Posts Tagged ‘ Paradise ’

THE DOOR IS ALWAYS OPEN

Broader than space, and deeper and clearer than the ocean, the round sun in our hearts rises high to shed its light on the universe. The noble world spreads out before us: a castle of glittering gold appears, and the earth is covered with white jade. Mystically beautiful flowers bloom, and the precious birds and beasts dance in joy.

All worlds are adorned with peace and freedom. There is no suffering, and these worlds are filled with happiness. Paradise and heaven lose their sparkle, and the Buddha is left speechless by such a sight.

Both including and transcending time and space, everyone is eternal and everything is infinite and equal. Yet it is difficult to describe this mysterious world: steep cliffs flee as a red column of fire shoots up from blue waves, and the wooden roadside totems sing joyfully. What a marvelous sight! Such terms as “saints” and “devils” are insignificant in this world: Confucius and Tao-ch’il clasp hands as they bless the age of peace and prosperity.

These are not wild fantasies, but the true reality of the oneness of everything. To those of you who close your eyes only to bemoan the fact that it’s dark, please listen:

The door to the Great Light is always open. In this world overflowing with peace, there are no dualities, there are no conflicts. So let’s raise our eyes, look at this world, and praise it all together!

 

(New Year’s Message, January 1, 1985)

Ven.Tong Songchol (1912~1993), also SeongCheol, one of the great Zen masters in the last century.

WELCOME TO PARADISE: Summer Holidaying in GOA

Guest post by Vaibhav:

“Take me down to the paradise city where the grass is green and the girls are pretty.” That’s what Axl F. Rose sang on the Guns n’ Roses song, ‘Paradise City’ about going off to a place where there’s beauty and serenity followed by non-stop partying. Well-known for its beaches, babes and booze, Goa is undeniably India’s paradise state. Being a tourist hot-spot, Goa attracts people from all over the world every year who visit the city to escape their monotonous lives for a few days of fun and frolic.

While many believe that winters are the ideal time of the year to take a trip down to paradise, a summer holiday in Goa can’t be underestimated. Let’s have a look at the top 5 reasons why you should be holidaying in Goa during summer ’15.

1. Everything is cheaper!
As fewer people tend to visit Goa in summer time, the tourist industry slashes its prices bya great margin. From cheaper air travel and cheaper hotel stay to a tour of Goa’s major cities and mouth-watering food – everything is available at amazing discounts! The extra money you save can then be spent on partying and drinks – all of which are at a reduced cost.Note: The local beverage Feni – available in two variations; cashew feni and coconut feni is something you must try!

2. Shop ‘til You Drop!
During summers, Goa offers a splendid shopping experience! The shops are stocked with superb itemswhich are available at surprisingly low prices. The best part is that there is no need for bargaining and no sense of rush. It is also a great time to purchase some exclusive Goa summer wear for men, which you can take back to the city with you as souvenirs and gifts for friends. Note: Floral printed shirts and shorts are the must have piece of clothing when you’re in Goa.

3. Far from the maddening crowds.
What’s the point of going on a vacation if the place you’re going to is just as populated as the city? Summers in Goa are hot, and most people avoid the heat and instead head for the hills to get that ‘living in a refrigerator’ feel. This is good for you, as it means fewer tourists, more fun!

Goa Beach Pic1

4. Adventure Sports
Summers are a great time to try water sports like Jet Skiing in Goa. When in Goa, you just cannot miss out on the adventure sport of Para-sailing; it is also a lot more fun and way cheaper during the summer season. The wind, the breath-taking view of the horizon and the elevation is the closest you can get to being a bird. Fly away!

Goa Beach Pic2

5. Picture Perfect
Do you distress over visiting a beautiful place or fort and all you can manage to capture are pictures of people taking pictures? This season, wipe the dust off your DSLR and get clicking! The beautiful sunset on Palolem beach awaits you!

Goa Beach Pic4Goa Beach Pic3

About Vaibhav:
Vaibhav Kattar is a travel writer working with India’s leading online fashion company. He is an avid traveler and likes to pluck strings when he’s not writing. This post talks about Goa and why it makes the most popular holidaying destination of the country.