1. Pick up a dropped egg. If an egg breaks on the kitchen floor, sprinkle salt on the mess and leave it there for 20 minutes. You'll be able to wipe it right up.
2.Soothe a bee sting. Wet the sting right away, then cover it with salt.
3.Eliminate a grease fire. Pour salt on top to smother it. (Never use water on a grease fire.)
4.Clean up oven spills. If food boils over onto the oven floor, sprinkle salt on top to stop smoke and odor from forming. When the oven is cool, it'll be easy to brush away the spot.
5.Set color. If a dye may run, soak the garment for an hour in 1/2 gallon of water to which you've added 1/2 cup vinegar and 1/2 cup salt. If rinse water shows color, repeat. This is good for a single-colored fabric or madras. If the item is multicolored, dry-clean it. (
6.Kill poison ivy. Add three pounds of salt to a gallon of soapy water. Spray it onto leaves and stems.
7.Make cream whip more easily and egg whites whip faster and higher. Add a pinch of salt.
8.Test for rotten eggs. Put an egg in a cup of water to which you've added two teaspoons of salt. A fresh egg will sink, but one that's iffy will float.
9.Clean the brown spots (from starch) off a nonstick soleplate (the bottom of your iron). Sprinkle salt on a sheet of waxed paper, slide the iron across it, then rub lightly with silver polish.
10.Repel fleas. Wash the doghouse with it.
11.Kill grass growing in cracks in the cement or between patio stones. Sprinkle salt on the grass and pour very hot water over it. Or sprinkle coarse salt on the grass, let stand all day or overnight, then pour hot tap water over it.
12.Clean a glass coffee pot. Fill it with 1/4 cup of table salt and a dozen ice cubes. Swish the mixture around, let it sit for half an hour, fill it with cold water and rinse.
13.Halt the mountain of suds from an overflowing washing machine. Sprinkle salt on the top.
14.Clean artificial flowers. Put them in a bag of salt and shake the bag. Take a look at the color of the salt and you'll see what you've accomplished.
15.Keep windows frost-free. Dip a sponge into salt water and rub it on windows, and they won't frost up even when the mercury dips below 32 degrees; for the same effect on your car's windshield, put salt in a little bag made of cheesecloth, moisten it slightly and rub it on.
16.Clean tarnished copper. Fill a 16-ounce spray bottle with hot white vinegar and three tablespoons of salt. Spray it onto the copper, let it sit briefly, then rub clean. (Don't do this to lacquered copper.)
17.Keep radishes safe in the garden. Salt worms (cutworms) will be repelled if you sprinkle seeds with table salt, then cover with dirt.
18.Clean coffee and tea stains from china cups. Rub them with salt.
19.Keep potatoes and apples from turning brown once they're sliced. Put them in salted cold water.
20.Clean a cutting board. Cover it with bleach and salt, scrub it with a stiff brush, then rinse with very hot water and wipe with a clean cloth. Repeat with each use.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Monday, June 22, 2009
To My Friends!!!!!!!
Hi there!!!Going for a short vacaton to attendmy hubby niece wedding.Will be back soon.Exams over.Lots of packing to do.Bye !!!Will blog after a month.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Interactive web feature to help green your home
An interactive web program was launched on Wednesday to increase public awareness on adopting environmentally friendly measures at home.
The program called Green Your Life was jointly launched by the Environmental Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) and Sorouh Real Estate.
The program provides practical tips on how to conserve water and energy whilst reducing household waste.
Available on http://www.ead.ae and www.sorouh.com, the program also offers innovative recipes for home-made cleaning products and handy tips while shopping for electronics.
I read this article and even went through the sites mentioned.I should say it is a wonderful way to make people more aware of their surroundings.Thank you EAD and Sorouh for the program.Hoping more environment lovers go through them and also others who would love to have a more Greener Life in this Earth!!!!!!!!!
The program called Green Your Life was jointly launched by the Environmental Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) and Sorouh Real Estate.
The program provides practical tips on how to conserve water and energy whilst reducing household waste.
Available on http://www.ead.ae and www.sorouh.com, the program also offers innovative recipes for home-made cleaning products and handy tips while shopping for electronics.
I read this article and even went through the sites mentioned.I should say it is a wonderful way to make people more aware of their surroundings.Thank you EAD and Sorouh for the program.Hoping more environment lovers go through them and also others who would love to have a more Greener Life in this Earth!!!!!!!!!
Friday, June 5, 2009
World Environment Day to be celebrated in UAE
Movies, tree planting and corporate initiatives are taking place on Friday in the UAE to celebrate World Environment Day.
Movies, tree planting and corporate initiatives are taking place on Friday in the UAE to celebrate World Environment Day.
Time is running out and lifestyle changes need to be made promptly, said Habiba Al Marashi, Emirates Environment Group (EEG) Chairperson.
"We hope that environmental protection will be a top agenda among governments, companies and individuals. We have much to learn from indigenous peoples around the world who know that the extinction of forests would spell their own demise. The same fate awaits all of us if we continue the way we live today. We share the belief that the time to act is now," she said
The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) is hosting activities from 2 to 6pm at Dubai Mall.
Emirates Diving Association (EDA) members will scuba dive in the Dubai Aquarium with a banner reading, 'Let the Ocean be our Aquarium,' tonight at 5pm and on June 7.
EDA will show a documentary at Mall of the Emirates Cinestar from the Journey to Planet Earth series, called The State of the Ocean's Animals which looks at why many marine species are disappearing. Tickets are on a first come basis.
In Sharjah the Al Qasba Development Project Authority is planning a two-day event which started with a clean up on Thursday and will continue on Friday at Abu Shagara Park from 5-7pm.
Other activities include an Art Out Of Waste competition, Save Energy campaign, and charity auctions where the proceeds will go to the Red Crescent. Two auctions will be held and paintings by local artists can be bought, from 9pm.
"The technologies we are developing, the massive production, usage and disposal of several items worldwide, are the main reason for destroying our own environment.
"From the UAE, we are uniting with the world to spread awareness of critical environmental causes such as global warming, waste disposal, desertification, water pollution, air pollution, and energy loss," said Dina Al Nakhi, Events Manager for the Al Qasba Development Authority.
The Emirates Marine Environmental Group (EMEG) will hold a scavenger hunt and mangrove planting as part of activities from 2 to 7pm at their Ghantoot reserve to address environment threats and educate children.
To attend the fun day by EMEG free of charge contact info@emeg.ae or call EMEG office at 04 363 0582 to register. EMEG is asking all participants to bring plastic bottles to the event in order to help make a giant Orca.
Movies, tree planting and corporate initiatives are taking place on Friday in the UAE to celebrate World Environment Day.
Time is running out and lifestyle changes need to be made promptly, said Habiba Al Marashi, Emirates Environment Group (EEG) Chairperson.
"We hope that environmental protection will be a top agenda among governments, companies and individuals. We have much to learn from indigenous peoples around the world who know that the extinction of forests would spell their own demise. The same fate awaits all of us if we continue the way we live today. We share the belief that the time to act is now," she said
The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) is hosting activities from 2 to 6pm at Dubai Mall.
Emirates Diving Association (EDA) members will scuba dive in the Dubai Aquarium with a banner reading, 'Let the Ocean be our Aquarium,' tonight at 5pm and on June 7.
EDA will show a documentary at Mall of the Emirates Cinestar from the Journey to Planet Earth series, called The State of the Ocean's Animals which looks at why many marine species are disappearing. Tickets are on a first come basis.
In Sharjah the Al Qasba Development Project Authority is planning a two-day event which started with a clean up on Thursday and will continue on Friday at Abu Shagara Park from 5-7pm.
Other activities include an Art Out Of Waste competition, Save Energy campaign, and charity auctions where the proceeds will go to the Red Crescent. Two auctions will be held and paintings by local artists can be bought, from 9pm.
"The technologies we are developing, the massive production, usage and disposal of several items worldwide, are the main reason for destroying our own environment.
"From the UAE, we are uniting with the world to spread awareness of critical environmental causes such as global warming, waste disposal, desertification, water pollution, air pollution, and energy loss," said Dina Al Nakhi, Events Manager for the Al Qasba Development Authority.
The Emirates Marine Environmental Group (EMEG) will hold a scavenger hunt and mangrove planting as part of activities from 2 to 7pm at their Ghantoot reserve to address environment threats and educate children.
To attend the fun day by EMEG free of charge contact info@emeg.ae or call EMEG office at 04 363 0582 to register. EMEG is asking all participants to bring plastic bottles to the event in order to help make a giant Orca.
GOING PAPERLESS TO RAISE AWARENESS
The Environment Agency Abu Dhabi (EAD) along with 12 other government institutions went paperless on Thursday to mark World Environment Day(June 5th).
10 tips
- Minimise and conserve paper by planning work carefully. Did you know that 1 ream of paper = 6 per cent of a tree = 12 pounds of Co2 and 17 reams of paper = 1 tree.
- Invest in printers that print on both sides n Use scanners instead of copying machines.
- Send electronic faxes instead of paper faxes.
- Store information electronically instead of in filing cabinets.
- Give friends, clients or vendors information on CDs or through email attachments instead of in bound folders.
- Do double-sided photocopying.
- Reduce the number of newspapers delivered to your home or workplace. Read the newspaper online.
- Train your employees to use the photocopier and printer properly so that paper is not wasted.
- Conduct a monthly paper audit to determine the kind and volume of paper that is being wasted and set a target to reduce the volume wasted the following month.
10 tips
- Minimise and conserve paper by planning work carefully. Did you know that 1 ream of paper = 6 per cent of a tree = 12 pounds of Co2 and 17 reams of paper = 1 tree.
- Invest in printers that print on both sides n Use scanners instead of copying machines.
- Send electronic faxes instead of paper faxes.
- Store information electronically instead of in filing cabinets.
- Give friends, clients or vendors information on CDs or through email attachments instead of in bound folders.
- Do double-sided photocopying.
- Reduce the number of newspapers delivered to your home or workplace. Read the newspaper online.
- Train your employees to use the photocopier and printer properly so that paper is not wasted.
- Conduct a monthly paper audit to determine the kind and volume of paper that is being wasted and set a target to reduce the volume wasted the following month.
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
The Price is Right!!!!!!!--Travel
Great holiday destinations to suit every budget.
It's the time of year when the UAE heat begins to drive everyone indoors. This is also generally the time of year when we begin to think about where in the world we want to venture to for our holidays.
In light of the current economic climate, more of us are becoming conscious of how much we spend and what we spend our hard-earned cash on. We've put together a guide to some of the best holiday deals available this year to suit three budgets, which will hopefully make the selection process that little bit easier. All prices are for a family of four.
Less than Dh10,000
In these uncertain times, it is still possible to enjoy a getaway on a reasonable budget. Air Arabia now offers holiday packages to destinations across the region and beyond — you can take a two-night break in the historic city of Athens from around Dh8,000, staying at the Oscar Hotel (bed and breakfast included). The price is inclusive of a half-day tour of the city and transfers to and from Athens airport.
Visit the Acropolis, to see the Parthenon in its splendour. Plaka, the old town area of Athens beneath the Acropolis, is also worth a visit, with its narrow streets and inviting tavernas. For the children, visit the Banaki Museum's Childhood, Toys and Games exhibition, which features 20,000 toys, games and childhood items.
If you'd prefer to stay slightly closer to home, you can opt for bustling Amman in Jordan — prices start at around Dh8,000 for a two-night stay at the Commodore Hotel, with a four-hour tour of the city and transfers to and from Amman Queen Alia International Airport. The city, which is built on seven hills, is one of the oldest in the world. Take a trip to the Dead Sea, where, due to the high salinity, you will float effortlessly on the surface. A trip to Madaba, the city of mosaics, where you will find Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics dating from the fifth to seventh centuries, is also a must.
Dh10,000 – Dh20,000If you have a bit extra to spend on your holidays this year, you may want to consider venturing further afield. Bangkok, Thailand's spiritual, cultural, political, commercial, educational and diplomatic centre, is a must-visit for those with slightly older children. For around Dh13,600 with Sharaftravel, you can enjoy a seven-night stay in a four-star hotel, with daily breakfast and return airport transfers by a private vehicle (also includes flights).
If you're looking for a destination the whole family can enjoy, try Kuala Lumpur. It offers an abundance of activities and sightseeing opportunities, ranging from adventure parks like the immense Sunway Lagoon Theme Park for the children, to landmarks such as the Petronas Twin Towers. For a little less than Dh14,000 you can stay in a four-star hotel for a week, with breakfast included. This also includes return flights and return airport transfers (Sharaftravel).
If you're a family of culture vultures, then consider Istanbul in Turkey. For Dh13,790 you can enjoy seven days in a five-star hotel, with daily breakfast (flights and return airport transfers included). The city itself has an abundance of important historic buildings and exciting new galleries. For children, a visit to the toy museum (Oyuncak Muzesi) is a must — its home is a lovely old wooden house, which could have come straight out of a fairy tale. More active youngsters can enjoy ice skating at the Galleria shopping mall in Atakoy.
If you need to be closer still, why not explore Abu Dhabi? Qasr Al Sarab is set to open next October. Taking shape amidst the towering dunes of the Rub Al Khali (Empty Quarter), this five-star desert retreat will be managed by Thai hospitality chain Anantara. It is just 90 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport, and the luxury get-away will feature 140 guestrooms, ten Royal Pavilion villas and 42 additional villas, a mix of one, two and three bedroom units, as well as a spa themed along the lines of the traditional Hammam baths.
More than Dh20,000
So you've decided to go all-out and splurge on this year's holiday. For Dh24,725 you can enjoy seven nights in a four-star hotel in Geneva (including daily breakfast, return airport transfers and flights). The city is small, lovely and has good public transportation.
The Patek Philippe museum was once a watch-making workshop, owned by a high-class Geneva watch-making company. A typical tour of the museum will reveal a horological library and audiovisual displays. For water park enthusiasts, a trip to Aquaparc is must, which boasts three worlds, all made up of water. Adults can enjoy ‘Paradise Land', which promises relaxation through Turkish baths, saunas and Jacuzzis.
You may want to consider heading south to Australia; Sydney is a city for all ages and tastes. To keep the children happy you can head to the Sydney Aquarium, which is one of the largest in the world. The aquarium features two underwater tunnels beneath the seal and shark tanks. Feed the little ones' inexplicable fascination with insects at the Butterfly Farm Activities Resort, which houses all kinds of moths, beetles, scorpions and insects. There's also an Indy 800 kart track and water skiing on offer at the park. Etihad holidays offer packages to Sydney – please contact your nearest agent for individual pricing.
It's the time of year when the UAE heat begins to drive everyone indoors. This is also generally the time of year when we begin to think about where in the world we want to venture to for our holidays.
In light of the current economic climate, more of us are becoming conscious of how much we spend and what we spend our hard-earned cash on. We've put together a guide to some of the best holiday deals available this year to suit three budgets, which will hopefully make the selection process that little bit easier. All prices are for a family of four.
Less than Dh10,000
In these uncertain times, it is still possible to enjoy a getaway on a reasonable budget. Air Arabia now offers holiday packages to destinations across the region and beyond — you can take a two-night break in the historic city of Athens from around Dh8,000, staying at the Oscar Hotel (bed and breakfast included). The price is inclusive of a half-day tour of the city and transfers to and from Athens airport.
Visit the Acropolis, to see the Parthenon in its splendour. Plaka, the old town area of Athens beneath the Acropolis, is also worth a visit, with its narrow streets and inviting tavernas. For the children, visit the Banaki Museum's Childhood, Toys and Games exhibition, which features 20,000 toys, games and childhood items.
If you'd prefer to stay slightly closer to home, you can opt for bustling Amman in Jordan — prices start at around Dh8,000 for a two-night stay at the Commodore Hotel, with a four-hour tour of the city and transfers to and from Amman Queen Alia International Airport. The city, which is built on seven hills, is one of the oldest in the world. Take a trip to the Dead Sea, where, due to the high salinity, you will float effortlessly on the surface. A trip to Madaba, the city of mosaics, where you will find Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics dating from the fifth to seventh centuries, is also a must.
Dh10,000 – Dh20,000If you have a bit extra to spend on your holidays this year, you may want to consider venturing further afield. Bangkok, Thailand's spiritual, cultural, political, commercial, educational and diplomatic centre, is a must-visit for those with slightly older children. For around Dh13,600 with Sharaftravel, you can enjoy a seven-night stay in a four-star hotel, with daily breakfast and return airport transfers by a private vehicle (also includes flights).
If you're looking for a destination the whole family can enjoy, try Kuala Lumpur. It offers an abundance of activities and sightseeing opportunities, ranging from adventure parks like the immense Sunway Lagoon Theme Park for the children, to landmarks such as the Petronas Twin Towers. For a little less than Dh14,000 you can stay in a four-star hotel for a week, with breakfast included. This also includes return flights and return airport transfers (Sharaftravel).
If you're a family of culture vultures, then consider Istanbul in Turkey. For Dh13,790 you can enjoy seven days in a five-star hotel, with daily breakfast (flights and return airport transfers included). The city itself has an abundance of important historic buildings and exciting new galleries. For children, a visit to the toy museum (Oyuncak Muzesi) is a must — its home is a lovely old wooden house, which could have come straight out of a fairy tale. More active youngsters can enjoy ice skating at the Galleria shopping mall in Atakoy.
If you need to be closer still, why not explore Abu Dhabi? Qasr Al Sarab is set to open next October. Taking shape amidst the towering dunes of the Rub Al Khali (Empty Quarter), this five-star desert retreat will be managed by Thai hospitality chain Anantara. It is just 90 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport, and the luxury get-away will feature 140 guestrooms, ten Royal Pavilion villas and 42 additional villas, a mix of one, two and three bedroom units, as well as a spa themed along the lines of the traditional Hammam baths.
More than Dh20,000
So you've decided to go all-out and splurge on this year's holiday. For Dh24,725 you can enjoy seven nights in a four-star hotel in Geneva (including daily breakfast, return airport transfers and flights). The city is small, lovely and has good public transportation.
The Patek Philippe museum was once a watch-making workshop, owned by a high-class Geneva watch-making company. A typical tour of the museum will reveal a horological library and audiovisual displays. For water park enthusiasts, a trip to Aquaparc is must, which boasts three worlds, all made up of water. Adults can enjoy ‘Paradise Land', which promises relaxation through Turkish baths, saunas and Jacuzzis.
You may want to consider heading south to Australia; Sydney is a city for all ages and tastes. To keep the children happy you can head to the Sydney Aquarium, which is one of the largest in the world. The aquarium features two underwater tunnels beneath the seal and shark tanks. Feed the little ones' inexplicable fascination with insects at the Butterfly Farm Activities Resort, which houses all kinds of moths, beetles, scorpions and insects. There's also an Indy 800 kart track and water skiing on offer at the park. Etihad holidays offer packages to Sydney – please contact your nearest agent for individual pricing.
Get away from it all
For some sun, sand and surf, head down to these idyllic beach destinations .
While we are fortunate in the UAE to live in a country with a varied landscape, including plenty of beautiful beaches, sometimes you need to make the trip to the airport and get on a plane to really feel you're going somewhere. Here are a few not-too-distant beach destinations to tempt you.
Maldives
With endless white sandy beaches, secluded villas and little to do but relax, the Maldives is the perfect holiday destination for honeymooners, couples and those who really want to get away from it all.
Arriving into the Maldives is a treat in itself — as the aircraft banks towards Malé, the capital, you'll get glimpses of clear turquoise water studded with tiny piles of pure white sand and hundreds of remote islands decorated with lush greenery.
Transfers to resort islands, scattered throughout the north and south atolls, are by speedboat or seaplane depending on distance and your preference. With one resort per island, accommodation options vary between rustic cottage-style villas and luxury boutique or international hotels. For the ultimate ocean view, go for an over-water bungalow and drift off to sleep to the sounds of waves lapping.
The atmosphere in most resorts is laid-back, casual and somewhat reminiscent of Robinson Crusoe, with guests encouraged to forget their everyday worries and take advantage of the isolation. Sand between your toes underneath your dinner table is the norm, and some resorts forgo contact with the outside world to the extent of banning the internet and newspapers.
Monsoon season is from May to November, but even in these months the sun shines most of the time. Temperatures remain warm even during storms and torrential rain, which can arrive at a moment's notice and disappear just as fast.
Goa
The western coast of India boasts perhaps the country's most famous beach destination,
Goa — popular with those who want sunshine by day and a party atmosphere by night.
Watersports abound along the shoreline. Choose from snorkelling and diving, kayaking, parasailing, water skiing, surfing and yachting, or take a trip inland and try out some river rafting. Or, as Rebecca Wicks, 29, suggests; "Hire a moped and head out to other beaches – the scenery on the way is incredible. You'll see cashew and mango trees, fields of rice and the greenest greenery you've ever laid eyes on."
When the sun goes down, the party begins. Start with dinner of the freshest seafood at a beach café — try the Goan prawn curry — then move on to the south side of Palolem Beach.
Cyprus
For those planning a getaway with family, the search need extend no further than Cyprus, the legendary island of Aphrodite.
A jewel in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, Cyprus has miles of unspoilt coastline for visitors to enjoy and a multitude of activities for even the most demanding tourists.
Fig Tree Bay, a stunning beach in Protaras on the east coast, boasts plenty of lifeguards, a choice of conveniently located cafés and restaurants and a variety of watersports with options for younger participants.
Venture further than your hotel or resort and you'll see Cyprus has more than beaches and good food to offer. Recent developments have added several top-quality golf courses on which to test your skills, while outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to amuse them on a trip to the Troodos mountains.
Young ones (and the young at heart) will have hours of fun at one of the three waterparks — Waterworld in Ayia Napa, Watermania in Limassol and Paphos Aphrodite on the west coast.
In the evening, take the family for a stroll to one of Cyprus's many villages for dinner at a traditional taverna and you'll find friendly locals, eager to welcome you and explain the intricacies of Cypriot cuisine. Or make use of the kids' club and babysitting service offered at many hotels and leave your little treasures to enjoy activities or drop off to sleep as you explore some of Cyprus's many lively bars and restaurants.
Oman
A short hop down the Arabian Peninsula will land you in Oman, one of the oldest civilisations in the region. The cities of Muscat and Salalah make ideal beach holidays, with Salalah benefiting from the added advantage of a more temperate climate than its neighbours, and both resorts offer plenty for tourists looking for more than just a suntan.
Muscat lies on the northern coast of the peninsula with its beaches gently sloping into the Arabian Sea. A host of museums such as the Museum of Omani Heritage, the Oman Natural History Museum and the Sultan's Armed Forces Museum mean those interested in the history and culture of the country won't be disappointed.
The striking Western Hajar Mountains run through the northern outskirts of the city, offering stunning scenery and plenty of challenging hikes or abseils. Camping is also an option, depending on the weather.
Further down the coast lies Salalah, with its pale sandy beaches and warm turquoise waters. The city boasts a tropical climate for much of the year, with the summer months bringing the south-western monsoon and welcome relief from the oppressive heat of the rest of the region.
Local attractions include the fortified ruins of the town of Sumharam, the resting place of the prophet Ayoub Job at Jabal Gadu and the ruins of the ancient frankincense trading port of Zafar.
While we are fortunate in the UAE to live in a country with a varied landscape, including plenty of beautiful beaches, sometimes you need to make the trip to the airport and get on a plane to really feel you're going somewhere. Here are a few not-too-distant beach destinations to tempt you.
Maldives
With endless white sandy beaches, secluded villas and little to do but relax, the Maldives is the perfect holiday destination for honeymooners, couples and those who really want to get away from it all.
Arriving into the Maldives is a treat in itself — as the aircraft banks towards Malé, the capital, you'll get glimpses of clear turquoise water studded with tiny piles of pure white sand and hundreds of remote islands decorated with lush greenery.
Transfers to resort islands, scattered throughout the north and south atolls, are by speedboat or seaplane depending on distance and your preference. With one resort per island, accommodation options vary between rustic cottage-style villas and luxury boutique or international hotels. For the ultimate ocean view, go for an over-water bungalow and drift off to sleep to the sounds of waves lapping.
The atmosphere in most resorts is laid-back, casual and somewhat reminiscent of Robinson Crusoe, with guests encouraged to forget their everyday worries and take advantage of the isolation. Sand between your toes underneath your dinner table is the norm, and some resorts forgo contact with the outside world to the extent of banning the internet and newspapers.
Monsoon season is from May to November, but even in these months the sun shines most of the time. Temperatures remain warm even during storms and torrential rain, which can arrive at a moment's notice and disappear just as fast.
Goa
The western coast of India boasts perhaps the country's most famous beach destination,
Goa — popular with those who want sunshine by day and a party atmosphere by night.
Watersports abound along the shoreline. Choose from snorkelling and diving, kayaking, parasailing, water skiing, surfing and yachting, or take a trip inland and try out some river rafting. Or, as Rebecca Wicks, 29, suggests; "Hire a moped and head out to other beaches – the scenery on the way is incredible. You'll see cashew and mango trees, fields of rice and the greenest greenery you've ever laid eyes on."
When the sun goes down, the party begins. Start with dinner of the freshest seafood at a beach café — try the Goan prawn curry — then move on to the south side of Palolem Beach.
Cyprus
For those planning a getaway with family, the search need extend no further than Cyprus, the legendary island of Aphrodite.
A jewel in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, Cyprus has miles of unspoilt coastline for visitors to enjoy and a multitude of activities for even the most demanding tourists.
Fig Tree Bay, a stunning beach in Protaras on the east coast, boasts plenty of lifeguards, a choice of conveniently located cafés and restaurants and a variety of watersports with options for younger participants.
Venture further than your hotel or resort and you'll see Cyprus has more than beaches and good food to offer. Recent developments have added several top-quality golf courses on which to test your skills, while outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to amuse them on a trip to the Troodos mountains.
Young ones (and the young at heart) will have hours of fun at one of the three waterparks — Waterworld in Ayia Napa, Watermania in Limassol and Paphos Aphrodite on the west coast.
In the evening, take the family for a stroll to one of Cyprus's many villages for dinner at a traditional taverna and you'll find friendly locals, eager to welcome you and explain the intricacies of Cypriot cuisine. Or make use of the kids' club and babysitting service offered at many hotels and leave your little treasures to enjoy activities or drop off to sleep as you explore some of Cyprus's many lively bars and restaurants.
Oman
A short hop down the Arabian Peninsula will land you in Oman, one of the oldest civilisations in the region. The cities of Muscat and Salalah make ideal beach holidays, with Salalah benefiting from the added advantage of a more temperate climate than its neighbours, and both resorts offer plenty for tourists looking for more than just a suntan.
Muscat lies on the northern coast of the peninsula with its beaches gently sloping into the Arabian Sea. A host of museums such as the Museum of Omani Heritage, the Oman Natural History Museum and the Sultan's Armed Forces Museum mean those interested in the history and culture of the country won't be disappointed.
The striking Western Hajar Mountains run through the northern outskirts of the city, offering stunning scenery and plenty of challenging hikes or abseils. Camping is also an option, depending on the weather.
Further down the coast lies Salalah, with its pale sandy beaches and warm turquoise waters. The city boasts a tropical climate for much of the year, with the summer months bringing the south-western monsoon and welcome relief from the oppressive heat of the rest of the region.
Local attractions include the fortified ruins of the town of Sumharam, the resting place of the prophet Ayoub Job at Jabal Gadu and the ruins of the ancient frankincense trading port of Zafar.
Monday, June 1, 2009
Summertime Sizzles
Swim with the sharks
What Get ready for one of Dubai's most exhilarating and spine-tingling activities as Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo at The Dubai Mall launches Shark Dives as part of the Festival@The Dubai Mall. The first of its kind in a shopping mall in the Gulf region, the shark dive is thrilling, and an opportunity of a lifetime to swim amongst 33,000 aquatic animals within the 10 million litre tank at Dubai Aquarium. Divers will explore the 51m x 20m x 11m aquarium, which is one of the largest in the world, and will come face-to-face with resident Sand Tiger sharks, Reef sharks, Leopard sharks, Giant Groupers and Stingrays. Shark Dives are open to all! Even non-certified divers can participate after attending a short course provided by Al Boom. Diving qualified dive masters and instructors from Al Boom Diving will be present throughout the diving experience.
When During Festival@The Dubai Mall and all year round
Where Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, The Dubai Mall
How Advance booking is required. For more details, call 04-342 2993 or visit www.thedubaiaquarium.com
What Get ready for one of Dubai's most exhilarating and spine-tingling activities as Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo at The Dubai Mall launches Shark Dives as part of the Festival@The Dubai Mall. The first of its kind in a shopping mall in the Gulf region, the shark dive is thrilling, and an opportunity of a lifetime to swim amongst 33,000 aquatic animals within the 10 million litre tank at Dubai Aquarium. Divers will explore the 51m x 20m x 11m aquarium, which is one of the largest in the world, and will come face-to-face with resident Sand Tiger sharks, Reef sharks, Leopard sharks, Giant Groupers and Stingrays. Shark Dives are open to all! Even non-certified divers can participate after attending a short course provided by Al Boom. Diving qualified dive masters and instructors from Al Boom Diving will be present throughout the diving experience.
When During Festival@The Dubai Mall and all year round
Where Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, The Dubai Mall
How Advance booking is required. For more details, call 04-342 2993 or visit www.thedubaiaquarium.com
Friday, May 29, 2009
TIPS TO BEAT THE HEAT
With the daytime temperature rising as high as 49C, mothers try to stop their children from stepping out of their air-conditioned homes.
My advice would be ---
Try to encourage your children to drink more water!!
Let them carry an umbrella or wear a cap/hat while going out!!
Boys could wear sleeveless shirts or cotton clothing during the summer!!
Apply sunscreen lotion while going out!!
Get them to eat more juicy fruits,cucumbers,watermelons,drink more fruit juice or buttermilk etc!!
Avoid fried food as much as you can!!!
In addition,we should pay attention to their shoes,prefer sandals or open cut shoes rather than closed ones!!!
My advice would be ---
Try to encourage your children to drink more water!!
Let them carry an umbrella or wear a cap/hat while going out!!
Boys could wear sleeveless shirts or cotton clothing during the summer!!
Apply sunscreen lotion while going out!!
Get them to eat more juicy fruits,cucumbers,watermelons,drink more fruit juice or buttermilk etc!!
Avoid fried food as much as you can!!!
In addition,we should pay attention to their shoes,prefer sandals or open cut shoes rather than closed ones!!!
Monday, May 25, 2009
Beat the heat with some cool holiday options--Part II
Great deals from Alpha
Alpha Holidays have exciting ideas and offers, whether you just need a couple of nights accommodation, or a full inclusive holiday. Valid for two persons sharing a twin/double room. Packages do not include air fare.
Gateway Hong Kong: Includes three nights accommodation in a four-star hotel, with transfers and city sightseeing tours. Starting from Dh1,890 per person.
China, Yangtze River cruise: Includes four nights accommodation in a five-star cruise boat, all meals, sightseeing and shore excursions. You also have the option to extend your stay or create your own complete China experience. Starting from Dh1,530 per person.
Singapore-Bintan Island combination: Includes three nights in Singapore and three nights in Bintan in four-star hotels, as well as transfers, sightseeing and ferries to/from the island resort. Starting from Dh1,800 per person.
UK and France: Includes two nights in London, three nights in Paris, return Eurostar transportation via the Channel Tunnel, arrival transfer in London, daily breakfast and two sightseeing tours. Easily extendable. Starting from Dh2,920 per person.
Italian Trio by train: Includes two nights in Rome, two nights in Florence and two nights in Venice, daily breakfast, arrival transfer in Rome, half day tour of Rome monuments, rail transportation Rome to Florence to Venice. Plenty of free time to do what you want! Starting from Dh2,665 per person.
Czech Republic: Karlovy Vary Spa Treatments, includes three nights in Prague with daily breakfast, seven nights in Karlovy Vary with all meals, all transfers, full spa and wellness treatment programme for six days upon assessment. Starting from Dh5,960 per person.
Greek Island Hopping: Cycladic Discovery: Includes two nights in Athens, three nights in Mykonos, Paros and Santorini, daily breakfast, all hotel to port and port to hotel transfers. Choose between inter-island flights or Ferry (extra charge). Starting from Dh2,555 per person.
Jordan Explorer: Includes three nights in Amman, two nights in Petra, sightseeing tours, all transportation and site entrance fees, local guides, daily breakfast, private car with English speaking driver. Starting from Dh3,695 per person.
Packages from Al Rostamani
Delhi Agra Jaipur, India:Seven days from Dh1,570. Valid until September 30. Includes transfers and tours, accommodation in standard rooms with daily breakfast, a guide for the sightseeing mentioned in the itinerary (call for details), elephant or jeep ride at Amber fort in Jaipur.
Hong Kong: Five days from Dh1,640. Valid until October 11. Includes transfers, half day Hong Kong island tour, evening Symphony of Lights cruise by luxury Chinese junk Oriental Dragon and Disneyland tour.Cool green Munnar and the serene foothills: Six days from Dh1,620. Valid until September 30. Includes four nights at a resort in Munnar with daily dinner and breakfast, all transfers, sightseeing and boating as mentioned in the itinerary (check for details) with a guide, one night at Birds Lagoon Resort in the foothills with all meals.
Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, Thailand: Five days from Dh1,220. Valid until October 31. Includes two nights accommodation at Le Meridien Chiang Mai, two nights accommodation at Le Meridien Chiang Rai, daily buffet breakfast airport transfers, one way scenic flight on a 12-seater Cessna aircraft from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai or vice versa. These packages do not include flights. For more info call 04 295 6777. Email address: holidays@alrostamanigroup.ae
Cruise for exciting deals
There has never been a better time to take a cruise, says Ashok Kumar, business development director of Cruise Master Middle East, the GSA for Princess Cruises, P&O Cruises Australia and Cunard Line as well as a host of other cruise lines.
Cruise value begins with inclusive cruise fares that cover accommodation, all meals, onboard entertainment, use of many of the ship's recreational facilities and travel from one place to another, sometimes as many as six cities during a one-week cruise.
Carnival Cruise Lines: Up to $240 cash back which can be spent onboard. Prices for seven-night cruise from Miami to Western Caribbean covering Ocho Rios, Grand Cayman and Cozumel on Carnival Liberty start from $549.
Costa Cruises: Children go free on select sailings of Costa Concordia's seven-night cruise around Barcelona, France, Italy and Tunis.
Cunard Line: Queen Mary II is the only ship offering regular scheduled transatlantic services from Southampton to New York with prices starting from $999.
Princess Cruises: Seven-night Voyage of Glaciers cruises from Vancouver to Anchorage from $599. Also on offer is a 10-night Baltic Cruise from Copenhagen with prices starting from $1,099.
Crystal Cruises: On offer is $1,500 in savings on Mediterranean and Baltic Cruises. In addition on select sailings, there is "As You Wish" offer whereby one receives up to $1,000 in onboard credit.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises: Two for one fares and free shore excursions. All prices are in US dollars per person and available via a cruise specialist or your travel agent.
UAE's favourite weekend getaway
Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa, a luxurious retreat nestled within the 225 square kilometre pristine desert landscape of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, has a special promotion: Stay three nights for the cost of two. The offer is valid till September 17.
Plus you get a 15 per discount. Last month the resort was recognised for the second year running as the 'Favourite Weekend Getaway in the UAE' at the What's On Awards gala event. Recently, this romantic 42-suite resort beat off fierce international competition, becoming the only leisure hotel in Dubai to be voted one of the Top 20 of Condé Nast's Readers' Travel Award in the M.E., Africa and Indian Ocean region.
The promotional rates start from Dh3,239 per night per Bedouin Suite and are on a full-board basis with two desert activities. For more information, call Emirates Hotels & Resorts reservations on 04 303 4222, or visit www.emirateshotelsresorts.com.
Sandy beach
Sandy beach Sandy Beach on the east coast of the UAE is a relaxing hideaway. The hotel offers a unique dining experience with delicious cuisine. You can also go scuba diving. Stay in a chalet (from Dh750 for a family of four) or a 'villa' (from Dh1,100 for two families with 8-10 persons. The scuba dive is from Dh350 for two hours. Gear costs extra. Visit www.sandybm.com or call 09 244 5555.
Alpha Holidays have exciting ideas and offers, whether you just need a couple of nights accommodation, or a full inclusive holiday. Valid for two persons sharing a twin/double room. Packages do not include air fare.
Gateway Hong Kong: Includes three nights accommodation in a four-star hotel, with transfers and city sightseeing tours. Starting from Dh1,890 per person.
China, Yangtze River cruise: Includes four nights accommodation in a five-star cruise boat, all meals, sightseeing and shore excursions. You also have the option to extend your stay or create your own complete China experience. Starting from Dh1,530 per person.
Singapore-Bintan Island combination: Includes three nights in Singapore and three nights in Bintan in four-star hotels, as well as transfers, sightseeing and ferries to/from the island resort. Starting from Dh1,800 per person.
UK and France: Includes two nights in London, three nights in Paris, return Eurostar transportation via the Channel Tunnel, arrival transfer in London, daily breakfast and two sightseeing tours. Easily extendable. Starting from Dh2,920 per person.
Italian Trio by train: Includes two nights in Rome, two nights in Florence and two nights in Venice, daily breakfast, arrival transfer in Rome, half day tour of Rome monuments, rail transportation Rome to Florence to Venice. Plenty of free time to do what you want! Starting from Dh2,665 per person.
Czech Republic: Karlovy Vary Spa Treatments, includes three nights in Prague with daily breakfast, seven nights in Karlovy Vary with all meals, all transfers, full spa and wellness treatment programme for six days upon assessment. Starting from Dh5,960 per person.
Greek Island Hopping: Cycladic Discovery: Includes two nights in Athens, three nights in Mykonos, Paros and Santorini, daily breakfast, all hotel to port and port to hotel transfers. Choose between inter-island flights or Ferry (extra charge). Starting from Dh2,555 per person.
Jordan Explorer: Includes three nights in Amman, two nights in Petra, sightseeing tours, all transportation and site entrance fees, local guides, daily breakfast, private car with English speaking driver. Starting from Dh3,695 per person.
Packages from Al Rostamani
Delhi Agra Jaipur, India:Seven days from Dh1,570. Valid until September 30. Includes transfers and tours, accommodation in standard rooms with daily breakfast, a guide for the sightseeing mentioned in the itinerary (call for details), elephant or jeep ride at Amber fort in Jaipur.
Hong Kong: Five days from Dh1,640. Valid until October 11. Includes transfers, half day Hong Kong island tour, evening Symphony of Lights cruise by luxury Chinese junk Oriental Dragon and Disneyland tour.Cool green Munnar and the serene foothills: Six days from Dh1,620. Valid until September 30. Includes four nights at a resort in Munnar with daily dinner and breakfast, all transfers, sightseeing and boating as mentioned in the itinerary (check for details) with a guide, one night at Birds Lagoon Resort in the foothills with all meals.
Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, Thailand: Five days from Dh1,220. Valid until October 31. Includes two nights accommodation at Le Meridien Chiang Mai, two nights accommodation at Le Meridien Chiang Rai, daily buffet breakfast airport transfers, one way scenic flight on a 12-seater Cessna aircraft from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai or vice versa. These packages do not include flights. For more info call 04 295 6777. Email address: holidays@alrostamanigroup.ae
Cruise for exciting deals
There has never been a better time to take a cruise, says Ashok Kumar, business development director of Cruise Master Middle East, the GSA for Princess Cruises, P&O Cruises Australia and Cunard Line as well as a host of other cruise lines.
Cruise value begins with inclusive cruise fares that cover accommodation, all meals, onboard entertainment, use of many of the ship's recreational facilities and travel from one place to another, sometimes as many as six cities during a one-week cruise.
Carnival Cruise Lines: Up to $240 cash back which can be spent onboard. Prices for seven-night cruise from Miami to Western Caribbean covering Ocho Rios, Grand Cayman and Cozumel on Carnival Liberty start from $549.
Costa Cruises: Children go free on select sailings of Costa Concordia's seven-night cruise around Barcelona, France, Italy and Tunis.
Cunard Line: Queen Mary II is the only ship offering regular scheduled transatlantic services from Southampton to New York with prices starting from $999.
Princess Cruises: Seven-night Voyage of Glaciers cruises from Vancouver to Anchorage from $599. Also on offer is a 10-night Baltic Cruise from Copenhagen with prices starting from $1,099.
Crystal Cruises: On offer is $1,500 in savings on Mediterranean and Baltic Cruises. In addition on select sailings, there is "As You Wish" offer whereby one receives up to $1,000 in onboard credit.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises: Two for one fares and free shore excursions. All prices are in US dollars per person and available via a cruise specialist or your travel agent.
UAE's favourite weekend getaway
Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa, a luxurious retreat nestled within the 225 square kilometre pristine desert landscape of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, has a special promotion: Stay three nights for the cost of two. The offer is valid till September 17.
Plus you get a 15 per discount. Last month the resort was recognised for the second year running as the 'Favourite Weekend Getaway in the UAE' at the What's On Awards gala event. Recently, this romantic 42-suite resort beat off fierce international competition, becoming the only leisure hotel in Dubai to be voted one of the Top 20 of Condé Nast's Readers' Travel Award in the M.E., Africa and Indian Ocean region.
The promotional rates start from Dh3,239 per night per Bedouin Suite and are on a full-board basis with two desert activities. For more information, call Emirates Hotels & Resorts reservations on 04 303 4222, or visit www.emirateshotelsresorts.com.
Sandy beach
Sandy beach Sandy Beach on the east coast of the UAE is a relaxing hideaway. The hotel offers a unique dining experience with delicious cuisine. You can also go scuba diving. Stay in a chalet (from Dh750 for a family of four) or a 'villa' (from Dh1,100 for two families with 8-10 persons. The scuba dive is from Dh350 for two hours. Gear costs extra. Visit www.sandybm.com or call 09 244 5555.
Beat the heat with some cool holiday options
Summer has almost set in, and we at e+ have taken a look at holiday options that'll help you beat the scorching heat. We've consulted a few travel experts to chalk out the best summer getaways that will definitely help you chill out.
From European festivals to travel deals, to undiscovered honeymoon destinations, we've got it all covered for you. So pack your bags and head out!
Here's a selection of exciting deals...
Magic at Switzerland's pinnacle
If there is one mountain that typifies Switzerland then it probably is the Jungfrau. A 7.1km long tunnel, takes you to the highest railway station in Europe. Here the glass-domed Sphinx Terrace sits in magnificent isolation on an icy outcrop overlooking Aletsch glacier (the longest in Europe). Hidden within the glacier is the blue-white world of the Ice Palace alive with ice sculptures.
Lower down the mountains, Interlaken sits pretty between two deep blue lakes. The landscape changes dramatically from snow to alpine meadows embroidered with wildflowers. It is a picture postcard landscape.
Interlaken and Jungfrau are among the many gems that stud the eight days Swisstours Swiss Highlights holiday package which comes at a price of Dh4,000. The package offers a choice of two nights in the Lake Geneva region (Geneva, Montreux, Lausanne), a night in Zermatt at the foothills of the Matterhorn, two nights in Interlaken with Jungfrau and finally two nights in Lucerne with an excursion to Mt Pilatus with its world's steepest cogwheel railway.
For more information on this and other Swisstours packages (not escorted tours) go to www.swisstoursonline.com or call Swisstours Dubai on 04 3351135. Swisstours can also custom make an itinerary to suit your budget anywhere in Europe. With a wide range of hotels, apartments, sightseeing options and the perfect European rail pass Swisstours can create the perfect holiday.
Early bird bonus at Anantara
The new Anantara Si Kao Resort & Spa in Thailand, located on the private Changlang Beach south of Krabi, offers guests discounts of up to 40 per cent.
Guests reserving ten days in advance or more will receive a complimentary daily buffet breakfast for two. Children under 12 can share a room with their parents and avail a 50 per cent discount on breakfast.
From the resort you can access a host of natural wonders, from long sandy beaches and virgin tropical rainforest to incredible caves and beautiful waterfalls. If you are looking for adventure, try speed and long-tail boats, canoes and kayaks, or bicycles. A regular speedboat shuttle service enables guests to indulge at Anantara Si Kao's day resort on the nearby stunning tropical island of Koh Kradan with its rugged limestone cliffs. For more info go to www.anantara.com
Fabulous Singapore Stopover
The Singapore Tourism Board, Singapore Airlines and Changi Airport have launched the Fabulous Singapore Stopover package offering transit passengers a chance to experience the vibrant Garden City for just $1.
The package is available for Singapore Airlines customers till September 30, provided tickets are booked by June 15. Travellers need to pay just $1 for the first night from a list of six hotels.
For a little more indulgence, visitors can also choose to stay in other hotels at first night rates of $20, $30 and $40. These special first night rates are per person on a twin-share basis.
The Stopover package covers exclusive deals on hotel accommodation, airport transfers and entry to some of Singapore's leading tourist attractions including Sentosa Island, Singapore Zoo, Malay Heritage Centre, National Orchid Garden, Peranakan Museum, Singapore River Bumboat Tour and Jurong Bird Park.
Guests will also be given Changi vouchers, which they can use to pay for purchases at the retail and food and beverage outlets at Changi Airport. They can also take advantage of free ground transfers to and from Changi Airport and unlimited use of the Singapore Airlines' "Hop-On Bus" an air-conditioned bus service that allows customers to visit over 20 major attractions in Singapore.
Other goodies in the package include a 50 per cent dining discount at food outlets at selected hotels, a free SingTel Prepaid Mobile hi!Card and Singapore Airlines Boarding Pass Privileges, which offer discounts on shopping, dining, sightseeing tours, tourist attractions and car rentals when customers present their Singapore Airlines boarding passes.
For more info, go to www.stb.com.sg or visit www. singapore.com.
Escape to Egypt with Hilton
Whether it's history and heritage, sun, sea and snorkelling, or dinner and dancing the night away, Egypt is a destination that offers something for everyone. And to make this beautiful country an even more appealing choice for the summer break, the Hilton Family of Hotels in Egypt have added a range of value added benefits that will ensure visitors and their families the holiday of a lifetime.
The options are vast. There are the sun-drenched beaches of Sharm Al Shaikh and Hurghada, where the choice of four Hilton Worldwide Resorts provides the perfect base from which to explore the region's stunning coastline and rugged interior. For the culturally curious, look no further than the awe-inspiring architecture in historical Alexandria where the Hilton Alexandria Green Plaza offers a heavenly haven.
For golf-loving guests, the Pyramids Golf Resort in Cairo offers the perfect respite but also convenient proximity to the colourful chaos of Egypt's capital city, Cairo. Here there are an additional three Hilton Family Hotels providing a 'home away from home' from which to enjoy the shopping, leisure, culture and nightlife of this vibrant city. Guests at any of the Hilton Hotels will be able to enjoy additional value added benefits this summer.
These include room service breakfast on offer until 3pm without charge, complimentary cinema tickets and an array of shopping discounts.
Guests in Sharm Al Shaikh and Hurghada can enjoy free entrance or special discounts at hot spots such as Pacha, Little Buddha and Soho, where the international jet set party the night away.
Families are offered free or discounted entrance to water and entertainment parks, and discounts on boat trips, desert safaris and go-karting, adding to the choice of activities and fun playground entertainment already on offer at each Hilton Hotel.
For more information, go to www.hiltonfamily.com or call 800 0200 0011.
From European festivals to travel deals, to undiscovered honeymoon destinations, we've got it all covered for you. So pack your bags and head out!
Here's a selection of exciting deals...
Magic at Switzerland's pinnacle
If there is one mountain that typifies Switzerland then it probably is the Jungfrau. A 7.1km long tunnel, takes you to the highest railway station in Europe. Here the glass-domed Sphinx Terrace sits in magnificent isolation on an icy outcrop overlooking Aletsch glacier (the longest in Europe). Hidden within the glacier is the blue-white world of the Ice Palace alive with ice sculptures.
Lower down the mountains, Interlaken sits pretty between two deep blue lakes. The landscape changes dramatically from snow to alpine meadows embroidered with wildflowers. It is a picture postcard landscape.
Interlaken and Jungfrau are among the many gems that stud the eight days Swisstours Swiss Highlights holiday package which comes at a price of Dh4,000. The package offers a choice of two nights in the Lake Geneva region (Geneva, Montreux, Lausanne), a night in Zermatt at the foothills of the Matterhorn, two nights in Interlaken with Jungfrau and finally two nights in Lucerne with an excursion to Mt Pilatus with its world's steepest cogwheel railway.
For more information on this and other Swisstours packages (not escorted tours) go to www.swisstoursonline.com or call Swisstours Dubai on 04 3351135. Swisstours can also custom make an itinerary to suit your budget anywhere in Europe. With a wide range of hotels, apartments, sightseeing options and the perfect European rail pass Swisstours can create the perfect holiday.
Early bird bonus at Anantara
The new Anantara Si Kao Resort & Spa in Thailand, located on the private Changlang Beach south of Krabi, offers guests discounts of up to 40 per cent.
Guests reserving ten days in advance or more will receive a complimentary daily buffet breakfast for two. Children under 12 can share a room with their parents and avail a 50 per cent discount on breakfast.
From the resort you can access a host of natural wonders, from long sandy beaches and virgin tropical rainforest to incredible caves and beautiful waterfalls. If you are looking for adventure, try speed and long-tail boats, canoes and kayaks, or bicycles. A regular speedboat shuttle service enables guests to indulge at Anantara Si Kao's day resort on the nearby stunning tropical island of Koh Kradan with its rugged limestone cliffs. For more info go to www.anantara.com
Fabulous Singapore Stopover
The Singapore Tourism Board, Singapore Airlines and Changi Airport have launched the Fabulous Singapore Stopover package offering transit passengers a chance to experience the vibrant Garden City for just $1.
The package is available for Singapore Airlines customers till September 30, provided tickets are booked by June 15. Travellers need to pay just $1 for the first night from a list of six hotels.
For a little more indulgence, visitors can also choose to stay in other hotels at first night rates of $20, $30 and $40. These special first night rates are per person on a twin-share basis.
The Stopover package covers exclusive deals on hotel accommodation, airport transfers and entry to some of Singapore's leading tourist attractions including Sentosa Island, Singapore Zoo, Malay Heritage Centre, National Orchid Garden, Peranakan Museum, Singapore River Bumboat Tour and Jurong Bird Park.
Guests will also be given Changi vouchers, which they can use to pay for purchases at the retail and food and beverage outlets at Changi Airport. They can also take advantage of free ground transfers to and from Changi Airport and unlimited use of the Singapore Airlines' "Hop-On Bus" an air-conditioned bus service that allows customers to visit over 20 major attractions in Singapore.
Other goodies in the package include a 50 per cent dining discount at food outlets at selected hotels, a free SingTel Prepaid Mobile hi!Card and Singapore Airlines Boarding Pass Privileges, which offer discounts on shopping, dining, sightseeing tours, tourist attractions and car rentals when customers present their Singapore Airlines boarding passes.
For more info, go to www.stb.com.sg or visit www. singapore.com.
Escape to Egypt with Hilton
Whether it's history and heritage, sun, sea and snorkelling, or dinner and dancing the night away, Egypt is a destination that offers something for everyone. And to make this beautiful country an even more appealing choice for the summer break, the Hilton Family of Hotels in Egypt have added a range of value added benefits that will ensure visitors and their families the holiday of a lifetime.
The options are vast. There are the sun-drenched beaches of Sharm Al Shaikh and Hurghada, where the choice of four Hilton Worldwide Resorts provides the perfect base from which to explore the region's stunning coastline and rugged interior. For the culturally curious, look no further than the awe-inspiring architecture in historical Alexandria where the Hilton Alexandria Green Plaza offers a heavenly haven.
For golf-loving guests, the Pyramids Golf Resort in Cairo offers the perfect respite but also convenient proximity to the colourful chaos of Egypt's capital city, Cairo. Here there are an additional three Hilton Family Hotels providing a 'home away from home' from which to enjoy the shopping, leisure, culture and nightlife of this vibrant city. Guests at any of the Hilton Hotels will be able to enjoy additional value added benefits this summer.
These include room service breakfast on offer until 3pm without charge, complimentary cinema tickets and an array of shopping discounts.
Guests in Sharm Al Shaikh and Hurghada can enjoy free entrance or special discounts at hot spots such as Pacha, Little Buddha and Soho, where the international jet set party the night away.
Families are offered free or discounted entrance to water and entertainment parks, and discounts on boat trips, desert safaris and go-karting, adding to the choice of activities and fun playground entertainment already on offer at each Hilton Hotel.
For more information, go to www.hiltonfamily.com or call 800 0200 0011.
DANCE INDIA DANCE---FINALS
Hi there Readers,
Of late I could not catch up with you all.For the past few months I have been watching this programme in Zee T.V--Dance India Dance,a program hunting for the best Dancer in the whole of India.
Now they have reached the finals.Out of 1000's contestants, the Committee had selected 40 and got them down to 18 and then on, it kept reducing.Now the public have chosen the final 4 contestants--Jai Nayar,Salman,Alisha and Siddhesh.
Next week on May 30th 8p.m(India time) is the final round.I am waiting excitedly to see who is going to win. My favourite though, is Salman and I wish he wins.
Those interested in voting ,please vote for the best at www.danceindiadance.sify.com.
Of late I could not catch up with you all.For the past few months I have been watching this programme in Zee T.V--Dance India Dance,a program hunting for the best Dancer in the whole of India.
Now they have reached the finals.Out of 1000's contestants, the Committee had selected 40 and got them down to 18 and then on, it kept reducing.Now the public have chosen the final 4 contestants--Jai Nayar,Salman,Alisha and Siddhesh.
Next week on May 30th 8p.m(India time) is the final round.I am waiting excitedly to see who is going to win. My favourite though, is Salman and I wish he wins.
Those interested in voting ,please vote for the best at www.danceindiadance.sify.com.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
UAE competes in Wonder Search
Liwa Oasis and the Empty Quarter has been nominated in the Landscapes category of the New7Wonders of Nature campaign while the Bu Tinah Shoals has been nominated in the Islands section. Both nominations require the support of an OSC in order to be eligible for the final stages of the competition.
Al Bu Tinah Shoals is unique for its associated wildlife particularly dugongs, sea turtles and birds (ospreys and flamingos)."
Online voting is currently taking place and nominations are constantly being updated in a live rankings table, which can be seen at www.new7wonders.com. Liwa Oasis and the Empty Quarter has moved up two places in the rankings over the last 24 hours from 14th to 12th in the Landscapes category while Bu Tinah Shoals remains in 26th place in the Islands category.
Tia Viering, Head of Communications at New7Wonders, said "it would be a real shame if Liwa Oasis and the Empty Quarter and the Bu Tinah Shoals missed out on this opportunity to showcase the beauty of the region."
Al Bu Tinah Shoals is unique for its associated wildlife particularly dugongs, sea turtles and birds (ospreys and flamingos)."
Online voting is currently taking place and nominations are constantly being updated in a live rankings table, which can be seen at www.new7wonders.com. Liwa Oasis and the Empty Quarter has moved up two places in the rankings over the last 24 hours from 14th to 12th in the Landscapes category while Bu Tinah Shoals remains in 26th place in the Islands category.
Tia Viering, Head of Communications at New7Wonders, said "it would be a real shame if Liwa Oasis and the Empty Quarter and the Bu Tinah Shoals missed out on this opportunity to showcase the beauty of the region."
Monday, May 18, 2009
ECO FONT--A NEW ECO SYMBOL
You've heard of eco-friendly vehicles,clothes,paper...But an eco-friendly font?
Developed by a Dutch company,it uses up to 20 % less ink and one that has been downloaded (free of cost) more than 500,000 times worldwide since its launch 6 months ago.
SAVE THE ENVIRONMENT:-
Gerjon Zomer,co-owner & senior creative at SPRANQ, a Dutch creative communications agency that launched Ecofont, offers few tips:
1.End-users could print only when necessary, and use modern,efficient printer & unbleached paper.
2.Graphic designers could use modern colour separation techniques to avoid wastage in ink.
3.Offset printers could avoid modern laser techniques that make ink indivisible from the paper.
4.Printer manufacturers could invest in environment-conscious innovation.
ECOFONT:- THE DETAILS
You can install Ecofont using Windows Vista,Windows XP,Max OS X and Linux.You can install the font into your local font folder.It is called ----Spranq_eco_sans_regular.ttf.
It works best when using font size 9 or 10. Ecofont version 2.02 is now available.
Developed by a Dutch company,it uses up to 20 % less ink and one that has been downloaded (free of cost) more than 500,000 times worldwide since its launch 6 months ago.
SAVE THE ENVIRONMENT:-
Gerjon Zomer,co-owner & senior creative at SPRANQ, a Dutch creative communications agency that launched Ecofont, offers few tips:
1.End-users could print only when necessary, and use modern,efficient printer & unbleached paper.
2.Graphic designers could use modern colour separation techniques to avoid wastage in ink.
3.Offset printers could avoid modern laser techniques that make ink indivisible from the paper.
4.Printer manufacturers could invest in environment-conscious innovation.
ECOFONT:- THE DETAILS
You can install Ecofont using Windows Vista,Windows XP,Max OS X and Linux.You can install the font into your local font folder.It is called ----Spranq_eco_sans_regular.ttf.
It works best when using font size 9 or 10. Ecofont version 2.02 is now available.
Sunday, May 10, 2009
ENVIROFONE RECYCLING INITIATIVE
40,000 old mobile phones collected for recycling in three months
About 40,000 mobile phones and 23 tonnes of other electronic waste were collected over the past three months by the Envirofone recycling initiative, organisers have said.
The initiative is a nationwide mobile phone and e-waste collection campaign, sponsored by telecom giant etisalat, in a bid to rid the community of harmful substances.
On February 4, during the UAE National Environment Day etisalat pledged Dh5 million towards the initiative, giving a boost to Envirofone.
In 2008, Envirofone collected 200,000 mobile phones and 52 tonnes of e-waste, across all the emirates. While the number of out-of-use mobile phones collected so far seems high, millions of other gadgets are believed to be kept by some people without using, discarding or recycling them.
The harmful toxins found in mobile phones and other electronic equipment could cause damage to the environment and pollute water bodies to a large extent if they are discarded without thought
As an incentive, etisalat is offering rewards on a monthly basis. 450 mobile deposit boxes have been installed at key places to facilitate the process.
"Accessibility is key in making recycling an easy option. For this, deposit boxes have been placed at Adnoc and Enoc petrol stations, etisalat centres, Emirates Post offices and a few selected banks," he said.
The mobile phones collected will be taken to Enviroserve's recycling facility at Dubai Investment Park where the materials will be separated. One of the e-waste recycling bottlenecks is the worry over data stored in these devices, he said.
"The data on mobiles or computers are simply discarded. We are not traders. We merely facilitate recycling so people do not have to worry," he assured.
Those who drop off mobile phones are asked to secure it in an envelop with the contact number of the person, so that the names go into a monthly draw.
How do you dispose your mobile phone? How can people be encouraged to adopt environmental-friendly procedures?
By Rayeesa Absal, Staff Reporter
Published: May 08, 2009, 23:07
About 40,000 mobile phones and 23 tonnes of other electronic waste were collected over the past three months by the Envirofone recycling initiative, organisers have said.
The initiative is a nationwide mobile phone and e-waste collection campaign, sponsored by telecom giant etisalat, in a bid to rid the community of harmful substances.
On February 4, during the UAE National Environment Day etisalat pledged Dh5 million towards the initiative, giving a boost to Envirofone.
In 2008, Envirofone collected 200,000 mobile phones and 52 tonnes of e-waste, across all the emirates. While the number of out-of-use mobile phones collected so far seems high, millions of other gadgets are believed to be kept by some people without using, discarding or recycling them.
The harmful toxins found in mobile phones and other electronic equipment could cause damage to the environment and pollute water bodies to a large extent if they are discarded without thought
As an incentive, etisalat is offering rewards on a monthly basis. 450 mobile deposit boxes have been installed at key places to facilitate the process.
"Accessibility is key in making recycling an easy option. For this, deposit boxes have been placed at Adnoc and Enoc petrol stations, etisalat centres, Emirates Post offices and a few selected banks," he said.
The mobile phones collected will be taken to Enviroserve's recycling facility at Dubai Investment Park where the materials will be separated. One of the e-waste recycling bottlenecks is the worry over data stored in these devices, he said.
"The data on mobiles or computers are simply discarded. We are not traders. We merely facilitate recycling so people do not have to worry," he assured.
Those who drop off mobile phones are asked to secure it in an envelop with the contact number of the person, so that the names go into a monthly draw.
How do you dispose your mobile phone? How can people be encouraged to adopt environmental-friendly procedures?
By Rayeesa Absal, Staff Reporter
Published: May 08, 2009, 23:07
Friday, May 8, 2009
Computer Dependency Test
Here's a quick & very simple test for you to take. This just proves that we have become way too dependent on our computers.
Q: How Many Legs You Have?
To find out the answer, look down...
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Look down, not scroll down!
Q: How Many Legs You Have?
To find out the answer, look down...
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Look down, not scroll down!
GOOD MORNING
Making a million friends is not a miracle,
the miracle is to find a friend
who will stand by U
when a million are against U !!!
the miracle is to find a friend
who will stand by U
when a million are against U !!!
Monday, May 4, 2009
TIPS TO CONSERVE GREY WATER
1.Water-Less toilet: Fill a bottle of water and suspend it in the water tank.The water will refill to the same level but at a lower volume.
2.Cool-Air: Window A/C's filters need to be cleaned monthly,while Central A/C's need them every three months.Keeping filters clean reduces the amount of cooling water used.
3.Air in the water: Attach aerators to showerhead and taps to reduce the consumption of water while providing the same force.
4.Dry-car wash: Gel sprays are used to clean the body of the car and wiped off.Not a drop of water in sight.They can be found in major hypermarkets in UAE.
5.Keep-it xovered: Swimming pools should be covered to prevent water loss due to evaporation.It also protects the water from sand and dirt thus requiring less energy to filter and clean the water
2.Cool-Air: Window A/C's filters need to be cleaned monthly,while Central A/C's need them every three months.Keeping filters clean reduces the amount of cooling water used.
3.Air in the water: Attach aerators to showerhead and taps to reduce the consumption of water while providing the same force.
4.Dry-car wash: Gel sprays are used to clean the body of the car and wiped off.Not a drop of water in sight.They can be found in major hypermarkets in UAE.
5.Keep-it xovered: Swimming pools should be covered to prevent water loss due to evaporation.It also protects the water from sand and dirt thus requiring less energy to filter and clean the water
Flushed away! How to switch to a more efficient lifestyle
Do you turn off your showerhead when not in use? Or turn the tap off when brushing your teeth? If not, then you are increasing the amount of grey water.
It is uncontaminated water that is wasted from domestic processes such as showers, baths and sink taps. Grey water comprises brown and black water.
The former includes sources such as washing machines and dishwashers, while the latter includes urinals and toilets.
Tapping into grey water conservation allows savings of anywhere from 25 to 50 per cent of a home's water bill.
So why pay Dh400 for your monthly water bill when you could switch to a more efficient lifestyle?
By saving up to Dh200 in a month, you could eat out for nearly a week by spending an average of Dh30 for every meal, or buy a bottle of your favourite fragrance and use it for two months, take a budget flight to Jordan or Lebanon or save for two months and donate Dh400 for an eye operation for a child in Africa.
The saving in a year amounts to a whopping Dh2,400! So, how does one stop the water bill from climbing? A simple start would be to place a one-and-a-half litre bottle of water in your toilet's flush tank — it saves an equivalent amount of water every time you flush.
Educating people
Anoop Saxena, deputy general manager in water solutions for Bahri & Mazrouei Trading Company (BMTC) a Dubai-based company that offers eco-friendly engineering solutions, felt the need to work in the water conservation industry when he came to the UAE two years' ago.
He said: "I found this issue very interesting because buildings here are growing by the day. I want people to be aware that buildings should not only be beautiful, but also functional."
Saxena encourages people and businesses to recycle water in every way possible. Turning off your tap is one thing but saving most of your grey water is the way to go. It might sound impossible , but there are ways to do so.
A water recycling unit that helps reuse wasted water would be the ideal solution.
Saxena said: "We have permission from Dewa (Dubai Electricity and Water Authority) to install these units."
He said the units could be installed to work in tandem with the pipe system of a house, or even office. "Such systems could save up to 80 per cent of water."
If the tap is running while you are washing the dishes, the grey water would be transferred to this unit, recycled, and pushed back to the house to be used in places that do not require human contact – such as flushing the toilet.
This would save water, and prevent your wallet from getting thinner, as the recycled water does not come from a new source, so you do not have to pay for it.
However, the unit does run on electricity, which would take away a small part of the savings, along with the initial installation cost of Dh22,000.
However, a well-maintained system would start paying for itself within five years - the average lifespan of the unit is about 15 years.
Additionally Dubai Municipality also has other service providers to install similar water saving solutions in your home, as part of their Sewage Waste Reduction Campaign.
Were you aware of the amount of grey water you could save? Do you have any tips to conserve water around your home? Tell us
By Mohammad Jihad, Community Web Editor
Published: May 03, 2009, 11:09
It is uncontaminated water that is wasted from domestic processes such as showers, baths and sink taps. Grey water comprises brown and black water.
The former includes sources such as washing machines and dishwashers, while the latter includes urinals and toilets.
Tapping into grey water conservation allows savings of anywhere from 25 to 50 per cent of a home's water bill.
So why pay Dh400 for your monthly water bill when you could switch to a more efficient lifestyle?
By saving up to Dh200 in a month, you could eat out for nearly a week by spending an average of Dh30 for every meal, or buy a bottle of your favourite fragrance and use it for two months, take a budget flight to Jordan or Lebanon or save for two months and donate Dh400 for an eye operation for a child in Africa.
The saving in a year amounts to a whopping Dh2,400! So, how does one stop the water bill from climbing? A simple start would be to place a one-and-a-half litre bottle of water in your toilet's flush tank — it saves an equivalent amount of water every time you flush.
Educating people
Anoop Saxena, deputy general manager in water solutions for Bahri & Mazrouei Trading Company (BMTC) a Dubai-based company that offers eco-friendly engineering solutions, felt the need to work in the water conservation industry when he came to the UAE two years' ago.
He said: "I found this issue very interesting because buildings here are growing by the day. I want people to be aware that buildings should not only be beautiful, but also functional."
Saxena encourages people and businesses to recycle water in every way possible. Turning off your tap is one thing but saving most of your grey water is the way to go. It might sound impossible , but there are ways to do so.
A water recycling unit that helps reuse wasted water would be the ideal solution.
Saxena said: "We have permission from Dewa (Dubai Electricity and Water Authority) to install these units."
He said the units could be installed to work in tandem with the pipe system of a house, or even office. "Such systems could save up to 80 per cent of water."
If the tap is running while you are washing the dishes, the grey water would be transferred to this unit, recycled, and pushed back to the house to be used in places that do not require human contact – such as flushing the toilet.
This would save water, and prevent your wallet from getting thinner, as the recycled water does not come from a new source, so you do not have to pay for it.
However, the unit does run on electricity, which would take away a small part of the savings, along with the initial installation cost of Dh22,000.
However, a well-maintained system would start paying for itself within five years - the average lifespan of the unit is about 15 years.
Additionally Dubai Municipality also has other service providers to install similar water saving solutions in your home, as part of their Sewage Waste Reduction Campaign.
Were you aware of the amount of grey water you could save? Do you have any tips to conserve water around your home? Tell us
By Mohammad Jihad, Community Web Editor
Published: May 03, 2009, 11:09
A WATERLESS WASH-------CLEAN YOUR CAR
Imagine waiting in line for 20 minutes and paying Dh30 to waste 180 litres of water. Not the ideal thing to do on a Friday morning.
This is the usual process of going to a carwash and the price we pay for having our car looking shiny.
With new technology the carwash could be your last resort. The only thing you need to do is open your front door.
Gregory Antunes, managing director of Ecowash Mobile (Abu Dhabi, Dubai), said: "All people need to do is call us and we would drive to their house [or office] with our equipment and clean their car."
Ecowash Mobile is a service that comes to your doorstep and washes your car … without a drop of water.
The service has saved around 18 million litres of water collectively in the UAE, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Jordan, where it has been operating since 2006.
This would not only minimise water waste, but also the time wasted in driving to and waiting in line at the carwash.
It has also helped save more than 56 million litres in its country of origin, Australia, since 2004.
Gulf News invited avid reader Sunil Roy, an Indian national, to try the service and see how effective it is.
Roy washes his car every week and did not notice the amount of water being wasted.
Roy, an account manager, said: "It was not until Gulf News's Wipe Out Waste (WoW) campaign that I started noticing this waste. But then again I had to keep my car clean so I continued washing it.
"I never thought it would be possible to have a car cleaned without wasting any water. Such practices should be encouraged."
Ecowash Mobile does not only clean a car, it also polishes the surface leaving it protected so it would only need to be cleaned every two weeks - equivalent to the two regular carwashes (Dh60) done every two weeks, without the waste of water. An Ecowash starts at Dh60. Its products are also made of biodegradable material.
Antunes said: "The bottles in which the products are supplied are recyclable, and part of the bottle purchase price is actually a recycling charge," Antunes said.
A part of the service fee goes to Greenfleet, a company that has planted more than 4.7 million trees in Australia since 1997.
This is the usual process of going to a carwash and the price we pay for having our car looking shiny.
With new technology the carwash could be your last resort. The only thing you need to do is open your front door.
Gregory Antunes, managing director of Ecowash Mobile (Abu Dhabi, Dubai), said: "All people need to do is call us and we would drive to their house [or office] with our equipment and clean their car."
Ecowash Mobile is a service that comes to your doorstep and washes your car … without a drop of water.
The service has saved around 18 million litres of water collectively in the UAE, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Jordan, where it has been operating since 2006.
This would not only minimise water waste, but also the time wasted in driving to and waiting in line at the carwash.
It has also helped save more than 56 million litres in its country of origin, Australia, since 2004.
Gulf News invited avid reader Sunil Roy, an Indian national, to try the service and see how effective it is.
Roy washes his car every week and did not notice the amount of water being wasted.
Roy, an account manager, said: "It was not until Gulf News's Wipe Out Waste (WoW) campaign that I started noticing this waste. But then again I had to keep my car clean so I continued washing it.
"I never thought it would be possible to have a car cleaned without wasting any water. Such practices should be encouraged."
Ecowash Mobile does not only clean a car, it also polishes the surface leaving it protected so it would only need to be cleaned every two weeks - equivalent to the two regular carwashes (Dh60) done every two weeks, without the waste of water. An Ecowash starts at Dh60. Its products are also made of biodegradable material.
Antunes said: "The bottles in which the products are supplied are recyclable, and part of the bottle purchase price is actually a recycling charge," Antunes said.
A part of the service fee goes to Greenfleet, a company that has planted more than 4.7 million trees in Australia since 1997.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Prediction of Tsunami on July 22nd
DEAR ALL,
"I just wanted 2 let you know that please stay away from the beaches all around in the month of July.
There is a prediction that there will be another tsunami hitting on July 22nd.
Predicted that it is going 2 be really bad and countries like Malaysia (Sabah & Sarawak), Singapore, Maldives, Australia, Mauritius, Si Lanka, India, Indonesia, Philippines are going 2 be badly hit. Please try and stay away from the beaches in July.
Better 2 be safe than sorry. Please pass the word around. Please also pray for all beings.”
Please be more cautious as the warnings has been given.
"I just wanted 2 let you know that please stay away from the beaches all around in the month of July.
There is a prediction that there will be another tsunami hitting on July 22nd.
Predicted that it is going 2 be really bad and countries like Malaysia (Sabah & Sarawak), Singapore, Maldives, Australia, Mauritius, Si Lanka, India, Indonesia, Philippines are going 2 be badly hit. Please try and stay away from the beaches in July.
Better 2 be safe than sorry. Please pass the word around. Please also pray for all beings.”
Please be more cautious as the warnings has been given.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Life's Strategies
UNWIND
Life is what you make it, so take full responsibility for it, examine it and make the desired changes.
Remember that you cannot change other people, only they can change themselves.
“What you think is what you are. Think better of yourself and notice the immediate improvements.You are a miracle"
"Life is precious. You are worth a fortune, a self-controlling, learning machine with unlimited capacities for self-improvement that runs on food, emotional energy and experience. Try buying one of them on online!”
Here a few great tips for making life a breeze:
1 Move: “Taking a brief walk while taking slow deep breaths will help to calm you down, or chill-out.
2 All in your mind: Instead of taking things to heart, laugh whenever someone says or does something that hurts to you.
3 Limit the time you spend with irritating people: Try and avoid people who cause you stress: “Stop working or playing with them and avoid all but the most necessary contact.
4 What’s the worst that could happen? By asking yourself this question, you allow yourself to confront your fears. You will also be fully prepared for anything.
“If the worst does happen, at least it’s not a shock.
5 Count to 10: “The Six Seconds Emotional Intelligence Institute believes that bad feelings and behaviours are reduced and your temperament can be much better controlled if you can wait six seconds before reacting to a negative situation,”
Remember, never say something when you are angry because more often than not you will regret it later.
6 Change your diet: Research shows that our body renews itself every year, but only with the ingredients we put into it.
“If you live on a diet of fast foods and fizzy drinks, don’t be too surprised if you feel depressed, lethargic and tired all the time.”
Get a blood test in order to find out any foods you are allergic to and never realised it could be another factor causing stress.
7 Choose your anchors: Take a moment to think about the people in your life and then identify which ones drain you and those who make you happy.
8 Find time for you: Make time to be with yourself. Whether this means reading a book, taking a stroll along the beach or just lying n the sofa and listening to music.
We devote so much time to dealing with other people we forget to connect with our own being.
9 Design your day: Start every day with the purpose of getting the most out of every second! Do more of the things that inspire you and give you that extra drive.
10 Laugh more: Laughter can be the best medicine, and has been known to fight physical and mental obstacles.
The more you laugh, the better you will feel. It’s that simple.
Life is what you make it, so take full responsibility for it, examine it and make the desired changes.
Remember that you cannot change other people, only they can change themselves.
“What you think is what you are. Think better of yourself and notice the immediate improvements.You are a miracle"
"Life is precious. You are worth a fortune, a self-controlling, learning machine with unlimited capacities for self-improvement that runs on food, emotional energy and experience. Try buying one of them on online!”
Here a few great tips for making life a breeze:
1 Move: “Taking a brief walk while taking slow deep breaths will help to calm you down, or chill-out.
2 All in your mind: Instead of taking things to heart, laugh whenever someone says or does something that hurts to you.
3 Limit the time you spend with irritating people: Try and avoid people who cause you stress: “Stop working or playing with them and avoid all but the most necessary contact.
4 What’s the worst that could happen? By asking yourself this question, you allow yourself to confront your fears. You will also be fully prepared for anything.
“If the worst does happen, at least it’s not a shock.
5 Count to 10: “The Six Seconds Emotional Intelligence Institute believes that bad feelings and behaviours are reduced and your temperament can be much better controlled if you can wait six seconds before reacting to a negative situation,”
Remember, never say something when you are angry because more often than not you will regret it later.
6 Change your diet: Research shows that our body renews itself every year, but only with the ingredients we put into it.
“If you live on a diet of fast foods and fizzy drinks, don’t be too surprised if you feel depressed, lethargic and tired all the time.”
Get a blood test in order to find out any foods you are allergic to and never realised it could be another factor causing stress.
7 Choose your anchors: Take a moment to think about the people in your life and then identify which ones drain you and those who make you happy.
8 Find time for you: Make time to be with yourself. Whether this means reading a book, taking a stroll along the beach or just lying n the sofa and listening to music.
We devote so much time to dealing with other people we forget to connect with our own being.
9 Design your day: Start every day with the purpose of getting the most out of every second! Do more of the things that inspire you and give you that extra drive.
10 Laugh more: Laughter can be the best medicine, and has been known to fight physical and mental obstacles.
The more you laugh, the better you will feel. It’s that simple.
Monday, April 13, 2009
4 THINGS YOU PROBABLY NEVER KNEW YOUR MOBILE PHONE COULD DO
There are a few things that can be done in times of grave emergencies. Your mobile phone can actually be a life saver or an emergency tool for survival. Check out the things that you can do with it:
FIRST Emergency
The Emergency Number worldwide for Mobile is 112. If you find yourself out of the coverage area of your mobile; network and there is an emergency, dial 112 and the mobile will search any existing network to establish the emergency number for you, and interestingly this number 112 can be dialled even if the keypad is locked.
SECOND Have you locked your keys in the car?
Does your car have remote keyless entry? This may come in handy someday. Good reason to own a cell phone: If you lock your keys in the car and the spare keys are at home, call someone at home on their mobile phone from your cell phone.
Hold your cell phone about a foot from your car door and have the person at your home press the unlock button, holding it near the mobile phone on their end. Your car will unlock. Saves someone from having to
drive your keys to you. Distance is no object. You could be hundreds of miles away, and if you can reach someone who has the other 'remote' for your car, you can unlock the doors (or the trunk).
Editor's Note: It works fine! We tried it out and it unlocked our car over a mobile phone!'
THIRD Hidden Battery Power
Imagine your mobile battery is very low. To activate, press the keys *3370# Your mobile will restart with this reserve and the instrument will show a 50% increase in battery. This reserve will get charged when you charge your mobile next time.
FOURTH How to disable a STOLEN mobile phone?
To check your Mobile phone's serial number, key in the following digits on your phon! e: * # 0 6 #
A 15 digit code will appear on the screen. This number is unique to your handset. Write it down and keep it somewhere safe. When your phone get stolen, you can phone your service provider and give them this code. They will then be able to block your handset so even if the thief changes the SIM card, your phone will be totally useless. You probably won't get your phone back, but at least you know that whoever stole it can't use/sell it either. If everybody does this, there would be no point in people stealing mobile phones.
This is the kind of information people don't mind receiving, so pass it on to your family and friends.Aym,, this is for U!!!!Hope it helped!!!
FIRST Emergency
The Emergency Number worldwide for Mobile is 112. If you find yourself out of the coverage area of your mobile; network and there is an emergency, dial 112 and the mobile will search any existing network to establish the emergency number for you, and interestingly this number 112 can be dialled even if the keypad is locked.
SECOND Have you locked your keys in the car?
Does your car have remote keyless entry? This may come in handy someday. Good reason to own a cell phone: If you lock your keys in the car and the spare keys are at home, call someone at home on their mobile phone from your cell phone.
Hold your cell phone about a foot from your car door and have the person at your home press the unlock button, holding it near the mobile phone on their end. Your car will unlock. Saves someone from having to
drive your keys to you. Distance is no object. You could be hundreds of miles away, and if you can reach someone who has the other 'remote' for your car, you can unlock the doors (or the trunk).
Editor's Note: It works fine! We tried it out and it unlocked our car over a mobile phone!'
THIRD Hidden Battery Power
Imagine your mobile battery is very low. To activate, press the keys *3370# Your mobile will restart with this reserve and the instrument will show a 50% increase in battery. This reserve will get charged when you charge your mobile next time.
FOURTH How to disable a STOLEN mobile phone?
To check your Mobile phone's serial number, key in the following digits on your phon! e: * # 0 6 #
A 15 digit code will appear on the screen. This number is unique to your handset. Write it down and keep it somewhere safe. When your phone get stolen, you can phone your service provider and give them this code. They will then be able to block your handset so even if the thief changes the SIM card, your phone will be totally useless. You probably won't get your phone back, but at least you know that whoever stole it can't use/sell it either. If everybody does this, there would be no point in people stealing mobile phones.
This is the kind of information people don't mind receiving, so pass it on to your family and friends.Aym,, this is for U!!!!Hope it helped!!!
HAVE A NICE DAY
Opinions are like hand watches.
Everyone's watch shows different time from others.
But,
Everyone believes that their time is correct."
HAVE A GREAT DAY!!!!!!!!!
Everyone's watch shows different time from others.
But,
Everyone believes that their time is correct."
HAVE A GREAT DAY!!!!!!!!!
Dangerous Shampoo!!! Banned By Dubai Government!!
Sodium Laureth Sulfate -SLS
CLEAR , FRUCTIS ,Vo5, Palmolive, Paul Mitchell, L'Oreal , Body Shop
All these Shampoos use a chemical called SLS which is actually a floor cleaner. They are used so as to produce more foam.
Imagine what a floor cleaner can do to you hair and scalp. It will damage the very roots of your scalp.
Check out for SLS in toothpaste too!!!
Use the ones which are free from this extremely harmful chemical.
Type in "SLS Free Shampoo" or "SLS Free Toothpaste" in Google.com to get a list of companies selling safe products.
CLEAR , FRUCTIS ,Vo5, Palmolive, Paul Mitchell, L'Oreal , Body Shop
All these Shampoos use a chemical called SLS which is actually a floor cleaner. They are used so as to produce more foam.
Imagine what a floor cleaner can do to you hair and scalp. It will damage the very roots of your scalp.
Check out for SLS in toothpaste too!!!
Use the ones which are free from this extremely harmful chemical.
Type in "SLS Free Shampoo" or "SLS Free Toothpaste" in Google.com to get a list of companies selling safe products.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
JOIN EEG IN CRUSHING CANS
People in Dubai are being urged to crush their cans and send them for recycling as part of a nationwide campaign to slash waste and cut energy consumption.
Emirates Environment Group (EEG) is aiming to recycle 15,000kg of aluminium between May and September and is appealing to everyone from school children to chief executives to back the Can Collection Drive (CCD) All residents have to do is collect their drinks cans and deposit them in special skips at Dubai Airport Free Zone, Zabeel Park and Ibn Buttuta Mall.
EEG also needs thousands of volunteers to step forward and help the drive by knocking on the doors of shops, cafes and restaurants and offering to take their cans away to be recycled. EEG chairman Habitat Al Marashi said the scheme already has the backing of schools but needs more corporate support. “We are trying to instill the importance of recycling and a sense of responsibility in the younger generation,” she said. “We have a lot of support from schools but we also want to spread the message to the community at large.”
The EEG’s can drive is now in its 12th year.
Emirates Environment Group (EEG) is aiming to recycle 15,000kg of aluminium between May and September and is appealing to everyone from school children to chief executives to back the Can Collection Drive (CCD) All residents have to do is collect their drinks cans and deposit them in special skips at Dubai Airport Free Zone, Zabeel Park and Ibn Buttuta Mall.
EEG also needs thousands of volunteers to step forward and help the drive by knocking on the doors of shops, cafes and restaurants and offering to take their cans away to be recycled. EEG chairman Habitat Al Marashi said the scheme already has the backing of schools but needs more corporate support. “We are trying to instill the importance of recycling and a sense of responsibility in the younger generation,” she said. “We have a lot of support from schools but we also want to spread the message to the community at large.”
The EEG’s can drive is now in its 12th year.
WARNING OF CELL PHONE DIRECTORIES
ALL FAMILY MEMBERS SHOULD READ THIS, ESPECIALLY CHILDREN!
These crooks are getting very good!
A lady has changed her habit of how she lists her names in her cell phone directory after her handbag was stolen.
Her handbag, which contained her cell phone, credit card, purse, etc.., wa stolen.
Twenty minutes later she called her husband, from a pay telephone telling him what had happened.
Her husband said, 'I have just received your text message asking about our pin number and I have replied a little while ago.'
When they rushed down to the bank, the staff told them all the money was already withdrawn.
The thief had actually used the stolen cell phone to text her husband listed in the directory and got hold of their pin number.
Within twenty minutes he had withdrawn all the money from their bank account.
Moral of the lesson:
Do not disclose the relationship between you and the people o your call list.
Avoid using names like Home, Honey, Hubby, Sweetheart, Mom, Dad, etc.,
And very importantly, when sensitive information is being asked for through text messages, CONFIRM by calling back.
Also, when you are being text by friends or family to meet them somewhere, be sure to call back to confirm that the message came from them...
If you do not reach them, b very careful about going places to meet 'family and friends' who text you.
PLEASE PASS THIS ON.
I never thought about THAT!
As of right now, do you have 'home' listed in your cell phone directory?
These crooks are getting very good!
A lady has changed her habit of how she lists her names in her cell phone directory after her handbag was stolen.
Her handbag, which contained her cell phone, credit card, purse, etc.., wa stolen.
Twenty minutes later she called her husband, from a pay telephone telling him what had happened.
Her husband said, 'I have just received your text message asking about our pin number and I have replied a little while ago.'
When they rushed down to the bank, the staff told them all the money was already withdrawn.
The thief had actually used the stolen cell phone to text her husband listed in the directory and got hold of their pin number.
Within twenty minutes he had withdrawn all the money from their bank account.
Moral of the lesson:
Do not disclose the relationship between you and the people o your call list.
Avoid using names like Home, Honey, Hubby, Sweetheart, Mom, Dad, etc.,
And very importantly, when sensitive information is being asked for through text messages, CONFIRM by calling back.
Also, when you are being text by friends or family to meet them somewhere, be sure to call back to confirm that the message came from them...
If you do not reach them, b very careful about going places to meet 'family and friends' who text you.
PLEASE PASS THIS ON.
I never thought about THAT!
As of right now, do you have 'home' listed in your cell phone directory?
KNOW IF YOUR MOBILE IS ORIGINAL?????
Would you like to know if your mobile is original or not?!!
Press the following on your mobile *#06# and the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number appears
check the 7th and 8th digits
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
th th
Phone serial no.
x x x x x x ? ? x x x x x x x
IF the 7th & 8th digits are 02 or 20 that mean it was Assembled in Emirates which is very Bad quality
IF the 7th & 8th digits are 08 or 80 that mean it' s manufactured in Germany which is not bad
IF the 7th & 8th digits are 01 or 10 that mean it's manufactured in Finland which is Good
IF the 7th & 8th digits are 00 that mean it was manufactured in original factory which is the best Mobile Quality ...
IF the 7th & 8th digits are 13 that mean it was Assembled on Azerbaijan which is very Bad quality and very dangerous for health!!!
&
Final
IF the 7th & 8th digits are 12 that mean it is From china which is you decide!!
Press the following on your mobile *#06# and the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number appears
check the 7th and 8th digits
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
th th
Phone serial no.
x x x x x x ? ? x x x x x x x
IF the 7th & 8th digits are 02 or 20 that mean it was Assembled in Emirates which is very Bad quality
IF the 7th & 8th digits are 08 or 80 that mean it' s manufactured in Germany which is not bad
IF the 7th & 8th digits are 01 or 10 that mean it's manufactured in Finland which is Good
IF the 7th & 8th digits are 00 that mean it was manufactured in original factory which is the best Mobile Quality ...
IF the 7th & 8th digits are 13 that mean it was Assembled on Azerbaijan which is very Bad quality and very dangerous for health!!!
&
Final
IF the 7th & 8th digits are 12 that mean it is From china which is you decide!!
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
21 FACTS TO KNOW
1. Chewing on gum while cutting onions can help a person from stop producing tears. Try it next time you chop onions.
2. Until babies are six months old, they can breathe and swallow at the same time. Indeed convenient!
3. Offered a new pen to write with, 97% of all people will write their own name.
4. Male mosquitoes are vegetarians. Only females bite.
5. The average person's field of vision encompasses a 200-degree wide angle.
6. To find out if a watermelon is ripe, knock it, and if it sounds hollow then it is ripe .
7. Canadians can send letters with personalized postage stamps showing their own photos on each stamp.
8. Babies' eyes do not produce tears until the baby is approximately six to eight weeks old.
9. It snowed in the Sahara Desert in February of 1979.
10. Plants watered with warm water grow larger and more quickly than plants watered with cold water.
11. Wearing headphones for just an hour will increase the bacteria in your ear by 700 times.
12. Grapes explode when you put them in the microwave.
13. Those stars and colours you see when you rub your eyes are called phosphenes.
14. Our eyes are always the same size from birth, but our nose and ears never stop growing.
15. Everyone's tongue print is different, like fingerprints.
16. Contrary to popular belief, a swallowed chewing gum doesn't stay in the gut. It will pass through the system and be excreted.
17. At 40 Centigrade person loses about 14.4 calories per hour by breathing.
18. There is a hotel in Sweden built entirely out of ice; it is rebuilt every year.
19. Cats, camels and giraffes are the only animals in the world that walk right foot, right foot, left foot, left foot, rather than right foot, left foot .
20. Onions help reduce cholesterol if eaten after a fatty meal..
21. The sound you hear when you crack your knuckles is actually the sound of nitrogen gas bubbles bursting.
2. Until babies are six months old, they can breathe and swallow at the same time. Indeed convenient!
3. Offered a new pen to write with, 97% of all people will write their own name.
4. Male mosquitoes are vegetarians. Only females bite.
5. The average person's field of vision encompasses a 200-degree wide angle.
6. To find out if a watermelon is ripe, knock it, and if it sounds hollow then it is ripe .
7. Canadians can send letters with personalized postage stamps showing their own photos on each stamp.
8. Babies' eyes do not produce tears until the baby is approximately six to eight weeks old.
9. It snowed in the Sahara Desert in February of 1979.
10. Plants watered with warm water grow larger and more quickly than plants watered with cold water.
11. Wearing headphones for just an hour will increase the bacteria in your ear by 700 times.
12. Grapes explode when you put them in the microwave.
13. Those stars and colours you see when you rub your eyes are called phosphenes.
14. Our eyes are always the same size from birth, but our nose and ears never stop growing.
15. Everyone's tongue print is different, like fingerprints.
16. Contrary to popular belief, a swallowed chewing gum doesn't stay in the gut. It will pass through the system and be excreted.
17. At 40 Centigrade person loses about 14.4 calories per hour by breathing.
18. There is a hotel in Sweden built entirely out of ice; it is rebuilt every year.
19. Cats, camels and giraffes are the only animals in the world that walk right foot, right foot, left foot, left foot, rather than right foot, left foot .
20. Onions help reduce cholesterol if eaten after a fatty meal..
21. The sound you hear when you crack your knuckles is actually the sound of nitrogen gas bubbles bursting.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Two beaches in Dubai closed as traces of Red Tide surfaces
Dubai: Beaches near Burj Al Arab and another one located close to the Umm Suqeim Park have been closed by the Dubai Municipality as traces of Red Tide in these two beaches have surfaced again.
Mohammad Abdul Rehman Hassan, the head of the marine environment and wildlife section, told Gulf News that there were no traces of Red Tide found on Dubai shores in the morning during water testing.
Red tide is the result of an influx of a type of algal bloom; it is so named because it turns the water a reddish colour.
"They have surfaced again and so we have decided to close the beaches to ensure the safety of beachgoers. People are advised not to venture into these two beaches. They should make no contact with the water, nor consume the dead fishes that are washed ashore. Care should also be taken not to inhale the air after a wave hits the shoreline. This can prove hazardous to health," he said.
Hassan did not rule out the possibility of shutting down more beaches if the Red Tide continues to frequent the area.
Mohammad Abdul Rehman Hassan, the head of the marine environment and wildlife section, told Gulf News that there were no traces of Red Tide found on Dubai shores in the morning during water testing.
Red tide is the result of an influx of a type of algal bloom; it is so named because it turns the water a reddish colour.
"They have surfaced again and so we have decided to close the beaches to ensure the safety of beachgoers. People are advised not to venture into these two beaches. They should make no contact with the water, nor consume the dead fishes that are washed ashore. Care should also be taken not to inhale the air after a wave hits the shoreline. This can prove hazardous to health," he said.
Hassan did not rule out the possibility of shutting down more beaches if the Red Tide continues to frequent the area.
Sunday, April 5, 2009
GOOD MORNING
DEAR FRIENDS
"Nobody can go back and start a NEW BEGINNING,
BUT Anyone can Start Today and make a NEW ENDING"
Destiny is no matter of Chance.
It is a matter of Choice;
It is not athing tobe waited for;
It is a thing to be achieved;
HAVE A NICE DAY!!!!!
"Nobody can go back and start a NEW BEGINNING,
BUT Anyone can Start Today and make a NEW ENDING"
Destiny is no matter of Chance.
It is a matter of Choice;
It is not athing tobe waited for;
It is a thing to be achieved;
HAVE A NICE DAY!!!!!
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Unstable weather continues to prevail in UAE
Rains had started from last Wednesday (25th March,night),when I had gone for a walk.Seeing the lighting and thunders, we tried to reach home fast, but were caught up in the rain.Anyway we took shelter near a bank for sometime and then headed home soon.
I had to finish my laundry on Thursday,even though it was raining.I pulled the clothes stand inside the room and left it to dry.Evening trip to the hospital was manageable as it was just drizzling,but on the way back it started to pour.
Luckily I kept my umbrella with me.
Weekends-Friday was o.k
- Saturday morning it was again shining bright.So I could finish some of my outwork that I had.
Sunday- Again started to rain heavily with thunderstorms.I was wondering if we could manage to go to school for the meeting the next day.
Monday--Got up early--no rain-reached school by 7a.m,cam back home by 8.30a.m, as it was sunny and nice, did even a little grocery shopping.Evening came-it started all over.
Tuesday---No rain till now, it is shining bright,so I washed little of the laundry that I had.
Nice to see the rains, but my balcony gets clogged,so are the roads around my home.
Due to bad drainage system in UAE, the roads are really cloged and blocked and the pedestrians have to face the worst situation when car-drivers rush through the water, all the dirty water being thrown at their face, dress,fully.
I don't see why the drivers are always in a rush.Take heed,drive slowly.
There has been so many accidents and deaths due to the rains recently.
According to the weatherman, unstable weather conditions will continue to prevail in the coming two days. The UAE will witness heavy rains and thunderstorms until Sunday.
The Rain Emergency Committee at the municipality yesterday distributed 65 tanks and 60 pumps to drain out the water, particularly focusing on residential areas, schools, government departments and special needs centres.
Residents are urged to call the municipality's 24-hour hotline number 993 if they face flooding in their neighbourhood.
I had to finish my laundry on Thursday,even though it was raining.I pulled the clothes stand inside the room and left it to dry.Evening trip to the hospital was manageable as it was just drizzling,but on the way back it started to pour.
Luckily I kept my umbrella with me.
Weekends-Friday was o.k
- Saturday morning it was again shining bright.So I could finish some of my outwork that I had.
Sunday- Again started to rain heavily with thunderstorms.I was wondering if we could manage to go to school for the meeting the next day.
Monday--Got up early--no rain-reached school by 7a.m,cam back home by 8.30a.m, as it was sunny and nice, did even a little grocery shopping.Evening came-it started all over.
Tuesday---No rain till now, it is shining bright,so I washed little of the laundry that I had.
Nice to see the rains, but my balcony gets clogged,so are the roads around my home.
Due to bad drainage system in UAE, the roads are really cloged and blocked and the pedestrians have to face the worst situation when car-drivers rush through the water, all the dirty water being thrown at their face, dress,fully.
I don't see why the drivers are always in a rush.Take heed,drive slowly.
There has been so many accidents and deaths due to the rains recently.
According to the weatherman, unstable weather conditions will continue to prevail in the coming two days. The UAE will witness heavy rains and thunderstorms until Sunday.
The Rain Emergency Committee at the municipality yesterday distributed 65 tanks and 60 pumps to drain out the water, particularly focusing on residential areas, schools, government departments and special needs centres.
Residents are urged to call the municipality's 24-hour hotline number 993 if they face flooding in their neighbourhood.
OPEN HOUSE AT MY SON'S SCHOOL
Yesterday was the parent-teacher meeting called OPEN HOUSE to collect the child's report card for the Final Exams.
We did not want to be caught up in the rush, so we really reached school by 7a.m and paid the School and bus fees,where we were among the first ones.Then went to class, waited for the teacher, she came in around 7.40a.m.
Since there were 2 more parents before me, it did not take much time to finish our turn.
My son had got full attendance Certificate.
He had done quite well in his exams also, he was sick during the exams so I had fear of how he would have done.
I finished all my work by 8a.m and was back home by 8.30.
Since the climate was cool and nice,went shopping to get my son's school shoes,took a video CD and saw a nice movie in the afternoon.
I had already bought off the school books and covered them a day ahead, as I had got the list from another friend.
So,now I am relaxed, just waiting for school to start.
It has been raining on and off for the past few days.Hope the climate changes soon.
We did not want to be caught up in the rush, so we really reached school by 7a.m and paid the School and bus fees,where we were among the first ones.Then went to class, waited for the teacher, she came in around 7.40a.m.
Since there were 2 more parents before me, it did not take much time to finish our turn.
My son had got full attendance Certificate.
He had done quite well in his exams also, he was sick during the exams so I had fear of how he would have done.
I finished all my work by 8a.m and was back home by 8.30.
Since the climate was cool and nice,went shopping to get my son's school shoes,took a video CD and saw a nice movie in the afternoon.
I had already bought off the school books and covered them a day ahead, as I had got the list from another friend.
So,now I am relaxed, just waiting for school to start.
It has been raining on and off for the past few days.Hope the climate changes soon.
Friday, March 27, 2009
Dance India Dance
Today Out of the 7 wildcard contestants, 3 had to be chosen by votes.
And the 3 who were chosen are Sunitha Gogoi,Prince(Prince of lock &Pop) and Mangesh(Maa Da Laadla Boy).
Excelent performances were done by these 3 contestants.
Prabhudeva(Indian Michael Jackson) was invited as the special guest today and most of the songs were dedicated to him.
He too enjoyed dancing with Grandmaster Mithunda to the tune of DiscoDancer (I am a DiscoDancer).
Mayuresh won the best performer of the day for his outstanding bullfight dance, choreographed by Master Terence.
Tomorrow looking forward to Salman's dance.
One sad thing for me was that Paulson(contestant from Kerala), an extremely good dancer could not make it to the top 12.Wishing him success in years to come!!!!
Will catch you tomorrow soon,Bye!
And the 3 who were chosen are Sunitha Gogoi,Prince(Prince of lock &Pop) and Mangesh(Maa Da Laadla Boy).
Excelent performances were done by these 3 contestants.
Prabhudeva(Indian Michael Jackson) was invited as the special guest today and most of the songs were dedicated to him.
He too enjoyed dancing with Grandmaster Mithunda to the tune of DiscoDancer (I am a DiscoDancer).
Mayuresh won the best performer of the day for his outstanding bullfight dance, choreographed by Master Terence.
Tomorrow looking forward to Salman's dance.
One sad thing for me was that Paulson(contestant from Kerala), an extremely good dancer could not make it to the top 12.Wishing him success in years to come!!!!
Will catch you tomorrow soon,Bye!
Thursday, March 26, 2009
CELEBRATE WORLD WATER DAY
Abu Dhabi: To commemorate World Water Day 2009 and to bring awareness to the increasing importance of conserving water, the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi (EAD) will organise various activities, which are open to the public and free of charge, on Friday, March 28, 2009 in the Family Park on Abu Dhabi Corniche.
The theme is--'Water is For All. Save It'.
'Walk for Water' is one of the interactive activity where people can experience how hard it is to walk for water, as is done in poorer countries
10 easy ways to conserve water
Fix that leak! Leaky faucets can waste thousands of gallons of water each year, like money down the drain. Repair or replace any old or damaged fixtures.
When washing dishes or vegetables in the sink, don't leave the water running.
If you have a pool, use a pool cover to cut down on evaporation. It will also keep your pool cleaner and reduce the need to add chemicals.
Minimise evaporation by watering your plants in the early morning or late at night, when temperatures are cooler.
Don't overfill the kettle when making a cup of tea. Only fill and boil what you need.
Make it a full load. Run your dishwasher only when it's full.
If you have a garden or own a farm, try to plant salt-water tolerant plants or those that don’t require a lot of water.
Do not keep water running while brushing your teeth or shaving.
Take quick showers instead of long baths.
Install water-saving shower heads and low-flow faucet aerators.
The theme is--'Water is For All. Save It'.
'Walk for Water' is one of the interactive activity where people can experience how hard it is to walk for water, as is done in poorer countries
10 easy ways to conserve water
Fix that leak! Leaky faucets can waste thousands of gallons of water each year, like money down the drain. Repair or replace any old or damaged fixtures.
When washing dishes or vegetables in the sink, don't leave the water running.
If you have a pool, use a pool cover to cut down on evaporation. It will also keep your pool cleaner and reduce the need to add chemicals.
Minimise evaporation by watering your plants in the early morning or late at night, when temperatures are cooler.
Don't overfill the kettle when making a cup of tea. Only fill and boil what you need.
Make it a full load. Run your dishwasher only when it's full.
If you have a garden or own a farm, try to plant salt-water tolerant plants or those that don’t require a lot of water.
Do not keep water running while brushing your teeth or shaving.
Take quick showers instead of long baths.
Install water-saving shower heads and low-flow faucet aerators.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
WASH THEM FIRST-----BEWARE!!!!!
WASH THEM FIRST
This is Serious! This incident happened recently in North Texas .
A woman went boating one Sunday taking with her some cans of coke which she put into the refrigerator of the boat. On Monday she was taken to the hospital and placed in the Intensive Care Unit. She died on Wednesday.
The autopsy concluded she died of Leptospirosis. This was traced to the can of coke she drank from, not using a glass. Tests showed that the can was infected by dried rat urine and hence the disease Leptospirosis.
Rat urine contains toxic and deathly substances. It is highly recommended to thoroughly wash the upper part of all soda cans before drinking out of them. The cans are typically stocked in warehouses and transported straight to the shops without being cleaned.
A study at NYCU showed that the tops of all soda cans are more contaminated than public toilets (i.e).. full of germs and bacteria. So wash them with water before putting them to the mouth to avoid any kind of fatal accident.
Please forward this message to all the people you care about.
This is Serious! This incident happened recently in North Texas .
A woman went boating one Sunday taking with her some cans of coke which she put into the refrigerator of the boat. On Monday she was taken to the hospital and placed in the Intensive Care Unit. She died on Wednesday.
The autopsy concluded she died of Leptospirosis. This was traced to the can of coke she drank from, not using a glass. Tests showed that the can was infected by dried rat urine and hence the disease Leptospirosis.
Rat urine contains toxic and deathly substances. It is highly recommended to thoroughly wash the upper part of all soda cans before drinking out of them. The cans are typically stocked in warehouses and transported straight to the shops without being cleaned.
A study at NYCU showed that the tops of all soda cans are more contaminated than public toilets (i.e).. full of germs and bacteria. So wash them with water before putting them to the mouth to avoid any kind of fatal accident.
Please forward this message to all the people you care about.
Sunday, March 22, 2009
TO ALL DANCE LOVERS---WATCH DANCE INDIA DANCE
I love watching this program that comes in Zee T.V on Fri-Sat 9.30p.m India time.
It shows the wonderful talents hidden in so many people, regardless of their language, city, status.It had started on January 30,2009.
Excellent show.My younger son,Faadhil who is 2 year old loves dancing to most of the tunes.The program is going on by having selected top 9 from a million contestants(from million chose top 100,from 100 -40,from 40 to 18,18-12).The show has introduced wildcard entries and given a 2nd chance to some who could not finish their competition due to careless mistakes or poor health or accidents.
The competition is going tough.Please vote for the 7 who has been chosen from wildcard entry yesterday.
You can do from your mobile or do from the internet.
The site is www.danceindiadance.sify.com
Prince,Paulson,Sunita,Mangesh,Salman are some of my favourite contestants.Salman is selecte among the top 9 to go for the Grand auditions,but the others are still struggling to reach their goal.
I wish all of them--Best of Luck!!!!
It shows the wonderful talents hidden in so many people, regardless of their language, city, status.It had started on January 30,2009.
Excellent show.My younger son,Faadhil who is 2 year old loves dancing to most of the tunes.The program is going on by having selected top 9 from a million contestants(from million chose top 100,from 100 -40,from 40 to 18,18-12).The show has introduced wildcard entries and given a 2nd chance to some who could not finish their competition due to careless mistakes or poor health or accidents.
The competition is going tough.Please vote for the 7 who has been chosen from wildcard entry yesterday.
You can do from your mobile or do from the internet.
The site is www.danceindiadance.sify.com
Prince,Paulson,Sunita,Mangesh,Salman are some of my favourite contestants.Salman is selecte among the top 9 to go for the Grand auditions,but the others are still struggling to reach their goal.
I wish all of them--Best of Luck!!!!
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Thursday, March 19, 2009
ONLY ONE HOUR--BUT IT MAKES A DIFFERENCE
To the Residents of UAE and even to other nations, It is my humble request that we all join EARTH HOUR initiative on March 28th, which urges companies and individuals to switch off lights for 60 minutes,starting from 8.30 pm.
Earth Hour began in Sydney in 2007 and annually aims to mobilise as many people as possible to turn off non-essential lighting and other electrical appliances.Dubai first observed Earth Hour last year and was the first Arab city to participate.
SAVE THE EARTH FROM GLOBAL-WARMING
Earth Hour began in Sydney in 2007 and annually aims to mobilise as many people as possible to turn off non-essential lighting and other electrical appliances.Dubai first observed Earth Hour last year and was the first Arab city to participate.
SAVE THE EARTH FROM GLOBAL-WARMING
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Be Smart---Go Green
Do you want to refurbish or re-equip your office with eco-conscious style?
Choose green products such as:
1.STAPLE-LESS STAPLES:- Join your papers together by punching a hole and using a twine to hold them
2.Use solar phone chargers
3.Recycle stationery
4.Drink your tea from a ceramic mug rather from a disposable cup.
5.Consider Computer energy savers.
Try contributing your bit to keep this world a green place.
Choose green products such as:
1.STAPLE-LESS STAPLES:- Join your papers together by punching a hole and using a twine to hold them
2.Use solar phone chargers
3.Recycle stationery
4.Drink your tea from a ceramic mug rather from a disposable cup.
5.Consider Computer energy savers.
Try contributing your bit to keep this world a green place.
Monday, March 16, 2009
NEW GUINNESS WORLD RECORD
Abu Dhabi: The UAE has been officially recognised as the leading cultivator of date palms in the world with 42 million trees, it was announced on Sunday.
"The UAE has the largest number of date palm trees among the countries of the world with 42 million trees," Jenny Karampoiki, records manager of the Guinness World Records, said at a presentation ceremony held at the Emirates Palace Hotel
"The world record for the most palm trees planted in 10 years is 42 million and was achieved by the UAE."
Shaikh Nahyan said the initiative to grow more date palms was part of a comprehensive development plan to boost the nation's agriculture.
He dedicated the international record to the late Shaikh Zayed and to Shaikh Khalifa and other Rulers, Crown Princes and Shaikhs for their efforts and wholehearted support for date cultivation with the ultimate objective of promoting sustainable development.
Khalifa International Date Palm Awards's reward is Dh2 million.
The award attracted 39 entries from 18 countries two thirds of them Arabs.
khalifa award: Three categories
The winners of the inaugural Khalifa International Date Palm Award are:
- Distinguished Research/Study First prize withheld Second prize claimed by The National Institute of Agronomic Research In Morocco, for its work on the Bayoud fungus.
- Distinguished Producers First prize claimed by Atul Ltd, from India, for its date palm development programme.
- Second prize claimed by The UAE's Emirates Bio-fertiliser Factory for its role in local and regional date palm culture development.
- Distinguished Figure Rakan Maktoum Al Qubaisi, secretary general of the UAE's National Consultative Council, honoured for his efforts to help organise the Muzayanat Rutab annual exhibition.
"The UAE has the largest number of date palm trees among the countries of the world with 42 million trees," Jenny Karampoiki, records manager of the Guinness World Records, said at a presentation ceremony held at the Emirates Palace Hotel
"The world record for the most palm trees planted in 10 years is 42 million and was achieved by the UAE."
Shaikh Nahyan said the initiative to grow more date palms was part of a comprehensive development plan to boost the nation's agriculture.
He dedicated the international record to the late Shaikh Zayed and to Shaikh Khalifa and other Rulers, Crown Princes and Shaikhs for their efforts and wholehearted support for date cultivation with the ultimate objective of promoting sustainable development.
Khalifa International Date Palm Awards's reward is Dh2 million.
The award attracted 39 entries from 18 countries two thirds of them Arabs.
khalifa award: Three categories
The winners of the inaugural Khalifa International Date Palm Award are:
- Distinguished Research/Study First prize withheld Second prize claimed by The National Institute of Agronomic Research In Morocco, for its work on the Bayoud fungus.
- Distinguished Producers First prize claimed by Atul Ltd, from India, for its date palm development programme.
- Second prize claimed by The UAE's Emirates Bio-fertiliser Factory for its role in local and regional date palm culture development.
- Distinguished Figure Rakan Maktoum Al Qubaisi, secretary general of the UAE's National Consultative Council, honoured for his efforts to help organise the Muzayanat Rutab annual exhibition.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE
NAME THIS CITY IN INDIA WHICH ENDS WITH A FRUIT NAME???
can be in english,tamil or hindi,(the fruit name,/veg/nut)
can be in english,tamil or hindi,(the fruit name,/veg/nut)
GOOD MORNING
I just went for a walk and returned.The cool breeze seemed very refreshing to me.But as I was taking my walks, I noticed how an elderly couple (around their 50's)walked hand in hand,talking to each other and enjoying every moment with each other.
I was happy to notice that the husband still showed love and affection for his wife.
You may be wondering what is so great in all this, but I feel a lady should be treated very well by her husband, for whom she has left her family,some even their identity.
Good to see small events that make me happy even in this period of crisis and recession.
LADIES, HAVE A NICE DAY
I was happy to notice that the husband still showed love and affection for his wife.
You may be wondering what is so great in all this, but I feel a lady should be treated very well by her husband, for whom she has left her family,some even their identity.
Good to see small events that make me happy even in this period of crisis and recession.
LADIES, HAVE A NICE DAY
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
FRIENDS ARE PRECIOUS
FRIENDS ARE ALWAYS SPECIAL!!!
Friends give us security in
Knowing our secrets will be
protected and will not be
broadcast from the rooftops.
I TREASURE MY FRIENDSHIP, HOW ABOUT YOU???
Friends give us security in
Knowing our secrets will be
protected and will not be
broadcast from the rooftops.
I TREASURE MY FRIENDSHIP, HOW ABOUT YOU???
THE "BE" ATTITUDE
THE
"BE"
ATTITUDE
Be understanding to your perceived enemies.
Be loyal to your friends.
Be strong enough to face the world each day.
Be weak enough to know you cannot do everything alone.
Be generous to those who need your help.
"BE"
ATTITUDE
Be understanding to your perceived enemies.
Be loyal to your friends.
Be strong enough to face the world each day.
Be weak enough to know you cannot do everything alone.
Be generous to those who need your help.
LOVE AND MARRIAGE
Love and Marriage
Love is holding hands in the street.
Marriage is holding arguments in the street.
Love is dinner for 2 in your favorite restaurant.
Marriage is a take home packet.
Love is cuddling on a sofa.
Marriage is one of them sleeping on a sofa.
Love is talking about having children.
Marriage is talking about getting away from children.
Love is going to bed early.
Marriage is going to sleep early.
Love is a romantic drive.
Marriage is arrive on tops curvy tarmac .
Love is losing your appetite.
Marriage is losing your figure.
Love is sweet nothing in the ear.
Marriage is sweet nothing in the bank.
Tv has no place in love.
Marriage is a fight for remote control.
Love is 1 drink and 2 straws.
Marriage is "Don't you think you've had enough!".
Conclusion: "Love is blind, Marriage is an eye opener!"
Love is holding hands in the street.
Marriage is holding arguments in the street.
Love is dinner for 2 in your favorite restaurant.
Marriage is a take home packet.
Love is cuddling on a sofa.
Marriage is one of them sleeping on a sofa.
Love is talking about having children.
Marriage is talking about getting away from children.
Love is going to bed early.
Marriage is going to sleep early.
Love is a romantic drive.
Marriage is arrive on tops curvy tarmac .
Love is losing your appetite.
Marriage is losing your figure.
Love is sweet nothing in the ear.
Marriage is sweet nothing in the bank.
Tv has no place in love.
Marriage is a fight for remote control.
Love is 1 drink and 2 straws.
Marriage is "Don't you think you've had enough!".
Conclusion: "Love is blind, Marriage is an eye opener!"
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
When tears fall from your eyes
When things go wrong,
When sadness fills your heart,
When tears flow in your eyes,
Just let me know,
I want to be there for you, because.....
;;;;
;;;;
;;;;
;;;;
My uncle is Selling Tissue Paper.
Buy 1, Get 1 Free...
Always Keep Smiling
When sadness fills your heart,
When tears flow in your eyes,
Just let me know,
I want to be there for you, because.....
;;;;
;;;;
;;;;
;;;;
My uncle is Selling Tissue Paper.
Buy 1, Get 1 Free...
Always Keep Smiling
Saturday, March 7, 2009
EXPERIENCE IS PRICELESS
A giant ship engine failed. The ship's owners tried one expert after another, but none of them could figure but how to fix the engine.
Then they brought in an old man who had been fixing ships since he was a young. He carried a large bag of tools with him, and when he arrived, he immediately went to work. He inspected the engine very carefully, top to bottom.
Two of the ship's owners were there, watching this man, hoping he would know what to do. After looking things over, the old man reached into his bag and pulled out a small hammer. He gently tapped something. Instantly, the engine lurched into life. He carefully put his hammer away. The engine was fixed!
A week later, the owners received a bill from the old man for ten thousand dollars.
"What?!" the owners exclaimed. "He hardly did anything!"
So they wrote the old man a note saying, "Please send us an itemized bill."
The man sent a bill that read:
Tapping with a hammer....... ......... ........ $ 2.00
Knowing where to tap.......... .......... ...... $ 9, 998.00
Moral of the story - Effort is important, but knowing where to make an effort makes all the difference!
"Life is short. Share your smiles. Forget your grudges. Respect and
cherish everyone you see today. Remember tomorrow may never come!"
" Content makes poor men rich, discontent makes rich men poor."
-----Benjamin Franklin.
Then they brought in an old man who had been fixing ships since he was a young. He carried a large bag of tools with him, and when he arrived, he immediately went to work. He inspected the engine very carefully, top to bottom.
Two of the ship's owners were there, watching this man, hoping he would know what to do. After looking things over, the old man reached into his bag and pulled out a small hammer. He gently tapped something. Instantly, the engine lurched into life. He carefully put his hammer away. The engine was fixed!
A week later, the owners received a bill from the old man for ten thousand dollars.
"What?!" the owners exclaimed. "He hardly did anything!"
So they wrote the old man a note saying, "Please send us an itemized bill."
The man sent a bill that read:
Tapping with a hammer....... ......... ........ $ 2.00
Knowing where to tap.......... .......... ...... $ 9, 998.00
Moral of the story - Effort is important, but knowing where to make an effort makes all the difference!
"Life is short. Share your smiles. Forget your grudges. Respect and
cherish everyone you see today. Remember tomorrow may never come!"
" Content makes poor men rich, discontent makes rich men poor."
-----Benjamin Franklin.
TAILOR-MAKE YOUR LIFESTYLE---WOMEN
If you are:
A stay-at-home mother
FOR YOUR DIET
Nutritionist and founder of PowwerEat, Ahlaam Ali, says, “When packing your children’s lunchboxes, pack one for yourself as well to have on the go, while you are chauffeuring kids around.” At home, stock up on healthy snacks like nuts, mixed seeds (like pumpkin, sunflower, sesame, flaxseeds), rice crackers with salsa or fruits, for whenever the hunger pangs strike.
“Make sure that the entire family shares one meal together, and make it a healthy one. This not only makes your life easier as you don’t have to cook different meals for individual family members, but will also ensure that the whole family is eating healthy,” adds Ahlaam. “It is a good idea to get the kids to help with the cooking. This will encourage them to eat better as they will be proud of the contribution they have made and they will fuss less.”
FOR YOUR FITNESS
According to fitness consultant Jennifer Wilkinson, “The energy requirements for mothers, especially of young children, are high as you end up having a lot of sleepless nights. You need quick, no-hassle exercise options which are flexible enough to fit between baby naps. Try getting a personal trainer if possible (Core Direction offers personal training at home, www.coredirection.com), and if your budget doesn’t allow for that, exercise videos would be a good place to start.”
“Variety in your exercise is important too,” Jennifer adds, “so include activities like walking and jogging around the park, maybe taking your baby buggy along. If you are walking or jogging on your own, try to stick to a steady pace and keep going for at least 30 minutes.”
FOR YOUR EMOTIONAL HEALTH
According to health psychologist Dr Melanie Schlatter, many stay-at-home mothers end up feeling unappreciated as a result of always putting their own needs second to everyone else’s. “If you start neglecting yourself and spending too much time at home on your own, it can lead to emotional exhaustion in the form of depression, isolation, bitterness and restlessness,” warns Melanie.
You can benefit from taking some time out for yourself each day to clear your mind and by practicing some basic self care whether it is with a massage or meditation. “Getting outside of the house and building up support networks with other mothers or female friends can help ease any feeling of being ‘out of touch’,” Melanie adds.
“Some women may simply want to start addressing their own life or future career goals and take time out to either study a subject of interest – such as by getting an online degree – or developing a new hobby.”
If you are:
In a high-stress full-time job FOR YOUR DIET
In between corporate lunches, junk food snacks and the inevitable after-hour work events – or going for entire days without a proper meal – you probably end up with a very unhealthy lifestyle. This is a classic cause of weight gain.
“I recommend firstly that you make a commitment to improving your lifestyle,” says Ahlaam. “Writing down your goals as to what you would like to achieve is part of this process. For example, instead of saying ‘I don’t want to be fat anymore’, write down clearly what you do want.”
Then, start by making sure you eat at regular hours and choose the right foods rather than convenience foods. And if you end up being out of the office a lot of the time, scout around the areas that you frequent to find healthy alternatives in local restaurants.
“It is also critical for you to have your vitamins and supplements as they will boost energy and efficiency levels,” Ahlaam adds. “Leave your multi-vitamins on your desk and set an alarm every morning to remind you to take them. Additionally, keep some healthy snacks in your desk drawer or handbag to help you get through that afternoon sugar fix craving.” If you have to attend social events most nights, it is a good idea to grab a bite like a piece of toast before you step out, so you don’t end up gorging on fat-laden canapés. Also try and choose to drink water or fresh juices instead of alcohol.
FOR YOUR FITNESS
Jennifer suggests gym membership or signing up for classes that you can go to straight from work. “The challenge is to stay motivated, and if you go home after work, then going back out for exercise doesn’t really work. It also helps to pay in advance for the classes, as that will increase the chances of your making it,” she says.
You should definitely look into exercise styles like yoga, as not only will it help you stay fit, but it will also have a stress-busting effect. Other exercises like pilates or tai chi – anything that adapts a slow, meditative style – are also good options. If work doesn’t let you have many evenings free, make it a point to stay active during the weekend, whether it’s with swimming or climbing or any other active sport that interests you.
FOR YOUR EMOTIONAL HEALTH
“The primary emotional concern for such women is the feeling of being overwhelmed and anxiousness about tasks and deadlines,” says Melanie. “In order to not let the workplace stress get the better of you, you need to set boundaries. For instance, leave plenty of time to travel to your workplace so you can begin the day calmly. During your work day, make sure you have several short breaks when you can either leave your work environment or recharge without being disturbed by phones or people.
“You should practice some basic breathing techniques, such as breathing low and slow, in through the nose and out through the mouth. Another effective tool is a simple visualisation technique for five minutes every few hours; simply close your eyes and visualise a beautiful scene.”
The key for over-stressed professionals is to achieve a work-life balance. It pays to leave your work at the office and switch your phone or Blackberry off after a certain hour at night. When it comes to work events, prioritise to attend the ones that you absolutely must, and even then, leave as early as you politely can to ensure you are not completely sleep-deprived.
If you are:
A working mother
FOR YOUR DIET
“Often working mothers tend to ignore their own nutritional needs, so planning is very important as they are usually very time-poor,” Ahlaam points out. “It really helps to have someone help you with the housework and meal planning.”
A good solution is to utilise the weekend to plan all your meals for the week ahead. Once you’ve decided the menu for each day of the week, shop according to what you will be cooking – this will help you save precious time and energy. Another option is to cook extra portions, and freeze some for days when you are totally run off your feet. “When making hot food, try and stick to grilled and baked dishes as this will save you slogging over the stove after work,” Ahlaam says.
Another useful tip is to invest in a slow cooker. Put all your ingredients – anything from lentils and beans to meat and veg – and pour boiling hot water over to cover, and leave to cook all day while you’re out. When you get back from home, dinner will be ready, so you can also have some time with the family in the evening.
FOR YOUR FITNESS
In between juggling all the different roles you perform, it is important to make time for your health as well. “Try and make it at least one evening a week to the gym or a fitness class. Look for places that allow children while the parent is in a class, or that have childcare facilities,” says Jennifer. “Joining a martial arts class once a week would be good – these are high impact and will really boost your energy and push your body. On the weekends, try and plan active family activities such as swimming or cycling – it’s a good way of keeping the whole family fit while spending time together as well.” Another good option is joining a night-time dance class with your husband as, along with being a fun way to exercise and spend time together, it will also teach you a new skill and help you de-stress.
FOR YOUR EMOTIONAL HEALTH
The main challenge here is achieving the balance between being an efficient professional and nurturing, devoted mother. It is common for such women to feel guilt about the amount of time spent away from home. “Working mothers need to spend as much quality time with their children as possible to reduce potential feelings of guilt. Playing games and organising special ‘days’ together are very important bonding techniques. On other days, simply asking children about their day will also encourage basic trust and enhance communication,” says Melanie.
Make sure you get enough help and support at home – either by investing in household help or getting your partner to share the chores – to leave you with time for the family. It is also important for you to take some me-time, and switch off from work when you come back home. Healing treatments like Reiki will help you stay healthy and achieve calmness and emotional balance.
A stay-at-home mother
FOR YOUR DIET
Nutritionist and founder of PowwerEat, Ahlaam Ali, says, “When packing your children’s lunchboxes, pack one for yourself as well to have on the go, while you are chauffeuring kids around.” At home, stock up on healthy snacks like nuts, mixed seeds (like pumpkin, sunflower, sesame, flaxseeds), rice crackers with salsa or fruits, for whenever the hunger pangs strike.
“Make sure that the entire family shares one meal together, and make it a healthy one. This not only makes your life easier as you don’t have to cook different meals for individual family members, but will also ensure that the whole family is eating healthy,” adds Ahlaam. “It is a good idea to get the kids to help with the cooking. This will encourage them to eat better as they will be proud of the contribution they have made and they will fuss less.”
FOR YOUR FITNESS
According to fitness consultant Jennifer Wilkinson, “The energy requirements for mothers, especially of young children, are high as you end up having a lot of sleepless nights. You need quick, no-hassle exercise options which are flexible enough to fit between baby naps. Try getting a personal trainer if possible (Core Direction offers personal training at home, www.coredirection.com), and if your budget doesn’t allow for that, exercise videos would be a good place to start.”
“Variety in your exercise is important too,” Jennifer adds, “so include activities like walking and jogging around the park, maybe taking your baby buggy along. If you are walking or jogging on your own, try to stick to a steady pace and keep going for at least 30 minutes.”
FOR YOUR EMOTIONAL HEALTH
According to health psychologist Dr Melanie Schlatter, many stay-at-home mothers end up feeling unappreciated as a result of always putting their own needs second to everyone else’s. “If you start neglecting yourself and spending too much time at home on your own, it can lead to emotional exhaustion in the form of depression, isolation, bitterness and restlessness,” warns Melanie.
You can benefit from taking some time out for yourself each day to clear your mind and by practicing some basic self care whether it is with a massage or meditation. “Getting outside of the house and building up support networks with other mothers or female friends can help ease any feeling of being ‘out of touch’,” Melanie adds.
“Some women may simply want to start addressing their own life or future career goals and take time out to either study a subject of interest – such as by getting an online degree – or developing a new hobby.”
If you are:
In a high-stress full-time job FOR YOUR DIET
In between corporate lunches, junk food snacks and the inevitable after-hour work events – or going for entire days without a proper meal – you probably end up with a very unhealthy lifestyle. This is a classic cause of weight gain.
“I recommend firstly that you make a commitment to improving your lifestyle,” says Ahlaam. “Writing down your goals as to what you would like to achieve is part of this process. For example, instead of saying ‘I don’t want to be fat anymore’, write down clearly what you do want.”
Then, start by making sure you eat at regular hours and choose the right foods rather than convenience foods. And if you end up being out of the office a lot of the time, scout around the areas that you frequent to find healthy alternatives in local restaurants.
“It is also critical for you to have your vitamins and supplements as they will boost energy and efficiency levels,” Ahlaam adds. “Leave your multi-vitamins on your desk and set an alarm every morning to remind you to take them. Additionally, keep some healthy snacks in your desk drawer or handbag to help you get through that afternoon sugar fix craving.” If you have to attend social events most nights, it is a good idea to grab a bite like a piece of toast before you step out, so you don’t end up gorging on fat-laden canapés. Also try and choose to drink water or fresh juices instead of alcohol.
FOR YOUR FITNESS
Jennifer suggests gym membership or signing up for classes that you can go to straight from work. “The challenge is to stay motivated, and if you go home after work, then going back out for exercise doesn’t really work. It also helps to pay in advance for the classes, as that will increase the chances of your making it,” she says.
You should definitely look into exercise styles like yoga, as not only will it help you stay fit, but it will also have a stress-busting effect. Other exercises like pilates or tai chi – anything that adapts a slow, meditative style – are also good options. If work doesn’t let you have many evenings free, make it a point to stay active during the weekend, whether it’s with swimming or climbing or any other active sport that interests you.
FOR YOUR EMOTIONAL HEALTH
“The primary emotional concern for such women is the feeling of being overwhelmed and anxiousness about tasks and deadlines,” says Melanie. “In order to not let the workplace stress get the better of you, you need to set boundaries. For instance, leave plenty of time to travel to your workplace so you can begin the day calmly. During your work day, make sure you have several short breaks when you can either leave your work environment or recharge without being disturbed by phones or people.
“You should practice some basic breathing techniques, such as breathing low and slow, in through the nose and out through the mouth. Another effective tool is a simple visualisation technique for five minutes every few hours; simply close your eyes and visualise a beautiful scene.”
The key for over-stressed professionals is to achieve a work-life balance. It pays to leave your work at the office and switch your phone or Blackberry off after a certain hour at night. When it comes to work events, prioritise to attend the ones that you absolutely must, and even then, leave as early as you politely can to ensure you are not completely sleep-deprived.
If you are:
A working mother
FOR YOUR DIET
“Often working mothers tend to ignore their own nutritional needs, so planning is very important as they are usually very time-poor,” Ahlaam points out. “It really helps to have someone help you with the housework and meal planning.”
A good solution is to utilise the weekend to plan all your meals for the week ahead. Once you’ve decided the menu for each day of the week, shop according to what you will be cooking – this will help you save precious time and energy. Another option is to cook extra portions, and freeze some for days when you are totally run off your feet. “When making hot food, try and stick to grilled and baked dishes as this will save you slogging over the stove after work,” Ahlaam says.
Another useful tip is to invest in a slow cooker. Put all your ingredients – anything from lentils and beans to meat and veg – and pour boiling hot water over to cover, and leave to cook all day while you’re out. When you get back from home, dinner will be ready, so you can also have some time with the family in the evening.
FOR YOUR FITNESS
In between juggling all the different roles you perform, it is important to make time for your health as well. “Try and make it at least one evening a week to the gym or a fitness class. Look for places that allow children while the parent is in a class, or that have childcare facilities,” says Jennifer. “Joining a martial arts class once a week would be good – these are high impact and will really boost your energy and push your body. On the weekends, try and plan active family activities such as swimming or cycling – it’s a good way of keeping the whole family fit while spending time together as well.” Another good option is joining a night-time dance class with your husband as, along with being a fun way to exercise and spend time together, it will also teach you a new skill and help you de-stress.
FOR YOUR EMOTIONAL HEALTH
The main challenge here is achieving the balance between being an efficient professional and nurturing, devoted mother. It is common for such women to feel guilt about the amount of time spent away from home. “Working mothers need to spend as much quality time with their children as possible to reduce potential feelings of guilt. Playing games and organising special ‘days’ together are very important bonding techniques. On other days, simply asking children about their day will also encourage basic trust and enhance communication,” says Melanie.
Make sure you get enough help and support at home – either by investing in household help or getting your partner to share the chores – to leave you with time for the family. It is also important for you to take some me-time, and switch off from work when you come back home. Healing treatments like Reiki will help you stay healthy and achieve calmness and emotional balance.
Monday, March 2, 2009
Generous readers help to ease paralysed boy's misery
Sharjah: Young Mohammad Shoaib's mother is a grateful and relieved woman. Her paralysed son has finally got a special electronic bed and a wheelchair.
Fatima said the public response that followed the Gulf News report on the Pakistani boy's plight last week was overwhelming.
"The same day that Gulf News published our story, I received a wheelchair from my daughter's teacher," Fatima said. "A bank in Dubai donated the bed that Shoaib needed."
Many other readers also offered to help Fatima and her son. Readers from different nationalities approached Gulf News and Al Kuwait hospital to help Shoaib.
Shoaib, who turned 15 last week, has been paralysed and in a coma since the age of 11 following an accident at school.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fathima exlained that Shoaib suffered severe brain damage after a football was kicked into the back of his neck during a game at school.
"I used to pray day and night for strength so I can help my boy. I am overjoyed now because my son has a good bed and wheelchair at home," she said.
"With the help of Gulf News readers, I can now buy the vitamins Shoaib needs," Fatima added.
Fatima added she never lost hope and her faith in Allah all through the ordeal.
"I keep telling Shoaib that life is great and there are people who love him and care about him," the mother said.
Fatima wants her son to remain strong through this crisis and she believes he will lead a normal life again.
"I am sure Shoaib can hear and understand me, but he cannot talk to me," she said. "I long to hear his voice. This is my only wish."
"People's kindness has given me the strength to help my son," she said.
"I want to give him my health, my sight and every breath I take. I am only longing to see him looking into my eyes and calling me mom," Fatima said.
She added that Shoaib's 15th birthday last week was a very special occasion this year.
"I used to bake a small birthday cake for Shoaib at home every year since his accident. I used to sit alone next to his bed in the hospital. This year I was too busy to bake the cake, as many people came to see him and help him," Fatima said.
A tearful Fatima never tires of expressing her gratitude to all the people who came to see and help her son.
She said that a number of school children visited her son and donated money.
"I am grateful to every one who supported my son emotionally and financially. I will never forget their generosity," she added.
"Gulf News readers have a made a difference in my life. They have given me hope that the future will be better for my beloved boy," she said.
Fatima added that her son loved birds and pigeons. "Now that I have some money I can buy him a parrot as a gift," she said.
Fatima, who has lived in the UAE for many years, said that she has never visited any other place.
Now that Shoaib has a wheelchair, Fatima plans to take him to the seaside with her.
Fatima said the public response that followed the Gulf News report on the Pakistani boy's plight last week was overwhelming.
"The same day that Gulf News published our story, I received a wheelchair from my daughter's teacher," Fatima said. "A bank in Dubai donated the bed that Shoaib needed."
Many other readers also offered to help Fatima and her son. Readers from different nationalities approached Gulf News and Al Kuwait hospital to help Shoaib.
Shoaib, who turned 15 last week, has been paralysed and in a coma since the age of 11 following an accident at school.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fathima exlained that Shoaib suffered severe brain damage after a football was kicked into the back of his neck during a game at school.
"I used to pray day and night for strength so I can help my boy. I am overjoyed now because my son has a good bed and wheelchair at home," she said.
"With the help of Gulf News readers, I can now buy the vitamins Shoaib needs," Fatima added.
Fatima added she never lost hope and her faith in Allah all through the ordeal.
"I keep telling Shoaib that life is great and there are people who love him and care about him," the mother said.
Fatima wants her son to remain strong through this crisis and she believes he will lead a normal life again.
"I am sure Shoaib can hear and understand me, but he cannot talk to me," she said. "I long to hear his voice. This is my only wish."
"People's kindness has given me the strength to help my son," she said.
"I want to give him my health, my sight and every breath I take. I am only longing to see him looking into my eyes and calling me mom," Fatima said.
She added that Shoaib's 15th birthday last week was a very special occasion this year.
"I used to bake a small birthday cake for Shoaib at home every year since his accident. I used to sit alone next to his bed in the hospital. This year I was too busy to bake the cake, as many people came to see him and help him," Fatima said.
A tearful Fatima never tires of expressing her gratitude to all the people who came to see and help her son.
She said that a number of school children visited her son and donated money.
"I am grateful to every one who supported my son emotionally and financially. I will never forget their generosity," she added.
"Gulf News readers have a made a difference in my life. They have given me hope that the future will be better for my beloved boy," she said.
Fatima added that her son loved birds and pigeons. "Now that I have some money I can buy him a parrot as a gift," she said.
Fatima, who has lived in the UAE for many years, said that she has never visited any other place.
Now that Shoaib has a wheelchair, Fatima plans to take him to the seaside with her.
Sunday, March 1, 2009
WOW---- WIPE OUT WASTE
It always starts out small. On Sunday, it was a forgotten box of French fries that found its way to the trash can, Monday saw an extra hour spent in traffic, waiting for an accident site to clear up. Tuesday meant an impulsive purchase at the chocolate stall in the local supermarket and Wednesday's meetings turned out to be completely inconsequential. The truth is waste accumulates.
By the end of the week, your waste-o-meter has probably hit the roof without you realising it and your inaction is costing you in more ways than you think.
Today, with the launch of the Wipe out Waste (WoW) campaign, Gulf News dares you to look deeper into your wallets, your habits, your calendars, your garbage bins! What precious time, resources, money or space could have been salvaged?
It is about changing your lifestyle, changing the way you think and leading a more efficient existence.
WASTE:-- Wipe it out!
People take electricity for granted. They leave their lights and air-conditioning on even when they are not using them. I use energy-saving light bulbs in my house. When the tube light is turned on, it collects energy, and when it is turned off it releases cool air.
- Adel Yousuf Al Attar, Emirati
Everything that I have to put in the rubbish bin is a waste. I found a place to recycle newspapers and plastic. However, with glass, it is much harder because I could not find a proper recycling place for it. People buy plastic containers and reuse them.
- Beverly A. Jensen, American
I think a lot of time is wasted from traffic congestion. Considering the number of hours people wait during the congestion, it will affect their work and their family time. I think that when road expansions are completed, it will wipe out traffic congestion.
- David Cole, Briton
People waste their lives. They throw away many important things in their lives, such as quality time with families because they use this time to go shopping instead. Not enough incentives are given to be with family. People need to start spending more time at home with their children or parents. People will also realise that it is fun.
- Kellie Drayton, Australian
People buy too many things that they do not need. When people want something, they buy it regardless of how much it costs, just to please themselves. Money spent should be controlled. This way it would make us feel better, as we know that our money is not wasted on things that we will throw away soon.
- Noel Malicdem, Filipino
I am surprised at how much money people spend. There are those who earn so little and yet still survive. However, the people who have a lot of money end up spending it on useless things. In some cases they even get loans to buy more things to better their image. It needs to come from within the person. Money should be invested for the future.
- Mary Wairimu, Kenyan
By the end of the week, your waste-o-meter has probably hit the roof without you realising it and your inaction is costing you in more ways than you think.
Today, with the launch of the Wipe out Waste (WoW) campaign, Gulf News dares you to look deeper into your wallets, your habits, your calendars, your garbage bins! What precious time, resources, money or space could have been salvaged?
It is about changing your lifestyle, changing the way you think and leading a more efficient existence.
WASTE:-- Wipe it out!
People take electricity for granted. They leave their lights and air-conditioning on even when they are not using them. I use energy-saving light bulbs in my house. When the tube light is turned on, it collects energy, and when it is turned off it releases cool air.
- Adel Yousuf Al Attar, Emirati
Everything that I have to put in the rubbish bin is a waste. I found a place to recycle newspapers and plastic. However, with glass, it is much harder because I could not find a proper recycling place for it. People buy plastic containers and reuse them.
- Beverly A. Jensen, American
I think a lot of time is wasted from traffic congestion. Considering the number of hours people wait during the congestion, it will affect their work and their family time. I think that when road expansions are completed, it will wipe out traffic congestion.
- David Cole, Briton
People waste their lives. They throw away many important things in their lives, such as quality time with families because they use this time to go shopping instead. Not enough incentives are given to be with family. People need to start spending more time at home with their children or parents. People will also realise that it is fun.
- Kellie Drayton, Australian
People buy too many things that they do not need. When people want something, they buy it regardless of how much it costs, just to please themselves. Money spent should be controlled. This way it would make us feel better, as we know that our money is not wasted on things that we will throw away soon.
- Noel Malicdem, Filipino
I am surprised at how much money people spend. There are those who earn so little and yet still survive. However, the people who have a lot of money end up spending it on useless things. In some cases they even get loans to buy more things to better their image. It needs to come from within the person. Money should be invested for the future.
- Mary Wairimu, Kenyan
Friday, February 27, 2009
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
FAST FACTS
Swapping 16 incandescent bulbs for compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFL) saves emissions equivalent to taking a car off the road for a year.
A leaky faucet can waste up to 20 gallons of water per day, and a leaking toilet can waste up to 200 gallons a day.
If you replace just one out of four of your light bulbs with fluorescents, you can save about 50% on your lighting bill.
Almost 40% of World's waste is paper and could be recycled, meaning fewer trees cut down.
A leaky faucet can waste up to 20 gallons of water per day, and a leaking toilet can waste up to 200 gallons a day.
If you replace just one out of four of your light bulbs with fluorescents, you can save about 50% on your lighting bill.
Almost 40% of World's waste is paper and could be recycled, meaning fewer trees cut down.
GREEN MYTH BUSTERS
TURN OFF THE ENGINE, OR IDLE?
Given the choice of idling for a few minutes or turning your car off, you should always choose the latter.
Tests comparing emissions over minute-long increments for restarted versus idled cars confirm: Idling produces more emissions. Over nine minutes, an idling car will emit double the pollutants of a car that is turned off and then restarted.
Given the choice of idling for a few minutes or turning your car off, you should always choose the latter.
Tests comparing emissions over minute-long increments for restarted versus idled cars confirm: Idling produces more emissions. Over nine minutes, an idling car will emit double the pollutants of a car that is turned off and then restarted.
HIGH COST OF LIVING?????
With the financial crisis going on, the men around have no peace of mind,going out of home in the early hours of morning and coming home late. Many are thrown out of their jobs all of a sudden. Some dont have the means to go back to their homeland. Housewives stay at home all alone only to find themselves going into depression.They are not in a siutation to even question their husband of the happenings around because of the prevailing tension going on.
The situation is going quite out of control when here the houseowners want to increase the rent by twice the amount, the schools want to increase their fees by90%, which is very unfair. When the petrol prices has gone down,why do the schools think of increasing their bus fees or in other words, use the new scheme of OUTSOURCING THE SCHOOL TRANSPORT FACILTY.
THIS IS UNFAIR.
Where is humanity gone? Not everything is calculated in terms of business.
The situation is going quite out of control when here the houseowners want to increase the rent by twice the amount, the schools want to increase their fees by90%, which is very unfair. When the petrol prices has gone down,why do the schools think of increasing their bus fees or in other words, use the new scheme of OUTSOURCING THE SCHOOL TRANSPORT FACILTY.
THIS IS UNFAIR.
Where is humanity gone? Not everything is calculated in terms of business.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
GO GREEN
THIS ARTICLE WAS WRITTEN FOR AN ESSAY COMPETITION BY MY SON ARSHAAD AND HAD WON THE 3RD PRIZE.
Recycling paper is the first and a simple step in going green ; upto 60% of office waste produced in the UAE is paper waste, including writing paper,newspaper and ,magazines.
Mineral Water Company MASAFI, for instance has an ongoing plastic- recycling campaign in 30 schools across the UAE.Bins to collect used plastic bottles are placed next to dispenser and the processed plastic is then sold to 180 certified dealers for non-food recycled plastic applications.
Energy efficiency is also an area where reduced consumption is beneficial.Ex---switching off computers when not in use and using sunlight for illuminating work areas.
Water efficiency is a must here. With the rising cost of water, it makes sense to conserve water usage. A leaking tap can waste 10,000 litres of water in a year (fix it immediately).
Cleaning supplies is another area with healthier and cheaper choices. Use white vinegar rather than commercial cleaning spray is one such cost saving switch business can make.
Recycling paper is the first and a simple step in going green ; upto 60% of office waste produced in the UAE is paper waste, including writing paper,newspaper and ,magazines.
Mineral Water Company MASAFI, for instance has an ongoing plastic- recycling campaign in 30 schools across the UAE.Bins to collect used plastic bottles are placed next to dispenser and the processed plastic is then sold to 180 certified dealers for non-food recycled plastic applications.
Energy efficiency is also an area where reduced consumption is beneficial.Ex---switching off computers when not in use and using sunlight for illuminating work areas.
Water efficiency is a must here. With the rising cost of water, it makes sense to conserve water usage. A leaking tap can waste 10,000 litres of water in a year (fix it immediately).
Cleaning supplies is another area with healthier and cheaper choices. Use white vinegar rather than commercial cleaning spray is one such cost saving switch business can make.
Friday, February 20, 2009
HAVE A NICE DAY
Good Afternoon..... Have a nice day
Just the way a rain drop brings hope to a dying flower,
Your smile might bring hope to someone who is lost.
Give the world your best smile....
Today, tomorrow and everyday.
Just the way a rain drop brings hope to a dying flower,
Your smile might bring hope to someone who is lost.
Give the world your best smile....
Today, tomorrow and everyday.
TO ALL MY FRIENDS AND FAMILY
PLEASE READ
Just as Carrefour had launced their eco-friendly bag for just 0.50fils, I too had gone shopping there and found that the bag is really convenient and nice just for a few fils.
Earlier when they launced the bigger bag,I had bought that also.
I intend to keep our environment safe and green.
When are you going to follow?
LETS ALL STAND TOGETHER IN PREVENTING GLOBAL-WARMING
Just as Carrefour had launced their eco-friendly bag for just 0.50fils, I too had gone shopping there and found that the bag is really convenient and nice just for a few fils.
Earlier when they launced the bigger bag,I had bought that also.
I intend to keep our environment safe and green.
When are you going to follow?
LETS ALL STAND TOGETHER IN PREVENTING GLOBAL-WARMING
Thursday, February 19, 2009
CARREFOUR -IN UAE INTRODUCES REUSABLE PLASTICBAGS
New sturdier reusable plastic bags are available for 50 fils at all Carrefour supermarkets as part of a greater plan to completely eliminate thinner plastic shopping bags.
The Ministry of Environment and Water is fully supporting the scheme and similar initiatives from the private sector are encouraged, but no federal legislation has been passed yet banning plastic bags.
Carrefour has already reduced the number of plastic bags distributed by 10 per cent with the introduction of their first 'eco-bag' released in 2007.
In the future, the Ministry may look into introducing a tariff for using thin plastic shopping bags but alternatives will also be looked into. These alternatives include recycled paper bags or cloth bags, and oxobiodegradable plastic bags.
"Free bags are misused, it's human behaviour, but if you have to pay for it people will take better care of it, keep it and reuse it," said Al Numairy.
"Eliminating the use of plastic bags is one of the biggest environmental challenges in the Middle East. The UAE actively supports initiatives that can create a better world for future generations, and we are proud to have partnered with Carrefour in this noble cause," he added.
The new eco-bag from Carrefour is smaller and cheaper than the previous reusable bag, said Jean-Luc Graziato, vice-president of Carrefour in the UAE.
The bag will be available in all Carrefour stores in the UAE, Oman, Qatar and Kuwait, priced at 50 fils, with a promise that if the bag is damaged Carrefour will replace it free of charge.
"As consumers, we have all become very comfortable with using far too many plastic bags, which are then discarded. This has created a cycle of waste, which we want to end. Our idea is simple; reduce environmental impact by replacing plastic bags with one that is reusable," said Graziato.
The previous, bigger eco-bag priced at Dh2 sold around 800,000 pieces. Graziato believes that this new bag prevented around 50 million bags from heading to landfill sites.
"This is one of our commitments to reduce the impact we have on the environment. Plastic bags are most environmentally damaging, it's biodegradable properties are poor & people use a bag and throw it away - this cycle of waste should come to an end," said Graziato.
Should the use of plastic bags be banned completley? Could you manage without the use of plastic bags?
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Ministry of Environment and Water is fully supporting the scheme and similar initiatives from the private sector are encouraged, but no federal legislation has been passed yet banning plastic bags.
Carrefour has already reduced the number of plastic bags distributed by 10 per cent with the introduction of their first 'eco-bag' released in 2007.
In the future, the Ministry may look into introducing a tariff for using thin plastic shopping bags but alternatives will also be looked into. These alternatives include recycled paper bags or cloth bags, and oxobiodegradable plastic bags.
"Free bags are misused, it's human behaviour, but if you have to pay for it people will take better care of it, keep it and reuse it," said Al Numairy.
"Eliminating the use of plastic bags is one of the biggest environmental challenges in the Middle East. The UAE actively supports initiatives that can create a better world for future generations, and we are proud to have partnered with Carrefour in this noble cause," he added.
The new eco-bag from Carrefour is smaller and cheaper than the previous reusable bag, said Jean-Luc Graziato, vice-president of Carrefour in the UAE.
The bag will be available in all Carrefour stores in the UAE, Oman, Qatar and Kuwait, priced at 50 fils, with a promise that if the bag is damaged Carrefour will replace it free of charge.
"As consumers, we have all become very comfortable with using far too many plastic bags, which are then discarded. This has created a cycle of waste, which we want to end. Our idea is simple; reduce environmental impact by replacing plastic bags with one that is reusable," said Graziato.
The previous, bigger eco-bag priced at Dh2 sold around 800,000 pieces. Graziato believes that this new bag prevented around 50 million bags from heading to landfill sites.
"This is one of our commitments to reduce the impact we have on the environment. Plastic bags are most environmentally damaging, it's biodegradable properties are poor & people use a bag and throw it away - this cycle of waste should come to an end," said Graziato.
Should the use of plastic bags be banned completley? Could you manage without the use of plastic bags?
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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