Odyssey

29/04/2024

Towards Sustainable Tourism

29/04/2024

A house in Saddar Bazar Rawalpindi dating back to pre-partition era, originally owned by Lala Mukhram Mangatram Agarwal.

29/04/2024

Abu Dhabi National Oil Company has unveiled a robotic arm that swiftly refuels vehicles at the pump. This arm efficiently opens the car's petrol flap, unscrews the cap, and precisely refills the tank in just a few seconds. In addition to filling your car, it also saves you time with an app. This app guarantees you get exactly the right amount of fuel for your trip.

At an ADNOC station, choose your fuel type and tap on a touchscreen or smartphone app. A robotic arm with the right nozzle and sensors ensures it's aligned correctly for fueling. Cameras and sensors watch the process to make sure it's safe and done right. When fueling is done, the arm pulls back the nozzle, and you're good to go.

Right now, there's a pilot project underway at Reef Island in Abu Dhabi. Its goal is to collect data and information. This data will be used to expand the robotic arm technology to all of the company's network in the United Arab Emirates.

23/04/2024

Indian Girls High School in Karachi Sindh (Undivided India) , made in 1930 by N R Mehta. Present days in Pakistan.

17/04/2024

Lahore Railway Station in 1902 to 2024

17/04/2024

Exploring the Magnificent Grand Trunk Road (GT Road) ....

Did you know that the Grand Trunk Road, a historic marvel, was conceived and constructed during the reign of the formidable Sher Shah Suri? Dating back centuries, this legendary road served as the lifeline of trade, culture, and conquest across the Indian subcontinent.

🛤️ Historical Significance: Stretching over 2,500 kilometers, the GT Road was more than just a thoroughfare; it was a symbol of unity, connecting diverse regions, cultures, and peoples. Built around the 16th century, it linked the bustling cities of Kolkata in the east to the ancient city of Kabul in the west.

🏛️ Sher Shah Suri's Legacy: Crafted under the visionary leadership of Sher Shah Suri, a remarkable ruler known for his administrative prowess, the GT Road was meticulously engineered to facilitate trade and communication. Its strategic significance in shaping the socio-economic landscape of the region cannot be overstated.

📜 Trade and Commerce Hub: Along its storied path, caravanserais, or resting places for merchants and travelers, sprung up, fostering vibrant marketplaces and cultural exchanges. Goods, ideas, and innovations flowed freely, enriching the tapestry of the subcontinent's heritage.

🕌 Cultural Crossroads: As travelers traversed the GT Road, they encountered a mosaic of languages, cuisines, and traditions, reflecting the diversity and vibrancy of the lands it traversed. It became a melting pot of civilizations, where travelers could experience the essence of the Indian subcontinent.

🚗 Modern-Day Importance: Even in the 21st century, the GT Road continues to play a vital role in connecting communities and facilitating commerce. While modern highways have supplemented its function, the GT Road remains a testament to the enduring legacy of its builders.

🌐 A Journey Through Time: Embarking on a journey along the Grand Trunk Road is akin to stepping back in time, where every milestone bears witness to the triumphs and tribulations of bygone eras. It's a pilgrimage for history enthusiasts and adventurers alike, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of South Asia's past.

🗺️ Preserving Heritage: As we marvel at the grandeur of the Grand Trunk Road, it's imperative to recognize the importance of preserving this invaluable heritage. By safeguarding sites along its route and promoting responsible tourism, we ensure that future generations can continue to appreciate its significance.

Courtesy: Odyssey

17/04/2024

Unraveling the Marvels of Mohenjo-daro's Drainage System.....

Delving into the annals of history, we uncover the intricate marvels of Mohenjo-daro's drainage system, a testament to the advanced urban planning of the Mature Harappan civilization.

In the bustling streets and lanes of Mohenjo-daro, an ancient city teeming with life, the drainage system stood out as a remarkable feat of engineering. Every thoroughfare, every neighborhood, boasted meticulously laid drains, meticulously crafted from baked brick.

Remarkably, even the interior of homes featured vertical pipes embedded within walls, channeling wastewater into chutes that emptied onto the streets, seamlessly integrating domestic sanitation with city-wide infrastructure.

Gregory Possehl's meticulous observations shed light on the evolutionary nature of these drains, with walls raised over time to accommodate growing needs, exemplifying the adaptability and foresight of Mohenjo-daro's planners.

Concealed beneath the ground, these drains remained hidden from view, their covers fashioned from a mosaic of baked brick and limestone, ensuring durability and structural integrity. Settling pools strategically placed along the system facilitated sedimentation, underscoring a sophisticated understanding of hydraulic engineering.

As we uncover the remnants of this ancient civilization, we are reminded of the ingenuity and foresight of our ancestors, whose innovations continue to inspire awe and admiration in the modern era.

Courtesy: Odyssey

17/04/2024

Las Fallas 2024: Unveiling the Spirited Saga of Valencia's Iconic Festival.....

In the heart of Valencia, from the 1st to the 19th of March, the city erupted into a whirlwind of colour, creativity, and camaraderie as it hosted the world-renowned Las Fallas festival. This dazzling celebration, steeped in centuries-old tradition and fuelled by contemporary fervour, captivated the hearts and minds of both locals and globetrotters alike, making it a highlight on the cultural tourism calendar.

Origins: A Journey Through Time: To truly appreciate the spectacle of Las Fallas, one must delve into its storied past. Legend has it that the festival traces its roots to the humble traditions of Valencian carpenters, who, with the arrival of spring, ceremoniously set fire to the wooden supports that had illuminated their workshops during the dark winter months. This symbolic act of renewal evolved over the years, eventually giving birth to the towering sculptures, or 'ninots,' that now dominate the festival landscape.

Evolution: From Humble Beginnings to Global Phenomenon: What began as a modest celebration amongst craftsmen has blossomed into a global sensation, attracting thousands of visitors from every corner of the globe. Each year, Valencia's neighbourhoods, or 'barrios,' vie for supremacy as they meticulously plan and construct their own ninots, infusing them with local flavour, humour, and social commentary. The result is a mesmerizing tableau of artistry and satire that serves as a testament to the city's rich cultural heritage and spirit of innovation.

See more at our Travel Explorer Weekly International Special Edition

17/04/2024

Exploring Pakistan's Rich History: Meet Malika Jawahir Khatun, the Trailblazing Female Ruler of Gilgit Pakistan..

Dive into the captivating tale of Malika Jawahir Khatun, affectionately known as Dadi Jawari, a visionary leader who defied societal norms in the 17th century to leave an indelible mark on Gilgit's history.

In a time when male dominance prevailed, Malika Jawahir Khatun shattered barriers, ascending to power as the region's first female ruler. Her legacy echoes through the annals of time, revered for her visionary leadership and remarkable contributions to societal advancement.

Among her many enduring gifts, Malika Jawahir Khatun's legacy is perhaps most vividly reflected in her pioneering irrigation systems. She bestowed upon her people the invaluable gift of sustenance and prosperity by engineering two groundbreaking canals. These lifelines not only quenched the thirst of her kingdom but also nurtured fertile lands, fostering agricultural abundance and economic growth.

As we traverse through the corridors of history, let us celebrate the resilience and fortitude of trailblazers like Malika Jawahir Khatun, whose visionary spirit transcended the confines of gender norms.

Her tale serves as a testament to the power of courage, determination, and the enduring legacy of those who dare to dream boldly.

Courtesy: Odyssey

16/04/2024

That's Cool

16/04/2024

Chitral Museum TODAY
Chitral Museum becomes a canvas of pristine beauty as snow delicately blankets its surroundings. This view offers a unique experience for visitors at the to witness such beauty.

16/04/2024

Join me to combat Climate Change!
Honored to be among the 372 global leaders selected for the United Nations Staff College's Program on the Paris Agreement and Climate Change. Together, we're not just attendees; we're change-makers, united in our mission to drive impactful action against the climate crisis.
Excited to leverage this opportunity to deepen my understanding and amplify my efforts towards a sustainable future.

Join us in achieving the targets !



United Nations UN Environment Programme
COP28 UAE COP29 Azerbaijan

15/04/2024

Miss Erum Khan received Award from Chief Secretary Balochistan;
Miss Erum khan, UN Fellow for Sustainable Tourism, Tourism/Wellness Expert, Chairperson Travel & Tourism Committee, Gwadar Chamber of Commerce & Founder/ Director of Pakistan's First Sustainable Tourism Company Odyssey was given Award by Chief Secretary Balochistan Mr. Aziz Ukeili on her contributions for the development of Balochistan Tourism at a Seminar held at First Pakistan Maritime Expo 2023 in Karachi.
Pakistan International Maritime Expo & Conference (PIMEC) is an initiative of the Pakistan Navy, being organized under the patronage of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs in order to jump start development in the maritime sector.
PIMEC is a 03 Days event from 10-12 February 2023 encompassing Maritime Expo & International Conference on Blue Economy and Maritime Potential. The event has provided opportunities to maritime industry both in public and private sectors to display products & services and develop business relationships. The event also highlighted Pakistan’s Maritime potential and provide the desired fillip for economic growth at national level.
Under the Banner of Blue Economy, Tourism Potential of Coastal areas of Balochistan is widely highlighted. It's a great initiative by the concerned authorities to tap the Tourism Industry and make the way towards the development of Sustainable Tourism in Balochistan.
Being the untapped region, Ministry of Tourism Balochistan held an interactive Seminar, with the Chief Secretary Balochistan Mr. Aziz Ukaili as the chief guest. Secretary Tourism Mr. Manzoor Hussain DG Tourism Mr. Zia Kakar, MD, PTDC Aftab Rana , Secretary Fisheries & BCDA Qazim Jatoi, CEO Balochistan Board of Investment Mr. Saaed Sarpara and many others public and private stake holders were present at the Seminar.
Speakers tapped different potential of tourism in Balochistan and Stressed for a joint and collaborative efforts to initiate the Infrastructural development of tourism in the province.
Later the awards were given to individuals and organisations who have played important role in the advocacy and development of Balochistan Tourism. Chairperson Gwadar Chamber of Commerce and industry, UN fellow for Sustainable Tourism and Director Odyssey Miss Erum Khan also received the award from the Chief Secretary Balochistan. He stressed the need to include Private sector in the development of Tourism Policy of the province.
Secretary Mr. Manzoor Hussain told the audience that Balochistan is the untapped region for tourism and now we are taking serious actions to initiate the development of Sustainable Tourism in the province. He mentioned that we have Mehergarh which is 9000 years old Civilization and we have the mind blowing desert landscape in district Chaghi.
DG Tourism Mr. Zia Kakar presented a comprehensive details about the potential of Adventure Tourism, Cultural Tourism, Heritage Tourism and Eco Tourism in the region. He told the audience about the recent initiatives by the Department of Tourism.
Miss Erum pointed out that Balochistan is safer than Karachi as she kept exploring the hidden gems in the province. She said that her organisation organised the first ever Desert Safari in Chaghi which holds some of the most exotic deserts in the world. She later mentioned that all the stakeholders need to unite at some point and work in collaboration to make the journey of Tourism development more easier and faste

15/04/2024

Watch Erum Khan - Director Odyssey/ Chairperson Travel & Tourism Committee, Gwadar Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) Chairperson Travel & Tourism Committee on the Breakfast Show in the segment Kaam ki Baat from 10:00AM to 11:30AM only on Masala TV! 📺
See less

15/04/2024

Beautiful

15/04/2024

15/04/2024

Dice found in Mohenjodaro and Harrapa..
Pakistan:

Dive into the annals of history, and you'll uncover more than just relics of the past; you'll discover fragments of life itself. Take, for instance, the terracotta dice unearthed in Harappa, a testament to the ingenuity and leisure of the ancient Indus Valley Civilization.

Crafted with care and adorned with delicate dots representing numbers one through six, these cubical artifacts transport us back to a time when the streets of Harappa echoed with the sounds of games played and fortunes won. But Harappa wasn't alone in this pursuit of chance; Mohenjo-daro, another beacon of ancient civilization, boasted similar dice.

Sir John Marshall, the eminent archaeologist, noted the prevalence of these dice games in Mohenjo-daro, where dice pieces were as plentiful as the stories they could tell. Fashioned from pottery and ranging in size, these dice spoke volumes about the daily lives and recreational pursuits of our ancestors.

Yet, beneath the surface lies a tapestry of questions waiting to be unraveled. What significance did these games hold in the social fabric of the Indus Valley Civilization? What secrets do these ancient dice whisper about the joys and pastimes of a bygone era?

As we ponder these mysteries, let us draw inspiration from the enigmatic allure of these artifacts. They are more than mere trinkets; they are windows into a world long vanished, beckoning us to explore, to imagine, and to marvel at the boundless depths of human history. In their silent eloquence, these dice remind us of our shared heritage and the timeless pursuit of joy and camaraderie across the ages.

Explore with Odyssey

15/04/2024

art 4
A Conversation with Israr Bhai at his Sustainable Guesthouse called Osho Thang.
(From the diary of - Journey Towards Sustainable Tourism)
By Erum Khan
Experiencing Eco Tourism at Osho Thang..
It's not about simply staying in a hotel, but Osho Thang is a Centre of Heritage and Culture and experiencing Eco Tourism. Israr Bhai is a legacy himself adding to the beauty of Rakaposhi Mountain and the ancient Silk Route heritage.
Israr bhai, the visionary owner of Osho Thang Hotel, has dedicated himself to the development of sustainable and Eco tourism in the region for many years. His commitment to preserving the natural environment and supporting local communities has earned him the reputation of a legend in the field.
As I have been knowing Israr Bhai for many years, I never miss an opportunity to meet him whenever I visit Gilgit. For he is the custodian of culture and heritage himself. His Guesthouse Osho Thang offers a sustainable haven for Nature lovers, writers , artists and hikers, providing a gateway to the majestic Rakaposhi mountain and an opportunity to immerse oneself in the vibrant Shamanic heritage of the region.
Under the leadership of Mr. Israr, the hotel has contributed significantly to the development of hiking tours, fostering adventure, and economic growth while upholding sustainable tourism practices. As visitors explore the wonders of the Nagar Valley, Osho Thang Hotel remains a symbol of responsible travel, ensuring that the magnificence of the region's natural landscapes and cultural traditions are preserved for generations to come.
Miss Erum Khan Director Odyssey, Director Innovation and Planning Travel Explorer Weekly and UN fellow on Sustainable Tourism and Mr. Aamir Sadozai Director Nothezai Minerals & Co Chair Travel Tourism Committee GCCI & G.S. Foreign Investment and International Cooperation Committee GCCI visited Northern areas of Pakistan under their undergoing Project called "Towards Sustainable - Eco Tourism in Pakistan".
Courtesy
Erum Khan

15/04/2024

Part 4
A Conversation with Israr Bhai at his Sustainable Guesthouse called Osho Thang.
(From the diary of - Journey Towards Sustainable Tourism)
By Erum Khan
Experiencing Eco Tourism at Osho Thang..
It's not about simply staying in a hotel, but Osho Thang is a Centre of Heritage and Culture and experiencing Eco Tourism. Israr Bhai is a legacy himself adding to the beauty of Rakaposhi Mountain and the ancient Silk Route heritage.
Israr bhai, the visionary owner of Osho Thang Hotel, has dedicated himself to the development of sustainable and Eco tourism in the region for many years. His commitment to preserving the natural environment and supporting local communities has earned him the reputation of a legend in the field.
As I have been knowing Israr Bhai for many years, I never miss an opportunity to meet him whenever I visit Gilgit. For he is custodian of culture and heritage himself. His guesthouse Osho Thang offers a sustainable haven for Nature lovers, writers , artists and hikers, providing a gateway to the majestic Rakaposhi mountain and an opportunity to immerse oneself in the vibrant shamanic heritage of the region. Under the leadership of Mr. Israr, the hotel has contributed significantly to the development of hiking tours, fFromostering adventure, and economic growth while upholding sustainable tourism practices. As visitors explore the wonders of the Nagar Valley, Osho Thang Hotel remains a symbol of responsible travel, ensuring that the magnificence of the region's natural landscapes and cultural traditions are preserved for generations to come.
Miss Erum Khan Director Odyssey, Director Innovation and Planning Travel Explorer Weekly and UN fellow on Sustainable Tourism and Mr. Aamir Sadozai Director Nothezai Minerals & Co Chair Travel Tourism Committee GCCI & G.S. Foreign Investment and International Cooperation Committee GCCI visited Northern areas of Pakistan under their undergoing Project called "Towards Sustainable - Eco Tourism in Pakistan".
Courtesy:
Erum Khan

15/04/2024

Towards Sustainable Sports Development

Pakistan Table Tennis Club | Karachi Table Tennis League | YMCA Hall | Libra HDLibra HD is a channel for promotion of people from any sector of ...

15/04/2024

Erum Khan met AIG Karachi Javaid Odho;
Erum Khan, Director of Odyssey, a UN fellow on SDGs, Sustainable Tourism Consultant, Chairperson Travel & Tourism Committee GCCI and Alumni National Security Workshop joined forces with Javed Alam Odho to unravel the hidden treasures of Sindh's tourism potential.
AIG Javaid Odho delved deep into Sindh's rich history as the cradle of the oldest civilization and a hub of heritage. Amidst lively discussions and strategic planning, they explored ways to harness Sindh's cultural wealth and promote sustainable tourism initiatives.
As a symbolic gesture, Erum Khan who is also Director Innovation & Planning Travel Explorer Weekly presented a copy of the esteemed Travel Explorer Weekly Magazine to Mr. Odho at the occasion.
Stay tuned for more exciting news about Sustainable Tourism.
Courtesy: Odyssey

15/04/2024

COFFEE WITH ERUM
Razaq Baloch: From Karachi to New York, Championing Pakistan's Heritage and Uncovering a Peaceful Past
[Saluting this exclusive interview to New York, the vibrant hub of global diplomacy. As we celebrate this special month, the city becomes the epicenter of high-level UN discussions, uniting nations to analyze the UN 2030 Agenda - SDGs, forge plans, and commit to a brighter future. Join us in this global gathering!]
Allow me to introduce Mr. Razaq Baloch, a global media production luminary and President of Vision Unlimited Communication, Inc. Known for groundbreaking advertising campaigns spanning the US, Pakistan, Burkina Faso, India, Afghanistan, and the UAE. Baloch is more than a producer; he's an adventurous explorer, a dedicated storyteller, and a modern nomad, weaving tales through advertising and captivating documentaries across three time zones. His life is an epic journey, blending business acumen with artistic commitment.
Join us as we delve into the depths of his creative genius and unveil the secrets behind his global success—a tale that serves as a testament to the power of unwavering dedication and the boundless possibilities of human imagination.
Stay Tuned!

15/04/2024

A Day in my life!
nterview Spotlight: Sustainable Tourism Advocacy 🌿

Thrilled to share insights from my recent interview on the crucial topic of sustainable tourism. We delved deep into strategies for fostering tourism that respects our planet, cultures, and communities.
Let's continue this dialogue and action towards a more sustainable and responsible travel industry. Together, we can make a difference!

Exclusive Interview With Ms Erum Khan