Latest news with #Sphinx
Boston Globe
a day ago
- General
- Boston Globe
Ask the Gardener: Irises are simply divine
The name originates from Greek mythology, where Iris served as a messenger between humans and the gods of Mount Olympus. Wherever Iris went, she was trailed by a rainbow, which the Greeks saw as evidence that a divine message had been delivered. It is natural to see why the plant, which appears in nearly every color of the spectrum, would be associated with the name and the rainbow. The flower was seen as a symbol of power and majesty, its outline adorning the brow of the Egyptian Sphinx, where the three petals were thought to represent faith, wisdom, and valor. In European history, King Louis VII of France selected the white iris as his house emblem, ensuring the association of fleur-de-Louis with fleur-de-lis , a corruption of the original with no correlation to the French word lis, for lily. Advertisement In the language of flowers, the iris symbolizes a message of love, friendship, and promise, all valid reasons to share those sentiments in a bouquet with those you care about. Many still believe that a vase of fresh-cut iris flowers provides calming energy and invigoration to a room. Horticulturally, irises are a versatile group of perennials from early flowering and bulbous to tall, stately bearded. Given the long association with humans, a significant amount of breeding and hybridization work has been conducted with this group, resulting in a diverse array of choices, selections, and hybrids. Broadly, irises can be divided into three categories: Lastly, I would be remiss if I did not highlight some of our garden-worthy eastern United States species, the blue flag iris (Limniris versicolor), the slender blue flag (Limniris prismatica), and the dwarf crested iris (Lophiris cristata). The Advertisement Now that we have a handle on the diversity of irises available, let's discuss using them in a garden context. Q. What natives are suitable for a very wet area? / How do I plant a native rain garden? Any advice is greatly appreciated! Caitlin, Leominster Rain gardens have been on my mind over the past few years, given the swings between drought and deluge that we have weathered. Managing stormwater is crucial to the health of local waterways, rivers, ponds, lakes, estuaries, and bays by keeping runoff (fertilizers, pollutants, and soil) out of those bodies of water. One of the goals of a sustainable garden is to retain as much water on site as possible, slow it down, and allow it to percolate back into the ground. Rain gardens can help achieve this goal. And one of the best plants for such an application is the blue flag iris (Iris versicolor). It is tolerant of both waterlogged soils and drier conditions once established. Deer won't bother with it, it spreads slowly via rhizomes and — given time — can form dense stands. Sedges, swamp hibiscus, cardinal flower, and New York aster make great companions to the blue flag Iris and extend the bloom times well into autumn. These are excellent choices for consistently wet areas, too. Aside from these natives, beardless irises would do well in this type of planting, given their preference for damp soils. There is one iris to avoid: the yellow flag iris (Iris pseudacorus). It is the only iris on the state's Advertisement Ulrich Lorimer is the director of horticulture at the Native Plant Trust in Framingham. Send your gardening questions, along with your name/initials and hometown, to for possible publication. Some questions are edited for clarity.
Time Business News
3 days ago
- Time Business News
Makadi Bay Travel Guide: Best Hotels, Beaches, and Attractions
Makadi Bay is one of the most beautiful and peaceful places to visit in Egypt. Located on the Red Sea, this lovely spot is perfect for anyone looking for a quiet vacation with clear blue waters, soft sand, and warm sunshine. It is a small resort town just south of Hurghada and has become popular with tourists who want both relaxation and adventure. Families, couples, and even solo travelers can all enjoy what Makadi Bay has to offer. From top-class hotels and stunning beaches to fun activities and natural beauty, Makadi Bay has something for everyone. The area is clean, well-kept, and very safe, making it a great place for tourists of all ages. In this travel guide, we'll take a close look at the best hotels, the most beautiful beaches, and the top attractions in Makadi Bay to help you plan your perfect trip. When it comes to staying in Makadi Bay, there are many excellent hotel choices. You can find everything from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels that still offer great service. Most hotels are located near the beach and offer amazing views of the Red Sea. These hotels often come with swimming pools, kids' clubs, spas, and restaurants, so you don't have to go far to enjoy your vacation. All-inclusive resorts are very popular here because they make your trip easy and stress-free. One of the top hotels in Makadi Bay is the Sunrise Royal Makadi Resort. It is perfect for families and couples who want a mix of fun and relaxation. Another popular choice is Jaz Makadi Oasis Resort, known for its clean rooms and great food. Many of these hotels also offer diving centers where you can learn to dive and explore the coral reefs nearby. Whether you want luxury or just comfort, Makadi Bay has a hotel that will fit your needs. The beaches in Makadi Bay are some of the best in Egypt. The soft white sand and clear blue waters make it a dream spot for beach lovers. Most of the beaches belong to hotels, but guests can enjoy them freely with their bookings. These beaches are well-maintained and offer sunbeds, umbrellas, and even beach bars where you can grab a drink or snack while enjoying the sea. Swimming and snorkeling are very popular at the beaches here. The water is calm and shallow, making it safe for children and people who don't swim well. Coral reefs are located very close to the shore, so you can see colorful fish and sea life just by putting on a snorkel and mask. The peaceful and clean environment of Makadi Bay's beaches is one of the main reasons people love to come back again and again. Even though Makadi Bay is known for its calm and peaceful vibe, it still offers many fun things to do. One popular attraction is Makadi Water World, a large water park with exciting slides and pools for both kids and adults. It's a great place to cool off and have fun with the whole family. Another must-see is the Mini Egypt Park, where you can see small models of Egypt's famous landmarks like the Pyramids, the Sphinx, and the Temple of Karnak. If you love adventure, you can go on desert safaris, ride camels, or drive quad bikes across the sand dunes. There are also glass-bottom boat tours where you can see the underwater world without getting wet. For those interested in history, there are day trips to Luxor or Cairo that can be arranged from Makadi Bay. No matter what kind of traveler you are, there's something fun waiting for you here. The weather in Makadi Bay is warm all year round, but the best time to visit is between October and April. During these months, the weather is not too hot, and the sea is calm and perfect for swimming. Summer months can get very hot, especially in July and August, which might be uncomfortable for some travelers. However, many tourists still enjoy visiting during this time because hotel prices can be lower. Winter is also a great time to visit because it's still warm enough to swim and enjoy the beach. Since Makadi Bay is in the desert, there is almost no rain, and the skies are mostly clear. This makes it a great destination if you are looking to escape cold weather back home. No matter when you come, you are likely to have sunny days and clear skies. There are many places to eat in Makadi Bay, and most of the hotels offer a wide range of food options. You can enjoy local Egyptian dishes like grilled meats, fresh seafood, and tasty salads. Most hotels have buffet-style dining, and some even offer fine dining with food from around the world, including Italian, Asian, and Mediterranean meals. Outside the hotels, there are a few restaurants and cafes where you can try local street food or have a quiet coffee while enjoying the view. Don't miss the chance to try Egyptian tea or fresh mango juice. The food in Makadi Bay is tasty, fresh, and usually included in your hotel stay if you go for an all-inclusive package. Before visiting Makadi Bay, it helps to know a few travel tips that can make your trip easier and more fun: Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Pack water shoes if you plan to snorkel near the coral reefs. Keep some cash with you, as not all small shops take credit cards. Don't forget to try snorkeling – it's one of the best things to do here. Respect local customs and dress modestly outside resort areas. These simple tips will help you stay safe and enjoy everything that Makadi Bay has to offer. It's always a good idea to learn a few words in Arabic, too, as it shows respect and can help you connect with the locals. Makadi Bay is a hidden gem on Egypt's Red Sea coast. With its beautiful beaches, excellent hotels, and fun attractions, it's the perfect place for a relaxing and exciting vacation. Whether you want to explore coral reefs, enjoy a luxury hotel stay, or simply relax by the sea, Makadi Bay has it all. It's a safe, clean, and welcoming destination that many travelers fall in love with. If you are looking for a peaceful getaway with sunshine, warm water, and plenty of fun things to do, Makadi Bay should be at the top of your travel list. Plan your trip today and discover why this charming resort town is becoming one of Egypt's most loved vacation spots. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Time of India
20-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
San Francisco-based entrepreneur takes a trip on India's worst-rated airline, his reaction will surprise you
IndiGo , ranked among the world's worst airlines in a global ranking, got an unexpectedly positive review from a San Francisco-based entrepreneur who recently flew on one of its flights. Despite the reputation, the entrepreneur shared his experience online and called it 'the best budget airline experience so far.' Global ranking puts IndiGo near the bottom IndiGo, India's largest airline by market share, was ranked 103rd out of 109 airlines in the 2024 AirHelp Score report . The report evaluates airlines based on on-time performance, service quality, and claims processing. Sphinx, a San Francisco-based entrepreneur and travel vlogger, took an IndiGo flight during a recent visit to India. Posting on his account on X (formerly Twitter), he shared a video reviewing his journey. 'India's worst-rated airline is not that bad but Indian passengers are unforgiving,' he wrote. — protosphinx (@protosphinx) Play Video Pause Skip Backward Skip Forward Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration 0:00 Loaded : 0% 0:00 Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 1x Playback Rate Chapters Chapters Descriptions descriptions off , selected Captions captions settings , opens captions settings dialog captions off , selected Audio Track default , selected Picture-in-Picture Fullscreen This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Opacity Opaque Semi-Transparent Text Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Opacity Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Caption Area Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Opacity Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Drop shadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like O carro de Paolla Oliveira choca o mundo inteiro, a prova em fotos! Boite A Scoop Undo The tweet quickly gained attention, especially because his reaction differed from the general public sentiment. "A good start for the worst rated airline in India" Sphinx started his review with low expectations. 'Here we go, final call and the good news is the flight is on time so it's a good start for the worst rated airline in India,' he said in the video. Live Events He appreciated the boarding process, noting that there was no need to walk on the tarmac. 'Also usually with these cheap airlines you need to go on the tarmac and then go up the stairs to the plane but there's a tunnel straight in so another thumbs up for IndiGo.' The flight took off only seven minutes after the scheduled time. 'Only seven minutes after the estimated departure time we have takeoff. Impressive,' he added. Review of IndiGo's in-flight meal: "Seven out of ten, does the job" Sphinx also tried IndiGo's chicken junglee sandwich mid-flight and gave a detailed review. 'Right here we go with the chicken junglee sandwich, no idea why it's called junglee but we've got like brown and white on the bread. Pretty interesting with chicken mayonnaise in the middle. Let's give it a go.' He continued, 'It's bread, it's very fresh, fluffy and inside that chicken it's very moist with the mayonnaise... Seven out of ten, does the job.' Flight staff and service earn praise He also praised the flight crew. 'Staff are lovely, all speak English. So far this has been the best budget airline experience,' he concluded in the clip.
India Today
16-05-2025
- India Today
Ditching Turkey and Azerbaijan? Greece, Vietnam and others are top picks now
Following the recent geopolitical tensions where Turkey and Azerbaijan expressed support for Pakistan during Operation Sindoor, many Indian travellers are reconsidering their travel plans to these countries. This shift has prompted a search for alternative destinations that offer similar cultural richness and is a comparative analysis of potential alternatives:1. GREECEAttractions: Famed for its ancient history, Greece offers landmarks like the Acropolis in Athens, the ruins of Delphi, and the monasteries of Meteora. The picturesque islands of Santorini and Mykonos provide stunning landscapes and vibrant Cuisine: Greek cuisine features dishes such as moussaka, souvlaki, and baklava, offering a delightful culinary Travellers can expect mid-range expenses, with options to suit various requirements: Greece is part of the Schengen Area; Indian travellers need to apply for a Schengen visa.2. EGYPTAttractions: Home to the iconic Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the temples of Luxor and Karnak. A Nile River cruise offers a unique perspective on Egypt's ancient Egyptian dishes like koshari, ful medames, and mahshi are both flavorful and Generally more affordable than many European destinations, offering good value for requirements: Indian citizens can obtain an e-visa or visa on arrival, simplifying entry procedures.3. ARMENIAAttractions: Rich in history with sites like the monasteries of Haghpat and Sanahin, and the Temple of Garni. The scenic Lake Sevan and the Dilijan National Park are also Features dishes such as khorovats (grilled meat), dolma, and lavash Known for being budget-friendly, Armenia offers affordable accommodation and dining requirements: Indian nationals can obtain an e-visa or visa on arrival.4. GEORGIAAttractions: Offers a mix of medieval architecture, such as the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, and natural beauty in regions like Kazbegi. The capital, Tbilisi, is known for its charming old town and sulfur Georgian cuisine includes khachapuri (cheese-filled bread) and khinkali (dumplings).Cost: Comparable to Armenia, Georgia is considered economical for requirements: Indian travellers can apply for an e-visa prior to arrival.5. THAILANDAttractions: Known for its tropical beaches, ornate temples, and bustling markets. Destinations like Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai cater to diverse traveller Thai food is globally renowned, with dishes like pad thai, green curry, and mango sticky Offers a range from budget to luxury, accommodating all types of requirements: Indian citizens can avail of visa-on-arrival facilities.6. VIETNAMAttractions: Features natural wonders like Ha Long Bay, historical sites in Hanoi, and the ancient town of Hoi Vietnamese dishes such as pho (noodle soup) and banh mi (sandwich) are popular and Known for being a budget-friendly destination with low costs for accommodation and requirements: E-visa options are available for Indian INSIGHTSCultural experience: Greece and Egypt offer deep historical and archaeological experiences akin to those in Turkey. Armenia and Georgia provide rich cultural heritage with unique and accessibility: Thailand and Vietnam are closer to India, resulting in shorter flight durations and often more affordable considerations: Armenia, Georgia, Thailand, and Vietnam are generally more budget-friendly compared to Greece and facilitation: Most of these alternatives offer e-visa or visa-on-arrival options, simplifying travel light of current geopolitical considerations, these destinations not only serve as viable alternatives to Turkey and Azerbaijan but also offer diverse experiences catering to various traveller preferences and Watch
Forbes
01-05-2025
- Forbes
Traveling With Teens: Tips And Tours To Make It A Success
getty Traveling with teenagers can be both amazing and exhausting. They are almost adults, so they can take part in many of the same activities as their parents, and yet they often don't want anything to do with their parents. Teens are at a stage where they crave independence, yet still need structure and guidance. While younger children may be thrilled by a hotel pool, teens have higher expectations. Parents traveling with teens must strike a delicate balance between offering enough freedom for their kids to feel autonomous, while keeping them engaged and connected so it feels like a family vacation. Traveling together also opens up meaningful conversations and opportunities for bonding that daily routines at home may not allow. Travel becomes a bridge between childhood and adulthood, a way to stay close as teens grow more independent. Still, the challenges can't be ignored. Teens may be moody, glued to their phones, or reluctant to try new foods or wake up early for tours. Planning trips that cater to both parents and teens requires flexibility, patience, and a good sense of humor. It helps to involve teens in the planning process—letting them choose a museum, activity, or restaurant gives them a sense of ownership and makes them more likely to engage. Structured travel with a mix of guided experiences and free time is often ideal for families with teens. getty That's where Trafalgar Tours comes in. Known for their immersive travel experiences and family-friendly itineraries, Trafalgar offers guided vacations that take the pressure off planning while still allowing flexibility and fun. Their 'Family Experiences' tours are designed specifically with kids and teens in mind, blending cultural learning with fun activities. Parents can relax knowing that logistics, accommodations, and transportation are all handled, while teens get to meet other travelers their age. Multigenerational tours continue to be a growing market. One popular option is Trafalgar's 'Egypt with Nile Cruise' itinerary. This 10-day adventure introduces families ancient Egypt through a teen-friendly lens. Highlights include visiting the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, exploring the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, and cruising down the Nile River with stops in Luxor and Aswan. Teens will love walking through the Valley of the Kings, exploring temples dedicated to powerful pharaohs, and even sailing in a traditional felucca. There's plenty of interactive storytelling from expert guides, plus built-in downtime and group activities that encourage socializing with other families. getty Highlights include: One of the advantages of group travel is the social aspect. Teens can connect with others their age, fostering new friendships and shared experiences. However, it's worth noting that the age demographics on tours can vary. While some tours may have several families with children and teens, others might predominantly consist of adult travelers. Travel during school holidays and summer breaks often attracts families with kids. getty · Include Them in the Planning. Let teens help choose destinations, activities, or restaurants. It builds excitement and gives them a sense of control. · Balance Structure and Freedom. On group tours, let the kids plan activities during downtime. · Give Them Some Independence. Allow age-appropriate independence, like exploring a nearby shop or grabbing a snack on their own. · Compromise on Tech. Set clear expectations: time for photos and downtime is okay, but not during meals or tours. · Prioritize Sleep. Teens need more sleep than you think. Avoid over-packing the itinerary, especially early mornings. · Find Teen-Friendly Activities. Look for adventure sports, interactive museums, cooking classes, or experiences tailored to their age group. · Encourage Journaling or Vlogging. Let them document the trip their way—it helps them stay engaged and creates memories. · Pack Snacks and Essentials. A hungry teen is an unhappy teen. Bring snacks, chargers, earphones, and other personal comfort items. · Respect Their Interests. If they love photography, fashion, or music, find activities that align—like a photo walk, local thrift shop, or concert. · Don't Force Constant Togetherness. Give them space. Occasional solo time can reduce tension and make family time more enjoyable. · Talk About Expectations in Advance. Set clear rules on budget, curfews, safety, and behavior before the trip to avoid surprises. · Stay Flexible and Patient. Moods will shift. Go with the flow when things don't go as planned. Remember, the best stories are often when things go wrong.
