Latest news with #FlyingFox
News18
29-07-2025
- News18
5 Adventure Activities To Try In Rishikesh
Last Updated: Rishikesh: From aerial thrills to river rushes, this Himalayan haven will test your limits and reward you with stories for life There's a certain serenity to Rishikesh, the hymns of the Ganges, the saffron-clad sadhus, the scent of burning camphor. But step away from the ghats, and you'll find another side of this spiritual town: one that's wild, untamed, and pure adrenaline. Tucked into the Himalayan foothills and laced by turbulent rivers and deep gorges, Rishikesh has quietly become India's undisputed adventure capital. Whether you're leaping off a cliff, soaring over the valley, or navigating rapids, the energy here is electric. 1. Bungee Jumping at Jumpin Heights: India's Highest Leap of Faith Where: Jumpin Heights – The Bungy People, Mohan Chatti Drop: 83 meters of pure freefall Welcome to India's original bungee hotspot, and still its boldest. At 83 meters, the platform at Jumpin Heights run by ex-Army officers with international safety standards offers a hair-raising freefall over the rocky Hyul River valley. There's no mechanical pull or rebound. Just gravity. Silence. Then screams. • Brahmapuri to Rishikesh (9 km) • Shivpuri to Rishikesh (16 km) • Marine Drive to Rishikesh (24 km) The Ganges here is more than sacred, it's fierce. White water rafting in Rishikesh is a rite of passage for the outdoor enthusiast, with frothy rapids that bear deceptively charming names like The Wall, Return to Sender, and Golf Course. Between Grade I and IV rapids, expect icy sprays, bouncing boats, and panoramic Himalayan drama. Why you'll love it: A mix of adrenaline and awe, ideal for beginners or pros, set against one of India's most scenic backdrops. 3. Giant Swing: Think Bungee, but Broader and Wilder Where: Jumpin Heights If bungee is the freefall, the Giant Swing is the flight. Suspended from the same high platform, you'll be released into a massive pendulum arc that sweeps across the valley. It's one part rollercoaster, one part spiritual awakening and all thrill. Unlike the solitary leap of bungee, the Giant Swing can be done solo or with a partner, making it ideal for brave-hearted duos. Why it's unforgettable: The weightlessness. The arc. The sheer grace of flying through silence at speed. 4. Flying Fox: Zip Through the Sky at 140 km/h Where: Jumpin Heights – The Bungy People Strapped horizontally in a harness, you're launched from one hilltop to another at up to 140 km/h. The Flying Fox is the closest thing to being a superhero — gliding above forests, cliffs, and rivers, with the wind in your face and the Himalayas unfolding around you. And yes, you can do it tandem with a friend — because some experiences are better when shared (and screamed through). Why it's a must-try: It's the smoothest, fastest way to drink in the Himalayan scenery at lightning speed. 5. Rock Climbing and Rappelling: Himalayan Highs, One Grip at a Time Top Spots: Shivalik Hills, Kaudiyala, Neer Garh For those who like their thrills with a bit of technique, rock climbing and rappelling in Rishikesh offer a deeply satisfying mix of challenge and calm. You'll scale vertical faces, rappel down craggy cliffs, and engage muscles you didn't know you had — all under the watchful eye of trained professionals. Why it stands out: It's physical. It's mindful. And the views from halfway up (or down) are worth every sweaty pull. Traveller Tip Adventure season peaks between October and June. Pre-book your activities especially with Jumpin Heights as spots fill up fast. And don't forget to collect your jump footage, it'll be your new favorite brag on Instagram. top videos View all In Rishikesh, you come for the soul. You stay for the surge. From aerial thrills to river rushes, this Himalayan haven will test your limits and reward you with stories for life. Whether you're jumping off cliffs or chasing rapids, Rishikesh promises one thing: you'll never see adventure the same way again. view comments Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: July 29, 2025, 17:15 IST News lifestyle » travel 5 Adventure Activities To Try In Rishikesh Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Metro
17-06-2025
- Business
- Metro
'I have Down's Syndrome and struggle to find work - this hotel changed that'
Hilton Hotel has launched a pop-up tearoom where customers at the five-star Waldorf Hotel will be served by staff who have learning disabilities. The special event was hosted as part of Learning Disability Week with special educational needs (SEN) staff at the historic hotel. Yesterday, guests were served a menu of freshly cut sandwiches and warm scones by servers like Sam Innes, who has Down's Syndrome. Sam told Metro: 'Finding work was really difficult for me, so when I started my role at Hilton, it was such a relief. I've always wanted to work and be around people, and I knew a hotel would be the perfect place to do that. 'Having a job helps people with learning disabilities feel valued and shows others what we can achieve when given the chance. 'It's boosted my confidence and helped me become more independent. Now, I want to be a role model and inspire others to believe that they can do it too.' After studying business and retail at college, Camden-born Sam found a love for hospitality. He joined the hotel with the support of the Down's Syndrome Association Workfit programme, where his skill set and aspirations were matched. Having worked one day a week, San, who lives in Chalk Farm, now has a permanent food and beverage assistant role following outstanding feedback from guests and colleagues. The hotel chain wants to demonstrate support for members of the SEN community and highlight a representation gap within the industry. From placements and interviews to the launch of the Flying Fox food truck, Hilton's involvement has helped bring the vision of the specialist college Aurora Foxes to life. This week is Learning Disability Week. The national campaign takes place in the third week of June every year. Organised by the charity Mencap, the week is used by campaigners to raise awareness about learning disabilities and what the some 1.5million people with learning disabilities bring to society. This year's theme is, 'Do you see me?', which Mencap says is 'about making sure that people with a learning disability are are seen, heard, included, and valued in all aspects of life'. Online and in-person talks, festivals, exhibitions, school workshops, meet-ups and more will be held across the UK. There are many ways to participate in Learning Disability Week 2025 and to find out more visit: Learning Disability Week 2025 | Global Awareness Days Events Calendar 2025 Share stories: Use social media to amplify the voices and experiences of people with learning disabilities. Support charities: Donate to or volunteer with organisations dedicated to supporting individuals with learning disabilities. Educate yourself and others: Take the time to learn more about learning disabilities and share resources within your network. Mark Costello, principal at Aurora Foxes, said: 'When people with learning disabilities see others like themselves thriving in customer-facing roles, it inspires confidence and ambition. 'By providing meaningful employment opportunities for people with learning disabilities, Hilton is transforming lives, challenging perceptions, and breaking down barriers in the wider community. Our work together is about creating a society where everyone has the opportunity to contribute and succeed.' Hilton interviewed 500 people with learning disabilities and their carers, and found that 79% said businesses need to do more to demonstrate they have staff with learning disabilities. It also said 74% said seeing more people like themselves in customer-facing roles would give them the confidence to apply for a job themselves. Of those in work, just 16% say they have a role model with a similar disability to look up to and learn from. More Trending Learning Disability Week runs until Friday (June 20). The Waldorf, London, opened in 1908 with a vision to follow the American tradition of offering not just rooms but a place for passers-by to stop for dinner, afternoon tea or a drink. It opened with 400 bedrooms, 176 bathrooms and a range of innovative features – a telephone and electric lights that could be switched off at the bedside in all rooms, three lifts and central heating In 2015, it received a further £13.5million refurbishment. Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@ For more stories like this, check our news page. MORE: Iconic London street to be pedestrianised 'as quickly as possible' MORE: Map shows how hot it has to get before it is officially a heatwave in the UK MORE: Man who killed schoolboy, 14, with samurai sword 're-enacted attack in hospital'
The South African
05-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The South African
$400m Flying Fox superyacht - spotted in Durban - SOLD to mystery buyer
The Flying Fox, a $400 million (R7.1 billion) superyacht recently spotted in the waters of Durban Harbour, has been sold to a mystery buyer. Could the new owner be a South African? The luxury vessel is one of the biggest in the world available for charter and has hosted celebrities like Beyonce, Jay Z, Jeff Bezos, and Leonardo DiCaprio. On TikTok, clips of the Flying Fox docking at the Durban harbour had many South Africans intrigued. According to witnesses, the superyacht stopped for a refuel and was also spotted in Cape Town. Flying Fox is the biggest luxury yacht available for charter in the world. It has an eye-watering weekly charter fee of around $4 million (R71 million) The 136-metre-long vessel was built in 2019 by superyacht architects Espen Øino and Mark Berryman. It boasts 11 private terraced cabins, two helipads, a 12 metre swimming pool and a CryoSauna chamber, a professional dive center, and an onboard hospital amongst its long list of amenities. Celebs like Jay Z and Beyonce and actor Leonardo DiCaprio, who is known for his yacht parties, have been previously spotted on board. Jay Z and Beyonce on board the Flying Fox. The couple, as well as actor Leonardo DiCaprio, are regulars on the luxury vessel. Images via Instagram: @beyonce Ownership of the Flying Fox remains something of an enigma. According to multiple reports, it changed through the hands of Russian billionaire Dmitry Kamenshchik, US tech guru Jeff Bezos, and Malaysian businessman Robert Kuo.k While the superyacht has been spotted in South African waters, insiders claim that a wealthy Abu Dhabi family recently bought the vessel to add to their collection. Will we see more of the Flying Fox in South Africa? The luxury vessel is the largest yacht available to charter. Image via Blue Water Yachting Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 . Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp , Facebook , X, and Bluesky for the latest news.
India.com
09-05-2025
- India.com
5 Adventure Activities In Udaipur City You Didn't Know Existed
Udaipur is one of 'The City of Lakes', a name that brings to mind an image of beautiful lakes complemented with serene scenery, palaces, and cultural landmarks. Even though the City is famous for its historical monuments and cultural beauty, it has a reputation for equally exciting Adventure activities. Situated around the Aravalli hills, this City is a perfect combination of beauty and adventure. Here are some of the activities that we bet will challenge your perception of Udaipur as only a culturally rich City with calm and serenity. 1. Trekking in the Aravalli Ranges Udaipur is well known for The Aravalli Hills, giving a treat for trekking enthusiasts. The hills region of Udaipur and its surrounding area along with splendid natural landscapes offers a great location for hiking lovers. Popular trekking spots include Sajjangarh Hill, which houses the iconic Monsoon Palace, and Haldi Ghati, a historically significant pass. These treks offer breathtaking views of the city and its lakes, especially during sunrise or sunset. If you are lucky enough to take a snap while the Sun is rising or setting, it is a breathtaking sight not to be missed. There are a variety of trek routes which cater the needs of both starter level and professional trekkers. 2. Zip Lining at Kumbhalgarh Fort Approximately 80 kilometers away from Udaipur lies Kumbhalgarh Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and popular zip lining destination. The Flying Fox zip-line adventure will have you gliding above the fort's grand walls and sprawling greenery, giving you an unparalleled view of the breathtaking architecture. This activity is most certainly a blend of history and adrenaline, with several zip-lines crisscrossing the region, making it one of the top adventures for thrill seekers. 3. Water Activities at Lake Pichola Lake Pichola is perhaps the most popular attraction in Udaipur, best known for sightseeing boat rides. For those in search of an adventure, you can also go kayaking, canoeing, and paddle boarding. There are many beginner-friendly operators in the area who provide guided sessions and rental equipment. For those seeking something more heart-pumping, jet skis are also available. With these activities, tourists get the chance to appreciate the stunning views of the floating palaces and ghats surrounding the lake from a whole new angle. 4. Rock Climbing in Nathdwara Nathdwara is a little over fifty kilometers away from Udaipur, and is not just a religious center, but also a treasure location for rock climbing enthusiasts. Climbers of numerous ages and capacities can take pleasure from the rocky terrains around Nathdwara that offer a plenty of climbing routes. During the competition, which is very much liked by teams for team-building exercises or individually by single trekkers, participants can attempt to match their strength and endurance to natural rocks under the guidance of skilled instructors. 5. Paragliding Over the Countryside This area is every bit of a sky lover's dream come true! The experience of paragliding in Udaipur is one that cannot be put to words. The launch spots are normally a little further outside the city, where picturesque views of the hill and lake enhanced countryside surround it. These operators ensure proper equipment and training are provided, enabling everyone to soar, even beginners. Conclusion Udaipur is famous for its romantic charm and regal majesty, but it is wonderful for passionate people too. The city provides various ways to challenge yourself, from climbing rocky cliffs to flying over the farmland below, and making great memories along the way. For this reason, when you next think about visiting Udaipur, save some time for more than the usual sightseeing and try to enjoy some of the unique experiences the region has to offer. To travel is to take the leap, and create something new that goes hand in hand with destruction.
