The Unofficial Guide to Buying Airline Miles

While there are many creative ways to stock up on frequent flyer miles, I go about collecting them in two pretty common ways: purchasing plane tickets and signing up for rewards credit cards. But one of the best, alternative ways to add miles to your account is to buy your frequent flyer miles.


For many people, buying frequent flyer miles is something they’d never consider. Why pay for something you can get for free? But for many collectors, there are times when it makes perfectly good sense to buy. Yes, there is a small outlay of cash involved but the benefits --both to your lifestyle and finances-- are more than worth it.

Here are a few scenarios for when it’s best to buy, as well as a few tips to make sure you’re getting the most out of each of your purchases.

To top off your account
Purchasing frequent flyer miles can be done directly on your loyalty program’s website by look for the “Buy, Gift & Transfer” tab. The price of a mile varies from airline to airline, but on average the cost is about 2.5 to 3.5 cents per mile.

If you’ve got your eye on a reward, are close to redeeming but are not quite there yet, considering topping up your account with a quick purchase. Buy enough to reach your goal, redeem and enjoy your reward. That’s what loyalty is about.


To keep your points from expiring
It happens to the best of us and can be one of the most demoralizing events for collectors. We save up enough miles for a free flight, but wait too long to redeem them for that much needed vacation. Many frequent flyer programs expire with inactivity, so for a quick and easy solution, buy extra miles to keep your account active and use them before you lose them.

To take advantage of discounts on mileage
Many airlines routinely offer deals where you can purchase discounted miles or will give you bonuses when you purchase within a certain time frame. Depending on the airline or the deal, these bonuses can significantly decrease the price per mile, making it a great time to buy a handful to fill up your account. For example, American Airlines recently celebrated its 35th anniversary and offered A Advantage members 35 percent off any purchased or gifted miles. The Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan offers members a discount of 35 percent or more when they buy miles as they’re booking an upcoming Alaska Airlines flight. And IHG Rewards Club recently launched a buy points campaign offering 100% purchase bonus at all levels for 96 hours, giving members the opportunity to literally double their rewards. I always keep an eye out for these kinds of deals, especially when I’m getting close to reaching my redemption goal.

Before purchasing your miles, here are a few things to consider:

1. Get out your calculator
Before you purchase a mile, calculate how much each one will cost you . For a simple formula, subtract the total amount you’ll have to spend on your purchased miles from the dollar value of your ticket, and divide that by the number of non-purchased rewards you’re redeeming. Also be sure to take into account taxes and fees on the flight, as fees especially can vary significantly from airline to airline.

2. Make sure awards seats are available
If you’re redeeming a flight with airline miles, your flight options might be limited, as there are only so many reward seats available on each flight. And keep in mind that availability changes quickly: available reward seats that are available this morning might not be there tomorrow, or even this afternoon. Also remember that when you purchase miles, it can take up to 72 hours to get into your account, so plan accordingly, or available rewards seats might be booked before the miles are processed and added to your account.

3. Purchase miles with your rewards credit card
If you’ve done all the math and it’s worthwhile to buy miles rather than earn them, be sure to purchase the miles with your rewards credit card. That way, in addition to adding those purchase miles to your portfolio, you’ll be rewarded with even more miles for your purchase.

Read More

3 Easy Ways to Earn Points and Miles Through Referrals

One of my favorite parts of traveling is sharing photos with friends and family who couldn’t tag along for the ride. I’m posting on Facebook or Instagram, sharing the best pictures and videos of my trip. From old friends to my Mom, everyone is always excited to see where I’ve been. But once I get a chance to tell them all about my latest trip, the same question always seems to pop up, “How can I earn enough points and miles to take vacations like that?”

With referral programs from travel rewards credit cards, loyalty programs and even banks, you and your loved ones can begin to rack up points and miles in no time.

Signing up for a travel rewards credit card

Not only are travel rewards credit cards perfect for racking up points and miles on everyday purchases, they also feature some of the best referral programs out there. Alaska Airlines Visa Signature credit card holders can earn 2,500 bonus miles for each friend or family member who signs up and is approved for the card.


The best part? There’s no limit to the number of people you can refer. Just remember to send new cardholders a referral link to ensure the miles are credited to your loyalty account.

For those with the Gold Delta SkyMiles credit card from American Express, many of the same benefits are up for grabs. Cardholders can receive a bonus of 5,000 Membership Rewards points for each approved referral. While the annual referral bonus is capped at 75,000 points, that’s more than enough to plan a weekend getaway or two. From sliding around a ski resort to visiting some of the best theme parks the U.S. has to offer, you can use your points and miles for more than just airfare or a free hotel stay.

Joining a loyalty program

Earning points and miles can be as simple as telling friends and family members which loyalty programs you enjoy most. For example, members of the Virgin Atlantic Flying Club are awarded 2,000 miles when a referral embarks on their first round trip flight in economy. Although an extra 2,000 miles is nice, you may want to spend a few minutes trying to convince your friends to indulge in some of Virgin Atlantic’s more luxurious seating options. The 2,000-mile referral bonus jumps to 5,000 when friends or family members choose premium economy for their first round trip flight. Better yet, earn 10,000 miles from those who ride in first class.

Need an extra incentive to get them to sign on the dotted line? Don’t forget to mention that Flying Club members who you refer also earn up to 3,000 bonus miles after taking their first flight. Taking advantage of these benefits is as easy as logging into your account and sending your referral an email. As soon as he or she becomes a Flying Club member and takes flight, you’ll both receive bonus miles.

Opening a bank account

Saving a few dollars each week is not exactly what I would call exciting, but it’s something most of us need to do in order to visit our top vacation destinations. By opening a BankDirect Mileage Checking with Interest Account or a Mileage Money Market Account, both you and your referral can save money for an upcoming trip while also earning loyalty miles.

As the first internet-based bank to offer customers the benefits of the American Airlines AAdvantage miles program, BankDirect has now made it possible for you to earn up to 1,000 AAdvantage miles for referring a friend or family member who opens a checking or money market account. Not only will you reap the rewards of sharing a potential savings opportunity, but the person who you refer will also earn 1,000 miles of their own.

I enjoy telling my friends and family about ways they can collect points and miles for a dream vacation. And with referral programs from travel rewards credit cards, loyalty programs and online banks, I can earn a few extra points and miles for spreading the word about my top loyalty tips and tricks!

Read More

CPA MARKETING TUTORIAL

Read More

Brain Power 10 Fun Ways to Keep Your Mind Sharp

Physical Exercise:

While scientists have yet to determine how to fully prevent Alzheimer’s disease, they have done some research that demonstrates that keeping our brains active throughout our lives can delay symptoms. Some research has even shown a delay in symptoms of up to five years. If you could delay Alzheimer’s and have those extra years to enjoy your family and friends, wouldn’t you want that? So, get ready to stretch your mind and try the following 12 activities, starting with physical exercise.Several studies have shown the cognitive benefits of physical exercise. Scientists have often linked a healthy body with a healthy mind. Stretch out before beginning your routine, and make sure your doctor has approved your exercise regimen, whether it consists of a walk three times a week, an exercise DVD, Wii Fit, or a class at your local Y.

Submit your Site to the Home Directory on Ellys Directory,Maxlinks, Free Directory and Plagiarism Checker.

Learn Another Language:

Research has demonstrated a significant delay in Alzheimer’s symptoms in individuals who are bilingual. It’s not yet understood how or why this occurs. One possible explanation is that somehow the brains of bilinguals are able to compensate for the deficits caused by Alzheimer’s, causing these individuals to function as if their brains had less damage than they actually do. Although some of the research tested those who spoke another language most or all of their lives, it’s never too late to learn a new language. You can take a community education class, go to your local library or find resources online for new language learners.

Play a Musical Instrument:

Do you play an instrument or have you always wanted to learn? For years, research has indicated that music uses a different section of the brain than speaking or writing. For example, individuals who have experienced a stroke and have difficulty speaking have been known to sing complete songs.

Although using different parts of your brain doesn't guarantee protection against Alzheimer’s or other dementias, research has shown that people with dementia tend to respond well to music. And, at the very least, music is an enjoyable way to spend time.

Memorization:

Do you have a favorite book, poem, or proverb? Set a goal to memorize a couple of verses or phrases a week. Choose something that will be helpful to have stuck in your mind. For example, someone I know chose to memorize some favorite verses. She felt that in addition to exercising her brain, those words would also encourage her throughout the day.  

Play Games:

Try strategy games. You can play with others in person or online by yourself. Fun games include Scrabble, euchre, chess, bridge, and more elaborate games like Agricola and Cities & Knights. Games that require more strategy, as opposed to the luck of the draw, may be more effective in challenging your brain. 

Read a Book:

Books are everywhere. Now that there’s so much available online, you don’t even have to leave the comfort of your own home. If you enjoy reading, try something that’s a bit different from your typical genre. For example, if you enjoy romance books, try reading a book about gardening or a how-to article on financial planning. You can also consider joining a book club if you need encouragement and accountability to continue reading.

Do Puzzles:

Crosswords, Sudoku, and jumble puzzles are all ways to keep your brain active. Think of it as your daily walk around the block for your brain. 

Travel:

If a picture is worth a thousand words, seeing something in person could be priceless. New experiences and unfamiliar situations can be a good workout for your mind. While I'm not aware of any specific studies directly connecting traveling with a reduced risk of Alzheimer's disease, traveling might be helpful for reducing your stress level, which has been connected with dementia risk.

A word of caution, however: Ensure that you’re in good physical and mental health before embarking on your adventure.

Calculate Math Problems:

Rather than use your calculator or an online program to balance your checkbook, do it the old-fashioned way. Brushing up on your math skills can be part of your weekly routine, and it won’t take much time. Have grandchildren or know others who are learning their math facts? Spending a little time helping them learn multiplication could benefit both of you.

Take a Class:

Have you always been interested in painting? Take an art class. Is fixing things your gift? Develop a new skill through a community class. Maybe you’d like to get an advanced degree. There’s no age limit on schooling, so give it a try. You can also use these six strategies to help you remember what you're learning.

Read More

Honey Skincare Recipes Plus Gluten Free Cinnamon n’ Honey Morning Waffles

Honey, a sweet and simple little pleasure that I cannot get enough of. I love adding it to recipes whenever I can. It’s such an easy way to add a hint of sweetness without using those harmful artificial sweeteners and processed sugars that cover our store shelves. Not only does it add the perfect hint of flavor to desserts, entrees and yummy snacks, but it also is fantastic for your skin. Before I was sick I had no idea how harmful those artificial sweeteners really were since they’re marketed to be “better” for you. It turns out, they’re actually even worse for you! That’s ok though, once I became educated with how our food system is run and once I learned how to detox my life and beauty routine, I learned just how much I truly loved being all-natural and healthy. Honey is the definition of pure, raw and natural since it’s made by bees using the nectar from flowers. How sweet is that?!

I absolutely love how great it is for your skin. Here are some benefits of honey that you need to know:
Helps fight acne
Diminishes scars
All-natural moisturizer
Can be used to remove hair
Aids in the anti-aging process
Softens and smooths hair
Honey Skincare Recipes You Must Try

Moisturizer – Spread raw honey on entire face. Leave on for 15 minutes and rinse off with warm water.
Hair Conditioning Treatment  - Mix honey and coconut oil and apply to the ends of hair. Leave on for 20 minutes and rinse out.
Acne Defense – Create a paste of cinnamon and honey and dab on infected area. Leave on overnight and rinse off first thing in the morning.
Scar Lightener – Mix 1 tsp. honey and 1 tsp. coconut oil and apply to scar. Leave on for 5-10 minutes and apply heat from washcloth. Repeat a couple of times a week.
Skin Exfoliator – Mix 2 tbsp. honey and 1 tbsp. brown sugar and apply to face in a circular motion. Be gentle. Rinse and moisturize.
Since you’ll already have the honey, here’s a fun recipe to whip-up for a lovely weekend breakfast treat that you’ve love and that’s super healthy!



Gluten Free Cinnamon n’ Honey Morning Waffles

Ingredients

1 Van’s Gluten-Free Waffle
2 Tbsp. almond butter
1/4 cup Fat-Free Ricotta Cheese
1/2 ripe banana, thinly sliced
1 tsp. honey
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
2  fresh mint leaves
Directions

Toast Van’s waffle in a toaster oven until golden brown.
Place waffle on a plate; top with almond butter, ricotta cheese, banana slices, a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon and fresh mint leaves.
Serve warm
Enjoy!

Read More

5 Reasons to Visit the Island of Lanai in 2016

Major Resorts Reopen, New Dining and Activities Welcome Visitors

It's no overstatement to say that tourism to the island of Lanai has dropped to a trickle since the two Four Seasons Resorts were closed in June 2015, one for renovation and one to house the workers.

The good news is that as of February 1, 2016, the newly renamed Four Seasons Resort Lanai will reopen for business after a multi-million dollar transformation and tourists can once again experience all that the island of Lanai and the resort have to offer for 2016 and beyond.

It is also anticipated that the Lodge at Koele will reopen later in 2016 and once again welcome visitors to that resort which is within walking distance of Lanai City.

The entire island and its resident population are excited to once again show visitors not only their great resorts, but also the island's 12-room quaint hotel, old and brand new activities, and numerous restaurant choices.

Let's begin by taking a look at the first reason you'll want to visit Lanai in 2016, the changes you'll find at the Four Seasons Resort Lanai (formerly known as the Four Seasons Resort Lanai at Manele Bay.)

Reason 1 - The Four Seasons Resort Lanai Reopens

The Four Seasons Resort Lanai's extensive renovation includes a redesign of all 217 guest rooms including 51 suites; newly refurbished lobbies and seating areas; a renovated spa, new retail boutiques featuring Missoni, Jimmy Choo and the Lanai Collection; and the addition of a new luxury transfer fleet to transport guests to and from the airport, the Lodge, Lanai City and island activity centers.

As explained by the Resort, "Guest room improvements include walls of teak and zebra wood edging artisan-produced Nepalese lokta paper, and floors of mahogany laid with wool hand-woven area rugs.

Fully integrated and intuitive lighting, temperature, service and privacy controls offer a highly responsive in-room technology experience that presents a 75-inch, platinum bezel LED television panel for unparalleled in-room entertainment along with wearable key wristbands to allow maximum flexibility during activities on island; BluRay players; in-room iPad Airs; and a mobile app connecting guests to a variety of information and services including complimentary access to more than 3,000 newspapers."

Reason 2 - The Water: Pools and Ocean

A new lagoon-style, free-form central pool features a cascading waterfall and two spas. Set apart is the adults-only Retreat, whose waterfalls and lava rock grottos echo Lanai’s dramatic cliffs and offer stunning views of Hulopoe Bay.

Hulopoe Bay is a marine sanctuary and one of Hawaii's top swimming beaches. In the ocean you'll find a seemingly endless variety of tropical fish as well as the island's own pod of resident dolphins.

In winter you'll see humpback whales tending their young in the waters of Maui Nui.

Reason 3 - The Golf

The 18-hole Jack Nicklaus Signature Manele Golf Course is one of the top rated courses in Hawaii with stunning ocean views. The course will be accepting daily tee times in 2016 now that the Resort is reopening.

Golfers will enjoy exploring an all new Pro Shop or having a bite to eat at the course'sVIEWS at Manele Golf which offers cliff side dining and panoramic ocean views.

Reason 4 - The Dining

Excellent dining experiences will be available at the Four Seasons Resort Lanai including their award-winning Japanese restaurant, Nobu Lanai; their Italian dining experienceKailani and ONE FORTY American Steak, Hawaiian Seafood.

Apart, however, from these fine resort restaurants, the island of Lanai offers residents and visitors alike a variety of restaurants to satisfy the biggest appetites. Most are located within Lanai City to which transportation is available directly from the resort.

Find out more in our feature Lanai’s Restaurants Offer Visitors a Taste of Local Flavors.

Reason 5 - Island Activities

With the reopening of the Four Seasons Resort Lanai their popular horseback riding and ATV tours (featuring new Polaris RZRs) will resume.

Archery and skeet are likely to resume later in 2016 following permitting. The Koele Golf Course is currently under renovation and should reopen later in 2016.

Aside from these and other resort activities the island offers numerous other activities.

Adventurous guests can choose from multiple hiking trails across Lanai or rent a 4x4 vehicle and explore the Garden of the Gods or Shipwreck Beach.

Island guests can take a sail with Trilogy Excursions from Manele Bay or hop on a bike with Lanai Cycles for a guided 3-hour downhill trek. We detail these and other activities in our feature The Island of Lanai is Open for Business and Waiting for You.

Taken as a Whole

As you can see, the businesses and residents of the island of Lanai are looking forward to an exciting 2016 and are eager to welcome you.

Flights to Lanai are handled by two airlines - Island Air and Ohana by Hawaiian (a subsidiary of Hawaiian Airlines.) You can compare prices and view flight schedules with Hipmunk.com.

In addition Expeditions Lanai Ferry operates five daily roundtrip trips from Lahaina, Maui for just $30 each way ($20 for children.)

In addition to the Four Seasons Resort Lanai, the 11-room Hotel Lanai remains open for business. Set in a restored 1923 plantation home built for Dole pineapple executives, this charming hotel is less than a block from the Lanai Culture & Heritage Center and 7.7 miles from Hulopoe Beach Park.

Finally, as we mentioned, the extraordinary Lodge at Koele should reopen later in 2016.

#Source About.com

Read More

Reasons to Visit Toronto in 2016

There are always a lot of good reasons to come to Toronto, be it for our myriad of diverse attractions, burgeoning culinary scene or unique neighbourhoods, but 2016 is giving visitors even more reason to book a trip. Here are five reasons to visit (or just get excited about) Toronto now.
1. The CN Tower is celebrating a milestone birthday

Toronto’s iconic landmark will be celebrating its Ruby anniversary this year.

On June 26 the CN Tower turns 40 and even though there have been no announcements yet, there are likely to be at least a few celebratory events happening on or leading up to the 26 to honour the tower’s four decades of helping Toronto’s skyline stand out. Each year, over 1.5 million people visit the CN Tower to experience it’s many attractions including the world’s first glass floor and EdgeWalk, the world’s highest external walk on a building.

2. The 2016 NBA All-Star Game is coming to Toronto

From February 12 to 14 some of the biggest stars in the NBA will be coming to Toronto for the 2016 NBA All-Star Game and its associated parties and events. This is the first time the annual all-star sporting event will be held in Toronto and it’s sure to make the city a must-visit destination, which it usually isn’t in the dead of winter. The 65th annual All-Star Game doesn’t yet have an official roster of players, but we should find out just which NBA heavy hitters will be coming to Toronto when voting concludes on January 18.

3. So is the World Cup of Hockey


If having the All-Star Game in our fair city wasn’t enough, Toronto is also getting the World Cup of Hockey in 2016.

So if basketball doesn’t get you excited but hockey does, you’re in luck. For two weeks, from September 17 to October 1, you can see some of the best players in the world go head to head. All games will be played at Toronto’s Air Canada Centre using NHL rules and officiated by NHL officials. It’s expected that more than 150 of the best players in the NHL will be hitting the ice for tournament.

The eight teams include Team Canada, Team Sweden, Team Russia, Team USA, Team Europe, Team Czech Republic, Team Finland and Team North America.

We’re getting some much-loved new retailers

Toronto is already a great shopping destination but things are getting more exciting on the retail front in 2016 with the introduction of some very big name retailers making their debuts. This includes Nordstrom and Saks Fifth Avenue. Saks will be opening a huge 163,000-square-foot space inside the existing Queen Street Bay flagship at Toronto’s Eaton Centre on February 18. A second Saks will open at Sherway Gardens Mall on February 25. Nordstrom is making its way to Yorkdale Mall and the Eaton Centre in the fall of 2016.

Luminato is getting bigger and better and bringing art to the Port Lands


Luminato is one of the best things to happen to Toronto in terms of highlighting and promoting art and culture and breathing new life into the city’s art scene. And it’s about to do even more for Toronto. 2016 will be the year that Luminato guides Toronto’s eye to the Port Lands with big pans to completely overhaul the Hearn Generating Station. The derelict space was used for Luminato last year for Unsound, a two day event showcasing electronic and experimental music from around the world. For the 10th anniversary of Luminato, the majority of the fest will be moved to Hearn Generating Station, which will be transformed into a massive event space featuring various performance areas, bars, restaurants and more.

#Source About.com

Read More

Why This May Be the Best Time to Visit Brazil

Brazil is going through a crisis these days. Government corruption scandal and a tanking economy are two of the country's biggest problems, and the effects have been widespread for those who live there. The real, Brazil's currency, is also losing value swiftly; recently it was valued at more than 4 reais to the U.S. dollar, its lowest value since the currency was introduced in 1994. While this is bad news for Brazil, there are a few reasons that this is a very good time to visit.

1.  Airfares

In recent years, Brazilians were earning more money and traveling more. Friends reported that while visiting New York, Los Angeles, and Italy, it didn't take long to hear Brazilian Portuguese in the crowds of tourists. However, Brazil's economic problems mean that it's much more expensive for Brazilians to travel abroad, and economic instability and insecurity about the future mean that many of them will choose to keep their money than spend it. As fewer Brazilians are traveling now, airfares to Brazil have come way down.

A round-trip ticket from the west coast of the U.S. to São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro used to cost around $1500 per person, often more in high season. Now tickets to Brazil can be found for about a third of that price. A search on Skyscanner today shows round-trip airfare from San Francisco to São Paulo for $630 per person in January-February 2016. From San Francisco to Rio de Janeiro is $577, and the deals continue to show up through the summer months of 2016.

2.  Cost of traveling in Brazil

Because the Brazilian currency has lost so much value this year, your money will go farther in Brazil than in past years. This is a big contrast to what travelers experienced in Brazil over the past decade. In fact, until now, Brazil has been known as an expensive country to travel in. After evidence indicated that São Paulo and Rio were the most expensive cities in the western hemisphere, Seth Kugel gave frugal travel tips for Brazil. According to Boris Schlossberg, managing director of FX strategy at BK Asset Management, in the CNBC article "This currency's collapse is astounding," that in recent years, a steak dinner in São Paulo was more expensive than a similar meal in New York City.

Now Brazil's economic downturn means that prices will be lower for travelers. Due to inflation, prices are not rock bottom, but they are definitely more affordable for travelers. What used to be an expensive hotel in São Paulo may now be reasonable. A good meal in Brazil's most expensive cities is now finally affordable. This is good news for travelers because in past years, the cost of a good lunch in São Paulo, for example, could easily top $50 per person. Brazil is still not a cheap country to travel in, but it is much less expensive than it was even one year ago.

3.  Benefits for Travelers, Benefits for Brazil

As the host country of the 2014 World Cup and the upcoming host of the 2016 Summer Olympics, Brazil has been makes significant improvements in things like public transportation, infrastructure, and environmental clean up. Despite the country's ongoing challenges, travelers benefit from the ways in which Brazil has been growing and improving as it has prepared to be the host nation for these two important events.

During this difficult time for Brazilians, added spending through tourism is certainly welcome. Increased spending by tourists in restaurants, hotels, shopping centers, cafes, markets, and so on will benefit Brazil. Travelers should be aware, though, that Brazil has crime and other problems, so you'll need to take precautions to keep your travels in Brazil as safe as possible.

#Source About.com

Read More

10 Best Indian Dessert Recipes

By and large Indian desserts use sugar, milk and khoya as the staple ingredients. There is no denying the fact, that desserts give a befitting end to any meal! Especially Indian desserts, ranging from Galub Jamuns to Payasam to Kulfi, we bring to you the most loved Indian desserts.

Not only are desserts part of our staple fare, but they are also offered in our places of worship. Be it the khada prasad at Gurudwaras or the boondi ladoos served at temples, desserts form an integral part of our sacred offerings.

From nostalgic favorites to modern avatars, here are our 10 best Indian dessert recipes which we think are a must try!



Gulab Jamun
Recipe by Aditya Bal

The good old delight made with khoya, fried golden and finally dipped in saffron induced sugar syrup. Also a festive favorite!

Gajar Ka Halwa
Recipe by Akhtar Rehman

Warm your winter with this recipe that is sure to delight even the pickiest of dessert eaters! Halwa made Pakistani style with grated carrot, condensed milk, nuts and golden varq.



Sandesh
Recipe by Niru Gupta

A melt-in-the-mouth dessert! Bengal's super hit sweet, made with cottage cheese, cardamom and saffron. One of the easiest way to please the sweet tooth!



Modak
Recipe by Shilpa More

Sweet flour dumplings stuffed with coconut, jaggery, nutmeg and saffron. Steamed to perfection. A famous Indian dessert prepared during the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi.



Aam Shrikhand
Recipe by Karan Suri

A Gujarati favorite made with hung curd. Few ingredients, great flavors! In this recipe mildly sweetened yogurt is studded with mango pieces and served with a zesty mango salad.


Payasam
Recipe by Kishore D Reddy

The South Indian version of kheer is known as payasam. Deliciously creamy, rice and milk pudding with cashews and raisins.




Kaju ki Barfi
Recipe by Niru Gupta

This one's a childhood favorite with many! Barfi made with cashew nuts and milk, topped with silver varq. Usually exchanged as a sweet gift on special occasions.



Shahi Tukda
Recipe by Marut Sikka

The earliest visitors to India called it the land of milk and honey. Marut Sikka whips up a rich, saffron infused shahi tudka from Awadh. The recipe of Shahi Tukda is believed to have been invented out of a way to use up unused bread in the nineteenth century Mogul cuisines.

Phirni
Recipe by Vicky Ratnani

Another variety of a milk pudding prepared during festive occasions especially Eid and Ramzan. Best served in 'mitti ke kasore' or mud pots.


Kulfi
Recipe by Niru Gupta

A popular frozen dessert that is sinfully rich, dense and creamy. A twist to the traditional recipe, this one is flavored with with mango.


#Source NDTV.

Read More

Winter is Coming! Expert Advice on How to Fight Dry Skin

As the weather gets nippy there is one thing that most of us start dreading about. Chapped lips and dry, flaky skin are a few things most of us hate about winters. Our skin is stripped off moisture and requires additional care. This would not only including treating your skin right during winters but right from the pre-winter season.

According to a renowned beauty expert, Suparna Trikha,  you should be mindful of certain things to ensure healthy, well-hydrated, glowing skin. According to her, hot water baths - though comforting - do more damage to your skin, make sure you moisturize well after taking bath. Go easy on bleaching your skin, it strips your skin off essential oils and moisture. Just because the sun is not that strong during winters, does not mean that you can bask in sun for hours altogether, protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is till important.

Another Delhi based beauty expert Bharti Taneja also shared some pre-winter beauty tips for making your skin look and feel soft.

Opt for creamy products: Pack away those gel-based face washes, creams as well as make-up products and opt for creamy ones. Cream-based products are generally oil-based and hence form a protective layer on the skin that retains more moisture during chilly days. These creams deeply moisturise the skin while nourishing it from within.Use sunscreen: Most of us restrict the usage of sunscreens only for summer to protect the skin from tanning and stop using it as soon as the autumn arrives. But not many know that pre-winter sun too can be harmful for the skin. Therefore, it is advisable to apply broad spectrum sunscreen with UV and PA+++ protection in winter on your face and other exposed parts of body. For better protection, make sure you apply the sun protection cream 30 minutes before stepping out of the house.

(Natural Ways to Treat Blackheads and Open Pores)Oil the body: The importance of oiling your body becomes inevitable as the autumn breeze may rob it of its natural moisture as soon as the fall season starts. A 10-minute oiling session before your bath would suffice for the nourishment needs of the skin. So, just catch hold of any baby or olive oil bottle and get started! Performing this on regular basis is sure to keep your skin soft, supple and smooth throughout the winter season.Condition: To keep the lustre of the hair intact, it is good to use a conditioner which has silicone to lock down the outer circle layer and seal in the moisture. You may also try a homemade avocado mask which is perfect for dry and rough hair. For this, mash the flesh of avocado with fork and add extra virgin olive oil to make a mixture. Apply this smooth mixture and wash it off after 30 minutes. This nourishing mask is enriched with essential vitamins, minerals and softening agents for your hair to fight pre-winter harshness with ease.Hydrate: Boost your beauty regimen by drinking lots of water irrespective of the season. It helps your skin stay young and hydrated by flushing out all the toxins of your body. If you are not very happy with the idea of gulping down the cold water, make sure to drink lots of warm or lukewarm water during the day.

(Skin Care Tips for Beauty: In Your 20's​)

Aakriti Mehra, a Delhi based dermatologist further shared skin care tips for the coming winter season.

- It is important to avoid long hot baths, soap should be used sparingly and scrubs should be completely avoided during this season.

- Limit the bath to under 10 minutes, and ensure lukewarm water.

- Substitute soap with moisturizing cleansers or bars, it would not cause damage or dryness to the skin.

- In case of really dry skin, use soap free cleansers for further care.

#Source NDTV

Read More

In India, Remote Villages Hold Fast To Food Traditions

The northeastern Indian region of Meghalaya is rich in native food traditions. Sandwiched between Bangladesh and Bhutan, and with Myanmar to its east, Meghalaya is a lush, hilly area of forests and lakes, with high rainfall, spectacular waterfalls and "living" bridges woven from trees that attract local tourism. Yet many of its villages are remote, with few main roads or other means of access.Their inaccessibility has helped preserve many traditional food customs, from rice growing to beekeeping.Keeping the traditional ways"Our region has been proud to host this year's Indigenous Terra Madre," said Phrang Roy, chairman of the North East Slow Food and Agrobiodiversity Society (NESFAS).

The event brought 600 members of international indigenous food-making communities together in the city of Shillong for a five-day meeting. "It offered us a chance to showcase the many foods and traditions of the indigenous Khasi communities that are still well-preserved in Meghalaya and its neighboring region, Nagaland."During the conference, the delegates were invited to visit some of the villages to experience these customs firsthand.In Mosakhia, a village of 94 households in the Jaintia Hills so small it's not on Google maps, a large crowd gathered to greet the visitors. They re-enacted Beh Dienkhlam, a colorful food festival that is usually held in July. During the festival, two life-size oxen effigies are raised on a large wooden platform and carried in increasingly rapid circles as the population rushes behind them, singing and dancing to the accompaniment of loud drumbeats."Its purpose is to drive away epidemics during the rainy growing season," explained H.H. Morhmen, a NESFAS director in that area. "With their brooms the villagers sweep the evil spirits away."A native variety of nutritious brown rice, rymbai, is grown in the small rice terraces around Mosakhia that the villagers harvest in November, the women cutting it and the men threshing it by hand.An ancient method of beekeepingBeekeeper Shahjop Khongiong demonstrated his unusual hives. Made of hollowed-out sections of tree trunks (of dieng maleng or dieng shyrngang wood), the hives are positioned in the surrounding forests and in natural rock crevices. They attract local varieties of yellow or black bees.Khongiong, a cheerful, sprightly 50-something, has been a beekeeper for 37 years but never uses any protection when working with his bee families. He pulled a large chunk of honeycomb from one of the hives barehanded, simply blowing the bees that were on it gently away. The honey was exquisite: With the delicate floral notes of a citrus honey, it maintained its depth and mineral intensity long after it was eaten.
 Only 12 people still continue this ancient method of beekeeping.Fish that's a delicacyNearby, the equally rural village of Umladkhur is reached by a dirt road through rice paddies and forests. Alma Mulat squats outside her house by a hose of clean, running water as she washes a batch of fish. When she's satisfied they're cleanly gutted, she drives a pointed bamboo stake through each fish, attaching them firmly with cane knots. She carries the fish down to the smokehouse behind her dwelling and smokes them for three to four hours using wood from the local otsyiah tree."We call these khabah in our native language," she said, pointing to chunky fish in the carp family. "My grandmother and ancestors did this smoking too, back when our rivers were clean. But 40 years ago surface coal mining began in this area, and our rivers became poisoned and the fish died. Now we buy fish from a nearby region, though the mining has recently been stopped and river life is gradually returning."Smoked fish from this and Thangbuli village are a delicacy in Meghalaya, and Mulat and other women take them to market at Jowai to supplement their families' incomes.Going to marketBack in Shillong, we visit one of India's largest and most fascinating food markets. Built in colonial times, it covers a hill in the town with steep, narrow alleys, each filled with boxed stalls of local produce vendors. They come to a pinnacle in the large, open square at the top where brightly colored foods and fabrics compete for the visitor's eye.The maket -- and the street-food vendors who surround it -- showcase the many local and native plants and grains that contribute to the diets of the people of Meghalaya.

#Source NDTV

Read More

Pecan Nuts: 10 Reasons Why They are Good for You and How to Eat Them

Come the holiday season and pecan pies are a rage. The pecan nuts with their contoured structure, crunchy texture and buttery flavour make for an interesting ingredient to include in a number of dishes, and they look pretty on the plate too. Native to America, these pricey nuts are related to the walnut and grow enclosed in a brownish-red oval shell. Now whether you say pee-can or peh-kahn, they are probably one of the most sought after nuts and can be tossed in just about anything. You can stuff them in peppers with goat cheese or toss them in a salad for some crunch. Pecans pair beautifully with caramel too, so just add a handful on top of a caramel cheesecake for a flavour-packed bite every single time. Or spruce up an ice cream with a splash of bourbon and candied pecans in the summer. You can even add a crumbly pecan topping the next time you bake a coffee cake, or add it to a batch of double chocolate chip cookies.

Nutrition in a Nutshell

According to a study in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, pecans (19 halves, 193 calories per serving) contain more antioxidants than any other tree nut. Pecan nuts in fact rank among the top 15 foods with the highest levels of antioxidants according to the USDA. They are also a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals such as manganese, potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, and selenium, offering some wonderful health benefits.

Health Benefits of Pecans:

1. Heart Healthy

Pecan nuts contain monounsaturated fats such as oleic acid along with phenolic antioxidants which help reduce the risk of heart disease. According to the National Pecan Shellers Association, adding a handful of pecan nuts in your diet helps decrease LDL i.e. ‘bad cholesterol’ and increase HDL i.e. ‘good cholesterol’, which in turn prevent stroke and coronary artery disease.

2. Improves Digestion

Nutritionist Anshul Jaibharat says, “Since pecan nuts are fiber-packed, they promote colon health and facilitate regular bowel movements. Pecan nuts prevent constipation and reduce the risk of hemorrhoids and colitis by cleaning out the gastrointestinal system.”

3. Helps with Weight Loss

Consuming nuts enhances satiety and increases metabolism, research has indicated that a diet comprising pecan nuts helps in losing weight. The nuts are also very rich sources of several important B-complex groups of vitamins such as riboflavin, niacin, thiamin, pantothenic acid, vitamin B-6, and folates which together help increase the rate of metabolism.

4. Reduces the Risk of Certain Cancer

Pecan nuts protect the human body from cancer due to the anti-proliferative properties of ellagic acid which inhibit DNA binding of certain carcinogens such as nitrosamines and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. They contain oleic acid, a fatty acid which has been found to reduce the risk of breast cancer. Pecan nuts also reduce the risk of colon cancer since they help clean the gastrointestinal system.

5. Anti-Inflammatory Benefits

Pecans are rich in magnesium which is known for its anti-inflammatory benefits. Studies have proved that increased magnesium intake reduces inflammatory indicators in the body, and also reduces inflammation in the arterial walls, thus reducing the risk of arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, cardiovascular disease, and other inflammatory ailments.

6. Boosts Immunity

Dr. Manoj K. Ahuja, Healing Touch Hospital, says “Adequate intake of manganese is vital for nerve conduction and brain function, and pecans are a rich source of manganese which is a powerful antioxidant. This trace mineral protects your nerve cells from free-radical damage, thus boosting immunity and protecting the body from diseases, infections, etc.”

Skin Benefits and Hair Benefits of Pecans:

Pecan nuts are an excellent source of vitamin-E, vitamin-A, zinc, folate and phosphorous which play an important role in maintaining good skin. Here are the skin benefits pecan nuts have to offer.

7. Prevents Skin Problems

The toxins inside your body cause breakouts, dullness and excess oil. Pecans are packed with fiber and aid in eliminating these toxins and waste from the body, thereby improving the appearance of your skin. Pecan nuts also contain vitamin A and zinc which help achieve a clear complexion and protect against skin infections.

8. Anti-aging Benefits

Pecan nuts contain numerous antioxidants including ellagic acid, vitamin A and vitamin E which fight and eliminate the free radicals responsible for causing premature skin aging. Thus, pecans can prevent the occurrence of fine lines, wrinkles and pigmentation.

9. Stimulates Hair Growth

Pecans are an excellent source of L-arginine, an amino acid which, when applied topically helps treat male pattern baldness as well as encourage the growth of healthy hair. L-arginine helps increase flexibility of the artery walls and makes them less prone to blood clots. This in turn increases the rate of blood flow throughout the body and to the hair roots which is vital for healthy hair growth and scalp.

10. Prevents Hair Loss

Lack of iron in the body leads to anemia which is one of the common causes of hair loss. But pecans are a good source of iron and hence, combat hair loss.

Candied Pecans
We’ve got 1 word for you- addictive. Candied pecans make for a delicious snack and can also be sprinkled over desserts, particularly sundaes and ice creams. Umm, yum!

Ingredients:
1 cup white sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp salt
1 egg white
1 tsp water
2 cup pecan halves

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 250 degrees F.
2. Mix sugar, cinnamon, and salt together in a bowl.
3. Whisk egg white and water together in a separate bowl until frothy. Toss pecans in the egg white mixture. Then mix sugar mixture into pecan mixture until pecans are evenly coated. Spread coated pecans onto a baking sheet.
4. Bake, but note: Stir every 15 minutes while baking, until the pecans are evenly browned. It could take upto an hour.

Pecan Pie
Recipe by Chef Niru Gupta

This pecan pie recipe features maple syrup and brown sugar, and is sure to draw recipe requests all year round. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream.

Ingredients:
1/3 cup butter-tightly packed

1/4 cup brown sugar-tightly packed
1/3 cup castor or powdered sugar
3 eggs-slightly beaten
3 Tbsp maple syrup
6 Tbsp milk
120 gm pecans-cut small, saving a few whole for decoration
1 tsp Vanilla
1/8 tsp salt
1 unbaked shell of short crust pastry of 7

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 325°F.
2. Blend brown sugar and butter and melt in a pan placed over a pan of hot water.
3. Add castor sugar, eggs, maple syrup and milk. Mix well and cook till thickened a bit (all over hot water).
4. Remove from heat and mix in pecans, vanilla and salt.
5. Pour mixture into the unbaked shell and bake for an hour in a pre-heated oven.

#Source NDTV

Read More