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The Persian Caravan
Discover Iran by a Private Train
Enquire about this tour
9 day trip
Tehran, Iran
Tehran, Iran
Min 22, Max 65
Full board
Private cabin and 5-Star hotels
5-Star Train / Bus
Coming Soon
Discover Iran by a Private Train
Enquire about this tour
The Iran Train Tour offers an opportunity to visit the cultural and historical heritage sites of Iran on a 5-star Iran train which offers a high level of comfort and services in a pleasant atmosphere. The Iran Train Tour covers all of the above in 9 days and during this time the passengers are served on board or in 5-star hotels for dining and sleeping.
The Iran Train Tour is an iconic experience of discovering the story of Persia. This all-inclusive adventure will take you through richly diverse landscapes, cultures, and heritage sites.
The Iran Train Tour offers unique excursions with tours ranging from the beloved Iranian cities such as Isfahan, well known for its beautiful historic architecture and magnificent Persian gardens that trace their design principles to the days of Shah Abbas, to Pasargadae and Persepolis, the cities of the Achaemenid Empire that rank among the world's greatest cities of antiquity. The Iran Train Tour also includes a visit to Yazd which is very well known for its Zoroastrian fire temples, Persian handicrafts, and its high-quality confectioneries.
Over a week, The Iran train tour will delight all of your senses as you travel through Iran to reveal the pearl of Persia. During the day, the train provides a warm, naturally lit observation area. Here you can enjoy a cup of coffee or tea while taking in the scenery.
Day 1: WELCOME TO IRAN
After arriving at Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA) in Tehran, our representative will meet and greet you; then, you will be transferred to the hotel to take a rest.
Overnight at a 5* hotel, Tehran
Day 2: TEHRAN – SAVADKOOH (TRAIN)
Among the unique attractions of this route are the Alborz Mountain Range, Hyrcanian Forests, plains and Kavir Desert. The geographical variety and the specific landscapes will create you a memory of a lifetime.
Starting from the Tehran Train Station, the train goes through Garmasar, Bonakuh, Simindasht, Zarrindasht, Firouzkuh, Gadok, Shur Ab and Veresk to reach the final station of Savadkuh. Then, it will move back towards Tehran. You will arrive at the Tehran Station at about 10:30 p.m.
The train will have stops at some train stations and interesting points such as Veresk Bridge. The passengers will have some trekking and will learn about the construction of the railway and its stations, built almost 100 years ago.
The railway line stretches over extraordinary bridges, loops and tunnels and mounts over 2000 meters at Veresk Village! Enjoy the trip on one of the world's most spectacular mountain railways!
Overnight at a 5* Hotel, Tehran
Day 3: TEHRAN – YAZD (TRAIN)
This morning, we will take you to a World Heritage Site, the lavish Golestan Palace. Built during the Qajar Dynasty that rose to power in the late 1700s, this fabulous walled complex is centered on a landscaped garden with tranquil pools. Many of the elements you'll admire today, date to the 19th century when the local Qajari architects and artisans were looking to integrate traditional Persian style with elements of Western and Russian origin. The palace buildings are among the oldest in modern Tehran and they are still regarded as a crowning achievement of the Qajar era.
Then, we will walk around Tehran Bazaar, few steps far from Golestan Palace. Walking along the Bazaar route, we go to Timche Akbarian. Timche Akbarian dates back to the Qajar era (almost 260 years old) when its main purpose was to exchange money. Later it was developed into the first bank of Iran and was ran mainly by Jews who were the prominent residents of Oudlajan neighborhood. As of today, there's no bank or money exchange but the place has been delicately restored into a Dizi Sara and teahouse where tea comes in thin waist cups and along with sugar canes.
Dizi doubtlessly is one of the most delicious and traditional Iranian dishes. Eating it has a special custom. Dizi is a Mesopotamian stew usually made with lamb, chickpeas, white beans, onion, potatoes, tomatoes, turmeric and dried lime. Everything is mixed and cooked together.
In the afternoon, you will visit the National Museum of Iran, where you can see fabulous historical items from 5000 BC to the advent of Islam in Iran which shows a brief history of our land.
Tonight, we will be at the train station to move to Yazd.
Overnight on board
Day 4: YAZD
Yazd is one of the oldest continuously inhabited towns of Iran. It's silhouette punctuated by minarets and the ingeniously-designed windtowers that capture desert breezes to cool homes during the hot summer months. Yazd is also the center of Iran's Zoroastrian community, which is where you'll begin the day's sightseeing.
At the Tower of Silence, you'll learn about one of the traditions of this ancient pre-Islamic religion. Until the mid-1900s, the dead were transported to this tower where they were left to decompose and be devoured by birds. Zoroastrian tradition considers a deceased body to be "unclean" and this process of excarnation prevents contact with either fire or earth– both of which are considered to be sacred.
At the still-active Zoroastrian Fire Temple, you'll see a flame that is said to have been burning for the past 1,500 years. It's an important pilgrimage site for the faithful and here our expert guide will offer additional insight into one of the world's oldest monotheistic religions.
In Amir Chakhmaq Square, you'll see a very impressive Hussainiya– a congregation hall for Shia commemoration ceremonies. With three tiers of recessed alcoves, all perfectly proportioned, its facade is one of the city's most photographed landmarks.
The next place to visit is the Friday Mosque, built in 1324, where you can gaze upon the tallest minarets in the country.
Among the many other historic sites to be seen in Yazd are beautiful old homes and the Dowlat Abad Garden. Standing by the garden's long reflecting pool, you'll be shaded by ancient cypress trees. Ahead of you is an 18th-century hexagonal pavilion with a beautiful stained glass window and a graceful wind tower– the tallest in Iran. All around are flowering fruit trees and other ornamental plants and trees.
Overnight at a 5* Hotel, Yazd
Day 5: YAZD – MEYBOD –KHARANAQ VILLAGE – SADATSHAHR (TRAIN)
Your overland journey continues to the small town of Meybod, where your first impression might be its striking monochromatic architecture of desert brick. But set along an ancient trade route, Meybod also offers a number of fascinating sites to visit including its caravanserai. Built in typical Safavid style, this ancient desert inn features verandahs, shaded passageways, and nearly 100 rooms– some of which are now used as artisan workshops. At the local icehouse, you'll learn about the thick-clay construction and subterranean chamber that allowed local residents to have ice and food storage before refrigeration– even during the intense desert heat of summer!
Leaving Meybod behind, we will have a short stop to visit Kharanagh old town and a single-minaret mosque and Kharanaq castle. Winding alleys are the wonders of this castle which were used to surprise bandits.
Then, we will take the train to Saadat Shahr.
Overnight on board
Today, you will visit Pasargadae, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Tomb of Cyrus the Great and former capital of the Achaemenid Empire. We will spend some time exploring the site and though not as striking as Persepolis, there is a great viewpoint where we can look over the site and the surrounding area.
From here, we will drive a couple of miles to Naqsh-e-Rustam, the Necropolis where Darius and his successors are buried. Carved into the side of a cliff, the site is extraordinary in its magnitude and sheer ambition and does not disappoint even after the impressive Persepolis.
Then, we will have some stop on our way to visit the Legendary City of Persepolis, the former capital of Darius the Great which was founded in 512 BC. There was no more impressive construction in the ancient world than Persepolis, except perhaps the Karnak in Egypt. Darius built the terrace, Apadana (great audience hall), Tachana (a palace), and the Monumental Staircases; his son, Xerxes, added the Harem and the Hall of 100 Columns. Alexander the Great entered Persepolis in January 330 BC and then committed an uncharacteristic act of wanton destruction that still mystifies historians today, burning the mighty city to the ground. Though a shadow of its former self, the soaring pillars, terraces and sculptures of Persepolis still remain, but probably most impressive are the bas-reliefs which line the site, telling the story of ancient governors and kings that came to Persepolis to pay tribute to the Persian Emperors.
Continue to Shiraz and check into the hotel.
Overnight at a 5* Hotel, Shiraz
Day 7: SHIRAZ – ISFAHAN (TRAIN)
After breakfast, you will visit Nasir-al-Mulk Mosque (Pink Mosque) which is a few steps far from Vakil Bazaar. It was built at Mirza Hassan Ali Nasir-al Mulk's command (one of the lords of the Qajar Dynasty); it took 12 years to complete it in 1888. Its interior reveals a magnificent masterpiece of design with stunning colors. This is a space where light and worship intertwine. The mosque comes to life with the sunrise and the colors dance throughout the day like whirling Dervishes. It reflects on the ground, walls, the arches, and the towering spires. It even reflects on the visitors as if a colorful ball is hit by the first sun ray and has exploded into thousands of butterflies all around.
Continue your exploration in Shiraz at the beautiful orange-scented Narenjestan Garden, laid out in the 19th century during the Qajar Dynasty.
Then, you will visit Karim Khan Citadel which was built during the Zand Dynasty.
You'll have time to explore and shop in the bustling Vakil Bazaar, home to hundreds of stores, beautiful courtyards, and even an ancient caravanserai.
Then, we will visit the Shrine of Ali Ebne Hamzeh. Built in the 19th century over the tomb of Emir Ali, a nephew of Shah Cheragh who also died in Shiraz while en route to Khorasan to help Imam Reza, this shrine is the latest of several earlier incarnations destroyed by earthquakes.
You will end your visit on a tranquil note in the lovely garden-tomb of Sa'adi and garden-tomb of Hafez, two of our most outstanding poets to feel the taste of Persian Literature. Hafez is one of the great poets who has impressed everyone with his mastery. His poems give us a special feeling and the peace in his tomb is really outstanding. Sa'adi is a poet, philosopher, and mystic who is known as the father of alternative tourism. About seven centuries ago, he traveled to different countries and cities. Then, he collected all his experiences in verses and rhymed prose in two books named Boustan and Golestan. These two books give you lots of inspiration and information. We will get a chance to pay homage to tombs of these great poets.
Tonight, we will take the train to Isfahan.
Overnight on board
Day 8: ISFAHAN
As the 17th-century capital of the Safavid Empire, Isfahan was one of the world's greatest cities– architecturally striking, wealthy beyond imagine, and politically powerful with Europeans, Ottomans, Indians, and Chinese coming to its court– the heart of a vast Persian Empire that stretched from the Euphrates River in present-day Iraq to the Oxus River in Afghanistan. Indeed, its grandeur inspired the rhyming proverb, Isfahan nesf e jahan (Isfahan is half of the World).
Start your exploration in Isfahan at a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Simple at first glance but wondrous in its rich detail and bold design, the Masjed-e Jamé is another masterpiece of Iranian architecture, covering nearly 5 acres in the heart of this historical city.
Your exploration continues in Imam Square. This 17th-century site is one of the largest public spaces in the world. Here in the square, you'll visit the 17th-century Shah Mosque, revered as a masterpiece of Islamic architecture and easily recognized by its magnificent tile-work and soaring cupola and minarets. You will also visit Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, also known as the Ladies Mosque, as it was built for the Shah's harem, renowned for the brightly colored domed ceiling, where the light creates the image of a peacock. In the Ali Qapu Palace, you'll marvel at its beautiful music rooms and the balconies where Safavid kings would sit to enjoy the polo matches unfolding in the square below. You'll end your exploration of the square by visiting the Qeisarieh Bazaar. With hundreds of local vendors that specialize in traditional arts and crafts, it's a wonderful place to shop for pottery, enamel, jewelry and delicately inlaid board games.
Next up is Chehel Sotun Palace. Set in a landscaped and forested park in front of a tranquil reflecting pool, this graceful pavilion was built by Shah Abbas II for entertainment and court receptions. Entering through a portico with twenty slender wooden columns, you'll discover soaring halls embellished with frescoes, paintings, and mosaics; the Hall of Mirrors is especially breathtaking!
You will finish your exploration of the city by visiting some of the centuries-old, still elegant bridges that span Zayandeh River.
Overnight at a 5* Hotel, Isfahan
Day 9: ISFAHAN – TEHRAN (BUS)
Today, we will drive to Tehran and our representative will transfer you to Imam Khomeini International Airport according to your flight time.
Iran Train Tour
+98 939 409 6186
+98 912 633 3548
As we mentioned on the itinerary, you'll stay on a train that has 4 comfortable beds in each cabin, and hotels in Tehran, Isfahan, Yazd, and Shiraz.
We use good quality hotels rated at the Iranian 5-star level on this tour. Accommodation is based on double or twin en-suite rooms with air conditioning.
All couples will have a private double room. Single travelers may choose to pay a single room supplement to guarantee themselves a single room throughout the Iran Train Tour. Alternatively, they may choose to share a twin room with another traveler of the same sex. If there are no other single travelers available to pair up with at the time of your booking, then we will add the single supplement to the tour price but will refund this or deduct it from your balance payment if we are able to pair you up later on.
The tour includes a 24-hour airport meet & assist service in Tehran at Imam Khomeini International Airport, your arrival and departure airport-hotel transfers, and all other transfers.
The tour price includes entrance fees to all the tourist sites mentioned in the itinerary. You will need to cover the cost of entrance to any other extra sites that you may wish to visit.
If you would like to book a place on this tour, please complete the online reservation form on our website. We will then contact you with more details about how to complete your booking. Payments may be made by making a bank transfer. Full details will be provided in your booking confirmation email. Please contact us if you would like any more information or have any questions before making a booking.
Passports should be valid for at least six months after your departure from the country. Please do not bring an almost full or almost expired passport. Visa arrangements are the responsibility of the traveler. For more information about how to get an Iranian visa please visit this page.
These tour joining details are provided on a provisional basis and may change prior to this tour departing. Any changes to these details will be updated on this page.
Iran Train Tour
Khoresht-E Fesenjan
(Persian Pomegranate Paste and Walnut Stew)
Khoresht-E Gheimeh & Rice
(Rice, Lamb, Split Pea And Dried Lime Stew)
Zereshk Polo
(Barberry Rice with Chicken)
Baghali Polo
(Rice With Dill And Fava Beans)
Joojeh Kabab
(Saffron Chicken Kabobs)
Kabab Koobideh
Tea and Coffee
Vegetarian meals are available on request
Prefer speaking to us over the phone? Our Specialists would love to help you out!
Or simply drop us an email at firstname.lastname@example.com
Opening Hours:
8:30am – 5.00pm Saturday to Thursday
We organized a 3 weeks tour in Iran through SURFIRAN. SURFIRAN is a very Professional travel agency who understands their customers needs and expectations. Our stay in Iran was just fabulous, the program built by SURFIRAN was great, we have seen many and many very interesting sites and locations.
Most we enjoyed the landscape and wildlife we saw, it was just amazing and not comparable with nature we found in Germany and Europe, one of my greatest experiences! Second we enjoyed the kindness of you guys (Mehdi, Negin and her family, and the two houses we stayed) it was like meeting family and friends :)
We visited Iran on October 2016 with SURFIRAN travel and tours company. Organization of round trip, hotel accommodation and flights were perfect. Our guide Mostafa was absolutely excellent, helpful, friendly and his information about Iran were very informative. Thanks a lot ! Will come back soon.
Everything was arranged very efficiently. Nothing went wrong. Our guide, Mostafa Farhadi, was remarkable. Not only was he a brilliant driver, but his knowledge of the culture, history and contemporary life of Iran was amazing. He also had superb contacts in all the places we visited.
Christiane Robichon –
We organized a 3 weeks tour in Iran through SURFIRAN. SURFIRAN is a very Professional travel agency who understands their customers needs and expectations. Our stay in Iran was just fabulous, the program built by SURFIRAN was great, we have seen many and many very interesting sites and locations.
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SURFIRAN (Pars Travel House) Licensed by Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts and Tourism Organization of Iran and a member of Iranian Tour Operators Association. Read more


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A new poll of Iowa Republicans released Sunday night suggested that Rep. Michele BachmannMichele Marie BachmannKlobuchar urges CNN town hall audience: 'That's when you guys are supposed to cheer, OK?' Michele Bachmann praises Trump: Americans will 'never see a more godly, biblical president' Will Biden lead a 'return to normalcy' in 2020? MORE (R-Minn.) enjoys momentum in the race to win the state's caucuses.
Twenty-five percent of likely Republican caucus-goers said they would support Bachmann, the Tea Party favorite, as the GOP presidential nominee, surpassing former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney (R).
Romney and Bachmann were virtually tied — at 23-22 percent, respectively — in a mid-June edition of the Iowa Poll, published by the Des Moines Register. This new poll, conducted at the end of June for The Iowa Republican, suggests movement in favor of Bachmann, though it might not capture the immediate state of the race.
It underscores the boomlet, though, that the Minnesota congresswoman has enjoyed in Iowa since making a late entry into the field in June. She's enjoyed particular success there, where she appears to be front-runner, since Romney is unlikely to compete in the state, and former Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty (R) is struggling to gain traction.
Pawlenty's difficulty gaining momentum prompted him to openly question Bachmann's qualifications on Sunday, calling her legislative record "non-existent." He placed third in the poll, at 9 percent, tied with former Godfather's Pizza CEO Herman Cain.
The poll, conducted by Voter/Consumer Research, a polling firm run by former President George W. Bush's pollster in Iowa, was conducted June 26-30 and has a 4.4 percent margin of error.
Tags Michele Bachmann

subset: commoncrawl


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Mining, men and migration
Nellie Mutemeri
What challenges do you face in the mining industry?
I've been in the mining sector all my professional life, so the issue of gender has always been present.
In the 1980s, I began my career in the UK as one of two girls in a class of 24 men. I would go underground and you could see that people were shocked: I was in a mine and not a miner.
A few years ago, on a trip to a mining site, I was subject to abuse but generally discrimination is based on attitude. Often you are made to feel like what you are doing is trivial and people make fun of gender initiatives. I sat in an interview once and was asked: "Would you choose a team of women or a team of men?" A question I refused to answer. Women are not always taken seriously, particularly in mining companies.
How unequal is the mining industry?
One could argue that women are excluded from accessing privately-owned and regulated mines because of low levels of education. Without simple literary skills, women are unable to fill in the licensing form, and are subsequently held back from putting a case forward to access finances and own property. They start one step behind. Women are on the periphery; sitting outside of the mines, selling food or worse, selling their bodies.
With the growth of informal mines, governments must protect women's livelihood opportunities. There is a lack of awareness around women who work in the mining sector. It is never talked about and the fault lies in consultation Women are not consulted despite being stakeholders. Women are not given a voice and are excluded from policies and strategies. I see my role as an advocate for sector-wide change. As a respected practitioner, I think people are seeing the value in bringing women into the conversation.
To what extent does informal mining neglect safety standards?
In South Africa, I saw people with no shoes, no helmet and using candles in an underground disused coal mine – a hazard, since an explosion could happen at any time. People were so desperate they just kept digging to get coal to sell despite the site being closed and unsafe.
In Mali, women are working in mining sites with artisanal miners and extracting gold by rubbing mercury with their bare hands. I saw a woman sat with her baby breastfeeding with one hand and rubbing mercury concentration in the other – directly exposing her child to poison. She had no idea of the consequences.
You have worked extensively across Africa, do you see the issue of increasing female representation as continent-wide, or are some countries making progress?
There is a higher level of awareness in some countries. Tanzania is a model for other African countries – the government is really getting involved and supporting the mainstreaming of gender through platforms such as the Tanzania Women Miners Association. In many other African countries there is so little awareness that it is not even talked about, let alone on the agenda.
Mining companies should have a gender equality charter to abide by. Often, women drift from technical fields to what is often referred to as 'softer' skills, such as community affairs. We need more women on the technical side.
Migration has a large impact on employment worldwide. What impact is this having on women in mining?
Migration means communities are changing and people from different cultures and values are coming together. Cultural beliefs and stigma can heavily affect women, particularly in informal mining communities, so women become more vulnerable to abuse.
Key areas of development, such as climate change, extractives and governance have historically been viewed as gender neutral, or even gender blind. How can we close the gender gap? Find out here.


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#sparkchamber 112017 — Sharon Heath
Thanksgiving week in the #sparkchamber brings a ray of love and light in the form of Sharon Heath, a certified Jungian Analyst in private practice, and author of The Fleur Trilogy. [Tizita, book 2 of the trilogy was reviewed by Publisher's Weekly! Check it out here.
Sharon writes fiction and non-fiction exploring the interplay of science and spirit, politics and pop culture, contemplation and community. A faculty member of the C.G. Jung Institute of Los Angeles, she served as Associate Editor of Psychological Perspectives and Guest Editor of the special issue The Child Within/The Child Without. She has given talks in the United States and Canada on topics ranging from the place of soul in social media to gossip, envy, secrecy, and belonging. Find all of her works at her Amazon author page.
She is "crazy about kids, cats, people who give a damn, the Indra's Web of life on this planet, ensuring a healthy planet for future generations, quantum physics, Ethiopian music, the unending creativity and resilience of the psyche, and taking a stand for compassion and love in this cockamamie world." Beautiful sentiments to kick off the holiday season! For more, check out her blog at www.sharonheath.com
1.] Where do ideas come from?
Ideas come from the earth, the seas, the void, the stuff of stars inside us.
2.] What is the itch you are scratching?
Generations of ancestors cry out inside me to give voice to the strange, terrible, wonderful experience of being human. I'd go stark raving bonkers if I didn't write.
3.] Early bird or night owl, tortoise or hare?
I sit down at the computer as soon as I wake up, dream juice still dripping inside me. I write my best scenes in my jammies, teeth and hair unbrushed: uncivilized, vulnerable, raw. But editing? Best to be clothed, sharp, prepared to "murder your darlings" in service to the story.
4.] How do you know when you are done?
I pretty much collapse after three-and-a-half pages. That's the measure of my daily stamina, and it's pretty much invariable unless I'm in that final, pushing stage. As for being done with a novel? When the characters tell me: "Yep, you got it. Go play with the cats."


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Roberts, Obamacare's savior in 2012, seems inscrutable this time
(REUTERS) — U.S. Chief Justice John Roberts, who cast the decisive vote in 2012 to beat back the first major challenge to President Barack Obama's healthcare law, kept his cards close on Wednesday.
And the man who occupies the center chair on the Supreme Court's mahogany bench and often dominates arguments seemed to remain deliberately inscrutable.
Roberts asked few questions, none revealing his view of the challenge to the crucial tax-credit subsidies that help low- and moderate-income people buy insurance under the 2010 law. His first question came late in the arguments of the challengers' lawyer and was, in fact, more of a joke.
As liberal justices pounded Michael Carvin for altering his stance on the necessity of the tax-credit subsidies to Obamacare from his view in the failed 2012 court challenge, Roberts remarked, "Mr. Carvin, we've heard talk about that other case. Did you win that other case?"
As spectators began to laugh, Roberts said, "So maybe it makes sense that you have a different story today."
Carvin, at the time representing a small-business group, lost when Roberts joined the court's four liberals to uphold Obamacare.
On Wednesday, Carvin argued on behalf of Virginians enlisted as plaintiffs by a libertarian group opposed to Obama's signature domestic policy achievement.
In 2012, Roberts, a shrewd 60-year-old former corporate lawyer appointed by Republican President George W. Bush, drew the condemnation of fellow conservative justices and much of the right-wing legal community for preserving Obamacare.
Roberts never responded publicly to conservatives' claims he was a traitor or to liberals' praise of him as a savior. His few words on Wednesday suggested he knows he is being watched as the possible pivotal vote again.
One clue to Roberts' thinking might have emerged near the end of the 85-minute oral argument when U.S. Solicitor General Donald Verrilli said the court regularly defers to Internal Revenue Service interpretation of tax laws.
Here, the IRS has said the tax-credit subsidies should be given to people who buy insurance on federally run as well as state exchanges.
"If you're right," Roberts said, "that would indicate that a subsequent administration could change that interpretation."
Verrilli said the next administration would "need a very strong case" to make a switch.
Roberts may be suggesting he is open to ruling for the government while ensuring Obama's successor in the White House an opportunity to reinterpret the law.
His fellow justices will get the first glimpse of Roberts' views on Friday when they privately take their customary preliminary vote on the week's cases. The vote always starts with him.


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Shh... It's Just A Little Bit Black Hat...
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Affiliate Marketers, read on ...
From: David Allen
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This is what happens. You spend a few hours writing up a big product review, and preselling the target product. Then you take the time out to create a link building campaign to get your review onto page 1 of Google.
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Even if you use a link cloaker, many people are now aware that all it's doing is hiding an affiliate link, and will go to the extent of clearing their cookies before going to the destination site.
It's getting harder and harder for an affiliate to make a commission nowadays.
So what's the answer?
Simple. Don't give them an affiliate link to click. Just give them a plain old direct link to the site, but make sure that before they click it, they already have your cookie on their computer.
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Black Hat?
We recommend you use PressDropper responsibly. By that we mean only use one (or maybe two) affiliate links on each page or post.
PressDropper can also be used in a black hat manner by stuffing as many cookies as you like on a single page, and it's inevitable that some people will want to use it that way as the rewards are high.
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How to Hashtag Faster on instagram
How to Hashtag Faster on Instagram:
If you aren't using hashtags on your Instagram posts...you're doing it all wrong. Here's why you need to be using hashtags.
- They help people find your service or product
- They connect followers with your brand
- They increase engagement in a meaningful way
Alright, now that you're hashtagging, watch the video below for a time-saving hack.


text: A touch of LOVE February 13, 2013 In the spirit of Valentine's Day, I made some Valentine's day cards for my friends. I love the cards and they were fun to make. <3 I used: sharpie pens in the appropriate V-day colors, some red glitter glue, and xoxo ribbon. Simple yet lovely :)


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Specialization- that is the key to success.
This is a common theme promoted in all areas of work right now. People are challenged to become so specialized in one topic that they become an "expert". The idea is becoming specialized creates a niche and job security.
I believe there is a lot of truth to this, but I also think there is a value in being a "jack of all trades". Being diversified in your work allows for growth in many areas. It also avoids putting all your eggs into one basket.
In counseling, many people specialize in a certain field. Even me- my specialization is in forensic psychology. Becoming highly skilled and knowledgeable in one area is great, and can open opportunities for future work. Just make sure you are picking the right specialty.
For example, years ago I paid hundreds of dollars for an anger management certification program. I paid my money, completed the coursework, received my certificate, began adding a few additional letters to the end of my name, and thought this would help grow my business. WRONG. The only thing it grew was the pocket of the person who offered the course. A specialization or certificate that has no real value or credentialing is worthless in my opinion. Don't make the same mistake I did early in my career. Spending money on a certificate that is meaningless will not create new business. Becoming immersed in learning about something that you are passionate about will.
Before purchasing a certificate course, ask yourself this question: how will this certificate be able to grow my business in the next year? If you don't have an answer, why spend the money and time? I would challenge you to find the area of counseling (or whatever work you do) that creates interest and passion and begin learning about it. Reading and research on the Internet is mostly free and will allow you to naturally transition into a specialty as you develop your knowledge base and skills. Trust me, your client doesn't know (or care) about those letters after your name anyway. They only care about whether or not you are the best at your job, and that you can help them.


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The Exceptional Climbing superior hiking trail map Path would commonly not produce a best 10 list of items Minnesota is known for. Plenty of people would record the 10,000 lakes, Bob Dylan, Jesse Ventura or possibly Lake Exceptional. It can be easy to understand. At facial area value Minnesota and entire world course hiking wouldn't manage to go with each other. When you questioned the standard man or woman what likely for the hike in Minnesota will be like, they might possibly think of a stroll as a result of a corn industry or maybe a prairie – normally flat and nothing at all extremely scenic. The reality is the Top-quality Mountaineering Path is among the best pure points of interest in Minnesota.
The Superior Climbing Path is located in a single of Minnesota's most wonderful places – the North Shore of Lake Excellent. This spot is incredibly different through the central plains area on the condition and residential into the Sawtooth Mountains. No, the Sawtooth Mountains are nothing like the Rocky Mountains in terms of altitude, but nonetheless give numerous similarly amazing sights. This space features many waterfalls, gorges, panoramic views of Lake Top-quality and much more.
The Top-quality Mountaineering Path at this time is made up of two main sections. The southern most portion starts off south of Duluth at Jay Cooke Point out Park and finishes 39 miles in a while the Northeast side of Duluth at Martin Highway. The longest section of the path is in excess of two hundred miles extensive, stretching from Two Harbors, MN to your Canadian border. Over this portion, the Outstanding Climbing Trail typically follows the Lake Excellent shoreline and runs by way of 7 state parks.
Escalating up in Minnesota, I'd generally headed west to mountain states this sort of as Colorado and Wyoming for my backpacking adventures. It wasn't until eventually I was in my 30s which i uncovered the Superior Hiking Path. Standing along with Pincushion Mountain or perhaps the cliffs above Bean and Bear Lakes rival many of the sights I have loved with the tops of 14ers but with out the oxygen deprivation or even the airfare. Substantially on the terrain is like you would encounter on a mountain hike but with a lot more range. The trail requires you thru darkish and cool cedar forests, significant rock overlooks, 200′ cliffs above lakes, various waterfalls and plenty of panoramic sights of Lake Outstanding. While it really is a special practical experience than the usual substantial altitude hike, this path gives just about every bit nearly as good of the encounter. Best of all, to be a Minnesotan, it truly is in my yard.


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Mac Martirossian
"Bernie Marcus receives TiE Atlanta's prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2009 TiE Atlanta Gala"
Brilliant evening; the venue, the entertainment and Bernie's message were all outstanding. Congratulations to the recipients of the awards and for the TiE leadership Team in orchestrating a world class event.
Mac Martirossian, Managing Director, MThree Advisory Services, LLC


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Now, their 2nd opus at last has a repressing on double vinyl format via Cardinal Fuzz (Europe) and Sky Lantern Records (USA) with a very eye popping reworking of the original artwork on a heavy card gatefold sleeve.
From the Icarus-like trance ascension of opener "The Exalted King", the band enters to a deeply mind-blowing interplay between trip-rock experiments and cosmic ambition. Each album side is uninterrupted, a continuous stream of deep spaced out zones recalling the rich tones and pulse of your early 70s kosmische heroes with latter day stoned-out psychedelia.
Sometimes wandering in silently dark semi-acoustic mysteries of the cosmos, and in the next moment orbiting to walls of sound with outer space echoes and alien atmospheres. The COSMIC DEAD know how to ride the edge of groove and gently cut back to spacey atmospherics to superb effect.
The record explodes their sound in all directions; spacier, trippier, headier and far more expansive than ever. Revivalists have attempted to capture and modernize the sound, and retro enthusiasts have grappled in authenticity, but the COSMIC DEAD are beyond: they ARE that sound! It's music floating so naturally that immediately puts the listener into a state where time seems to disappear. They invite you to experience intense flashbacks of tribal british space rock and 70's krautrock bubbled through a psych filter. A cosmic fan's nirvana. Not to be missed!


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The unemployment rate in Fulton County dropped to under 4 percent in September, according to data recently released by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services.
The rate fell to 3.5 percent in the county from 4.2 percent in August. Last September, the unemployment rate was 4.2 percent in Fulton County.
In Lucas County, the September unemployment rate was 4.9 percent. That was done from 5.3 percent in August and 5.9 percent in September 2017.
Among the state's 88 counties, preliminary September 2018 unemployment rates ranged from a low of 2.5 percent in Mercer County to a high of 6.0 percent in Monroe County. From August, unemployment rates decreased in all 88 counties.
The comparable unemployment rate for Ohio was 4.1 percent in September.
Five counties had unemployment rates at or below 3.0 percent in September. The counties with the lowest rates, other than Mercer were: Putnam, 2.8 percent; Wyandot, 2.9 percent; and Auglaize and Holmes, 3.0 percent.
Seven counties had unemployment rates at or above 5.5 percent in September.
The counties with the highest rates, other than Monroe were: Adams, 5.9 percent; Scioto, 5.8 percent; Trumbull, 5.7 percent; Meigs and Pike, 5.6 percent; and Jefferson, 5.5 percent.
Ohio's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was 4.6 percent in September 2018, unchanged from August. Ohio's nonagricultural wage and salary employment increased 4,300 over the month, from a revised 5,634,600 in August to 5,638,900 in September 2018.
The number of workers unemployed in Ohio in September was 266,000, down 2,000 from 268,000 in August. The number of unemployed has decreased by 21,000 in the past 12 months from 287,000. The September unemployment rate for Ohio decreased from 5.0 percent in September 2017.
The U.S. unemployment rate for September was 3.7 percent, down from 3.9 percent in August, and down from 4.2 percent in September 2017.
Reach Drew Stambaugh at 419-335-2010


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The avoidable costs of alcohol abuse in Australia and the potential benefits of effective policies to reduce the social costs of alcohol
Executive summary
Alcohol abuse in Australia is a serious problem whose social costs in 2004/05 have been estimated to be over $15 billion. The present study estimates the extent to which these costs could be reduced by the implementation of appropriate public policy interventions. It indicates that it should be possible, over a period of time, to reduce these costs by approximately half.
The study arises from the participation of the authors as the lead authors in the development of International Guidelines for the Estimation of the Avoidable Costs of Substance Abuse, published by Health Canada. These guidelines represent the first major attempt to examine in detail the issues involved in estimating the avoidable costs of substance abuse—that is, those costs that would potentially be able to be eliminated or reduced if appropriate public policies were adopted.
The Health Canada avoidable cost guidelines identify four possible approaches to the estimation of avoidable costs. For the purposes of the present study it was decided to adopt two of these, the 'Arcadian Normal' and 'exposure-based comparators' approaches, to estimate the overall proportion of the social costs of alcohol which are potentially avoidable. However, neither of these approaches provide specific information on the interventions which would need to be implemented to achieve these cost reductions. Accordingly, the preferred approach in this study relates to the implementation of alcohol interventions which the research literature has shown to be effective.
This study identifies the interventions for which strong Australian or international evidence exists as to their potential benefits, and attempts to value these benefits in terms of the reduction in the social costs of alcohol abuse which it would be possible to achieve. In addition, a range of interventions is identified which the research literature has demonstrated to be effective but for which it did not prove possible to value the potential benefits.
The study estimates both the proportion of Australian social costs which are potentially avoidable and the values of the potential benefits of the identified interventions.
Interventions identified as being effective and whose benefits are quantifiable are:
- higher alcohol taxation, including differential tax rates on forms of alcohol which are particularly subject to abuse;
- partial or complete bans on the advertising and promotion of alcohol;
- measures to reduce drink driving—more intensive enforcement of random breath testing and lowering the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level; and
- brief interventions by primary care physicians to reduce hazardous alcohol consumption.
- control of drinking environments;
- alcohol ignition locks on vehicles driven by convicted drink-driving offenders;
- guidelines for low risk drinking; and
- standard drinks labelling and health warnings on drinks containers.
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Potential percentage reductions in per capita alcohol consumption and alcohol-attributable mortality
Impact on
Potential percentage reduction
|Alcohol consumption per capita
|Male alcohol-attributable deaths
|Female alcohol-attributable deaths
|Total alcohol-attributable deaths
Estimates of the values of the potential benefits of the identified interventions are presented in the following two tables. The first of these provides estimates of the potential benefits of higher alcohol taxes, while the second presents estimates of the benefits of the other identified interventions. This presentation is adopted as a result of a major difference between taxation and the other forms of intervention.
It would in principle be possible by the use of tax instruments to achieve almost any level of reduction in per capita alcohol consumption, as long as tax rates were not so high as to encourage large-scale alcohol smuggling or illicit alcohol production. The performances of other countries having similar economic and social characteristics are, therefore, taken as a guide for target reductions in Australian per capita alcohol consumption. The estimates of social cost reductions are based on the performances of Norway, the comparable country with the lowest per capita alcohol consumption rate, the United States and Italy.
Potential benefits of higher alcohol taxation in terms of reductions in social costs (expressed in 2004/05 prices), based on performance in Norway, United States and Italy
Based on per capita alcohol consumption in
United States
|Potential reduction in Australian social costs
Estimates of the potential benefits of the other identified interventions appear in the next table. Because, by the nature of these estimates, absolute precision is not possible, minimum and maximum estimates are presented, as well as 'best' estimates.
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Potential benefits of policy interventions in terms of reductions in social costs (expressed in 2004/05 prices)
Best estimate
|Individual-based interventions
|Brief interventions
|Population-based interventions
|Greater BAC enforcement
|Reduced BAC level
|Partial advertising and marketing controls—overall impact
|Complete advertising and marketing
controls—overall impact
|Partial advertising and marketing controls—impact on road accidents
|Complete advertising and marketing controls—impact on road accidents
Interpretation of the results in a study of this type should, for a variety of reasons, be undertaken only with great caution.
The translation of research results into potential reductions in social costs is necessarily imprecise. The determination of the upper and lower boundaries of the estimates must usually be based on judgmental decisions by the researchers. However, even when the lower-bound estimates are chosen, estimates of the potential cost savings for the interventions analysed above are very high in absolute terms.
Although the potential cost savings are expressed in terms of constant price values (that is, in 2004/05 dollars), these savings would usually only accrue over a period of several years. Expression in constant price terms is the most sensible way to present the results given that, in the current state of knowledge, the time profile of the accrual of benefits is not known.
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The above summary of results presents the estimated benefits of each of the recommended interventions. It is not possible to aggregate these results to produce an estimate of total savings because there is substantial overlap between the impacts of the various interventions. On the other hand, there is no reason to believe that the benefits of these individual interventions would be completely mutually exclusive. The estimated total benefits of a package of interventions, which were implemented simultaneously, would not be the sum of the benefits which would accrue to each of the interventions individually, but it would certainly exceed the benefits resulting from the highest yielding of these interventions.
In conclusion, the research indicates that it should be possible to reduce the social costs of alcohol by approximately half, if the interventions evaluated here are adopted.
The authors recognise that some of the policies evaluated may not prove to be currently politically feasible or acceptable. However, all of the policies considered have been implemented in one or more comparable jurisdictions and, therefore, have been proved to be politically feasible in some comparable overseas jurisdiction or Australian subjurisdiction. The objective of the present study is not to recommend the adoption of a particular set of alcohol policies. It is to consider from an economic perspective a range of policies which have been shown to be effective and to indicate, as far as the data allow, the economic benefits likely to flow from the implementation of these policies. The information is intended to assist in the development of evidence-based strategies for the reduction in the social costs of alcohol abuse in Australia.
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2005 Volvo S60 R" src="http://www.weblogsinc.com/common/images/7785804156068892.JPG?0.9220796503653664" align="top" border="0" height="319" hspace="0" vspace="4" width="425" />
Maybe I'm losing it, but this seems like the most underrated, under-covered car on the show floor. The Volvo S60 R just stood out in the Volvo display, probably because of the bright Passion Red paint, though it made me stop because it really is a good-looking car. The R received some changes for the 2005 model year and the aggressive body kit that ads front and rear spoilers and side skirts to the overall package was one of them. The R is powered by the five-cylinder 2.5-liter in-line engine and puts out 300 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. A slick six-speed short-throw manual is available to make this quite the car. At about $40,000 with the optional sport package, it's a car I really like that I haven't heard much about. Does anyone out there have an R?
And check below for Dave's flashback from Detroit.
Hey guys. Dave here. Below are some images I snagged of the S60 in Detroit that were never used on Autoblog. Was too
swamped I guess. Can you say bonus coverage?


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Merlin® allows you to set up to five levels of discount for all products. Give the customer a Discount Level from 1 to 5 and the system will automatically calculate the correct price for them. You can also add additional discounts at the point of sale if required.
What do I do about the Business Sales where I give a discount?
Have more questions? Submit a request
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Article is closed for comments.


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Fantastic flavours abound in the all-new set lunch menu from 4 September, at only $18 (for 2-course), or $22 (for 3-course).
Kick off your meal with signature appetiser, BLT Salad or Charred Aubergine, then journey on to Red Snapper with sauteed baby spinach, wild puff rice and saffron sauce, Confit Chicken Leg with taro puree and red wine sauce, or Spaghetti Bolognese with minced beef and fresh basil.
For those who enjoy a sweet, icy ending, Chocolate Sundae or the zesty Lemon Tart is highly recommended!
Set Lunch is only valid on weekdays from 12pm to 2:30pm
2-course at $18++ (choice of appetiser & main or main & dessert)
3-course at $22++ (choice of appetiser, main and dessert)
Enhance your lunch experience with optional extras. Wine by the glass starts from only $7++, whilst coffee and tea supplement is available at $3++ per glass.
View Menu


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So, I have been on my wash and go kick. I have been really enjoying them this time around@
It seems like the more I do them, the more I love them, and the easier it gets!
My experience with wash and gos have been an up and down battle. Somehow I have been able to move forward and find a method that I am addicted to. I love it so much, I am thinking about doing nothing but wash and gos until the end of the year. (more on that later) 🙂
Here are my steps to achieving my perfect Wash and Go For Tight Curly Hair
- Shampoo or co wash my hair thoroughly
- Deep conditioning/hot oil treatment
- Thoroughly Detangle my hair
- Add Conditioner (Herbal Essence Hello Hydration) – Add product in sections, making sure to cover each strand, especially the roots where tightly curly hair knots up. From my personal experience adding product thoroughly to the hair decreases knots and tangles. I usually finger comb to get the product all over the hair. You can do bigger sections this way, and not take tiny sections that will increase the styling time. It's not about defining the curl, it's about making sure product is evenly distributed.
- Add my styling gel (Fantasia IC Hair Polisher Styling Gel) – Again, add product in sections, making sure to cover each strand.
- Blow drying! Once my hair is completely dry it will last until for 5-7 days without re wetting. I don't use any attachment. I hang my head upside down and begin to dry my hair. I do upside down, so that the curls on top are not disturbed. I don't mind a little frizz, because it gives me more volume and the bigger hair we all love! I have low porosity hair. My hair literally stays wet for 24 hours. This is no joke! This is usually where my wash and go fails. I usually have to go to bed on wet hair. In the morning, the curls are crammed up, and knotted together. I then have to re wet my hair. This becomes a daily process which defeats the purpose of low manipulation styling that you should get from a wash and go.
This entire process from the shampoo to the blow drying takes a little over an hour. I use about 30 minutes to deep condition, 10-15 minutes to add product, and about 15-20 minutes to blow dry.
I maintain my wash and go at night by using the pineapple method. In the morning, I add a little oil, shake and go!
*Pineapple Method*
Who said us coily heads can't do wash and gos!?!?! I am quickly changing my opinion on the wash and go for my tight curly hair! 🙂
Most people with tight coils like me are afraid of the wash and go, because tangles can be scary. I've battled wash and gos because of that reason. The key for my hair is making sure the hair is fully detangled before styling, and product. Product is not key for growing hair, but it is key for styling. Find the right product for your wash and gos, and make sure to apply it thoroughly.


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What will 10 cents buy you? A Wire Jewelry-Making Essentials Video!
|Watching Denise's video, you can learn to make perfect flush cuts . . .
|. . . make your own hammered flat-end wire head pins in minutes . . .
|. . . easily straighten wire, and more.
I love paper books, paper magazines, regular old movies. But the more cool and convenient gadgets, tablets, eMags, and such come on the market, the more my old-fashioned ways are tempted by the shiny new thing.
Don't get me wrong–I can't go a minute without my BlackBerry–but I knew I was really getting hooked on modern technology when I told someone the other day that I wanted one of those phones or tablets that allow you to slide screens sideways with your fingertip. How cool is that?
That led to talk of iPads, which led to talk of tablets and e-readers, then Internet TV and then video downloads . . . and then, uh oh. Before I knew it, I discovered that I was already a technology person, because I love being able to download videos instantly online and watch whatever I want, whenever I want, wherever I want.
The same goes for jewelry making. Whenever I forget how to make perfectly wrapped wire loops (which seems to be pretty often, for some reason), I turn to a video to help me see and remember. When I tried to learn chain maille jewelry making recently, a video showed me (over and over and over . . .) until I had it figured out.
Learning creative techniques via video is the next best thing to having a live instructor there to guide your hands. So handy and helpful, videos are there to return to again and again to watch a technique over and over, at your own pace, as many times as you need to until you've learned what you want to learn–be it chain maille or perfectly wrapped loops.
Now video demos couldn't be more convenient because you can download them instantly online. You don't have to go to the store or even to the mailbox!
That's my favorite part–the instant gratification of downloading videos online. Well, it was my favorite part–until I learned about our ten-cent download deal. Now that's my favorite part!
For one little dime, you can instantly download Step-by-Step Wire Jewelry Editor-in-Chief Denise Peck's Metalwork: Wire Essentials video and master wireworking basics. You'll get an entire DVD's worth–56 minutes!–of wire jewelry instruction in a quick and easy instant download. In it, you'll learn:
Speaking of a minute, don't wait one more! This deal allows you to learn something you've always wanted to learn and try out popular, convenient technology–all without risking a lot of money. Take advantage of this ten-cent download deal to enjoy Denise Peck's Metalwork: Wire Essentials video download right away!
Hurry, this offer is good through Thursday, August 19, at 11:59 p.m. MT!


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Instant Replay: 5 seconds back video for iPhone
$0.99 David Fauthoux iOS Version 1.1 Full Specs
Publisher's Description
From David Fauthoux:
Watch back the last 5 seconds.2 ways of doing:- The default behavior: your iPhone/iPad records a 5 seconds movie, plays it back, records another 5 seconds movie, plays it back, and so on.- The 'touch' behavior: your iPhone/iPad continuously records a movie, keeping only the last 5 seconds. As soon as you touch the screen, it plays back these last 5 seconds.Why is it so useful?Example 1 - Sport: A basketball player eagerly improves his shot by watching himself shooting. With this app, he can put his iPad near him, shoot, watch himself shooting, shoot again, watch again...Example 2 - TV: How often do you do something else watching TV (surfing the web, reading, cooking, talking...)? Leave this app on your table pointing to your TV. Did you miss the last action or critical moment? Touch your iPad, watch it back.Features:- Configurable to 2 seconds, 5 seconds, 10 seconds, 30 seconds, 1 minute, 2 minutes, 3 minutes and 5 minutes.- Fullscreen.- Instant launch.- Fast switching from recording to playing back.- Beep sounds (record start/end), can be deactivated (mute).- Record preview, can be deactivated (blank screen).- Blinking when recording, can be deactivated.Note this app does not play audio back.


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A young Ballymena man who was involved in a serious accident has spoken of how his love for photography helped in the days following the crash - and led to a new career.
Ronan O'Dornan was left with several injuries following a serious car crash that left his beloved restored '78 Opel Kadett destroyed.
Ronan, who had worked as an art teacher, had always been interested in photography from a young age.
Given his first camera by his mother when he was eight, from this moment, Ronan was always taking photographs - capturing people and experiences through a new perspective.
He was hooked but didn't realise then how he could turn his hobby into a full-time career so he threw himself into teaching after graduating from university.
Photography may have taken a backseat during the day but Ronan continued to practice his craft at every opportunity, volunteering for various community initiatives and taking on paid photography work in his spare time between teaching.
"I was fortunate enough to have worked alongside an extremely talented professional photographer as an assistant throughout university," Ronan said:
He added: "He had a raw, natural talent and taught me how to light, compose and capture still images while I was assisting him on shoots.
"He invested a lot of time in mentoring me and the interest in photography I had developed as a kid soon grew into a burning passion."
Following his accident, Ronan used the time to reflect and plan how he could use the experience to become more appreciative of his life and was determined to make every day count.
He continued to take photographs as soon as he was physically capable and with photography helping him through his experience, he decided it was time to give everything to pursuing his passion.
Leaving behind a successful teaching career for good was a bold move but Ronan knew that the one thing he needed to rely on in order to succeed, would never let him down - himself.
"I was driven to stop at nothing until I'd achieved what I'd set out to do," Ronan said.
Ronan launched Stillpoint in 2017, a creative imageworks dedicated to capturing quality commercial and documentary photography, and hasn't looked back since.
With commissions from big brands that see Ronan travel all over the country to capture the stories of Ireland, the former art teacher is prioritising each day and fulfilling his life long dream.
Although he uses digital cameras for commissioned work, Ronan is a firm believer that the concept and content make the resulting image and loves seeing how the development in smartphone cameras has opened up the creative outlet to everyone.
"The evolution of mobile photography has profoundly changed our ability to document people, moment and experiences. Everyone now has the ability and the tools to tell amazing stories through photography," Ronan said.
Ronan will be hosting a mobile photography masterclass at House Belfast on Thursday, June 21, in association with #BlackBushStories ambassador and acclaimed bartender Paul Rocks, who will offer a tasting session on some of Bushmills' best loved whiskeys.
The 'Black Bush and Photography' interactive event will see Ronan teaching attendees how to take great photos on their smartphones with tips and tricks that can be applied straight away, and how to tell stories through images.
Bushmills Irish Whiskey has also collaborated with Ronan to launch an all-Ireland social media competition, whereby budding photographers are encouraged to find an Irish story that moves them and upload their photographs to social media using the hashtag #BlackBushStories
To register for 'Black Bush and Photography' and for more information on the photography competition visit blackbushstories.com


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The Diet of the Common Palm Civet, Paradoxurus hermaphroditus (Pallas, 1777) in Forested and Urban Environments in Singapore
Fung Tze Kwan, National University of Singapore
The common palm civet, Paradoxurus hermaphroditus, is the last wild native urban carnivore in Singapore and its diet is largely unknown. Research findings on the poster will include identification of civet faeces, the diet of civets and the differences in the diet of urban and forest civets. In order to assess the civet as a seed disperser, the seed retention time of seeds in the guts of captive civets and the viability of these seeds were also examined. The ecological role of the common palm civets and the conservation implications of this study are also highlighted.
Autecology and public awareness of Paradoxurus hermaphroditus, (Pallas, 1777) in an urban environment in Singapore
Xu Weiting, National University of Singapore
The common palm civet (Paradoxurus hermaphroditus) is one of our last wild carnivore that still persists in the highly urbanized Singapore, however, up to now, the autoecology of this animal is poorly understood. The poster will share research findings such as the viverrid diversity in Singapore, the distribution of the common palm civet and lastly, the ecology (diet, activity and movement pattern) of urban civets. In light of the civet and human conflict in urban areas, public awareness and attitudes were also investigated and the results are also highlighted.
Revising urban myths of urban monkeys: morphology, serology and conservation management of the long-tailed macaques Macaca fascicularis in Singapore
Benjamin P. Y-H. Lee, National Parks Board
Singapore's macaques are unique in several aspects: 1) their adult morphology and growth patterns are significantly different than populations of M. fascicularis from mainland SE Asia, 2) an unusually high seroprevelance of simian infectious agents and virtual absence of exposure to endemic human pathogens is evident among all of the island's subpopulations and 3) NParks is actively engaged in conserving and managing the monkeys. The conservation of this insular population of macaques presents a great challenge due to the intense interface between these non-human primates and humans. Some management strategies to minimize the extent of the human-macaque conflict are discussed.
Distribution, diet and behaviour of the Banded Leaf Monkeys (Presbytis femoralis femoralis) of Singapore.
Mirza Rifqi Bin Ismail & Andie Ang, National Parks Board & National University of Singapore
The Banded Leaf Monkey (Presbytis femoralis femoralis) is one of three non-human primates in Singapore. They were common in the 1800s but between 1988 to 1997, reports estimate the population between 10-23 individuals. Presently, the Singapore Red Data Book classifies it as nationally Critically Endangered. Being a step away from nationally extinct, we still do not have much information on them. Hence we investigated the current population size and distribution, identify food resources and recommend conservation measures for Banded Leaf Monkeys.
Astrovirus infections in Singaporean cave fruit bats (Eonycteris spelaea)
Ian Mendenhall, Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School
The majority of emerging infectious diseases are zoonotic in origin and bats appear to play an important role as reservoirs. Bats are reservoirs for a number of viruses, including astroviruses. Over 90 viruses have been isolated from bats, including mammalian astroviruses. Little is known about bat viruses in a highly urbanized setting such as Singapore. Faeces were collected from E. spelaea in Singapore and tested using RT-PCR. PCR products were cloned to examine intra-individual and inter-colony viral diversity. A phylogenetic alignment was made to compare astroviruses from other animals. As this species is restricted in its roosting habits, this pressure may exacerbate viral infections.
This study reveals the biodiversity of infectious diseases in a single species of bats.
Bee visitors to Melastoma malabathricum in Singapore
Evelyn Chong, National University of Singapore
Despite the economic and ecological importance of bee pollination in tropical Southeast Asia, and the threats from rapid land conversion, bees are poorly studied in the region. This study aimed to enhance current understanding of the bee community that can persist in urban and degraded landscapes by monitoring the bee visitors to a widespread, free-flowering, native shrub, Melastoma malabathricum, across six sites in Singapore, which has experienced the highest proportion (99.8%) of land conversion in the region.
Genetic Diversity of Koompassia malaccensis in Singapore: Preliminary Results
Annika Noreen, National University of Singapore
Microsatellite markers are being used to determine genetic diversity and gene flow (pollen/seed dispersal) within Singapore for the primary forest tree Koompassia malaccensis. We present here preliminary results of the genetic diversity data for this species in Singapore based on ongoing work.
Oviposition site selection and breeding habitat enrichment of The Spotted Tree Frog.
Jamie Lim Jing Mei, National Parks Board
This study determines the ideal abiotic and biotic factors which the native endangered anuran species of (Nyctixalus pictus), would prefer when searching for a potential breeding ground. Artifical breeding units were also installed to find out if they can salvage the dwindling population of the mentioned species.
Adaptive significance of entire palp removal in the orb-weaving spider, Nephilengys malabarensis.
Joelyn Oh, National Parks Board/National University of Singapore
In spiders, male genitilia (palp) mutilation is often seen in male monogamous and highly sexually cannibalistic species. In the orb-weaving family Nephilidae (Araneae), palp mutilation has escalated to entire palp removal. This is termed the 'eunuch phenomenon'.
The eunuch phenomenon in Nephilengys malabarensis (Walckenaer) has been shown to be associated with: (1) plugging of the female epigynum, and hence increasing paternity by preventing or hindering recopulation; and (2) enhanced aggressiveness that facilitates post-copulatory mate-guarding.
Palp removal is proposed as a mechanism behind enhanced aggressiveness due to a reduction in the body mass and hence greater mobility and agility—the "gloves-off" hypothesis. Remote copulation, where sperm transfer continues from the severed palp into the epigynum even after the male's departure, is also proposed as a unique function of entire copulatory palp removal. However, both the 'gloves-off" hypothesis and the 'remote copulation' hypothesis have not been empirically tested.
In this project, both these hypotheses are tested and proven to be true.
The role of elongated male chelicerae in an ant-like jumping spider: sexual ornament, armament or both?
Tuan Jia Min Mindy, National University of Singapore
Sexual selection theory (female mate-choice and male-male competition) attempts to explain the presence of sexual dimorphism and exaggerated ornaments that may otherwise seem detrimental to the owner. The ornaments used in mate choice may sometimes have a dual function as armaments to fight with or as indicators of resource holding potential. Many species in this genus of ant-like jumping spiders exhibit sexual dimorphism, the most prominent being the length of the chelicerae (jaw). Here, I investigate the selection processes for chelicerae elongation in a Singapore ant-like jumping spider, Myrmarachne maxillosa (C. L. Koch).
Rapid Biodiversity Assessment of Spiders in Nature Reserves of Singapore
Cai Yixiong, National Parks Board
Spiders are good biodiversity indicators because their assemblages are an indication of environmental conditions.
The completion of the Bukit Timah Expressway (BKE) in 1986 divided our last primary forest, Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, from the Central Catchment Nature Reserve. This project focused on sampling spiders for the study of biodiversity in Singapore and aid in the monitoring of biodiversity at the future Eco-Link Bridge.
The Ecology of Vascular Epiphytes on Roadside Trees in Singapore
Yoon Hui Lian, National University of Singapore
What vascular epiphytes can be found on our roadside trees? An island-wide survey of vascular epiphytes on eight common roadside trees was conducted in 2010. I investigated associations between the epiphytes and, 1) host species, 2) host characteristics, 3) environment characteristics and 4) native or exotic status of host. The results were also compared with a similar survey done in 1977 (Wee, 1978) to ascertain how the epiphyte community has changed over time.
Recent Orthoptera Research in Singapore
Tan Ming Kai, National University of Singapore
The poster shows the results from recent studies of Orthoptera in Singapore, during which about 190 species were recorded. New species recently described from Singapore are illustrated. Conservation status of some species are discussed and wasteland Orthoptera are profiled to show the importance of further studies of Orthoptera in Singapore.
Assessing the population status and impacts of the wild pig (Sus scrofa) in mainland Singapore's rainforests.
Ong Say Lin, National University of Singapore
The native Wild Pig (Sus scrofa) was thought to be extirpated from mainland Singapore, with populations existing only on offshore islands. Since the late 20th century (Yong et. al., 2010), wild pig populations have made a recovery as confirmed by increased sightings north of the PIE. In the absence of native predators such as the Malayan tigers and leopards, wild pig populations have the potential to reach unnaturally high densities. The feeding and wallowing behaviour of wild pigs cause significant impact to our forests. It is important to understand if the integrity and health of Singapore's forests are at risk.
Establishment and Spread of Exotic Palms in Singapore
Yeo Hwan Theng Hazelina, National University of Singapore
Globally, palms (family Aracaceae) are the most widely cultivated group of plants. With a vision of being a City in a Garden, Singapore has imported no less than 170 species of palms. How many of these have managed to escape cultivation and establish in the wild? We attempt to find this out, and investigate the factors that may affect their seedling establishment in the pockets of young secondary forests in Singapore.
Autecology of two non-native gobioid fishes, Oxyeleotris marmorata and Rhinogobius giurinus, in the Central Catchment Nature Reserve of Singapore
Yvonne Kwang, National University of Singapore
The growth, feeding and reproductive characteristics of the non-native Oxyeleotris marmorata and Rhinogobius giurinus, in the Central Catchment Nature Reserve of Singapore, were examined. Oxyeleotris marmorata was found to have negative allometric growth and negative correlation between its hepatosomatic index and size, which is an indication of starvation and inadequate nutrition. Gut content analysis indicates that O. marmorata is carnivorous, and it tends to shift from a predominantly insect larvae and micro-crustacean diet to a more decapod and fish diet at 50–70 mm standard length. Conversely, Rhinogobius giurinus was found to have positive allometric growth and positive correlation between its hepatosomatic index and size, which indicates that it is able to obtain more than sufficient nutrition. It was found to be a specialised feeder of insect larvae and micro-crustaceans, of which midge larvae was a very important component in its diet. High dietary overlap between the non-native gobioid species and the native Pseudogobiopsis oligogactis may imply inter-specific competition but further studies are necessary to confirm this.
The non-native fish Etroplus suratensis (Cichlidae) in the coastal waters of Singapore
Ng Ting Hui, National University of Singapore
Etroplus suratensis, a south Asian cichlid, has established populations in Singapore. The fish, which was first collected in 1995, was probably introduced via the aquarium trade or through the Johor River. The growth, feeding, and reproductive characteristics were found to follow its ecology in its native range. Its establishment in Singapore could be owed to the similarity in environment and food available. Changes in intestinal length indicated diet shifts from a predominantly herbivorous to an omnivorous one as it matured. Stomach contents did not provide comparable evidence. Diet similarity to two other introduced cichlids may imply that interspecies resource competition exists. Closer monitoring is needed to determine its effects on the local environment.
Autecology of the feral fish, Acarichthys heckelii (Müller and Troschel, 1849) in Singapore's freshwater bodies
Liew Jia Huan, National University of Singapore
Acarichthys heckelii is the first alien freshwater fish found in Nee Soon Swamp Forest, one of the most important freshwater habitat in Singapore. This poster details the research on the autecology of the feral cichlid where its growth, feeding behaviour and reproduction were investigated. The data collected was then used to assess the risk that Acarichthys heckelii poses on a habitat containing 25 percent of Singapore's native freshwater organisms.
Dragonflies and Damselflies as indicators of Ecological health of freshwater sources in the Upper MacRitchie Basin in the Central Catchment area of Singapore
Tan Hoe Teck, School of Science and Technology
Dragonflies and damselflies (Order Odonata) have been used as bio-indicators for the assessment of ecological health of freshwater habitats. I have applied this method in the Upper MacRitchie Basin in the Central Catchment Area of Singapore. To evaluate the potential of Odonates as bio-indicators, I concurrently measured the main parameters of the freshwater sources in the areas where dragonflies and damselflies were collected and a correlation between Odonata diversity and water quality parameters was attempted. The results indicated that in general, dragonflies and damselflies thrive in different habitat types within the Upper MacRitchie Basin. At the species level, there was evidence to suggest that different species have their own microhabitats in which they thrive. A distribution map and a matrix was developed so that it can be used as a handy observation tool that can be adopted by informed volunteers, amateurs, and hobbyists. Such an arrangement can involve more people to contribute as environmental activists to the protection of our water resources. Merits and limitations of the method are also discussed as well as potential directions for future research are highlighted.
Learning in the Best Classroom – The Outdoors!
Grace Lim-Leng, CreativeKids Pte Ltd
Is there a way to combine your love for Biology and the environment, your love for teaching and an adventurous spirit? That's what we do at CreativeKids!
Our poster showcases an interdisciplinary approach to learning environmentally-based topics in Science, Biology, Geography (and even History and Social Studies, where relevant) all happening in the outdoors! Field trips (hikes, seashore/island exploration and kayak expedition) bring us to habitats around Singapore with eco and environment-based activities, monitoring and surveys. This hands-on approach engages not only the minds, hands and heart of students, but the instructors as well!
Living With Bats! By Cicada Tree Eco-Place http://www.cicadatree.org.sg
Vilma D'Rozario, Cicada Tree Eco-Place
This year is the International Year of the Bat! Cicada Tree Eco-Place, a non-profit, non-government organisation run by volunteers advocates for our batty friends in this poster. Our poster gives basic information on bats, their importance to people, and practical suggestions on how we can share our environment with them. Outreach activities for kids and their families which raise an awareness about native bats of Singapore and how we can make a difference in their lives is also presented.
The Ecology of the Smooth-coated Otter
Theng Tze Yin Meryl, National University of Singapore
The smooth-coated otter, Lutrogale perspicillata, reappeared in Singapore in 1998 after decades of absence. Since then, numerous sightings of otters have been reported and a compilation of records reveal that there are now populations along the western and eastern Johor Straits and their numbers have increased over the last decade, with evidence of breeding reported in Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve (SBWR). The diet of the resident family in SBWR was conducted through an analysis of spraints. The diet was found to consist mostly of fish (70%) and an unusually high proportion of prawn (30%). Further studies about its habitat requirements and an extended diet study will be conducted in order to better understand its ecology and hence facilitate conservation-related decisions.
Morphology of the zoea larvae stages of Singapore's Mangrove Tree-Climbing Crabs (Decopoda: Brachyura: Sesarmidae)
Teo Yong Jian Glendon, National University of Singapore
This poster describes the larvae morphology of four species of Singapore's mangrove tree-climbing crabs of the Sesarmid family. The four species are Selatium brockii and the three species of Episesarma commonly found in Singapore's mangroves. The taxonomy of the larvae of each species is analysed and compared with other species of crabs with complete larvae descriptions and how larvae studies could aid us in conservation.
Investigation of Elevation-Vegetation Processes Through High Precision Mapping of Mandai Mangrove
Leong Chin Rick, National University of Singapore
Surface elevation of a mangrove forest is known to influence mangal communities in terms of species distribution and population ecology. This project aims to acquire a digital elevation model (DEM) of Mandai mangrove and to examine spatial patterning of mangal species by mapping the forest vegetation. DEM of the forest and GPS coordinates of trees will be acquired by coordinate surveying with a total station of ±2 mm accuracy. The acquired DEM presents an overall and current outlook on Mandai mangrove with respect to sea-level rise vulnerability and the vegetation map provides a baseline to monitor long-term tree population dynamics.
SDWA/NUS mangrove projects in Singapore
Lee Wei Kit, Singapore-Delft Water Alliance/ National University of Singapore
Singapore-Delft Water Alliance (SDWA)/ NUS mangrove projects involve multiple disciplines such as hydrodynamics, engineering, modeling, remote sensing, coastal geomorphology, plant biology, ecology and restoration. Multiple research projects are ongoing in Singapore in collaboration with National Parks Board (NParks), from the single-plant to a whole site scale. Our two mangrove main study sites are Mandai Mangrove and Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve. A series of mesocosm experiments were conducted to investigate the dispersal and establishment of mangrove seedlings. Early colonization processes of mangrove tree species were also examined through seedling transplanting under different wave conditions. These results could contribute to the understanding of mangrove biology and contribute to effective mangrove restoration. A topography and vegetation survey is ongoing in Mandai Mangrove to examine the topographic features and distribution patterns of mangrove vegetation. With the help from US Geological Survey, surface elevation table (SET) was installed in Mandai Mangrove and Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve to examine the long term changes in mangrove elevation. This study has significance in determining the vulnerability of mangroves to sea level rise. The data can, in turn, help to inform coastal management plans.
Coastal Protection and Restoration of Mangrove Biodiversity at Pulau Tekong
Yang Shufen, National Parks Board
The north-eastern coastline of Pulau Tekong is abutted by about 90 ha of pristine mangroves. Studies showed that scouring of mangroves had occurred resulting in erosion and deterioration of the mangroves. An innovative approach using a combination of hard and soft engineering solutions to arrest erosion of the mangrove coastline and restore the habitat is being implemented.
TeamSeagrass monitoring seagrasses of Singapore.
Ria Tan, TeamSeagrass
We have posters showing TeamSeagrass at work, as well as the different seagrass species found in Singapore.
A first look at the distribution and extent of seagrass meadows in Singapore
Siti Maryam Yaakub, National University of Singapore
The past three decades have seen most of Singapore's original coastal and marine habitats, such as mangroves, coral reefs and seagrass give way to extensive shoreline development. While the loss of mangroves and coral reefs is well documented, the original extent of seagrass meadows in Singapore has never been documented. As a result, the corresponding loss due to coastal development is unknown and up until recently, many species of seagrass were thought to be locally extinct. However, substantial tracts of seagrass still exist in Singapore waters and this study is a first attempt at documenting the present extent of large seagrass meadows at Chek Jawa, Pulau Semakau and Cyrene Reef by remote sensing using satellite imagery (IKONOS & Geoeye-1) and ground-truthing.
Biodiversity of Singapore's Inter-tidal Rocky Shores Communities: Preliminary Findings
Lim Yan Mui, National Institute of Education
This project aims to monitor the abundance and distribution of intertidal rocky shore communities in Singapore, and utilize the community ecology parameters to develop suitable indicators of ecosystem health. Comparative spatial and temporal analysis of the data will be conducted using standard multivariate tools. Results may indicate interesting trends in community ecology, as well as highlight changes that may indicate systems under stress. This results collected and analysed are useful in applications of conservation and management of inter-tidal ecosystems.
Macroalgae Diversity on the Intertidal Rocky Shores of Singapore
Ahmad Syalabi Adi Sunaryo, National Institute of Education
The poster details the macroalgae diversity on the intertidal rocky shores of Singapore. It is part of an ongoing research on the photophysiology of Singapore rocky shore macroalgae.
Pattern polymorphism in the button snail, Umbonium vestiarium
Clara Yeo Zhe Xuan and Stanley Quek Tee Kai, NUS High School of Mathematics and Science
Umbonium vestiarium is a small intertidal and shallow-subtidal snail that displays a wide variety of shell patterns and colours. This study categorises and quantifies these patterns and attempts to relate them to the substrate where they were found. We hypothesised that the more visually similar certain morphs were to the substrate at selected sites, the higher the frequency of shells of that morph present. U. vestiarium were sampled from three Singapore beaches during low tide, with a two-pronged approach of calculating population density while procuring photographic data of shells. Sediment samples acquired while sampling were processed to determine their composition.
Biodiversity of shallow-water sponges in Singapore : unexpected niche separation in an urbanized marine environment
Lim Swee Cheng, Tropical Marine Science Institute, National University of Singapore
A surprising high number of shallow water sponge species (197) were recorded from extensive sampling of natural intertidal and subtidal habitats in Singapore (Southeast Asia). This is in spite of a highly modified coastline that encompasses one of the world's largest container ports as well as extensive oil refining and bunkering industries. A total of 99 intertidal species was recorded in this study. Of these, 53 species were recorded exclusively from the intertidal zone and only 45 species were found on both intertidal and subtidal habitats, suggesting that tropical intertidal and subtidal sponge assemblages are different and distinct. Furthermore, only a third of the fouling species of sponges from a previous study was recorded in this study, thus suggesting that sponge assemblages from natural and fouling communities in the tropics are different as well. A new species, Forcepia (Forcepia) vansoesti is described from Singapore. It is distinguished from its congeners in having the largest forcipes so far recorded amongst its Indo-Pacific congeners.
Giant clam conservation and research in Singapore
Neo Mei Lin, National University of Singapore
Research on giant clams in Singapore has been ongoing for the past decade or so, with the few precious brood-stock animals being passed on from one researcher to another like family jewels! Early studies focused on mariculture aspects but more recent work, which is presented here, has looked at conservation, ecology and behaviour. This collective research output on juvenile fluted giant clams, Tridacna squamosa, provides useful baseline data for future restocking efforts. There are considerable challenges involved to maintain reef communities around Singapore. Without a concerted effort to conserve giant clams it is probable that these iconic species will disappear from Singapore's reefs.
Opitimization of Ex Situ Scleractinian Coral Larval Rearing Techniques for Coral Reef Rehabilitation
Toh Tai Chong, National University of Singapore
Rehabilitation efforts may enhance the recovery of coral reefs in certain circumstances; however the science underpinning restoration is still in its infancy. One of the techniques that is currently being explored involves the ex situ rearing of coral larvae from coral gametes collected during mass spawning, and the subsequent outplanting of the larvae after settlement on an artificial medium. While coral larval rearing techniques are relatively well established, they have been used primarily for small scale experiments and the post-settlement mortality rate is typically very high. Here we will examine how different procedures at the larval rearing stage can be optimized to increase the post-settlement survival rate.
Improving cost-effectiveness of reef restoration by optimising coral rearing time
Samantha Lai, National University of Singapore
Rearing corals for coral reef restoration can incur high maintenance costs and require specialised nursery facilities. Yet currently, there is little information to direct restorers on the optimal age or size to outplant corals, creating a need for a framework that allows restorers to establish the cost-effective age or size to rear a coral to before outplanting it. This study tested four methods of determining age/size-based mortality rates of Pocillopora damicornis and presents a novel framework to estimate cost-effective coral outplant age based on the costs of the propagation technique and predicted mortality rates of the coral.
Coral Nursery Project
Collin Tong, National Parks Board
The poster describes what the coral nursery project is about and some preliminary results from the monitoring of the fragments.
Singapore Index on Cities' Biodiversity
Muslim Anshari Rahman, National Parks Board
In response to the need for cities and local authorities to implement national biodiversity strategies and action plans, Singapore proposed the establishment of an index to measure biodiversity in cities. NParks partnered the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (SCBD) and the Global Partnership on Cities and Biodiversity in developing the Index. There are three main categories of the CBI and each category has a specific number of indicators. These are: (a) native biodiversity in the city, (b) ecosystem services provided by biodiversity in the city, and (c) good governance and management of biodiversity in the city.
National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan
Linda Goh Mei Ee, National Parks Board
"Conserving Our Biodiversity" maps out Singapore's master plan for biodiversity. It aims to promote biodiversity conservation, keeping in mind that as a densely populated country with no hinterland, we would have to adopt a pragmatic approach to conservation and develop unique solutions to our challenges. It intends to establish both policy frameworks and specific measures to ensure better planning and co-ordination in the sustainable use, management and conservation of our biodiversity.
Biodiversity conservation cannot be achieved with only efforts from one agency. A holistic approach must be adopted and the inputs of various public sector agencies and nature groups have been taken into consideration in the preparation of this document. The master plan also fulfils our regional and international commitments, primarily the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD).


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Tim Churchman, landlord of The Bridge at Tibberton, has been running pubs for nearly 20 years.
A Worcestershire native who grew up in Blakedown, Tim started out as a chef, working in restaurants before moving to front of house as head waiter in several hotels in Stratford.
Tim, 53, says he reached 40 and decided to buy his first pub: "When I got to 40 I had something of a midlife crisis and took over my first pub.
"That was the Country Girl in Stoke Prior – I was there from 2005 until I left to run The Swan at Blakedown."
Tim took over the Bridge at Tibberton in June 2018 having run The Alma Tavern in Worcester since the previous year.
Speaking about how he sets up a new pub, Tim said: "I like to take on a pub that I believe has the potential to re-establish itself.
"The Bridge, for instance, was very rundown and so we look at the local competition and see what they are doing and what we can do better.
"The one thing we always try to do is set up a pub that is a really nice local pub.
"Being dog-friendly is a big thing for us being near the canal as it means people out walking with the dog can stop in for a drink and be welcomed."
In 2012, Tim took a break from the industry after being in a car crash, saying: "It took a while to recover from and I didn't come back until I took over the Alma."
Tim is quick to praise his team of staff at the Bridge, saying: "This industry is all about having good people.
"Kieran, my apprentice chef, was with me at the Alma and our assistant manager Sammy and head chef Mitch are a couple who I know very well.
"We all have the same principle which is that the customer is the most important thing. It helps that we know most of our customers on first-name terms.
"It really does make a big difference if you know someone well enough that when they come in, you have already got their usual drink order on the bar before they have ordered it."


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In these pictures of autonomy day you can see a great deal of celebrations and many parades and the discourse of the American president.
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Watch Danny Brown Spit 'Lazy Sunday' With Lonely Island in Detroit
Rapper joins Andy Samberg to recreate classic SNL digital short
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Rapper joins Andy Samberg to recreate classic SNL digital short
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Silver prices tumbled Rs 474 to Rs 39,773 per kg in futures trade today as speculators cut holdings amid a weakening trend overseas.
Silver for delivery in far-month December was trading sharply lower by Rs 474, or 1.18 per cent, at Rs 39,773 per kg in a business turnover of1 1,110 lots in futures trading at the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX).
The white metal for delivery in March slumped Rs 397, or 0.97 per cent, at Rs 40,369 per kg with a business turnover of 106 lots.
In the international market, silver traded 0.53 per cent lower at USD 17.04 an ounce in Singapore today.
Market analysts said a weak trend in precious metals in global market and a stronger US dollar curbed demand for the precious metals, considered as safe haven investment.
(This article has not been edited by Zeebiz editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.)