APRIL’2015
INR 25
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CONFECTIONS FOR YOUR SWEET AFFECTIONS!
Some American Dessets to fall in love with... Page 10
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crop tops sprung in. Editors, celebs and all the posh people are adorning the fringe. Now its your turn to try it on.
GINGHAM PRINT:
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FRINGE: Fringed dresses are the new must have for evening wear. It has come swish swooshing all the other trends this time. On the runways, it has left everybody hypnotic. Even Ralph Lauren Polo has showcased a fringed bag. But if you feel that you won’t be able to pull off this, you can try experimenting with bags, jackets, shoes or even hair. It is not only trendy but versatile too. So it needs no special occasion to wear it, you can wear it in fests, office, college, school. In the early years of 1920’s, when it first came into being, it was rebellious yet glamorous. Then again in the 1970’s, it adapted to the bohemian style of dressing. Not very stylish yet interesting. Suede jackets and skirts were very much in trend in those times. Further, in the 90’s, fringed
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Gingham print, heard for the first time? But you must have seen it thousands of times. Michael Kors and Oscar CHECKED it out this spring’15. Just like fringe, even this retro print is too versatile. It may be innocent for someone, American for someone else and even French for a few. And because of its versatility, this print is wearable at any point of time or occasion. So chuck out the florals or stripes this summer and check out Gingham. Dresses, jackets, pants or skirts, wear whatever you feel like wearing. Anna Wintour, the most revered fashion lady has given a green signal to it. In the 1950’s and the 60’s, Audrey Hepburn was the one who popularized the print by wearing it as cropped pants or skirts. In lighter shades, it may seem like the tablecloth. So the designers this time have brought it in darker colors. To make a statement with this easy going look, try pairing both the top and the bottom in the same print.
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ere we bring you two new trends to follow this season or till whenever you want to. After all, it is YOUR own fashion statement. So the top designers and brands have taken over the runways with fringe and gingham prints this time. Fashion Repeats. So is proved again.
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KEEPING UP WITH THE TRENDS THIS S/S’15
FOREVER 21 AT TIMES SQUARE: A MUST STOP!
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(LA) WILL DRIVE YOU CRAZY!
also be needed to help arrange them. This is one of the reasons too for the rising popularity of Forever 21. Because one gets to see a whole lot of new trends and styles within a few days, and that is what the young people live for. So this huge multilevel store has four floors in total. As you enter there, you might feel like you’re in heaven if you’re a worshipper of this brand. All the classic and trendy contemporary Forever 21 styles are displayed on the first floor. On the second floor, that is the basement, oodles of jewellery, makeup and handbags can be found. Down to the next floor, there is men’s and children’s section. It also has a giant tree house. And the bottom floor, the last one, is filled with mirrored and studded walls. Even a taxi cab has been displayed on the same floor. For the shoppers, there is one more interesting thing in this store i.e. a photo booth. Now that is one amazing attraction installed by the store. Considering the amount of styles they get every week or maybe every day is astounding. Plus, the visual merchandising people too must be able to accommodate the stuff. An army of employees would also be needed to help arrange them. This is one of the reasons too for the rising popularity of Forever 21. Because one gets to see a whole lot of new trends and styles within a few days, and that is what the young people live for.
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RODEO DRIVE
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called Torso by Robert Graham marks the beginning of the walk, which came into being in 2003. So the sidewalks have a bronze plaque set for every person honored. Undoubtedly, the most expensive store of the world is also located here; Bijan. It is owned by an Iranian and requires the customers to take appointment just to shop at the store. Now isn’t that yet another fascinating thing about this place?
Courtesy: Utkarsha Kohli
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Such glamorous place is out to be filled with prestigious fashion brands like Valentino, Miu Miu, Tiffany & Co., Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Prada, Coach, Chanel, Burberry, Roberto Cavalli, Salvatore Ferragamo and many more. Another interesting thing about this place is the Rodeo Drive Walk of Style, which honors people for their outstanding contribution to fashion, design or costume. A statue
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oming to Hollywood and not going to the area where they go and shop? Seriously? Yeah yeah I know not everybody can afford the brands, but what’s the harm in looking at the stores. That maybe an achievement itself for some people. So here in Los Angeles, these 3 blocks of luxury, lifestyle, fashion and entertainment is a sight not to be missed. You may even spot some celebrity buying stuff for themselves. So don’t stop yourself from chasing them down the street. If not, then some exotic cars are surely going to get captured in your eyes. You may find Porsche there as if it was the Swift Desire of India.
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Considering the amount of styles they get every week or maybe every day is astounding. Plus, the visual merchandising people too must be able to accommodate the stuff. An army of employees would
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The craze of shopping at Forever 21 can never stop. So imagine girls going out of their mind when they visit the largest Forever 21 store at Times Square, New York. You could be surprised to see the amount of collection they have at each floor. It is just not possible to go through all the stuff in a few hours. Since Times Square is the most visited and happening place in New York, this store gets a lot of footfall. Also, the fact that the store offers the latest trends at such cheap prices attracts people, especially the students. Most of the people are usually tourists. And because of so much crowd, one must be able to decide what they want otherwise that thing might just get sold in a jiffy. However, the store remains open till 2 am at night. Which is also one added advantage for the tourists. Because anyways the localites would most probably be sleeping that time.
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n American brand, abiding by its culture and lifestyle, Forever 21 was launched in 1984. It has multiplied so quickly and immensely that today it has more than 480 stores all over the world. Fortunately or unfortunately, it came up in Times Square very recently.
Moreover, some of the best events also happen in this posh area. Like on every Father’s Day, the most expensive automobiles of the world are displayed here at the Concours d’Elegance. Also, the Fashion’s Night Out carnival happens every September to celebrate fashion. The Rodeo Drive Festival of Watches and Jewellery is a treat for the eyes too. So go and visit this place because it’s free of cost to roam around. You won’t find such rich and luxurious experience anywhere else.
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ANNA SUI
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TORY BURCH
KATE SPADE
AMERICAN DESIGNERS TO WATCH OUT FOR...
America gave us the most comfortable piece of clothing till date for daily wear, i.e. Blue Jeans. Though they were originally made for the working class, but they have become very popular among the general masses irrespective of their age and social status. But that was in 1850s. Coming to the present day, a lot of well-known and most revered fashion designers came up in America including Marc Jacobs, Tom Ford, Tommy Hilfiger and many others.
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Well, this time we have 3 modern day fashion designers with quite quirky stuff for you all. The people who don’t believe in fast fashion and want to fill their wardrobe with some designer yet classy pieces, these designers are a must follow. So let’s see what they have in store for you.
Tory Burch came up as a designer in the year 2004. Her RTW collection, shoes, handbags, accessories, beauty, home and watches is very trendy because of the colors, print and the assorted details. Plus, her inspirations (including art, music, travel, interiors and even her own parents) add that touch of emotion to everything she designs.
Anna Sui is truly a trendsetter, who directs people to fashion and style. She is the one who takes the New York Fashion Week to a whole new level with her unending enthusiasm and creativity and even her runway soundtrack. Her collection will just take you to another world, where everything is inspired by the various cultures. Very cleverly, she mixes the vintage inspirations along with her own cultural obsessions. Victorian cowboys, Warhol superstars or Finnish Textile prints disclose her vast knowledge about culture. Even her make-up packaging and fragrance bottle design are so innovative that they seem to be related to some actual vintage times.
Her 2015 collection is reflecting to the times she spent with Picasso. The designs are casual yet elegant. She also showcased paint-dipped jewellery, woven leather flats and color-blocked bags. The rawness of her collection is what she wants us to admire. Even ceramic patterns have been duplicated by her this time.
In her latest collection (2015), there was a specific attitude in her volumes and proportions and ironically her models ran down the runway in a lyrical cloud of shine and light. This time her collection manifested exactly what she wants to showcase. Late 60’s of London made her design this collection.
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Kate Spade is here to color your life. The moment you enter her store, it will give you a very vibrant feeling. That is her main motive, I guess. To inspire colorful living with her innumerable categories of products like handbags, clothing, jewellery, shoes, stationery, eyewear, baby, tech covers, fragrance, bedding and whatnot. Fresh colors, prints and sophistication yet playfulness are the words that would define her collection perfectly. All that is Kate Spade New York is shaped by curiosity, passion and their approach towards the brand. Leisure inspires anybody but when leisure inspired Kate Spade, her new collection came out. Lounging silhouettes, flats, crisscross sandals, tennis dresses, wide cut shorts with boxy jackets were all designed for the playful souls and those who can’t afford being unfashionable even while playing sports. There were some feminine styles too. For example, a shirtdress with a funny snail clutch. Even other creatures like crab and fish were cut out in the shape of bags.
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L.A. WILL BRING OUT THE KID IN YOU! Let’s see how... Here is a list of the top sights that should not be missed if you are visiting Los Angeles. Los Angeles or as we call it, Hollywood, is a major city is South California. You may call it as the entertainment hub of USA. There are innumerable museums which you can visit, if you interested to. Or for the Hollywood fans, there’s Universal Studios to Star spotting in Rodeo Drive or the much honored The Hollywood Walk of Fame. And yes how can I forget the theatres? If you’re lucky, you could even watch a movie premier somewhere out there. And yes, how can I forget GTA and all the other games based here. I’m sure if you have played this game, you will know all the roads and directions already. On the other side, the weather here is so pleasant that you will fall in love with it. So let’s see what LA has to offer:
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ow this is pure eye candy either for adults or for kids. If you always wondered that a house in one series is the same as in the other series or movie, then it must have been shot here in the studios. It is a never-before-experience for you all, to go through a tour where you see all the fake sets created to shoot for the movies.
Dolby Theatre, Chinese Theatre and Pantages Theatre are some of the oldest theatres in line. So you should not miss out on this. Coming to the US and not watching theatre, how shameful guys? Plus, Madame Tassauds wax museum and Hollywood Wax Museum are also located in the vicinity. For the shopaholics and the foodies, Hollywood and Highland is the place to be. And I’m sure you can spend a whole day here without getting bored.
It is spread in a huge place, so devote your one whole day to spend here; otherwise you may miss out on some great amusements here.
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To bring out the kid in you, the famous characters from movies like SpongeBob Squarepants, Minions, Simpsons, Scooby Doo, etc are all dressed up to get a picture clicked with you. Also, some of the amazing rides are also there to give you a few Goosebumps. Like the transformers, the Egyptian Mummy and many more.
Courtesy: www.fineartamerica.com
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If you notice carefully, you’ll find thousands of star names immortalized in pink terrazzo with gold lettering. Keep walking along the street and these will probably not end soon.
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UNIVER SAL STUDIO S
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don’t want you to get disheartened at the first glimpse of Hollywood Boulevard. Because you may feel that this just a plain street with impersonators earning money by getting their pictures clicked, a few branded stores and theatres. But this is where the fun part lies.
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he yummiest and the sweetest place in LA, the Farmer’s Market is haven for foodies. From bakery products, specialty shops, fresh produce to restaurants serving world cuisine and even beauty or clothing shops, you will get everything here.
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D O O W Y HOLL RD A V E L U BO
S R E FARM T E K R A M
The sugar candy which you will find here surely has the possibility of making you diabetic. They look so pretty, taste so yummy. You will fall in love even with their sight. This place is not only stomach filler and delicious but treat for the eyes too. Experience the multi-cuisine under one roof.
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TRAVEL
A T N A S MONICA
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o your dream of riding a bike on a beach will come true at this heavenly place called Santa Monica. And if you didn’t know this is the longest beach bike path in the world. Just beside the beach lies the most interesting part of the beachside, the pier. Thrill rides, street performances, aquarium and cotton candy stands are all going to take your attention away. And how can someone miss the solar-powered Ferris wheel, giving you bird’s eye view of the whole city. Beach side games like surfing, volleyball and even outdoor chess is very popular here. Recently, it has also started hosting outdoor film and music events and bringing the free spirit in. So in between the hustle bustle of the city, this beachside will definitely provide you with a needed break.
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LAS VEGAS CALLING!! What happens in Vegas, Stays in Vegas. But here I am going to tell you what you actually do in Vegas, the Sin City. Las Vegas owns 4.2 miles of endless entertainment. While it has been largely known for its gambling and the adult fests, now it has acquired new meanings in recent times. The monumental casino-based hotels are one place where you can spend a whole day and still be confused where to go. Even its theatrical architecture is one-of-a-kind. In fact, it possesses most of the 25 largest hotels in the world. This 2-in-1 place also offers the love-full Eiffel Tower as another treat for your eyes. Other such treats include frozen vodka martini and even a 3ft high margarita and of course the lust-full adult entertainment. When your pockets go empty in this leading financial center, don’t worry brother, there are a few free attractions too. The fiery volcano, Festival Fountain, Musical Fountain, etc are located just outside some of the hotels. All such elements have shaped Vegas as one of the most popular stops for the tourists.
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o one will ever go without their jaw dropped from this heavenly and glorious place. Boundless, magnificent, colorful and fascinating. These words are just a few phrases that can define Grand Canyon. It is one of the most significant wonders of the world. it stretches for about 280 miles from one end to the other. The charming Colorado River flows through the floor of the canyon and makes it even more beautiful. The plant and animal life sidelines the canyon.
Now heading to some of the must see attractions here, in the city where you must remember to forget everything later:
THE VEN
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The Grand Canal Shoppes consisting of around 100 stores are also one reason because of which you could run out of money, other than the casinos. To relax after a long tiring day, you may go and swim the 5-acre pool deck too.
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Plus, the free musical fountain attraction is located outside this beautiful structure. So if you happen to stay here, make sure you get the fountain view room.
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isiting this masterpiece is no less than visiting Venice itself. Even outside the lobby, you will witness huge and exclusive fresco paintings on the arched ceiling. So when you go inside, don’t forget to look up, there must be something interesting. From the registration desk till the time you reach your designated room, you will see an array of royal masterpieces. The rooms, with a slightly lowered space for the lobby is a beauty in itself. The jumbo marble bathrooms will definitely make you feel like a rich brat and you wouldn’t want to go out even to sleep on the most springy mattresses on the bed. Coming back to the hotel, it has miniatures of the Doge’s Palace, Campanile Tower and the romantic Rialto Bridge. The cobblestone paths are built throughout the hotel.
he essence of Italy has been built up here in this Bellagio Hotel. The classic suite rooms, gourmet restaurants and the shopping paradise are gonna take you through a cultural bonanza. As you enter the hotel, you will witness an unusual garden which doesn’t require water, just 5 changes per year. An incalculable number of flowers, trees and plants make up this picturesque scene. As you go inside, the Gallery of Fine art will take you through another journey of rotating paintings and artifacts. Another wonder located inside this wonder is the world’s largest chocolate fountain. On top of that, you will also have a chance to taste beautiful pastries, creamy gelato, chocolate candy and many truffles by the world renowned pastry chef Jean Philippe.
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Yet another attraction here is the Slotzilla zip line under the digital screen. The world’s largest slot machine has 2 defined levels from where the riders fly. This ride would definitely blow your mind and you will have the most amazing time of your life here.
LAGIO Courtesy: www.aizakbuyondo.com
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FREMON T STREET
THE BEL
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ETIAN
It is considered to be one of the natural wonders of the world and no one can deny that. Because of the fact that this land was flat for more than 2 billion years ago. And the natural processes like weathering, erosion and time has made this land what it is today.
ow here comes the actual Vegas. If one doesn’t visit this entertaining street of the entertainment capital of the world, then he has not really visited Vegas. This neon-city features free light shows every night on a screen which 1500 feet long, 90 feet wide and 90 feet above the floor. Lakhs of LED lights and sound systems make this show possible. This area is also one of the most preferred places for concerts. Artists from all backgrounds, from musicians to contortionists, all come up on the stage every night. Other than that, there are souvenir shops, street performances lined up all over. Even people-watching here is a very unique experience.
Courtesy: www.disfrutallasvegas.com
Let’s hear what it says...
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GRAND CANYON
BECOME A NEW YORKER FOR A DAY Courtesy: Utkarsha Kohli
Things to Do in New York.. The time has come to fulfill your dream of walking on the streets of New York finally! This city of New York will bring out a ‘New You’ unquestionably. The kind of culture you will witness here is something out of the regular world and you will fall in love with it in spite of the hustle and bustle of the city streets. Of course, Status of Liberty is the first thing which comes to your mind when you hear New York, second maybe the Times Square and then the skyscraper buildings like Empire State Building. You can delve into any activity here without any hesitation. No one will stop you. You are as free as a bird to explore, perform trial runs and then just take flight to the top. Furthermore, New York is also one of those cities where you can never go back home empty stomach. You will find every possible cuisine available in the world, here in the streets of New York. The cafes, pubs, restaurants have taken themselves to heights of creativity in serving the people. Also, while you walk down the streets, you will find exclusive things on your way one after the other. From the lighted skyline to the cafes along stoned pathways, just be all set to crack into anything and everything that is unimaginable. And as the sun goes down, you will see the city switch over into a grandiose stage. The Broadway shows, dancers, musicians, opera shows, ballet, world music and what not. It’s a city of celebration. Everybody is in a mood for some fun and frolic.
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h! Finally the Times Square has arrived. You’ll be stunned by the sight of the mega sized and vivid electric boards here, known as the ‘The Great White Way’. And if you wonder for what purpose the red steps are sitting there, it is for your own sitting purpose for the various events that keep happening there.
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It’s actually a very interactive hub, having people from the entire city, country and the world. this street is also lined up with hundreds of theatres showcasing broadways, musicals and cinema. It is also home to MTV, Hard Rock Café and Madame Tassauds and even the American News and Reporting. So of course, Conde Naste, Viacom, Reuters are all situated here.
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esides the Statue of Liberty, the spectacular Empire State Building also offers some fascinating views of the city from its 86th and 102nd floor. The total height of the building including the antenna is 1454 feet. This is one opportunity you should not let go if you’re in town. Though the building is a business epicenter, its lobby is very decorative and artful. In fact, so many businesses operate in this building that the building has got its own pin code too.
Some attractive shopping include the enticing Disney store, Toys ‘R’ Us, Hershey’s, M&M’s and the largest Forever 21 till date. Defining it as the ‘cherry on the top’, are the Broadway shows which happen here. It is the zenith of live theatre entertainment around the world. The glamour and excitement which it is bound with has come along a rich and varied history. Don’t dare to miss out on this one-of-akind experience.
Courtesy: www.nypost.com
Courtesy: www.nypost.com
You will have to take a ferry across the water to reach this colossal sculpture, which will give you some more beautiful scenes of the New York City. Though people can only visit till 3/4th part of the statue. The entry to the crown part requires prior reservations. So if you’re planning to visit in near future, don’t forget to book the tickets to the crown for a bird’s eye view of the NYC.
EMPIRE STATE BUILDING
Primitively, founded to promote the creative energy at that time, it has stood true to its motive and has moved beyond too. It was meant to push and break the walls of mind and express whatever comes to one’s mind. Today, it is a cultural centre exhibiting lots of entertainment, shopping and dining places. You will find performers from every field, entertaining people with their talent.
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n inspiring sight for the ones seeking direction or light, the Roman Goddess, Liberty Lady, clad in copper green robe, stands with a torch and a tablet which is inscribed with the Declaration of Independence. Originally, it was presented as a gift to the America by the French, symbolizing freedom and democracy. It is a door for the immigrants visiting the country. Plus, the 7 spikes on its crown epitomize the 7 seas across which such freedom should be extended.
Courtesy: www.nypost.com
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E U T A ST Y T R E B I L OF
TIMES SQUAR E
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Once, the tallest building in NYC, but after the opening of the new One World Trade Centre, it took the position from the Empire State. The top part of the building is a bright sight every day. For seasonal events or festivals or any victory, the building bathes in the matching colors. Citing the downfall of the World Trade Center, the building was lit in red, blue and white color for several months. Since then, the technology has reached heights too. Now this lighting system is computer operated unlike earlier. Even when the 2012 US presidential elections were going on, the building serves as a scoreboard for that time. So if you’re lucky, you might get to see some vibrant colors symbolizing something latest.
FOOD
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knot shaped baked dough is known as a pretzel. Though, it is a long and intertwined strip of dough, it is now available in different shapes too. And salt is the most common seasoning for pretzel apart from sugar, chocolate, glaze, seeds and nuts too.
For their customers, they have a few added perks like the homemade baking mixes and frozen pretzels. And building themselves on the social media, whenever someone downloads their application, they get a free pretzel within 24 hours of sign up and also earn points with each visit or $1 spent.
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Auntie Anne’s recipe of pretzel is actually Hanoverian. And they an exclusive variety of flavors for pretzels like cinnamon sugar, sweet almonds, sour cream and onion, garlic and parmesan, pepperoni, raisin, jalapeno, nuggets
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and sticks, pretzel dogs, flavored dips and drinks too. The chain is committed to taking the snacking world to a whole new different level.
MUCH
HEALTHIER AMERICAN FOOD JOINTS
USA, the home of fast food, where the biggest fast food industry is located, also has something new for you apart from burgers, pizzas, fries, hamburgers and other such obesity-causing foods. Fast food, which is always condemned by the doctors, is still being eaten by people. Though it’s very convenient, inexpensive and quick to have fast food, but what it does to our health is also very quick and harmful. The most famous fast food chains include McDonalds, Domino’s, Dunkin Donuts, Pizza Hut and many more. They become increasingly famous within the kids and teens but as one matures, they start realizing that it is actually bad for their health. But the chains about which we are talking right now are categorized as bakeries. So these can be considered a little healthier than the fast foods. Because amount of damage baked foods do to us is definitely less than the damage done by fast food. These baked goods include bagel, pretzel and cinnabon and the outlets are found mostly everywhere. Plus, these foods doesn’t taste like the fast food, they are fresh and made to order. Courtesy: www.retailhellunderground.com Courtesy: www.cinnabonnews.wordpress.com
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agel is ring shaped bread cut into half made from wheat dough. It is first boiled and then baked to give the required texture of chewy and crisp at the same time. From the inside it is white and on the exterior it is brown because of the baking.. To enhance the flavors, it is topped with various toppings like seeds, salt, etc. Einstein Bro Bagels is one of the popular bagel brands in US. All their bagels are made of wheat flour but the toppings they use are gluten-free. Other ingredients used in bagel include canola oil, egg whites, potato starch, sugar, yeast, salt, corn syrup and enzymes. The side dip with which it is eaten, the cream cheese makes it all the more appetizing. Apart from such healthy bagels, their menu also serves salads, sandwiches, coffee, smoothies and delicious desserts. So whatever the situation or mood, you can always come and have a bite here.
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If you have a taste for cinnamon, you will absolutely love it.
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One mind-blowing beverage that you can’t leave without trying once is cinnamon flavored vodka. Make sure you take atleast one sip. Apart from made to order menu, they also keep CinnaPacks, which are already packed boxes of cinnamon rolls for take away. And they can even be heated up at home.
Courtesy: www.glutenfreejoy.wordpress.com
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s the name suggests, cinnabon is a cinnamon bun or roll. It is sweet yet a little spicy, just like cinnamon. Cinnabon is mostly found in malls or airports. The menu here includes a wide range of flavors and sizes too, but the base is same in each of them. like they serve minbons, minibites, caramel pecanbon (cinnabon loaded with caramel and pecans), pecanbon bites, chocobon (cinnabon with chocolate sauce), cinnabon stix, churro, cinnapretzel and center of the roll. Phew. Now that’s a lot of options to choose from.
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If you’ve not tasted Mexican before, you ought to try it here in the US. Undoubtedly it is one of the healthiest and tastiest cuisines in the world. Healthiest only when you ditch the cheese and the cream and the dips. They don’t have much fat and calories and are rich in vitamins and minerals. And if you love the spices, try Mexican as soon as possible. Surprisingly, the varieties of chilies they offer include jalapeno, poblano, Serrano and chipotle. These chilies provide a very distinct flavor to the cuisine. But be careful with it, judge your capacity to tolerate the spice otherwise you may end up sitting in the washroom all the time.
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LET’S GO MEXICANA
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The dishes are made with the freshest of ingredients like tomatoes, green tomatoes, avocado, mango, pineapple, papaya, corn. Otherwise, beef, chicken and pork are also widely eaten. Basically, corn is the main ingredient in their diet, which is found in almost every dish. So here is a description of the most popular Mexican food joint in the US.
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ombing the ideals of fast food restaurant and the casual dining ones, here comes another category of Fast Casual restaurants. It is again a customized food joint. The footman will serve you whatever you tell him to and make a combo meal for you. For now, it operates mostly in America.
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One interesting fact about this chain is that uses only naturally raised meat rather than the chemically raised ones. And the ingredients used are very natural and organic, which go with the slogan of the restaurant ‘Food with integrity’.
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he smell of the Mexican spices, rice and beans will surely take your breath away as you enter Chipotle Mexican grill. The delicious food served here is freshly prepared in front of the customers with their guidance.
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The menu is very limited though. You’ll get burritos, salad bowls, tacos, nachos along with many dips and sauces. Though you may feel that everything tastes similar, but that is where the essence of Mexican food lies. With such limited variety, they offer you a great taste, nutrition and value too.
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And on their part, they stick to the fact that no MSG is added to their dishes or ingredients once they arrive in the restaurant. Not even the ingredients are purchased from the suppliers who add MSG to them. So to a certain extent, they are contributing their bit to the health of the people.
As you hear Chinese, you may start visualizing chopsticks and all kinds of animals and reptiles dancing in your head. In fact, they can eat just about anything. But that is what their culture and history is folks, so opinion doesn’t really matter. And as you smell Chinese, you will sense a pungent odor because of the ingredients and the sauces used. No, I am not here to demotivate you to not eat Chinese food, but knowing what lies ahead is good I guess. So the Chinese food is a mixture of color, taste, shape, aroma and the beautiful act of the chopsticks. They just strive to present the perfection of all the senses. They also use numerous kinds of cooking methods like stewing, simmering, baking, steaming, braising, frying and maybe a few more.
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Its menu serves chicken, pork, beef, seafood and many regional entrees. Sides like noodles, fried rice, veggies, white steam rice or brown steam rice. And appetizers like egg roll, spring roll, soups, shrimps, rangoons and chicken potsticker.
The two drinks that define the Chinese culture are the Chinese tea and the Chinese alcohol. China is known as the hometown of tea and each variety requires a different tea cup and saucer to bring out the best taste. So the material out of which they are made may vary from porcelain, pottery, glass, bamboo, etc. About the wine, they believe that to taste alcohol is to actually taste a culture. It has now become a cultural symbol and a basic need in every Chinese’s life. The typical Chinese diet includes rice, noodles, steamed buns as the main dish and other dishes of vegetables, fish, meat as the side order. And soups are usually served at the end of the meal to satisfy the left over hunger of the people. Moreover, they don’t end their meals with any sweet dish. So if you are from the western world, be ready to forget about your dining etiquettes for a while.
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TRY A CHOPSTICK-FULL OF CHINESE
CONFECTIONS FOR YOUR
SWEET AFFECTIONS Rare are those people who don’t savor sweet things. I hope you are not one of those; otherwise you’ll be wasting your time reading this. Most humans always have a sweet tooth. And in US, sweeter desserts are much relished. They are so proud of their sugar treats and candies. Plus, how can someone not have ice cream in summers, or hot cakes in winters, or pies in holidays. Though sweets are linked to holiday seasons or festivals, they can be eaten any time of the day you want. However, if you are on a diet, these things are not really meant for you as it contains lots of butter, cream and eggs too. So when you are here in the America, let’s see what all desserts are there for you to develop a taste for.
Courtesy: www.cincypastryprincess.com
RED VELVET CAKE
PECAN PIE Pecan pie is a holiday dish, usually served during Thanksgiving, Christmas and other festivities. It is a crisp buttery pastry with a luxe filling which is sweet and dense along with loads of toasted pecans. It is mostly served with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This dish is so American that it is often mentioned in American literature and television.
Courtesy: www.sometimesicrave.com
BANANA SPLIT Typically, this dessert is made on a banana split lengthwise in a boat shaped bowl. It is then garnished with chocolate sauce, or caramel. On top of it, scoops of vanilla, chocolate and strawberry is laid along with cut fruits. And then some whipped cream too. Even nuts are sprinkled on top of all this. Just imagine how much calories you’ll be taking in. Gosh. Well, if you’re a sweet lover, then such things don’t matter, right?
Key lime juice, egg yolks and a sweetened condensed milk in a pie crust is what makes up the key lime pie. It is a very creamy dessert and is found in most bakeries in America. The color of it remains mostly yellow because of the fact that key lime juice is pale yellow and the filling in it is also yellow because of the egg yolks. And it doesn’t even require baking. Because of the mixing, a reaction between condensed milk and acidic lime juice makes it very thick.
BAKED ALASKA Can you imagine having a dessert having ice cream and whipped cream which is baked in an oven? Not possible right? But the application of basic science has made this possible. So a cake topped with ice cream, covered with a sweet sauce and then baked is what Baked Alaska is. Sounds delicious? I am sure it tastes delicious too.
DOUGHNUTS Courtesy: www.wired.co.uk
Courtesy: www.waiterstoday.com
Bread pudding is a pretty old dessert made in America. In the olden days, it was made with stale bread by moistening it and adding sugar and a little spice. But now it has acquired a very rich and creamy taste because of the more ingredients like custard, cream, eggs, butter, and vanilla extract. Many fine restaurants have also added this dessert in their menu.
Icebox cake is the stacking of multiple wafers along with whipped cream. And the outer side is also covered with more whipped cream. Then if it is kept in the refrigerator, the wafers will become moist and then it will become easy to cut the cake into slices. Instead of wafers, cookies may also be used by some chefs to create variants.
KEY LIME PIE
Courtesy: www.notyouraveragejoes.com
BREAD PUDDING
ICEBOX CAKE
Courtesy: www.villageinn.com
Courtesy: www.planetfrojo.com
Smore is an American classic dessert, which is most commonly prepared on large bonfires. It consists of roasted marshmallows and a chocolate layer inside 2 graham crackers. This dessert has no history and was spread only through word of mouth. It resembles the phrase ‘some more’, because of frequent requests of having it again and again. Even if you are at home, you can make it on your stove.
For the people who crave for having an entire cake all by themselves, here is a cupcake. Made exactly in the same manner as a normal cake and with the same ingredients too, it’s just that this is much smaller in size, made for just one person. The batter may be also be filled with other things like raisins, berries, nuts or choco chips. And now they can also customized for a special occasion. Just like cakes can have different flavors, even cupcakes are made in flavors like the more traditional vanilla or chocolate or some rich flavors like coffee, peanut butter or maybe lemon too.
Courtesy: www.dessertswithbenefits.com
S’MORES
Courtesy: www.carmelmoments.com
Courtesy: www.instructables.com
As the name suggests, it must be some very richly delicious red-colored cake. Ingredients include buttermilk, butter, cocoa, flour, and beetroot (to give reddish color, instead of using food color). The phrase ‘red velvet’ has actually become very popular now. It has become the hot selling cake all over the world. in fact, when this cake was made for the time, the reddish color had come by accident because of a reaction between buttermilk and cocoa powder. Cream cheese frosting is usually done on the top.
CUPCAKES
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A ring shaped (now made in many other shapes) deep-fried piece of dough which may or may not be sweet is what a traditional donut looks like. The dough is generally frosted with sugar or glaze. And at times, the dough is filled with cream or jelly inside. To create variants, other mixtures rather than flour may be used and various toppings and flavors too. Usually, in the market we get either ring donuts or filled donuts (which are filled with fruit, cream, custard or anything else but sweet).
Courtesy: www.laptoplounge.biz
Courtesy: www.saltedgrace.com
Courtesy: www.scanvine.com
Courtesy: www.filmtrance.com (American Sniper)
LIFESTYLE BEWARE OF THE THE AMERICAN DREAM VIOLENT AMERICAN! AND BOOZE
Courtesy: www.absmagazine.com.au
O
bserving from one perspective, you may find Americans to be very sweet and friendly. They even greet strangers with a smile. In fact they are smiling most of the time. But going deep down, they are one of the most violent people on earth, who in turn produce most of the world’s violent entertainment including movies, TV series, games, or books. You name it and they would have it. They just enjoy watching violence. No. I don’t mean to scare you away. But yes violence is in their blood. Most probably for their own protection, but most of the civilians own or carry firearms. Oh no wait. Isn’t this the government’s responsibility to provide protection to the general public? Absolutely correct, but there’s no way stopping the Americans. Even when they are questioned about their violent nature, they still don’t have any answer.
Coming to the most controversial and the most discussed form of aggressive entertainment, the Grand Theft Auto has acquired a huge fan-following among the population of the whole universe. The game is based in Los Angeles and features the story of people who get involved in building up their own criminal empires and rising to the top of the underworld. And it clearly reflects the American Dream of acquiring power and ruling over.
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Courtesy: www.pixshark.com
Hollywood, the front runner of violent entertainment rarely shows a single scene which is non-brutal. They are just so fond of the arms and ammunition. In real life too, because the people have been granted the permission to own guns and other equipments, the death rates caused by firearms is the highest.
Courtesy: www.sickoftheradio.com
The cycle of violence begins here only. When such scenes are flaunted in the media, people get influenced and then they think of themselves as heroes and try to create violence on their own. It happens because of no barrier on what is being introduced in films or TV. In a way where it (the censor) is actually very appreciative, it gets negative in this context. The right to express freely and the artistic ability to depict it so naturally may also be responsible in some way. And for those people, who are earning through such violent acts of entertainment don’t really bother about what is bothering the mere reputation of their own country.
ork hard, party harder seems to be the slogan of most Americans. And one ultra-American thing about the Americans is their American Dream. The dream of reaching the top of the ladder through hard work, becoming successful and hitting the jackpot. So the result is that they work for longer hours than the usual and work overtime too. They believe in the fact that time is money and it should never be wasted. Every single minute should be utilized correctly. So either they are working or performing their home duties or they are involved in their hobbies or simply PARTYING. Party without alcohol? Sorry, what? Drinking alcohol is as American as apple pie. And it can found anywhere in any city. Whether it’s a party, sports events, dinners, or maybe funerals too, alcohol is everywhere. That’s how they party. So yeah, if they work hard, they party even harder. They enjoy each other’s company very much. And alcohol is a very important part of their social culture. Though the work culture in America is very much professional but there is a certain amount of informality too that exists in the same environment. The seniors are not consulted very often but whenever the same is done, first names of the people is used rather than using titles like sir or boss. At times they become so addicted to their work, that they just can’t stop looking at their emails. And when they are not working, they are either planning what to do on the weekends or actually indulged what they had planned to. Like shopping, laundry, watching tv and movies, spending time with friends and family, watching or playing sport, gyming, walking, jogging, biking, every possible thing one can imagine. Though people say that the life of Americans is very unbalanced because of their long working hours and strict professionalism, but according to what I witnessed they have a very sorted life. They work during the days and party all night. They work during the weekdays and party all weekend. By party I mean all the above activities I mentioned.
The game is full of the characters stealing cars, killing the cops, smuggling drugs and even thrashing the lady of the evenings. Every possible violent action is showcased bluntly. Interestingly, the series of GTA was created by a Scottish Design Studio DMA Design Ltd. And the Brits are sure that if the Americans themselves had taken on this kind of American-dream-reflecting game, it would not have been the same as it is today. Moreover, the uncensored content which is displayed has made the game and the American Culture all the more successful.
So if you like the work culture here, why not try finding a job in the US once you go back to your hometown? Hope to see you living the American dream too.
Courtesy: www.gta4.net
Courtesy: www.fusion.net
Courtesy: www.thegtaplace.com
Courtesy: www.allstarentertainment.nl
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INDO-WESTERN FASHION TAKES ON THE RUNWAY
Courtesy: www.pinterest.com
A-line shaped, multi-hued, floor length, sleeveless, printed cape with golden border worn over a little black dress with orange belted waist.
HEY FASHIONISTAS, PHOTOGRAPHERS, BLOGGERS!
LAUNCH OF [V] CLOTHE Courtesy: Needhi Dhoker &Utkarsha Kohli
Courtesy: Utkarsha Kohli
EVENT UPDATE:
Courtesy: Suvarna Singh
Courtesy: www.pinterest.com
Black satin deep plunge neck top with long puffed sleeves and a white fitted pencil skirt, belted at the waist.
Courtesy: www.thepurplewindow.com
Flared madras print palazzo in dull blue shade paired with a white fitted V-neck sheer top with frills on the neck.
A-line floor-kissing chocolate hued tissue dress with a V-neck multi-strapped short top till the waist line.
Courtesy: www.zimbio.com
Courtesy: www.fashioncentral.pk
Courtesy: www.afashionistasdiary.com
White and golden sequined sleevless top with side cuts combined with a long see-through skirt with blue geometric border and kneelength underskirt.
C
hannel [V] is back with a bang. After the success of such great college fests and its transformation into a youth centric channel, it is now ready to launch its own clothing brand, which is called [V] Clothe. Going through all the research and talking to the people associated with the channel, it is noted that clothing line is going to be different than the collection we usually see. The clothes are mainly for the people of today’s time. The collection claims to be unique than what we own. Combining prints, jazzy colors, etc. To promote the brand further, Channel [V] has organized many events in colleges too. So 27th of April is a big day and the channel will finally launch [V ] Clothe. Many celebrities have been called and the channel will present the collection on a unique horizontal
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ramp with hollow doors, according to the sources. The event is held from 6.00 pm till night. All the people from the channel as well as the competitors have been invited. Since its related to the youngsters, the VJ’s of channel [V] will talk about the brand. This event is being held at Ikandy, Gurgaon. To welcome everyone goodies are going to be given and every single step is gonna be taken to promote V clothe right from stores, social media and ecommerce website. So sticking to the essence of the channel, the whole event and the clothing is itself an experiment and we hope the fashionistas appreciate the efforts by Channel [V] and make the event as well as the brand way more successful.
LOVE OPERA? Courtesy: www.winwallpapers.net
DO WATCH THIS CLASSIC MOVIE:
AMADEUS
REVIEW BY UTKARSHA KOHLI
A
madeus moved me. It was magnificent and illuminating. It made me like music much more than before. It made me fall in love with opera. And the fact that I was about to visit US in the next few days, made me so curious that I just wanted to watch one opera show there. But unfortunately I couldn’t. I have surely added this to my bucket list and will watch it one day.
Mozart is a classic music composer. His music has some kind of magic. The highs and lows in his music are remarkable. The rise and fall of the music is very dramatic. In the starting, the music is all very happy and joyous and the next moment it sounds upsetting and devilish. In this movie ‘Amadeus’, the story revolves around Mozart’s career. Salieri, his
Jon Nicholls was the sound designer for this movie. However, the music was Mozart’s own. The music reflects all the drama that is portrayed in the movie. A lot of operas have been shown in this movie, including ‘The Marriage of Figaro’, for which the emperor remarked that there were too many notes. Milos Forman, the director, took out those compositions of Mozart that suited the plot of the movie rather than picking up random pieces. His music is loaded in every second frame. Amplifying each music piece was the main objective of the movie. Because every time a movie about an artist and his work is made, it is usually very boring. So to keep the audiences engaged and to deliver the actual music, the movie was made in such way.
Courtesy: www.bp-blogpost.com
Without sound, cinema is actually incomplete. I wonder how people used to watch movies even in those times when there was no sound; even the picture was black and white. Yet, that period is now considered to be golden and classic.
fellow enemy composer who is envious of how Mozart can compose his music so easily and how he has reached the level of being called a genius. He plans a revenge against him and at the end he is suspected to be Mozart’s murderer. In between, Mozart rises and then Salieri tries to bring him down. He destroys him. His health, wealth and life all are taken away.
Courtesy: www.pinterest.com
Courtesy: www.bp-blogpost.com
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