Walking, Singing, Eating, Praying: Embracing the Year Ahead in Jerusalem
From early morning walks to karaoke nights and Sukkot shopping, discover seven uplifting ways to make the coming year more joyful, spiritual, and meaningful.
An “I Love Jerusalem” sign outside of the Old City.
(Photo credit: Shutterstock)
By Alan Rosenbaum
**Hiking in Lesotho: Exploring Remote Villages**
*By Simran Jeet | Sep 25, 2025, 11:19 AM*
Lesotho, a tiny landlocked kingdom in Southern Africa, is renowned for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Its remote villages offer an ideal hiking destination for adventurers seeking an offbeat experience. Winding trails lead through lush valleys, towering mountains, and traditional Basotho communities, allowing hikers to immerse themselves in the unique lifestyle of the locals while enjoying breathtaking vistas.
### Discover Traditional Basotho Culture
Hiking through Lesotho’s remote villages provides a rare glimpse into the traditional Basotho way of life. Locals live in stone houses with thatched roofs and proudly wear colorful blankets as part of their daily attire. Visitors have the opportunity to interact with villagers eager to share their customs and traditions. This cultural exchange fosters a deeper appreciation for the resilience and adaptability of the Basotho people amid modern changes.
### Navigate Scenic Trails
The hiking routes across Lesotho’s countryside vary in difficulty, accommodating all fitness levels from easy walks to challenging treks. These trails traverse lush green valleys, rugged rocky terrain, and offer panoramic mountain views that captivate every nature lover. To ensure a safe and enjoyable journey, hikers should wear comfortable, sturdy shoes and carry plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout their adventure.
### Engage with Local Communities
Connecting with local communities is an essential aspect of hiking in Lesotho. Many villages host community-led initiatives where visitors can participate in traditional activities such as weaving or farming. These experiences not only provide meaningful insight into everyday life but also contribute to supporting local economies through sustainable tourism practices.
### Tip: Preparing for Your Hike
Before setting off on your Lesotho hike, thorough preparation is key. Equip yourself with sturdy hiking boots, weather-appropriate clothing, and a reliable map or GPS device. Hiring a local guide is highly recommended, as they offer valuable knowledge about the region’s history and geography while ensuring your safety along the trails.
Embark on a journey through Lesotho’s remote villages and discover a captivating combination of natural beauty and vibrant culture unlike anywhere else in the world.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/hiking-through-lesotho-a-guide-to-remote-villages/story
As part of funerary traditions, flowers and personal mementos are often placed in the coffin as final offerings to the deceased. However, the city of Sapporo is now cautioning that certain items—especially metals—are increasingly being included despite restrictions. This trend is creating problems as the number of cremations rises with an aging population.
Kenichi Fujita of Sapporo’s Health and Welfare Bureau explained, “As cremation numbers continue to increase, the impact of such items can no longer be ignored.” Crematoria operators have reported that metals, particularly 10 yen coins, are causing significant difficulties.
Osamu Tsumaki, manager of the Yamaguchi Crematorium in Sapporo, noted that the coins melt during cremation, sticking to the bed of the furnace and causing wear. “It damages the cremation equipment and reduces its durability, forcing more frequent replacements,” he said. In addition to altering the color of the bones, the melted coins adhere stubbornly to furnace surfaces, making removal difficult.
The practice of including coins is rooted in local customs. Residents explained that coins are placed in the coffin as a symbolic fare for crossing the River Sanzu, the mythological river separating life from the afterlife. Others said they kept surviving coins as protective charms after cremation. “When my parent died, we placed 10 yen coins. It was considered a kind of amulet,” one resident said.
Although the city has long posted notices at government counters warning against such practices, it has now produced illustrated flyers to raise broader awareness. Officials are asking for public cooperation to ensure safe and smooth cremation.
https://newsonjapan.com/article/147008.php
**India’s Most Peaceful Desert Retreats: A List**
*By Simran Jeet | Sep 23, 2025, 02:16 PM*
India’s deserts are not just vast expanses of sand; they are also home to some of the most tranquil retreats. These peaceful getaways provide an opportunity to unwind and reconnect with nature. From the serene dunes of Rajasthan to the quiet stretches of Kutch, these retreats offer a unique blend of peace and adventure.
Here’s a look at some of India’s most peaceful desert retreats.
### Thar Retreat: Rajasthan’s Thar Desert Oasis
Rajasthan’s Thar Desert is dotted with several peaceful retreats that offer a unique experience with calm surroundings and traditional hospitality. Visitors can enjoy camel safaris, star-gazing sessions, and cultural performances by local artists.
Many retreat centers feature mud cottages that blend perfectly with the environment, giving you a comfortable stay while you soak in the desert’s natural beauty.
### Kutch Stay: A Unique Desert Experience
Kutch in Gujarat is famous for its white salt flats and vibrant culture. The region also houses peaceful retreats where you can relax away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
These retreats offer guided tours of the salt flats, bird watching activities, and workshops on local crafts. Guests stay in simple yet comfortable accommodations and enjoy the stunning natural surroundings.
### Desert Camps: A Night Under the Stars
Desert camps are a popular choice for those looking to experience the tranquility of India’s deserts up close. These camps typically feature tents equipped with basic amenities, allowing guests to enjoy the simplicity of desert life without compromising comfort.
Activities such as bonfires, folk music sessions, and guided nature walks are common, making for an authentic and memorable desert experience.
### Eco Retreats: Sustainable Relaxation
For the environmentally conscious traveler, eco-friendly desert retreats provide sustainable options across India’s arid regions. These places focus on minimizing environmental impact by using renewable energy sources, implementing water conservation techniques, and supporting local communities through employment in tourism services.
Guests can participate in eco-tours that educate them about conservation efforts while enjoying a peaceful stay amidst stunning landscapes.
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Whether you seek cultural immersion, adventure, or simply a quiet retreat, India’s deserts offer an array of peaceful options to rejuvenate your mind and soul.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/where-to-find-the-most-peaceful-desert-retreats-in-india/story
**Betrothal Gifts: A Unique Vietnamese Wedding Tradition**
*By Anujj Trehaan | Sep 22, 2025, 07:19 pm*
Vietnamese wedding traditions are culturally rich, and betrothal gifts play an important role in these celebrations. These gifts signify respect, gratitude, and the union of two families. The exchange goes beyond material presents; it is about honoring customs passed down through generations. Exploring these traditions provides insight into the values and social norms that shape Vietnamese weddings.
### Significance of Betrothal Gifts
In Vietnamese culture, betrothal gifts are more than simple offerings—they symbolize a formal agreement between the families involved. Traditionally, these gifts include tea, fruits, and traditional sweets, each carrying symbolic meaning. Tea represents respect and purity, while fruits denote fertility and prosperity. Through this exchange, both families show their commitment to the upcoming marriage.
### Traditional Gift Items
The selection of betrothal gifts is carefully curated to reflect deep cultural values. Common items include tea leaves, rice wine, and sweet treats such as lotus seeds or green bean cakes. Each item holds a special significance; for example, lotus seeds symbolize harmony and unity within marriage. Great care is taken in the presentation of these gifts to honor longstanding traditions.
### Role of Family Elders
Family elders have a vital role in the betrothal gift ceremony. They negotiate the terms and ensure that all customs are observed during the exchange. Their involvement underscores the importance of family approval in Vietnamese marriages. Elders also guide younger family members on proper etiquette throughout this meaningful event.
### Modern Adaptations
While traditional practices remain significant, many couples today incorporate modern adaptations into their ceremonies. Some choose to personalize their gifts or adjust the number of items exchanged to better suit their preferences rather than strictly adhering to customs. This approach allows couples to honor their heritage while adding a contemporary touch to their celebrations.
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Understanding the tradition of betrothal gifts offers a beautiful glimpse into Vietnamese culture and the enduring significance of family and respect in marriage.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/vietnamese-wedding-traditions-the-art-of-betrothal-gifts/story
By Vinita Jain | Sep 22, 2025, 04:43 PM
**What’s the Story?**
*Parks and Recreation* is a beloved series that has captured the hearts of many with its unique blend of humor and positivity. From its quirky characters to its uplifting storylines, the show highlights many aspects of American culture that resonate with optimism and hope. Here are five moments from the series that truly embody the spirit of American positivity, showcasing how even the smallest things can bring joy and laughter.
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### Leslie’s Unwavering Optimism
Leslie Knope’s character is the epitome of optimism. Her never-ending enthusiasm and belief in the power of community make her a beacon of positivity. In one episode, Leslie organizes a town meeting to address a minor issue but ends up turning it into a celebration of local talent and creativity. This moment reflects the American spirit of finding joy in community engagement and collaboration.
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### Ron Swanson’s Unexpected Kindness
Ron Swanson may appear gruff on the outside, but he has a heart of gold. One memorable moment is when he secretly organizes a surprise party for Leslie’s birthday, despite his usual disdain for such things. This act of kindness highlights how Americans often express their affection through thoughtful gestures, even when they don’t outwardly show it.
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### Ann Perkins’ Infectious Enthusiasm
Ann Perkins brings an infectious energy to every scene she is in. Her enthusiasm for life is contagious, inspiring those around her to see the brighter side of things. In one episode, Ann leads a fitness class that turns into an impromptu dance party, bringing people together in laughter and movement. This moment captures the American love for fun and fitness.
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### Ben Wyatt’s Creative Problem-Solving
Ben Wyatt’s innovative thinking comes to the fore when he tackles a budget crisis by proposing an unconventional yet brilliant idea: creating a calzone factory in Pawnee. His creative solution not only addresses financial concerns but also promotes local business growth. This moment showcases American ingenuity and resourcefulness in overcoming challenges with creativity.
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### Donna Meagle’s Self-Care Advocacy
Donna Meagle is all about self-care and relaxation, and she makes no bones about it. Her famous catchphrase “Treat Yo’ Self,” shared with Tom Haverford, encourages everyone to indulge themselves now and then. It emphasizes taking time out for oneself amidst life’s chaos. This moment is a reminder that self-care is an important part of maintaining positivity in our daily lives as Americans.
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*Parks and Recreation* reminds us that optimism comes in many forms — through community, kindness, enthusiasm, creativity, and self-care. These characters inspire us to find joy in the little things and to embrace positivity wherever we can.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/parks-and-recreation-moments-that-defined-american-positivity/story
**Navratri: Celebrating the Divine Feminine Energy**
Navratri, one of India’s most cherished festivals, spans nine nights dedicated to honoring the divine feminine energy, Maa Durga, in her nine avatars collectively known as Navadurga. Each form of the Goddess is worshipped on a particular day, with devotees offering a special bhog (sacred food offering) symbolizing unique blessings such as health, prosperity, wisdom, peace, and protection.
Offering bhog is more than a ritual—it reflects devotion and surrender. Presented with faith and sincerity, each offering is believed to attract the Goddess’s divine grace and bring spiritual upliftment.
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### Day 1: Maa Shailputri
Navratri begins with the worship of Maa Shailputri, the daughter of the mountains and the embodiment of nature’s strength. Devotees offer pure desi ghee as bhog, which is said to bless them with a disease-free, healthy life.
### Day 2: Maa Brahmacharini
The second day honors Maa Brahmacharini, symbolizing devotion and penance. Offering sugar or sugar-based delicacies to the Goddess represents a sweet, long life filled with peace and harmony. It is believed to protect devotees from untimely death.
### Day 3: Maa Chandraghanta
On the third day, devotees worship Maa Chandraghanta, who carries a crescent moon on her forehead. Milk-based desserts like kheer or payasam are offered as bhog, signifying joy, serenity, and relief from suffering.
### Day 4: Maa Kushmanda
Maa Kushmanda, the creative force of the universe, is worshipped on day four. Devotees prepare malpua, a traditional sweet dish made of flour and milk, seeking Her blessings for intelligence, clarity of thought, and improved decision-making skills.
### Day 5: Maa Skandamata
The fifth day is dedicated to Maa Skandamata, the mother of Lord Kartikeya. Offering bananas to the Goddess is considered auspicious, bringing good health, family well-being, and prosperity.
### Day 6: Maa Katyayani
Maa Katyayani, revered as a warrior form of Durga, is worshipped on the sixth day. Honey is offered as bhog, symbolizing harmony and sweet relationships. Devotees seek Her blessings for a happy, peaceful married life.
### Day 7: Maa Kalaratri
Day seven is devoted to Maa Kalaratri, worshipped as the destroyer of darkness and evil. Devotees offer jaggery (gur), believed to protect from negative energies while granting courage and inner strength.
### Day 8: Maa Mahagauri
On the eighth day, devotees worship Maa Mahagauri, symbolizing purity and serenity. Coconut is offered as bhog, representing fresh starts and spiritual growth. This day is also marked by Kanya Puja, where young girls are worshipped as embodiments of the Goddess herself.
### Day 9: Maa Siddhidatri
Navratri concludes with the worship of Maa Siddhidatri, the giver of supernatural powers and accomplishments. Devotees offer sesame seeds (til), praying for the fulfillment of wishes, spiritual wisdom, and divine grace.
—
### The Significance of Fasting and Bhog Offering
Fasting during Navratri, coupled with offering bhog, is considered an act of purification—both of the body and mind. Each offering holds symbolic meaning: from health (ghee) and long life (sugar) to wisdom (malpua) and strength (jaggery). Collectively, these blessings represent what devotees seek in their personal, family, and spiritual lives.
May this Navratri bring divine blessings of health, prosperity, wisdom, peace, and strength to all. Jai Maa Durga!
https://www.freepressjournal.in/lifestyle/navratri-2025-from-til-seeds-to-bananas-heres-day-wise-bhog-list-to-offer-9-forms-of-maa-durga
**Navratri: Celebrating Maa Durga in Her Nine Divine Avatars**
Navratri, one of India’s most cherished festivals, spans nine nights dedicated to honouring the divine feminine energy—Maa Durga in her nine avatars, collectively known as Navadurga. Each form of the Goddess is worshipped on a particular day, with devotees offering a special bhog (sacred food offering) symbolising unique blessings such as health, prosperity, wisdom, peace, and protection.
Offering bhog is not merely a ritual; it reflects deep devotion and surrender. Presented with faith and sincerity, each offering is believed to attract the Goddess’s divine grace and bring spiritual upliftment.
—
### Day 1: Maa Shailputri
Navratri begins with the worship of Maa Shailputri, the daughter of the mountains and embodiment of nature’s strength. Devotees offer pure desi ghee as bhog, which is said to bless them with a disease-free, healthy life.
### Day 2: Maa Brahmacharini
The second day honours Maa Brahmacharini, symbolizing devotion and penance. Offering sugar or sugar-based delicacies represents a sweet, long life filled with peace and harmony. It is believed to protect devotees from untimely death.
### Day 3: Maa Chandraghanta
Devotees worship Maa Chandraghanta on the third day; she carries a crescent moon on her forehead. Milk-based desserts like kheer or payasam are offered as bhog, signifying joy, serenity, and relief from suffering.
### Day 4: Maa Kushmanda
Maa Kushmanda, the creative force of the universe, is worshipped on day four. Devotees prepare malpua, a traditional sweet dish made from flour and milk, seeking Her blessings for intelligence, clarity of thought, and improved decision-making skills.
### Day 5: Maa Skandamata
The fifth day is dedicated to Maa Skandamata, the mother of Lord Kartikeya. Offering bananas to the Goddess is considered auspicious as it brings good health, family well-being, and prosperity.
### Day 6: Maa Katyayani
Maa Katyayani, revered as a warrior form of Durga, is worshipped on the sixth day. Honey is offered as bhog, symbolizing harmony and sweet relationships. Devotees seek Her blessings for a happy, peaceful married life.
### Day 7: Maa Kalaratri
Day seven is devoted to Maa Kalaratri, the destroyer of darkness and evil. Devotees offer jaggery (gur), believed to protect from negative energies while granting courage and inner strength.
### Day 8: Maa Mahagauri
On the eighth day, devotees worship Maa Mahagauri, symbol of purity and serenity. Coconut is offered as bhog, representing fresh starts and spiritual growth. This day is also marked by **Kanya Puja**, where young girls are worshipped as embodiments of the Goddess herself.
### Day 9: Maa Siddhidatri
Navratri concludes with the worship of Maa Siddhidatri, the giver of supernatural powers and accomplishments. Devotees offer sesame seeds (til), praying for the fulfilment of wishes, spiritual wisdom, and divine grace.
—
Fasting during Navratri, coupled with offering bhog, is considered an act of purification—both of the body and mind. Each offering is symbolic: from health (ghee) and long life (sugar) to wisdom (malpua) and strength (jaggery).
Together, these offerings represent the blessings devotees seek in their personal, family, and spiritual lives—invoking the divine energy of Maa Durga in all her glory.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/lifestyle/navratri-2025-from-til-seeds-to-bananas-heres-day-wise-bhog-list-to-offer-9-forms-of-maa-durga
Swiss pianist Michael Arbenz and living jazz legend, British saxophonist Andy Sheppard, are set to captivate audiences at the Clarence Jazz Club with their innovative new project, *From Bach to Ellington*. This concert promises to be a mesmerizing dialogue between the timeless elegance of J.S. Bach and the lyrical beauty of Duke Ellington, blending Baroque counterpoint with jazz improvisation in a unique and emotionally charged performance.
The duo’s collaboration draws on a rich history of shared musical exploration, rooted in years of mutual respect for each other’s work. Their new album, also titled *From Bach to Ellington*, merges original compositions inspired by Bach’s works with reimagined Ellington classics. The result is a sound that balances historical reverence with contemporary reinvention, characterized by subtle rhythms, chamber-like textures, and striking melodic clarity.
Michael Arbenz, a classically trained pianist with a passion for jazz, brings a unique perspective shaped by his studies in Basel. His deep exploration of jazz improvisation, combined with a rigorous classical background, has fueled a successful career that includes performances with international jazz stars such as Greg Osby and Ron Carter. Known for his eccentric style, Arbenz adds a distinctive flavor to the project.
Andy Sheppard is one of the most influential British jazz artists and a longtime ECM recording artist, celebrated for his imaginative yet tradition-grounded sound. He is among the few soloists to have performed with postwar big bands led by Carla Bley, Gil Evans, and George Russell. Sheppard’s singular tenor sax voice complements Arbenz’s inventiveness perfectly, making their collaboration a truly compelling musical experience.
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to experience *From Bach to Ellington* live — a concert that bridges centuries of musical heritage through innovation and heartfelt artistry.
https://euroweeklynews.com/2025/09/21/andy-sheppard-michael-arbenz-jazz-opposites-attract/
Swiss pianist Michael Arbenz and living jazz legend, British saxophonist Andy Sheppard, are set to mesmerize audiences at the Clarence Jazz Club with their innovative new project, *From Bach to Ellington*. This concert promises a captivating dialogue between the timeless elegance of J.S. Bach and the lyrical beauty of Duke Ellington, blending Baroque counterpoint with jazz improvisation in a performance that is both unique and deeply emotional.
The duo’s collaboration draws on a rich history of shared musical exploration, rooted in years of mutual respect for each other’s work. Their new album, also titled *From Bach to Ellington*, merges original compositions inspired by Bach’s works with reimagined Ellington classics. This creates a soundscape that balances historical reverence with contemporary reinvention, characterized by subtle rhythms, chamber-like textures, and striking melodic clarity.
Michael Arbenz is a hugely eccentric, classically trained pianist with a passion for jazz, shaped by his studies in Basel. His exploration of jazz improvisation, combined with a rigorous classical background, has fueled a successful career, including performances with international jazz stars such as Greg Osby and Ron Carter.
Andy Sheppard, one of the most influential British jazz artists and a long-time ECM record label collaborator, is renowned for his imaginative yet tradition-grounded sound. As one of the few soloists to perform with the postwar big bands of Carla Bley, Gil Evans, and George Russell, Sheppard’s singular voice on the tenor saxophone perfectly complements Arbenz’s inventiveness.
Together, Arbenz and Sheppard offer a mesmerizing musical journey that bridges centuries and genres, inviting audiences to experience the fusion of Baroque sophistication and jazz artistry like never before. Don’t miss this exceptional performance at the Clarence Jazz Club.
https://euroweeklynews.com/2025/09/21/andy-sheppard-michael-arbenz-jazz-opposites-attract/
