Harshal Dewangan

CEO & Founder at Dewa Direction

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July 02, 2018

Why Railways replaced face towels with cheap napkins

The Indian Railways has decided to replace face towels in its air conditioned coaches with cheap, disposable napkins. As reported, Railways will now offer smaller and disposable napkins measuring 40 cm x 30 cm instead of current towels that are bigger at 52 cm x 40 cm. The new napkins will be environment-friendly and made of cotton to absorb more water. Two such napkins per bedroll will be provided during long journeys, if required. The decision has come almost a year after the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) rapped the Railways over cleanliness and management of linen. The criticism spurred Railways to take a series of steps to improve hygiene in coaches and railway stations. Just recently Railways has decided to wash blankets of AC coaches twice a month instead of existing practice of once in two months.However, hygiene may not be the only reason why Railways decided to replace face towels. As per a November 2017 report of Times of India, the Mumbai division of Western Railways itself saw 70 towels getting stolen each month per train that operates between Mumbai and other cities from WR.In 2016-17, bed linen and towels worth Rs 71.52 lakh were stolen from 56 trains in the Mumbai division comprising Mumbai Central, Bandra and Surat, The Hindu had reported in August last year quoting Western Railways officials. This included 81,190 face towels.Other divisions of Railways have so far not revealed their losses due to such thefts - the losses could be in crores considering it has 16 divisions including Central, Northen and Easter Railway divisions which see as much passesngers as the Western division.The reason why Railways may have replaced face towels with cheap napkins 64745089 64827375

from The Economic Times https://ift.tt/2MI30Oa
July 02, 2018

Crude oil is sizzling; WTI price may hit $78 in the short term

By Navneet DamaniCrude oil is turning into a hot commodity as prices are soaring on falling inventories and the Trump administration's warning to companies to cease buying Iranian oil. Oil prices traded lower in the first half of June, which was followed by huge gains in the second half. This month was a period of erratic global politics that injected a considerable amount of volatility and the stage is set for further geopolitical confrontation.Last month, OPEC oil ministers reached a deal to raise production quotas to add 600,000–800,000 barrels a day, effectively returning a third of the barrels that have been withheld since January 2017. OPEC ministers have agreed to a nominal production increase of a million barrels a day to be divided between cartel members and non-OPEC partners, including Russia, which together cut production last year by about 1.8 million barrels a day. That decrease eliminated inventories in developed countries by about 340 million barrels and returned total inventories to around their five-year average. The Saudis appear to have emerged as the winners from last week's meeting of OPEC, and the subsequent talks between OPEC and its allies in the deal to restrict output. The outcome of meetings seems to indicate that crude oil supply should rise by as much as 1 million bpd. That's based on the assumption that OPEC and allies will return to 100 per cent compliance with the November 2016 cut of 1.8 million bpd from a current situation of over-compliance. However, the reality on the ground is that many OPEC countries lack the ability to pump their full quotas. Saudi Arabia is the only producer that can ramp up output significantly within a short period of time. The market consensus after the OPEC meeting in Vienna on June 22 and the talks with non-OPEC allies the following day was that the agreements reached wouldn't actually result in an extra 1 million bpd reaching global markets. While there is some debate on the likely increase in supply, the upper end of the range is around 600,000-800,000 bpd.The markets were also dealing with the outage at Syncrude Canada's 360,000 bpd oil sands facility near Fort McMurray, Alberta, which a spokeswoman confirmed will remain offline through July. Traders expect this to reduce crude flows to Cushing, Oklahoma, the delivery point of the US crude futures contract. In addition, a power struggle among the two parallel Libyan national oil companies created uncertainty on the country's export ability. Meanwhile, Venezuela is mostly enduring supply risk. Its production has already plunged by about 40 per cent since 2015 due to a gruelling recession, civil unrest and an exodus of workers from the country’s state-owned oil firm, Petroleos de Venezuela. The supply increase agreed by OPEC and its allies last week was primarily intended to offset these losses.The decision by US State Department to encourage all countries to shun energy imports from Iran supported crude prices. The Trump administration has no compunction about making harsh demands to various countries, including US allies, to cut off Iranian oil. The US government is calling on its allies to zero out imports of oil from Iran by November 4, or else face sanctions, and Washington is leaning towards granting no waivers at all. Some top oil buyers of Iranian crude are already thinking about shunning Iran oil. It is yet to see what will China and India, Iran’s two biggest oil customers, will do. It’s unclear if either has made a decision yet. While Beijing has held strategic talks with the Middle East nation, it hasn’t disclosed whether it might scale back imports in light of renewed US sanctions. When the restrictions were in place earlier this decade, the Asian nations had persisted with purchases from the Islamic Republic in spite of American criticism. Meanwhile, India plans to seek some exemptions to continue Iranian oil imports, and is looking at alternate payment mechanisms.Given that the Saudi Arabia looks to provide lion's share of any increase in output, watching its export numbers and price signals in coming months will be the key. In fact, Saudis are already supplying more crude. Saudi seaborne crude exports were 7.06 million bpd in May, the most in a year, the data showed.Prior to the November 2016 agreement, Saudi Arabia was regularly exporting more than 7 million bpd. But it's also worth noting that only in two months, January and February in 2016, did the kingdom ship more than 7.6 million bpd. What this shows is that the Saudis definitely have the scope to export more crude, but boosting output above 7.6 million bpd on a sustained basis isn't something they have done in recent years.The developments mean there are curbs on the outlook for global supply, and it seems as though OPEC and its allies will take a gradual approach in restoring production as the group combats the ongoing rise in US outputs. Meanwhile, US exports are increasing continuously as rising domestic production of light oil, rising global demand, and the wide discount between the price of US crude and the global Brent benchmark in recent weeks are all helping more US crude find its way offshore. Elsewhere, the escalating trade war between China and the United States threatens to halt surging US crude oil exports to China, which could destroy a huge source of future demand growth, drive down the cost of US crude and weigh on the balance sheets of America's shale drillers.US production is getting vital importance as its US oil rigs were decreasing through month after having touched their highest level since March 2015. US crude oil stocks have come down consistently since the top in March of last year, indicating a continued rise in demand. Currently, crude stocks are in the middle of the 5-year range and indicate that they may have more room to fall, particularly if the economic growth for Q2 and later quarters touches 4 per cent. The Permian Basin in West Texas is on track to produce more oil within five years than any OPEC nation except Saudi Arabia, positioning the Texas Gulf Coast to rival the Persian Gulf when it comes to oil and gas activity. By 2023, the shortage of pipelines to move oil, gas and natural gas liquids to Gulf Coast markets and beyond is expected to be alleviated by multibillion-dollar projects now under way or planned. A market structure known as backwardation persisted as WTI for August settlement was about $1.40 higher than the September contract, signalling a shortage after a Syncrude Canada oil-sands outage.With the recent price moves being news-driven, we're likely to see volatility and also price pullbacks. However, the medium to long term prospects for oil are very attractive and should be strong. Prices should push higher to at least $75-78 in the short term.(Navneet Damani is AVP Research at Motilal Oswal Commodities)

from The Economic Times https://ift.tt/2KC9roQ
July 02, 2018

Brazil v Mexico - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™ - Match 53 by FIFATV on YouTube

Brazil v Mexico - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™ - Match 53
Find out where to watch live: fifa.tv/watch2018 More match highlights: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLCGIzmTE4d0hww7NG9ytmooEUZov2k-23 More from Russia 2018: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLCGIzmTE4d0ia-PWE7WoysqLao-0y7jEz More World Cup stories: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLCGIzmTE4d0j5nOjvXOP55xyW3aJCyeGo Follow all the action from Russia across the FIFA Platforms: 👉 http://www.youtube.com/fifa 👉 https://ift.tt/1lBiWzz 👉 http://www.twitter.com/fifaworldcup 👉 https://ift.tt/1M0OH0G 👉 http://www.fifa.com


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July 02, 2018

No bad bank; govt unveils 5-point plan on NPAs

Sunil Mehta committee on bad loans resolution has recommended a five-pronged strategy to deal with Non-performing Assets in the country's banking system, Finance Minister Piyush Goyal announced today. Finance Minister said the committee has not recommended to set up a bad bank. "Sunil Mehta panel on bad loans resolution has presented a balanced and comprehensive project 'Sashakt', a five-pronged strategy to deal with stressed assets," Goyal said.The five-pronged strategy include -- SME resolution approach, bank-led resolution approach, AMC/AIF led resolution approach, NCLT/IBC approach, and asset-trading platform. Spelling out government's plan to tackle banks' bad loan problems, interim Finance Minister Piyush Goyal said an independent asset management company will be set up and the committee has not recommendation to form a bad bank. He said that the AMC-led approach would be adopted for resolution of loans above Rs 500 crore. The financial institutions will enter into inter-creditor agreement to authorise lead bank to implement a resolution plan within 180 days. "If no resolution would be found in 180 days, the institutions would move to NCLT," he added.He said the government plans to focus on turning around assets in a manner that will create jobs, proposals are aligned with IBC process and laws.

from The Economic Times https://ift.tt/2z1RZ8t
July 02, 2018

The best Dell XPS 13 and 15 deals in July 2018

If the Dell XPS 15 is large and in charge, wielding discrete graphics and a classic design that won’t draw any unwanted peepers, the Dell XPS 13 is its smaller, yet sophisticated younger sibling. Unfortunately, it ain’t easy finding these two winning notebooks at a price lower than market value. 

That’s why we’ve gone out of our way to comb through the hottest deals on both the Dell XPS 13 and 15. In our rundown of the best Dell XPS 13 and 15 deals, we’ve explored all the major retailers for discounts, including Amazon, Newegg and eBay. We’ve even gone as far as to consider the 2-in-1 version of the Dell XPS 13 in our search, which other sites tend to avoid.

Though you may be ready to scarf down any Dell XPS 13 or Dell XPS 15 deals that come your way, chances are you should get a second opinion. As such, follow along as we pore through the mire of the internet for you, in turn (hopefully) saving you from burning too big a hole in your wallet for any one machine in this posh line of laptops.

The best Dell XPS 13 deals

As does any other laptop maker with its leading machine, Dell actually runs deals on its XPS 13 rather often … just not as large of ones or as frequently as, say, its mid-range Inspiron lineup.

Being Dell's most lusted-after laptop, it makes sense. With up to a 13.3-inch, 3K IPS touchscreen inside an 11-inch aluminum frame, Intel's latest Core i processors as well as Thunderbolt 3 and an SD card slot, the XPS 13 is ready for all sorts of use in work and play.

Below you'll find the best deals we could find on the XPS 13 in the UK, US and Australia. Just note that most XPS 13 deals listed are with entry-level specs, so check to make sure whether the model you want has the parts you want inside, too.

Read the full review: Dell XPS 13 

The best Dell XPS 13 2-in-1 deals

For those who crave the unwavering versatility of a 2-in-1 notebook, turn your head to the Dell XPS 13 2-in-1. This is a laptop that, although it bears the limitations of a 1.3GHz Y-series Intel Core i7 processor, is quite stunning in its look and its feel. 

For starters, the backlit keyboard and glass-coated trackpad are natural to the touch. And don’t let the 1,920 x 1,080 FHD screen resolution bring you down; this InfinityEdge display might not seem like much on paper, but in person, it’s exquisite. That goes without mentioning the webcam, which is now centered as opposed to being offset to the left.

Below are the best deals we could muster on the XPS 13 2-in-1 in the UK, US and Australia. We'll say it again: note that most XPS 13 2-in-1 deals listed are with entry-level specs, so check to make sure whether the version you want has the hardware you want inside, too.

Read the full review: Dell XPS 13 2-in-1

The best Dell XPS 15 deals

The XPS 15 is, frankly, a simply larger XPS 13. However, that extra space inside the 14-inch frame (fitting a 15.6-inch version of that beautiful screen) allows for Nvidia's GTX 1050 mobile graphics processor.

All else equal, this makes the XPS 15 even more suitable for professionals and players alike, though only considerably less portable. And, of course, a bigger screen asks for a heftier price tag.

Below are the best deals we could muster on the XPS 13 in the UK, US and Australia. We'll say it again: note that most XPS 15 deals listed are with entry-level specs, so check to make sure whether the version you want has the hardware you want inside, too.

Read the full review: Dell XPS 15



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By Harshal Dewangan
July 02, 2018

The best cheap Dell laptop deals in July 2018

We all know that Dell creates some of the best laptops to date, but did you know they could be affordable, too? Well, if you know where to look, there are myriad Dell laptop deals floating around the internet, which will especially be the case this Christmas and holiday shopping season.

That said, there are several kinds of laptops to choose from when shopping around for a new Dell. The Inspiron line ranges from entry- to mid-grade laptops, while the XPS is all about delivering flagship-level power in the most alluring form factor.

Then, there’s Alienware, a Dell company that solely makes gaming laptops – those with dedicated graphics chips and usually beefy processors to boot. For these reasons, it can be difficult to suss out all the best Dell laptop deals in each of these categories and product lines.

That’s why we’ve taken care of the hard job for you, recording all of the top Dell laptop deals onto a single page. Just remember that these deals are available as of last writing, so mind the article’s time stamp.

The best Dell XPS 13 deals

As does any other notebook maker with its leading product, Dell actually runs deals on its XPS 13 rather frequently, just not as good or as often as, say, its mid-range Inspiron lineup. Being Dell's most sought-after laptop, it makes sense. 

With up to a 13.3-inch, 3K IPS touchscreen inside an 11-inch aluminum frame, Intel's latest Core i processors as well as Thunderbolt 3 and an SD card slot, the XPS 13 is ready for all kinds of work and play.

Below, you'll find the best deals we could find on the XPS 13 in the UK, US and Australia. Just note that most XPS 13 deals listed are with entry-level specs, so check to make sure whether the version you want has the hardware you want inside, too.

Read the full review: Dell XPS 13 

The best Dell XPS 15 deals

The XPS 15 is, frankly, a larger XPS 13. However, that extra space inside the 14-inch frame (fitting a 15.6-inch version of that beautiful screen) allows for Nvidia's GTX 1050 mobile graphics chip.

All else equal, this makes the XPS 15 even more suitable for professionals and players alike, though considerably less portable. And, of course, a larger screen asks for a larger price tag.

Below are the best deals we could muster on the XPS 15 in the UK, US and Australia. We'll say it again: note that most XPS 15 deals listed are with entry-level specs, so check to make sure whether the version you want has the hardware you want inside, too.

Read the full review: Dell XPS 15 

The best Dell Inspiron 11 deals

Dell's best Windows-based answer to the Chromebook legion is the Inspiron 11. A tiny bit of power to inhabit such a tiny price, this laptop is ideal for students of basically all ages, but not for those in computing intense fields (i.e. animation, media editing, etc), and anyone seeking a cheap way to get online.

Since this is nearly the least expensive laptop money can buy, deals on these are few and far in between.

Below are the best deals we could muster on the Inspiron 11 in the UK, US and Australia. Note that most Inspiron 11 deals listed are with entry-level specs, so check to make sure whether the version you want has the hardware you want inside, too.

The best Dell Inspiron 14 deals

This is one of Dell’s most entry-level laptops, but has recently opted to make it feel anything but. With expandable storage and an HD webcam, you’re looking at a fine college companion for the liberal arts student or a fine laptop for mom and dad now that you’ve left the nest.

It won’t do much of any gaming, but its processor should stream movies at 720p just fine. As a family photo repository or a device for keeping in touch with the kids – or heck, write that thesis – the Inspiron 14 is a consummate Chromebook challenger.

Below are the best deals we could muster on the Inspiron 14 in the UK, US and Australia. Note that most Inspiron 14 deals listed are with entry-level specs, so check to make sure whether the version you want has the hardware you want inside, too.

The best Dell Inspiron 15 deals

For whatever reason, we’ve been told by Dell and other computer makers that you folks really dig huge laptops with legacy features. Hence, the Inspiron 15 7000 is among Dell’s most popular, so much so that there are always deals available for the device that clings onto what Apple has long forgotten: SD cards and DVDs.

Of course, don't go expecting MacBook-like levels of performance here – not even close. But, if you still have a dear DVD collection, this may be the 15-inch laptop for you.

Below are the best deals we could muster on the Inspiron 15 in the UK, US and Australia. Note that most Inspiron 15 deals listed are with entry-level specs, so check to make sure whether the version you want has the hardware you want inside, too. 

Read the full review: Dell Inspiron 15 7000

The best Dell Inspiron 13 2-in-1 deals

Perhaps you want a smaller, lighter and more varied experience – like we would. In that case, this version of the Inspiron might be your scene.

It's slick, lightweight and offers several ways to use it – just like the XPS 13 2-in-1. Well, save for the immensely powerful hardware and beautiful screen. Though, for most folks, what's inside this hybrid laptop is just fine.

Below are the best deals we could muster on the Inspiron 13 2-in-1 in the UK, US and Australia. Note that most Inspiron 13 2-in-1 deals listed are with entry-level specs, so check to make sure whether the version you want has the hardware you want inside, too.

Read the full review: Dell Inspiron 13 7000 2-in-1 

The best Dell Inspiron 15 Gaming deals

For those seeking a gaming laptop without putting a dent in their life savings, the Dell Inspiron 15 Gaming might be your scene. It's essentially a souped-up version of the standard 15-incher with far stronger graphics.

Of course, don't go expecting Alienware 15-level performance here. But, what this Inspiron offers should be enough for fine 1080p gaming at moderate settings. So, it's no wonder why folks are interested in saving even more on it.

Below are the best deals we could muster on the Inspiron 15 Gaming in the UK, US and Australia. Note that most Inspiron 15 Gaming deals listed are with entry-level specs, so check to make sure whether the version you want has the hardware you want inside, too.

Read the hands-on review: Dell Inspiron 15 7000 Gaming

The best Alienware 13 deals

Dell's Alienware brand of gaming laptops looks better than ever today, though sadly it seems to be pricier than ever as well. For example, the starting Alienware 13 model comes with an HD screen at 1,366 x 768 resolution.

Luckily the component options quickly scale up from there, but of course so does the pricing. With an absolutely beautiful OLED display on the table, we'll take whatever deal we can get.

Below are the best deals we could muster on the Alienware 13 in the UK, US and Australia. Note that most Alienware 13 deals listed are with entry-level specs, so check to make sure whether the version you want has the hardware you want inside, too.

The best Alienware 15 deals

Those seeking the newest Nvidia graphics behind screens fine-tuned for gaming are well-treated by Dell’s Alienware brand. Notoriously pricey, any deal you can get on Alienware hardware is worth considering if you want a gaming laptop not just with powerful components but strong style and support.

The Alienware 15 simply expands upon Dell's fresh new design, bringing with it access to Nvidia's mid-tier GTX 1070 mobile graphics for even more power. This model also comes starting with an FHD (1,920 x 1,080) screen – phew!

Below are the best deals we could muster on the Alienware 15 in the UK, US and Australia. Note that most Alienware 15 deals listed are with entry-level specs, so check to make sure whether the version you want has the hardware you want inside, too. 



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By Harshal Dewangan
July 02, 2018

The best cheap Chromebook deals in July 2018

As tax season comes and goes, you probably have a hankering for a cool new gadget to play with. Unabashedly, we would recommend a Chromebook

With so many of the best cheap Chromebook deals lingering around right now, there’s an abundant catalog of devices to choose from right here on TechRadar. You may be thinking to yourself that Chromebooks are economical already, but we’re here to tell you that we’ve managed to score deals that quite possibly achieve the impossible by going a few steps cheaper.

You don’t have to worry about us prioritizing affordability over quality either. Because the best cheap Chromebook deals around include several computers capable of running Android applications obtained through the Google Play Store, our entries our exceptionally diverse and versatile. Without further ado, let’s sink our teeth in.

This is where you should begin your search for a Chromebook. At 14 inches in screen size and inside an adorable frame, the HP Chromebook 14 offers a fine middle ground for the indecisive shopper. With standardized parts inside, this Chromebook can do essentially all its closest rivals can and then some, with its microSD card reader and slew of ports – unlike similarly-priced, tinier Chromebooks.

Read our full review: HP Chromebook 14

It’s almost as if Dell hand-crafted this Chromebook to get work done in the classroom. It’s got an indicator light on the lid that teachers can use as if the student raised his or her hand to answer (or ask) a question. And, it’s rubberized in many places to better survive drops and dents. It’s an awfully mobile laptop, too, making it sensible for work at almost any class level, or if you just want a lightweight web browser and email machine.

Read our full review: Dell Chromebook 11

If you’re looking for a large laptop but don’t want to pay the price, Chromebook deals are the right ones to hunt. Acer’s crafted a strong, 15.6-inch Chrome machine that can house plenty of beefier components than most other laptops at its price range. It doesn’t do much that’s exclusive to its larger size so much that it simply does those things more. For many, that’s a selling point worth trying to find the best deal over, and this just so happens to be the best one.

Read our full review: Acer Chromebook 15

Not long after killing off the Chromebook Pixel, Google has revived it in a way that no one was expecting leading into its reveal. Now, it’s called the Google Pixelbook, and it takes a sharp turn away from its predecessor. That’s mainly because we’re looking at a machine that can run Android apps natively in addition to bolstering Chrome OS. With ample storage space, nigh-perfect stylus integration and Google Assistant, the Pixelbook is the best Chromebook you can buy. That said, while Google Pixelbook deals will be hard to come by, it's one of the most-searched laptops right now, so it's worth calling out – not to mention being on the lookout for hot deals.

Read the full review: Google Pixelbook

The R11's subdued design may not win any awards, but behind that white shell is a surprisingly slim laptop destined to last an entire day's work. It’s even among the first Chromebooks to support Android apps by way of the Google Play Store. So, if you’ve ever wanted to use Firefox on a Chromebook, now you can. The R11 packs day-long battery life, sharp performance and a 360-degree hinge for the touchscreen. It won't burn your wallet, thereby making cons, like an iffy trackpad and barely-HD screen, a little easier to take.

Read the full review: Acer Chromebook R11

Acer tends to run the show in our Chromebook roundups, and for good reason: it makes great Chromebooks. If you want the look and near-feel of a MacBook Air, despite its waning presence, Acer makes a Chromebook for that. Its Chromebook 14 looks and feels like Apple’s famous notebook on the outside, but of course can’t truly feel like using one with how little it costs. Still, a full HD screen is one thing this super-cheap laptop has and the MacBook Air doesn’t, so there’s that.

Read our full review: Acer Chromebook 14 

Gabe Carey has also contributed to this article



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By Harshal Dewangan
July 02, 2018

Planning a foreign holiday? Check out these five destinations under Rs 1 lakh each

If it has been a summer of discontent, with the much-needed vacation eluding you, don’t fret. Autumn, with its stipulated batch of festive holidays, is just around the corner, and we’ve lined up a set of hot foreign destinations for you. While foreign breaks are coveted by most, financial reality, with prohibitively high flight costs, has a way of impinging on the best-laid plans. However, as Sanjay Bhasin, CEO, Goibibo, says, “A foreign vacation doesn’t have to burn a hole in your pocket. Indian travellers are discovering multiple international destinations that are pocket-friendly and, yet, offer a great experience.”This may have been the reason why nearly 58% of respondents remained unaffected by the dip in the rupee against the dollar and continued to pursue their holiday plans, as per a Yatra survey, in June. “In fact, there was an increase of 14% in international travel from India in January-March 2018, compared with the same period last year, as per the DGCA data,” says Sharat Dhall, COO (B2C), Yatra. com. By 2025, Indian outbound leisure trips are estimated to rise to 13.9 million from 4.8 million now, according to Tourism Ministry data. “The choice to book curated packages online at affordable rates has taken the stress out of planning and we are witnessing a large number of travellers from tier 2 and 3 cities opting for these,” says Saujanya Shrivastava, Group CMO, MakeMyTrip.If you too want to be a part of this outflow of vacationers without disrupting your budget, go through the five destinations we have shortlisted for you: Cambodia, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Sri Lanka and Philippines. A couple can visit any of these for Rs 1 lakh, and for simplification of calculation, we have broken down this amount into six categories: airfare, accommodation, food, sightseeing, internal commute and visa fee. With a series of smart decisions regarding booking of flights and hotels, and savings on sightseeing and food, you will be able to fit your trip into the Rs 1 lakh budget. Of course, some of these destinations are cheaper than the others and you can have a longer trip or stay in a better hotel. On the other hand, in an expensive place like Hong Kong, you may have to scrimp on food, take public transportation instead of cabs, or cram in fewer tourist attractions.To further reduce the strain on your budget, we have scheduled the travel for all these destinations, except Hong Kong, in the shoulder season, which lies between the peak and off season. This means that you can avail of discounts during this period. “An average discount of 15% can be expected for stay and food for these destinations. As for airfares, booking three months in advance combined with the gains from shoulder season, will enable you to enjoy a discount of about 30%,” says Karan Anand, Head, Relationships, Cox & Kings.So take your pick according to your vacationing taste, book on time and have a great holiday!1. CambodiaDuration: 4N/5D 64804760 The traumatic past of this beautiful Southeast Asian country—rooted in the genocide inflicted by the Khmer regime—has translated into tourism potential. Add to it dollops of architecture and history, scenic beauty and affordability, and you have a country begging to be visited. We have picked two cities, capital Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, the gateway to the famed Angkor Wat temples. The biggest chunk of the budget, at 40%, is expectedly taken up by airfare, but the remaining amount can help you tour in style. Pick a 4-star hotel, commute in cabs and cover all the major tourist attractions.FLIGHT: It is important to book 3-4 months in advance and check multiple flight options to get the right price and comfortable flight duration (6-7 hours, one way). If you are unable to book early, you will be forced to buy an expensive ticket, say Rs 50,000-60,000 for a couple’s return trip, which means you will have to compromise on stay and sightseeing. You can still get a cheap ticket, but it will be for a long-haul flight of, say, 12 hours.Flight time: 5 HOURS, 15 MINUTES Direct Delhi-Phnom Penh one-way flightITINERARYDay 1: Arrive in Phnom Penh. Take a city tour.Day 2: Take a day trip to Koh Rong Island. Back to Phnom Penh.Day 3: Travel to Siem Reap. Visit Angkor Wat temple.Day 4: Visit the floating village in Tonle Sap.Day 5: Back to Phnom Penh. Onward to Delhi.STAY: The stay options range from budget (guesthouses, hostels) and midrange (2/3- star hotels) to luxury (5-star hotels/resorts). “The 3-star hotels offer a comfortable stay in Cambodia, though backpacking hotels offer great budget options,” says Bhasin of Goibibo. You can, however, easily opt for the 4-star hotels, which will cost Rs 4,000-6,000 per night.FOOD: “Street food is delicious and can save you a fortune each day,” says Anand of Cox & Kings. “A 12-inch baguette with meat fillers and salad comes for Rs 82, while a bowl of meat and noodles will cost only Rs 100,” he adds. If, however, you want a proper meal, it will cost you Rs 350-500 per person. You could end up spending more looking for Indian food, which could be expensive. So it may be a good idea to carry pre-cooked Indian meals.Currency Rs 1 = 59.9 RIELBUDGET ALLOCATION 64804771 Visit during April or October 64804772 SIGHTSEEING: On the first day in Phnom Penh, visit the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, and National Museum. After dinner, you could visit the Sisowath Quay. The next day, take a trip to Koh Rong, a beautiful island with pristine beaches, in Sihanoukville province. On the third day, travel to Siem Reap and explore the Angkor Wat temples, which can take you all day (two days, if you are really keen). On the second day, you can choose between Angkor Thom area and Ta Prohm Temple, and a boat trip to Tonle Sap to see the floating village. The latter will also give you time to do some shopping or relax in the evening. Return to Phnom Penh the next day and shop in the Russian market before flying back.Sightseeing Tourist hotspotsAngkor Wat Temple, Siem ReapAngkor Thom Area & Ta Prohm Temple, Siem ReapTonle Sap boat trip (fl oating village)Killing Fields, Phnom PenhTuol Sleng Genocide Museum, Phnom PenhRussian market & Sisowath Quay, Phnom PenhRoyal Palace, Silver Pagoda, and National Museum, Phnom PenhKoh Rong IslandCOMMUTE: “The best way to get around in the city is on remorque moto, which is like a tuk-tuk,” says Anand Menon, Vice-President & Head, Travel Tours, Leisure Business, FCM Travel Solutions. You could also hire cabs, which are affordable, especially if you are taking a city tour. While moving from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap, take a Giant Ibis bus or a mini-bus, which will take around five hours, and is a better option than flying or taking a taxi, which are more expensive.PACKAGESCox & Kings: Discover Cambodia (3N/4D), @ Rs 1 lakh (with airfare, per couple) FCM Travel Solutions: Cambodian Highlights (5 D) @ Rs 65,000 (without airfare, per couple).2. Hong KongDuration: 3N/4D 64804761 This former British colony and global financial hub in China is the most expensive of the five destinations, with high cost of flight, stay and sightseeing. This not only translates to a shorter duration of stay, but also the need to pick budget options and deploy saving tricks. While most packages include travel to Macau as well, there is little point in shelling out extra if you are not into gambling at casinos. It’s better to explore the city in three days and even then you may have to leave out some tourist hotspots due to high expense. A good thing is that you don’t dole out anything for visa as you can spend 14 days visa-free on completing pre-arrival registration online (https://www.immd.gov. hk/eng/services/visas/pre-arrival_registration_ for_indian_nationals.html).FLIGHT: A red-eye (late night/ early morning) flight lasting about five hours will cost you Rs 53,000, nearly 50% of the budget. A cheaper night flight, at Rs 45,000, will take nearly 11 hours, with Air Asia and Singpore Airlines typically offering the cheapest fares. A good option is to register for fare alerts, opt for cashback offers and other online discounts. Also ensure that your airfares don’t rise while searching online by browsing incognito on the Internet.Flight time: 5 hours, 10 minutes. Direct Delhi-Hong Kong one-way flightITINERARYDay 1: Arrive in Hong Kong and take a city tour. Day 2: Day trip to Disneyland. Day 3: Ocean Park & Lantau Island. Day 4: Half-day shopping. Fly back to Delhi.STAY: A 3-star hotel will cost about Rs 5,000 a night, but of course, there are cheaper options like guesthouses, backpacker hostels and one-star hotels for around Rs 2,000 per night. “To save money, you could look for hotels in Hong Kong Island or East of Kowloon since they are a bit further away from tourist areas,” says Bhasin of Goibibo. Also, remember that room sizes in Hong Kong are generally quite small. “The stay prices go up during Canton Fair period in October, so remember to book in advance and negotiate well,” advises Anand of Cox & Kings.Currency Rs 1 = 0.12 HK DOLLARBUDGET ALLOCATION 64804762 Visit in early October 64804773 FOOD: “If you opt for Chinese meals and drinks, it can easily cost Rs 5,000 per person for a day, but meals at tea houses (cha chaan tang) or food stalls(dai pai dong) will not cost more than Rs 1,000 a day,” says Anand. Adds Dhall of Yatra: “Rather than buying food from supermarkets, one can pick fresh produce from the local market. Also, since meat is costlier, you can opt for vegetarian meals.” Fast food chains like McDonald’s or Pizza Hut, which are present across Hong Kong, will offer cheaper food than Indian meals. It is also a good idea to carry light snacks or pre-cooked meals. You should also preferably carry your own water bottle instead of buying it outside.SIGHTSEEING: The primary attractions in Hong Kong include Disneyland, Ocean Park, Lantau Island, Victoria Peak, Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, Star Ferry and Repulse Bay. The first three sites not only require a day each to visit, but are also expensive. So make sure you keep aside a tidy sum of Rs 20,000-30,000 for sightseeing. Since a day devoted to each of these places is not feasible, you can take half-day trips or leave out one, say, Lantau Island. The cheaper Star Ferry will take you through the harbour and is a must-do. A good way to reduce spending is to opt for the public transport like MTR and subway instead of taking a city tour. You could also visit various museums, such as the Museum of Art and the Heritage Museum, which don’t charge admission fees on Wednesdays.Sightseeing Tourist hotspotsDisneylandOcean ParkLantau Island / Tian Tan BuddhaVictoria PeakStar FerryTsim Sha Tsui PromenadeRepulse BayCOMMUTE: The cheapest option is MTR, followed by bus and then a cab. You could also opt for trams which are cheap. For MTR, you could use a three-day pass for unlimited rides. “The widely used Octopus Card, which is accepted by most forms of public transport, can help you save 5% per trip. Topping it up is easy and can be done at any MTR station or convenience store,” says Anand. It is also advisable to rent a bike and avoid peak hours or weekends for MTR.PACKAGESCox & Kings: Basic Hong Kong (4N/5D), @ Rs 1 lakh (with airfare, per couple) MakeMyTrip: Spectacular Hong Kong & Macau (5N) @ Rs 70,990 (with airfare, per person)3. IndonesiaDuration: 4N/5D 64804763 Bali is the most visible and inviting face of Indonesia, but there are several other places, like Yogyakarta, Raja Ampat Islands, Sulawesi, Flores, Lombok and the famous Komodo National Park in Nusa Tenggara Timur. These are as or even more enchanting, with their pristine beaches, volcanic mountains and marine and wildlife. The only hinderance is the high cost of travel to some of the remoter areas. This is why we have considered only Bali and Yogyakarta, with two nights each. The bigger part of the budget is again taken by airfare, but stay and food are not too expensive. You also save on visa fee since you don’t need one for stays of less than 30 days if you have an Indian passport.FLIGHT: “The faster you need to reach a destination, the more money needs to be shelled out. A layover that extends your flight time by a few hours can, however, result in discounted fares,” says Anand of Cox & Kings. So while a nine-hour flight will come for around Rs 56,000 for a couple, one that extends to 10-12 hours will be available for Rs 41,000-43,000. You can again look for multiple flight options, though “Air Asia offers cheap fares without meals and baggage for people on a budget”, suggests Bhasin of Goibibo. It is best to book at least 60 days in advance.Flight time: 9 hours, 10 minutes Direct Delhi-Bali one-way flightITINERARYDay 1: Fly in to Bali and take a city tour.Day 2: Full-day tour of Kintamani Volcano and Ubud in Bali.Day 3: Fly to Yogyakarta.Day 4: Take a full-day tour to Borobudur and Prambanan temples.Day 5: Fly back to Bali and then to Delhi.STAY: You can look for accommodation on Booking.com or any of the online aggregators and pick from a wide variety of stay options, including homestays, bed & breakfasts, guesthouses, boutique or star hotels. A good 3- or 4-star hotel will be available for Rs 3,000-4,000. If you want to splurge on sightseeing, you can cut from the accommodation cost and choose a cheaper place at Rs 1,000-2,000. “You could also do a split stay between hotels in Kuta and Seminyak since the former hotels are cheap and the latter can offer private villa with pool at a great price,” says Bhasin.Currency Rs 1 = 207.12 RUPIAHBUDGET ALLOCATION 64804774 Visit in April or October 64804764 FOOD: Local cuisine is always the cheapest and the best way to experience a new country. “You can try out the street-side noodle, snack and soup corners, which will not be too expensive,” says Anand. However, if you are not comfortable with the flavours, pick up basic food like sandwiches or other snacks from local markets or carry pre-cooked meals and snacks. Also, make sure you book a hotel that offers free breakfast, or city tours that include lunches. You can easily keep aside Rs 1,000-1,100 per meal for food.SIGHTSEEING: There are loads of famous temples in Bali and Yogyakarta, so you will have to carefully choose a mix of temples, beaches and natural wonders. In Bali, take a day trip to Ubud and Kintamani Volcano. The next day, visit the Tanah Lot and Uluwatu temples, and relax at the Kuta Beach. Yogyakarta is famous for its Borobudur and Prambanan temples and Merapi volcano, so you could take a day trip here. The next day, visit the Jomblang cave and shop or relax.Sightseeing Tourist hotspotsKintamani Volcano, BaliUbud (Royal Palace, Monkey Forest, Art Market, Tegallalang Rice Terraces), BaliKuta Beach, BaliTanah Lot Temple, BaliUluwatu Temple, BaliBorobudur Temple, YogyakartaPrambanan temple, YogyakartaJomblang cave, YogyakartaCOMMUTE: Taxis are the best way to travel as you can hire one for nearly Rs 3,000 a day. The most economical way of going from Bali to Yogyakarta is by the ‘economi’ train, though you will still have to use the ferry as these are two islands. However, this is timeconsuming and the best option is a domestic flight, which is the shortest (1.5 hours), and return trip for two can cost Rs 6,000-9,000. “Negotiation is the best skill to hone as it can save you about 30% of the quoted price since private transporters charge extra from foreigners,” says Anand from Cox & Kings.PACKAGESYatra: Bali package (6N/7D), @ Rs 39,990(with airfare, per person) FCM Travel Solutions: Balinese Wonder (5 D) @ Rs 98,200 (with airfare, per couple)4. Sri LankaDuration: 5N/6D 64804765 With its irresistible combination of affordability and abundance of beaches, wildlife, temples and natural beauty, Sri Lanka aces the list when it comes to budget foreign holidays. This is the reason that unlike other destinations, you can take a five-night, six-day trip to this southern neighbour and add many more places to visit instead of 1-2 cities. The airfare is reasonable, comprising about 34% of your budget, as is accommodation, food and sightseeing, the last cheaper as India is a part of the SAARC group of nations. We have considered four places to visit, including Colombo, Kandy, Galle and the Yala National Park.FLIGHT: The return Delhi-Colombo flight for a couple, with one layover, will cost around `34,000 and take 6-7 hours, one way. IndiGo and Jet Airways offer some of the cheapest fares and, if you watch out for discounts, flash sales and fare alerts, the ticket will cost you even lesser. Also try to be flexible about dates and opt for Google Flights. You will be able to view the day-wise fare for a few months. Typically, the fare for Mondays and Wednesdays is slightly lower than weekends. “Booking for the shoulder season in peak season will also get you a better deal,” says Anand.Flight time: 3 HOURS, 35 MINUTES Direct Delhi-Colombo one-way flightITINERARYDay 1: Arrive in Colombo and take a city tour.Day 2: Move to Kandy. On the way, visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage.Day 3: Take a day tour of Dambulla and Sigiriya in the north. Return to Kandy.Day 4: Take a trip to Galle and Mirissa.Day 5: Move to Yala National Park.Day 6: Return to Colombo. Fly back to Delhi.STAY: You will be spoilt for choice when it comes to accommodation options, ranging from hostels, homestays and guesthouses to vacation rentals, star hotels and resorts. Depending on how much you want to spend—below Rs 1,000 for guesthouses and hostels to a range of Rs 3,000-7,000 for good 3- or 4-star hotels—you can take your pick. A homestay can also be a good option since it will offer a unique flavour of the place, people and food, also making eating a cheaper option for you.Currency Rs 1 = 2.3 SL RUPEEBUDGET ALLOCATION 64804775 Visit in April, September-October 64804776 FOOD: Since Sri Lankan food is closer to the Indian cuisine, it will do you well to sample the local food, which will not only be cheaper but also delectable. Of course, Indian eateries and fast food joints will not be too difficult to find, but will definitely cost you more. “While it is advisable for foreigners not to have tap water, buying water can be expensive. So purchasing a bottle with purifier may be a good one-time investment as you will require a lot of water,” says Anand.SIGHTSEEING: The cost of primary tourist attractions is virtually half of what a foreigner would pay due to the lower prices applicable to SAARC group of nations. So you will end up spending only about Rs 12,000 for a larger number of sites. In Colombo, you can visit the Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple and Galle Face Green. On the way to Kandy, visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, and the next day, take a trip to the famed Sigiriya World Heritage site and Dambulla Cave Temple. A visit to Galle and nearby Mirissa is also a must for their beautiful beaches and the sea turtle hatchery.Sightseeing Tourist hotspotsGangaramaya Buddhist Temple, ColomboTemple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, KandyPinnawala Elephant Orphanage, KandySigiriya World Heritage siteDambulla Rock Cave TempleSea Turtle Hatchery Centre Mahamodara, GalleGalle Fort, GalleYala National Park safari, YalaCOMMUTE: Though trains, buses and tuk-tuks are cheaper ways to travel, these can be crowded, time-consuming and not very comfortable. So, taxis will be your best option in this country, not just for inter-city transfers but within the cities as well, because they will offer more comfort without denting your budget too much. In fact, you can hire cabs for all your trips and transfers through the trip. “You can even plan a budget of around Rs 15,000 for a private cab for five days assuming that the driver’s food and stay are taken care of by the hotel or the driver himself,” says Anand.PACKAGESFCM Travel Solutions: Mystical Sri Lanka (7D) @ Rs 98,700 (with airfare, per couple) MakeMyTrip: 6 Days Holiday in Sri Lanka (5N) @ Rs 51,800 (with airfare, per person)5. PhilippinesDuration: 4N/5D 64804766 Though Philippines seems to pale in comparison with other popular Southeast Asian destinations like Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore, it has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world and is worth a visit. One reason for the lukewarm response among Indians is that Philippines is an archipelago of 7,641 islands and 82 provinces, making island hopping a time-consuming and expensive affair. This is also the reason we have considered only two destinations, Manila, the capital city, and Palawan, for the four-night, five day trip, even though there are several beautiful islands and provinces like Boracay, Cebu, Bohol, Surigao, Bicol and Ilocos. The biggest chunk of the budget is expectedly taken up by the airfare and accommodation.FLIGHT: “The airlines don’t always follow dynamic pricing and, hence, booking in advance may not always work. It just guarantees availability,” says Saujanya Shrivastava, Group CMO, MakeMyTrip. It is still a good practice because you get a better choice with the day-wise change in fares. So, while you may get a return fare of Rs 42,022 for 1-5 November visit, the price for 4-9 November may shoot up to Rs 56,134.Flight time: 6 HOURS, 30 MINUTES Direct Delhi-Manila one-way flightITINERARYDay 1: Arrive in Manila and take a city tour.Day 2: Sightseeing in Manila.Day 3: Move to Palawan.Day 4: Visit El Nido & Puerto Princesa.Day 5: Return to Manila. Fly back.STAY: Various aggregator sites like Hotels.com throw up various options to suit every budget, but you can fit in a 3-star hotel for Rs 3,000-4,000. Remember that hotels in central areas or close to the city centre may be more expensive, as will resorts in remote islands, compared with those in popular destinations like Manila. There are more luxury resorts on islands and will be beyond your budget. “Since several stay options don’t have an online presence, you can personally go and haggle over the price of hotels or homestays, and negotiation skills may come in handy in such a case,” says Anand of Cox & Kings.Currency Rs 1 = 0.78 PESOBUDGET ALLOCATION 64804767 Visit in May or November 64804768 FOOD: “Street food is extremely cheap, with meals starting at Rs 60, while local non-vegetarian meals can cost Rs 200-500,” says Anand. However, there is a chance that even vegetarian food may have some meat, so opt for fruit, light snacks or basic confectionery items from the local market. You can assign a budget of about Rs 9,000 for the entire trip.SIGHTSEEING: You can keep two days for Manila and two for Palawan. In Manila, you can take a day trip and visit Fort Santiago & Rizal Shrine Museum, San Agustin Church and Museum, Manila Ocean Park, and the historical city of Intramuros. For shopping, you can consider the Divisoria Market. In Palawan, do not miss the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, visit to El Nido and diving in the Tubbataha Reefs, besides relaxing at the beautiful beaches.Sightseeing Tourist hotspotsFort Santiago & Rizal Shrine Museum, ManilaSan Agustin Church and Museum, ManilaManila Ocean Park, ManilaIntramuros Historical City, ManilaDivisoria Market, ManilaManila Baywalk, ManilaPuerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, PalawanEl Nido, PalawanDiving in the Tubbataha ReefsCOMMUTE: For intra-city travel, you can use the local Jeepney or van which can be cheap, with prices ranging from Rs 100-1,200 a day. “You can also use cabs, but make sure you opt for apps like Grab and Uber, instead of the local taxis,” suggests Bhasin of Goibibo. However, it is better to fly while hopping between islands because it is not too expensive and will save you a lot of time. The return trip from Manila to Puerto Princesa in Palawan can cost around Rs 9,000 and takes around one hour.PACKAGESCox & Kings: Romantic Philippines (3N/4D), @ Rs 87,240 (with airfare, per couple) FCM Travel Solutions: Best of Philippines (6D) @ Rs 77,300 (without airfare, per couple)Prices and flight duration are subject to change; food costs have been rounded off; airfares for flights between September and November; currency rates as on 18 June 2018; 1 US$= `67.8; exchange rate as on 22 June 2018

from The Economic Times https://ift.tt/2lLhnpF
July 02, 2018

Tech Mahindra partners with the US-based co for digital forensics & incident response cyber security platform

IT consultancy firm Tech Mahindra has announced a strategic partnership with LIFARS, a New York -based cybersecurity digital forensics and incident response firm, for an advanced managed threat detection and response service for their customers.Tech Mahindra’s Security Operations Center (SOC) offering and LIFARS’ incident response service will be combined to innovate and create new services in specific areas of threat detection, mitigation, incident management and integrated cyber resilience.“LIFARS and Tech Mahindra’s partnership is aimed at addressing the growing needs of customers to combat the rampantly increasing number of cyber threats. By leveraging the combination of LIFARS’ world-class team of elite cyber security specialists for incident response services, and the expertise of Tech Mahindra’s skilled SOC analysts, we will develop an enhanced cyber breach and emergency response service offering,” said Rajiv Singh, Global Head of Enterprise Security & Risk Management, Tech Mahindra. This partnership is in line with Tech Mahindra’s strategy to develop and focus on the cybersecurity market globally.“We are very pleased to enter into a strategic partnership with Tech Mahindra in the cybersecurity space. This collaboration will further help us expand our capabilities and reach,” said Ondrej Krehel, CEO, LIFARS. “Today, the market clearly recognizes the immense need for companies to implement thorough cybersecurity measures on-site. Tech Mahindra’s operational skills and reach in SOC delivery, combined with LIFARS’ in-depth cybersecurity knowledge will bring robust solutions and new innovation to the cyber security marketplace”, he added.

from The Economic Times https://ift.tt/2KonBud
July 02, 2018

LINEUPS – BRAZIL v MEXICO - MATCH 53 @ 2018 FIFA World Cup™ by FIFATV on YouTube

LINEUPS – BRAZIL v MEXICO - MATCH 53 @ 2018 FIFA World Cup™
The lineups are in for Brazil v Mexico. How do you think this one will go? Who are the players to watch? Tell us in the comments below. Find out where to watch live: fifa.tv/watch2018 More match highlights: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLCGIzmTE4d0hww7NG9ytmooEUZov2k-23 More from Russia 2018: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLCGIzmTE4d0ia-PWE7WoysqLao-0y7jEz More World Cup stories: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLCGIzmTE4d0j5nOjvXOP55xyW3aJCyeGo Follow all the action from Russia across the FIFA Platforms: 👉 http://www.youtube.com/fifa 👉 https://ift.tt/1lBiWzz 👉 http://www.twitter.com/fifaworldcup 👉 https://ift.tt/1M0OH0G 👉 http://www.fifa.com


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