Category Archives: Travel

India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Tourism, Travel

What all I learnt traveling around the world

42 Comments

“The world is a book and those who do not travel read only a page” 

– Saint Augustine

Wow! What a quote on travel. Saint Augustine said everything in a phrase for which I need paragraphs to explain. Travel is my life and it is beyond everything. I had been traveling around the world not for a break to relax my mind but to explore and learn what I couldn’t learn through my books or under the guidance and to spend the qualitative time with my husband.

Traveling Around the world

Travel has polished and enriched me in every sense from being kind, patient and philosophical. I see the whole world with a different perspective and vision. So, now my life philosophy has changed and I repeatedly say “Invest in a book called – Travel. Get as many stamps in your passport as you can. Build up your own catalog of pictures and memories. Tomorrow there should be no regret of missing on anything”.

There is no end to what traveling around the world gave and taught me. I still want to quit rest and learn more. So, I have listed few lessons which travel around the world had already taught me so far.

  1. You explore new things what you haven’t done till today

Travel compels you to come out of your comfort zone and experience what is real life. It makes you realize that grass is not always green on the other side and sometimes it is the most challenging role to perform. The conversations with locals tell you how different lives can be with the common shared commonalities. Travel also makes you learn how you have to manage each penny when you have budgeted amounts.

Traveling Around the World

  1. Learn about new culture

While traveling around the world, you explore small towns, villages and of course big cities.  You meet different people; see different things, foods, different cultures, and traditions from yours. All this can’t be explored on the internet or taught by anyone but  all this can only be experienced. Might be some of the cuisines or cultures becomes your favorite and you imbibe that in yourself.

Thailand - Traveling Around the world

  1. The whole World is not that advance and every Human just wants to be happy

Traveling around the world will make you realize that the whole world is not that advanced as you think.  Every child is not spending time playing Xbox or teenager is not going to club. Still, children play in the puddles and enjoy making toys with the waste. But they are happy. They have cultivated their happiness in their surroundings. So, happiness is immaterial and comes from inside and thoughts. One can be happy in mountains, beaches, mansions, villas or just in a small house. But the prime goal for all human in all countries everywhere in the globe is just Happiness.

Happy Humans- Traveling Around the world

  1. Travel gives a new perspective to life

I stated in the second point that you learn about new cultures, new people, new cuisines etc. But in depth, all of these are some or more related. All the humans have same needs and same desires. It is just in the name of religion and politics people and countries are pulled apart. Still, there is a feeling of brotherhood and kindness for tourists and travelers.

Your family, your friends, and your job everything is important but there is much more in life. You learn to prioritize what is important and what is not. Travel around the world really helps you to broaden your horizons and think out of the box.

Jaipur - Traveling around the world

  1. Talking to strangers is not always bad

During travel, conversation with a stranger especially locals help you in learning more about that place. They guide you on what needs to be explored and what cannot be missed on. Locals actually help you to experience and live in that culture. And your fellow travelers on the move can help you with their travel guides and tips. Simultaneously you will have a new bunch of friends to go on the adventures together.

  1. You don’t need to plan everything in your life

Sometimes unplanned things and destinations lead you to beautiful experiences. I agree that planning is good but sometimes it can make you miss the awesome things you could have experienced otherwise. So, let the things go with their own flow especially with travel. You might fall in love with the place and want to embrace their culture and traditions. It is cool to get lost in unknown places to experience the most random and amazing things.

Sr Lanka - Traveling Around the world

  1. Certain things cannot be changed

There is no point of taking stress about the certain small things like missed bus or hotel booking or flight. Breathe with the situation and accept it. Instead, stress will dampen your morale and ruin your day. Traveling is all about fun, learning, exploring and seeing new good things. Learn from every mistake and situation so you organize the things better next time.

Overall traveling around the world had made me much more patient, knowledgeable and kind. And these are just a few lessons which I have learned till today. There is so much more to learn and explore. Life is short so enjoy and live every moment, whatever makes you happy.

Read the related post – 7 life lessons Himalayan trek taught me

Himachal, India, Tourism, Travel

List of Trekking Gears for the Himalayas

21 Comments

In addition to the list of trekking accessories, there are some trekking gears which are essential and must carry while you hike the great Himalayas.

Trekking Gears for the Hiamalayas
Source -makaluadventure.com

So, here is the Trekking Gears List

  1. Head Lamp, Torch & some extra batteries

The place where you usually plan or go for a trek doesn’t have a regular power supply. So for regular walk and use of toilet you need a torch or headlamp. Headlamps are better than torch as they light your way and simultaneously keep your hands free. So, it is a must carry trekking gear in your backpack.

  1. Trekking Poles

Trekking poles are essential for uphill as well as downhill climb. They not only provide you extra support but only protect your knees from bruising. Most people don’t prefer using them but I am a big fan of trekking poles as a trekking gear. If you are not carrying one, no worries- you can rent a trekking or walking stick from the local markets.

Trekking Gears for the Hiamalayas

  1. Travel Towel

Tents and guest house doesn’t provide you towels for bathing or hand wiping. So, carry your own travel towel which can dry quickly, preferably microfiber type.

  1. Backpack

You will be carrying the whole of the stuff on your shoulders while climbing up and down. So, the size and comfort of the backpack are very important as a trekking gear.  I always recommend a backpack bigger than your essentials (not bigger than #45) but not that big which makes you uncomfortable and pushes you down. Always include a backpack rain cover to protect your backpack from getting wet, if it rains.

Trekking Gears for the Hiamalayas

Also, check the list of Backpack for a weekend getaway.

  1. Sleeping Bag

To experience camping, you need a sleeping bag in your tent. Sleeping bags will keep you warm and cozy at high altitudes. If you don’t want to increase your load, you can rent the same but at the same time, we recommend you to take your own sleeping bag liner. It will be more hygienic and will add extra layer to the bag. I like Wildcraft sleeping bag which is comfortable till 5degree Celsius temperature dip.

  1. Hydration Bladder

Hydration bladder works better than the water bottles as they are kept in the backpack and they supply water through hose even when your hands are preoccupied. I personally avoid buying disposable water bottles in the Himalayas to decrease undue pollution. Camelbak hydration packs are really a wonder.

  1. Sunglasses, Sunscreens, and Hats

In mountains, the sun is brighter and rays are highly powerful. So, always wear hats and good sunscreen with high SPF to protect yourself from harmful UV rays and sunburns. The Sun’s reflection off the snow can also cause permanent damage to eyes, so protect your eyes with good sunglasses. There are categories for sunglasses for different altitudes.  Categories 1-2 are good for sea and 3-5 for bright sun at higher altitudes.

Trekking Gears for the Hiamalayas
Source -www.antarcticaxxi.com

  1. Camera

Don’t forget to carry the camera, if you really want to fulfil your photography passion. You will get to see unexplored, undamaged landscape and scenic beauty. This will help you to document your trip into words with photographs. Also, carry extra battery packs and recharge them wherever you get a chance.

  1. Basic necessities

The basic necessities include toilet roll, soap, wet wipes and certain medicines like painkillers, lozenges, crepe bandage, antiemetic (vomit) and band-aids. You might not need these medicines but if required you will not get anywhere. So, always carry them as a precautionary measure.

10.Snacks

Carry and keep handy, some snacks like nuts, granola bars, and chocolate to munch in between the trek. These snacks will help you replenish your lost energy levels immediately.

So, plan your next trek with a list of these trekking gears and accessories and share your pictures for us to experience more.

 

India, Tourism, Travel

5 essential trekking accessories for The Himalayas

16 Comments

For some a break from their busy and mundane routine means spending the whole time in their bed, for others, it will be going for a trip to the scenic place where they can relax and chill. But there are few for which the break means adventure, the action – like a trek to the Himalayas. For Himalayan trek apart from physical and mental fitness, you need to backpack with proper trekking accessories and gear to make it a success.

trekking accessories for the himalayas
Source – www.nepal-uncovered.com

So, here we have shortlisted 5 essential trekking accessories to expedite the Himalayas.

  1. Trekking Clothes

In mountains, the weather is notorious. Temperature changes drastically during the course of the day, especially at high altitudes. Suddenly it gets windy and chilly even after being sunny. So, it is better to be equipped and clothed than to get sick. We recommend having certain layers while hiking the Himalayas.

The base layer is which you wear next to your skin. Choose a lightweight thermal “wicking” apparel means those apparels which can wick the sweat and moisture away from your body. In layman terms, these wicking apparels won’t let your clothes get wet, even though you may be sweating. This clothing also keeps you warm during the cold and cools during hot. Avoid cotton clothing as they cling to skin when wet and doesn’t dry out easily.

Mid Layer is one which keeps you warm. Choose fleece tops, vests, %CODE2% and keep them handy so they can be worn whenever required while trekking. Look for the vents in fleece jackets as they help to regulate body temperature. Also, add trekking trousers with pockets to your trekking accessories lots. These trousers act as wind cheaters and they dry quickly when wet. Avoid wearing jeans while trekking as they become heavy and give side rashes when wet.

Trekking Clothes - Trekking Accessories

Top Layer keeps you dry when it rain, and snow. The outer layer is just like a shell that protects you from all the harsh elements. Wear Gore-Tex, jackets/ membranes that are water resistant, dry easily, and breathable. You can choose from brands like North face , Roxy snow etc. Also, make sure that top layer fits well over base and mid layer.

  1. Trekking Shoes & Boots

Shoes are the most important part of your hiking essentials. They either make your trip easy or tough. Long hikes can also result in sore feet and blisters if shoes are uncomfortable. Choose shoes which are waterproof, and dry easily. I personally favour Garmont Nagevi shoes. Preferably one can also look for mid-ankle or high ankle boot as they will support ankle too. Do carry a pair of sandals or flip-flops to wear in the evenings or when you need a break from your shoes.

Trekking Shoes & Boots - Trekking accessories

For Blister prevention

  • Make sure your shoes fit properly
  • Wear double layer of socks and inner layer should be one which wicks moisture from the feet

  1. Trekking Socks

Inner Layer – Invest in good liner socks. Liner socks are thin socks made up of wool, silk or synthetic. Say complete no to cotton socks as they retain moisture rather than wicking and doesn’t dry completely.

Outer layer – Wear thick socks (woollen or synthetic) that provide insulation and cushion. For summer hikes, wear thin hiking socks; thicker when your feet need more cushion and super thick mountaineering socks when its snow mountain hiking.

Trekking Accessories

  1. Headband or Cap

Wear headband or cap to protect your face and neck from scorching sun heat. Also, carry a woollen cap to protect yourself from the cold.

  1. Gloves

Carry a pair of gloves which can keep you warm in dipped temperatures and which too act as wind cheaters when it’s windy and chilly.

Read ahead my next post for Trekking Gears.

Thailand, Tourism, Travel

10 places not to miss during Bangkok trip

16 Comments

Bangkok, the capital of Thailand is a getaway to the Southeast Asian world. It is a must stop for few days when you are heading towards beautiful islands and beaches for vacations. The city is a crazy mash of ancient sites, shrines, colourful shopping malls, tourist treasure and culinary. Bangkok trip itself has lots to offers which cannot be covered in 3-4 days.

So, here we have shortlisted 10 places which cannot be missed during Bangkok trip.

  1. The Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew

The Grand palace built in 1782 lives up to its name with golden Chedis, statues, lush green ground and old chapel. It is located on the banks of Chao Phraya River and represents a great combination of Thai and European architecture. Wat Phra Kaew also known as the temple of the Emerald Buddha contains Buddha statue dating back to 14th century. For detail information about the temple, click here.

The Grand Palace - Bangkok Trip
Source -www.rahlat.com

Time to visit The Grand Palace – 8:30a.m – 3:30 pm, daily

Entrance Cost– 500 THB for tourist; Free for Thais

Important Note – Wear clothes that cover your legs and shoulders; otherwise, you need to rent clothes outside the palace.

  1. Wat Pho – Temple of Reclining Buddha

Wat Pho the other famous landmark is located at the south of Grand Palace. One can reach here, by a 10-minute walk. The main attraction of this temple is 45 meters long and 15-metre high reclining statue of Lord Buddha covered in gold leaf. The sole of the feet are laid with precious stones and are divided into 108 panels, displaying auspicious symbols by which Buddha can be recognised. It is also a school of Thai medicine.

Wat Pho - Bangkok Trip

Time to visit Temple – 8:30a.m – 6:30 pm, daily

Entrance Cost– 100 THB for tourist;

Cost for Thai massage at Temple – 260 THB

Important Note – You need to wear clothes that cover your legs and shoulders, or you can rent or purchase clothes from outside. Somehow I managed to enter without covering my shoulders.

%CODE1%

  1. Wat Arun – The Temple of Dawn

The temple of Dawn is named after a Hindu God Aruna and one can reach temple through a ferry ride paying 5 THB. The best time to visit the temple is during sunset and night when the temple is fully lit up with lights. Before sunset, authorities let you climb till central prang, the mid-level of the temple. You will get the magnificent and mind-blowing views of city and sunset on the Chao Praya River.

Wat Arun - Bangkok trip

Time to visit Temple – 8:30a.m – 5:30 pm, daily

Entrance Cost– 20 THB for tourist;

Important Note – Wear clothes that cover your legs and shoulders, to pay respect.

Also Read: Experiencing Thai food on a Bangkok Street Food Tour

  1. Wat Traimit – Temple of golden Buddha

The temple is located on Chinatown road and it houses the world’s largest massive gold seated lord Buddha. The statue is nearly five metre in height and weighs five and a half ton. Till today no one has been able to trace the origin of this priceless statue and is believed to be of Sukhothai period.

Wat Traimit - The Golden Buddha - Bangkok trip

Time to visit Temple – 9:00a.m – 5:00 pm, daily

Entrance Cost– Temple visit is free and 10 THB for museum visit

Important Note – You need to cover your head and maintain silence in the premises

  1. Chatuchak Market – Weekend Shopaholic Paradise during Bangkok trip

The Chatuchak weekend market is one of the world’s largest markets with more than 15,000 stalls. It is a must visit during a Bangkok trip as it is a house of everything – clothes, jewellery, plants, pottery, souvenirs and most importantly all types of Thai food. So, it is quite exciting to visit. You need a complete full day to explore it. Once you have moved ahead, it is very tough to find the last shop from where you wanted to make a purchase. Therefore the advice is to buy immediately what you like, after bargaining. For detail information, check here.

chatuchak Market - Bangkok trip
Source -www.bangkok.com

Market timings – Saturdays & Sundays 9:00a.m – 6:00 pm; Friday – 6pm – 12 am. On Wednesday and Thursdays, it is open for plants from 7:00 am – 6 pm

Important Note – Be aware of pickpockets, bargain as much as you can and don’t trust on vendors for antique unless you have an eye for them.

Also Read: The best places to stay in Bangkok

  1. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

This is one of the most famous floating markets and is located at a distance of 1.5 hours from Bangkok. It’s lively and colourful but too much crowded with tourists. You can find stalls selling almost everything- Thai handicrafts, souvenirs which you could find too at Chatuchak market. The best is to enjoy fresh fruits, food, and interaction with the locals on the boat.

Damnoen Sadauk Floating Market - bangkok trip

Timings – opens daily in the morning at 6:00 am –till noon

Pricing– By long tail boat 2000 -3000 THB

Important – Check for the boats run by government authorities, leave early around 5 to avoid harsh sun, check the prices

%CODE1%

  1. Boat trip on Chao Phraya River

Boat ride while Bangkok trip is on every tourist wish list. You can opt for a complete day or half day trip with Chao Phraya Tourist Boat. Boat trip gives you the opportunity to see the city in different perspective. They provide service at 8 piers and tourist can get down on any pier to explore the same.

Chao Phraya river - Bangkok trip
Source -www.ozasiatraveller.com

Timings –9:30 am –7:30 pm

Pricing– At times it’s free or you can take day pass

Important – You can hop up and down at any pier and catch any of their boats for returning back

  1. China Town

With the sunset, China Town Street in Bangkok gets laid with the food street cuisines. On the streets, you will get not only Chinese cuisines but others too at decent enough prices. It is spread over a kilometre and is unique and fascinating. Photographers can try their hands here for the colourful and bright pictures.

Chinatown - Bangkok trip
Source – www.bangkokattractions.com

Timings –open 24 hrs

  1. Jim Thompsons House

The Jim Thompson house now turned into a museum is a lovely garden enclosed compound on the banks of Saen Saeb canal. It contains old Thai structures that Jim Thompson collected between 1950 -1990. This house makes you look and admires the Thailand’s traditional architecture, beautiful silk, and art. Outside there is lush green gardens and pond to sit and relax.

Jim Thompson House - Bangkok trip
Source -www.sirinyas-thailand.de

Timings – 9:00am -6:00 pm

Pricing– 150THB

  1. Maeklong Railway Market

Bangkok has several markets but this railway market has something unique. There is a train running in the middle of the market, that also several times a day. The market is just down the street from the Maeklong Railway Station, which is the last stop along the railway line. A little warning bell rings over the speaker system just a few minutes before the arrival of the train. Within a few minutes of a buzzer, vendors pull back their specially designed awnings. This market is locally known as Talat Rom Hoop which means “Market Umbrella Close”.

maeklong-railway-market - Bangkok trip
Source -www.messynessychic.com

Timings – 7:00 am – 5:00 pm

Important Note – check the train departure and arrival time to get the full view of Maeklong railway market on Bangkok trip. You can easily get out of the train, and walk into the market. Buy a ticket for getting onto the train.

%CODE1%

Also Read: South East Budget guide