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Traveling can be an exhilarating yet draining adventure, especially when long layovers are involved. On a recent journey from Chicago to Osaka on Cathay Pacific through Hong Kong International Airport, I discovered one of the most refreshing perks of this bustling hub—its free shower facilities. An experience that transformed my layover into a moment of pure rejuvenation.

Whether for frequent flyers or occasional flyers, airports can often feel like a whirlwind of check-ins, security queues, and endless crowds. Finding a quiet respite amid this chaos can seem impossible. However, Hong Kong International Airport offers a thoughtful gift to all passengers: complimentary showers. Unlike the exclusive amenities in first-class lounges, these showers are accessible to everyone and require no codes or vouchers.

On my outbound journey, I visited the showers near Gates 12, and on my inbound journey, I found the ones near Gate 43 on the Arrivals Level (L5,) both of which were surprisingly easy to locate. These facilities are positioned before security checks, making them perfect for freshening up during layovers or while transitioning between flights. Whether you’re pressed for time or indulging in a leisurely layover, these showers are a godsend.

The sensation of stepping into the shower after hours of travel is indescribably soothing. The warm water cascaded over me, washing away the stiffness of airplane seats and the weariness of the journey. I was surprised by how uncrowded the showers were, even during peak hours. Arriving late at night on my outbound, I found the space serene and practically empty.

The shower areas are segregated by gender. The shower cubicles come equipped with basic toiletries such as body wash, shampoo, and a hair dryer. While I didn’t need them, additional items like towels, toothbrushes, and razors are conveniently available for purchase from vending machines just outside the shower area.

The showers operate on a timed push-button system, with water running for about 15 seconds per press. While I appreciated the eco-conscious design, pressing the button repeatedly for a longer shower did interrupt the flow of relaxation ever so briefly. There was also a brief moment of cold water as the pipes drained, but it was a minor inconvenience. Another slight drawback was the lack of toilet facilities within the shower stalls themselves. However, there were plenty of restrooms nearby, so it wasn’t a major issue.

The free showers at Hong Kong International Airport turned what could have been a routine layover into a moment of personal renewal. Beyond just cleaning up, the experience recharged me mentally and physically, preparing me to embrace the next leg of my journey. If you find yourself at this airport, I highly recommend taking advantage of this thoughtful amenity. It’s a simple yet transformative way to elevate your travel experience.

After my refreshing shower, I explored the rest areas on the Departures Level near Gates 21, 34, 31, and 61. These zones feature comfortable recliners perfect for stretching out and relaxing before boarding. Pairing a shower with some quiet rest time elevated my travel experience to a new level of comfort and relaxation.

Beyond the Showers: Sky Bridge, A Plane Spotter’s Ultimate Paradise

One of the coolest features of Hong Kong International Airport is the Sky Bridge—hands down the best observation deck I’ve ever seen at any airport. Opened in late 2022, this game-changing bridge connects Terminal 1 (T1) with the Terminal 1 Satellite Concourse (T1S.) Before this, getting between terminals meant taking a bus, which was a hassle. Now, you can simply stroll across this stunning 200-meter-long bridge, 28 meters above the ground, with planes taxiing right underneath you, including the massive Airbus A380!

What makes it even more special for aviation enthusiasts like me is the thoughtful design. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide jaw-dropping views, and there’s even a partially glass floor so you can look straight down at the planes below. When an A350 taxied beneath me, I was so awestruck I almost forgot to snap a picture. At the end of the bridge, you’ll find the Sky Deck, a little haven complete with seating, binoculars, info panels, and even a model of the airport. It’s not just a walkway; it’s an experience that transforms a layover into a memorable highlight. If you’re passing through Hong Kong, make sure to check it out—you won’t regret it!

Yalandur, once the capital of the province of Hadināḍu under the Mysore Wadeyars, was a thriving town during the Vijayanagara era. This area was later gifted to Dewan Poornaiah by Krishnaraja Wadeyar III and is now part of Chamarajanagar district. An inscription at the Gaurīśvara Temple reveals that it was built in 1450 CE by the Hadināḍu chief Siṅgideva Devabhūpāla. The temple’s architecture and sculptures reflect the grandeur of the Vijayanagara style.

Over time, the temple fell into disrepair. However, it was reconstructed using pillars and sculptures sourced from the Mūlasthāneśvara Temple, located five kilometers away. While this restoration saved the structure, it also resulted in the loss of much of the temple’s original character.

Layout and Design

The Gaurīśvara Temple has a simple yet elegant layout. It comprises a sanctum (garbhagṛha,) a closed hall (maṇṭapa,) an open hall supported by granite pillars, and a unique mahādvāra (grand entrance) that lacks the typical tower (gopura) above it. This style of entrance is known as a bale maṇṭapa (literally, “bangle hall”) in contemporary parlance.

The mahādvāra serves as a symbolic gateway to the divine realm, marking the transition from the material to the spiritual. Intricately adorned with carvings of deities, mythological figures, and spiritual motifs, it is a marvel of symmetry and artistic embellishments. Standing over twelve feet tall, the entrance features bass-relief sculptures on various themes. The eastern door jamb displays images of musicians, dancers, gods, and goddesses. The lintel above bears an image of Umā-Maheśvara (Śiva and Pārvatī.)

The outer walls of the temple are richly decorated with horizontal moldings and three projected friezes that enhance their elegance. A series of pillars and turrets frame tall and slender sculptures of gods and goddesses. Highlights include:

• Bhairava: Found on the southeast corner.
• Śiva: Depicted with sages and Nandikeśvara under a Dravidian turret supported by pilasters.
• Other Deities: Sculptures of Vīrabhadra, Ardhanārīśvara with Rati and Manmatha, Veṇugopāla attended by Gopikās, Śiva with a dancing Gaṇeśa, and scenes such as Gopivastrāpaharaṇa.
• Rāma and Sītā: Positioned in a group at the northeast corner.

The eave running around the mahādvāra is adorned with dancing gods under kīrtimukhas. Notably, there are four stone chain rings (bale,) each intricately carved from a single block of stone.

Inner Sanctum and Deities

The sanctum (garbhagṛha) of the Gaurīśvara Temple houses the liṅga, the sacred symbol representing Lord Śiva. The closed hall (maṇṭapa) features images of several Hindu deities, including:

• Viṣṇu: The preserver in the Hindu pantheon.
• Ṣaṇmukha (Kārttikeya): The god of war and wisdom.
• Pārvatī: Śiva’s consort and the goddess of fertility and love.
• Mahiṣāsuramardini: A fierce form of Durgā slaying the buffalo demon.
• Bhairava: A fearsome aspect of Śiva symbolizing destruction.
• Vīrabhadra: A warrior form of Śiva.
• Gaṇapati (Gaṇeśa): The remover of obstacles.

The walls of the temple entrance are intricately decorated with reliefs illustrating scenes from purāṇic tales and epics, bringing to life stories from Hindu mythology.

A Day of Temple Exploration

If you enjoy exploring historical and cultural sites, Chamarajanagar district offers a treasure trove of temples. Apart from the Gaurīśvara Temple in Yalandur, you can visit:

• The Arakeśvara Temple in Hole Alur, approximately 25 kilometers from Yalandur, was built in the 10th century by Butuga II of the Ganga dynasty. This temple commemorates his victory over the Cholas in the Battle of Takkolam and showcases a unique fusion of Ganga and Hoysala architectural styles.
• The Rāmeśvara Temple in Narasamangala, around 15 kilometers from Yalandur, was constructed in the 9th century by the Western Ganga Dynasty. The temple blends Dravidian elements with intricate carvings, while its distinctive brick and stucco superstructure adds to its unique appeal. This site offers valuable historical insights into the cultural and architectural practices of the Ganga dynasty.
• The Vijayanārāyaṇa Temple in Gundlupet, roughly 35 kilometers from Yalandur, was also built in the 10th century by the Western Ganga Dynasty. The temple features a blend of Ganga and Hoysala architectural styles and houses a main shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu, along with smaller shrines.

Each of these sites is a testimony to the region’s rich heritage and architectural splendor of Karnataka.

Budapest, Europe’s most underrated gem, is a captivating city offering a rich blend of history, culture, and modern vibrancy. Steeped in a storied past, it’s dramatically transformed since the collapse of the Berlin Wall, emerging as a dynamic metropolis. The city boasts a unique mix of old-world grandeur and contemporary flair, where you can unwind in thermal baths beneath Baroque domes, stroll along the floodlit Danube, or explore historic castles and opulent interiors.

Budapest’s culture thrives with a lively arts scene, a deep literary heritage, and a gastronomic landscape blending tradition with modern innovation. The city’s energy is palpable, with vibrant neighborhoods, hidden courtyards, and bustling streets offering something new at every turn. Budapest’s charm lies in its contrasts, where timeless beauty meets modern life, making it a place that continually captivates and invites discovery.

1. Fairytale Views of Its Danube Vistas

Budapest’s geography, divided by the majestic Danube River, offers stunning contrasts between the hilly Buda side and the flat Pest side. Buda, with its elevated terrain, is home to some of the best vantage points for panoramic views of the city. Climb to the whimsical turrets of Fisherman’s Bastion, near Buda Castle, for breathtaking views of the Danube River and the magnificent Hungarian Parliament building. This neo-Gothic and neo-Romanesque landmark provides picture-perfect spots to capture Budapest’s charm. For a quieter experience, visit at sunrise to avoid the crowds. Another stunning viewpoint is Gellért Hill, where a short hike leads to sweeping panoramas of the city and the winding river below. Both locations offer romantic, magical glimpses of Budapest’s storybook beauty, with the hilltop views of Buda providing a remarkable contrast to the lively flatlands of Pest. These spots are a must for travelers seeking memorable city views.

2. Opulent Libraries of a Storied Past

Budapest’s rich library culture is deeply rooted in its history as an intellectual and cultural hub in Central Europe. The city’s libraries serve as centers for learning and creativity, preserving Hungary’s literary heritage while embracing modern literary trends. A standout is the Metropolitan Ervin Szabó Library, housed in a former Neo-Baroque palace. Adorned with crystal chandeliers, carved oak bookshelves, and gilded mirrors, it offers a palatial atmosphere for study and reading. Its cinematic allure has also attracted filmmakers, with appearances in movies like Poor Things. Budapest’s literary scene thrives with vibrant cafes, independent bookstores, and events like the Budapest International Book Festival, making it a haven for literary enthusiasts. This combination of historical elegance, intellectual richness, and architectural grandeur creates a unique cultural experience, immersing visitors in the city’s literary legacy while offering modern spaces for discovery and reflection.

3. A World-Class Spa Scene: Healing Waters

Budapest’s known as the “City of Spas,” thanks to its rich history and over 100 geothermal springs that’ve powered its renowned bathhouses for centuries. The city offers a rejuvenating escape steeped in architectural beauty and therapeutic benefits. At Rudas Thermal Bath, visitors can soak under a stunning 16th-century Ottoman dome, embracing centuries-old traditions. For a more opulent experience, Gellért Thermal Bath stands as an Art Nouveau gem, with turquoise and green mosaics that feel straight out of a Wes Anderson film. Budapest’s spa culture blends healing waters with architectural elegance, ensuring a memorable experience. Whether you seek relaxation, history, or luxury, Budapest’s thermal baths promise the ultimate rejuvenation.

4. Hidden Courtyards, Artistic Secrets

Budapest’s hidden courtyards offer a glimpse into the city’s artistic spirit and architectural beauty, perfect for leisurely exploration. Notable spots like Gozsdu Courtyard in the Jewish Quarter and the peaceful Károlyi Garden provide tranquil escapes amidst the bustling city. For a taste of local creativity, Paloma Artspace in the colonnaded courtyard of Wagner House showcases Hungarian design through workshops and boutiques. Brody House, with its ivy-covered walls, invites visitors to relax in its serene garden café. Unger House, a historic gem on the Small Boulevard, intertwines charm and history. Budapest’s ruin pubs, like Szimpla Kert, are housed in quirky courtyards adorned with street art, adding to the city’s eclectic charm.

5. Michelin-Star Dining

Hungarian cuisine is rich and flavorful, known for hearty dishes that highlight ingredients like paprika, sour cream, and meats such as pork, beef, and game. Staples like goulash and pörkölt, along with sweet treats like chimney cake and strudel, showcase its diverse culinary heritage. Wild herbs, fresh farm ingredients, and slow-cooking techniques give Hungarian food its distinctive taste. In Budapest, Restaurant Salt stands out with its Michelin-starred creations, where Chef Szilárd Tóth expertly blends traditional flavors with innovative techniques. Focused on locally sourced ingredients, such as wild plants and farm-fresh bacon, the restaurant embraces a farm-to-table philosophy. For a refined experience, Borkonyha pairs gourmet dishes with Hungarian wines, while Café Gerbeaud offers classic Hungarian pastries in an elegant, historic setting, providing a perfect taste of Budapest’s gastronomic excellence.

6. Unique and Fascinating Museums

Budapest’s museums showcase a blend of eccentricity and history. The Pinball Museum holds Europe’s largest collection of over 150 playable machines, perfect for nostalgic fun. The House of Terror Museum, located in the former secret police headquarters, offers a sobering look at Hungary’s fascist and communist past. Memento Park features monumental statues from the communist era, providing insight into Hungary’s political history. The Museum of Sweets and Selfies is a colorful, Instagram-worthy space filled with giant candy sculptures and vibrant backdrops. The Trash Art Museum highlights sustainability with sculptures made from recycled scrap metal. Don’t miss Budapest’s iconic ruin bars, which feel like living museums with eclectic décor and graffiti-filled courtyards.

7. A Whimsical Retro Journey on Rails

Step back in time aboard the Children’s Railway, a nostalgic remnant of the Communist Pioneer program. Nestled in the Buda Hills, this charming railway is operated by uniformed schoolchildren who handle ticketing and customer service, while adults drive the trains. Free of its former propaganda, the railway now serves as a delightful and educational experience for visitors. The scenic route winds through lush forests and picturesque landscapes, offering a glimpse into Hungary’s history with a touch of whimsy. It’s a unique way to explore Budapest’s verdant outskirts.

8. Top-Tier Classical (& Folk) Music

Renowned for its rich classical music heritage, Budapest rivals Vienna as a cultural hub. The Hungarian State Opera is a crown jewel, offering world-class performances in a breathtaking neo-Renaissance building. For a more intimate experience, the Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music—both a university and a concert hall—hosts affordable yet captivating performances. Named after Hungary’s beloved composer Franz Liszt, this venue showcases the city’s dedication to musical excellence. Beyond classical, Budapest is a vibrant center for folk music, home to renowned ethnomusicians and ensembles. Traditional Hungarian melodies, often featuring instruments like the violin, cimbalom, and flute, echo through the city’s music venues, preserving its cultural heritage.

9. Rosenstein: Hungarian-Jewish Cuisine

Budapest’s Jewish heritage is deeply woven into the city’s history, marked by the tragic events of Nazi occupation, which saw the community face brutal persecution. Many were deported or lost their lives, with memorials like the Dohány Street Synagogue and the Holocaust Memorial Center preserving this dark past. Despite these hardships, the Jewish community has kept its cultural traditions alive. One of the best places to experience this rich heritage is Rosenstein, a family-run restaurant near Keleti Train Station. Established in the 1990s, it serves traditional Hungarian-Jewish dishes like spicy paprika soup, veal paprikash, and cholent. Highlights include fried goose liver with Tokaji wine sauce, offering an authentic taste of the flavors passed down through generations of Budapest’s Jewish families.

10. Mysterious Cave Adventures

Budapest sits atop a labyrinth of over 200 caves, carved by the city’s thermal waters. The Pál-völgyi and Szemlő-hegyi show caves offer guided tours showcasing fascinating stalactites and unique rock formations. For the adventurous, spelunking in the Mátyás-hegyi Cave provides an exhilarating challenge. Experienced divers can explore the Molnár János Cave, one of the world’s largest underwater thermal cave systems. These natural wonders offer an otherworldly perspective on Budapest, blending geological intrigue with breathtaking beauty. It’s a hidden side of the city waiting to be discovered.

Why We Love Budapest

Now’s an ideal time to visit Budapest, a city that beautifully blends its rich history with modern transformation. Since the collapse of the Berlin Wall, Budapest has evolved into a dynamic metropolis while preserving its cultural heritage. The city is a vibrant mix of historic landmarks and cutting-edge innovation, with a thriving arts scene, a revitalized food culture, and an energetic atmosphere. Don’t forget to visit Margaret Island, a tranquil haven on the Danube River, where you can explore beautiful parklands, ancient monastery ruins, and a serene Japanese garden with a waterfall, all while enjoying a relaxing day in the heart of Budapest.

Budapest is highly accessible, with direct flights from major European cities and budget airlines making travel even easier. It is also well-connected by train and bus to nearby cities such as Vienna, Prague, and Bratislava. Offering excellent value, Budapest remains an affordable destination for travelers. Additionally, it serves as a fantastic base for side trips to Vienna, Pécs (known for its stunning Roman and Ottoman architecture,) and Lake Balaton (famous for its picturesque vineyards and charming lakeside villages.)

Taco seasoning—oh, that magical blend that can transform any ordinary dish into a vibrant fiesta of flavors! It’s like a kitchen magician, waving its wand of savory, smoky, and slightly spicy goodness, turning the mundane into the magnificent.

Similar to the versatile garam masala, taco seasoning brings together a fusion of flavors that can adapt to a range of cuisines, showcasing its incredible flexibility in the culinary realm. Typically, this enchanting blend features chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and sometimes a dash of cayenne pepper, all harmonizing beautifully to create its distinct profile.

Next time you’re craving a flavor adventure, why not whip up your own batch of this homemade blend? It’s super simple and yields about 1/4 cup of seasoning. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons chili powder—adds deep, smoky warmth with earthy, sweet undertones, vibrant red color, and a bold, hearty foundation.
• 1.5 teaspoons chipotle powder—infuses smoky, spicy heat with hints of dried fruitiness, rich aroma, and added complexity.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt—balances and amplifies flavors, enhances savory depth, and adds a subtle crunch.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder—brings mild, sweet-savory notes, warm umami flavor, and a smooth, cohesive texture.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin—offers nutty, earthy warmth, savory aroma, and rustic texture that complements the chili powders.
• 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder—adds savory depth, mild sweetness, rich aroma, and smooth, cohesive texture.
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano—introduces herbal, citrusy brightness, subtle bitterness, and a natural appearance.

Alternatively, you can try this variation:

• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

To make the blend, simply combine all the spices in a small bowl, mix well until evenly combined, and adjust the seasoning to your taste. Feel free to add more chili powder for an extra kick or adjust the salt levels according to your preference. You can use the taco seasoning immediately, or store it in an airtight container for future culinary escapades!

Of course, tacos are the natural habitat for taco seasoning, but don’t let that confine your creativity! This versatile blend can jazz up a plethora of vegetarian dishes beyond Tex-Mex cuisine. Try sprinkling it over roasted vegetables for flavorful sides or taco fillings. Mix it into cooked quinoa or rice for hearty bowls topped with beans, corn, and avocado. Use it to add zest to stuffed bell peppers or vegetarian chili brimming with beans and tomatoes.

Experiment by sautéing crumbled tofu or lentils with taco seasoning for delicious taco fillings or sloppy joes. And why stop there? Sprinkle it on roasted potatoes, mix it into soups or stews, or toss it with popcorn for a unique movie night treat. Feeling adventurous? Spread refried beans on tortillas, sprinkle with taco seasoning, layer with cheese and veggies, and voila—quick and tasty quesadillas!

Let your imagination run wild as you explore the endless possibilities of taco seasoning, infusing zesty flavor into your favorite vegetarian meals.

A mezuzah, meaning “doorpost” in Hebrew, is a small rectangular case fixed to the doorposts of Jewish homes. It contains a parchment scroll inscribed with verses from the Torah, often placed within a metal, wooden, or glass case. The back of the parchment typically reveals the word “Shaddai,” meaning “Almighty.” A common practice among some Jewish people is to kiss the mezuzah when passing by.

This ritual holds profound significance as it represents Jewish identity and serves as a constant reminder of God’s commandments. The enclosed scroll features the Shema, underscoring the unity of God and the command to love and serve with unwavering devotion.

With roots in biblical commandments from Deuteronomy, the mezuzah bears a rich historical tradition. It goes beyond being a religious artifact; it becomes a communal symbol, bridging denominational differences within Judaism. Beyond symbolizing the sanctification of the home, it acknowledges God’s presence and seamlessly integrates faith into the tapestry of daily life.

English actor, comedian, writer, and director Stephen Fry in an interview with with Sameena Ali-Khan on ITV News:

The average sitcom in America is based on real jokes—real, terrific one-liners and fast-talking wit. In contrast, great British sitcoms are centered around characters, usually portraying a failure. The great comic heroes of Britain share a common theme—they all try to be grand in a world that lets them down. Whether it’s Captain Mainwaring in Dad’s Army, Harold Steptoe in the long-running sitcom Steptoe and Son, Tony Hancock, or Leonard Rossiter in Rising Damp, the same holds true for Basil Fawlty with his ties and blazers, and Alan Partridge and David Brent of “The Office.” they are all failures, hopeless characters who believe they are great but struggle to comprehend the modern world and fail to interact with it properly. In contrast, an American would never have a failure as a comic hero. The American hero is faster, sharper, and cleverer.

British and American sitcoms differ significantly in their tone, humor, and portrayal of characters. Notable distinctions are evident: British humor is marked by subtlety, wit, and dry humor, frequently employing wordplay, irony, and clever dialogue. British sitcoms tend to adopt a more understated and nuanced comedic approach. In my opinion, this subtlety often contrasts sharply with the overt nature of American humor, which highlights punchlines, physical comedy, and situational humor, characterized by a broader and more explicit comedic style.

In terms of characters, British sitcoms often depict individuals who are more flawed, socially awkward, and prone to failure. There’s a tendency to explore the ordinary aspects of life, finding humor in everyday situations. The focus lies on characters’ reactions to their circumstances, deriving humor from their consistent quirks and flaws. Conversely, American sitcoms frequently incorporate character development and growth into their storytelling.