Top 10 Dangerous Mountains to climb

Climbing a mountain is one of the best experiences to have in a lifetime. Being higher up than any soul around for miles and miles is a great experience which everybody should try and enjoy. The tiresome climb will all vanish away in the few moments that you are atop the behemoth of rock which towers above its contemporaries and give you a feeling nothing short of being royalty in your own right.

10. Damavand in Iran

The Damavand is a part of the Elburz range and is one of the most amazing mountain ranges to climb. The mountains are laced with many hot springs which let out an endless supply of steam which come from a dormant volcano. One of the most exquisite climbs at around 5800 meters above sea level, this one is not to be missed.

9. Annapurna in Nepal

The Annapurna is one of the best scenic views that you will find anywhere in the world. The geological diversity that the mountains offer is one to be experienced as you span a section of the great Himalayas which are the highest places on the planet. The sun rises over the mountains and shows off all its grandeur.

8. Denali in Alaska

This Mountain is one of the finest you will ever climb if you do. This giant is the highest peak in North America and stand at around 6200 meters. The ascent offers many challenges but is completely worth it as the horizon keeps changing into many beautiful forms most people only get to see on wallpaper.

7. Citlaltepetl and Iztaacihuatl in Mexico

The two volcanoes stand together to offer the nature’s greatness in its best forms. The twin peaks are a treat to climb and a treat to watch too. The snow capped mountains look like a woman sleeping from afar and is also known as the Sleeping Woman. A relatively easy climb as compared to some others, this one should give you a good boost if you are looking for one.

6. Mount Elbrus

This Russian giant is the watchtower in between Europe and Asia. The climb can get very difficult in some areas as the terrain changes a lot over in some parts. The challenging terrain however is all worth it once you get to see entire countries as you go higher.

5. The Matterhorn

This Mountain is in the Alps in Switzerland and is very well known to climbers. It is the modern day Mecca of the sport of climbing and has a lot of traditional climbs that you can hop along with to the top. The mountain offers the unique experience to be able to climb a huge inverted rock shaped like a cone or a pyramid.

4. Mount Everest

This is the highest place to be. Mount Everest or Sagarmatha as it is known to the locals in Nepal was climbed for the first time in 1953 and since then thousands of people have climbed this mountain. The south face of the mountain is known to be easy to climb and should be a treat to climb too as it offers many amazing views along the ascent.

3. The Andes

The Andes in Peru is one for the geologist. The climbs are all laced with great biodiversity and the views make it all the more better. The Inca trails also fall along the range and are a bonus with the climb if you decide to do it. Incredible river valleys pleasure you all along the way as you walk into a different world in our world.

2. Kilimanjaro

The flat top mountain is the highest on the African continent and offers a unique experience. One of the most exotic climbs is made up of volcanic terrain and the mountain is very big if you consider how large the top is once you get to it. The climb has many different ecosystems all along its way and you will definitely enjoy this one.

1. Mount Khuiten

This is a mountain that is very easy to get lost on. Not because the climb is difficult in any way or not because there are any confusing trails but the views that it offers are so amazingly beautiful. Easily one of the most serene rendezvous with nature this mountain in the Atlai Range in Mongolia is an easy climb as compared to some others on the list but is certainly one of the best.

The Ten Most Live-able Cities in the World

In an annual survey conducted by the Economist Intelligence Unit, four Australian cities are listed in the top ten of the most liveable cities in the world. Living conditions in these cities were analyzed according to several factors like political stability, environment, health care, culture, education, and infrastructure.

In this beauty contest for cities of some sort, Vancouver emerged as the world’s most liveable city in 2011. If you are looking to find a perfect place to live at Odusee then it would make sense to choose the world’s most live able city.

1. Vancouver, British Columbia (Canada) – 98.0

The 2010 Winter Olympics host grabbed the gold medal for an unprecedented fifth straight time by beating other cities as the world’s most liveable city. Despite having murder rate higher than the national average, the hosting of the Olympics may have provided the big boost in the city’s infrastructure and tourism thereby helping Vancouver retain the title.

2. Melbourne, Victoria (Australia) – 97.5

Melbourne, the most liveable city in Australia for the second straight year, has edged out rival Sydney for the top spot. From politics to sports, both cities have vied for Australia’s best but the city still managed to cling into its Marvellous Melbourne heritage by becoming one of the “best” cities in the world.

3. Vienna (Austria) – 97.4

Vienna is the top European city to be included in the list because of its old-world charm and sophistication. If you take a walk into the city’s fairy tale streets and buildings, not to mention the unforgettable sights and sounds, then you will know why Vienna is one good place to live.

4. Toronto, Ontario (Canada) – 97.2

Being one of the most ethnically diverse urban centres in the world, Toronto has emerged as one of the favourite places to live. Unlike their American counterparts, Canadian cities like Toronto have vibrant downtown communities that encourage people to live peacefully.

5. Calgary, Alberta (Canada) – 96.6

Calgary may not a typical large North American metropolitan city but it is the most favoured tourist destination for people who are into winter sports and ecotourism. With a number of major mountain resorts in the city and suburbs.

6. Helsinki (Finland) – 96.2

The picturesque city of Helsinki made it to the top ten most liveable cities in 2011 because of its friendly and hardworking people that made it an interesting place to live. It is a modern city that pride itself for its rich cultural heritage

7. Sydney, New South Wales (Australia) – 96.1

Despite being Australia’s largest city, Sydney has fallen behind Melbourne in the rankings. Unfortunately, the city’s growth was hampered by the policies of the New South Wales government such as the restrictions imposed on land release for housing.

8. Perth, Western Australia (Australia) – 95.9

Being the most populous city in the western end of Australia, Perth has emerged as a surprising entry in the list. It is the country’s fastest growing city brought about its growing tourism sector and music and performance arts scene.

9. Adelaide, South Australia (Australia) – 95.9

Adelaide is a new entry in the list because of its notable festivals and sporting events. Famous for its food and wine, the city remains one of the most liveable cities in the region according to the Property Council of Australia in 2011. Aside from being home to numerous educational institutions and research centres, it is also has leading defence industry complexes.

10. Auckland (New Zealand) – 95.7

Auckland, New Zealand’s capital has been a favourable destination for people who live the peace and serenity of the countryside and the wild and breathtaking outdoor attractions of nature.

Top 10 Young and Happy Singles of Bollywood

We all are always curious about what’s going on in the lives of all the Bollywood stars out there. We are going to enlist some of those singles of Bollywood who are happy to maintain their 'I'm single' status.

1) PRIYANKA CHOPRA

Priyanka Chopra is, for sure, one of the most eligible women whom most Indian men want. There have, of course, been rumors about her being in relationship with Harman Baweja, Shahid Kapoor and Gerard Butler but she has never conformed to any of these speculations and has always maintained that she is single and is happy to maintain this status of hers.

2) RANBIR KAPOOR

Ranbir Kapoor, in complete negation to his infamous Casanova image, says that he is single right now. After being in numerous relationships, Ranbir says that he is definitely not looking for love right now and is happy with his singlehood.

3) KATRINA KAIF

We can’t really say if Katrina is a happy single but according to those rumors regarding her split with long time beau Salman Khan, we can say at least she is single, which would probably make many others happy.

4) SHAHID KAPOOR

After being in a long relationship with Kareena Kapoor, the media is still looking for clues about his relationship status. Post his break-up with Kareena Kapoor, he has been linked with stars such as Vidya Balan, Priyanka Chopra and Sania Mirza but Shahid has never let go of his 'available' status

5) SONAM KAPOOR

Sonam Kapoor seems to be a completely chilled out single who knows how to have fun! At times, she has been linked to various actors such as Ranbir Kapoor but i guess nobody could break her Happy Single Stage.

6) BIPASHA BASU

Well well well, you heard it right. She is finally single.Bipasha Basu has confirmed the rumors about her split with long time boyfriend John Abraham and says she is happy to be single after 17 years!

7) SHAZAHN PADAMSEE

She recently got linked to cricketer Sreesanth but she slashed all those speculations by saying that he is only a friend. She is single and likes it that way. Look's like being single is more than acceptable and, in fact, the latest trend amongst these Bollywood youngsters.

8) SONAKSHI SINHA

Sonakshi got out of a serious relationship with Aditya Shroff, before her sparkling debut in 'Dabangg'. Well, she looks pretty happy with the way her career has shaped up after she dumped her man. She too is made a scape-goat by the media and linked to various actors every now and then but then, that's what most single people have to endure most of the time.

9) KANGANA RANAUT

After reportedly ruining the career of Adhyayan Suman, Kangana seems to be happier than ever with the chunk of movies and roles she is getting. Look's like single status can bring more success to her career at least.

10) NEIL NITIN MUKESH

Neil, recently took to Twitter in order to turn down false rumors about his relationship with Asin. He says that he is single and has got no love right now but truly looking for one.

Top 10 Most Powerful Countries In The World

A number of surveys have said that the following countries are the most powerful today:

1. The United States of America

This country is the largest economy today and has the strongest army as well as a very powerful democracy. It is also said to be a superpower and its media is very influential as well. It has built itself and its power ever since it gained independence and is only getting more powerful. The country controls international relations and is a part of a number of influential bodies.

2. Russian Federation

The Russian Federation has the second most powerful army and controls a number of states in the Central Asian area. It has a very large population and immense world area. These factors allow it to stay independent and prevent external forces from meddling in the political, economic and financial issues of the country. Because of its size, Russia has the resources to become a superpower.

3. Peoples Republic of China

Peoples Republic of China is said to have the 4th largest GNP in the world. It has gained supremacy only recently over Britain and France. It has a large army and immense potential to become the most powerful country in the world.

4. France

France is a part of the UN Security Council and is said to be the fifth most powerful country in the world. It is a great nuclear power and influences many African nations. The French have a large army which helps in maintaining law and order. It is a G7 economy and part of the European Union.

5. Britain

Britain is part of the UN Security Council as well. It has powerful nuclear weapons and the democracy is considered to be the most stable as well. As a G7 economy and as a leading country in areas like music, films and media, the country has immense influence when it comes to world politics. It is a part of the European Union as well

6. Japan

Japan has an extremely large economy and is a leading democratic power. The population of the country is large but since the competition is intense, it features below USA, China, France and Britain.

7. India

India is very populous and has a well-known democracy which gains its power from the detailed Constitution of India. The economy is growing at a staggering rate and the nuclear weapons are becoming more and more powerful.

8. Germany

Germany has the third largest economy in the world and features in the list of the most powerful European Union members. However, it was greatly affected during the two World Wars which hampered its influence over the world.

9. Pakistan

Pakistan has a very large Muslim population and powerful nuclear weapons. It is a united country but since it spends a hefty sum on military dictatorship, it has not become truly powerful. In addition to that, even though it has good resources, the battles with India have made the country very weak in these terms as well. Therefore, if it can replenish these resources and find a way to balance its political standing, it will be able to become more powerful.

10. Brazil

The Republic of Brazil is very large and is part of Latin America. It is said to hold the largest Portuguese speaking population in the world. In addition to that, the media of the country is quite stable and its relations with the rest of the world are quite secure.

Nokia Oro: A Gold-plated Smartphone with Sapphire

Nokia has recently launched Nokia Oro, a gold-plated smartphone with sapphire and leather. Oro is an expensive sibling of C7. The Finnish mobile phone company launched this premium smartphone which comes with 18-carat gold plating, a sapphire crystal and Scottish leather.

Powered by Nokia's Symbian OS, the phone has the latest Symbian Anna update. The Nokia Oro has pentaband radio connectivity, HSDPA 3G and WiFi.

According to Nokia the phone will not make a hard spec vs price comparison but instead focusses on build quality and materials.

The luxury phone has 3.5-inch AMOLED display and an 8-megapixel camera with 720p video recording.

Nokia Oro will start selling in selected countries across the Europe, Eastern Europe, China and the Middle East in Q3 2011.

The phone will cost EUR 800, approximately Rs 51,000 (before taxes and subsidies).

"Bodies" Fill Underwater Sculpture Park

The installation is the first endeavor of a new underwater museum called MUSA, or Museo Subacuático de Arte.

Created by Mexico-based British sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor, the Caribbean installation is intended to eventually cover more than 4,520 square feet (420 square meters), which would make it "one of the largest and most ambitious underwater attractions in the world," according to a museum statement.

Visitor From Above

More than 400 of the permanent sculptures have been installed in recent months in the National Marine Park of Cancún, Isla Mujeres, and Punta Nizuc (map of the region) as part of a major artwork called "The Silent Evolution."

"Lucky" Statue

The people in "The Silent Evolution" were created from live casts of a wide sample of people, most of them locals—including Lucky, a Mexican carpenter (center).

School of Rock

The sculptures (pictured in December) are made of a special kind of marine cement that attracts the growth of corals, according to creator Taylor. That in turn encourages fish and other marine life to colonize the reef.

Blowing Bubbles

"The manifestation of living organisms cohabiting and ingrained in our being is intended to remind us of our close dependency on nature and the respect we should afford it," according to a museum statement.

Face-to-Face

An activist comes face-to-face with an underwater "Silent Evolution" statue in December during a campaign for action on global warming.

Deep in Thought

Already the exhibition (pictured in December) is drawing more divers, and area dive-tour providers are hoping the underwater museum boosts business and supports reef health, according to a museum statement.

Work in Progress

Taylor works on a cast of Charlie Brown, a 67-year-old Mexican fisher with Chinese ancestors, at the sculptor's studio in Puerto Morelos, Mexico, in February 2010. The sculptures are made from cement, sand, micro silica, fiber glass, and live coral.

Casting Call

Portraits of Puerto Morelos, Mexico, residents hang on the wall of Taylor's studio in February 2010. To make the Caribbean underwater sculptures, Taylor is choosing a wide variety of local residents and creating molds of their bodies.

Sculptures-in-Waiting

Before being taken underwater, "Silent Evolution" sculptures stand on a Cancún, Mexico, beach in September 2010. Upon the installation's completion, the total weight of the statues will total more than 180 tons, according to a museum statement.

Into the Drink

Silent Evolution" sculptures are lowered into the waters off Cancún in late 2010. Along with creator Taylor, a team of artists, builders, marine biologists, engineers, and scuba divers are working together to complete the installation.

Bottom Dwellers

Silent Evolution" sculptures (pictured in October) sit in just 30 feet (9 meters) of water, which allows visitors in glass-bottomed boats to also observe the artwork, according to a museum statement.

Caribbean Cancún

Placing the statues (bottom) off the shores of Cancún (above) was a strategic move, according to a museum statement.

Heavenly Plea

"Kelly," modeled from a U.K. social housing officer (pictured in December 2010), was rendered looking up, with his hands open to symbolize questioning or prayer, according to Taylor. MUSA, the underwater museum, plans to add sculptures as funding becomes available.