If you’re planning on travelling you Spain any time soon, take some time to visit Spain’s revolutionary new contemporary art center in Santander.
The center, called Centro Botin, has been designed as a permanent center for the art, cultural and educational programs of the philanthropic organisation ‘The Fundación Marcelino Botín’ which was founded in 1964.

As they  explain on their website:

The Fundación Marcelino Botín was created in 1964 by Marcelino Botín Sanz de Sautuola and his wife, Carmen Yllera, to promote social development in Cantabria. Fifty years later, having kept its primary focus on the region, the Fundación Botín now operates all over Spain and Latin America, contributing to the overall development of society by exploring new ways to uncover and support creative talent, in order to create cultural, social and economic wealth.

The Fundación organises programmes in the realms of the arts and culture, education, science and rural development, and supports social institutions in Cantabria so as to reach those who need it the most. It also offers a space for reflection and action to detect and develop new talent.

The building itself was designed by Pritzker Prize winning architect Renzo Piano, and is a stunning architectural feat. It’s location, in a privileged part of Santander, and the building  integrates the city centre and the historic Pereda Gardens with the waterfront.

The raised structure of Centro Botin is roughly 20 meters above sea level and is compromised of two rounded blocks.

The east section is for educational and cultural activities, with an auditorium for concerts, lectures and conferences. The north part has spaces for  classes, art workshops, music lessons, dance lessons and cookery workshops for children, teens, families and adults.

The public spaces around the building are just as important as the building itself, the amphitheater is in the west square, and is an open-air space used for cultural activities. Thanks to the huge screen on the building’s facade, the amphitheater also serves as an open-air cinema, and from here, even the activities taking place within the center can be watched.

Research, training and dissemination are the three main missions of the Centro Botín, which are developed through their various Fine Arts training programs.

No, this isn’t something we’ve dug up from a science fiction movie script!

Sharks have been discovered living in a submarine volcano off the coast of the remote Solomon Islands, by Ocean engineer Brennan Phillips and his team. The crew were in search of hydrothermal activity near the islands, which they certainly found a lot of. The main peak of the underwater volcano wasn’t erupting at the time of the expedition, allowing the team to drop their instruments, including a camera, into the crater. To their surprise, the footage revealed species of Hammerhead and Silky sharks residing in the crater, seeming to have adapted to the volatile conditions there.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0e3t18rrjOA  click the link to watch National Geographic’s video of the sharks.

Phillips and his crew have gone deeper than any geologists or biologists have ever gone before, and have proved that; the deeper you venture into the sea, the stranger it gets! Phillips explains “One of the videos from inside the main caldera of Kavachi (main peak of the volcano) shows some jellyfish hanging out. They seem to be there naturally. And then we see some snappers and some small fish … and then sharks start coming after the camera. Sharks are cool in their own right—all of them are—but a hammerhead is particularly neat looking. And they’re in there, in numbers, inside the volcano! Now I want to spend years trying to study that and why that is the case.”

We will look forward to hearing more about the history of these magnificent and unusual creatures as Phillips and the team embark on further research. The Solomon Islands are a popular destination for holiday makers, with scuba diving being one of the popular activities. There are all inclusive packages available through many travel agencies, perfect for both individuals seeking a travel group and families. The coral reefs surrounding the Solomon Islands hold a universe of underwater beauty. Though you might not bump into any sharks (we hope!), you’re sure to take in some of the extraordinary underwater flora and fauna the coast has to offer.

India is world famous (or infamous!) for its scorching summers. From May to August the sun beats down relentlessly, humidity soars, and people begin to ask themselves one crucial question; ‘Where can I get away on vacation?!’

Travel and Deal have compiled a list of some of our favorite vacation destinations to help you cool off during the unbearable heat of summer.

1) Nainital

Formerly a British hill station, this town is set around Nainital Lake, and is a popular boating site with Naina Devi Hindu Temple on its north shore.

This hill station offers a wide range of activities, making it a perfect destination for solo travelers and backpackers and families alike. Boating on the famous Naini lake and travelling to Snow View Point and appreciating spectacular views of the Himalayas are two fantastic ways to take in the gorgeous natural setting of Nainital. Mall Road, originally built by the British, is another main attraction of Nainital, as it is very much the center of activities in the town with its variety of bars, cafes and hotels. One can stroll at a leisurely pace and enjoy the old british architecture of Mall Road.

Some offbeat attractions nearby which are definitely worth seeing are: Saattal, Bheemtal, Naukuchiyatal, and Khurpatal. So you could also add other stop off points to your journey should you feel like it.

2) Valley of Flowers – Garhwal Himalayan Valleys

This recognised UNESCO World Heritage site, as its name suggests, is home to more than 300 species of flowers including rare and medicinal types unique to the region. During summer, the stunning variety of hundreds of different blooms makes this site one of the greatest spectacles of India.

This unique valley is paradise for lovers of flora and fauna alike, as the huge variety of plants and flowers sustains a rich ecosystem of mammals, birds and butterflies. Some species that can be seen here are the snow leopard, musk deer, Himalayan Bear, blue sheep and hare.  As there are no direct transportation routes to the site, the only way to get there is by trekking. You need not worry about your carbon footprint while at this breathtaking site and the trek is the best way to immerse yourself in the landscape, while being a healthy dose of exercise too.

3) Manali

At an altitude of 2050 feet, Manali offers the perfect summer getaway for Indian’s and foreign tourists alike. The location has received international acclaim due to it’s bountiful scenery and the variety of activities there are on offer, making it a perfect destination for both solo adventurers and families.

Manali has a multitude of options for tourists looking for outdoor activities like trekking, paragliding, skiing, zorbing, white water rafting etc. For religious devotees and history enthusiasts, Manali also has a lot of temples the Raghunath temple and Jagannathi Devith Temple being one of the important ones. Perhaps one of the most fascinating temples here is a 14th century temple, Hadimba Temple, famous for it’s unique wooden architecture.
The landscape of the town is one of the most spectacular features, with the pristine River Beas running through it creating a captivating riverside landscape. Manali is the ideal destination for tourists looking to relax and unwind in the lap of nature.

4) Ooty

Arguably one of South India’s best hill stations, situated in the state of Tamil Nadu at 2240 meters above sea level, Ooty is a known for its mountain scenery and luscious green forests. Its vast and rolling tea estates are what brought its initial fame.

The romantic scenery is probably what makes Ooty so popular as a honeymoon destination, but rest assured, everyone from hikers and backpackers to families with young children have something to enjoy about this southern hill station. The weather stays at a comfortable and stable temperature year round, and activities such as hand gliding, trekking and mountain biking are a must for adventure enthusiasts.

Ooty is also renowned for its many bakeries, so perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth. Why not sip some of the local chai while you try some of the sweet treats on offer? After all you’ll probably work it off with all the adventure sports afterwards!

5) Saputara

Located in the Dang district of Gujarat, this hidden gem is a perfect getaway for eco-lovers, photography enthusiasts and those who love adventure sports. There is an array of adventure activities on offer at Saputara including trekking and boating, and plenty of natural mountain scenery.

As this is a well known tourist destination (being the only hill station in Gujarat) there are plenty of amenities and with a variety of places to stay you are sure to find something that suits your needs and budget.

Attractions of this hill station include monumental temples such as Nargeshwar Mahadev Temple, the Saputara museum, Sunrise point which is acclaimed for it’s unparalleled natural views and the Purna Wildlife Sanctuary.

The name ‘Saputara’ literally means ‘abode of snakes’, there is a rich tribal culture originating in and around Saputara, which can be experienced by tourists visiting the museum of Saputara and Artist Village.

Of Solo Treks and Serendipities of Life

Utkarsh Srivastava

Meet Utkarsh! He wanted to live stories ever since he was put to sleep with the tale of The Little Red Riding Hood. The roads became his home as he continued collecting stories hopping from one place to another. When not travelling or writing in his journal, you will find him planning his next trip, daydreaming about places and people he left behind or just pondering over art or meaning of life in general. He quit his job to travel to and write about the magical lands he visits. He is currently living in New Delhi with his beloved camera and books. To find out more about Utkarsh and his stories, check his blog out at www.thesoultrails.com You can also follow him on Instagram at thesoultrails and on Facebook at Soul Trails.

This story is about how everything – even the mountains, the trees, the rocks, and waterfalls – could be your teacher if you just observe closely.

I woke up to a sunny morning. Only the people who have been to the Naga Hills of Kohima in monsoon can understand the importance of that.

It was my fourth day at Green Wood Villa in Kegwima – a small town about 10 kms from Kohima- the perfect place to make a base for Dzukou Valley trek.

Finally, after waiting for two days the weather got clear and I had my day.

During breakfast, I met a family from Guwahati who had arrived the previous night. They told me that they were also heading to Dzukou Valley. Naseem Ahmed, the head of the family and a veteran trekker told me all that I needed to know about the trek and also asked me to join them.

The valley is located at the border of Manipur and Nagaland. If you are in Nagaland, there are two trails to reach Dzukou, Viswema and Zakhama. I was told by the locals that I should take the trail from Viswema because though it’s a little longer, it is easier to traverse with a little slope, while Zakhama is not a smart choice during monsoons as it is a straight climb over slippery rocks.

To reach the starting point of the trek, you need to drive up to Viswema village on the Nagaland-Manipur highway and then further inside the village for 7 kms off-road. There was no space in the car with the Ahmeds so we decided that I would meet them at the starting point and from there we would trek to Dzukou Valley together.

I took a head start and soon got a lift on the highway in a truck. The driver dropped me at a cross junction and pointed towards a sign-board reading – ‘Way to Dzukou’. I jumped off the truck as soon as I saw the board, thanked the driver and waved him goodbye.

You see, this was my first mistake of the day. I didn’t enquire about the route I was taking and jumped off the truck as soon as I saw the board. But I guess that is a general tendency in us humans. We are always a little too excited and a little too anxious every time we set out to a new venture, and then our common sense takes a back-seat. And in my case, I usually kick my common sense, whatever little I have, totally out of the scene!

Shortly after I took that off-road trail, it started drizzling. Cursing my luck, I took out my poncho.

I saw some trucks moving and labourers knapping. I asked them if I was on the right path and they gave me a confused look. Then I pointed my finger ahead of the road and asked “Dzokou?” and they all nodded, almost simultaneously. I was sure that I have taken the Viswema trek route and I wanted to reach at the starting point before Ahmeds so that I could rest for a while before starting the climb.

After half an hour I noticed a tin shade with another sign board pointing ahead reading ‘Dzokou’. The off-road trail abruptly ended leaving me with a feeling that there has to be more, just like the next season teaser of ‘Sherlock’ last Christmas.

I waited for Naseem and family to come but then I started moving forward thinking they will eventually catch up with me.  I kept walking, soaking in the beauty that the lush green forest offered. The trail was muddy and it was drizzling continuously. Half an hour more of the walk and I found myself into the middle of a thick dark forest. It’s funny how things you love the most can look so divergent and scary once they get intense.

After a while, the trail vanished into the forest and it seemed it was way past sunset.

Just when I thought I was lost, I saw two ladies coming from the other side.

“Dzokou?”

“Straight. Straight. Not far.” – They answered in broken English.

I’ve trekked enough in the mountains to realize that ‘not far’ by local’s standards means at least a good 3 hours trek for me. But a sign of assurance works as magic when you think you are lost in unknown lands. With this new ray of hope, I kept walking.

Soon it started raining so heavily that I had to take a stop in a broken shed marked as ‘Rest House’, courtesy of Nagaland State Government. I was finishing the last of my Parle-G biscuits wondering where Naseem would be and then it occurred to me that I’ve been climbing over big boulders for past two hours now and Viswema trail has a very short and easy climb.

“Holy mother of Bournvita!”

I had taken the wrong trail. Instead of taking the Viswema trail, I took the Zakhama one. My heart skipped a beat on realizing that I was all alone in this and no one was coming after me to guide through the rest of the path. The rain, the dark, and the slippery stones were not going to take it easy on me anyway. So I just kept walking.

Soon enough the forest and the mountains conspired together and threw me another challenge, a huge stream to cross. I had to take off my shoes and then my pants to cross that. Wet shoes and wet pants can lead to serious troubles in such environment. I had to cross it twice, first with my camera and shoes and then again with my day pack.

The stream which made me take off my pants!

Once again I found myself in the midst of the forest. The climb was getting acute and the trail was so narrow that there was no place to sit and relax. It was getting dark and I was losing hope. I will be lying if I say that the thought of going back didn’t occur to me a couple of times. And just when I was at the peak of my anxiety, I saw two guys coming down. They were local porters and told me that I was not far from the top of the mountain and from there the rest house was just another 30 minutes walk. They didn’t forget to tell me how stupid it was to take that route.

After almost two hours of continuous climbing, slipping, cursing, self-pitying and occasional jumping, I noticed that I was just two steps away from the top of the mountain. My legs were shaking and I was exhausted. I climbed the last few steps only to find myself awestruck and numb by what was before my eyes.

The first view of the valley was mesmerizing. Teary eyed, I dropped the bag off my shoulder. It still is one of the most beautiful sights that I’ve seen so far. I always say that the road is more beautiful than the destination itself. In that very moment, I found that statement losing its meaning.

I sat there trying to soak in every inch of that alluring sight when it occurred to me that I’d learned one of the many mysteries of life today. At times we think that we are on the right path only to later discover that we have misled ourselves into something else. The realization comes with a choice, go back and start afresh or keep moving forward. There is no rule to it and no right or wrong answer. But whatever we choose defines us as a person and has a deeper impact than what we realize at that moment.

The first view of the valley

That day, I decided to see it through. Being a traveler, I’ve never called quits from a destination ever. I believe that’s the whole point of it – to push ourselves, physically, mentally and emotionally. To put ourselves out of our comfort zone and challenge our limits. We emerge stronger and humbler than before. And just when we start to give up, someone will appear out of nowhere and help us through.

The climb seemed never ending and there were more than a few moments when I wanted to give up, but the view was all worth it. When I thought about how this journey unfolded, I understood it more than ever that after all; roads are more beautiful than the destination itself.

I was lost in these thoughts when I saw a familiar figure waving at me coming from the other side. It was Bana, Naseem’s wife. I waved back while a curve found its way across my face, ear to ear.

The rest house was near!

The Ahmeds

Looking to escape the scorching heat this summer? Campfest might just be the perfect getaway for you, if you happen to be a freewheeling hippie, free spirit or someone who just wants to do something different in the heart of nature. Campfest is a three day extravaganza in the picturesque  Uttrakhand village of Kanatal.

As the site description goes:

CampFest is the celebration of life in its own form. Different people from different parts of the world travel to an offbeat destination in the Himalayas, called Kanatal in Uttarakhand. They are all different, yet they all get united in the vibes of surreal mountains, whispering pines, open skies & chilled nights. To add a catalysing effect to this, the musicians takes the charge. We promise you that you will forget everything for the while. From adventure activities & forest trails to Art, culture, Music & Dance. CampFest has so many beautiful things to do for everyone of all ages. And Yes, the Food is so amazing over there that you’ll crave for more even when you’re full.

As well as an eclectic mix of music including electronic, pop and rock, there are also a variety of outdoor activities to get involved with such as skyrope and zip lining! A perfect way to enjoy the lush green surroundings of Kanatal.

There are three packages to choose from, tent, hut and luxury accommodation. All three including main meals and travel to and from either Delhi or Dehradun. So unlike many festivals which involve lugging a tent and all your belongings into a remote field, this festival provides all the essentials.

Solo travelers can also find a safe, comfortable getaway here, as they will be guaranteed a same sex accommodation area.

The festival runs from the 14th until thw 17th of July, and  tickets can be booked through the website http://www.campfest.in

Happy camping!

A Photojournalists opinion: Cuba

Annelise Blackwood 

“That will be $150” said the man behind the counter. After a little arguing, I reluctantly pulled out my cash and felt the reality of communism dig deep in to my pocket. I paid my dues and slumped my way to the security line, luckily to be compensated later by the company who sponsored our entry into Cuba. I began to weave my way through mountains of televisions, bubble wrapped suitcases, and people wearing multiple hats on their heads just waiting in line to return home. On a flight of mostly locals, there were hundreds of people trying to bring back goods that they don’t have easy access too in Cuba. 

This was the beginning of a week long process to document and relay the stories of the Cuban people. As I tried to stay unbiased, the harsh truth of the circumstances that press on the backs of the people of Cuba became more apparent as the days progressed. Now, I want to be clear before I get into what I saw because many people have flawless experiences here – Cuba is a beautiful place full of even more beautiful people. The country itself holds so much life and zest that it made me want to move there immediately, and I miss it almost every day. We heard varying opinions on the reality of Cuba, but the more time spent with the same person the more truths were revealed. It is fairly easy to go to Cuba for a week, stay in government run homes or hotels, and fall into the very endearing trap that is a Communists creation of a country, but the more you dig deep and branch out from the beautifully broken city of Havana filled with colorful taxi’s and buildings, into more ‘local’ cities that can often be overlooked – the reality is shown in a more clear light. 

San Cristobal and Matanzas were two small cities I visited and everyone there seemed to be pretty content. Horse drawn buggies roamed the streets and tractors made out of the parts of 30 different cars chugged along the road. Chickens were clucking around every corner and old women sat in rocking chairs on front porches watching little bits of life happen in front of them while the younger generation stole gum from my backpack and hung clothes out on the line to dry. We hitched a ride with a company called Living Waters to these towns in order to check the water quality in the wells. In spite of life carrying on, although there were a few tiffs over food rations I witnessed, there was a mass deprivation of food supply as well as cholera living in the drinking water provided by the government. These towns were filled with hard workers who would travel up to 6 hours a day to get into Havana to make money. After a day spent in the tourism industry in Havana or Varadero they would head back out to their small towns only to have hopefully made enough money to get food for their families for the night because the rations may not have been enough.

In these moments I was able to meet and interview people whom I felt deeply connected with and am lucky to now call friends. Through this process I began to understand what a standard salary looks like in the average Cubans life. The lowest salary I heard was $12 a month working at the Cigar Factory and the highest I heard was $150 a month working as a Photographer at a private night club that was frequented by mostly tourists and foreign artists.  That photographer was also our fixer and his name was Damien. One day at lunch I asked him how he got his camera, being a photographer as well I figured I would ask. He told me he saved up for years for a Canon Mark III – which run around $3,000 all in – so that he could make money and create art. In order to buy that camera he would have had to work for 20 months non stop and not spend a penny of it to purchase the camera. On top of that he also didn’t have access to the camera in the country so he had to send the money to a friend and get him to bring the camera in on a flight, banking on the fact it would get through security. Seeing as at the time the country didn’t have internet or stores that sold those types of amenities. These are simple stories, ones that are real to the people of Cuba and not the worst ones I heard, but they are relatable enough to realize a stark difference in the way of life. 

It is a delicate topic – Cuba, that is. One that brings a lot of emotions from all sides of the issue. I try to choose my words wisely when speaking about a Country I do not live in or have the slightest idea of what it was like to live in during the rise of Castro. I do know that through many interviews and research there is a serious divide in what once was the Cuban people – and that seems to be the biggest loss.

Photo courtesy of Annelise Blackwood, http://annelise-blackwood.squarespace.com

For more of Annalise Blackwood’s photography and travel writing, please visit her site http://annelise-blackwood.squarespace.com for photo journalism, humanitarian and travel photography and more.