Experience best of India from anywhere

It's hard to find someone who doesn't have a craving for cakes. A sweet food made from flour, sugar, and other ingredients is a favorite not just among children but also adults. Traditionally cakes were baked for birthdays and weddings. However, with the wide range of options and innovative cake recipes, you really don’t need an occasion to have one. From corporate parties to holidays and get-togethers to personal cravings, it’s an all-time hit. We all have our favorites, no matter what your preferences are. Here are some unique and irresistible different types of cakes to try that are sure to make your celebrations memorable for a very long time! Top 10 Types Of Cakes Trending Now……..A Must Try! Pinata Cake Pinata cake also called the 'Smash' cake is the new food trend that is going viral, that packs a sweet surprise inside every cake. The inside of the cake has a hollow center which is used to fill with gifts, and to hold your favorite goodies such as macaroons, chocolates, and cupcakes, which come as a sweet surprise. The idea behind the Pinata cake is to make the cake-cutting process exciting and unique while keeping people guessing as to what really is packed inside it. Geode Cake Geode cakes are stunningly decorated layer cakes meant to mimic the natural rock formation by cutting out pieces of the finished and frosted cake and then filling the cavity with edible crystals which are made of rock candy or isomalt shards. The crystals are then painted with multiple colors to emulate the look of real geodes themselves. Although it might seem like a lot of work, it’s actually not. Pull Me Up Cakes Some trends get hot like a bun in the oven. Pull Me Up also called the Tsunami cake is one of those which has been making waves online these days. This new baking trend has the cake surrounded by a see-through plastic sheet that is slowly pulled up to release an explosion of chocolate all over. This trend is absolutely mouth-watering with chocolates, and different flavors splashed all over the plate. People are going gaga over this absolute delish!  Check out our Online Baking Classes for Beginners Layer Cake A layer cake also known as a sandwich cake consists of multiple stacked sheets of cake, held together by frosting, jam, icing, or any other filling. The best part about this style of cake is most of the cake recipes can be made into layer cakes. Most basic layer cakes are of two layers, however, there are these top-rated; piled-high layer cakes like the decadent tower of German chocolate layer cake or a rainbow layered cake. Baking and serving these types of cakes is a lot of fun and is sure to be the star of the show. Fondant Cake Of all the different types of cakes, the fondant cake is the most trending as the fondant sheet allows for making interesting designs on the Cake. The play dough-like sugar paste can be rolled out and draped over a simple or sculpted cake to give an absolute finish to a designer cake. It is usually kneaded until they are very silky and pliable and can be used to create a smooth seamless finish on cakes in any color. Fruit Cake This is one cake that is so good to be made all year, not just during the Christmas season. Fruits are soaked in black tea overnight and mixed with cake batter for a rich herbal flavor throughout the batter. For those who want their fruit cakes to have a boozy flavor, you can mix the candied fruit and raisins with a little alcohol and let it macerate for a day or two. The chewy bits of fruit and dash of brandy make these fruit cakes a real treat. Make your life a little more colorful with these types of cakes.  Flourless Cake This cake excludes flour, making it less cakey and fudgier in texture. These types of cakes are perfect for people who are looking to avoid gluten as there’s an absence of flour in the batter. They are made airy from the egg whites that are whipped and then folded into the batter. Easy to make with just three ingredients, served with ice cream or whipped cream, or simply dusted with icing sugar. You can enjoy a rich but not too sweet cake that’s absolutely delicious! Upside-Down Cake In these types of cakes, the toppings are placed at the bottom of the pan, hence they are called upside-down cakes. This classic version of the butter cake is traditionally made with pineapple but can also be made with fruits like plums, peaches, blueberries, or pears. The toppings are placed on the bottom of the pan, often with butter and sugar, and then topped with cake batter. After cooking, the cake is flipped back right-side-up, so that the fruit is facing up. Vegan Cake  Vegan cakes have been introduced as an alternative to making cakes without eggs, dairy butter, or dairy milk. There are several types of plant-based substitutes like banana or flax-seed for eggs, non-trans fat margarine or oils for butter, and plant milk for milk that can be easily replaced. These types of cakes with alternative ingredients create an equally delicious but completely vegan cake. Bundt Cake These types of cakes are baked in a distinctive ring-shaped pan with a hollow center, to give a doughnut shape.  The bundt pan allows the cake to be in contact with the edges of the pan, and therefore allows heat to be transferred more evenly. Generally found in only one flavor, is inspired by a traditional European cake known as Gugelhupf. These easy-to-make fluffy cakes are baked with basic kitchen staples and topped with a simple vanilla or chocolate glaze.  Experience “YUM” With Australia’s Most Loved Desserts. Bet you are craving these mouth-watering quirky cakes. Double the surprise and celebrations with these hot trending cakes every one is talking about and don’t forget to share your favorite with us.

Kalaripayattu or Kalari is believed to be the oldest surviving martial art in India. A practice that has its roots set deep into the earth of Kerala, also known as God’s Own Country, is the mother of all martial arts. The word Kalaripayattu is derived from two words – “Kalari” meaning training ground and “payattu” meaning to fight or get trained. Kalaripayattu martial art was originally a secret fighting method with intense training in physical discipline, armed and unarmed combat, breathing, meditation and healing treatments. The basic principles of Kalaripayattu training are to combine psychology and physiology keeping the overall development of a person in mind. The influence of kalarippayattu can be seen in most of the art forms of Kerala. Without any gender discrimination, both boys and girls have shown keen interest in this art form and the holistic approach is what appeals to many. Styles Of Kalaripayattu There are two major styles that are generally acknowledged within traditional Kalaripayattu based on how they are practised. They are the Northern style, or Vadakkan Kalari, and the Southern style, or Thekkan Kalari. Vadakkan or Northern style Regarded as the "original," form of Kalaripayattu, this style is practised in the Malabar region of Kerala. The Vadakkan style places more emphasis on physical flexibility exercises and graceful body movement. Thekken or Southern Style A style that combines Kalaripayattu with certain elements of Adi Murai is practised mainly in the Travancore region. This style involves more free armed techniques, footwork & powerful movements. Different Stages Of Kalaripayattu Training A student learning Kalaripayattu will be taught only defensive moves in the beginning. Only after mastering those moves will he be taught offensive techniques. Kalari is believed to be one of the highest forms of physical and mental training which is usually done in four stages. First Stage of Kalaripayattu – Meithari (Body Control Exercises) Meithari is the first stage of the practice of Kalaripayattu where training begins with disciplining the physical body and attaining mental balance. Here the movement and sequences are designed to train the body and mind to prepare the students for more advanced levels of training. It sets the foundation for the entire training to develop strength, flexibility, balance and stamina. Emphasis is placed on learning the basic body positions and after mastery of the basics, more advanced moves are taught such as aerial kicks, twisting, jumps, rolls, and body bend. Student’s mental and physical skills are sharpened to the highest level in this stage and when they reach the satisfactory level, they are moved to the second stage. [caption id="attachment_10907" align="alignnone" width="768"] Source: piggyride.com[/caption] Second Stage – Kolthari (Practice with Wooden Weapon) The second level of kalarippayattu is Kolthari, wherein wooden weapons are introduced. The weapon training stage in kalarippayattu techniques is used to remove fear, build confidence, alertness and balance of the body. Wooden weapons used in Kolthari are different types of sticks – long, short, specially fabricated, rounded and curved ones. Students are taught to use them to attack as well as to defend. Right weapon training helps to develop dristi sthirata - seeing clearly with stability. This prevents the mind from panicking, thus allowing one to calmly assess the situation and take appropriate action. After completing the training in Kolthari, the student will be proficient at using whatever stick he has in possession to resist all kinds of attacks, make counter-attacks and overpower enemies. [caption id="attachment_10906" align="alignnone" width="768"] Source: keralatourism.org[/caption] Third Stage – Angathari (Practice with Metal Weapons) Metal weapon training is introduced only after the student has attained mastery over Meithari and Kolthari. Here students are introduced to sharp and lethal metal weapons such as the Kadara (dagger), Udaval (fencing sword), Valum Parichayum (sword & shield) which demand superior concentration due to their lethal nature. Angathari trains the student to cut and thrust with the sword, and various defense moves with the shield, accompanied by twists and turns of the body. The weapons are graded and slowly introduced with advanced combat techniques at each level. Only the highly skilled students are trained with Urumi (flexible sword) which are more dangerous in nature. This training improves reflexes, eliminates fear and builds confidence and brings about alertness. [caption id="attachment_10904" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Source: keralatourism.org[/caption] Fourth Stage – Verumkai (Bare Hand Technique) Verumkai is the last stage of Kalaripayattu training where students are taught the bare hand techniques. Once the student is mastered in all the weapons, he is taught to defend barehanded. Here, the students are required to fight armed, unarmed, or multiple opponents without using weapons. Bare hand techniques such as grips, kicks, strikes, blocks, attacks, throws, etc. are all taught as part of the course. This stage involves an extremely high level mastery of hand and eye coordination. Knowledge of all the vital points in the body is also part of this stage where students require a thorough understanding of human anatomy that includes the study of the pressure points of a human body. With rigorous and continuous daily practice one can achieve speed and accuracy in this stage. [caption id="attachment_10908" align="alignnone" width="768"] Source: keralatourism.org[/caption] Benefits Of This Ancient Martial Art Kalaripayattu comes with a unique combination of martial art training, physical culture, self-defense and mental/spiritual development. This unique combination provides significant benefits to the practitioner by way of self-analysis and self-control over attack and offence. Kalari techniques are gaining popularity rapidly among people. Here’s a list that will make you realize the importance of Kalaripayattu.         Improves body strength and boosts flexibility.         Helps to focus and increases the concentration level.         Teaches one to be calm and improves patience level.         Improves speed and cuts down on laziness.         Boosts the immunity levels to keep you away from diseases. At a time when sedentary living has become the norm, this martial art seems more relevant today than ever before. There has been a recent surge in interest for the Kalari class with everyone embracing it for different reasons, be it for self-defense, fitness routine or for improving body confidence. So what are you waiting for……go enrol yourself for a unique experience!        

Child-rearing is one of the toughest but yet the most fulfilling job in the world. Parents are believed to be the first teacher children have. As parents it’s our responsibility to ensure that the child is brought up in a healthy environment. Good parenting is not about achieving perfection, it’s about the parent-child relationship. Great parenting is not just defined by the parent’s actions, but also by their intentions. As your child grows, there are many things you can do to guide them. In short, parenting is a process that prepares your child for independence. Here are some tips for parenting that can help you feel more fulfilling as a parent. [caption id="attachment_12837" align="alignnone" width="750"] Source: noodle.com[/caption] Spend Quality Time With Your Kids Studies have shown that kids who aren't getting the attention they want from their parents often act out or misbehave. Give your kids the undivided attention that they are craving for. Spending quality time with your children does not have to be a huge undertaking, it can be as simple as eating at least one meal together as a family. It’s a great way to engage in meaningful conversations and discuss each one’s day. This is the perfect time to show your children that you love and care for them. All the top tips for parenting can be encapsulated into that one hour of a family meal, creating a lasting and positive impression on your child’s future that helps to keep them mentally and emotionally strong. [caption id="attachment_12832" align="alignnone" width="750"] Source: chicagotribune.com[/caption] Be A Good Role Model For children, role models are generally their parents, who have a regular presence in their lives. Parents serve as role models through the examples they set with their behavior within the family and in the outside world. So, be the person you want your child to be — respectful, friendly, honest, kind, tolerant and unselfish. Children watch everything their parents do very carefully and pick it up very quickly. Don’t just tell your child what you want them to do, but set an example as you're constantly being watched by your kids. Role modeling is one of best parenting tips to influence the direction of your children's character, whatever their age may be. Treat your kids the way you expect other people to treat you. Show That You Love Them A word of encouragement and love directly affects your child’s well-being. There is no such thing as loving your child too much can spoil them. When material-indulgence, leniency and over-protection are given in place of real love, that’s when you’ll have a spoiled child. Showing love can trigger the release of feel-good hormones such as oxytocin that can bring a deep sense of calm, emotional warmth and contentment. Love directly affects your child’s well-being and makes them physically and mentally more healthy. It is important that they receive love from both parents unconditionally. Loving your child can be as simple as giving a hug or spending time with them. Make sure your child feels that your love is there no matter what. Be Ready To Adjust Your Parenting Style There are times when parents struggle with unrealistic expectations and goals for both their kids and for themselves. When this happens, parenting can suddenly feel burdensome and this is where you need to be more flexible. As your child grows, you'll gradually have to change your parenting style. What works with your child now may not work after a year or two. This is one of the most important tips for parenting a teenager. Teenagers tend to look less to their parents but as parents, continue to provide guidance to them while allowing them to earn more independence. Being a perfectionist parent is stressful. This kind of pressure can backfire, so look for ways to alter your surroundings that will cause less frustration for both of you. [caption id="attachment_12840" align="alignnone" width="754"] Source: thepillarsclc.com[/caption] Criticize Less And Appreciate More Lack of appreciation can directly create a complex in children, hence it is very important to appreciate more. The more effective approach is to catch your kids doing something right or find something to praise them every day. Give them more of your love, hugs, and compliments which will work wonders and boost their self-esteem. Appreciation will encourage good behavior over the long run than repeated scolding. One of the best tips for parenting that will not only help them get a sense of right from wrong but will also prevent your child from feeling neglected. Look back and think about how many times you reacted negatively with your kids and change that approach today! [caption id="attachment_12839" align="alignnone" width="750"] Source: rootsofaction.com[/caption] Be A Good Listener Active listening is the most important parenting tips in your tool belt.  It lets the other person know that you are with them and aware of what they are saying. Make it a habit to know what your kids are hoping for; what their fears are, and what they are anxious about. When you listen and ask questions, it shows that you care and love them. The best way to improve your listening skills is to get to your child's level so that you can make good eye contact and give them your complete attention. By listening to them, you are communicating that they are worthy of your attention. Try Virtual Escape Room that you can enjoy with your family. Have Control Over Your Emotions One of the golden tips for parenting is to never punish while angry. Whenever you lose control, never yell or argue. Instead, show them how you can keep your cool and resolve problems in a calmer manner. If you lose your cool in front of your kids, they may become fearful or anxious. Always keep in mind to never exhibit mean behavior in the presence of your children. If you do lose your cool, be sure to apologize and take responsibility for your behavior. [caption id="attachment_12838" align="alignnone" width="750"] Source: raisingchildren.net.au[/caption] We as parents should serve as role models for them which will ultimately reflect in the child's actions. Parenting is a journey that will take time and lots of patience…..but it’s worth it!

A cocktail is a mixed drink typically made with a distilled liquor such as brandy, gin, rum, vodka, whiskey, etc. as its base ingredient that is then mixed with other ingredients or garnishments. Cocktails also contain one or more types of juice, fruit, honey, milk, spices, or other flavourings. Ingredients of cocktails vary from bartender to bartender and from region to region and there is a large variety to choose from. Some of the 10 most popular cocktails that you must try are listed below just for you though you will eventually come to know that like ingredients of cocktails, its popularity listing also differs from region to region.    Here Are 10 Of The Most Popular Cocktails Margarita One of the most popular cocktail Margarita is a simple mixture of tequila, triple sec, orange liqueur, and lime juice which is often blended with ice but you can have it on the rocks as traditionally -. Some bartenders may also offer you various fruity versions, such as raspberry, peach, or strawberry in place of the traditional lime juice. So sip slowly this marvellous cocktail in a salt-rimmed glass and enjoy.     Mojito Another popular cocktail that compliments summer perfectly with a fresh minty taste and relatively low alcohol content that should be part of your dinner date is Mojito. Mojito is a mixture of white rum, mint, lime juice, white sugar, and soda water dashed with ice. You can ask the bartender to replace soda water with sprite or 7-up to try a variant. To get an enhanced minty flavour always crush the mint leaves instead of just dicing them to unlock the oils.     Cosmopolitan If you are a vodka drinker go for Cosmopolitan, which is a tangy concoction of vodka, Cointreau triple sec, lime juice, and cranberry juice garnished with a lemon twist. You will love the clean and slightly tart taste on your palate making it one of the most popular cocktails.     Mai Tai ‘Mai Tai’ which means “the best—out of this world” in Tahitian is one of the most famous -cocktails in the world. You will surely love Mai Tai which is a rum-based cocktail with light and dark rums, almond syrup, pineapple juice, triple sec, and fresh lime juice. You will not forget the smooth taste of this quintessential cocktail in Tiki culture but be prepared for a serious punch due to all the alcohol content in it.     Pina Colada The name Pina Colada in Spanish literally means “strained pineapple”. Because of the use of fresh pineapple juice in preparation, it is a popular summer cocktail that you can also enjoy as a mocktail. The cocktail is made with white rum, cream of coconut or coconut milk, and pineapple juice served either blended or shaken with ice. In the mocktail, rum is not added making it a kid-friendly drink that is healthy as well as filling. So when you are out with your children for eat-out Pina Colada will be an excellent choice.     Mint Julep If you are looking for a simple yet refined cocktail then go for Mint Julep, which is a concoction -of Bourbon, a little bit of water, powdered and granulated sugar, and plenty of mint in crushed ice. The Mint Julep is traditionally served in silver or pewter cups and held by the handle or rim so the cup maintains optimum forth. With a balance of sweet, smoky, and herbal flavors the Mint Julep is such a favorite cocktail that you definitely would not like to miss.     Long Island Iced Tea Do not be surprised, it's not iced tea but a type of cocktail typically made with vodka, tequila, light rum, triple sec, gin, and a splash of cola, which gives this popular cocktail an amber color just as iced tea. Long Island Ice tea is said to be the ultimate party cocktail with the right amount of punch to satisfy your moods. So serve this fabulous cocktail the next time you organize a party and you are sure to get a lot of appreciation.     Apple Martini Apple martini also called ‘Appletini’ is a sweet and delicious cocktail with a vodka base and one or more of apple juice, cider, apple liqueur, or apple brandy. There are many variations of this very popular cocktail. Whether you are looking for a sweet-and-sour electric green cocktail or one with a true apple flavor, there is an apple martini just to fit your taste. These tasty Apple Martinis are perfect for a little rest and relaxation. So go for it when you just want to chill.     Caipirinha Caipirinha is Brazil’s national cocktail very popular all over the world. It is made with cachaca (sugarcane hard liquor), sugar, and lime, prepared by first mixing the fruit and sugar then adding the liquor with a dash of club soda. If you do not have Cachaca you can substitute it with white rum or vodka. A favorite summertime cocktail, the Caipirinha is one of the most refreshing cocktails you can mix up. If you have not tried Caipirinha, why wait, go ahead and enjoy. An added benefit is, one of these most popular cocktails serves as a tonic for the common cold, yes, this one!   [caption id="attachment_10316" align="alignnone" width="1260"] Image Source: epicurious.com[/caption]   The Old Fashioned The Old Fashioned is timeless and the most popular cocktail in the world that you should not miss trying. It is one of the oldest cocktails, developed during the 19th century. The Old fashioned is made by muddling sugar with Angostura aromatic bitters and water, adding whiskey or brandy, rum, or any number of spirits, and garnishing the drink with an orange slice. The Old Fashioned is one of the best ways to dress up your favorite whiskey without significantly altering the taste. So enjoy this simple classic and take my word, you will want to go for it more and more.   [caption id="attachment_10317" align="alignnone" width="600"] Image Source:thewhiskypedia.com[/caption]   Mix at home!!! You can always find your own favourite cocktail at the bar but why not fix your cocktail in the comfort of your home. You are sure to have a very personal experience in fixing your drink and at the same time enjoy the good times with your family and friends. Have a favourite that we missed out on? Let us know in the comments below.   

Chances are pretty good that you’ve heard of the term HIIT workout. But what is HIIT exercise? What does HIIT stand for? As the name suggests, HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) workouts consist of short periods of intense exercise that takes your cardio workout to another level. This HIIT for beginners workout is a great form of exercise to include in your routine as it pushes you beyond your comfort zone. It is a form of interval training where you are working at a very intense level and then backing off for a slower recovery period, followed by another round of high intensity. This strategy saves a lot of your time as you don’t have to work out as long as you would if you were keeping a steady pace. HIIT workouts have been gaining popularity rapidly as it helps burn a high number of calories in a short period of time. [caption id="attachment_11447" align="alignnone" width="300"] HIIT workout helps you reach a healthy goal source: greatist.com[/caption] How to Go About It? HIIT workout involves interspersing short bursts of intense exercise with rest periods that can get you fit fast. The intensity of the exercise means that HIIT workout can be as short as 20–25 minutes. Though the duration is short it provides equal or better benefits in comparison with longer periods of other workouts. No classes or equipment are required for this type of training. People can use their preferred form of exercise using just their body weight. Bodyweight exercises include press ups, burpees, jumping jacks, squats, situps and much more. Keep reading on to find out more about HIIT workouts. Different Levels of HIIT Workouts HIIT programs are created at different levels for a reason. We all come in different shapes and sizes and need to train according to our body type. Consider your lifestyle, your current physical abilities and what your body can do before deciding on a training plan. Here are three levels you need to understand before starting. Beginners (10 Minutes) Hiit for beginners is an entry-level workout where each move ideally lasts for 20 to 30 seconds. This is followed by two minutes of active recovery which may involve walking, freewheeling or complete rest. Repeat this HIIT workout three times, and you’re done. Intermediate (20 Minutes) Intermediate is a category that the majority of the population falls into. At this level you have already completed the HIIT for beginners program where you have learnt to build strength and endurance. Here you will increase the intensity of your workouts and learn more techniques of exercises. Advanced (30 Minutes) This intense workout takes your workout to the next level. Advanced HIIT workout is recommended for people who are already in good shape and exercising regularly. Here each form is performed for 45 seconds non-stop as hard and fast as you can with a 5 second rest period in between.  Repeat this for a total workout time of 30 minutes. Why HIIT Workouts Are Catching Up Fast? An estimate of 30% of people worldwide is not physically active. The main reason cited for this is not having enough time to exercise. If this is the reason, then a dedicated HIIT for beginners routine is the right choice for you. Studies show that a HIIT workout burns 25-30% more calories than any other form of exercise. One of the biggest advantages of HIIT is that you can get maximum benefits in a minimal time. According to a 2016 study published in the journal PLoS One, HIIT's quick pace helps to reap all the benefits more efficiently than low impact exercise. Let’s take a look at 5 top reasons to know why HIIT home workouts are catching up fast. Burns More Fat Faster HIIT is the best exercise to engage in when you want to burn away those stubborn fats. This high-intensity workout leads to an increased rate of fat oxidation as well as excess post-exercise oxygen consumption, which occurs when your body recovers from its oxygen-deprived state during the HIIT exercise. You burn fat nine times faster after HIIT workouts than you do after a regular workout due to increased oxygen consumption. Also do keep in mind that what you eat will also be responsible for 80% of your success or failure. [caption id="attachment_11453" align="alignnone" width="300"] HIIT Workouts and their benefits[/caption] Source: xplorerlife.com Increases Metabolism In addition to increased fat burning and more muscle preservation, HIIT workouts stimulate the production of your human growth hormone. HGH is responsible for increased caloric burn and also slows down the ageing process which is an added benefit. Due to the intensity of the workout, HIIT workout can elevate your metabolism for hours after exercise. As a result, additional calories get burnt even after you have finished exercising. [caption id="attachment_11451" align="alignnone" width="300"] HIIT increases metabolism[/caption] Source: wallpapercave.com Healthy Heart A healthy diet and exercise are essential for a healthy heart. Coronary artery disease is often described as clogging of arteries which can lead to heart attacks but with HIIT workouts the VO2 peak increased by 17.9 per cent. These results show that HIIT can improve heart health and help to prevent and reverse the symptoms of stable coronary artery disease. This high-intensity workout pushes you to extreme training which yields extreme results. Regulates Blood Sugar Levels Research has shown that people suffering from pre-diabetes or type-2 diabetes can benefit significantly from HIIT training because this workout actually increases glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity, which in turn, helps to regulate blood glucose at healthy levels. This is great news for people living with diabetes, making a huge difference in their lives. People who aren’t diabetic can also benefit from this, as regulating blood sugar levels helps to maintain energy levels. [caption id="attachment_11449" align="alignnone" width="300"] HIIT exercises help you make your heart healthy[/caption] Source: prodd8.planetfitness.com Workout Anywhere If you don’t enjoy going to the gym, then Hiit workouts are the thing for you. It gives you the flexibility to get an effective workout in a place of your choice, be it while travelling, or when you are simply pinched for time and space. You don’t need any equipment to get started – running, biking, jump squat, push up all work great for HIIT workouts. These workouts can be modified based on the time and space constraints you have and still enjoy the benefits to their fullest. [caption id="attachment_11452" align="alignnone" width="300"] Source: womenshealthmag.com[/caption] Simple Tips On How To Do HIIT Workouts For Beginners Before you get started it’s a good idea to have some basic knowledge about HIIT for beginners. HIIT workouts are great for a lot of reasons—they’re short, they’re effective, and you can do them from anywhere without any equipment. Here are a few tips that you must consider when including HIIT in your overall fitness journey. Warm Ups A Must Warming up and stretching before any workout is the most important thing you can do. It’s especially important to warm-up before HIIT because of how high-impact the workout can be. You’re pushing your body to its potential, so it is important to make sure that your muscles are ready for that. [caption id="attachment_11450" align="alignnone" width="300"] HIIT is good for cardio[/caption] Source: stylist.co.uk Keep it Simple It’s always good to keep it simple and focus on forms of exercise that work your entire body when you’re new. Choose a simple one to start off with and designate time to complete each exercise. Complete all exercises with no rest in between; take a short rest once they’re all completed, then repeat. Don’t Overstrain HIIT workouts make you push yourself beyond your physical limits. Don’t go all out on your first try, gauge what your body is capable of handling, and push your limits only when you are ready. If you’re performing too many HIIT sessions each week, then you are definitely overtraining. https://cece.travel.earth/experience/fitness-for-all-reasons-and-seasons/ Fuel Well Make sure your body is properly fueled before a workout, especially for a beginner. Keep yourself hydrated by drinking plenty of water. It is also advised to load up on the proper nutrients before you workout so that your body has all the energy to burn. [caption id="attachment_11446" align="alignnone" width="300"] Source: bustle.com[/caption] HIIt For Beginners Workout To Do At Home With HIIT, your workout period of time is going to be really short with easy recovery periods. Here you will be pushing yourself a level higher than you would. For a beginner, the most important thing is to do the moves right. For faster execution, do not compromise on the quality of the forms. Here is a 15 minutes effective HIIT for beginners workout that focuses on the full body rather than specific areas.         Warm-up before you start.         Set your timer for 50 seconds for each exercise and rest for 10 seconds after each exercise.         Start with jumps or jumping jacks which are good HIIT cardio exercises.         Then move on to the arms with push-ups or triceps dips.         Move to another minute of cardio with high knees or jump rope.         Squats or lunges or jump lunges to boost the energy in your legs.         End the cycle with crunches or plank position, a good exercise for abs.         Repeat the entire cycle two more times. HIIT workouts are becoming popular for all the good reasons. There are endless HIIT workouts for beginner, intermediate and advanced levels, so there is something for everyone to choose from these fitness levels. There are many ways to do HIIT for beginners, so pick one that suits you and get to it. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, contact a professional healthcare provider before you start.  FAQs On HIIT For Beginners: Q: Is HIIT training good for beginners? A: HIIT workout is great for all levels. For a beginner it's best to start with 10 minutes of HIIT and move to longer workouts as your fitness improves. Q: How many days a week should I do HIIT workouts? A: Two to three days a week is an effective amount of workout, there's no need to do it every day. Q: What is HIIT good for? A: HIIT workouts are good to lower body fat, blood sugar, heart rate and blood pressure. Q: Is HIIT effective for weight loss? A: Yes, HIIT workouts are extremely effective for weight loss. Q: What Type of Training Methods Use HIIT? A: Any type of cardio workout like, running, stair climbing, rowing, or jumping rope can use HIIT. Q: How many calories do a 10 minute HIIT workout burn? A: An average person may burn about 150 calories with a 10-minute interval workout.    

Yoga is very popular across the world and there are a host of followers who swear by it. To begin with, let’s understand…what is Yoga? The word "Yoga" means the union between the mind and body. It’s derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Yuj’, which means ‘join or unite’.  The origin of Yoga dates back to thousands of years, believed to have started long before the first religion or belief systems were born. There are so many different types of yoga practices that are possible for anyone to start with, be it kids, teenagers, adults, or old age people. Everyone has unique needs and we need to find the ideal yoga type that suits us the best. Here Are 12 Different Types Of Yoga And Their Benefits With so many different types of yoga out there, finding your ideal yoga type may be a little difficult. Here we take you through some popular types of yoga that will make it easy for you to understand your type and enhance your overall yoga experience. Read on to find your yoga soul mate here. Hatha Yoga Basically, a combination of breath works with physical postures that have most of the yoga styles. What is Hatha Yoga? “Hatha” means the yoga of sensation or movement is also known as slow flow or gentle flow yoga. It involves a small introduction to basic yoga postures for beginners. There are more than 250 different types of yoga poses from Hatha yoga. They may not leave you sweaty and tired, but surely gives you a relaxed and stretched feeling. Benefits: Teaches how to relax, breathe and meditate. Difficulty Level: Gentle What To Expect: Classes start with a chant, then move on to breath work, poses and ends with a quiet meditation. [caption id="attachment_10010" align="alignleft" width="300"] different types of yoga Source: TOI[/caption]             Kundalini Yoga Kundalini Yoga is for people who want to experience the spiritual side of yoga. So what is Kundalini Yoga? The Sanskrit translation of the word is “life force energy”, which focuses on awakening and releasing the energy at the base of the spine. Kundalini yoga poses focus on chanting, singing, meditation, breathing exercises and kriyas with challenging poses. It stirs everything up in your body to the point that it brings out a lot of emotions that are trapped within you. Benefits: Purifies blood and strengthens the nervous system. Difficulty Level: Gentle What To Expect: Kundalini yoga class has three parts: starts with a chant, a brief warm-up and then kriya with breathing techniques. Finally, it ends with chanting and singing. [caption id="attachment_10011" align="alignnone" width="300"] what is yoga[/caption] Source: sleepfoundation.org Vinyasa Yoga One of the most popular styles of yoga because of its sensual movements, pleasant music is usually performed with the eyes closed or in a dark room. What is Vinyasa Yoga? Vinyasa yoga, also called flow yoga, means linking breath with movement. Poses in Viniyasa Yoga are usually in a flowing sequence that looks similar to a dance. The slow flow-like movement calms the mind and nervous system. For people who have never tried yoga before, Vinyasa yoga is the one to start with. Benefits: Improves lung capacity, concentration and self-control. Difficulty Level: Gentle What To Expect: Generally starts with a warm-up session for the body and muscles. Then it moves into a variety of postures and asana that include standing, sitting, twists, balancing, inversions and backbends. [caption id="attachment_10012" align="alignnone" width="300"] vinyasa yoga flow[/caption] Source: yogapractice.com Ashtanga Yoga Ashtanga or the “eight limb path” is very physically demanding and is popular among celebrities all around the world. What is Ashtanga Yoga? The word Ashtanga means “eight limbs”, a traditional Indian Yoga. This involves doing a lot of standing and floor postures with multiple Surya namaskars. One can move to the next level only after mastering the previous one. This is generally performed without music, and sometimes without verbal instruction. Anyone who likes routine or heavy physical practice can opt for this form. It takes years to master this form. Benefits: Improves flexibility and strength. Difficulty Level: Challenging What To Expect: Ashtanga yoga class always starts with Sun Salutations to warm you up. Here there is a nonstop series of yoga poses done in the same order every time without music. [caption id="attachment_10013" align="alignnone" width="300"] what is ashtanga yoga[/caption] Restorative Yoga When the body enters a state of relaxation the mind can also consciously relax as tension is released. What is Restorative Yoga? As the name suggests, restorative yoga poses are meant to relax and rejuvenate. Restorative yoga sequences are performed by holding yoga poses for a longer duration using props like yoga blocks, blankets, and bolsters. This form of yoga helps to tap your parasympathetic nervous system so that you can relax your mind and body. If you are in a stressful job or struggling with insomnia, anxiety and stress-related illnesses, then you should definitely try restorative yoga. Benefits: Deeply relaxes and rejuvenates the body. Difficulty Level: Gentle What To Expect: This style of yoga is practised at a slow pace, focusing on stillness, long holds, and deep breathing. You need to hold a pose for 5 minutes or more hence end up performing only a handful of poses. [caption id="attachment_10015" align="alignnone" width="300"] restorative yoga[/caption] Aerial Yoga Aerial yoga, also referred to as anti-gravity yoga, is relatively new and is catching up fast. It shares a lot of similarities with traditional yoga poses. However, in aerial yoga poses, the weight of your body will be supported by a silky hammock that hangs from the ceiling. Due to the reverse flow, blood gushes to your brain and provides the oxygen it needs for the functioning of the brain. Being suspended in the air gives more space to move and even improves lung capacity. Benefits: Enhances core strength and deepens stretches. Difficulty Level: Challenging What To Expect: Same poses performed on the mat will be performed here with a sling that is suspended from the ceiling. You will be expected to do variations of squats, lunges and warrior sequences. Come prepared as for some of the poses you'll be upside down. Image Source: delhitesmagazine.com Power Yoga Power yoga workouts are generally done at a quicker pace than other styles of yoga. What is Power Yoga? Also known as modern yoga it helps in strengthening the muscles and also increases flexibility. Emphasis is more on the upper body and standing postures because moving your legs gets your heart pumping fast. A key component of core power yoga is cardio. These types of yoga are good for people looking for a good workout with less spiritual practice. Benefits: Strengthens your cardiovascular health. Difficulty Level: Challenging What To Expect: The type of yoga poses are hard as one needs to move from one pose to the other quickly. Here the focus is more on movements rather than on individual attention. [caption id="attachment_10017" align="alignnone" width="300"] power yoga workouts[/caption] Iyengar Yoga Iyengar Yoga is accessible for all body types and can be practiced in all stages of life. This type of yoga emphasizes detail, precision and alignment while performing the yoga postures. Here the focus is on the structural alignment of the physical body through precision and timing of the asanas. The use of props to assist the students to do the asanas was introduced here. This ensures that the asanas can be practiced safely and correctly by beginners and advanced students. Benefits: Helps improve physical and psychological health. Difficulty Level: Challenging What To Expect: Iyengar yoga has an approach to work towards holding difficult postures longer. This may include standing poses, seated twists, arm balances, backbends, forward bends or arm balances. Prenatal Yoga This yoga is specifically designed for moms-to-be who can work out without putting the fetus at risk. Prenatal yoga postures are safe for expecting moms in all trimesters. It’s generally associated with easing pains during pregnancy and labour. They are specifically tailored for stretching, mental centring and focus on breathing. Research suggests that prenatal yoga is safe and comes with multiple benefits for pregnant women and their babies. Benefits: Relief from pregnancy complaints and preparing for delivery. Difficulty Level: Gentle What To Expect: Focus here is on gentle stretching and postures that are suitable for a pregnant body. The practice of some breathing techniques, which can be of help during labour. Face Yoga Lack of facial exercise and tremendous stress can cause a lot of pressure and tension on the facial muscles. Face yoga exercises stimulate the muscles, skin, and lymphatic system that help to release tension. Facial yoga can refresh your face within minutes and brighten up your face. Performing these types of yoga can delay the onset of wrinkles. Benefits: Promotes healthy and glowing skin. Difficulty Level: Gentle What To Expect: Face yoga starts with a standing warm-up, seated facial exercises, and ends with meditation. Format is the same each time - exercises, sound work, acupressure, breathing practices, and simple massage techniques. Source: healthista.com Hot Yoga In recent years hot yoga has become very popular among people who want to sweat it out during a workout. What is Hot Yoga? Generally in hot yoga, the room is heated above normal room temperature somewhere between 80 and 100°F. The benefits of hot yoga are the same as traditional yoga, it reduces the stress level, gives flexibility and improves strength. This is a vigorous form of yoga that has the ability to give your heart, lungs, and muscles an intense workout. [caption id="attachment_10020" align="alignnone" width="300"] Image Source: verywellfit.com[/caption] How To Choose The Right Yoga Style To get the maximum benefit from each of the different types of yoga styles it’s very important that one chooses a style that matches one's fitness level and personality. Each style is better suited for specific body types, so before you pick on the yoga style that's right for you ask yourself these important questions to figure out your intention. This will help you zero in on a style that suits you the best.         Are you doing yoga to get into shape or to have a connection between the mind and body?         Do you have an injury or limitations which will restrict your moments?         Any medical condition which needs to be checked by your doctor before starting?   Different Types Of Yoga Styles For Different Body Types Here are a few tips intended to provide general advice on what type of yoga will be most beneficial for different body types:         Thin Body Type – Naturally thin bodies are more likely to tolerate warmth, hence hot yoga will be ideal.         Lean Body Type - Ashtanga yoga is good for lean body types because it is based around the sun salutation sequences where one needs both strength and flexibility to perform these poses.         Curvy Body Type - Though Iyengar yoga is very detail-oriented it works best for curvy body types as it has a slow static format. As per research, flexibility increased in just six weeks with the practice of Iyengar yoga once a week.         Moderate Body Type - one of the best yoga practices for beginners, Hatha yoga is perfect for moderately built as they will have the strength and flexibility to perform most of the yoga postures.         Athletic Body Type - Yin yoga is recommended to counteract a tight muscle-bound athletic body type as it is entirely focused on slow deep stretches.   The beauty of yoga is that everyone can practice it, be it young or old, everyone can reap the benefits of yoga. It has the power to calm both the mind and the body. As seen, each and every style of yoga has its unique benefits. Take some time to understand and learn different types of yoga styles with the help of some experienced yoga teachers before settling on the one that suits you the best. When you are ready, roll out your yoga mat and take advantage of all the above different types of yoga for healthy living. FAQ’s On Different Types of Yoga Q: What body type is best for yoga? A: Yoga is ideal for any body type. Choose the best yoga type that suits your body to ensure that you have a positive experience. Q: How Many Types of Yoga Are There? A: There are many different types of yoga, some focus on meditation and mindfulness while some focus on strength and endurance. Q: Is there a 'best' type of yoga? A: There is no one style of yoga that can be the best for you. It’s likely to keep changing depending on your mood and time of day. Q: What are the 5 major types of yoga? A: Hatha, Vinyasa, Hot yoga, Ashtanga and Kundalini yoga are some of the most popular types of yoga. Q: Is the practice of Iyengar Yoga good for weight loss? A: In Iyengar style, the yoga poses are kept for a little longer period of time. This increases the way a particular pose is performed thereby helping in weight loss. Q: What is Broyoga? A: Broyoga is a yoga class specifically geared for men which combines core-strengthening, muscle toning, cardio, de-stressing yoga postures with functional exercises for a startling workout.

Understanding a place’s culture and history lies in its cuisine. There is no better way to do it than trying out street food from around the world. Easy, inexpensive, authentic and supremely delicious, one can never get enough of street food! Although we enjoy elaborate meals at restaurants, it’s often the street foods that yield some of life’s most cherished moments and enlighten us in unexpected ways. Eating street food is not only an absolutely vital part of the travel experience but also an opportunity to catch up with locals and know more about the traditions behind them. Here we have rounded up some of the best street food places around the world to give you a whole new reason to plan your next vacation. [caption id="attachment_12849" align="alignnone" width="779"] Source: discoverhongkong.com[/caption] London, UK London’s food markets have delicious food with tons of options to try from. When it comes to street food, London has rows of tempting stalls, brunch spots and afternoon tea stalls. Some of the best food here is dished up on the street, and eaten with a wooden fork. These food markets are perfect for trying new things on a budget. From brunch to lunchtime bites till nightlife, London is any foodies' dream come true. The streets of London are always alive with the enticing aroma of food. You’ll be in for a treat of Caribbean cuisine if you are in London for the Notting Hill Carnival. From the historic Borough Market to the new Maltby Street Market, there is no shortage of street food options here! Must Try: Katsu Wrap, Tea-Brined Chicken Strips, Ahi Poke Bowl, BBQ Ribs.   Mumbai, India Besides Bollywood the next best thing about Mumbai is the street food. The food here is unbelievably overwhelming and doubly satisfying. You will find hawkers setting up food stalls at every street corner and pavements selling hot portions of snacks and meals. People from all economic classes eat from the roadside food stalls, which serve some of the best local food, sometimes even better than many restaurants. The street hawkers have improvised and are now serving a variety of food that includes snacks, main courses, desserts, and even a few international cuisines. Mumbai has a long list of contrasting flavors that range from hot to sweet to savory, and textures from soft to crispy to creamy, making it a culinary paradise for locals and travelers alike without burning their pockets. Must Try: Bombay Sandwich, Kebabs, Vada Pav, Pav Bhaji, Samosas, Chaats.   Singapore Singapore takes the top spot because they offer some of the safest and economical eats in the world. Thanks to the stricter health regulations set up by the government for the hawkers. If you walk down the right street at the right time you can double down on some fresh fish dumplings without fear, tear out the eyeballs of curried fish heads with reckless abandon, and slurp star anise-scented pork rib soup until your heart's content. Singapore's massive scope, creativity, varieties of dishes available, and the fact that you can eat all this stuff with confidence earns them the title of best street-food city in the world. Must Try: Dumplings, Chilli Crab, Oyster Omelets, Hainanese Chicken Rice, Pork Rib Soup. [caption id="attachment_12854" align="alignnone" width="770"] Source: lonelyplanet.com[/caption] Bangkok, Thailand It’s almost impossible to have bad food when you are at one of the night markets in Bangkok as every corner of the city has something delicious in the making. Food is made with fresh ingredients bought at the market earlier in the day and usually prepared in front of you. The sidewalks are filled with vendors from different parts of the city operating on a fixed rotation. Some take care of the breakfast crowd while others dish up for lunch and dinner. A huge variety of meals, including seafood and vegetarian dishes can be found here. Food is tasty because of the complexity of flavors and quality ingredients even on a budget. Be ready for mounds of basil, garlic, chilies on top of everything, and plenty of sticky mango rice to combat the heat. Must Try: Curries, Noodles, Roasted Duck, Phad Thai Noodles, Grilled Satay. [caption id="attachment_12848" align="alignnone" width="779"] Source: fodors.com[/caption] Mexico City, Mexico Mexican street food is both flavorsome and a haven for food enthusiasts who love to try something new every day. It has created some of the greatest street food ever known to mankind. Throughout the day you can find street corners crowded with Mexicans huddling around a cart with a flat grill frying up meats to fill inside fresh tortillas. Tacos are the most important item on the list as you can wrap almost anything in a tortilla. Apart from traditional Mexican, even less-conventional ethnic food trucks are also starting to make their mark in street food. Not just the travelers but also the locals love to eat street food at least once a week. Must Try: Street Corn, Al Pastor Tacos, Gorditas, Churros, Quesadillas, Tostadas. [caption id="attachment_12853" align="alignnone" width="774"] Source: hotelmousai.com[/caption] Check out how to make some mouthwatering Chicken Schnitzel with Cece Streams. Texas, America We all know American street food is responsible for the popular burgers, however, as you explore street food you will be surprised that there is far more to choose from. The mouth-watering street food hits the right spot every time with different flavors from different states you visit. There is no better place to experience great food with mobile food trucks dishing out delicious and diverse culinary delights on any given day. Everywhere you travel in America, you’ll find people from numerous cultural backgrounds, putting their own take on American street food. Foodies can discover the real America by booking with a local tour guide for down to earth cuisine that is relatively inexpensive. Must Try: Hamburgers, Hot Dogs, Donuts, Mac and Cheese, Loaded Baked Potato. [caption id="attachment_12855" align="alignnone" width="777"] Source: journalnow.com[/caption] The street food scenes today are resonating with appetite more than ever before. Wherever you travel in the world, the most authentic flavor of any destination is the ordinary food cooked with fresh ingredients right on the street. Make sure to share your own must-eat street food destination in the comment box below.

Paint brushes are incredibly powerful tools that help artists put out their imagination on the canvas. Nearly every artist has these tools in their studio as paint and paint brushes go hand-in-hand. Paint brushes come in various sizes, shapes, and materials. You’ve got various options when it comes to picking out your favorite paint brush. Every artist has their own style of painting, so there is no right or wrong brushes. It’s up to the artist to decide which one they are most comfortable working with! Here we take you through all that you need to know about the different types of paint brushes to make it easier to achieve different effects you are looking for. [caption id="attachment_12038" align="alignnone" width="764"] Source: letsmakeart.com[/caption] Anatomy Of Paint Brushes Paint brushes are an artist’s most important tool, so it is best to understand the various parts of your paintbrush before you start. These magical wands (paintbrush) consist of three major parts - bristles, ferrule, and handle. Bristles - Bristles is the head of the brush that holds the paint. This type of paint brushes are made from natural hair, synthetic fibers, or a combination of both. Bristles come in different shapes, which dictate the type of brush it is; bright, fan, filbert, flat and round. The tip of the bristles is called the toe, while the heel is where the strands go into the ferrule at the tip of the handle, and the belly is the fattest part of the bristle head. Ferrule - The ferrule of a brush is the metal band that holds the brush together, and the crimp is the part of the ferrule that holds the bristles and the handle together. Ferrules are made from tin, aluminum, brass, copper alloy, nickel, or chrome plated. The quality of the ferrules should be good; else the bristles may fall out. Handle - Handles are made from a wide variety of material like plastic, wood, acrylic or even bones. Length of the handle differs from brand to brand. Long handles help an artist reach further while shorter ones provide more control. The number printed on the handle indicates the size of the paint brushes, starting from 0, 1, 2, up to 12 or larger. [caption id="attachment_12043" align="alignnone" width="512"] Source: teresabernardart.com[/caption] Most Common Types Of Paint Brushes And Their Uses Paint brushes are available in a variety of sizes and shapes. You might be wondering, why are there so many types of paint brushes for art? To help navigate the wide variety of paintbrushes, we’ve outlined a few of the most common types below. Read on to know more about the types of art brushes and their uses for beginners and art-lovers. Round Paint Brushes The round brushes have bristles that are in a circular formation with pointed tips. They are the most adaptable kind of brushes as you can do a whole lot of things with them.  It’s ideal for painting lines of all sizes, covering large areas quickly and easy to work on details. Used For: Sketching, outlining, detailed work, controlled washes, and filling small areas. You can create thin lines with the tip and wider lines by pressing it down. [caption id="attachment_12042" align="alignnone" width="419"] Source: indiamart.com[/caption] Flat Paint Brushes Flat Paint Brushes are good for spreading paint quickly and evenly over a surface. They have flat style bristles that are square or rectangle in shape. Used For: Filling wide spaces and bold strokes. Use edges for fine lines, straight edges and stripes. Long haired flat paint brushes can be used for varnishing too. [caption id="attachment_12037" align="alignnone" width="420"] Source: amazon.in[/caption] Bright Paint Brushes A bright brush looks very similar to the flat brush but it has a shorter bristle than the flat brush. For best results hold the brush closer rather than holding the brush at a distance from the canvas. Used For: Short controlled strokes, thick heavy coloring. [caption id="attachment_12034" align="alignnone" width="425"] Source: htconline.in[/caption] Filbert Paint Brushes Filbert paint brushes are essentially a flat and oval-shaped end with medium to long hairs. Their rounded edges are effective in blending paint pigments. Natural fibers work best for filberts as the hairs stick together better when wet. Used For: Blending, detailing soft rounded edges, thick covering. [caption id="attachment_12036" align="alignnone" width="415"] Source: creativehands.in[/caption] Fan Paint Brushes The fan brush is a flat and splayed brush that can be used to stipple or flick paint onto the canvas. Fan brushes are great for creating unique textures and special effects. These types of painting brushes make it easy to create multiple lines or dots at once. It’s helpful in creating modulating marks and interesting textural effects. Used For: Good for smoothing, blending broad areas of paint, textural effects. [caption id="attachment_12035" align="alignnone" width="419"] Source: amazon.in[/caption] Angled Paint Brushes Use of angled paint brushes are versatile and can be applied in both general painting applications as well as some detail work. Bristles are tapered to a point which gives the brush the ability to spread pigment over large areas as well as paint tight corners to offer finer handling. Used For: Curved strokes, filling corners, filling wide spaces, to reach small areas with tips. [caption id="attachment_12033" align="alignnone" width="419"] Source: amazon.com[/caption] Mop Paint Brushes A mop brush is a large, round edged wash brush most commonly used to cover large areas. It is used for soft paint application as well as for getting thinner glazes over existing drying layers of paint without damaging lower layers. Used For: Covering large areas, for wetting the surface, and for absorbing excess media. [caption id="attachment_12040" align="alignnone" width="419"] Source: trekell.com[/caption] Have you ever tried coffee painting, click here for freshly brewed painting techniques Rigger Paint Brushes A rigger brush has longer hair compared to the other types of paint brushes. It is used for painting straight lines in oil, acrylic or watercolor. Rigger brushes are available in synthetic and sable hair. Used For: Good for drawing fine lines, commonly used to paint the rigging on maritime paintings. [caption id="attachment_12041" align="alignnone" width="420"] Source: desertcart.in[/caption] Paint brushes are like magic wands for weaving colors across the canvas. Choosing the correct brush makes it easy to create the masterpiece in your mind. Hope this page will help you choose the right paint brushes to suit your needs. It’s time to pick up your brushes. Happy painting!            

The pandemic has changed a lot for us and more for the environment. We’ve chosen to stay in and stay safe. There are many rules and regulations on health and sanitisation that have been looked into for well-being. This also gets a hold on all the travel plans due to the health regulations imposed by the governments of the different countries. But countering that virtual travel has taken over space. With almost three fourth of the world having travel restrictions cause of the coronavirus pandemic, there are series of the organisation providing virtual reality tours which adventurists and travellers are seeking, there is a high potential with this trend staying back for the long run. Virtual reality has given us the advantage of being in our personal space and exploring far-flung destinations, be it Machu Picchu or coastal Tanzania. It is also a very sustainable way to travel as it decreases the avg human carbon footprint and with a minimal environmental impact. This is a key solution to the problem of over-tourism and is the most eco-friendly way. It provides en number of ecological benefits, which the coronavirus lockdown has surfaced that include cleaner air and water. The question may arise as to, will tourist and travellers still have an interest in travelling virtually beyond the pandemic? And will VR technology sustain in the industry? Virtual travel experiences are growing in popularity. Valeriy Kondruk, CEO of a VR travel company Ascape, has seen app downloads grow 60 per cent from December (traditionally the busiest month) and double since January. In destinations that are overcrowded such as Machu Picchu, virtual reality experiences can help ease the infrastructure of the location. Airlines have jumped on the trend of virtual reality too. Emirates has created virtual tours of its Airbus A380 planes, so you can sip a real cocktail at home while pretending you’re at the onboard bar. Hawaiian Airlines launched a series of video tutorials, teaching the basics of the islands’ native language and how to make poke bowls like the ones served at Honolulu’s Koko Head Café. And so has Airbnb, which known as Airbnb Experiences, into digital formats after looking at google art and cultures 360-degree view of artefacts and museums around the world.. “We wanted to make sure that we could really transport people with an online experience and not lose the magic of connection and authenticity,” says Catherine Powell, Airbnb’s Global Head of Hosting. These almost real experiences still have as many disadvantages to their merits, the technology hasn’t reached its best. 360-degree virtual reality videos are experienced through a headset or an app. The headsets are expensive, heavy and are not comfortable to wear. There is no sense of touch, smell and feel. The local food cannot be tasted and experienced and these experiences are timed. Virtual reality extends only as far as it’s engineered. A traveller who is visiting India, in reality, can decide where to go and what to see. They can be influenced by the culture and by the people who are natives to the place. But the traveller going to India via virtual reality might never experience the climate or the country's experience.  It’s what the VR production company wants to offer and everyone of them might be designed differently, it might show or portray different worlds and be biased. Virtual reality may be of help in places like Chauvet-Pont-d’Arc, a Paleolithic cave painting site in southern France, which is too vulnerable to be visited. A nearby replica allows tourists to see copies of the paintings, leading to a higher potential of virtual reality travel experiences. Virtual reality may never replace traditional travel, but it still offers intriguing possibilities. If the technology becomes articulate and more environmentally conscious with its objective in aiming to reduce our carbon footprint and people sensitivity it can play a big role in the change of the tourism industry in case of a future pandemic or in general. VR travel does bring parts of the world to people who are physically unable to visit certain landmarks. It can get you an experience of Paris or in a tap of a button at your own comfort and it could help bring people to places that are otherwise inaccessible like area 51 for example. In the end, it all filters down to how virtual reality impacts travel and will be determined by the evolution and application of new technologies. There has been slow progress and not at a scale that is likely to disrupt the travel industry or support a drop in travel-related carbon emissions after the pandemic has ended. But just as travel platforms, from print to social media, offer some of the discoveries of actual exploration, virtual reality might bring faraway places closer and in so doing encourage travellers to embrace sustainable practices in deciding the destinations they want to visit in the future.

Virtual Tour is a sequence of high-resolution panoramic rotating images stitched together to give a full view of a location. The user has full control and can experience multiple locations with just a click of a button. Virtual tours can be used to capture tourism destinations in a unique and breathtaking way. The travel industry has started using this as a marketing tool to enhance customer experience and to stimulate actual tourism. A virtual tour is one of the best marketing tools that can help bring new customers in. With much of the world into lockdowns and travel restrictions, virtual travel has grown and developed in the recent past. As per experts, virtual tours has great potential to increase revenue in this sector and is here to stay even as borders and destinations reopen. Why Is Virtual Tourism An Important Marketing Tool In The Travel Industry? With the growing competition and high expectations from customers, travel industries need to improve their marketing strategies to attract a wider audience to remain in the race to the top. Virtual tourism is one such marketing tool that enables brand owners to present their services to potential customer’s right before their eyes. Virtual marketing provides great advantages to businesses as it allows their users to have an immersive experience by connecting directly with a service. This immersive experience can be anything from diving into the deepest seas to climbing the world’s highest mountains or flying in a helicopter to exploring the unexplored. Many travel promoters have already adopted Virtual technologies to provide a preview experience of hotel properties, cruise ships and travel destinations. The results of the experimental study demonstrated that this method of advertisement had a greater effect on visitors with most people wanting to come back and experience the destination for real after watching these virtual travel videos. [caption id="attachment_11108" align="alignnone" width="620"] Source: ecommercetimes.com[/caption] Virtual Tourism During The Pandemic COVID-19 brought the worldwide tourism industry to a standstill. Everyone’s plan for domestic and international trips in 2020 was brought to an abrupt halt due to the pandemic. With the future not looking too upbeat for the industry at this juncture, tourism business owners globally have adopted virtual tourism to survive the crisis. Many tourism industries adopted innovative approaches such as virtual tours as a marketing strategy to keep their attractions firmly in the minds of potential visitors. Tourists can now stay at home while listening to travel agents’ voices explaining localities and looking at places virtually through gadgets. People are touring the world from the comfort of their living room couch or maybe their beds, through their laptop or smartphone. Virtual tourism has gained attention as a marketing tool for travel companies during the Pandemic as it can rebuild travel for a post-pandemic world. Platforms like Google Earth VR offer virtual escapes 365 days a year and headsets like the Oculus Rift now provide 360-degree views of the world's most famous sites. Virtual tours are here to stay post-pandemic too. Effects of Virtual Tourism As Marketing Tool For Destinations Videos are powerful marketing tools, especially for the hospitality and travel industry. They have the ability to capture the attention of the audience much quicker than images or text. Let us take a look at how effective these marketing tools are. Marketing to Potential Customers in Advance Virtual travel videos allow potential customers to explore different destinations before making a booking. Customized maps, directions, routes, keeping the visitor's interest in mind is more convincing for the customer than a brochure of the destination. The transparency and authenticity of the travel company will boost confidence among potential clients through this marketing tool. [caption id="attachment_11111" align="alignnone" width="1400"] Source: arpost.co[/caption] Upward Trend in Sales Virtual tours are amazing sales tools that help you stand out in a crowded marketplace. With people being able to walk through the destination and find relevant information through the sales team via video chat, phone call, email, all within the tour itself makes for quicker decisions from the client's side. Virtual tours are essentially a newer and exciting way to build trust with customers and have a positive impact on them. This marketing tool has substantial potential which encourages real-life tourism visits that helps to increase bookings. Cater To Multiple Clients At The Same Time Virtual reality is especially intriguing for the tourism sector as a channel to communicate intangible tourism experiences to a wider audience. Ever imagined showing presentations to over five thousand clients per day? But now with virtual tours, people can walk through thousands of locations anywhere in the world at any time. A much easier approach of talking to a client and sending them the link to your tour that’s designed to entice them to enquire or buy. Saves a lot of time, this is called the power of a custom branded virtual tour. [caption id="attachment_11109" align="alignnone" width="2400"] Source: digitalmarketinginstitute.com[/caption] Enhances User Experience Virtual tours give users the opportunity to experience everything even before booking one. They are more likely to influence purchase intentions and be considered overall more effective than any other marketing tool. Potential clients get the opportunity to explore its facilities and even make direct bookings. In fact, this unique sensory experience is like storytelling, since the user gets enhanced on-site experiences. This is why virtual tourism is increasingly becoming the ultimate marketing tool for the travel industry. For such amazing virtual experiences, hop on to Cece, a master of virtual experiences. This marketing tool for destinations is flourishing as some of the world’s biggest travel companies have already integrated virtual tours as their travel marketing strategy. These tours are easy to navigate with just a couple of clicks. Destination marketing via virtual tours is taking it to another level. It won’t be long until travel companies use virtual reality catalogues or brochures to help their customers plan and book trips from the comfort of their homes. If you have taken virtual tours to any of your favourite destinations, please share some of your experiences with us.

If you want to dive into the world of performance as a performer or even a viewer you will not be disappointed because it’s a world filled with excitement and activities that would blow your mind. Performance art is a form of art that involves an artist in executing their art through actions. The artist uses their own face body and presence to exhibit this art to their audience. The performing arts range from vocal and instrumental music, dance, and theatre to pantomime, sung verse, and beyond. Performing arts is known to include expressions from various cultures that reflect creativity brought down from various generations. Performing arts involve using facial expressions, voice, and body language to communicate a creative fabrication. The major types of performing arts include music, opera, dance, drama, and spoken words. Cece Streams Offer You Some Of The Great Experiences That Will Blow Your Mind Types Of Performance Arts To Look Out For  Music Music is perhaps the most universal form of performance art out there. It has the ability to connect people from different walks of life as well from different parts of the world. It can be found in the most diverse contexts: sacred or profane, classical or popular, closely connected to work or entertainment. It’s a performance that utilizes the medium of silence and sound. The common elements of music include rhythm, pitch, dynamics, timbre, and texture. The performance, creation, significance, and definition of this art depend on the social context and culture. There are various genres of music that are enjoyed by people from different generations and introducing the people in your lives to the music you like is also the best way to socially connect.  [caption id="attachment_11740" align="alignnone" width="300"] performing arts centre[/caption] Dance Though complex dance can be simply defined as the art of ordered bodily movements to music. It is also a way to describe non-verbal situations between humans and certain animals. The art of dance through the use of body language and movements attempts to convey emotion, stories, and character tendencies Dance is categorized and described by its choreography, its repertoire of movements, or by its historical period or place of origin. There are also various types of performances in the world of dance One being a theatrical dance that has the primary aim to be a spectacle and is performed on a stage by dancers who have had years to master their craft.  It often tells a story, perhaps using mime, costume, and scenery, or just interpreting the musical accompaniment. Participatory dance, on the other hand, s undertaken primarily for a common purpose, such as social interaction or exercise, or building flexibility of participants rather than to serve any benefit to the onlooker. Over the years dance has evolved to various styles like ballet, break-dancing, and krumping which not only involves usage of the human body kinetics and flexibility but also physics. [caption id="attachment_11741" align="alignnone" width="300"] what is performing arts[/caption] Drama  Originating from the Greek word “drao” meaning action, Drama is a branch of performing art that is concerned with acting out stories in front of an audience. It's an art that uses speech, movements, gesture, music, dance, sound, and spectacle, it can be said that when it comes to performance art dance covers all the bases. The structure of the text for dramas is usually influenced by collective reception and collaborative production. Traditional theatre performances usually combine acting, singing, dance and music, dialogue, narration, or recitation but may also include puppetry or pantomime. From the Shakespearean era, drama and theatre have been a popular way of entertainment and this form of performance art lives on. Theatre is was gave birth to masterpieces like classical Athenian tragedy, "Oedipus the King" of Sophocles, and "Hamlet" of William Shakespeare. [caption id="attachment_11739" align="alignnone" width="300"] Performing art forms[/caption] Spoken Word  Spoken word refers to oral poetic performance art that is based mainly on the poem as well as the performer's aesthetic qualities. Spoken word is a "catchall" term that includes any kind of poetry recited aloud, including poetry readings, poetry slams, jazz poetry, and hip-hop music. It is often used as a form of entertainment that involves works that are intended to be performed by an individual who speaks by himself. Spoken word has been around for many years, long before the process of writing, poetry is primarily oral utterance. Poetry, like music, appeals to the ear, an effect known as euphony or onomatopoeia, a device to represent a thing or action by a word that imitates sound. In entertainment, spoken word performances consist of poetry, storytelling, or speeches. Experience A New Form Of Entertainment Performance art transports you to a world filled with cultural aspects and years of heritage and entertains you in a way that will not only be memorable but would make you want to attend events again and again. Indulging in such activities allow you to explore your inner artist as well as lead you to a way you can positively express yourself. Whether you enjoy dance, some amazing music, or just wish to experience theatre there are events that happen on the daily. Also, if you wish to take a break from the regular form of entertainment, why not dive into some amazing performance art.  FAQ’S Related To Performing Arts  What is live art performance? Live art refers to performances or events undertaken or staged by an artist or a group of artists as a work of art, usually innovative and exploratory in nature. The term is mainly used to refer to performance art, action art and their precursor happenings, together with later developments of performance since the 1960s. Live art may also refer to art using living animals or plants.  What are the benefits of getting a performing arts degree? In many findings, researchers are linking the study of performing arts to better child development and higher academic achievement. Alongside physical education, the performing arts assist youngsters with body control, focus and fitness, encouraging high-quality lifestyle choices and assisting to inculcate the habits of fitness and wellbeing. What are the 3 major categories of performing arts? The performing arts are arts such as music, dance, and drama which are performed for an audience. What is the importance of performing arts in education? If performance arts are in the curriculum are made an integral part of the education, it would provide students with the opportunity to engage the mind, the body, and emotions. Through their performance, students can explore and express great themes and ideas. Such activities also allow students to develop their self-confidence.  What are the quality and elements of performing arts? A defining characteristic of Performance Art is the body, considered the primary MEDIUM and conceptual material on which Performance Art is based. The four basic elements that are involved in performing arts are time, space, body, presence of the artist, and the relation between the creator and the public.      

Rum Cocktails emerged organically much before the word “cocktail” was spoken. Born in the Caribbean, the rum cocktails celebrate the diversity of drinks from the Caribbean and beyond. Of all the liquors, rum is definitely the most delightfully refreshing drink and very cocktail-friendly. Initially, rum was mixed with water and then later went on to be paired with sweet and tangy fruity flavors, making rum cocktails very easy to drink. Today the great old rum cocktails of the past are returning to their fresh roots. With rum cocktails having featured in countless cocktail recipes, people have enjoyed them for decades and still continue to do so. To make choosing a little easier for you, we've rounded up a list of the best rum cocktails.  Ultimate Guide To The Best Rum Cocktails That You Must Try! There are so many rum cocktail recipes that you need to try, from the brilliantly simple dark and stormy to the warm and inviting Piña Coladas. There is a drink on this list for every occasion, taste, and season. Here are some tasty rum cocktails for you to try. Find your favorite among these best rum cocktails and let’s bring them back on the scene in a big way. Pina Colada Ingredients: Aged rum, frozen pineapple, pineapple juice, lime juice, coconut cream, and ice. A true tropical classic made with pineapple, rum, and coconut and served with crushed ice is sure to take you on a mental journey to the Caribbean islands. The perfect balance between all the ingredients makes it an all-time favorite. The original drink was invented in San Juan in 1954 by a bartender, which became an instant favorite and was declared the official drink of Puerto Rico. There are two versions of the drink, both originated in Puerto Rico. [caption id="attachment_10789" align="aligncenter" width="700"] Source: foodnetwork.com[/caption] Learn your favorite rum cocktail recipe online Hurricane Cocktail Ingredients: Light rum, dark rum, passion fruit syrup, orange juice, lime juice, and grenadine. One of the best rum cocktails that are fruity and extra boozy and simply refreshing on a hot summer day. With a mix of these sweet tropical flavors, it’s actually one of the easy cocktails with rum, though it looks and tastes rather complicated. Credit for the original hurricane rum cocktail goes to Pat O'Brien's Bar in New Orleans. This trendy drink has rum in abundance and it's said that this drink was created to get rid of the large stock of rum. [caption id="attachment_10793" align="aligncenter" width="700"] Source: tablespoon.com[/caption] Mai Tai Ingredients: Aged rum, dark rum, orange liqueur, lime, orgeat syrup. This perfect-for-parties rum-based cocktail is a Hawaiian classic cocktail from the 1940s. As the name suggests, “Mai tai-roa aé” which means “out of this world” is truly one of the best rum cocktails in the world. Its sophisticated, nuanced, and extraordinarily special ingredients give you a taste that’s just sweet enough, with nutty and vanilla notes against the sharp citrus with a little dark rum floating on top. Garnished with mint and a fresh lime peel symbolizes a palm tree and an island. Classic Daiquiri Ingredients: White rum, lime juice, and simple syrup. The Classic Daiquiris are easy rum cocktails mixed up with only three ingredients. Once you have mastered this simple mix you can experiment with possible flavors that are endless. Thought to have been invented in the 1800s in Cuba, bears no resemblance to its frozen American cousins. This perfectly balanced rum cocktail served straight up with its sweet and sour flavor is sure to hook you from your first sip. [caption id="attachment_10791" align="aligncenter" width="700"] Source: delish.com[/caption] Dark And Stormy Ingredients: Dark rum, ginger beer, lime wedge. Born in Bermuda, this refreshing drink has quite a reputation. Dark ’n’ Stormy is a highball cocktail made with dark rum and ginger beer served over ice and garnished with a slice of lime. One of the best rum drinks to have after a long day at work. It also goes down a lot easier, opposite to what the name might imply. This refreshing drink made with just three ingredients is super easy to pour and sipped at any time in any season. [caption id="attachment_10790" align="aligncenter" width="700"] Source: manofmany.com[/caption] Easy vodka cocktails recipes online just for you Watermelon Mojito Ingredients: White rum, watermelon, simple syrup, lime, mint, soda. This fruity twist given to the standard Mojito classic rum cocktails is refreshing for the hottest of summer days. The best thing about this classic rum-spiked Mojito is its versatility. When you combine fruits with rum in a cocktail, you get a revitalizing drink that can thwart even the warmest of days. Havana, Cuba, is the birthplace of the mojito, although the exact origin of this drink is murky and is the subject of debate.            [caption id="attachment_10795" align="aligncenter" width="700"] Source:parentingchaos.com[/caption] Hot Buttered Rum Ingredients: Dark rum, spiced butter, Hot water. Hot Buttered Rum remains a classic drink that’s ideal for sipping by the fire on a chilly evening. A mix of these simple ingredients that’s available in your kitchen pantry makes for a subtly sweet and spiced cinnamon drink, spirit-forward with dark rum. Don’t forget to add enough butter to make it lightly creamy and foamed up on the top, creating a layer of rich oily decadence. Next time when winter hits, forget all the fruit cocktails and make some hot buttered rum cocktails! [caption id="attachment_10792" align="aligncenter" width="700"] Source: epicurious.com[/caption] Jungle Bird Ingredients: Dark rum, pineapple juice, lime juice, Campari, and simple syrup. The garnish makes this tropical rum cocktail special by using a pineapple wedge and a few leaves along with a cherry to create a "jungle bird" adornment for the glass. It’s one of the few rum cocktails to pair tropical flavors with an Italian Campari that makes a refreshing balanced drink and the effect too is surprising. Campari is added to get the right touch of bitterness this drink needs. The Jungle Bird rum cocktails date back to the 1970s when it was served as a welcome drink. [caption id="attachment_10794" align="aligncenter" width="700"] Source:thespruceeats.com[/caption] 12 easy cocktail recipes for you to try at home Now that you have the best and easiest rum cocktails to make, find a favorite among these and pour yourself one to get transported to a Caribbean island or to your favorite local cocktail bar. Do share your experience in the comment box below.