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France needs no introduction when it comes to travel. Despite being one of the world’s most famous holiday destinations, 95% of France remains largely off the tourist map, more so in the case of Indians. Traveling to France usually means a visit to Paris and French Riviera. However, just one hour away from the home of Eiffel Tower lies “France’s best-kept secret”.

Northern France, an under-the-radar region has always remained in the shadow of the glamorous capital. However, once you visit the region, it’s impossible to not become its diehard fan. Northern France has an astoundingly rich and diverse historic heritage and its range of natural environments in unrivaled by any other region in France or even Europe.

Here are the 10 reasons to visit Northern France: 

1.    Because it is well connected with major cities

There are a very few places that can boast of the connectivity as Northern France has. 1 hour from Paris, 30 minutes from Brussels and 1.5 hours from London. You can use Eurail Global Pass to get from anywhere in high-speed trains like TGV. The best part is you don’t have to travel a lot from the airport to get to a train station. Within 4 minutes of coming out of the Paris Airport, I could board a high-speed TGV train to Lille. Yes, it’s that easy. The other option is self-drive. Personally, that’s my favourite as you can pull over anywhere to admire the French dreamscapes.

2.    Because it wrote the history of Europe since the middle ages

Whether it was the French revolution or the two world wars, Northern France has always been in the thick of the action. The famous battles of Normandy and Dunkirk were fought in the region. And, one can still see the relics of the glory as well as horrid past juxtaposed next to the modern world. And, it’s not just war relics that are preserved. French are very passionate about their past and culture. And, that’s the reason why you can still hear classical songs on the radio or in restaurants. And, traditional cuisine is not limited to annual events.

3.    Because it’s difficult to encapsulate region’s sheer variety

Northern France has an astoundingly rich and diverse historic heritage, and its range of natural environments is unrivaled by any other region in France or even Europe. Lille impressed me with its Flemish-Spanish influence, cool brasseries, and swanky shopping streets while Le Touquet simply swept me off my feet with its coastal glamour. Amiens bewitched with its heritage-nature charm and Chantilly doled out a royal carpet. It’s difficult to encapsulate the sheer variety in the region.

4.    Because it has the friendliest and kindest people in France

French people are misjudged to be unfriendly and cold. But, I experienced the opposite. Not only are they friendly and funny but they go out of their way to make you feel comfortable and welcomed. Here’s an example.

I was on a self-drive trip through Northern France when on one fateful day I forgot my laptop charger in the hotel. I was 115-km away and was running on a tight schedule. To make the matters worse, I had a flight next day and my charger was of an old make that wasn’t available in stores. It was a catch-22 situation with no feasible solution in sight. At that time, a local friend, Pierre, came to my rescue. Without batting an eye, he spent a day on the road correcting my mistake.

5.    Because it has the largest and the tallest Cathedral in France

Paris’ Notre Dame might be the most popular cathedral in France, but Notre Dame Amiens gargantuan cathedral is about twice the size. It is impossible to not get impressed by this twice conferred UNESCO World Heritage site, which is one of the largest medieval cathedrals in the world, filled with jaw-dropping sculptures and soaring gothic spires.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BojV-uhAIRA

6.    Because it has France’s Horse Capital – Chantilly

Just an hour’s drive from Paris or 30 minutes by train— I found a Renaissance gem and the Horse Capital of France, Chantilly. A city that has been built around racehorse and no wonder Chantilly Racecourse is home to two of France’s most important races – the Prix du Jockey Club and, the Prix de Diane. Not only does it have the largest racehorse-training community in France but is also a home to the Living Museum of the Horse at Great Stables.

7.    Because here you can find the Venice of the North

The charming town of Amiens in the Hauts-de-France region combines the watery beauty of Venice with French small town elegance. The Saint-Leu district with its canals and the 2000 years old floating gardens (hortillonnages) are a must-see attraction. Rustic cottages, colourful flower beds, and activity areas dot islands along the canals, with ducks and swans playing along peacefully.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BoeGnNDgCSc

8.    Because it is where the rich come to relax

Le Touquet, an affluent coastal town, has long been a playground of the rich, not just from France but from all over the world, where famous figures like French President, Emmanuel Macron, owns a home. In the past, frequent visitors included Winston Churchill, Prince Edward, and even James Bond’s creator Ian Fleming, who lived here and drew inspiration for Casino Royale from the town’s casino. There’s no dearth of action here – endless sandy beach, horse riding, tennis, golfing, racing, gambling, and sand-yachting.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BoMHOb8A4NI

9.    Because you can follow in the footsteps of Joan of Arc

Saint-Valery-sur-Somme’s name was written in history books because of Joan of Arc, one of the greatest Lady General in the world and the National Heroine of France, who led the country to many victories in the 15th century. In 1431, she has held a prisoner in the local prison before being dispatched to Rouen for her execution.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BoT12JNAMUs

10. Because here eating and drinking is a serious business

Eating in Northern France is a voyage for your taste buds. Whether you love sweet or savoury, fine dining or quick bite; your food will always delight you. It would be a crime to not try local signature dishes like the Carbonnade Flamande (Beef stew), Méert waffle (a favourite of General Charles de Gaulle), Welsh (Ham, bread, beer and cheese), pot’je vleesch (rabbit, veal, chicken meat, served cold in a pot of savoury jelly with French fries) and Mussels. Northern France is not a wine-growing country and locals prefer beer. Do try Célestin’s beers. And, like other parts of the country, cheese is very good here. You can find over one thousand variety of cheeses here.

Last but not the least, when in France make sure to attend French Music Festivals.

So, when are you booking a trip to #Northern France? And, don’t forget to visit three Villages along the Saone River as well.

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An edited version of this story was published in Sakal Times

Have you ever visited Northern France? If yes, I would love to hear from you.

PS: I am sure many of you are following my ongoing #OffbeatEuropeWithTSW journey on my social media channels. In case you want to know more, do read how I am managing 4 months Solo Budget Travel in Europe and stay tuned for upcoming posts.

 

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Disclaimer

I was in Northern France at the invitation of the region Hauts-de-France. Everything expressed above is based on my personal experience and conversations I had in the region. All images used were shot by me. Please don’t use any image or text without written permission.

Europe on a shoestring budget seems like mission impossible but with a little bit of smart planning, 4 months of Solo Budget Travel in Europe is completely doable. And, that’s exactly what I am aiming to achieve with my upcoming 4 months of solo travel in Offbeat Europe. A solo trip across Europe – mainly Central, Southern, Western, and Eastern Europe. Here is what I am planning to do in the upcoming 4 months of Solo Budget Travel in Europe:

WHY I CHOSE TO TRAVEL FOR 4 MONTHS INSTEAD OF 7 TO 15 DAYS

1. Slow travel is soulful travel

When you travel with a super tight deadline you are forced to do the touristy stuff and there is nothing wrong with that. However, I am over that phase. Now my travel goals have changed. I no longer travel to tick-mark destinations or fulfil bucket lists. I travel with a purpose – to explore and promote offbeat places through sustainable tourism practices. The fun lies in being a local than being a foreigner. That is when you become a part of the social fabric and connect with the soul of a place.

2. TBEX Conference in Ostrava

I am invited as a guest speaker at TBEX Ostrava, Czech Republic where I’ll be sharing my experience of working in emerging markets and how to pitch successfully. Since I’ll be in the region, it makes sense to explore the neighbouring countries instead of planning separate trips.

3. Best time to explore Europe

July to October are the best months to explore Europe as the days are long, the weather is pleasant, people are in an upbeat mood and lots of festivals are held during these months. And you get many good deals on Europe Trip Packages.

4. Reduce carbon footprint

Instead of making multiple trips to Europe with several long-haul flights throughout the year, I prefer one mega trip, flying just once. Also, I chose Eurail over shorter flights as trains produce ten times less CO2 than flights. In fact, the environmental benefit of taking a train instead of a plane may be much greater than 90%. Airlines emit CO2 directly into the upper atmosphere, where it is twice more harmful than the same quantity emitted at ground level.

5. Excruciating heat in Asia

Summers are unbearable in Asia, especially in Delhi. It’s a good time to escape the heat and enjoy the European sojourns.

WHAT PLACES WILL I COVER DURING MY 4-MONTH JOURNEY

1.     CENTRAL AND EASTERN EUROPE

Explore the interiors of the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Poland, and Bulgaria to connect the past with the present.

1. Czech Republic (4 weeks)

The land of stories is going to be my center point. I’ll begin and end my first leg of travel here. I’ll be spending over three weeks in the Czech Republic exploring popular and offbeat places. Don’t forget to read about the five fantastic Czech Republic roadtrip destinations. Here are the places I’ll be exploring:

1. Prague: This time I’ll be exploring the offbeat side of the town following the footsteps of notable people like Franz Kafka, Charni, Sigmund Freud etc. If you are looking where to stay in Prague, check out Boutique Hotel Seven Days
2. Plzeň: The home of Pilsner Urquell, the world’s first and finest lager beer
3. Olomouc: The fairly unknown city outside the country has the second-highest number of UNESCO World Heritage sites after Prague
4. Zlin: The city developed by the Bata family
5. Brno: The second-largest city in the Czech Republic which has everything you can ask for – architecture, culture, nightlife, and food
6. Mikulov: a beautiful pint-sized town set amidst vineyards
7. Lednice-Valtice: One of the most beautiful chateaus in the Czech Republic and a Wine Salon showcasing the best 100 wines in the country
8. Ostrava: The industrial town with a great music festival – Colours of Ostrava
9. South Bohemia: A region full of beautiful landscapes and world-famous heritage towns like Cesky Krumlov, Ceske Budejovice

2. Slovakia (7 days)

The allure of the Tatra mountains and rustic castles invites me again to Slovakia. I’ll be exploring off-the-radar regions of Banska Bystrica and Región Banská Štiavnica in one of the most beautiful parts of Slovakia – Central Slovakia.

3. Poland (7 days)

I’ll be travelling to three main cities – Krakow, Auschwitz, and Katowice to see World War II sites.

4. Bulgaria (6 days)

After Romania, this will be my second Eastern European country to welcome me in recent years. I’ll be spending maximum time on the Black Sea coast. Varna, Bulgaria’s third city and maritime capital will be my main stop followed by a quick visit to Sofia, the laid-back capital steeped in history.

2.     WESTERN EUROPE

There’s more to Western Europe than uber-popular cities like Paris, Berlin, and Vienna. I’ll be exploring Northern France, Northern Germany and various regions of Austria to uncover their hidden gems and unique cultures.

1. Germany (4 days)

The Vogelball music festival will be my primary reason to visit the vibrant city of Hamburg.

2) Austria (10 days):

Although Austria is not really a budget destination to explore in Europe a little bit of splurge is okay at times. This beautiful country will beckon twice – once to explore the Cafe culture of Vienna and next time to explore the adventure and cultural sights of Tyrol, Salzburg and Vienna regions.

3) France (7 days) 

French Riviera and Paris might not fall under my plan of doing budget travel in Europe but I have a solution for that too – I’ll take a detour from Paris to visit the charming cities and vibrant villages of Northern France to understand why the Hauts-de-France region is known as “France’s best-kept secret”.

3.     SOUTHERN EUROPE

1) Slovenia (7 days):

The postcard country renowned for its green cover will be my home for 10 days where I’ll be visiting Ljubljana, Lake Bled and Big Berry Kolpa River resort.

2) Croatia (9 days):

Going off the grid in search of offbeat fun activities to do in the Plitvice National Park and the Croatian capital, Zagreb. Read more about my experience and plan a trip with these two highly detailed and insightful posts: Plitvice Lakes: 10 reasons why this is a must-visit Croatia National Park and Things to do in and around Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia  Don’t forget to see the video about my experience.

3) Bosnia and Herzegovina (1 day)

Visiting the neighbouring Bosnian city of Bihac and go waterfall chasing in the Una National Park which is positioned on the border of three climate areas and is the youngest National Park in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Read more about it here or watch a video about my experience

4) Serbia (9 days)

Being a die-hard fan of Novak Djokovic, Serbia has been high on my list for a long. Besides visiting my idol’s hometown (which has been bombed 36 times), I’ll be visiting the Eastern and Western sides of Serbia renowned for archaeological, natural and cultural treasures.

5) Italy (15 days)

I had been to Italy before but this time I’ll be exploring it in a different way as I’ll be attending my first ever ‘Adventure Travel World Summit’ in Tuscany, Italy. The Tuscan countryside is like the Chianti produced there – meant to be savoured rather than gulped. While there is no dearth of interesting ways to explore Tuscany, I’ll be walking an ancient pilgrimage route – the Via Francigena Toscana. The 1300-miles long route ran in the Middle Ages from Canterbury through France, Switzerland and Italy before reaching the Eternal City, Rome.

HOW I AM PLANNING TO MAKE THIS TRIP A SUCCESS

1. WELL PLANNED ITINERARY

All the places in my journey are well thought off and have been planned almost six to eight months in advance. I’ll be working with the National and Regional Tourism Boards in most of the countries I am planning to visit. All the activities, places and experiences are carefully chosen as per my interests. While 80% of my trip is planned, 20% is left open to serendipity.

2. VISA

It is the biggest hurdle for long-term solo travellers like me whose passport is a week passport. Therefore, I focused on securing a Schengen visa first, which is valid for all European countries I plan to visit. Since I’ll be in the region for 110 days I have planned my travel in a way that I don’t exhaust all my 90 days in the Schengen region. I’ll be visiting non-Schengen countries to stay within the limits of my visa.

 Here is a list of documents I submitted for my Schengen visa:

1. Filled Visa Application form
2. Covering letter stating my purpose
3. Original Passport with photocopy
4. 2 photos as per prescribed specifications
5. Return flight tickets
6. Travel Insurance for the entire travel period
7. Local transport booking – Eurail Global Pass
8. Day-to-day itinerary for the complete period
9. Hotel bookings for the entire period
10. Invitation letters from all the tourist boards/hotels/partners
11. Last 6 months Bank statement
12. Credit card statement
13. ITR for last three years
14. Company profile and work samples

Tip: please apply at least three weeks in advance. My case was directly handled by the Tourism Board yet I almost gave up on my trip.

3. Transportation

The best way to explore Europe is through the comfort of a Eurail. And, that’s why I have taken a continuous 2-month Eurail Global Pass that allows me to travel across 28 European countries on any train/bus/ferry listed in the pass. I can board any train anytime from anywhere. Now isn’t that cool? And, wherever Eurail is not available I’ll be using private transport. I’ll also be taking a few flights to save time.

I am super excited about my solo Europe budget travel and I can’t wait to TRAVEL, SEE and WRITE for you. Have you ever done budget travel in Europe? if yes, please do share your stories in the comment section below.

Are you ready to explore #OffbeatEuropeWithTSW?

Experimenting With Panasonic Lumix GH5 at Bir Billing, Himachal

When it comes to adventure travel in India, the country is slowly but steadily rising its game. From paragliding in Bir-Billing to mountain biking in West Bengal; bungee jumping in Rishikesh to caving in Meghalaya; scuba diving in Andamans to trekking in the Himalayas; India is becoming a favourite playground for adventure enthusiasts from all around the world. Here’s my experience of Paragliding in the second highest paragliding destination in the world – Bir-Billing.

Showing is better than telling.

We all have grown up hearing this quote and I truly believe in it. So, when Panasonic Lumix Cameras India team reached out to join their Adventure excursion to the world’s second highest paragliding destination, Bir-Billing, and experience their mirrorless cameras range, I jumped at the offer. I mean can you say no to two things you love the most – adventure and photography? I bet not. The trip to the Paragliding capital of India was very well organised and packed everything I love – paragliding, hiking, waterfall chasing, camping, visiting monasteries, enjoying local food and, of course, relishing the crisp and fresh Himalayan air. Paragliding is a thrilling sport and gives adrenaline rush like no other. Here’s a detailed breakdown of my three-day adventure travel to one of the best Paragliding destinations not just in India but in the world – Bir-Billing

Day 1: Travel from Delhi to Bir-Billing

The first day was majorly spent in flying down from Delhi to Dharamshala and then traveling by road to Bir-Billing. We made several pit-stops for lunch and tea en route to our destination – the Sky Village, which is the only campsite at Billing and is right next to the take-off point. As soon as we reached the campsite, we rushed to capture the spectacular sunset which was encircling the whole valley in its golden glow.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j1pZFPrkhes&feature=youtu.be

After taking a heart full of golden and blue hour pictures, we all gathered for an evening filled with folk music, laughter, food, and drinks. It was here I first time experienced the new range of Panasonic Lumix Cameras. I was surprised by their low-light shooting capabilities and compact design, which is perfect for campsite professional like me who is always on the move.

Day 2: Adventure in Bir-Billing

The second day of the trip was the most action-packed day filled with adventures and uncertainties.

1.     Paragliding

As luck would have it, even though we were at one of the best places in the world for paragliding, the flying conditions weren’t looking good. The winds were turbulent and kept changing. My slot to fly was 7:30 am but in mountains the last word always belongs to nature. Despite bad weather, our pilots were eager to make us fly. Finally, after three hours, we were given a green signal to take-off.

The wind was strong and the sky was overcast. I was sure this wasn’t going to be one of the most elegant flights I have ever taken. Nevertheless, we got ready to face whatever comes our way. After harnessing and several security checks, I along with my pilot, started running to the edge of the mountain and suddenly the winds took hold and we were airborne. My heart was in my mouth as the ground disappeared below. I had always enjoyed my window seat view from an airplane but paragliding is an altogether different and seems magical as there’s nothing between you and the sky. It wasn’t my first-time paragliding. I had done it several times before but the experience was still exhilarating. The majestic views of sky-piercing Dhauladar range, spindly green treetops, and lustrous pagodas reminded me why I never get tired of visiting the Himalayas.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HSpcr3242Ko

After flying for 20 minutes, we safely landed at the landing site in Bir where I spent several hours clicking hundreds of parachutes landing. They came at a blink-and-you-miss speed, so I had to be really swift in capturing them. Panasonic Lumix Cameras have fast and accurate autofocus, which let me take crisp and clear pictures. One feature I really loved was the Dual-Image Stabilization and Post Focus of Lumix GH85 that enabled me to choose which object I wanted to focus after taking a picture.

2. Tibetan culture immersion

Besides being an adventure playground, Bir is an important place to learn about Tibetan culture as it is a home to a large Tibetan exile community. The lower half of the village is known as Tibetan Colony and there are several Buddhist monasteries, Gompas, and institutes like Deer Park Institute in and around Bir, where you can spend from few hours to several months. The must visit monasteries are Sherabling and Chokling.   Monastary at Bir-Billing, Himachal, Incredible India

3. Hiking and waterfall chasing

Just an hour away from the main town of Bir lies the Chobin waterfall. If you are a nature lover, you’ll love hiking down to the waterfall and taking a dip into the refreshing sapphire green waters of the lake. But make sure to return before the sunset as the area is not lighted enough and the track gets slippery with the dew and falling leaves.

Day 3: Travel from Bir-Billing to Delhi

Like the first day, the last day was majorly spent in traveling from Bir-Billing to first Dharamshala and then to Delhi. As always, I was a little sad leaving behind my favourite abode – Himalayas.

How Panasonic Lumix Cameras enhanced my experience

I used Lumix GH5, GH5S, G7, and GH85 in all my adventure excursions in Bir-Billing and found them extremely user-friendly and easy to carry. With features like 6K Photo I could capture moments which could be missed in a blink like paraglide landing and birds flying. I often struggle with low-light conditions and Lumix GH5S worked brilliantly.

Also, since I am a solo traveller, the compact and lightweight design of Panasonic Cameras turned out to be a sure shot winner for me. The lenses were half the size of my current camera – Canon. Most importantly, when I compared the price of Panasonic Lumix mirrorless cameras with other brands in the market, I found them extremely cost-effective.

One feature that I thought was missing from the range was full frame. But I am sure Lumix will soon come out with a camera that is mirrorless as well as full frame. I am seriously thinking to upgrade to Panasonic Lumix Cameras. Related: Do check out the best camera for travel photography

Practical travel tips for paragliding in Bir-Billing

How to reach You can either fly from Delhi to the nearest airport at Dharamshala or take a direct bus to Bir. Best Time to Visit The best time to visit is March-June and October-December when there are no rains and the weather is pleasant. Approximate Cost INR 3500- INR 5500 (approx)

Things to keep in mind while trying adventure travel in India

1. Fly with an experienced pilot only. Check their flying experience before flying
2. Do not wear open shoes/sandals/ flip flops
3. Make sure you are harnessed well and wearing a sturdy helmet
4. Do not take off, if the winds are too harsh or too mellow
5. Do not take a hearty meal before flying. You could feel nauseatic
6. Make sure you are not suffering from any chronic disease, if you are, please inform your pilot
7. Follow the guidelines of your pilot and don’t argue with them. They know their job more than you do
8. Smile towards the camera. You don’t want to look grumpy in your flying video
9. Don’t wear jewellery or carry expensive gadgets
10. Run as fast as you can towards the edge. Don’t worry about falling. The winds will take you off before you fall

Other Paragliding sites in India 

While Bir–Billing is the best location for amateur or professional paragliding, there are a lot of other sites spread across India, where you can enjoy flying with the birds:

1. Manali: Paragliding sites are peppered around Manali like Solang Valley, Fatru Mountain, Gulaba, and Nagger Road
2. Bilaspur: Offers good wind stability and gliding across the Gobind Sagar Lake
3. Sanasar: Located at 19 km from Patnitop in Jammu district, Sanasar offers vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas and conifer trees
4. Nainital: Take a flight from the Naukuchiyatal and soar over the beautiful hills of Naina, Deopatha and Ayarpatha
5. Ranikhet: Approximately 12 km away from the main town, on the road to Goluchina area, Ranikhet is ideal for beginners
6. Pithoragarh: Set in the Kumaon district of Uttarakhand Pithoragarh is an ideal for people wanting to do 5-7 days paragliding courses.
7. Aravali Hills: Set against the rugged and picturesque backdrop of Aravali hills in Rajasthan, you can take off from several locations like Jaipur, Jodhpur, Bikaner, and Kota
8. Panchgani: Located in the Satara district of Maharashtra, Panchgani has some popular paragliding sites like Bhilar, Tapola, and Khingar
9. Kamshet: Located 45 km from Pune, Kamshet is a popular paragliding site in the Western Ghats
10. Nandi Hills: Located at a small distance from Bangalore in Karnataka, the beautiful hill station surely works as a soothing balm for the tired eyes
11. Arambol: One of the famous beach areas of Goa is also the best launching point for paragliding above the Kalacha Lake
12. Yelagiri: Located about 3 hours away from Chennai in Tamil Nadu, Yelagiri is ideal for weekend adventure
13. Vagamon: Located in the Idukki district of Kerala, the beautiful hill station is a dream for adventure enthusiasts who can’t travel up North
14. Shillong: A perfect way to soak in the scintillating greenery of the Scotland of the East in Meghalaya
15. Gangtok, Sikkim: Home to excellent launching ridges and sites, Sikkim is turning out to be a favourite among amateur paragliders

So, when are you booking a trip to #BirBilling? Have you ever tried adventure travel in India? If yes, I would love to hear from you.

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Disclaimer

I was in Bir-Billing on the invitation of Panasonic India. Everything expressed above is based on my personal experience and conversations I had in the region. All images used were shot by me. Please don’t use any image or text without written permission.

Hotel Review: Have you ever stayed at a hotel that completely blew your mind? Although you enter with set expectations you exit with unimaginable experiences. I witnessed the same at Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach, Dubai. Here’s my review of staying at one of the best 5-star hotels in Dubai.

The first thing that comes to mind when you think about Dubai is Luxury. The largest and most populous city in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is one of the world’s most expensive, lavish and fashionable city. Its central location on the world map makes it an ideal city-break destination. You can enjoy an all-action day out in the desert, shop till you drop in the designer malls, get an adrenaline rush at Skydive Dubai, relish the old Dubai charm at Al Bastakiya Quarter or simply stroll on the Jumeirah Beach. While doing all this, don’t miss out on staying at one of the best 5-star hotels in Dubai.

During my last few visits, I have stayed at all kinds of 5-star hotels in Dubai – iconic landmark hotels, beachfront retreats with authentic Arabian architecture and buzzing spots with experimental restaurants and bars right in the heart of the action. While all hotels had something unique to offer, my experience at the Mövenpick Hotel was totally unexpected.

In a city where loud luxury is a norm, Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach comes across as a breath of fresh air. Like the country of its origin, the hotel appreciates the understated and quality of living. It creates an unforgettable holiday experience by pairing the exceptional luxury, contemporary design, and high-end service. This 5-star hotel is second to none in any department – the location, service, food, views and above all – a sense of belonging.

Here are my reasons to choose Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach over other 5-star hotels in Dubai.

WHY choose Movenpick Dubai?

Prime Location

Imagine waking up to a view of endless blue horizon hugging an emerald green Arabian Sea. Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach is ideally situated in Dubai’s Jumeirah Beach Residence close to the Arabian Gulf. Located on ‘The Walk’, it is only a few steps away from the prime beachfront mall known as ‘The Beach’ mall, which features beachfront shops, restaurants, and the UAE’s first outdoor cinema. And, in case you want to shop more, just walk for 10 minutes to reach Dubai Marina Mall or drive for 25 minutes to the Dubai Mall, the world’s largest mall.

You won’t even have to worry about missing your flight as it is just 30 minutes’ drive away from Dubai International Airport and 20 minutes from Dubai World Central-Al Maktoum International Airport. The commute is never a problem at Movenpick with 24-hour taxi service right at the doorstep and the nearest Tram station is just 500m away.

And, as you step out of your hotel you can enjoy the bustling yet relaxed resort vibes of the idyllic beachside with a contemporary Arabian touch, which is coincidentally named as the BEACH. The golden sand beach can give Boracay’s White Beach run for its money when it comes to the powdery smoothness of the sand. There’s plenty to do – from a wide selection of beachside dining and shopping to water sports such as parasailing and wakeboarding. There’s also banana boat rides and even a train for the kids to enjoy. If you’d prefer to keep your feet dry, you can take a camel ride along the beach – and all with the iconic city landscape in the background.

Award-Winning Dining Options

The four dining options at Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach combine taste, variety and vibrant atmospheres.

1.     The Talk Restaurant

For me, Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and Mövenpick knows how to delight its customers. Fresh food, elaborate buffet, interactive live cooking stations and world flavours blended in to give me an ideal kind of start I wish for my mornings. The most touching part happened when one day I woke up after the breakfast hours. However, the staff was so sweet and helpful that despite me being late, they prepared a fresh breakfast and didn’t even charge me extra. Now, aren’t these small things make a big impact on customer loyalty?

The restaurant is famous for having theme-night dinner buffets (where the theme changes daily from an Italian night to a BBQ night and many more) and the award-winning Talk & Soul Friday brunch (featuring specialty food and drinks from different countries every week). The all-day dining restaurant has an open kitchen and offers indoor and outdoor terrace seating.

2. Soul Restaurant and Bar

Being a New York lover, this stylish New York restaurant became one of my favourite during my stay at the hotel. Relishing the vibrant flavours here made me undertake a culinary journey through the finest “foodie” neighbourhoods of Manhattan. The food that I had here sounded common but was finger-licking good in taste. I am not a fan of tomato soup but I couldn’t stop gulping when I sampled the one made here with roasted tomatoes, brown onions, tomatoes juice, basil pesto, salt, and pepper.

The crab salad made with Jumbo lump crab, Australian avocado, ripe mango and sweet melon dressed in passion fruit dressing still brings back delish memories. My friend who enjoyed Short Ribs said he never had better ribs before than here. My exquisite meal was complimented with Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon red wine.

Thanks to Chef Valerie, Restaurant and Lounge Manager Nadia Moujahid and the restaurant Captain Laxmi, I had a great evening dining at the al fresco poolside of the Soul Restaurant and Bar. It is a place I would recommend to anyone who loves good food and great ambiance.

3. Layali Sisha Pool Lounge

This seductive and sizzling outdoor lounge comes with over 30 different shisha flavours, an a la carte mezze menu, live charcoal BBQ and Saj bread stations, complimented with oriental tunes. The contemporary poolside cabanas make the setting even more romantic at night.

4. West Beach Bistro & Sports Lounge

If you are a sports fan like me and don’t want to miss the game of your favourite team or player, head to West Beach Bistro and Sports Lounge, one of Dubai’s favourite sports bar. The multiple screens, the longest Happy Hour on the Walk and a pool table for entertainment will keep you hooked for the night. The bar is open seven days a week and is on first come first serve basis.

 5. Others:

1. Mövenpick coffee and ice cream are served at the Falls Lobby Lounge & Terrace, ideal for a variety of light refreshments throughout the day.
2. A comprehensive room service menu is also available 24 hours a day for those who prefer to dine in the privacy of their room or suite.

Awards, Ratings, and Reviews

Staying true to its brand promise of ‘making moments’, the hotel very well know that small gestures make a big difference to people. Their Swiss roots and brand philosophy of ‘doing ordinary things in an extraordinary way’ has brought them a lot of success and accolades. Year-on-year the highly rated hotel has been winning awards and customers love alike. Upon searching online I hardly came across any negative review about the property. Here are some of the awards they have won lately.

Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach, Dubai won/nominated following awards:

• Country Winner 2016, 2017, 
• Continental Winner 2017 
• Middle East’s Leading All-Inclusive Resort 2018
• Dubai’s Leading Business Hotel for consecutive seven years since 2012

WHAT do you get?

Rooms

As I walked into my Executive lounge on the eighteenth floor, I was greeted with sumptuous surroundings, mood lighting and exceptional views of Dubai seaside. There were 294 well equipped, and superbly comfortable rooms and suites with balconies and sea view. In the white, brown and golden tones, my room appeared very therapeutic in nature. I am a huge fan of service with an additional personal touch and I was delighted to find a welcome reception basket comprising of a beautifully hand-made Swiss chocolate basket, fresh fruit basket and a fruit wine. Along with this beautiful reception, I had an exclusive access to the Executive Lounge that came with benefits of breakfast, afternoon refreshments, evening drinks and canapés, newspapers, and business services. The lounge had an outside terrace with views of the Palm Jumeirah.

I had a very relaxing stay in my My 70 sqm suite that came with a king bed, a spacious living room and a private balcony in both the rooms. The best part about my suite was the en-suite bathroom that came with a separate bathtub and walk-in shower. Other in-room facilities included free high-speed internet, air-conditioning, a working desk, a safe, LCD TV, tea and espresso making facilities and the well-stocked minibar. A beach kit (a towel, an umbrella and a beach mat) was also available on request at the public beach counter.

Hotel Amenities

Let me warn you beforehand – staying Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach is spoiling yourselves with the sophisticated Swiss luxury. The sense of belonging is so much here, you wouldn’t ever want to leave. While I have already discussed many of the Hotel facilities above, let me talk about few other things that stood out for me.

Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach cares not only for your wellbeing but for your kids too. That’s why besides an outdoor pool there’s a kid’s pool as well. You can grab a coffee at the café located in the main lobby or relish the world famous Mövenpick ice-creams. The property also has a nearby snack bar/deli. You can enjoy your drinks at any of the 2 hotel bars or at the poolside bar. Public areas are well equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi. You can use the business centre, a limo/town car service and a meeting room. Event of any scale can be organised in smaller conference rooms or in a 5920 square feet area. Here is a list of all the facilities available at the hotel:

• Library
• Free valet parking and a Free shopping centre shuttle
• Limo or Town Car service available
• ATM/banking
• Outdoor pool and a poolside bar
• Snack bar/deli and Coffee shop or café
• Rooftop terrace
• Gift shops and shopping on site
• Beach towels, pool umbrellas and sun loungers
• Billiards table
• Fitness facilities, steam, Sauna and Spa treatment
• 24-hour front desk
• Tours/ticket assistance, luggage storage and concierge services
• Children’s pool and Babysitting (on surcharge)
• Dry cleaning/laundry service
• Free Wi-Fi
• Conference and banqueting facilities
• Business centre and three stylish meeting rooms
• Multilingual staff

Optional extras

• Fee for full breakfast: AED100.00 per person (approximately)
• Fee for the in-room wired Internet: AED 100 per night (rates may vary)
• Airport shuttle fee: AED250 per vehicle (return)
• Rollaway bed fee: AED100.0 per day

Caveats

1. As a state rule, you are required to pay a Tourism fee of AED 20.00 per accommodation, per night.
2. You cannot bring outside guests to your room.

Staff

The best part of Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach is its signature Swiss service. The staff remembers you by name and are genuinely warm, helpful and professional. Their personal touch is of a different class. Whether it was Louana who handled my booking or the front office staff who suggested me a cheaper way to commute than using a taxi, the servers at the restaurants who remembered my meal preferences or even the housekeeping staff who kept my room spic and span; everyone made me feel at home. Interacting with them was like interacting with a family.

HOW to book?

You can book directly on the hotel website Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach or you can also book through a third-party website like tripadvisor.com or booking.com

They have a lot of exciting offers to choose from like the Summer sunrise, Stay & Save, Your family summer stay, Your summer couple’s retreat, Go Weekend, All-inclusive Package, Romantic Retreat and Spa-rkling Escape amongst many more. Before booking, don’t forget to glance through those. The offers start at as low as 338AED and go up to 1700 AED.

Have you ever stayed at Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach or any other best 5-star hotels in Dubai? If yes, I would love to hear from you.

(more…)

Whether it’s a quick business trip to a city less than two hours away or boarding a long-haul transcontinental journey, a good or a bad flying experience can set the tone for the rest of your trip. Here’s my experience of flying both Srilankan Airlines Business Class as well as Economy from Delhi to Colombo and back.

 I would rather fly on a budget than spend money on a more comfortable but an expensive flight

I don’t waste my money on expensive flights and hotels

Flights are just meant to transfer you from one place to another. Why waste my money on them? But when I fly on work, I insist to fly only on a full-service carrier. 

These are some of the usual responses I get when I ask people about their preferences for flights. Low-cost airlines have definitely changed the game and democratised the flying experience, which was a privilege of few before the no-frill airlines entered the scene – 70s in the US, 90s in Europe and 2000s in Asia. However, with the competition sky-high in the aviation industry, there is not much difference in the fares of the budget and full-service carriers. And, I always say that paying a bit extra for added comfort is not an expense but a wise investment. Also, my experience with an airline doesn’t begin at bag drop – it begins online when I book my flight. A comfortable journey in the air directly impacts your next day. So, I always choose comfort over saving a few bucks.

I recently flew Srilankan Airlines Business class. Here is what I experienced.

Perception

Honestly, I had heard very little about the airline before I started planning my trip to Sri Lanka. Additionally, being an Asian Carrier, I wasn’t expecting much from the airlines. I thought Srilankan Airlines would be either worse or at par with other Asian Airlines (except Singapore Airlines, which is in a different league altogether). I was mentally prepared for having bad food, congested seats, and late departure.

Reality

I was super delighted with their service and it set a beautiful precursor to my unforgettable trip to the island nation.

Ground Experience

Despite having a long queue of customers and serving at an odd hour i.e. 2:30 am, the ground staff was very warm, courteous and checked in with a big smile. The check-in was quick and flawless. Luckily, I was flying Business Class so the process was even smoother. There was a separate entry for business class.

Business Class Experience

As I boarded the plane, a hostess with 100 watts CFL bulb smile wearing the country’s national costume, the osariya based on the pattern of a peacock welcomed me with both her hands held together close to the heart and softly said “Ayubowan”(the word used in Sri Lanka to greet someone).

I kept my luggage in the spacious overhead cabin and comfortably settled in the reclining seats that could fit a person double my size. The welcome continued with the amazing drink choices and warm towel. And that was just the beginning of the amazing service to follow, their food and beverage collection was impressive.

1)    Food

I ordered a vegetarian meal prepared with lip-smacking Sri Lankan curry flavours. There was also a provision to pre-order meals in case you have dietary restrictions.

2)    Entertainment

At the back of the seat, there was a state of the art AVANT in-flight entertainment system with the latest blockbusters from Hollywood and Bollywood, and a collection of classics and favourites. I felt I was sitting in my living room with a 15.4-inch screen with over 50 TV channels, 120 movies, an extensive library of audio CDs and radio channels, and many games for all age groups.

There was also a USB outlet to charge your phone or iPad. Headphones were noise-cancelling so you really get transported into your entertainment zone. I usually fill up my movie quota during my flights but it was an odd hour of flying and I hadn’t slept for a second in the last 48 hours, so I decided to give my eyes a bit of rest and be in the dream world by listening to the soothing instrumental music playing on the noise-cancelling headphones provided by the Sri Lankan Airlines.

3)    Business Class Lounge

Along with the Business Class travel, comes the added benefit of Lounge Access at Colombo. I was a bit late reaching the airport, therefore, I couldn’t spend as much time at the Lounge as I wanted. Located on the first floor of the departure hall at BIA, overlooking the Aircraft Parking Bay, “Serendib” is an exclusively branded SriLankan Airlines Lounge for its most valued premier customers. There was a good variety of food like pasta, loaves of bread, curry etc. to choose from. Also, a big bonus was the complimentary 15 min massage sessions. All the stress of airport walking and carrying around bags vanishes with the most rewarding foot massages and Ayurvedic balms. Unfortunately, I had to miss this one too.

Economy Class Experience

While returning from Colombo, the flight was completely booked and I couldn’t get a business class, so I flew in Economy. The experience was good. Although, I did feel a bit cramped in the seats, which is common for flying economy with any airline. I was flying early morning, so I gave my dinner and in-flight entertainment a miss.

The landing and cabin service was fantastic. The icing on the cake was the magical sunrise with cloudscape from my window seat at 37,000ft above ground level. The majestic rays illuminated the horizon in yellow-orange light and the fluffy clouds danced in choreographed steps.

Final Verdict

Having flown on some of the best airlines, I have experienced more luxuries, better gadgets, and amenities. However, when it comes to hospitality, Sri Lankan Airlines Business class can match any top carrier with its warm hospitality. And, it wasn’t just business class, even in the economy, the staff made sure my journey was comfortable.

Have you flown with Srilankan Airlines Business class? How was your experience? I would love to know your thoughts.

PS: In my next article I am going to share my experience of visiting the Pearl of the Indian ocean and how every nationality that has visited and traded over the years has left its mark – the Dutch, Portuguese, English, Arabs, Malays, Moors, and Indians.

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Disclaimer

I went to Sri Lanka on invitation from Srilankan Airlines with Outbound Konnections. The views expressed above are mine and based on my personal experiences. All the photos posted are either clicked by me or provided by the airlines.

It was one of the most arduous days of the lung-burning and nerve-fraying Everest Base Camp Trek. Despite wearing heavy layers a frosty, thin and crisp air was pricking me all over the body. The urge to turn back was Everest-high but something caught my attention. ‘The World’s Highest Irish Pub’ signboard at the entrance of Namche Bazaar stared right into my eyes. Dusting my fatigue off, I rose from the ground like some undead, iron-legged avenger. Reaching the Irish Pub at the dizzy height of 3,440m was the hardest I have ever worked for a pint of beer. But then Irish Pubs are no ordinary pubs and finding one at such a remote place was no coincidence.

Some countries send you a signal to tell you that it’s time to visit them. Three months later, I was in the birthplace of Pub Culture – Ireland. I was intrigued to know what makes an Irish Pub so great that over 80% of the tourists visit Ireland in search of Irish “Craic”. There must be something special about them that there are over 7000 Irish Pubs in over 53 countries from Mongolia to Iraq, Australia to Canada, Bolivia to Russia.

Pub inextricably linked with Irish life

When it comes to a great pub, Ireland wrote the book. The pub has been at the centre of Irish life since the 10^th century. Nowhere in the world pubs have played so many roles: funeral home, restaurant, grocery shop, music venue, job centre and meeting place for everyone from poets to revolutionaries. Often basic and unpretentious, it is a neutral ground, a level playing field – a home away from home. The story of the Irish pub is the story of Ireland itself.

With a basic question in my mind “What makes an Irish Pub so great?”, I visit pubs of all shapes, sizes, and styles. A quest that takes me from North to South, East to West, from bustling bars in Dublin to quiet hole-in-the-wall taverns in coastal fishing villages and from traditional Irish living room bars to Victorian salons.

A place to enjoy Irish “Craic”

My pursuit begins from Killarney, a charming town in the South of Ireland set amidst the sublime scenery of emerald lakes, cascading waterfalls and lush woodland beneath a skyline of 1000m-plus peaks. As the evening unfolds, I venture out to enjoy some “Craic” (the Irish word for fun) at the Murphy’s Bar, a centrally located family run traditional Bar since 1955.

I take a moment to appreciate the lively and homely character of Killarney’s beloved Public House (that’s where the word “Pub” comes from) matched only by its coveted reputation for good food and traditional music. Its stone built walls, wooden beams and local historic decor create a conventional-meet-contemporary atmosphere which attracts locals and visitors alike. Its extensive menu is a dream come true for foodies – you can choose from the traditional dishes like Beef and Guinness Casserole, Irish Stew to fresh seafood like Kerry Mussels. The must haves are the homemade desserts and fine Irish cheese varieties. I walk in as a solo traveler but end up making a lot of friends.

There are no strangers here, only friends you haven’t met yet

This famous quote by Irish poet William Butler Yeats must have referred to an Irish pub. With the evolution of time, the Irish pub has evolved into a global institution that’s synonymous with hospitality, camaraderie and, most of all, community. As I sip my Guinness, Tom Kennedy, who runs Experience Ireland Golf & Travel company, joins me and explains what makes an Irish Pub so great,

One word really, the “craic”! It’s tough to quantify this, is it the people that frequent the pub or the atmosphere or the quality of the pint you are served? Is it live music, or the welcome you receive from the locals and the staff or that random stranger who will chat to you for hours at the bar about even more random topics? It’s all of this really, plus a roaring turf fire as well!

After enjoying an evening of the delish food, interesting conversations and live Irish music over few pints of Guinness, I call it a night.

Irish Pub exudes an unrivaled character

Next day begins with a visit to one of the prime destinations on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way – the Dingle Peninsula. A sleepy town brought to limelight by its legendary resident – ‘Fungi’ – the dolphin who made the town his home over a quarter of a century ago. Dingle tugs my heart with its splendid seacoast vistas, pristine beaches, rugged mountain passes, deep green valleys, colorful little towns, lively fishing ports, and of course great Irish Pubs. Pubs that made Dingle a center of literary and creative culture. Music plays long into the night, and festivals are held throughout the year.

As I relish the stunning views of Dingle Harbour from the cozy setting of Boatyard restaurant and Bar, Peter McMohan, an executive with Failte Ireland, adds to my topic of interest,

Irish pubs are known for a great character – and nightly sessions of traditional music and lots of “craic”. Even if it is pouring rain, Ireland will warm your heart with its convivial pub houses. Here new acquaintances are made, old friendships are rekindled and family lore is passed on to new generations.

On our way back to Killarney, we take a small break at the Dingle Whiskey Distillery, an artisan distillery that rekindled the tradition of independent distilling in Ireland. Two hundred years ago, this small island had over a hundred officially recognised distilleries; by twenty-first century there were just two. Dingle distillery was established to revive a dying tradition. Now, isn’t that a testament to an Irish Character?

More than a Place to have alcohol

Irish pubs go beyond alcohol as they are the melting pots of social encounters, in which all social ranks come together. At the time of the Irish Revolution, bars became the springboard of social movements giving everyone a voice. Pubs in the Emerald Isle carry distinctively Irish flavor that is not limited to alcohol, age, gender, status or any other bias. A fact further expounded by Sarah Dee, the Global Digital PR & Content Marketing Head, Ireland Tourism. She beautifully narrates,

The Irish pub is never just a place to grab a pint. It’s the heart of the community, where family and friends come together (children are allowed until 9 pm, as most places serve food, too). It’s where local stories flourish and grow, where legends come to life, and where the craic flows freely. Interested in Titanic? How about meeting a ghost? Whatever you’re in to, in Ireland, there’s a pub for that. 

Pubs in Ireland are not limited to “craic” alone but are a talent breeding ground too. Interwoven into the country’s cultural, intellectual and social fabric, they are what Vienna’s coffee-houses are to its golden age, or the classic cafes of Paris are to its great period. Many great writers like James Joyce, Samuel Beckett, Oscar Wilde and Brendan Behan got their inspiration in Literary Bars. When I ask Sarah for a recommendation, she says

A must-visit is Grogan’s of Dublin where from regulars nursing their favourite stout, to the city’s most talented young writers and artists – you’ll meet more than a character or two. With no TV or stereo (and no plans to install one, either), the air buzzes with chat and laughter. Grab one of their legendary toasties, made with succulent ham and gooey melted cheese, and watch the world rush by!

And, it’s not just literature that has gained from the Pub Culture. The Traditional Irish Music and Dance has penetrated the most impermeable walls of the world. Musicians and dancers have found unwavering support in these unusual institutions of creativity. Musicians of all kinds come together for sessions where anyone can join in at any time.

When my effervescent guide, Barbara, takes me to the Merry Ploughboy Bar in Dublin for a “Trad session” (musical evening) combined with a ceilidh (traditional Gaelic dancing), I have no clue what I am in for. Later I discover the Merry Ploughboy Bar is the only pub in Ireland owned and managed by Traditional Irish Musicians. For more than five hours I swing and sing to the tunes of the award-winning traditional Irish Dance and Music show while enjoying my three-course meal scrumptious dinner.

So, what makes an Irish Pub so great?

Dublin architect Mel McNally who started the Irish Pub Company that designs, manufactures and installs authentic Irish Pubs and Bars globally believes authenticity is the key to a successful Irish pub,

Authentic design; authentic Irish food; authentic Irish beverages; Irish music and entertainment; and employees and management training ‘the Irish way’.

Pubs are the heart of the Irish social scene, and whether you’re a teetotaller or a beer-guzzler, they should be a part of your travel here. Even Barrack Obama, the ex-President of the United States, couldn’t say no to sláinte!

So, when are you going to experience the great Pub Culture in Ireland?

10 must visit Irish Pubs in Ireland:

1. Cobblestone, Dublin: Great Trad Music
2. Long Hall, Dublin: Listed Victorian-era bar
3. Merry Ploughboy, Dublin: An award-winning Irish Music & Irish Dance show
4. Sean’s Bar is a pub in Athlone: Ireland’s oldest pub dating back to AD 900
5. Johnnie Fox’s, Glencullen: Ireland’s ‘highest’ and one of the oldest pubs
6. Shire, Killarney: Lord of The Rings themed pub
7. Murphy’s, Killarney: Family owned traditional Irish Public House
8. M. Reiddy’s, Killarney: Famed for quirky interiors with little nooks and crannies
9. Matt Molloy’s, Westport, Mayo: Owned by renowned flutist Matt Molloy of the Chieftains
10. O’Connell’s, Galway: A traditional-style pub with tons of energy

10 Irish pub etiquettes

1. Rounds Culture: If someone buys you a drink, buy them one back
2. Ordering: Order your round before glasses are 1/2 empty
3. Dress Code: Dress casually but avoid sneakers
4. Don’t take no for an answer: The Irish will tell you they don’t want food or drink even when they do
5. Drink choice: Choose your first drink wisely as it will likely be what you will be drinking for the rest of the night
6. Payment: Pay the bartender as soon as you receive your drink. Cash is always preferred.
7. Tipping: Isn’t expected but always appreciated
8. Drinking: Sip your pint, don’t chug it
9. Conversation: Strike up a conversation. The pub is the social hub for a reason.
10. Revel in craic: Enjoy slagging (making fun of someone), don’t be a moaner

Interested to know more about Ireland, don’t forget to read

Things to know before you visit Ireland

Why visitors never want to leave Ireland

Have you been to this beautiful island nation? What things did you do in Ireland? I would love to know your thoughts.

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A section of this story has been published in several publications like:

1. Food and Wine
2. The Hindu
3. Sakal Times
4. DB Post

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Disclaimer

I was in Ireland to attend TBEX Europe 2017 where I was a featured Speaker. I was hosted by Tourism Ireland. Everything expressed above is based on my personal experience and conversations I had in the country. Images used are either shot by me or provided by Ireland Tourism with due permissions.

Australia Travel Guide: Things to see and do in Melbourne

When the London journalist George Sala conferred the title ‘Marvellous Melbourne’ on a visit to the city in 1885, the down under city was the biggest and wealthiest city in the British Empire after London. Ever since the phrase struck a chord with everyone. And, it comes as no surprise why the ‘Queen of the South’ has been named the world’s most liveable city consecutively for the record 7th time by the Economist.

The second largest city in Australia (after Sydney) is both dynamic and cosmopolitan. On one hand, it is Australia’s sporting and culture capital and on the other hand, it is recognised as a UNESCO City of Literature. Known as a leading financial city in the Asia-Pacific region, Melbourne is home to some of the Southern Hemisphere’s best art, food, and music. The city grows on you like a fine wine – from timeless trams to stroll-worthy laneways binding you in the social fabric and culture of the city. No one ever wants to leave the city and if reluctantly they do, they leave with a promise to return soon. So, let’s find out what’s so enchanting about ‘Marvellous Melbourne’ that tugs your heart. 

THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN MELBOURNE

Discover hidden laneways and culture hotspots

Melbourne has something for any culture hound, from the majestic National Gallery of Victoria to the colourful graffiti-filled laneways containing some of the best street art in the world. From weekly festivals to quirky fashion shows, there is always a show, exhibition or performance going on. One thing that shouldn’t be missed at any cost is its artistic graffiti laneways. Walk into any famous laneway and you’ll see droves of the camera-wielding crowds snapping graffiti, and art installations.

And, why not? The hive of the bustling, creative laneways of Melbourne are iconic and form the throbbing heart of the city. Unused laneways have been given a new lease of life by transforming them into trendy hole-in-the-wall cafes, famed restaurants, astonishing bars, stunning art galleries, covert boutiques and a larger than life canvas for street artists. It’s a crime to leave Melbourne without paying homage to these modern temples of creativity – the ACDC lane, Hosier Lane, Centre Place, Flinders Court, Union Lane, Presgrave Place, Russell Place, Stevenson and Tattersalls Lane, Drewery and Sniders Lane and Blender Lane.

Additionally, it’s not just the laneways that are given a facelift. The city is equally passionate about maintaining, restoring and sharing its heritage and culture. The beautiful old arcades sandstone heritage listed buildings, decadent theatres, and old government buildings are well taken care of and are open to the public. Near the historic Flinders Street Station in Melbourne’s Central Business District (CBD), the decade-old Federation Square has become a hotspot for performances and cultural events. The square is now considered one of the world’s best public spaces hosting more than 2,000 events a year.

Cheer with the fans at Sporting Events

It’s not the high-rises that will catch your attention when you first land in Melbourne but the sporting culture that is the lifeblood of the city. Melbourne is officially recognised as the sporting capital of the world and that explains why ‘Sports Business’ named Melbourne as the Ultimate Sporting City in 2006, 2008, 2010 and 2016.  Here, the sport is not passively watched but passionately worshipped.

In fact, sporting events have nearly as many public holidays allotted to them as religion – everyone gets the day off for the Melbourne Cup horse race and the Friday before the AFL Grand Final! Attending the Boxing Day Match at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is as revered as a Christmas midnight mass. Melburnians are passionate about AFL football, cricket, and horse racing, while grand-slam tennis and Formula One car racing draw visitors in droves.

So, when you book your ticket to down under, do take a look at the annual sporting calendar of Melbourne. Some of the key events are the Australian Open, Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix, the Boxing Day Test, the Spring Racing Carnival and the AFL Grand Final. The city is also home to superb state-of-the-art facilities like the MCG, AAMI Park, Etihad Stadium and Melbourne Park.

Savour the Culinary Delights

Melbourne is a serious culinary hotspot, with everything from burger joints to posh restaurants. The influence of multiple waves of immigration can be felt at every level, from the city’s longstanding obsession with coffee to a European drinking culture, to a lifelong affair with the flavours and spices of Asia. Basically, any kind of food you want, Melbourne has it. Whether you’re craving for modern, traditional, exotic or homespun flavours – Melbourne’s eclectic dining scene will satiate your hunger with a startling array of the world’s greatest cuisines.

Ethnic communities have settled together in some areas, and as a result there’s a neighbourhood for each cuisine – head to Victoria St in Richmond for Vietnamese food, Lygon St in Carlton for old-school Italian, Balaclava for Jewish bakeries, Fitzroy for Spanish, Brunswick for Lebanese, Footscray for African and Chinatown for Asian cuisine.

And, when it comes to dining, drinks can’t be left behind. Being close to the wine region, Melbourne serves up some of the best quality wines in the world. Try wine at St Jude’s Cellar where bare-bricked walls are stacked with myriad wine bottles.

Shop till you drop

There are certain cities that can turn even non-shoppers into shoppers. Melbourne is one such example. There are bargains galore at the inner-city outlets – DFO South Wharf, Harbour Town Docklands. If you are looking for designer bargains head outside of the city on Bridge Road, Richmond and Smith Street in Collingwood. Between the bargains, haggling and hidden treasures, markets in Melbourne are a must-visit for tourists. For the largest open-air market in the southern hemisphere visit the historic 140 years old Queen Victoria Market. For vintage trinkets, knickknacks, and hot jam donuts visit Camberwell Market and for one-of-a-kind, artistic creations take a stroll through Rose Street Artists’ Market.

Shopping is therapeutic in Melbourne where the laneways and historic arcades are pieces of artwork themselves and exploring them is like going on a treasure hunt. You can either explore them on your own or join a shopping tour and shop till you drop at warehouses, outlets and little-known boutiques.

Enjoy fun moments at the river or the beach

The meandering Yarra River is the undisputed social heart of ‘Marvellous Melbourne’. Lined with restaurants, shops, and footpaths the banks are always bustling with action. The banks of the river have many barbecue and picnic facilities, fishing platforms, and jetties. You can either take a boat ride, go on a picnic stroll or enjoy a meal with a view at Southbank’s entertainment precinct.

In addition, there are trails and paths for the cyclists, walkers, and joggers. Also, Yarra River functions as the backdrop for numerous spectacular events like the famous Moomba festival, Rowing Regattas, the Melbourne Festival and Dragon Boat Festival.

Melbourne is gifted to have so many beaches right on its doorstep. Drive six kilometers south-east of the city and you reach the St Kilda Beach. Travel further down the coast and you’ll reach Dendy Street Beach which offers panoramic views of the city and is home to Brighton’s historic bathing boxes.

Get a taste of the Great Aussie Outdoors

Few cities are as perfectly positioned for day trips as Melbourne. In an hour to a day’s drive out of town, you can find yourself watching wild penguins and koalas, admiring world-class wineries, rejuvenating at thermal hot springs, walking through ancient rainforests, or relishing the spectacular Grand Ocean Road views.

The jewel attraction of Victoria, Great Ocean Road, is best explored over a couple of days; however, if you only have a day, you can still take in the highlights of the eastern end of the route.  Other must visit places are Mornington Peninsula for pretty seaside villages, superb wineries, fine hot springs, great restaurants and a whole lot of golf, Philip Island to join the penguin parade when hundreds of little penguins come ashore at Summerland Beach after a day swimming at sea and Yarra Valley to savour the world-class wine and wildlife.

Related: Wanna read more about the Philip Island? Don’t forget to check out the Penguin Parade on Philip Island.

When to go 

While Melbourne is an exciting destination to travel throughout the year, it is most fun during the summer months of December to March. The weather is pleasant and warm – perfect for sightseeing and other activities. However, be warned, it’s best to always take a pullover and an umbrella wherever you go. It won’t be wrong to say you can see four seasons in one day here. Interestingly, ‘Melbourne’s temperamental weather’ inspired the Crowded House to come out with a hit song Four Seasons in One Day.

Getting around

It’s very easy to see all of the city’s best attractions, sporting venues and shopping precincts by trains, trams or buses. All you need is a myki card and you’ll be ready to travel around the city. Downtown is pedestrian-friendly, with one of the world’s most extensive tram networks. The City Circle tram is a free tram that travels around the city in both directions taking you to the tourist hotspots. Melbourne’s tram system connects the CBD with the city’s suburbs and there are many dedicated bike paths and bike lanes on the roads.

Have you been to Marvelous Melbourne? I would love to know your experience.

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Malindo Mag:  Cover Story for the Month of May 2018

Hey, can you suggest a place for Asia travel that is well connected internationally, cheap to fly, convenient to explore, ideal for budget travel, offers worldclass activities and is fun for everyone?

This is a common question I am often asked when solo travelers, groups, couples or families start planning their Asia travel. And, my answer is mostly Malaysia. Wonder why? Here’s the answer.

After spending a considerable time exploring South East Asia, I can confidently say Malaysia is a culturally rich nation that reflects a blend of Asian, European, Malay, Indian, Chinese and other cultures. The country has beaches that can rival the best in the world, and its choice of gastronomic offerings is truly legendary. Often overlooked in the shadow of its popular neighbors such as Indonesia and Thailand, Malaysia, is truly Asia. However, it would be a mistake to miss out on Malaysia that boasts of bustling cities, rare wildlife, incredible temples and mosques and rolling green tea plantations. Nowhere else would you come across such diversity of landscapes and culture! Also, being a technologically savvy nation, it offers easy online hotel booking. If  this side of Asia Travel is on cards for you, don’t forget to visit these 6 must-visit places in Malaysia:

1) Petronas Twin Towers

Completed in 1998, Petronas Twin Towers are like twin wonders. Located right in the middle of the Kuala Lumpur city, the twin towers comprised of a complex of conference halls and office buildings. They also boast of an upmarket shopping complex and a sprawling 50-acre park. Petronas Twin Towers are connected at by a 58-meter long double-decker Sky Bridge at the 41st and 42nd floors.

2) Genting Highlands

Drive from about 45 minutes from the Kuala Lumpur for a quick getaway in Malaysia. The nippy hill station is immensely popular because of its outdoor theme parks and Vegas-style casinos. Stay at Genting highland hotel to get a fantastic experience and great vacation. Roll the dice at the exclusive Casino and ride the world’s fastest – cable car system. Hike through jungles or take part in indoor rock climbing to keep the adrenalin rushing.

Penang

Penang Island is one the most popular destination in Malaysia. It is a fascinating mix of eastern and western influences and is able to embrace modernity while clinging on to its colonial traditions. Georgetown, Penang’s capital, is a well-preserved heritage building and is a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. Dominated by Chinese storefronts, Georgetown boasts of refurbished Chinese manors, swanky shopping complexes as well as artsy boutiques, cafés, and rowdy pubs. It is a good idea to get up early and make a trip to all the popular attractions in Penang such as the Habitat on Penang Hill and the Kek Lok Si Temple.

Cameron Highlands

Cameron Highlands is located near the central part of the country. A suggestive of the English countryside, it is a joy to explore the lush green rolling hills in the countryside that are dotted with Tudor houses. Make a trip to Malabar Tea Plantations which is one of the most popular tea plantations and offers a great viewing platform. Enjoy tea tasting along with factory tours. Hike through the jungles and enjoy the nature around. One can go strawberry picking and enjoy more fun activities in the area. Tourists love the cool surroundings and opportunities for hiking.

Mount Kinabalu

If you are looking for the highest mountain in Malaysia, then it is none other than the Mount Kinabalu with a 4092 meters summit. There is no snow at the summit, but th4e temperatures are a lot colder when compared to sea level. The mountain in Borneo Malaysia and the closest city near the mountain is Kota Kinabalu. It is indeed an incredible experience to make a trip to the summit and create some wonderful memories.

Malacca City

Another must see in Malaysia is the Malacca City, which oozes with history and culture. The capital of Malacca State is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The colonial city attracts visitors because of its amazing architecture, great food options, and Night Markets. One can see the influence of Portuguese and Dutch in this historical city. It is also home to the well-known Nyonya cuisine Visit the St Paul’s Church and Famosa Fort as well as the official residence of the Dutch governor, Stadthuys. Today, Malacca has become one of the most sought-after destinations because of its many historic attractions.

Have you been to Malaysia? I would love to know your thoughts.

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Kolhapur to me stood for the Mahalakshmi temple, Kolhapuri Chappal, Spicy Mutton and Lavani dance. On a beautiful spring morning when I alighted from the Deccan Odyssey luxury train as a part of India Blog Train initiative by Incredible India, I had no idea that a new name was going to be added to the ‘must do’ list.

After walking through the monumental gateway in a cobblestone Plaza, I got busy capturing the atmospheric old town quarter around the Mahalaxmi Temple. In the middle of an unceasing tide of humanity, I heard a roaring voice along with sounds of Dhol-Nagada (drum) and Shankha (conch shell). My feet started following the music and I reached a performance area encircled with spectators hypnotized in a hair-raising performance of an ancient Indian martial art.

A woman draped in a Maharashtrian Saree and a kid tied to her back was fighting a gang of 7-8 men. Her sword and body moved with the speed and agility of a leopard. With a raging red face and piercing eyes, she looked like a splitting image of Rani Lakshmi Bai in a battlefield. I reminded myself this wasn’t a scene from an action movie where multiple retakes and Computer Graphics make an action scene but I was witnessing a real-life Mardani Khel performance in Kolhapur. An ancient Indian martial art practised majorly in Maharashtra.

I had my heart in my mouth when I saw lemons, green chillies and coconuts shredded precisely from the middle placed on the neck, stomach and forehead of the performers. One miss and a life could have been lost. I was trembling with fear but there wasn’t a strand of anxiety in the eyes of the performers. They had literally put their lives in someone else’s hands. From sword gladiators, bamboo stick warriors, fire guzzlers to dagger fighters; I had never seen so many brave men, women and kids using weapons so swiftly and elegantly.

The most interesting thing about this ancient Indian martial art performance was seeing three generations of men, women and kids from 80 years to 3 years of age joining in unison to put together a show of Maratha valour, precision and pride.

Claps were not enough for such a riveting ancient Indian martial art performance. Goose bumps and tears joined the applause.

The Origin

The bloodcurdling performance had piqued my interest to know more about this ancient Indian martial art form, so I probed Madhav Rathore, the Deccan Odyssey Train Manager who had been organising this performance for several years.

Mardani Khel is a weapon-based Maharashtrian Martial Art form, which flourished under the reigns of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Shahu Maharaj of Maratha Dynasty (1674-1818. In 1700s, due to incessant enemy attacks, Rani Tarabai Bhonsle, the warrior queen and brave daughter-in-law of Chhatrapati Shivaji, asked everyone (including women and children) to be trained in this art. Kolhapur used to be the centre of the Maratha Kingdom and it became a hub for the training centres called ‘Talims’ where skilled elders prepared men, women, boys, girls, and even kids for the war

said Madhav answering my question of how this art came into being.

He further elucidated why Mardani Khel had to change for its survival,

After the revolt of 1857, the British banned the use of weapons and the ‘Talims’ were forced to turn Mardani Khel into a folk entertainment to ensure its survival. The use of weapons such as swords, lathi-kathi (bamboo sticks), kattar (dagger), bhala (javelin), veeta (darts), dand and patta (long-bladed swords) continued but the moves were made more entertaining and less lethal.

Having known the glorious past of Mardani Khel I was interested in knowing what the future holds for this spectacular ancient Indian martial art form.

The Revival

Upon further research and talking to several ‘Talim’ centres, I got to know that today many individuals and organisations are working relentlessly to keep this ancient Indian martial art alive.

One such family runs the ‘Khandobachi’ Talim in Kolhapur to practice and train new people into this ancient art of self-defence. It was this family whose martial arts performance I saw at the Plaza Performance area near Mahalakshmi Temple in Kohlapur. They rigorously train to achieve perfection in their strategic moves, techniques and 14 ways to wield a sword, sticks and other weapons. Like all good martial arts, it teaches you the weaknesses of human anatomy in attack mode.

The martial art shot to global fame when a popular British Rapper, Mathangi Maya Arulpragasam (M.I.A), of Srilankan Tamil descent came out with a new short film titled ‘Matahdatah Scroll 01 Broader Than a Border’ in 2015, which featured local girls displaying their Mardani Khel skills.

This video and the rising molestation cases in India gave Mardani Khel a new leash of life. A lot of youngsters joined ‘Talim’ centres to learn this art of self-defense. Even the Kolhapur civic body started a programme to train girls and women in this art for self-defence in the aftermath of the Nirbhaya incident. With renewed youth interest, Mardani Khel is here to stay. And, it’s popularity is not limited to Kolhapur alone. It has spread its wings to other parts of Maharashtra too.

You don’t need to be an avid history buff or an expert to love this unsung Indian martial art form, which deserves a lot more attention.

Have you been to Kolhapur or seen any Indian martial art? If yes, please do share your feedback in the comments section below.

Please don’t forget to read my detailed posts on my #IndiaBlogTrain journey with Incredible India and The Deccan Odyssey.

If you are looking to explore more of Maharashtra, do read:

Exploring the Maharashtrian Ecotourism

The best 5 places to enjoy Ganesh Chaturthi in Mumbai

Disclaimer

I was invited on the #IndiaBlogTrain journey organised by Incredible India in Feb 2018 ON 4 luxury trains – Palace On Wheels, Deccan Odyssey, Golden Chariot and Maharaja’s Express, that took 60 bloggers on a 7N/8D journey across India’s finest historical destinations spread across Delhi, Goa, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. I got a chance to experience the Maharashtra Splendor train route on The Deccan Odyssey It was a voyage that I’d treasure forever. Everything expressed above is based on my personal experiences during my visit. Images used are shot by me. Please do not copy anything without written permission. 

Romania is one of the most overlooked countries in the European Union but it is a land of unbridled imagination. A land, where reality and fantasies intermingle. Find out why Romania should be on your 2018 bucket list. Not only should you visit Bucharest but explore beyond. In this article, you will find things to know before travelling to Romania and the best places to visit in Romania.

Before October 2017, Romania meant only one thing to me – Home of Dracula. Frankly, I had never imagined Romania to be so soul-stirringly beautiful that it would become one of my favourite countries in the world. So, what brought this massive change?

My country is very beautiful and we welcome everyone who visits us. I want you to experience it yourself and share an honest feedback. Under no circumstance, I want to influence your decision. You are free to write anything you feel like. After all, love is earned and respect is gained.

That’s what Cecilia Enache, the Viadora Group MD, said when I first spoke to her about my visit. This genuineness and passion for one’s country was the first interaction that started my lifelong love affair with Romania. And, the rest is history. Romania is no more just another country. It’s become my second home now.

Furthermore, I have a thing for rural landscapes of Europe. And, Romania has some of the most beautiful villages of Europe, where the magic of old times blend with fairytale landscapes, in front of which you cannot remain impassive. The rolling green hills and pine forests of the countryside often confused me if I was daydreaming or was it actually so beautiful. The architecture and little-hidden streets of Bucharest transformed a couch potato into a peripatetic. The forests of Transylvania and Bran’s Castle brought alive my creative imaginations. And, the communist sites peppered around the country took me back to Ceausescu’s time.

In short, if you are a lover of untouched natural beauty and well-preserved culture, Romania is for you. The reasons to fall in love with Romania are limitless.

However, I am going to start with 10 reasons why Romania should be on your travel list.

1.     Home to breath-taking nature

Switzerland might have been romanticised as one of the most beautiful countries in Europe, but when I explored Romania, I was struggling to put words to my feelings. You have to see, taste and feel it in person to understand what I mean. Romania might be a part of Europe yet it feels so different from the rest of the continent. Due to its varied landscape, Romania is the most biogeographically diverse country in the European Union. With the snow-capped Carpathians, lush National parks, rolling hills carpeted with forests and vineyards, Black Sea coast protecting ancient ruins to modern beaches, and Danube Delta harbouring the largest biodiverse area in Europe; Romania has something for everyone. However, one trip is not enough. There are so many best places to visit in Romania. Despite spending three weeks in Romania, I could barely scratch the surface. 

2.     Wildlife and Hiking Dreamland

Romania is a haven for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. And trust me, Romania awards the adventurous. All you need to do is grab a backpack and pick a trail from a plethora of options available to hike in the towering mountains or rolling hills. Oh, and don’t leave out the wildlife.  The Carpathian Mountains house centuries-old forests, national parks and animals which could not be seen anymore in Western Europe and found here a final shelter. Wolves, badgers, lynx, bison, and bears can all be found. In fact, Romania is the country with the biggest number of brown bears in Europe (except Russia) – almost 6000. Here’s a great post by my friend Teresa Gomez about her experience at the Libearty Bear Sanctuary.

3.     The Legend of Dracula

If nature and wildlife are not enough for you, there’s always the folklore. Home to the legendary Dracula of Bram Stoker’s 19th-century novel, Transylvania is quite possibly the most famous place in the history of the horror genre. Although there is much debate as to the origins of the Count Dracula character and his home, many point to Bran Castle as the place to go for all those looking to play with their imagination. While the connection with Vlad the Impaler, is tenuous, the deep bond of local villagers with the legend is not.

There’s a certain excitement that comes over you when you approach the castle and when you actually get inside. To think that you’re standing at the birthplace of one of the most famous horror stories of all time is certainly enough to send chills down your spine. At the same time, there’s also an overwhelming appreciation for the sheer beauty of both the castle and the surrounding area. And, if you are looking to get a more immersive experience, don’t forget to stay at Hotel Castle Dracula where you are welcomed with blood coloured welcome drinks, a spooky performance and panoramic views of the valley.

4.     Transylvania Traction

A trip to Transylvania feels like a trip back in time. Bordered to the east by the Carpathian Mountains, ‘the land beyond the forest’ still feels undiscovered and will charm you with a rare mix of culture, untamed natural beauty, and medieval enchantment.

Transylvania is home to some of Europe’s best-preserved medieval towns, like Brasov, featuring Old Saxon architecture and citadel ruins; Sibiu with its cobblestone streets and pastel-coloured houses, and Sighisoara adorned with a hilltop citadel, secret passageways, and a 14th-century clock tower.

5.     Where Worlds Collide

Romania is full of medieval castles and old world architecture that will take you to another time. It’s also full of strong reminders of the Communist era, many of which aren’t so aesthetically pleasing. Bucharest is full of massive Communist buildings that remind visitors about the grim reality of a beautiful nation. You will also see parts of the country that are brand new. Renovation and new construction are constant. The combination and contrast of the three worlds can be fascinating.

Walking around Bucharest gives you the feeling of being at an intersection. The clash of old and new is not awkward but fascinating. You grow to appreciate the clash and contrast. One moment you could be discussing the masterpiece of communism, The Palace of the Parliament, the next moment you could be having a conversation at a cool cafe next door or walking through the Instagrammable Umbrella Street.

6.     Welcoming People

Whether it was Raluca saying, “Check your buddies” or Georgiana Atanasiu making our day bright with her million dollars smile and green eyes, Romanians leave no stone unturned to make you feel comfortable. They are very friendly and welcoming hosts. I suggest you spend some time hearing stories from older Romanians about life in Communist era, the transition and life as an independent nation. Of course, having a Romanian guide/friend like Stephen from Walkabout Free Tours will make it a lot easier. And, some lucky ones, like me, even get a privilege to travel with Zazou, the Happy Dog 🙂

We don’t always think of people as being attractions for history buffs, but some of the best experiences in Romania will come from people as opposed to museums or landmarks. Once again, the time machine feeling is hard to escape when a new friend is telling you about life under the Communist Era.

7.     Traditional Romanian Clothing and Culture

One of my favorite memories of Romania is the traditional attire that becomes more and more common as you distance yourself from urban centers. It’s colourful, unlike almost anything you would find in Western Europe, and clearly made with painstaking attention to detail. And, Romanians would really love, if you dress up like them.

I still can’t forget the day we attended a traditional Romanian Wedding at a small village called Sibiel in Sibiu, where we all dressed up in traditional outfits and witnessed a wedding ceremony. Participating in local cultural events or festivals is the best way to become a part of a new place rather than being a fence sitter.

Related: Unheard of Easter Traditions of Romania and Slovakia

8.     Hearty, Homestyle Food

Romania can be a bit tough for vegetarians as it is primarily a meat-eating country. However, potato. mushroom, cheese, and polenta lovers are in for a treat. The food here is neither too fancy nor too basic. Think more along the lines of homemade plates that fill you up to the way five-star restaurants never do. It’s the perfect kind of food for travellers who show up starving after a full day walking the streets of a city or hiking through the woods. Romanian food is simple and filling.

Food like Mamaliga cu branza si smantana (Polenta with Cheese and Sour Cream), Sarmale (Cabbage Rolls), Zacusca (Vegetable Paste), bread and salt (a traditional Romanian custom showing that the guest is welcomed) has a way of creating an emotional connection with visitors and that’s certainly the case in Romania.

9.     Buzzing Bucharest

Bucharest is not only a history magnet but appeals to culturephiles too. Plenty of small, hidden cobblestone streets will lead you to excellent cafes. The cafe experience in Paris is, considered to be the gold standard, but in the back of your head, you know hundreds of thousands of tourists have sat in the same place and seen the same sights. A cafe in Bucharest feels much more personal and if you’re like me, you’ll take pleasure in the laidback culture. You must visit Bucharest to feel the infectious vibe of this city and the stunning places to visit in Bucharest will definitely take your breath away.

And, as the night befalls, you’ll see Bucharest in a completely different light. Partying in Romania is of a different level – goes on until 11 am the next day with a continuous flow of super affordable booze. Yes, you heard it right. Whether it’s going out clubbing or attending a music festival, the atmosphere rarely disappoints. Bucharest is, of course, the best spot if you’re looking for good clubs.

10.  Low Costs

Is Romania expensive? Not at all. It will cost you a fraction of whatever your friends are spending in France or Italy. You might not get all the flash and fanfare, but you’ll certainly dodge the crowds and return home with some money to spare. But don’t think you’re getting less out of your trip! Romania offers a world of adventure for those adventurous enough to seek it out.

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As I am driving from Campulung towards Maramures in the Eastern Carpathians of Romania, the green carpet of the Bucovina’s forested crest mesmerises my eyes. The fluffy clouds try hard to kiss the Golden Bistrița River. But the most striking feature on this route is the ‘museum village’ of Ciocanesti, which was declared as the cultural village of Romania in 2014.

The walls of about 600 houses exhibit traditional motifs found on painted eggs in an array of shapes and colours. Time and place seem irrelevant in front of the charming houses and the Museum of Dyed Eggs, which houses over 1,800 rare valuable items. Looking at my excitement, my Romanian friend Cecilia Enache of Viadora Travel, asks me to visit Romania during Easter holidays saying,

Easter is the most important festival in Romania as 96% of the Romanians are Orthodox Christians. Many traditions are woven around Easter and it is considered as the Crown of all the feasts. This festival reminds us that death is not the last and final word. After all, death was defeated by Jesus through his Resurrection.

Before I visited Romania and Slovakia, I had no clue how big Easter is in this region. Here are some of the rare customs and traditions I discovered:

Decorating and Tapping of Easter Eggs

The most important and widespread Easter tradition in Romania is decorating the eggs – you will find them in every house, at every Easter meal, at each church and even at picnics. How the eggs are decorated varies from one region to other. The decorated eggs are always present on the Easter table, and everyone participates in the egg tapping competitions.

As I walk through the Ciocanesti village which organizes a National Festival of Decorated Eggs, my local friend cum guide Raluca Veres of Downshift Travel sheds light on the Easter Eggs tapping tradition,

People who knock eggs on the first day of Easter will see each other after death. The first person who taps the egg must say, “Christ has resurrected” (in Romanian, ‘Cristos a înviat’), while the second one goes “Indeed, he has resurrected” (in Romanian, ‘Adevarat a înviat’). The belief is that the person whose eggs are unbroken will enjoy the longest life.

While strolling through the village, I see a giant Easter egg in the middle of community ground which piques my interest to see the actual process of decorating an Easter Egg. Deep in the heart of Bukovina, in Vama I visit an Egg Museum and Workshop run by a world-renowned artist, Letitia Orsivschi.

In the museum, there are over 7,000 decorated eggs from 80 countries in different shapes, sizes and designs: bird eggs, reptile eggs, large-sized and small-sized eggs (emu, nandu, turtles, crocodile, flamingo, geko, ostrich, partridge, sparrow, pigeon eggs) and porcelain eggs among others. I was lucky to see Mrs. Letitia Orsvischi herself demonstrate the painstaking art of decorating eggs. It is a highly technical job that requires a lot of hard work, patience, and a special skill.

Feasting on the special Easter Meal

If there was a prize for loving the lamb, cheese, and cozonac the most, Romania would win hands down. Anda Maxim, the Co-founder of Pura Vida Hostel shares the details of what makes an Easter meal so special,

The main star of our Easter meal is lamb meat, which is served with a traditional dish like drob. Easter meal involves a large variety of Easter bread and cakes. We bake “pască”, a delicious bread made with cheese, cream and raisins. Another Easter special is “Cozonac cu Nuca” a sweet bread made with raisins and walnuts. A loaf of cozonac and a few red eggs are usually the alms gift, a traditional give away which is believed to feed the souls of those who have died.

While Romania celebrates Easter in an orthodox way, it’s neighbour Slovakia does it in a quirky style.

Whipping and Pouring Water on females

It’s my third day in Central Slovakia and I am exploring the fairytale-like little town of Bojnice. This small little town might have a population of five thousand people only but it packs a punch when it comes to national attractions like the country’s oldest zoo, one of the oldest spa towns, and the most visited castle (Bojnice Castle). My guided tour of the 12th century Gothic and Rennaissance styled Bojnice Castle takes me back to the romantic Medieval Period. Looking at the grandeur of the Castle I am not surprised to know why it has appeared in so many international films and is a base of an annual International Festival of Ghosts and Monsters. While I am soaking the mesmerising beauty of this charming little hamlet, my Slovakian friend Andrea Malatova of Bojnice Travel narrates a beautiful Easter story from her childhood,

Bojnice looks extra beautiful during Easter Holidays as it signals the arrival of Spring. But Easter gave me a lot of grief when I was a kid (jokingly) because my naughty brother would pour a bucket full of icy cold water when I would still be in my bed under the pretext of following an Easter tradition. The funny part was that he would get rewarded for this action.

Erik Sevcik, the owner of Adventoura Slovakia, further adds to Andrea’s point on why Whipping and Pouring Water on Easter Monday is one of the most beloved traditions in Slovakia:

This tradition is believed to bring health and beauty to the females.

Like Romania, Slovakia has its other specials too – Wired Easter eggs and Easter bread called ‘paska’.

Do you know about any unique Easter tradition? I would love to know your thoughts.

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A section of this story has been published in following Publications:

Sakal Times: Celebrating Easter

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Disclaimer

I was invited to Romania to attend Experience Romania & Experience Bucharest. I also visited Slovakia at the invitation of Slovakia Travel. Everything expressed above is based on my personal experience and conversations I had in the countries. Images used are either shot by me or provided by my local contacts with due permissions

 

Whenever somebody spoke of a road trip, Ladakh came to my mind. But after going on a road trip to Meghalaya in India, I realized Ladakh has stiff competition. The coldest desert in the world might be more popular than the North Eastern jewel state, but a road trip to Meghalaya will leave you speechless. This ‘Scotland of the East’ has incredible nature, Living Root Bridges, the wettest place on Earth and Asia’s cleanest village and a lot more.

Nestled amid Assam and Bangladesh, Meghalaya offers the panoramic landscapes, misty hills, cascading waterfalls, serpentine rivers, terraced slopes, and adventures that are hard to match.

Here are my reasons why you should go on a road trip to Meghalaya aka “The Abode of Clouds.”

Caving

Meghalaya has the largest number of caves in India – more than 1,200 caves with over 460 km of cave passages. The Khasi, Garo and Jaintia Hills in Meghalaya have some of the longest and deepest cave systems in the world, with most being limestone and sandstone caves. Each cave is different from another. Once I was inside, in that eerie silence, with a slight drop in the temperature and with my torch lighting up the pitch darkness, I saw life from the cave’s point of view.

It is an experience worth putting on your bucket list, and any person with moderate fitness can do it.

Zip Lining

Zipline becomes a soulful experience when you swoosh through the stunning Mawkdok-Dympep Valley carpeted with lush green foliage. But make no mistake. This zip line is not for the faint-hearted as it stretches to a total length of 2600 feet at a dizzying height of 1200 feet. However, I wasn’t worried about the safety as the activity was supervised by experts and the highest industry standards were followed when it came to safety gear.

Travel tip – try the zipline at sunset. The whole place lights up in the golden dust of the sun.

Camping and Kayaking

Imagine yourself camping on a river bank with a sky full of stars. Welcome to Schnongpdeng, a camping site on the coast of the Umngot River near Dawki. After a musical night, I started my day by kayaking in the crystal-clear water of the Umngot River, which is the cleanest river in India. The water was so sparkling clear that I could see the bottom of the river and it looked like the boats were floating mid-air. One thing that I missed doing was cliff jumping. Maybe next time.

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Living Root Bridges

When I first heard about Meghalaya, the jaw-dropping Living root bridges came to my mind. The bridges are made by the villagers, who organize the roots of rubber trees to go through the capillaries of bamboo, to bind together and form a solid bridge over rivers. The method is hundreds of years old; it takes almost 40 years for a bridge to get build. And, once it’s built, it lasts for many hundreds of years. As long as the tree it is formed from remains healthy, the bridge will naturally self-renew and self-strengthen as its component roots grow thicker. Now isn’t that the most amazing example of bioengineering?

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Asia’s Cleanest Village

As I walked through the spic and span streets, flanked by neat rows of flowerbeds and clean courtyards at Mawlynnong, I couldn’t believe I was in India. This village has been declared ‘Asia’s cleanest village’, where each home has a functional toilet and bamboo dustbins lining the streets. Plastic bags and smoking are banned in the village. Villagers are extremely polite, friendly and well educated. Wish every village in India was like Mawlynnong!

Meghalaya might be small in size, but it packs a punch when it comes to adventure. So, just take your car out, rev up the engine and soak in the mesmerizing beauty of Meghalaya. However, before starting your epic road trip, make sure your car is empowered with the best car battery that requires zero maintenance and guarantees full peace of mind. I have been using Amaron for some years, and it hasn’t failed me in my adventures. Be rest assured with a dependable partner on your side, your ordinary journey will become a journey of a lifetime.

Are you a fan of road trips? If yes, I would love to hear from you.

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Sometimes the quest for one particular experience leads to multiple, unexpected lessons and riches. Rediscovering the history of Delhi Sultanate was one such multi-layered pursuit of the bygone era, culture and gastronomy. While researching for the story, I walked through time from the fourteenth century Fort city of Tughlaqabad to savouring the spice trail of the 17th century Shahjahanabad.

Decoding the rise and fall of Tughlaqabad

For years, Tughlaqabad Fort had been at the top of my ‘Places to visit in Delhi’ list, but somehow, I kept missing it. However, it finally happened on a soothing winter morning. I decided to give my Gobhi ka parantha (Cauliflower bread) and adrak waali chai (ginger tea) a miss to explore the ruins of the imposing Tughlaqabad Fort. A fortified city, which was a dream of Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq, the first ruler of the Tughlaq dynasty.

At 7:30 am, along with my historian guide, Kanika, I walked into the gigantic stone structure, with sandstone walls stretching up to 10-15 metres high. Despite being reduced to a tumble-jumble of intricate fortress walls and bastions, the massive, formidable structure with sloping walls and archways spoke highly of the architectural skill of that era. It was built in a short period of four years (1321-25) as a stronghold against the marauding Mongol attacks. The 6-km long irregular rectangular Fort has two parts – the citadel and palaces on the southern side and the city on the Northern side.

Merciless winds of change, weather fury, enemy attacks and unruly encroachment might have killed the city portion but the citadel and the walls of palaces are still intact, silently retelling the stories of the past. I spent a few hours strolling through the ruins frozen in time imagining how life would have been when it was abuzz with life.

My chain of thoughts was broken when Kanika, my historian guide, narrated a legend associated with the Fort.

Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq had made it mandatory for all the workers in Delhi to be employed in the construction of his fort. But at the same time, the Sufi saint Nizamuddin Auliya was building a baoli (step-well). The baoli work of Nizzamuddin stopped midway as there was no labourer available in the city. An angry Nizamuddin cursed Tughlaqabad: Ya base Gujar, ya rahe ujar (May this be inhabited by herdsmen or remain unoccupied).

Following this curse, it is believed the Empire could not prosper and the fort-city was soon abandoned. Kanika continued,

What we see here is just half part of the Tughalaq jigsaw puzzle. The remaining pieces are hidden in Daulatabad.

Until then I didn’t even know a place like Daulatabad existed. I was intrigued to find out more. And, as luck would have it, in February 2018 I got to visit Daulatabad Fort, thanks to ‘India blog Train’ initiative by Incredible India. I was on a seven-day train journey on Deccan Odyssey exploring the offbeat splendour of Maharashtra and Goa. On my third day, I visited Daulatabad where the missing parts of the Tughlaqabad jigsaw puzzle came together.

In 1327, Muhammad bin Tughlaq, the son of Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq, decides to shift the capital from Delhi to Devagiri (which he renamed Daulatabad), 1242 kilometres to the south in Aurangabad District. The reason to shift was its central location ideal to rule entire India while being safe from the incessant Mongol attacks.

said Rane, my historian tour guide. He further added,

What seemed like a perfect plan on paper was a non-starter. Daulatabad had water scarcity and the people suffered severely. After eight years, the Sultan realised his mistake and the capital was again moved back to Delhi. But neither the city nor its people could recover from this uprooting. Also, he did not return to the abandoned Tughlakabad as he was convinced it was a cursed city. He built and moved to a new township called Jahanpanah.

Finally, I was able to decode the story of the ‘rise and fall of Tughlaqabad’. However, another important chapter of the history of Delhi Sultanate was still left untouched.

Digging the roots of Chaat culture in Shahjahanabad

After unravelling the mystery of the rise and fall of the Tughlakabad, it was the turn of finding the roots of Chaat culture in the Old Delhi founded as Shahjahanabad in 1638. My countless trips to Delhi 6 in search of good food has made me a pro in navigating through the labyrinth of haphazard maze of narrow streets crammed with cars, hawkers, motorcycles, rickshaws and porters. However, this time I am here on a mission to find the origins of the Chatapata Food culture that has graced the halls of Mughal Darbar to Lakshmi Mittal’s daughter wedding.

At 10:45 am, I met Shikha of Food Tour in Delhi at the Chawri Bazar Metro Station in old Delhi. She had already warned me a day in advance to come empty stomach as we would be tasting at least 14-17 dishes from 7-9 food joints in 4 Hours of the old Delhi food tour. After walking for a few minutes, we reached Shyam Sweets, a 118 years old Indian snack shop that claims to have served since Mughal Darbar times and where Jawahar Lal Nehru was a regular. Standing at an open-air eatery around a small round table, Shikha ordered Bedmi & Kachori (lentils & peas) with potato curry, Nagori halwa (crispy puri made with semolina and paired with semolina sweet), Samosa and Sweet Lassi for us.

But before we could relish the lip-smacking Indian snacks of old Delhi market, she explained how our ancestors worked their magic around Delhi street food. The recipes were designed keeping in mind how our tongue reacts to three canonical tastes – salty, sour and chilli. She says,

Never judge any dish without taking three bites. In the first bite, only salty senses are activated, in the second tangy senses get active and in the last one the chilly hits you. Our ancestors knew how to harness this knowledge by coming up with combos like Bedmi & Kachori, samosa and chutni to make the flavours work better together.

During the rest of the old Delhi food tour through Chawri Bazar, Chandni Chowk, Spice Market, Kucha Pati Ram and Kinari Bazar, I religiously followed the rule of ‘Three Bites’ and enjoy my food a lot more. We listened to the back stories of flavours and food from each hole-in-a-wall outlet we visited. The tales sounded better when we gobbled down delish street food like Fruit Sandwich, Bread Pakora, Kulhe (watermelon) ki Chaat and Alloo Chaat, Rocket Chickpea curry with kachori, Pomegranate & saffron pistachio Kulfi, Cholla (Chickpea curry) with bhatura & kulcha cooked in old and new styles, Rasmalai, Rajma Chawal and flavoured Rose Almond Lassi.

In between enjoying the scrumptious Old Delhi chaat, Shikha talked about the debated ‘origin of chaat’,

While there are many theories, it is believed Chaat was created in the royal kitchen of Mughal emperor Shahjahan’s palace. In those days, the Yamuna water was not safe for drinking. The royal Hakim (emperor’s doctor) instructed to kill the effects of unsafe water by consuming food which was very spicy and oily but light on stomach. This marked the advent of Chatpata food culture in Delhi!

After four hours of immersion in the frenzy of Shahajahanabad’s colours, vivacity and irresistible charm my trip has come to an end but not before I gulped down a Patiala glass of Almond Rose Lassi at Amratsari Lassiwale in Chandi Chowk, old Delhi.

Hope you enjoyed learning about the history of Delhi Sultanate as much as I did exploring it. If you want to know more about the cities of Delhi, I highly recommend reading ‘City of Djinns’ by William Dalrymple or read Eight Cities of Delhi.

Have you been to the twin cities of Delhi or Dualatabad? If yes, please do share your feedback in the comments section below. What are your favourite things to do in Old Delhi?

Please don’t forget to read my detailed posts on my #IndiaBlogTrain journey with Incredible Indiaand The Deccan Odyssey.

Looking to read more about Incredible India. do check out:

• Why women in Kolhapur are learning an ancient Indian martial art?
• Visit Sikkim: The Indian Shangrila
• Why should you go on a road trip to Meghalaya in India
• Offbeat Leh-Ladakh road-trip to the third pole of the world
• Offbeat Goa: secret things that only locals know
• Pondicherry: A potporry of different worlds
• Exploring the Maharashtrian Ecotourism
• The best 5 places to enjoy Ganesh Chaturthi in Mumbai

Disclaimer

I was invited on the #IndiaBlogTrain journey organised by Incredible India in Feb 2018 ON 4 luxury trains – Palace On Wheels, Deccan Odyssey, Golden Chariot and Maharaja’s Express, that took 60 bloggers on a 7N/8D journey across India’s finest historical destinations spread across Delhi, Goa, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. I got a chance to experience the Maharashtra Splendor train route on The Deccan Odyssey It was a voyage that I’d treasure forever. Everything expressed above is based on my personal experiences during my visit. Images used are shot by me. Please do not copy anything without written permission. 

Ireland is a land of incomprehensible beauty where beauty and serenity, laughter and music come together, wrapped up in myths and legends, and sprinkled with fairy dust and little people. Last year, when I returned from Ireland after attending the TBEX Europe 2017 conference held at Killarney, someone asked me about my experience. This is what I said,

The Emerald Isle feels like an old friend who greets you with warmth and, love no matter when you drop at his place. He’ll always welcome you with a big smile and best food. Most importantly he’ll treat you like you are at home.

That’s how this inside-out beautiful windswept land makes you feel. The Island has a long, rich history and a modern, progressive Eurozone economy. This unique combination makes it a tourism magnet. No wonder 10.65 million visitors visited Ireland in just ten months of 2017. Ireland may be 47 times smaller than the size of India but it packs a punch when it comes to delighting its visitors. Here are the things you should know before you visit Ireland:

When to Visit

With mild temperatures and frequent showers, you can visit Ireland at any time of the year. Best, perhaps, are the months of March to May and September to November, as the weather isn’t as cold as during the winter months. However, you can save a lot of money by visiting Ireland during off-season months – October, November, December, January, February, March.

 Ireland’s Climate

What to pack

Ireland is known for being very green, and that means plenty of rain! Rainfall has become a part of Irish life. The weather conditions can change quickly in Ireland. One minute it’s sunny and warm, the next minute it’s pouring rain. Therefore come prepared and bring along plenty of warm and rain clothes like a sweater, scarf, hat, rain jackets and umbrella, even if it’s summer. Ireland is all about walking, so don’t forget to pack a pair of comfortable shoes.

What to see

Don’t try to see everything in one trip. Pick a few sections and go slow. Be realistic with your itinerary. The coastal roads are quite windy and narrow, so you have to go slow. What looks to be an hour on the map can actually take up to 3-4 hours if you make a few stops for photos. Choose your area of interest and stick to it.

• Popular Towns and Cities: Dublin city, Cork, Galway, Belfast, Derry/Londonderry, Killarney
• Less Well Known Cities and Towns: Kilkenny, Sligo, Kinsale, Armagh, Westport, Waterford, Limerick
• Scenic Routes: The Ring of Kerry, The Dingle Peninsula, Donegal, Cliffs of Moher, the Burren, Giant’s Causeway, Connemara
• Castles: Blarney, Malahide, Ross
• History: The Hill of Tara, The burial monuments at Carrowmore, County Sligo, Grianan Fort in County Donegal, The National Museum and Trinity College in Dublin

Where to eat & drink

Ireland was once infamous for its food but now you get the freshest produce right from the island itself. Here are some of my favourite places to eat and drink:

• Dublin: Aqua Restaurant in Howth, Dalkey Duck in Dalkey, Merry Ploughboy, Malahide Castle and gardens, Angelinas Restaurant, the Church, Guinness Storehouse and Temple Bar
• Killarney: Celtic Whiskey Bar & Larder, Murphy’s Bar, The Brehon, John M Reidy, Muckross Garden Restaurant, the Shire
• Dingle: The Boatyard restaurant, Murphy’s Ice cream, Dingle Distillery
• Kerry: Treyvaud’s Restaurant, Celtic Whisky Bar & Larder, O’Neills The Point Seafood Bar
• Further reading: Food trends in Ireland

Where to stay

You’ll always find a space to spend a night in Ireland, as there are more than 3,500 places to stay across Ireland, including Irish Home B&Bs, hotels, guest houses, self-catering, hostels, camping, glamping, pods etc. I stayed at the following places

Aghadoe Heights Hotel, Killarney

A luxury five-star hotel & spa overlooking the Lakes of Killarney and Aghadoe Church and Cemetry. The service, food, facilities, location…everything was top notch. Don’t you feel special when you get personal attention? And, that explains why it has won over thirty awards in recent years. What impressed me the most about Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa was its gold standard personal service. I always felt welcomed and well taken care of whether it was at the restaurant, gym or concierge. Kudos to Trish Covarr – Director of Sales and Marketing and her team for doing such a stellar job.

One caveat: it is slightly away from the heart of the city. But the panoramic views straight from your window more than makes up for it.

Portmarnock Hotel & Golf Links, Dublin County

Tucked away in a quiet corner of ‘The Velvet Strand’, one of Ireland’s most stunning stretches of uninterrupted coastline – the historic Portmarnock Hotel & Golf Links was once the family home of the Jameson Dynasty. It’s tastefully done, the lawns are great, rooms are well furnished and comes with a great view, in-house bars and restaurants serve delish food. When staying here don’t miss their award-winning Spa and two award-winning Restaurants – 1780 and the Jameson Bar. The best thing about this hotel is its location. You step out of your door and find yourself on the Spansa Beach, a 5 miles long pristine sandy beach perfect for sunrise jogging or romantic sunset stroll. The hotel is well connected to the neighbouring picturesque fishing villages of Malahide and Howth. Also, Dublin City Centre and Grand Canal Dock are less than a 25-minute drive away.

If you want to explore unique Irish accommodations and restaurants, try Ireland’s Blue Book, which is a collection of Irish Country House Hotels, Historic Manor Houses, Castles and Restaurants located throughout the island of Ireland. I couldn’t personally experience it but heard very good things from a friend who stayed with them.

What currency to carry

Euros to use in Ireland and the Pound Sterling for Northern Ireland

How to get around in Ireland?

There’s a LOT to see and do in Ireland. And, to make the best of your time, it’s better to rent a car.

Do I need a Visa to visit Ireland?

You do not need an entry visa for Ireland if you are a passport holder of the US, most European Countries, or any of these countries. However, Indians and Chinese can utilise the British Irish Visa Scheme (BIVS) to obtain a single visa for both the countries. Make sure to apply 2-3 weeks in advance. Sometimes they take a lot of time to revert.

How to stay connected?

Buy a local SIM. Preferably a data card that allows unlimited internet and local calls for a limited period. I bought Tesco Prepaid for 15 Euros, which gave me unlimited calls, message, and 10 GB data. Europe roaming was promised but it never worked for me.

TravelWiFi Ireland is another good option if you are only looking for a personal WiFi hotspot

Keep these things in mind, let your heart beat in time with the Celtic rhythm, learn the histories and tales of ancient castles, pick up some Irish words, swim, surf, fish, trek, dance and drive your way along this enchanting land. Sláinte!

Interested to know more about Ireland, don’t forget to read:

Things to do in Northern Ireland

What is so special about Irish Pub Culture

Why visitors never want to leave Ireland

Have you ever visited Ireland? If yes, I would love to hear from you.

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Disclaimer

I was in Ireland to attend TBEX Europe 2017 where I was a featured Speaker. I was hosted by Tourism Ireland. Everything expressed above is based on my personal experience and conversations I had in the country. Images used are either shot by me or provided by Ireland Tourism with due permissions

Product Review: Caught in a dilemma of choosing safe drinking water or being a responsible traveler? What if I tell you there’s a water bottle that does both? Read on to know why Water-to-Go Filter Bottle is different from all other water purification bottles in the market and how quick and easy it is to use.

I am visiting Rann of Kutch, the White Desert, in Gujarat, India for the first time. Being a last-minute packer I dump everything in my luggage without giving much thought. However, one thing I am very particular about is my Water-to-go Filter bottle. Thanks to its unique NASA technology, tested and used globally, I have got one less worry. I can fill water from any source anywhere in the world and be rest assured that I won’t fall sick. It instantly filters over 99.9% bacteria, viruses and more harmful content from water, providing safe, refreshing drinking water anywhere in the world.

Today, I am going to share why it’s become the most important part of my travels. But first, let’s rewind a bit.

It all started from London

I am attending my first World Travel Mart (WTM) London and I am feeling a bit sad seeing the amount of plastic waste generated by the mega-scale event. The pocket-size water bottles are convenient to carry but extremely bad for the environment. I try my bit by carrying a refillable water bottle but at times when I am not sure of the water quality I end up buying use-and-throw water bottles. Just when I am mulling on what can be done to solve this problem, I bump into Dominic carrying a cute little black bottle that looks stylish and seems like it can do more than just carrying water. I am intrigued to know more about it and I ask Dominic about it. That conversation changes my travel pack forever. Now I can’t travel without my Water-to-go Filter bottle. I instantly take details from him and order one for myself.

Reasons that convinced me to become a loyal user of Water-to-Go Filter Bottle.

WHAT is unique about Water-to-Go Filter Bottle?

Water-to-Go filter water bottle is different from all other water purification bottles in the market and is very quick and easy to use.

All you have to do is fill the water from any source and drink it straight from the bottle after activating the filter for 15 minutes. You can drink any water, anywhere, with no side effects or fear of falling sick. It uses unique NASA technology, tested and used globally to filter 99.9% of contaminants from the water.

Being an offbeat solo traveler what impressed me the most about the bottle is that besides removing the microbial contaminants, it also removes Chlorine, Fluoride, Lead and other harmful elements from the unsafe water. And not just that, it even allows the beneficial minerals to pass through, leaving you with the healthiest water possible.

I used my Water-to-Go Filter Bottle for 3 months almost exclusively whilst in India, Sri Lanka and the Middle East filling up from taps, standpipes, hotel bathrooms and on a couple of occasions from streams, rivers, and canals.

HOW does Water-to-Go Filter Bottle work?

I take pride in claiming that it’s hard to impress me. Having worked as a marketer for over a decade, I don’t blindly believe claims like ‘space programme technology’ and ‘developed by NASA’. While the product has been independently tested by three different laboratories, and all of them have given an approval stamp, still I wasn’t convinced. They are all good but I needed to do my own research to reach a conclusion. I tested the bottle for few months, before writing this product review. Here is what I found on how the bottle works.

Water-to-Go Filter Bottle uses a unique 3 In1 Filter Technology originally developed for the NASA space programme. Three different technologies are integrated into one filter to remove over 99.9% of all microbiological contaminants in water.

1. Mechanical filtration

A very small pore size which stops contaminants passing through.

2. Electrical (by a positive charge)

Reduces the pore size even further and attracts the contaminants like a magnet would, trapping them inside the filter.

3. Carbon

Instead of using adhesives to glue the carbon particles together, (which vastly reduces the carbon’s efficiency) it is contained within the membrane, helping to reduce contaminants whilst eliminating bad tastes and odours.

To test their claim of filtering any water, I even filled it up from a muddy puddle at Rann of Kutch, and the water came out perfectly drinkable and the taste wasn’t bad either!

WHY is it perfect for travelers, commuters, and health-conscious people?

1. Handy and lightweight

Water-to-Go Filter Bottle comes in two sizes; the 75cl bottle filters 200 litres and lasts 3 months and the 50cl GO! bottle lasts 130 litres or 2 months. At the end of the period, you just change the filter and you are ready to go.

2. Environment-friendly

Each filter treats either 130 or 200 litres of water. That’s equivalent to 260 or 400 single-use plastic water bottles! The filter membrane is biodegradable and the shrouds are recyclable.

3. Cost Effective

Say bye to buying bottled water! With Water-to-Go Filter Bottle, safe and clean drinking water costs only Rs 2 (0.03 cents) per litre as compared to upwards of Rs.20 (30 cents).

4. Perfect for every day, outdoor and travel

Being a frequent traveler with a petite frame I try to carry as little weight as possible. The Water-to-Go Filter Bottle size is sturdy and good for everyday use, outdoors and travel. It’s easy to hold and comes in funky bright colours as well as transparent colour.

WHERE to buy Water-to-go bottle?

Water-to-Go Filter Bottle starts at £24.99 including one filter. Replacement filters cost £17.99 for a pack of two. Head to watertogo.eu to browse and order. Filters last 200 litres, an average of three months based on drinking two litres a day.

Get an awesome 15% off your purchase by using my exclusive Water-to-Go discount code. Enter TSW15 at the checkout to save 15%. Don’t miss out!

Have you ever used Water-to-Go Filter Bottle? I would love to know your thoughts.

Inspired? Pin these to your Pinterest boards

 

 

Ireland is a land of incomprehensible beauty where legend and reality mingle. This unique combination has resulted in visitors not wanting to leave the country. And, even if they reluctantly do, they always come back at the drop of a hat. Here’s a Complete Travel Guide on top things to see and do in Ireland.

A beautiful but a spine-chilling day welcomes me as I start exploring the world’s longest defined coastal route, the Wild Atlantic Way in Ireland. As expected, Sun has taken a rain check. Wrapped in multiple layers like an Eskimo, I get down from my bus to meet the most famous resident of Dingle. I am warned by the Failte Ireland executive, Peter,

Although, he is a very friendly host but don’t be disappointed, if he doesn’t turn up today. You know, he too can act moody at times.

For fifteen minutes my eyes keep gazing around like a love stuck puppy in a hope to see the funny guy. A bit of dejection kicks in as I start feeling my journey of 5000 miles from India may go futile. But after 15 minutes, something magical happens. He appears from nowhere and how. I not only get to see him but get a chance to even play the game of Hide-n-Seek. In case you are wondering who I am talking about. Well, this is about Fungie, a wild Bottlenose Dolphin, who visited Dingle’s Harbour in 1983 as a visitor and never returned.

And, it is not just Fungie who fell indelibly in love with Ireland, the whole world is struck with Irish Spell. This unflinching love for Ireland explains why it is officially the third most popular country searched on Facebook.

The land of luck, literature, and leprechauns has seen its fair share of famous visitors. Most come away with lifetime memories, but some take their love affair a notch higher: they buy castles, start playing the bodhran and hurling, acquire a taste for Tayto crisps, and develop a deep grá (love) for the sweeping landscapes. Only a stone can escape falling in love with this magical land, where the lush green landscape is speckled with whites from happy sheep.

It is not surprising at all to know why Charlie Chaplin made Ireland his Summer home, Victoria and David Beckham took their vows in the sweeping Irish vistas, Singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran found inspiration on the streets of Galway and Sarah Jessica Parker made Donegal her second home. The list of admirers of the Emerald Isle is long – 10.65 million to be precise. Yes, that is a record number of tourists who arrived in Ireland in just 10 months (Jan-Oct 2017) last year.

So, what is it that makes every heart sing to the tune of, “I love Ireland”? Reasons are plenty. Let me share the most important ones:

1) Breath-taking scenery of Wild Atlantic Way

I love coastal drives for their larger than life expanse and rugged views but Wild Atlantic Way is a one-of-a-kind adventure and the road trip of a lifetime. Wild and untamed, free and unbridled this breath-taking route has some of the most dramatic and dazzling coastal views in the world! You can dive into the invigorating sea swells of a stunning 2,500km stretch of coast, snuggle in cozy tucked away Irish Pubs, find sanctuary in old monastic sites, indulge in hidden gastronomic gems of ancient fishing villages or simply embrace the scenic sea-salted shorelines at your own pace.

Stretching from Donegal’s Malin Head in the North to Cork’s Mizen Head in the South, this is the longest defined coastal drive in the world with nine counties and six regions. The best way to explore this route is by hiring a car.

While I could only experience a part of this drive, here are must-visit destinations on the Wild Atlantic way:

Portsalon Beach, Co. Donegal: voted as the 2nd most beautiful beach in the world.

Mullaghmore Head, Sligo: great coastal cliffs and crashing waves that rise as high as 100ft (‘Prowlers’).

Achill Island, Mayo: Home to 5 blue flag beaches, many great walking tours, and some great country pubs.

Clifden, Galway: Nestled between the 12 Ben Mountains, the Atlantic Ocean, and bogland area, Clifden is one of Ireland’s most popular towns and is a great stop off point as you hit the halfway point for your trip.

Cliffs of Moher: The cliffs are Ireland’s most visited natural attraction and on a good day you see Aran Islands, Galway Bay and the Dingle Peninsula and Blasket Islands in Kerry.

Skellig Michael, Kerry: A 1300-year-old monastery carved into the cliff and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The island can only be reached by boat on a good day

Dursey Island, Cork: Accessible only through a 10-minute Cable Car ride (Ireland’s only cable car), it is home to some of the best sunsets in Ireland.

2) Rich History at every turn

In a country, as ancient and legendary as Ireland, there are 5000-year-old unforgettable stories waiting to be retold. If you are a History buff and love Castles, you would never want to leave Ireland. From the gothic to the stately to the haunted and the crumbling, there are castles to explore at every turn.

From Viking invaders to high kings, from monks to fleeing immigrants, from modern-day poets, saints and scholars to ramblers and fishermen; Ireland’s Ancient East pulsates with legendary tales and mighty battles. While there are innumerable sites to choose from, here are a few must-visit places:

Brú na Bóinne

40 km from Dublin in East Ireland, this prehistoric site built in 3200 B.C predates both Egyptian Pyramids and Stonehenge.

Blarney Castle

While you can find Irish castles in every county, Blarney Castle in County Cork (shown here) is one of the most visited castles in Ireland. And, when you visit don’t forget to kiss the Blarney Rock to get the gift of gab.

Dalkey Castle and Heritage Town

I travelled back in time when costumed actors entertained me as part of my guided tour of the 10^th century Dalkey Castle. I particularly liked the work of the Archer, Cook & the travelling Barber Surgeon. Being a writer I loved the Maeve Binchy and other famous Irish Writers guided walk in the streetscaped heritage town of Dalkey.

Malahide Castle

A must-see if you are staying more than a day in Dublin, this charming castle only 30 mins train journey from the city centre has been beautifully maintained and restored. The high tea is to die for.

Others

Cahir, Kilkenny and Dunguaire Castles all evoke magical visions of fair maidens, brave kings, and frightful dungeons.

3) A dream destination for Adventure lovers

Ireland is a country made to order for Adventure seekers. There is a plethora of activities to choose from – surfing, sea kayaking, paragliding, rock climbing, caving, hiking, mountain biking and walking. Being an adventure buff, it wasn’t hard for me to choose #AdventureDublin from various FAM trips offered by Failte Ireland.

And, I was super lucky to have a thrill-seeking group which had stomach for all kinds of adventure. Passing through the rugged countryside and gorgeous vistas, we indulged in all kinds of adventurous and heart-pounding pursuits. Here are some of them:

Hiking

We started with Dublin’s most inspiring hike, Cliff walk to Howth Head, with Shane’s Howth Hikes. It was a surreal experience listening to the legend of an Irish Poet around the Aideen grave while walking through the evergreen hills incandescent with autumnal leaves cloaking the woods. After a short lung-infusing walk through the woods, we reached the Howth Summit to relish the breath-taking views of the Dublin Bay.

Another trek that I really enjoyed was with Hilltop Treks, where we passed through some of the most scenic parts of the Dublin Mountains with stunning views of Dublin City and the Irish Sea.

Ziplining

Zipit Forest Adventures satiates everyone’s adventure appetite – from bite-sized chunks to weekend warriors seeking the latest adventure. But don’t take it too easy. It does require a bit of stamina to climb the treetops, cross the wobbly wooden planks, walk on wires, swing through trees in cargo nets and fly on zip lines. However, you can choose from easy to difficult circuits.

Sea Kayaking

Fully geared with the wetsuits and equipment, we started kayaking from Bullock Harbour to the Dalkey Island with Jenny of Kayaking.ie. The waves were little rough and the water was icy cold. But it was one of most enthralling experiences I had in Ireland. We crossed through the colony of Seals to reach a 6000 years old uninhabited Dalkey Island that used to be the Viking base. Even though we arrived unannounced, we got a befitting welcome from the goats, rabbits and moss carpet. And, guess what. Sun did a cameo to make us witness one of the most mesmerising sunsets of our trip.

Horse Riding

Being a Horse lover, I really had fun Horse riding in the Dublin hills with Kilegar stables. Killegar is one of Ireland’s longest established horse riding schools & livery yards, offering riding lessons, guided treks, pony camp and livery services.

Biking and Train Ride

While I preferred to explore the Malahide Castle and surrounding area on foot and road train, my friends biked through the scenic coastal route from the grounds of Malahide Castle to Portmarnock with the Irish Centre of Cycling! If you are in the area don’t forget to ride Toots, The Malahide Road Train, which is an award-winning, Hop On Hop Off, Tourism attraction with live commentary from a professional Failte Ireland Guide on board.

Hurling

At Portmarnock, I got a chance to try my hand at the traditional Irish sport of hurling, the oldest and the fastest field sport in the world, with the ball being hit at speeds up to 160 km/h. The coach from the Clash Gaelic Games helped us learn the skills of the ball (sliotar) and stick (Hurley) while sharing how culture, history, and mythology are entwined with the sport.

Segway

If you want to see the city at a relaxed but fun pace, hop on a Segway Tour in Phoenix Park, one of the largest enclosed recreational spaces within any European capital city. With plenty of highlights along the way, it’s a unique way to see the Park.

4) Unrivaled Pub Culture

When it comes to a great pub, Ireland wrote the book. After all, Ireland has been exporting Pubs (commonly referred as Public Houses in Ireland) to the world at a breakneck speed since 900 AD. While the Pub culture in Ireland has a long-standing history, at its core is a sense of camaraderie, friendship, and fun commonly referred as ‘craic’. For centuries, an Irish Pub has remained the most important social outlet for feasts, weddings, funerals, wakes, christenings, birthdays and any other celebrations you can think of.

Also, they are not just a place to have alcohol – they are a talent breeding ground. These social grounds have produced many great writers like James Joyce, Samuel Beckett, Oscar Wilde and Brendan Behan. The traditional Irish Music and Dance makes Irish Pub experience even more irresistible and authentic. Even a person like me who has two left feet couldn’t stop swinging to the tunes of “Trad session” (musical evening) combined with ceilidh (traditional Gaelic dancing).

With so much going in favour of Irish Pubs, it is not surprising to know why Ireland produces the best Stouts and Whiskeys in the world. And, when it comes to stouts, Guinness is not only the most common beer in Ireland but also something of a national symbol.

Interested to know more, don’t forget to read What is so special about Irish Pub Culture.

Here are the 10 must visit Irish Pubs in Ireland:

1. Cobblestone, Dublin: Great Trad Music
2. Long Hall, Dublin: Listed Victorian-era bar
3. Merry Ploughboy, Dublin: An award-winning Irish Music & Irish Dance show
4. Sean’s Bar is a pub in Athlone: Ireland’s oldest pub dating back to AD 900
5. Johnnie Fox’s, Glencullen: Ireland’s ‘highest’ and one of the oldest pubs
6. Shire, Killarney: Lord of The Rings themed pub
7. Murphy’s, Killarney: Family owned traditional Irish Public House
8. M. Reiddy’s, Killarney: Famed for quirky interiors with little nooks and crannies
9. Matt Molloy’s, Westport, Mayo: Owned by renowned flutist Matt Molloy of the Chieftains
10. O’Connell’s, Galway: A traditional-style pub with tons of energy

And, don’t forget to raise a pint-or two-to Ireland’s favourite tipple. The Guinness Storehouse and its St. James Gate Brewery in Dublin welcomes over 1-million visitors each year to their on-site stout producing plant. Brewing over 3-million pints daily, the Guinness Storehouse gives a behind-the-scenes look at their thirst-quenching enterprise.

5) Reel to Real life Film Locations

From Hollywood blockbusters to captivating television series, the spectacular scenery and historic buildings of Ireland have been the backdrop of more Hollywood movies than you could shake a wooden spoon at. The Emerald Isle has doubled as anything from Roman Britain to post-apocalyptic Northern England. And Dublin put on a solid make-up to substitute London, Berlin and even Boston!

Whether it is Star Wars, Game of Thrones, Harry Potter, The Princess Bride, The Quiet Man, Braveheart, Far and Away, P.S. I love you, Ryan’s Daughter or The Field; the Emerald Isle has given us some of cinema’s most enduring moments. If you are a movie fanatic like me (which I think everyone is) then you would totally love exploring Ireland through Hollywood’s lens. Movie locations in Ireland are extremely common. Thanks to tax incentives and stunning landscapes.

Here are some of the film locations you can see in real life:

• Game of Thrones has been extensively shot in Northern Ireland. Some iconic locations include the Antrim plateau, the Dark Hedges, Cushendun Caves, Murlough Bay, Ballintoy Harbour, Larrybane, Castle Ward, Inch Abbey and Downhill Strand.
• The iconic scene at the end of Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens was shot at Skellig Michael in Co Kerry
• The cliffs of Moher have appeared in Harry Potter and The Princess Bride (1987)
• One of my favourite movies – PS I Love You (2007) – was shot in Wicklow Mountains National Park, the Sally Gap, Blessington Lakes and Whelan’s Bar on Wexford Street in Dublin
• The Oscar-winning Ryan’s Daughter (1970) was shot at the Dingle Peninsula in Co. Kerry
• Another classic and an academy award winner The Quiet Man (1952), was filmed in the lush countryside of Mayo
• History Channel’s epic Vikings series is majorly filmed in County Wicklow in the east of Ireland
• ‘Hellboy II’ and Jackie Chan’s The Medallion was shot at Giant’s Causeway and Causeway Coast in County Antrim
• Michael Collins (1996) and The wind that shakes the Barley (2006), The Italian Job (1969) were all shot in Dublin
• Ancient East’s Trim Castle in County Meath was used for several battle scenes in Braveheart (1995) and in Saving Private Ryan (1998)

So, these are some of the top things to do and see in Ireland that makes every heart go ga-ga over Ireland. When are you visiting this windswept land of postcard beauty?

Interested to know more about Ireland, don’t forget to read

Things to know before you visit Ireland

What is so special about Irish Pub Culture

Have you ever visited Ireland? If yes, I would love to hear from you.

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Disclaimers:

I was in Ireland to attend TBEX Europe 2017 where I was a featured Speaker. I was hosted by Tourism Ireland. Everything expressed above is based on my personal experiences and conversations I had in the country. Images used are either shot by me or provided by Ireland Tourism with due permissions.

 

It is the last ball of the match and the entire stadium is on its feet clapping and chanting. The batsman anxiously looks up to the sky and prays. The bowler starts running towards the wicket. He wants to bowl a Yorker but ends up delivering a waist-high full-toss. The ball is mercilessly hammered out of the boundary line into the crowd.

It’s a six! The match is over. Overnight Javed Miandad becomes a Hero in Pakistan and Chetan Sharma a villain in India. Even after 22 years, this match played at Sharjah Cricket ground between arch rivals India-Pakistan, is discussed with the same fervour. Over the years, Sharjah and cricket are said in the same breath. However, there’s more to Sharjah than cricket.

The largest Emirate of UAE might not bedazzle you like Dubai or Abu Dhabi but will leave you mesmerised with its culture, archaeology, and adventure. Exploring Sharjah is like taking a heritage walk through the timeless souks, awe-inspiring museums, elegant mosques, romantic waterfront, and elegant heritage buildings. Sharjah offers innumerable attractions.

Here are the top attractions that make Sharjah the Pearl of the Gulf:

1) Culture Custodian

Sharjah is an embodiment of cultural diversity with onion-like layers representing chapters of rich and varied history, from the atmospheric streets in the Heart of Sharjah to the ancient archaeology sites deep in the desert. These treasures have led the city to be declared as the 1998 Cultural Capital of Islamic Culture and the 2015 Capital of Arab Tourism by none other than UNESCO itself.

a) The Heart of Sharjah, UAE

As the name suggests, the Heart of Sharjah sets the heartbeat of the city, reflecting its history, echoing its ethos and mirroring its spirit. Walking through the long winding alleys, I realise how committed Sharjah is to preserve and restore its heritage and culture. Planned over a 15-year period, to be completed by 2025, it seeks to revitalise the heritage district as a vibrant cultural destination by unraveling a glorious past. A district, where historical buildings are restored and new structures are constructed following the traditional Arabic Architecture.

The experience was so real, I felt I had time travelled to the 1950’s. The icing on the cake was my interaction with the senior Emiratis, who have lived through that glorious past to tell us the real-life tales over a cup of brewed Karak chai at the Majlis.

Must Visit Places

Souk Al Shanasiyah (the oldest souk in the area), Al Hisn Fort (past seat of government), Al Eslah School (first formal school), Sharjah Art Foundation and Sharjah Art Museum

b) Museums of Sharjah, UAE

Museums are the guardians of the past and nannies of the future. And, I must say both are in safe hands at Sharjah. The magnificent museums stand quietly today to retell the story of the past. There are 22 museums in the city documenting all aspects of life from the dawn of Islamic civilisation to aviation. My favourite was the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilisation that shed light on the growth of Islam and has 5,000 exquisite and extremely rare artifacts.

Must visit Museums

Sharjah Classic Cars Museum, Maritime Museum, Calligraphy Museum, Natural History and Botanical Museum, and Space center for Astronomy and Space Sciences.

c) Mosques of Sharjah, UAE

I was a little apprehensive before entering the Al Noor Mosque, which is inspired by the Blue Mosque in Istanbul, Turkey. However, all my doubts were put to rest as soon as I entered the tranquil environs of the stunning structure. With a capacity of accommodating 2200 people, it is one of the 3 mosques out of 600 mosques in the city open to the public. Not only it is a place to worship but it imparts valuable knowledge about Islamic culture.

Must do

Relish the Arabic coffee with dates after the tour

2) Archaeology Treasure 

I was so enthralled by the cultural experience in Sharjah, I had no clue a bigger surprise was waiting for me at my next pit-stop. Less than an hour’s drive from Sharjah city, a desert centre boasts of 135,000 years of human history and stunning desert-scape.

a) Mleiha Archaeological Centre, Sharjah, UAE

Along with my guide Shada, I ventured deep into the deserts of Sharjah to uncover the secrets of the region’s ancient Bedouin culture and early man’s settlement that took place millions of years back. The exhibits, interactive displays, artifacts and information points brought history to life at Mleiha Archaeological Centre history. The museum Historian Anurag Amin, gave a crash course into archaeological relevance and treasures of the region starting from the Palaeolithic Age to the late Pre-Islamic period with the Neolithic, Bronze, and Iron ages lying in between.

b) Mleiha Archaeological Sites, Sharjah, UAE

After finishing our exhibition tour, I got an opportunity to experience the actual excavation sites where the work has been undergoing since last forty years to unearth the timeless remains.

Must Visit Sites

1. Umm An-Nar Tomb located within the Mleiha Archaeological Centre premise dates back to 2300 BCE and is estimated to have housed up to 500 bodies.
2. Fossil Rock with fossil remains from 65,000 billion years old past
3. Jebel Faya Mountain has live fossils and remains from as old as Stone and Bronze Ages.
4. Mleiha Fort was part of the ancient city of Mleiha and constructed sometime towards the end of the 3rd century CE.

3) Adventure Playground

If you think being an Emirati brimming with culture and archaeology Sharjah is dull and boring, you are absolutely wrong. Sharjah completely blew me away with its adventurous side. Whether it was the Dune bashing at Mleiha or watching the nail-biting Formula 1 Powerboat World Championship race at Sharjah waterfront; the modest city satiated all my adventure cravings.

a) Mleiha Desert Safari

Two 4×4 Land Cruisers greeted us on the gates of Mleiha Archaeological Centre for the Dune bashing excursion. Being an adventure junkie, my happiness knew no bounds. Within no time, our 4X4 safaris were somersaulting in the Sharjah desert with expert drivers at the wheel. Sometimes we would soar the peaks of the dunes and within a flick of a second we would come down thumping, with sand flying in all directions.

Must visit Site

The camelback mountain where the red sand dramatically juxtaposes with a tall rock formation.

b) F1H20 World Powerboat Championship 

It is hard to imagine a quaint and culturally conscious city could successfully organise a high adrenaline event like Grand Prix F1H20World Powerboat championship. But Sharjah believes in throwing surprises. Although, the race was in its 34^th year yet it was my first time experiencing the F1 thrill on water. Watching the turbo-charged boats finish their 45 laps was a spine-chilling experience.

Must visit time

Don’t forget to visit Sharjah during World Championship Week when F1 boats and aqua bikes add action to the Khaleed Lagoon every December.

c) The East Coast for great outdoors

Sharjah is the only emirate in the UAE that stretches along the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Oman. Thanks to the 7th-century discovery of unusually pale pink pearls in the seas off the coast of Sharjah, the Emirate grew wealthy. Pearl divers once braved shark and jellyfish in hopes of surfacing with oysters. East coast is one of the most beautiful areas in UAE, with a range of landscapes from mountains and mangroves to sandy white bays. The warm clear blue waters are perfect for swimming, snorkelling, water sports, and diving.

Must visit site

Al Khan beach for water sports and beach fun

4) Wholesome Fun & Entertainment

a) Shopping

Although I am not a shopaholic, you can’t say no to Sharjah, where shopping options are abundant – from sprawling malls to traditional souks. My favourites were the Central Souk, Souk Al Arsah, Souk Al Bahar, and Souk Al Shanasiyah for buying quality goods at unbeatable prices.

 b) Food

Sharjah is a foodie’s paradise. From Turkish, Arabic, Lebanese, Asian, Italian, Iranian, Indian to Moroccan; Sharjah spoiled me with its finest eateries and cuisines. Living up to its family-friendly reputation, chefs often went out of their way to take care of my vegetarian food requirements. The places I recommend for trying different fares are Al Majaz Waterfront, Al Qasba, Al Meena Steet and Muweilah area.

 c) Entertainment

If you think being an Emirati brimming with culture and archaeology is dull and boring, you are absolutely wrong. Sharjah completely blew me away with its indoor and outdoor action. I loved exploring the Butterfly Garden at Al Noor island, watching powerboats and water bikes race at Al Majaz Waterfront, riding the Sharjah Eye at Al Qasba and strolling on the Al Khan Beach among scores of other activities I did.

 d) Festivals

The best time to visit this desert rose is during festivals when it’s completely decked up and happiness is all around. While I could only attend the Sharjah Grand Prix held in December, I would love to go back for these amazing festivals – Sharjah Light Festival (February), Sharjah Ramadan Festival (May-June), Sharjah Arts Biennial (March), Sharjah Heritage Days (April) and Sharjah Shopping festivals (January & August).

 e) Day tours

Although Sharjah has a lot to offer within its boundaries, I combined my visit by planning day tours to nearby places like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Mleiha.

With so much going on in favour of the emirate, do you still need reasons to visit Sharjah? It won’t be wrong to say Sharjah is the “Pearl of the Gulf”.

Practical Travel Tips

How to get to Sharjah, UAE

While there are a plethora of options to get to Sharjah from anywhere in the world. I flew in with Air Arabia. The flight is a budget airline, therefore, the service is as per budget airlines standards only. Make sure you carry Dhirams or dollars to buy food and water.

Where to stay in Sharjah, UAE

• Royal Tulip, The Act Hotel: a 5-star luxury hotel
• Ramada Hotel & Suites, Sharjah: a centrally located 4-star hotel

Where to eat in Sharjah, UAE

• Emirgan Sutis, Al Majaz waterfront: Turkish delights with outdoor fun
• Al Qasba: Lebanese, American or café food with Venetian canal feel
• Al Meena Street: Iranian, Pakistani & Iraqi Cuisine at budget prices

Where to unwind in Sharjah, UAE

• Enjoyment: Al Noor Island, Al Qasba, Al Majaz Waterfront and Al Khan Beach
• Shopping: Souk Al Arsah, Central Souk, Souk Al Bahar, and Souk Al Shanasiyah

When is the best time to visit Sharjah UAE

Given the city’s desert setting, the best time to visit Sharjah is from November to February.

Published on:

A section of this story has been published in following Publications:

Sakal Times: Up Close with the Pearl of the Gulf

Sakal Times: Take this Dip 

DB Post: Hummus – More than just a dip

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Related:

Shangri-La: The Best Luxury Hotel in Dubai

Offbeat Dubai: Beyond the Burj Khalifa and Desert Safari

Disclaimer

I was hosted by Sharjah Tourism but all the views expressed above are solely mine and based on my personal experiences. All pictures posted above are clicked by me. Nobody is allowed to use them without my written permission.

Looking for the best luxury hotel in Dubai? Your search ends at Shangri-La, which offers the best location, great facilities, fantastic restaurants, top-notch service, and a lot more.

Cloud-piercing skyscrapers, emerald green coastline, and the magnificent Arabian Desert combine to make this sparkling city the preferred destination for more than 16 million visitors every year. There’s arguably no place as lavish as Dubai. People go to Dubai to embark upon shopping sprees journey, or to party like there’s no tomorrow, or to pay homage to some of the most astonishing wonders of modern architecture in the world. The city is home to the world’s tallest skyscraper, the Burj Khalifa, rising high at 830m. If you go to Dubai, then it is an absolute must for you to stay at its extraordinary luxury hotels that pamper you with elegant rooms, refined international food, and extra-special amenities. Below is my experience of staying at Shangri-La, the best luxury hotel in Dubai.

In a city that strives to be extravagant, Shangri-La is an elegant retreat in a desert sanctuary. There are some hotels which simply have it all. Shangri-La is one of them. The views, the location, the food and above all – a sense of belongingness. There are 302 luxury rooms and suites, as well as an exclusive Horizon Club with special benefits. The hotel welcomed me with warm décor comprising of sleek lines and native artworks. I was spoilt for choice when it came to dining. An inspiring culinary journey I took through Asia, Europe, India and South America. And, I really loved lounging around the curved swimming pool. Here are my reasons why I recommend this place to anyone who loves luxury living.

WHY choose Shangri-La Dubai?

Prime Location

There are very few hotels in Dubai that can boast of a location and views like the Shangri-La Dubai. Located along Sheikh Zayed Road, the hotel is right in the center of Dubai’s bustling area with shopping, entertainment and wild skyscrapers just a few blocks away. It is a 15-minute taxi ride to the airport and beach. 10 minutes to the World Trade Centre, Dubai International Financial Centre, Downtown Dubai, Dubai Mall, and Burj Khalifa. The commute is never a problem at Shangri-La with 24-hour taxi service right at the doorstep and the nearest metro station is just 550m away. Also, there’s a regular free shuttle service to major shopping hubs.

Spectacular Views

One of the outstanding features of Shangri-La Dubai is the spectacular views it offers from its balcony, outdoor lounge, and rooms. Taking the lift to the top floor, I cross an exclusive indoor swimming pool and gym to reach a balcony which offers arguably the best views in Dubai. The glamorous cityscape stretches out in front of my eyes – studded necklace-like skyline, tall mirrored skyscrapers, a colourful network of Dubai’s highway system and of course the needle-like sky-piercing Burj Khalifa.

Refined Style and Character

If you are staying in a city renowned for its desert splendour, your hotel is expected to deliver the same. And, Shangri-La cuts no corner. Huge vases line the front of the building as I approach the hotel and concierge dressed in vivid red welcome me with a radiant smile. I step inside this sleek, 42-storey tower to find an atrium-style lobby with Lasvit chandeliers. At the check-in counter, I can’t help but get captivated by the striking artwork featuring hundreds of books in various languages. My check-in is quick and hassle-free. Before settling in my room, I take in a moment to appreciate the understated elegance of the hotel. Classy style exudes from every corner – pristine marble floors, matching walls, and furnishings are tastefully done in accents of gold, shimmer, and tropical floral colours.

Unmatched Spa & Wellness Treatments

Having experienced the signature Philippine Hilot Massage at Shangri-La Mactan Cebu, I am really looking forward to another session of authentic natural healing. And, I must say Chi Spa, Shangri-La Dubai surpassed my expectations. I walk through the candlelit walkway, lined with tranquil rose petal pools, to meet my therapist. She pairs the holistic spa rituals with the finest European skin care products and customise the treatment as per my body requirement. The Arabian-inspired treatments use ingredients like dates, coffee, and rhassoul mud.

Before getting the spa treatment, I relax at the whirlpool facilities and an outdoor pool. There is also the neighbouring health club where you could work out at the gym, play squash or take fitness classes.

Impressive Dining Options

I hardly dine at hotels I stay in but Shangri-La Dubai was an exception. The hotel is home to more restaurants than you could imagine and there’s something to satisfy almost every craving. The best part about the hotel is its staff – brought from the nations of each featured cuisine, ensuring a most authentic dining experience with a dash of Shangri-La’s renowned service.

Shang Palace

The signature restaurant of Shangri-La Hotels worldwide, Shang Palace, is one of the best places I ever had a mouth-watering Cantonese and provincial Chinese delicacies. I really love its vegetable dumplings, Sweet Corn Soup, Pan-fried Tofu with Black Truffle, Fresh Mango Pudding, and the unlimited fragrant green tea. Unfortunately, being a vegetarian I can’t try their highly-acclaimed Beijing Duck and yum cha.

Shang Palace, a unique fusion of a mystical Far Eastern ambiance and the finest cuisine is one place you mustn’t miss out on. During my conversation with the restaurant manager, Yuan Mao Alex, I get to know a unique fact about Shangri-La’s signature restaurant – even if there are multiple Shangri-La hotels in a city, there will always be only one Shang Palace in the city. 

Hoi An

An authentic Vietnamese restaurant run by a completely Vietnamese team will take you back to the country of flavours – Vietnam. While chef Pham Ngoc Quan works his magic in the kitchen, his charming sister Luyen manages the front of house. The food is the best Vietnamese food you can get in the city where you never run out of options and interestingly the restaurant was also the first Vietnamese restaurant in Dubai. Its ambiance will remind you of the charming city of Hoi An in Vietnam.

Junoon

Although this restaurant was closed for renovation during my visit, it is a must for Indian Cuisine lovers. The Michelin star restaurant serves a modern Indian menu which has won countless awards and hails from its big brother of the same name in New York.

Dune’s Cafe

I’m not much of a breakfast person as I mostly wake up late – but I wouldn’t miss breakfast at Dune’s café for anything. A gorgeous large dining room with an equally impressive buffet and ala-carte menu. – Dunes Café offers a wide selection of pastries, fresh smoothies, and eggs cooked to order, plus Indian, Chinese, Arabic and Western hot and cold dishes. I really enjoyed mouth-watering dishes, prepared at live cooking stations by world-class chefs (Don’t forget to read my Hummus story). From breakfast through to dinner, there’s something to suit every mood and taste.

One caveat – it is a much in demand hotel with almost full bookings through the year, therefore, it does get very busy in the morning, so the earlier the better.

WHAT do you get?

Rooms

There are 42 stories with 519 rooms of which 302 are guest rooms, 29 suites, 126 serviced-apartments, and 62 residences. The Deluxe Burj Khalifa view room that I am checked in offers stylish comfort with the luxury of space. As I enter the room, the motorised curtains open to reveal the eye-popping view of the city. A hand-written note from the Hotel GM, baklava, a basket of Fresh fruit, a well-stocked mini-bar and flowers welcome me.

 

The room features an inviting earth-tone design that is based on warm sycamore veneers. In addition, my room is decorated with original local artwork and feature impressive views of the Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai cityscape as well as unobstructed views of the cloud-kissing Burj Khalifa. A perfectly placed work desk, with complimentary Wi-Fi combined with a spectacular view literally, makes ‘work fun’. My bathroom is spacious with zesty Mint premium toiletries and a lovely walk-in rain-forest shower. Not to mention the added bonus of club room access on the 42nd floor.

Facilities

Let me warn you beforehand – staying at Shangri-La is spoiling yourselves with luxury living. You would enjoy it so much, you wouldn’t ever want to leave. Here are few more things that stood out for me.

Its lobby lounge serves an assortment of all-day patisseries, as well as a full afternoon tea and an array of cocktails, juices, and fine wines. Evenings are pulsating with live music playing almost every single night.

The 4th-floor poolside lounge is a great place to unwind with white sun loungers, hot pink towels, and amazing Burj Khalifa views. The best time to visit this poolside bar is after dark when it transforms from a relaxing place into a high-octane bar powered by shisha and DJ tunes.

On the same level is CHI Spa, and a health club with gym, saunas, steam rooms, plunge pools, tennis and squash courts. Club room guests have access to a fantastic private health club on level 42 with an indoor pool and suntrap terrace.

Other amenities

• Bar
• Fitness centre
• Sauna
• Spa
• Steam room/hammam
• Tennis court
• Laundry
• Parking
• Pool
• Restaurants
• Room service
• Wi-Fi
• Shuttle service

Staff

The best part of Shangri-La is its signature service. The staff remembers you by name and are genuinely warm, helpful and professional. I have stayed at so many luxury hotels around the world but the way Shangri-La gives the personal touch is a different league. Whether it was Amanda (Communication Manager) or Yuan Mao Alex (Manager at Shang Palace) or Assad (Chef at Shangri-La) or even the housekeeping staff; everyone made me feel at home. Talking to them was like talking to a friend.

HOW to book?

You can book directly on the hotel website https://www.shangri-la.com/dubai/shangrila/ or you can also book through third-party websites like tripadvisor.com or booking.com

Dubai is one of the most visited cities in the world and “Where are you staying?” is like asking where you live back home. People always judge you where you are staying. So, having the best luxury hotel in Dubai as your home, even for a few nights, guarantees a positive first impression.

Have you ever stayed at Shangri-La or any other best luxury hotel in Dubai? If yes, I would love to hear from you.

Print Coverage

A related story was published in two publications

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Disclaimer

I was hosted by Shangri-La Dubai in December 2017. However, as always, the views are solely mine and based on my personal experience.

Budapest, “the Paris of the East” is a city that must be savoured with all senses. The striking beauty of the capital city of Hungary is half God-given and half enhanced by the humankind. A treasure trove for architecture lovers – baroque, neoclassical, Eclectic and art nouveau buildings.

The city is so beautifully restored it feels like you are walking through its “golden age”. No wonder in 1987 it got entry into the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage List for cultural and architecture.

And, it’s not just the architecture, history and scenic beauty that makes Budapest the darling of visitors. It has a youthful vibe, pulsating nightlife, and a top-notch classical music scene. And, who could forget it’s natural thermal baths and mouth-watering Hungarian cuisine, which is much more than goulash. There’s a lot to be explored in this city dissected by the Danube.

However, a wrong choice of an accommodation can completely ruin your experience. The four-star Hotel Palazzo Zichy is a consistent favourite among people looking for refined taste at an affordable price. Here is my personal experience of staying at this classy property that makes it one of the best hotels in Budapest.

WHY choose Hotel Palazzo Zichy?

Central Location

This is the most critical part of my holiday planning. Located in the heart of downtown, in Palace quarter of Budapest, it is right behind the National Musem. My favourite way to explore a city by walking and Palazzo Zichy fit the bill perfectly. It is five-minute away from the Hungarian National Museum, 8-minutes from the pedestrian area, just one block from the Grand Boulevard and 15-minutes away from Váci utca and the Parliament building. While there are a lot of eating options within the hotel, there is also a convenient cluster of good café-bars a little way along Mária utca. Tram and bus stations are just around the corner. Taxis are available 24×7.

Style and Character

If you are staying in a city renowned for its nineteenth-century architecture, how can your accommodation be left behind? Hotel Palazzo Zichy was once an elegant palace (which it still is) built in 1899 by Count Nándor Zichy, a nobleman. As you walk in, you come across the high windows of the palace façade embellished with carvings of seashells and garlands and other Rococo details.

Once you are Inside, you’ll be surprised to find how the overall thrust of the design is slick and modern. Seems like the modern architect time travelled to the 20th century to marry the two eras. The striking feature for me was the lobby – once the inner courtyard – a striking combination of highly polished black floor and glass pyramid roof. The hotel still retains its original gems like the surrounding walls, the chandelier at the entrance and the ornate black balustrade running up the staircase.

Impressive Breakfast Buffet

Breakfast decides the mood and pace of my day. A good breakfast means a good day. And, Hotel Palazzo Zichy knows exactly how to delight its customers. A full buffet breakfast is served in the glass-roofed restaurant daily. There are separate counters for all kinds of foods – hot dishes, cold cuts, cheese plates, salmon, grilled and fresh veggies, selection of cut and whole fruit, locally baked bakery products, gluten-free items and a lot more.

And guess what? You can order a Sparkling Wine or a cocktail too. Now isn’t that starting your day on a high, literally and figuratively.

WHAT do you get?

Rooms

All 80 rooms are well furnished. While the hotel has classy appeal, it is backed up with all modern technologies to make sure guests have a pleasant stay. It was a perfect combination of class and avant-gardism, with grey laminate flooring, silver fleur-de-lis motifs on the wallpaper and frosted glass bathroom doors adorned with images of architectural details from the palace. In my bedroom, I had a desk and chair, TV with DVD player, safe and mini-bar, while bathrooms were well stocked with toiletries.

Facilities

Hotel Palazzo Zichy is a charming place where history meets present. While there is no in-house restaurant, the Hotel more than provides more than what its customers need – a lavish breakfast buffet, complimentary coffee/tea and the most unique offering – unlimited access to Sauna. Now isn’t that a great offering to qualify it as one of the best hotels in Budapest?

Here is a list of things you get:

Complimentary

• Lavish buffet breakfast
• High-speed Wi-Fi Internet
• Coffee, tea and mineral water until 5 p.m. in the lobby lounge
• Guest Office
• In-room Blu-ray player with smart functions
• Free unlimited access to the Sauna
• Multilingual 24-hour concierge

Other Amenities

• Bar
• Fitness centre
• Laundry
• Parking
• Room service
• Guest office

Staff

The staff at Boutique Hotel Seven Days was very courteous and prompt to answer my queries. Right from the booking inquiry until I checked out, they ensured I was well taken care of. They even emailed me to check if I had a comfortable stay or not.

Value for money

HOW to book?

It’s advisable to booking directly on the hotel website https://www.hotel-palazzo-zichy.hu/ as you get these benefits:

• No service fees, no cancellation fees.
• 24-hours customer service. Open for requests also for the closed dates.
• No handling fees and direct payment in the hotel.

You can also book through third-party websites like tripadvisor.com or booking.com

Their contact details are:

Address:  Lőrinc pap tér 2., Budapest, 1088, Hungary

Phone: +36 1 235 4000

Email: info@hpz.hu

So, this was my take on why Hotel Palazzo Zichy one of the best hotels in Budapest and I would recommend it to anyone who is looking for classy experience at value for money price.

Have you ever stayed at any such place? If yes, I would love to hear from you.

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Disclaimer

I was hosted by Hotel Palazzo Zichy in October 2017. However, as always, the views are mine and based on my personal experience. The pictures are either taken by me or provided by the hotel.