Top Cities in Croatia That You Cannot Miss

3/14/2023

Top Cities in Croatia That You Cannot Miss

Croatia’s is a dream destination for many people, and you can see why. The beaches are long and sandy, the food is delicious and fresh, the culture is rich and vibrant—and there’s so much to do.
Croatia has everything from bustling cities to remote islands that can be explored by boat or kayak. You can find city life in Zagreb or Dubrovnik, or enjoy the quiet seclusion of Rovinj.
We’ve put together this guide to the most popular cities in Croatia, so all you need to do is grab your ETIAS Croatia and pack your bags.

Photo by Datingjungle on Unsplash

1. Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is the perfect place for a vacation. It’s a city that has it all: a beautiful and historic old town, a thriving beach scene (also old and historic), great food and drink, incredible hiking, and an active nightlife scene.
The city itself is rich in history and culture, and has many museums, galleries and other attractions. There are also plenty of activities for those who just want to relax and enjoy the scenery.

2. Zagreb

Zagreb is the capital and largest city of Croatia. The city lies at the intersection of the Sava and Kupa rivers, which meet at the city's central square. It's one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country for good reason: it's beautiful and charming, but also affordable and easy to get around.
Zagreb is also a great place to visit if you're interested in art and culture. There's art throughout the city, including the Art Park Zagreb that features works by artists from around the world.

Zagreb city center by night

Photo by Frane Medić on Unsplash

3. Zadar

Zadar is an amazing city for a lot of reasons. It has a rich history, beautiful architecture, and its own unique culture. But what makes it truly special is the stunning natural beauty that surrounds it.
Zadar is surrounded by pristine beaches and beautiful islands. It also boasts incredible hiking trails and waterfalls that will leave you breathless.

4. Split

If you're interested in learning about the Roman Empire or just want to spend some time on an island beach, then Split will be a great choice.
This Croatian city is located along the Adriatic Sea and has been inhabited since prehistoric times. It's home to a remarkable number of architectural styles, including Roman ruins and Gothic churches.

Split, Croatia

Photo by Tom Wheatley on Unsplash

5. Pula

Pula is a beautiful port city on the Adriatic Sea with a history that goes back over 2,000 years. It's known for its Roman amphitheater, which is still in use today and one of the largest of its kind in the world.
The city is also home to a variety of museums, including the Museum of Modern Art and Pula Film Festival, as well as scenic beaches and parks.

6. Šibenik

Šibenik is an enchanting place that will transport you to a different world. The city's history dates back to the 16th century, and it has experienced a lot of changes since then.
It was once an important port for the Venetian Republic, and today it's a beautiful city filled with medieval architecture and stunning views of the sea and islands.

7. Rovinj

Rovinj is a lovely seaside town in Croatia, and a great place to visit if you're looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, and it's surrounded by lush forests.
The island has a rich history—it was once the seat of the Republic of Venice, and you can still see evidence of that time in the city's architecture.

8. Korcula

Korcula is a small island in Croatia that's situated between the islands of Korcula and Mljet. It's known for its beautiful old town, which has been preserved in the same way it was hundreds of years ago.
This small island boasts a unique combination of natural beauty and historical significance that makes it one of the most beautiful places in the world.

9. Sisak

Sisak is an incredible city near Zagreb. It is known for its thermal springs and spa, which are the largest in Europe.
There are plenty of opportunities for hiking and biking, as well as a lake that's great for water sports.

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How To Protect Your Feet While Hiking

3/10/2023

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How To Protect Your Feet While Hiking

There are several ways to protect your feet while hiking.

How To Protect Your Feet While Hiking

These include putting on antiperspirant spray, wearing the right-fitting boots, and using antibacterial insoles. Also, you can apply moisture-replacing cream on your feet.
If you're experiencing any of these problems, make sure to stop and treat them. After all, blisters can be painful. Luckily, there are ways to prevent them, too.

1. Antiperspirant Spray

Applying antiperspirant spray on your feet while hiking is a great way to prevent blisters and keep feet dry.

Use Antiperspirant Spray

It is important to use a good antiperspirant that is free from aluminum, which can be harmful. Other hikers swear by foot creams or oils.
Foot lubricants help to reduce friction, which prevents hot spots and blisters.
Changing your socks midway through the hike is also best practice. Not only can sweaty feet be uncomfortable, they can also cause blisters. It’s a good idea to add an extra pair of socks to your hiking essentials list.

2. Exercise Your Feet to Prevent Injuries

There are several exercises that can be done to help you on your next hike. A squat is a good example but there are several more principles and exercises to stick to, for the best and injury-free results from your next hike.

Stretching

Walking is one of the most beneficial forms of exercise for the human body, and it is essential to stretch your muscles to reduce the chances of injuries and improve your walking technique. It is also a great way to improve flexibility and range of motion.

Exercise your feet to prevent injuries

It is an excellent way to improve your general body strength.
There are several types of stretching exercises you can perform, and they should never hurt. When stretching, be sure to breathe deeply and slowly. Always stretch right after a hike, and don't wait too long. If you wait too long, you risk injuring yourself.
Also, it is important to make sure to follow a specific routine for your body, starting with your upper body and working your way down. Finish by stretching your feet.
When you're finished hiking, make sure you take a few minutes to stretch and cool down. Stretching will reduce stiffness and improve circulation. It will also reduce the risk of injury.
If you're experiencing any pain, consult a medical professional. It may be necessary to take time off from your hike to get a proper treatment.
Stretching your feet can also help minimize the risk of foot injury. You can perform simple exercises like rolling a frozen plastic bottle over your foot, or you can perform more complex exercises such as rolling your foot on a frozen plastic bottle.
These exercises will improve your foot flexibility and strengthen your arch. Make sure to perform them on both feet for at least ten minutes a day.
Another useful exercise is a cross leg stretch. While standing on one leg, press one leg down and back with the other leg. Hold the position for 30 seconds. If you have a bad posture, you may want to use a wall for support. Using your hands on a tree trunk is another effective stretch.

Strengthening

A variety of strengthening feet exercises are ideal for professional hikers. In addition to strengthening the feet and ankles, these exercises also strengthen the buttocks and hamstrings.
These exercises work the big and small muscles in the legs, mimicking natural walking and incorporate varying degrees of instability to improve balance.
A few exercises that strengthen the foot include ankle rotations, toe stretches, and heel cord stretches. These exercises improve circulation and range of motion in the feet and help prevent stiffness.

Strengthen your feet to prevent injuries

They also work the muscles in the knees, hips, and stomach. To avoid foot pain and injury, include these exercises in your daily routine.
Strengthening the feet is vital to preventing soft tissue injuries and stress fractures. You can begin by walking barefoot or by doing heel raises.
Another great exercise is to grab a towel and pull it towards your toes. These exercises also strengthen the muscles in the bottom of the foot, helping to prevent pain.
Other exercises to strengthen the feet include the seated shin stretch. This is a common but effective way to strengthen the foot and improve flexibility. Start slowly and repeat as often as you can until your muscles are fatigued.
In the end, this exercise can help prevent injuries and improve your hiking performance.
Other exercises include squats, lunges, push-ups, and planks. Although these exercises are great for building strength and building endurance, they should, at least sometimes, be complemented by cardiovascular exercises. You can also try trail running or mountain biking.

Balance

Hikers, climbers, and other outdoor enthusiasts need to strengthen their balance muscles for the long haul. There are several exercises for this purpose that will improve your ability to stay balanced in challenging situations.

Balance your feet to prevent injuries

These exercises can be simple for the beginner or more complex for the more advanced hiker. They can be performed with or without eyes closed and can be mixed into your training regimen. Ideally, you should do these exercises at least three times per week.
Performing balance exercises before and after a hike will improve your recovery and reduce the risk of injury.
Hikers should also practice proper hip and knee strength to prevent knee problems. In order to do this, imagine yourself as the center of a clock, then lift your right leg toward twelve o'clock and then bring it back to the center. Repeat this process with each leg. This exercise will strengthen the muscles and prevent injuries.
Another good balance exercise is the heel-toe walk. This is a simple exercise to practice while on the go. Try starting with a small raised surface, and then progressing to higher surfaces.
During this exercise, try not to look down at the ground.

Incorporate Fun

Go barefoot whenever possible. Pick up marbles with your toes.

Incorporate fun with exercising your feet to prevent injuries

Stay away from high heels, which can make them susceptible to injury. By following these tips, you can prevent injury and protect your feet from future complications.

3. Wear Properly Fitting Boots

If you want to protect your feet while hiking, especially in challenging areas with snow or ice, you need to make sure to pick the right shoes for the icy territory and that your hiking boots fit properly.

Wear Properly Fitting Boots

Ideally, your boot's heel should not be more than one-quarter of an inch out of position. If this happens, you may want to look for a smaller boot size or try a different style.
To ensure that your boots fit correctly, try them on and roll them over your toes and heel. If they do not fit properly, they can cause blisters on your feet.
Also, the boots should not slide from side to side. Make sure that the boots fit snugly, but not too tight.
The upper is the part of the boot that covers the sole. Its job is to protect the foot and keep it in place. It should be water repellent, but allow perspiration to escape.
It should also be secured to the sole using a welt. The upper should also be padded to reduce pressure points and provide comfort.

4. Use Antibacterial Insoles

If you are hiking often, you may want to invest in a pair of antibacterial insoles.

Use Antibacterial Insoles

These are great for keeping your feet cool and dry in hot weather. They also reduce foot pain during exercise. Look for insoles that feature a heel cup.
These will stabilize the rear foot and provide cushioning and support.
Choosing the right insoles can help prevent blisters and other common hiking ailments. Make sure that they match your arch height, as insoles with too high or too low of an arch can be uncomfortable.
Deep heel cups can also help reduce wear and tear on the feet. They also provide extra cushioning for the heels, which reduces impact and reduces the risk of blisters.
An insole with low-friction surfaces is also important, as it helps prevent blisters from being formed during movement.
Since hiking is a demanding activity, antibacterial hiking insoles can help keep your feet fresh and prevent blisters.

5. Apply Moisturizing Cream

Before you embark on a multi-day hike, it's important to protect your feet from the elements.

Apply Moisturizing Cream

Using a moisturizing cream will help prevent blisters and keep your feet fresh. You should wash your feet as often as possible in natural sources to avoid the risk of getting soaked by dirty water.
Various lubricants can also help protect your feet while hiking. These products can come in the form of moisturizers or powders. Some people also choose to use foot oils to prevent hot spots. The idea is to eliminate friction between your feet and your boots so you won't get blisters.
Another effective way to protect your feet while hiking is to wear the right hiking socks and boots.
These two items should mimic the conditions of the hike. The weight of the hiking socks and boots should be chosen according to their comfort level.

6. Keep Your Footwear Dry

When you are hiking and you have to keep your footwear dry as much as possible, and to achieve this, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

Keep Your Footwear Dry

Make sure your boots are clean. You can use a soft cloth or even a toothbrush to clean the grime from your hiking boots.
Also, it is better to dry your footwear in the shade, as the sun can damage the materials in your shoes.
Another important thing to do is to dry your hiking shoes and boots overnight. Wet footwear is not only uncomfortable but can cause problems during colder months.
If you're hiking in the rain, it will be impossible to dry your footwear, so it's a good idea to dry your shoes before leaving.

Conclusion

Taking care of your feet is important whether you are hiking or not. You just need to make sure to choose the appropriate footwear for your hike and don't forget to pack extra socks!
And remember to moisturize your feet regularly, as this will help prevent blisters and keep your feet healthy.

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Day trips you can take from Paracas

3/4/2023

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Day trips you can take from Paracas

Paracas, a small coastal town on the southern coast of Peru, is a popular destination for those looking to explore the beauty of the Pacific Ocean. And while it may be overlooked by tourists in favor of bigger names like Machu Picchu, this has been a long held local secret.

Easily accessible from Lima, Paracas is a favorite local getaway spot, and while there are plenty of attractions in its own right, from red sand beaches to national parks, the town is also a great base for day trips to some really fascinating destinations.

So if you’re spending time in Peru, and wondering how to work in places like the Ballestas Islands, or the Nazca Lines, plan out for 4-5 days with Paracas as your base of day trip operations!

Day trips you can take from Paracas

Image by Monika from Pixabay

How to get to Paracas

There’s no airport in Paracas, so you can either make your way by land from Lima, or by flying into the nearby city of Pisco and then taking public transport. Most locals simply jump on a bus or a car directly from Lima though.

There are several bus companies that operate daily services from Lima to Paracas. The journey takes around three and a half hours and tickets can be purchased online or at the bus station.

If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car in Lima and drive to Paracas and there are plenty of car rental companies like Hertz, Avis, and Budget. Depending on how many of the below day trips you’re planning, a car rental may make exploring the greater region far more flexible, comfortable and affordable, so this is our favorite option.

Ballestas Islands

One of the most popular day trips from Paracas is a visit to the Ballestas Islands, also known as the "poor man's Galapagos". These islands are home to a variety of marine life, including sea lions, penguins, and dolphins. You can take a boat tour of the islands, which typically lasts around two hours, and enjoy the stunning scenery and wildlife.

The sheer diversity of species that call these islands home is truly astounding, and it really is a thrill to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures. But the landscapes and nature are worthy of a day trip in their own right.

The Ballestas Islands are a testament to the power of nature, as they have been shaped over thousands of years by the forces of wind and water. The jagged rock formations and stunning cliffs that rise up from the sea are truly awe-inspiring, and you’re left with a sense of wonder and reverence for the natural world.

The islands also have a rich cultural history, as they were once used as a source of guano (bird excrement) for fertilizer. The mining of guano led to the islands being declared a protected area in the 1970s, and today they are a popular destination for ecotourism.

Ballestas Islands

Image by Taik Lee from Pixabay

Nazca Lines

The Nazca Lines are one of the world's great enigmas, a mysterious and breathtaking collection of geoglyphs etched into the desert floor of southern Peru. These remarkable images, which can only be fully appreciated from the air, have fascinated and perplexed scientists and laypeople alike for decades.

The Nazca Lines are believed to have been created by the Nazca culture, which flourished in the area between 200 BCE and 700 CE. The culture was known for its sophisticated art and architecture, and the Nazca Lines are a prime example of their artistic achievements.

The geoglyphs consist of over 800 lines and shapes, including animals, plants, and geometric designs, covering an area of about 450 square kilometers. The largest figures measure up to 200 meters in length, and some of the lines stretch for several kilometers.

One theory about the purpose of the Nazca Lines is that they were created as a way to communicate with the gods. Another theory is that they were used for astronomical purposes. Many of the figures are aligned with the solstices and equinoxes, and it is possible that the Nazca culture used them to mark the changing seasons and predict astronomical events.

Despite the many theories and hypotheses, the true purpose of the Nazca Lines remains a mystery. The Nazca culture left behind no written records, and so we can only speculate about their motivations and beliefs.

Today, they are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist attraction. However, the delicate desert ecosystem on which the geoglyphs are etched is under threat from tourism and agriculture. The Peruvian government has taken steps to protect the Nazca Lines, including limiting overflight tours and creating a buffer zone around the area, but there is still much work to be done to ensure their preservation for future generations.

Nazca Lines

Image by Monika from Pixabay

Huacachina Oasis

Located around an hour and a half east of Paracas, the Huacachina Oasis is a small village built around a natural oasis in the middle of the desert.

Do yourself a favor and take a dune buggy tour of the surrounding sand dunes or try sandboarding!

San Gallán Island

San Gallán Island is a remote and beautiful destination off the coast of Paracas, and while it may be a bit of a challenge to get there, the stunning scenery and unique wildlife make it well worth the effort.

To get to San Gallán Island from Paracas, the best option is to book a boat tour. There are several tour operators in Paracas that offer trips to San Gallán Island, and most tours include stops at other nearby islands and points of interest along the way.

The boat ride takes about 2-3 hours, depending on weather conditions and the specific itinerary of the tour. Along the way, keep an eye out for sea lions, penguins, and dolphins.

Once on the island, plan to explore the rocky terrain and take in the stunning views of the surrounding ocean. San Gallán Island is also home to a variety of bird species, including boobies, pelicans, and cormorants, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers.

Islas Cavinzas

Islas Cavinzas, also known as the Chincha Islands, are a group of islands located around an hour and a half north of Paracas. The islands are home to a variety of seabirds, including penguins, cormorants, and pelicans, and you can take a boat tour of the islands and enjoy the stunning scenery and wildlife.

Pisco Vineyards

The town of Pisco, located around 20 kilometers north of Paracas, is known for its vineyards and production of the famous Peruvian liquor, pisco. Take a tour of one of the vineyards and learn about the production process and history of the drink.

However, if you do take our advice on renting a car to get to Paracas, just don’t drink and drive!

Paracas is a great base for exploring some of the most fascinating destinations on the southern coast of Peru. From the Ballestas Islands to the Nazca Lines and beyond, there is no shortage of incredible day trips to take from Paracas. Whether you're interested in marine life, ancient history, or outdoor adventure, there is something for everyone in this beautiful region. So why not pack your bags, book your trip to Paracas, and start exploring all that this amazing area has to offer?!

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Is 7 Days in Bangkok Too Long?

2/28/2023

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Is 7 Days in Bangkok Too Long?

The city of Bangkok is a bustling metropolis that is teeming with life. There is always something to do in Bangkok, whether it's exploring the city's many temples or shopping for bargains at the floating markets.

7 Days in Bangkok

Photo by Steven Wilcox on Unsplash

With so much to see and do, you may be wondering if seven days is too long to spend in Bangkok. While it is possible to see and do a lot in seven days, Bangkok is a huge city and there is always something new to discover.
If you want to make the most of your time in Bangkok, consider taking a day trip to one of the city's many suburbs. This will give you a chance to see another side of the city and experience some of the local culture. Alternatively, you can spend a day or two exploring the city's many parks and green spaces.
Whatever you decide to do, seven days is just long enough to get a taste of what Bangkok has to offer. So go ahead and book your trip – you won't regret it!

7-Day Bangkok Trip: The Full Itinerary

So now that we have established that 7 days in Bangkok is the perfect amount of time to explore everything this incredible city has to offer, what exactly should you do with your week here?

Here is a suggested 7-day Bangkok itinerary that covers all of the city's must-see attractions:

Day 1: Arrive in Bangkok and check into your hotel. Spend the afternoon exploring the city's main sights, such as the Grand Palace, Wat Pho and Wat Arun. In the evening, head to Chinatown for dinner and some shopping.

Day 2: Start your day with a visit to one of Bangkok's many markets, such as Chatuchak Weekend Market or Flower Market. Then, take a boat ride along the Chao Phraya River and visit the Wat Po temple complex. In the evening, enjoy a Thai massage or go for a swim in your hotel pool.

Day 3: Today, head out of the city and visit the ancient capital of Ayutthaya. Explore the ruins of the old city and learn about its history. In the afternoon, return to Bangkok and visit Lumphini Park, where you can relax or go for a jog.

Day 4: Spend the day exploring Bangkok's many museums, such as the National Museum or the Museum of Siam. Alternatively, take a longtail boat tour of the canals in Thonburi district. In the evening, watch a traditional Thai puppet show or see a cabaret performance.

Day 5: Today is a perfect day for some retail therapy. Shop till you drop at MBK Center or Siam Paragon, then rest your feet with a Thai foot massage. In the evening, dine at one of Bangkok's Michelin-starred restaurants or sample street food from a night market.

Day 6: Head out of the city to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, where you can shop for souvenirs and try delicious local food. Then, visit the Mae Klong Railway Market, where trains pass by right through the middle of the market! In the evening, watch a Muay Thai boxing match or see a traditional Thai dance performance.

Day 7: Spend your final day in Bangkok exploring some of the city's lesser-known sights, such as the Wat Mahathat temple or the Royal Barges National Museum. Alternatively, take a cooking class and learn how to make traditional Thai dishes. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with views of the city skyline from a rooftop restaurant.

Most Famous Tourist Destinations in Bangkok

As you can see, there is no shortage of things to do in Bangkok. But with so many options, it can be hard to know where to start. To help you plan your trip, here are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Bangkok:

The Grand Palace: The former home of the Thai royal family, the Grand Palace is a must-see for first-time visitors to Bangkok. Built in 1782, the palace complex is a stunning example of Thai architecture and craftsmanship, and it houses several important historical artifacts.

Wat Pho: One of Bangkok's oldest temples, Wat Pho is best known for its giant reclining Buddha statue. This temple is also a center of traditional Thai medicine and massage, and it offers several massage courses for visitors.

Wat Arun: Wat Arun, or the Temple of Dawn, is one of Bangkok's most recognizable landmarks. This beautiful temple is located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River and features an ornate facade decorated with ceramic tiles and shards of colored glass.

Chinatown: Chinatown is one of Bangkok's most vibrant and colorful neighborhoods. It is home to numerous temples, shops and restaurants, and it comes alive at night with its many street food stalls.

Lumphini Park: Lumphini Park is an oasis of green in the heart of Bangkok's concrete jungle. This large park is perfect for a morning jog or picnic, and it also houses a lake where you can go for a swim.

The National Museum: The National Museum is the perfect place to learn about Thai history and culture. It houses a large collection of artifacts from all over Thailand, as well as a library and research center.

Maeklong Railway Market: This unique market is located right on the tracks of the Maeklong railway line. As the train passes through the market, stalls and umbrellas are quickly set up and taken down to make way for it!

And that's a wrap!

We hope you've enjoyed learning about the top things to do in Bangkok. As you can see, there's plenty to keep you busy during your stay in this bustling city. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Bangkok today!

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Bangkok For Kids - A Unique Experience

2/24/2023

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Bangkok For Kids - A Unique Experience

The city has plenty of family-friendly activities, and Bangkok for kids is no exception.

Bangkok For Kids - A Unique Experience

Photo by Florian Wehde on Unsplash

For families with children, the best option is a family-friendly hotel. The Holiday Inn Bangkok offers a great pool and is near one of the best shopping malls in the city.
If you're staying in the Sukhumvit area, you can use Transit Bangkok's route-planner to find the best public transportation route. However, if you're staying in the Khao San Road area, you'll have to hire a taxi to get around.
The Khao San Road area is a tourist mecca and is also home to street vendors in Northern Hill Tribe clothing.
While you may not be able to get a truly authentic Thai experience here, it's the perfect place to buy cheap fashion, ride a tuk-tuk, and eat street food.
Let’s go and explore some awesome places!

Kidzania

Located in the heart of Bangkok, Kidzania is an interactive edutainment theme park for kids.
Kids aged four to fourteen years can explore 80 professions in this miniature city. The activities are designed to encourage teamwork and creativity while learning important life skills.
Whether your child is interested in fashion, construction, or engineering, Kidzania Bangkok has a job for them.
You must make a reservation in advance. KidZania Bangkok is closed on Mondays, but you can visit during the weekdays. Children must be accompanied by an adult chaperone. Older children, however, can explore the city by themselves.
For safety reasons, they must wear a hand-band code. Children are also given a map and 50 Kidzos to help them find their way around the city. There are guides on hand in English and Thai.
Kids can also visit the working CIMB Thai bank at KidZania. They can make deposits and withdrawals in Thai baht, cash cheques in national currency, and even use ATM cards.
They can also role-play as a bank teller. The new attraction is expected to attract around 1 million visitors in its first year, with about 10 percent of them being foreign tourists. The center will be open for two shifts daily, with a capacity of 2,000 visitors per shift.
In addition to the usual rides, there are also many other activities. In addition to shopping, you can engage in art classes, paint and handcraft activities. The museum features more than 80 role-play scenarios for children.
KidZania Bangkok includes more than 65 establishments that will keep your children busy for hours. Whether your child is looking to learn how to be a chef, a fireman, a barber, or a doctor, you can find a job at KidZania Bangkok.
Kids will love exploring KidZania, which is a scaled-down version of the real world. There are shops, restaurants, and even a theater. It's not only a fun day out for your child, but it also helps them learn valuable skills and develop their social and life skills.

Siam Ocean World

Siam Ocean World is a great place for families to take their kids.
It offers a variety of rides and attractions that are sure to delight your little ones. In addition to its thrilling rides and attractions, kids can experience some of the best cultural shows in the city.
The main show is Siam Niramit, a spectacular cultural show featuring traditional dance and acrobatics.
The aquarium features a variety of fascinating marine life, including starfish, octopus, and crabs. There are also jellyfish, which create beautiful dances and shapes.
There's also a jackass penguin exhibit, where you can watch these adorable animals walk and jump.
The aquarium features a unique interactive display of sea creatures, a great way to engage kids' curiosity. They can even immerse themselves in the marine world through a tunnel. The feeding is fun and interactive, and guests can interact with the experts. The aquarium's 8-meter-high aquarium is a must-see for kids.

Bangkok Science Museum

Another great indoor attraction in Bangkok is the Bangkok Science Museum. There are many interactive exhibits for younger children and plenty of opportunities for interaction for older kids.
The Museum is open Fridays to Sundays from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. for families with children.
Siam Ocean World in Bangkok is the largest aquarium in Southeast Asia and has several themed zones. Located in the basement of Siam Paragon shopping center, this attraction is an excellent place to take the family for an educational day.
The aquarium features an amazing collection of aquatic animals, including giant crabs and sharks.
Another popular attraction in Bangkok is the world-famous Madame Tussauds. It's the 10th oldest branch in the world and features many famous figures.
You can even have a photo taken with these wax figures. There are also many interactive games for kids to enjoy while at the museum.
There are many other attractions in Bangkok for kids. There are several indoor and outdoor attractions.
The city is home to many kids-friendly attractions, including an indoor snow park and water slides. Its nightlife is also one of Bangkok's highlights. With so much to do, there are no limits to the fun.

Grand Palace

The Grand Palace in Bangkok is a great place to take kids.
The park and temple are colorful and impressive. There is a bronze elephant, representing the sacred white elephant of the king. The Emerald Buddha, a prominent figure in Thai culture, is also housed inside the temple.
You can enjoy a show here or spend some quiet time, or even go for a massage.
The Grand Palace is a palace complex located near Khao San Road. It contains a series of throne halls, administrative buildings, and a temple dedicated to the Emerald Buddha. It covers 218,000 square meters and has four walls that stretch almost 1900 meters.
It served as the main residence of the King until 1925 and is now primarily used for ceremonial purposes. Admission to the Grand Palace costs 500 THB for foreigners, but is free for Thai citizens and kids under 120cm tall.
The Grand Palace is open to the public at 8.30am. Visiting early in the morning will allow you to experience the complex with less crowds. However, you will need to wear the proper clothing. If you are wearing something inappropriate, you will be issued with a sarong.
In some buildings, you will also be asked to remove your shoes.
Bangkok is a colorful, cosmopolitan city in the heart of Southeast Asia. The city is filled with things to do and legendary places to eat.
From glitzy skyscrapers to ancient temples, Bangkok has something for everyone. The city is also extremely popular with families. While the heavy traffic may discourage some visitors, there is still a lot to see and experience.
The Grand Palace is one of the best places to visit with kids and is definitely a must-see destination in Bangkok.

Khao San Road

If you are looking for fun activities for kids in Bangkok, you can't go wrong with a trip down Khao San Road.
The lively walkway is filled with young people, including British students. You'll also see the city's famous ladyboys strutting their stuff. Whether you're traveling with your kids or exploring with them for the first time, there's something for everyone to enjoy on Khao San Road.
The Khao San Road area of Bangkok is one of the city's most popular destinations. It features many local markets and food stands.
It's also a great place for kids to run around and interact with locals. If you're traveling with kids, don't miss the chance to stop by the local market, where you can buy souvenirs and buy local food. You'll be able to have fun shopping while observing the local life and meeting new friends.
But be warned: the streets can get crazy at night.
If you're planning on spending a night on Khao San Road, be sure to pack some cash for drinks and booze. There are also countless bars and clubs to choose from. If you're looking to get wild at night, you can spend a night at the Lava Club.

Takeaway

Bangkok is a great city for families. There is something for everyone to enjoy, from the Grand Palace to Khao San Road. With its mix of modern and traditional culture, Bangkok is a must-visit destination for any family.

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A rejuvenating getaway to Thailand

11/24/2022

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A rejuvenating getaway to Thailand

Thailand is a highly preferred destination for short rejuvenation trips for Asians and long vacation stays for many others for its warm tropical climate and the energetic vibe. I'm back to corporate-life, this time, working for my passion in adventure travel. I clearly miss those days when I was slow traveling in Himachal Pradesh after quitting my job, but I certainly don't miss out on any opportunity to travel. Travel brings an everlasting smile on my face and keeps me forever young. A quick rejuvenating getaway to Thailand from Mumbai was most welcome to take a break from my work. Thailand welcomed me with enough warmth for that smile! ?

A rejuvenating getaway to Thailand

Rejuvenating in the Thai way

The first thing that attracted me after I landed in Thailand was the famous Thai massage. The glow on my skin after being pampered with a massage followed by a luxurious time in the jacuzzi was unmatchable. I was rejuvenated to enjoy my trip ahead.

Jacuzzi with swimming pool at Grand Sukhumvit Hotel, Bangkok

Vibrant nightlife in Bangkok

Bangkok exactly matched my expectations of vibrant city coming out alive in the night. The entire city is lit up to give a memorable night life experience to everyone who visits the city. Taking a cruise ride in the night on Chao Phraya river gives a beautiful view of the city's sky line and the historical landmarks along the river. Needless to say, hop on the bar streets for a few Chang or Singha beers.

Night cruise on river Chao Phraya, bangkok, thailand

Wat hopping in Bangkok

Wat hopping in Bangkok is the best way to feel the vibe of the kingdom of Thailand. It was a calming morning for the early riser when I went Wat hopping in Bangkok. Taking a boat ride on Chao Phraya river is also an exciting way to hop on to the historic landmarks of the city.

Wat hopping in Bangkok

Shop till you drop in Bangkok

Having lived minimalistic in the mountains, I hadn't updated my wardrobe in last 3 years. The huge shopping malls in Bangkok offered me wide range of trendy clothes, footwear, bags for my selection. Bangkok would be every girl's delight for shopping therapies. This is the first time I went shopping on my travels and I don't regret spending my time in the malls there.

Shopping at Pratunam mall, Bangkok, thailand

Exploring local life at Floating Markets in Bangkok

The floating markets of Thailand have were traditional market setups for locals where water transport was an important part of the daily life. People living on the river side used boats to barter and trade goods. Now, they have become popular tourist attractions, where the outsiders can take a ride in the boat, buy goods and food made by the locals and experience the traditional way of life. These markets sell creative handicrafts, souvenirs, traditional clothes and accessories, food items on their boats. On one of the early mornings, I visited the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, 100 kms away from Bangkok. The long tail boat took me through narrow canals with traditional houses on the sides. I love to explore and learn about the local life at different places I travel to and this was clearly my best experience in Bangkok.

Damnoen Saduak Floating market, Bangkok, thailand

Tuk-tuk ride in Bangkok

Tuk-tuk ride was one of the most fascinating experiences I had in Bangkok. Here, high speed bikes are converted into tuk-tuks. I could sit back in the comfortable seats with my legs stretched while the tuk-tuk rider took me around the city. Hiring tuk-tuks in Bangkok is quite expensive, but, highly recommended as it is one of an experience. I enjoyed the ride so much that I kept taking rounds in the tuk-tuk till midnight before I hit the bar streets. Bangkok is absolutely safe for women travellers.

Tuk Tuk Ride in Bangkok, thailand

Pampering with luxury in Phuket

After the shopping, tuk-tuk rides, vibrant night life of Bangkok, I needed my "me" time. I flew to Phuket for few days to pamper myself with luxury. Phuket welcomed me with luxury resorts overlooking the tranquil beaches. I could freely walk around this peaceful island as opposed to the busy city of Bangkok.

Amari Patong Resort

Street food in Thailand

I would love exploring the local food served by the locals at any new place I visit. While strolling around in Patong, I chanced upon some fresh street food at the Banzaan market. You would choose your own lobster or king prawns and get it cooked in front of you as per your taste. This place is a delight to sea-food lovers.

Street Food at Banzaan Market, Phuket, Thailand

Apart from the quirky food, you can try some pad thai, muslim style pancakes, khao pad, salad, noodle soup, grilled chicken and pork, shrimps and a huge variety of thai steamed dumplings. I found my favourite muslim pancakes cooked by one of the sweetest women I found in Thailand. This is exactly what I travel for!

Muslim pancake at Banzaan Market

Beautiful sunsets at Phuket

The beaches of Phuket turn into fairylands in the evening when the sun sets down leaving behind a riot of deep soothing colours in the sky. Just when you are winding up your day at the beaches after swimming, snorkeling or scuba diving, nature gives you more reasons for admiration. I could feel life unfold as I sat on the soothing white sand beaches during the evenings and enamoured the changing shades of the sky.

Sunset at Patong Beach, Phuket

Sunset at Kata Beach, Phuket

White sand beaches at Phi Phi Island

Phi Phi Islands look glamorous with its myriad shades of turquoise blue waters and pretty white sand beaches. The limestone cliffs and the flamboyant long tails boats in the Andaman Sea adds on to the glamour.

Limestone cliffs and long tailed boats at Phi Phi Islands

Phi Phi Islands have wide range of luxury resorts on the beach and is a very popular party destination among the youngsters. I wish I had more time to spend at this island! Nevertheless, I bid adieu to Thailand with beautiful memories, only wanting to come back again for Scuba Diving to explore the underwater life in this part of the globe.
Thailand offered me a perfect rejuvenating holiday with shopping therapy, relaxing spa sessions, soothing beaches, Thai luxury and hospitality, vibrant nightlife, delicious sea-food and lovely people.

White sand beaches at Phi Phi Islands

P.S. My trip was organised by Getaway Goddess in association with Tourism Authority of Thailand.
My pictures have been clicked by Mohit Khushlani

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Markha Valley Trek in Ladakh - a trail through the most colourful mountains

2/17/2018

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Markha Valley Trek in Ladakh - a trail through the most colourful mountains

Markha Valley Trek in Ladakh is a gorgeous trekking route with the most colourful mountains of Ladakh and the Ladakhi cultural experiences. On one of my initial treks to Roopkund, I had got inspired by a French lady who was trekking alone with a guide. Solo Trekking then became high on my priority list. I trekked frequently since 2013 and after gaining experience with few treks - Roopkund Trek, Chadar Trek, Kashmir Great Lakes Trek, I gathered enough courage to plan a solo trek (with a guide) for me in 2014. I chalked out my route, booked my flights and informed a few friends about my solo venture. As the date came closer, my confidence started building up higher. I also got motivated to climb Stok Kangri in Ladakh, the highest trekking summit of India, after completing Markha Valley. The adrenaline rush the high altitude mountains gave me had become and addiction and the challenge of trekking solo to Markha Valley and Stok Kangri was building on my mind uncontrollably.

Purple and Teal green coloured mountains on way to GandaLa - Markha Valley trek in Ladakh

Difficulty level: Difficult
Route: Zinchen - Yurutse - Ganda La Base Camp - Ganda La - Skiu - Markha - Thachuntse - Nimaling - Kongmaru La - Shang Sumdo
Total distance covered: 90 km
Passes crossed: Ganda La (4800m/15750 ft), Kongmaru La (5200m/17060 ft)
No. of trekking days: Planned - 7 days (including one rest day at Markha Valley), Actual - 6 days.
No. of acclimatisation days in Leh before the trek: 2 days
Dates I trekked on: 25 Aug 2014 - 30 Aug 2014
Best time for Markha Valley Trek: July - Aug

Acclimatisation in Leh before Markha Valley Trek

Acclimatisation is the most important part of any trek in Ladakh. When you fly to Leh you directly land at 3500m / 11500 ft. To avoid any chances with altitude sickness, I planned to acclimatise in Leh for a couple of days before I start the trek. The day I landed, I spent some time at the hotel eating fresh apricots and sipping ginger lemon honey teas. I ventured out in the evening to local market to looked around for a local guide. Luckily I got a call from a guide I'd previously trekked with in Kashmir. He was on his way to Leh and wanted to explore the Markha valley route, and we called it a team!
I then headed to Shanti Stupa (not recommended, but I couldn't resist). While climbing the fleet of stairs to Shanti Stupa, I felt dizzy. I stopped, sipped some water and carried on slowly. I spent my night gazing at the sky and being lucky with 3 shooting stars! The next day I head out to explore the monasteries at Likir, Alchi, and Lamayuru.

Shanti Stupa in Leh, Ladakh

Day1: Zinchen (3380m/11090 ft) - Ganda La Base (4540m/14900 ft) : 8 km / 4 hrs

After a 45 min drive from Leh to Zinchen, the taxi driver escorted me and my friend towards the start of the trail and wished me luck. We walked steadily and gradually on the dry trail through barren mountains of Ladakh, curious to find out what lied beyond them.

Zinchen - starting point of Markha Valley trek in Ladakh

I was happy to find a teahouse at Rumbak and few people who were walking on the same trail. I chatted with them while gulping down the noodles and bid adieu to the monk who served me. After a gradual climb, we arrived at Yurutse which had a homestay. We checked with the locals if we could go ahead to Ganda La Base Camp.

Yurutse - Markha Valley trek in Ladakh

We found a fixed campsite and a teahouse at the base. I had a little headache when I reached GandaLa Base Camp as I had gained more than 3800ft of height on the first day. I took a tablet with a few glasses of water and slept. The campsite owner woke me up for dinner post which I slept again.

GandaLa Base Camp - Markha Valley trek in Ladakh

Day2: Ganda La Base(4540m/14900 ft) - Ganda La(4800m/15750 ft)
- Skiu (3400m/11160 ft) : 22 km / 8 hrs

The next day I woke up fresh with preparedness of crossing the Ganda La pass at an altitude of 4540m. The caretaker at the campsite directed us towards the route and it looked quite steep. The kaleidoscopic landscape with the dramatic Trans-Himalayan Range of Ladakh kept me engaged on the entire route. I was mesmerised with every new colour the mountains showed me.

View from GandaLa pass - Markha Valley trek in Ladakh

The very well marked trail led us to Ganda La pass. We celebrated my first feat with a packet of teacakes. GandaLa pass was supposed to give beautiful views of Stok Kangri, but the cloud cover didn't work in our favour.

GandaLa pass - Markha Valley trek in Ladakh

The descent from Ganda La pass looked straight forward. After a couple of hours I took a break at a tea house at Shingo village. I met few trekkers there who called it a day at this village and didn't go further. I had planned to walk up to Skiu. The trail was a never-ending stretch and I made it to Skiu just before the sunset. I didn't want to move even an inch after this and I settled at the homestay. The lady served me my favourite ginger lemon tea that soothed me down after a long tiring day. I woke up early the next day to observe the sun rise behind the stunning Skiu monastery.

Skui monastery - Markha Valley trek in Ladakh

Skiu monastery - Markha Valley trek in Ladakh

Day3: Skiu (3400m/11160 ft) - Markha (3400m/12370 ft) : 20 km / 8 hrs

After a hearty breakfast, we were prepared to walk for long hours again. I was quite thrilled on this day as I was to reach Markha Valley. Markha river started adding glamour to the barren trail. We crossed the river twice on the bridge and the third time we had to actually wade through the icy-cold river with bare feet. The follow trekkers on the route and we helped each other cross the river.

Markha River - Markha Valley trek in Ladakh

Today's lunch break was at the teahouse at Narding village. It was again a long long day before we made it to our destination of the day. The lush green Markha valley looked atleast as beautiful as I had heard about it, if not more. My initial plan was to spend a day exploring the valley and give some rest to my legs. But honestly, I had started enjoying my journey more than the destination. My body and mind was getting used to the long strenuous walks each day. My thighs had pained a lot for 2 days, but after the third day, my body stopped sensing the pain. My legs were used to walking with the pain and we planned to continue walking the next day.

Markha Valley - Markha Valley trek in Ladakh

Day4: Markha (3400m/12370 ft) - Thochuntse (4010m/13165 ft) : 13 km / 6 hrs

We spent sometime with the locals of Markha Valley in the morning and started walking again. The route never failed to surprise me with its diversity. From ruined Tacha Monastery (Kunkhan Gompa) to interesting german art of balancing stones to the beautifully carved Mani stones with Tibetan Buddhist symbols, this route had a lot to offer.

carved Mani stones with Tibetan Buddhist symbols - Markha Valley trek in Ladakh

I gradually started soaking in the exquisiteness of this side of Ladakh. I started appreciating the little things about Ladakhi people and culture. The ruins started impressing me as well.

on the way to Thochuntse - Markha Valley trek in Ladakh

I took 2 breaks - one at teahouse at Umling village for lunch and one at teahouse at Hankar village. I was in no hurry to reach the destination as it was relatively a shorter walk and my speed had started picking up as I was well acclimatised. I reached the campsite at Thochuntse in the afternoon.

Thochuntse campsite - Markha Valley trek in Ladakh

Day5: Thochuntse (4010m/13165 ft) - Nimaling (4730m/15520 ft) : 7 km / 3 hrs

Another day of a short walk on the trail gave me enough time to flip over the alluring landscape. I could sit by the pond and observe the yaks graze around me. I could leisurely enjoy the the views of majestic Kang Yatse peak in the backdrop. I was feeling very adventurous to climb the peak as well, if only it wasn't technical.

yaks grazing with Kang Yatse peak in backdrop - Markha Valley trek in Ladakh

We walked ahead on the orange coloured terrain towards Nimaling falling for the vividness of the mountains again.

on the way to Nimaling - Markha Valley trek in Ladakh

It is extremely important to sleep a night in Nimaling before crossing the high altitude pass of Kongmaru La. The temperature at Nimaling generally drops to 0-5 degrees. I was lucky to have settled in my tent before the hailstorm struck Nimaling. I was enjoying the brown landscape turning into white.

Nimaling campsite - Markha Valley trek in Ladakh

Day6: Nimaling (4730m/15520 ft) - Kongmaru La (5200m/17060 ft)
- Shang Sumdo (3730m/12240 ft) : 18 km / 7 hrs

Kongmaru La pass looked easy from Nimaling, but it was a little difficult to climb. It was the first time that I was crossing the height of 17000 feet. The weather had turned bad just when we were 15-20 minutes away from the pass.

Kongmaru La pass - Markha Valley trek in Ladakh

I was overjoyed when I made it to the KongmaruLa pass. I had actually made my dream of trekking solo come true! We celebrated our second feat with another pack of teacakes I had kept in reserve for this day.

Kongmaru La pass - Markha Valley trek in Ladakh

The descent to Shang Sumdo from KongmaruLa was a little long. But the mountains didn't stop enticing me with the striking colours. I felt exceptionally content on the achievement of successfully completing my first solo trek.

Homestays and teahouses on Markha Valley Trek

The locals in every village or settle on the route have opened their homes to trekkers. The rooms are dormitory style with clean beds and blankets. The homestays have local dry-toilets, common to all. They also serve delicious home cooked meals. The accommodation rates are standard across the valley. There are enough signboards on the route guiding to the homestays in Markha Valley. It is very convenient to break your journey at any of the homestays on the route and walk ahead the next day at your comfort. The homestays also let you pitch your own tent in their camping area for a nominal rate. GandaLa base camp, Thochuntse and Nimaling have only fixed campsites and no homestays.

Homestays - Markha Valley trek in Ladakh

Many locals welcome the trekkers to their tented teahouses near their homes on the Markha Valley route. They serve basic food - maggi (noodle), tea, dal (lentil soup) and rice. The trekkers can let their hair down and dry their shoes while relishing hot served lunch.

Teahouses - Markha Valley trek in Ladakh

Wildlife spotting on Markha Valley Trek

I was ignorant to wildlife before I started observing the fascinating creatures on the high mountains. Getting a chance to be up, close and personal with the Bharals (Blue Sheep) was an experience of its kind.

Bharal (Blue Sheep) - Markha Valley trek in Ladakh

Even the Chukars looked enticing.

Chukar - Markha Valley trek in Ladakh

My exposure to Ladakhi culture & lifestyle on Markha Valley Trek

Markha Valley trek had completely changed the way I looked at mountains. Before this trek, mountains for me was all about "Myself", Achieving the heights, proving my strength to myself. It was on Markha Valley trek that I got a chance to live in the authentic Ladakhi homestays with the locals. I started learning about their life which was so different from ours. I started cherishing my simple conversations with them. The kindness that each one of them showed had blown me away. For the first time, I exposed myself to the cultural side of travel, though it was never planned for. This was my first step towards getting involved with the authentic mountain lifestyle, which later became a deeper part of my life. I started living a basic lifestyle in the Himalayas.

Ladakhi lady - Markha Valley trek in Ladakh

Tacha Monastery (Kunkhan Gompa) - Markha Valley trek in Ladakh

Ladakhi kitchen - Markha Valley trek in Ladakh

Ladakhi school kids - Markha Valley trek in Ladakh

Ladakhi kid - Markha Valley trek in Ladakh

Colorful mountains in Ladakh on Markha Valley Trek

I just cannot get over the psychedelic mountains of Markha Valley! I couldn't stop talking about the colourful mountains to everyone after the trek.

Trans Himalayan Range - Markha Valley trek in Ladakh

Golden Trans Himalayan Range - Markha Valley trek in Ladakh

Riot of colours in Trans Himalayan mountain range - Markha Valley trek in Ladakh

Kang Yatse peak - Markha Valley trek in Ladakh

Friends I made on Markha Valley Trek!

I met interesting people on the trek who were walking on the same route with the same pace as mine. We started our day together, motivated eachother, took breaks together, laughed together and even shared tents.

Kongmaru La pass - Markha Valley trek in Ladakh

Everything felt so perfect on this trek. I realised how much I loved my freedom to walk at my own pace, without anyone asking me to slow down when I felt very energetic or hurry up when I wanted to soak in the nature. My confidence grew multiple folds after the successful completion of my solo trek to Markha Valley trek, I was ready to take my next adventure to Stok Kangri head on!

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Paragliding with Nirvana Adventures at Kamshet, Maharashtra - best place to learn paragliding in India

2/4/2018

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Paragliding with Nirvana Adventures at Kamshet, Maharashtra - best place to learn paragliding in India

Paragliding is the latest adventure I've added on my list after trekking and scuba diving. The thought of being able to fly like a bird in the endless skies had always fascinated me, but also given me jitters. Being an adventure traveler, I started climbing the mountains that covers 6% of the earth's surface. After that I started diving in the oceans that cover covers 71% of the earth's surface. It took me a while to venture into the infinite sky. I had presumed that it's going to be difficult. However, I kept my inhibitions away and learnt to jump off the cliffs with a paraglider.

Paragliding course in Kamshet, India - Nirvana Adventures

Paragliding courses in India

Nirvana Adventures is the pioneering paragliding school in India which offers courses in paragliding following the British Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association (BHPA) standards. They had discovered an ideal paragliding site in Kamshet, near Lonavala in Maharashtra in 1996 and setup a paragliding school which offers. A few more schools have opened up in other parts of India (Nandi Hills near Bangalore, Munnar in Kerala, Bir in Himachal Pradesh)

Elementary Pilot course (4 days): This course is for beginners who are serious about taking paragliding as a hobby. After this course you will have learnt to take 2-3 minutes solo flights.

Club Pilot course (5 days): This course is for Elementary pilots who have logged a minimum of 15 solo flights and want to fly longer and higher. After this course you will have learnt to take extended solo flights upto an hour.

Paragliding course in Kamshet - Nirvana Adventures

Ground Handling - Learning Paragliding

My course started with theory and videos and I relearnt physics (aerodynamics) for my adventure. How I wish I had learnt all the subjects in the school through practical implementation in adventures! I was then taken to the Ashram paragliding site for Ground Handling. I learnt to use the equipment and launch the canopy. I was made to run multiple times on the ground just to learn to handle the glider. Running into the wind with an open glider was not an easy task and I was still scared to jump off the cliff the next day!

Ground Handling - Paragliding course in Kamshet, India - Nirvana Adventures

Bunny Hops - Learning Paragliding

The second morning I was taken to another site called Shinde Hill for Bunny hops. I soon started taking short flights from the height of 20 metres on the cliff. The instructor constantly gave me instructions on the walky-talky for a smooth learning process. After multiple bunny hops I learnt to take-off and land smoothly. Of course I had my own tumbles and bruises while learning to take-ff and land in different wind conditions. But it started building up my confidence, I had actually started flying smoothly for 30-40 seconds. After each flight, I had to hike up the cliff with the glider for the next one. I had the double pleasure of hiking + flying with this exercise which continued on the thrid day as well and I had taken 9 bunny hops in total.

Paragliding course in Kamshet, India - Nirvana Adventures

Short Solo Flights - Learning Paragliding

In the second half of the 3rd day I was taken to the top of the cliff at the height of 45 metres. The instructor asked me if I was ready to fly from there. For the first time, a cliff looked high to me and I wasn't sure if I would land at the landing site and not on any of the trees or walls around. But that didn't stop me from jumping off the cliff! I learnt to take turns while flying so that I would land at the correct spot. My first solo flight of 2 mins seconds was a "dream-come-true" moment for me. I was a pleasing smile on my face while flying! I practiced flying on my fourth day from the same cliff, completed a total of 10 solo flights under direct supervision and got certified as an "Elementary Pilot".

Paragliding course in Kamshet, India - Nirvana Adventures

Where to stay in Kamshet - Native Place overlooking Vadivali lake

Native Place, overlooking the Vadivally lake in Kamshet, is is the eco-friendly dream house of the owners - Sanjay and Astrid. Native Place had taken its existence even before Nirvana Adventures was conceptualised. It was Astrid's wish of having a home which her kids can call a native place, where she would grow different trees and plants which she rightly feared her kids won't get to see in Mumbai once they grow up. Every inch of Native Place is build with love which is felt in the air the moment you enter.

Scarlet Clock Vine - entrance to Native Place, Kamshet

Native Place is now a homestay with 4 dorm rooms for the paragliding learners who generally opt for budget accommodation, 8 private rooms for the ones who wish to enjoy the positive vibe of Native Place and serenity of Vadivali lake. For the ones who like to camp under the stars and enjoy their barbecues under the skies, they also have a camping ground with tents in the garden.

Camping in the garden at Native Place, Kamshet

A small courtyard makes one of the most beautiful dining areas I've ever had my dinner at. They sometimes arrange barbecue dinner at the roof-top with the view of Vadivali lake. It makes a lovely ambiance to interact with pilots with different experiences. During my visit to Native Place, I met some very experienced pilots from Sweden who travel every year to fly with Nirvana Adventures. Expect some farm-to-table lip-smacking fresh food in the menu. The positivity of this place was so high that I didn't want to go back to Mumbai. Astrid rightly calls it a native place.

Dining in courtyard at Native Place, Kamshet

Astrid has grown indigenous trees and plants in her garden that attract variety of birds and butterflies. She follows permaculture principles to grow organic food in her garden. Take an early morning walk with her to feel her passion for her garden. She served me a purple coloured tea made from a flower called Clitoria which she picked up from the garden during the walk. She couldn't have made my day better!

Fresh tea made from Clitoria flower

Review: Nirvana Adventures Paragliding

I can't thank Nirvana Adventures enough for building the confidence to fly in me. Paragliding sounded as a deadly affair to me until I came to Nirvana Adventures. They have highly experienced instructors trained by the Swiss instructors. They follow high standards for their equipment. They have simulator training at their accommodation. Their teaching pace is as per the comfort of the learner. They would let you take as many flights as you want under favourable weather conditions. Nirvana Adventures would make sure that you return as confident pilots only wishing to come back to practice and enhance your skills with them.
I'm equally tempted to go back to Native Place just for the positive vibe and the garden. I'll surely visit this place often to practice flying and complete my Club Pilot course.

To get an idea on what it takes to fly, watch this video:

How to reach Kamshet

Nirvana Adventures and Native Place are nestled between the Sahyadri Mountains, 30 kms from Lonavla, off the Mumbai-Pune express highway.
You can take any bus to Lonavla either from Mumbai or Pune. From Lonavla you need to hire a taxi to reach Native Place / Nirvana Adventures. I had driven down 125 kms from Mumbai to Kamshet.

Native place overlooking Vadivali lake, Kamshet

P.S. I was invited by Nirvana Adventures to do the Elementary Pilot course with them and was hosted at Native Place.

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Backpacking trip to Vietnam - Mekong Delta, Nha Trang, Hoi An, Sapa

2/2/2018

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Backpacking trip to Vietnam - Mekong Delta, Nha Trang, Hoi An, Sapa

I gifted myself a backing trip to South East Asia (Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia) after taking the bold step of quitting my job as a software engineer. I chose budget destinations for my backpacking trip as I wanted to travel for 5 long weeks, without having any income in my account for almost a year since then. I was very excited about spending maximum time in Vietnam as I could relate the diversity of this country to India. From north to south, Vietnam has diverse landscapes ranging from mountains, deserts, heritage sites, dense forests, river delta, coastal stretches, islands and tropical lowlands. While exploring the rich diversity and culture, adventure was also on my top list. I flew to Ho Chi Minh City and traversed from south to north covering the following destinations:

Backpacking trip to Vietnam

1. Vinh Long - River Island in Mekong Delta

Mekong River Delta in the south was my first pick in Vietnam after I landed at Ho Chi Minh City. There are 3 provinces frequented by tourists on the Mekong Delta - Bến Tre, Vĩnh Long and Cần Thơ. I chose to explore Vinh Long, approachable by bus from Ho Chi Minh City. A short ferry ride took me to a river island named An Binh on Tien river, in Vinh Long province. An Binh is a beautiful green island, inhabited by the ethic Viet. I stayed with the locals in a homestay, walked around the island to observe the simple lifestyle of locals there and took a boat ride to floating market of Cai Be.

Vinh Long - River Island in Mekong Delta

2. Scuba Diving in Nha Trang

The seaside town of Nha Trang was a must-visit for me as it is the Scuba Diving centre of Vietnam. Nha Trang is one of the cheapest destinations for Scuba Diving certification. Being of the prime fishing location, this part of the country is heavily fished, and doesn’t offer great marine life sightings while scuba diving. But since I am already an advanced open water diver, I would love to take a dive in different parts of the world to upgrade my diving skills and experience. I was already spoilt by diving in the islands of Indonesia, Andaman and Lakshadweep. I was very happy to explore the dive sites of Vietnam that enhanced my experience of diving in strong currents. Nha Trang town has a laid back vibe with a beautiful bay, white sand beaches, bars and boutiques.

Scuba Diving in Nha Trang, Vietnam

3. Hoi An - UNESCO World Heritage Site

To explore some heritage side of Vietnam, I headed to Hoi An - a UNESCO World Heritage Site influenced by Chinese, Japanese and Dutch architecture. I had a “love at first sight” affair with this chic town decorated with creative Vietnamese lanterns. It had chic garden cafes serving the Vietnamese coffee, which I rate the best I’ve ever had. I stayed in a homestay on the banks of a beautiful river that runs through the town. A short walk from my homestay through the fields took me to scenic beach with pretty mountains in the backdrop. The boutiques in the central town sold tailor-made first copies of all high-end brands, I was spoilt for choice! The central part of the town has charming cafes overlooking the river where artists play live music under the lantern-lit streets. I someday wish to go back to this town to live there for a few months admiring the beauty!

Hoi An - UNESCO World Heritage Site

4. Trekking through rice terraces in Sapa

Sapa highlands in the north was another adventure destination for me in Vietnam. Located in the mountain range close to the Chinese border, Sapa is a picturesque town inhabited by Hmong - the ethnic Vietnamese tribe. I trekked upto Taphin village in the mountains and stayed overnight at a homestay with the ethnic Vietnamese locals, who looked like Chinese as it is very close to Chinese border. The family cooked delicious local food. This is where I learnt using chopsticks as it was the only available option! I had been escaping using chopsticks on all my trips to South East Asia all this while! The family walked me around the village showing me cherry blossoms and beautiful view points in the mountain range. The lady walked me to the main trail from where I hiked down to the town of Lao Can to take my bus to Laos.

Trekking through rice terraces in Sapa, Vietnam

Backpacking in Vietnam gave me varied experiences of trekking, scuba diving, heritage, culture, food, homestays and picturesque locations. I haven’t done justice to the country as the country has a lot more to offer than the destinations I visited.

How to Travel to Vietnam:

I had taken the low-cost Air Asia flight from Mumbai to Ho Chi Minh City with a layover in Malaysia. I would also recommend to explore Kota Kinabalu if you wish to spend some time in Malaysia before heading to Vietnam. Budget Hotel in Kota Kinabalu can be booked through reliable hotel booking platform.

Visa requirements for Vietnam for Indians:

Vietnam has Visa on Arrival for Indian passport holders, with a visa approval letter which can be obtained through online application with any of the online agent platforms. Once you have the approval letter, the visa will be stamped on arrival. The agents have fixed application fee, however they can charge a surcharge if you need the approval letter during any of their holiday season (mainly during the Chinese year holiday season).

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How solo driving on Indian highways and Himalayas empowers me as a woman

10/29/2017

6 Comments

How solo driving on Indian highways and Himalayas empowers me as a woman

Breaking myths has been my favourite pastime since ever and driving was my fascination since childhood. The first thing I ever wanted to possess after I start earning was a car. As a kid I used to fantasise about owning 7 cars, 1 for each day.
I come from a typical Indian family where my parents wanted me to buy a car only after I get married. They wanted to instil in me the fear of rejection by guys for marriage if I break my bones or suffer from physical dysfunction on banging up my car.

Celebrating my freedom with my car

After I started earning, I had many heated up arguments with my family about my desire to buy a car. But that didn’t stop me. Some day, I gathered enough money and courage to buy a small hatchback car, just enough for me. I celebrated my freedom by driving it for a week to various destinations before I “informed” my parents about my new possession.
They were of course not happy, but they had no option except warning me to use the car within the city limits and not on the highways. Little did they know that the car was on highway on all the days for the entire week.
I was a social butterfly when I lived in Pune. I had started enjoying my freedom as I could be out for parties till late, without the worries of availability of public transport, I could explore beautiful destinations around Pune on the weekends.

Driving my new i10 from Pune to Shrivardhan beach

Breaking egos

I started going out on long road trips with friends. I had to constantly fight the egos of my male friends who always wanted to show that they are better drivers than me, but still, didn’t have the guts or permission to take their dad’s car on road trips. I even learnt to be patient on the roads.

Driving my new i10 on Worli sea link, Mumbai

Taking safety measures on road for woman solo driving

Gradually I got so immersed in solo traveling that I wanted to enjoy my long drives solo. I started taking my car to Mumbai to meet my parents (of course, without letting them know about it). Having driven to Goa various times with friends, I gathered enough courage to drive solo to Goa from Pune. I had lot of apprehensions about executing this plan.

The evening before, I went to a mechanic to understand the basics of the engine.
I got all the tyres fixed and even learnt to jackup my car to change the wheel.
I got up very early to target reaching Goa by afternoon, keeping enough time before dark for me if anything goes wrong on the way.
I drove with the windshields rolled up and car locked all the way.
I dressed modestly on the road trip.
I didn't want to be noticed driving alone. I avoided taking any break on the way and landed in Goa after 7 hours of drive.

My first solo drive from Pune to Goa

Making car my home when I lived location independent

There came a stage in my life when I’d taken the biggest decision of my life of quitting my job as IT professional to give myself a chance to pursue my passions. I decided to take a break from work for a year and slow travel in Himalayas. I had started living minimalistic to have the freedom to move around easily. I donated most of my belongings, packed only what I needed into my car and drove all the way to Himalayas. Being location independent, I explored and lived in different parts of Himachal Pradesh. I had made my car my home. All my belonging were packed in my car for 1.5 years and I used them as and when required when I traveled to different places. I had the luxury of parking my home anywhere as per my comfort if I went on any trek or took flights for any other travels.

Carpacking in my i10 for 1.5 years in Himachal Pradesh

Solo driving in Himalayas

Once I realised my capabilities, I never wanted to stop. The sheer hate of being dependent on anyone for my needs lead to me driving solo in the mountains. I still remember the day when I had encountered a huge bus on a single lane road with a steep valley on my side. I completely froze with the sight of valley on my side. I tried to reverse my car to give way to the bus, but I was just too scared, I requested the driver to reverse the bus and give me way. I practised and perfected those narrow roads looking down the valley where I didn't want to encounter any bus, and those sharp blind turns and got very comfortable with the scary sounding drives in the mountains. I traveled extensively in Himachal Pradesh and moved my base to 3-4 different places. I drove frequently to Delhi from Himachal Pradesh whenever I had to take flights to go to another destination. After living in Himalayas for 1.5 years, when I had to move to Mumbai to take up a job in adventure travel, I drove solo all the way from Tirthan Valley (Himachal Pradesh) to Mumbai covering 2000 km in 3 days, making sure I end my drive before dark everyday.

Off-roading my i10 in Himalayas

Feeling empowered as a woman while driving solo

Each time I took my car off on long road trips in the mountains, I felt intensely empowered. The feeling of being able to do something that every female is stopped from, made me bolder with each drive of mine. I eventually started getting comfortable with roads and people in Himachal Pradesh. I no longer felt worried if I had to take food and pee breaks on the way. I started off-roading my i10. I even learnt to drive my i10 on the snow-covered roads. My adventures of solo drives helped me build my confidence on many other things in life. I have never observed any female driving on the highways. And I feel glad I could break this myth in my own head.

Driving my i10 in snow

Encouraging woman empowerment

The locals in the mountains trusted me with their sisters and wives whenever they needed a lift. The local community where women were never exposed to the idea of going out without any male, got comfortable in sending their ladies with me on short trips as well. Few mothers were happy sending their daughters with me on my morning jogs. The lady from my local family in Tirthan Valley would proudly tell me, “You can fail all men with your driving”. I would always consult the man in the family before taking my car on any new road to which he would say, “You have driven in entire India alone, why should you be scared of the roads here?”
My friends' parents and my relatives started trusting me with their daughters for any drive on highways. I wish they start trusting their own daughters someday.
My parents too have stopped questioning me and started showing confidence in my driving on seeing me safe and sound after my solo drives.

My sweetheart i10 has been the best travel companion of mine. Buying a car was one of the best decisions of my life. My car has seen places with me and I feel blessed to have taken those chances which I didn't want to regret later.

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How solo driving on Indian highways and Himalayas empowers me as a woman

1. Antiperspirant Spray

2. Exercise Your Feet to Prevent Injuries

Stretching

Strengthening

4. Use Antibacterial Insoles

Conclusion

Most Famous Tourist Destinations in Bangkok

Kidzania

Rejuvenating in the Thai way

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Acclimatisation in Leh before Markha Valley Trek

Day1: Zinchen (3380m/11090 ft) - Ganda La Base (4540m/14900 ft) : 8 km / 4 hrs

Day2: Ganda La Base(4540m/14900 ft) - Ganda La(4800m/15750 ft)
- Skiu (3400m/11160 ft) : 22 km / 8 hrs

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Celebrating my freedom with my car

Breaking egos

Taking safety measures on road for woman solo driving

Solo driving in Himalayas

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