Around Kerala in 7 days - In a Caravan

A few friends and I decided to make a trip down to Kerala - Venice of the East, as it is fondly known. Pristine white sand beaches, charming backwaters and Ayurvedic retreats lured us to explore this southern gem on the western coast of India. We took the train from Mumbai all the way down to Kochi.

This was one of the most scenic train journeys that I have ever undertaken. Passing through rolling hills, flat land, the ocean on one side for some part of the journey; and fruit plantations marking the entry into Kerala. The tourism guys have got it spot on. It indeed is; God's Own Country.
We were lucky to find a cheap hotel next to the train station. The room was fairly clean. Without wanting to waste time in exploring Kochi, we freshened up and made our way to the harbour. We got a fantastic view of fishing boats, ships, tankers and islands dotted around in the distance. Surprisingly, we didn't find any restaurants serving local fare in the vicinity; and ended up eating at a food court instead.

Hello Kochi!

Kochi market

The next day, we set off to go and explore Fort Kochi - famous for its sights, cafes and fishing nets. The 15 - 20 minute ferry ride from the harbour to Fort Kochi is joyful. We passed a couple of islands on our way there, including one which is inhabited by an indigenous tribe which has little to no contact with the outside world. Everything they need is on that little island, I was told by our guide. The Chinese fishing nets, St. Francis Church, Mattancherry Palace and the beach there are definitely worth a visit. A one day trip to Fort Kochi is enough to visit all major attractions here. It is also a foodies paradise, known for its eclectic cafes and restaurants.

The ferry

Chinese Fishing Nets

As we were planning to travel from Kochi all the way down to Kovalam, we asked around for a good deal on a cab. In the end, we got a plush caravan with leather seats, a TV, driver and a fantastic music system. All this in 10,000 bucks! We also got good discounts on hotels and sightseeing because of our driver's contacts.

The gorgeous tea county of Munnar was our next stop.

Travel like a lady

As we celebrate International Women's day across the globe today, there are inumerous stories on successful and brave women across the internet and print. These women inspire millions to follow their dreams, disregard the gender divide and work their way up to financial and personal freedom & happiness. 

Needless to say, I am inspired by the solo women travellers who have braved all odds to explore far flung places in remote corners of the world. Challenging the status quo, withstanding language barriers, surviving on limited money and support, enduring advances from men; it is not smooth sailing for a female traveller. And yet, there is no stopping us. For we travel for travel's sake. 

There is something liberating in the air of a new place; a sense of freedom and curiosity that leads us to explore different cultures, cuisines and traditions. It helps to be on your guard, of course- small precautions such as carrying pepper spray, avoiding a lonely or unsafe part of town at night, informing dear ones about your whereabouts or itinerary on a regular basis or not accepting a drink from a stranger go a long way in ensuring a happy experience. 

As more and more women jump onto the solo travel bandwagon worldwide, it reflects a change in ideologies and opportunities for safe travel for us; women folk. So, get your backpacks or suitcases out and start packing. Plan a trip to a country that has always intrigued you; get an itinerary together with the help of forums, apps, travel websites and bloggers like myself. Sort out your work leave, book your tickets and look forward to a suitcase full of memories and experiences that you will cherish till times immemorial.

Make sure to keep some space in your backpack/ suitcase for travel memorabilia. Travel light. Travel like a lady.

“She is free in her wildness, she is a wanderess, a drop of free water. She knows nothing of borders and cares nothing for rules or customs. 'Time' for her isn’t something to fight against. Her life flows clean, with passion, like fresh water.”
― Roman Payne

Most Romantic Places to Visit Around the World

With Valentine's Day drawing in closer, all love - struck couples must be planning something special for their better halves. While a bouquet of red roses, chocolates, a gift and a dinner date seems to be the norm, some of you may want to break away from the usual. As 14th Feb conveniently falls on a Saturday this year, a romantic getaway can be easily planned. 

The world is full of wondrous, picturesque places for couples and below are my favourite romantic destinations to choose from (in no particular order), depending on where in the world you are.

1. Bruges, Belgium - is definitely the most magical place I have ever visited. Dating back to the 9th century, this delightful city has a canal running through it and is often referred to as the 'Venice of the North'. Stroll down the cobble stone paths, munching on some Belgian chocolate, taking in the old world charm all around you. A candle lit dinner at Markt (the main square) with traditional music playing in the background, followed by a ride in a horse carriage will be a unique experience that both of you will treasure forever. 

2. Paris, France - fondly known as the City of Love, has a warm aura about it, even in the peak of winter. Take her shopping in the fashionable French capital, dine at the restaurant at Eiffel Tower (58 Tour Eiffel) and end the evening on a musical note by catching the late night Moulin Rouge show. Being a popular destination for lovers from all over the world, book early to avoid disappointment. 

3. Provence, France - Endless lavender fields, rolling hills and quaint, old villages is what you will find in this South Eastern part of France. Book yourself a cottage and explore one of the picturesque old towns with your partner, on foot or cycle. As this is truffle season, you are bound to indulge your taste buds in gastronomical delight.

4. Queenstown, New Zealand - is my favourite place in New Zealand. It offers a plethora of options for adventure junkies, foodies and nature enthusiasts. Take a Hot Air Balloon ride together, taking in the beauty of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu. Go for a scenic cruise to Milford Sound, gaze at the mighty Mitre peak and watch dolphins swimming in the distance in Tasman sea. Later, dig into a delicious meal back in town and make the most of Queenstown's lively nightlife.

5. Alleppey, India - Located in South India, in the state of Kerala, Alleppey, known as the Venice of the East, is a must visit. Famous for its backwaters, stay in a houseboat which comes with it's own cook, and devour Kerala's delicacies on board. Your cook will even procure fresh fish from a fish farm while you're enjoying your cruise. Or you could have him cook the fish you caught, while on board this luxurious houseboat. 

6. Fowey, England - is a lovely English town situated on the south coast of Cornwall. Wander around the harbour, gorge on Fish n Chips and wander around the small town centre consisting of cute little shops, tea rooms and a pub. Take a walk up to St. Catherine's castle for a panoramic view of  Fowey and the nearby fishing village of Polruan. Be sure to stay in a cottage, there are various options to choose from, some of them offering modern amenities such as a jacuzzi. 

7. Rome, Italy - Steeped in history, Rome has much to offer, in terms of great food and sightseeing options. Stay in a historic hotel that offers a mix of old world charm and contemporary luxury in the heasrt of the Italian capital. Watch the sunset at the top of the Spanish steps, wine and dine at one of the many fantastic restaurants/ bars at Campo de' Fiori or Trastevere. Do remember to try the Gelato while you're there!

8. Bangkok, Thailand - Although known for all the wrong reasons, Bangkok can be a great romantic getaway. A foodie's heaven, shopper's paradise, interesting night life and most importantly, fantastic hotels at reasonable rates. If you want to go all out, stay at the Lebua and enjoy a fantastic evening at one of the world's best rooftop bars - Sky Bar, known for its eclectic cocktails and live jazz. It will surely take your love to new heights with a panoramic view of the city from the 63rd floor. 

9. Nagarkot, Nepal - is a delightful hill station on the outskirts of Kathmandu. Early morning views of the world's highest peak, Mount Everest, from here are simply magnificent. Stroll around the quiet village, snack on some buff momos (Nepal's specialty!) and relax in your cottage. International wines are much cheaper than India here so do try a few.

10. Kashmir, India - is undoubtedly the most breathtaking state in India. It's beauty beckons tourists from all over the world, whether you want to stay in a shikara/ houseboat in picturesque Dal Lake in Srinagar or visit the never ending rugged beauty of Ladakh, you are bound to have an experience like never before. The following lines from Led Zeppellin's song Kashmir sum it up:

My Shangri-La beneath the summer moon, I will return again 

Sure as the dust that floats high in June, when movin' through Kashmir.