Inspire Me ThursdaySelf help blog to improve day to day living

According the the Aboriginal people , Sydney has many sites that they consider sacred. The Eucalyptus ‘scar’ tree trunk is an example and highlights the importance of sites such as Sydney and it’s indigenous history of the area.  Scars on trees have been noted to occur for a number of reasons. Including taking the bark to make canoes and coolamons, for marking out a boundary area, marking a sacred burial site or indicating traditional women’s and men’s sites. These things, these markings are what constitutes a ‘scar’ tree.

Many surviving Aboriginal scar trees can be found in the rural areas surrounding the city and the suburbs, but several still exist in the urban areas. For example there are some located in front of some Sydney Five Star Hotels and one located in front of a police station. The tree is an endemic species to the region. If the tree is not a naturally occurring species, then the scar, no matter how authentic it may appear, is certainly not a genuine Aboriginal origin. Of course, it is difficult to get an accurate age of a eucalyptus tree, so the age is a guess along with the age of the scar tree. An interesting aspect is that a tree bearing a scar will most definitely have to have been a mature tree in order for the bark to be removed and the tree would have to be at a fairly large size.

Historically, the scar tree is significant because it defines Aboriginal occupation of Australia before 1788 and will help in their challenges of Britain’s claim over it. The Aboriginal peoples land has been lived in for well over 40,000 years. The scar tree has been a considerable research tool revealing the Aboriginal culture and how communication became about and was lost over time. It is evidence of the experience of the indigenous tribe and will be of tremendous value to their heritage.

For tourists on the lookout for splendid stays in splendid five-star hotels, Goa has much to offer.  The accommodations are a reflection of the place, with a wonderful combination of hospitality and amenities, giving the best of all possible worlds.  The decor is impeccable, with a sense of design that meets international standards of excellence while also maintaining local flavor.  Service is also world-class, and will make the guests feel very welcome and always comfortable.  Then there is the place.  With a fabulous reputation among travelers, excellent beaches, and a very lively local scene, there is always something to do.  The whole family can find a wide range of amusements here, with tours and sight-seeing, and people watching is at a premium.

While out on the town, it would be a good time to see some of the historical sites here.  Goa has a rich and complicated history, with a mix of cultures.  Walking through the streets, one might find oneself walking in the footsteps of the ghost of one of its famous sons, Abbé Faria .  He was born in Candolim, District of Bardez, Goa in 1746 to Portuguese Goan parents.  When he was 15 years old, his father took him to Lisbon to begin study for the priesthood.  There is a very famous story about him there, when he was to give a sermon before the Queen, D. Maria I.  He felt tongue-tied, and could not speak, and his father whispered to him, “Hi sogli baji, cator re baji,” which translates to, “THey are vegetables, cut the vegetables.”  At these words, he found his voice.

Although it was certainly far from his father’s mind, it gave Abbé Faria an idea.  If an utterance from his father was enough to cure his stage-fright, then there was the possibility that merely suggesting something to someone could unlock enormous mental capacities.  This idea became known as the power of suggestion, and it was central to his work after this.  While Mesmer, the Parisian hypnotist, was doing live performances using magnetism to induce hypnosis, Abbé Faria began doing live acts of hypnosis based on the power of the spoken word.  He died before he could complete his scholarly works, but the idea is enough to have influenced schools of contemporary psychology.  Mustard Seed Art Company in Goa has done a theatre piece about him as part of his 250th birthday celebration, and Alexandre Dumas created a character, Edmond Dantas, in his Count of Monte Cristo.

I was recently staying at a New York Cheap Hotel and decided to do a little bit of research while I’m here visiting my ailing Uncle. I’m a Horticulturists and was interested in what kind of trees can survive in Manhattan and its surroundings. I read an article a while ago called Census Shows Street Trees Add Value to City Life. It reported that the Metropolitan New York City area has increased its tree population by 10 percent from 1995 to 2009.

This survey gathered this information by using more than 1,000 volunteers, I was quite impressed with the amount of volunteers that were even interested in helping out, they managed to log over 30,000 hours for what apparently is the largest participatory urban forestry project in the whole of the United States. Very impressive indeed. Through all the data collected, they found that this increase in trees looked pretty hopeful. But, a closer look reveals details using the most common tree species surveyed.  The top ten, except two native trees: Green Ash and Red Maple, might have a substantial negative impact on urban sites and they might have a potential impact on the surrounding suburban areas. They observed that four of the top trees are not native to the United States.

Horticulturists, such as me, and urban foresters are now recommending planting eight of the surveyed tree species with a word of caution. The London Plane Tree , the Littleleaf Linden will quickly outgrow many, if not all, urban sites with limited space. I know for a fact that the Norway Maple and the Callery Pear are a very invasive plant and have escaped to the natural forests and are to be considered dangerous and harmful to all the native vegetation.

As I take a stroll outside of my hotel and see all the planted city trees, they are beautiful, but in the long term and cause much damage to New York’s natural forested areas. I do hope that many of those wonderful volunteers that helped with the report I read will also volunteer to keep an eye on the forested areas and take care of any growing issues.

During the winter months, many travel to the town of Cronulla, on the south coast of Sydney , to catch glimpses of the migration of the humpback whales at the end of their six month long ‘tour’ off many of the coasts of the shores of Australia.  At this point in the journey the whales are spotted with their new born calves frequently, with many of the platforms for viewing the whales brings nature lovers in close contact with the amazing creatures.  During the summer months, these shores are visited by those looking for fun in the sun, be it just relaxing on the beaches, or hitting the surf.  This area of Sydney is only reachable via the train, so there are no cars nor traffic, making this one of the best kept secrets, and making for one of the most peaceful summer holidays on the continent.

The beaches of Southern Cronulla are sandy, and are hit with the most gentle of waves, making this the perfect destination for those traveling with children.  Many events for kids are organized by the resorts and the 5 star hotels, Sydney has many of those to choose from, and they will guide parents towards the coves, that are surrounded by rock formations that provide safe swimming holes and many adventures of discovery and exploration.  A popular and relaxing pastime along these shores is the building of sandcastles, of which there are a few on the beaches throughout each and every day.

For those wanting a bit more of an exciting adventure, the beaches on the Northern end of the town offer waves and surf that is bit more high paced.  Wanda and Elouera beaches are located near by, and these three locations have become popular for those interested in the sport of surfing .  There are many schools and local surf shops that offer classes for those just beginning to learn, to those who are experienced but would like the opportunity to train with some of the best surfers in the world.  And when one tires of the physical strength necessary for the sport, there are city parks located throughout each of the three beaches, that offer picturesque gardens, fish and chip restaurants, and many locations to grab a cold gelato and relax in the warm breezes of the Australian summer .  This area of Sydney is a great spot for families and a great way to experience the country for the first time.

The Gogaji Festival in Jaipur brings many travelers and tourists to the region during the celebrations, and there are many options concerning accommodations in the luxury hotels.  Jaipur festival celebrations that surround this time, are dedicated to Goga Veer , a Hindu local hero.  This diety is also known as the God of Snakes, and is often seen in the idols portrayed with a horse and a snake wrapped around him, usually surrounding his neck.  Many Muslims claim to be descendants of this persona, and those devoted to Goga are found throughout the regions of India and annual processions and parades take place in his honor.

It is said that to pray to him will relieve one of sickness, of all sorts, as well as those caused by the bites of snakes.  Many people attending the festivals, make the journeys simply to express their wishes, or to express thanks for the bounties received during the years.  This festival takes place during the month of August and lasts for three days.  One of the most significant forms of worship is to rub the idols of the God with incense.  Many also present offerings of cash, sugar candies and coconuts.  And all the while the ceremonies are lead by priests who sing, dance and lead the prayer sessions.  Many dance to the beats of the drummers and celebrate in top notch fashion.

Another fair held here, one of the largest in the state, is the Kapil Muni Festival.  This is in hone of the Saint Kapil, who is reported to be a direct relative of the Lord Brahma.  The temples are located throughout the area, with many reserved for just the women taking part in the celebrations and the ceremonies.  This is a time when many travel in search of redemption and spiritual enlightenment.  One of the main events that takes place is the trading of the various farm animals such as the horses, the cattle, the camels and the buffalo that many rely on throughout the year to work the fields.  This is mainly a religious festival hi-lighted by the completions in for the breeders of the animals up for trade and competition.

All of the artists, and all of the crafts of India are well known throughout the world, and many travel year after year for the bargains, and for the beauty that is so readily accessible.  From the jewels, to the sculpture…metal and wood…to the clothing and the furniture, the traditional techniques have merged with the modern, in the art of commerce and the art of trading.  One of the particularly well known fields of artistry is in the works of pottery.  Throughout the country, artists have become well known for their skill and their styles, from Jaipur to Bangalore and Goa .  This is true as well for the city of Delhi.  For the best places to shop, one may ask for maps and information from the concierge in their hotel.  Delhi, India holds many fairs and festivals, but each day of the week there is much to find if one knows where to look for it.

Many of the potters of India sit down each day at their wheels with the express purpose of creating works for daily use, such as pots and pitchers for water, lamp bases and pots for flowers and plants.  These ordinary items are of the highest artist quality, drawing on the techniques and the traditions of the artists elders and family members.  These items are made throughout the country.  There are different forms of the art however, such as terra cotta, and a blue tinted glazing which has become fashionable and desirable over the years, with the locals as well as the tourists.  Terra cotta is the most common and popular medium to work with, and the artists create statues of birds, horses and elephants, and tend to paint them in the bright colors of the country.

Very common also, are the panels or tiles, that many have chosen to decorate their houses with over the years, creating a bit of the exotic world in their everyday lives.  The blue glazing of the pottery is the influence of the artists of Persia .  The medium for this is a substance called Fuller’s Earth.  The decorative sensibilities of the Moguls is combined with the technological advancements of the Chinese artisans.  At first this style was used simply for the use on tombs or gravestones, but has since been put to use in creating delicate tea sets and table settings.  Throughout the city one will find deals and good prices, on these pieces of work that may someday…become priceless.

Singapore is a most magical island, filled with all that is enchanting in nature, stylistic in architecture, and modern conveniences such as in the industry of business, marketing and investments with any private bank.  Singapore manages to blend all this modernity with a sense of tradition that is embraced and celebrated.  One of the best ways to get an idea of the culture and the people is to simply walk around the island.  There is a Garden of Fountains located on the island, that is filled with sparkling white lights, and dancing fountains set to music and colors, the one specific show that draws tourists and spectators is the Dance of Fire, that utilizes modern technology of lasers and lights and sound, and has been compared to a ballet set in fountains and water.

One can catch incredible views of night skyline from atop either the Merlion Monument or from the viewing towers at the Dragon Court .  The city is a true kaleidoscope of color and beauty, a cultural blend of entertainment, and activity that includes parties on the beach, sculptures made of sand, festivals of dance and music as well as concerts that include pop stars and the impresarios of the classical world of symphony.  International sporting tournaments and events are also a popular draw for tourists.  There are many options for accommodation, from luxury spas and resorts to boutique smaller family owned hotels, and bed breakfasts.

There is also quite a range of restaurants, from the many fine dining restaurants offering up Thai and Chinese cooking, to the best of Seafood and Sushi spots and the delightful hawker stands .  Singapore and the surrounding islands offer up something for every economic strata, from five star luxury to low cost activities, that will provide everyone with the opportunity to live it up once they reach the islands.  Transportation around the island is easily attainable as well, from the buses and taxis to the trains and the monorails.  Each day is filled with a new adventure when visiting the island, for the first time, or the first time of many trips back to the fascinating and the exotic South East.

The Center of College of the Army Service Corps in Bangalore , recently converted an unused airport road into a forest of sandalwood trees .  This was a project in the preservation and the care of the ecosystem, as more than five thousand trees were planted on the grounds during the month of June, 2009.  This is also to be the home for a variety of other plants and flowers as well as a protected reserve for wildlife and various species of birds.  The director of the program stated that the care of the trees will be of utmost importance, as the different species range in age from seedlings to mature trees of more than twenty five years in age.  The addition of the bird populations with serve to balance the habitat, and as well, the birds are the natural pollinators of the trees.  This reserve is locate out of the view of the public, however is accessible for tours and is located close to the downtown area and to many hotels.  Bangalore, India established the center in the middle of the 20th Century as a station of trade and supply distribution, everything from clothing to food to weapons and ammunition.

Recently, the city of Bangalore has had issues of the controlling the vandalizing of and the theft of these trees, and the center is there to provide the protection and the safety of the trees which are comprised of such sacred and precious wood.  The Army corps has no separate wing with botanists and scientists, and the care of the trees is the responsibility of the landscapers that care for the rest of the grounds on a day to day basis.  There intent is to preserve the trees for the future, and it is a goal that is well worth reaching, and one that will take a lot of diligence for those involved.  It seems that the sandalwood thieves of Bangalore have been very successful recently, in gaining entrance to and stealing trees that are kept in secure locations.  In fact very recent, was an attempt made by four such men, as they entered the Chief Justice of the High courts residential compound and attempted to steal the trees.  Well guarded locations have been hit by these bandits and the Army Service Corps of Bangalore will do all that is necessary to make certain that this does not happen to their newly planted crop.

Sylvester Stallone is a popular American film actor who recently went to Bollywood to shoot a movie. Bollywood, India’s equivalent of the United State’s Hollywood, California, gained international acclaim with the Academy Award winning film Slumdog Millionaire. The new film, Kambakkht Ishq also stars American actors Denise Richards and Brandon Routh, as well as major Bollywood box office draws and it opens this summer. American tourists who happen to be in India this summer have the chance to see the union of cultures and some of their favorite homegrown stars on the big screen in Mubai and other major cities. The luxury Mumbai hotels provide the perfect accommodation to enhance a visit to India, whether it is business or vacation based.

The film was directed by Sabbir Khan and is an action packed exploration of a relationship between to people that are as different from each other as night is from day. Indian actor Akshay Kumar plays Viraj Shergill, a Hollywood stuntman with a less than respectful opinion of women. Kareena Kapoor plays Simrita Rai, the woman who is more than happy to prove she is Viraj’s match, at his best. She also spins a twist on his attitude about female marriage desires as she has no interest or belief in love. Stallone and the other American actors have minor or cameo appearances as themselves.

The film was originally intended to be released in December of last year, though post production technical difficulties and extensive production work caused for the delay. Director Khan also wrote the screenplay for the film, which translates into English as Incredible Love. He has worked as an Assistant Director for the film Miane Pyar kyun Kiya, which was released in 2005. He also served as the Assistant Director on the films Mujhse Shaadi Karogi and Dastak.

For savvy travelers, our five-star Kolkata hotels offer some of the most lovely amenities available in contemporary accommodation.  Much like the city itself, our hotels offer a unique blend of the old world and the new, with excellence in hospitality and technology.  Guests will find themselves well-connected to the world at large, and in a setting where escaping from the world in absolute luxury is also possible.  Design here is at a premium, and style meets substance in a very happy marriage of tastes.  Not to mention the excellent food, reliable customer service that is always friendly and gracious, and all the creature comforts that make life worth living, these are truly exceptional places that will leave you remembering your stay for a lifetime.

Kolkata is a fascinating city with an extremely rich history.  One of the longest continually-inhabited places on the planet, there is a constant buzz of activity here.  And there is always something to do, day or night, so whether a rich experience with the family or an exciting time after dark are on the menu, Kolkata will accommodate.  There is an excellent cultural scene, with the film industry here, fantastic visual artists creating new worlds with paint and photography, and music.  There is an amazing scene for traditional music, with some of the best players in the country gracing clubs and music halls.  There is also an upcoming contemporary music scene, and Cynical Recess is one of the hottest new groups.

Born and bred in Kolkata, with five performers and their own engineer, Cynical Recess plays a style of music that is a kind of socially conscious 80′s rock with tendencies toward both progressive and alternative rock.  They have won a number of competitions, and played a god number of shows, since they formed in December of 2008.  Their lead vocalist, Abhishek, came with a generous supply of kudos for his lead vocals before joining their ranks.  It is an exciting music, with energy and conscience.  Having been noticed by the likes of the Telegraph, Cynical Recess is off to a sweeping start, with enormous promise.