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Here's the latest article from the Family Travel site at BellaOnline.com.
Road Trip Fun
Taking the kids on a road trip? Even with today´s built-in entertaiment systems, you´ll want to have some fresh activities ready to keep everyone occupied.
Please visit familytravel.bellaonline.com for even more great content about Family Travel. To participate in free, fun online discussions, this site has a community forum all about Family Travel located here -
I hope to hear from you sometime soon, either in the forum or in response to this email message. I thrive on your feedback!
Have fun passing this message along to family and friends, because we all love free knowledge!
Tina Morna Freitas, Family Travel Editor
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subset: commoncrawl


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Quandoo has teamed up with Qantas Frequent Flyer to reward foodies with a passion for travel. Link your Qantas Frequent Flyer details to your Quandoo profile to start earning Qantas Points every time you dine out.
New to Quandoo? You can earn up to 1000 Qantas Points with your first reservation.* Find out how here.
Etsi pöytä:
Tutki, mitä Kingston tarjoaa ja löydä parhaat ravintola-alueet


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If you're 55 and healthy in the U.S., it's likely that you'll live into your late 80s or longer. If your adult life started at 25, then you're now only at the halfway point! And you also might be nearing the end of a long career. What will you do next?
Time was that folks retired, had a few golden years, and died. Now you've got another 30 years ahead of you (25 if you're 60 or 20 if you're 65). You're in good health, you're energetic, you've got a mountain of knowledge and wisdom, and you've got your investments. If you've been thinking that you'd travel, play golf, putter around in the garden and such — that's good. By all means decompress, rediscover life and yourself, let the stress melt away. That will feel terrific for perhaps a year or two. And then you'll go stir crazy. You'll want to do something productive. And you'll realize you need to be doing something meaningful with the decades ahead.
I'm 60 and have reinvented my life over the past few years. I've assembled what I call my Tapas Life — a bit of this and a bit of that, like the small plates of tasty food served all over Spain (and also pictured at the top of the page). It took a lot of exploring, and was well worth the effort, as my Tapas Life is quite full, pleasurable, and meaningful.
This blog is me being of service (a meaningful activity) to the millions of people who are (primarily) in their 50s or 60s and who haven't thought about their future much, or are just starting to, or have been puzzling and might benefit from a new perspective. I'm sharing my journey to the Tapas Life in the hope that my experience will be useful to you, and that you, too, will find a second adult life you love. After all, you're part of the first generation to have the longevity to enjoy this opportunity — pursue it with gusto!
If you wish to read more, I suggest you click on this link Why the "Tapas Life" After Retirement? to start at the beginning, and when you're done reading click on "Next" at the top of the page to progress from there. Enjoy.


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The Boston Globe | July 3, 2013
By Kiran Gupta
Recently, during one of my last shifts as a resident, I was supervising my intern as we admitted a middle-aged man, Mr. S, who had been transferred from another hospital. His history was complex, the diagnosis unclear. His wife handed us a thick stack of radiology reports, lab test results, and physician notes. For the moment, Mr. S appeared stable, breathing comfortably on supplemental oxygen from a mask. We had time to examine him, go through the records, and think about his symptoms.
As I stepped out of his room, his wife pulled me aside. Her face was taut, exhausted with worry. "Aren't you both trainees?" she asked, gesturing toward my intern. "I'd really prefer that we see the doctor in charge, not someone still in training."
It's not uncommon for patients and their family members to arrive at a hospital like ours expecting to be met by a highly specialized physician with years of experience, even in the middle of the night. When they learn that the initial assessment will be performed by interns and residents, as is standard in most large academic medical centers, their disappointment is palpable. I reassured Mrs. S that the attending rheumatologist and pulmonologist would see her husband in the morning, but that we were the only physicians available right now, and it was essential that we evaluate her husband, as we would any patient under our care. She seemed to hesitate. "Okay," she said. "But I don't want you to learn or practice anything on him. Just take care of him and make sure the real doctors come first thing in the morning."
I have now completed my clinical training, at least in the formal sense. As an attending physician, the idea that others will suddenly perceive me as having all the answers makes me a bit uneasy. While the end of residency was marked in black and white on my calendar, internally the transition feels much more gray. Perhaps my patient's wife was being overly simplistic in her distinction between those of us in training and the "real doctors" out there. The practice of medicine is after all a life-long learning process that provides constant opportunity for growth, no matter how seasoned a clinician may be. At least, that's what my mentors tell me.
And yet, there is something special about the experience known as "residency." As I sat down with my first-year colleague to discuss our patient, I was reminded of that initial "intern" year. I watched as she responded to her incessantly beeping pager, juggled phone calls with consultant specialists, and simultaneously typed notes in the computer system, calmly multi-tasking as we discussed which tests to order and what the diagnosis might be. At one point, she broke off in mid-sentence to exchange a rapid back-and-forth with a nurse about a complicated patient she was monitoring. A few minutes later, she left me at the computer to dash off and check another patient's blood pressure. Intern year is a chaotic whirlwind, a trial by fire, and one of the most formative experiences in medical training.
At my residency program's graduation ceremony a few weeks ago, barely three years after we arrived as interns, I remembered Mrs. S's concerns about being treated by trainees. The truth is that we are all pursuing paths that require us to be life-long learners. In the auditorium where we received our diplomas, portraits of medical luminaries looked down upon us from gilded frames, physicians whose contributions to the field of medicine are legendary. If they had believed they knew it all when they completed residency, we wouldn't know their names today.
As a graduation gift, we also received a copy of a physicians' guide written in 1940 by Soma Weiss, former physician-in-chief at Brigham and Women's Hospital. In the opening, Weiss writes: "To become a good physician one must acquire the habit of caring for patients with a keen mind, and with good judgment, tact and sympathy. To these abilities must be added hard work and a willingness to give one's self. Without these attributes one cannot become a good physician; with them it is still difficult."
Reflecting on these words, I am reminded of my colleagues' camaraderie and support over the past three years. When else in life would I be able to find a dozen familiar faces working alongside me, at any time of day or night, friends with whom to think through a diagnosis or rush to a patient's bedside to discuss an important exam finding? In their presence, interminable nights that might have seemed a slog became much less daunting—and a lot more fun. I am grateful, too, to my mentors for their fount of medical knowledge, lessons in bedside manner, and unending enthusiasm for clinical medicine. Most importantly, I am thankful to the patients who each day grant us the opportunity to learn—and remind us of our humanity.
The single-most important teaching I've taken from residency is not a lengthy list of diseases and clinical manifestations, but rather a mindset: one that emphasizes curiosity, teamwork, compassion, and doing better than the status quo. Medicine is art as much as science, and each patient is an individual who will challenge us to provide care that is just right for them. As Weiss puts it, "Routines … represent in reality but the theoretical considerations, from which we must frequently deviate when faced by the problems of a particular patient."
The coming years will mark a new phase as we move into different roles. Yet in many ways we will still be "in training." For some, this will be formal, as fellows learning oncology, cardiology, and gastroenterology; others will serve as new primary care doctors learning to practice medicine more independently; and some will become hospitalists, leading teams of residents on the wards for the first time. Remembering Mrs. S's question about whether I was a doctor in training, I can't help but smile. Even though residency is over, the answer is yes; I can't imagine any other kind.


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Researchers recently discovered that chimps have over twice the number of sign language-like gestures than previously thought. Through painstaking effort, the researchers learned to decode which gestures meant, "I like your face," versus "I'm going to claw your face off."
The first step to compiling a comprehensive database of ape language is full immersion - the same way you would study any other language. Past researchers, it seems, would miss out on a lot of important gestures. They'd have to stay behind during chimp raiding parties, when groups of males went off to patrol the border of their territory or encroach on the group nearby. They'd also get kicked out of chimpanzee alone time, when males and females courted. There have to be some important gestures going on then.
Catherine Hobaiter, the lead researcher, spent two years with a single group of chimpanzees. They say familiarity breeds contempt, and Hobaiter spent enough time with them to get them thoroughly contemptuous of her and not caring a bit what she thought of any of them. Once they were used to her, they went about their daily life without caring what she did. What she did was film 120 hours of examples of their repeated gestures. Some were easy to guess at, since they bore a striking resemblance to human gestures. The chimps would wave their hands around to get their young to become playful or beckon other chimps over.
Finally, it came time to analyze what each gesture meant. This caused confusion in the past, because not all gestures result in the desired action. (In humans, an innocent middle finger, intended only to convey that the recipient is a massive jerk when it comes to using turn signals, can result in rolled eyes or a severe beating - the latter of which is surely not the gesturer's intended outcome.) So researchers paid attention to the gesture itself, whether or not the gesture was repeated more urgently as time when on and the desired response did not come, and the final attitude of the gesturer. If the chimps displayed contentment after the last gesture, it indicated that the other chimp had responded the way the first chimpanzee had hoped. If the first chimp seemed frustrated, what they had was a failure to communicate. The team identified sixty-six gestures in all. Hopefully, they will be compiled and given out to people who fear getting ripped apart by chimpanzees for making a faux pas.
Read more via the BBC


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Yoga Iyengar: Strength, Concentration and Flexibility - All Levels
This course is taught online.
This course will suit you whether you're a beginner or experienced student. You'll explore Iyengar yoga practices, poses and breathing exercises with a view to developing your own yoga practice. You'll start by studying the essential movements which you'll use to form a classical yoga practice.
Iyengar yoga takes its name from BKS Iyengar who, for more than 60 years, developed his own innovative and inspiring approach to classical yoga. Iyengar places an emphasis on the scientific precision of movement and a methodical approach. It aims to reduce stress and improve relaxation as well as flexibility and muscle tone.
Tutor feedback, individual learning plans, peer and self-assessment.
Entry Requirements
Before the course begins you'll be asked questions about your general health to make sure that the course is suitable for you. If you are pregnant we advise that you speak to your doctor before starting this course.
You'll need to bring a mat, large towel or blanket and wear comfortable clothes suitable for working on the floor.
Next Steps
If you enjoy this course, you could try another leisure course with us such as Tai Chi or Pilates.
Important information
All courses run subject to demand and the content listed here should be used as a guide only. Course content may vary according to a range of factors such as course duration, campus, teaching staff and requirements from awarding bodies. Check our course and fee guidelines for further details.
Apply for this course
13 Jan 2021 Part Time EveningTootingWhere and whenLocation:TootingTimes:18:30-20:30Duration:10 WeeksStudy mode:?Part Time EveningDays:WednesdayStart:13/01/2021End:24/03/2021Code:TCAX219CL/2021
Complementary Therapy
Nutrition and Healthy Eating
Yoga, Pilates and Tai Chi
Gentle Yoga - All Levels
Pilates - All Levels
Pilates - Muscular Strength, Alignment and Balance - All Levels
Pilates - Muscular Strength, Alignment and Balance - Intermediate
Tai Chi - All Levels
Tai Chi - Beginner
Tai Chi 60+ - Advanced
Tai Chi 60+ - All Levels
Yoga Iyengar: Strength, Concentration and Flexibility - All Levels
Yoga Iyengar: Strength, Concentration and Flexibility - Beginner
Yogalates: Strength, Concentration and Flexibility - All Levels
Fee reductions for adult short courses
|Cost of course by campus
|Students who are:
|Receiving income-based benefits
|50% discount**
|Aged 60 or over
* There is no reduction for courses costing less than £40
** Non-accredited courses only (courses that don't lead to a certificate or qualification)
How to apply for reduced fees
Come to Student Services at any of our campuses with payment and proof of your age or benefit status.
Accepted proof of age:
- Passport
- Driving license
Accepted proof of benefits:
- A benefits letter dated from the last two months
CELTA courses
There are no discounts available for any of our CELTA courses. To find out more about CELTA email us at firstname.lastname@example.com
Leisure courses
You might be able to get a discount on some courses if:
- You are 60+ years of age. You may have to pay for materials on some courses
If you're on income-based benefit. It's usually £37 each term. You may have to pay for materials on some courses. There is no College registration fee for leisure courses.
Please bring proof of your benefit status that is less than two months old when you enrol.
Qualification courses
Aged 16-18
You don't have to pay tuition or exam costs but you may have to pay for materials on some courses.
Please note that if you're applying for a reduced fee, your benefit evidence needs to be no older than two months.
Aged 19 or older not on benefits
You will have to pay tuition and exam costs and you may have to pay for materials on some courses.
Aged 19 or older on 'Active Benefits' eg Jobseekers Allowance
You don't have to pay tuition or exam costs but you may have to pay for materials on some courses. Please note that JSA signing on books are not accepted as proof of benefits for a reduced fee.
Aged 19 or older on other benefits eg income support
You may get a discount depending on the type or level of education you've done already. You may have to pay for materials on some courses.
New government funding for 24 and older!!
If you are taking a Level 3 or 4 course, you may be able to get a government loan to cover your course. Find out more here.
There is a College registration fee of £30 but only if you are on a qualification course that is not 'full cost'. You don't pay it if you're 18 or younger or on Active Benefits.
For CELTA courses
Apply for CELTA courses using the application form here. If you're applying for the CELTA taster day you'll need to follow the steps below to enrol.
For courses not leading to a qualification
You can enrol anytime between now and the start of your course using our enrolment form.
In person: Bring your completed form to any of our centres Monday to Thursday: 8.45am-7.00pm (10-4 during College holidays) Friday: 8.45am-4.00pm or Saturday 9.00am-1.00pm with:
- Evidence of benefits or age(if you are applying for a reduced fee)
- Payment (cash, cheque, credit or debit card)
By post (only if paying full fee): Send the enrolment form with a cheque or the credit card information completed to:
College Enquiry Unit, South Thames College, Merton Campus, FREEPOST CN2701, London Road, Morden Surrey, SM4 5QX
Please do not send cash in the post. Cheques should be made payable to: South Thames College Corporation. Please note we don't accept Electron or American Express cards.
By phone (only if paying full fee): Call us Monday to Friday between 9am and 4pm on 020 8918 7777 with your credit or debit card to hand. You will soon be able to pay online too.
Advanced Learner Loan
If you're 19 or older at the start of this course and you've lived in the UK for 3 or more years, you could get a loan to help with your tuition fees. It's not means-tested, and you won't need to pay it back until you've finished your course and earn over £21,000 a year.
If you get an Advanced Learner Loan to study an Access course then go on to complete a HE course, your loan repayments will be wiped off.
The amount you'll receive depends on the course and tuition fees. The minimum is £300.
How to apply
You can apply for this loan once you've got a place on the course. After you've accepted your place we'll send you a learning and funding information letter which you need to complete your loan application. You can do this online on the gov.uk website.
For full details about the loan and eligibility, see the UK government website.


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Feds: Imprisoned murderer ran gang network
Thu., Dec. 6, 2012
LOS ANGELES (AP) — While behind bars for three decades, a convicted murderer and member of the Mexican Mafia controlled a network of Los Angeles street gangs that sold drugs, committed killings and robbed students at the University of Southern California, authorities said in an indictment unsealed Thursday.
Investigators believe Danny Roman used his 23-year-old daughter Vianna Roman and her husband, Aaron Soto, to relay orders to gang members who ran criminal activities in neighborhoods and received protection from the notorious prison gang if they entered the penal system.
The 110-page indictment illustrated the havoc wreaked by the Mexican Mafia from maximum security prisons by "taxing" street-level gang members.
Among the crimes tied to the 56-year-old Roman in the documents were the May murder of a gang member and the gunpoint robbery last December of three USC students.
Thom Mrozek, a spokesman for the U.S. attorney's office, said Roman wasn't indicted because he's currently serving a life prison sentence without the possibility of parole for a 1984 first-degree murder conviction. Mrozek declined further comment.
The indictment charged Vianna Roman, Soto and 23 others with racketeering conspiracy — punishable by a possible life sentence — after a 2½-year investigation dubbed "Operation Roman Empire." Four others were indicted on other charges.
It wasn't immediately known if any of the suspects had retained attorneys.
Federal prosecutors said Roman exerted power over 13 gangs in South Los Angeles, including the Harpys, a gang that started in the mid-1960s and deals in methamphetamine, heroin and cocaine.
Court documents revealed that gang members in the network often used coded language while speaking in person, over the telephone or via text messages.
In August 2011, Jaime Montano, who also was charged, asked a confidential informant to seek approval from Roman to kill an inmate at Centinela State Prison who had testified against a member of another gang, the indictment states. The killing was never carried out.
Federal prosecutors also said the elder Roman orchestrated the extortion of vendors at a Los Angeles swap meet long known as a hub of criminal activity.
In one phone conversation, a man known only as "Tigre" characterized the collection of money from vendors for Roman's benefit as "union dues," documents state.
The so-called tax payments were funneled back to Danny Roman in money orders and gifts, authorities said.
Two years ago, state prison officials seized more than $25,000 held in Danny Roman's prison trust account after saying most of it came from gang and drug activity.
Court documents also show Vianna Roman was banned in January for a year from Pelican Bay State Prison, where her father is housed.
Over the course of the investigation, authorities seized more than eight pounds of methamphetamine, about a half-pound of heroin and one pound of cocaine, as well as 23 pounds of marijuana and 22 guns.
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Maine teenager dies after wisdom teeth removed
A Maine teenager died days after his wisdom teeth were removed in surgery that rarely leads to fatal complications, CBS Hartford reports.
Benjamin Edward LaMontagne had his impacted wisdom teeth taken out on Feb. 19.
The 18-year-old had typical post-operative pain and swelling, but within 48 hours of the surgery, his condition deteriorated and he died in his mother's arms, the station said.
His parents, Peter and Lynn LaMontagne of Long Island, Maine, said that rescue workers tried to revive him but could not.
"If anybody could say they had a complete life after 18 short years, it was Benjamin, which makes it all the more painful to have him taken from us so soon," his father told The Portland Press Herald.
His parents believe that his death was a result of complications of the surgery, according to the station. An autopsy is being conducted.
The high school senior was a serious musician, who was planning to attend Gettysburg College in Pennsylvania the fall to study bass clarinet, The Press Herald reported. He played the bass clarinet, the trumpet, the bassoon, the saxophone and the English concertina.
A dental professor told the newspaper that death from complications of oral surgery is so rare that its frequency cannot be accurately estimated.
"The best part about him was that he did his own thing, he went his own way," Christian Cilley, 18 and LaMontagne's closest friend, told the Press Herald. "You could either jump on the train or watch it fly by."


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FY11 NEA Grants to Orchestras
May 20, 2011, Washington, D.C. - The National Endowment for the Arts awarded 88 grants to orchestras through the Grants for Arts Projects categories in FY2011, totaling $2,955,500. Awards to all arts disciplines through the NEA's three largest grant categories – Challenge America: Reaching Every Community Fast-Track Review Grants, Learning in the Arts for Children and Youth, and Access to Artistic Excellence – numbered 2,031 and totaled $57.75 million.
Congress allotted $155 million in total funding for the NEA in FY2011. In addition to the grants awarded through the Grants for Arts Projects categories, FY2011 funding supports the following:
- Congress requires that 40% of NEA grant funds be made available directly to the states; $51,678,400 million has been awarded through Partnership Grants to state and regional arts agencies. Orchestras, in turn, benefit from grants at the state and local level.
- Support for Arts on Radio & Television included grants to the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, New York Philharmonic, and the San Francisco Symphony totaling $80,000.
- The NEA provided $1.05 million for Literature Fellowships in Creative Writing in FY2011 and $300,000 in FY2011 support for Literature Fellowships in Translation.
- Additional FY2011 grants include awards for National Arts and Humanities Youth Program Awards and the NEA also allocates funds to national initiatives, such as the Big Read, Poetry Out Loud, and other programs. Complete information about NEA national initiatives is available on the NEA website.
Below is a list of major grants to orchestras and parent organizations of orchestras. Grants for programs related to the orchestra field are also included. Complete lists of grant amounts and project descriptions for awards in all disciplines and categories may be found on the NEA website, arts.gov.


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ODU Rowing Continues Strong Fall Season At Head Of The Occoquan
By ODU Athletics
Nov. 1, 2008
Fairfax, Va. - Rowing in just their third event as a varsity program, the Lady Monarchs of Old Dominion University continued to show promise with three top 10 finishes at the Head of the Occoquan Saturday in Fairfax, Va.
In the Women's Collegiate Novice 8+ the Lady Monarchs captured third and fourth respectively in the 31-team field, showing exceptional balance with their two freshmen boats. The third place boat finished with a time of 18:49.52, while the fourth place crew was less than a second behind with an 18:49.56. ODU finished just behind more experienced boats from Navy and Delaware.
ODU managed a seventh place effort in the Women's Collegiate 4+ with a time of 19:38.61, less than a minute behind George Washington's winning time of 18:52.86. The field of 28 was highly contested with the top seven boats finishing less than a minute apart.
"Today was an important day for us as a team," added ODU head coach Heather Weisel. "We'll have many firsts this year, but while we hoped to do well on our first road trip with the entire squad, we primarily focused on applying everything we've learned so far and it paid off. Navy and Delaware both have great programs and it's exciting to see how close we came to matching their times this early in the year. The Varsity 4 finished less than a minute out of first with a freshman stroking the boat, which is a huge confidence boost for them. We are all looking forward to our next challenge in Charlottesville on the 16th."
The Lady Monarchs will conclude the fall portion of their schedule with the Rivanna Romp in Charlottesville on Nov. 16.


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Kevin Hart: Let Me Explain - Movie Synopsis & Plot
"Kevin Hart: Let Me Explain" captures the laughter, energy and mayhem from Hart's 2012 concert tour, which spanned 10 countries and 80 cities, and generated over $32 million in ticket sales. Hart's "Let Me Explain" tour was one of the most successful comedy tours of all time, with more than 540,000 tickets sold. Both of his shows at New York's Madison Square Garden and his performance at London's O2 Arena sold out, as well as his appearances in Canada, Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Amsterdam. The tour concluded this past New Year's Eve in Los Angeles by selling out the Staples Center and grossing over $1 million in revenue in one night. Only five other comedians – Andrew Dice Clay, Dane Cook, Chris Rock, Russell Peters and Eddie Murphy – have sold out Madison Square Garden where Kevin Hart: Let Me Explain was filmed.


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Railwayscenics is a small independent supplier of model railway related products, electronic components, materials and tools. Many of these can be used in a wide range of other craft and hobby areas. We purchase our stock in relatively small quantities which does affect the buying price, and therefore the selling price. As we purchase directly from different suppliers and not a general wholesaler, we are able to offer a competitively priced item of equal or better quality than many of the better known companies within the model railway industry. We are purchasing our electrical stock from the same suppliers as some of the larger wholesalers and model shops. This does mean that in most cases we are supply the same components at a better price.
We have tried to keep our prices competitive with other similar suppliers, and have spent time price checking our items against other similar suppliers and retailers both online in a physical shop. We are cheaper than many of the larger suppliers, but not all. As an online retailer only, with no large overheads we can afford to do this. This does work against us, as several of the well known model railway suppliers such as Hornby, Gaugemaster, Peco, Slaters and many more, will not supply to us. No actual shop, no supply. We have not let this get us down, and we are slowly sourcing equivalent products from suppliers, mainly in the UK, and in many cases, at better prices.
We have recently been comparing our prices against items available on EBay, and again, in most cases we are cheaper and offer a better quality item. You also have the advantage that we do not overcharge on our Royal Mail delivery, as some eBayers do. We also give our products full item descriptions to help you make an informed decision on which product will fit your needs and requirements.
If you think a product is very over priced, let us know. We will see what we can do. If you think we should be stocking an item that is currently not listed, let us know. We welcome all feedback whether positive or negative.


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Calista Flockhart made a rare red carpet appearance at the 2014 Oscars in Los Angeles tonight (March 2).
The actress, who accompanied her husband and presenter Harrison Ford, wore a white, embellished dress from Andrew Gn Resort 2014 and Jacob & Co jewelry.
Calista has maintained a low profile for the last several years and it was a pleasure to see her looking so lovely although the lined version of the dress she is wearing does not show off its amazing detail work as well as the runway version.
She kept the styling simple with a relaxed updo and emerald earrings.
Being that she's the plus one for a presenter, I think she nailed it. The look is dressy enough for the Oscars without overreaching.


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President Obama was rightly praised for using US forces last month to prevent a civilian massacre in the Libyan city of Benghazi. Now he and US allies must decide whether to stop an ongoing slaughter in Misurata, a port city of 500,000 people.
Hundreds of civilians in Libya's third-largest city have been killed – including dozens of children – by pro-Qaddafi fighters. Hospitals are overwhelmed as snipers pick off people trying to survive in a city with little food and water.
Entire families are being wiped out as devastating types of bombs are used indiscriminately on homes. Thousands are trying to flee by ship, the only way out for them.
NATO commanders admit they are helpless against the urban-guerrilla tactics now being used by Muammar Qaddafi's forces. Air power alone cannot strike at soldiers in pickup trucks – indistinguishable from rebels – with mortar rockets or at snipers on tops of buildings. The ragtag rebel groups have few arms.
As a Canadian officer told German media: "It's a knife fight in a phone booth and it's very difficult to get in the middle of that."
The UN mandate for foreign forces to prevent a humanitarian disaster in Libya didn't anticipate the type of killing in Misurata. "What we have perhaps underestimated is Muammar Qaddafi's capacity to adapt," admits Alain Juppe, the French foreign minister.
Only half or less of Libya's military equipment and headquarters facilities has been destroyed, despite nearly two months and thousands of airstrikes by the United States and other NATO aircraft.
This week, the horrific crisis in the besieged city of Misurata compelled Britain, Italy, and France to decide to send military advisers to the rebel leaders in Benghazi. The Europeans will assist the rebels in organizing their forces better. And a group of French lawmakers wants to send noncombat military specialists to Misurata to help rebels identify targets for NATO air attacks.
But such steps may not be enough as Qaddafi forces quickly make inroads in Misurata, ready to kill civilians who want an end to the Libyan leader's rule. The rebels there are pleading for on-the-ground help from NATO.
But Mr. Obama opposes deploying either US combat forces or the kind of aircraft designed for close-in strikes on urban areas. The administration claims the US has limited resources and little strategic interest in Libya compared with Egypt, Syria, Bahrain, and Yemen.
America's humanitarian impulse to prevent massacres does indeed have a checkered history. President Clinton, for instance, failed to act against Rwanda's genocide but he did save lives in Bosnia and Kosovo. The US attempt to feed the starving in Somalia ended with US troops being killed in 1993.
Will Misurata become Obama's Rwanda, a humanitarian stain on his presidential legacy.
The president is in the midst of a campaign to cut defense spending, and wants to limit American leadership in the world. The US has so far spent more than $600 million in the Libyan effort. But then the US did prevent a civilian slaughter in Benghazi with powerful US airstrikes.
Hillary Rodham Clinton, now Obama's secretary of State, has offered some guidance on what to do in such situations. In 1994, the then-first lady gave a speech after accepting the Elie Wiesel Humanitarian Award. She spoke of a young Jewish girl in Nazi Germany whose writings had awakened "us to the folly of indifference and the terrible toll it takes on our young.
"She wrote: 'until all mankind, without exception, undergoes a great change, everything will be destroyed and disfigured, after which mankind will have to begin all over again.'
"Those were Anne Frank's words. Those were the words of another child caught up in another ... war. But they are the words that you could hear throughout the decades, and that if we listen we can hear today.
"It is not enough that we sympathize with the plight of children here and around the world. Sympathy is important, but empathy is even more important, and action is essential."


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TCS Campus Commune is a place where students get to interact with peers and TCSers. It helps the students stay informed about the company and also gives them a means to hold thoughtful discussions on a variety of topics.
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Your privacy is important to us. We believe it is important for you to know how we treat the information we receive from you, on the Internet. This privacy statement explains what personal data we, Tata Consultancy Services Limited ("Tata Consultancy Services", "TCS" or "we"), collect from you, through our interactions with you on this website, and how we use that data.
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We transfer personal data from the European Economic Area and Switzerland to other countries, some of which have not been determined by the European Commission to have an adequate level of data protection. When we do, we use a variety of legal mechanisms, including contracts, to help ensure your rights and protections travel with your data.
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Changes to This Privacy Statement
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Data Protection Officer
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Now that the Philippines has reopened several tourist destinations after many months of closure, it's time to show the country how to smile again. The DOT's latest video, following the "Noypi" tribute to medical frontliners, brings us back to familiar, yet slightly different territory: tourism in the new normal.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) welcomes the ratification of the Inter-Agency Task Force on the Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) Resolution No. 85 which includes the provision on allowing balikbayans' entry to the Philippines.
The Department of Tourism (DOT), as co-vice chair of the Boracay Inter-Agency Task Force (BIATF) slams the irresponsible mass gathering at the Casa de Arte, Sitio Cagban, Barangay Manoc-Mano in Boracay recently.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) touts cultural tourism in Baguio as it remains optimistic that initiatives such as the Ibagíw Festival will sustain the treasured traditions and art forms of the city.
ILOCOS SUR – Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat was among the first guests of Ilocos Sur as the province reopened to visitors, this time including tourists from Metro Manila.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) welcomes and supports the reopening of another premiere destination- Siargao Island.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) is grateful to the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) under the leadership of Senator Richard J. Gordon for the initiative to reduce the Reverse Transcription -Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) testing price to PHP 3,300.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) commends the City Government of Baguio, Baguio Arts and Crafts Collective, Inc., UP Baguio, DOT-CAR and the city government for the successful launch of Ibagiw 2020. The third edition of the month-long creative festival kicked off with a grand opening on November 6, 2020 at the Baguio Convention Center and was also livestreamed on Facebook.
More than 7,200 hotels, resorts and other accommodation establishments (AEs) have been authorized by the Department of Tourism (DOT) to operate under different quarantine classifications and cater to different types of travelers, depending on their location and purpose.
MANILA – Banking on tourism as a key economic driver, the Department of Tourism (DOT) and Nissan Philippines have embarked on a road trip geared towards promoting safe and responsible land traveling to boost domestic tourism.
To upgrade tourism education and skills training in the country, the Department of Tourism (DOT) has closed ranks with the Department of Education (DepEd), Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), and the Tourism Industry Board Foundation, Inc. (TIBFI).
The Department of Tourism (DOT) welcomes President Rodrigo Roa Duterte's signing of Executive Order (EO) 118, today, November 4, directing the Department of Health (DOH), in coordination with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), to ensure the accessibility and affordability of COVID-19 tests and test kits for all.
The 27th World Travel Awards recognized the Philippines as Asia's leading beach destination and Asia's leading dive destination in 2020. The award-giving body also declared the Philippine Department of Tourism as this year's leading tourist board in Asia, besting 11 nominated countries.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) invites foodies to embark on "Food Trips" with the second leg of its virtual KAIN NA! Food and Travel Festival 2020 from November 3 to 6, 2020.
Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat and Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Secretary Silvestre H. Bello III on Friday (October 30) signed the DOT-DOLE Joint Memorandum Circular (JMC) No. 2020-001, which contains specific guidelines for the provision of cash assistance and cash-for-work program for tourism workers that were displaced due to the ongoing pandemic.
Manila, Philippines - The Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines launched Travel Philippines, the country's official travel companion, today, 30 October 2020. The app provides users access to the latest travel advisories and safety guidelines in various destinations that have reopened to tourism. The easy-to-use platform allows users to create itineraries for their future trips, find up-to-date information on their favorite tourist attractions, and securely store digital copies of travel documents.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) celebrates the news that two of our prime destinations – Palawan and Boracay, have made it to Big 7 Travel's list of the 50 Most Beautiful Places in the World (https://bigseventravel.com/2020/10/50-most-beautiful-places-in-the-world/), ranking 8th and 18th, respectively.
MANILA – The well-received online learning event dubbed the "Leadership Excellence Series (LES) 2020" is returning once again this October as it targets to rebuild consumer confidence and redefine standards for the Filipino brand of service.
Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat urged micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to avail of the CARES for Tourism Rehabilitation and Vitalization of Enterprises and Livelihood (CARES for TRAVEL) Program to help them sustain their businesses and keep their workers amid the on-going pandemic.
Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat appeals for a price cap on the real-time Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) and Antigen tests for COVID-19 to enhance tourism revival, as the Inter-Agency Task Force on the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) relaxes travel restrictions in areas under General Community Quarantine (GCQ).
The Department of Tourism (DOT) welcomes the decision of the Municipal Government of El Nido to ease its travel restrictions starting October 30, allowing tourists to enter the island under a test-before-travel policy.
The Board of Trustees of the Philippine Retirement Agency (PRA), an attached agency of the Department of Tourism (DOT), has directed the PRA to suspend the issuance of the Special Retirees Residence Visa (SRRV) pending the review and amendments of the policies on age and visa deposit requirements.
Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat announced today that the DOT has been given the authority, by the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID), to determine the allowable operational capacity (up to 100%) for hotels, including staycation hotels, in areas classified under a modified community quarantine (MGCQ) and general community quarantine (GCQ).
ILOCOS NORTE – Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat announced that the Ridge and Reef Corridor heralds another milestone in the country's bid to spur domestic tourism recovery.
The DOT welcomes the news that the province of Ilocos Sur will open to Luzon residents on November 15 once all systems and health and safety measures are in place.
BAGUIO CITY – The Department of Tourism (DOT) welcomes the decision of the local government unit (LGU) of Baguio City to open its doors to guests from Luzon, particularly the National Capital Region (NCR) and Regions 2 and 3, starting on October 22, 2020, noting that the anticipated influx of tourists will generate tourism activities that will spur a swifter recovery of the industry.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) welcomes the amended guidelines from the Inter-Agency Task Force on the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EIMD) regarding the more liberal interzonal and intrazonal movement of persons traveling between destinations under general community quarantine (GCQ) and modified general community quarantine (MGCQ).
Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat issued a reminder to "staycation hotels," to adhere to the guidelines and protocols set by the Department of Tourism (DOT) and ensure a memorable and safe staycation of guests taking a break from months of quarantine.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) calls on divers to dust off their masks, fins, snorkels, regulators, and other gear as popular dive sites in Batangas prepare to welcome tourists.
Bring your own gear and use a defog solution for your mask.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Small Business Corporation (SB Corp) today (October 12) signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to finalize the CARES for Tourism Rehabilitation and Vitalization of Enterprises and Livelihood ( TRAVEL) program that will extend loan assistance to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from the tourism industry.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) will provide a total of Php 1.6 million funding to Boracay to cover the cost of reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) testing for the island's tourism workers, as it expects more local tourist arrivals in the coming months.
Ilocos Norte, which is famous for a variety of attractions, including panoramic ocean views, a breathtaking wind farm, baroque architecture, and sand dunes adventure, is reopening its doors to more tourists from the rest of Luzon on October 15.
Cebu and Visayas Islands have been named Top Island in Asia, leading three other Philippine islands in the top ten of the Conde Naste Traveler's (CNT) 2020 Readers' Choice Awards.
Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat welcomes the adoption of the Antigen Testing as a way to determine if Baguio City's visitors are COVID-19 free.
The Commission on Audit (COA) Renders an "Unqualified Opinion" over the Department of Tourism's Financial Statements as of December 31, 2019.
BORACAY — The reopening of Boracay, the Philippines' top destination, to new market sources signals the safe and gradual revival of the country's tourism industry amid the pandemic, Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said Thursday (Oct. 1).
Tourism enterprises can now apply online for accreditation with the Department of Tourism (DOT) with the launch of its Online Accreditation System.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) has issued strict guidelines for "staycations" as part of the government efforts to re-start the economy through tourism.
On behalf of the Philippines Department of Tourism, let me warmly wish everyone a happy and meaningful World Tourism Day. This year's theme, "Tourism and Rural Development," is particularly relevant to our country as many of our rural areas depend on tourism but have been adversely affected by the pandemic.
PANGLAO, Bohol – Even in the most unusual ways, the travel business has to continue to keep tourism alive.
Boracay Island will further open its doors to more local tourists on October 1, thus signaling the continued resurgence of domestic tourism nationwide.
BAGUIO CITY –Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat is back in the Summer Capital of the Philippines to officially launch the city's first online visitor management system today (September 22).
The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) has given the Department of Tourism (DOT) a SafeTravels Stamp in recognition of its adoption of "health and hygiene global standardized protocols" that will ensure safe travel during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Domestic tourism will be the main concentration of the Department of Tourism (DOT) in rebuilding trust and confidence in the travel market for next year.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) disclosed on Thursday (Sept. 17) some details of the loan program for tourism MSMEs that is being finalized with the Small Business Corporation (SB Corp) of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
MANILA - A virtual ceremonial toast with customized wooden chalices marked the official start of the four-day KAIN NA! Food and Travel Festival 2020 on Tuesday (Sept. 15) with chocolate, coffee and tea taking the spotlight.
More than 10,000 jobs in the business process outsourcing (BPO) industry would be made available to displaced tourism workers nationwide this month.
Lifeguards will not be the only ones on patrol when the beaches and resorts reopen for business under the tourism industry's "new normal." Safety marshalls will also be on site to ensure physical distancing.
MANILA -- The Philippines, through the Department of Tourism (DOT), successfully hosted the virtual edition of the 3rd International Conference on the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Mutual Recognition Arrangement on Tourism Professionals (ASEAN MRA-TP) that is expected to largely influence the Department's Tourism Response and Recovery Plan (TRRP), particularly its human resource component.
The Department of Tourism's food and travel festival, Kain Na!, is back and is prepared to serve exciting culinary tourism delights that everyone can enjoy online and in the comfort of their homes from September 15-18.
It's official—the Philippine International Dive Expo (PHIDEX) is back for its 2nd edition through a digital platform from October 9 to 11, 2020.
The Department of Tourism (DOT), consistent with the President's direction, has been engaging with the local governments, other national government agencies and local tourism stakeholders for the gradual reopening of the sector while underscoring the strict compliance of health and safety protocols.
TOKYO – The Philippines received the award as the Best Overseas Diving Area in the Marine Diving Awards 2020 held recently in Tokyo.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) celebrates the mention of multiple Philippine dive sites in the Lonely Planet's article entitled *quot;6 national parks around the world with surprisingly spectacular diving".
BAGUIO CITY – The Department of Tourism (DOT) threw its full support behind the Ridge to Reef Corridor Plan, one of the key strategies being explored to ensure Baguio City's gradual and safe reopening to tourists from nearby provinces within the year.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) expresses its deep gratitude to the Bicameral Conference Committee for approving the allocation of 10 billion pesos for the tourism industry under the Bayanihan To Recover As One or the Bayanihan 2 Bill. The recognition of the tourism sector by the Senate and House of Representatives, in the Bayanihan Act 2 measures, ensures the survival of our MSMEs since 99.9 percent of the 144,640 establishments in accommodation and food service activities are considered micro, small and medium, according to 2018 data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).
Online shoppers can now enjoy varied Philippine flavors, quality–sealed fresh and processed food selections, and other essentials all under one platform which provides a seamless shopping experience for the customer.
Panglao, BOHOL – Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo–Puyat assured the officials and tourism players of Bohol on Friday that reopening the island province to tourism would not be pursued at the expense of public health and safety.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) is pulling out all the stops to ensure that health and safety measures are in place in the country's tourist destinations and to reassure all stakeholders of government support as the industry prepares to slowly reopen.
It's a new world out there and we have to think out of the box if we want to go back to business as usual.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) expresses optimism for the recovery of the tourism industry, following the Senate approval of the Senate Bill 1564 or the Bayanihan To Recover As One Act on its third and final reading Tuesday (July 28)..
Boracay Island is now open to young and senior tourists from the Western Visayas region.
Meetings, conventions and exhibitions can be held only in areas under the modified general community quarantine (MGCQ) and only at 50 percent capacity, according to the guidelines set by the Department of Tourism (DOT).
The Department of Tourism (DOT) will team up with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) to promote farm tourism and help the country's tourism industry recover from the COVID–19 pandemic.
Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo–Puyat has given the directive for schools to continue online English as a Second Language (ESL) programs to maintain the country's position as a leading ESL destination.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) today celebrates the hailing of Palawan as it reclaims the Best Island in the World title by renowned travel publication, Travel + Leisure.
Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo–Puyat said that more restaurants in Metro Manila are seeking accreditation with the Department of Tourism (DOT).
Dairy, fresh fruits, vegetables and other daily essentials will soon be delivered to your doorsteps by GrabExpress from 40 small farmers and MSMEs participating under the Department of Tourism's (DOT) Philippine Harvest online trade fair.
EL NIDO, PALAWAN -- Eyeing tourism recovery in the reopening of more destinations, Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat today checked the readiness of one of the Philippines' favorite destinations – Palawan.
Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat and Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon M. Lopez led the inspection of selected hotels and restaurants in the Ortigas Center on Wednesday (July 1) to check compliance with health and safety protocols under Metro Manila's General Community Quarantine (GCQ) guidelines.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) said that it anticipates the reopening of the tourism industry in concurrence with the local government units (LGU), with the easing of travel restrictions, as more places around the country transition to a modified general community quarantine (MGCQ).
Domestic travel will lead the recovery of the country's tourism industry with Filipino travelers expecting to go to destinations closer to home and spending less amid lingering health concerns caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat hailed on Friday the reactivation of the Tourist Police units, saying it would hasten the tourism industry's recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
The tourism industry will recover well from three months of quarantine and restore the jobs lost by millions of Filipinos dependent on the industry.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) celebrates the inclusion of Hidden Beach in El Nido, Palawan in Condé Nast Traveller's (CNT) "The 30 Best Beaches in the World" feature. The list was made in light of the pandemic, stating that "…while the world waits to find out when we can travel again, now is the time to think about a future summer holiday visiting one of the world's best beaches."
The tourism industry increased its contribution to the country's economy to almost 13 percent of the gross domestic product (GDP) last year, according to government statistics.
In line with the Department of Tourism's (DOT) priority effort to roll out its new health and safety standards as well as the Inter-Agency Task Force on the management of Emerging Infectious Disease (IATF-EID) restrictions among tourism stakeholders nationwide, the Local Government Unit (LGU) of San Juan, La Union recently conducted spot inspections among tourism stakeholders in its popular beach and surfing area and clamped down on enterprises that have violated national and local government issuances during the period of quarantine.
The Boracay Interagency Task Force (BIATF) decries the entry of a group of travelers to Boracay last June 12 that stayed up to June 14 when the island was not officially open for tourism.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) welcomes the Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases' (IATF-EID) approval of the Department of Trade and Industry's (DTI) recommendation to allow the partial dine-in operations of restaurants in localities under General Community Quarantine (GCQ).
"The partnership of the public and private sector to ensure the safety and sustainability of tourism should be a model for other island destinations in the country," Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said during the Boracay Inter-Agency Task Force BIATF meeting in Boracay on June 11, 2020.
While travel restrictions are still in place, for both domestic and foreign travel, the Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) has been maintaining its presence online with its most recent digital campaign, "Wake Up in the Philippines" and its microsite philippines.travel/safeph for relevant updates on tourism-related sectors in the Philippines.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) has issued the New Normal Health and Safety Guidelines for Tourist Land Transport Services covering transport operators/owners, passengers, vehicles, and drivers.
The Inter–Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF–EID) further stressed the importance of the Department of Tourism (DOT) Certificate of Authority to operate for accommodation establishments (AEs) going back to business during the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ), Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ), and General Community Quarantine (GCQ) periods.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) has released Memorandum Circular No 2020-004 or the "New Normal Health and Safety Guidelines for DOT–Accredited Restaurants" that will cover the areas of Management; Configuration and Set–up; Employees; Customers; Service and other Procedure; Delivery; and Sanitation, Disinfection, Safety Measure, and others.
The Department of Tourism welcomes the latest tourism–related distinction received by the country, having been recently named as one of the "Rising Stars in Travel" by Forbes.com, the website of the respected American business and financial news publication.
The joint recommendations of the Department of Tourism (DOT) and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) on health and safety protocols for restaurant dine–in operations were approved by the Inter–Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF–EID).
With the hampered travel movement brought about by the COVID–19 pandemic situation, work and play are inevitably done online. The evolving crisis and in anticipation of other challenges, the Department of Tourism (DOT) and its attached agencies are making sure that Philippine tourism remains competitive, adapts well and takes advantage of the digital revolution.
Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Bernadette Romulo–Puyat reminds tourism stakeholders, particularly hotel and resort entrepreneurs to secure a DOT Certificate of Authority to Operate before going back to business under the Modified General Community Quarantine (MGCQ).
The Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) maintained its commitment to the Filipino Brand of Service and Hospitality, as exhibited by the agency's successful initiatives to assist a total of 36,947 stranded foreign and domestic tourists, since land, air, and sea travel restrictions were placed by the government as a precautionary measure to stop the spread of the disease.
We must make the transition to digital and online for our industry to survive.
The DOT welcomes the gradual re-opening of tourism operations in light of the varied community quarantine levels across the country, hoping to pave the eventual recovery of the Philippines' tourism industry.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) remains optimistic that the Philippines will regain the tourists' trust in the country as a safe and viable tourism destination sooner, and hasten recovery of the country's tourism industry.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) welcomes the encouraging developments towards reopening of tourist destinations and ensured that the tourism sector is ready to provide service under the post-lockdown "New Normal" scenario.
At least 84 domestic tourists stranded in Eastern Visayas since last March finally returned home with the assistance of the Department of Tourism (DOT) in joint efforts with other agencies and local government units (LGUs).
The Department of Tourism (DOT) has released the Health and Safety Guidelines Governing the Operations of Accommodation Establishments under the New Normal, indicating quite a number of significant changes in the country's frontline tourist services.
Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat expressed confidence that an imaginative Filipino gastronomy will remain a strong pillar of the country's tourism industry under the new normal.
How will the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic crisis impact and reshape tourism, sustainability and conservation programs at the country' heritage sites under the new normal?
The Department of Tourism (DOT) commits to sustain the Filipino brand of hospitality and service to stranded tourists amid the government-enforced community quarantine brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic.
With Metro Manila now placed under modified enhanced community quarantine and the majority of the other places in the country under general community quarantine or GCQ, the DOT, together with the Inter–Agency Taskforce on Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF–EID) and several local government units (LGU), are preparing for the revival and re–opening of tourism in the Philippines once our places are classified under the modified GCQ (MGCQ).
The tourism industry will recover.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) in an advisory directed hotel operators and their ancillary establishments to submit detailed documentation on their safety protocols for their food preparation services.
Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Bernadette Romulo–Puyat said the tourism industry is ready to face the reality and daunting challenges of the "new normal," referring to new standards and protocols for safe and responsible tourism that will direct its path to recovery.
A total of 155,672 employees from 4,290 tourism–related enterprises received their cash grants under the joint program of the Department of Finance (DOF), Social Security System (SSS), and Bureau of Internal Revenue, called the Small Business Wage Subsidy (SBSW) program as of May 4.
MANILA – Over 1,000 domestic tourists who were stranded in various tourist destinations in the country have returned home, mostly in Metro Manila, with the assistance of the Department of Tourism (DOT).
MANILA, Philippines – Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat reaffirmed the country's commitment to the regional tourism cooperation of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on the road to recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
MANILA, April 29 – Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Bernadette Romulo–Puyat gladly noted the breath of optimism shared by industry leaders during the April 28 livestream webinar on Global MICE Situationer in the Time of the Pandemic.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) welcomes the approval by the Inter–Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF–EID) of its request to undertake necessary measures to charter and fund sweeper flights for qualified stranded local tourists from other regions to the National Capital Region.
On behalf of the officials and employees of the Department of Tourism (DOT), I would like to extend our sincerest condolences to the bereaved loved ones of former Tourism Secretary Ramon "Mon" Jimenez, Jr. who recently passed away.
The Department of Tourism (DOT), in partnership with leading retail group Stores Specialists Inc. (SSI), announces the online leg of the Philippine Harvest trade fair starting April 22, 2020. The Philippine Harvest online leg will help promote local food products from MSMEs and small farmers, and make them more accessible to Filipino consumers despite the circumstances brought about by COVID–19.
NAIA, Pasay City – More than 30 days into the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) of Luzon, the Department of Tourism–National Capital Region (DOT–NCR) has served a total of 24,336 nationals directly and indirectly.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) has launched an online training program for the country's tourism stakeholders to stay relevant, learn to cope with the difficulties arising from the global pandemic novel coronavirus or COVID–19, and to facilitate transition to recovery.
Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo–Puyat assures the public that the Department of Tourism (DOT) is doing everything within its mandate to aid the stakeholders of the country's tourism industry in light of the COVID–19 pandemic.
Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Bernadette Romulo–Puyat confirmed that as of 07 April, 2020, the DOT has secured a total of 11,549 hotel rooms for the accommodation of homebound overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who are required to undergo the 14–day quarantine upon their arrival to the country.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) said at least 12 domestic tourists have returned home after staying in the Batanes islands for almost two weeks due to the travel restrictions prompted by the March 17 imposition of the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) in connection with the coronavirus or COVID–19 crisis.
The Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) is encouraging the public to "travel from home" by providing virtual backgrounds that people can feature in video conferencing platforms such as Zoom, Webex, and many more.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) Regional Office 6 (DOT-RO 6) has assisted 1,284 tourists who remained in Boracay island and other Western Visayas areas due to travel restrictions following President Duterte's March 12 announcement of the nationwide state of public health emergency.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) assisted 61 foreign visitors stranded in Western Mindanao and facilitated their return to their home countries last March 27 in the wake of travel cancellations and travel restrictions imposed by the government amid the national state of health emergency.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) Region V assisted as of March 27 a total of 246 tourists stranded in the region on their return to their home countries since the imposition of travel restrictions.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) Region 13 has assisted 1,044 foreign tourists stranded in the Caraga region in the wake of travel restrictions and flight cancellations triggered by the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) amid the COVID-19 epidemic crisis.
Given the recently unfortunate news that the AFP Chief of Staff has tested positive for COVID-19, I will be undergoing self-quarantine as I was exposed to him in a meeting last March 20.
TACLOBAN CITY—Cebu Pacific sweeper flight airlifted at least (57) international tourists stranded due to flight cancellations in connection with the national state of health emergency measures.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) has arranged additional sweeper flights to facilitate the return of stranded tourists to their home countries within the next few days.
MANILA - At least 10,300 individuals, mostly foreign travelers affected by the enhanced community quarantine, have been assisted as of Tuesday, March 24, 2020 by the Department of Tourism (DOT), Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat disclosed.
The Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) on Operations of Accommodation Establishments During the Enhanced Community Quarantine issued on 18 March 2020 states that no hotels, resorts, tourist inns, motels, and the like are allowed to operate, except those with the following:
The Department of Tourism (DOT) welcomed the decision of the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) to lift the 72-hour window for individuals departing overseas.
Both international and domestic tourists, whose flights were affected by the community quarantine impositions across the country, are being assisted by the Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT), local government unit (LGU) officers, local airport staff and the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) in terms of recovery flights, transportation, meals and accommodation.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) is aware of a resolution calling for the implementation of a curfew in Metro Manila.
In light of recently reported community transmissions of COViD-19, the Department of Tourism (DOT) calls on all tourism industry stakeholders to remain calm, to be constantly updated and to report suspected cases to local health authorities.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) and Turkish Airlines signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that aims to reinforce and affirm the country's position in the European, Mediterranean and other international markets being serviced by Turkish Airlines.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) hailed the successful opening day of the Flying Carnival 2020 on Friday, March 6, 2020.
Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat today assured the country of the tourism industry's fortitude and resiliency through the global health crisis brought by the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak in 60 countries, including the Philippines.
MANILA – The Philippines' all-time high 8.2 million international tourist arrivals in 2019, contributed USD 9.31 billion or PHP 482.15 billion in visitor receipts, 20.81 percent higher than the 2018 figure of USD 7.71 billion, the Department of Tourism (DOT) disclosed.
Given the alarming rise in corona virus disease (COVID-19) infections all over the world during the past few days, the Department of Tourism (DOT) has postponed the nationwide mall sale portion of the 2020 Philippine Shopping Festival until further notice.
Makati City – Culture buffs around the globe can now learn the ABCs of the Philippine culture as the Department of Tourism (DOT) unveils its newest ad at the Culture Launch on Thursday, February 27, held at the Shooting Gallery Studio in Makati City.
MANILA, PHILIPPINES – The Department of Tourism (DOT) and partner malls and associations announced on Wednesday it's all systems go for "The 2020 Philippine Shopping Festival".
The Department of Health (DOH), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and Department of Tourism (DOT) announced, in a joint statement, that it is safe to organize and attend public gatherings, meetings and festivals as long as all precautionary measures identified by the DOH are observed.
MANILA, PHILIPPINES – The year 2019 is deemed celebratory for Philippine tourism as international visitors numbering 8.26 million, exceeded the 8.2 million annual target set in the National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) for 2016-2022.
MANILA, PHILIPPINES – The Department of Tourism (DOT) welcomes the lifting of the travel ban on Taiwan to minimize the impact of the nCov global scare on the local tourism industry.
The Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Tourism Congress of the Philippines (TCP), which represents the country's tourism stakeholders, assure the public, especially our foreign and domestic tourists, that the Philippines remains a safe destination for travel.
February 3, 2020 – Tourists and culture buffs can now immerse themselves in the past of Intramuros via their mobile phones. Experience Philippines, an augmented reality application available on iOs and Android, houses a treasure chest of visuals and information about the famed walled city of Manila. This innovative tourism application is a joint project of the Department of Tourism (DOT) and iACADEMY, a school in Makati that offers specialized courses on computing, business, and design. To download the free app, simply key in "Experience Philippines" on Google Play or the App Store.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) has immediately advised its foreign offices in China to relay to all stakeholders involved in bringing markets to the Philippines on the latest directive by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte to temporarily ban "the entry of any person, regardless of nationality, except Filipino citizens and holders of Permanent Resident Visa issued by the Philippine Government, directly coming from China and its Special Administrative Regions," Hong Kong and Macau, in order to contain the spread of the novel corona virus (NCov).
The Department of Tourism (DOT) enjoins tourism enterprises such as accommodation establishments to take immediate protective measures to avoid, correct or remove imminent danger in areas where tourists are evidently at risk of infection.
In light of the first confirmed case of novel coronavirus (nCoV) in the Philippines, the Department of Tourism (DOT) urges the public, locals and foreign tourists alike, to take the necessary precautions to minimize the risk of contracting the virus.
ILAGAN CITY, ISABELA – Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said Isabela deserves to be regarded as one of the country's premiere provinces for its very promising agriculture industry and richly-diverse natural attractions that make for a potential agro-ecotourism haven.
Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Bernadette Fatima Romulo-Puyat is Guest of Honor and speaker during the Bambanti Festival on January 27-31, 2020 in Ilagan City, Isabela. Secretary Puyat will be speaking at the Festival and Street Dancing showdown on January 30 to be held at the Isabela Sports Complex.
ILOILO CITY–Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat assured the agency's continued support to Iloilo's tourism business by earmarking a total of PHP340.7 million for the province's tourism infrastructure requirements via the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), its infrastructure arm.
MANILA–International visitor arrivals in the country continued to increase sharply last November, a momentum that indicated another record-high finish for the tourism industry by the end of 2019, according to the latest data released by the Department of Tourism (DOT).
Makati City–Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo–Puyat emphasized today, January 24, that the safety and security of tourists remains the top priority of the Department of Tourism (DOT).
The Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB), in which the Department of Tourism sits as vice-chair, held its regular board meeting on January 20 to thresh out issues and discuss the implementation of rules, which airlines must abide by during emergencies and similar situations.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) strongly advises all tourism enterprises operating in all affected areas of the Taal Volcano disaster to immediately cease operations in light of DOST–Phivolcs' Alert Level 4 warning.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) joins the nation in hopes and prayers that Taal's volcanic activity would soon dissipate, as millions of lives and livelihood are imperiled by the continued eruption.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) extends its appreciation to Smart Communications for offering satellite (SAT) phones to regional tourism offices for use in times of emergencies.
CLARK, PAMPANGA – Philippine tourism and transportation officials on Tuesday convened to strengthen the tourism infrastructure convergence program to ensure that the country's tourism industry is off to another productive year with enhanced tourism infrastructure and increased connectivity.
Manila – Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo–Puyat confirmed that the triumvirate of the Department of Tourism (DOT), the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) are slated to visit the City of Pines on Friday January 10.
With the richness of the Philippine waters for its fine and world-reknown beaches - we are also known for diversity of our marine life. That is why diving and snorkeling are one of the most popular activities.
The foremost asset of Oriental Mindoro, Puerto Galera is blessed with one of the world's most beautiful natural harbors. Known as the Pearl of Mindoro, it is world-famous for splendid beaches, coral reefs, and exquisite dive sites for new and experienced divers alike. There are shallow coral gardens, interesting rock formations, and colorful species to watch, like crabs, shrimps, sea anemones, moray, and trumpet fishes.
Located in the province of Batangas, it is not only ideal for poking around and observing marine life but also outstanding for macro photography. Multi-hued crinoids are prolific. The variety of nudibranchs is unmatched. Night dives are especially nice and often reveal unusual creatures like sea hares, sea goblins, catfish eels, ghost pipe fishes, blue-ringed octopuses, mandarin fishes, and snake eels. The area's best known dive site, Cathedral, is two large mounds with a cross in between at 50'. It is a well established fish feeding station. Covered with corals, the site is spectacular at night. Sombrero has a shallow wall of about 60' with some good coral growth; offshore but nearby are Beatrice Rock and Bajura.
Schools of triggerfishes and sometimes jacks and surgeons swim by, and they appear to have the market on anthias. One of the prettiest dives in the area, Sepok has nice coral gardens and a vertical wall. Devil's Point Twin Rocks, Coral Gardens, and Mainit are shallow dives with a wide array of invertebrates, especially nudibranchs. Bonete, Arthur's, and Koala offer good dives for novices, with most to see above 50'. There is a good selection of hard and soft corals, anemones, and clownfishes, and goblinfishes at Arthur's.
The main reason most visitors come to Cabilao is diving on some of the wonderful reefs that surround the island. On the island are three resorts, that mainly cater to divers, who seek out the undisturbed reefs, the peaceful atmospheer, and especially to see Cabilao's famous shoals of hammerhead sharks.
Around Balicasag Island, you'll find some of the best diving locations in the Philippines. Just in front of the resort, on the south side of the island is also some 400 meters of successfully protected marine sanctuary.
Apo Island is one of the smallest volcanic islands in the Philippines. It is one of the world's best known marine sanctuaries. It began in the year 1982 with the initiative of Silliman University Marine and Biology Department. It became a protected reserve by the National Integrated Protected Area Act under the jurisdiction of the Protected Area Management Board. Diving in Apo Island is perhaps the best marine adventure in the Visayas Region. Beneath the clear sparkling blue waters of the island lies a breathtaking collection of over 600 documented fish species and 400 varieties of corals.
As a diving destination, Malapascua was "discovered" fairly recently, only in the early 90s. The island was first known for its wide white sand beach, known as Bounty Beach; it has also become known for its beautiful coral gardens and excellent dive spots nearby, including Monad Shoal, an underwater plateau where thresher sharks and manta rays can be sighted on a regular basis. To date, this is the only place in the world where divers can reliably sight thresher sharks.
Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is home to some of the most beautiful coral reefs in the world. Rising from the volcanic depths of the Sulu Sea in the western Philippines, these magnificent atolls encompass an astonishing diversity of marine life. The park is an underwater sanctuary where nature thrives. Tubbataha is the Philippines' only marine natural park and is also a UNESCO Top Diving Sites Site, a place of global importance being preserved for future generations of humankind. Tubbataha supports an unparalleled variety of marine creatures.
Colorful reef fish crowd corals growing in the shallows while sharks and pelagics haunt the steep drop offs to the open sea. A team of rangers are stationed on the reef year-round and, from March until June, divers visit Tubbataha to experience the wonders of this unique underwater world.
A sense of discovery overwhelms one when approaching the eastern municipalities of Alabel, Malapatan and Glan, which face the tranquil waters of Sarangani Bay. These towns have beaches wonderfully preserved by protective coves, and shipwreck diving sites dating back to Spanish times. The bay is more popularly known to be the home of the Sarangani Bay bangus (milkfish). Turn over another stone and one will find that the bay is also home to simple village folk who have lived their lives carving and painting their dreams in the boats they build.
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