My Science School

The first bridge to connect Buda and Pest, across the Danube is a sight to behold, both in daytime and at sunset when it comes alive with the evening lightings. A walk across the Chain Bridge is a must for anyone visiting Budapest. This walk will have you agreeing with the epithet bestowed on Budapest - 'Pearl of the Danube'.

Budapest is a Beta + global city with strengths in commerce, finance, media, art, fashion, research, technology, education, and entertainment. It is Hungary's financial centre and was ranked as the second fastest-developing urban economy in Europe. Budapest is the headquarters of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology, the European Police College and the first foreign office of the China Investment Promotion Agency. Over 40 colleges and universities are located in Budapest, including the Eötvös Loránd University, the Corvinus University, Semmelweis University and the Budapest University of Technology and Economics. Opened in 1896, the city's subway system, the Budapest Metro, serves 1.27 million, while the Budapest Tram Network serves 1.08 million passengers daily.

The central area of Budapest along the Danube River is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has several notable monuments of classical architecture, including the Hungarian Parliament and the Buda Castle. The city also has around 80 geothermal springs, the largest thermal water cave system, second largest synagogue, and third largest Parliament building in the world. Budapest attracts around 12 million international tourists per year, making it a highly popular destination in Europe.

 

Picture Credit : Google

Rio de Janeiro sensuous, chaotic, sophisticated, open and friendly—is one of South America’s gems. The Cidade Marvilhosa (Marvelous City), as Brazilians call it, displays a unique blend of contrasts: old and new in an urban metropolis nestled around mountains and a huge forest.

Rio is a feast of natural and urban attractions that can be enjoyed as sweeping panoramic views or inspected up close. Most visitors opt for a panoramic view as an introduction to the city. The best spots are Pao de Acucar (Sugar Loaf) and Corcovado Mountain, though the more energetic might choose to hike up Gavea Rock. A gondola can take you up Sugar Loaf for a 360-degree view of Rio and Guanabara Bay.

This marvellous city has plenty to offer its visitors in terms of activities. It is also home to iconic landmarks and historical places of interest.

Possibly one of the most fascinating areas in Rio de Janeiro is the Tijuca Forest National Park, a rainforest home to a wealth of trails and paths ideal for hiking and biking. This was the world’s first reforestation project that started way back in 1861, and 100 years later it was declared a national park. The park is actually home to the looming and all encompassing Christ the Redeemer statue that hovers over the city below. Do head to the park for rainforest adventures and sightseeing of world-renown landmarks. 

 

Picture Credit : Google

Though India has completed 73 years of independence, a bit of England continues to live and breathe in the state of Gujarat. Yes, we are talking about Ahmedabad, our very own Manchester! The English city is widely acclaimed for its industrial heritage and cotton mills – something that is reflected wonderfully in Ahmedabad’s textile history. Both cities boast attractive riverside locations (River Mersey for Manchester and River Sabarmati for Ahmedabad) and have the perfect temperature for cotton spinning. Read on to know more about Ahmedabad and why it is rightfully called the Manchester of India.

As mentioned before, just like England’s Manchester, Ahmedabad is situated on the banks of a river, Sabarmati. The region is known for its generous cotton production, which makes it easy for textile mills to procure raw materials. The nearby villages meet the requirement for skilled and unskilled labourers efficiently. Plus, Ahmedabad is connected superbly with all major cities in India, which means that the finished goods can be distributed smoothly.

Vibrant, well-lit and aesthetic streets thronged with traditionally dressed people and their lively chatter is another reason why Ahmedabad is considered to be a close cousin of Manchester. The culture of the city is deeply rooted in traditions and festivals that are celebrated with a lot of enthusiasm and love.

Ranchhodlal Chhotalal, a visionary businessman, set up the first textile mill in Shahpur, Ahmedabad. The year was 1861, when Ahmedabad Spinning and Weaving Company Limited came into being. And since then, there was no looking back. By the end of the 20th century, close to 33 mills started operating with full steam and Ahmedabad began earning repute as the country’s chief textile supplier. In a natural course of events, it came to be known as the Manchester of India, a term coined by the famous industrialists Kasturbhai Lalbhai and Ambalal Sarabhai. Since the textile export business started booming too, the title seemed more than apt.

 

Picture Credit : Google