Hawa Mahal / Pink Palace in Jaipur

13 March, 2024 | Tourism objects | 124 seen

The Hawa Mahal is a palace in the city of Jaipur, Rajasthan, India. Built from red and pink sandstone, it is on the edge of the City Palace, Jaipur, and extends to the Zenana, or women's chambers.

We visited this place at the end of December 2023, during our about 3 weeks trip to India, in the frames of our golden Triangle trip. Hawa Mahal was among our first stops in the city of Jaipur.

Area around the palace is quite busy, just like everything in India

The structure was built in 1799 by the Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, grandson of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh, the founder of the city of Jhunjhunu in the state of Rajasthan. He was so inspired by the unique structure of Khetri Mahal that he built this grand and historical palace.

It was designed by Lal Chand Ustad. Its five-floor exterior is akin to a honeycomb with its 953 small windows called Jharokhas decorated with intricate latticework. The original intent of the lattice design was to allow royal ladies to observe everyday life and festivals celebrated in the street below without being seen. 

This architectural feature also allowed cool air from the Venturi effect to pass through, thus making the whole area more pleasant during the high temperatures in summer. Many people see the Hawa Mahal from the street view and think it is the front of the palace, but it is the back.

In 2006, renovation works on the Mahal were undertaken, after a gap of 50 years, to give a facelift to the monument at an estimated cost of Rs 4.568  million.

The corporate sector lent a hand to preserve the historical monuments of Jaipur and the Unit Trust of India has adopted Hawa Mahal to maintain it.

 The palace is an extended part of a huge complex. The stone-carved screens, small casements, and arched roofs are some of the features of this popular tourist spot. The monument also has delicately modelled hanging cornices.

Quite interesting spot to visit once in Jaipur. I hope to return to the city of Jaipur and explore more in the future

Minimum Wages in European Union 2024

7 March, 2024 | Macroeconomics | 227 seen

In 2024 there were 22 out of 27 European Union member states with an official minimum wage set by the government.

Turns out this is already the tenth (#10) article about minimum wages in European Union featured on the blog. To keep it up, here is the raw data for minimum wages across European Union in 2024. 

Please don't judge too hard, data are taken from this article on Wikipedia, and applied some basic calculations for yearly growth.

It should be noted: The calculations are based on the assumption of a 40-hour working week and a 52-week year, with the exceptions of France (35 hours), Belgium (38 hours), Ireland (39 hours), and Germany (39.1 hours). Most the minimum wages are fixed at a monthly rate, but there are countries where the minimum wage is fixed at an hourly rate or weekly rate.
This review provides a comprehensive overview of the changes in gross minimum wages across various European countries from 2022 to 2024. Here are some key observations:

Luxembourg: Witnessed a significant increase of €368.93, marking a substantial growth of 16.75%.
Netherlands: Experienced a notable rise of €599.00, indicating a substantial increase of 35.21%.
Germany: Demonstrated a moderate increase of €175.00, reflecting a growth rate of 8.86%.
Ireland: Saw a considerable increase of €371.30, representing a growth rate of 20.92%.
Belgium: Experienced a significant increase of €368.18, reflecting a growth rate of 22.64%.
France: Witnessed a modest increase of €121.92, indicating a growth rate of 7.41%.
Spain: Demonstrated a notable increase of €157.00, representing a growth rate of 13.46%.
Slovenia: Experienced a substantial increase of €178.93, marking a growth rate of 16.65%.
Poland: Saw a significant increase of €316.00, reflecting a notable growth rate of 48.24%.
Portugal: Witnessed a considerable increase of €134.66, indicating a growth rate of 16.38%.

Overall, the average minimum wage across the European Union increased by €190.04, representing an average growth rate of 18.53%. These figures underscore the dynamic nature of wage trends within the European labor market and highlight the varying degrees of economic growth and policy changes across different member states.

When visualizing data on the map, its' clearly visible that higher minimum wages are set in the Western European countries, despite the higher growth rates are found in Eastern European countries.

I find these data useful as right now I'm growing TerraMatris crypto hedge fund from scratch and minimum wage in EU seems one of the benchmarks to look at when growing our fund in monthly terms, as of writing this article we are targeting about $10.1/daily, that wouldn't get us even a lowest minimum wage in EU yet. We would need at to target at least $17.26/daily to have a minimum wage in Romania. 

I hope next time I'm going to make an article about minimum wages in EU for 2025, our monthly income from the fund will increase to at least average minimum wage in EU.

How about you? How do you interpret this data? Are you a person receiving minimum wage in one of the mentioned countries above? Leave a comment, readers and I would love to hear!

Royal Orchid Central Jaipur Hotel

6 March, 2024 | Hotel reviews | 47 seen

Royal Orchind Central hotel in Jaipur, India is a decent 4 star hotel. 

We stayed here for one night at the end of December 2023, during our about 3 week trip to India. We got here transferred from Agra after visiting Taj Mahal by a private Golden Triangle tour company, we didn't paid directly for booking here, instead tour operator did. But seems the price per one night is about $35-$40 which is very good price for this hotel. 

A short walk from Gandhi Nagar Railway Station, Royal Orchid Central Jaipur, Bani Park has a rooftop pool. Its rooms feature 26-inch flat-screen TV and city views.

Centrally located in Jaipur City, Royal Orchid Central is just 14 km away from Jaipur International Airport.

Fitted with wooden flooring, rooms at Royal Orchid are equipped with air conditioning, internet access and DVD player. They each come with a tea/coffee maker and a safe.

Guests can relax and dine at the hotel’s new-age lounge and restaurant, Pinxx. Alternatively, Ginseng Restaurant serves a variety of Asian dishes. Room service is available.

Jaipur’s Royal Orchid Central offers valet service and free parking. For the convenience of guests, a business centre and 24-hour front desk are provided. The hotel’s tour desk provides travel assistance.

We spent one day in Jaipur and were transferred back to Delhi next day. Our stay at this hotel was short, but veyr comfortable. I can only recommend this place. Book now on Booking.com

Greece / Athens

29 February, 2024 | Travel guides | 21 seen

Lights, camera, action! In mid-January 2024, a small team from Caucasus Translations embarked on an unforgettable adventure to Athens, Greece, leaving behind the picturesque landscapes of Kutaisi airport in Georgia for the vibrant streets of the Greek capital.

Our mission? To immerse ourselves in the rich tapestry of Greek culture, indulge in delectable cuisine, and foster connections with both locals and family members alike. And let me tell you, our trip did not disappoint!

From the moment we touched down in Athens, we were swept away by the city's timeless charm and infectious energy. Our itinerary was packed with visits to iconic landmarks, including the awe-inspiring Acropolis and the bustling Ancient Agora. Walking in the footsteps of ancient philosophers and statesmen, we couldn't help but marvel at the sheer magnitude of history that surrounded us.

But our exploration didn't stop there. No trip to Greece would be complete without indulging in some traditional delicacies, and boy, did we indulge! From sipping on refreshing mimosas made with prosecco and freshly squeezed orange juice to sampling succulent octopuses and flavorful dolmas, our taste buds were in for a treat.

Of course, no cultural exchange would be complete without mingling with the locals. We had the pleasure of hanging out with Greek brokers, exchanging insights and forging new connections in the world of business and finance. And let's not forget about the shopping! From charming boutiques to bustling markets, Athens offered a plethora of opportunities to indulge in some retail therapy and snag a few souvenirs to take home.

But perhaps the most meaningful part of our trip was reuniting with Georgian relatives who had made Athens their home. Sharing stories, laughter, and memories over hearty meals and heartfelt conversations, we were reminded of the power of family ties that transcend borders and distance.

As our journey came to a close, we couldn't help but reflect on the incredible experiences we had shared and the friendships we had forged along the way. And what better way to capture the magic of our adventure than with a video to share with the world?

So without further ado, sit back, relax, and enjoy the highlights of our Athens escapade. From ancient wonders to culinary delights and heartwarming reunions, it's a journey you won't want to miss. And if you enjoy the video as much as we enjoyed our trip, don't forget to give it a thumbs up!

Until next time, γεια σας (geia sas), Athens! We'll be back for more adventures soon.

Athens4 hotel (Monastriraki) in Greece

22 February, 2024 | Hotel reviews | 51 seen

Athens4  is a small boutique hotel in the capital city of Greece, Monastriraki area (city center). This hotel features air-conditioned rooms with satellite flat-screen TV. The property is located 1.2 km from the Acropolis, 300 metres from Monastiraki Flea Market and 700 metres from Athens Ancient Agora. 

The property is non-smoking and is set 300 metres from Monastiraki Square. The units in the hotel are fitted with a kettle. With a private bathroom equipped with a shower and a hairdryer, rooms at Athens4 also have free WiFi. Guests at the accommodation can enjoy a buffet breakfast.

We booked thios hotel for a few day stay during our short weekend trip to Athens at the start of January 2023, the total price we paid for a 4 night stay was about USD 373.

Athens4 in the heart of Athens is a conception of its surroundings, influenced by its humble beginnings as a textile factory. The textile industry, which was once a thriving industry, was brought to near extinction in the 1980’s by ready-made clothing. 

The area was slowly abandoned as shops and factories closed their doors. Athens4 is a project meant to breathe new life into this historic area. 

A pleasant stay in the city center, form here we were able to find local nearby restaurants, shopping and even traveled for some business meeting. Lovely area.

Decent boutique hotel, for a decent price. Very friendly staff, excellent breakfast and coffee for free. Highly recommend.

Book now on Booking.com

How To Update XTRF to The Latest version (Linux/Debian)

21 February, 2024 | Servers | 142 seen

XTRF is a translation management system. I have been supporting XTRF system for a translation company in Georgia for more than 10 years already. I have seen have this product have grown and developed over the years. It doesnt actually ask much support (in the recent years), as mostly works out of the box. Set and Forget. With performing routine system updates 1-2 per year.

That day come again, and we were asked to perform security upgrade for XTRF version on our server, in this article I decided to keep notes, for further reference. 

Official guide here: Update XTRF

Package change

Starting with XTRF 8.6, the package has been redesigned and renamed to xtrf9-full The contents are largely unchanged. In order to update to this version, simply install the new package.

Debian maintenance procedures

You can restart XTRF manually by issuing the following command:

 systemctl restart jboss-xtrf.service

XTRF is managed as a systemd service, so all the usual administrative commands from systemd apply.
 

Pinch of Spice Restaurant in Agra

20 February, 2024 | Restaurant reviews | 31 seen

Pinch of Spice is restaurant located in Agra, India serving Indian and Chinese cuisine. We made our lunch break after visiting the Worlds famous Taj Mahal.

Spent some good time and tried delicious cuisine. 

During this trip to India I was fond of fish curry and garlic naan. Yum. Accompanied by Kingfisher beer. 

We got here by our tour guide, after asking for some of the best restaurant recommendations. If you happen to be in this part of the world-  give it a try. 

Birtvisi Canyon & Seila

15 February, 2024 | Living in Georgia | 47 seen

Embark on an exhilarating journey with our latest short film, "The Winner Takes It All," showcasing the breathtaking beauty of Birtvisi and our mastery of the art of Georgian khinkali consumption. Join us as we effortlessly blend easy hiking, engaging conversation, and a delightful tutorial on the proper way to enjoy this iconic Georgian dish. Grab your virtual hiking boots and get ready for an adventure like no other!

Nestled in the heart of Georgia, Birtvisi offers a picturesque landscape that serves as the perfect backdrop for our latest escapade. The easy hiking trails winding through lush greenery and ancient ruins provide a refreshing experience for both seasoned hikers and casual enthusiasts. Follow us as we traverse these scenic paths, capturing the essence of the journey with every step.

Our adventure at Birtvisi isn't just about the physical exertion; it's about the engaging conversations that accompany the trek. Share in our smart talk moments as we discuss everything from travel tales to life's profound mysteries. The synergy between captivating vistas and insightful discussions makes this hike a holistic experience that stimulates both body and mind.

 No Georgian adventure is complete without a lesson in khinkali etiquette. Watch as we demonstrate the art of savoring these delectable dumplings—the right way. From the perfect pinch to the satisfying slurp, our khinkali tutorial ensures that you, too, can indulge in this culinary delight with finesse.

 As you accompany us through the ups and downs of Birtvisi, don't forget to hit that thumbs up button to show your support. Your approval fuels our passion for exploration and storytelling, inspiring us to continue sharing our adventures with the world. Join us in celebrating the spirit of conquering challenges, savoring delicious moments, and embracing the winner's mindset.

Taj Mahal

13 February, 2024 | Tourism objects | 38 seen

The Taj Mahal is an ivory-white marble mausoleum on the right bank of the river Yamuna in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India. It was commissioned in 1631 by the fifth Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan (r. 1628–1658) to house the tomb of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal; it also houses the tomb of Shah Jahan himself. The tomb is the centrepiece of a 17-hectare (42-acre) complex, which includes a mosque and a guest house, and is set in formal gardens bounded on three sides by a crenellated wall.

I had a chance to visit World famous Taj Mahal in the end of December 2023, during our three week family trip to India. I booked the so called Golden triangle trip in New Delhi, and it took us a few hours to reach Taj Mahal from New Delhi. Our tour company organized us transfer and guides, and it was very easy to get access to Taj Mahal thanks to our guide.

Construction of the mausoleum was essentially completed in 1643, but work continued on other phases of the project for another 10 years. The Taj Mahal complex is believed to have been completed in its entirety in 1653 at a cost estimated at the time to be around ₹32 million, which in 2023 would be approximately ₹35 billion. The construction project employed some 20,000 artisans under the guidance of a board of architects led by Ustad Ahmad Lahori, the emperor's court architect. Various types of symbolism have been employed in the Taj to reflect natural beauty and divinity.

We spent here about one hour taking a lot of pictures and enjoying nice weather

Franly speaking I thought this building will be much much much more bigger. Not saying it was not impressive enough, it is, but from the size I could easily compare it to the Sameba cathedral in Tbilisi. 

The Taj Mahal was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 for being "the jewel of Muslim art in India and one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world's heritage". It is regarded by many as the best example of Mughal architecture and a symbol of India's rich history. The Taj Mahal attracts 7-8 million visitors a year, and in 2007 it was declared a winner of the New 7 Wonders of the World (2000–2007) initiative.

The tomb is the central focus of the entire complex of the Taj Mahal. It is a large, white marble structure standing on a square plinth and consists of a symmetrical building with an iwan (an arch-shaped doorway) topped by a large dome and finial. Like most Mughal tombs, the basic elements are Indo-Islamic in origin.

The base structure is a large multi-chambered cube with chamfered corners forming an unequal eight-sided structure that is approximately 55 metres (180 ft) on each of the four long sides. Each side of the iwan is framed with a huge pishtaq or vaulted archway with two similarly shaped arched balconies stacked on either side. This motif of stacked pishtaqs is replicated on the chamfered corner areas, making the design completely symmetrical on all sides of the building. Four minarets frame the tomb, one at each corner of the plinth facing the chamfered corners. The main chamber houses the false sarcophagi of Mumtaz Mahal and Shah Jahan; the actual graves are at a lower level.

BIST Christmas Market 2023

8 February, 2024 | Living in Georgia | 33 seen

Tis the season of giving, and what better way to celebrate the spirit of Christmas than by sharing moments of joy and charity? Our recent visit to the Christmas Charity Fair at British International school of Tbilisi (BIST) was nothing short of magical, and we've captured the highlights in a heartwarming video. Join us as we take you on a visual journey, skillfully crafted with the latest post-editing techniques in Adobe Premiere Pro 2024.

The Christmas Charity Fair at BIST unfolded as a vibrant tapestry of colors, laughter, and goodwill. From festive decorations to the heartfelt smiles of attendees, every frame of our video encapsulates the warmth and generosity that filled the air.

Watch the video, immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere, and be a part of our celebration of Christmas giving. A simple thumbs up is all it takes to show your support and spread the holiday cheer. Let's come together as a community, cherishing the true meaning of Christmas – the spirit of generosity, compassion, and love.

Inn Tawang Hotel In Delhi

6 February, 2024 | Hotel reviews | 43 seen

Hotel Inn Twang is located 3.5 km from the New Delhi Railway Station. Free WiFi access is available in public areas. 

We stayed at this hotel for two nights at the end of December during our 3 week trip to India. The hotel was offered to us by a tour company, and we got transferred here directly from the airport in Delhi. 

Despite not being a bad hotel, I doubt I would book it again. The hotel defiantly was cheap, but not for us, as we booked from the travel agency. And we paid like for a decent 4star hotel. Otherwise pretty decent 3-star hotel with all the basic amenities. I believe room could be get here for about $25. For us it cost more like $75 (but not hotel took the money, travel agency did). 

Each room here will provide you with a TV, air conditioning and a balcony. There is also a refrigerator. Featuring a shower, private bathroom also comes with free toiletries. Extras include a seating area and cable channels.

At Hotel Inn Twang you will find a 24-hour front desk, a garden and a terrace.

Other facilities offered at the property include a shared lounge, a ticket service and a tour desk. An array of activities can be enjoyed on site or in the surroundings, including cycling. The property offers free parking. 

The hotel is 7.5 km from India Gate, 9 km from Red Fort and 17.5 km from the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Qutb Minar. The Kashmere gate ISBT is 7.8 km away while Indira Gandhi International Airport is 13 km away. 

The in-house restaurant serves regional and Indian delicacies. Room service can be requested for in-room dining comforts.

Budget class hotel, book now on Booking.com

IWA Charity Fair Tbilisi 2023

1 February, 2024 | Living in Georgia | 33 seen

As the chilly winds of December swept through the vibrant streets of Tbilisi, our family embraced the warmth of the season at the IWA Charity Fair. This annual event has become a cherished tradition for expat families, offering not only delectable treats but also a chance to contribute to a noble cause.

The IWA Charity Fair in Tbilisi is not just an ordinary event; it's a celebration of community and goodwill. Expatriates from various corners of the world gather to share the festive spirit, creating a unique blend of cultures and camaraderie. The air is filled with laughter, joy, and the delightful aroma of international cuisines.

One highlight was the French pop-up restaurant, where he indulged in a scrumptious salmon burger. The fusion of French culinary finesse with locally sourced ingredients created a culinary masterpiece that left taste buds dancing.

Amidst the cheerful ambiance, hot wine flowed freely, providing a perfect remedy to the winter chill. Families engaged in heartfelt conversations, sharing stories of their unique journeys and experiences in the charming city of Tbilisi. It was more than just a fair; it was a platform for forging lasting connections and friendships.

Beyond the festivities, the IWA Charity Fair serves a higher purpose – contributing to meaningful causes. The sense of fulfillment derived from knowing that their enjoyment was helping others added an extra layer of joy to the experience.

As December unfolded in Tbilisi, the IWA Charity Fair became a memorable chapter in Reinis Fischer's annual traditions. A fusion of gastronomic delights, cultural exchange, and philanthropy, the event exemplifies the true spirit of the holiday season. Thumbs up to a heartwarming celebration that brings people together for a good cause!

India Gate

30 January, 2024 | Tourism objects | 321 seen

The India Gate is a war memorial located near the Kartavya path on the eastern edge of the "ceremonial axis" of New Delhi, formerly called Rajpath. It stands as a memorial to 84,000 soldiers of the Indian Army who died between 1914 and 1921 in the First World War, in France, Flanders, Mesopotamia, Persia, East Africa, Gallipoli and elsewhere in the Near and the Far East, and the Third Anglo-Afghan War. 13,300 servicemen's names, including some soldiers and officers from the United Kingdom, are inscribed on the gate.

Designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, the gate evokes the architectural style of the ancient Roman triumphal arches such as the Arch of Constantine in Rome, and later memorial arches; it is often compared to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, and the Gateway of India in Mumbai.

I had a chance to visit the India Gate at the end of Decemebr 2023,d uring our three week trip to India. We were taken here by our tour guide and made a few photos.

Following the Bangladesh Liberation war in 1972, a structure consisting of a black marble plinth with a reversed rifle, capped by a war helmet and bounded by four eternal flames, was built beneath the archway. This structure, called Amar Jawan Jyoti (Flame of the Immortal Soldier), has since 1971 served as India's tomb of the unknown soldier. India Gate is counted amongst the largest war memorials in India and every Republic Day, the Prime Minister visits the gate to pay their tributes to the Amar Jawan Jyoti, following which the Republic Day parade starts. India Gate is often a location for civil society protests, and is popular with tourists.

The memorial gate was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, who was not only the main architect of New Delhi but also a member of the Imperial War Graves Commission and one of Europe's foremost designers of war graves and memorials. 

He designed sixty-six war memorials in Europe, including the highly regarded Cenotaph in London in 1919, the first national war memorial erected after World War I, for which he was commissioned by David Lloyd George, the British prime minister.

 The memorial in New Delhi, like the Cenotaph in London, is a secular memorial, free of religious and "culturally-specific iconography such as crosses". Lutyens according to his biographer, Christopher Hussey, relied on the "elemental mode", a style of commemoration based on a "universal architectural style free of religious ornamentation".

If you happen to be in Delhi, make sure to visit this place.

New Year's Party 2024 Caucasus Translations

25 January, 2024 | Living in Georgia | 62 seen

Welcome to 2024! The New Year has kicked off in style, and we're excited to share an exclusive glimpse into the vibrant celebration hosted by Caucasus Translations at the beautiful Sevsamora Hotel in Saguramo. Get ready for an unforgettable journey through the heart of Georgian traditions, featuring the iconic Supra feast, heartfelt toasts, and the spirited energy of Georgian dance.

The video capturing the New Year's party at Sevsamora Hotel is nothing short of a visual feast. From the elegant decor to the infectious laughter, the footage offers a firsthand look at the festivities that unfolded on that special night. The little nice office party transformed into a grand celebration, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

 No Georgian celebration is complete without the Supra, and the New Year's party was no exception. The video showcases a mouthwatering spread of traditional Georgian dishes, each one a testament to the rich culinary heritage of the region. The table was adorned with an array of gastronomic delights that left everyone indulging in the flavors of Georgia.

The art of toasting is deeply ingrained in Georgian culture, and the party at Sevsamora Hotel was no different. Colleagues and friends gathered around, raising their glasses in unison to celebrate the successes of the past year and to welcome the opportunities that lay ahead. The toasts, filled with sincerity and camaraderie, added a personal touch to the festivities.

As the night progressed, the spirit of the celebration escalated with traditional Georgian dance. The video captures the dynamic and energetic performances that filled the dance floor, showcasing the cultural vibrancy that is synonymous with Georgian festivities. The rhythmic movements and colorful costumes created a lively atmosphere, spreading joy and excitement among the attendees.

Thumbs Up and Gilocav Akhalcels Megobrebi: 

As you watch the New Year's Party 2024 video, be sure to hit the thumbs up button to show your appreciation for the fantastic celebration. And to our dear readers, gilocav akhalcels megobrebi! May this new year bring you joy, success, and unforgettable moments. Join us in reliving the magic of the Caucasus Translations office party at Sevsamora Hotel - a celebration that truly encapsulates the warmth and hospitality of Georgia. Enjoy the video, and here's to a year filled with positivity and prosperity!

Pindi Restaurant New Delhi

24 January, 2024 | Restaurant reviews | 49 seen

Pindi Restaurant is located on 16 Pandara Road Market, New Delhi, India. 

We came here together with our tour guide in Delhi after visiting Jama Masjid of Delhi. Exactly at this place I fell in love with tasty Indian fish curry and garlic naan.

I'm very thankful to our tour guide for taking us here, as this was our first dinning expierience in India and turned out magnificent.

Here I also found my favorite Indian beer - KingFisher

We tried tasty Indian cuisine and some Chinese cuisine. Amazing. 

 Trully amazing expierience with trully delicious food. Our total bill about 6,000 Indian Rupees.