#but never cultural/historical locations or really cities

[doctorweebmd]

Lessons from day 3 in Japan:

- learned my partner is an absolute nightmare to travel with lmao

[racefortheironthrone]

Now you mentioned i, I am a bit surprised Smallville is prominently and consistently in Kansas? It's Smallville, Kansas. There might be others and certainly cities located vaguely within a real region, but it's definitely the first fictional town or city of D.C. in a real-world American state to come to mind.

So this gets to the weirdness of D.C geography. When Superman was first established, there was much less of a cohesive "universe," so if Siegel and Shuster wanted Superman to specifically be raised in Kansas, that's where he was from and the rest of the geography would have to work itself out.

IMO, this early slapdash approach to world-building has (over time) led to some things that just don't make sense to me as a student of urban history and urban studies:

Metropolis shouldn't be in Delaware. It doesn't make sense in terms of urbanization, given the context of an already-crowded Northeastern Corridor - Delaware simply does not have the capacity to sustain a city of 11 million people, and you wouldn't get a municipality of that size right next door to New York City (as well as D.C's other fictional cities in the area). The whole idea of Metropolis and Gotham being across the river/bay from each other has never really worked for me; you can still do Superman/Batman team-up stories no matter where they are, because Superman can fly and Batman has his own personal fighter jets.

More importantly, it doesn't make sense in terms of historic patterns of urban migration. Moving to the big city in search of the American Dream is a big part of the Clark Kent story, but historically people moving from rural to urban areas overwhelmingly go to the nearest large city, depending on how transportation networks are arranged, whether we're talking about train lines or direct flights or highways or bus routes. There is a reason we can track regional movements of black communities during the Great Migration, because who went where depended on which train lines ran through which states:

This is why I've always felt that, while Metropolis has aesthetically been associated with New York City, it logically should be Chicago. It is the biggest city in the Midwest, one very much associated with robber baron industrialists and corruption at the highest levels, and absolutely stuffed with art deco architecture for Superman to pose on top of. Up until the Tribune Company began to strip it for parts, it's also been a major newspaper town with a long tradition of muck-raking investigative journalism that would inspire a starry-eyed cub reporter like Clark. As one of the original transit hubs and the U.S' own "nature's metropolis," it is precisely the place that a Kansas farm boy would hop a train to, because all trains go to Chicago. Also, culturally I like it better that Clark Kent represents the City of Wide Shoulders whereas Bruce Wayne is the typical Tri-State Area Type-A personality.

Going back to D.C's bizarro Northeast geography, I likewise have an issue with Gotham being in New Jersey...if New York City is also supposed to be a major metropolitan area in the D.C universe. Just as Delaware would struggle to support a city of 11 million people, it would be very difficult to grow Gotham into a city of 10 million people so close to the gravity well of the Greater New York Metro Area. New Jersey is a pretty urbanized state, but its biggest cities tend to range in population from 300,000 to 100,000 - which works very well for a place like Blüdhaven, which is supposed to have something of an inferiority complex vis-a-vis Gotham - because a lot of the population tends to gravitate to NYC for work and eventually housing as well.

I've already said my piece about the lack of cultural specificity of D.C's Midwest.

As far as the West Coast goes, I've always found it a bit odd that Star City isn't where Seattle is supposed to be. Let's face it, the only place where Oliver Queen's facial hair would go unnoticed is Seattle. Also, Coast City is often depicted too far north on the map - if it's supposed to be a half-hour away from Edwards Air Force Base, it should be significantly more southern, down by Kern County and San Bernadino County, not practically up in San Francisco.

[haveyoureadthistransbook]

To Survive on This Shore: Photographs and Interviews with Transgender and Gender Nonconforming Older Adults by Jess T. Dugan & Vanessa Fabbre

goodreads

Representations of older transgender people are nearly absent from our culture and those that do exist are often one-dimensional. For over five years, photographer Jess T. Dugan and social worker Vanessa Fabbre traveled throughout the United States creating To Survive on This Shore: Photographs and Interviews with Transgender and Gender Nonconforming Older Adults. Seeking subjects whose lived experiences exist within the complex intersections of gender identity, age, race, ethnicity, sexuality, socioeconomic class, and geographic location, they traveled from coast to coast, to big cities and small towns, documenting the life stories of this important but largely underrepresented group of older adults. The featured individuals share a wide variety of life narratives spanning the last ninety years, offering an important historical record of transgender experience and activism in the United States. The resulting portraits and narratives provide a nuanced view into the struggles and joys of growing older as a transgender person and offer a poignant reflection on what it means to live authentically despite seemingly insurmountable odds.

Mod opinion: This sounds like a really interesting photography book focussing on trans history. Unfortunately i haven't been able to read it yet.

[tlatollotl]

Do you want to tell us about Western Mexico in Mesoamerica?

It's an older meme I made, but it holds true. I could talk for hours if people let me. Especially if I had a screen to share images, show citations, etc.

But instead I will take this opportunity to address many of the tags in the reblogs asking why West Mexico has been ignored.

There's no definitive answer as to why, but more just a collection of small reasons that has resulted in a different historiography. Other than the Kingdom of Tzintzuntzan, there were not large states for the Spanish to conquer. It was much more fragmented, politically, culturally, and linguistically, than other parts of Mesoamerica.

To add to that, after the Mixton War of 1540, many parts of West Mexico were depopulated as a result of the war, enslaved and sent east, killed as retribution for participating in the war, or fled to other areas of Mesoamerica (such as the mountainous areas to the north of the Chichimeca area of north-central Mexico).

There's also the colonial and historic history of Mexico to consider. Mexico City was the center of New Spain and later the country of Mexico. So the focus was on Central Mexico, as a political center, trading center, and cultural center.

After the revolution about a century ago, Mexico began building its nationalism and part of that hinged on the history of Central Mexico (and also the Maya, who have a long and drawn out conquest history, history of rebellions in the colonial period, and general resistance to anyone that isn't Maya) leaving many areas of Mexico's cultural heritage to languish.

There was also a misconception about West Mexican archaeological potential beginning in the late 19th century. Because there were no large states other than the Kingdom of Tzintzuntzan, it was assumed there had never been states before the Postclassic. So one really tried to look for settlements and surface architecture. Instead, interest in the region stemmed from the ceramic figurines most often looted from shaft and chamber tombs located underground.

Those are some of the big ones that come to mind.

[centrally-unplanned]

Very much enjoyed this video on the historical reality of the Library of Alexandria. As is probably well known at this point, its reputation was primarily a product of storybooks; there was no Grand Ur-Library that existed for hundreds of years as the premiere collection before being burned down in a fire, resulting in irreplaceable knowledge lost. Instead in the 3rd century BC Alexandria hosted a first-amoung-many-equals library and academic community, before declining in the 2nd century BC as others took its place, and most of its book collection would have long-since decayed by the time the first of its "burnings" under Ceasar would have occurred. It was successful for a brief window, before other cities took the reigns, which was a common back-and-forth of the era.

Something the video only somewhat touches on is that the library itself wasn't really the cause of that 3rd century renaissance; it was the power & support of the ruling Ptolemaic Dynasty of Egypt, which was supporting (financially and culturally) the sciences and arts. Alexandria was the city-to-be-in as a wandering scholar because it was their golden age, the city was rich and peaceful and powerful. If you have that a good library comes as something of a matter of course. And once the dynasty declined and fell into conflict in the 2nd century the funding withered (probably, we have no real sources on library funding), the peace vanished, and thus so did the "Great Library". Which means it was never really about the library to begin with; Alexandra was the thing that was great.

The idea of the Great Library itself is, therefore, really just a way to personify in a single location the idea of the city's heyday, generally after the fact in sources hundreds of years later. At the time it would have just be a piece of the intellectual ecosystem.

[evesaintyves]

this was my submission to @thethreebroomsticksficfest Pride Fest 2023 🌈

The Rougarou

Remus Lupin/Sirius Black | M | 9.7k | After the end of the first war, Remus Lupin seeks some kind of new life in New Orleans. He finds it.

In the mosquito-song of morning, without the din of bass and customers and Order up! from Ish, bad thoughts bubbled up like groundwater from the cracks in the street: the little varnished wood box that held only a finger. Peter's dad ripping up the hymnal.   Stop it, Remus would say to himself.   Autumn drizzle like spit in the graves.   Just stop. Getting in bed, pulling the sheets over his face, steaming in the heat of his own breath.   Too drunk to stand, somehow too drunk even to cry. Two married slots in the ground. The itchy suit he'd borrowed from his father. Two babies fussing in the black pram—craning his neck to see Harry, then shrinking back in shame. The sour look on Lily's sister. The stone look on Dumbledore: how had it happened? How could we let it happen?   He'd try to put himself to sleep, but once he'd started his mind wouldn't let him stop, and sooner or later he'd think about the worst thing, the thing that felt like a crime:   Even in June it must be freezing in the North Sea.

read on AO3

some notes on this fic under the cut

first, i just want to acknowledge that i'm writing about New Orleans as someone who's never lived there, and i apologize unreservedly for anything i got wrong. i love the city and i've spent a lot of time there, but ultimately i'm just a tourist.

folklore

the rougarou is a cryptid in Cajun and Métis folklore, often depicted as a creature with a human body and the head of a dog or a wolf. the name is a cajunization of "loup-garou." the rougarou may be a syncretization of the French loup-garou legend and indigenous concepts of humanlike shapeshifters, like the Wendigo. In some iterations of the Wendigo legend, a person can be cursed with insatiable hunger and greed and cravings for human flesh after committing an act of cannibalism or violence. stories of the rougarou in Louisiana were a cautionary tale for children and sometimes represented a consequence of breaking lent. the rougarou also happens to feature in the Harry Potter universe, which is convenient for me.

the feu-follet is a ghost-light, similar to the will-o'-the-wisp, said to appear in the swamps of the Mississippi delta; traditionally held to be the souls of unbaptized babies

the French Quarter ghosts - years ago in the FQ we used to see real estate signs advertising houses and apartments for sale as Haunted or Not Haunted which i always thought was pretty cool. the ghosts generally aren't representative of any specific historical figures or events, except for one, sort of—i'll let you figure out which if you care to.

locations

Monsieur's is made up, obviously, but most other locations mentioned by name are real and were operating in 1982. Café Lafitte In Exile, Verti Marte, Café du Monde and The Apple Barrel are still around, but Charlene's and Las Pierres (which were actually de facto segregated in the way the fic describes) are now closed.

i made a little map—i'm not an artist, but i enjoy maps, like, a weird amount—of some of the locations in the fic.

New Orleans has been a center of queer culture in the South for a really long time—gay social clubs and carnival krewes have existed there since as early as the 40s, and Café Lafitte, which opened in 1933 (in its current location since 1953) is one of the oldest gay bars in America. i was really excited to find a book on Café Lafitte and its place in New Orleans queer history called In Exile: The History and Lore Surrounding New Orleans Gay Culture and Its Oldest Gay Bar by Frank Perez and Jeffrey Palmquist , two bartenders who worked there in the 80s and 90s. other than the obvious thematic connections in outlaws and exile, Café Lafitte is one of the couple of places that were around back then that i've actually been inside and could hope to describe with some accuracy.

other resources on queer history in New Orleans:

The LGBT+ Archives Project of Louisiana

Last Call NOLA, a queer and trans art & archival collective who host a podcast series on vanishing NOLA gay bars and other queer spaces - episodes 3.2 and 3.3 are about Charlene's and Las Pierres

music

for this fic we're gonna roll with the PoA movie canon that Lupin's a big ol' vinyl dork who likes vaguely-jazzy big band music ok

Will You Love Me Tomorrow by The Shirelles - The Shirelles were a girl group in the late 50s and early 60s - i imagine Ish, somewhere in her 40s in this story, might have listened to them as a teenager. they were an early example of an all-Black band who found success with white audiences during the civil rights era, and they cultivated a "naive schoolgirl" sound and aesthetic that helped them get away with some relatively edgy-for-the-time sexual subtext in their songs. Will You Love Me Tomorrow was banned from radio in parts of the US - the lyrics address a lover before a tryst: tonight the light of love is in your eyes/but will you love me tomorrow?

The Stargazers - a UK pop group from the mid-50s. i'll be honest, this choice was mainly based on that name and some irresistibly appropriate song titles, but here's my excuse: their arrangements are heavy on tinkling piano and brass, and they collaborated with jazz-influenced British bandleader Syd Dean, so we're gonna go with the headcanon that young Remus got a taste for jazz through the pop groups of Hope's girlhood, many of which were covering (or just ripping off) American jazz & R&B artists at the time.

Junco Player by James Booker - "the Bayou Maharaja." A New Orleans-born jazz and R&B pianist, who led the house band at the Maple Leaf Bar in Carrollton (across town from where Lupin lives in this story) in the late 70s and early 80s. He was better known in Europe than in the US during the time Lupin would have been in his late teens, so if Lupin was a big jazz nerd he might have heard of him. Booker was openly gay and sometimes described as the "Black Liberace" due to his flamboyant style; he was also troubled and chronically ill, having been hit by an ambulance as a child and left with one working eye, a limp, chronic pain and a morphine addiction. He died shortly after the timeline of this fic.

image from the Times-Picayune archives, photographer uncredited

Heart of Glass by Blondie - this is honestly just how it happened in the scene in my head, and it's obviously kind of on-the-nose, but I really think some disco-y pop, at that moment, would feel like a sign to Lupin that the city isn't going to give him what he wants and he doesn't belong there.

thanks for reading!

[mariacallous]

(New York Jewish Week) — When a small group of people convened next to an inconspicuous plaque steps from the entrance to the Staten Island Ferry’s Whitehall Terminal earlier this week, they weren’t there to catch a boat leaving the island.

Instead, they had come to the southern tip of Manhattan to celebrate a ship that had arrived on its shores centuries before.

The gathering on Wednesday was the 369th anniversary of an event most New Yorkers don’t know about, let alone celebrate: the arrival of the first Jewish community to the United States in 1654. That lack of awareness is exactly what Howard Teich, the founding chair of a group called the Manhattan Jewish Historical Initiative, hopes to change.

That year, a group of 23 Sephardic Jews arrived on the shores of New Amsterdam, the Dutch colony located on the island. In the centuries since, the city and its image have been shaped in no small part by its Jewish denizens — from Emma Lazarus to Ed Koch to Nora Ephron.

In hosting the “Landing Day” ceremony, Teich’s ultimate goal is for Jews in the city with the world’s largest Jewish population to gather every year to celebrate their culture and accomplishments.

“We just have to change the narrative of the community right now,” Teich told the New York Jewish Week, adding that he felt Jewish communal discourse was at times overly focused on fear and division. “We’ve got to spread a positive message of who we are, what we’ve accomplished, how we’ve worked with other people, what we’ve started, the difference we’ve made in the time we’ve been here and, really, what America has meant to us as a people.”

Wednesday’s ceremony was held at Peter Minuit Plaza, next to a flagpole adorned with a plaque that reads: “Erected by the State of New York to honor the memory of the twenty three men, women and children who landed in September 1654 and founded the first Jewish community in North America.”

Donated by the State of New York, it is called the Jewish Tercentenary Monument and was put up in The Battery in 1954 to mark the 300th anniversary of the Jews’ arrival. That year, events were held for months across New York and the United States to celebrate, but in the decades since, there have only been a handful of gatherings at the site. None of the events and pronouncements associated with a Landing Day celebration in 2004, for the 350th anniversary, took place near the monument.

Teich aims to revitalize the celebration, and he hopes an annual event will take place at the plaza each fall.

“Now is the time,” he said. “[This ceremony] was supposed to show the positive of a community that’s really excelled in freedom. It’s incredible what’s been established in America and in New York in particular as a center of American Jewry to a large extent. That’s what I want to see celebrated.”

For Wednesday’s ceremony, Teich partnered with the Battery Conservancy, the New York Board of Rabbis and dozens of other Jewish and historical organizations across the city. Local and state politicians were also in attendance, including City Councilmember Gale Brewer, State Assembly Members Rebecca Seawright and Alex Bores, and State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli. Elias Levy, the Jewish consul general of Panama in New York, was also present.

“I want our monuments to come alive,” Warrie Price, the president of the Battery Conservancy, said in a speech. “I ask all of you to make this monument  as relevant as it was in 1954, because its values and what it symbolizes are as true today as ever. We are still a landing site. We will never stop being a landing site. As New Yorkers and as a people of consciousness, we care and we will find the solutions to continue being a landing site.”

Along with speeches and music, which included Ladino and Hebrew versions of “Shalom Aleichem” and “Ein Keloheinu” from Rabbi Cantor Jill Hausman; a klezmer clarinet performance from the musician Zisel; and a rendition of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” from singer Hannie Ricardo, attendees also heard a short history of the Jewish arrival in New Amsterdam from Bradley Shaw, a historian at the Lower East Side Jewish Conservancy.

Like so many immigrants to New York City who came after them, the Jews who landed in Manhattan in 1654 were fleeing persecution. In this case, they were escaping the Portuguese, who had conquered the Dutch colony of Brazil where the Jews had been living and instituted the Catholic Church’s Inquisition.

As it happens, just weeks before the group of 23 landed, three Ashkenazi Jews — Jacob Barsimson, Solomon Pietersen and Asser Levy, who was the New World’s first kosher butcher and Jewish homeowner — had come to New Amsterdam from Europe. Those three men greeted the group. When Peter Stuyvesant, the Dutch director-general of New Amsterdam, originally rejected the new refugees — saying he wanted to establish a colony solely for Dutch Reformed Christians — Levy advocated on their behalf.

“The question I have is, did they have a minyan?” Shaw said, referring to a traditional Jewish prayer quorum of 10 men. The group had arrived just before Rosh Hashanah.

“The answer is, I really don’t know,” he said. “But that said, they might have. They had the four men from the boat and the three that were here. And of the children, there might have been one or two that were bar mitzvahed,” or over 13 years old.

With Levy’s help, along with urging from the Dutch West India Company, which counted many Sephardic Jews among their investors, the group stayed. Eventually, they established the Mill Street Synagogue, the first congregation in the United States. It eventually became Congregation Shearith Israel, or the Spanish and Portuguese Synagogue, whose building is now on West 70th Street.

According to the most recent estimates, the five boroughs are now home to more than 1 million Jews.

“Usually you come to a strange place and the first thing you look for is a synagogue,” said a woman at the ceremony who wished to remain anonymous, and who did not know the history of the Jews’ arrival before the event. “I can’t imagine what it would be like to be the first ones to arrive.”

Teich wants to build momentum for the 400th anniversary of Landing Day — just 31 years away.

“There’s a real continuity that we need to appreciate,” he said. “That’s who we should be as a people — we have 5,000 years of history and nearly 400 here. It’s quite something.”

[juicycoutureheaux]

When It's Over Chapter 19: Retreating

Anna was glancing out the plane window, Chris’ head resting on her shoulder. She envied his ability to sleep anywhere.

Anna could never sleep on planes or anywhere that wasn’t her bed for that matter. It didn’t make her a great soldier.

They were an hour away from the small local airport of her hometown, Savannah. She never thought she would miss the marshy, flora and fauna rich scenery of her hometown; New York City was devoid of the natural charm that Savannah provided.

Anna was brought out of her thoughts when the intercom of the plane’s cabin crackled to life informing the passengers of their decline to the airport. Anna gently woke up her boyfriend by gently stroking his hair.

“What?” He said sleepily.

Anna giggled. “We’re landing soon honey, you can sleep in the hotel room.”

Chris still had his eyes closed as he let out a sigh and rubbed his face. “How hot is it going to be?”

“It should be about 80 degrees, not too hot.”

Chris groaned. “80 degrees? Jesus.”

Anna laughed, Chris was typical for someone from the northeast to her. “80 degrees is nothing,” she nuzzled into him. “Just wait till it’s 97 degrees outside but feels like 105*.”

Chris groaned, “Well I’m glad we came during the cool Month of October.” He said sardonically.

The pair made their way through the airport and Chris was already polarized by the amount of people smiling to one another and saying “hey”. He was jaded by the social isolation of New York.

“Does everyone know each other down here?” Chris asked Anna as he grabbed their luggage from the return.

“Nope,” she said simply as they made their way to where the rental cars were located, Anna greeted more people she didn’t know.

Chris just shook his head. He was in for a culture shock.

Chris insisted that they get their own vehicle while they were down here. He didn’t want to rely on Anna’s family, as she didn’t paint them as the most responsible or reliable people.

“A mustang?” Anna raised her eyebrows at the choice of car they would be driving around her hometown.

“Yup,” he said, lifting their suitcases into the trunk. “Not too flashy, but enough to impress your family.”

Anna rolled her eyes. “You don’t need to impress them, they’re just a bunch of rednecks.”

“Exactly why I picked the mustang and not the BMW.” Chris teased.

Anna playfully punched him. “You’re a dick.” She laughed.

Chris held the door open for her and they made their way to their accommodations.

Their home for the week was a historic mansion renovated to be a luxury hotel; when Anna was a little girl she would have never imagined staying here.

She showed her excitement by taking everything in the lobby as Chris checked them in.

Chris admired his girlfriend, she had been through so much, but was still impressed by life’s small pleasures. He felt a foreign feeling of warmth spread through his chest watching her examine the intricate decor and talking to other guests.

He approached her when she finished her conversation with a businessman from Chicago and wrapped his arms around her waist.

“Let’s go up to the room and get showered, babe, I want to take you out to dinner. I scored reservations at the restaurant here.” He said proud of himself.

Anna looked back at him excited. “Chris really?” She grabbed his hands. “You treat me too well.”

Chris smiled. “Anything for you.”

Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Chris spared no expense for the room. It was a suite with a living room and a king size bed. Chris went to shower off after the flight while Anna unpacked the luggage.

Chris came out with a towel wrapped around his waist, everytime Anna saw Chris in a state of undress she always felt her heart flutter.

“Take a picture, it'll last longer.” Chris winked at her, which caused her to blush.

“I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be, if we didn’t have reservations to get to, I’d suggest having you as the appetizer, but we’re short on time.”

Anna smiled. “Well, I can be dessert then.”

Chris smiled deviously. “I’ll hold you to that Princess.”

Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Anna wore a Lilly Pulitzer shift dress with a mandarin collar. She loved how it was short enough to show off her legs, but wasn’t indecent. She knew it was a great choice because Chris couldn’t keep his hands off of her.

“You look radiant Anna, you look beautiful all the time but, wow.”

Chris’ honesty made her heart flutter, she felt like she did with her first husband.

“I guess this southern air is good for me.” She said, fanning herself with the menu. She hadn’t realized how long it had been since she had been in this kind of heat.

“I guess so.” Chris placed his hand on her thigh.

The waiter came over to them and immediately recognized Anna. “Hey, didn’t you used to perform at Chuck’s club? I wondered where you went!” He said enthusiastically.

“I did actually, but that was a while ago,” Anna tried to sound casual.

“You were really good! Are you still doing it professionally?”

She smiled sadly. “No I don’t perform anymore, I just appreciate the art offstage now.”

The waiter frowned. “I’m sorry to hear that.” He took their drink orders and left.

“You didn’t seem too excited when he mentioned he knew you, you should be proud.” Chris said, taking her dainty hand into his.

“It’s kind of complicated, especially after the Travis situation,” she spoke quietly, avoiding his gaze.

Chris felt genuinely sad; usually he would feel anger in this situation, but he hadn’t realized how much the Travis situation had crushed her spirit.

Chris gently squeezed her hand assuringly, trying to offer whatever comfort he could.

They ate their meal in peace, Anna laying out the details of how they were going to spend their week.

“We’re going to go fishing on Tuesday, then we’re gonna cook out at dad’s house. He wanted to see your skills on the boat.”

The skin around Chris’ eyes crinkled as he smiled, “See my skills? So now it’s a competition.”

“I’ve been bragging about you, he’s just curious.”

“Curious? Sounds like he’s sizing me up.”

Anna rolled her eyes. “My brother is a lawyer, he hates fishing, my dad is probably excited to bond with another man.”

Chris looked at Anna with surprise. “You have a brother?”

Anna took a deep breath, “Half brother, he’s much older than I am.”

“I take it you aren’t close.”

Anna swirled the liquid in her martini glass before taking a large gulp. “He has different…values than I do.”

Chris grimaced. “What do you mean?”

“He hated that I did burlesque at a gay bar, hated that I moved in with my first boyfriend right away and was PISSED when I joined the BSAA.”

“He has a lot of opinions about you, what about Brigid?”

Anna laughed humorlessly, “Brigid doesn’t even talk to him. They have disowned each other.”

“Damn.”

Anna just nodded silently.

Chris quickly changed the subject. “So are you going to show me your old stomping grounds? The night is young and you look beautiful.”

Anna smiled a toothy grin. “I guess I should. The club should still have happy hour by the time we get down there.”

They left the restaurant to walk to the street where all the bars and clubs were located.

Anna hadn’t realized how much the nightlife scene had grown since she was here last.

Immediately outside knocking boots Anna was recognized by an old friend, Julie.

“Oh my god is that who I think it is? What the hell are you doing down here? I thought you moved to the big city!” Julie flicked her cigarette onto the sidewalk and nearly tackled Anna. She was a makeup artist during the day and a bartender at night; in Savannah, it was common for creative people to have multiple jobs for socialization.

“Julie it’s so good to see you, your makeup looks amazing as always.” Anna hugged the woman tightly.

Julie flipped her platinum blonde hair, she had black stiletto nails and blush up to her temples. Chris thought she looked like a witch in a good way.

Anna turned to Chris, “This is my boyfriend, Chris Redfield.”

Julie’s jaw dropped. “Boyfriend? You’re dating again? You and Michael were so perfect for each other, I didn’t think…” she then smiled and took her hands in hers. “Anna, you have no idea how happy I am for you.” Julie turned to Chris. “Take care of her okay? She’s very dear to a lot of people.”

Chris smiled and shook Julie’s hand. “I promise,”

Julie returned Chris’ sincere smile and the group went down to the basement bar. Julie was in the process of opening it up and called down other staff members that knew Anna to catch up.

Anna was cozied up at the bar with her old friends, while Chris was talking to the doorman.

“Chris is a complete 180 from Michael.” an older queen said. “He was a total finance bro,” the queen looked at Anna. “God rest his soul, he was a sweet man, he gave you whatever you wanted. I remember when he surprised you with annual passes to DisneyWorld because you mentioned you wanted to go. He was too good to be true.”

Anna smiled sadly. “I know it, he doted on me completely. I remember when we first started dating, anytime we went into a store and I said something was pretty, it’s like he would wag his tail. He’d always ask, *Do you want it Anna? I’ll get it for you!” She reminisced fondly.

She quickly turned to look at Chris, she didn’t want him to feel like he was second best.

Chris kissed Anna’s temple gently. “I wish I could take you to DisneyWorld every month like Michael did.”

Anna hugged him. “We were really young when we did that, plus we only lived four hours away. We didn’t have the responsibilities that you and I share now.” Anna sighed.

Chris still felt guilty. She deserved the world.

“Chris treats me so well, he insists he pays all the bills even though I have a pretty good job.”

Chris smiled, “You need your money to stay beautiful and happy for me babe.” he kissed behind her ear causing Anna to blush.

“Girl, how’d you win the man lottery twice?” Crystal said. “I bet he gives amazing massages, you think he’d give me one?”

Amerie chimed in, “Girl you are so thirsty that man don’t want nothing with you. That's Anna’s man you are talking about.” She said taking her long nails to flip her long hair around to accentuate her words.

The familiar banter made Anna laugh. Chris excused himself, squeezing Anna’s hip.

Crystal just rolled her eyes, “I’m just saying he cute or whatever Amerie,” She looked at Anna. “Listen girl, we seen you on the news. That psychopath who took your pictures? Girl I know your man TORE his ass up. You’re a local celebrity down here, the bar has never been busier, reporters are shady but they do get the public interested, and it’s good for business.”

Anna’s face paled. She hadn’t realized people would be affected down here because of what happened. It made sense it was a major national scandal.

Amerie saw the way Anna’s face paled and put her arm around her shoulder.

“Don’t worry girl, we got your back, we ain’t said shit to those reporters about you girl. We told them to get the hell up outta here or I woulda bust them upside the head and that’s the truth.”

Anna hadn’t felt true sisterhood like this in a while. “I love y’all.”

“We got you boo!” Crystal accentuated by *booping* Anna’s nose, making Anna cackle in response.

“Crystal girl, did you smoke without me?” Amerie whipped her long black hair around to face the other queen.

“I’m sorry, it helps with my creative process. I couldn’t wait.”

Anna missed the bar life, she used to partake in “smoking” before shows, they would bond over sharing a blunt in the alley and dancing till morning.

She started to mourn her old life, she wouldn’t be caught dead smoking in an alley, hell, with reporters sniffing around here she should have probably been more careful with showing her face around here. She wondered if Chris would judge her for partaking in those activities; hell, he did start off as a police officer before the Mansion Incident that changed his life.

Anna was snapped out of her thoughts when she felt the warm hands of her boyfriend wrap around her waist. She didn’t realize the basement bar was filling up.

“Looks like your man is back.” Crystal waved flirtatiously at Chris. “You better stay a while and watch the show, I’d hate for you to miss my performance.”

Chris wrapped his arm around Anna. “We wouldn’t miss it for the world, would we Anna?” He smiled at her.

Anna smiled, but still felt uncomfortable; she felt self conscious, like she shouldn’t be caught dead here. Were there still people trying to dig things up on her? What about Chris’ reputation?

Amerie picked on Anna’s hesitance and grabbed her drinks from Julie’s bar. “I’m going to need you to keep drinking and coming back drunk and ready to dance.”

Anna smiled. “Alright.”

Chris held Anna by the waist as they made their way up the stairs to the cabaret stage. The show was incredible, and Anna even saw Chris smile at the performances.

Anna stayed a little while to dance with her friends, but she couldn’t get into it.

As the duo walked out of the club, instead of being inspired by the performances, she felt melancholy. She kissed her friends goodbye before promising she’d visit one last time before leaving for New York.

Anna held on to Chris’ arm gently and was silent on the walk back to the hotel, Chris thought this was strange; usually Anna would chirp happily after an event like this.

He wondered what was on her mind.

“What’s up? You haven’t said anything since we left.” He gently grabbed her waist and pulled her close.

Anna thought pensively. “I’m just thinking how much my life has changed…again.” She didn’t look him in the eye, only kept her brown eyes glued to the sidewalk.

Chris slowed them down and gently lifted her chin to look at him and caressed her jawline. Her eyes seemed tired and dull, which concerned Chris.

He pulled her in for a kiss. Sometimes situations didn’t need words to fix, just affection.

-////////////———-/-//://///:;:

Arriving back to the hotel room, Anna quickly went to shower off and joined Chris on the bed.

Chris was on his laptop checking work emails and checking in with the team.

Anna would usually just put her hand on Chris when he would finish up work in bed, or even intertwine her legs with his.

Tonight, she crawled in the crisp hotel linens and turned her back to him. Chris noticed this and closed the laptop. He wrapped his arms around her and began to kiss her neck and face.

Anna giggled as he playfully kissed her.

He turned her to face him. “Anna, what’s wrong? You’re not yourself.”

Anna just lowered her eyes and laid her head on her hands.

“I was informed that the press was coming to the club to ask questions about me.”

Chris raised his eyebrows. “To the little club we just visited? They came to ask questions at that place?”

Anna slowly nodded. “I don’t know why, I don’t know why they're so desperate for news they would even worry about someone like me. I’m nobody.”

Chris sighed. “You’re not nobody.” He rubbed her back gently. “You’re a young woman who is attractive, smart, and not afraid to speak out. You were involved in something incredibly fucked up, people obsess over these kinds of things in our industry.”

“They didn’t have to literally come to my hometown for dirt. What if they ran into someone who hated me? Or someone who didn’t give a fuck about me like Jordie.”

Chris cringed at the girl’s name. “Anna, you can’t keep worrying about things you can’t control, it’s going to make you sick.”

She just turned the other way again. “You’re right, it’s just a hard pill for me to swallow, that's all.”

Chris held her again and nuzzled into her neck. He wasn’t great with words, but he knew sometimes Anna appreciated the silent gestures.

Anna gently backed her bottom into Chris, hinting at what she wanted.

Chris was more than happy to give his girlfriend what she wanted, he gently pulled up her robe, revealing her bare skin.

Chris gently grabbed her hips and kissed down her back. Anna lifted her knees much to Chris’ delight.

“Someone’s excited.” Chris grabbed her hips roughly, massaging her sides.

“I just need you to fuck me until I can’t think.”

Chris was surprised at her words. What happened to his sweet Anna? In the same breath, who was he to deny his girlfriend what she wanted?

“Say no more.” He growled.

He positioned Anna so she was sitting impaled on his cock and his hand around her throat.

Each thrust hit a new depth inside her causing her to squirm and whimper. He made sure to bite her shoulders and her earlobe, careful to not leave visible marks on her neck.

“I want you to beg for it sweetheart.” He kissed her cheek roughly.

“Please Chris…”

“Please what?” His smirk is evident in his question.

“Please cum in me.”

Something primal activated in him, causing him to lay her on her belly and grabbing her hair in the process. He knew he might be causing her some discomfort, at this point he didn’t care, he was going to give her what she asked for.

Chris pushed himself uncomfortably far into Anna, causing her to whine and bite the pillow. He kept himself deep inside of her as his seed coated her walls.

He gently twisted her dark chestnut hair off her back and kissed the nape of her neck gently.

He gently turned her over and held her close. “I’ve got you sweetheart.” He assured her as he kissed her forehead.

Anna laid her head on his chest tracing the scars on his rough skin.

They just stayed in silence as Chris continued to stroke her soft hair, until they both fell asleep.

[irismfrost]

August 5 - Tainan: Calligraphy class and Ten Drum

As I suspected, I am still feeling the effects of Saturday night - I can never drink that much again/ stay out as late as I did. I do not need a 24+ hour hangover. I also barely slept last night because it was 10 pm by the time I got back from dinner and then I spent 2.5 hours packing for our transition to Tainan this morning and updating my scrapbook. I also just kept waking up in the middle of the night. I was dreaming and at one point, I dreamt that I got shanked and kidnapped - but not like a stab, more like a really hard finger punch in the gut. It broke some ribs and took the wind out of my lungs, like in my dream I was withering in pain which is how I was able to be kidnapped. It was in a parking lot and I wasn't even standing close to the sides - I was right in the middle so that I could see if anyone was coming. I think I was already on edge for some reason, maybe I knew I was a target - I can't remember that part.

Today, we are traveling from Kaohsiung to Tainan. One interesting thing about Taiwan is the naming conventions of the cities. In Chinese nan means west, pei means north, ting means east and so on. To the cities Tainan, Taipei, and Taitung are really just names. asked on location which is pretty cool.

Our first stop today was the National University of Tainan. There, we met the director of the literature department and got a class on calligraphy. Unlike the buddhist museum Saturday, these were real brushes which made it so much harder. We painted on these fans called 團扇 tuanshan (round fan). I chose to write the word for "eternity" 永恆, but I really only chose it because it seemed the easiest to write. I practiced so much and was still disappointed with my fan. It is tough. I also cannot write my name well for the life of me. There are so many details and it always comes out un proportional. My name is hard to say and hard to say, but it's all worth it because it's a nice name. Nonetheless, I had a lot of fun.

Next, we went to the Ten Drum cultural village - it used to be an old sugar refinery. It was sort of like a mini amusement park. We wandered around for a bit then saw a concert with the famous Taiwanese drums. The band that played is called Cross Metal. These guys were so energetic and really brought the stage presence. They were so coordinated and definitely knew what they were doing. They might become a part of my workout playlist. And we even got to take a picture with them at the end. It was pretty cool. I unfortunately did not get their Line LOL, but did tag them in my IG story. They were definitely one of the highlights of the trip.

Reflection

I'm excited to see more of Tainan tomorrow. Tainan is Taiwan's oldest city, first established by the Dutch in 1624 and was the capital of Taiwan for 200 years. This year is Tainan's 400 year anniversary, so there is even more energy here than there would be otherwise. I'm 1885 the capital was moved to Taipei and Tainan is the 6th largest city in Taiwan. Tainan has so much historical significance and you can see how old the buildings are here. As I mentioned in a different blog a while ago, the Dutch brought brick and cement to Taiwan, and there are so many old-looking brick buildings here. At the university, you can see bullets from the US when they were fighting in Taiwan embedded in the bricks in some of the buildings.

Calligraphy has been a very interesting activity. One thing that Dr. Yeh (the calligraphy professor has the same last name as our professor) said about the calligraphy was the way you hold your body. It wasn't just the way you hold your fingers on the brush or the orientation of the brush to the paper, though we talked about that too. He mentioned that you have to relax your body and focus on your breathing and it felt like calligraphy was closer to meditating than writing. It takes a lot of coordination, steady hands, and concentration - it also takes a lot of practice. Calligraphy in Taiwan came from China, and became a writing standard during the Han Dynasty in China (206 B.C.–220 A.D.). Calligraphy traveled from China to Japan in the 6th century, as Japan didn't have a formal writing system at that time. Learning to write must've been a huge privilege back in the day because it is so challenging to paint your letters (pre-pencil) and required good education and patience.

[practically-an-x-man]

Your ocs are going on vacation, where are they going?

Oooh okay!! Thank you!!

Rae: Who knows? It's a new place every time, always somewhere she's never been before

Robin: Ireland - she's never actually been there herself, and she's eager to see her family's homeland.

Madison: Yellowstone for a lower-grade trip, or maybe New Zealand if she's got the chance to be really adventurous

Ophelia: London - she'd spend all her time at the theatres on West End, tour the Globe and other historic places, and enjoy every museum/educational building in the city

Jasper: Would tour Europe and visit a few historic cities, but wouldn't plan a super touristy-type vacation (AKA they'd rather visit small towns and get a feel for the actual culture, plus it wouldn't be as crowded or expensive)

Quinn: Would rather kick their feet up and have a staycation, travel is bad for her joints

Katherine: Egypt! Not just Cairo either, she'd want the whole historic experience of course

Kestrel: Similar to Rae, does a lot of travel for work already, so the actual location would vary.

Eris: Ah, they've seen the whole world grow and change over time. Unless they can find their way up to the International Space Station, there's not much that will excite them location-wise.

Nikoletta: Honestly, I don't really see her wanting to travel. Air travel would be miserable for her, and she's never really had interest in leaving New Orleans

[spellboundheartsaga]

Hearts of Bronze: Building Cultures

I like to think of myself as a creative person who can come up with completely new and fresh ideas that in no way real world things but that is honestly not accurate. Now that I'm no longer young and naive about where my ideas come from I have fully accepted and embraced using real world references.

It really started off with names. I don't like to use common everyday names in my fantasy worlds like John or Jane. There's nothing wrong with doing it. Sometimes a familiar name next to wildly unrealistic concepts is a really interesting juxtaposition and a lot of writers explore this relationship. It's just not my jam.

I wanted names that were unique to my worlds but I began to notice that all my names sounded the same. That's fine if all your characters are from the same country/region but I tend to write about things happening in big cities or empires, or journeys across continents. It's a ton of fun picking names out for major characters and reoccurring side characters but stories are filled with NPCs that are only mentioned in passing (I mean, I guess in a story they're all NPCs, but I do have a gaming and DnD background so in my head, that's how I refer to the minor characters that may only get a line or two. I often still name them because I think it helps me fill in the world and add dimension).

I now use things like fantasynamegenerator.com because it has the high fantasy names but it also has generators for real world names. Some of these are too commonplace to appeal to me but some are pretty unusual. I pick a real world culture and use that to inspire names for a specific country or culture in my story. This way characters of he same region have a subtle thread that ties them together and outsiders stand out.

In Hearts of Bronze, I have Khem and Carthago as two rival desert countries and the empty desert between them is the main location for the story. My refugees are from a Northern country called Aethel, that was defeated and absorbed by one of their rivals (haven't named the conquerors yet as they will not be a player in the story).

I am using ancient Egypt as an inspiration point for Khem, Phoenicia for Carthago, and Rome for Aethel. I call these inspiration points because while I pull references from them, I am not trying to set the story in these locations or be historically accurate to their cultures and traditions.

Having said that, there is a logical reason that the Egyptians dressed the way they dressed and built their homes in specific styles. Loose, linen clothing would be comfortable in the hot desert sun and mud brick buildings with thick walls and flat roofs make sense in an environment where the walls insulate and keep the inside of the home cool. There's no need for a steeply pitched roof if it never snows and hardly rains. At night, that becomes very pleasant additional living space if it's flat. You don't put your cooking oven inside your living space when your goal is to keep that area cool.

I'm also looking to historical references to add some realism to the technology of my world. Yes, there's magic and that will change significant parts of my cultures and their daily lives. But, it helps me to have a baseline and then consider how that changes society. In this story, I'm looking around 700-ish BCE. We're into the Iron Age but bronze is still commonly seen in weapons and tools. Steel is exceedingly rare. One of my mistakes already is thinking that archers would have been standard but as I research the Roman army of this time period, they actually had slings as their long range weapons. I hadn't at all considered dedicated spear men in addition to swordsmen but this was a staple for them. A massive part of my story is he founding of a whole new city, taking a dried up oasis and starting from scratch. I don't know how many fields a city needs to grow enough food or how the city would be laid out given that it is totally planned and not developing organically over time.

Which is why I'm now at my local library reviewing reference books on ancient Egypt and Rome. I'll use their traditional clothing to inspire my world's fashions. If the terms are obscure enough, I'll straight borrow them. I'm not ashamed of my references. I'm also looking at how their cities were laid out to add realism to my own. My Aethelians will try to build their new homes in the style of their homeland but that's not going to be livable in a new environment. Part of my story's drama is them making mistakes and learning to adapt. To do that, it helps to know how an Ancient Roman's home would look like and how that differs from those in Ancient Egypt.

How do you develop your cultures and countries?

[kslenvs3000w24]

Blog #4 Nature Interpretation Through Artwork

Personally I feel as though nature interpretation through art can encourage a specific set of feelings and emotions that is entirely unique to the individual who is interpreting it. The beauty behind nature interpretation through artwork is the fact that the experience an individual shares during this process can be different from someone else. These interpretations can form as a result of culture, experience, location, etc. Nature especially portrayed through artwork can evoke perspectives that can become eye-opening experiences for individuals who would not have interpreted it that way. Art and its use of education and depictions of nature have been a common staple throughout history, go visit a museum, they are full of artwork and pieces that tell stories!

I recently went to Rome this past summer with my family and we did a lot of walking tours. On these tours, we were educated on so many of these historical pieces. When most people think of Rome they think of the Colosseum or the Forum which is an area in Rome that is surrounded by ruins that were apart from ancient government buildings. One piece in particular that I remember vividly is Trajan's Column. It is a 98-foot column made from marble and is located in the heart of the city (Becker, n.d). This column is inscribed with artwork that resembles a movie-like story. Essentially, as you follow the artwork up the column it tells a story, like a film that keeps spinning to tell a story, and so does the column if you follow it in order. Artwork was and still continues to be a form of communication. As Beck et al. (2018) suggest, “Through the connection between a tangible thing and an intangible meaning the full spirit of a place or event may emerge”. Storytelling has become so prominent through art and the beauty behind this form of communication is there can be multiple ways to interpret these meanings. There are many different interpretations of the story depicted on Trajan’s Column however we will never really know the exact meaning beyond the artwork. Only the people who created it were the ones who would truly know the full story. 

Upclose Photo of Trajan's Column inscriptions.

My Photo from afar.

Interpretation through art and tangible and intangible things is a universal concept that allows individuals to relate to what they are interpreting (Beck et al, 2018). We can relate to certain artwork because we know what rocks feel like or the sound of waves, and in turn, these ultimately help encourage emotions and feelings from the intangibles present in the artwork. There are so many hidden meanings in artwork and each individual has the freedom to interpret it in a way that is uniquely their own. I find a sense of peace and blissfulness knowing that nature interpretation through art can facilitate messages throughout our bodies and the fact that this experience is different for everyone. The message being conveyed can impact each individual diversely. It truly can be an eye-opening experience and a way in which we can learn and bond with each other. 

Becker., J.A (n.d). Khan Academy. https://www.khanacademy.org/humanities/ancient-art-civilizations/roman/early-empire/a/column-of-trajan#:~:text=The%20column%20itself%20is%20made,weighing%20a%20total%20of%20c.

Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage for a Better World. Sagamore Publishing. 

Cartwright, M. (2013, June 09). Detail, Trajan's Column. World History Encyclopedia. Retrieved from https://www.worldhistory.org/image/1271/detail-trajans-column/

[bestarticlesforu]

Budget-Friendly Thailand: Affordable Packages through TGS Noble.

Thailand, with its stunning beaches, vibrant cities, rich culture, and delicious cuisine, remains among the top travel destinations for individuals round the world. Known as the "Land of Smiles," it offers a perfect balance of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion. However, for several, the idea of an international vacation can seem out of reach due to budget constraints. That's where TGS Noble steps in, offering a variety of affordable Thailand tour packages designed to create your dream holiday a fact without breaking the bank Book now.

Why Choose Thailand for a Budget-Friendly Vacation?

Thailand offers a wealth of experiences at a fraction of the price of other international destinations. From budget accommodations to inexpensive yet mouthwatering street food, travelers can have a full itinerary without emptying their wallets. Highlights include:

Exquisite Beaches: The islands of Thailand, such as Phuket and Koh Phi Phi, are fabled for their breathtaking beaches, crystal-clear waters, and coral reefs. You never need a huge budget to relax on the sand or explore the area marine life.

Rich Cultural Heritage: Thailand's temples and historical sites provide unique cultural experiences for a nominal entrance fee. Bangkok's Grand Palace, the ancient city of Ayutthaya, and Chiang Mai's temples are budget-friendly and unforgettable.

Delicious Thai Cuisine: Sampling Thailand's street food is vital, and it's incredibly affordable. Pad Thai, mango sticky rice, and Thai iced tea are just a few dishes travelers can enjoy without overspending.

Affordable Thailand Packages by TGS Noble

TGS Noble specializes in creating affordable and memorable travel experiences, tailored to meet a variety of budgets and travel preferences. Their affordable Thailand packages offer flexibility, comfort, and a curated itinerary full of essential Thai experiences. Here are some highlights of what TGS Noble offers:

1. Bangkok City Package

Bangkok, Thailand's bustling capital, is really a city of contrasts where ancient temples meet modern skyscrapers. TGS Noble's Bangkok City Package was created to help travelers explore the very best of Bangkok on a budget.

Package Inclusions: Guided visits to top attractions like the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and the bustling Chatuchak Market. Plus, the package features a river cruise across the Chao Phraya for stunning views of the cityscape.

Affordability: TGS Noble offers affordable hotel options in prime locations, allowing travelers to access the city's vibrant nightlife and famous street markets without paying high rates.

2. Phuket Beach Adventure

Thailand's largest island, Phuket, is renowned for the sandy beaches, clear blue waters, and exciting nightlife. TGS Noble's budget-friendly package provides access with a of the greatest beaches and activities on the island.

Package Inclusions: Day trips to islands like Phi Phi and James Bond Island, snorkeling, and scenic beach tours. Optional activities like scuba diving and spa treatments may also be available at special rates.

Affordability: The package includes budget accommodations with easy access to the beach, ensuring travelers don't miss out on any coastal beauty while staying within budget.

3. Chiang Mai Cultural Experience

For travelers interested in Thailand's rich history and tradition, Chiang Mai has an immersive cultural experience. TGS Noble's Chiang Mai package includes temple tours, cultural experiences, and scenic hikes through Northern Thailand's lush landscapes.

Package Inclusions: Visits to famous temples like Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a conventional Thai cooking class, and a night at the vibrant Sunday Market.

Affordability: With budget-friendly accommodations and group tours, this package offers an authentic cultural experience at a low cost.

4. Island Hopping Adventure

Thailand's islands each have unique attractions and offer an ideal setting for an island-hopping adventure. TGS Noble's package provides access to multiple islands in a single trip, including Koh Samui, Koh Tao, and Koh Phangan.

Package Inclusions: Ferry rides between islands, snorkeling excursions, and beachside accommodations.

Affordability: TGS Noble coordinates group transportation and offers discounted ferry tickets, making it easy to explore multiple islands without spending too much.

Methods for Making the Nearly all of a Budget-Friendly Visit to Thailand

TGS Noble's affordable packages are just the start; with a couple of extra tips, travelers can stretch their budget even more:

Eat Such as a Local: Thailand's street food is both delicious and affordable. Avoid expensive restaurants and embrace local food stalls for authentic meals.

Use Public Transportation: Thailand has efficient and inexpensive public transportation options, especially in Bangkok. Opt for the BTS Skytrain or local buses instead of taxis.

Shop Wisely: Bargaining is common in Thailand's markets. Don't hesitate to negotiate for a reasonable price at local markets like Chatuchak in Bangkok or the Night Bazaar in Chiang Mai.

Arrange for Off-Peak Travel: Visiting Thailand during the low season (typically May to October) can help travelers avoid crowds and find better deals on accommodations and flights.

Why Book with TGS Noble?

TGS Noble's team of experts is dedicated to providing excellent service, flexibility, and local insights to ensure each traveler gets the most out of the trip. They handle the logistics, arrange for quality accommodations, and create diverse itineraries in order that travelers can concentrate on enjoying Thailand's beauty. Their partnerships with local providers allow them to provide these packages at unbeatable prices, helping make dream vacations accessible to all.

Book Your Thailand Adventure Today

Traveling to Thailand on a budget has never been easier with TGS Noble. From Bangkok's lively streets to the serene beaches of Phuket, TGS Noble's packages are designed to provide travelers with unforgettable experiences without the high costs. Ready to begin your journey? Visit TGS Noble's website and find the perfect package for your financial allowance and preferences.

[prabhudarshanyatra]

Book Ayodhya Holiday Tour Packages Online with Prabhu Darshan Yatra

The city of Ayodhya, where Lord Ram was born, is rich in spirituality and history. Globally tourists and viewers are drawn to Ayodhya because of its temples, ghats, and rich cultural legacy. You need look no further than Prabhu Darshan Yatra to reserve your online Ayodhya vacation tour packages if you’re thinking about visiting this holy place.

Why Visit Ayodhya?

The significance of Ayodhya in Hindu mythology and spirituality is vast. The city is the ideal location for anyone looking for serenity and heavenly benefits because of its numerous temples and calm atmosphere. Here are a few places you really should go:

Ram Janmabhoomi: This sacred site is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Ram. The ongoing development of the Ram Mandir makes it a significant place for devotees and visitors alike.

Hanuman Garhi: A beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, perched on a hill. The panoramic view of the city from here is breathtaking.

Nageshwarnath Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the oldest temples in Ayodhya, attracting many pilgrims throughout the year.

Saryu River: A holy river that flows through Ayodhya, offering a serene environment for rituals and boat rides.

Why Choose Prabhu Darshan Yatra?

At Prabhu Darshan Yatra, we offer specially curated Ayodhya holiday tour packages that cater to every type of traveler. Here’s why you should book with us:

Customized Packages: We understand that every traveler has unique needs. Our team works closely with you to design a personalized itinerary that fits your preferences.

Hassle-Free Online Booking: Our user-friendly website allows you to book Ayodhya holiday tour packages online effortlessly. With just a few clicks, you can secure your travel arrangements.

Expert Guidance: Our experienced guides provide valuable insights and information about the history and significance of various sites, enhancing your spiritual experience.

Comfort and Convenience: We ensure that your journey is comfortable, with well-planned transportation and accommodation options.

How to Book Your Ayodhya Holiday Tour Package Online

Booking your Ayodhya tour package with Prabhu Darshan Yatra is simple and quick. Follow these steps:

Visit Our Website: Go to the Prabhu Darshan Yatra website.

Select Your Package: Browse through our range of Ayodhya holiday tour packages and select the one that suits you best.

Customize Your Itinerary: Feel free to customize your package according to your preferences.

Fill Out the Booking Form: Provide your travel details, including dates and any specific requests.

Make Payment: Complete your booking by making a secure online payment.

Receive Confirmation: Once your booking is confirmed, you will receive an itinerary and all necessary details via email.

Conclusion

Ayodhya is more than just a city; it’s a spiritual, cultural, and historical experience. Selecting the Prabhu Darshan Yatra ensures a wonderful trip full of spiritual insights and blessings from God. Don’t pass up this chance to start a spiritual journey you will never forget — book your Ayodhya vacation tour packages online right now!

[belfasttransfersandtours]

Unlock Nature’s Charm: Discover the City with Tailor-Made Belfast Private Tours

Imagine having a day in Belfast specifically designed for you. That is precisely what you can expect from our belfast private tours:

· Customized Itineraries: Historians, intellectuals or chasers of sights; we design a travel guide that fits your interests.

· Ease and Convenience: With our cozy cars, travel in a stylish way. No need to think about directions or using buses. Simply take it easy and have fun with every kilometer covered.

· Adaptable Trip Planning: We use only your plan as basis for traveling. No need for any other type of schedule besides yours.

· Stress-Free: Forget about any mad rush or not seeing what you really wanted.

· Custom Experience: Moving at your own speed, you’ll relish in the city’s offerings while concentrating on what is important to you.

Meet the Experts: Belfast Private Tour Guides

With a well-informed guide, a nice visit can become really amazing. For instance, our personal touring experts in Belfast and Northern Ireland are available to improve your trip. Here’s how our belfast private tour guides helps:

· Local Insight: We are aware of the best places, undiscovered wonders, and interesting information concerning Belfast and beyond.

· Personable and expert: They are more than just tour guides, they are local people whom you can relate with while on holiday.

· Client Interaction: If you have a private tour guide, he gives you undivided attention and responds to your inquiries.

· Expanded Understanding: Explore the locations you frequent by getting additional information that will help you remember them longer and better.

· Sense of Belonging: Experience the locals’ way of life through tour guides who are going to screen their love as well as understanding.

Discover the Best with Our Northern Ireland Private Tours

The breathtaking scenery and sites with rich history are the main attractions of Northern Ireland. With our northern ireland private tours, one gets the opportunity to explore more:

Scenic Drives: Make use off your time and explore a few of these natural attractions such as the Giant’s causeway or Mourne Mountains among others.

· Historic locations: Attractions like Titanic Belfast Museum, medieval castles and ancient ruins are amongst the famous sites one can visit.

· Customized experiences: Day trips including coastal drives and cultural trips are available for selection among others.

· Comprehensive Exploration: Visit Northern Ireland more and behold its magnificent landscape as well as its past.

· Smooth Trip: Relieve yourself from all the stressing plans or driving, and rather enjoy seeing things.

Why Belfast Transfers and Tours Are the Best Choice for Your Trip

Belfast Transfers and Tours, we opinion that enjoyable, well-organized travels are the finest. The service we provide makes sure you have a pleasant stay that you will remember forever.

· Dependability: We are famous for our dependability. You can expect us to always be punctual and offer high-quality services.

· Fidelity to the Craft: The personnel are well trained and dedicated to offering only the best thus making sure that the whole process is enjoyable.

· The Aim is Your Smiles: Our ultimate aim is in your satisfaction; hence every trip has to be better than you thought.

When you select Belfast Transfers and Tours, it implies that the excursion would be free from any hassles and aim for a customized approach. Thanks to our exclusive excursions, well-informed tour leaders, and local adventures; we assure that time spent in Northern Ireland or specifically its capital will be boredom-free and remarkable for tourists. We will take care of all arrangements while you maximize fun out of your trip.

Ready to start your journey? Contact us today to book your private tour and experience Belfast like never before!

Unlock Nature’s Charm: Discover the City with Tailor-Made Belfast Private Tours

[shaakyarestaurant]

Best Marriage Lawn in Varanasi | Best Wedding Hall in Varanasi

Hotel SGT Plaza: The Best Marriage Lawn and Wedding Hall in Varanasi.

Introduction :- 

The selection of the wedding site is crucial to creating the ideal wedding. Hotel SGT Plaza is the top choice for couples visiting Varanasi who want a luxurious, elegant, and well-served experience. The Hotel SGT Plaza is the ideal location for weddings and festivities that will never be forgotten, thanks to its stunning Best Marriage Lawn in Varanasi and elegant Best Wedding Hall in Varanasi.

Luxurious Amenities :- 

A wide array of opulent facilities are available at Hotel SGT Plaza to guarantee that every occasion is flawless and unforgettable. One of the highlights is the large Best Marriage Lawn in Varanasi, which is exquisitely planted to make a breathtaking backdrop for outside ceremonies and festivities. Large parties can be held on this well-kept lawn, which provides plenty of space for everyone to enjoy the verdant surroundings and clear skies. The lawn offers the ideal backdrop for a range of wedding themes and styles, whether it's an evening celebration beneath the stars or a daytime affair bathed in natural light.

Complementing the outdoor space is the hotel's exquisite Best Wedding Hall in Varanasi. Designed with elegance and sophistication in mind, the hall features state-of-the-art lighting, sound systems, and climate control to ensure a comfortable and visually appealing environment for all guests. The interior decor can be customized to match the couple's theme and style, creating a personalized and enchanting ambiance that enhances the overall wedding experience.

Apart from these main areas for events, Hotel SGT Plaza provides several other facilities to meet the requirements of wedding parties and their visitors. Enormous wedding suites, roomy guest rooms, and a committed hospitality staff guarantee a relaxing and joyful stay for all. A spa, fitness centre, and swimming pool are among the hotel's amenities, offering visitors leisure and relaxation opportunities while visiting.

Beautiful Surroundings :- 

Located in the heart of Varanasi, Hotel SGT Plaza is surrounded by beauty and serenity, adding to the charm of any event hosted here. The venue's central location makes it easily accessible for guests traveling from various parts of the city and beyond. The hotel grounds are meticulously maintained, featuring scenic spots that are perfect for wedding photographs. These picturesque settings help capture the essence of the special day, creating lasting memories for the couple and their guests.

The historic and cultural city of Varanasi itself provides a distinctive setting for weddings. Beyond the wedding festivities, visitors at Hotel SGT Plaza can immerse themselves in the vibrant local culture, famous landmarks, and rich heritage of the city.

Exceptional Services :- 

The Hotel SGT Plaza's constant dedication to providing outstanding service is what really makes it stand out from other locations. Couples work closely with the hotel's committed event planning team to make sure every last detail is carefully thought out and carried out. The team provides individualised care and knowledgeable guidance at every stage, from the first consultation to the last goodbye. Every wedding is customised to the couple's vision and preferences thanks to this hands-on approach, making it an incredibly special and unforgettable occasion. 

Catering services at Hotel SGT Plaza are second to none. The culinary team, led by experienced chefs, crafts exquisite menus tailored to the couple's preferences, ensuring a delightful dining experience for all guests. Whether it's a lavish multi-course meal, a sumptuous buffet, or a selection of themed food stations, the food is prepared with the finest ingredients and presented with flair. The hotel also offers a variety of beverage packages and customized bar services to complement the culinary offerings.

The hotel offers décor, entertainment, and transportation arrangements in addition to food for events. To deliver a flawless event, the team collaborates with a network of reliable suppliers for everything from live music and DJ services to floral arrangements and lighting. To guarantee that guests arrive and depart in comfort and style, transportation alternatives such as luxury automobiles and shuttle services are available.

The Perfect Setting for Unforgettable Weddings and Events :- 

Hotel SGT Plaza's combination of luxurious amenities, beautiful surroundings, and exceptional service makes it the Best Marriage Lawn in Varanasi and Best Wedding Hall in Varanasi. The venue provides the perfect setting for a variety of events, from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations. Each wedding hosted at Hotel SGT Plaza is unique and unforgettable, creating cherished memories for the couple and their guests.

The hotel's reputation for excellence is built on a foundation of quality and attention to detail. Every aspect of the wedding experience, from the initial planning stages to the final moments of the celebration, is handled with care and professionalism. This dedication to excellence ensures that each wedding is not only beautiful and well-organized but also reflective of the couple's personality and style.

Choosing Hotel SGT Plaza means entrusting your special day to a team of professionals dedicated to making it perfect. The hotel's commitment to creating magical events is evident in the glowing testimonials from satisfied couples and their families. With a passion for hospitality and a focus on delivering unforgettable experiences, Hotel SGT Plaza is the ideal choice for couples seeking the Best Marriage Lawn in Varanasi and Best Wedding Hall in Varanasi.

Creating Lasting Memories :- 

Apart from being a great location for weddings, Hotel SGT Plaza is also a great choice for engagement parties, anniversaries, bridal showers, and business gatherings. It is a well-liked option for any celebration or get-together because of the adaptable spaces and extensive offerings.

Take in the splendour and elegance of Hotel SGT Plaza to create an unforgettable wedding day. Come see us now to discover more about what we have to offer and to begin organising the wedding of your dreams. A memorable event for you and your guests is guaranteed by Hotel SGT Plaza's opulent amenities, stunning settings, and first-rate services.

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