He wasn't all good. He was dying. He kicked, uselessly at the Plexiglass, then groaned, eye's wide with the pain that caused. Stupid.

Two calls. Usually, after a third unanswered call, they sent marked cars to your last known location, but not for him. He'd ignored too many well checks when he'd thought himself "too busy'. Hadn't Jolene just been on his ass about that two days before?

Jolene.

Now he wished he’d have stopped by her office one more time before leaving and given her a real goodbye instead of just stuffing a dirty note in her jacket pocket as he'd signed out for the day. Of course, he hadn't thought it was a real goodbye. He had thought he would be seeing her in an hour when she got off work and came over to his place to eat Chinese take-out and watch the Knicks game on television. 

In the three years since she’d moved to New York, she'd become one of his best friends. Okay, so she had questionable taste in music preferring Simon and Garfunkel to Barry Manilow, that is when she wasn't listening to that God-awful country junk, but she was always up to catch a Mets or Knicks game from the cheap seats, drinking bad beer and splitting nachos. Or all for spending an afternoon in a dark theater watching an old John Wayne movie. 

Of course, this meant he’d spent his fair share of time going to Broadway plays, sappy romance movies, and rip off Urban Cowboy dance clubs. Hell, he had even learned to two-step when he’d realized that he really didn't like those wannabe cowboys pawing at her while he sat at the bar talking to her friend, Analise. 

Then about six months ago everything had changed. They had gone to the Policemen's Ball together. They’d had a great time, drinking, laughing, and doing their damnedest to show up Marcus and Claudia on the dance floor. 

He’d walked her to her door, like always since she didn’t live in the best building since moving out of Analise’s Park Avenue penthouse. Maybe they had been a little drunk, or maybe they'd just needed that excuse if things didn't work out, but when she'd dropped her keys, they'd both reached for them bumping heads instead. Laughing, they'd stood up, both with a hand to their head. Looking into each other's eyes, the laughter had died, and they'd reached for each other, kissing as though they had invented it.

When he'd woke up in her bed the next morning, he'd worried that he'd ruined everything. Hadn't he turned Christine down for that very reason? Except it wasn't the same. Christine had wanted validation and an escape. Jolene had wanted him.

Still, she'd been adamant that she didn't date cops. He hadn't been sure she would feel the same in the harsh morning sun as she had slightly tipsy the night before. He knew he hadn't needed to worry when she’d woken up and smiled at him.

No one at the station knew yet, well except Petrie, who had bumped into them out on a date and still hadn't gotten it until Claudia had pointed out that they were intruding and pulled Marcus away. It was just as well. He never could keep anything from his partner.

“522 report to base." The voice was getting more insistent. 

He shook his head and stared at the roof of the beat-up old car. How ironic. Hadn't Jo just said this very thing was going to happen?

When he'd gotten to work two days before and saw the note on his desk, summoning him to the Dispatch Director's office, he’d grinned and thrown a suggestive look at Petrie as he'd passed his desk.  

“Yeah,” Petrie laughed. “She was here at four to pull the tapes from this weekend.  You may not be so happy when you get back there.”

“Nah, it’ll be cool.”  He’d encouraged Jolene to go after the Director’s job when Thomas had retired the year before knowing she’d be perfect for it with her background and experience.  She’d been worried about others who had been there longer thinking she was stepping on their toes, but he knew that most of the dispatchers were either retired patrolmen who still wanted to be involved or people just looking for extra income or the insurance.  No one who wanted the responsibility of running the department.  

And she was great if a little too stuck on protocols that Thomas had ignored.  Like well-checks.  

She didn’t look in the mood to appreciate his humor or innuendos right then, so he just took the seat across from her desk.

“How did it go this morning?  Was the dispatcher rude?” He asked, knowing that the reason she’d come in so early was that one of her dispatchers had been accused of behaving improperly during a 911 call and she had to review the tapes to see if he had been before writing him up.

She yawned and shook her head.  “From the standpoint of a dispatcher, no.  He was a little brusque as he explained the limitations of just what Officers could do if he sent them out, but he wasn’t rude or lying.  But, if I was a Mom whose 18-year-old daughter just ran off with a 48-year-old man, I’m not sure how I would take news I didn’t want to hear either.  I’m not going to write him up, but he is going to have to do some sensitivity training which means I do too.”

“Sorry, Babe.”

“That’s not why I called you in here.”  She walked around and sat on the corner of her desk.  “I had to listen to the tapes for almost the whole weekend.  Victor, you ignored four well check calls.  Not answered them late, just flat out ignored them. We rolled marked units four times and you were fine. That’s four times they could have been dealing with real problems.”

He rolled his eyes.  “Would you have rather that I wasn’t okay? I was busy.  I can’t always stop to answer the radio. Half the time I don’t even have one. I’m sorry.”

“I’m not talking about when you are undercover,” she replied, trying to keep her temper under control.  “I’m talking about when you are just on the street.  Look, I know you are used to wearing a wire and not breaking your flow, but when you aren’t, you must answer the calls.  It’s the only way we know you are okay and don’t need back up.  There are eight thousand police officers in this city and five hundred and seventy of them work in this building alone and my six dispatchers have to keep up with every one of them.  We don’t have time to chase around those of you who think we’re a joke!”

“I don’t think you’re a joke,” he replied.

“Could have fooled me,” she shot back.  “I don’t have them doing well check calls because I want to be a pain in the ass, or I want to make sure they’re awake. I do it because…, because I want every one of those five hundred and seventy officers to make it home.” She stopped and covered her face with her hands before whispering, “Especially you.” She wiped at her eyes before looking back up, her earlier anger abated.  “I’m sorry.  It’s just that…, I’m scared that one day you won’t answer because you really need help, but no one will pay any attention because they’re used to you not answering and I don’t…, I can’t…,” she stopped again.  She got up from the desk and turned her back to him. 

Victor stood up and went over to her, wrapping his arms around her waist and kissing her temple.  “I’m sorry, Baby.  I guess I didn’t realize how important it was.  I’ll do better.  I promise.”

“Well, you better.  Next time I’ll have to write you up,” she sniffled, looking up at him and smiling.

“Hmm…, you know, it was kind of hot when you were yelling at me.  Might be worth getting written up for to get yelled at again,” he teased, leaning down to kiss her. 

“Idiot,” she laughed, pushing him away. “Come to my place tonight. I’ll yell at you all you want, and it won’t have to go in your personnel file.”

“522 to base, come in 522,” the voice called again.

He didn’t realize that day would be just two days later.

“Miss Baker?” A new woman named Nannette stopped her as she was getting her jacket to leave.

“Yes, Nannette?”  She replied, distractedly, as she pulled the note out of her pocket, blushing as red as her hair when she read it.  That man was truly twisted. 

“Detective Isbecki answered at burglary in progress call five minutes ago and he isn’t answering the well checks.  Do you want me to keep trying or just send out back up?” Nanette asked.

“Wait. You didn’t send back up to start with? You always send back up with ‘in progress’ calls. Get on it,” Jolene scolded.  She shoved the note back in her pocket and rushed to an empty console.

“Isbecki, call base.  Isbecki…,” No, they weren’t supposed to use real names over the radio and maybe she was a little more panicked than she should be, but a sick feeling had settled into the pit of her stomach.  No way was Victor just not answering after the talk they’d had.  He’d sworn he wasn’t going to do that anymore. Something was wrong.  She knew it. “Victor!  Please answer me! Victor! Victor!”  She waited for maybe another two seconds, instead of minutes like she was supposed to before the panic got the best of her and she initiated an ‘Officer Down’ code.  If she was wrong, 1PP would have her ass, but if she wasn’t, he could already be…, No. She wasn’t going to think like that.

Victor was fading in and out of consciousness when he heard Jolene call his name.  First, Isbecki, then Victor.  Over and over.  He had to be confused.  No way she would use his real name on the radio.  Wasn’t confusion a bad sign when you were wounded?  He couldn’t remember anymore. He closed his eyes, his hand falling away from the wound in his stomach.  It didn’t matter anymore.  No way would anyone find him in time.

“Victor!  Stay with us! Help is on the way!” Jolene called out again, rousing him from the stupor he was falling into.  

Why did she sound so scared?  Jo never got rattled.  He was okay. Everything was fine.  He wasn’t even in that much pain anymore.  

“Victor!”

He wanted to let her know it was okay.  He was fine.  Even his head wasn’t aching anymore.  It was going to be fine.  “Jolene, Baby.” His voice came out barely above a whisper before the world went black around him.

“Victor! Victor!”

He felt someone slapping his cheeks, trying to wake him.  But it wasn’t Jolene calling his name this time. It was Marcus.

“Victor! Victor!  Come on, Man!  You can do it.  You can’t go out like this,” Marcus said, still slapping him.

“Jolene,” he said, again, trying to open his eyes. The world spun as he tried to make his eyes focus and he was sure he was going to puke.  He was still in his car, but now Marcus was beside him, holding pressure against his stab wound with one hand and trying to bring him around with the other.

“That’s it,” Marcus said, relief breaking in his voice. “That’s it.  Stay with me, Partner.  The ambulance is almost here. CHRIS! MARY BETH! WE GOT HIM BACK,” he yelled outside the car.  “Get that ambulance here!”

Victor wanted to tell him to shut it, the pain in his head slamming him back into consciousness as Cagney slung open the other door.

“Ambulance is two minutes out,” she reported.  “Hang on, Victor.  We got you now.  Just hang on.”

The abandoned building was bathed in red and blue lights as the paramedics removed him from the car, but Victor barely noticed as he slipped from consciousness again, the pain of being moved too much to handle.

As soon as the paramedics had taken over for Marcus, he’d opened the front door of the car and grabbed Victor’s radio mic from its hook.

“We got him, Jolene.  We got him.”

“Thank God,” she whispered before dropping the mic. “Thank you, God.”  Then she lost her lunch in the nearest wastebasket. She’d never been that scared in her life.