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11 Best Hiking Treks To Experience in Nepal

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11 Best Hiking Treks To Experience in Nepal


Nepal is the perfect place for trekking, hiking, and mountaineering. It offers a spectacular view of the world’s tallest peak. Likewise, one can get familiar with the diverse culture and tradition of Nepalese society along with their lifestyle.

Photo by valcker CC BY 2.0

There are many trekking options in Nepal that can revive your soul and make you fresh and new. You may be wondering which among these handful options suit you the best?

 

Well, that depends!

You can choose your trek depending on your travel schedule. Besides, the trekking routes and budget also plays an important role to fit a perfect trek for you.

For your help,  here is a list of 11 Best Treks in Nepal.

1. Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek

Maximum Elevation: 5,643 m

Average Duration: 12-14 days

Best Time: (March-May and October-November)

Trek Difficulty: Moderate

Trek Permits: TIMS, Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit

Trek Highlights: Namche Bazar, Sherpa Village, Kala Patthar, Khumbu Glacier, Tengboche Monastery

The Everest Trek is one of the most desired treks in Nepal. If you are an adventure enthusiast, you should definitely take this trip. Though the trek can get a bit difficult sometimes, you will forget all these when you get the chance to explore beautiful natural sceneries.

EBC Trek begins with a thrilling flight to Lukla Airport. Thereon, you can trek through the beautiful landscapes until you reach Phakding village. From there, you will head to the Namche Bazar, homes to ethnic Sherpa communities.

On the way, you get to pass through the trail of Dudh Koshi River. The path then leads to the Sagarmatha National Park– a Natural UNESCO World Heritage Site. While the trek, you can catch the mouthwatering view of Mount Everest. Finally, the dazzling view awaits you in the maximum elevation of the trek- Kala Patthar (5,643 m).

With the best and well-equipped backpack and fault-proof planning, you can definitely complete this trek with minimum challenges.

2. Annapurna Circuit Trek

Photo by Andrew and Annemarie CC BY-SA 2.0

Maximum Elevation: 5,416 m

Average Duration: 14 days

Best Time: (March-May and October-November)

Trek Difficulty: Moderate

Trek Permits: ACAP, TIMS

Trek Highlights: Thorong La Pass, Kali Gandaki Gorge, Muktinath Temple, Jomsom, Rupse Waterfall

Annapurna Circuit Trek is another famous trek in Nepal. The trek starts from Besisahar and leads you to the deepest Kali Gandaki Gorge. En route, you can catch the glimpse of Annapurna I rise to 8,091 m to the east. You will enjoy the trek more once you reach the highest point of the trek- Thorong La Pass, located at 5,416 m above sea level.

The trek also rewards you with amazing views of Macchapucchre, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Langtang Himal. Not to forget, the route promises a majestic view of the Annapurna range in every corner. Likewise, this wonderful trek also feeds you with the lush pastures and soul-reviving Alpine forests.

Annapurna Circuit Trek also provides you the chance to get accustomed to the tradition and lifestyle of Gurung and Magar communities. It is always fun to explore the beautiful place and get to know more about the social aspects of the destination.      

3. Langtang Valley Trek

Maximum Elevation: 4,984 m

Average Duration: 10 days

Best Time: (March-May and October-November)

Trek Difficulty: Moderate

Trek Permits: TIMS and Langtang National Park Entry Permit

Trek Highlights: Kyanjin Gompa and Langtang Gompa, Sunrise view from Tserko Ri, Langtang National Park

Relatively a lower-altitude trek, the trip to Langtang Valley is not so far from the capital city of Kathmandu. The route starts from Syabru Besi and lands you in the highest point of the trek- Tserko Ri (4,984 m). It is where you can feast your eyes with the astonishing sunrise view.

The major highlight of the Langtang Valley Trek is the opportunity to enjoy splendid views of Annapurnas and Makalu. Apart from great mountain views, the trek also grants exposure to the unique Tamang culture and lifestyle. You will also get the chance to stroll Helambu Village, the home of the Hyolmo people.

4. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Photo by Susanne CC BY-ND 2.0

Maximum Elevation: 3,210 m

Average Duration: 5 days

Best Time: (March-May and October-November)

Trek Difficulty: Easy

Trek Permits: ACAP, TIMS

Trek Highlights: Annapurna sunrise views, Rhododendron and Oaks forests

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is one of the best short treks in Nepal. It takes an average of 5 days to complete this amazing trip which starts from Nayapul. The journey then leads through the dense Rhododendron and Oaks forests. After reaching the highest point of the trek- Poon Hill (3,210 m), you can enjoy the breathtaking sunrise view. On the way, you will get the chance to walk through the typical villages of Gurung and Magar communities.

Likewise, at every corner of the trek, you are going to be awestruck by the beauty of the Himalayas. So, to capture it all for memory ahead you are going to take a camera along with you. But while Ghorepani trek, you may come across some dusty and bumpy trails. So, I would recommend carrying a hiking camera backpack to keep your camera kit safe, sound, and scratch free wherever the trail leads you!

Another specialty of this short and sweet trek is the opportunity to explore the beauty of the Annapurna Region in a limited time. Also, you can enjoy the quality facilities including comfortable accommodation, good food, and Wi-Fi throughout the entire trail.

5. Upper Mustang Trek

Photo by US Embassy Kathmandu.com CC BY-ND 2.0

Maximum Elevation: 3,810 m

Average Duration: 14 days

Best Time: (March-May and October-November)

Trek Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult

Trek Permits: ACAP, RAP

Trek Highlights: Lo Manthang, the Oldest monasteries in the world, Tibetan-influenced lifestyle

Trek to Upper Mustang is often considered as one of the unexplored treks in Nepal. The splendid journey begins from Jomsom and leads you through the dry and barren landscapes. En route, you can enjoy splendid views of Nilgiri, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and other surrounding Himalayas.

On top of that, the trek offers immense opportunity to explore some oldest monasteries in the world. While there, you can also get insights into the Tibetan-influenced lifestyle of mountain people.

White painted houses and the organized prayer flags lead you to the capital of the Kingdom of Lo, Lo Manthang (3,810 m). It is also the highest point of the trek.

6. Manaslu Circuit Trek

Maximum Elevation: 5,125 m

Average Duration: 15 days

Best Time: (March-May and October-November)

Trek Difficulty: Hard

Trek Permits: TIMS, MCAP, RAP

Trek Highlights: Larkya La Pass, Tsum Valley, and Mu Gompa, Hindu and Tibetan-style Villages

Manaslu Circuit Trek is among the remote and rarely-explored treks in Nepal. The famous off-beat path trek offers panoramic views of the mountains along with the beautiful terrains. No wonder, the stunning view of Mount Manaslu (the 8th highest mountain in the world) makes you hungry for more.

The adventurous trek kick-starts from Soti Khola and takes you further with the mesmerizing views of snow-capped peaks like Shringi Himal, Gyagi Kung, Kang Koru, and Annapurna II. The trail leads you across the dense forests of rhododendron trees. Likewise, you will feel more of the nature walking as you passed the alpine woods.  

The less-crowded trek route takes you to the highest point Larkya La Pass at an altitude of 5,125 m above the sea level. Besides, you will also explore the beautiful Tibetan-influenced lifestyle and culture of the Gurung community.  

7. Upper Dolpo Trek

Photo by ::ErWin CC BY-SA 2.0

Maximum Elevation: 5,250 m

Average Duration: 22 days

Best Time: (March-May and October-November)

Trek Difficulty: Moderate

Trek Permits: RAP

Trek Highlights: Dhaulagiri and Tibetan Peaks, Kan La and Saldang La, Shey Gompa, Shey Phoksundo Lake

The high-altitude trek of Upper Dolpo starts from Jhuphal and leads you through countless giant peaks. During this wonderful trek, you will catch stunning views of barren landscapes and beautiful Tibetan style villages.

A major highlight of this trek is the journey towards the deepest lake in Nepal, Phoksundo Lake that lies in the Shey Phoksundo National Park. It has its own historical and religious value as hundreds and thousands of pilgrims often visit this beautiful lake.

This trip is also important for you to explore the unique culture and aspects of the high land people living there. Mostly, throughout the journey, you will encounter with Tibetan-origin people who still preserve their primitive lifestyle. In addition, the trek also provides an opportunity to explore ancient Buddhist monasteries.

8. Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Photo by Matt Zimmerman CC BY 2.0

Maximum Elevation: 4,130 m

Average Duration: 10 days

Best Time: (March-May and October-November)

Trek Difficulty: Moderate

Trek Permits: TIMS, ACAP

Trek Highlights: Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Ranges, Poonhill, Hot Water Springs at Jhinu Danda

Alike EBC, Annapurna Base Camp Trek is the famous and mostly-explored trek in Nepal. Also known as Annapurna Sanctuary, the trek presents with close-up views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The sightseeing includes mountain peaks like Mt. Annapurna I, Mt. Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, Mt. Nilgiri, Gangapurna, Lamjung, and Tilicho.

The adventure starts from Tikhedhunga and leads you towards Ghorepani and Poonhill. Besides the scenic beauty, you will get familiar with the cultural diversity of the Annapurna region. You will enjoy the walk through diverse landscape and terraced fields. Also, explore more of the Gurung villages and a wide variety of flora and fauna.

9. Gokyo Valley Trek

Photo by Zielonamapa.pl CC BY-SA 2.0

Maximum Elevation: 5,357 m

Average Duration: 12 days

Best Time: (March-May and October-November)

Trek Difficulty: Moderate

Trek Permits: TIMS

Trek Highlights: Gokyo Ri- the best place for spectacular mountain viewing, 5 green lakes of Gokyo region, Ngozumpa- world’s biggest ice glacier.

The Gokyo Valley Trek offers an opportunity to explore the splendid valley full of iced lakes and glaciers. Often considered one of the most attractive regions in Khumbu, Gokyo Valley trail has a mixture of alluring forests and different suspension bridges.

The major attraction of this trek is a hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357 m), which is the highest point in the journey. It is also popular among the travel enthusiasts as the perfect spot for awe-inspiring views of famous peaks like Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Nuptse, and Mt. Makalu.

Gokyo Valley Trek is also famous for the exploration of 5 green lakes of the Gokyo region. Another interesting thing is the waterfalls are mostly frozen in this place. Besides diverse flora and fauna, the destination also homes the solitary Tibetan-Buddhists-Sherpas community.

10. Rara Lake Trek

Maximum Elevation: 4,039 m

Average Duration: 17 days

Best Time: (March-May and September-November)

Trek Difficulty: Moderate

Trek Permits: RNPEP (Rara National Park Entry Permit)

Trek Highlights: Ancient village of Mircha famous for Buddhist Stupas, Culture, and lifestyle of Gurungs, Magars, and Tibetan origins

Rara Lake Trek is a must if you want to explore the western side of Nepal. It lies at an altitude of approximately 2,990 m above sea level. The trek starts from Jumla and consists of the highest viewpoint of Chuchemara Pass, located 4,039 m above sea level.

Your journey will take you past the ancient Mircha village before landing you in the Rara Lake (also termed as Queen of Lakes). While there, you can enjoy the company of locals carrying mixed ethnicities (Gurungs, Magars, and Tibetan origins).

The trip also takes you through the Rara National Park which is home to rare Red panda, Ghorals, Musk deer, and Leopards. En route, you can enjoy a glimpse of beautiful pine forests and other exotic flora.

11. Mardi Himal Trek

Photo by Vít Vavroušek CC BY-SA 2.0

Maximum Elevation: 4,500 m

Average Duration: 7 days

Best Time: (March-May and September-December)

Trek Difficulty: Easy

Trek Permits: TIMS, ACAP

Trek Highlights: Views of Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Machhapuchhre, Mt. Manaslu, and Mardi Himal, Mardi Himal Base Camp and High Camp

A short and refreshing trek to Mardi Himal begins from Phedi an hour drive from Pokhara. It is one of the off-the-beat trails in Nepal located in the surroundings of the Annapurna Region. The highest point of this trek is Mardi Himal Base Camp, located some 4,500 m above sea level.

Mardi Himal Trek is one of the sought-after short adventures in Nepal. Reason for this is its offerings of spectacular views of Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Machhapuchhre, Mt. Manaslu, and Mardi Himal. Likewise, you will have a chance to pass through several traditional Gurung villages and get accustomed to the Buddhist religion.

Spring season will best suit for you to trek around Mardi Himal as the trail remains covered with blooming Rhododendrons.

Final Say,

Without any doubt, Nepal is a paradise for those who want to feel the real taste of nature. The country offers countless trekking options to make your adventure a memorable one.

Photo by Jean-Marie Hullot CC BY 2.0

But before you go please make sure you have the proper gear to keep you safe and comfortable along the trail.

Bookaway

From the right backpack to wearing suitable footwear and comfortable waterproof pants and jackets, you need to plan everything before you set off for the Himalayas. Because once you’re there it can be quite tough to find the good trekking gears. Thus, with the proper gears in your backpack, you’ll stay comfortable and happy on your trek!

Lastly, besides these 11 Best Treks in Nepal, you can find other possible options as well which suits best for your adventure schedule. So, gear up the Himalayas is waiting!



Two officers k!lled as gunmen attack Anambra police station

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Two officers k!lled as gunmen attack Anambra police station


Two officers k!lled as gunmen attack Anambra police station

Gunmen attacked a police station in Umunze Police Station in Orumba South Local Government Area of Anambra State, k!lling two officers. 

 

 

It was gathered that the gunmen stormed the station in the early hours of Monday, September 16, 2024, shooting sporadically into the air before forcefully gaining entrance into the facility. 

 

 

The police officers were shot d3ad while some parts of the premises were set ablaze with improvised explosive devices. 

 

 

The spokesperson of the State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, who confirmed the incident said joint security forces recovered five unexploded improvised explosives from the scene.

 

 

According to the PPRO, a manhunt for the arsonists and clearance operation on identified criminal camp in the area are ongoing. 

 

“The Joint Security Forces comprising of the Police, Army, Navy, Civil defence and other Security Agencies recover five unexploded improvised explosives and are on the trail of arsonist and armed secessionist group members, who in the early hours of today 16/9/2024 attacked the Umunze Police Station,” the statement read.

 

“The suspected Armed Proscribe Group invaded the Police Facility with improvised explosives, shooting sporadically and fire caught part of the Station.

 

“Unfortunately, two of the Police Operatives on duty during the gun battle in a bid to resist the assailants from causing more havoc, paid the supreme price. Their bodies have been recovered and taken to the morgue.

 

“Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, CP Nnaghe Obono Itam, visited the scene, on a spot assessment to reinforce and reassess security deployment, calls on anyone who has any information that will aid the investigation to come forward. 

 

“He also assures utmost confidentiality to any such information in this regard.” 

 

Two officers k!lled as gunmen attack Anambra police station
Two officers k!lled as gunmen attack Anambra police station
Two officers k!lled as gunmen attack Anambra police station

 



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The new Tile Bluetooth trackers have a unique safety feature

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The new Tile Bluetooth trackers have a unique safety feature


Rita El Khoury / Android Authority

TL;DR

  • Life360 has launched its 2024 range of Tile Bluetooth trackers.
  • The new devices include an integrated SOS feature for the first time.
  • Improved performance and integration with the Life360 app both aim to increase your chances of finding lost items.

As one of the major players in the Bluetooth tracking industry, Tile has been helping users keep track of their belongings for over a decade. Life360, which now owns the Tile brand, just launched its 2024 refresh to the product line, with an integrated SOS feature being one of the most eye-catching upgrades.

This multi-function button that extends the Life360 app’s SOS services is a first for a Bluetooth tracker. It may be a secondary purpose for the devices, but it steals a march on the competition like the Apple AirTag and Samsung SmartTag 2. The addition allows you to discreetly send an SOS signal when you feel unsafe by pressing the Tile button three times, giving the new trackers a personal safety aspect. Location-sharing capabilities have been enhanced for the same reason.

tile bluetooth trackers 2004 boxes

Rita El Khoury / Android Authority

The Tile Mate, Pro, Slim, and Sticker all have new versions in the latest launch, including a redefined aesthetic that’s easy on the eye. Some of the performance metrics have also been improved on the latest devices. The Tile Mate, Slim, and Pro are claimed to now have a best-in-class Bluetooth range, with the Tile Pro offering the ability to register from a distance of up to 500 feet. The Tile Mate, Sticker, and Pro also now feature a louder ring that makes your stuff easier to find amongst the clutter.

Tile’s integration with Life360’s network of over 70 million users has the potential to extend the usefulness of the trackers beyond their Bluetooth range. If an item is lost outside of the user’s personal range, the massive Life360 community increases the likelihood that the item will be found, at least in theory. Tile and Life360 claim that one in eight smartphone users in the US is part of this network.

Life360 also asserts that compatibility across iOS and Android devices has been upgraded. No specifics are given as to which cross-platform issues have been addressed, but users of both operating systems can hope for a more full-featured experience with the latest lineup.

Tile Bluetooth Tracker Life360 App Press Image

The new Bluetooth trackers can now be bought from the Tile website and other major retailers, although the Tile Pro won’t be available until next month. The Tile Mate and Sticker are $24.99, the Slim is listed at $29.99, and the Tile Pro is available for $34.99.

See price at Amazon

Tile Mate (2024) Bluetooth Tracker

Tile Mate (2024) Bluetooth Tracker

Louder ringer
Longer Bluetooth range
SOS alert

See price at Amazon

Tile Slim (2024) Bluetooth Tracker

Tile Slim (2024) Bluetooth Tracker

Ultra-slim
250ft Bluetooth range
SOS alert

See price at Amazon

Tile Sticker (2024) Bluetooth Tracker

Tile Sticker (2024) Bluetooth Tracker

Small and adhesive
Louder ring
250ft Bluetooth range

Got a tip? Talk to us! Email our staff at news@androidauthority.com. You can stay anonymous or get credit for the info, it’s your choice.



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Zelman & Associates’ Alan Ratner

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Alan Ratner, Zelman & Associates managing director, joins ‘Money Movers’ to discuss why a Fed cut wouldn’t impact mortgage rates, his forecast for mortgage rates, and much more.

Janet Dell, CEO of Freeman

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Janet Dell, CEO of Freeman



Women Leaders in Meetings is a new series celebrating the remarkable female leaders who are not only excelling in the meetings and events industry but also championing inclusivity and diversity at the top. Each month, we’ll highlight women who are breaking barriers, lifting others as they rise, and leaving a lasting legacy of empowerment. These leaders are redefining success by fostering a more inclusive industry and paving the way for future generations. Join us as we honor the achievements and impact of these inspiring women who are making a difference in the world of meetings and events.

Janet Dell is the new CEO of Freeman, a global leader in events with approximately 5,000 full-time employees and many more contractors. Dell joins a small group of female leaders holding top roles in the events industry. This is the first time a woman has led Freeman in its 96-year history, although Carrie Freeman Parsons has been board chairperson for several years. 

Dell has held multiple roles since joining Freeman in March 2018. In her previous role, she led the company’s long-term strategy execution globally. Coming out of the Covid pandemic, she architected the ramp-up of the team by rehiring 95% of furloughed employees and onboarding over 3,000 new employees. It also posted record revenue growth.

What qualities do you believe make a good leader?

You have to be someone that people want to follow. That begins with trust. You earn trust by listening and responding. It’s a balance of empathy and decisive action. You want to ensure that team members feel heard and can see you driving the business forward with clear, strategic decisions.

How would you define your leadership style?

I’m a people-focused leader. I’m also a sports fan, so I probably think in terms of coaching. How can I enable my people to do their best? At Freeman, our people are our greatest asset, and their input is critical, at all levels. We work to be transparent about how decisions are made, so that people feel empowered to contribute, take ownership, and work through challenges as part of the team.

I’m a huge Dawn Staley fan. She said, “the biggest challenge is to get them to believe in what we’re doing.” That’s where leadership comes in. It’s about inspiring people to achieve more than they thought possible because they share a sense of purpose and a vision for what’s possible. 

What skills have you developed that have helped you grow into the leader you are today?

I’m still working on it. But the three leadership skills I’m really focused on are emotional intelligence, active listening, and adaptability. They are interdependent. 

Emotional intelligence helps me better understand and connect with my team. They need to feel safe about bringing me news I might not want to hear. They need to feel safe about exploring new solutions that are a bit risky. And being responsive to their needs and ideas requires active listening. It also requires flexible thinking. Adaptability has been essential, especially in navigating generational differences and industry changes. It takes all three.

As a leader, what are the challenges that keep you up at night?

We have five generations working side-by-side for the first time in Freeman history. That’s awesome, because these diverse perspectives make us stronger and better equipped to anticipate our clients’ needs and perspectives. But ensuring effective communication is an ongoing challenge, because we know that our people listen with different filters and view the world through unique lenses. We need to be intentional about weighing and leveraging these diverse perspectives, so that everyone feels heard, empowered, and eager to collaborate. 

Another thing I think about is the best way to balance the ongoing digital transformation with operational stability. Obviously, standing still isn’t an option. But we have to orchestrate the impact of evolving technology, like generative AI, while managing how it’s deployed across a multi-generational workforce. That means we leverage our core strength — people — and lean into core values, especially innovation, learning mindset, and empathy.

Which female leaders have inspired you the most?

The most influential female leader in my life has been my mom. As a former English teacher who chose to stay home to raise our family, she approached parenting with the same intensity and passion as a top executive. She held us accountable for our choices while encouraging personal and spiritual growth. Her generosity, forgiveness, and unwavering support have been instrumental in shaping my leadership style and helping me achieve my goals as an executive, mom, wife, and friend.

How has mentoring helped you become the leader you are today?

Mentoring has been invaluable in my personal and professional development. It’s how I learned to see beyond my blind spots. One pivotal experience stands out. I had a manager, Don Bailey, who gave me honest, constructive feedback after my first public speaking engagement. Despite my anxiety, he didn’t just offer reassurance; he helped me map out a path for improvement, pushing me beyond my comfort zone…again and again! This taught me the importance of open communication, trust, and providing actionable feedback. As a result, I strive to be the kind of leader who both challenges and encourages my team members in their professional growth. Again, it comes down to coaching.

Can you share advice for aspiring women leaders in meetings?

First, speak up with confidence. Your perspective matters, so don’t hesitate to share your ideas. Even in tough conversations — especially in tough conversations — diverse perspectives make us stronger as a company and as an industry. 

Second, be prepared and do your homework. Knowledge — understanding what goes into a successful event — builds confidence, earns respect, and gives you the ability to pivot when plans change. Everyone in the events industry knows that we have to adapt when the unexpected happens. We always have to be equipped to think on our feet.

Lastly, stay authentic and be an advocate for yourself and others. Authenticity builds trust and strengthens your leadership presence. Whether it’s taking ownership of your successes (and failures) or championing a colleague, your voice can inspire and create lasting change.



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Clowns With Guns: NYPD Police Officers Shoot 2 Bystanders And 1 Fellow Officer Trying To Catch $3 Subway Fare Jumper

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Clowns With Guns: NYPD Police Officers Shoot 2 Bystanders And 1 Fellow Officer Trying To Catch $3 Subway Fare Jumper


Source: Douglas Rissing / Getty

According to NBCNewYork reports, two NYPD police officers opened fire against a man who allegedly jumped the subway turnstile to skip out on a $2.90 fare. Upon observing the man, officers followed him onto a platform and ordered him to stop and turn to face them. The unidentified 37-year-old is said to have been argumentative and threatened to kill the officers saying, “I’m going to kill you if you don’t stop following me”.

The report states that the man then entered the approaching train and was chased by the officers who attempted to taser him to no avail. Upon exiting the train while it was still in motion, the man allegedly charged at the officers with knife. In response, the officers fired multiple shots that struck both the alleged attacker and several innocent bystanders including another police officer.

The 49-year-old was hit in the head. A 26-year-old woman, another bystander, also was grazed. A police officer was wounded, too. All shots were believed to be fired by the NYPD, authorities have said.

New York Mayor Eric Adams attempted to spin the narrative about what happened on Twitter and was hit with a community note that exposed his…untruthfulness.

In addition to the fact-checking community note, an independent journalist for The City named Katie Honan posted a tweet explaining the note, “The mayor’s post is community noted because he didn’t mention every person shot on the subway — including one random straphanger in critical condition after being shot in the head — was shot by police.

The 37-year-old attacker is currently listed in critical condition.

Best Gel Moisturisers For Oily Skin & Dry Skin

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Best Gel Moisturisers For Oily Skin & Dry Skin


Image Credit @ Camilla Akrans for Elle France

Gel moisturisers are like a halfway house between a serum and a face cream, offering the benefits of a moisturiser with the lightness of a serum. Sounds great, right? This is exactly why gel moisturisers are on the rise, especially for those with oily, combination or spot-prone skin. They’re also great pre-workout, and men tend to be a fan of these lighter hydrators, too.

What’s A Gel Moisturiser?

Gel moisturisers are different from other formulas thanks to their unique water-based texture that sinks into the skin instantly, providing hydration without feeling heavy or greasy. They are particularly beneficial for those who want to up their skin’s moisture levels without adding oiliness or causing breakouts. They can also feel soothing and calming on the skin, making them ideal for use after treatments like retinol or exfoliation.

Image Credit @ Camilla Akrans for Elle France

Key Ingredients to Look For

Hyaluronic Acid: This humectant can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water, making it a key ingredient for intense hydration.

Glycerin: This ingredient helps attract and retain moisture in the skin.

Niacinamide: In addition to hydration, niacinamide is used for its ability to improve skin barrier function and reduce inflammation.

Ceramides: These lipids help strengthen the skin barrier and lock in moisture.

Antioxidants: Look out for antioxidants like green tea extract or vitamin E protect the skin from environmental stressors.
Squalane: A lightweight oil that moisturises without clogging pores.

THIS POST CONTAINS AFFILIATE LINKS

Top Gel Moisturisers

SUMMER FRIDAYS | Cloud Dew Oil-Free Gel Cream

This gel cream features three weights of hyaluronic acid along with ceramides and amino acids for plumper, softer skin.

TATA HARPER | Hyaluronic Gel Moisturizer

Ultra-lightweight and hydrating, this formula for oily skin features chia seed water and tremella mushroom.

BYOMA | Moisturising Gel-Cream

An affordable but effective option, this moisturiser contains a barrier-boosting Tri-Ceramide Complex, niacinamide, and green tea.

AVÈNE | Hydrance Aqua-Gel

Perfect for sensitive skin, this cream-in-gel formula uses thermal spring water to lock in moisture for up to 24 hours.

READ NEXT: Moisturisers For Sensitive Skin | My Favourite Moisturisers | The Best Serums

© Wendy Rowe. All Rights Reserved.



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What Buyers Should Know About Fixed-Rate Loans

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Throughout the home buying process, there may be several mortgage-based terms mentioned that are either new or haven’t been part of a familiar conversation for quite some time. One of the most frequently discussed phrases during this time is the fixed-rate loan.

A fixed-rate mortgage is designed to provide consistency with both principal and interest over the entire life of a loan. A buyer can expect to pay the same amount each month, without concern of market conditions and other economic factors. This type of financing is also beneficial when determining and following a monthly budget. As a result, the fixed-rate loan is considered the most popular among current and prospective homebuyers navigating the market today.

Which Fixed-Rate Loan Term Is Best?

Although the monthly payment will remain consistent through the length of fixed-rate loan selected, the term will affect the actual amount. Generally speaking, a 30-year loan term will carry a higher rate compared with a shorter mortgage length; however, the amount of the loan is amortized over a longer period of time, equating to a lower payment each month. Conversely, a 15-year loan term will correlate with a higher monthly payment yet will be paid in a much shorter timeframe. Loan term also affects the total amount of interest paid. Shorter terms are deemed less risky, and as a result lenders usually charge lower interest rates in these cases, amounting to less money being paid overall. On the other hand, more funds need to be allocated to a monthly mortgage payment and can cause liquidity issues with improper budgeting.

Can I Pay More Toward My Loan Each Month?

The majority of residential home loans do not carry a pre-payment penalty and many borrowers choose to make additional payments toward their principal when cash flow allows. As a result, several years may be trimmed from the original loan term. Be sure to check these details with your Mortgage Professional when comparing the best loan option to meet your financial needs.

Is A Fixed-Rate Loan Right For Me?

As with any loan structure, there are several factors to consider before making a final decision. Potential changes to lifestyle, employment opportunities and overall time estimated to be spent in the home are a few variables that should be weighed when buying a home. Our team of Mortgage Advisors is ready to help guide you through this decision and determine the best financing scenario to achieve your homebuying or refinancing needs.

Un lettore: “Lerici Best Tourism Village, un premio che sembra immotivato” – CittaDellaSpezia

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Un lettore: “Lerici Best Tourism Village, un premio che sembra immotivato”  CittaDellaSpezia



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Interview: Acting Coach Terry Knickerbocker and His Process of Coaching Actors Like Daniel Craig and Sam Rockwell

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Interview: Acting Coach Terry Knickerbocker and His Process of Coaching Actors Like Daniel Craig and Sam Rockwell


Terry Knickerbocker is one of the most sought-after acting coaches around, working with actors like Daniel Craig and Sam Rockwell to help them refine and navigate the complex characters they often play.

This is the second time I’ve talked with him and it’s always a huge treat. This time around, I asked him why some big-name actors are hesitant to admit they use a coach and how his insights and techniques help bring out the best in his clients. He also shares stories on his process of coaching different actors, the importance of tailoring his approach to their needs, and why great performances often come from collaboration.

Whether you’re an aspiring actor or just curious about what goes on behind the scenes, this conversation offers a rare glimpse into the craft of acting and the guidance that helps make it extraordinary.

I was listening to a podcast that had Sam Rockwell as the guest and he mentioned working with you. I feel like up until a few years ago, big named actors never really fessed up to having an acting coach. Am I wrong about that?

Terry Knickerbocker: I think it’s still mostly true. Most actors, I think if they’re smart, have a coach, but many of them don’t tend to publicize that as if it would make them seem weak or something. So, I think that is kind of the culture. When people get awards and thank whoever they thank, it’s rare. Although Sam thanked me when he got an Oscar, and that was nice. And Larry Moss got thanked when someone got a Tony. It happens from time to time, but usually we’re sort of secret for some reason.

I know Hugh Jackman has talked about it several times. I love it. I think it just makes them feel more real.

Terry Knickerbocker: Yeah. And especially in film and television, because there’s usually not much rehearsal time, if any. It’s very helpful to have another set of eyes helping you to put together your performance. Ultimately on the day, you’re the one who’s going to be doing it when they say action but what’s the matter with having a coach? And usually, the actor pays for it out of their pocket. I’ve never been paid by a studio, I’ve always been paid by the actor, which means, besides the 10% to their agent and the other 10% to their manager and whatever else goes to their lawyer, they’re paying me some money as part of what they do to get ready.

Are you like a doctor, on-call whenever someone needs you?

Terry Knickerbocker: Yeah, I mean, to a certain extent. I try to be loyal to my regulars… Sam and I have been working together for 35 years, so we go way back. I remember when he was working on really what was his first, I would say, important job, which was an indie film called Box of Moonlight with John Turturro. I was in Thailand on vacation, there was no cell phones. So, I was in a hotel and beeped into my answering machine in New York and heard a panicked message from him saying, “I need your help.” And I arranged through the time zone differences to call him and talk. I’ve also gotten calls from him on set when he was doing Iron Man 2. I think some scenes shifted and maybe he had a scene with Mickey Rourke, I can’t remember. So of course, those things happen, and changes happen.

There are coaches who work on set. I have a colleague, Julia Crockett, who works with a lot of actors and especially works with Sarah Paulson, and she’s on set. That’s their arrangement. I don’t go on set. I mean, I have been on set, but it’s not my usual thing. So, we like to usually just get the work done ahead of time, and then they have a kind of a blueprint for the performance. And then on the day, that’s the blueprint. Then if things change, things change. But they have a roadmap, so occasionally I’ll get a call in the middle of the night, but not too often. [laughter]

When we first talked back in, I think it was 2021, you mentioned that you had just worked with Daniel Craig for Knives Out 2 and I asked why would he need a coach on a role that he was terrific in?

Terry Knickerbocker: That was my question. I don’t know if I shared that at the time but the first conversation we had, and Daniel’s a friend of Sam’s, that’s how we made that relationship, Sam was good enough to recommend me. We’d actually met years before when he came along on a session Sam was working on with me in person. But he called me for Knives Out 2 and we’ve done three other projects since.

But I said, “I love Knives Out. Our family loves Knives Out. I don’t understand, frankly, why you’re calling me. Maybe I’m about to talk myself out of a job because I’d really enjoy working with you, but why would you need me? You figured it out.” And he said, “Well, I don’t want to repeat myself. Obviously, the character is the character, but I always want to be good, and I think you can help me with that.”

And it must’ve been useful to him because he subsequently called me to work on Macbeth on Broadway, and then this movie Queer that he did with Luca Guadagnino, which is going to premiere next month in Venice, and also Knives Out 3, which he’s currently shooting in London. So that ended up being lovely.

He doesn’t need any help from me to tell him how to do Benoit Blanc. He solved that. But we’re really digging into the moments and the arc and really working with the language. Rian Johnson, his scripts are brilliant and they’re just about perfect. But we’re working on how to just be clear on what the moments are about, what the relationships are about, where the climaxes are, and just an outside eye for how to make it super clear and super compelling and super interesting.

When you guys first start working together on a project, what are the first couple things you do? Does he come in already prepared and knowing the character and what he wants to do with it?

Terry Knickerbocker: He definitely knows the character because that’s a recurring character. But yeah, I think he comes with whatever’s most salient for him about why he thinks he needs help. So, when it was Macbeth, I think it was very much for him about, he had an idea about the sexual nature of Macbeth’s relationship with Lady Macbeth. And he wanted it to be really juicy and have that permeate the perfume and the sort of animal thing that is connected to his ambition and is somehow consummated in their physicality together. He wanted to see if that idea could actually be mapped out from start to finish in all the scenes, not just with her, but with Duncan and Benoit and all the other major characters.

I’ll just say one other thing, I have to figure out the language that works for them. Like Sam happens to have studied with the man who was my teacher and mentor, William Esper. That’s where we met. And William Esper was a protege and a student of Sanford Meisner, you’ve probably heard of the Meisner Technique. So that’s the lineage I’m part of. Sam speaks that language, and so we can use all the inside baseball terminology, like particularizations. So, we say, what’s the particularization, how do you particularize that? Or what’s my emotional preparation for this scene? Or what’s an action that I can do? Whereas a lot of actors just think about objectives and don’t think about actions.

I work with Natasha Lyonne, who’s basically untrained. And I can’t go, “Okay, now we’re going to do Meisner work.” That’s my secret navigating compass but I’m not necessarily making them into Meisner actors. I’m finding the language that works. With Natasha, it’s a lot about associations to other actors in other projects. Like I might say, “Oh, this is like John Cazale in Deer Hunter, and that’ll ring a bell for her.

So, I have to find what’s the thing that is their process rather than making them do my process. And that’s interesting.

How long does it usually take you guys to finish? And when do you know it’s done?

Terry Knickerbocker: I really respect Daniel and I really respect Sam Rockwell a lot. I respect a most of the of actors that I work with. Some of the actors I work with are a little more… A little more scrambled with their time management and so sometimes we don’t always get the work done, and it always feels sort of a day late and a dollar short. Daniel and Sam make the time to work on it until it feels done. We typically work an hour and a half to two-hour sessions, and I think the work on Knives Out happened over a month. We might have two of those a week.

With Sam on American Buffalo on Broadway, we worked on that twice because it was supposed to open the March that COVID hit New York, and then it got postponed for two years, and then it got restarted again. We worked on that for a couple months. He’s doing a movie right now with Gore Verbinski and Juno Temple and a bunch of other really great actors out in South Africa that’s just about wrapping that he’s been working on for about three months. We started working on that October of last year until February of this year, on and off. But we might go through the script twice.

I remember with Knives Out 2, we got through the whole script. We sort of work usually sequentially just to get the story arc correct, even though that’s not how they shoot, they always shoot out a sequence, just to get the story arc correct. And then he said, “I want to go back and work on some of these speeches.” We did the same thing with Queer, which is a big movie written by Justin Kuritzkes who wrote Challengers. There’s a lot of action and then there were these longer speeches that Daniel wanted to work on because they were kind of complicated.

So, it’s wherever the actor is feeling it needs a little bit more love, a little bit more attention. The goal is to make them feel that they’re ready and that they have a solid roadmap of what they’re doing in every moment and what all their relationships are about, so that when they get to set on any given day, they have a plan, which if it were a play, would’ve come out of rehearsal.

How detailed is it? Are you guys going line by line sometimes?

Terry Knickerbocker: 1000%, because you need to know what you’re going to do with every line.

Now, it depends on the timeframe, and it depends if it’s film or television. Television works at a different schedule than film. When I worked with Emmy Rossum on Shameless, we did nine seasons. Obviously, she wasn’t the only character, but she was one of the primary characters. She and Bill Macy were the main characters in that show for nine seasons and her role as Fiona grew and they were doing basically an episode a week. And so, we would do all her scenes in about an hour and a half once a week and rough it out, but not get too caught in the details. If that had been a film, we might have spent three times as long on those scenes.

Have you ever worked with an actor who has an idea of the character, and you just think it’s completely wrong?

Terry Knickerbocker: You know, at the end of the day, they’re hiring me. But they’re also hiring my point of view and my expertise. So often it’s not necessarily about a character, but it might be about an approach to a scene or about the vibe of a scene. And it is all a conversation. I’m not the director, so I don’t get to tell them what to do, and even directors shouldn’t really be telling actors what to do. You hired me, so let’s collaborate together and let’s find a point of meeting. But that’s what happens with actors and directors.

But when it comes to me, I’m not the boss. They’re the client. I can offer what I think, I can make arguments for it in ways that where we’re trying to get on the same page, but I will support what they need, what they want to do. And at the end of the day, we may have to agree to disagree, but I would say usually they’re cooperative because I’m pretty good at script analysis.

I want to ask you about your studio, are you still doing both in person and online classes?

Terry Knickerbocker: We’re not doing too many online classes, but we may bring those back because it may be that for some people, that’s what’s useful if they can’t get to New York. During the pandemic from March of 2020 until summer of 2021, we were exclusively online. And then in the fall of ’21, I think, we came back and in person but with masks for a year. And that was a bit strange.

We have a great voiceover teacher named Andy Roth who used to go to a studio with people and then when COVID hit, he kind of went, “Oh, I can actually teach this much better online and the results are better.” But for the most part, we’re just in person. It works better in person. Things like kissing and dancing are a little bit hard to do online.

I do a lot of coaching online. So that’s very doable. There are some people I’ve coached for years I’ve never met in person.

For more information on Terry Knickerbocker and his studio, click here.



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