Latest news with #UNESCO-recognized
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Heritage body begs tourists to stop jamming coins into Giant's Causeway
Visitors to the Giant's Causeway, the world-famous tourist attraction in Northern Ireland, are being urged not to indulge in the popular ritual of wedging coins in between the site's iconic stones. UK heritage body the National Trust has launched a campaign to end the practice as the coins rapidly corrode and expand, damaging the basalt rock columns at the site in County Antrim, according to a statement published Wednesday. 'We know that visitors really love and cherish the Giant's Causeway, and many form deep personal connections to this special landscape,' Cliff Henry, National Trust Nature Engagement Officer at the Giant's Causeway, said in the statement. 'We know some may want to leave a token of their visit, but the coins are causing damage and we are urging people to stop the practice and to leave no trace so this natural wonder remains special for future generations.' While legend has it that the interlocking columns were made by an Irish giant named Finn McCool so that he could cross the Irish Sea to fight a Scottish rival named Benandonner, scientists say they were created by a volcanic eruption around 50 million years ago. In 2024, the Giant's Causeway, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, received more than 684,000 visitors, with many leaving coins in the gaps between its estimated 40,000 columns. According to a report by the British Geological Survey, the coins are both physically and aesthetically harmful to the columns. 'The report has found that fracturing and disintegration of the basalt rock adjacent to joints and cracks into which coins have been inserted is the result of the 'expansive delamination of the coins upon oxidation,'' Henry said. 'In other words, the coins are rusting, and expanding to three times their original thickness, which puts huge pressure on the surrounding rock causing it to crumble. Unsightly streaks of copper, nickel and iron oxides are also staining the stones where the coins are corroding.' In response, the National Trust employed stone conservation experts to test whether the coins could be removed without causing further damage, which proved successful. However, removing all of the coins will cost more than £30,000 ($40,500), said the National Trust, which is asking visitors not to add to the problem. 'We protect and care for places so people and nature can thrive. We are appealing to visitors to help us protect the World Heritage Site by stopping the practice of inserting coins into the Causeway stones,' said Henry. And while tourists are being asked not to leave anything behind at the Giant's Causeway, visitors to Bruges, Belgium, have been implored not to take a piece of the city home with them. Earlier in May, officials issued a request that tourists stop stealing cobblestones from its UNESCO-recognized medieval streets. Local politician Franky Demon says an estimated 50 to 70 cobblestones disappear every month — even more during peak season — and it costs 200 euros (about $225) per square meter to replace them and fix the damage. 'While some may see this as harmless or quirky, the consequences are serious,' Demon told CNN. 'The removal of cobblestones poses a clear safety risk to both residents and visitors. Missing or loosened stones create tripping hazards, and city workers must frequently be dispatched to carry out repairs.'
News18
15-05-2025
- Entertainment
- News18
Miss World 2025: Gaurang Shah Drapes 60 Contestants in Telangana's Handwoven Legacy
Last Updated: Miss World contestants drape themselves in tradition with Gaurang Shah's Telangana textiles Amid the carved grandeur of Telangana's 1000 Pillar Temple and the UNESCO-recognized Ramappa Temple, sixty women from across the globe stood radiant and reverent. They weren't just visiting ancient monuments—they were adorned in living heritage. Draped in handwoven sarees and ghaghras, these Miss World 2025 contestants became ambassadors of Indian craft, embodying a cultural moment that was both fashion and tribute. At the heart of this unforgettable tableau was Gaurang Shah, Hyderabad's celebrated textile revivalist and designer, known for elevating India's handlooms into haute couture. Entrusted with styling the 60 international delegates for their cultural tour of Telangana, Shah delivered a visual symphony of weaves, colour, and story. 'To represent Indian handlooms on such a global stage—and to do it at sites that are living museums of our heritage—was deeply emotional," says Shah. The designer drew from the rich textile traditions of the region, choosing Gadwal for its luxurious zari borders, Narayanpet for its crisp checks, and the globally renowned Pochampally Ikkats, both single and double, known for bold geometrics and hypnotic hues. Each temple visit became a runway of reverence—an editorial of elegance. In Warangal, the women were styled in sarees, a tribute to temple femininity and strength. At Ramappa, they wore flowing ghaghras crafted from a stunning blend of silk, cotton, tussar, matka, muga, and cotton-silk. Some donned luminous Chanderi, others floated in feather-light organza—each garment echoing the individuality of its wearer and the collective genius of India's weavers. 'Every fabric I chose carried a story," Shah explains. 'Each weave and motif was selected to reflect the deep spiritual and cultural roots of this land." This wasn't just fashion—it was diplomacy in drape form, a dialogue between civilizations through thread and textile. The ancient stones of Telangana stood witness to a powerful exchange: sacred spaces meeting sacred crafts, women from around the world embodying the soul of Indian handloom. In an age where fast fashion dominates, Shah's moment was a global celebration of slow, sustainable, soulful fashion—a spotlight on tradition, identity, and craft as couture. Gold Threads and Ivory Dreams: A Regal Jamdani Moment for Miss India Nandini Gupta The magic continued at the 72nd Miss World Pageant's grand opening in Hyderabad, where all eyes turned to Nandini Gupta, India's 21-year-old contestant, who took the stage in a breathtakingly handcrafted ensemble by Gaurang Shah. She wore a handwoven ghaghra paired with a saree-draped dupatta—an ensemble that shimmered with heritage and innovation. The look was built on a poetic jugalbandi of Jamdani weaves from Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra, meticulously crafted from hand-charkha spun khadi yarn and embellished with gold zari leharia motifs. The highlight? A majestic 'Bangdi Mor' pattern—four peacocks poised within a bangle—woven into the border and palla. A motif rich in Maharashtra's artisanal legacy, it represents beauty, grace, and timeless design. 'This textile took nearly three years to weave, with eight artisans dedicating themselves to perfecting every detail," Shah reveals. 'When Nandini's team reached out, I knew this fabric would reflect the soul of India and suit her poise." Set on an ivory base, the gold detailing shimmered with understated grandeur, making the ensemble a perfect blend of rooted tradition and contemporary finesse. With whispers of Shah potentially crafting more ensembles for Nandini as the competition unfolds, lovers of textile artistry have much to look forward to. 'My mission has always been to celebrate India's handlooms—our Jamdani mastery, our weavers' exquisite skill—on global platforms," says Shah. 'Miss World offered the perfect stage for that dialogue to continue." A Fabric of Nationhood, a Fashion of Storytelling What Gaurang Shah has done through these moments isn't just style 60 contestants or one queen-in-the-making—it's stitched India's narrative into the global fabric of culture. In every motif and every drape, there's a message: Indian handlooms are not history—they are living legacies, woven with purpose, power, and poetry. First Published: May 15, 2025, 15:57 IST
Hans India
05-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Hans India
Telangana Taps Miss World Pageant to Showcase State's Tourism Potential to Global Audience
New Delhi/Hyderabad: In a major push to position Telangana as a premier global tourism destination, the state government has unveiled a comprehensive promotional strategy centered around the upcoming Miss World pageant. This initiative aligns with the vision of Hon'ble Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy to boost tourism-led economic growth and attract significant investment into the sector. With representatives from over 120 countries participating and broadcast coverage reaching more than 150 nations, the Miss World pageant is expected to offer an unprecedented platform to highlight Telangana's rich cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and modern infrastructure to an international audience. The initiative forms a key component of the state's broader tourism roadmap, aimed at drawing investments exceeding ₹15,000 crore and significantly increasing both domestic and international tourist footfall. As part of the campaign, contestants will embark on a curated tour across Telangana from May 12 to May 21. The journey begins with a Heritage Walk through Hyderabad's historic Charminar and Laad Bazaar on May 12, showcasing the city's vibrant culture. On May 13, they will visit the majestic Chowmahalla Palace to experience the grandeur of Hyderabad's royal legacy. The following day, May 14, is dedicated to exploring Warangal's iconic landmarks, including the Thousand Pillar Temple, Warangal Fort, and the UNESCO-recognized Ramappa Temple, where a live performance of the ancient Perini Dance will be held. On May 15, the focus shifts to spiritual tourism with a visit to the Yadagirigutta temple, followed by a trip to Pochampally, famed for its handloom traditions. May 16 emphasizes medical and experiential tourism, featuring visits to prominent healthcare institutions, Experience Park in Hyderabad, and the ancient Pillalamarri banyan tree in Mahabubnagar. The tour continues on May 17 with a visit to Ramoji Film City, one of the world's largest film studio complexes. On May 18, the contestants will explore the Telangana Police Integrated Command and Control Centre to understand the state's advanced public safety systems. That evening, they will attend a presentation on Telangana's development journey and enjoy the festive 'Sunday-Funday Carnival' at Tank Bund. Contestants will also attend an IPL match at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium on either May 20 or 21. The cultural immersion will conclude on May 21 with an arts and crafts workshop at Shilparamam, where participants will engage directly with local artisans and traditional art forms. Through this high-visibility international event, Telangana aims to promote diverse tourism themes including heritage, spirituality, wellness, handlooms, and film tourism. The government sees this effort as a means to drive inclusive growth, generate employment, and establish Telangana as a vibrant, multi-dimensional tourism hub on the global map.
Zawya
29-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Ethiopia: Chinese Language Day marked with a focus on harmony in diversity and global understanding
The Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), in partnership with the Embassy of the People's Republic of China to Ethiopia and the Mission of China to the African Union and ECA, commemorated Chinese Language Day with a vibrant celebration at the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), Conference Centre in Addis Ababa. The event highlighted the Chinese language as a powerful vehicle for cross-cultural understanding, dialogue, and heritage preservation. The observance forms part of the UN's global initiative to promote multilingualism and cultural diversity across its operations. Chinese, one of the UN's six official languages, was at the heart of the day's celebration, which drew diplomats, educators, cultural experts, and UN staff. In her opening remarks, Ms. Mai-Ellen Jarrett, Acting Director of ECA's Administration Division, underscored the strategic value of multilingualism in advancing the UN's mission, stating: 'Chinese is not just a language; it is a living testament to 5,000 years of civilization—a bridge linking cultures and fostering shared humanity.' Mr. Hu Changchun, Head of the Chinese Mission to the African Union (AU) and Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), reflected on Mandarin's growing influence in diplomacy, trade, and global innovation, noting that it is spoken by over 1.3 billion people worldwide. Ms. Rita Bisoonauth, Director of UNESCO's Liaison Office to the African Union (AU) and Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), added: 'Chinese, with its rich script and philosophical depth, offers a unique lens to view the world—one rooted in harmony, respect, and collective progress.' The celebration also included interactive calligraphy workshops highlighting the UNESCO-recognized art of shūfǎ, demonstrations of traditional Chinese medicine practices, and poetry recitations that brought both classical and contemporary Chinese literature to life. A keynote address by Professor Li Wei, an internationally renowned linguist, explored the theme 'Harmony in Diversity: Chinese as a Catalyst for Global Understanding.' His remarks emphasized the role of language as both a cultural asset and a means for international cooperation. In his closing remarks, Mr. Marcel Bolboaca, Chief of ECA's Publications, Conferences, and Knowledge Management Division, called on participants to champion the preservation of linguistic heritage: 'Languages like Chinese are threads in humanity's tapestry. By preserving them, we honor our past and equip future generations to build a more inclusive world.' The event concluded with a reception, where guests further celebrated Chinese culture through music, cuisine, and informal dialogue, reinforcing the day's message of togetherness through language. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA).
Yahoo
11-04-2025
- Yahoo
ZingHome Ha Giang Launches the Ultimate Ha Giang Loop Experience, Redefining Adventure Travel in Vietnam's Majestic North
Ha Giang, Vietnam--(Newsfile Corp. - April 11, 2025) - ZingHome Ha Giang is proud to announce the official launch of its all-new Ha Giang Loop tour, an extraordinary travel experience designed to showcase the unrivaled beauty, culture, and adventure that define Vietnam's far northern province. Situated in Vietnam's remote and rugged north, Ha Giang is celebrated for its dramatic landscapes, where towering limestone peaks, cascading rice terraces, and deep, verdant valleys create a setting unlike any other in the country. This province, positioned near the Chinese border, is home to remarkable natural wonders such as the UNESCO-recognized Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark. With pristine roads that wind through ancient villages and breathtaking mountain passes, Ha Giang offers an escape from crowded tourist hubs and a rare opportunity to witness traditional rural life in its purest form. ZingHome Ha Giang has emerged as the premier provider of travel experiences in this isolated paradise, expertly curating tours that deliver both adventure and comfort. The Ha Giang Loop tour, ranging from two to five days in duration, invites visitors to explore 350 to 400 kilometers of ever-changing scenery. Guests will ride along famous routes, including the sensational Ma Pi Leng Pass - often dubbed the "King of Passes" - where panoramic views of steep cliffs and deep valleys evoke a sense of awe and wonder. This expertly planned itinerary ensures that every twist and turn provides a new perspective on the rich natural heritage of Ha Giang. ZingHomeTo view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: The tour is supported by a team of experienced local guides, whose deep-rooted knowledge of the area enhances every mile traveled. These professionals offer detailed narratives about the history, culture, and geology of the region, turning every stop into an informative encounter with nature and tradition. Whether navigating the challenging roads of Quan Ba's Heaven's Gate or stopping at a traditional H'Mong village to observe artisanal crafts and local customs, travelers will gain insights that enrich their journey. In addition to guiding, the team at ZingHome provides comprehensive support from the moment guests depart Hanoi until they return, ensuring a seamless transition between modern comforts and the wild, unpredictable beauty of Ha Giang. At the heart of ZingHome's offerings is its commitment to delivering a complete travel solution. Apart from the exhilarating motorbike journeys, the company proudly offers luxurious and impeccably clean homestay accommodations, which allow visitors to enjoy the warmth of local hospitality. Nestled in picturesque villages such as Dong Van and Du Gia, these homestays blend rustic charm with contemporary amenities. Each property is carefully selected to provide comfortable sleeping arrangements, private bathing facilities, and reliable Wi-Fi connectivity, ensuring that travelers can relax and recharge after a day of adrenaline-fueled adventures. For those seeking the freedom of exploring on their own, ZingHome's fleet of high-quality motorbikes is available for rental. Every bike is meticulously maintained and comes equipped with essential safety gear, including helmets and protective jackets. Prior to departure, expert staff provide thorough briefings on local riding conditions, route recommendations, and safety protocols, empowering riders to confidently navigate Ha Giang's winding roads and steep gradients. This proactive approach to safety underscores ZingHome's dedication to ensuring that every guest enjoys a secure and memorable journey. Recognizing that not every traveler is comfortable riding on challenging mountainous roads, ZingHome Ha Giang also introduces its revolutionary Easy Rider service. This innovative offering pairs visitors with highly experienced, licensed local drivers who serve as both navigators and cultural ambassadors. Riding as a passenger, guests can fully absorb the scenic beauty, indulge in local lore, and relax while their dedicated Easy Rider expertly handles the complexities of the terrain. This service not only alleviates the stress associated with navigating unfamiliar roads but also enriches the travel experience with personal stories, historical context, and insightful commentary about the diverse ethnic groups that call Ha Giang home. The launch of the Ha Giang Loop tour by ZingHome Ha Giang marks a significant milestone in the region's tourism sector. By integrating meticulously planned adventures with top-tier hospitality services, the company aims to redefine the standards for adventure travel in Vietnam's northern territories. "Our mission at ZingHome is to create an unforgettable journey that balances excitement, comfort, and cultural immersion," stated company spokesperson Pham Van Bien. "We want our guests to feel like honored visitors rather than mere tourists, and every facet of our service is designed to reflect the genuine spirit of Ha Giang." Local communities in Ha Giang benefit from ZingHome's sustainable tourism efforts. Collaborating with local families and leaders, the company ensures travelers experience authentic traditions while supporting the local economy. Visitors engage with villagers, sample homemade delicacies, and witness traditional practices that foster cultural preservation and create lasting memories. The comprehensive travel package offered by ZingHome Ha Giang includes seamless transportation from Hanoi, ensuring that the journey begins and ends with convenience and comfort. Guests are greeted with professional service, from luxurious sleeper buses to prompt assistance during transfers. Each element of the tour is designed with attention to detail, leaving no aspect of the adventure to chance. The company's commitment to excellence is reflected in rigorous safety standards, personalized attention, and a genuine passion for showcasing the untamed beauty of Ha Giang. Ha Giang's allure as a top travel destination continues to rise, and ZingHome Ha Giang leads the way in connecting visitors with its stunning landscapes and rich cultures. New tour routes and themed experiences are being planned to offer even more personalized adventures for travelers seeking unique discoveries across the province. The comprehensive narrative of ZingHome Ha Giang's offerings brings together expert-guided motorbike adventures, bespoke homestays, flexible rental options, and the innovative Easy Rider service-all tailored to immerse visitors in the authentic rhythms of northern Vietnam. Each carefully planned detail from departure in Hanoi to the final return is designed not only to provide a memorable travel experience but also to foster a genuine connection between visitors and the land they traverse. With a focus on safety, local knowledge, and cultural immersion, every element of the tour reflects a deep respect for Ha Giang's natural beauty and its vibrant communities, ensuring that adventure travelers enjoy a seamless blend of thrill, comfort, and discovery. Adventure awaits at ZingHome Ha Giang. Book a tour now through the Company's official website to begin an unforgettable journey, discovering the majestic landscapes and rich culture of northern Vietnam. About ZingHome Ha Giang: ZingHome Ha Giang company provides homestay, hotel, hostel with rooftop coffee, motorbike rental and all the best services for your Ha Giang Loop tour. Our mission is to inspire discovery and enrich authentic cultural engagement. Company name: ZingHome Ha GiangAddress: 56 Le Tran Man, Phuong Thien, Ha Giang, VietnamCountry/City: Ha Giang, VietnamWebsite: pr@ To view the source version of this press release, please visit Sign in to access your portfolio
