Comments on GRAHAM E.FULLER's A World without Islam article:
Fuller does a good job in trying to figure out how history would have been shaped? After a few pages of interesting and thought-provocative read, he comes up with a conclusion: the world would have witnessed, more or less, the same conflicts that are present this day. Middle Easterners, whether Muslims or not, would have resisted the crusades and the invasions by the Western civilization.
He gave plenty of examples of how many conflicts this day could have occurred, and might have even been worse even if Islam was not present describing how most major tragedies were not caused by Muslims.
Besides this I’m also thinking about the World Wars and if we talk about the crime and violence globally "Islam" isn't the real cause behind any big issue in domestic and global side. Take the example of suicides cases globally.
It's the policies which matters a lot and above all knowing the other side before making any stereotype notion and provoking it in society. A broad thinking and flexibility is what we needs which is the real "Education" what I feels.
I want to give here the extra ordinary examples of the people who dare to save many lives in dangerous situations whether in wars or recent trauma of terrorism. Last year's terror attacks in Mumbai, India where all the terrorists are Islamic and killed hundreds of people were saved by people who're also Muslims.
Other example is of the two hoteliers, I met in Hamburg in Germany jointly running their hotel have Jewish and Islamic backgrounds. If they can live peacefully there then why several ones with their different descents are fighting in Gaza? If we see the whole scenario with one "hatred" eye which is very narrow and biased on stereotype notions then the conflict will go deep, instead of getting any solution.
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Learning to Live With Radical Islam
Fareed Zakaria's cover story in the Newsweek makes a useful distinction between "Islamists" and "terrorists" without failing to highlight the horror of Sharia law. But one must have to understand the history beyond this. Before making any reaction and comments we must understand, "What is Radical Islam"?
A few contradictions he makes in this article, as I think and I want to make further comment on this: “The veil is not the same as the suicide belt. We can better pursue our values if we recognize the local and cultural context, and appreciate that people want to find their own balance between freedom and order, liberty and
license.” From the article
Comment: One kills the person immediately and the other just takes years. Here he makes a distinction between the political and social problems of radical Islam. He would want a political solution, aid to those countries, but let them maintain status quo in the social arena. This does not solve the problem as it will create more Saudi Arabias which are linked to the world politically and economically, yet are the prime harbinger of Islamic terror.
The defensive mentality of Islamists when approached with their civil problems does not aid in the solution of the larger problems posed by their religion and its supporters to the remainder of the world.
Fareed’s solution of ignoring the Islamists as long as they don’t kill us would be a good solution if the Islamists were isolated geographically. But unfortunately Islamists form a sizable minority in many countries and they often want to be governed by their own religious laws. If I’ll talk about India here, then there is also a Muslim panel of law for Islamic community but it's not bigger then the supreme law, which is equal for all. Even in England, there seem too many Islamists who want “Sharia” to be enforced.
We know that Netherlands, Denmark and other European countries which have a sizable Muslim population are slowly facing this issue. It also doesn't go into how we convince lawmakers that slow processes rather than bombs may work better.
A few contradictions he makes in this article, as I think and I want to make further comment on this: “The veil is not the same as the suicide belt. We can better pursue our values if we recognize the local and cultural context, and appreciate that people want to find their own balance between freedom and order, liberty and
license.” From the article
Comment: One kills the person immediately and the other just takes years. Here he makes a distinction between the political and social problems of radical Islam. He would want a political solution, aid to those countries, but let them maintain status quo in the social arena. This does not solve the problem as it will create more Saudi Arabias which are linked to the world politically and economically, yet are the prime harbinger of Islamic terror.
The defensive mentality of Islamists when approached with their civil problems does not aid in the solution of the larger problems posed by their religion and its supporters to the remainder of the world.
Fareed’s solution of ignoring the Islamists as long as they don’t kill us would be a good solution if the Islamists were isolated geographically. But unfortunately Islamists form a sizable minority in many countries and they often want to be governed by their own religious laws. If I’ll talk about India here, then there is also a Muslim panel of law for Islamic community but it's not bigger then the supreme law, which is equal for all. Even in England, there seem too many Islamists who want “Sharia” to be enforced.
We know that Netherlands, Denmark and other European countries which have a sizable Muslim population are slowly facing this issue. It also doesn't go into how we convince lawmakers that slow processes rather than bombs may work better.
Bonjour Paris
If you want to see multiethnicity then visit Paris. Significant Arab, southern European, Africans, North American, and Asian populations make this city one of the most diverse in the world.
My first time in Paris was for 4 days tour. We ran in and out of the metro. It was a very wonderful experience for me and whatever I heard about the beauty, the romance and the charm, walking on the road saying bye to my friends in the late evening, I was very anxious to sniff and feel whatever I heard. I want to capture the beauty in my newly bought gadget so as I did here too.
The first surprising factor was to see a lot of immigrants from many countries living there, a lot if I compare Amsterdam, where I’d been many times. The second factor was the beauty of architecture from traditional to modern mix-up. This city has preserved a lot in it.
Roaming around this beautiful city I was so hypnotize that in the end I forget my way to the hotel. At last I was succeeding with half-n-half efforts of mine and locals and I was in front gate just before the last time check-in.
On the very next day our group had gathered together and after few new joining with our university professors as our new guides we followed them. One of the first things we decided to do was to visit the Musée d'Orsay. Admittedly I’m not the avid art lover, but it changed my perception and I fell in love with arts.
I'm a big fan of Realism & Romanticism. It was so excited to visit Musee de Orsay during my very first visit. Here you can feel very different emotions, from The Swing painted by Renoir, to Nymphéas (waterlilies) by Monet, and the Church of Auvers sur Oise by Vincent Van Gogh.
The Train station structure itself is as beautiful as the artwork it holds. So much light with a wonderful glass dome ceiling. I was lost somewhere in beautiful paintings and what I really had experienced and I would advise others that you will need almost the entire day to take in this amazing museum.
Our next move was towards Notre Dame. While walking along the beautiful River Seine in pretty sunny afternoon, we reached there. Notre Dame is well known to many, and I've always been impressed by the architecture of the building. It feels immensely peaceful to sit inside the cathedral and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the cathedral. The stained glass windows and with music,I was feeling that I’m in the Zen.
While experiencing the beauty of River Seine, we're moving towards Centre Pompidou. It is an essential stop on any Paris trip. And the building is a work of art too. The exterior of the building is amazing. If you appreciate modern art, this is the museum for you.
But there's still more to see and after eating our lunch and shuffling from one metro to another metro stops we reached La Défense. This is the city's large business district. The skyscrapers & the modern architecture makes you feel very different when you traveled from art and museums surroundings.
Our next trip was Musee Rodin. It's an historic mansion where Auguste Rodin resided & worked. Outside you will find the French sculptor's The Gates of Hell, Balzac & the Thinker & the Kiss. Beautifully crafted by the artist and every sculptor was telling his own story.
Rodin’s work is truly impressive. Some of the sculptures are kept inside a mansion on the grounds and some are kept outside in the rose gardens. It is very peaceful inside and beautiful. The gardens are lovely. Rodin's sculptures just needed the life, it has the expressive faces, and the postures are having a life like feelings and details.
Well,that was our last sightseeing point and last day of our excursion. After experiencing this city in these 4 days, what I feel is that we need more time to explore more. Not as tourist but as among one of the Parisians to experience the daily life and feelings.
Another great thing about Paris is all of the concert venues. You have to love a country where the arts are nationally sponsored. It's my personal suggestion to spend more time above the city on rental bikes and less time in the metros.
My first time in Paris was for 4 days tour. We ran in and out of the metro. It was a very wonderful experience for me and whatever I heard about the beauty, the romance and the charm, walking on the road saying bye to my friends in the late evening, I was very anxious to sniff and feel whatever I heard. I want to capture the beauty in my newly bought gadget so as I did here too.
The first surprising factor was to see a lot of immigrants from many countries living there, a lot if I compare Amsterdam, where I’d been many times. The second factor was the beauty of architecture from traditional to modern mix-up. This city has preserved a lot in it.
Roaming around this beautiful city I was so hypnotize that in the end I forget my way to the hotel. At last I was succeeding with half-n-half efforts of mine and locals and I was in front gate just before the last time check-in.
On the very next day our group had gathered together and after few new joining with our university professors as our new guides we followed them. One of the first things we decided to do was to visit the Musée d'Orsay. Admittedly I’m not the avid art lover, but it changed my perception and I fell in love with arts.
I'm a big fan of Realism & Romanticism. It was so excited to visit Musee de Orsay during my very first visit. Here you can feel very different emotions, from The Swing painted by Renoir, to Nymphéas (waterlilies) by Monet, and the Church of Auvers sur Oise by Vincent Van Gogh.
The Train station structure itself is as beautiful as the artwork it holds. So much light with a wonderful glass dome ceiling. I was lost somewhere in beautiful paintings and what I really had experienced and I would advise others that you will need almost the entire day to take in this amazing museum.
Our next move was towards Notre Dame. While walking along the beautiful River Seine in pretty sunny afternoon, we reached there. Notre Dame is well known to many, and I've always been impressed by the architecture of the building. It feels immensely peaceful to sit inside the cathedral and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the cathedral. The stained glass windows and with music,I was feeling that I’m in the Zen.
While experiencing the beauty of River Seine, we're moving towards Centre Pompidou. It is an essential stop on any Paris trip. And the building is a work of art too. The exterior of the building is amazing. If you appreciate modern art, this is the museum for you.
But there's still more to see and after eating our lunch and shuffling from one metro to another metro stops we reached La Défense. This is the city's large business district. The skyscrapers & the modern architecture makes you feel very different when you traveled from art and museums surroundings.
Our next trip was Musee Rodin. It's an historic mansion where Auguste Rodin resided & worked. Outside you will find the French sculptor's The Gates of Hell, Balzac & the Thinker & the Kiss. Beautifully crafted by the artist and every sculptor was telling his own story.
Rodin’s work is truly impressive. Some of the sculptures are kept inside a mansion on the grounds and some are kept outside in the rose gardens. It is very peaceful inside and beautiful. The gardens are lovely. Rodin's sculptures just needed the life, it has the expressive faces, and the postures are having a life like feelings and details.
Well,that was our last sightseeing point and last day of our excursion. After experiencing this city in these 4 days, what I feel is that we need more time to explore more. Not as tourist but as among one of the Parisians to experience the daily life and feelings.
Another great thing about Paris is all of the concert venues. You have to love a country where the arts are nationally sponsored. It's my personal suggestion to spend more time above the city on rental bikes and less time in the metros.
The Impressions of Van Gogh
One of the well renowned impressionists of all time in art history, Vincent Van Gogh and his collections in the Dutch capital is telling a magnanimous glory in his creations of a true impressionist.
There are many sites and attractions to see in Amsterdam, and although most people will immediately think of the city's Red Light District, there is in fact a great deal of history packed into the Dutch capital. The Van Gogh Museum itself is a major tourist attraction in Amsterdam's Museumplein where millions of people visit every year.
Van Gogh Museum is home to the largest single collection of the works of this Dutch artist. The Museum building itself, praises the well renowned Dutch architecture. The design allows the vast inlet of natural light and we can watch the paintings in natural light which is very phenomenal.
Let’s first meet this great artist and his incredible contributions in art history.
Vincent van Gogh (March 30, 1853 - July 29, 1890) is generally considered the greatest Dutch painter after Rembrandt, though he had little success during his lifetime. Van Gogh produced all of his work (some 900 paintings and 1100 drawings) during a period of only 10 years before he succumbed to mental illness and committed suicide. His fame grew rapidly after his death especially following a showing of 71 of van Gogh's paintings in Paris on March 17, 1901 (11 years after his death).
Van Gogh's influence on expressionism was enormous, and can be seen in many other aspects of 20th-century art. The Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam is dedicated to Van Gogh's work and that of his contemporaries.Several paintings by Van Gogh rank among the most expensive paintings in the world. On March 30, 1987 Van Gogh's painting Irises was sold for a record $53.9 million at Southeby's, New York. On May 15, 1990 his Portrait of Doctor Gachet was sold for $82.5 million at Christie's, thus establishing a new price record.
There are some two hundred paintings in the collection, as well as seven hundred letters, five hundred drawings. With so many paintings on show it is impossible here to comment on all but I found the three artistic piece of work, which itself says the three important phases in Van Gogh's life.
The first period of work goes ranges from 1880 through until 1886, when Van Gogh was first starting out working in the Netherlands.These works feature countryside and peasant scenes. On display is "The Potato Eaters", one of the artists major works, although "Still Life with Bible" and "The Vicarage at Nuenen" are also inspiring pieces.
In 1886, Vincent Van Gogh, moved to Paris, and there was a shift in style of the artists work, with a definite bent towards Impressionism, this period includes numerous self-portraits, also many Paris scenes.
The third period commences in 1888, when Van Gogh moved south to Arles. Again it was a period dominated by portraits, although this time of others, but was also the time when Van Gogh painted one of his most famous works, "Sunflowers"
Well, it's the museum made for who love "Impressionism". The paintings are magnificent with natural brush strokes and color tones. Besides this the work in of his last times are more natural. He returns to landscape work and nature around him. The "Daubigny's Garden" is a perfect example here.
In addition to paintings there are also displays dedicated to the personal correspondence of Vincent Van Gogh, notably letters sent to his brother Theo. Additionally there are also exhibits relating to the instruments used by the painter. Well, he used colours and vibrant swirling brush strokes to convey his feelings and his state of mind.
Above all I want to say that this museum is very well organized with guided audio help. One can enjoy both the artworks and life story of Van Gogh. Like me, one who never had experience of Impressionism then do visit this museum in Amsterdam, The Netherlands and I’m sure that you fell in love with the impression of this great artist not as painter but as writer too.
There are many sites and attractions to see in Amsterdam, and although most people will immediately think of the city's Red Light District, there is in fact a great deal of history packed into the Dutch capital. The Van Gogh Museum itself is a major tourist attraction in Amsterdam's Museumplein where millions of people visit every year.
Van Gogh Museum is home to the largest single collection of the works of this Dutch artist. The Museum building itself, praises the well renowned Dutch architecture. The design allows the vast inlet of natural light and we can watch the paintings in natural light which is very phenomenal.
Let’s first meet this great artist and his incredible contributions in art history.
Vincent van Gogh (March 30, 1853 - July 29, 1890) is generally considered the greatest Dutch painter after Rembrandt, though he had little success during his lifetime. Van Gogh produced all of his work (some 900 paintings and 1100 drawings) during a period of only 10 years before he succumbed to mental illness and committed suicide. His fame grew rapidly after his death especially following a showing of 71 of van Gogh's paintings in Paris on March 17, 1901 (11 years after his death).
Van Gogh's influence on expressionism was enormous, and can be seen in many other aspects of 20th-century art. The Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam is dedicated to Van Gogh's work and that of his contemporaries.Several paintings by Van Gogh rank among the most expensive paintings in the world. On March 30, 1987 Van Gogh's painting Irises was sold for a record $53.9 million at Southeby's, New York. On May 15, 1990 his Portrait of Doctor Gachet was sold for $82.5 million at Christie's, thus establishing a new price record.
There are some two hundred paintings in the collection, as well as seven hundred letters, five hundred drawings. With so many paintings on show it is impossible here to comment on all but I found the three artistic piece of work, which itself says the three important phases in Van Gogh's life.
The first period of work goes ranges from 1880 through until 1886, when Van Gogh was first starting out working in the Netherlands.These works feature countryside and peasant scenes. On display is "The Potato Eaters", one of the artists major works, although "Still Life with Bible" and "The Vicarage at Nuenen" are also inspiring pieces.
In 1886, Vincent Van Gogh, moved to Paris, and there was a shift in style of the artists work, with a definite bent towards Impressionism, this period includes numerous self-portraits, also many Paris scenes.
The third period commences in 1888, when Van Gogh moved south to Arles. Again it was a period dominated by portraits, although this time of others, but was also the time when Van Gogh painted one of his most famous works, "Sunflowers"
Well, it's the museum made for who love "Impressionism". The paintings are magnificent with natural brush strokes and color tones. Besides this the work in of his last times are more natural. He returns to landscape work and nature around him. The "Daubigny's Garden" is a perfect example here.
In addition to paintings there are also displays dedicated to the personal correspondence of Vincent Van Gogh, notably letters sent to his brother Theo. Additionally there are also exhibits relating to the instruments used by the painter. Well, he used colours and vibrant swirling brush strokes to convey his feelings and his state of mind.
Above all I want to say that this museum is very well organized with guided audio help. One can enjoy both the artworks and life story of Van Gogh. Like me, one who never had experience of Impressionism then do visit this museum in Amsterdam, The Netherlands and I’m sure that you fell in love with the impression of this great artist not as painter but as writer too.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Sex, Sins and Clean up
Prostitution is one of the oldest trade or profession in this world. It’s an unstoppable and never ending business running everywhere despite of any stiff policies or rules running against them. If we care for beliefs, then some feels that it’s the worst sin or crime,some feels that it’s more liberal and open approach to earn the livelihood according to rights and freedom.
Sometimes the word “Compromise” plays a very big role in running the harsh life smoothly but here striking a balance requires lot of efforts in satisfying many principles.
I experienced a lot in terms of development of European cities while maintaining the heritage with faster urbanism and competitiveness. It’s my coincidence that I usually found the streets of pleasures in every city. Blame it on my luck, chance or inquisitiveness, my lusty mind set experienced mixed reactions of vice and virtue. Voyeuristically, I observed the situations are changing and inclining towards the act of “Clean up”
Case1: De Wallen/ Red light district, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
De Wallen has long been famous as major sex tourist area in Red light district, which is hardly 10 minutes of walking distance from Amsterdam’s centraal station. This area is full of marijuana selling coffee shops, erotic museums, sex shops, peep shows and sex theatres.
Though prostitution has been tolerated here from long time, both prostitution and marijuana has become major drawing cards for tourism. But the city's new blueprint calls for replacing brothels, cannabis-vending coffee shops, sex shops and peepshows with cafes, boutiques and specialty stores.
I saw few of the windows now replaced by fashion dummies and art pieces where the red light still glows. Art and fashion are the new tenants in these brothels. I was also co relating that it’s not a bad idea for existence as art and sex always fascinated the artists.
Case 2: Reeperbahn, Hamburg, Germany
There are fewer windows shopping going on in Hamburg as prostitutes can display their inviting bodies behind windows only in the gated Herbertstrasse, a street where minors and women are not welcome.
Reeperbahn offers a whole range of entertainment: theatres, cabarets, sex shops, strip clubs, bars and nightclubs. The prostitution was legalised in Germany in 2001 and the docks of St. Pauli was famous to entertain the tired and sex starved sailors a way back. But from past many years the seduction loosing its edge, because of illegal trafficking,the real estate development and junkies.
The city administration is making efforts in making the area quite familiar spot to roam and with security. Few illegal sex hotels and brothels are closed as well. The setup of café shops, trendy bars, theatres, international fast food chains and discotheques not only in new buildings but in former porn theatres and brothels are few reasons to sit over a cup of coffee or a glass of beer and roam in the city of beetles.
Case 3: Rue St. Denis, Paris, France
Luckily this is the street when you get tired of watching or patronizing the sex workers,ethnic eateries will satisfy your hunger. Today it has been reduced to a few striptease clubs better known for extorting money from unsuspecting clients than for the quality of their services. Illegal brothels still operate in the area but the area has now grown into a gay culture centre.
The scene is similar as of any red light area, where sex shops and kinos are run but the establishment of many family joints and stores to shop and eat as well as encouraging artisans are one of the initiatives by municipal council to make the area more convenient for the residents.
“We don’t have any trouble with sex and prostitutes, we’re proud of our culture where art and sex seduce each other” says one of the artist.
At last, I realized that, balance is the key to life, if anything overpowers it will make the things disproportionate. Extortion and human trafficking etc. are the reasons behind this “clean up” process on the surface and yes, they are hurting the people and city. Isn’t it nice to experience the streets of pleasure where different groups of people can enjoy beer, watch fashion and do some shopping as well?
Sometimes the word “Compromise” plays a very big role in running the harsh life smoothly but here striking a balance requires lot of efforts in satisfying many principles.
I experienced a lot in terms of development of European cities while maintaining the heritage with faster urbanism and competitiveness. It’s my coincidence that I usually found the streets of pleasures in every city. Blame it on my luck, chance or inquisitiveness, my lusty mind set experienced mixed reactions of vice and virtue. Voyeuristically, I observed the situations are changing and inclining towards the act of “Clean up”
Case1: De Wallen/ Red light district, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
De Wallen has long been famous as major sex tourist area in Red light district, which is hardly 10 minutes of walking distance from Amsterdam’s centraal station. This area is full of marijuana selling coffee shops, erotic museums, sex shops, peep shows and sex theatres.
Though prostitution has been tolerated here from long time, both prostitution and marijuana has become major drawing cards for tourism. But the city's new blueprint calls for replacing brothels, cannabis-vending coffee shops, sex shops and peepshows with cafes, boutiques and specialty stores.
I saw few of the windows now replaced by fashion dummies and art pieces where the red light still glows. Art and fashion are the new tenants in these brothels. I was also co relating that it’s not a bad idea for existence as art and sex always fascinated the artists.
Case 2: Reeperbahn, Hamburg, Germany
There are fewer windows shopping going on in Hamburg as prostitutes can display their inviting bodies behind windows only in the gated Herbertstrasse, a street where minors and women are not welcome.
Reeperbahn offers a whole range of entertainment: theatres, cabarets, sex shops, strip clubs, bars and nightclubs. The prostitution was legalised in Germany in 2001 and the docks of St. Pauli was famous to entertain the tired and sex starved sailors a way back. But from past many years the seduction loosing its edge, because of illegal trafficking,the real estate development and junkies.
The city administration is making efforts in making the area quite familiar spot to roam and with security. Few illegal sex hotels and brothels are closed as well. The setup of café shops, trendy bars, theatres, international fast food chains and discotheques not only in new buildings but in former porn theatres and brothels are few reasons to sit over a cup of coffee or a glass of beer and roam in the city of beetles.
Case 3: Rue St. Denis, Paris, France
Luckily this is the street when you get tired of watching or patronizing the sex workers,ethnic eateries will satisfy your hunger. Today it has been reduced to a few striptease clubs better known for extorting money from unsuspecting clients than for the quality of their services. Illegal brothels still operate in the area but the area has now grown into a gay culture centre.
The scene is similar as of any red light area, where sex shops and kinos are run but the establishment of many family joints and stores to shop and eat as well as encouraging artisans are one of the initiatives by municipal council to make the area more convenient for the residents.
“We don’t have any trouble with sex and prostitutes, we’re proud of our culture where art and sex seduce each other” says one of the artist.
At last, I realized that, balance is the key to life, if anything overpowers it will make the things disproportionate. Extortion and human trafficking etc. are the reasons behind this “clean up” process on the surface and yes, they are hurting the people and city. Isn’t it nice to experience the streets of pleasure where different groups of people can enjoy beer, watch fashion and do some shopping as well?
The Oranje Patriotism
Queen's Day is the most festive occasion of the year in The Netherlands. You will see plenty of oranje on this day. Wear oranje or be left out.
It was always a matter of fascination for me,to see my favorite football stars of Dutch national team in the orange kits. Obviously the national team kits of many international teams have similar colors like of their national flags, but the colors of the Dutch flag are red, white and blue, there's no orange at all. WHY is this so?
Well, I got my answer from the two proud Dutch mouths of Simon & Egbert who’re attending the Queen’s Day in the crowd of many enthusiasts enjoying and singing. Simon had remarked that the color of orange signifies the Dutch Royal Family. The House of “Oranje-Nassau” dates back to Willem van Oranje (William of Orange). Now this color has royal roots and it symbolizes a broader pride in the country and in being Dutch.
I too got an opportunity on 30-April to see the biggest display of orange national pride on Koninginnedag ("Queen's Day"), the birthday of the Queen here in Amsterdam. There was also a big gathering of people on 29-April in late evening known as “Queen’s Night” where outdoor parties with bands and DJs played on several squares and in parks.
Unfortunately I haven’t got the chance to celebrate my “Queen’s night” event in Amsterdam but I enjoyed my time here in Utrecht. Roaming in the crowd I found two of my Spanish friends on the street side displaying the ornaments for selling. I knew from last 2 months they’d an agenda to sell it off but they haven’t got the stage and buyers but here they’re very happy that their stuff is sold off and thankfully they got some extra money to enjoy their trip to Queen’s Day in Amsterdam.
It’s the part of this occasion the “Free market” or “Vrijmarkt”. The Dutch take this opportunity to get rid their homes of useless (but potentially profitable) junk and old clothes.
Amsterdam is the home of parties. From crazy to cozy this city arranges all and well. So as now the Queen’s day too. Lot of music and lot of enthusiasts and needn’t to say but its “Orange-Affair” everywhere.Orange clothes, hats, wigs, caps, face or body paint.Orange balloons and of course orange flags. The whole inner city is closed for traffic and the streets fill with people.The atmosphere is just great. People on the boats in canals with orange outfits while singing, drinking and live DJ performances thrills your nerves.
Drinking a lot of beer requires a place to let it out. The city sets up these urinals for the gents all over town. Its common here now to see the canal traffic jam. Amsterdammers have a special talent for standing on the edge of boats without falling into the wet stuff.
One of the first things to strike you about Queens Day in Amsterdam is the amount of people that cram on to the streets of the Dutch capital for the day. There are people everywhere. The second thing you notice is that two in every three of them are wearing orange. So if you do plan on visiting the city for the festival, which I strongly recommend you do, remember that you must wear some orange, otherwise you like an odd man out in the crowd.
The entire country is colored Red, White and Blue, but especially: Orange,the national color, dancing all day long on boats that cruise the beautiful canals of Amsterdam. Major artists perform on giant stages, and on every corner hundreds of orange people are dancing the day and night on the tunes of their favorite DJ's and loads of Heinekens.
Throughout the day I enjoyed a lot. Nobody will complain that they hadn’t enjoyed the time if you ask them at the end. While approaching to the way to Centraal Station the obvious scenes of after party are visible throughout. The city got totally trashed with plastic beer cups, orange balloons and paper, junk that people tried to sell and didn't, and everything else you might imagine when a whole city throws a giant birthday party.
At the end all I want to say that if you have only one day to spare in the Netherlands, make it 30th April.
It was always a matter of fascination for me,to see my favorite football stars of Dutch national team in the orange kits. Obviously the national team kits of many international teams have similar colors like of their national flags, but the colors of the Dutch flag are red, white and blue, there's no orange at all. WHY is this so?
Well, I got my answer from the two proud Dutch mouths of Simon & Egbert who’re attending the Queen’s Day in the crowd of many enthusiasts enjoying and singing. Simon had remarked that the color of orange signifies the Dutch Royal Family. The House of “Oranje-Nassau” dates back to Willem van Oranje (William of Orange). Now this color has royal roots and it symbolizes a broader pride in the country and in being Dutch.
I too got an opportunity on 30-April to see the biggest display of orange national pride on Koninginnedag ("Queen's Day"), the birthday of the Queen here in Amsterdam. There was also a big gathering of people on 29-April in late evening known as “Queen’s Night” where outdoor parties with bands and DJs played on several squares and in parks.
Unfortunately I haven’t got the chance to celebrate my “Queen’s night” event in Amsterdam but I enjoyed my time here in Utrecht. Roaming in the crowd I found two of my Spanish friends on the street side displaying the ornaments for selling. I knew from last 2 months they’d an agenda to sell it off but they haven’t got the stage and buyers but here they’re very happy that their stuff is sold off and thankfully they got some extra money to enjoy their trip to Queen’s Day in Amsterdam.
It’s the part of this occasion the “Free market” or “Vrijmarkt”. The Dutch take this opportunity to get rid their homes of useless (but potentially profitable) junk and old clothes.
Amsterdam is the home of parties. From crazy to cozy this city arranges all and well. So as now the Queen’s day too. Lot of music and lot of enthusiasts and needn’t to say but its “Orange-Affair” everywhere.Orange clothes, hats, wigs, caps, face or body paint.Orange balloons and of course orange flags. The whole inner city is closed for traffic and the streets fill with people.The atmosphere is just great. People on the boats in canals with orange outfits while singing, drinking and live DJ performances thrills your nerves.
Drinking a lot of beer requires a place to let it out. The city sets up these urinals for the gents all over town. Its common here now to see the canal traffic jam. Amsterdammers have a special talent for standing on the edge of boats without falling into the wet stuff.
One of the first things to strike you about Queens Day in Amsterdam is the amount of people that cram on to the streets of the Dutch capital for the day. There are people everywhere. The second thing you notice is that two in every three of them are wearing orange. So if you do plan on visiting the city for the festival, which I strongly recommend you do, remember that you must wear some orange, otherwise you like an odd man out in the crowd.
The entire country is colored Red, White and Blue, but especially: Orange,the national color, dancing all day long on boats that cruise the beautiful canals of Amsterdam. Major artists perform on giant stages, and on every corner hundreds of orange people are dancing the day and night on the tunes of their favorite DJ's and loads of Heinekens.
Throughout the day I enjoyed a lot. Nobody will complain that they hadn’t enjoyed the time if you ask them at the end. While approaching to the way to Centraal Station the obvious scenes of after party are visible throughout. The city got totally trashed with plastic beer cups, orange balloons and paper, junk that people tried to sell and didn't, and everything else you might imagine when a whole city throws a giant birthday party.
At the end all I want to say that if you have only one day to spare in the Netherlands, make it 30th April.
AMSTERDAM: The façade of creativity
Oozing off the boredom in the form of vague shopping malls and corporate-franchised culture is not the true or creative showcase of any cosmopolitan or cultural city.
Today Europe is underneath a wave of change while preserving heritage with new creative ideas to augment the economy and compete in this globalize urban era.
Introduction:
As far as I travelled Europe,I found a new manoeuvring taking place between the member states and cities. Gone are the days after post and cold wars when the secret plots and conspiracies are discussed and planned to compete and win in broader socio-economic basis. Those old formulas and tricks badly lost their battles and now there’s new wave of change in more integrated form which is far more emulative then any revolution happened before.
This new reincarnation is happening in the mix-up of “Creativity and Culture” allying with the term “Creative Class” is not a bad idea. Here, I want to express my views and experiences on Amsterdam which I feel that it deserves to be the best creative city in Europe, let’s have a look…
CREATIVE CLASS:
It is the diverse class that will mould any country or region to great economic power and growth through new ideas, high-tech industry and regional growth with innovative ideas in regarding the perspective of socio-economy & culture.
They can be scientists and engineers, university professors, poets and architects, actors, journalists. It also includes people in design, education, arts, music and entertainment and their function is to create new ideas, new technology or creative content.
Their ideology is also different from traditional agriculture or industrial based ones. They are on the rise from past few decades as nations shifting their focus or policies for more research & development, technologies and internet based initiatives.
Other more fascinating factor of this class is that they are independent in their approach towards work. No 9-5 standards, no business suits and ties and no formal environment.
Above all they value the importance of “independency” in their lifestyles.
From San Diego, Silicon Valley to IT hub of Bangalore. From London, Paris or Milan to Madrid and Amsterdam Fashion weeks, there are numerous examples where this creative flow giving tough competition and highlighting the regions globally.
Hereby I’m pointing out my experiences in Amsterdam, first of all according to Dutch lifestyle and creativity.
Amsterdam: I roamed and lived in many cities of Europe; and found this Dutch capital is very unique. The vibes of openness, freedom, self expression and flexibility is widely seen here in the form of welcoming new modes and ideas and valuing the heritage and arts simultaneously.
Amsterdam is a global village. Working and living is very well managed and convenient too. Life is fast as everything is so close, if we talk about the transport system and the global setup of businesses.
Thanks to its central position. Amsterdam Metropolitan region is very important here, the huge setup is not based in this small capital but other nearby regions as well like Utrecht and Rotterdam. Everything’s now just a stone’s throw away.
Creativity and business is the main mantra of Dutch culture from centuries. The nurturing of creative ideas, concepts and products is widely seen here in the setup of internationally acclaimed centre of entertainment in the form of Advertising agencies, dance, music and computer games.
The Dutch way of doing business is characterized by its ability to build bridges between different cultural identities. Amsterdam with its 174 different nationalities that approach becomes a way of life. The composition and attitude of the locals is proof of multilingual,multicultural and tolerant approach.
For me I always felt that I’m moving with the flow if we talk about the lifestyle and attitude here. Adding another beneficial factor here is openness in the society, welcoming new guests in the form of immigrants. Equality for bohemians and gays are showing the factor of tolerance.
The other alluring factor of this widely seen setup is “youth culture” which is thoroughly preserved in this city in the form of style, fashion and design. One of the most fascinating aspects is Music, I’ve no idea how many people know about the number of well renowned DJs setup and the breakthrough of the newbie’s based in this city. To name a few like DJ Tiesto, Armin van Buuren now are the gods of trance/ electro music and it’s amazing to find out the entertaining masses in well packed stadiums and concert halls.
They are not binding the world over but attracting a lot with their creativity not the audiences but young global tourists as well.
Dutch architecture is world famous and because they equally care about the natural surroundings with built environment,numerous canals are one of the sustainable examples here.
Above all one of the most praiseworthy initiatives is by the government or council of the city. They input a lot in terms of money, giving platforms, chances for new ideas,creative inputs and promoting youth movement or giving chance to creative young people to come together in one place to encourage the creative passion. Also giving funky edge to the city. “The Red light fashion” is one the concrete example, making space for young fashion designers and promoting art and design in former brothels isn’t this a creative idea?
But this initiative will never ever be succeeded if we ignore the 3Ts, which comprises of Technology, Talent and Tolerance. Dutch society is more open, knowledgeable & has a unique way of thinking. Besides this it’s not close enough to satisfy or chance giving step for Dutch citizens but also welcoming the fellow Europeans.It’s not the greed or same old dream to live in but giving a chance to “Openness” to new people, new ideas and new dreams.
As far as creative people are concerned or if we take the example of artists they do want to share or involve with society, business and world as well. Here the cooperation between the artists and corporate world is essential and if we combine the art with business it makes the value of art. One of the most admirable reason what I found more interesting is by the government giving chances or encouragement to “Possibility” and bending down the notions of “Impossibility”
Above all there are many great cities in Europe but they shouldn't stand still in this era of creative and competitive globalization. They should move in the direction of a knowledge-oriented society. Most cities have to do something to draw attention to them and make their particular assets visible in the international arena. Without creativity nothing’s going to change and Amsterdam is doing it very well.
Today Europe is underneath a wave of change while preserving heritage with new creative ideas to augment the economy and compete in this globalize urban era.
Introduction:
As far as I travelled Europe,I found a new manoeuvring taking place between the member states and cities. Gone are the days after post and cold wars when the secret plots and conspiracies are discussed and planned to compete and win in broader socio-economic basis. Those old formulas and tricks badly lost their battles and now there’s new wave of change in more integrated form which is far more emulative then any revolution happened before.
This new reincarnation is happening in the mix-up of “Creativity and Culture” allying with the term “Creative Class” is not a bad idea. Here, I want to express my views and experiences on Amsterdam which I feel that it deserves to be the best creative city in Europe, let’s have a look…
CREATIVE CLASS:
It is the diverse class that will mould any country or region to great economic power and growth through new ideas, high-tech industry and regional growth with innovative ideas in regarding the perspective of socio-economy & culture.
They can be scientists and engineers, university professors, poets and architects, actors, journalists. It also includes people in design, education, arts, music and entertainment and their function is to create new ideas, new technology or creative content.
Their ideology is also different from traditional agriculture or industrial based ones. They are on the rise from past few decades as nations shifting their focus or policies for more research & development, technologies and internet based initiatives.
Other more fascinating factor of this class is that they are independent in their approach towards work. No 9-5 standards, no business suits and ties and no formal environment.
Above all they value the importance of “independency” in their lifestyles.
From San Diego, Silicon Valley to IT hub of Bangalore. From London, Paris or Milan to Madrid and Amsterdam Fashion weeks, there are numerous examples where this creative flow giving tough competition and highlighting the regions globally.
Hereby I’m pointing out my experiences in Amsterdam, first of all according to Dutch lifestyle and creativity.
Amsterdam: I roamed and lived in many cities of Europe; and found this Dutch capital is very unique. The vibes of openness, freedom, self expression and flexibility is widely seen here in the form of welcoming new modes and ideas and valuing the heritage and arts simultaneously.
Amsterdam is a global village. Working and living is very well managed and convenient too. Life is fast as everything is so close, if we talk about the transport system and the global setup of businesses.
Thanks to its central position. Amsterdam Metropolitan region is very important here, the huge setup is not based in this small capital but other nearby regions as well like Utrecht and Rotterdam. Everything’s now just a stone’s throw away.
Creativity and business is the main mantra of Dutch culture from centuries. The nurturing of creative ideas, concepts and products is widely seen here in the setup of internationally acclaimed centre of entertainment in the form of Advertising agencies, dance, music and computer games.
The Dutch way of doing business is characterized by its ability to build bridges between different cultural identities. Amsterdam with its 174 different nationalities that approach becomes a way of life. The composition and attitude of the locals is proof of multilingual,multicultural and tolerant approach.
For me I always felt that I’m moving with the flow if we talk about the lifestyle and attitude here. Adding another beneficial factor here is openness in the society, welcoming new guests in the form of immigrants. Equality for bohemians and gays are showing the factor of tolerance.
The other alluring factor of this widely seen setup is “youth culture” which is thoroughly preserved in this city in the form of style, fashion and design. One of the most fascinating aspects is Music, I’ve no idea how many people know about the number of well renowned DJs setup and the breakthrough of the newbie’s based in this city. To name a few like DJ Tiesto, Armin van Buuren now are the gods of trance/ electro music and it’s amazing to find out the entertaining masses in well packed stadiums and concert halls.
They are not binding the world over but attracting a lot with their creativity not the audiences but young global tourists as well.
Dutch architecture is world famous and because they equally care about the natural surroundings with built environment,numerous canals are one of the sustainable examples here.
Above all one of the most praiseworthy initiatives is by the government or council of the city. They input a lot in terms of money, giving platforms, chances for new ideas,creative inputs and promoting youth movement or giving chance to creative young people to come together in one place to encourage the creative passion. Also giving funky edge to the city. “The Red light fashion” is one the concrete example, making space for young fashion designers and promoting art and design in former brothels isn’t this a creative idea?
But this initiative will never ever be succeeded if we ignore the 3Ts, which comprises of Technology, Talent and Tolerance. Dutch society is more open, knowledgeable & has a unique way of thinking. Besides this it’s not close enough to satisfy or chance giving step for Dutch citizens but also welcoming the fellow Europeans.It’s not the greed or same old dream to live in but giving a chance to “Openness” to new people, new ideas and new dreams.
As far as creative people are concerned or if we take the example of artists they do want to share or involve with society, business and world as well. Here the cooperation between the artists and corporate world is essential and if we combine the art with business it makes the value of art. One of the most admirable reason what I found more interesting is by the government giving chances or encouragement to “Possibility” and bending down the notions of “Impossibility”
Above all there are many great cities in Europe but they shouldn't stand still in this era of creative and competitive globalization. They should move in the direction of a knowledge-oriented society. Most cities have to do something to draw attention to them and make their particular assets visible in the international arena. Without creativity nothing’s going to change and Amsterdam is doing it very well.
The Laid-Back Creativity
Hamburg is the city famous for big shopping spree where you’ll find all global brands but there is often an area for the alternative fashionistas. Karolinenviertel, a designer community in Hamburg, for example, is brimful with independent boutiques and there’s something beyond the labels of Karl Lagerfeld and Jil Sander.
Living in this creative age where economy is shifting from manufacturing to ‘creative’ industries. To keep up, cities must market themselves to mobile, talented professionals seeking the latest cultural hot spot. This theory is spreading around the world as places compete to attract the ‘creative class’ and its promise of wealth.
European cities like Hamburg, Barcelona, Tallinn, and Amsterdam are all competing for the “Creative Class” – a young, extremely mobile generation, which is at home the world over. Broadly, “Creative Class”is the diverse class that will mould any country to great economic power and growth through new ideas and regional growth with innovative ideas in regarding the perspective of socio-economy & culture.
They can be scientists and engineers, university professors, poets and architects. It also includes people in design, education, arts, music and entertainment and their function is to create new ideas, new technology or creative content.
The city where the Beatles ‘grew up’ is now the home of designers, marketing consultants, media people, researchers and developers. It starts from St. Pauli & Reeperbahn, one of the main attractions of this city. For tourists this quarter is mainly famous for strip clubs and sex shops. You can find loads of live music clubs, bars, theatres and restaurants as well. You can find an interesting mixture of different people during the nights.
Just a 15-minute walk north of the Reeperbahn, the scene turns more artful. Strolling in Karolinenviertel wondered to saw the artistic creations of one of a kind of accessories, clothing and jewelry in the backs of their boutiques. The area was so calm and has more artistic vibes in the air.
If we compare about the glamorous shopping sprees of Hamburg, this looks very less in glamour, but cultural variety and a charm all of their own from graffiti-covered walls to steel-and glass facades.
Across the street, Anna Golightly, running her small boutique from last many years. Her ultra-feminine line consists of unusual accessories such as leather bracelets stitched with vintage ribbons in bright, bubbly colors and prints. She comments “You can’t open a shop like this anywhere. This is extremely low rented space, if we compare the rents of any other cosmopolitan cities and it’s near to city centre.” the 28-year-old, who makes everything by hand inside her shop.
Just opposite of this boutique is a gallery of jewelry design. Run by group of 4 artists. It’s also a small showroom with a little workshop space. Kathleen Hennemann, one of the artists pointed that, “The group is running this gallery from last 8 months due to our passion and love for art. We are also doing part-time jobs other then this, but the gallery and work is still running on regular basis and it’s remarkable”.
Designer Evangeline Van Niekerk running her studio named “Krefeld” in the street in Glashuette Karoline quarter from last 5 years. The South African-born and studied costume designs, offers personalized clothing and accessories. She said. “Our hallmarks are fine hats & fabrics, hand-made artistic cuts and prints at affordable prices. Each is directly produced in our small studio.”
Born in Hamburg, Anna Fuchs is not the new name in the fashion biz. In 2003, she was nominated for “Best New Designer” at the New Faces Awards held by Germany’s leading people and entertainment magazine BUNTE. She sells her female collections at her studio in the Karoviertel Street. The sophisticated, subtly sexy dresses resemble something normally seen on the catwalk – but these ones can be worn to work too.
Running her store from last 3 years and in the business from past 9 years proudly displaying her new summer 2009 collection. She said that “The condition was not so good to live here before. Disinvestment is the main reason as locals don’t want to let this quarter demolished by the authority and the result was bad infrastructure and it becomes famous for the less affordable people and mix-ups of unemployment, crime and drug-abuse”.
The diamond-quarter actually belongs to the district of St. Pauli. In past 20 years the whole scenario is changed and now it created a multicultural atmosphere of metropolitan life.
“This quarter was occupied by second-hand shops 20 years ago. However, there have been more designer boutiques gathering here in the last decade, turning it into a unique fashion quarter,” Anna continued.
It teems with a street-chic crowd of hippies, immigrants and young professionals, but it’s only in the last five years that it has become a magnet for visitors because of the profusion of young fashion designers who have set up shops along Marktstrasse & the council of Hamburg highlighting it as alternative shopping spree.
In downtowns for seeking profits and growth at any cost, people are pushed out and generally ignored. This is one of the different quarters where creativity and council’s efforts playing a big role in popularizing it. One unique aspect of this creativity is the designers create and produce on site. No big chains of global brands and no other franchise outlets of renowned name and fame but the intellectual display of work seen here.
This quarter is alive due to the immense passion and commitment of these creative people. True are the words that “Creativity needs free and independent space and here it’s visible.”
Living in this creative age where economy is shifting from manufacturing to ‘creative’ industries. To keep up, cities must market themselves to mobile, talented professionals seeking the latest cultural hot spot. This theory is spreading around the world as places compete to attract the ‘creative class’ and its promise of wealth.
European cities like Hamburg, Barcelona, Tallinn, and Amsterdam are all competing for the “Creative Class” – a young, extremely mobile generation, which is at home the world over. Broadly, “Creative Class”is the diverse class that will mould any country to great economic power and growth through new ideas and regional growth with innovative ideas in regarding the perspective of socio-economy & culture.
They can be scientists and engineers, university professors, poets and architects. It also includes people in design, education, arts, music and entertainment and their function is to create new ideas, new technology or creative content.
The city where the Beatles ‘grew up’ is now the home of designers, marketing consultants, media people, researchers and developers. It starts from St. Pauli & Reeperbahn, one of the main attractions of this city. For tourists this quarter is mainly famous for strip clubs and sex shops. You can find loads of live music clubs, bars, theatres and restaurants as well. You can find an interesting mixture of different people during the nights.
Just a 15-minute walk north of the Reeperbahn, the scene turns more artful. Strolling in Karolinenviertel wondered to saw the artistic creations of one of a kind of accessories, clothing and jewelry in the backs of their boutiques. The area was so calm and has more artistic vibes in the air.
If we compare about the glamorous shopping sprees of Hamburg, this looks very less in glamour, but cultural variety and a charm all of their own from graffiti-covered walls to steel-and glass facades.
Across the street, Anna Golightly, running her small boutique from last many years. Her ultra-feminine line consists of unusual accessories such as leather bracelets stitched with vintage ribbons in bright, bubbly colors and prints. She comments “You can’t open a shop like this anywhere. This is extremely low rented space, if we compare the rents of any other cosmopolitan cities and it’s near to city centre.” the 28-year-old, who makes everything by hand inside her shop.
Just opposite of this boutique is a gallery of jewelry design. Run by group of 4 artists. It’s also a small showroom with a little workshop space. Kathleen Hennemann, one of the artists pointed that, “The group is running this gallery from last 8 months due to our passion and love for art. We are also doing part-time jobs other then this, but the gallery and work is still running on regular basis and it’s remarkable”.
Designer Evangeline Van Niekerk running her studio named “Krefeld” in the street in Glashuette Karoline quarter from last 5 years. The South African-born and studied costume designs, offers personalized clothing and accessories. She said. “Our hallmarks are fine hats & fabrics, hand-made artistic cuts and prints at affordable prices. Each is directly produced in our small studio.”
Born in Hamburg, Anna Fuchs is not the new name in the fashion biz. In 2003, she was nominated for “Best New Designer” at the New Faces Awards held by Germany’s leading people and entertainment magazine BUNTE. She sells her female collections at her studio in the Karoviertel Street. The sophisticated, subtly sexy dresses resemble something normally seen on the catwalk – but these ones can be worn to work too.
Running her store from last 3 years and in the business from past 9 years proudly displaying her new summer 2009 collection. She said that “The condition was not so good to live here before. Disinvestment is the main reason as locals don’t want to let this quarter demolished by the authority and the result was bad infrastructure and it becomes famous for the less affordable people and mix-ups of unemployment, crime and drug-abuse”.
The diamond-quarter actually belongs to the district of St. Pauli. In past 20 years the whole scenario is changed and now it created a multicultural atmosphere of metropolitan life.
“This quarter was occupied by second-hand shops 20 years ago. However, there have been more designer boutiques gathering here in the last decade, turning it into a unique fashion quarter,” Anna continued.
It teems with a street-chic crowd of hippies, immigrants and young professionals, but it’s only in the last five years that it has become a magnet for visitors because of the profusion of young fashion designers who have set up shops along Marktstrasse & the council of Hamburg highlighting it as alternative shopping spree.
In downtowns for seeking profits and growth at any cost, people are pushed out and generally ignored. This is one of the different quarters where creativity and council’s efforts playing a big role in popularizing it. One unique aspect of this creativity is the designers create and produce on site. No big chains of global brands and no other franchise outlets of renowned name and fame but the intellectual display of work seen here.
This quarter is alive due to the immense passion and commitment of these creative people. True are the words that “Creativity needs free and independent space and here it’s visible.”
Amsterdam- The other name of creativity
Amsterdam is home to a growing number of creative and knowledge workers, members of the so-called "creative class." And the city is doing much to enhance the economy through creative ideas.
Now, this city is not very famous worldwide as other European Cosmo cities but so much of reincarnation is taking place here. This is the city in Europe which is very different in approach to other big cites in the whole continent. A rare mix of culture, tradition and urbanism with a mix of diverse immigrants.
But before moving further we've to know about the word "Creative Class" and how it's linked with city? Huh... Everybody's creative but let's see...
Creative Class: It is the diverse class that will mould any country to great economic power and growth through new ideas, high-tech industry and regional growth with innovative ideas in regarding the perspective of socio-economy & culture. They can be scientists and engineers, university professors, poets and architects. It also includes people in design, education, arts, music and entertainment and their function is to create new ideas, new technology or creative content.
Creativity is becoming more valued in today’s global society and the role of diversity says a lot here. Amsterdam is the city crowded with multi-ethnic diversity. Almost half of the city's residents weren't born in the Netherlands. Its past colonial people from Surinam and Indonesia are now mixed with the guest workers of the Morocco, Turkey and Egypt.
Amsterdam is considered a model for the integrating power of an open, liberal society. Signs of this are the liberalization of marijuana consumption, sex, the annual gay parade along the canals and the liberal immigration policy.
You can find squatters in every city of the world. So here too, during the 1960s, the squatters emerged in Amsterdam. At first they squats abandoned buildings along the canals in the city center. Then they took over the warehouses and industrial buildings in the north of the main train station.
But now these warehouses have become the point of attraction. Inside these rusty and old fashioned buildings the crowd of industrial designers, drama groups, sculptors and illustrators are at work. Roughly 100 studios serve as work spaces for about 200 artists here. MTV recently moved onto the premises of the former dockyard. It is now part of the so-called Media Wharf, a location for major project development firms.
But besides all this one major attraction lies in the heart of this city which is undoubted,very famous, "Red light District." Now please don't say lie if you have been there. The major attraction used to be the brothels. But now where they flee from the windows? Where have they all gone? I was feeling so curious and quite amazed to look at the designs and crafts which were displayed there.
It was a bit of disappointment for me,but on the other hand I was also admiring the creative aspect of the initiative. Now these brothels become the showcase windows as a platform for the young, talented designers. It also shows how the city of Amsterdam is giving a respect for creativity and new creative ideas.
Fashion is the most important part of any cosmopolitan city, so as here in Amsterdam too.It is an important economic pillar for the Netherlands. Now it is the home of various head offices of G-star, Mexx, Nike, Tommy Hilfiger and Reebok. Now it's a very good opportunity for designers to co-associate with multi retail powerhouses, show cast their designs in various fashion shows. Amsterdam fashion week is a very good example in organizing the event and promoting city in the landscape as Cosmo region. And it also matters a lot because of media's big impact in and around Amsterdam i.e. the PR offices, Model agencies and magazines.
Once it was a part of the real attraction and now it adds on with more creative
phenomenon. This project gained an enormous worldwide publicity for Amsterdam,the talented fashion designers and the fashion industry in Amsterdam as a whole.
Housing Corporation Ymere and its partner Droog are the new owners of the houses that will be used for the project and are situated around the Old Church in Amsterdam.
Now this project in Red Light District is very fresh and it's on early stage. It also shows how this city which is famous for its own diverse and interesting culture provided an opportunity & cooperation for creative class, which is very unique.
Above all in my perspective we live in a creative world. Every city is trying to be creative. But what makes a city creative? Very easy: “only people can be creative”, so to be creative, a city needs creative citizens. Everyone has inherent creative skills, but only very few know how to exploit them. Is it the same with cities? The creative citizens are already there, but cities just don’t know how to develop an environment that supports creativity. So, creativity is the key to every aspect where there is human involvement.
Now, this city is not very famous worldwide as other European Cosmo cities but so much of reincarnation is taking place here. This is the city in Europe which is very different in approach to other big cites in the whole continent. A rare mix of culture, tradition and urbanism with a mix of diverse immigrants.
But before moving further we've to know about the word "Creative Class" and how it's linked with city? Huh... Everybody's creative but let's see...
Creative Class: It is the diverse class that will mould any country to great economic power and growth through new ideas, high-tech industry and regional growth with innovative ideas in regarding the perspective of socio-economy & culture. They can be scientists and engineers, university professors, poets and architects. It also includes people in design, education, arts, music and entertainment and their function is to create new ideas, new technology or creative content.
Creativity is becoming more valued in today’s global society and the role of diversity says a lot here. Amsterdam is the city crowded with multi-ethnic diversity. Almost half of the city's residents weren't born in the Netherlands. Its past colonial people from Surinam and Indonesia are now mixed with the guest workers of the Morocco, Turkey and Egypt.
Amsterdam is considered a model for the integrating power of an open, liberal society. Signs of this are the liberalization of marijuana consumption, sex, the annual gay parade along the canals and the liberal immigration policy.
You can find squatters in every city of the world. So here too, during the 1960s, the squatters emerged in Amsterdam. At first they squats abandoned buildings along the canals in the city center. Then they took over the warehouses and industrial buildings in the north of the main train station.
But now these warehouses have become the point of attraction. Inside these rusty and old fashioned buildings the crowd of industrial designers, drama groups, sculptors and illustrators are at work. Roughly 100 studios serve as work spaces for about 200 artists here. MTV recently moved onto the premises of the former dockyard. It is now part of the so-called Media Wharf, a location for major project development firms.
But besides all this one major attraction lies in the heart of this city which is undoubted,very famous, "Red light District." Now please don't say lie if you have been there. The major attraction used to be the brothels. But now where they flee from the windows? Where have they all gone? I was feeling so curious and quite amazed to look at the designs and crafts which were displayed there.
It was a bit of disappointment for me,but on the other hand I was also admiring the creative aspect of the initiative. Now these brothels become the showcase windows as a platform for the young, talented designers. It also shows how the city of Amsterdam is giving a respect for creativity and new creative ideas.
Fashion is the most important part of any cosmopolitan city, so as here in Amsterdam too.It is an important economic pillar for the Netherlands. Now it is the home of various head offices of G-star, Mexx, Nike, Tommy Hilfiger and Reebok. Now it's a very good opportunity for designers to co-associate with multi retail powerhouses, show cast their designs in various fashion shows. Amsterdam fashion week is a very good example in organizing the event and promoting city in the landscape as Cosmo region. And it also matters a lot because of media's big impact in and around Amsterdam i.e. the PR offices, Model agencies and magazines.
Once it was a part of the real attraction and now it adds on with more creative
phenomenon. This project gained an enormous worldwide publicity for Amsterdam,the talented fashion designers and the fashion industry in Amsterdam as a whole.
Housing Corporation Ymere and its partner Droog are the new owners of the houses that will be used for the project and are situated around the Old Church in Amsterdam.
Now this project in Red Light District is very fresh and it's on early stage. It also shows how this city which is famous for its own diverse and interesting culture provided an opportunity & cooperation for creative class, which is very unique.
Above all in my perspective we live in a creative world. Every city is trying to be creative. But what makes a city creative? Very easy: “only people can be creative”, so to be creative, a city needs creative citizens. Everyone has inherent creative skills, but only very few know how to exploit them. Is it the same with cities? The creative citizens are already there, but cities just don’t know how to develop an environment that supports creativity. So, creativity is the key to every aspect where there is human involvement.
Asian Lifestyle and Trends
For most people visiting Asia, India stands as the epitome of the Asian experience. Strange rituals, a variety of characters, dramatic landscapes, and attractions that are as spicy as the curries they serve, India is a place where your senses are assailed and tourists go home not knowing what hit them.
It was overwhelming for me in Europe when people started asking me about the significance of "Sari", "Om", "Curry", Indian movie stars and their romance in Bollywood. But above all the slums of Mumbai, the Oscar nominated movie "Slumdog Millionaire" which was the hit of 2009 in world map, makes people curious to know about India, the life and the society.
It was a matter of proud to me that India is recognized internationally. Most commentators tend to concentrate on political relationships,trade figures and tourist numbers while analyzing international relationships. The role of cinema,in inspiring interest in a nation and its culture, is overlooked. Yet films are more than entertainment; they are ambassadors that provide foreign audiences with insights and impressions of a land and its people.
Global attention to its abject poverty but also to its vibrancy and pluck; Golden Globe and Oscar nominations are awards for the people, and hopefully bring increased tourism to its shores and an increased global viewership for Bollywood films.
Despite the cultural differences that separate people from the West with people from East,there are the feelings of joy, pain and passion which bind people together and moreover, people can relate to human feelings which are the same everywhere.
If we talk about India then, India offers astounding variety in virtually every aspect of social life. Diversities of ethnic, linguistic, regional, economic, religious, class, and caste groups crosscut Indian society, which is also permeated with immense urban-rural differences and gender distinctions.
Differences between north India and south India are particularly significant, especially in systems of kinship and marriage. Indian society is multifaceted to an extent perhaps unknown in any other of the world’s great civilizations—it is more like an area as varied as Europe than any other single nation-state.
Adding further variety to contemporary Indian culture are rapidly occurring changes affecting various regions and socioeconomic groups in disparate ways. Yet, amid the complexities of Indian life, widely accepted cultural themes enhance social harmony and order.
There is slight different twist between the West and East which makes it unique like Asian food, which is an art that has been relished and passed on from generation to generation and is known for its colour,taste and richness throughout the world. In the last few years Asian culture has exploded onto the streets of west. The Cinemas and theatres are mixing Bollywood & Fusion music in nightclubs.
The significance of Ayurveda and Yogic techniques in the lifestyles to stimulate oneself to health and spirituality,the fashion gurus flocking and mixing the traditional and ethnic looks in their seasonal shows. The Asian Lifestyle is not only bound to one country or sub-continent but it’s the cross cultural influence of people living in different countries.
Above all, Asia is a continent like no other. It blends tradition with modernity, spirituality with science and simplicity with luxury. It is an intoxicating mix of colours, sights, sounds and smell, each one richer and more vivid than anywhere else in the world, the unique mix of colonial history and urban modernity.
It was overwhelming for me in Europe when people started asking me about the significance of "Sari", "Om", "Curry", Indian movie stars and their romance in Bollywood. But above all the slums of Mumbai, the Oscar nominated movie "Slumdog Millionaire" which was the hit of 2009 in world map, makes people curious to know about India, the life and the society.
It was a matter of proud to me that India is recognized internationally. Most commentators tend to concentrate on political relationships,trade figures and tourist numbers while analyzing international relationships. The role of cinema,in inspiring interest in a nation and its culture, is overlooked. Yet films are more than entertainment; they are ambassadors that provide foreign audiences with insights and impressions of a land and its people.
Global attention to its abject poverty but also to its vibrancy and pluck; Golden Globe and Oscar nominations are awards for the people, and hopefully bring increased tourism to its shores and an increased global viewership for Bollywood films.
Despite the cultural differences that separate people from the West with people from East,there are the feelings of joy, pain and passion which bind people together and moreover, people can relate to human feelings which are the same everywhere.
If we talk about India then, India offers astounding variety in virtually every aspect of social life. Diversities of ethnic, linguistic, regional, economic, religious, class, and caste groups crosscut Indian society, which is also permeated with immense urban-rural differences and gender distinctions.
Differences between north India and south India are particularly significant, especially in systems of kinship and marriage. Indian society is multifaceted to an extent perhaps unknown in any other of the world’s great civilizations—it is more like an area as varied as Europe than any other single nation-state.
Adding further variety to contemporary Indian culture are rapidly occurring changes affecting various regions and socioeconomic groups in disparate ways. Yet, amid the complexities of Indian life, widely accepted cultural themes enhance social harmony and order.
There is slight different twist between the West and East which makes it unique like Asian food, which is an art that has been relished and passed on from generation to generation and is known for its colour,taste and richness throughout the world. In the last few years Asian culture has exploded onto the streets of west. The Cinemas and theatres are mixing Bollywood & Fusion music in nightclubs.
The significance of Ayurveda and Yogic techniques in the lifestyles to stimulate oneself to health and spirituality,the fashion gurus flocking and mixing the traditional and ethnic looks in their seasonal shows. The Asian Lifestyle is not only bound to one country or sub-continent but it’s the cross cultural influence of people living in different countries.
Above all, Asia is a continent like no other. It blends tradition with modernity, spirituality with science and simplicity with luxury. It is an intoxicating mix of colours, sights, sounds and smell, each one richer and more vivid than anywhere else in the world, the unique mix of colonial history and urban modernity.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Wine overtakes beer in German drinks market
Germany has traditionally been one of the world’s biggest beer consumer and in production as well but I found some incredible facts which are competing against the old notion of Beer’s popularity in Hamburg, famous for brewing beer from ages. Perhaps, Germans needs some change and everybody needs some change, so what’s so incredible here, let’s see…
Wandering in some glittering shopping avenues and streets in Hamburg. Lot of usual charm, culture and style of metropolitan region one can experience in just few glimpses. But I struck to see that in every open bars and restaurants wine is on the table. People are enjoying their lazy afternoons and romantic nights with wine here.
Germans consume the third-largest amount of beer per capita in the world behind the Czechs & Irish but wine is omnipresent here. Unlike France or Italy, wine-producing nations that mostly drink their own. Hereby, if we talk about the grocery chains, wine shops and supermarkets, German wines are in the minority but they are not lacking behind in sales.
Wein twei Drei is a well-stocked wine shop in Hamburg in city centre, Arnd Nebert the owner running this shop from last one year showed some different selections of German wines, a dozen of vintage reds & whites from different wine regions.
But nowadays, if we talk about the competition in Europe the wines from South Africa and Chile giving a tough competition to European markets. So how they are competing against European markets?
“South African wines are popular because they’re more in the European style, and also some of the wineries have very old European connections,” Arnd said.
Besides this one of the most common scenes in German supermarkets where the wines from different countries are displayed and people are picking the German wines frequently.
The reason of popularity of German wines from the mouth of one of the buyer is “Germans are strict about ingredients than any other country; the EU overturned their purity law for beer, but consumers still reject brands that don’t follow it. Perhaps German consumers are still unwilling to buy wines without knowing the source and they are more definite about their own country wines.”
The German Food and Drink Report and statistics in various magazines also show that how in recent years the popularity of wine increases. From export to consumption. The report stated: “Over half of the wine consumed in Germany is domestically produced”
Arnd also commented that the “German wines are intensely flavored and can be matched with any food. The phenomenon of drinking red wine with varied dishes is getting old”.
The other reason of wine’s popularity in Germany is the health conscious population. They increasingly prefer non-alcoholic drinks or, when they are drinking alcohol, are opting for wine which has less calories and offers health benefits.
Of the wine produced in Germany 65 percent is white and 35 percent red. And the quarter of the production is exported, in particular to the USA, Great Britain and the Netherlands.
Arnd also expressed his desire to do a course in wine business to enhance in professional terms. In this the German Wine School in Hamburg, popularly known as Deutsche Wein- Und-Sommelierschule headquarted in Koblenz imparts the various courses and seminars in promoting wine tasting to successful wine businesses.
Not only at home. German wine villages collectively host more than 1,000 wine festivals every year. And here the local government and council plays a major role in enhancing the region’s attraction and promotion.
Wandering in some glittering shopping avenues and streets in Hamburg. Lot of usual charm, culture and style of metropolitan region one can experience in just few glimpses. But I struck to see that in every open bars and restaurants wine is on the table. People are enjoying their lazy afternoons and romantic nights with wine here.
Germans consume the third-largest amount of beer per capita in the world behind the Czechs & Irish but wine is omnipresent here. Unlike France or Italy, wine-producing nations that mostly drink their own. Hereby, if we talk about the grocery chains, wine shops and supermarkets, German wines are in the minority but they are not lacking behind in sales.
Wein twei Drei is a well-stocked wine shop in Hamburg in city centre, Arnd Nebert the owner running this shop from last one year showed some different selections of German wines, a dozen of vintage reds & whites from different wine regions.
But nowadays, if we talk about the competition in Europe the wines from South Africa and Chile giving a tough competition to European markets. So how they are competing against European markets?
“South African wines are popular because they’re more in the European style, and also some of the wineries have very old European connections,” Arnd said.
Besides this one of the most common scenes in German supermarkets where the wines from different countries are displayed and people are picking the German wines frequently.
The reason of popularity of German wines from the mouth of one of the buyer is “Germans are strict about ingredients than any other country; the EU overturned their purity law for beer, but consumers still reject brands that don’t follow it. Perhaps German consumers are still unwilling to buy wines without knowing the source and they are more definite about their own country wines.”
The German Food and Drink Report and statistics in various magazines also show that how in recent years the popularity of wine increases. From export to consumption. The report stated: “Over half of the wine consumed in Germany is domestically produced”
Arnd also commented that the “German wines are intensely flavored and can be matched with any food. The phenomenon of drinking red wine with varied dishes is getting old”.
The other reason of wine’s popularity in Germany is the health conscious population. They increasingly prefer non-alcoholic drinks or, when they are drinking alcohol, are opting for wine which has less calories and offers health benefits.
Of the wine produced in Germany 65 percent is white and 35 percent red. And the quarter of the production is exported, in particular to the USA, Great Britain and the Netherlands.
Arnd also expressed his desire to do a course in wine business to enhance in professional terms. In this the German Wine School in Hamburg, popularly known as Deutsche Wein- Und-Sommelierschule headquarted in Koblenz imparts the various courses and seminars in promoting wine tasting to successful wine businesses.
Not only at home. German wine villages collectively host more than 1,000 wine festivals every year. And here the local government and council plays a major role in enhancing the region’s attraction and promotion.
German Romance in Vinotheks
Rich in antioxidants, the drink of romance & seduction from ages, enjoying wine is the new trend among youngsters these days in this beer governed country.
Hamburg: Jerome, 26, says he loves to pamper his girlfriend with a bottle of crisp wine – what he calls the “official beverage for romance”. At other times, after a long day at work, he often opens a bottle over dinner to sit back and unwind. “Wine is meant to be enjoyed with great food, friends, and family – at the end of a long day it helps you unwind,” Jerome, a marketing executive, comments. For many youngsters like Jerome, wine is fast turning into their drink of preference over whisky or beer in Germany.
“I used to drink whisky earlier – but not any more. Wine is my drink now – I guess that’s also because I go for business lunches and dinners, where others around me drink wine,” he said. The youth ward movement of the German wine market is evident, says an expert. Verner Harm, the owner of one of the vinothek from Franken region in Germany said he had observed that more and more youngsters are visiting. “I’m running this business from last 35 years but in the last five years, we have seen a vast change and more youngsters in their 20’s are coming”.
“Drinking wine has a lot to do with the culture and upbringing. Youth is attracted to wine because it is fashionable and a smart thing to pursue,” he added.
“Pursuing wine is all about fine taste and refined choices. These days a lot of women are fascinated by the growing wine culture. Instead of a mere fashion statement; women are learning the intricacies of wine tasting.”
Rachel, an intern from North Carolina in the US, said: “Youngsters have more disposable income – this has led to a drastic change in the lifestyle of the youth.”
“The luxury market has expended dramatically worldwide in last 7 years and the consumption of wine has increased and the major credit goes to youth,” she said. She also added that now “It’s not on the tables of old and riches that live in the vintage era”. “Today youth are conscious of their image in society and wine is more acceptable.”
“The youth is interested in wine and enjoys buying wine for special occasions. They read the labels extensively and have more knowledge in selection and tastes. Beer of course is the number one drink in consumption if we talk about Germany itself which is famous worldwide but wine too, is giving tough competition to it in the market. It’s a celebration drink and classy,” Harm said.
25-year-old Andrea, a logistics professional comments “I enjoy drinking wine with my girlfriends because it’s classy and chic and they all love it. Wine looks more sophisticated, plus it feels feminine and empowering”.
Hamburg: Jerome, 26, says he loves to pamper his girlfriend with a bottle of crisp wine – what he calls the “official beverage for romance”. At other times, after a long day at work, he often opens a bottle over dinner to sit back and unwind. “Wine is meant to be enjoyed with great food, friends, and family – at the end of a long day it helps you unwind,” Jerome, a marketing executive, comments. For many youngsters like Jerome, wine is fast turning into their drink of preference over whisky or beer in Germany.
“I used to drink whisky earlier – but not any more. Wine is my drink now – I guess that’s also because I go for business lunches and dinners, where others around me drink wine,” he said. The youth ward movement of the German wine market is evident, says an expert. Verner Harm, the owner of one of the vinothek from Franken region in Germany said he had observed that more and more youngsters are visiting. “I’m running this business from last 35 years but in the last five years, we have seen a vast change and more youngsters in their 20’s are coming”.
“Drinking wine has a lot to do with the culture and upbringing. Youth is attracted to wine because it is fashionable and a smart thing to pursue,” he added.
“Pursuing wine is all about fine taste and refined choices. These days a lot of women are fascinated by the growing wine culture. Instead of a mere fashion statement; women are learning the intricacies of wine tasting.”
Rachel, an intern from North Carolina in the US, said: “Youngsters have more disposable income – this has led to a drastic change in the lifestyle of the youth.”
“The luxury market has expended dramatically worldwide in last 7 years and the consumption of wine has increased and the major credit goes to youth,” she said. She also added that now “It’s not on the tables of old and riches that live in the vintage era”. “Today youth are conscious of their image in society and wine is more acceptable.”
“The youth is interested in wine and enjoys buying wine for special occasions. They read the labels extensively and have more knowledge in selection and tastes. Beer of course is the number one drink in consumption if we talk about Germany itself which is famous worldwide but wine too, is giving tough competition to it in the market. It’s a celebration drink and classy,” Harm said.
25-year-old Andrea, a logistics professional comments “I enjoy drinking wine with my girlfriends because it’s classy and chic and they all love it. Wine looks more sophisticated, plus it feels feminine and empowering”.
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