6 Traveling styles that you should explore!
As Deborah Lloyd once said, “Travel sparks our imagination, feeds our curiosity, and reminds us how much we all have in common.” To experience this, we have curated 6 styles of traveling that you can adopt in your post COVID plans to explore places in a beautiful way! Explore different kinds of traveling to make the best out of it! Solo traveler: Breathtaking views of Spiti Valley If you have been putting off travel plans because you’re waiting for someone to go with- Stop! Just go! Solo travel gives you the ultimate freedom, pulls you out of your comfort zone, and allows you to explore places like never before! There is something amazing about spending all the time with ourselves, understanding our choices, and exploring life, one place at a time! It can seem pretty scary, exciting, daunting, and all at once but it is worth a shot! From deciding what and where to eat, exploring new places to making friends on the go, life lessons are hidden in every step you take if you dare to look for it! As Hans Christian Andersen said, “To move, to breathe, to fly, to float, To gain all while you give, to roam the roads of the lands remote, to travel is to live!” and we hope you get to experience this in your own company! 2. Family Traveler: Family traveler Travelling allows you to experience and understand new places, culture, tradition, food, language and customs of the land and it definitely gets better when you travel together with your family. Family travelling is one of the best ways to explore places as the entire family gets to try out unique things out of their comfort zone together. It can be hiking, road trips, treks, beaches or visiting a museum but all of it is worthwhile when you get to share them with your loved ones! It definitely helps you understand each other better and you will come home together as a more loving family. As Tom Lichtenheld once said, “A road trip is a way for the whole family to spend time together and annoy each other in interesting new places.” 3. Backpackers: Backpackers A backpacker is a person who can practically live anywhere in the world out of their backpack and is always on the go! They are here to travel for the long term and are fiercely independent and adventurous. They are usually budget travelers staying in hostels and surviving off of street food. Backpacking is popular because it allows you to lead a simple life in a foreign land and walk the place like you’re a local. It helps you understand yourself as everyday’s plan involves going way out of your comfort zone, all the while saving tons of money and creating memories for a lifetime! Everyday comes with a new set of friends, places and adventures and you get to live in the moment! With a new set of backpacker friends also comes the never ending adventure stories! 4. RV Travelers: RV Travelers Have you ever wondered how you miss the comforts of your home while travelling? Well, it’s time to take your home with you by travelling in an RV! By travelling in an RV, you get to save lots of money, explore your chef skills and pause your travel to have a picnic in the middle of nowhere! You also get to travel with your loved ones, it could be your spouse, children or even your pet! You can wake up to scenic views and be one with nature in your own terms! All of this at your convenience and flexibility is a dream come true, right? RV travelling is an amazing experience that you should not miss out on! 5. Photographers: Photographers Photographers are those who capture beautiful images on every trip they go. It’s all about the mesmerizing and scintillating views for them. Be it people, streets, food, monuments, nature walks ,treks or a beach, they are the ones looking for the right angle to capture the beauty of the image! As Rumi said, we take photos as a return ticket to a moment otherwise gone and these travelers live by it! For them, travel is synonymous with pictures and they explore a place through their lens adding perspective with every click! They won’t just tell you about their travel stories, it comes with beautiful pictures and makes you feel as if you were right there! 6. Groupies: Groupies As Charles M. Schulz once said, “In life, it’s not where you go, it’s who you travel with.” Groupies are those travelers who live by this and always travel in packs. They love the idea of people coming together to explore new places, be it a road trip or a hike! You can easily find them as they are visible in packs or busy being the life of the party! They are the ones planning their vacations ahead of time and make the most out of every holiday by exploring places in a group! It is bad manners to keep a vacation waiting so it’s time to plan your trips! You can check out the travel experiences we offer and our travel feed to read about all things travel!
6 Reasons Why Travel Booking in Advance is a Smart Choice post COVID-19
COVID-19 has been devastating for the world. The small things we used to take for granted are coming into focus and making us more appreciative, and one of those is travel – travel isn’t just the vacations we take, its the commute from home to the office, its the spontaneous weekend plans and drives, the freedom to pull up in a highway restaurant and eat without worries. It’s also the business trips we take, commuting between cities, meeting new people, going to new places. Of course, travel is taking a back seat now in these times, and rightfully so. But as the world starts to open and everyone begins cautiously stepping out, it’s important to keep in mind the various risks associated with the same. One of these is traveling post-COVID and being exposed to the coronavirus, to the risks that come with it. After the pandemic, travel will be safer, and all the more important – for this reason, even in times of uncertainty, advance booking will be extremely important post-pandemic, and a part of this is also traveling insurance, finding the right places, and knowing when and how to do prebooking/advance booking. What is advance booking, the benefits of advance booking, when to book in advance, and how to save money while doing the same – all these questions will be answered in this blog, your guide to the advantages of advance booking. Generally speaking, advance booking/prebooking involves confirmation and payment for the different stages of travel – traveling, accommodation, intercity travel, and other related services. So why should you book your tickets and plan out your trip in advance? Here are some reasons. 1] Travel Insurance, the new Holy Grail Travel insurance is extremely important, especially now Travel insurance is an insurance policy that offers compensation for any travel-related losses, personal /medical and delays and cancellations of flights during your travel within India or internationally. Many people lost a lot of money when countries and cities started shutting due to COVID, because of thousands of booked flights, tours, hotels, etc. canceled last minute. This risk is still prominent – outbreaks of the virus and hotspots crop up every day, and for whatever reason you may be traveling you need to be protected from the same. Not only does it provide financial security, but it also allows for medical security in possibly unknown and new places you may be in, in case of an outbreak or possible infection from the virus. So what does booking in advance have to do with this? Travel insurance is often offered for flights and trains only initially and gets much more expensive the more you delay it. There are also more options available when you opt for travel insurance earlier on your trip, from different companies and different deals. Another benefit of opting for travel insurance earlier on is having the safety net for longer, so if you need to travel earlier than expected or have unexpected cancellations from the flight or accommodation or any other service, you can get a full refund from the insurance. There are 3 kinds in general – medical, luggage, and cancellation based insurance. The main benefit is that travel insurance, in particular travel medical insurance, is a huge asset for traveling post-COVID. Check out Nerd Wallet‘s comprehensive guide on travel insurance in a post-pandemic world, and why it is important. 2] Cheaper rates and better deals You can avail better travel deals and book for cheaper in advance When you book early, it is more likely that you will find deals that are better and cheaper, ones like you’ve never seen before because mostly everyone tends to book at the last minute due to uncertainties. However, if you combine travel insurance and early booking, chances are you’ll find great deals and discounts to save money, get better offers, sometimes get upgrades. Why is that? because travel companies, especially in these times, want more people to book early so as to reduce their uncertainty and have a fixed possible income. They basically want you to book early, and they’ll return the favor you’ve done to them generously. You can also find cheaper rates by booking flights, trains, buses, etc. tickets earlier because it allows you to access discounts and coupons available for the time you are booking in as well as future deals offered to you. Another point to note is that many flight services let you buy memberships for lesser prices and access more early bird offers that way. For more about booking cheap flight tickets and getting ahead of deals, check out Thrifty Nomads‘ blog on the same – it’s informative and detailed! 3] Flexibility in your itinerary Flexibility and spontaneous changes are key in travel One of the biggest advantages of booking tickets and trips earlier is having more flexibility in case of different situations cropping up, the need to change plans, or even just a spontaneous shift in destinations for vacations and trips. This flexibility is especially important for people who like to go with the flow when it comes to travel, make it up as they go, or change different things in their plans. Flexibility is great not just because you can deal with new changes but also because it allows you to change last-minute based on unexpected circumstances, such as maybe a coronavirus hotspot discovered near to your destination or any other dangerous/risky situation that may crop up. So if you plan to take a family Christmas trip in the winter, but last-minute change your destination, you can cancel for that, and in the case of a COVID hotspot being warded off you can change for it as well – keep advance booking in mind the next time you need to or want to travel. Advance booking/pre-booking your travel or destination or accommodation allows you to change things quickly and without any repercussion
Caravan Travel in India
Every heart desires for refreshing camping trips to high mountains, blue beaches, sand dunes, or green forests of India; after spending such a long time at home during the lockdown period. In the present Corona-Virus crisis when social distancing is a necessity to remain safe, Caravan is a safer way to travel and perfect for young people/couples, families, and even senior citizens. One can perfectly follow social distancing while traveling by road and exploring new places by Caravan. You will be wondering what exactly Caravan means? In simple words, it can be explained as a wheeled vehicle created for traveling and recreational purposes equipped with essential facilities such as bed, lights, cooking equipment, etc. to make your trip comfortable. Perfect for those who love road trips and it can be safely parked in Caravan Parks at different tourist destinations. So, what are Caravan Parks? These are places that act as a safe parking space for Caravan and provides all the basic amenities and supplies required for it. There are many Caravan parks located at famous destinations. Here, one can park the caravan and stay in it overnight. Many new Caravan parks are in the planning and building stage at prominent tourist places that will facilitate future Caravan trips in India. Caravan Tour in India (Benefits of traveling through Caravan) Caravan tourism is an emerging concept in India and quite popular across the globe owing to the freedom and flexibility it provides. Ministry of Tourism recognized Caravan Travel Culture as a tourism product in its New Tourism Products Annual Report. Even Madhya Pradesh Tourism Department shared commercials over social media showing their luxurious caravans and inviting travel enthusiasts for tour bookings in Caravan. It is very apt for the family-based tour even to the destinations where adequate accommodation facility is not available. You can go for a perfect weekend holiday in Caravan with elderly parents and even tag your pets (why to leave them at home?). You will feel free and independent when you hit the roads with Caravan. Experience the authentic lifestyle and culture during the journey by interacting with local people. When traveling in Caravan, you don’t have to book a hotel or eat in a restaurant (cook your own food in it). Thus, it’s a safer way to travel keeping in mind the present Covid-19 situation as well as a cost-effective medium. Decide your own route, stop anywhere to enjoy and explore, stay at unexplored places when traveling by Caravan. Here are some good destinations with Caravan friendly facilities for which you can plan – 1- Rishikesh (Uttarakhand) A town in the Dehradun district of Uttarakhand offers spectacular views of hills covered with green forests. Such a peaceful place and a center for yogis, rishis, sages & sanyasis. Every year a week-long Yoga Festival is hosted at this place. Rishikesh has a confluence of the great river Ganges and Chandrabhaga. It’s a hub for adventure activities like white water rafting, camping, trekking, and bungee jumping. This place has religious importance for Hindus and also known as “Gateway to chaar Dhaam”. Hence, many temples, ghats, ashrams, and yoga/meditation centers are present here, making it a preferred destination for elderly people as well as youngsters. There are many resorts and camping sites in Rishikesh that host and provide parking and other facilities for Caravans. Check out Aditi’s Monologue to know more about what things can be done when in Rishikesh. 2- Jaisalmer (Rajasthan) Jaisalmer – The Golden City located amidst the picturesque views of the sand dunes. It’s a famous destination among travelers in the world. People visit this exotic desert to enjoy the camp experience in between perfectly sculpted sand dunes of the Great Indian Desert. Some famous points of Jaisalmer perfect for the camping and to experience sleep under the sky full of stars are – Chokhi Dhani – A village theme-based camp resort that offers authentic Rajputana style of life and traditional Rajasthani culture to live in. You can opt from Royal AC cottages, Luxury Tents, or Basic Tents for staying at this place. The Mama’s Resort and Camp (located inside Desert National Park) Damodara Desert Camp, Jogggan Jaisalmer Camp, The Serai Desert Camp, etc. When you are in Jaisalmer; indulge in stargazing at night, enjoy puppet shows, Rajasthani dance with folk music, and famous camel safari rides. Refer to that backpacker’s blog to know about his travel experience in Jaisalmer. 3- Kutch (Gujarat) Kutch- a district with a beautiful amalgamation of sea and desert in the western part of India. You can find the beach, mountains and white desert at this place. Diversity of Kutch makes it a great destination for camping, caravanning, and outdoor experiences like Eco-tourism, Desert Safari, ATV Rides, and Tribal Homestays. The Rann of Kutch is one of the largest salt deserts in the world spread across 7500 sq.km and very famous for “Rann Utsav”. Here, you can see a unique breed of camel (Kharai Camel) that can swim. Places in Kutch like Dholavira (an archeological site containing ruins of ancient Harrapan city), Aina Mahal, and Parag Mahal are worth visiting for history lovers. You can opt for “The Tent City of Rann Utsav” which offers Luxurious AC & Non-AC Tents to stay or If you are looking for an offbeat experience than plan your trip in Caravan and go to “Ekal ka Rann” – it’s an isolated place close to nature and offers a great experience of local culture. Soul Travel Blog’s has very well listed out things to do in Kutch, Check out their travel guide. 4- Hampi (Karnataka) Hampi is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. This city of history and fantasy preserved the ruins of the medieval time’s great kingdom – Vijayanagar. The Hindu style of architecture comprising monolithic sculptures and monuments in this capital city reflects the splendor of the Vijaynagar empire. Hampi is located on top of the rugged terrain and
Ultimate Destinations To Travel Post COVID 19
Bonjour voyageurs, I know the past few months have been tough for us. A global pandemic altered with all our plans and we were locked at our places due to COVID- 19 and had to suffice by looking at pictures of the destinations that we had on our cards. Most of us wanted to travel and explore the wonderful places out there but are still unsure whether is it safe to travel to a destination or not? World Map This blog would help you answer some of these questions but before that, let’s accept the hard fact that we have to learn to live with COVID. Mask and Sanitizers are the new normal. With some precautions and safety tips, we are ready to face the world and also resume all the activities we love including traveling. Also, let’s agree with the fact that the travel industry has suffered a lot and has also led to the emergence of new strategies by which we can make traveling safer. A lot many people will try to opt for destinations that are less crowded and close to nature; your accommodations will be from companies that are super trustable and that comes with verifications. The prime focus will be on hygiene and cleanliness and each and every person associated with the traveling business will make sure that safety is not compromised at any cost and you get the finest and the secure travel experience. Solo Traveler. Solo traveling would be one of the safest ways to travel post-COVID. One of the major changes that would be witnessed will be the increase in domestic travel. Though most of the countries such as Italy and Japan are paying travelers to visit their country nevertheless it won’t be a feasible option to travel internationally until the conditions are totally normal. Moreover, the government will not open international flights anytime soon. This will serve as a boost to local tourism and will also give travelers a chance to explore the hidden gems in India. Infographic Let’s have a look at these 8 destinations in India which are least affected by COVID 19 and can be visited with some precautions and lots of fun: 1. Diglipur, Andaman and Nicobar Islands Andaman and Nicobar Islands is one of the states that least affected by COVID. Diglipur is one of the most beautiful towns in the state that witnessed almost zero cases for COVID 19. It is the largest town in the North Amandman and is blessed with serene beaches. Jal Tikry is the most known tourist destination in this town. It is a mud volcano. Only 1100 mud volcanoes are found in the world and one of them is in this pretty town. Apart from Jal Takri, this petit town is filled with amazing beaches, caves, and bays. This town should definitely in your hitlist. The scenic view. The scenic view of Diglipur. 2. Ambassa, Tripura Ambassa is a lovely and spiritual city in Tripura. With its serene and tranquil atmosphere, it is surely going to secure a place in everyone’s heart. It is well known for ancient temples and scenic views. The most prominent tourist attraction is Pilak, it houses archaeological remains from the 8th and 9th centuries. The place is also filled with Hindu and Buddhist art. You may also discover terracotta plaques, stupas, and stone figurines that are going to take your breath away. Other things that are going to blow your mind in Ambassa are Chabimura, Neermahal Palace, Ujjayanta Palace, Gumti Wildlife Sanctuary, Jagannath Temple, and many more. One should definitely explore this winsome town. The amazing view of station. The breathtaking view of Ambassa railway station. 3. Lakshadweep India’s finest and most first-class islands and beaches are located in Lakshwadeep. It is one of the prettiest places in India which can strike a chord in your heart with its scenic beauty and cherry on the top it has 0 cases of Corona, isn’t that amazing. All the islands have crystal clear water and are picturesque. They also provide the facilities to water sport such as scuba diving, yachting, pedal boating, kayaking, canoeing, swimming, snorkeling, kite surfing, and much more fun-filled activities. It also houses a Marine Museum which has the most amazing species of sea fishes. Isn’t it an ideal destination we all have been planning to go to. To know more about this paradise you can have a look at this wonderful blog by The Tales of a traveler. The serene and picturesque view of Lakshwadeep’s beach. 4. Leh Ladhak With snowy mountains all around and sparkling rivers flowing, the beauty of Leh and Ladhak is hard to describe. A visit to this place makes you forget all your troubles and lets you relax in the lap of nature. The fresh wind passing through your face and the sun setting in the mountains is a sight to behold and the flawless beauty of this place makes it worth visiting. The best place to visit in Leh Ladhak in Zanskar Valley, it is not known to many people but is a gem. The beauty of the valley will enchant you and leave an imprint in your mind forever. Not just this valley all other places in Leh Ladhak are extremely beautiful and picturesque. Have a look at this amazing blog for more information about this place. Zanskar Valley The lovely view of Zanskar Valley. 5. Cheerapunji, Meghalaya Also known as the ‘ Jewel Crest of India’, it is an aesthetic town in Meghalaya. It used to be the rainiest city in the world and store wonders such as caves and waterfalls. It will be no exaggeration if it’s compared to heaven. The place is also home to many exotic tribes. The most unique place to visit in this town is Double Decker Living Root Bridges, it is a unique
21 Safety Measures for Travel During and After COVID-19
The global Coronavirus pandemic has affected millions of lives directly or indirectly and has changed the whole course of many industries, careers, and companies. Many countries are, however, seeing life come back to normal, if not for every citizen, then certain pockets of states and cities. As life resumes in a different way for thousands of people, we have started to gather our best research and data on what we can do to change travel for the better, adapt and help others adapt. For those who are traveling or planning to travel soon or in the future (for practical, urgent, business, or leisure purposes), we’ve put together our best and researched tips on staying safe while traveling, because this threat will be prominent for months and maybe years to come. 1. Research on different ways to travel A caravan on the beach sounds heavenly We know that when you think travel, the same few avenues pop up in your head – by airplane, by train, by bus, etc. Although these are the main ways and won’t ever go out of style, try doing something different. There are many curated lists of different ways to travel in specific countries, like horse-pulled houses in Ireland, floating boathouses in Kerala, India, or even airships in the US. This is the time to explore new places and methods because you’ll be pushed out of your comfort zone. Our chosen picks include road trips, rural village exploration, caravan travel, and many more – check out our curated experiences. For some tips on vehicle care and road trips (which can be your best bet for now!), surf this great blog by Where is Tara. 2. Where should you travel? Find unexplored, stunning locations One essential question, of course, is the destination you should travel to. Your travel location is obviously fixed if you’re going for business/practical purposes, but for leisure travel, once you decide the method of traveling, decide a location after doing all your research. There are many government websites and WHO trackers that can tell you the exact cases in each city, outbreaks, location of outbreaks, etc. Accordingly, you can select your destination to a precise location. 3. The importance of Masks Find graded, medically approved masks Despite many claims, masks are one of the few proven ways to fight the onset of the virus. However, there are many different kinds of masks, and it can get confusing to choose one. Go for a thicker material, but not so thick that it restricts breathing or otherwise makes you feel very uncomfortable. Every country has it’s own mandated, clinical standard mask that you can purchase for extra precaution. Mostly, though, a cloth mask that can filter smaller particles and covers the mouth and nose properly will do the job. 4. The importance of Gloves Gloves are perfect for long distances or even grocery shopping Gloves may not be a necessity, but it is a very important precaution. Virus particles can live up to 12 hours on metal surfaces,1 day on cardboard, 3 days on plastic, and up to 4 days on paper money. That’s a lot of time for the particles to transfer, and gloves are a great solution if you can’t /won’t remember to wash your hands/sanitize regularly. There are many kinds of gloves available, but for short term periods, disposable rubber gloves work well. However, gloves can’t prevent infection as well as just washing your hands well with soap can, so wear them less and when you’re traveling to crowded or otherwise tourist areas with many surfaces, and learn the proper protocol for removing gloves. 5. Let’s talk sanitizer It’s important to find the right sanitizer We know this is obvious and an always repeated precaution, but hear us out. Hand sanitizers can protect you against disease-causing microbes, especially in situations when soap and water aren’t available, which is the best-proven method of prevention. They’re also proven to be effective in reducing the number and type of microbes. The best kind is alcohol-based sanitizers, usually containing 60-90% alcohol – they kill more microbes than the non-alcohol ones. Most countries have ways to label/mark sanitizers that are medically approved – ask your local pharmaceutical shop for more information, and do some of your own research on sanitizers. 6. Hotel safety measures Make sure everything is fresh and disinfected Hotels can be a scary thing to consider during a pandemic like this, but if you can take the necessary precautions there’s no reason to be hesitant. First of all, research about the city you’re going to and ensure it doesn’t have any major outbreaks. Locate a hotel in an area that preferably hasn’t seen any cases, or very less at least a month or more ago. When you book the hotel, call them in advance and tell them you want a full room clean when you get there, in your presence, so you can ensure the pillows are changes, bedsheets and blankets fresh, and the whole room properly disinfected. When considering room service, make sure you’re confident the kitchens are clean and safety protocols followed, and whatever cutlery you get, wipe and wash it before using. 7. The Five keys to food safety The essential WHO mandated keys to food safety The five keys to food safety are a set of food safety regulations/rules that households and kitchens should follow, found on the WHO website. The core messages of the Five Keys to SaferFoodare: (1) keep clean; (2) separate raw and cooked; (3) cook thoroughly; (4) keep food at safe temperatures; and (5) use safe water and raw materials. These are important to follow in households of course but should be definitely followed in industrial/restaurant kitchens too. When you go out to eat, which can be inescapable when traveling, ask that they follow the basic food safety guidelines and observe if sanitation practices like a clean kitchen, gloves, masks,
Change the way you travel!
The lockdown and the coronavirus crisis are definitely taking a toll on people’s lives and being locked up in our houses for more than a month now can be certainly frustrating. Amidst this, the only thing which is keeping us safe from this virus is Social Distancing, which can be perfectly followed while traveling by road. Hitting the open road is a fine experience in itself. You not only get the freedom to stop at any scenic location of your choice but also get to explore its uniqueness holistically, and all of us deserve a perfect travel experience after we have overcome this. So here we have compiled a list of those ideal travel destinations in India which are least affected by the virus and should be on your bucket list once normalcy has been restored. Mapping state-wise coronavirus cases in India 1. Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh Kinnaur: Land of Fairytales While Himachal in itself is stunningly beautiful, Kinnaur valley is a whole other world. Majestic mountains, green valleys, meandering rivers, apple orchards, vineyards, and smiling faces are synonymous with this region. It is a tiny hamlet in India where beauty resides and that is why it is acknowledged as the “Land of fairy tales.” The valleys of Kinnaur are also one of the most sought after camping destinations in India. Camping on the river Baspa and Satluj are some of the scenic destinations to pitch your tents for an overwhelming camping experience. One of the best ways to discover Kinnaur is to walk on the hilly terrains, sleep under the stars, admire the natural beauty, and exchange smiles with locals in far-off villages. Journey to Kinnaur via roadways can be worth-remembering experience as there are several places that will cast a spell over the visitors and want them to visit it again. Read more about the culture and tradition of Kinnaur in MagikIndia‘s Blogs 2. Sangti Valley, Arunachal Pradesh Sangti Valley A visit to Arunachal Pradesh is a journey into diverse cultures, delicious local cuisine, and mesmerizing valleys that will surely take your breath away. Surrounded by the towering ranges of Eastern Himalayas, blessed with pleasant weather round the year with light showers of snowfall, orchards laden with apples, kiwis and oranges, dotted with pristine forests and meandering fast hill rivers, Sangti Valley is the epitome of beauty and home to a very interesting culture and tradition. A road trip to Sangti Valley is an indescribable experience as you go through the long-isolated roads with long pine trees, exotic birds that act as beautiful garland hanging on the mountains ranges, and long meadows with horses, sheep, cows grazing on it. Shoestringsonthemove very well portrays the beauty of this hidden gem of India. 3. Jim Corbett, Uttarakhand Jim Corbett National Park Corbett’s wilderness is intriguing – leopards and tigers call it home, birds live in peace, locals enjoy the greenery, and tourists find the nature therapeutic. It is thrilling, scenic, and spectacular. Located on the banks of Ramganga and surrounded by hills, the dense forest of Jim Corbett is home to the majestic flora and wildlife, exciting every avid traveler. Beautified with an alluring landscape including rivers, forests, and hills outside the park, Corbett is more than just a national park. It is also a hub of adventurous activities like river rafting, rock climbing, rappelling, fishing, angling and more. It is a jungle retreat that offers a perfect remedy for a weekend of relaxation and natural delight. Check out Walking_wanderer‘s blog to know what things can be done when in Corbett 4. Zuluk, Sikkim Zuluk The gate of North-eastern India opens with the mesmerizing experience of Sikkim. If you need a break from your daily fast-pace life and want to explore yourself in the middle of rugged snowy mountains, then Sikkim is a perfect destination. Pleasant climate, organic vegetation, snow-covered landscape, and decent commercialization have endeared Zuluk in Sikkim as one of the best destinations for a serene retreat. While the landscape of Zuluk offers a host of adventure activities, the calm yet vibrant city life presents you with a bouquet of other experiences as well. From paragliding, river rafting, cable car rides, challenging treks, shopping, sightseeing, to birdwatching, there is no dearth of activities in the breathtaking realms of Zuluk for all kinds of travelers. A road trip to Zuluk is an amazing experience as one enjoys the scenic beauty of River Teesta on one side and soaring peaks parked along the other side of the road. Refer Travel.with.krish to know about his travel experience in Zuluk 5. Palolem Beach, Goa Palolem Beach, South Goa A kaleidoscopic blend of Indian and Portuguese cultures, sweetened with sun, sea, sand, seafood, susegad, and spirituality, Goa is India’s pocket-sized paradise. Goa’s biggest draw is undoubtedly its uninterrupted string of golden-sand beaches. It caters to every tropical whim: choose from backpacker Arambol or bolder, brasher Baga; the palm-fringed sands of Palolem, hippie market bliss at Anjuna or lovely laid-back Mandrem. Palolem normally more associated with heritage, colorful markets, and silent parties where partygoers wear headphones, it is lined with palm trees and colorful shacks which is also home to a huge variety of flora and fauna. Goa can be full of surprise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The lakes and rivers form the life of Goa and offers a rich biodiversity and scenic beauty that can be enjoyed through backwater cruises, kayaking or simply canoeing through the waterways. A road trip to Goa is an amazing trip that will make you fall in love with the town as you get to travel through the highway, small villages which is a whimsical existing wonder, and that makes it ever-so captivating. Ellis.veen has very well listed out things to do in her goa travel guide. 6. Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh The Middle Land of India:
House Arrest!?
Dear Diary #1 As you already know that the past couple of weeks have been completely overwhelming for me. I have been doing back to back shifts in my office, and I hardly have any time for myself. I know, I know that this is good for my future, but god! at what cost? XD So today I didn’t go anywhere, I was at my home, on my couch, and just relaxed and took a step back. I did not think about work because God knows I’ve done my fair share. I think today was the first time I was living in the moment, enjoying all the little things. LOL, #DeepTalks 😀 OMG! I completely forgot I watched Before Trilogy today. The movie was so good. Though it had no story it made perfect sense. I don’t know what was good, the acting or the dialogues!!! Sorry, got too excited 😛 PS. I think I am not going to go tomorrow as well, today was fun 😛 By: chatelaine.com Dear Diary #2 Hi! So today, I got up late. I was still tired because I didn’t sleep early yesterday because of the movie. Also, I had the ingenious idea to start cooking, so as you very well know, I opened up Gordan Ramsay’s video of ‘How to make a Scrambled Eggs’ on YouTube, and man! That brit knows how to cook :O I think my eggs were good but it was too salty XP Nevertheless, not bad for my first try. After breakfast, I continued with my tv show, Peaky Blinders. Dude! You have to see that show. It’s about this gang which uses blades and all. The show is based around their criminal empire between the two wars. I know!! Unmissable. For lunch, I just ordered in, nothing too great. Dinner too, I ordered in from Dominoes, and before you judge I think Dominoes is better than Pizza Hut. #ISaidIt Being at home for the second day was not that bad. 😛 By: in.pinterest.com Dear Diary #3 Hiiii! If you think I am excited, you should have seen me this morning. I was playing Call of Duty!!!! That too online with my friends. I had the highest number of kills brooo XD. My friend, disconnected after I killed his player 6 times back to back, straight. Also, I saw Downfall. The most brilliant film ever made in the entire freaking cinematic universe! It is about the last ten days of Hitler in his bunker. Damnnn, his acting was so gooood. I don’t think much else peculiar happened today. Dear Diary #4 Hey dude. If you think today was a good day then guess again, because you could not be more wrong. Today my boss called me. I was only half awake when he asked me where I was for the past few days. I wanted to lie to him, but noooo, I had to tell him that I was taking some ‘ME’ time. I could hear the silent judgment emanating. It was awkward. After this terrible ordeal, I went back to sleep. When I woke up, I saw that I have received a mail from HR. I have been called to the freaking HR because I just wanted some time to hold myself together. Damn those capitalists. #ISayThisAsIDrinkCoke TTYL. In no mood to write anything else. Dear Diary #5 Hii! I wanted to tell you I won. I wrote an elaborate e-mail to the HR, explaining my circumstances and they agreed and sanctioned a 14 days sabbatical. I was in such a good mood that I wanted to commemorate this win by actually doing something productive, and that is why I have decided to start learning Spanish online. I have been told that it is the second most spoken language, so, it would be great for my C.V and personal growth as well. I am also thinking about learning sign language. I think it is so unique and interesting. It opens up so many avenues. I just hope that I can manage all this. By: storiesfromschoolaz.org Dear Diary #6 Greeting old friend! I did it! I completed the first lesson in Spanish. It was sooo easyyyy. I just hope the rest of it as easy. I couldn’t find any sign language workshops online. I think I might have to be more, you know, determined or you can say resolved to undertake this thrilling endeavor. Loool #heavylanguage I also wanted to ask you a question, since you know I am a chain smoker, so I think this might be the perfect time to at least try to quit. What do you think? LMAO! You can’t even speak. I also played COD today, none of my friends were online 🙁 I had to play with random people. Also, I played online chess. Lost 3 games, won 1 😛 Dear Diary #7 Today, I decided to make my lunch. As you might have guessed, virtual Mr. Gordon Ramsay helped me. I made chicken pot roast. I did not have chickpeas so had to make use of just normal green peas. X( Also, what the hell is with those complex names of dishes? Why can’t they just call it chicken and be done with it? What is with these people? What the hell do you mean by ‘Chicken pot roast, with scented mashed potato puree with cinnamon powder’? This is beyond me! Also, the second lesson of my Spanish class was tougher than I expected. But I aced it XD. Alsoooo, Peaky Blinder dudeeee!!! #SpoilerAlert Capmbell dieeeessss. I did not freaking see that coming. By: skinnyms.com Dear Diary #8 You will never believe what I did today, I started baking! I sucked at it though. I don’t know what the hell happened, I added the eggs, the butter, the flour and put it inside the oven, and all hell broke loose. :O I tried making cupcakes but it was more like
Volunteering Opportunities in Uttarakhand: The Land of Gods
Uttarakhand – Picture green hills, snow-capped mountains, foggy roads, little cottage houses, and clean air – that’s what beautiful Uttarakhand is all about. Uttarakhand or the ‘Land of Gods’ is a state situated in the north part of India with 13 districts, sharing borders with both Nepal and China. The state is known for its extensive and scenic beauty, history, yogic and ayurvedic practices, and soaring surrounding mountains. It is one of the most popular destinations for both Indians and foreigners alike due to the always-present stunning beauty that just changes and shifts, and never disappears. Foggy, green landscape of Uttarakhand About Uttarakhand Within the state, there are many cities and spots most visited by travelers. This includes Dehradun, Kausani, Dehradun, Haridwar, and Nainital, some of the more popular cities with more population than the smaller communities spread out in the valley. We should also not forget Rishikesh, a city made by the popular band The Beatles’ 1968 visit and consequent stay, known for its scenic beauty and the many adventures it offers to travelers. Uttarakhand is also known for being the entry point of the Ganga or Ganges River, where all the tributaries join to make one of the largest widths of the river in India. Uttarakhand is popular for having various different opportunities for volunteering. Volunteering in India itself is something made easy by many NGOs, schools, communities, hospitals, etc. in the country, and many travelers opt for this while exploring India. Travelers are often plagued with the question of low-cost travel in India, and often volunteering is the way to not only explore the country but also help in the process. Why should you volunteer in Uttarakhand? Be a volunteer in the Himalayas!! Volunteering in Uttarakhand Widely categorized, some of the ways you can volunteer in Uttarakhand are (explained further in detail below ) : 1. Volunteering for Women and Community Empowerment 2. Volunteering in Rural Areas 3. Volunteering in Ashrams 4. Volunteering Through Teaching 5. Volunteering through Yoga and Wellness Activities 6. Volunteering as a Health Worker 7. Volunteering for Environmental and Sustainable Development purposes You can find crowded schools in Rishikesh or isolated rural tribes in the mountains of the state, large yogic ashrams, or small farming-driven communities widely across the state to volunteer in. It is important to note that all these options differ in their volunteering process. Some will provide housing and food in exchange for dedicated volunteering, while others will expect volunteers to find their own housing, although will guide them in the process, due to less area and funds. There are some NGOs and communities with strict guidelines and processes for selecting volunteers, and other villages yet may not have even experienced the joy of selfless giving that is volunteering and may welcome visitors with open arms. 1. Volunteering for Women and Community Empowerment The joy of sharing: women showing volunteers local handicraft Women’s education, development, and empowerment, broadly speaking Women empowerment are lacking in Indian society and most communities. In order for the country to grow, prosper, and respect each citizen, this is an undertaking needed to bring about equality between the sexes and ensure independence among women. Many organizations and independent villages/towns have specific volunteering programs focused on the development of communities, in particular the empowerment of women and girls. In these programs, volunteers usually focus on developing basic skills among the women of the community so that they may earn and support their families. Sometimes specific skills such as coding and writing are taught; other times general education and the betterment of the societies are focused on. Either way, the goal of the volunteer is to help out communities where female education is severely lacking and there is a need for the development and empowerment of girls and women. These programs may also focus on pre-teen and teen girls who are educated and empowered so that they are more educated, independent, skilled, and therefore successful. If volunteers are interested in this specific area of volunteering, there are many small villages and communities in Uttarakhand such as Chopta, Kalsi, Mana, etc. where women and schools can be approached for volunteering opportunities with girls and women. Although this is not a full-proof approach, it can be tried out. An easier way would be to find NGOs and organizations that have running programs on community and women’s development such as Ankur, an organization focused on this. 2. Volunteering in Rural Areas Smiling women working in a rural setting Rural villages and areas in India are often plagued with problems concerning even the most basic necessities. Uttarakhand is no different – the state is filled with independently running, mostly self-sufficient communities, often isolated from one another amongst the mountains. The same set of problems is present in all – lack of electricity, education, hygiene, ease of living, etc. There are many small projects volunteers can take up to improve the way of living in these places – for example, better-invented toilet systems, solving basic problems, teaching, helping with construction and odd jobs, etc. There is an immense opportunity for development in these places – and in the end, volunteers can feel satisfied they helped better a community. There is always scope to approach villages and areas where such tasks are always appreciated and there is no lack of hospitality. If you prefer organizations, there are many that allow for homestay and local food during the time you work as well as ample time to explore places nearby. There is a popular project in Kanda, Uttarakhand, the Rural Organisation for Social Elevation (ROSE) that interested volunteers can research and consider. Also, there are Government volunteer programs of which you can be a part. 3. Volunteering in Ashrams Ashram volunteers serving food to locals Ashrams are institutions made for the specific purpose of studying
A Road Scarcely Taken
So, why do we travel? Or better yet, what does it connote? Oh wait, you’re asking me? Well then, come along and let’s (try to?) find out. I walk in rubbery boots, armed against the pouring, unrelenting rain. Why? Because I feel like it? I’m not quite sure, this is all a bit trippy to me, but get used to it. Marching, jogging, skipping. I feel like a kid again, right before I got told off for the umpteenth time for playing around in the muck. But was it muck? It all seemed like fun to me. What’s a little fun in front of everything else? Waaaiiittt……I think I had groceries to buy… When did wondering around in the rain stop? Okay, I got them, so back to what I was saying before……oh great now it’s snowing. Maybe its because I’ve never seen real snow before. Isn’t it supposed to be all glittery and pretty? Well, crunch crunch goes these lazy boots. There’s this cat walking along with me, but is it really a cat? It looks a bit doggish too. I SEE WHAT IT IS! It’s a shapeshifting cat! Not as cool as a time-traveling one, but whatever this one works too. It’s cute, what’s not to like? I suppose you’ve noticed I’m not much of a narrator. This is because I’m trying a thing out here okay? Moving on, it has dawned on me that I can convince this cat to grow wings to fly up this super high peak I see right in front of me. I am a bit afraid of the blue mist I see floating around though. So maybe I should acquire a bribe….. Oh hey good morning. I admit I might have fallen asleep so things have changed. Anyway, getting back on track it turns out the cat took me up anyway. Strangely sweet of it. It also took away my imaginary supplies. There is this boat here I probably need to steer around though. So, I guess I’ll try that and let you know what happens. Ending up on a boat? Never imagined that. I see this picturesque meadow with grass that looks like it’s made of Swarovski. Maybe I’m mixing up things here. But it adds to the aesthetic, hence it shall remain. An owl perches on my shoulder and gives me a comforting screech. So, I set off on this epic sounding journey, along the lilac brick road. I wonder where my friends are. They probably did the sensible thing and said goodbye before this journey got too jumbled. Maybe this is a self-discovery kind of trip after all. Therefore, you should know I was very surprised when the owl flew down and jumped to the ground a sleek cat. Right, should’ve figured. But its nice to not be completely alone. Though I wouldn’t mind that either. Jog Jog Jog. Exercising like I haven’t in years. The cat gives me a scornful glance. I don’t mind it. I walk by piles of pebbles all made of this glowing indigo stuff. Perhaps it’s a sign for what is to come next. Splash I go into a pond of water I hardly anticipated. Just my luck. Here I was hoping for something so mind-blowing I could run back to my friends and boast about. Oh well, guess I’m skipping this part for that conversation. Speaking of which, why exactly do I care so much about them? It isn’t like I recall what they look like. Maybe it was all about boasting after all I suppose you must have realized much before me that time possibly runs differently here. Time is such a strange thing. It helps you measure the span you have left to live. Not like that matters here. Clearly, I am far beyond it. I have been walking an eternity on this road but haven’t the slightest idea why. Nothing even surprises me anymore. But I’m not really sad about it. Perhaps I’m actually starting to learn more about myself. The feline approves of this thought. There is no road anymore. Just what I reckon you would recognize as sand. Sand that is as smooth as water. I walk my way. It has been so very long since I’ve encountered someone who speaks. So much so that I believe it completely acceptable that it happens to be a unicorn. A mythical creature? Not quite so anymore. It smiles. That’s a bit creepy. “Welcome,” it says. “Have you found out what you are? Have you ‘found’ yourself? It has been what you were searching for, is it not?” In response to this philosophical inquiry, I croaked hoarsely, “Eh?” In hindsight, I suppose it makes sense. I, like many other clueless human beings, feel trapped, misunderstood, dependent. Maybe that’s why I left home. I left everyone behind. I wonder if I thought it was selfish of me back then. But my memory hasn’t been the greatest to begin with. Once again, I’m trying to piece together a puzzle whose answer evades me each time. Who am I?? You only know me as ‘I’, after all. But you don’t really know me either. Here we go again. Maybe that’s where travel helps. It helps you discover who you are. The kind of person you are, when you are finally untethered. To visit the places you’ve never been, both outside the barriers of your home, and in the expanses of your mind. In a book. Via a train. On the back of a unicorn, with an agitated cat hanging onto your cloak for dear life. You get to define what travel is for you. On your own terms.
Urban Legends: Satanic Sacrifices
Mr. A was over the moon! Obviously not literally, but after many unsuccessful relationships, things finally set the chord after he met Zara. She was the prettiest girl he had ever seen. Her apple green eyes reminded him of the forbidden fruit planted in the Gardens of Eden. Her chocolate brown hair, falling messily on her tanned face, made her look like Aphrodite, the goddess of love. The dark brown freckles, around her face, gave her that exotic look Mr. A was longing to see his whole life. It had only been 2 weeks since they had started dating, but Mr. A was already in love. By: www.pexels.com This is what he used to do with every other woman he met. Spontaneity was kind of his thing, but he often confused it with stupidity. He broke up with his now ex-girlfriend for someone he met over coffee. Love, for him, was like the noisy and fierce, but fleeting froth of an instant coffee. Sure, you do like it, but the ‘instant’ gratification is after all temporary. But it wasn’t just her looks that left Mr. A spell-bounded, it was the fact that she was like him in many ways and unlike him in other ways. Sure, the animal magnetism also played its part, but it was her personality that left him speechless. She was relentless, steadfast and tenacious. She was serious about a lot of things but goofed around a lot. With her, Mr. A wasn’t just happy but felt joyous. The first time in his life, he felt that this was something real. Something worth holding onto. Little did he know that Lucifer plays with his puppet by giving him the freedom to reach where he was wanted in the first place. By: www.inc.com It was a Sunday and Mr. A was supposed to meet Zara for coffee. She was ten minutes late, but that didn’t bother him, she was always late. He thought he might as well order coffee to pass the time. He went over to the barista and ordered whipped coffee with almond milk, her favorite and an espresso. He wasn’t even finished when he felt a tap on his shoulder. He turned, and he found Zara, in a white shirt and denim shorts, smiling at him. He realized something at that moment, that this smile was worth millions. They both sat at their table and began sipping and suddenly Zara, out of no-where, blurted out. “Let us go on a trip!” “What? Why?” responded Mr. A “Why not?” asked Zara. “Well, for one thing, I have a job!” “Didn’t you tell me that you have a lot of vacation days left?” Asked Zara in a dismissive yet endearing tone. “Yes, but I’ve saved them for emergencies or in the rare case I go to Vegas!” replied Mr. A cockily. “C’mon! We will have so much fun. You don’t even have to pack! I’ll do all the packing! I just want to travel with you!” “Where will we even go?” asked Mr. A weakly after realizing that this was a lost battle. “I have just the place!” After a day of packing, Mr. A and Zara were ready. Mr. A was surprised that how did she manage to book all the tickets so quickly to which she replied that she used The Tarzan Way app. Although suspicious at first, he came to ease after she swore that all the travelers use this app. They were supposed to board the bus to the destination, still unknown to Mr. A, on the evening of Tuesday. It was a sixteen-hour long journey. Mr. A thought that now he had a real opportunity to know the person he likes so much. He wanted to know everything about Zara, who for some reason never opened up about her past in particular. She also used to go suspiciously silent when asked about her family or friends. The only thing she would talk about was all the places she had visited and all the guys she had dated. This also made Mr. A jealous, but he convinced himself that Zara was genuinely interested in him as was apparent by the trip she had planned for them. During the bus ride, they got into talking and all was going well. They were talking about all the things they would do once they reached there. The conversation was sparkling until Mr. A asked “Where are we going, babe?” “What do you mean babe?” “Umm, nothing I just thought….” “What did you think? That I am your babe!?” “I didn’t mean to offend you.” “Well you just did, right?” “I am sorry.” Mr. A’s heart just sank. He couldn’t believe what just happened. Although he knew this wasn’t a big deal he felt uneasy. He just didn’t understand what happened. Not only what, but why did it happen. He felt this sudden urge to breathe in the fresh air. It was what he would do anytime he couldn’t think. He opened his window and gazed outwards. He could see that the bus was riding on a mountain, and the best-educated guess he could make was that they were going to the Himachal. Where? That was still a mystery to him. As he looked outside, he saw majestic snow-capped mountains standing proudly at a distance. Near to him were smaller hills covered with lush green and dense forests. He could hear the gushing sound of the water, suggesting a river nearby hidden by the canopy cover of the forest. By: www.journeytoexplore.com He thought that this picturesque location was worthy of being captured by the photographic technology also known as the camera. After he clicked a dozen of pictures, he looked at Zara, who was fast asleep. Looking at her face, he felt that she was looking adorable beyond imagination, so, he took a picture of her too. As time passed by, Mr. A dozed off to sleep with the help of the gentle rocking of the
