Beyond The Beaches: Unmasking The Most Dangerous Cities In Mexico

BY  Sibashree Nov 20, 2025

We were lying in the Medlands Beach with the Milky Way arching overhead. No city lights! Only the sound of the waves kept us connected to this physical world. For me, it was not just the sky full of stars and constellations. These stars were the roadmap for our ancestors, irrespective of the culture and country we belong to. They watched the stars to keep time and decide the time of the year ideal for agriculture, harvesting, fishing, and hunting. In the Maori culture, Tohunga kōkōrangi, or specialist priests, had this deep astronomical knowledge, and they shared the knowledge with others. Also, there are myths and ancient stories about the stars, like the one with the Matariki cluster. This cluster is associated with the anger of Tāwhirimātea, the God of wine and storms. Being furious, he tore his eyes and threw them into heaven. There, his eyes became the Matariki stars. Overall, for the Maori tribes, the stars and constellations have been beyond celestial bodies for observation. They were a mix of spirituality, science, stories, and a way of living life. So, when the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, became a Dark Sky Sanctuary in 2017, it celebrated ancestral connections and the role of the sky as a roadmap. And I visited Great Barrier Island in 2022. So, nature had its own reboot during and post the COVID-19 era. So, we could see the clearest sky. In this Great Barrier Island stargazing guide, I will talk about the best stargazing spots, stargazing tips, conservation etiquette, and more. Let’s explore the magic of the Aotea Dark Sky Sanctuary. A Deep Dive Into Māori Astronomy (Tātai Aroraki) And Legends: A Combination Of Science, Spirituality, And Culture When on the Great Barrier Island, it is important to see the stars and celestial bodies through a Maori lens. Also, during our Maori-guided stargazing tour, our guide chanted waiata, and he even used carvings (whakairo) and told stories to make the experience more interactive. He made us familiar with the key celestial figures and their Maori names. Furthermore, he explained how Maori people perceive different celestial phenomena. Major Celestial Figures And Their Significance In Maori Tradition  It is fascinating to see how Maori people connect the stars and celestial bodies with their traditional beliefs and stories.  1. Te Kahui O Kahu  The Te Kahui O Kahu constellation is the guardian of the sea and land. The stories of this constellation are important for teaching us the importance of being respectful to nature and protecting natural resources. 2. Matariki Or Pleiades Star Cluster  Matarikin is the most celebrated Māori constellation. When Matariki gets visible in the sky at dawn, it announces the arrival of the Māori New Year. It is time to gather, share stories, and plan for the year ahead for this local tribe. Also, according to traditional beliefs, the brighter the Matariki constellation shines, the better the year for harvesting and fishing.  3. Tautoru Or Orion Constellation  Tautoru symbolizes protection and power. It was significant for hunters and warriors. 4. Ngā Rā  The Milky Way or Ngā Rā is believed to be the pathway of ancestors in the Maori tradition. The ancestors use this pathway to travel between the worlds. Furthermore, in many interpretations, this is the pathway through which the spirits guide the departed souls to the afterlife. 5. Tāwhirimātea Or The Southern Cross  Tāwhirimātea is worshipped as the protector of the sea. In ancient times, the Maori sailors depended on this constellation to guide them across the Pacific Ocean. 6. Auroras Maori people worship auroras as the spirit of their loved ones or ancestors. They even think that auroras bear significant messages from the spiritual realm.  7. Bright Planets (Venus And Jupiter)  The appearance of these bright planets was associated with the everyday life of Maori people. The appearance of these planets is predictable, and that is why they are associated with timing ceremonies and navigation. Why Great Barrier Island Is A Stargazer’s Paradise?  With exciting hiking trails, pristine beaches, and an eco-conscious and off-grid lifestyle, the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, is an ideal stargazing destination. With no ATMs, footpaths, or banks, the island has maintained a quiet existence. Furthermore, with low air and light pollution, the stars, the Milky Way, and other celestial bodies shine bright in the sky once the Sun goes down. In addition, around 60% of the island is protected by the Department of Conservation (DoC). So, it is home to many endemic plants, animals, and birds. So, it is also a bucket-list destination for nature and wildlife lovers. Moreover, each islander thinks of themselves as a kaitiaki or caretaker. Thus, it has successfully emerged as a zero-waste island, and biosecurity measures with designated spots for camping, hiking, and cleaning have made this island a sanctorium of sustainable practices and natural preservation. What Makes Aotea A Dark Sky Sanctuary?  The International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) has scientifically measured the darkness of the sky of the Great Barrier Island. The IDA further offers principles to protect the night sky through awareness and restricted lighting. "To be a Dark Sky Sanctuary, you need an mpsas [magnitude per square arc second] of 21.5, and we had an average of 21.79. Every step on that scale is twice as dark; Auckland is 18, so you can see 10 times more stars here than you can in Auckland.”  Hilde Hoven, from Good Heavens Dark Sky Experiences.  Furthermore, the darkness of the night sky of the Great Barrier Island is measured every year, and the report is sent to the International Dark Sky Association. In addition, the local people choose low-intensity lighting indoors and outdoors to adhere to the light pollution standards of the dark sky sanctuary. In addition, there are no street lights, and the entire island practices off-the-grid living to preserve it as a Dark Sky Sanctuary.  What Are The Best Stargazing Spots On Great Barrier Island, New Zealand?  The Great Barrier Island is one of the best stargazing spots in NZ. I had the most beautiful stargazing experience at Medlands Beach. However, Awana Beach and the Mount Hobson Summit are two other prominent locations for stargazing. 1. Medlands Beach  I was fortunate enough to be a part of the Good Heavens group stargazing experience on the sand dunes above Medlands Beach. We all had access to an 8-inch telescope to get up close and personal with the stars and planets. Furthermore, each of us had binoculars, and our guide used a laser light to point at the stars and planets and share their stories with us. Far from urban areas, Medlands Beach offers the best views of the night sky, and the gentle waves reflect the stars and planets. Here is a dark Sky photography guide for you if you are at Medlands Beach. You can use the contrast between the dunes and the vast sky to create a perfect composition for your picture. 2. Awana Beach  Awana Beach, one of the best beaches in Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, is a natural planetarium. The shoreline here is secluded, making it even more suitable for stargazing. Offering a clear view of the southern sky, Awana Beach is the best place to see the Milky Way on the Great Barrier Island. Furthermore, Awana Beach is the meeting ground of amateurs and professional astronomers. The beach gets more visitors during the following celestial and planetary activities. Planetary Alignments  Occasional Auroras  Lunar Eclipses  In addition, the tranquility of the place is ideal for experiencing stargazing as something beyond a visual spectacle. 3. Mount Hobson Summit  A hike to the Mount Hobson Summit ensures a brilliant stargazing experience. The summit is at a height of 627 meters, and thanks to the height, it is free of the atmospheric interference at the sea level or lower altitudes. Also, once you reach the summit after a walk of 2-3 hours, you will get a 360-degree view of the night sky and the Great Barrier Island. Furthermore, the height allows you to observe the Orion Nebula and other deep-sky objects with binoculars. 4. Kaitoke Hot Springs Kaitoke Hot Springs fuses relaxation with a fascinating stargazing experience. Imagine you are soaking in warm sulfur water pools, and the stars are shining the brightest over your head. It is a multisensory experience, with the crisp air caressing you, the warm water offering comfort, and the night sky presenting the ultimate cosmic display. Just a small tip. You must bring a waterproof laser light to see the stars without ruining the clarity or the darkness measure. 5. Windy Canyon  Windy Canyon already has that drama on the verge of being surreal, thanks to its unique geological formation. So, stargazing here feels magical, with the canyon itself functioning as a natural observatory. The clarity of the sky is so high here that even the faintest celestial bodies become visible. In addition, the Windy Canyon is accessible for all types of visitors as the walk is short and easy. What Are The Top Stargazing Tours & Experiences?  The Good Heavens stargazing tours and experiences are the best on the Great Barrier Island. It offers the following stargazing tours on the Great Barrier Island. 1. Heavens Above - Private Dark Sky Experience  This private dark sky experience is organized at your accommodation with a telescope, hot chocolate, and bean bags arranged by Good Heavens. They can also take you to the nearby beach. The charge is $1560 for a group of 2 to 12 people, and beyond that, the price will be on request. 2. Moon Walk - Group Star Gazing Experience  Moon Walks happen for a week every month. During this time, the Moon looks the biggest in the sky, and the Milky Way is less visible. The tour charge is $130 for adults and $65 for children below 13 years. 3. Look Up And Get Lost - Group Dark Sky Experience  This is a deep sky experience, and the tour continues for 1.5 hours. The charge for this tour is $130 for adults and $65 for children under 13. How To Enjoy Dark Sky Sanctuary On Great Barrier Island Without A Tour?  Are you on an independent stargazing tour on the Great Barrier Island? Consider the following Aotea stargazing tips. 1. Checking Weather Conditions  Clear Moonless nights are the best for a stargazing experience on the Great Barrier Island. However, if you want to go for a Moonwalk, expect lesser visibility of the Milky Way and the stars. 2. Finding A Dark Sky Spot  The beaches of the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, are ideal for the ultimate stargazing experience. Know the dark sky spots and drive away from urban life to see the best cosmic display. 3. Bringing The Right Gear  On guided stargazing tours, the tour operators provide binoculars, telescopes, and red laser lights. If you are on a DIY tour, you will have to carry these essentials. 4. Using Stargazing Apps And Tools  You must use stargazing tools and apps for the best stargazing experience. The best is the free NASA app, and Astrospheric is another app known for brilliant forecasting. Furthermore, you can bring a star chart to locate and identify the stars and constellations. Astrophotography Tips For Beginners  The Medlands Beach and Awana Beach are two of the best beaches for reflection shots on the Great Barrier Island. Furthermore, here are some ideas about the essential equipment and camera modes for astrophotography on the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand.  Camera Mode Manual Aperture \(f/2.8\) or \(f/4\) ISO 3200 or 6400 Shutter Speed 15-25 Seconds Or, Divide 500 by the Focal Length of Your Lens File Format RAW or RAW + JPEG to Retain Better Color Data for Editing White Balance Manually Setting The White Balance to 4000 Kelvin Tripod Carry a Sturdy Tripod for Image Stabilization.Focus Keep Your Lens Focus to Infinity.Trigger You Can Use a Remote Trigger or Set the 2-10 Seconds Self-Timer of the Camera to Avoid Jerking while Pressing the Shutter Button.Lens Wide Lens (At least 24mm) for Full-Frame Cameras 18mm or Wider for APS-C Cameras  Seasonal Stargazing Calendar: What To See & When  Know when to watch meteor showers, the Milky Way, and Aurora Australis in the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand.  Season / Months Meteor Showers (Peak Dates) Milky Way Core Visibility Aurora Australis Chances Summer (December–February)• Geminids – Dec 13–14 (best annual shower) • Ursids – December 22• Quadrantids – January 3–4 (short, intense) • Early Morning Visibility• Low on Horizon before Dawn The chances of Aurora Australis visibility are low as geomagnetic activity is subdued; occasional events only during strong solar storms.Autumn (March to May) • Lyrids – April 22–23 • Eta Aquariids – May 5–6• Core Visibility from 2 AM to 5 AM There are moderate chances of seeing the Aurora Australis. As the nights grow longer, the chances become higher, and equinox-related geomagnetic boosts the visibility chances.Winter (June to August) • Bootids – June 27 (variable)• Southern Delta Aquariids – July 28–30• It is the Best Season for Milky Way Photography.• You Can See the Core for Most of the Night. These months offer high chances of seeing the Aurora Australis due to high solar wind and longer nights. The chances of seeing the Aurora increase after the Equinox.Spring (September to November) • Draconids – October 8th • Orionids – October 21–22 • Leonids – November 17th–18th• The Core Visibility Becomes Less in this Season.The September equinox gives strong geomagnetic activity. So, this season offers moderate to high chances for Aurora visibility. Stargazing-Friendly Accommodation & Camping  Camping on the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, is the best option for stargazing. There are Department of Conservation (DoC) campsites such as Medlands Beach, Akapoua Bay, Harataonga, Awana Beach, The Green, and Whangapoua. In addition, Stay High Island Camping Co. and the Great Barrier Island Campground are two privately-owned campgrounds on the Great Barrier Island. Furthermore, stargazing tour providers, such as Good Heavens, can offer all-inclusive packages, including eco-friendly accommodations such as XSPOT Cliff House.  Beach Etiquette & Conservation For Night Sky Lovers  When you listen to the Maori stories about stars and celestial bodies, you have to respect their tradition. Be sensible, as the stories are a part of their value system and spiritual beliefs carried through generations. Our guide asked us to remain quiet during storytelling and participate in some cultural traditions. The more respectful you are toward their culture, the more enriching your experience will be. In addition, you have to abide by the light pollution rules and wildlife protection norms. 1. Light Pollution Rules  Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, is a designated Dark Sky Sanctuary. So, the protection of the dark sky is very important. So, you have to avoid using bright lights, and even if you need to use light for safety, keep the intensity low. Furthermore, you need to allow your eyes to adapt to the darkness of the sky. Slowly, you will also discover the faint stars. You can use a red laser light and binoculars to enhance the stargazing experience on the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand. 2. Wildlife Protection  Stargazing goes hand in hand with the wildlife tours on the Great Barrier Island. The sound of black petrels kept us alert during our entire stargazing experience on Medlands Beach. To protect the wildlife on and around your stargazing location, you must avoid feeding the animals and birds. Maintain a safe distance and remain on the marked routes to avoid disturbing their habitats and soil transfer. Furthermore, do not trespass on any private property, and you must not leave any litter behind. Adventure Add-Ons: Glowworms, Hot Springs & Night Kayaking  You can combine the stargazing experience on the Great Barrier Island with night kayaking at the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park. As you kayak, you will notice the water of the Great Barrier Island transforming into a surreal landscape. Furthermore, if you are on the Great Barrier Island around February-March, you will see bioluminescence in the water on warm and calmer days. In addition, taking a bath in the Kaitoke Hot Springs after sunset is an experience that you will remeber for the rest of your life. Final Tips For Your Aotea Stargazing Adventure  You need to have some knowledge about the moon phase if you want to enjoy stargazing on Great Barrier Island, New Zealand. The New Moon or the Crescent Moon is the ideal day for observing the night sky. Also, even in the summer months, the temperature drops drastically after sundown. So, you will have to wear layered clothes.  Moreover, keep flashlights dimmed or the brightness of your phone screen low to avoid light pollution.

BY  sagnika Jun 6, 2023

Being aware of the regulations concerning flammables and packing eases your screening process. It further contributes to an overall ease of traveling. If you are a smoker, can you bring a lighter on a plane is a valid concern to have? It is also significant to know what you can carry in your carry-on and checked baggage to avoid any problems during check-in. There are penalties on certain prohibited items; hence, being aware of the same will help you from paying them. Mostly all rules and regulations regarding objects that can be carried are established by The Transportation Security Directorate (TSD) and The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). This article has been written referring to these rules and regulations. There might be additional regulations for some airlines, which you must check on their official website. So answering the question, lighter can be carried in carry-on bags, checked baggage, or neither. TSD has assessed several risk situations over the years; accordingly, regulations have been set. Certain rules need to be followed if you want to carry a lighter. Can You Bring A Lighter On A Plane? An aircraft is an enclosed space where passengers are packed tightly. The interior of the plane's cabin has linings made of potentially explosive materials. There are compartments in the aircraft that are inaccessible and contain combustible materials. There are several ignition sources present in the aircraft. Aviation fuel is highly flammable, filling the wing tanks with thousands of liters. It is, therefore, risky to carry a lighter on a plane. The risk is not just based on the individual who carries it. Smoking is not allowed inside, in, or around the aircraft; there is less chance of the lighter becoming an ignition source. Yet, it can prove risky if a child gets their hand on it. Similarly, if an anti-social individual with the intention of harm gets their hands on it, they can risk the lives of all the passengers and the crew. Hence, regulations have been made to prevent any unintentional activity of the lighter being used in the aircraft. What Flammables Can You Carry On A Plane? According to The Transportation Security Directorate (TSD), flammables that can be carried on a plane are lighters, cigarettes, cigars, and dry batteries. However, electronic lighters are only allowed in carry-on bags, with some established rules. The lighters with fluids are allowed in the carry-on bags. Lighters are permitted in checked baggage if they are empty. However, they are only allowed in checked baggage if enclosed in a case approved by the Department of Transportation (DOT). The rule is to allow two lighters filled with fluid adhering to the exemption established by DOT. Further, you are not allowed to carry butane, bang snaps, chlorine for pools and spas, and blasting caps in either carry-on or checked baggage. Every airline has listed the FAA-approved portable oxygen concentrators you can carry for medical purposes. However, you need to update them 48 hours earlier. Please be informed that you cannot take the cigarette packet or the lighter out from your carry-on bag on the flight. Another question you might have is whether you can bring deodorant on a plane. Any antiperspirant is combustible and is a risk; hence, TSA allows only 3.4 ounces of liquid in handbags. Read More: Avelo Airlines Reviews You Were Looking For! Can Lighter Be Carried In A Plane? Lighters can be carried on a plane. However, there are different rules for different types of lighters. When asking if lighters are allowed on planes, you must be prepared to learn about these rules to avoid any challenges. Types Arc lighters, electronic, E-lighters, and plasma lighters are only allowed in carry-on bags. However, the rules to carry them remove all probability of them heating up. Taking out a lighter can be threatening to other passengers and the crew, leading to you being subjected to a penalty. The batteries must be removed from the lighter, and there should be a locking device attached to the activation button of the lighter. The safety latch must be closed always; therefore, placing the lighter in a protective case is also effective. No recharging of the lighters is allowed inside the aircraft. The lithium-ion battery must be within the limit established as the Watt-hour (Wh) rating of 100 Wh. The lithium content of the battery must weigh 2 grams. A lighter that looks like a weapon is also prohibited, nor is the torch lighter. Bic Lighters If you are asking if you can bring a bit lighter on a plane, the answer is yes. BIC lighters are allowed on aircraft in hand baggage. Zippo Lighters Zippo lighters can also be carried in hand baggage in an aircraft. All the brands of Zippo lighters are allowed. Disposable lighters are also permitted in the carry-on baggage. Lighter Fluid Lighter fluids are not allowed in the hand baggage in an aircraft. Whatever is the more delicate is only allowed; apart from that, no extra quantity is permitted. It does subject the plane and its passengers to a significant fire risk. Matches If you are a smoker and confused with all the regulations in answer to your question, can I bring a lighter on a plane? Then you can carry matches. The TSA allows one book of safety matches in your carry-on bag. It is better to take what is necessary because they will be confiscated. How To Carry? Once the screening is done, it is better to carry the lighter on your body. Please do not have to put it in your carry-on or checked baggage. Do stay hydrated and distract yourself from any thought of smoking. You do not want to violate safety rules and risk the lives of other passengers. Conclusion  You will get complete information concerning carrying any inflammable, especially a lighter. As a smoker, you must be aware of these rules to avoid any issues while traveling via plane. Comment below to inform us about any issues you have ever faced when carrying a lighter in the airport. Read Also: Can You Bring A Razor On A Plane? Find The Answer Here! Aainflight Review- Login, Services And Travel Experiences Everything About Breeze Airways: Breeze Airways Reviews, Features, And More!

BY  Arnab Jun 1, 2023

The Seeker 4 Mini EDC Flashlight is a top-of-the-line lighting tool for outdoor enthusiasts and everyday carry enthusiasts alike. It boasts an array of features that make it an ideal choice for anyone in need of a reliable, durable flashlight. One of the standout features of the Seeker 4 Mini EDC Flashlight is its dual light sources. Equipped with both white and UV lights, this flashlight can be used for everything. Its usage ranges from illuminating dark trails to detecting counterfeit currency. Seeker 4 Mini EDC Flashlight The Seeker 4 Mini is a small flashlight that has both white and UV light. It is a part of the Seeker Series. This flashlight is versatile and can be utilized in various situations. Such as climbing, camping, repairs, power outages, fluorescent agent detection, stain detection, hotel cleanliness checking, ringworm detection, and more. It measures just 3.43 inches in length and comes with a two-way clip. This makes it effortless to carry and fit comfortably in your hand. Features: Mention the white and UV light features Two Light Sources: Featuring both white and UV light, this versatile flashlight is suitable for a diverse range of applications. Such as climbing, camping, repairs, power outages, fluorescent agent detection, stain detection, hotel cleanliness checking, ringworm detection, and more. Mini and Portable The Seeker 4 MINI EDC FLASHLIGHT WHITE AND UV LIGHT is the perfect size for those who are always on the go. With a length of only 3.43 inches, it is lightweight and easy to carry around wherever you need it. You can use it for camping trips or simply carry it in your pocket while out and about. This flashlight is designed to be compact and portable. Premium Metal Side Switch: The high-end side switch is extremely durable. The battery level indicator in the center of it allows you to easily see the remaining power at a single glance. Non-slip Body: The Seeker 4 MINI EDC FLASHLIGHT is a perfect tool for those who want a sturdy and reliable flashlight. It can also serve as an emergency light source. Its ergonomically designed curved body provides a good and comfortable grip. This makes it easier to carry around without having to worry about it slipping out of your hands. This flashlight's non-slip body ensures that you will be able to hold onto it even when your hands are wet or damp. This makes it perfect for use in situations where you might need to quickly grab your flashlight without having the time to dry off your hands first. Magnetic Charging: The Seeker 4 Mini EDC Flashlight is a revolutionary piece that promises to change the way you charge your flashlight forever. With its magnetic charging feature, this flashlight allows you to simply snap it on and enjoy a fully charged battery in just 1.5 hours. But that's not all. This powerful little device also boasts dual color capabilities. It provides both white and UV light options for all your illumination needs Temperature Options: The black and OD green models offer both CW and NW options, allowing you to select the appropriate hue for any given situation. Sturdy Build: The Seeker 4 Mini EDC flashlight is a high-quality tool. Its design can withstand harsh environments as well as adventurous activities. With an IPX8 waterproof rating, this flashlight can stay underwater for extended periods without sustaining damage. Moreoevr, this feature makes it the perfect tool for underwater exploration or rainy outdoor activities. Additionally, it has a 1.5-meter impact-resistant rating, which means it can withstand dropping from a height of up to 1.5 meters without breaking or malfunctioning. This feature makes it the perfect tool for hiking, camping, rock climbing, and other outdoor adventures that may require durable equipment.  Benefits of using this flashlight The Seeker 4 Mini EDC flashlight in white and UV light is designed to be portable and easily held in your hand. Moreover, its metal side switch is durable, and the battery level indicator in the center of the switch provides real-time monitoring. The flashlight's curved surface is ergonomically designed to prevent slipping as well as provide a comfortable grip. The magnetic charging cable allows for quick as well as easy charging, fully replenishing the battery in just 1.5 hours. With its aluminum alloy body, the Seeker 4 Mini can withstand water immersion and hard drops, making it suitable for use at home, outdoors, or for daily tasks. Design: compact design of the flashlight DIMENSIONS Length: The Seeker 4 Mini EDC Flashlight is a compact and durable tool that's perfect for everyday carry. With its dimensions of 3.43in (87mm) in length, 1.18in (30mm) head diameter, and 0.94in (24mm) body diameter, it's easy to slip into your pocket or attach to your keychain. WEIGHT: The Seeker 4 Mini EDC Flashlight is a compact and powerful tool that weighs only 3.95oz or 112g, including the battery. Despite its small size, this flashlight packs a punch with its impressive brightness and long-lasting battery life. Non-slip Body: The ergonomically designed curved body provides a good and comfortable grip. Conclusion: In conclusion, the Seeker 4 Mini EDC flashlight is a versatile and reliable tool for everyday use. Its compact size and dual light modes make it perfect for carrying with you wherever you go. Moreover, the white light is bright and illuminates even the darkest corners, while the UV light has a range of practical uses such as detecting stains or checking currency. With its durable construction as well as long battery life, the Seeker 4 Mini EDC flashlight is an excellent investment for anyone in need of a reliable source of light. Don't hesitate to add this handy tool to your collection today! Read Also: Kiwi Flights Review – Login, Services, And Travel Experiences The Olight Warrior X3: A Must-Have For Any Outdoor Enthusiast How To Enjoy Your Journey After You Book Flight Tickets From Canada To India?