Top 10 Mind-Blowing Technological Inventions of 2015

1.      Magic Leap

The Magic Leap uses head mounted optical illusion technology that displays 3D computer-generated imagery over objects, by projecting a digital light field into the user's eye.Inventions like these make the reality we live in more majestic.

2.       Project Loon

Google X is striving hard to excel at their Project Loon, which involves providing remote areas with Internet access.Even in such a rapid era of development, around 4.3 billion peopleare stilloffline because theyare deprived ofInternet facilities. They are accomplishing their goal by usinghigh-altitude helium balloons to create an aerial wireless network with a3G speed.It is a reliable and cost-effective way to bring the members of this world closer together.

3.       Brain Organoids

Brain Organoids will make it possible for researchers to understand the networking of brain cells and their genetic modifications. This scientific break through will help unlock the mysteries behind mental illnesses and other neurological disorders.

4.       Nano-Architecture

Nano - Architecture is a modern concept crafted by Julia Greer, fromthe California Institute of Technology. Greer aims to replace the conventional materials that are prone to damage with ones that are more energy-efficient and versatile.She has designed the strongest, yet lightest substance ever created.

5.       Car-to-Car communication

General Motors and the University of Michigan together have created ‘Car to Car communication.’This device enables drivers to broadcast their steering-wheel position, speed and brake status to other vehicles to avoid possible collision. This invention is crucial since over a million people are killed on roads while travelling worldwide every year.

6.       Apple Pay

Apple Pay is a mobile payment and digital wallet service that allows users to make transactions through their Apple devices. It does not require Apple specific payment terminals and will work with Visa's PayWave, MasterCard's PayPass, and American Express's ExpressPay terminals.

7.       Internet of DNA

The Global Alliance for Genomics partnered with Google to create Internet DNA. This technology aims to generate a DNA database collected from several hospitals and medical centers to recordinformation about existing diseases. This in turn will help doctorseasily pinpoint illnesses if there is a complication with the diagnosis.

8.       Supercharged photosynthesis /C4 Photosynthesis

C4 Photosynthesis is an advanced genetic tool that boosts plant growth and allows the photosynthetic process to operate more efficiently.The tool will be used to increase the crop yield to fulfill the rising food demands of the population.

9.       Mega scale Desalination

The IDE technologies in Israel,is the world’s largest modern seawater desalination plant that uses a conventional desalination technology called reverse osmosis (RO). It cheaplyproduces clean water from the sea at a mass scale that has never been achieved before. In the future we can hope that similar plants will be installed inPakistanto solve the impending water reserve issues.

10.   Liquid Biopsy

Cancer kills about 8 million people a year around the world. Its treatment includes invasive screening processes, whichcomplicate life making it more stressful. Fortunately, Doctor Dennis Lo and the University of Hong Kong have invented a procedure known as liquid biopsy.This test extracts the DNA sequencing from a few drops of blood, successively detectingthe spread and location of the cancer.It’s a noninvasive procedure that medical experts believe has the potential to bring us closer to the ultimate goal of early detection, which can save millions of lives down the road.

Jovago.com teams up with Mobilink and Oracle to promote Tourism

To promote the culture and beauty of Pakistan, Jovago.com has joined hands with Mobilink and Oracle 

Jovago.com, Pakistan’s No.1 online hotel book portal, recently partnered with Mobilink, a premium network service provider, and Oracle, the leading internet database company, to promote tourism. They have come together to promote Pakistan and its rich culture and scenic beauty by an online competition under the name of Discover Pakistan.

By securing this partnership, Jovago.com has ensured that their message gets across to customers of all ages and cities. The online portal is renowned for taking such initiatives to promote tourism at the time when it was largely neglected across Pakistan.

The activity will facilitate all Mobilink users to get the chance to win a free all expenses paid trip in Pakistan. The network users can avail this offer by participating through Opera Mini Browser; all that is required is for them to upload an image at opera mini platform.

Jovago.com has further added an incentive for all valuedMobilinkcustomers by giving a special discount by typing “Hotel Yes” and sending it to 9143 to avail the discount offer.

Commenting on this initiative Country Manager of Jovago.com, Mrs. Nadine Malik Almani said 

“Jovago.com is very enthusiastic to encourage tourism industry by teaming up with the renowned telecom industry of Pakistan. Jovago.com believes in taking up such initiatives which ensures maximum ease for travelers from all over the Pakistan.”

4 days trip in Murree, Pakistan

Murree is Pakistan’s easily accessible retreat which remains crowded with foreigners and locals throughout the year. This serene city is located near the Himalayas – about a 2 hour drive from Islamabad. The area is known for its scenic vistas of pine, oak-covered mountains, glistening rivulets, and relaxing atmosphere. Murree is a heavenly site - often referred to as a romantic getaway for travelers.

Jovago shares a 4 day itinerary of things to do when visiting Murree.

Day 1

1. Mall road

Mall Road is a long winding road that has a huge market (on both sides) and cars are not allowed to enter the closed off area. The marketplace has an assortment of crafts,souvenirs, fine eateries, rides and much more. Jovago.com has several hotel options located on Mall Road and at a very reasonable price.

2. Murree Tabbaq Restaurant

Tabbaq restaurant is located on Mall Road. One should have breakfast here before starting the day’s activities. It opens early in the morning to serve breakfast such ashalwapuri, eggs, paratha and tea. It is famous for its delicious cuisine which is cooked by an expert chef.

3. Pindi Point

After breakfast and strolling on Mall road, tourists can either take a Bacha Garior walk to the Pindi point (roughly 15-20 minutes’ walk depending on one’s speed). Pindi point is a stunning mountainous, lush green spot dominated by beautiful daffodils. It has chairlifts that visitors can use to get a bird's eye view of the scenery, zigzagged pine lines, snowcapped peaks and valleys.

4. Kashmir Point

Kashmir Point is another beautiful place to wander around. Travelers can sightsee, hike, take pictures, go horseback riding, or sit on the terrace at the Point and enjoy coffee. It is also a residence of the Punjab Governor, which was built in 19th century.

Day 2

1. Trinity church

The famous Holy Trinity Church was built in 1857 and still remains functional in Murree. In colonial times, the church was the center of life and its architecture makes it is worthy of a visit.

2. Sindh House

Continuing the journey from the church, up ahead on the road are Punjab and Sindh houses - designed at the hilltop to cater needs of the provincial government.  These are similar to the large number of government, semi-government and private departments and institution maintained guesthouses in Murree.

3. Remnants of Murree Brewery

The Murree Brewery was established in 1860 by Dyer - father of Col Dyer, the butcher of Amritsar. It is located 6 kilometers from Sunny Bank at Ghora Gali.

Day 3

1. Sozo Water Park

Starting the day with a rejuvenating visit to Sozo Water Park is the most exciting experience. It offers plenty of rides and a haunted house. The park takes pride in being the first and largest water park in Pakistan.

2. Bhurban

After the Sozo Water Park, one can drive to the Bhurban resort - one of the most picturesque places in the country. It is known for scenic hiking trails in the nearby Ayubia National Park, unique flora and fauna, the '5 star' Pearl Continental Hotel and Bhurban Apartments.

3. Dine at Red Onion

Red Onion serves a great variety of Chinese, Indian local and continental Bar-B-Q dishes. The restaurant is constructed like an American bar, with red bricks and dim lights for a perfect dining experience.

Day 4

1. Patriata

Also called New Murree – Patriata is 15 km from Murree Hills. It's famous for its 2 hour chairlift which is comparable to international chairlifts.

2. Ayubia

Ayubia is 26 km from Murree hills. It consists of four hill stations GhorDaka, Khanspur, Gali Changla and Khairagali. Every year, thousands of tourists visit Ayubia to visit the majestic Ayubia National Park. Ayubia offers comfortable and modern amenities, including hotels, restaurants and sports facilities for both summer and winter seasons.

3. Daffodils Restaurant

Daffodils restaurant is considered as one of the best places to eat while visiting Ayubia. Inaddition to the delicious food, the restaurant is located at a peaceful picturesque location.

Murree is indeed a beautiful place that attracts many visitors. After visiting the area, one may find yourself planning your next trip to Murree, Pakistan!

Laraib Atta is a Pakistani Visual Artist Taking Hollywood by Storm

Recently the Pakistani community found out that one of their own is making waves in Hollywood as an accomplished visual artist. And not only that but she also happens to be the daughter of Pakistani musical maestro Attaullah Khan.

She is Laraib Atta. And she has worked on visual effects on X-Men, Godzilla, Gravity, the Chronicles of Narnia, 10,000 BC, Prince of Persia and Sweeney Todd to name a few.

Laraib Atta worked on visual effects for X-Men, Godzilla, Gravity, the Chronicles of Narnia, 10,000 BC, Prince of Persia and Sweeney Todd to name a few.

Who knew that Aslan from Narnia was created by a team of animators that included a Pakistani too.

A Beginning – How a 19 Year Old Stepped Up to the Challenge

Laraib Atta was 19 when she started working in Hollywood as Pakistan’s youngest and arguably the first visual effect artist from our country to do so.

She proved herself by first working on advertisements for Disney, Rolling Stones and George Michael. High profile global events like the Olympics in China and the Nike Football promo were also worked on by Laraib, serving as a testimony to her world-class skills and talent as a creative visual artist.

A VFX Showreel with some projects Laraib has worked on

Currently she’s employed at the Imasblue and Glassworks Barcelona (Spain), after previously working at the BBC Television center in London, SKY and MPC, amongst others.

What is a Visual Artist?

A movie without a visual artist nowadays is simply unheard of, at least in Hollywood where most films (especially tentpole blockbusters) has a ton of animations, special effects and CGI in it.

Think the digitally recreated environments and natural flora and fauna in Avatar. Think the mind-blowing transformations of Autobots and Decepticons in Transformers.

Think Arnold’s Terminator design. These are things that are made possible by the best imaginations more than the software and hardware tools that goes into creating them. People like Laraib Atta and Mir Zafar Ali (Frozen, The Golden Compass, Life of Pi) have done Pakistan proud in this respect with their contributions to visual effects.

A New Crop of Pakistanis Who Are Projecting Soft Power

Laraib Atta’s contribution is nothing short of marvelous. And we’re not even talking about her visual artist work at the moment.

When people from the West think about Pakistan, generally speaking, they see a country that is perpetually in chaos and turmoil. And then they come into contact with people like Laraib, who challenge every preconceived notions that foreigners might have about our country.

Laraib’s work is fantastic no doubt and on top of that, she’s serving as an ambassador for a more vibrant, progressive and ready-for-the-future Pakistan. Her work and laurels go a long way in challenging people’s perceptions of Pakistan for the better.

There is trouble at home no doubt, which makes one lose hope. But then, out of blue, in spite of all the morass that we’ve become so accustomed to seeing and experiencing, it’s always a pleasant surprise when one of our own makes it to the world stage for all the right reasons.

Here’s to hoping Laraib Atta continues to work on multi-million dollar films and pave the way for more Pakistani girls to take up a career in VFX.

Sneak Preview of HUM Sitaray Drama ‘Dirilis Ertuğrul’

HUM Sitaray brings you the highest-rated period drama across the globe in recent history, Dirilis Ertuğrul – the story of the father of Osman 1, founder of the Ottoman Empire.  The plot is set in the 13th century and centres on the life of Ertuğrul.

Suleyman Shah is the leader of the Kayi tribe that wants to migrate to another place where they can have a better life. Shah wants to give a better future to his people but doesn’t want to make quick decisions without considering all the side effects. He sends his only trustworthy son Ertuğrul on a quest of finding new land for his men. Bearing the burden of his tribe, Ertuğrul and his three men set on a voyage of one of the most historical events in human history that ultimately leads to the foundation of the great Ottoman Empire.

The art direction, battle sequences, immaculate direction, top-notch production and unforgettable display of acting by veteran Turkish actors make a Dirilis Ertuğrul a must-watch, especially for strategy and traditional warfare drama-lovers in Pakistan.

Starting from 24^th August 2015

12 Islands of Pakistan You must Visit in your life

Astola Island

Pakistan’s largest offshore island- Astola, also known as Seven Hills or Haft Talar,is located in Arabian Sea about 25km to the nearest coast and 39km southeast from the fishing port of Pasni. Legends say that Astola was formerly mentioned by Admiral Nearchos in 325 BCE, who was sent by Alexander the Great to explore the coast of the Arabian Sea. It is a picturesque Island that consists of large leaned plateau, a series of seven small rocks, andfissures that are several feet wide can be accessed by motorized boats from Pasni.

Churna Island

Churna Island locally known as “Cheerno,” is a small uninhabited island located in the Arabian Sea, about 9km west of theRiver Hub. Mubarak village, the fisherman’s hub, is located 6 km away from the area. You can find many species of fish, crabs, lobsters and rare green turtles here. Churna Island is mostly occupied by the Pakistan Navy and PakistanGame Fishing Association (PGFA) and there are many activities here, such as a firing range, scuba diving, free diving, underwater photography, camping, trekking, hiking, speed boating, wake tubing, banana tubing, jet skiing, cliff diving and snorkeling.

Bundal Island

Bundal Island is located on the Arabian Sea off the coast of Karachi. On Bundal Island there is the tomb of Muslim Sufi Yusuf Shah, which attracts thousands of people on his annual Urs(death anniversary).The Island is now emerging as a global attraction as Bahria Town will be constructing the world’s tallest building, largest shopping mall, sports city, and a media city on Bundal Island.

Manora Island

Manora Island is locatedsouth of the Port of Karachi, about a 15 to 20 min boat ride. Manora is connected to the city by a long causeway of Sandspit that extends toHawkes Bay.It serves as a popular picnic spot because of the long exotic sandy beaches, natural landscapes, tropical forestry and the tallest lighthouse.

Shams Pir Island

Shams Pir is situated near Kemari (close to Sandspit Beach and Mauripur). There area plethora of touristy things to do here such as scuba diving, yachting, pedal boating, kayaking, canoeing, swimming, snorkeling and sunbathing, so one must visit this Island.

Bukkur Island

Bukkur Island isan isolated fortress situated on a rock in the Indus, between the towns of Rohri and Sukkur.  It is a perfect archeological dig and has been constructed by brick. The interior of this Island was crowded with houses and mosques that showcase the classical Muslim heritage. Now, the Island is occupied by Army Public school and the tomb of SayyidSadruddin.

Buddo Island

Buddo Island is another small island located in the Arabian Sea off the coast of Karachi near Bundal Island.

Khirprianwala Island

Khiprianwala Island is a small island in the Arabian Sea off the coast of Karachi. The Island inhabits vast number of rare marine species that are precious to explore.

Islands of Baba & Bhit:

Baba& Bhit Islands comprises of three small fishing islands in the centre of the Harbour of Karachi. The Islandsserves as a residential hub for several ethnic groups such as Muhajirs,Sindhis, Punjabis, Kashmiris, Seraikis, Pakhtuns, Balochis, Memons,Bohras and Ismailis.

Malan Island

Emerging as a mud volcano -Malan Island is located in the Arabian Sea offthe coast of Balochistan. It rose out of the water overnight in March 1999 and alleviated below sea level within a year. It reappeared in 2010.

Clifton oyster rocks

The Clifton Oyster Rocks are a series of islands at the coast of the Clifton Karachi. Recently the Karachi city Government decided to include the island under the renovation plans of the city. In efforts to increase visitors on the island, the Government has constructed the world’s second tallest fountain - the Port Fountain – here. It shoots water up to 620 feet in the air.

Zalzala Island

Zalzala Koh or Zalzala Jazeera is a small miracle island at the coast of the port city of Gwadar that rose out of water during a 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck on 24 September 2013. As predicted by many geologists, it could be a Mud Volcano that emerged with a sudden jolt or it could have been an emission of methane gas on the seabed.

Top 6 Beaches in Pakistan you never seen before

French Beach –Karachi

The beach is located between Hawkes Bay and Paradise point, and is favoured by Karachi’s elite. It is ideal for snorkeling, scuba diving and surfing, especially during the monsoon season.

Astola Beach –Balochistan

Astola is Pakistan’s largest offshore island, located 5 hours away from Pasni. It is famous for its breath-taking beach, and is a popular camping, fishing and scuba-diving site for tourists.

Ormara Beach –Balochistan

Ormara is an old town, located on the coast of Makran. The port is also mentioned in the Periplus of the Erythraen Sea as Orea.

West Bay Beach – Balochistan

The West Bay Beach lies on the Makran coast, and is renowned for its diverse marine life and exquisite scenery.

Cape Mount –Karachi

Cape Mount is located near the Hub River and is locally known as Ras Muari. During the British regime, a lighthouse was built on the beach for navigation purposes.

Sandspit Beach – Karachi

Sandspitis the perfect beach to relax and have sunbath at. The waters are relatively calm, so tourists can safely explore the sea with the unique marine life. It is also famous for its turtle conservation, opened by WWF to protect Green and Olive Ridley turtles.

Warid International roamers to get 85% discount in Saudi Arabia

Warid Telecom has announced a special offer for its customers travelling to Saudi Arabia whereby all Warid Postpaid and Prepaid customers will be entitled to avail 85% discount on International Roaming rates.

Warid customers in Saudi Arabia can select STC (Saudi Telecom Company) as their preferred network to avail this discounted offer. In order to facilitate its roamers during Hajj, a special discounted rate of Rs. 15/min+tax is being offered for receiving incoming calls from their loved ones in Pakistan and Rs. 19/min+tax for calling back to Pakistan. These discounted rates will be offered throughout the upcoming Umrah & Hajj season.

Warid Postpaid roamers can also use internet at a rate of Rs 13/MB via Warid’s International GPRS roaming service. No subscription or dialing of short code is required in order to enjoy discounted rates with STC. Just carry Warid’s SIM along and enjoy seamless connectivity with your loved ones even while travelling abroad.

STC holds the largest subscriber base in Saudi Arabia and is the one of the best providers of voice and data services. Warid and STC have partnered together to facilitate Warid’s valuable customers travelling to Saudi Arabia for Umrah and Hajj.