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OPINION

Top 10 Most Beautiful Cities In The World

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Top 10 Most Beautiful Cities In The World | Fab.ng

Ranking cities based on beauty can be challenging. Travellers may prefer exploring ancient wonders and museums or being captivated by modern skylines and architecture. Still, there are many beautiful cities in the world.

While personal preferences vary, some cities stand out for their exceptional beauty due to historical charm or natural surroundings. These cities should be on everyone’s bucket list. If you enjoy urban pleasures, here are my top 10 favourite cities in the world (though this list is not exhaustive).

1. Cape Town (South Africa)

Cape Town, South Africa, is a stunning city with some of the world’s most amazing beaches, beautiful mountains, and picturesque vineyard-covered hills.

It offers spectacular drives and a lot of trendy bars and fine-dining restaurants. The city is renowned for its exceptional accommodations and world-class service, making it a top-notch destination.

Visitors often find Cape Town to be a picture-perfect city and a place they want to return to. The best time to visit is during the hot, dry summer months from late October to March or April, with peak temperatures in December to February, ideal for a beach holiday.

2. Vancouver (Canada)

Vancouver, situated between the Coast Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, is a unique combination of languages, customs, beliefs, art forms, music, dance, storytelling, traditional practices, and knowledge systems that have been passed down through generations.

It boasts natural beauty, with spectacular mountains, wildlife-filled waters, and lush rainforests. The city itself is adorned with ultramodern glass skyscrapers reflecting the stunning surroundings. Vancouver’s friendly residents contribute to a relaxed atmosphere, making it an incredible destination, provided it’s not raining.

For the best weather, plan your visit between June and September, as Vancouver tends to experience significant rainfall in autumn, winter, and spring.

VANCOUVER, CANADA

3. New York (USA)

New York City, known as “The Big Apple,” is the ultimate cosmopolitan destination, symbolising the epitome of urban living. It offers unparalleled experiences, from exploring world-class museums and indulging in extensive shopping to attending top-notch performances and facing tough choices in the diverse dining scene. While New York can be expensive for visitors, there are also numerous free activities to enjoy.

The best time to visit is flexible, as each season in the city provides compelling reasons to explore. Early fall brings crisp breezes and comfortable temperatures, making it an ideal time to visit.

Winter offers better hotel rates, despite the cold. Spring is delightful, with New Yorkers celebrating the thaw by engaging in outdoor activities. Summer, however, can be intensely hot; for that, you could avoid July and August.

NEW YORK CITY, USA

4. Rome (Italy)

Rome, situated on seven hills with a view of the Tiber River, is a city rich in ancient monuments, showcasing grand classical architecture amidst some of the world’s most beautiful squares and avenues. While famous landmarks like Vatican City, the Colosseum, and Piazza Navona attract visitors, exploring the lesser-known Trastevere district is a must. Trastevere is filled with faded palaces, charming streets, and homes adorned with flower boxes.

The best times to visit Rome are spring (April to June) and autumn (late September to October), offering mild temperatures, sunny days, and fewer crowds. Summer sees an influx of visitors and uncomfortably hot weather, while winters can be surprisingly cold, wet, and grey.

ROME, ITALY

5. San Francisco (USA) 

San Francisco, often called the Bay City, is cherished by its residents for its breathtaking setting, boasting one of the world’s most stunning bays. With its artsy, bohemian vibe, the city features 43 hills ranging from 200 to 938 feet, providing spectacular views.

Key attractions include iconic cable cars, magnificent bridges, the notorious Alcatraz, the foodie haven Ferry Building, and the lively sea lions at Pier 39. Exploring this magnificent city is best done on a bike.

The optimal time to visit San Francisco is in the autumn (September to November), which offers warm temperatures and sunny days. Spring is also favourable, although breezes may have a bit more chill.

Summer experiences a surge in tourism but is not ideal due to frequent fog, making days chilly and views obscured. Winter brings rain and cold temperatures, despite being in California.

SAN FRANCISCO USA

6. Rio De Janeiro (Brazil)

According to a Brazilian saying, “God made the world in six days; the seventh he devoted to Rio.” Rio de Janeiro, home of Samba and the Caipirinha cocktail, is endowed with one of the world’s most dramatic and beautiful settings.

Visitors standing by the Corcovado statue or atop Sugarloaf Mountain are treated to an exciting panorama where the deep blue of the Atlantic Ocean meets the bright white sandy beaches and lush green tropical vegetation. Locals fondly refer to it as “the marvellous city.”

The optimal time to visit Rio de Janeiro is during the spring months of September and October, which offer dry, sunny, and warm weather. Summers are hot with frequent rainfall, making it suitable for attending the New Year’s Eve celebrations on Copacabana Beach or the legendary carnival celebrations in February. Winters are colder but mostly dry and sunny, though the beach may be off-limits on some days.

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL

7. Paris (France)

Paris, with its monumental squares, ancient churches, renowned boulevards, the romantic Seine, and charming Montmartre streets, stands out as the most glamorous and elegant city.

The City of Light has been an inspiration for painters, sculptors, writers, poets, and composers, influencing major world capitals, each claiming its own version of the Champs-Elysées. Cruising the Seine or enjoying a café terrace view reveals why Paris captivates so many with its beauty.

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The best times to visit Paris are in the spring (April to June) or fall (September to October). Recent years have witnessed extreme temperatures in both summer and winter, possibly due to global warming. High temperatures, coupled with air pollution, make summer visits to Paris uncomfortable.

8. Hong Kong (China)

Undoubtedly, Hong Kong, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Orient,” is one of the world’s most photographed and stunning city skylines. The combination of towering skyscrapers and futuristic buildings against a lush mountain backdrop creates an unparalleled urban scenery.

Beyond its skyline, Hong Kong is well known for its vibrant lifestyle, friendly locals, splendid harbour, extensive shopping options, and a wide range of restaurants and cuisines.

The best time to visit is from the middle of September to the end of February, just to enjoy a mild climate with warm and sunny days. From May to mid-September, the weather can be hot, wet, and humid, with August being the wettest month and the peak of the typhoon season.

HONG KONG, CHINA

9. Prague (Czech Republic)

Prague, often called “the city of the thousand spires,” is known for its well-preserved historical monuments spanning various periods. The city’s most famous attractions include the elegant Charles Bridge, picturesque Old Town Square, and the impressive Prague Castle, all connected by cobblestone streets and atmospheric alleyways that enhance the overall charm.

A good time to visit Prague is during the spring and fall, when the skies are clear, temperatures are mild, and there are fewer tourists. Summer months can be hot but manageable; however, it’s the high season, leading to skyrocketing hotel rates. For a unique experience of a snow-covered Prague without crowds, consider a romantic winter trip.

10. Amsterdam (The Netherlands)

Amsterdam, with its main canals adorned by thousands of buildings, treats each structure as a monument meticulously repurposed as apartments, offices, cafés, restaurants, or even brothels. This collective architectural diversity contributes to the city’s aesthetic uniformity, making Amsterdam one of the most beautiful cities globally.

It features a charming interplay of bridges and canals, picturesque cobbled streets, elegant architecture, and a multitude of bicycles. Standout attractions include the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, and the iconic Anne Frank House.

For the best experience, plan your visit to Amsterdam between April and May (spring) or September through November (autumn), just before or after the peak summer tourist season. This allows you to avoid crowds, enjoy milder temperatures (given the city’s unpredictable weather), and immerse yourself in Amsterdam’s laid-back ambience, as the locals do.

Now that we have explored these beautiful cities, take your time to plan out which to visit first and when to visit. If you experience travel anxiety, you will find this article helpful.

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HEALTHY LIVING

Here’s Why Every Worker Deserves A Break

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Work Leave: Man stressed from work | Fab.ng

Feeling burnt out and overwhelmed at work? Taking work leave or using your sick days might seem counterintuitive, but it’s crucial for your long-term success. When you’re constantly stressed and stretched thin, your mental and physical health suffers. Taking a break allows you to de-stress, recharge, and return to work feeling refreshed and energised.

This renewed sense of well-being translates into improved focus, creativity, and overall job satisfaction, which are all essential for professional success.

Here are several reasons why every worker should take advantage of their work leave entitlements:

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OPINION

Is Your Partner Getting Close To Their Ex? Here’s What To Do

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Do these if your partner starts getting close to their ex | Fab.ng

It can be a real gut punch to see your partner getting close to their ex. A whirlwind of emotions—insecurity, jealousy, and confusion—can leave you feeling lost. Before you spiral, take a deep breath and consider the situation.

Here are 7 steps you can take when your partner is getting close to their ex:

1. Decode your feelings

Start with some self-reflection. What exactly is bugging you? Are you feeling insecure about your place in the relationship? Does the renewed contact with the ex trigger past experiences of betrayal? Identifying the root of your discomfort is crucial for effective communication.

2. Communicate your feelings openly and honestly

Once you’ve untangled your emotions, it’s time for a heart-to-heart with your partner. Choose a calm, private moment and express your concerns. Here’s the key: use “I” statements.

Instead of accusatory phrases like “You’re always talking to your ex,” try “I feel insecure when you spend a lot of time with them.” This approach focuses on your feelings and opens the door for a productive conversation.

Listen attentively to your partner’s perspective too. Try to understand why they feel the need for this reconnection. Is it unresolved issues, shared childcare responsibilities, or a genuine desire to maintain a civil friendship?

3. Take a relationship inventory

Sometimes, increased contact with an ex can be a symptom of a deeper issue in your current relationship. Use this as an opportunity to reflect on your dynamics.

Are your needs being met? Is there a sense of disconnect that might be pushing your partner towards their ex for emotional fulfilment? Talk openly and honestly about these issues and explore ways to strengthen your bond.

4. Respect boundaries, but set your own

If your partner has a child with their ex, regular contact is likely unavoidable. That’s okay! Respect these boundaries and discuss how you’d like to be involved, especially if it impacts your family dynamic.

For instance, if your partner has weekend visits with their ex and child, is there a way you can participate in some of those activities to create a sense of togetherness?

It’s also perfectly reasonable to feel uncomfortable if the level of contact with the ex seems excessive or emotionally charged. Communicate these boundaries clearly and respectfully to your partner.

5. Focus on trust and transparency

Open communication and trust are the bedrock of any strong relationship. If your partner is open and honest about their interactions with their ex, it can significantly ease your anxieties.

They should be willing to share details about the nature of their communication and assure you that there’s nothing to hide. However, if you discover a pattern of secrecy or dishonesty, it’s a major red flag that needs to be addressed directly.

6. Don’t let the ex steal your spotlight

It’s easy to get caught up in the drama of your partner’s past relationship. But don’t let the ex become the centre of your attention. Focus on strengthening the bond you share with your partner.

Plan exciting date nights, engage in shared activities you both enjoy, and maintain open communication. Invest in making your own relationship a priority.

7. Seek professional help when needed

If communication seems like an insurmountable hurdle or insecurities are overwhelming, consider seeking professional help from a couples therapist. A therapist can provide a safe space for open communication and guide you both towards healthy relationship dynamics.

They can also help you identify underlying issues that might be contributing to the situation and develop strategies to address them.

Bonus tips:

  • Don’t be possessive: While it’s natural to want to feel secure in your relationship, avoid controlling your partner’s interactions. Encourage healthy boundaries with their ex, but don’t try to isolate them. Trust is a two-way street, and fostering a sense of independence will ultimately strengthen your bond.
  • Maintain your self-confidence: Don’t let the presence of an ex chip away at your self-worth. Remind yourself of what makes you an amazing partner and the unique qualities you bring to the relationship.
  • Don’t snoop: The urge to check your partner’s phone or social media for reassurance might be strong, but resist it! This behaviour can damage trust and create unnecessary tension.

Remember, open communication and trust are key. By addressing your concerns honestly and working together towards healthy boundaries, you can navigate this situation and emerge with a stronger, more secure relationship.

Read more about love and relationships here.

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HEALTHY LIVING

Here’s How To Manage Anxiety Naturally

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Reduce Anxiety Naturally: Here's How | Fab.ng

Ever feel that fluttering feeling in your stomach before a big interview or when you’re waiting on important news? That’s actually anxiety! But don’t worry; it’s not always a bad thing, and there are ways to reduce anxiety naturally.

This kind of anxiety is actually our body’s way of helping us out. A little racing heart, tenseness, or nervousness can all be signs of good anxiety. It’s our body’s natural reaction to get us ready and focused on what’s to come.

What Is Anxiety?

Have you ever gotten butterflies in your stomach before a big interview? That’s anxiety! It’s normal to feel some anxiety in situations like that. Our bodies are actually trying to help us by getting us alert and focused. This is called “good anxiety.” It helps us stay sharp and prepared.

However, anxiety can become a problem when it’s too strong or doesn’t go away. This is called an anxiety disorder. People with anxiety disorders experience uncontrollable worry that can interfere with their daily lives.

The good news is that there are ways to manage anxiety! There are natural methods for reducing anxiety attacks, and you can also learn more about anxiety from reliable sources like Fab.ng.

Here are some signs of anxiety:

  • Panic attacks: These sudden surges of intense fear can be very frightening.
  • Physical symptoms: You might experience shortness of breath, restlessness, trembling, or even problems with sleep or digestion (diarrhoea).
  • Intrusive thoughts: Anxiety can lead to paranoia or obsessive worries.

When anxiety gets out of control, it can feel paralysing and hold you back from living your life to the fullest. However, there’s hope. The more you manage your anxiety, the better equipped you’ll be to take charge of your emotional, social, and physical well-being.

Now that we know what anxiety is, let’s explore some simple and natural strategies to help you reduce anxiety attacks. Keep reading to learn more.

Top Medications for Anxiety | U.S. News

9 Ways To Reduce Anxiety Naturally 

Telling someone with anxiety to “calm down” simply doesn’t work. The good news is that there are effective ways to manage anxiety, and many of them focus on healthy lifestyle changes. Let’s explore some recommended strategies to help you reduce anxiety attacks naturally:

1. First up, exercise

Getting your body moving is a fantastic natural way to reduce anxiety. You don’t need to jump straight into intense workouts. Start small and find activities you enjoy.

Walking is a great option; it’s a low-impact way to clear your head and get some fresh air. Plus, it’s something most people can easily fit into their routine.

Maybe you prefer hiking, cycling, jogging, or even dancing! These activities all have a common benefit: they release endorphins. Often called “happy hormones,” endorphins improve your mood and leave you feeling good.

Exercise also helps boost your concentration and motivation, which can be especially helpful if you struggle with certain anxiety disorders. So lace up your shoes, put on your favourite music, and get moving! It’s a simple step towards feeling better and managing your anxiety.

12 Natural Ways To Reduce Anxiety

2. Next up, sleep

Experts say getting enough quality sleep is crucial for both your physical and emotional well-being. When you don’t sleep well, it can actually worsen feelings of anxiety and stress. Aim for 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night to help keep your anxiety in check.

Here are some tips to develop good sleep habits and improve your sleep quality:

  • Power down before bed: Turn off all electronics, especially phones and TVs, at least an hour before bedtime. The blue light emitted from these devices can interfere with your sleep cycle.
  • Create a calming sleep environment: Make sure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool. This will help your body relax and prepare for sleep.
  • Develop a sleep routine: Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, even on weekends. This helps regulate your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle.

How to Calm Anxiety at Night: 14 Tips for Sleeping Better With Anxiety

3. Eat a balanced diet

The old saying “you are what you eat” holds for anxiety too. Eating a healthy, balanced diet can be a great natural way to manage anxiety symptoms.

  • Focus on magnesium: Magnesium is a mineral that plays a role in enzyme function and nerve health. Upping your magnesium intake can be a natural remedy for anxiety. Load up on foods like almonds, whole-wheat grains, quinoa, spinach, cashews, black beans, and even dark chocolate, all of which are rich in magnesium.

  • Choose whole foods: Instead of processed foods that are loaded with artificial colours, flavours, and preservatives, opt for natural whole foods that come in a variety of colours. Aim to include plenty of protein, fruits, complex carbohydrates, and vegetables in your diet. These wholesome foods are naturally packed with antioxidants, which can be beneficial for your overall well-being.

  • Hydration is key: Don’t forget to stay hydrated! Water and natural homemade juices are essential for your health.

  • Pay attention to your body: Notice how your body reacts to certain foods. If you find that specific foods trigger your anxiety, try to limit them or avoid them altogether. This can be a simple but effective way to manage your anxiety naturally.

National Nutrition Month: 6 popular trends explained | Home Page Blog | Oakland Blog

4. Eliminate caffeine

Look, we all love that morning cup of coffee, but if you struggle with anxiety, it might be time to re-think your caffeine habits. While a moderate amount of coffee probably won’t cause problems for most people, caffeine can worsen anxiety symptoms, especially for those with chronic anxiety disorders.

Here’s why: Caffeine blocks adenosine, a chemical that makes you feel tired. Instead, it triggers the release of adrenaline, which keeps you alert. This surge of adrenaline can lead to jitters and increased nervousness, which can exacerbate anxiety.

We know that breaking up with your morning coffee can be tough. To avoid caffeine withdrawal headaches, try slowly cutting back on the amount you consume each day. Gradually reduce your intake until you reach a point where you can eliminate it altogether. This can be a significant step towards managing your anxiety naturally.

5. Say no to smoking and alcohol

Smoking and alcohol might seem to offer temporary relief from anxiety, but they actually make things worse in the long run. Smoking can worsen anxiety symptoms and irritate the lungs. Alcohol can also trigger anxiety and lead to dependence, which can create a whole new set of problems.

Research shows that both smoking and alcohol can worsen chronic stress and anxiety, especially for those with underlying mental health conditions.

Quitting smoking and alcohol is a smart decision for your overall health and can be a significant step towards managing your anxiety naturally.

6. Chamomile tea for relaxation

Since you’re cutting back on caffeine and alcohol, you might be looking for healthy alternatives to help you relax. Here’s a great option: chamomile tea!

This tea contains a compound called Matricaria recutita, which has natural calming properties. Chamomile tea can help reduce anxiety and even improve your sleep quality.

5 Ways Chamomile Tea Benefits Your Health

7. Breathe or rest to reduce anxiety

Anxiety attacks can be really frightening. Your heart races, and it feels like you can’t catch your breath. Here’s a simple trick to calm yourself down: deep breathing exercises.

When you take slow, deep breaths, you signal your body to relax. It’s hard to feel anxious and relaxed at the same time. There are many breathing exercises out there, but here’s a basic one to try:

  • Inhale deeply through your nose for a count of four.
  • Hold your breath for a count of four.
  • Exhale slowly through your mouth for a count of four. Repeat this process as many times as you need to feel yourself calming down.

8. Meditation for inner peace

Meditation is an age-old practice that’s been shown to be very effective in reducing chronic stress and anxiety. There are many meditation apps available that can guide you through exercises to help lower your stress levels and regulate your breathing during an anxiety attack.

Meditation helps you gain control over your body and mind, giving you the tools you need to manage your anxiety naturally.

How to Reduce Anxiety and Get Back to Being Your Best Self | The Art of Living

9. Aromatherapy to reduce anxiety

Aromatherapy is another great approach to managing anxiety naturally. It’s an ancient practice that uses essential oils and plant extracts to promote overall well-being. Anxiety attacks can strike at any time, including at night, making it difficult to sleep.

Certain essential oils can help you relax, improve your mood, and get a better night’s rest. Lavender, bergamot, ylang-ylang, clary sage, and grapefruit are all known for their calming properties.

When anxiety disrupts your sleep, try diffusing these oils, adding a few drops to your bath, or inhaling them directly. You might be surprised at how effective they can be.

Benefits of Aromatherapy Massage - Este Spa | Este Spa & Hammam

Bonus Tip: Laughter is the best medicine

They say laughter is the best medicine, and that holds true for anxiety too. When you laugh, it takes your mind off worries and anxieties and boosts your mood. Spending time with loved ones and sharing some laughs is a great way to de-stress and feel better.

Remember, you’re not alone

Anxiety attacks can be tough, but they are manageable. Find what works best for you to reduce your anxiety naturally. There are many resources available to help you learn more about anxiety and effective coping mechanisms.

Share your experiences

Have you ever dealt with anxiety? What natural remedies have helped you? Share your experiences in our comment section to help others.

Read more on anxiety here.

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