Dharamsala

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The Intriguing Abydos Helicopter

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One of the most stunning sights at the temple of Seti I at Abydos is a plate of hieroglyphs that is easy to miss but not dismiss: the so-called Abydos helicopter and its nearby carvings seemingly depicting modern vehicles – and those were apparently made over 3000 years ago! read more…

Touching the Egyptian Ankh at Medinat Habu

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A damaged Ankh carving from the chapel of the priestesses of Amun, part of the Medinat Habu complex (the mortuary temple of Ramses III) on the West Bank of Luxor. the Egyptian Ankh – or key of life – is a symbol whose many layers of meaning remain uncertain… read more…

Distracted Glimpses of Ancient Thebes in Luxor – or a Ride with Hani, the Crude Taxi Driver

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Hani won’t let go of my hand. I’m getting a firmer and longer version of the usually loose Egyptian handshake. I would prefer his two hands to be on the wheel, but I decide to relax and wonder which of the Egyptian gods should be called upon to intervene. read more…

Alone, Inside the Great Pyramid of Giza

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In a mere few minutes, I am soaked in sweat. My heart pounds as I proceed deeper into the semi-darkness of the pyramid. Am I alone? I can see or hear no one. I stop to catch my breath – why were the passageways made so steep and impractical? read more…

24 Hours in Cairo: First Impressions of Egypt

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As I step out of the plane, sensations are immediately assaulted: is that a khamsin, a sandstorm, I’m walking out into? Whatever it’s called, wind blows in every direction carrying with it sand that blankets our surroundings with a brownish-grey veil. read more…

A Peaceful Moment and a Cup of Matcha at Montréal’s Camellia Sinensis Tea House

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With autumn-like temperatures taking over the summer here in Montréal, it’s quite an ideal time to head over to the Camellia Sinensis Tea House on Emery Street. I thus make my way to the Latin Quarter to enjoy warm tea and a cosy ambiance! read more…

Darjeeling : Pictures From the Drukpa Kagyu Tibetan Buddhist Monastery

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The Drukpa Kagyu monastery in Dali, just a few km outside of Darjeeling, is the main seat of His Holiness the XIIth Gyalwang Drukchen. This was the first Tibetan monastery and the first Buddhist monks I came upon while traveling in India so I was quite excited to be there. read more…