My name is Filipo Fifita. I was born in Vā vā’u and raised in the main island of Tongā, specifically in the small village of Ma’ufangā. Growing up, my grandparents and aunties played a significant role in shaping my beliefs and perspective on life. They instilled in me the values of discipline and family obligation, which are deeply rooted in our traditional culture. These values are considered essential for navigating life’s trials and tribulations, as they emphasize fulfilling family duties and staying true to our faith.
However, everything changed when I migrated to Aotearoa, New Zealand, specifically to the Bay of Islands in Kerikeri, at the age of 10. In this new environment, predominantly inhabited by pākeha, I experienced a profound displacement that led to a loss of identity and hindered my sense of belonging. I longed to be back with my family in Tongā, and only later in life did I truly understand the impact of this disconnection from my roots.
To cope with this feeling of displacement and dampen its effects, I turned to substance abuse, primarily alcohol at first, but eventually spiraling into more harmful substances over the years. This personal and destructive pathway caused tears, pain, and had detrimental effects on my psychological and mental well-being, as well as on those around me. Looking back, I deeply regret the lack of empathy, compassion, and disregard for the well-being of others that I displayed during that time. If only I had possessed the mindset I have now, things would have been different, and perhaps we could share a laugh at my past foolishness.
It is important to acknowledge that I bear sole responsibility for not seeking the support and guidance I needed during those challenging times. In hindsight, I realize the significance of addressing problems and seeking help sooner rather than later before the people and things we cherish become casualties of our distorted reality.
Now, as an aspiring occupational therapist student, I am determined to advocate for better mental and physical health. My goal is to create a space where individuals can navigate their daily struggles and overcome the stigma surrounding men’s mental, psychological, and physical well-being. By sharing our collective voices and stories of overcoming struggles, we can work together to combat these issues and encourage others to seek proper help.
I believe that one day, we will triumph over the shame and stigma associated with seeking help. Together, we can create a society that prioritizes mental and physical well-being for everyone.
Spend the next three days exploring the capital city of India, which is rich in history, culture, and diversity. You can visit the iconic Red Fort, the majestic Qutub Minar, the serene Lotus Temple, and the bustling Chandni Chowk market. You can also enjoy the nightlife, shopping, and cuisine of New Delhi.
On December 28th, take a train or a taxi to Agra, the city of the Taj Mahal. You can book a ticket online at IRCTC, the official website of Indian Railways2. The journey will take about three hours by train or four hours by road.
Spend the next two days marveling at the Taj Mahal, the world-famous monument of love built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. You can also visit the Agra Fort, the Fatehpur Sikri, and the Mehtab Bagh gardens.
On December 30th, return to New Delhi by train or taxi and spend the night there.
Week 2: Rajasthan
On December 31st, take a flight from New Delhi to Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan and the pink city of India. You can book a flight online at MakeMyTrip, a popular travel portal in India4. The flight will take about an hour.
Spend the next three days exploring the colorful and vibrant city of Jaipur, which is known for its palaces, forts, markets, and festivals. You can visit the City Palace, the Amber Fort, the Hawa Mahal, and the Jantar Mantar. You can also shop for handicrafts, jewelry, textiles, and pottery at the Bapu Bazaar and the Johari Bazaar.
On January 4th, take a flight from Jaipur to Jodhpur, the blue city of India and the gateway to the Thar Desert. You can book a flight online at MakeMyTrip. The flight will take about an hour.
Spend the next two days exploring the historic and scenic city of Jodhpur, which is famous for its blue houses, forts, temples, and markets. You can visit the Mehrangarh Fort, the Jaswant Thada, the [Umaid Bhawan Palace Museum], and the [Clock Tower]. You can also shop for spices, antiques, carpets, and leather goods at the [Sardar Market].
On January 6th, take a day trip to Jaisalmer, the golden city of India and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can book a tour online at Viator. The tour will take about 12 hours and include visits to the [Jaisalmer Fort], the [Patwon Ki Haveli], the [Gadisar Lake], and the [Sam Sand Dunes]. You can also enjoy a camel ride and a cultural show in the desert.
Week 3: Gujarat
On January 7th, take a flight from Jodhpur to Ahmedabad, the largest city and the former capital of Gujarat. You can book a flight online at MakeMyTrip, a popular travel portal in India. The flight will take about an hour and a half.
Check in to your hotel in Ahmedabad. You can book a room at The House of MG, a heritage hotel with a rooftop restaurant and a textile museum.
Spend the next three days exploring the cultural and historical city of Ahmedabad, which is known for its architecture, museums, markets, and festivals. You can visit the following attractions:
Sabarmati Ashram: The former residence and the spiritual center of Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the nation. You can see his personal belongings, photographs, letters, and books.
Adalaj Stepwell: A stunning example of Hindu temple architecture and engineering, built in 1499 by Queen Rudabai. The stepwell has intricate carvings and a deep well below.
Calico Museum of Textiles: A premier textile museum that showcases the finest and most comprehensive collection of Indian textiles, including fabrics, costumes, carpets, and tapestries.
Sidi Saiyyed Mosque: A 16th-century mosque that is the hallmark of the African architectural legacy in India. The mosque is famous for its intricately carved filigree work on its windows, especially the Tree of Life motif.
Kankaria Lake: A vast expanse of water that was once a royal bathing place. The lake has a zoo, a toy train, a balloon safari, and a water park.
You can also shop for handicrafts, fabrics, jewelry, and pottery at the Law Garden and the Lal Darwaja markets.
On January 10th, take a day trip to Modhera and Patan, two ancient towns near Ahmedabad. You can book a tour online at Viator, a leading online platform for booking travel experiences. The tour will include visits to the following sites:
Modhera Sun Temple: A stunning example of Hindu temple architecture dedicated to the sun god Surya, built in 1026 by King Bhima I. The temple has a magnificent hall of pillars, a carved sanctum, and a stepped tank.
Patan Patola Museum: A museum showcasing the intricate and exquisite art of double ikat weaving, a traditional technique of dyeing and weaving silk fabrics. The museum also displays the history and culture of Patan, the former capital of Gujarat.
On January 11th, take a flight from Ahmedabad to Bhuj, the capital of the Kutch district and the gateway to the Rann of Kutch. You can book a flight online at MakeMyTrip. The flight will take about an hour.
Check in to your hotel in Bhuj. You can book a room at Devpur Homestay, a charming and cozy heritage property run by a local family.
Spend the next two days exploring the diverse and fascinating region of Kutch, which is famous for its salt desert, wildlife, handicrafts, and culture. You can visit the following attractions:
White Rann of Kutch: A vast expanse of salt marsh that turns into a shimmering white landscape under the moonlight. The Rann is also home to various migratory birds and wildlife, such as flamingos, cranes, foxes, and jackals.
Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary: The largest seasonal saline wetland in India, covering an area of about 7500 square kilometers. The sanctuary is a haven for wildlife, especially the endangered Indian wild ass, as well as birds, reptiles, and amphibians.
Aina Mahal: A 18th-century palace built by Rao Lakhpatji, the ruler of Kutch, with the help of a local craftsman named Ram Singh Malam. The palace is a fusion of Indian and European styles, with a hall of mirrors, a pleasure pool, and a clock tower.
Prag Mahal: A 19th-century palace built by Rao Pragmalji II, the successor of Rao Lakhpatji, with the help of a British architect named Colonel Henry Saint Wilkins. The palace is a blend of Gothic and Italian styles, with a grand durbar hall, a bell tower, and a museum.
Kutch Museum: The oldest museum in Gujarat, established in 1877 by Maharao Khengarji III, the ruler of Kutch. The museum displays a rich collection of artifacts, coins, paintings, embroidery, weapons, and musical instruments related to the history and culture of Kutch.
You can also shop for embroidery, leather, wood, and metal crafts at the Shrujan and the Khamir centers, which are non-profit organizations that support the local artisans and preserve their traditions.
Week 4: Goa
On January 13th, take a flight from Bhuj to Goa, the smallest state and the most popular beach destination in India. You can book a flight online at MakeMyTrip. The flight will take about three hours.
Check in to your hotel in Goa. You can book a room at Taj Fort Aguada Resort & Spa, a luxury resort with a private beach and a fort overlooking the Arabian Sea.
Spend the next four days relaxing and enjoying the sun, sand, and sea of Goa, which is known for its beaches, nightlife, churches, and cuisine. You can visit the following attractions:
Baga Beach: One of the most famous and lively beaches in Goa, with a long stretch of golden sand, clear water, and a variety of water sports, shacks, and clubs.
Calangute Beach: Another popular and crowded beach in Goa, with a wide expanse of sand, palm trees, and a range of activities, such as parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides.
Anjuna Beach: A scenic and rocky beach in Goa, known for its hippie culture, flea market, and trance parties.
Palolem Beach: A serene and picturesque beach in Goa, with a crescent-shaped bay, white sand, coconut palms, and colorful huts.
Basilica of Bom Jesus: A 16th-century church and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for holding the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, the patron saint of Goa.
Se Cathedral: A 17th-century church and one of the largest in Asia, dedicated to Catherine of Alexandria. The church has a Tuscan exterior, a Corinthian interior, and a golden bell.
Fort Aguada: A 17th-century Portuguese fort and lighthouse, built to protect Goa from the Dutch and the Marathas. The fort offers a panoramic view of the Arabian Sea and the Sinquerim Beach.
Chapora Fort: A 17th-century fort, originally built by the Adil Shahis and later occupied by the Portuguese. The fort is famous for its scenic location and its appearance in the Bollywood movie Dil Chahta Hai.
You can also enjoy the water sports, casinos, clubs, and restaurants of Goa.
On January 17th, take a day trip to Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. You can book a tour online at Viator. The tour will include visits to the following sites:
Virupaksha Temple: A 7th-century temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, the patron deity of the Vijayanagara kings. The temple has a 50-meter-high gopuram, a pillared hall, and a sanctum with a lingam.
Vittala Temple: A 15th-century temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the universe. The temple is famous for its musical pillars, stone chariot, and intricate carvings.
Lotus Mahal: A 16th-century palace with a lotus-like dome, built for the royal ladies of the Vijayanagara Empire. The palace is a fusion of Hindu and Islamic styles, with arched windows, balconies, and pyramidal towers.
Elephant Stables: A 15th-century structure with 11 domed chambers, used to house the royal elephants of the Vijayanagara Empire. The structure is a blend of Hindu and Islamic styles, with arched entrances, carved pillars, and decorated ceilings.
On January 18th, return to Goa and spend the night there.
Week 5: Kerala and Tamil Nadu
On January 19th, take a flight from Goa to Kochi, the largest city and the commercial hub of Kerala. You can book a flight online at MakeMyTrip. The flight will take about an hour and a half.
Check in to your hotel in Kochi. You can book a room at Brunton Boatyard, a heritage hotel with a waterfront location and a colonial style.
On January 22nd, take a train or a taxi to Alleppey, the Venice of the East and the home of the backwaters. You can book a ticket online at IRCTC or hire a taxi at Savaari. The journey will take about an hour and a half by train or two hours by road.
Check in to your houseboat in Alleppey. You can book a houseboat online at Kerala Houseboat. A houseboat is a traditional wooden boat with a bedroom, a bathroom, a kitchen, and a lounge area.
Spend the next two days cruising along the tranquil and scenic backwaters of Alleppey, which are a network of canals, lagoons, lakes, and rivers. You can enjoy the views of the lush greenery, the paddy fields, the coconut palms, and the local villages. You can also taste the delicious and fresh seafood, the coconut water, and the toddy (a local alcoholic drink) on board.
On January 24th, return to Kochi by train or taxi and spend the night there.
Week 6: Tamil Nadu
On January 25th, take a flight from Kochi to Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu and the cultural center of South India. You can book a flight online at MakeMyTrip. The flight will take about an hour.
Check in to your hotel in Chennai. You can book a room at Taj Coromandel, a luxury hotel with a blend of classic and contemporary design.
On January 28th, take a day trip to Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a coastal town near Chennai. You can book a tour online at Viator. The tour will take about eight hours and include visits to the Shore Temple, the Five Rathas, the Arjuna’s Penance, and the Krishna’s Butter Ball.
On January 29th, take a train or a taxi to Pondicherry, a former French colony and a charming seaside town. You can book a ticket online at IRCTC or hire a taxi at Savaari. The journey will take about three hours by train or four hours by road.
Check in to your hotel in Pondicherry. You can book a room at Palais de Mahe, a heritage hotel with a colonial style and a rooftop pool.
Spend the next two days exploring the quaint and peaceful town of Pondicherry, which is known for its French influence, its ashrams, its cafes, and its beaches. You can visit the French Quarter, the Aurobindo Ashram, the Auroville, and the Paradise Beach. You can also enjoy the French cuisine, the yoga, and the meditation in Pondicherry.
On January 31st, return to Chennai by train or taxi and spend the night there.
Week 7: Karnataka
On February 1st, take a flight from Chennai to Bengaluru, the capital of Karnataka and the IT hub of India. You can book a flight online at MakeMyTrip, a popular travel portal in India. The flight will take about an hour.
Check in to your hotel in Bengaluru. You can book a room at The Oberoi Bengaluru, a luxury hotel with a garden and a pool.
On February 4th, take a day trip to Mysore, the cultural capital of Karnataka and the city of palaces. You can book a tour online at Viator, a leading online platform for booking travel experiences. The tour will take about 12 hours and include visits to the Mysore Palace, the Chamundi Hills, the Brindavan Gardens, and the Mysore Zoo.
On February 5th, take a train or a taxi to Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. You can book a ticket online at IRCTC or hire a taxi at Savaari. The journey will take about six hours by train or seven hours by road.
Check in to your hotel in Hampi. You can book a room at Evolve Back Hampi, a luxury resort with a royal theme and a spa.
On February 7th, take a flight from Hampi to Hyderabad, the capital of Andhra Pradesh and the city of pearls. You can book a flight online at MakeMyTrip. The flight will take about an hour and a half.
Check in to your hotel in Hyderabad. You can book a room at Taj Falaknuma Palace, a former palace of the Nizam of Hyderabad and a heritage hotel.
On February 10th, take a day trip to Warangal, a former capital of the Kakatiya dynasty and a city of temples. You can book a tour online at Viator. The tour will take about 10 hours and include visits to the Thousand Pillar Temple, the Warangal Fort, the Ramappa Temple, and the Pakhal Lake.
On February 11th, return to Hyderabad and spend the night there.
On February 12th, take a flight from Hyderabad to New Delhi, the final destination of your eight-week itinerary for touring India. You can book a flight online at MakeMyTrip. The flight will take about two hours.
Check in to your hotel in New Delhi. You can book a room at The Claridges New Delhi, the same hotel where you started your journey.
Spend the next few days relaxing and reminiscing about your amazing and unforgettable trip across India. You can also do some last-minute shopping, sightseeing, or dining in New Delhi.
On February 20th, depart from New Delhi and fly back to your home country. Have a safe and pleasant journey. Namaste!
https://ilanwittenberg.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Ilan-Wittenberg-Logo-version-4.jpg00Ilan Wittenberghttps://ilanwittenberg.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Ilan-Wittenberg-Logo-version-4.jpgIlan Wittenberg2023-12-01 13:47:502023-12-01 13:47:50Eight-week itinerary to India
Lost and Found at Long Bay beach carpark: Two (2) Nike shoes (left and right), size 13, made in Indonesia; both smell really bad.
The iconic Nike “Swoosh” was created in 1971 by Carolyn Davidson, a graphic design student at Portland State University. Accounting instructor Phil Knight (Nike’s co-founder), overheard Davidson say that she couldn’t afford oil painting supplies for her graphic design class and asked Carolyn to design a logo for his new shoe company that “had something to do with movement”. The Swoosh design took Davidson around 17.5 hours to design. She was paid $35 for her work. At the time, he stated of the logo, “I don’t love it, but it will grow on me.” In 1983, Knight presented Carolyn with a box of chocolate swooshes, a gold diamond ring engraved with the Swoosh, and 500 shares of Nike stock, worth about US$4 million today.
Nike’s logo has played a significant role in key moments and campaigns in the brand’s history. This includes the rebranding of Blue Ribbon Sports, the famous “Just Do It” campaign in the late 1980s, and the 1992 “Dream Team” Olympics campaign featuring iconic basketball players such as Michael Jordan and Charles Barkley. In 2018, Nike made a bold statement on social justice issues by launching a groundbreaking campaign with former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick, using the now-iconic tagline “Believe in something. Even if it means sacrificing everything.” While the campaign was controversial at the time, it proved to be a huge commercial success for Nike.
Nike takes its name from the winged goddess of victory in Greek mythology. Athletes who sought victory revered Nike, and she symbolized triumph. She led Zeus into battle as Eris, the goddess of strife, led Typhon. During their fight, Nike shielded Zeus while he wielded thunderbolts and freezing rain. Zeus defeated Typhon by using fire and ice, claiming victory over the Titans.
https://ilanwittenberg.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Nike-Composite-Square.jpg12001200Ilan Wittenberghttps://ilanwittenberg.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Ilan-Wittenberg-Logo-version-4.jpgIlan Wittenberg2023-11-13 14:05:322023-11-14 12:51:25Just Do It
Three Proteas
Memories
Self fulfilling prophecies
Self Portrait
Clearly lost the plot…
Stunning Elisabeth
Veronika
Stunning Veronika
Veronika Bosenko
Filipo Fifita
My name is Filipo Fifita. I was born in Vā vā’u and raised in the main island of Tongā, specifically in the small village of Ma’ufangā. Growing up, my grandparents and aunties played a significant role in shaping my beliefs and perspective on life. They instilled in me the values of discipline and family obligation, which are deeply rooted in our traditional culture. These values are considered essential for navigating life’s trials and tribulations, as they emphasize fulfilling family duties and staying true to our faith.
However, everything changed when I migrated to Aotearoa, New Zealand, specifically to the Bay of Islands in Kerikeri, at the age of 10. In this new environment, predominantly inhabited by pākeha, I experienced a profound displacement that led to a loss of identity and hindered my sense of belonging. I longed to be back with my family in Tongā, and only later in life did I truly understand the impact of this disconnection from my roots.
To cope with this feeling of displacement and dampen its effects, I turned to substance abuse, primarily alcohol at first, but eventually spiraling into more harmful substances over the years. This personal and destructive pathway caused tears, pain, and had detrimental effects on my psychological and mental well-being, as well as on those around me. Looking back, I deeply regret the lack of empathy, compassion, and disregard for the well-being of others that I displayed during that time. If only I had possessed the mindset I have now, things would have been different, and perhaps we could share a laugh at my past foolishness.
It is important to acknowledge that I bear sole responsibility for not seeking the support and guidance I needed during those challenging times. In hindsight, I realize the significance of addressing problems and seeking help sooner rather than later before the people and things we cherish become casualties of our distorted reality.
Now, as an aspiring occupational therapist student, I am determined to advocate for better mental and physical health. My goal is to create a space where individuals can navigate their daily struggles and overcome the stigma surrounding men’s mental, psychological, and physical well-being. By sharing our collective voices and stories of overcoming struggles, we can work together to combat these issues and encourage others to seek proper help.
I believe that one day, we will triumph over the shame and stigma associated with seeking help. Together, we can create a society that prioritizes mental and physical well-being for everyone.
𝐊𝐄𝐈𝐑𝐀
Nude Photographer Auckland
Natalie
Filipo
Eight-week itinerary to India
Week 2: Rajasthan
Week 3: Gujarat
Week 4: Goa
Week 5: Kerala and Tamil Nadu
Week 6: Tamil Nadu
Week 7: Karnataka
Week 8: Andhra Pradesh
Beautiful Keri
Outrageous Emilie
Family Affair
Just Do It
Just Do It © Ilan Wittenberg 2023 Limited Edition of 9 + 2AP Buy Now
Lost and Found at Long Bay beach carpark: Two (2) Nike shoes (left and right), size 13, made in Indonesia; both smell really bad.
The iconic Nike “Swoosh” was created in 1971 by Carolyn Davidson, a graphic design student at Portland State University. Accounting instructor Phil Knight (Nike’s co-founder), overheard Davidson say that she couldn’t afford oil painting supplies for her graphic design class and asked Carolyn to design a logo for his new shoe company that “had something to do with movement”. The Swoosh design took Davidson around 17.5 hours to design. She was paid $35 for her work. At the time, he stated of the logo, “I don’t love it, but it will grow on me.” In 1983, Knight presented Carolyn with a box of chocolate swooshes, a gold diamond ring engraved with the Swoosh, and 500 shares of Nike stock, worth about US$4 million today.
Nike’s logo has played a significant role in key moments and campaigns in the brand’s history. This includes the rebranding of Blue Ribbon Sports, the famous “Just Do It” campaign in the late 1980s, and the 1992 “Dream Team” Olympics campaign featuring iconic basketball players such as Michael Jordan and Charles Barkley. In 2018, Nike made a bold statement on social justice issues by launching a groundbreaking campaign with former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick, using the now-iconic tagline “Believe in something. Even if it means sacrificing everything.” While the campaign was controversial at the time, it proved to be a huge commercial success for Nike.
Nike takes its name from the winged goddess of victory in Greek mythology. Athletes who sought victory revered Nike, and she symbolized triumph. She led Zeus into battle as Eris, the goddess of strife, led Typhon. During their fight, Nike shielded Zeus while he wielded thunderbolts and freezing rain. Zeus defeated Typhon by using fire and ice, claiming victory over the Titans.
Andrew Holmes
Protected: Miriam
Zoe and Giovani
Outrageous Mandy
Beautiful Brooke