Kimberly has been speaking to various groups about the deep, enduring impact of soft power, vs hard power, something every one of us has the power to use. We fed her comments into an AI generator to see how it would sum up her thoughts, and they did a pretty darn good job! Use this as a little inspiration on how you can use thoughtful human engagement to enact lasting, positive change.

A New Zealand airport has limited goodbye hugs at drop-off to just three minutes, and the sign’s photo has sparked a debate about proper farewell etiquette at departures. What do our Globe Aware volunteers think? Is three minutes a luxury or inhumane?

New Zealand airport bans farewell hugs longer than three minutes

A sign at drop-off suggests those looking for ‘fonder farewells’ should use the car park

Natalie Wilson
October16, 2024
Independent

An airport in New Zealand has banned prolonged goodbye hugs at drop-off – with last embraces restricted to just three minutes.

The sign at Dunedin Airport reads “max hug time 3 minutes” and suggests, “for fonder farewells please use the car park”.

The winner of ‘America’s Best Restroom’ contest for 2024 is …

By Forrest Brown
CNN
October 15, 2024

Soothing earth tones. Murals of snow-covered mountains and blue sky. Shiny, gleaming fixtures. What traveler wouldn’t want “to go” in a place like this?

Globe Aware volunteers, find the exact Diwali date and explore the customs, rituals, and meaning behind the five days of celebration in this Festival of Lights!

Diwali 2024 Date: When is Deepawali? All You Need to Know About the 5 Days Festival of Lights

When is Deepawali 2024? Discover the exact date of Diwali and dive into the rich traditions, customs, and rituals associated with this vibrant Festival of Lights. Diwali, celebrated over five days, is much more than a festival – it’s a celebration of light triumphing over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.

By Nikhil Batra
Oct 15, 2024
JAGRAN JOSH

Deepawali, also known as Diwali, stands as one of the most important and widely celebrated festivals in India. Symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil, this festival fosters a sense of joy, devotion, and unity among people. It is a grand occasion filled with vibrant celebrations, spiritual rituals, and social gatherings.

Rooted in ancient traditions, Deepawali carries profound spiritual significance. The word ‘Deepawali’ means “a row of lights,” and its observance revolves around illuminating homes and surroundings to invite happiness and prosperity.

The festival also honours the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after his victory over Ravana, with the lighting of oil lamps symbolising the triumph of good over evil.

Additionally, Diwali is associated with Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity, and Lord Ganesh. It is believed that worshipping them on this day brings abundance and good fortune for the year ahead.

When is Diwali 2024?

Diwali is a five-day celebration that starts with Dhanteras and concludes with Bhaiya Dooj. However, the festivities vary across regions. In Maharashtra, Diwali begins a day earlier on Govatsa Dwadashi, while in Gujarat, the celebrations kick off two days earlier on Agyaras and end on Labh Panchami.

Diwali in 2024 will be celebrated on Wednesday, October 31st. The five-day festivities will begin on October 28th with Dhanteras and conclude on November 3rd with Bhaiya Dooj.

Many people are unsure about the exact date to celebrate Diwali this year, so let’s clear up the confusion. Laxmi Puja will be performed on October 31, 2024, as the Amavasya moon will be visible that evening.

However, in some cities, Diwali celebrations will take place on November 1, 2024. According to the Panchang, the Amavasya Tithi ends at 6:16 PM on November 1, 2024, but since Laxmi Puja is traditionally performed after sunset when the moon is visible, October 31, 2024, is considered the ideal day to celebrate Diwali.

Drikpanchang mentions: “The most auspicious time to do Diwali Puja is after sunset. The time period after sunset is known as Pradosh. The day of Diwali Puja is decided when Amavasya Tithi prevails during Pradosh.”

Diwali 2024 Date in India

Diwali 2024   31 October

Lakshmi Puja Muhurat   05:36 PM to 06:16 PM (Duration: 41 Minutes)

Amavasya Tithi Begins   03:52 PM on Oct 31, 2024

Amavasya Tithi Ends   06:16 PM on Nov 01, 2024

Everything About 5 Days of Diwali – A Complete Calendar

The celebration of Deepawali extends over five days, each with its own significance and rituals:

29th October 2024    Tuesday    Dhanteras

31st October 2024    Thursday    Choti Diwali

31st October 2024    Thursday    Badi Diwali

2nd November 2024    Saturday    Govardhan Puja

3rd November 2024    Sunday    Bhai Dooj

Dhanteras (October 29, 2024)

The first day of Diwali is dedicated to the worship of Lord Dhanvantari, the god of health and healing. On this day, people buy gold, silver, and new utensils to welcome prosperity and good luck. It is believed that purchasing valuable items on Dhanteras will bring wealth and abundance throughout the year.

Choti Diwali (October 31, 2024)

On the second day, people celebrate the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura. Houses are cleaned and decorated, and earthen lamps are lit to remove the darkness of evil and welcome positivity. This day is also marked by bursting crackers in many parts of India.

Deepawali (October 31, 2024)

The main day of the festival is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Lakshmi. People offer prayers and perform Lakshmi Puja in the evening, seeking her blessings for wealth and prosperity. Houses are illuminated with rows of diyas and decorative lights, and families come together to share sweets, gifts, and joy.

Govardhan Puja (November 2, 2024)

The fourth day is dedicated to Lord Krishna and the ritual of Govardhan Puja. Devotees prepare a variety of delicious dishes as offerings to Lord Krishna, symbolising the Annakut (mountain of food). The day also commemorates the lifting of Govardhan Hill by Lord Krishna to protect villagers from torrential rains.

Bhai Dooj (November 3, 2024)

The fifth and final day of Deepawali is celebrated as Bhai Dooj, a festival that honours the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters pray for their brother’s long life and prosperity, and in return, brothers promise to protect their sisters from harm. The exchange of gifts and sweets marks this beautiful day of sibling love.

How is Diwali Celebrated?

• Deepawali is known for its grand celebrations across India and in many parts of the world where Indian communities reside. The festival is a time of immense joy, where families and friends come together to celebrate unity, love, and tradition.
• Lighting Diyas and Rangoli: The lighting of oil lamps (diyas) is one of the most prominent features of Deepawali. The flickering flames of the lamps represent the victory of light over darkness. Rangoli designs, made from coloured powders, flowers, and rice, adorn the entrances of homes to welcome guests and deities.
• Bursting Firecrackers: Fireworks and fireworks are synonymous with Diwali celebrations. Although the practice has become more regulated due to environmental concerns, the sparkling display of lights in the sky adds to the festive spirit. Eco-friendly alternatives such as Green Crackers are gaining popularity to minimise pollution.
• Exchanging Gifts and Sweets: Deepawali is a time to express love and gratitude. Exchanging gifts, sweets, and dry fruits among family members, neighbours, and friends is a long-standing tradition. Popular sweets include laddu, barfi, kaju katli, and gulab jamun.
• Worship and Rituals: Worshipping Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha is an essential part of Diwali. The Lakshmi Puja is performed with devotion, seeking her blessings for financial success, well-being, and peace in the household. Lord Ganesha is worshipped as the remover of obstacles and the provider of wisdom.

Deepawali 2024 is more than just a festival of lights; it is a celebration of life, prosperity, and the eternal triumph of good over evil. As people come together to celebrate, they embrace the values of family, kindness, and togetherness. The spirit of Deepawali reminds us to spread light in the darkest corners, to share joy with others, and to reflect on the blessings we have.

Traditional Guatemalan cuisine is mainly shaped by the country’s Mayan and Spanish heritage, with additional influences from African and Caribbean cultures. Globe Aware volunteers have the chance to explore Guatemalan food during their volunteer vacation. Here’s what to look for!

Traditional Guatemalan Food

By Kirsten Hubbard
September 26, 2024
TRIPSAVVY

The country’s Mayan and Spanish cultures have primarily influenced traditional Guatemalan food and drink. However, they also received influences from African and Caribbean cultures. Nowadays, Guatemalan food is a mixture of many different international influences, such as Chinese, American, and the vegetarian movement.

Ready for a taste of Guatemalan food?

Breakfast

Guatemalan breakfasts typically include eggs, tortillas, beans, and plantains. Some are also served with cheese or cream. Many breakfasts in Guatemala take advantage of the country’s abundant tropical fruits like bananas, papaya, mangoes, and avocado. In some places, you might even get some oats. And of course, no breakfast is complete without a mug of world-class Guatemalan coffee.

Main Meals

Corn, beans, rice, pork, beef, chicken, cheese, and tortillas form the backbone of most Guatemalan cuisine. Meat stews (caldos) and soups (sopas) are easily the most popular dishes among locals. If you order roast chicken, don’t be startled if your meal comes with the feet still attached (rare, but not unknown).

By checking out the menus, you will discover that many meals in Guatemala resemble those of Mexico, Guatemala’s neighbor to the northwest. Guatemalan food such as nachos, tamales, and enchiladas is just as delicious as you’ll find in your favorite Mexican restaurant. Chinese restaurants, pizza places, and fried chicken stands are common in larger Guatemalan cities and towns.

Three of the main Guatemalan dishes:

• Chiles rellenos Are stuffed peppers with rice, cheese, meat, and vegetables. They are battered and fried and often topped with a spicy tomato sauce.
• Chicken pepian is the national dish of Guatemala. It consists of Chicken in a spicy sauce with pumpkin seeds and sesame.
• Kak’ik: A traditional Mayan turkey soup with spices like coriander, achiote, and chile peppers. A must-try.

Snacks and Sides

• Guacamole: Served with chips, fried plantains or as a topping to other Guatemalan food.
• Spiced mango: Sliced green mango, seasoned with chili and lime, sold from street carts.
• Tortillas: Thin, flat corn cakes, a staple in Guatemala food. These are very inexpensive and are sold everywhere.
• Nachos: They include all sorts of tasty toppings like cheese, refried beans, meat, cream, avocado, and peppers, and almost always include fresh hot chips. Delicious!
• Elotes: Roast ears of corn with cheese, lime, chili, and butter or mayonnaise.

Guatemalan Desserts

• Tres leches cake (Pastel de Tres Leches): This is a cold cake soaked in three types of milk, including evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and cream.
• Flan: A wobbly, golden-colored caramel custard with some liquid caramel on top.

Where to Eat and What You’ll Pay

Guatemala is one of the most inexpensive Central American countries, and accordingly, Guatemalan food is inexpensive compared to the U.S.. You’ll only find more U.S.-level prices in touristy destinations like Flores and Antigua Guatemala; and even there, you’ll find enough inexpensive options to stick to a lower budget.

International restaurants, cafes, and coffee shops are typical in well-trod areas. However, local eateries and street vendors are the best places to try traditional Guatemalan food (and less authentic, like fried chicken and french fries).

Many Globe Aware volunteers forget about Laos as it borders the Southeast Asian tourist trifecta of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. Find out why you shouldn’t miss out on this remarkable volunteer vacation destination.

Visit One Of Southeast Asia’s Most Underrated Countries For An Affordable, Uncrowded Vacation

By Emily Manthei
Oct. 2, 2024
Islands

Many travelers forget about Laos as it borders the Southeast Asian tourist trifecta of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. In 2023, Statista reported over 28 million tourist entries into Thailand, while the Lao News Agency reported only 3.4 million visitors to Laos in the same year. What’s more, Trip.com reports you can spend as little as $30 to $50 per day as a budget traveler to stay, eat, and see the sights. To discover Southeast Asia beyond Thailand’s postcard-worthy beaches, check out this landlocked jewel’s mountains, rivers, ancient temples, and great food without the crowds.

If you want to add excitement to your spooky season, check out this guide to some of the best Halloween experiences worldwide. It includes a Globe Aware volunteer vacation destination. Discover which eerie program offers a visit to a haunted castle as part of its optional activities.

Seeking thrills? These 7 Halloween destinations will haunt your dreams!

Halloween is creeping up fast! Have you made your plans or are you still wondering where to go? Your options will vary from legendary castles to catacombs to adventure parks, depending on whether you are looking for costume parties, ghost tours, or aiming for deeper exploration into tradition and history.

Oct 3, 2024
By Rehnuma Shahreen
THE DAILY STAR

So, if you are ready to spice up your spooky seasons, here is a guide to some of the best Halloween experiences around the world. No matter your Halloween style, each destination mentioned offers a unique way to celebrate the spooky season, combining tradition, thrill, and festivity. Pick your adventure and be prepared for a Halloween like no other!

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This podcast covers our general philosophy, what kinds of things to pack, etc. Listen to this podcast for a quick overview!

Globe Aware volunteers, forget the retinol night creams! Research suggests that travel might be the ultimate way to combat premature aging. Discover why!

Travel could be the best defence against ageing

Tourism isn’t just about leisure and recreation. It could also contribute to people’s physical and mental health.

Sep 5, 2024
ECU Newsroom in Research

Forget about retinol night creams, researchers from Edith Cowan University (ECU) believe travel could be the best way to defy premature ageing.

For the first time, an interdisciplinary study has applied the theory of entropy to tourism, finding that travel could have positive health benefits, including slowing down the signs of ageing.

Contrary to a recent international ranking, tourists and Globe Aware volunteers frequently express how safe they feel while exploring Quito’s urban and rural attractions. Learn why you shouldn’t be hesitant to consider this South American destination!

Quito, a Safe Destination for Tourists in Ecuador

September 23 2024
Breaking Travel News

Despite what a recent international ranking may suggest, tourists consistently comment on how safe they feel when touring Quito’s main urban and rural attractions.

According to the Igarapé Institute’s Global Homicide Monitor, Quito is one of the least violent capitals in Latin America. In 2023, the city recorded a homicide rate of 9.7 per 100,000 inhabitants, far lower than cities like Caracas (47.9), San José in Costa Rica (22.8), Montevideo (15.2) and Bogotá (13.5).