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A Morning in Landour
Sadhika Pant
 November 13 2024 at 12:57 pm
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Have you ever found yourself in a moment that, even as it unfolds, feels like one of life’s rare, complete fulfillments? I had one of those on a cool November morning, the 8th, right around 8 a.m. It was at a place called Char Dukan in Landour, a hill-town just beyond Mussoorie, which still carries the quiet grace of old British days. My boyfriend and I were ten days into a long trip, and, as we often do, we’d risen early to greet the dawn. We sat on the balcony in silence, watching the sky’s palette shift as the sun climbed, casting its warm, gentle light over the hills from new angles with each passing minute. When that tranquil half-hour had passed, we felt the pangs of hunger, and so, like pilgrims with a shared purpose, we set off down the road, hoping to stumble upon a breakfast as perfect as the morning. Char Dukan—meaning, simply, "four shops"—is what passes for the main market in Landour, though calling four shops a market is a stretch. Back in colonial days, it really was just four humble stalls serving tea and snacks to passersby. These days, it’s grown to six, but the spirit remains. Most folks who make it as far as Mussoorie rarely venture further up to Landour. It’s a steeper climb, and those who come usually navigate its narrow road in small cars or on two-wheelers. Having called Dehradun home for almost two years, I know this place as well as any local, and, given the choice, I’d take Landour over Mussoorie without a second thought. Back to that moment—when we arrived, not one of the four shops at Char Dukan was open yet. But fortune had a hand in it, as there was a park close by, so we settled on a bench, huddled together, breathing in the mountain air and letting the soft morning sun dapple over us. Four friendly dogs trotted up, tails wagging, and took their places at our feet, as if they’d been expecting us. While we waited for the shops to stir, we watched the town wake up—a few locals sharing early-morning laughs, a milkman rattling by on a motor scooter (a bicycle wouldn’t do for these hills), a father dropping off his children to school, and a handful of mischievous monkeys heckling the dogs from a safe distance. Around eight, the shutters of the shops finally clattered open, and we crossed the road to settle at an outdoor table. We ordered aloo-pyaaz parathas (potato-and-onion flatbreads), and two steaming cups of chai. The shop owner and his wife bustled behind the counter, putting together our breakfast, while a troop of monkeys, sly and hopeful, watched from a branch overhead. There’s nothing especially rare about aloo parathas and chai—it’s one of India’s simplest, most beloved breakfasts. But what made it extraordinary was the fullness of the moment: the crisp morning air, the birdsong that gets swallowed by the city noise back in Delhi, the tangy homemade achaar (pickle) that added a sharp note to the hot, crispy parathas that singed our fingers, the chai that chased away the chill, and the dogs, nuzzling our knees, hoping for a taste of our breakfast. And, of course, the best part of all—the company of one another, sharing a quiet, golden morning. What a morning it was! Just across from us, a group of locals sat at another table, savouring their own parathas and chai, their noses buried in the morning papers. The difference was, for them, this was the routine—another easy start to the day. For us, though, it was something not so ordinary, something we had travelled over 300 kilometres to experience—this quiet, beautiful moment of harmony. Image (self-clicked): The Himalayan Range, as seen from Landour.
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Starlux Airlines Sapporo Office
lucyliu
 November 19 2024 at 04:53 am
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The Starlux Airlines Sapporo office is a dedicated hub designed to enhance the travel experience for passengers flying to and from Hokkaido. Located in the vibrant city of Sapporo, this office offers a range of services, including flight bookings, loyalty program support, corporate travel solutions, and personalized customer assistance. As part of Starlux Airlines’ commitment to luxury and convenience, the Sapporo office bridges Taiwan and Japan, fostering seamless connectivity and promoting Hokkaido as a prime destination for global travelers. Whether you’re planning a trip, resolving travel concerns, or seeking travel advice, the Starlux Airlines Sapporo office ensures every aspect of your journey is exceptional. When it comes to redefining air travel, Starlux Airlines stands out as a shining star in the skies. This Taiwan-based boutique airline has been steadily expanding its presence in Asia and beyond, with its sights set on offering luxury and convenience to travelers worldwide. One of its most exciting recent expansions is the establishment of a dedicated office in Sapporo, Hokkaido. This new office isn't just a functional hub; it’s a statement of Starlux Airlines’ commitment to connecting premium air travel with one of Japan’s most captivating destinations. Here's a closer look at what the Starlux Airlines Sapporo office brings to the table. Sapporo, the capital of Japan’s northern island of Hokkaido, is a dream destination for travelers. Whether it's the powdery snow of its winter ski resorts, the blooming lavender fields in summer, or the culinary delights like fresh seafood and miso ramen, Hokkaido attracts millions of visitors annually. For Starlux Airlines, Sapporo represents an opportunity to cater to a discerning group of travelers who prioritize comfort, service, and unique travel experiences. By establishing a local presence in Sapporo, Starlux aims to meet the growing demand for seamless, premium travel between Japan and Taiwan.
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Air France MAD Terminal
sofialouis
 November 07 2024 at 06:40 am
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With a variety of contemporary amenities, Air France MAD terminal serves international flights out of Terminal 1. Efficient check-in alternatives are available to passengers, such as self-service kiosks, manned counters, and SkyPriority services for qualified passengers. Terminal 1 offers duty-free shopping, which is perfect for grabbing last-minute gifts or travel necessities, as well as a range of dining options, including quick nibbles and local Spanish cuisine. Lounges featuring cozy sitting, Wi-Fi, and refreshments are available to business-class and premium travelers. Terminal 1 is ideally situated for transportation, offering simple access to and from the city with connections to downtown Madrid via the Metro, ride-sharing, and taxis.Overview of Terminal 1 at MAD Terminal 1 at Madrid-Barajas Airport serves as the main terminal for many international airlines, including Air France. Known for its efficient layout and wide range of amenities, Terminal 1 offers passengers everything from shopping and dining to premium services like lounges and priority boarding. With clear signage and helpful staff available throughout the terminal, Air France travelers can navigate easily, even during peak travel times.Check-In and Security Air France offers several check-in options for convenience, including online and mobile check-in, as well as dedicated counters in Terminal 1. For passengers looking to save time, self-service kiosks are also available to print boarding passes and baggage tags. Air France encourages travelers to arrive at least two hours before departure for short-haul flights and three hours for long-haul flights to allow for check-in and security. Security checkpoints at Terminal 1 are efficient and equipped with modern screening technology, making the process smoother and quicker for travelers. Passengers can also make use of the fast-track security option if they are eligible through Air France’s SkyPriority services, available to business-class passengers and elite status holders within the airline’s loyalty program.Dining and Shopping in Terminal 1 One of the highlights of Terminal 1 is the range of dining and shopping options available to Air France passengers. Travelers can enjoy a selection of dining venues, from local Spanish tapas and international fare to cafes and quick-service spots for those short on time. Restaurants like Mahou Madrid and Gastro Hub offer a taste of local flavors, while international coffee chains and grab-and-go options provide fast and convenient choices.
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