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Mardi Gras Festival – The Origin, Beeds, and Food

mardi grass festival

The largest craziest loudest celebration attended by thousands of tourists every year Mardi Gras is beyond just drinks and music. The festival has a history of centuries and is deeply rooted in religious sentiment. The Carnival and Mardi Gras day, also called Shrove Tuesday, are all about partying and food before the Lent begins.

Mardi Gras Traditions food is a vital aspect of the entire occasion. Of course, it’s a great way to enter 40 days of Lent’s fasting.

What is the Mardi Gras Festival?

Mardi Gras is a religious event that counts in family gatherings as well. But, that does limit the ways to unleash your inner devil. Cause’ Mardi Gras is among the biggest party fests in the world.

The Mardi Gras lasts until Lent starts. As we all know, sacrificing favorite drinks and foods going to last for 40-long-days during Lent, till Easter; why not eat, drink, dance, and get a little naughty before fasting periods?  

Besides, all those drinks and music, when they say, “Women flash their breasts to get Beads.” Something might have pinched your mind.

What is the fuss about and where did it start?

The Mardi Gras is believed to have started sometime back in the 1830s in New Orleans. The parades begin on the 12th night of Christmas and end on Fat Tuesday which is originally called Mardi Gras Day.

The period of the Parades is officially called carnival. In 1872, the Carnival King called Rex was invented by an org. of businessmen. Since then, Rex has been leading the parade route.

Mardi Gras Beads – The Throws

Mardi Gras Beads, used as Mardi Gras Throws have rooted deep into the tradition since way long back. Beads are not the only thing used for Mardi Gras souvenirs though, but are one of the prime attractions in the very event, we can say that fairly.

Among many items for Mardi Gras decors and souvenirs, Beads have been used widely in Mardi Gras Parades thus making it popularized. Mardi Gras Parades on Bourbon Street or on French Fat Tuesday, Beads have become an essential element of the entire event, and it brings a story to tell.

Earlier, during the parade sugar coated almonds are thrown to the crowds by the Rex.

The almonds were way too costly to simply waste on the crowds’ throw, so they invented comparatively cheaper throw for the parades. Glass beads fabricated necklaces were then tossed by the Krewes replacing almonds. The beads made an immense sensation to the crowds and the event itself instantly.

It is also said that the usage of beads came to the idea when a Santa Claus-like dressed-up man used beads to decorate his costume, and then some of the tourists started to follow this getup and decorated their costumes with beads.

Since the trend of using the Mardi Gras Beads, by 1900, over a million tourists visited New Orleans intending to participate in the Carnival and celebrate Mardi Gras Day and got their necks holding beads.

Over time, a variety of new Mardi Gras throws have been tossed to the parade crowds as such toys, plastic cups, doubloons, figurines, Frisbees, etc. The Zulu crew also practiced throwing coconuts alongside beads to the crowds. Nevertheless, Mardi Gras Beads has been holding the most thrown trinkets to date.

Beads made of glass tend to be harmful to crowds and are replaced by plastic beads made with various colors, sizes, and shapes. The combination of colors used in beads also has a traditional touch. The colors are Gold, Green, and Purple where gold symbolizes Power, Green signifies Faith, and Purple represents Justice.      

Best Mardi Gras Traditions Food You Shouldn’t Miss

Adding to your excitement, Mardi Gras brings some traditional food that makes the celebration really fun. There are no boundaries to consuming your desired world-class food at the event. Regardless, some of the best Mardi Gras food items are considered a must-try if you wish to feel the fest sensation truly.

We have enlisted what you should not miss on the Mardi Gras food list for festive dining.

# King Cakes

When it comes to Mardi Gras traditional food, King Cakes is the core of attraction for an obvious cause. It appears with twinkling colorful sugar on the Danish dough-made surface. The color used in the cake also follows the tradition of Mardi Gras colors that are Gold, Green, and Purple representing the same meaning as in beads.

The cake also sparks your excitement with an additional feature in it. A baby-shaped tiny plastic toy is hidden inside the cake which signifies Baby Jesus. Whoever gets the slice of cake with the baby Jesus is believed to possess good luck.

# Crawfish

Crawfish and Lousiana have a relation of centuries old. Dated back to 1755, since then Crawfish has been in the food tradition of Louisiana. History says, that back then, Acadians who are the origins of Canada’s seashores sought an alternative to seafood when they relocated to the state. They found the crawfish a better match.

Over the years, Acadians turned into Cajus; however, crawfish already have made an immense place on the dining table. Today, the crawfish has become one of the most consumed Mardi Gras traditional food. 

# Jambalaya

If you’re familiar with Spanish paella and like it, this one will drive you to starve. In New Orleans, Jambalaya is regarded as modern paella which is brought to the state by Spanish descendents. The only difference in it from the original Spanish paella is that saffron is missing from the ingredient.

As an alternative, tomatoes are used for a decent color and flavor. Today, Jambalaya is so much adopted by Lousiana dwellers that you will find it in reputed restaurants, church fairs, family gatherings, and wedding occasions.  

# Creole Cuisine

As long as you’re in NOLA, you will get this dish pretty much on all occasions and all types of dining menus. The origin of Creole is in New Orleans’ Lousiana itself. Over time, its recipe was adopted with a mixture of many spices derived from various regions including French, German, West African, Indian, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, and Caribbean.

In NOLA, if you dine in any restaurant that serves Creole, you are supposed to get all the native food as such Jambalaya, Crawfish, Gumbo, etc. Adding to the menu, you can get rice, red beans, and more delicious dishes to celebrate Madri Gras with mouth. Above all, the mentioned best Madri Gras traditional foods are a must try.

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Travel

Trip to Arunachal Pradesh – Itinerary to the ‘Land of the Dawn-Lit Mountains’

arunachal trip

Arunachal Pradesh, also famed as The Land of Rising Sun is one of the most fascinating tourist destinations for its unique features. Arunachal has many splendid tourist places, aroused from the tropically profuse valleys of the Brahmaputra river and horizon to the Eastern Himalaya’s isolated grandeur.

Strung out alongside the flourishing valleys, swift and crystal rivers, misty mountain peaks, and sheer wild sanctuaries, it allures a picturesque adventure.  

When you do the itinerary, make sure you ticked all the best places and things to do in Arunachal Pradesh in proper order. It will save a lot of time as well as reduce the expenses.

Knowing the right route to reach in the most suitable season beforehand will be an additional advantage of your trip as well.

Best Places to Visit in Arunachal Pradesh

Now, before you plan out your trip to the easternmost state of the country, it’s okay to be concerned about the way of communication with the locals. You will be glad to know that Arunachal is the only Northeastern state where most locals are comfortable in Hindi; also, is one of the two states in India where English is the only official language.

Whether you are traveling solo or in a squad, comfortable communication makes traveling a lot easier.

Now, picking up the best tourist places in Arunachal to hunt, we have handpicked the below spots among many.

  • Bhalukpong Monastery
  • Nameri National Park
  • Nuranang Waterfall
  • Tawang Monastery
  • Madhuri Lake
  • Bum La Pass Indo-China Border
  • Ziro Vallley (Ziro Music Festival)

Itinerary: Where When & How to Reach

The most convenient route for your Arunachal Trip Itinerary is the Tawang circuit. It may take approximately 7 days to cover most of the tourist places in Arunachal Pradesh. 

While you visit most of the mentioned tourist destinations, here are the things to do in Arunachal Pradesh.

Day 1: From Guwahati to Nameri via Tezpur

From Guwahati, hire a car for the rest of the trip. The first destination to hunt is Nameri National Park. It’s around 3 hours ride from Guwahati. You may either choose to stay the night at Nameri Eco Camp or in Tezpur. Although, Tezpur will cost you a little cheaper for the night hold, Nameri on the other hand is more exciting.

The forest resort dwells in the lap of lush nature. Here you may comfort yourself in eco-friendly tents as well as cottage accommodations.

Day 2: Sightseeing and River Rafting in Nameri

They also organize Nameri River rafting alongside night camping. The Nameri National Park is also known for beautiful wild animals as such leopards, tigers, elephants, wild pigs, guars, etc.; and it’s a bird-watching paradise.

Day 3:  Moving from Nameri to Bhalukpong

It takes only a 30-minute drive to reach Bhalukpong from Nameri. Bhalukpong is widely acclaimed for its archeological remains of Mahabharata fame Bana and his grandfather King Bhaluka. Its natural beauty at a height of 213 meters is accompanied by other hot spots like Orchid Centre, Hot Spring Bath, etc.

Only 5 km away from Bhalukpong, Tippi is Asia’s largest orchidarium with over 7000 various orchids.  The Nyethidow festival which is held in March is also a great option to keep on your bucket list. Staying the night in Bhalukpong will provide you enough rest for you need to drive early the next morning to Dirang.

Day 4: Bhalukpong to Dirang

Distancing approximately 138 km, reaching Dirang from Bhalukpong takes up to 4.30 hours. In Dirang, the most exciting places to visit are the National Yak Research and Breeding Centre, Sangti Valley, Apple and Kiwi Orchards, Nuranang Waterfall, Paradise Lake, Jaswant Garh, you name it.

During the winter, Siberian black-necked storks visit the Sangti Valley. You will need an entire day additionally to visit most of these places in Dirang.

Day 5: Sightseeing in Dirang

Starting from Se La Pass, which is a 45 km drive from Dirang, is the World’s biggest motorable pass. While driving through the Se La Pass, witness the serene crystal-clear natural water of Paradise Lake. Just 12 km from the Se La Pass, there comes Nuranang where you can enjoy Trout fishing in its chilly water.

83 km away, Jaswant Garh War Memorial is also a must-visit. The place is built in memory of the brave soldier Veer Jaswant Singh who single-handedly held off Chinese soldiers for 72 hours long during the Sino-India War in 1962.

Day 6: Moving Dirang to Tawang

Once you are done in Dirang, take the wheel towards Tawang which is a 4 hr 19 min drive. Again, you are suggested to move early in the morning. In Tawang, the War Memorial: Built in memory of martyrs in the 1962 Sino-India war has names of more than 2400 martyred soldiers.

Tawang Monastery is another must-visit place in Arunachal Pradesh. It is the second largest Buddhist monastery in the entire Asia continent after Lhasa and is believed to be as old as over 400 years. In the Monastery, there stands an 8-meter-high statue of Buddha. This place is also full of priceless religious books, manuscripts, and thankas. 

Day 7: Complete Sightseeing of Tawang

It’s impossible to hunt the entire tourist spots of Tawang on the day you reach there. Move out the next day to Bum La Pass which is 37 km away from Tawang. It’s situated above 16,500 ft above ocean level at the Indo-China border. This is the place where you witness snowfall throughout the entire year.  It is said that the Dalai Lama used this pass to enter India from Tibet.

Sangetsar (Madhuri Lake) and P Tso Lake are some of the most popular holiday destinations while you are in Arunachal Pradesh. Surrounded by scenic natural beauty, these lakes are known for musk deer and snow pigeons. 

P Tso Lake
Madhuri Lake

Apart from all these hot destinations, Ziro is situated a little farther away and usually held during the Winter (September- December). The state’s biggest music festival was canceled in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

If your itinerary includes the event, make sure of proper query beforehand and plan accordingly.

Best Time to Visit in Arunachal Pradesh

April and October are suggested to be the best months to visit Arunachal Pradesh. Arunachal Pradesh is located at a high altitude; its weather remains pleasant throughout the year. Although it will be wise to avoid visiting during Summer and Monsoon. 

Average Weather Conditions Throughout the Year:

  • March to June – Summer (Hot)
  • July to September – Monsoon (Rainfall)
  • October to February – Winter (Chill and Snowy)

Backpacking

Arunachal Pradesh is vast with difficult terrain, especially the road conditions are not so good. However, the largest among the seven sister states of Northeast India is worth a visit once in your lifetime. Despite having the lowest population density in the country, the government is making an effort to maintain its appeal to travel enthusiasts.     

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Travel

Places to Visit and Learn Local Traditions Around the World

Tour and travel have various shades, some are about experiencing serene natural beauty or extreme adventure, and some are about exploring new places and living the local cultures or traditions. From picturesque historic sites and museums to local traditions and flavors, you will find many unique destinations to explore and have a lifetime experience.

If you are looking for the best places to visit and learn about local traditions around the world, we have compiled a list of 10 such destinations that offer unique glimpses into the culture and traditions of the locals.

10 Best Places to Visit and Learn Local Traditions around the world

Most of these destinations show how the local people live, their dress, what or where they eat, their overall way of life, etc. The more diverse the ethnicity of the locals, the deeper you need to dive to explore a certain place.

Your trip plan should include spots like large metropolitan areas, mountain areas, coastal areas, small towns farming areas, etc. Each kind of place contributes a unique flavor to the overall taste of a given culture.    

01: Cusco

Andean Baroque and Incan Majesty co-exist in the stone streets of Cusco, embodied by the church of Santo Domino and the Qoriacancha situating along the Plaza de Armas. The high-altitude destination is referred to as a melting pot of Mestizo and Amerindian culture, a metaphor for both the ethnic locals blending as one.

You will find lively summer fests, extraordinary textiles, and the most fascinating archaeological wonders. Cusco is a great destination if your interests include historical tours, archaeological tours, art & history, and hiking tours.    

02: Cuba

Cuba is an amazing destination for cultural exchange. It is a mixture of old-world tradition, architecture, and of-the-moment cultures. If you head out away from the capital city towards small towns like Trinidad, you will find more sights of Spanish colonial monuments and architecture.

Trinidad is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From this spot, you can trip to the Valley of the Sugar Mills which was the center of Cuba’s sugar industry. Apart from experiencing the local cultures and traditions, in Cuba, you can enjoy the nightlife and tasteful bars after dark. The place is also great for outdoor activities, Art, and history.

03: Agra

Referred as a great testament of love, the Taj Mahal is one of a kind for a romantic holiday trip. Declared one of the 7 wonders of the world in 2007, the historical wonder was built by the grieving Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his late wife Mumtaz. The Taj Mahal gathers over five million tourists in a year.

India is vastly known for its diverse culture, ethnicity, and geographical landscape. Ranging from the lap of the Himalayan mountain, Rajasthan’s dune of deserts, rich culture, and natural picturesque of the North-eastern region, to the plateaus of Western and Eastern Ghats, India is a complete pack of wonders for travel enthusiasts.

If your trip bucket list includes Agra, the other two must-visit destinations in Agra are Fatehpur Sikri and the sandstone Red Fort. Both these sites are also declared as UNESCO World Heritage Site. Apart from all that, without a visit to the Taj Mahal your trip to India is incomplete.  

04: Athens

Athen was once known for its tacky architecture, traffic, and smog, now it is reformed with the fortunes brought by the Summer Olympics 2004. For English-speaking tourists, its spotless streets and parks, new motorways, ultra-modern metro, and accessible airport with all the signs in English make the capital of Greece easily navigated.

If your trip includes visiting the nearby islands, Athens can be a home base for the trip. The sophisticated sites of Athens include many monoliths of Western history, ranging from the Temple of Olympian Zeus to the Acropolis, and also the precious treasures of the National Archaeological Museum.

Athens makes a great destination for archaeological tours, historical tours, and cultural tours, and also a great place for bars and nightlife.

05: Colombo

For most travelers, Colombo is referred to as the gateway to Sri Lanka. But it is more than just passing through the interesting and diverse city of Colombo. If you can take a train ride to the coastal area of Mount Lavinia, explore the beaches, or the Talangama Wetland, the trip will add the perfect place to get away from the bustling streets of Colombo.

While dwelling around the city, you will find various religious spots. St. Anthony’s Shrine is one of the holiest shrines in Sri Lanka, You can visit Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple, Temple of Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam Kovil which is built with different deities of Hindu religion, and over 100 years old Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque which is unique for its white and red striped decore.

Overall, Colombo is one of the best places to visit and learn local traditions for its rich art and history, cultural, and historical contribution. It is a great travel destination for safaris as well.

06: Tokyo

 Pop culture collides with tradition in the streets of Tokyo. Here you can enthusiastically wander around the various ancient temples in the day, and sneak into a local karaoke bar for a rocking evening. You have to wake up early to witness the auctioning of lively fish at the Toyosu Market and enjoy a refreshing morning while walking beneath the cherry blossom trees alongside the Sumida River.

 The picturesque East Garden of the Imperial Palace is open to tourists and is a great place to spend some peaceful moments. Not to forget the Edo-Tokyo Museum where you can brush up your interest in Japanese history. And food is one of the best parts of Japan’s lifestyle which you will miss if you don’t taste udon noodles, sushi, and Japanese sweet wagashi.

Tokyo is great for bars, city tours, cultural tours, and historical tours.

07: Singapore

Singapore is one of the few bustling cities in the world which is also among the safest and cleanest cities of its size. Before you visit Singapore, make sure that you pay attention to the local laws. Spitting or throwing a candy wrapper in the street might be a mere issue in your hometown, but in Singapore, you could end up paying a good penalty for the same.

Outdoor activities like shopping in superlative stops like Gargantuan Mall, enjoying in the beaches, and visiting historic sites can be included in the bucket list. Thian Hock Keng temple is a must-visit for a historical tour. Nightlife bars and walking tours are fascinating in Singapore,

08: Berlin

In the developing city of Berlin, the old structures of Mitte coexist gracefully with the Reichstag’s modern fashion. While you are in Berlin, some of the must-visit historic sites are Checkpoint Charlie, the Berlin Wall, Potsdamer Platz, and the Brandenburg Gate. There are some great Zoos and Aquariums to refresh your mind apart from all the historical spots.

09:  Prague

Prague is one of a kind when it comes to exploring places with rich cultures and traditions. With many extraordinary cultural and historic sites, Prague is a grand city and definitely, a must-visit once in life. The Prague Castle has always been overlooked the place since the 9th century. The cemetery and synagogues of the Jewish Quarter are must-visit sites for tourists who are into historical tours.

Prague City is an attractive destination for cultural and historical tours, while its theme parks and city tours are incomplete without nightlife activities. You will find late night cellar bars, amusing wine bars, and trendy bars to cherish your nights in Prague.

10: Edinburgh

The capital city of Scotland, Edinburgh is renowned for its culture, heritage, and festivals. You can walk around the city to visit world heritage sites, galleries, and museums of New Town and Old Town. You can enjoy the best Scottish-produced meals before you head out to join many sophisticated events like the Winter Fest of Music, Summer Festival of Culture, or the Festival of Ceilidhs and Lights. Edinburgh is one of the best places to visit and learn about local traditions around the world and for cultural tours and historical tours.

Summing Up

Most of the mentioned destinations show how the local people live and their history. While you are dwelling around these hot cultural and historical destinations, you will have the opportunity to get a glance at local cultures if you simply spend some time to get off the beaten path. For learning local traditions, always try to find your way into the neighborhoods off the main tourist spots; because it is more difficult when you are on a guided tour.  

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General

Best Travelling Destination for Camping India

travelling destinations in india

A serene camping on the lap of nature is one of the most inexpensive yet precious way to detoxificate one’s soul. If you are a person who travels frequently to places, the best travelling destinations in India offers an excellent escape from tedious life with all the spellbounding experiences you can think of.

We all wish to spend a cold night under the sheet of twinkling stars and get lost in the swift lap of nature. India with all its geographicaly diverse landscape offers you bestests of camping dest inations such as Ladakh, Goa, Spiti Valley , Rishikesh, you name it.

Best Travelling Destinations for Camping in India

Among the plethora of night camping spots,  you can pin your desired spot on the map while keeping your travel costing minimal. Wtether it’s a solo trip or travelling with companions, creating unforgettable memories with your expedition will be much interesting than you expect – simply look out to these besttravelling destinations for camping in India.

# Tso Moriri, Ladakh

Tso Mori Lake lies in the Ruoshu Valley in Leh, located at 13,123 ft from sea level. It is one of the highest lakes in the globe, and Tso Mori is one of the most attractive camping destinations in India. With its natural specticulation, the lake allures a wide range of animals and birds including Tibetan Wolf, Marmots, Chokur Partridge, Bar-headed Geese, Himalayan Griffin Vultures, etc. You will require an Inner Line Permit to visit the place as it lies close to the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

Due to extreme cold temperature, the lake remains frozen fromJanuary to March, the ice begins melting through April and May. Between May to September is the most suitable seaason for tourism. You have a bundle of amusement options from spending a marvellous tent stay at night to experience a splendid sunrise, or trekking to the nearby peaks.

Camping Spots – Nomadic Life Camp, Tsomoriri Camp and Resort, Golden Mark Camps

Best season for camping – May to September

Approx. Costing – Rs. 5,000

# Rishikesh

 Spread beside the secrad river Ganga, built in the foothills of Himalaya mountain range, Rishikesh is one of the most popular tourist destination in India with abrupt serenity. The city is also known as the world’s Yoga Capital. Whether you are an adventure enthsiast or a peace-seeking dweller, the place poses a bundle of options you can experience in a budget-friendly trip. From a low-cost night camp to a luxurious prance, or enjoying the warmth of a bonfire beside your tent in the lush green forest, you can amuse yourself with the best camping experience in Rishikesh.

Along with the safety requirements and food, all the amenities for your convenience, comfort, and enjoyment are provided at the camps. For the outdoor activities, the camps offer river rafting, rock climbing, trekking, paragliding, etc.  Just around 15 kms away from the Rishikesh city, you can land on Shivpuri where they accomodaates campsites with all the amenities you need.

Camping Spots – Cradle of Life Camp, Camp Aspen Rishikesh, Sompho Forest Camp

Best season for camping – March to November

Approx. Costing – Rs.  1,500

# Spiti Valley

Spiti Valley is a deserted cold valley positioned in the Keylong district of Himachal that possesses an unspoiled charm. The place is enriched with lush valleys, glittering lakes, unparalleled vistas, and soulful monasteries. The destination comes in between and Rohtang Pass.

The two most shout after campsites are Kaza and Chandratal Lake. Whether you plan to trip in agroup or travelling alone, amazing experiences such as stargazing, bonfire, and mountain trekking are one of the most amusements in Spiti Valley. It is certainly one of bte best travelling destination for camping India.

Camping Spots – Chandratal, Nako, Batal, Chitkul, Tabo, Rakcham, Sangla

Best season for camping – March to June

Approx. Costing – Rs. 2,000

# Goa

Goa is always among the top list of people who travel widely for its dazzling beaches, lively nightlife, lavish cruises, and laid-back vibes. Beyond all the common outdoor activities, camping experiences in Goa are a must-try. Among most common campsites like Cola Beach, Mandrem, Goa Velha, Calangute, and Talpona Beach – Anjuna Beach stands out for its unique approaches.

The sunrise and sunset spectacles, beach parties, hippy culture, bonfires, and night outs of Goa with musical amusement are some ingredients that enrich your camping episodes here. Either for a solo trip or with a companion, if you are looking for a best camping destination in India, Goa could be your best pick.

Camping Spots – Cola Beach, Anjuna Beach, Madrem, Goa Velha

Best season for camping – September to December/ January to April

Approx. Costing – Rs. 2,000

Get Your Backpack

For a travel enthusiast like myself, camping in a far serene site is always been a dream. When it comes to a globetrotter who travels quite often, there’s always a place to fill in the bucket within India. If you are travelling solo, travelling light is the best option.

From Goa’s glittering beach to Himachal’s lush green forest, or Rishikesh’s riverside bonfire, these best travelling destinations for camping in India will give you with best exquisite camping experiences at the most affordable cost.

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Technology

How to Construct a Blog Content

how to write blog

There are several types of content available to enrich your website. The most popular types of web content are Blog Posts, Articles, Infographics, Online Surveys, GIFs, Slide Shows, E-Books, Templates, Images, and Videos. Each of these contents has a certain type of structure.

In particular, we are here to show you how to construct a blog post and web articles. We are about to share every single aspect of writing a blog post. What to write, why to write, and how to write.

First, let’s view the blog post or article content quickly.

What is a Blog Post/Article?

You are looking for something. A solution to your problem, or a piece of information to enhance your knowledge, or maybe something entertaining.

When you look on the internet for what you desire, type something on Google, and Hit the Enter key. What do you see? Many websites provide you information you are looking for.

For example, you typed “How to become a content writer” in Google. You see something like this.

As you can see, there are various websites ranked in the search results with their unique contents. These contents are blog posts, or you can say article content. Blog posts are shorter than the articles, word count ranging from 700 – 1200. Articles consist of 1000 – 2500 words.

Both types of web content are created to feed information on a certain topic. In this case, the information is on how to become a content writer. Now, as you wish to be a content writer, you must know the basic structure of content writing.

Let’s break it down.

The Basic Structure of Content Writing

The primary elements to construct blog content are – the Title, Intro, Content Body, & Conclusion. When you stumble upon a blog post, what do you see?
You see a Title and the content body. Now the content body comes with an Introduction, Main body, and Conclusion.

As shown in the image below –

The first portion of the content comes with the Title, followed by the Introduction, Body, and Conclusion. Looking at the image, you have now a brief idea of content structures. Each of the content parts has its importance. Let’s see their importance and how to create them.

Importance of Different Aspects of Blog Posts – How to Create Them

Every aspect of a blog post is important. Starting with the importance of the Content Title, will be discussing them all.

Title: Why & How to Create Them

Your blog Title appears everywhere, but not the entire content.

It’s a great thing to write an excellent blog post with perfect on-page SEO. But adding an attractive title to a blog is a definite, YES.

A title determines the selling point of any blog. And this is determined even before readers scroll down to the content looking for what they need.
A title reflects the content of a blog as a whole. Wherever you share the blog post, be it on a social media platform, through email, or any other way, a well-established title can be a good start to excellent exposure.
The title is also used as clickbait by many content creators knowing the fact that it’s the first thing a reader sees.

Put on the shoes of a reader, would you click on every single blog post? No!
Consciously or subconsciously, you click on a content link only when the Title attracts
you.

The title is Important for SEO!

The title influences overall SEO as well. A good title gets you more organic traffic, ultimately improving your search engine rank. It has a lot to do with on-page SEO. Apart from keeping an attractive title, you should also look after the SEO aspect.

A keyword is the term people type in the search engines. The better the search volume of a keyword, the higher the chances of getting more web visitors.
You can insert keywords into the title to make the visitor and the Search Engine understand what’s the content about.

Keeping the title short but self-explanatory is an important part of an excellent Search Engine Optimization procedure.
Here are the key points to mind while writing a great blog title –

  • Set the right expectations.
  • Make it short and sweet.
  • Make it engaging.
  • Include one or two keywords but don’t do it too much.
Introduction: Holds the Key to Keep Visitors Hooked

No matter how captivating your blog TITLE is, it’s the Intro that will turn your
visitors into readers.

Your audience does not know yet whether your content has the solution or information they need. They cannot trust your blog in the first impression by Title alone. They are looking for more clues to believe that you have something to offer before reading the entire blog.

No one is reading your entire blog post only to regret of wasting time. The best way to make up their mind is skimming over the Intro looking for a quick overview of your blog.

You can feel how important your Introduction is.

Now, how are you supposed to convince and convert your visitors to readers?

Keeping an introduction short yet engaging is the best way to keep a reader hooked. As a writer, don’t get too carried away talking about stuff that isn’t related to the topic of your content.

Nor should one keep the intro too short so that readers won’t find it vague. The key point is to talk about the basics of your content providing a brief idea of what’s inside

Alright, you have learned that your blog Introduction should be short and informative enough. That so far is a theory. What about applying the idea practically?

These working tips will help you craft a better blog Introduction as you go –

  • Invite your reader citing their concerns about the way have been through the same situation.
  • Say something that you have in common with the readers to create an instant bond.
  • Tell your own story – addressing the readers as your friend.
  • Create mystery in the intro with a promise to unfold it in the main content body.
  • Use quotes by well-known authors to make the intro interesting.
  • State facts or sources with exact numbers – make sure they are reliable.
The Body: All the Required Information Lies Within

A well-organized Content Body is like the building block of a perfect blog post. When a writer talks about a particular topic, it’s important to keep everything well-structured.

Most of the readers tend to scroll down once through a post searching for whether that particular post is worth their time. The importance of well-structured blog post is important for many reasons. That includes making a catchy content body.

When it comes to online readers’ behavior, even after being convinced by your great intro, they are looking for a clean and simple content body. They want to read something that doesn’t put much pressure on their eyesight as well as on their mind.

Big paragraphs are big No!

The content body’s primary role is to provide the readers a complete information on a certain topic. In the meantime, the body must be packed with great readability.

Readability matters, big time!

Putting up a better readability to your blog post requires the following factors –

  • Using a conversational tone, use words like “I”, “You”, and “We”.
  • Keep your paragraphs and sentences short and informative.
  • Use formatting tags like Bold, Italic, and Underlines, for specific vital words or
  • phrases.
  • Use strong adjectives instead of weak ones; e.g. It’s freezing (I̶t̶’̶s̶̶v̶e̶r̶y̶̶c̶o̶l̶d̶), Great
  • (V̶e̶r̶y̶̶g̶o̶o̶d̶), etc.
  • Use headings and subheadings properly.
  • Use the bulletin points and numbering to enlist important points.
  • Use relevant and royalty-free images as needed.

Headings and Subheadings are important parts of well-written blog content. Using the heading right will help execute the steps you want to initiate to explain the topic better.
Heading and subheadings are separated in numerical order respectively.

  • Subheading 1
  • Subheading 2
  • Subheading 3
  • Subheading 4
Conclusion: Ending Your Blog Post isn’t the End

The basic concept of the Conclusion is to end your blog post. But’s that not the end yet. I will tell you why. I’m sharing my ‘mistakes as a beginner’ first.
Initially when I began as a content writer – Title, Intro, and Body were my prime concerns.
I worked hard for a catchy headline, a clever hook, and an informative body.

My concept was, “I have given all the information already, why spend too much effort on a conclusion?”
It was a mistake which I don’t want anyone else would do. Why?

Why the Conclusion is so important?

It is important to keep a blog engaging, right from the moment when a content idea pops up in your head – til the end of the post. Throughout the entire write-up, the writer needs to connect with the readers.

Engaging directly with your readers, convincing them to follow your blog, and making them thrive for more – results building your authority. And, the conclusion plays a vital role in building your blog authority.

A convincing ending leaves an immense impression on your readers and leaves them wanting to engage on your other blogs and social media profiles as well. This is the point, you can turn a reader into your follower.

Being a blog writer, the first impressions aren’t just what you need to keep in mind. It is equally important to end the post with a friendly yet professional note. Maintain a good relationship with your new readers – keep them hooked with the latest post.

Writing a great Conclusion? – These tips will impact the most.

The Conclusion is about building relationships with your readers – getting followers.
Here’s how you do it –

  • Summarize and restate the key points and tell them why it’s important
  • Leave a question and encourage the readers to comment.
  • Ask your readers to share the post with people looking for a solution.
  • Leave a challenge where it fits.
  • Ask your visitors where they want you to serve better or make an improvement.
  • And, add a focus keyword for SEO.

Blog Structure – It’s a Bridge Connecting Your Blog with Audience & Search Engine

The main idea of constructing blog content with many structures is to make it user-friendly as well as search-engine-friendly. It’s about making your blog visually appealing and easy to read for your readers. Also, about crafting your blog the way search engines can understand it has the information a visitor needs

Once you understand this basic idea, it will help you come up even with better creativity for constructing a blog article.
Remember, every single element such as Title, Intro, Body, and Conclusion has its own important role to play.

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Technology

How to Research Keywords Like a Pro?

how to research keyword

When you find a suitable niche, you are excited to pen them down. Hold
your horses!
You did keyword research to determine a suitable niche. You did great. But, keyword
research is more than that.
Through keyword research, you are about to plan what and when to write. How much to
write? You may consider it one of the most effective SEO strategies in the blogging arena.
Mustering on keyword research will give you an extra boost towards the goal.

What is a SEO Keyword – What Keyword Research Mean

Just in case Keywords or SEO Keyword Research sounds unfamiliar to you –
Keywords are the words or terms searched on Google or any other search engine by
Internet users.

For example, you wish to know how to bake a cake. You are looking for the recipe in the
Internet. You open Google and enter your queries such as –

  1. How to Bake a Cake
  2. Baking cake recipe
  3. How can I bake a cake
  4. Method of baking cakes

There could be many terms used just for a single query, and each of these terms has
a different search volume in Google. However, each of these terms is called
keywords.

Now, when it comes to SEO (Search Engine Optimization), our focus is to target the
keywords that are easier to rank on Google. In the meantime, we must look for the search
volume and competition of the keyword.

The idea of SEO Keyword Research is –

High search volume: Larger the number of people searching for this certain keyword on
Google. This means the possibility of a larger amount of visitors.
Low competition: The smaller the number of websites posted about a certain keyword or
topic, the lower the number of competition to rank on Google.

The goal here is to rank on the Google for a better exposure. When you target a
keyword that has a high search volume and less competition compared to other related
keywords, that’s where SEO Keyword Research comes in.

How to Do SEO Keyword Research

There are many paid and free tools available for SEO keyword research. Combining
your idea and such tools will get you the best keywords to post your blogs in the long
run.
Alternatively, you can get the job done manually too. Whichever method you choose,
there are some vital steps you have to take.

Step 1: Studying Your Niche

Dive deep into your chosen niche to learn more about it. Small or big, when you study
more about the niche you already have chosen, you will get out-of-the-box ideas. This
can later be your weapon for a better SEO strategy.

Here are the tips to study your niche better –

  • On social media, follow the trending hashtags, and join community groups. Spot what they talk about mostly.
  • Join forums and community sites. See what kind of content they share or discuss the most. Pick the topics that have more engagement.
  • Read blog content written on the same niche. Look for the most used terms they use while talking about the niche.
  • Engage with existing audiences and try to understand more about their problems and interests in the same niche.
Step 2: Defining Your Goal

Your blueprint always begins with defining the prime goal. Before defining your goal, ask
yourself –

  • Who you are?
  • What is your business about?
  • What makes you stand out from the crowd?
  • What’s the purpose of your website?
  • What promises have you made through your website?

When you find the answer to these questions – the next step is to specify the goal of
your blog site.
Defining your goal will help you build an SEO strategy. The search terms or keywords you
are about to focus should point towards your prime goal.
Pen down the end goal, and draw charts to build a complete framework of your work to be done.

Step 3: Create a List of Relevant Topics

Based on your target niche and goal, create a list of related smaller topics to be written
and rank on the search engine.
These topics need to be relevant to your niche and target audience interest. These
topics are later to be broken down into the topic categories your target audience tends to
have questions or interests.
You may take them as sub-topics of your main niche.

Step 4: Enlisting Seed Keywords

After breaking down your main niche into several sub-topics, you are free to enlist the
seed keywords. The seed keywords are related to the various categories of
your main niche.

More importantly, these are the keywords or terms your target audience tends to type
and search on Google.

When I talk about keywords with high search volume and less competition, I’m talking
about the seed keywords you must focus on.

The focus keyword plays a vital role in founding your entire keyword research strategy.
These are the keywords your competitors are writing their blogs on. When you try
identifying your competitors, these keywords are the key factor.

Now, how can you find the focus keywords for your blog?

Step 5: Pick Long-tail Keywords

The shorter a keyword, the higher the search volume – so is the market competition. The seed
keywords are the shorter search terms related closely to the main niche.

On the other hand, long tail keywords are more related to the sub-topics and are in
more descriptive nature. They also give a more relevant idea of the sub-topic.

These type of keywords has less search volume and low competition. Despite the less
user clicks they get, long tail keywords are more powerful when it comes to conversion
rate.

Using a Keyword Research Tool:

There’s an advantage of researching keywords from your business perspective which
may not come up with similar results that a tool would provide. However, using a
keyword research tool simplifies the work.

There are free web tools and browser extensions you can use once you have narrowed
down several seed keywords from a business perspective.

Google Keyword Planner is among the free tools that gives you approximate search
volume and competition.
You can also use alternative tools for more keyword details. Here are some of the tool
names you can try –

  • Google Trends
  • Answer the Public
  • Keyword Generator
  • Keyworddit
  • Keyword Sheeter
  • Google Search Console
  • Keyword Surfer
  • Bulk Keyword Generator
  • Questiondb
  • Ubersuggest
  • WordStream Free Keyword Tool

These tools have a simple and clean user interface and are very easy to use.
All you need to do is type in a keyword or term, it will show you the search volume and
possible competition as well as the related keywords.

Look for the LSI keywords on Google.

According to Backlinko.com, “LSI (Latent Semantic Indexing) Keywords are conceptually
related terms that search engines use to better understand the content on a webpage.
In simpler terms, LSI keywords are the terms shown on Google – related to your
searched terms.

For example, if you search “how to bake a cake” on Google, the LSI keywords shown on
bottom of the page.
Scroll down the search result page and you can see there are several LSI keywords
available related to your search term.

These keywords can be used as Long Tail Keywords for your blog and are very effective.

Keywords are important for both the SEO and readers. It’s the keywords that your
audience enters in the search engine looking for a piece of information. And, the search engine
algorithm ensures the keywords are placed rightly.

Play with the focus and related keywords while writing your blog. A right proportion of
keyword usage in the blog is a must. No less or not too much.
I will be sharing how to use keywords properly on a blog in the On-Page SEO section.
For now, get your keyword list ready to blog.

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General

Home Gym Starter Kit: The Best Solution for Working from Home

home gym

Working from home has become common for many people. It has many benefits, like more flexibility and no commute. However, it can be hard to stay physically active without a regular gym routine.

Being inactive can hurt both your body and mind. Without a gym or daily movement from commuting, it’s easy to become sedentary. This is where a home gym starter kit can help. By getting a few key pieces of equipment, you can create a workout space at home that fits your schedule. A home gym helps you stay healthy, fit, and reduce the stress of sitting too much.

This guide will show you how to set up your own home gym. It will list the important equipment you need and give tips to make the most out of your workouts. Whether you love working out or are just starting, a home gym can help you stay active and healthy while working from home.

Why Invest in a Home Gym?

Convenience and Flexibility

A home gym lets you work out anytime, without worrying about gym hours or commuting. This flexibility helps you stick to your fitness routine more easily. You can fit workouts into your schedule whenever it’s convenient for you.

Cost-Effective

Though buying equipment can be pricey at first, it saves money in the long run. You won’t have to pay for gym memberships, travel, or expensive classes. Over time, this can add up to big savings.

Customizable Environment

You can create a workout space that you love and feel comfortable in. Choose the music, temperature, and decor that keep you motivated. This makes your workouts more enjoyable and personalized.

Essential Equipment for Your Home Gym Starter Kit

essential home gym equipment

1. Dumbbells

Dumbbells are important for strength training and come in various weights. They’re good for both beginners and advanced users. Adjustable dumbbells save space and let you change weights easily.

2. Resistance Bands

They are small, affordable, and great for strength training. They come in different resistance levels to match your fitness progress. They’re also perfect for flexibility exercises.

3. Yoga Mat

This mat gives you a comfortable surface for stretching, yoga, and floor exercises. It protects your floors and cushions your joints. It’s essential for any home workout space.

4. Stability Ball

It is very useful for core exercises and improving balance. It adds variety to your workouts and can replace a bench for some exercises. It’s great for making workouts more dynamic.

5. Kettlebells

Kettlebells are ideal for functional fitness and cardio workouts. They help improve strength, endurance, and flexibility. Start with a light weight and increase as you get more comfortable.

6. Jump Rope

A cheap and effective tool for cardio. It’s great for warming up, burning calories, and improving coordination. Plus, it doesn’t take up much space.

7. Pull-Up Bar

An essential for upper body strength training. It can be installed in a doorway and used for pull-ups, chin-ups, and leg raises. It’s a compact and versatile piece of equipment.

8. Foam Roller

A foam roller helps with muscle recovery and preventing injuries. It releases muscle tension, improves flexibility, and reduces soreness. It’s important for post-workout care.

9. Adjustable Bench

This adjustable bench allows for a variety of exercises. You can use it for bench presses, rows, and step-ups at different angles. It adds versatility to your home gym.

10. Treadmill or Stationary Bike

If you have space and budget, a treadmill or stationary bike is great for cardio. They provide a good indoor option, especially in bad weather. They help keep your workouts varied and effective.

Setting Up Your Home Gym

Choose the Right Space

Pick a dedicated area for your home gym where you can focus on workouts without distractions. It doesn’t need to be large, just enough for your equipment and to move around comfortably.

Organize Your Equipment

Arrange your equipment so it’s easy to access and use. Use shelving units, storage racks, or wall mounts to keep things tidy. This maximizes your space and keeps your gym organized.

Create a Motivating Environment

Make your gym a place where you enjoy spending time. Add motivational quotes, posters, or a progress chalkboard. Ensure good lighting and ventilation for a comfortable workout environment.

Plan Your Workouts

Warm-Up and Cool Down

Always start with a warm-up to prepare your body and reduce injury risk. Cool down after to help your body recover and reduce soreness. Both are essential parts of a workout.

Focus on Form

Proper form prevents injuries and makes workouts effective. Learn the correct technique for each exercise. Start with lighter weights or simpler movements if needed.

Mix It Up

Variety keeps workouts interesting and challenging. Include strength training, cardio, and flexibility exercises. This ensures a well-rounded fitness routine.

Stay Consistent

Consistency is key to seeing results. Aim for regular, shorter workouts instead of intense, sporadic ones. Even 20-30 minutes of exercise a few times a week makes a big difference.

Listen to Your Body

Pay attention to how your body feels and rest when needed. If you’re tired or sore, take a break or do a lighter workout. Recovery is an important part of fitness.

Tips for Staying Motivated

tips for being motivated

Set Realistic Goals

Set achievable goals to stay motivated and track progress. Break big goals into smaller steps and celebrate your achievements. This makes the journey enjoyable.

Find a Workout Buddy

Working out with a friend or family member makes exercise more fun and keeps you accountable. If you can’t meet in person, try virtual workouts together.

Track Your Progress

Use a workout journal or fitness app to track your progress. Seeing improvements over time is a great motivator. It helps you stay focused on your goals.

Reward Yourself

Reward yourself for reaching fitness milestones. Whether it’s new workout gear, a massage, or a day off, rewards keep you motivated. They make the fitness journey more enjoyable.

Stay Inspired

Follow fitness influencers, join online fitness communities, or read fitness blogs. Surrounding yourself with positive influences helps keep you inspired. This keeps your motivation high.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, creating a home gym starter kit is a great way to stay active and healthy while working from home. By investing in essential equipment, setting up a dedicated workout space, and following a consistent fitness routine, you can achieve your fitness goals without ever leaving your house.

Stay motivated, mix up your workouts, and listen to your body. With effort and dedication, your home gym can become a place where you enjoy working out and improving your health.

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