#monkey travelled by metro

[drblogg]

what is borg like irl?

like BORG

#the same as he is here actually #we realised that we were pretty comfortable since weve known each other for more than an year now #also he HAS THUS brain full of everything he literally knew almost everything that there was in this gallery that we visited #and it was great yeah! #i was a little nervous before meeting because a) i was making him travel like for two hours and b) i dont know shit about the metros here #but we managed to visit two places and return bacn within time all in one piece #also monkeys stole our icecreams #answered

[servicemonkey]

woo woo

#service monkey #blue monkey travels #sock monkey #new york #metro north

[jpitha]

The Dreams of Hyacinth 2

First / Previous / Next

Selkirk and Eastern were in the back room of "The Thirsty K'laxi," a K'laxi themed dive bar.

There is a neon K'laxi on the sign out front. Real neon too, none of this LED stuff.

The K'laxi waves.

One the one hand, it isn't all that odd. K'laxi can drink ethanol, the same as humans. It even affects them, though not as much. Less of the ethanol makes it to their brain - the process is different than it is for humans - so they don't really get 'drunk.' On the other hand, a K'laxi bar on High Mars Hyacinth is odd. There are some K'laxi here - even some Aviens and Mariens though not too many - they tend to keep to their own little enclave on the other arms.

Traveling up and down arms is easy, traveling from one arm to the other is decidedly more involved. It's either a long metro or omnibus ride to the bottom and then back up, or an expensive Hopper ride.

In any event, Nick was always amused that his base of operations was a K'laxi themed dive bar.

Nick walked into the bar, nodding at Za'reni, the K'laxi bartender as he entered. He called to Nick as he walked by. "Eastern is back there Nick, watch yourself." .

"Thanks Za'reni, I know. She's called me already."

"And you're going back there?" Za'reni shook his head and his ears drooped. "Humans. All too willing to go to their death."

Nick chuckled. "Aw, Eastern isn't that bad, once you get to know her."

Za'reni's ears flicked. "I'll take your word for it, Nick. Stay alive."

Down the hall, past the bathrooms, were the private rooms. They were for rent by the hour or day, but only to regulars, and only if Za'reni thought you weren't going to cause too much trouble.

Selkirk had an open rental on the room in the far back corner, and that's where Nick went. He opened the door, and lounging on the couch, with her feet up on the table, looking at her pad was Eastern.

Eastern was a little older, a little taller and much better looking than Nick, and probably human. She kept her raven black hair in a short pixie cut that suited her pale skin. AIs can, and do get bodies and mingle among the BI - Biological Intelligence - community, they're not all just starships. Nick was pretty sure Eastern was a human though. She sure seemed human enough in the bedroom. They dated for a short while and while they both had fun, Eastern was much too... intense for Nick and she wound up breaking it off. "You're just too boring, Nick," was the last thing she said to him as she walked out the door of his apartment. These days Eastern used her connections to get him work if he asked. They were still friendly.

Sitting across from Eastern, in a surprisingly elegant chair of K'laxi make was his business partner Selkirk. She's spent most of her life in human space - she's joked that if she ever went back to K'lax she wouldn't even know how to attend dinner - but she also is much sharper than she lets on.

Among more colonial and planetary K'laxi she's called a Furred Monkey - a slur among K'laxi for those who spent a long time among humans - and mostly that suited her just fine. She would explain how other K'laxi would assume things about her, and she would use that to her advantage.

Selkirk looked up at Nick and her ears flicked irritation. She did not like Eastern. "About time you showed up Nick, I was about to have to buy our guest dinner."

Nick scoffed. "I'm here 20 minutes earlier than either of you expected and you know it. I grabbed the up-arm omnibus as soon as I got off the phone with you."

"See? I told you he can get some hustle in his bustle if he smells money." Eastern didn't look up from her pad while she spoke to Selkirk. She finished what she was doing and put the pad away. "Well? I assume since you bothered to come back you have it. Let's see."

Nick reached into his coat pocket and brings out the heavy object. It was maybe 10 centimeters by 15 and black, with ridges and lights along one side. He puts it on the table and slides it over to Eastern.

Eastern leans forward and takes it. Turning it over in her hands, she looks at it carefully. "Well?" She looks up at him. "Did you mess with it?"

"You know I didn't Eastern. I don't even know what it is. It was right where you said it was, and I boosted it while taking the tour just like Selkirk recommended." Nick looked at the door and then sat down in a char in between Eastern and Selkirk facing the door. "I did get pinged by a couple CorpCops on the way out the door, but I lost them in the rush hour crowd and they didn't pursue once they ran out of breath."

Eastern looks up sharply. "You got pinged? Why didn't you say so!"

Nick shrugged. "I got away, the boost was clean, I didn't think it was worth mentioning."

"Nick, if you got pinged, you didn't get away clean. Even if they didn't catch you boost it they know to look for something." She sighed. 5% reduction because you got pinged."

Selkirk sputtered. "Hey! Nick and I worked hard to get that to you as cleanly as we did. Nick didn't even get pinged until he was leaving. They could have been wanting to yell at him about his dress, or his hair or anything."

Eastern didn't look up from examining the object, "He got pinged. 5%."

Selkirk's ears twitched irritatedly and she sat and seethed, but didn't say anything. Eastern reached into a bag and pulled out a small coronet. It had hair thin wires hanging off it and she placed them onto the object carefully in small ports almost too tiny to see, and then placed the coronet on her head. "Give me a minute, I need to scan it." As she leans back, a few small lights on the coronet started blinking faster and her eyes twitched under her lids.

As they sat in silence, waiting for Eastern to finish, Za'reni walked in with three drinks on a tray. He gave one to Selkirk, one to Nick and placed the other next to Eastern while she worked. "Figured you folks needed something drink." Za'reni winked at Nick.

"Thanks, Z." Nick took a sip of his drink. It was just a whisky on the rocks, but it was Nick's favorite brand. A whisky from Parvati, 'Royal Reserve.' Z knew his regulars and Nick was thankful.

Nick sipped his whisky and read his pad while they waited for Eastern to finish her scan. Selkirk drank her vodka soda, neither of them saying anything.

After nearly an hour, Eastern sat up and angrily ripped the coronet off her head. "She's not here!"

Nick raised an eyebrow and Selkirk flicked her ears. "Who's not here, Eastern?"

Eastern glared at Nick and Selkirk and took a breath. "Do you know what you boosted?"

"No, just that you described it well, and that it was much heavier than it looked."

"It's-" Eastern stopped. She looked at the shut door, got up and locked it, then pressed a panel next to the door. Nick's ears popped and he felt like he had cotton over his ears. She had turned on the sound suppression field. "It's a coffin box."

Nick tried to hide the fact he had no idea what that was by taking a sip of his whisky. Thankfully, Selkirk cut in. "It's a way to transport AIs who don't have a body. It was invented to help an AI evacuate from a stricken starship."

Nicks eyes went wide. "So you mean to say that someone was inside that thing?"

Eastern shook her head. "Someone was supposed to be inside that thing. It's empty."

"So what does that mean for us?" Selkirk looked at Nick and Eastern.

"Nothing good. My... benefactors were expecting that someone was inside that coffin box. We're going to have to go to them and tell them it was empty."

Nick nearly choked on his whisky. "We? What's this we? You hired us to do a job, we did the job, and now if you could please, provide us currency for services rendered."

Selkirk's ears pricked up. "Nick's right Eastern. We did our job."

Eastern stares at both of them. She takes a breath and reaches into her bag. Two plastic chits are produced. "There. Full payment split into two chits, one for each of you." Nick takes his and palms it. His emulator scans it and verifies that the correct amount is there. She didn't even take the 5% off. He looks at Selkirk and winks. Satisfied, she takes her chit and it disappears.

Nick moves to stand. "Now that our business has finished I should be-"

"Wait!"

Nick stops and looks at Eastern. The flippant brashness is gone and she looks at him worried. "Nick. I need to report that the coffin box was empty. Will you come with me? You can help explain that we did the job as asked and aren't trying to screw anyone. Please?" She looks at Selkirk and then back to Nick. "Please? I'll pay."

Nick weighs the options in his mind. "Fifteen hundred."

"One thousand." Eastern needs Nick, but she would never take the first amount offered, never.

Nick looks at her and sighs. "Fine. One thousand. Up front."

Eastern wordlessly hands over another chit. Nick doesn't scan this one, just palms it. No sense in rubbing it in by counting it in front of her. "Fine. What's the plan?"

Eastern stands, visibly relieved. "Thanks Nick. I owe you. We go now. Better to get it over with. Come on, we can take a Hopper."

Nick blinks in surprise. "They're on another arm? Eastern, there's nothing subtle about taking a Hopper."

"We're not doing anything subtle now. We have to go in strong and confident, otherwise they'll think we're up to something. She hands a chit wrapped in paper to Selkirk. "Sel, got a job for you too, payment is there. Find out what you can about what's on the paper. Reach me though Nick though, don't call direct."

Selkirk unwraps the paper and peers at it. Her ears flicking, her eyes glance up at Eastern.

"Yes, I know. Please do what you can."

"There had better be the... correct amount of compensation on that chit Eastern. This is no simple link between systems."

"I know Sel, but I also know you can do it."

Selkirk crosses her arms and looks down at her pad for a moment. "Fine." She looks up at Eastern. "Don't you dare let them mess with Nick. You catch me?"

Eastern smiles broadly. "Never Sel. We're the only ones who can mess with Nick."

Nick looks between the two women. "It's nice to be appreciated and all, but do I get any say in this?"

"No" they both reply.

First / Previous / Next

#humans are deathworlders #humans are space orcs #humans are space oddities #sci fi writing #writing #humans and aliens #jpitha #the k’laxiverse #The Dreams of Hyacinth

[funtimesale123]

gn reader x bowser fan fic fifth chapter

You finish up breakfast and get to know some of the Koopalings better.

Check out the next post for some info on the Koopa kids personalities

(Also I'm not going to bother trying to fix the text layout for Tumblr anymore cause pasting and fixing it is a lot)

As everyone finishes up breakfast the Koopa kids argue over who you should hangout with.

"Can we paint together? Please?" Jr. says grabbing your arm.

"I wanna show ya my lab! We can do experiments! Hehehe!" Iggy says grabbing the other.

"No! I'm gonna give them a makeover! (They're in serious need of one.)" Wendy quietly mumbles the last part.

"Aww. Me and Larry wanted to take em to the courtyard. I wanted to show ya more tricks!" Lemmy says then Larry shows more pictures.

"Larry says he wants to show ya his sports skills!"

"Can Morton go with Lemmy and Larry?" Morton says as he bounces on his heels excitedly.

You noticed that two koopa kids have already left. Not seeing Roy or Ludwig in the dining room anymore.

As the kids argue you look over to Bowser and he simply chuckles and gives you a small smile as he shrugs.

You roll your eyes.

Seems you're not getting any help from him I guess...

Then Kamek appears as he says

"I am truly sorry young royals but I must request that the guest come with me. I require their assistance to learn of their home."

"Aw" the children whine but understand

"Would you please follow me." Kamek motions for you to follow

As you walk through the halls you ask Kamek where you're going

"The Royal library. Hopefully you can find something relating to your world. So you said that in your world ours is fictional right? Did you travel here through a book or perhaps a portal?"

You remember that in Mario and Rabbids: Kingdom Battle and a few other games Jr had his own phone so hopefully Kamek will know what video games are.

"I don't think I really came here through something but I was playing a video game and then fell asleep." You reply

"Oh! Like the ones that Jr. and some of the other young royal children play?" He asks

You nod

"Hmm… then perhaps books are not the best place to look, but it does not hurt to try." He says as he opens the doors to the library.

As you step inside you can't help but be amazed by the sheer size of it and the amount of books that surround you. It even has an upper floor! How were you supposed to be able to find anything without searching the whole day?

Finding something on your world would be like looking for a needle in a haystack.

You snap out of your thoughts as Kamek snaps in your face.

"I do not mean to be presumptuous but I am guessing you are not used to such great amenities~" He says smugly before continuing

"So what can you tell me of your world? You said magic is fictional or at least assumed to be, and that our world is also fictional as well. So what is your world like?"

You mention the Metro Kingdom saying how it's probably the only closest to something in your world though perhaps a more outdated version being closer to a city called New York about 80 to 90 years ago though with modern conveniences and technologies.

"The Metro Kingdom. understood…"

He says as he waves his wand and a couple books fly by

"So what are the inhabitants of your world like?"

You say how humans are the dominant species and are considered the only hyper intelligent one as there are nothing like Koopas or Toads or any other species capable of such intelligence.

"Only humans? Sounds quite miserable and dull… Oh! Not to offend you."

Though he said no offense he didn't really seem to mean it as he continues searching through books.

"So what about the similarities of our two worlds apart from humans and the Metro Kingdom's likeness?"

You say how certain technologies are similar if not the exact same. That the many species of their world don't exist and those that do are tend to be very different. Mentioning how monkeys and apes are much less intelligent in your world and many arthropods tend to be a lot smaller.

"Uhuh… okay… hmm… well if you wish to leave while I continue searching you may. If I need any further assistance I will come to you." He says not even looking up from the many books.

As you leave the library you soon realize that you still don't know your way around the castle quite yet despite the tour yesterday. It's hard to remember a place this big, especially with most halls looking the same. You also weren't really paying attention on the walk from the dining room.

You pop back in and ask which way the dining room is.

"Ugh."

Kamek sighs before quickly telling you the directions.

As you walk back to the dining room you happen to run into Ludwig. And ask the young Koopa what he's up to.

"Hmm? I'm on my way to the concert hall. I have a new composition I want to work on and I need some quiet to focus. Unlike some people around here, I take my music very seriously."

he replies with a snobbish tone.

You nod, and then ask, "What's the composition about?"

"It's about the rise and fall of power. I find it to be quite relevant in these times." He says with a smirk, clearly proud of himself.

Deciding you don't really have much else to do you ask "You mind if I join you do you?"

Ludwig hesitates for a moment, eyeing you up and down before finally nodding. "Very well, but please try not to distract me. This is important work."

The two of you make your way to the concert hall, where Ludwig sets up at the piano and begins to play. It's clear that he's very talented, and even though rude at times, you can't help but appreciate his skill and dedication.

As the hours pass by, Ludwig becomes more and more absorbed in his work. You sit quietly, watching him play with a sense of awe.

You clap for him, and he nods, looking pleased. "Yes, it's coming along nicely. I'll have to make sure to show it to father when it's finished."

As you both walk out he stops and looks at you.

"Hmm, you know you're actually quite tolerable."

"Um... Thanks." You say almost giggling at the somewhat backhanded compliment.

The two of you part ways, but as you walk away, you can't help but feel a sense of respect for the talented albeit rude young composer.

As you try and find your room you you're stopped by the twins.

Lemmy jumps in front of you, doing a cartwheel and giggling wildly. "Hiya!" he exclaims, wearing a big grin.

Iggy rushes up beside him, scribbling in a notebook with a pencil muttering, glancing up at you with wide, curious eyes. "Do you know what the acceleration rate is on a banana peel when thrown at a wall?"

You blink in confusion, not sure what to make of these two odd-ball Koopas. "Uh... no?"

Lemmy giggles again. "Neither do we! Wanna find out?"

Iggy nods eagerly, already rummaging through his backpack for a banana. You can't help but laugh at their childish antics. But realize you're probably about to be roped into their antics regardless.

"Well, I'm really just trying to find my room," you say hoping get their help.

Lemmy's face immediately falls. "Oh... okay. Sorry."

Iggy, however, seems unfazed. He giggles "No problem! We can help you find it!"

The twins lead you on a wild goose chase through the castle, getting distracted by various things along the way. It takes longer than expected, but eventually, you end up at your room.

"Ta-da!" Lemmy exclaims, doing a little twirl on his ball.

Iggy scribbles something in his notebook. "Hehehe~ You're fascinating!!! Your world is so different!"

You shake your head, amused. "Thanks, kiddos. I'll see you around."

As you enter your room, you can't help but wonder what other shenanigans the Koopa siblings will get up to…

AO3 link

Koopa kids personalities

#xy/n #bowser #bowser x reader #bowser x y/n #nintendo #x gender neutral reader #x gn reader #first fanfiction #isekai #x reader #slowburn #slow burn #monster fudger #monster fucker #slow to update #bowser x gn reader #bowser x gender neutral reader #bowser x gn!reader #gn!reader #gn reader #gender neutral reader #x gn!reader #gn y/n #gender neutral y/n

[fxllfaiiry]

─ ABOUT ME !

⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚ autumn whore. evermore lover. gilmore girls obsessed. lana del rey enthusiast. cat lover. in my dystopian era.

୨୧ likes ─ books, coffee, nighttime, rain, poetry, flowers, space and travelling.

୨୧ favourite books & series ─ the hunger games, one of us is lying, good girls guide to murder, better than the movies, the seven husbands of evelyn hugo, daisy jones and the six, call me by your name, fangirl.

୨୧ favourite artists ─ chase atlantic, arctic monkeys, the neighbourhood, melanie martinez, tv girl, mitski, fiona apple, nirvana conan gray, fall out boy, wallows, girlhouse, dad sports, sza, metro boomin.

୨୧ favourite tv shows ─ heartstopper, shadow and bone, friends, brooklyn nine nine, the umbrella academy, you, american horror story, bridgerton, yellowjackets, criminal minds, outer banks, over the garden wall, scooby doo, young royals.

୨୧ favorite movies ─ x, scream, kill bill, clueless, american psycho, pathaan, jennifer's body, nope, yeh jawaani hai deewani.

୨୧ hobbies ─ playing the electric guitar, baking, gardening.

─ OTHER SOCIALS AND BLOGS !

★ other blogs

୨୧ fic rec blog. nsfw blog. library blog.

★ other socials

୨୧ twitter ─ @/diorrmoons. instagram ─ @/fxllfaiiry.

#[ 💐 ]. about me ‧₊˚ #did this very late but idc

[dreamings-free]

By Will Richards | 23rd June 2023

More than 90 Louis Tomlinson fans were injured and seven hospitalised after a severe hail storm at his gig at Red Rocks this week.

Tomlinson is currently on a North American headline tour in support of his second solo album ‘Faith In The Future’, and played the iconic Colorado venue on Wednesday night (June 21).

During the show, a massive hail storm occurred, with local fire rescue services saying that “tennis ball-size” hail led to multiple hospitalisations with injuries ranging from broken bones to cuts and bruises.

After an initial delay, the show was eventually postponed, with Red Rocks telling fans: We are currently in a weather delay. Please seek shelter in your vehicle and we’ll let you know when we’ve received the all clear.”

The all clear was then given for fans to return to the venue, but the show was then officially postponed later.

After the show, Tomlinson wrote on Twitter: “Devastated about the show tonight, hope everyone’s ok, I’ll be back! Even though we didn’t play the show I felt all of your passion! Sending you all love!”

After the show, the venue told fans: “We want to take a moment to acknowledge the severe weather event at Red Rocks last night and offer our sincere best wishes to everyone affected by last night’s storms across Colorado.

“We hope to see Louis Tomlinson and his fans back soon under clear Colorado skies – we know this was supposed to be a special night and many of you traveled long distances to be here, which makes decisions regarding the postponement or cancellation of shows even harder.”

They added: “The Red Rocks crew would like to thank the teams at West Metro Fire, Stadium Medical, Argus, Aramark, Denver Fire, Denver Police, the Mountain Parks Rangers, our own staff and fans for their work and cooperation in a fast-developing situation.

“That’s part of the Red Rocks story, as are our fans who we’re lucky to have along for the ride.”

Red Rocks said they hope to see Tomlinson back at Red Rocks for a replacement show soon.

The former One Direction singer began his US tour last month by sharing a cover of Arctic Monkeys classic ‘505’.

#louis #fitf tour #red rocks #21.06.23 #nme #23.06.23 #press #i was wondering why they didn't write about it yesterday #and why they never wrote anything about this years AFHF lineup either... #hmm.. #they had another news piece yesterday about niall and 1D yesterday maybe the have a radio 1 like rule of only one former 1D'er a day 🙄 #(gonna add the tweets later)

[shorecents]

Blog Post #13 Second Life 6/24/22

It's not my thing, but Second Life seems to have a lot of enticing features.

The online experience is as different as exploring a different planet. Second Life offers a variety of spaces ranging from Nova Owl (a General setting) to Endless Summer Beach & Café (a Moderate setting) and from Metro City, which is a space for the LGBTQ+ community to Breathe Day Spa (both Adult settings). You can visit a variety of categories, over 1000 spaces altogether. The multi-dimensional virtual space of Second Life includes maturity settings of either General, Moderate, or Adult, as well as free and low cost marketplace adventures.  A variety of avatars are available to create your persona and communication is available in a variety of ways including voice, group chat, or instant messaging. With a vast array of virtual travel destinations and social spaces available, Second Life can be used in an educational setting, as a place for people who might find comfort in interacting with others under the guise of an avatar, or simply as a space to connect with others.

I teleported to a variety of destinations including the Netherlands, The Lighthouse, The Shambles, Blueberry, The Golden Hair, and Campwich Forest Lodge. I first visited the Netherlands in the world called the Dutch Estate, which fell under the “Photogenic Spots” category and came with a “Moderate” rating. My time there was simply spent exploring the beautiful landscape, which reminded me of an alternative Minecraft world. It was also lonesome as no one else was there at the time. In Campwich Forest Lodge, I joined a dance party and did the monkey robot, a little weird to me but hey, obviously fun for others. I also flew to the outer edges of the land and jumped in a pool but I was told that I was getting kicked out because it was a private area. I was a little out of place in Blueberry, which had a lot of rainbow flags and buildings strewn with "pride" messages. In the Shambles, I tried to make a friend by walking up to someone but they told me to "F#*$ off." Finally, in The Shambles, I got a random friend request and a message that offered help in getting to know the place. I didn't answer though.

The chat function is certainly important in Second Life and without chatting much, I don't think I got the full experience. I was intrigued by the world map, however, and enticed to explore and use all of the functions.

#SecondLife #VirtualWorlds

[yamujiburo]

Well travelled you say! What's been your favourite trip? Or, what's on the list to visit once travel becomes feasible? C:

fave trip was def japan with kiana (even though we had a disasterous first 6 hours after I lost my passport on the metro -cough-) BECAUSE we got to splurge at pokemon center and the anime towers in Akihabara, Tokyo. then had a dreamy onsen ryokan (hot springs inn) trip with snow monkeys in Nagano!

also top of the list is a solo trip I did to Paris and Brussels, seeing contemporary art and eating and drinking so muchhhh

I didn’t get to go to Italy when I did my europe travels, so that’s on the top of my list! and Sweden/Norway!! and Japan again!!!

-millie

#ask yam

[comixconnection]

Choose Your Three Free Comics!

At long, long last...Free Comic Book Day is here! Unlike the usual “first Saturday in May” celebration that has defined the even in normal years, due to issues with the ongoing pandemic the folks in charge have decided to move this year’s celebration back to August 14th. Want a sneak-peak at the books...?

The following titles will be available at Comix Connection on Aug 14th (while supplies last!). Everybody gets to pick three! Unlike previous years, we will NOT be accepting FOOD DONATIONS in exchange for additional comics. Instead we will be collecting monetary donations to give to the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank. For every DOLLAR donates, you may select an additional free comic book!

We know the line for the FCBD comics can get long (if you want to come in and shop first, you can skip the line and head straight inside!) so in an effort to both entertain you while you’re in that long line and to help it go a little faster by giving you a preview of the various titles so you can decide ahead of time what looks good, the Comix Connection Counter Monkeys have read and reviewed all of the available FCBD books! Take a peek!

CHOOSE YOUR FREE COMICS:

One hundred years before the Skywalker Saga began, the Jedi Knights were the guardians of peace and justice in the galaxy! In this prelude to the ongoing Star Wars: High Republic Adventures comic series, follow padawans Ram Jomaram, Lula Talisola, and Zeen Mrala as they try to save Lonisa City from the dreaded Nihil. Also read the beginning of Star Wars: High Republic Adventures #1! [All Ages]

“Two brand-new adventures from the world of Avatar: The Last Airbender! In Clearing the Air, Tenzin attempts to teach his rambunctious children a lesson Aang taught him about how to resolve conflicts. In Match Makers, Iroh runs into some trouble with a few friends...that just might lead him to something fun he’s been trying to hide from!” [All Ages]

Who Sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott? gives a sample of the upcoming graphic novel by the same name, a tale telling the true story of the “Mother of the Civil Rights Movement,” Rosa Parks! This excerpt features the immediate aftermath of Rosa’s arrest, and her decision to start a legal battle that would change the course of American freedom! [All Ages]

“There's nothing better than a beautiful sunny day reading comics, so join us for a look at this summer's fantastic all-ages reads, courtesy of Oni Press! From the gentle, magical worlds of The Tea Dragon Tapestry (by K. O'Neill) and The Sprite and the Gardner (by Rii Abrego and Joe Whitt), the adventurous magical mystery of Mooncakes (by Suzanne Walker and Wendy Xu), and the action-packed Jonna and the Unpossible Monsters (Chris and Laura Samnee), there's something for everyone. Sneak a peek at these four fantastic fantasy graphic novels!” [All Ages]

Sonic is 30 years old! Celebrate the anniversary of the world’s fastest hedgehog with this peek into the ongoing Sonic comic series. Things get meta when Amy Rose starts drawing a comic about Sonic, Tails, and their friends...but what will Sonic think when he finds out he’s been turned into a comic book? Prepare for the big 30th Anniversary Sonic Celebration here! [All Ages]

It's the crisis of infinite Archies! Celebrate 80 years of the Riverdale Gang with this tale featuring a dimension-hopping Archie Andrews in his quest to save the multiverse. Then, witness Archie go toe-to-toe with... himself?! May the best Archie win! Plus, get a preview of the newest Archie One-Shot in shops! This title includes several versions of Archie (from classic to TV to horror) and showcases his evolution as a character over eight decades, all while being a tie-in to the company's 80th Anniversary plans. [All Ages]

“Despite the pandemic and the swirl of world events, back issue comics are booming! It's not all record prices (though there are many) or bargain basement deals, but rather it's many different categories! The team that brings you The Overstreet Comic Book Price Guide shines the spotlight on this exciting part of the universe of comic books. Includes tips on how to collect, care for your comics, and preserve them, among other things.” [All Ages]

“Get a sneak peek at book four in the bestselling InvestiGators series! With agent Brash trapped in a mysterious coma, the technicians at S.U.I.T. have designed the ultimate replacement: RoboBrash! This high-tech replica has been programmed with all of the original Brash's crime-fighting skills and know-how--but it seems he's got a few bugs in his system! Will Mango and his new partner be enough to stop the giant ants that are on a rampage in the city? Orchestrated by the spaced-out villain, Maestronaut, and Houdino, the dinosaur escape artist, it seems criminals are certainly upping the ANT-e!” [All Ages]

“My name is Grace, not ‘Kyle's little sister’!” Having a good-looking, friendly, outgoing older brother sucks--especially when you're the total opposite: someone who likes staying home and playing video games. Your parents like him better (even if they deny it!) and everyone calls you "Kyle's little sister" while looking disappointed that you're not more like him. Grace was really hoping she'd get to go to a different middle school, but no such luck. At least she has her friends...until he finds a way to ruin that, too! What will Grace have to do to get out of his shadow?! [All Ages]

Jewish mythology has it that when God created the universe, He left one corner of it unfinished. Opinion is divided on why, but everyone agrees that the Unfinished Corner is a dangerous place full of monsters. Twelve-year-old Miriam is too busy preparing for her Bat Mitzvah to care about the Unfished Corner. She spends her days wrestling with whether she even wants to be Jewish--until a peculiar angel appears, whisking her, her two best friends, and her worst frenemy off to this monstrous land with one mission: finish the Unfinished Corner. [All Ages]

“The City of Gloomhaven isn't "safe" at the best of times, but lately, more folks than usual seem to be disappearing. In a city paralyzed by an unknown menace, only one adventuring crew will do: The Jaws of the Lion! Based on the hit games, Gloomhaven and Jaws of the Lion from Cephalofair Games, comes a fantasy adventure with humor and heart.” [All Ages]

The Last Kids on Earth and their friends each tell their own best story of the Monster Apocalypse, including Jack's high-stakes baseball game, Globlet's attempt to take over the world, Quint's bad-day-away invention, Dirk's bragain with a witch, and June and Skaelka's creepy carnival--plus a surprise story from some bad guys on the run... [All Ages]

Being the new kid is tough, even for a superhero/ward and heir to a billionaire, Damian Wayne (aka Robin)! Join Damian as he struggles to learn patience and understanding from the students at Gotham Metro Academy, including star student and all-around Great Guy, Howard! Plus, an adventure of Amethyst, princess of the mystical realm of Gemworld by bestselling authors Shannon Hale and Dean Hale! [All Ages]

To celebrate the new animated TV series premiering on Nickelodeon Fall 2021, Papercutz is releasing a new series of graphic novels entitled The Smurfs Tales. Preview it here with a number of silly short Smurfs Tales, with a back-up appearance by one of Peyo’s other beloved creations: Johan and Peewit, the young page and the court jester. [All Ages]

In Edge of Balance, a new High Republic story set in the wake of the Hyperspace Disaster, meet new Jedi and their enemies 100 years before the events of the Skywalker Saga! Young Jedi Knight Lily Tora-Asi is assigned to help displaced civilians relocate to Banchii in the Outer Rim. She and her padawans will face more threats there than just anxious settlers, from the insidious Drengir to the Nihil! And in Guardian of the Whills, encounter Baze and Chirrut before they join the Rebellion against the Empire in Rogue One! Presiding over the Kyber Temple on Jedha, the Guardians of the Whills had hoped to maintain the balance despite the growing presence of the Empire in their Holy City. Yet when a rebel named Saw Gerrera appears, Baze and Chirrut must decide if they're willing to compromise for peace, or if Saw's plan is too dangerous to risk. Read the first chapter of these two new Star Wars Manga Graphic Novels here! [Teen]

It wouldn’t be the Teen Titans without heightened teenage emotions and romance! Fan favorites Beast Boy and Raven are travelling away from the dwellings they know to find homes they can feel comfortable in. Along the way, their paths cross, sparks fly, and even a destiny or two might be found. [Teen]

“Street Fighter heads back to school, as the world's young fighters flex both their academic and martial arts prowess! Fan favorites Sakura, Ibuki, Karin, Makoto, and Elena come face-to-face with a new challenger - the leather-clad, motorcycle-riding Akira! It's a square-off of (rival) schools in this action-packed one-shot!” [Teen]

[NOT FINAL ART] “This Fall, jump on board here as VALIANT UPRISING overthrows the status quo with new titles, new creators, and new takes on Valiant's most iconic characters! The VALIANT UPRISING FCBD SPECIAL features: A brand new X-O MANOWAR story from Harvey Award-winning writer Dennis Hopeless and breakout star Emilio Laiso. It's the perfect jumping-on point as Valiant's flagship hero prepares to "Upgrade the World"! Then, get a special advance preview of THE HARBINGER #1, an all-new series from co-writers Jackson Lanzing and Colin Kelly join superstar artist Robbi Rodriguez that promises to take Valiant's psiot rebel in a vivid new direction! Plus, find out how the world's greatest spy responds to being unmasked, hunted, and trapped in a first look at NINJAK #1, the pulse-pounding thrill ride from Ringo Award-winning writer Jeff Parker and legendary artist Javier Pulido. Finally, get a sneak peek from writer Cullen Bunn and artist Jon Davis-Hunt of what's to come when SHADOWMAN returns!” [Teen]

Three epic new Marvel moments begin here! Read the beginning of the upcoming Spider-Man Beyond story that will be starting in Amazing Spider-Man #75! Big changes are coming to everyone’s friendly neighborhood Spider-Man...but are they for good, or ill? Also discover the new Venom series, which will take spider symbiosis to whole new levels in the wake of King In Black. And last, sneak a peek at the Luke Cage: City On Fire mini-series, which will pit Luke against not just the Kingpin, but Daredevil too! [Teen]

Gotham is under attack, and it’s by the people claiming to keep it safe! Billionaire Simon Saint has slowly been taking over the institutions of Gotham with his insidious private security Magistrate program. Meanwhile, Batman finds his mind infected by Scarecrow’s fear gas, forcing him to question every decision he makes. It is all leading to the DC-spanning event FEAR STATE that will rock Gotham to its core. Plus, read a preview of Oscar-winning screenwriter John Ridely’s I Am Batman series in which the sons of Lucius Fox struggle with the legacy of both their father and Bruce Wayne as they take up the cowl to defend Gotham. [Teen]

Who is Avenger Prime? And what has spurred the chronal collapse that has them sending their army of Deathloks out to save all of space and time? Discover the start of the end here! Then, journey into the unknown with the Incredible Hulk! Bruce Banner never wanted to smash, he wanted to discover. Now, it’s finally time for the Hulk to expand his horizons with Operation: Smashtronaut! [Teen]

In this story from Critical Role, explore a small but important corner from the adventures of the Mighty Nein. Then, in The Witcher, it's an original tale featuring the iconic witcher himself, Geralt! Created in close collaboration with CD Projekt Red! [Teen]

A fascinating graphic adaptation of historian Timothy Snyder’s book On Tyranny, a collections of essays and reflections on lessons from history and how they can help America steer away from the course of authoritarianism. Recommended for anyone looking to learn more about how tyrants all through history have manipulated people and systems to take away the freedoms of others. [Teen]

“Side A: "BLACK: Interlude" What else was going on the night Kareem Jenkins was shot by police and discovered only Black people have superpowers? Find out in this FCBD one-shot! Side B: "CALEXIT: Hollywood Babylon" Once California refused to be ruled by the US government, its resistance fighters became overnight celebrities. Zora used her infamy for recruiting, but Emmie-X has other ideas.” [Mature]

In 2019, James Tynion IV (Batman) and Werther Dell'Edera (Briggs Land) introduced the world to Erica Slaughter, the iconic monster hunter who came to Archer's Peak, Wisconsin to save the town's children from the monsters only she can see. But Erica is not the only member of the House of Slaughter... With nearly half a million copies sold, Something is Killing the Children has become a true comic phenomenon and this Free Comic Book Day you are invited to enter the House of Slaughter...if you dare. [Teen]

Crewed by teenage geniuses frozen in cryosleep, the JEMISON is on a mission to terraform other worlds and provide hope for the human race. But when the ship is mysteriously stopped over a planet that isn't on any of their maps, the crew finds themselves suddenly awoken ten years early. One half remains behind to try and assess the damage and the other is dispatched to the planet below to figure out the answer to a perilous question: What stopped the ship, and is it friend or foe? [Teen]

As the earth dies, salvation is offered to five thousand children who will be spirited away from our planet’s apocalypse -- but what of the other children, still hoping to find one of the bracelets that give them their ticket off planet? In this wistful one-shot from the sci-fi hit We Live, go into the Broken Lands with a group of friends...but there are four of them, and only one bracelet to be found. How will they decide who gets to leave? Then, preview the Rainbow Bridge graphic novel where Andy has to help his beloved dog Rocket save eternity! [Teen]

“The comic adventures of Max, Chloe, and Rachel from the award-winning video game Life Is Strange continue in this exclusive lead-in to an epic new story arc! This FCBD special features the first comic book appearance of an all-new character who will feature heavily in the Life is Strange universe in 2021! This FCBD issue contains exclusive original material!” [Teen]

“To reclaim the Dungeon that fell to the scheming William Delacour, the plan is simple: Marvin the dragon, Isis, and Herbert the duck must find some magic “fugus purit” and use it to dislodge the current occupants of the fortress. But is this really the Guardian's plan? Our heroes will have to fight against everyone to save the Dungeon. Meanwhile, will Marvin succeed in his engagement blast-of-firebreath 'Tong Deum'? Preview the new series here!” [Teen]

See the next chapter of the super-powered scifi epic The Resistance, and then meeet the “Moths”: a subset of the super-powered Reborn. The pandemic that granted the Reborn their gifts during The Great Death gave power to people like  Emily Kai and the rest of the Moths, too...but the moment they use their gifts, their clock starts ticking and they have six months to live. Also, get a sneak-peek at the just-released Not All Robots futuristic techno-depressive-thriller! [Teen]

The second semester of School for Extraterrestrial Girls is in session! Peer into the lives of Tara Smith (fire lizard!), Misako Sato (extra-dimensional fairy!), Summer Cortez (pink tentacle void beast!), and Ekaterina and Zvenislava (anthropomorphic Russian kittens!). They’re all normal teenage girls...except that they’re all aliens stuck on Earth, and since Tara partially destroyed their old school they’ve been sent to bunk at the School for Extraterrestrial Boys while it’s repaired...that’ll go fine, right? Read the first issue here! [Teen]

This official spinoff manga of Rent-A-Girlfriend, the rom-com turned hit anime, features fan-favorite Sumi, the shy girl longing to come out of her shell. Written and illustrated by original creator Reiji Miyajima! Catch up on the manga before the Rent-A-Girlfriend anime returns for a second season, coming soon! [Teen]

Zom 100 is a violent and funny take on the zombie apocalypse! Its main character, Akira, is so depressed in his soul-crushing job that he uses the undead hordes as motivation to finally complete his bucket list! Also included is a sample of the hit fantasy manga Demon Slayer. [Teen]

“Known as the the Weakest Hunter of All Mankind, E-rank hunter Jinwoo Sung's contribution to raids amounts to trying not to get killed. Unfortunately, between his mother's hospital bills, his sister's tuition, and his own lack of job prospects, he has no choice but to continue to put his life on the line. So when an opportunity arises for a bigger payout, he takes it...only to come face-to-face with a being whose power outranks anything he's ever seen! With the party leader missing an arm and the only healer a quivering mess, can Jinwoo somehow find them a way out?” [Teen]

In the small Pennsylvania town of White Ash, there isn’t much going on aside from mining...and keeping the fact that there are elves and dwarves living in the town secret, of course! In this pre-launch of Season Two of the ongoing series, a romantic rendezvous for the grieving dwarf Alex and mischievous elf Lillian doesn’t go as planned...with potentially disastrous consequences! Also read a preview of The Game, a new series where your every action affects impacts the score of your life! Plus a sneak-peak at some vampiric troubles in colonial America in Stake! [Teen]

World of Zorro gives readers a peak at the upcoming titles for the legendary masked swashbuckler, both new stories (that range from the familiar to supernatural horror) as well as newly-translated classic tales! [Teen]

For FREE COMIC BOOK DAY, enjoy this special expanded edition of the hit IMAGE series, STRAY DOGS! Stray Dogs is a comic thriller that features art inspired by classic Don Bluth-style animation, telling the story of a group of dogs brought together by a mysterious loner. Rather than behave like four-legged humans, the brilliance of Stray Dogs is that it gets inside the heads of its canine characters, showing the human world from their perspective. Unique, entertaining, and creepy. [Teen]

The undead Vampirella has been around since 1969, and as the celebrations of her 50th anniversary draw to a close, Dynamite presents a reprint of the first issue of their series that kicked-off her modern adventures! [Teen+]

Take an inside look at everyone’s favorite bipedal shark god, King Shark (aka Nanaue)! Suicide Squad’s many-toothed muscle is currently inside Belle Reve prison, but he won’t remain there for long. PLUS: a sneak peak at the just-released Suicide Squad miniseries Get Joker! [Mature]

“After 20 years of antics coming out of Sunnyvale trailer park, the underground TV phenomenon Trailer Park Boys is finally coming to comics! Full of short stories and activity pages, several of comics' finest join to create a series of comic book specials in 2021 and beyond honoring Ricky, Bubbles and Julian and everything fans have come to love about the series.”  [Mature]

Fungirl is a humor comic that is as unpredictable and hilarious as it is observant and smart. Cartoonist Elizabeth Pich’s creation does as much smashing the patriarchy as she does dreaming of delicious donuts and being spit on by llamas. [Mature]

“Tensions between the clans are high, so when Cecily Bain, an enforcer for the Twin Cities' vampiric elite, takes a mysterious new vampire under her wing she finds herself in over her head and dragged into a massive undead conspiracy! Meanwhile, on the outskirts of the city, a rebellious found-family of clan-less vampire cast-outs investigates a vicious killing.” [Mature]

“Preview the forthcoming full color, original Space Pirate Captain Harlock series from ABLAZE, personally overseen by the legendary Leiji Matsumoto!  In this brand-new Captain Harlock adventure, planet Earth is threatened by an upcoming invasion by the Sylvidres and despite being banished as a pirate, Captain Harlock won't give up trying to save the world. Will Captain Harlock and his crew manage to solve this mystery and save the Earth from yet another menace?  Also includes teasers for 3 highly anticipated upcoming manga/manhwa releases from ABLAZE, including The Breaker Vol 1 omnibus (critically acclaimed martial arts manhwa), Versus Fighting Story Vol 1 (Capcom e-sports shonen manga) and Crueler Than Dead Vol 1 (zombie horror seinen manga).” [Mature] 

“An evil so profound it threatens all mankind... the mightiest heroes on the planet uniting to defend us all... a secret crisis of such utter finality that a countdown to civil or infinite war seems unavoidable... but have you ever wondered what really happens during Crossovers? The Seven, Payback, Teenage Kix, Fantastico and every other supe on Earth team up for an annual event like no other... and where the supes go, can a certain "five complications and a dog" be far behind? Vought-American prepare to make their move, in a story that will change the world of the Boys forever: Herogasm #1. The first-ever Boys spin-off mini-series features the pairing of Ennis with Hitman artist John McCrea and covers by Boys artist and co-creator Darick Robertson!” [Mature]

“The most eagerly-anticipated series of 2021 gets the FCBD treatment with this ALL-NEW "bonus" issue of the series! Featuring 33 pages of comics produced exclusively for FCBD, from the creator of Hip Hop Family Tree and X-Men: Grand Design, designed as a perfect entry point for new readers and a must-have for those already on board. Aided by the anonymous dark web and nearly untraceable crypto-currency, there has emerged a subculture of criminals who live-stream and patronize webcam murders for entertainment. Who are the murderers? Who are the victims? Who is the audience? How do we stop it? An outlaw, splatterpunk masterpiece, as seen on Piskor's YouTube channel sensation, Cartoonist Kayfabe!” [Mature]

“An award-winning comic and soon to be Netflix anime series!  When dusk arrives in the city of Manila, that's when you become the most likely prey of the underworld. Kidnappers and thieves will be the least of your worries. Beware the criminals that can't be bound with handcuffs nor harmed with bullets.  Beware the ones that crave your blood, those who hold your heart ransom, and the ones that come to steal your soul. When crime takes a turn for the weird, the police call Alexandra Trese. Featuring a preview from TRESE Vol 2: Unreported Murders, a section on the forthcoming Netflix TRESE anime series launching this summer (including an interview with Director Jay Oliva), bonus pages with w/ background about the monsters of Philippine myth as told by TRESE creators Budjette Tan and Kajo Baldisimo, and a teaser on TRESE Vol 3: Mass Murders, coming this Sept from ABLAZE!” [Mature]

“2000 AD Presents All-Star Judge Dredd is a thrill-powered showcase of the past and shocking present of the iconic lawman of the future! Witness the birth of the world of Judge Dredd in an incendiary preview of upcoming prequel graphic novel Dreadnoughts by Michael Carroll with art by Watchmen's John Higgins. Fan-favourite Judge Hershey travels to the ends of the earth to dispense her own brand of justice in long-anticipated blockbuster spin-off, Hershey: Disease by Rob Williams (Suicide Squad) and Simon Fraser (Doctor Who). Along-side these teases for Fall 2021 epics enjoy a bone-rattling all new stand-alone Dredd caper from elite writer Al Ewing (Immortal Hulk, Marvel's Empyre) and Caspar Wijngaard (Star Wars, Home Sick Pilots)!” [Teen]

“Four titanic tales of pure fun and entertainment for everyone to enjoy! First up. It's no dog and pony show here! Bringing back the iconic puppets from the San Francisco Bay Area "Charlie and Humphrey"!! The modern-day Gumby and Pokey! A true love for al ages featuring a tale by Justin Sane and John Hageman! Next up is "Red Dawn" Written and created by Brandon McKinney, with inks by Bill Anderson and vibrant colors from Ross Hughes!! The government has created the first "controlled" superhero doing the bidding of a shadow operation until things go bad leaving our hero to blame and now on the run. The following story is only exclusive to this FCBD edition. Written by Greg Boucher and illustrated by Victor Moya they bring you "Rock and Roll Biographies: FIGHt" See how a troubled Rob Halford leaves the world biggest heavy metal band to form his own supergroup and take metal back!! Our last preview is written by Mel Smith, illustrated by Frank Cirocco/Alex Sheikman and hand colored by Gerhard! "Becoming Frankenstein" takes down the journey of a troubled Victor Frankenstein as he grieves the loss of his mother while harvesting the body parts of victims to create life again for his monster! Learn the tales of the victims and who they were before they became what becomes Frankenstein's ultimate creation! : This will be the only edition to feature this Rock and Roll Biographies story featuring FIGHT “ [Mature]

Enjoyed your Free Comic Book Day books? Want to read more? Let your friendly neighborhood Comix Connection Counter Monkey know which ones caught your eye, and we’ll be happy to direct you to the next part of the story!

#free comic book day #fcbd #fcbd 2021 #free comic book day 2021 #comixevent #comixmech #comixyork

[servicemonkey]

Train parking lot is empty no trains here today

#service monkey #sock monkey #blue monkey travels #new york #harlem l8ne #metro north

[kalbeliya-tunesonroad]

Connecting to Himachal through the modern city “Kasauli”

“My soul is savoring freedom or maybe its hunting solace, 

clueless I may seem but my soul has been harmonized,

blending and whisking itself into soothing and pacified energy.

ABOUT THE PLACE     

 Kasauli is a small hill town in the solan district of Himachal Pradesh, known for its sunsets, colonial-era houses and many more heart warming small spots. It is perfect place to spend your days in total peace of nature and still be connected modern day to day life .    

 TO HELP YOU NAVIGATE 

How to reach   

 Major attractions          

Accommodation          

Overall budget

Breaking the budget

 Unique about Kasauli / Insights 

A Personal spot worth sharing  

   ~Song of the trip                                                    ~Book of the trip

         HOW TO REACH    

 Kasauli is 287.3 km away from Delhi and 57.3 km away from Chandigarh thus very easy to reach.      

 ~BY BUS 

 The best way to reach Kasauli is by Bus. There is no direct bus or train from Delhi to Kasauli. First take a bus from ISBT Delhi ( Kashmere Gate metro station ) to Chandigarh. Also keep in mind to take a bus that takes you to sector 43  ISBT Chandigarh and not to sector 17 ISBT Chandigarh. There are many options available and it would not be difficult to board a bus from ISBT ( I took roadways). From sector 43 Chandigarh ISBT take a bus to Shimla and deboard at Dharampur ( I took Himachal Roadways which costed me around 110 bucks only). From Dharampur catch a bus to Kasauli which is almost 9 km away.           

~BY TRAIN          

  You can catch a train to Kalka. Many trains are available at different timings ( Himalayan queen, Kalka Shatabadi, Kalka mail). From Kalka catch a private bus or roadways to Dharampur and from Dharampur to Kasauli. 

 “TIP” : Private buses may take long, better to take Roadways. 

MAJOR ATTRACTIONS         

 Baptist Church     

 Sunset point     

 Monkey point    

 Gilbert Trail    

 Kasauli Tibetan market   

 Gurka Fort                           

 Toy train     

  Gurunanak Gurudwara                           

   Kasauli Brewery                                                                                                                               

BAPTIST CHURCH

                     Inside view of Baptist Church

Timings: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM

It was built by Britishers in 1923 and the architecture of Baptist church is mesmerizing. You can roam around, sit in peace and buy beautiful bracelets. You can find shops nearby in case you want to buy anything.

SUNSET POINT

                              The half naked range of mountains from sunset point

Timings: 6:00 AM - 7:00 PM

The view is beautiful at any time of the day but obviously the sunset after which it has been named is amazing. You will find people clicking photos with their loved ones.

MONKEY POINT

Timings: 9:00 AM-5:00 PM

 Facilities: Food and water is available with washroom facility.

Things to keep in mind: 

Carry an identity proof to get in   

Electronics are prohibited                                                                          

Monkey point is one of the major attractions of Kasauli. It is located inside the Air force base. It is a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman where he rested while returning to Lanka carrying Sanjivni booty. Also the top of the hill is in the shape of Lord Hanuman’s foot and it is 3.5 km away from Kasauli bus station. It takes about 15-20 minutes to get to the top. You will find hundreds of monkey in your way. Once you get at the top, you can enjoy the view of mountains and watch Satluj river turning and twisting its way around the horizon. This place is secure and strict. Also it is not hard to find, you can inquire any shopkeeper or may be army officials.

GILBERT TRAIL  

    Pinewood trees and the sky changing its color as the dawn hits at Gilbert trail

Timings: 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM 

Location: Gilbert trail is at a distance of 2 Km from the Kasauli bus stand and can be easily reached 

Gilbert trail is a 1.5 km walkway giving a beautiful view of pinewood tree, Himalayan oaks covered in a little mist, little wild flowers here and there. Make sure to be careful to wear good shoes during the monsoon season as the walkway is kaccha, narrow and becomes slippery after it rains.

KASAULI TIBETAN MARKET

                       Bun samosa from a shop in Tibetan market

Timings: 10 AM: 9:00 PM

Located near the mall road Kasauli Tibetan market  is a beautiful place to be at to enjoy shopping and yummy food. At night the lights, people roaming around in beautiful clothes with shops full of woolens, antiques, art craft, handicrafts and jewels mesmerizing your senses.  

GURKA FORT

Timings: 9:00 AM-6:00 PM

It is located in the town of Subathu at a small hillock and falls under the major attraction. It gives a beautiful background to photoholics. It is surrounded by Forest. Located at the remote corner and can be easily reached by road. Basically Gurka Fort is mostly ruins in today’s date and is known for its architectural left.

TOY TRAIN

 Toy train in Kasauli gives you the beautiful scenic views. The surroundings will hold you till the end of your journey. You can board the train up to Dharampur, take the train up to Barog and return. Toy train can be booked online, check the timings online as the schedule keeps on changing.

GURUDWARA SHRI NANAK JI 

Located in the market of Ghorkha on a road going towards Kasauli. Gurudwara Shri Nanak Ji is a religious place . It also provides free accommodation to the needy ones. Each Sunday Kada Prashad( sacred food) is distributed. Since it is an religious place you can visit it any time.

KASAULI BREWERY

Timings: 7:00 AM- 7:30 PM

Kasauli brewery (Mohan Meakin Ltd) serves different imported and brewed drinks and for sure serves your taste buds right. Established in 1820′s by Edward Dyer, this is Asia’s oldest working distillery.

ACCOMMODATION

From home stay to resort to luxurious hotels with wonderful views. You can easily find places to stay in Kasauli. You can make online bookings according to your budget and choice as the price variety is wide enough to fit in any pocket.

TIP: There is as such no need to hire a guide. You can easily find each place and reach them by roads.

OVERALL BUDGET

Transportation: 900 bucks

Food: 1000 bucks

Tickets: Around 100 bucks

No accommodation included

BREAKING THE BUDGET

BUS CHARGES( Includes reaching the destination and return)

 2*250 = 500 ( I took Haryana Roadways from Delhi to Chandigarh)

2*110 = 220 ( I took Himachal Roadways from Chandigarh to Dharampur)

2*40 = 80 ( I took a public bus from Dharampur to Kasauli bud stand)

Total Transportation charges = 800 bucks

    2. FOOD = 1000 bucks ( If you eat in good cafe and it is even less if you eat in nearby shops, there are plenty of small shops within reachable distance)

   3. TICKETS = AROUND 100 BUCKS ( At most of the places you are not required to buy any tickets and if any place requires ticket formalities the price is very low)

   4. Total : 1900 bucks.

Also this whole information is regarding the one day I took to cover Kasauli and there are no accommodation charges Included since I didn’t stay in Kasauli for the night.

UNIQUE ABOUT KASAULI / INSIGHT

Does the darkness of night and flickering of stars make you want to taste chilled beer when its raining heat and whiskey or old monk on a breezy cold night ? Then Kasauli brewery( Mohan Meakin Ltd ) is the place. It is Asia’s oldest working distillery famous for serving finest scotch whiskey and many other brands.

 Also being a beautiful and peaceful place, its also connected through roads and is easy to cover. It is the nearest hill station from Delhi and Chandigarh where you can take a break from usual life, eat, roam in markets, sacred places and feel the nature taking over all your worries.

Also there is no problem with the crowd. So for solo travelers or solo female travelers its safe, Kasauli being an cantonment is quite safe, strict and secure . Everything is easily available and locals are quite friendly. 

A PERSONAL SPOT WORTH SHARING

Kasauli is known for its beautiful sunsets and sunrises, I have been to Kasauli twice and both the times i was flabbergasted by the sunset views. Once you cover 700-800 m of Gilbert Trail walkway, there is a turning and stretched area in front of the turn, a soothing place other than sunset point to watch the beautiful sun setting behind the mountains of Kasauli and the whole city of Chandigarh covered in twinkling lights after the sunset.

~Song of the trip : Night changes by One direction    

~Book of the trip : The last runaway by Tracy Chevalier

#travel travelphotography photography nature travelgram love photooftheday instagood wanderlust instatravel adventure travelblogger picofthed

[nuclearblastuk]

KORPIKLAANI // NEW SINGLE 'LAND OF A THOUSAND DRINKS' OUT NOW DIGITALLY, NORTH AMERICAN RUN W/ ELUVEITIE & GONE IN APRIL UNDER WAY

Finnish Folk Metal Superstars KORPIKLAANI are currently touring North America with their label mates ELUVEITIE. In celebration of this run, the band released a brand new single titled 'Land Of A Thousand Drinks' (an English version of their original song 'Joumamaa') last week, which is now available digitally. Purchase/stream the track now: https://nblast.de/Korpiklaani-1000Drinks

Listen to 'Land Of A Thousand Drinks' in the NB New Releases Playlists: http://nblast.de/SpotifyNewReleases / http://nblast.de/AppleMusicNewReleases Watch the lyric video for the song here:

The band commented: "There is a little story about 'Land Of A Thousand Drinks', which began at the end of the "Kulkija" recording sessions. We had always planned for 'Juomamaa' to have English lyrics, however, we just decided to keep the original and have the whole album in Finnish. After many travels & tours, we met our friends from THE 69 EYES this year at Metalfest CZ. A thousand drinks later, shared beds and many good ideas, Jyrki and Jonne came up with a 'Land Of A Thousand Drinks'. This is a song about being with good friends and travelling around the world. Hellraisers & Drinkers Cult".

KORPIKLAANI live:  'Wanderers Towards Rebirth - Kulkija Ad Ategnatos' w/ ELUVEITIE, GONE IN APRIL 27.09.  USA     Los Angeles, CA - Regent Theater 28.09.  USA     Oakland, CA - Metro Operahouse 29.09.  USA     Portland, OR - The Bossanova Ballroom 30.09.  CDN     Vancouver, BC - Rickshaw Theatre 01.10.  USA     Seattle, WA - El Corazon 03.10.  USA     Denver, CO - Summit 04.10.  USA     Lincoln, NE - The Royal Grove 05.10.  USA     Minneapolis, MN - The Cabooze 06.10.  USA     Chicago, IL - Concord Music Hall 07.10.  CDN     Toronto, ON - The Opera House 08.10.  CDN     Ottawa, ON - Brass Monkey 09.10.  CDN     Montréal, QC - Théâtre Corona *SOLD OUT* 10.10.  CDN     Québec, QC - Impérial Bell 11.10.  USA     Worcester, MA - Palladium 12.10.  USA     Reading, PA - Reverb 13.10.  USA     Baltimore, MD - Soundstage 14.10.  USA     New York, NY - PlayStation Theater   w/ TROLLFEST 13.12.  RUS     St. Petersburg - Aurora Concert Hall 14.12.  RUS     Moscow - Red

19. - 22.03. UK Pwllheli - Hammerfest  28.08. D Crispendorf - Wolfszeit Festival *NEW* Order 'Kulkija' and more, here: www.nuclearblast.de/suche/korpiklaani

Check out their various versions of 'Beer Beer':

'Beer Beer' [feat. Christopher Bowes | ALESTORM]: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pYP-QPPt_p0

'Kaljaa' [feat. Vesku Jokinen | KLAMYDIA]: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ASMLds26m4

'Øl Øl' [feat. TROLLFEST]: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q_9YqRRcuMY

'Bier Bier' [feat. Gerre | TANKARD]: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LfxfnAm7PK8

'Bír Bír' [feat. FLERET]: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4drIAMzV7qg

'Pivo Pivo' [Meri Tadic (IRIJ)]: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-rN-Z_2vKDg

More on 'Kulkija': 'Kotikonnut' OFFICIAL LYRIC VIDEO: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tzsUWvKsgqQ

'Harmaja' OFFICIAL VIDEO: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AoTkmBB4yow

'Henkselipoika' OFFICIAL VIDEO: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZB7PyLYQyXg

'Aallon alla' OFFICIAL LYRIC VIDEO: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uul1tiTZ07Y

'Kuin korpi nukkuva' OFFICIAL LYRIC VIDEO: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q1HnD86aWS8 www.korpiklaani.com www.facebook.com/korpiklaani www.nuclearblast.de/korpiklaani

#Korpiklaani #Land of a Thousand Drinks #True Finnish Beer Metal #Nuclear Blast Records #New Music

[abandoned-florida]

Crandon Park Zoo

~Opening - 1948

~Close - 1990

~Status - Protected~Is apart of the Crandon Park, some of the cages still standing.

*~The start~*

One of the richest families in southern Florida, Who owns one of the largest coconut plantations, the Mathesons family. Among the many pioneers who moved down to Florida, donated the north end of key Biscayne to Miami Dade County. Who wants to make it into a park. Although it was assumed that is was to make a bridge to make the area more profitable. The 1947 Japanese attacked and America’s entrance into the war. Delayed the build of the park because of the shortages of building materials and labor. In 1947 the park still opened, called the Crandon Park. After Commissioner Charles H. Crandon, who arranged the construction of the causeway.

*~Opening~*

In 1948, a traveling show with animals disbanded. The owners sold the animals off to the county. So the Crandon Park Zoo opened with 2 bears, 3 monkeys, and a goat from the circus. Slowly the collection began to grow with gifts, and buying animals it became one of America's most unique zoos. On the edge of the Atlantic. 

*~1950s/60s~*

The Zoo continued to grow and expand. The park expanded to have a small train. This train would lead the visitors through one and a half trip through the zoo and wildlife. The lush tropical garden leaves an impression on the young park goers. Many locals remember the train ride with family and friends. That was the highlight of the zoo. Likewise the petting zoo would keep the Crandon Park and Zoo as a favorite destination for local and tourist alike. How every good thing must end.

*~Controversy~*

The Controversy that plagued Crandon Park Zoo was about animal abuse and cruelty. Mostly from the cages that the animals were kept in. Which were mostly concrete and steel bars. At the same time, public opinion and attitudes did start to change on how animals should be kept and treated. However that didn't stop the zoo to become one of the best zoos in America.

*~ Hurricane Betsy~*

In 1965 with over one thousand animals on display. The Zoo was recognized as one of the major zoos in the country. A hurricane came crashing through Florida. The damage was that the zoo was put under 3 feet underwater, and killed around 250 animals. Some of the animals drowned, and other got in a panic and died. The animals temporarily moved. The staff rebuilt the zoo and raised the status of the area and the zoo. 

*~1960/70s~*

The animal count went up to 1200. Crandon zoo was considered one of the top 25 zoos in the country. In 1967 there was a lucky breeding between their two Asian elephants, Dahlip, and Seetna. Which gave them two Asian Elephants, which was very rare. In 1968, the got the second ever white tiger brought to the United States ever. 1970, the zoo required the rarest of the animals, two Indian Rhinos. Also the only time a key deer was removed from the Key Deer National Wildlife Refuge and put on display in the zoo. Then in 1973, two bald eagles hatched in captivity. Making the first time in 50 years a successful hatching in captivity. 

*~The downfall~*

With the growth, location, and format of the zoo, public opinion changed. People hated that the animals were kept in concrete cages. Also the constant fear of another large hurricane, or large storms, like hurricane Betsy. The decision ended up being to build another zoo in another part of Miami-Dade County. The formal Richmond naval air base opened up. The location in South-west Miami was a great location to protect against hurricanes, and it could expand in later years. Meanwhile the zoo still grew, and families still flocked to the zoo. 

*~The Miami Metro Zoo~*

In 1980 a preview exhibit and 12 exhibits. The Miami zoo opened on Dec 12, 1981 with the opening of the Asia exhibit. The opening of the new zoo, ended the reign of the zoo. Guests could no longer go on the train of see the clear ocean and see the animals at the same time. Also the zoo would bring something new. Being one of the first zoo to be cage free. No more cage for animals, and the guests were given pieces of the old Crandon zoo. As “Pieces of the past”. The Miami Metro Zoo became the crowning zoo of Miami-Dade, and Florida. But being close to the coast did mean hurricanes.

*~Hurricane Andrew~*

Hurricane Andrew was worse than Betsy. It came close to Homestead, which ravaged southern Florida, the zoo included. Trees were ripped from the ground, roofs were removed from the exhibits, and the fences got removed. One hundred of the birds died due to the roof of the exhibit being removed. Three antelopes, one ostrich, and one gibbon were killed. The staff, community, and the past prevented more deaths within the zoo. 

*~Today~*

Today, Crandon Park is still a popular location in Florida. With some of the cages still standing to make a reminder of the old zoo. The park includes a tennis court, beaches, a golf course, Marjory Stoneman Douglas Biscayne Nature Center, a Marina, and much more. The Mathesons family member is still on the board. However, the Mathesons, and the county is still responsible for the mishandling of the park. From the direction to the Management of the park. The Crandon Park Zoo is now a botanical garden, where the guests can roam around the lush garden, and see the old cages. Miami Metro Zoo now the Zoo Miami, is one of the foremost zoos in the country. With more than three thousand animals, five hundred species, 40 of them being endangered. The zoo has more than one thousand plants, a children’s area, petting zoo, and a monorail spending the whole zoo. Which reminds people of the old train along the beach.

*~Sources~*

https://www.abandonedfl.com/crandon-park-zoo/

https://flashbackmiami.com/2014/08/27/crandon-park-zoo/

 https://www.moderndayruins.com/2014/08/crandon-park-zoo.html

~Olivia, Nov 03, 2019 :D                  

#abandoned #florida #miami #history #zoo #hurricane #crandon #park #southflorida #keybiscayne

[lmblair1973]

Before we move on to the next stop of the day I wanted to mention that prior to leaving, I had read that Tokyo is HUGE and that it would be wise to set your expectations low as far as how much you plan on seeing in one day. When I read that, I honestly didn’t take it too seriously as we are high speed, seasoned travelers and have always managed to pack a lot in, in one day, in other large cities. Let me say that Tokyo and its vast surrounding areas has taught us a lesson in humility! Despite the extensive metro system, stations are often far apart and traveling from one attraction and neighborhood to the next can often cost 40 minutes or more. Once again we found ourselves modifying our plan. We had to choose between the Imperial Palace Gardens and the Tokyo Skytree. December’s fast approaching, early sunset led us to choose the the Skytree.

The Tokyo Skytree is the primary television and radio broadcasting tower for the Tokyo area. Standing at 2,080 feet, the building of it was completed in 2011. It’s the tallest structure in Japan, the tallest tower in the world and and an unrivaled spot to watch a Tokyo sunset. Allow us to share our experience with you...

For those of you who noticed or wondered, the tallest peak in the horizon is Mt. Fuji. The pictures truly don’t do it justice. Even at a distance this iconic mountain/volcano had a beautiful and imposing presence. Next week, one of our cruise ports stops at the base of Mt. Fuji. So, weather permitting, I may be able to get some nice pictures then.

We spent hours enjoying the view from the top of the tower. The Skytree complex is full of malls and markets so after coming back down to earth we browsed around a bit, ate a little and then began our trek back to Narita. I don’t know if we were just tired but that turned into an end of a long day adventure we really didn’t need. After, lapping the Skytree complex several times in search of the train station that would take us back to the airport, we then boarded the wrong train the ended close to the airport, but not quite. That’s ok, because fortunately there was a bazaar, abandoned, seemingly UNENDING tunnel that connected us from that station to the airport. Problem solved!! Another days lesson, always expect the unexpected when traveling. Things always work out! By 10:00pm we were back to our Hilton hotel and eagerly looking forward to a good nights rest

Tomorrow: our drive to the mountains, stay at a Japanese Ryokan (that would be a quaint ma and pop hotel where you pay to sleep on the floor) and visit to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park.

[jockeyholla]

Bangkok and Beyond

Happy Fall,

Despite being in one of the biggest, most populated cities I have ever been in my life, I was serenaded to sleep by a chorus of frogs last night. Torrential rains flooded the streets in Bangkok yesterday & our trip home on the boat from the weekend market was quite the wild adventure. We did fine on the metro, though it's a bit too air-conditioned for my taste. Rather like whizzing along in a super smooth refrigerator car. Just installed in the last 15 years, new metro stops are still being created, a bit of a wacky miracle in such a gigantic city.

We just barely squeezed onto the local boat taxi, packed in like sardines. I almost lost John in the fray. A woman who got on beside me at the next stop, was pushing me so hard that I thought I was going to fall over & break everything in my shopping bag. Finally< I traded places with her & became suddenly aware of why she was trying so hard to get further inside the boat. Within seconds, approximately a bucket of water came off of the roof tarp and poured right down my back. I was more soaked than the front seat of Splash Mountain, but fortunately my pirate booty from the market stayed dry. Mostly it has just been a little bit of rain now and again, beautifully cooling when we get it.

We have been amazingly lucky to have an opportunity to see a Healer here in town, who is very famous within Thailand, but virtually unknown to the western world. Like my massage practice, his healing is known mainly by word-of-mouth. They say you have to have the right Karma to come see him, so I must' have done something right at some point. The healing takes about five minutes, but the taxi ride there is anywhere from 45 minutes to 2 and 1/2 hours. Then we have to get back, creating quite a full day. Fridays are easy because the turnaround time is quite good, but on Sundays when we go & wait in line with the locals, it'''''' is usually a few hours in the healing center. We are the only "flongs," foreigners, aside from our translator, a wonderful Aussie buddhist who has been here for nearly 40 years. We receive our sessions from an esoteric buddhist healer who lived as a hermit monk in a sacred jungle cave for ten years, until he was called to heal people. I feel like that is such an amazing amount of time to be silent & still. I cannot quite imagine the wisdom that one might procure from such a practice✨

His father was very familiar with the healing properties of the jungle herbs so each week we boil some to make a tea.The first one was for detoxification of the kidneys, second for cleansing the blood and then one that helps the ligaments & sinews. He treats the seven primary diseases in the first sessions, including cancer, diabetes, fatty liver disease, heart issues, and arthritis.There is a monk who lives in a temple next door to the healing center who, after being diagnosed with stage 4 cancer got treatments and he looks great.

We had a quiet week off the coast of Sumatra for John to go surfing. A beautiful island with shy monkeys and amazing kingfishers. Back to the mainland of Sumatra, a few days in the rainforest for me to see orangutans & for them to see me. We camped in the jungle for two nights, hiking straight up then straight down muddy, steep terrain. We saw some giant colorful hornbills, Thomas monkeys (my favorite new nickname for John on that trip), monitor lizards, something that looked like an iguana & a plethora of other beautiful birds. What a wonderful gift to get out of the city.

Upon our return to Thailand, we also spent a few days near the bridge over the river Kwai. Peaceful and beautiful, with a great old third class train ride 3 hours north of Bangkok.I believe it took us about 1&1/2 hours to get out of the city to the countryside & occasionally pass beautiful pools of giant lotuses.

A bit exhausted from our treatments, we spent the last week in the Bangkok visiting the Jim Thompson house, the weekend market & some other local sites. Great to get some Christmas shopping done so early.

Yesterday was our six year anniversary & we were lucky enough to get a very special Saturday “Prosperity treatment,” in between our normal routine. We dressed all in white, had special symbols called yans written in red ink on our backs, each side of our hands, and right on the hairline in the center of the foreheads. The treatment clears karma from past lifetimes & creates good fortune for the future. We asked weeks in advance for this treatment & I feel very lucky to have been able to receive it. The healer had one word after he wrote on us both & that was "clear,"  oh joy. I thought how wonderful & auspicious to have this fall on our anniversary. I felt so light & joyful afterwards & slept better than I have in forever. Today we are back for our Sunday treatments & tomorrow we will head north until Thursday to see the nature park, Khao Yai. If we are lucky, we will get to see elephants.

October Footnote: I have once again been delinquent in sending this & more time has passed.During our Bangkok visit we had an amazing & magical trip to Khao Yai with so many animals & insects, also a hot & beautiful trip up to the old Thai capitol, Aytthaya, visiting some ancient khmer style buddhist temples, and more down time in the city as those healings can really take it out of you. I think of it as a sort of fast forward healing from which one has to detox and catch up with oneself again.

We have finished our last treatments & travelled to a small beach community in southwest Java where I will get to relax at the beach & see tiny sea turtles released from a local hatchery. John hopefully will enjoy the surf.

Miss you and hope that life is lovely, healthy and joyous, Ahna-Kristen

HI EVERYONE,

Ahna-Kristen and I have been gone a month now. We were invited to go see a healer in Bangkok by one of her clients. The healer only sees people on Friday thru Sundays, and we go twice a week. On Fridays we get a body treatment and a facial treatment. On Sundays we get another body treatment. Fridays are super slow and there is usually no one there, or just a couple of other people, then on Sundays there are around twenty people and they have a big pot of food out for everyone to share. For each treatment we leave an offering of flowers incense, candles, these little coins and some money that we place in an envelope. Treatments are by donation only, so everyone gives what they can afford. About 98 percent of the people that see him are Thai, so very few white people go there and that makes us a bit of an oddity. We would be lost without the valuable help of our interpreter Jimmy, a 75 year old Aussie man who has lived in Southeast Asia for the last 45 years. We are staying in a hotel that is half a block for his apartment and he arranges a cab to take us the hour drive out to the treatment center. He interprets everything the healer tells us. During a treatment Anchon opens a point near my solar plexus and then lightly rubs his finger across my body. In some areas it creates extreme pain and feels like his finger is made of steel and on other areas I barely feel it at all. He is working with meridians, points and blocked energy.

As the story goes, he was a hermit monk and lived in a cave for more than ten years when celestial beings started to visit him and train him to become a healer. He said no initially, as he did not want to leave his life of solitude. They started writing on the walls of his cave, leaving him messages and teachings on how to heal people. After some time, he agreed to become a healer.

Our original plan was to see him once when we arrived, then go surfing in Indonesia for a month and come back and see him twice on the way home. After our first treatment, he told us if we came to him for a month he would send both of us back home healthy. So we decided to stay on after the surf trip. After our first treatment, we flew to Simelue, an island off of Northern Sumatra.

On my first surf paddling out I did a face plant on the lava reef while trying to duck dive a wave. Our surf trip was cut short by my accident, which took about three week for my face to heal from. This was a sign for me that I was supposed to head back for more healings. I had prepaid the surf lodge where we were staying and they where super generous, lettimg me postpone the rest of my paid stay for a week in September. That gave us six days before we could have our next treatment.

We headed up to Buket lawang to do a three day jungle hike to see the orangutangs and other creatures that live in the rainforest,

before flying back to Bangkok. We have now seen him 5 times, and are on a 12 day break back in Simelue enjoying the beach life, warm water and the quite. We will be going back to Thailand for another 4 weekends of treatment. Spending so much time in a big city like Bangkok makes me so grateful for my home in Aptos.

 Well a month has passed and we are leaving for home in a few hours after spending two weeks in West Java surfing and relaxing at the beach. I had a lot of fun surf and feel really good after spending the 6 weeks with the healer. I am looking forward to being home and reconnecting with you all.

Love to you all,

John