Travel August 23, 2018

Explore Pondicherry like a Local

Take a refreshing break from the busy metropolises of Bangalore or Chennai and head on a road trip to Pondicherry that promises a refreshing and memorable holiday.

Formally a French colony, this Union territory is fondly referred to as the French Riviera of the East. There is a distinct French influence on the culture, food, architecture and lifestyle of the people living here.

Situated at a distance of 160 km from Chennai, one can drive down the scenic East Coast Road and reach Pondicherry in 4 hours. Outstation cabs in Chennai are available for tourists to enjoy weekend trips out of the city.

Pondicherry has a heady mix of spiritual culture and modern heritage where one can find pristine beaches, museums, temples, gothic churches and colonial buildings. Among this gorgeous French colony, one can see how the French essence has blended with the Tamil culture and lifestyle.

Historical Sites

History lovers can take a guided city tour by opting for a car rental in Pondicherry. The French War Memorial, Statue of Dupleix, 19th-century Lighthouse and Park Monument are prominent landmark places to visit here. The Raj Niwas is known for its beautiful parks, medieval and contemporary sculptures that give an insight into the life of Pondicherry.

The Pondicherry Museum has some rare artefacts and sculptures that provide information on the cultural influences on this city.

Outdoor Activities

Paradise and Serenity Beaches offer surfing facilities for those looking to get their desired dose of adrenaline.

Adventure sport like Scuba diving can be done by tourists to discover the beautiful marine life or see the gorgeous coral reefs under water.

Take a stroll on the Gandhi Beach or catch the sunrise at the Rock Beach to relax in a serene environment.

Pondicherry has unmatched biodiversity. Nature lovers can find some exotic collections of plant life in the Botanical Garden.

Divine Pursuits

Calm your senses in the relaxing ambience of Aurobindo Ashram by meditating and offering prayers to seek blessings from the divine ‘Mother.’

Explore Pondicherry like a Local | Cherry On Top

Auroville is a nearby township that provides a peaceful atmosphere. Centrally located within its premises is the Matrimandir where one can meditate to find inner tranquillity. The Manakula Vinayaga Temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha attracts Hindu tourists especially during festivals. Enjoy the aartis and bhajans at the ISKCON Temple of Pondicherry and feel the divinity of Lord Krishna around you.

Food, Fun and Frolic

Pondicherry is a food lover’s paradise. Cafe Xtasi serves the best thin crust pizza while Bakers Street is a well-known bakery. Surguru and Adyar Ananda Bhavan the veg restaurants where both traditional delicacies can be tried. The seafood at Appachi Chettinad and exotic continental fare at LaVilla Helena and Le Club leave one asking for more.

Pondicherry can be shoppers delight. Woodwork handicrafts, jewellery and fashionable clothing, can be found in the Serenity beach Bazaar and Nehru Street. Handmade souvenirs of SunD’art and Kriti Eco Boutique can be bought for folks back home. Luxury shopping can be done at Kalki and Casablanca that offer the best products in town.

The pubs and lounges of Pondicherry are the best places to unwind and enjoy the bustling nightlife.

*Guest Post

That was it for today’s post. I hope you found this post helpful. Make sure to share it with your family and friends if you did. Pour in your thoughts in the comments. Your comments encourage me a lot! Do subscribe to our Newsletter so that you get notified whenever there is a new post on the blog. Will talk to you in my next post. Till then, be safe & keep smiling! Follow me on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram for regular updates and also Subscribe to my YouTube Channel!

Travel May 29, 2018

5 Things to Keep in Mind before Traveling Solo in India

With the rise of effective and practical travel solutions, there are very few chances one could not plan a vacation all by themselves. The idea of solo traveling has evolved to a great extent in the past couple of years. Now, more people are interested in enjoying a tour to self-exploration. Gauging from its popularity, one can easily tell that there are so many valid reasons for one’s decision of traveling solo. Traveling itself makes a man wise and solo traveling makes someone even wiser, strong-willed, confident, undemanding and uncomplicated. Solo traveling is mostly popular because, it kind of challenges you, pushes your limits forward, lets you fathom your self-worth and at the same time it allows you to master the art of living life.

Since solo traveling is all about being your own planner and navigator, one should keep a few things in mind before traveling solo.

The Destination

Choosing your destination wisely is very important while traveling, especially if you are a woman. It really unfortunate to say that not every place is safe for an unaccompanied woman. Not only the safety of women but also the feasibility of transportation, communication, and basic needs are something that needs to be considered while deciding your travel destination. One should always go for locations that are not too remote or desolate. Make sure your destination is well-connected to where you live. Make sure to research on the nearby places to eat, hospitals or health centers, and administrative or governmental organizations/offices.

The Documents

You can never be enough careful about your documents. Carry multiple copies of important documents like Voter ID card, Adhar Card, Pan Card (you never know!), tickets etc. Also, keep the documents scanned and added to Dropbox or any other services like that so that if your luggage ever gets lost you have a back up of the documents. If you are pre-booking your hotel or transport then keep the related screenshots with you in case of emergency. Before leaving, make sure your family has the details of your credit/debit card, bank, and hotel.

The Transport

Choosing your transport wisely is very important in case of solo traveling. If your destination is connected with a railway and you want to take that option, it’s totally fine. But, with affordability comes hassle. For a faster transport, you should always consider airways. When you’re traveling solo, you might not enjoy sitting on your seat for hours and hours having no one to chat. Music or books can be your friend but the question is, for how long? Also, traveling by airplanes is hassle-free, comfortable and relatively safe.

Spicejet can be considered the best airlines in terms of domestic transportation. It is the third largest airlines in India by the number of domestic passengers carried. It offers traveling in a very affordable fare that is significantly lower than most of the airlines in India. With the modern interior and comfortable seating arrangement, Spicejet gives you the most convenient way to fly. It also has a very proficient staff including experienced pilots, well-trained and cordial cabin crew, and skilled ground maintenance staff. The Spicejet team is always ensuring that your every flight is a remarkable one. You can book your next Spicejet flight now.

The Accommodation

If you are traveling alone, not always things might fall into places. To be safe, book your accommodation beforehand and also do your study on the distance of the hotel from the main areas of the town/city and from the airport and railway station. You cannot just waste the entire day in traveling from hotel to the main market. You are there to explore new places and not the route to your hotel.

Make sure the hotel you are choosing has a good rating and reviews. You can use any app/websites to book a hotel for they have customer reviews on hotels and also you can get good deals on bookings too. Most of the apps and sites also provide you fuss-free cancellation (just in case).

The Locals

Knowing about the locals is very important while planning a solo trip. These are the people you have to rely on in case unanticipated situation occurs. Knowing about the local culture, food habits and language is more important than you might have imagined. It’s a basic thing to learn some of the local language, especially some common words like HELP, FOOD, WATER, MONEY, THANK YOU, COME WITH ME. If you don’t remember then note them down on a notebook or your phone.

I hope the above-mentioned points will be helpful for you. There cannot be enough of these safety measures for solo travelers but these are some basics you must consider. Above all, solo traveling is all about exploring one’s self and nature, it’s all about confidence and determination. One must not lose the true essence of it by being too much conscious.

That was it for today’s post. I hope you found this post helpful. Make sure to share it with your family and friends if you did. Pour in your thoughts in the comments. Your comments encourage me a lot! Do subscribe to our Newsletter so that you get notified whenever there is a new post on the blog. Will talk to you in my next post. Till then, be safe & keep smiling! Follow me on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram for regular updates and also Subscribe to my YouTube Channel!

lifestyle May 4, 2018

Why Traveling To Norway Is Cheaper Than You Think

Norway is one of the most tranquil places in the entire world. The country is known to have some ridiculous temperatures during certain times of the year, but it has so many good things going for it and which makes it a top attraction for most individuals. However, the country is also known to have very high rates of taxation and this has created an impression that Norway is expensive and for you to visit, then you must be well endowed financially.

This is not entirely true and you can travel to Norway with the average budget you would need when travelling to any European destination. Therefore, if you were planning a trip to Norway but have been hesitant due to fear of having to spend a lot, then you can now go for expedited passport renewal because we reveal to you just why travelling to Norway is cheaper than you actually think-:

The Norwegian currency is relatively weaker

When you are coming from a country with a stronger economy compared to the economy of the country you are visiting, then you can expect to have more value for your money when once you change it to the local currency. This is what is happening with the Norwegian krone compared to other major world currencies. If you are coming from a strong economy like the United States or the Eurozone, you will get more for your cash once you change it into krone.

As a result, you will access stuff and services more affordable than you would have done while in your home country or where your home currency would have been relatively weaker. Therefore, don’t be afraid to travel to Norway because you will be getting a lot more for your dollars or Euros.

It is beautiful everywhere

One of the reasons why people go for expedited passport renewal is so that they can take trips to places they have never been before so that they can marvel at the beauty found in those places. It is always refreshing to be in a new place that is full of natural beauty, and Norway is not short of such places. But how is this relevant when considering the cost of travelling to Norway? With a plethora of beautiful places around you, you don’t have to spend a lot of time and money travelling long distances just to catch some beauty. In Norway, it is right outside your door, or just along the streets. Everywhere you look at is amazing and you can get your fill of beauty without leaving your town. As such, you will end up saving a lot of money, while still getting treated to real and pure natural beauty.

There are many free things to do in Norway

People don’t cross borders and seas to go to Norway to enjoy a nightlife or indulge in shopping, though these would be very nice compliments. People travel to Norway to enjoy nature and you will not need any money to simply enjoy nature unless you really want to. Of course, you will have to pay money to go for a fjord cruise or to embark on a rail adventure, but you can also decide to go hiking from whichever city you flew in and you will still be treated to breathtaking landscapes as you watch the city below from the mountaintops. The good news is that Norway is basically mountainous and you will never run short of hiking trails.

You are free to camp anywhere in Norway

Camping in a new country is always exciting. It is a chance to have a breath of fresh air and explore the natural beauties the country has to offer. Norway, with its magnificent landscapes, is a true camper’s paradise, and what is even more alluring about this is the fact that you don’t need to pay any money for you to camp. In Norway, you have the freedom to camp anywhere you want, provided that it is 150 meters away from the nearest residential dwelling. The beauty of this is that you don’t have to bother with expensive hostel accommodation and you can choose any fine spots you like. This is unlike places like the United States where camping is allowed only in designated places where you will have to pay some money before you are allowed to camp.

Food is cheap from the supermarkets

Food is normally a great concern for every traveller. You don’t just want to get the best of it, but also you want to feel and experience the culture of the countries you visit through their foods. However, but not watching how you eat or where you eat, the cost may sometimes get through the roof and it can turn a nice travelling experience to become unnecessarily expensive. However, there are concerns you should never have when travelling to Norway. This is because the foods from the store brand supermarkets are very cheap. With such, you don’t just get a chance to eat cheaply, but also to taste true Norwegian foods and sample their culinary diversity as most of the store brand supermarkets only sell Norwegian products.

Education in Norway is free

Norway is one of the few countries in the world where you don’t have to pay for education and if you are a Norwegian, you could be paid just to go to school. This is unlike countries such as the US and UK where students are incurring debts upon debts to go to school. So how is this relevant when it comes to travelling to Norway for cheap? It means that you can easily go to Norway and become an international student, pursuing any program of your choice.

It is cheap to fly with the Norwegian Air

Most people are nowadays visiting Iceland courtesy of the free Iceland Air stopover. The Norwegian air is also quickly making the country an affordable travel destination due to the cheap flights available to Europe, United States, and Asia. It makes possible for travellers to dash to Norway for a weekend before boarding a budget flight to their European destinations.

Disclaimer: This is a guest post.

That was it for today’s post. I hope you found this post helpful. Make sure to share it with your family and friends if you did. Pour in your thoughts in the comments. Your comments encourage me a lot! Do subscribe to our Newsletter so that you get notified whenever there is a new post on the blog. Will talk to you in my next post. Till then, be safe & keep smiling! Follow me on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram for regular updates and also Subscribe to my YouTube Channel!

lifestyle March 7, 2018

The 9 Most Romantic Cities In Europe

High-speed comfortable trains, planes that easily carry us from one corner of the globe to another, chic cars – all this is great! But, when you arrive at the place of travel, you want to see as much as possible. And for this, a tourist has to move on his feet. During a leisurely walk in a new city, you have a wonderful opportunity to slowly explore architectural monuments and colorful sights, get acquainted with local people or other travelers, and relax in a shady park or a summer cafe. So, here is a list of the most romantic cities in Europe from primedating.

Cumbria, England

The beautiful region of England (the highlands of the county of Cumbria) is known for its irresistible beauty and it becomes even more stunning and charming in autumn. Thanks to the richness of crystal clear lakes surrounded by golden and ruby hills, the region remains a perfect place for walks.

Czech Republic, Prague

The capital of the Czech Republic is good at any time of the year. Cool weather makes lovers cuddle up to each other and go to one of the cozy restaurants to try real Czech beer. In the evening, it’s so cool to walk under flashlights and admire the landscapes of the Old City or even better – to book a romantic cruise on the Vltava.

Vienna, Austria

Vienna is not only the most “elegant” city of the Old World. It is also the capital of operas and famous waltzes. Exquisite cafes with crystal chandeliers and beautiful parks are equally well-suited for romantics. Go boating, taste wine at one of the surrounding vineyards, and get acquainted with the legendary Vienna forest.

Bavaria, Germany

Bavaria is the most spectacular landscapes of Germany and Europe in general, with endless alpine forests and mountain peaks where fairy-tale castles and palaces are lost. Maybe you don’t know but Bavaria is considered one of the most romantic cities in Europe.

Wicklow, Ireland

Choose Wicklow National Park for a romantic trip. Fresh mountain air is so cool and trees are covered with a gold patina. In the park, there are kilometers of hiking trails. So, just go and view fantastic landscapes!

Wellington, New Zealand

Only twenty-five years ago, New Zealand began to attract adventurers. But now it got to the top of romantic cities in Europe. A huge set of hiking trails, charming valleys, national parks, majestic peaks inspired many to explore the country’s refined topography and travel to the wildest and untouched corners of New Zealand.

Lisbon, Portugal

Portugal is a dynamically developing center of art, culture, and gourmet cuisine. Over the past two years, the country has opened many museums and become one of the best romantic cities in Europe. In 2016, more than 300 Portuguese beaches got the “Blue Flag” sign. It’s no wonder that everyone is talking about this country and dreaming of a trip around Portugal.

Valletta, Malta

Valletta is prehistoric megalithic temples, fortifications of the XVII century on the whole coast, mysterious gorges and ruins – from underground sanctuaries to catacombs, knight castles, and the ancient architecture. It is worth noticing the relaxed atmosphere that reigns in Malta, its beaches and more than three hundred sunny days a year.

Paris, France

Welcome to Paris! As you know, it is considered one of the best cities in Europe. You may not even have enough time to enjoy all the walking routes because Paris is the Latin Quarter and the Luxembourg Garden, and Montmartre and lovely summer cafes, street artists’ shows, Notre-Dame De Paris, and many other places for lovers. Make a trip there!

Disclaimer: Guest Post

That was it for today’s post. I hope you found this post helpful. Make sure to share it with your family and friends if you did. Pour in your thoughts in the comments. Your comments encourage me a lot! Do subscribe to our Newsletter so that you get notified whenever there is a new post on the blog. Will talk to you in my next post. Till then, be safe & keep smiling! Follow me on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram for regular updates and also Subscribe to my YouTube Channel!

life July 14, 2016

The Perfect Journey

“To Travel is to Live.” – Hans Christian Anderson

Travelling, to me, is to explore different parts of the planet as well as to explore my own self. Every journey has its own story and teachings. If you have never been into travelling you have already missed out some great pleasures in life. Your perfect Yatra does not need a lot of money to be invested in but a mind free from everything and a desire to see the unseen.

My idea of an ideal Yatra would be to any place that I have not seen before, on my terms, exploring every inch of that place and discovering some never-seen-before alcoves. It might sound a little metaphysical but that’s me. I do not like visiting a place that is generally crowded. I don’t like visiting a city and standing in a queue to visit a museum or march all the way to see some famous ‘viewpoint’. That’s completely not my cup of tea! I am more of a traveller than a tourist. I love to make my own itinerary and follow it as I find it convenient for me.

“Once a year, go someplace you’ve never been before.” -Dalai Lama

If you ask me about my dream destination in India, I would say it is Leh and Ladakh as of now. Obviously, this tour has to have only two travellers- my boyfriend and I. I have been to several places with my parents and I don’t think they are now strong enough to ‘explore’ places rather than having an ‘arranged tour’. I want someone who has similar thoughts on travelling and who would give me the perfect company. An ideal journey is nothing without the ideal travellers.

The journey would begin by choosing the desired Airlines and booking flight tickets. Next, we would plan our days or adventures in regard to the time we would have there. Firstly, we would invest our time more in exploring the neglected and unexplored places and then later we will try to indulge in some touristic traditions.

The only way you can perceive the true beauty of a place is through its natives and the food it offers. So, we would spend time with the locals and try to know their perspectives on exploring their own place. Trying local food is also on the list. No yatra is complete without tasting the local delicacies.

“All journeys have secret destinations of which the traveller is unaware.”

Apart from all these, discovering our own special place in the region and unearthing something that has never been looked into would be more fun than being guided by a tourist’s’ guidebook. Doing the unthinkable while enjoying the nature’s bounty and wandering amidst the picturesqueness is totally my thing. A traveller should be successful in his job of knowing the unknown.

I don’t what would have happened to me if my father had not injected the passion for travelling in me. The Ideal Yatra is possible only if you have a heart of a true traveller, a strength to adjust yourself to any odd circumstances and of course longing for visiting places.

“The impulse to travel is one of the hopeful symptoms of life” -Agnes Repplier

Travel May 15, 2016

Plants at the table

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Travel May 14, 2016

In The Backyard

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Travel May 14, 2016

Yellow Scarf

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beauty May 14, 2016

Shoes From ASOS

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Himalaya Herbals New Lip Care May 14, 2016

The Pastel Colors

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