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India.com
02-06-2025
- India.com
Plan The Perfect Eco-Conscious Vacation In Pune Today
Pune's reputation as the 'Oxford of the East' and the 'Cultural Capital of Maharashtra' is quite evident since it's a perfect amalgamation of nature and modernity. To top it off, its breathtaking hills, pristine lakes, historic culture, and heritage makes it an ideal tourism destination for travelers looking for an eco-friendly trip. Not only does one get to appreciate its natural beauty, but it is also an opportunity to help preserve the environment for future generations. Using this guide, you will be able to plan a perfect eco-friendly vacation to Pune. 1. Look For Sustainable Accommodation First Finding green hotels and resorts in Pune is relatively easy as they all practice environmental sustainability. Sustainable hotels and resorts greatly help in preserving the environment, and needless to say, are a key aspect to planning an eco-friendly vacation. For the best experience, choose hotels that use renewable sources of energy, conserve water, and have a proper waste management system. Additionally, many eco-friendly accommodations in Pune source organic food from local farms, which eliminates carbon emissions from food transportation. 2. Choose Eco-Friendly Means of Transportation Pune is served well with its buses, auto-rickshaws, and metro services. Try to opt for public transport, or bicycle tours to lessen your carbon footprint. Due to its flat land and pleasant climate, Pune is considered a favorable city for cyclists. Furthermore, using electric vehicles (EVs) or carpooling for longer trips can drastically cut down greenhouse gas emissions. Eco friendly travelers also like to walk to nearby sites, which is great for reducing pollution and allows getting to know the city in a calm and pleasant manner. 3. Go To Eco-Friendly Tourist Attractions There are eco-friendly tourist spots in Pune that are aimed at promoting sustainable tourism. For instance, the Pune-Okayama Friendship Garden also known as the Japanese Garden is a well maintained exhibit of sustainable gardening. It has water recycling systems, solar lighting, and local flora that do not need high levels of irrigation. One more place to visit is Katraj Snake Park which practices wildlife conservation and environmental education. It houses many snakes, reptiles, turtles, and other endangered species to help foster awareness on the need to protect biodiversity. 4. Support Local and Sustainable Businesses Two of the best ways to make sure your holidays are friendly to the environment is to patronize shops that are focused on sustainability and local businesses. Pune is home to several shops and vendors at its many local markets who offer handmade, organic, and eco-friendly products. If you're in the area during late October, make sure to check out the Bhimthadi Jatra, an annual festival celebrating the best of food, textiles, crafts, and other traditional Maharashtrian offerings. By purchasing from local artisans and farmers, you not only contribute towards the local economy but also mitigate the environmental effects of mass-produced goods. 5. Taking Part in Eco-Friendly Activities Pune is a city that has a lot of green initiatives put in place, helping you connect with nature. Trekking within the Sinhagad Fort and Rajmachi Fort is one of the activities that lets you see the beautiful Sahyadri Mountains. These treks are both a wonderful way to exercise and a great chance to view the beauty of the region. For something more lowkey, try visiting the Pashan Lake or the Mulshi Dam where you can go birdwatching, enjoy a picnic, or walk around while taking in the beautiful sights. Always remember to follow the principles of 'Leave No Trace' such as taking back all your trash and avoiding carrying out any activities that can endanger the local nature. 6. Buys and Uses Less Plastic For a holiday to be really eco friendly, getting rid of single use plastic is incredibly important as well, helping to combat plastic pollution. Always carry a reusable water bottle and shopping tote as well as cutlery. Multiple restaurants and cafes around Pune are becoming more eco-friendly by offering compostable containers and encouraging people to bring their own food containers. Also, you can cut down on bottled water by filling your bottle at the different water refill stations that are set up around the city. 7. Get Involved and Help The Environment Pune is a city in India that focuses on environmental conservation. While visiting, you can partake in several such initiatives. Join local cleanup drives conducted by certain environmental groups, or engage in their tree planting programs. The Pune Municipal Corporation often works together with different NGOs for the awareness campaigns and for planning and executing several conservation projects. By taking part in these activities, you make contributions towards the community while enhancing your understanding of the area's wildlife conservation issues. Conclusion Pune is a city where responsible travelers will find everything with the promise of an eco-friendly vacation that these travelers are looking for. And not only will the environment benefit but the travelers will benefit, too. Make sure to have some places for supporting local businesses and accommodations and participating in environmentally friendly activities. There is something to do in Pune for everyone and to do it all while making as little impact on the environment as possible. Now every effort on sustainability matters, and responsible choices can greatly help with conserving the environment. Remember to preserve the beauty and culture of Pune for the future masses to enjoy. So grab your things and remember to be eco-friendly as you prepare to visit Pune.
Scotsman
28-05-2025
- Scotsman
Steve Cardownie: Take a stroll around Edinburgh's hidden gem
When I was convener of the Recreation Committee on the City of Edinburgh Council one of the properties that came as part of the committee's property portfolio was Lauriston Castle near Davidson's Mains. Sign up to our daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to Edinburgh News, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Visit Scotland says that 'Lauriston Castle is a hidden gem in Edinburgh with beautiful free grounds cradling the sea and with stunning views. Spend time relaxing in our calm and tranquil Japanese garden. Double up with a visit to historic Cramond and take a walk along the iconic promenade.' The Japanese Garden at Lauriston Castle, Edinburgh. The grounds include the Edinburgh/ Kyoto Friendship Garden which is one of the largest Japanese gardens created in the UK in the last century and which I had the pleasure of declaring open back in August 2002. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad It was designed in traditional Japanese style and features a pond, a waterfall and various Japanese plants with bench seating provided throughout. It was created as a symbol of the friendship and cultural exchanges between Edinburgh and Kyoto and was designed by Japanese designer, Takashi Sawano. The grounds also have an Italian garden, designed by William Playfair in 1844. As they had no children, the property was bequeathed to the city in 1926 by its last private owners, Mr and Mrs Reid. They left the castle and its grounds to 'Scotland' on the condition that their home would be preserved as it was gifted. The city council has responsibility for the care and maintenance of the house which was 'modernised' by the Reids, who installed modern plumbing and electricity and also added their collection of furniture and artwork to the house. I have spent many an hour walking my dog in the grounds, meandering along the circular, wooded path, taking in the impressive views across The Firth of Forth to The Kingdom of Fife. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad With a car park and serviced by nearby public transport it is readily accessible and offers a great opportunity to take a break from the hustle and bustle of modern living and which is no more than twenty minutes from the city centre. Visit Scotland's description of the castle as 'a hidden gem' is spot on - see for yourself!
Times
15-05-2025
- General
- Times
Tranquillity lies in the gardens of Japan
It is hardly a revelation to learn that a garden can make one calmer. Not the classic untended urban backyard, of course, product of the distracted working couple. The green hell of unmown lawn ('It's no-mow May you know. More wine?') and twisted, triffid-like shrubs shooting skyward, blotting out the sun and strangling rusty kids' bikes snared in their dark interiors. No, not that kind of garden, the one that would have Monty Don tearing out his cosmos in despair, but a Japanese one. It turns out that a considered approach to gardening, one that favours a certain formality and artistry, is more useful in alleviating stress. Researchers at the universities of Nagasaki and Pittsburgh tested the heart rates of subjects exposed to the not
The Sun
10-05-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Inside world's most tranquil McDonald's in Japanese-themed tea garden
WHILE your local McDonald's is likely located on a high street or in a shopping centre, others have a more unique backdrop. And one McDonald's in Singapore has even been named the world's most tranquil due to its stunning location. 5 Singapore is home to the world's most tranquil McDonald's, which is located inside a Japanese-themed tea garden Credit: x/@AnimeAlchemy24 5 McDonald's patrons can enjoy the scenic Japanese-style garden while enjoying their meal Credit: 5 The iconic McDonald's is located on a pavilion in the middle of Singapore's famous Ridout Tea Garden Credit: x/@marklincadet The McDonald's at Ridout Tea Garden in Singapore boasts zen vibes on a Japanese-style pavilion overlooking a serene river. This unique eatery a has been a prominent landmark in the area since 1989. It was established inside the country's first Japanese-themed community garden and offers picturesque views for diners. Ridout first began as Queenstown Japanese Garden, which was opened in 1970. It became a popular leisure venue for the nearby residents and consisted of 23 shops that sold everything from furniture and sports equipment to clothes and electronic goods. And of course, food and beverages could be purchased at the garden's singular restaurant called Queen's Garden Restaurant, which offered both Western and Chinese cuisines. However, a fire destroyed the property in June 1978, with almost all the shops going up in smoke. The local government invested in rebuilding the location, which was renamed Ridout after the nearby roundabout. But despite the scenic remodel, the space lacked the crowds of Queenstown due to the limited retail and dining options. So in 1981, Kentucky Fried Chicken set up shop in the garden, attracting crowds to the park. McDonald's CEO reveals major 'menu news' as fans cry for snack wrap return McDonald's eventually replaced the fast food outlet in 1989, becoming one of the country's oldest outlets. Open 24 hours, Ridout Tea Garden's McDonald's shares a premises with a Thai restaurant, which closed during the Covid pandemic, and a plant nursery. The single story pavilion features large sliding doors and floor-to-ceiling windows, offering stunning views for customers while dining. It has established itself as a beloved location with residents of the area. Football fans even crowded into the fast food outlet to watch their teams play via a live telecast during the 2010 World Cup. All you need to know about McDonald's The locations has become popular with tourists too, after going viral on Instagram. Described as "tranquil" and a "hidden gem", this McDonald's has a unique outdoor area for families to explore. You can even visit the turtles and fish that inhabit the pond. And of course, Western tourists will be excited to try the different menu options available. You can opt to dine indoors or in a covered over outdoor area with fans during your visit. And this isn't the only awe-inspiring McDonald's out there, you can visit one that has taken up residence inside an abandoned plane. Or if you want to stay closer to home, why not check out the McDonald's built inside a historic pub right here in the UK? 5 The McDonald's is one of Singapore's oldest, having been established in 1989 Credit: 5 Diners can enjoy stunning park views as they dine in the 24-hour McDonald's in Singapore Credit: Reddit
