Latest news with #Carribean
Scottish Sun
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Stunning outdoor swimming pool near major Scots city opens to public for summer
The unique pool is heated so swimmers can enjoy a cosy swim no matter what the Scottish weather brings SPLASH OF COLOUR Stunning outdoor swimming pool near major Scots city opens to public for summer A POPULAR Scottish swimming pool has opened up to the public to enjoy over the summer months. The unique colourful pool, found in Jupiter Artland on the skirts of Edinburgh, will be available to book every Thursday between 6pm and 8pm. 6 The unique colourful pool can be found in Jupiter Artland Credit: Alamy 6 The 100-acre sculpture park is on the outskirts of Edinburgh Credit: Alamy Nestled within the 100-acre sculpture park, it is part of an art installation designed by the renowned artist Joana Vasconcelos. The 'Gateway' pool was crafted from thousands of intricately hand-painted Portuguese tiles, the pool is a visually stunning and spiritual visitor space. The water is heated so swimmers can enjoy a cosy swim no matter what the Scottish weather brings. Both public and private sessions are available, accommodating up to 12 guests. Individual slots can be reserved to enjoy the pool with fellow swimmers. A bathing session includes the cost of entry to wander the full Artland - with prices ranging from £15 for members to £27 for adults. A statement on Jupiter Artland said: "Gateway, the iconic swimming pool by @atelierjoanavasconcelos is open for evening sessions every Thursday. "Immerse yourself in art as you drift through colourful patterns - whether under a golden sunset or a gentle summer rain, the heated pool keeps you cosy throughout. "Every Thursday, 6-8pm. Spend a serene two hours surrounded by art and nature. Includes 1.5 hours in the pool, with time to change before and after. "Please note that Sunset Swim also includes full access to the Artland before your session to experience the full park." New $422m waterpark to open in US right next to major shopping mall – with massive swimming pool, loungers, & slides Other Scottish pools to enjoy a refreshing dip include: New Cumnock pool, East Ayrshire 6 The country's only outdoor heated freshwater swimming pool Credit: Facebook Hailed as one of the UK's hidden gems, this recently refurbished lido-style pool is the perfect swimming spot. It is the country's only outdoor heated freshwater swimming pool, warming up to 30C - so it's also ideal for chillier days. New Cumnock Pool is quite literally fit for a king - it gained the royal seal of approval when King Charles, who formally opened it in 2017, branded it "decidedly splendid". There's also a small cafe on site where you can grab a bite to eat and refuel after a swim sesh. All while enjoying the picturesque countryside views which surround it. Gourock Pool, Inverclyde 6 Swimmers can enjoy a spectacular view as they bathe Credit: Alamy Visitors have likened this heated open-air saltwater pool to the Carribean. It boasts spectacular views of the Clyde Estuary, the Holy Loch, Loch Long, Gare Loch and rolling hills in between. And it has a pool terrace perfect for sunbathing. Gourock Pool also offers punters the chance to swim under the night sky with its "starlight swims". But sadly, it is temporarily closed over the 'winter season'. It will reopen from May 6 until September 8 this year. St Monan's Tidal Pool, Fife This historic pool is situated on the very edge of the sea and offers a great opportunity for a wild swimming experience. St Monan's Tidal Pool was restored by members of the local community after the pandemic during which it became a dumping ground for dangerous rubbish. It was also featured on the BBC's "Jules and Greg's Wild Swim", where Balamory star Jules Wilson Nimmo and her Still Game husband Greg Hemphill traverse Scotland in search of the best wild swimming spots. As per the words of Miss Hoolie herself, it is a "haven for safe outdoor swimming" because it provides swimmers with the best of both worlds: all the beauty and refreshing qualities of the sea without the undercurrents and unpredictable tides that often accompany coastal swimming. And the seawater is replenished twice a month, which means that it's much warmer than other pools of its kind. Stonehaven open air pool, Aberdeenshire 6 Stonehaven pool played an important role during World War II This is a historic art deco seawater lido, renowned as the UK's only Olympic-sized facility of its kind. The pool measures 55 yards long and 20 yards wide and is designed to meet competition standards and attracting local and visiting swimmers alike. When it first opened in 1934, the pool was entirely emptied and refilled every few days to ensure optimal water quality, and in 1935, heated and filtered seawater was introduced. The pool also played an important role during World War II, providing recreation to troops before quickly regaining its status as a popular attraction in the post-war years. Today, Stonehaven Pool hosts a variety of activities, including live music, aqua Zumba, and thrilling inflatables, as well as unique moonlit swims in the summer. It opens from May 25 to September 1. The Trinkie Tidal Pool, Wick 6 The pool's waters are filled by the ferocious waves of the North Sea Credit: Alamy The Trinkie is a stunning natural seawater pool located along Scotland's rugged coastline. Formed around 70 years ago from an old quarry, the pool gets its name from the Scots word for 'trench'. With its waters filled by the ferocious waves of the North Sea, the Trinkie offers a unique swimming experience. On sunny days, you'll find people enjoying picnics and swimming, all while taking in breathtaking sea views and the sound of waves crashing against the cliffs.
Scotsman
22-07-2025
- Scotsman
Best Scottish Beaches for Dogs 2025: Here are 10 amazing beaches in Scotland for walkies - from the Borders to the Highlands
2 . Achmelvich Beach Regularly topping lists of the most stunning beaches in Scotland, Achmelvich Beach offers a little bit of the Carribean in Sutherland. It came second when it came to our four-legged friends, with a score of 100.28. A typical review reads: "What a stunning beach this is and we have visited many across the UK and Ireland with our two dogs. Boy did they have an amazing time! It is a short 400m walk from the car park but what a gorgeous wee walk it is. In Ireland we call it a wee dander. The sound of the birds, the sea and the views of the mountains and island just blows your mind. The waters are aqua blue and green and the sandy beach is so wonderful. This is a true gem to be visited by all visiting this wonderful wild area." | Canva/Getty Images
Hans India
04-07-2025
- Business
- Hans India
India will soon become third largest economy in the world: PM Modi
Highlighting that India is today the fastest growing major economy in the world and is all set to become the third largest one soon, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Thursday while addressing the Indian community in Trinidad and Tobago. "The fruits of India's growth and progress are reaching the most needy," he added while stressing that India's growth and development is reaping benefits for the poor and the underprivileged through welfare schemes launched by the Central and state governments. "The World Bank has noted that India has lifted more than 250 million people above extreme poverty in the last decade. India's growth is being powered by our innovative and energetic youth," the Prime Minister noted. "Today, India is the third largest startup hub in the world. Nearly half of these startups also have women as directors. Nearly 120 startups have got unicorn status. National missions for Artificial Intelligence, Semiconductor and Quantum computing are becoming the new engines of growth. In a way, innovation is becoming a mass movement," he said. "India's Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has revolutionised digital payments. Nearly 50 per cent of the world's real-time digital transactions take place in India. I congratulate Trinidad & Tobago for being the first country in the region to adopt UPI. Now sending money will be as easy as sending a 'good morning' text message! And I promise, it will be faster than West Indies bowling." "Our Mission Manufacturing is working to make India a manufacturing hub. We have become the world's second largest mobile manufacturer. We are exporting railway locomotives to the world." "Our defence exports have increased 20-fold in just the last decade. We are not just making in India. We are making for the world. As we grow, we are ensuring that it is of mutual benefit to the world," PM Modi said. "Today's India is a land of opportunities. Whether it is business, tourism, education, or healthcare, India has a lot to offer," he added. "Your ancestors took a long and difficult journey, over a 100 days across the seas, to reach here – Saat Samandar Par! Today, that same journey takes just a few hours. I encourage you all to visit India more, in person, not just virtually on social media!" "Visit the villages of your ancestors. Walk the soil they walked on. Bring your children, bring your neighbours. Bring anyone who enjoys chai and a good story. We will welcome you all – with open arms, warm hearts, and jalebi!" PM Modi added. The Prime Minister also thanked the Indian diaspora present for the love and affection showered upon him by the Carribean nation. PM Modi thanked Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar for honouring him with Trinidad and Tobago's highest national award. Praising India's space programme in Trinidad and Tobago, Prime Minister Modi also highlighted that the country named Chandrayaan-3 probe's landing site on the Moon as 'Shiv Shakti point'. "An Indian astronaut is onboard the International Space Station as we speak. We are now working on a manned space mission, 'Gaganyaan'. Soon, an Indian will walk on the moon, and India will have its own space station," he said, while addressing the Indian community in Trinidad and Tobago. PM Modi also said that India is sharing the "fruit of its achievements with the rest of the world". "I am sure everyone among you feels proud when India grows. For New India, even the sky is not the limit. You all must have cheered when India's Chandrayaan landed on the moon. The place where it landed, we have named it Shiv Shakti point," the Prime Minister said. He also hailed the Indian community in Trinidad and Tobago, calling them 'Rashtradoot' and as the "Ambassador of values and cultures". "We deeply value the strength and support of our diaspora. With over 35 million people spread across the world, the Indian diaspora is our pride. As I have often said, each one of you is a Rashtradoot – an Ambassador of India's values, culture and heritage," the Prime Minister added. He also said: "This year, when we hosted the Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas in Bhubaneshwar, Trinidad and Tobago President Christine Carla Kangaloo ji was our Chief Guest. A few years ago, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar Ji had honoured us with her presence." "At the Pravasi Bhartiya Divas, I announced several initiatives to honour and connect with the Girmitiya community across the world. We are mapping the past and bringing people closer for a bright future. We are actively working on creating a comprehensive database of the Girmitiya community. Documenting the villages and cities in India from which their ancestors migrated, identifying the places where they have settled, studying and preserving the legacy of the Girmitiya ancestors, and working to organise World Girmitiya Conferences regularly. This will support the deep and historic ties with our brothers and sisters in Trinidad and Tobago as well," the Prime Minister added. "I am sure that all of you welcomed the return of Ram Lalla to Ayodhya after 500 years... You had sent Holy water and 'Shila' for building the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. I have also brought something here with a similar sense of devotion. It is my honour to bring a replica of Ram Mandir and some water from the Holy Saryu,' Mr. Modi said. Highlighting that the sixth generations of the Indian diaspora in Trinidad and Tobago are set to receive their Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) cards, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Thursday that the former are not just connected by blood or surnames as India wholeheartedly welcomed them. "Today, I am happy to announce that OCI cards will now be given to the sixth generation of the Indian diaspora in Trinidad & Tobago. You are not just connected by blood or surname. You are connected by belonging. India looks out you, India welcomes you, and India embraces you," Prime Minister Modi said, during his address to the Indian community in Trinidad and Tobago. He also mentioned that PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar's ancestors were from Bihar's Buxar region. "People consider her the daughter of Bihar... Bihar's heritage is the pride of India and the world... Bihar has shown the way to the world in various fields for centuries. New opportunities will emerge from Bihar in the 21st century also," he added. The Prime Minister also welcomed the return of Ram Lalla to Ayodhya after 500 years with great joy and have deep faith and devotion towards Lord Ram. Speaking to the Indian diaspora, PM Modi said, "We remember you had sent holy water and Shilas for building the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya." "I have also brought something here with a similar sense of devotion. I have also bought a replica of Ram Mandir and some holy water from River Sarayu," he added. PM Modi also said: "The Ram-Leelas in Sangre Grande and Dow Village are said to be truly unique. Shri Ram Charit Manas says, राम धामदा पुरी सुहावनि। लोक समस्त बिदित अति पावनि।। It means, the sacred city of Prabhu Shri Ram is so beautiful that its glory is spread across the world. I am sure you all welcomed the return of Ram Lalla to Ayodhya after 500 years with great joy." "Prabhu Shri Ram says that the glory of Ayodhya springs from the holy Sarayu. Whoever takes a dip in its water, finds eternal union with Shri Ram himself," PM Modi said. "You all know that earlier this year, the world's largest spiritual gathering, the Maha Kumbh took place. I have the honour to carry water from the Maha Kumbh also with me. I request PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar ji to offer the holy waters of the Sarayu River and Maha Kumbh to the Ganga Dhara here. May these holy waters bless the people of Trinidad and Tobago." The Prime Minister also added: "I know the story of the Indian community in Trinidad and Tobago is about courage. The circumstances your ancestors faced could have broken even the strongest of spirits. But they faced hardships with hope. They met problems with persistence. They left the Ganga and Yamuna behind but carried the Ramayan in their hearts. They left their soil, but not their soul. They were not just migrants. They were messengers of a timeless civilisation. Their contributions have benefitted this country -- culturally, economically and spiritually. Just look at the impact that you have all had on this beautiful nation." "Our bond goes beyond geography and generations," PM Modi noted. The Prime Minister also said: "Kamla Persad-Bissessar Ji -- as the first woman Prime Minister of this country. Her Excellency Christine Carla Kangaloo Ji - as the female President. Late Basdeo Pandey, the son of a farmer, rose to become Prime Minister and a respected global leader. Eminent math scholar Rudranath Capildeo, music icon Sundar Popo, cricketing talent Darren Ganga, and Sewdass Sadhu, whose devotion built the Temple in the Sea. The list of achievers goes on." "You, the children of Girmitiyas, are not defined by struggle anymore. You are defined by your success, your service, and your values. Honestly, there must be something magical in the "doubles' and "dal poori' — because you have doubled the success of this great nation!" PM Modi said in his address to the Indian community here. "When I last visited 25 years ago, we all admired the cover drives and pull shots of Lara. Today, it is Sunil Narine and Nicholas Pooran who ignite the same excitement in the hearts of our youth. Between then and now, our friendship has grown even stronger." "Benaras, Patna, Kolkata, Delhi may be cities in India. But they are also names of streets here. Navratra, Mahashivratri, Janmasthmi are celebrated here with joy, spirit and pride. Chowtal and Baithak Gana continue to thrive here." "I can see the warmth of many familiar faces. And I see curiosity in the bright eyes of a younger generation - keen to know and grow together. Truly, our bonds go well beyond geography and generations."
Hans India
04-07-2025
- Politics
- Hans India
PM Modi calls Trinidad & Tobago PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar 'daughter of Bihar'
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his address to the Indian community in Trinidad and Tobago on Thursday, stressed upon Bihar's historic and cultural importance and called Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar as "daughter of Bihar," highlighting her ancestral ties to the state. Bissessar had earlier visited her ancestral village in Bhelupur under Itarhi block in Buxar district in 2012. Addressing a large gathering of people of Indian origin, many of whom trace their roots to Bihar, PM Modi said, "Many people present here have ancestors who came from Bihar itself. Bihar's heritage is a matter of pride not only for India but for the entire world." He also highlighted Bihar's contribution to global thought and progress. "Be it democracy, politics, diplomacy, or higher education, centuries ago, Bihar showed the world new directions in many such fields," he said. PM Persad-Bissessar said: "...This evening, we are graced by the presence of someone truly near and dear to us. We are honoured by a leader whose visit goes beyond protocol, it is a profound privilege for all of us. I am deeply privileged to join everyone here in welcoming one of the world's most respected and admired visionary leaders, Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India, along with his esteemed delegation, on this historic State Visit to Trinidad and Tobago..." She added, "Through your visionary and forward-looking initiatives, you have modernised the Indian economy, empowered more than a billion citizens and, above all, instilled pride in the hearts of Indians across the globe..." She further said: "We here are the grandchildren of Mother India, separated by oceans, yet forever united by an enduring bond of love and respect..." PM Modi will be felicitated with the Carribean country's highest national award later on Friday, PM Persad-Bissessar added: "This was more than diplomacy, it was an act of kinship, of shared humanity, of love. And it is for this, among many other reasons, that we are deeply proud to bestow upon you, the Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, our nation's highest honour, which will be conferred tomorrow..." While addressing the Indian community in Trinidad and Tobago, Prime Minister Modi said, "...Just look at the profound impact you have had on this beautiful country: Kamla Persad-Bissessar, the first woman to serve as Prime Minister; Her Excellency Christine Carla Kangaloo, the current female President; the late Basdeo Panday, the son of a farmer who rose to become Prime Minister and a respected global statesman and eminent mathematics scholar, Rudranath Capildeo. Each of these individuals reflects the strength, resilience and brilliance of the Indian diaspora in Trinidad and Tobago..." He also said, "Cricketing talents like Darren Ganga and pioneers like Seedas Sadhu, whose devotion built the iconic Temple in the Sea are shining examples of your legacy. And the list of achievers goes on..." He added, "Navaratri, Mahashivratri and Janmashtami are celebrated here with joy, devotion, and pride. Traditions like Chautal and Baithak Gana continue to thrive, keeping the cultural spirit alive. I see the warmth of many familiar faces among you and I also see the curiosity and energy in the bright eyes of the younger generation, eager to learn, connect, and grow together..." PM Modi said, "Even after 180 years, your hearts have not forgotten the devotion to Shri Ram, His bhajans still echo deeply within you. The Ramlilas in Sande, Grande and Dow Village are said to be truly unique in their expression and spirit..." He added, "Prabhu Shri Ram says that the glory of Ayodhya flows from the sacred Saryu River. Whoever takes a dip in its waters attains eternal union with Shri Ram himself. The waters of the Saryu and the holy Sangam are like nectar, nourishing the spirit and strengthening faith. This sacred stream keeps our values alive across time and generations..." He said, "The strength and support of our diaspora is a source of immense pride. With over 35 million people spread across the globe, the Indian diaspora truly embodies our spirit. I have often said that each one of you is a Rashtra Doot, an ambassador of India's values, culture and heritage..." He added, "I'm sure you all must have cheered with pride when India's Chandrayaan successfully landed on the Moon. The site of the landing has been named Shiv Shakti Point, a tribute to our heritage and spirit. And as you may have heard recently, an Indian astronaut is currently aboard the International Space Station..." PM Modi said, "The fruits of India's growth and progress are reaching those who need them the most. India has demonstrated that by empowering the poor, poverty can be overcome. For the first time, millions of people have gained the confidence that a poverty-free India is possible..." He added, "Nearly 120 startups in India have achieved unicorn status. National missions in Artificial Intelligence, semiconductors and quantum computing are emerging as powerful engines of growth. In many ways, innovation in India is becoming a mass movement. Our Unified Payments Interface or UPI, has revolutionized digital payments, nearly 50% of the world's real-time digital transactions now happen in India..." PM Modi said, "Today, I am pleased to announce that OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) cards will now be extended to the sixth generation of the Indian diaspora in Trinidad and Tobago." "You are not just connected to India by blood or surname, you are connected by a deep sense of belonging. India looks out for you. India welcomes you. And India embraces you." PM Modi said, "...It is a matter of immense pride and joy for me to be with all of you this evening. I thank Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar for her generous hospitality and kind words. I arrived just a short while ago in this beautiful land of hummingbirds and my very first engagement is with the Indian community here, it feels entirely natural, because we are part of one family. I am deeply grateful for your warmth and affection..." Earlier on Thursday, PM Modi on X said, "The community programme in Port of Spain was spectacular. The energy and warmth of the people made it truly unforgettable. Evidently, our cultural bonds shine brightly." "Today's community programme in Port of Spain was made even more special by the distinguished presence of Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar. I thank her for the kind words and the emphasis on strong India-Trinidad & Tobago friendship." "A heartwarming event by the Indian diaspora in Trinidad & Tobago. PM Narendra Modi addressed the Indian diaspora & friends of India in Trinidad & Tobago today. PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar warmly welcomed him at the event. PM expressed his appreciation of the diaspora who continue to preserve and nurture their traditions, cultural ethos, festivals and the way of life of their ancestors from India even after so many generations & form a strong link of India-Trinidad and Tobago relations. To further strengthen these familial bonds, PM announced that OCI cards would now be issued to the 6th generation of the Indian diaspora in Trinidad & Tobago," the Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said on X. Highlighting that India is today the fastest growing major economy in the world and is all set to become the third largest one soon, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Thursday while addressing the Indian community in Trinidad and Tobago. "The fruits of India's growth and progress are reaching the most needy," he added while stressing that India's growth and development is reaping benefits for the poor and the underprivileged through welfare schemes launched by the Central and state governments. "India's Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has revolutionised digital payments. Nearly 50 per cent of the world's real-time digital transactions take place in India. I congratulate Trinidad & Tobago for being the first country in the region to adopt UPI. Now sending money will be as easy as sending a 'good morning' text message! And I promise, it will be faster than West Indies bowling." "Our Mission Manufacturing is working to make India a manufacturing hub. We have become the world's second largest mobile manufacturer. We are exporting railway locomotives to the world." "Our defence exports have increased 20-fold in just the last decade. We are not just making in India. We are making for the world. As we grow, we are ensuring that it is of mutual benefit to the world," PM Modi said. "Today's India is a land of opportunities. Whether it is business, tourism, education, or healthcare, India has a lot to offer," he added. "Your ancestors took a long and difficult journey, over a 100 days across the seas, to reach here – Saat Samandar Par! Today, that same journey takes just a few hours. I encourage you all to visit India more, in person, not just virtually on social media!" "Visit the villages of your ancestors. Walk the soil they walked on. Bring your children, bring your neighbours. Bring anyone who enjoys chai and a good story. We will welcome you all – with open arms, warm hearts, and jalebi!" PM Modi added. The Prime Minister also thanked the Indian diaspora present for the love and affection showered upon him in the Carribean nation. PM Modi thanked Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar for honouring him with Trinidad and Tobago's highest national award later on Friday.
Time of India
03-07-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
25 years after his 1st Trinidad trip, PM Modi visit to rekindle diaspora ties
NEW DELHI: PM Modi will reach Port of Spain Thursday on the first visit by an Indian PM to Trinidad and Tobago since 1999. While this will be his first official visit, part of the focus on strengthening engagement with the Carribean nation's Indian diaspora, Modi's ties with Trinidad and Tobago, stretch back 25 years. In Aug 2000, as BJP general secretary, he attended World Hindu Conference. The gathering had brought together over 1,000 delegates from across the globe. Modi's keynote address focused on the ancient Indian concept of prioritising the lager social good over one's personal interests and preservation of Indian culture within the Indian diaspora. This connection is expected to be a highlight of the upcoming trip as well, with Modi likely to meet representatives of the diaspora. Modi's interaction with the Indian diaspora, which forms nearly 40% of Trinidad's population, will be a key feature of the visit. A large public event is being planned in Port of Spain, where the PM is expected to underline India's role as a "Vishwa Mitra (friend of the world)" and reiterate his govt's outreach to people of Indian origin globally. During his visit, Modi is expected to hold talks with Trinidad and Tobago PM Keith Rowley to explore ways to expand cooperation in areas such as renewable energy, pharmaceuticals, IT, and capacity building.
