Preeti, Author at livelifetravelmiles

Bali Solo Travel Guide

Leave a Comment / Bali, Destinations / Preeti

Om Suwastiastu Bali! My Bali trip remains one of the most memorable journeys. For those who haven’t read my previous blog, Bali marked my first full-fledged solo adventure. I had set out on this trip with a mix of anxiety and excitement, but thanks to this magical Island of Gods and its welcoming people, my worries soon transformed into an incredible experience. Planning for the trip This beautiful island offers so much that planning can be overwhelming. Based on your stay duration and interests, you can tailor your trip. Here’s my 6-day itinerary to help you get a comprehensive idea and plan your journey. My focus was on immersing in Balinese culture rather than indulging in activities. I’ll also share alternative options to enhance your planning. Day 1: I took an early morning direct flight from Manila, landing in Bali in about four hours. After immigration, customs, buying a SIM card, and currency exchange at the airport, I booked a Grab taxi to my hotel in Jimbaran—a quaint fishing village with pristine beaches and excellent resorts. After breakfast and a quick nap, I strolled around my neighborhood and discovered a nearly secluded beach just a 5-minute walk away—a surprising find in bustling Bali. I had booked a tour to visit the Uluwatu Temple. Sharing the group tour with two Japanese travelers, we bonded quickly. The tour began with a visit to a local coffee estate where we learned about the famous Luwak coffee and enjoyed a free tasting session. I picked up a coconut coffee pack as a souvenir. We then visited the Uluwatu Temple, a stunning Balinese Hindu temple perched atop a steep cliff, offering breathtaking ocean views and an incredible sunset. The highlight was watching the Traditional Kecak Fire Dance—a mesmerizing spectacle of dance and music. They enact the story of Ramayana. And the bonus is the magical colors of the sunset over the ocean in the backdrop! Beware of the notorious monkeys in the temple surroundings. The day ended with a traditional Balinese dinner of Cap Cay. Day 2: The day started early with a drive to Sanur Port, followed by a 45-minute ferry ride to Nusa Penida. Known for its exotic beaches and interesting rock formations, the island didn’t disappoint. I visited the Klengking Beach-famous for T-Rex shaped rock sticking out over the ocean. Broken beach- a circular cove formed in the rocks with a leftover arch. Angel’s Billabong- Natural Rock Lagoon which also creates a Natural Infinity Pool! According to a legend, Angels used to bathe here! And finally Crystal Bay- a popular sand beach on the west side of Penida. After a long, fulfilling day, I dined at the rooftop restaurant of my hotel, savouring more Balinese cuisine. Though a day trip was fulfilling, staying a few days on Nusa Penida to explore more would be ideal. Day 3: After breakfast, I indulged in a Balinese massage—a must-try for ultimate relaxation. I then headed to Ubud, the cultural heart of Bali, after a two-hour drive. My hotel, centrally located, was surrounded by vibrant cafes, restaurants, and local markets. Ubud’s bustling, vibrant, yet laid-back vibe quickly won me over and it is already among my favorite places! After a late lunch, I explored the local markets. I love exploring the local markets as it gives me a peek into the arts and traditions of the place. Ended the day at a Mexican café, sipping martinis. Day 4: Day 4 was about exploring places around Ubud. First stop was at Lempuyang temple also known as “The gate of Heaven”. One of Bali’s oldest and most highly regarded Hindu temples. The entire landscape looks very picturesque from this temple gate, as you will see an amazing panorama of Mount Agung. There are many photo spots available in and around the temple. However, you should be ready to wait in the queue to do so. Second stop was Tirta Gangga, a water Palace and a former royal palace turned into a stunning open water garden sanctuary. The mystical gardens offers incredible maze of pools and fountains. The lunch stop was at a local restaurant overlooking rice terraces where I enjoyed the local food and some Bintang! It also had the famous Bali swing, and I did not miss on swaying for some time! Next stop was Tukad Cempung Waterfall a stunning cave waterfall that can be reached climbing down a few hundred steps passing through the forests and crossing a river. The efforts were worth as I was surprised with 2 more waterfalls other than the main one! Last stop was at Tegallalang rice terraces, a valley of rice paddies with some jaw-dropping views not to be missed when in Ubud. I enjoyed my smoothie bowl at a café nearby. After quite an eventful day, I ended the day at another cute restaurant in my neighbourhood. Day 5: The day started by relishing a smoothie bowl for breakfast. Then I headed out to explore the Sacred Monkey Forest which was at a walking distance from my hotel. The forest is a nature reserve and Hindu temple complex and home to over 600 friendly Balinese grey long-tailed macaques. I was surprised to see such a well preserved natural forest with hills, ravines, streams and ancient temples right in the middle of the town! After a close encounter with the monkeys and watching them do fun stuff in their natural element, I went to a vegan café for a scrumptious lunch. Post lunch, I visited Taman Saraswati Temple or Ubud water palace known for its beautiful architecture and lotus ponds. Don’t miss the Starbucks outside for a coffee with a view. I tried another traditional Balinese dish, Kare Sayur, for dinner. Day 6: It was my last day in Bali. With a late-night flight, I had the whole day to explore. I started with a refreshing Balinese yoga session, amidst the tress and trickling of streams (thanks to my hotel ambience). Then did some souvenir shopping. Before checking out, my hotel arranged

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Rajasthan Travel Guide

Leave a Comment / Destinations, India / Preeti

Khamma Ghani Rajasthan! Rajasthan, the land of Maharajas or the Kings, is a vibrant state in the northwestern part of India. It proudly showcases its royal heritage.A treasure trove of history, colourful culture, majestic landmarks and architecture, and delectable cuisine. A trip through Rajasthan offers an unforgettable journey through magnificent forts, lavish palaces, intricate carvings of havelis, vibrant markets, serene lakes and golden sands of the Thar Desert. It has a unique blend of heritage and modernity that attracts travellers from around the world and I have already been twice to this spectacular state! This blog will take you on my journey through Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, and Udaipur, four cities that capture the essence of Rajasthan. This trip was extra special as my mom was my travel companion! Jaipur: The Pink City (3-4 days) As you arrive in Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan, the pink hues (don’t confuse it with the modern pink, as told by the locals, pink was reddish brown in olden days!) of the historic buildings welcome you with open arms. Jaipur is a bustling metropolis that beautifully blends tradition with modernity. Highlights: Amer Fort: A majestic fort located on a hilltop, Amer Fort is known for its artistic Hindu-style architecture and offers a panoramic view of the city. City Palace: A sprawling complex that includes Chandra Mahal and Mubarak Mahal, City Palace is a living testimony to Jaipur’s royal heritage. Hawa Mahal: It is also known as the Palace of Winds and, without a doubt, is an architectural marvel with its intricate latticework. Moreover, its unique design allows for a cool breeze to flow through, even during the hot summer months. Jantar Mantar: An astronomical observatory that houses the world’s largest stone sundial, Jantar Mantar is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Patrika Gate: Constructed in recent times and situated in the heart of the city, it is a beautiful gateway in traditional style that leads to a park. Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar: Offers a plethora of traditional Rajasthani items, including jewellery, textiles, and handicrafts. Don’t forget to bargain. Cuisine: Don’t miss out on trying the local delicacies like Dal Baati Churma, Ghewar, and Pyaaz Kachori. Jaisalmer: The Golden City (3 days) Jaisalmer is nestled in the vast Thar desert and offers glimpses of rural Rajasthan and its unique landscapes. This sparkling city of havelis (mansions) is renowned for its golden-hued sandstone architecture that gleams under the desert sun. Highlights: Sam Sand Dunes: Experience the vastness of the Thar Desert with a visit to the Sam Sand Dunes, where you can enjoy camel rides, 4×4 rides, and witness stunning sunsets across the desert. Desert Safari: No trip to Jaisalmer is complete without a desert safari. Spend a night in the desert in comfortable tents. Under the starlit sky, enjoy cultural performances, and savour traditional Rajasthani cuisine around a campfire. Jaisalmer Fort: Rising majestically like a distinctive city from the sands on the horizons of Jaisalmer, Jaisalmer Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest fully preserved forts in the world where people still reside! Additionally, it offers a unique glimpse into the region’s history and culture. Patwon Ki Haveli: A collection of five havelis, Patwon Ki Haveli is known for its intricate carvings and impressive architecture and the bustling bazaars with local singers singing folk songs around it. Gadisar Lake: The traditional structure around the lake makes it more beautiful. Bada Bagh and Vyas Chatri: Home to several historical cenotaphs or royal tombs create a calming yet artistic atmosphere. Salim Singh–ki haveli: A mansion with intricate architecture. Cuisine: The local cuisine in Jaisalmer features rich and spicy dishes such as Ker Sangri and Gatte Ki Sabzi. Moreover, Jaisalmer’s cuisine is known for its use of unique local ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Stay at a Haveli: When in Jaisalmer, be sure to stay at an old Haveli Hotel and experience how locals lived. Jodhpur: The Blue City (2 days) The road trip from Jaisalmer to Jodhpur is a scenic drive that brings you to the gateway of the Thar Desert. Jodhpur, known for its blue-painted houses, offers a unique blend of history and culture. We travelled Jaisalmer to Jodhpur by road and it took us around 5 hours (265 kms approximately) Highlights: Mehrangarh Fort: One of the largest forts in India, Mehrangarh Fort stands tall over the city and provides breathtaking views of Jodhpur. Umaid Bhawan Palace: Truly, a magnificent palace that is part hotel, part museum, and part royal residence. Additionally, it offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the royal family. Jaswant Thada: A beautiful marble cenotaph built in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. Exploring the Blue Streets of the Old City: Take a leisurely walk through the narrow, winding streets of the old city to experience the charm of the blue houses and the local way of life. Toorji Ka Jhalra Bavdi: An historical stepwell that provided water to the locals of areas in olden days. Street Food: Don’t miss out on Raj kachori, Mirchi Bada, lassi and Gulab jamun, mawa kachori at the local eateries. Shopping Recommendations: Shop for handicrafts, antiques, and textiles at Sardar Market and Clock Tower Market. Udaipur: The City of Lakes (3-4 days) The journey from Jodhpur to Udaipur is picturesque, with views of the Aravalli Range and lush greenery. With its shimmering lakes and exotic palaces this city is irresistible. Jodhpur to Udaipur was another road trip of 5 hours (245 km approximately). During the journey, travellers can enjoy the scenic landscapes and charming villages along the way. Highlights: City Palace: Overlooking Lake Pichola, City Palace is a grand structure that offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Mewar dynasty. Lake Pichola: Undoubtedly, a serene and scenic lake that is perfect for boat rides and also offers stunning views of the surrounding palaces. A boat ride on Lake Pichola at sunset is a must-do activity, offering mesmerising views of the City Palace, nearby luxurious hotels and the

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Mount Pinatubo Hiking Trip

Leave a Comment / Destinations, Philippines / Preeti

Nestled in the heart of the Philippines, Mount Pinatubo is a stunning active volcano located on the island of Luzon. Home to one of the largest volcanic eruptions in recent history and now it boasts a serene crater lake surrounded by lush forests and unique landscapes, making it a perfect destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Just a few hours away from Manila, a hiking trip to Mount Pinatubo offers a refreshing and adventurous weekend escape. Mount Pinatubo is my second volcano hike in the Philippines. First was Taal Volcano-the smallest active volcano the Philippines. Nevertheless, nature is incredible, and both were such amazingly different experiences for me. Join me on this fantastic trip as I take you through wonders of nature and adventure. ＊Planning Your Trip The ideal time to hike Mount Pinatubo is during the dry season, from November to early June. Avoid the rainy season to prevent hazardous trail conditions and ensure clear views of the crater lake. Necessary Permits and Fees Secure your permits in advance through the local tourism office in Capas, Tarlac. (Your accommodation host will help you with it.) Expect to pay an environmental fee. A guide is mandatory for a safe and regulated hiking experience. So, also prepare to pay the guide fee. Packing Essentials Comfortable hiking shoes Light, breathable clothing Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) Water and snacks Camera or smartphone for photos First aid kit and any personal medications ＊Getting There Travel Options from Manila to Mount Pinatubo Location: Located in the Zambales Mountains, on the boundary of the Philippine provinces of Zambales, Tarlac and Pampanga in central Luzon. Private Car: The most convenient way is to drive, taking the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) and Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) to Capas, Tarlac. Public Transport: Take a bus from Manila to Capas, then hire a 4×4 vehicle to take you to the jump-off point. Estimated Travel Time and Costs Private Car: Approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic. Public Transport: Around 4 to 5 hours including transfers, costing around PHP 300-500 for the bus fare and additional PHP 3,000-4,000 for the 4×4 rental and guide. ＊The Hike The hike to Mount Pinatubo’s crater is a moderate trek, with some sections requiring careful navigation over rocky terrain. It is suitable for hikers of various experience levels. The trek typically takes about 2 to 3 hours each way. The trail winds through lush jungles, moonlike landscapes of the lahar canyons and riverbeds, showcasing unique geological formations. It will lead to a stunning Crater Lake, formed after the volcano’s cataclysmic 1991 eruption at the summit. To make the most of your trip, I recommend to arrive in Capas the previous day by afternoon. This allows you to relax and get a good night’s sleep, as your hike will begin early the next day. ＊The Journey 5:30 AM: We began our day with a hearty breakfast prepared by our guesthouse staff. 6:00 AM: Our guides arrived in a 4×4 vehicle to pick us up. The road to the trek jump-off point is too rugged for regular vehicles, making the 4×4 a necessity. 6:15 AM: We registered at the local office and paid the necessary fees. 6:30 AM : We were all set for our first adventure. The ride to the trek jump-off point lasts about 30-40 minutes and is an adventure in itself. The dramatic terrain and breathtaking views make for a cinematic experience. 7:30 AM~10:00 AM: Our trek began with panoramic views of interesting rock formations and landscapes. We crossed several rivers and streams, adding to the adventure. Midway through the trek, we took a break at the designated break point. This is a great opportunity to rest and do some souvenir shopping. After we resumed the trek, something scary yet amazing happened. I had drifted a bit from my group and found myself completely alone, walking along the serene path through the lush forest. At first, I felt a pang of fear. But as I continued, my fear began to melt away. I started soaking in the tranquility of the place. These were the best 15 minutes I experienced. It was just me, the forest, and a feeling of being truly present in the moment. This unexpected interlude on the trek became a cherished memory, a reminder of the beauty and serenity that can be found when we allow ourselves to embrace solitude in nature. Soon I reached the summit and out of nowhere I witnessed the most beautiful geological wonder- the beautiful crater lake! What a rewarding feeling that was! After spending sometime there, clicking pictures and resting, we started back and the return journey felt much easier and faster. ＊Key Landmarks and Scenic Spots The Crow Valley: A picturesque canyon filled with remnants of the 1991 eruption. The Crater Rim: Offers the first breathtaking view of the turquoise crater lake. ＊Accommodations and Food Choose from a range of accommodations in Capas, from budget-friendly hostels to more comfortable guesthouses. (Check below for options to stay) Bring packed meals and snacks for the hike. Your accommodation may also provide an early morning breakfast before the hike as they did for us. At the summit you will also find few vendors selling local snacks, ice-cream, coconut water etc. Local eateries in Capas offer a variety of Filipino restaurants for post-hike dining. ＊Tips for a Memorable Trip Ensure you’re physically prepared for the hike. Stay hydrated and take breaks as needed. Pack out all trash and respect the natural environment. Avoid disturbing wildlife and plants. Show respect to local guides and communities and stay on designated paths and follow your guide’s instructions to avoid accidents. Follow all rules and regulations set by the tourism authorities. Swimming is not allowed in the lake, but you can enjoy the stunning views, take photos, and have a picnic by the lake. A trip to Mount Pinatubo offered an unforgettable adventure filled with natural beauty, and a sense of accomplishment and oh yes! a little sore legs

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Mount Fuji Travel Guide: Day Trip from Tokyo

Leave a Comment / Destinations, Japan / Preeti

Mount Fuji, Japan’s iconic snow-capped mountain, is a dream destination for many travellers. A trip to Japan is incomplete without seeing this majestic mountain. Just a few hours from Tokyo, it makes for a perfect day trip, especially when combined with the serene beauty of Lake Kawaguchi-ko. Join me on this unforgettable journey as I recount my day exploring this beautiful region. Mount Fuji or Fuji san as the Japanese call it, is the highest peak in Japan, standing tall at 3,776 meters. Surrounded by five lakes, it is an active volcano, and the most recent eruption was in 1707. Our trip was in November, the peak autumn season in Japan, which made Lake Kawaguchi-ko the perfect destination. One of the Fuji Five Lakes, Lake Kawaguchi-ko offers a tranquil setting with Mount Fuji majestically towering in the background, surrounded by beautiful autumn colors. The serene waters and picturesque landscape create a postcard-perfect scene, making it a photographer’s paradise. Getting To mount Fuji: By Train For train enthusiasts, the journey starts at JR Shinjuku Station in Tokyo. You can catch the JR Chuo Line to Otsuki, and from there, transfer to the Fujikyu Railway, which takes you directly to Kawaguchiko Station. The entire journey takes around 2.5 hours and costs approximately 2,500 yen one-way. Another option is the direct Limited Express Fuji Excursion service, which takes 1.5 hours from JR Shinjuku Station. Or for a little less cost you can also take a Limited Express Kaiji to Ōtsuki and then again hop on the Fujikyū railway to Kawaguchiko. JR Pass Holders: The JR Pass covers the journey up to Otsuki. From there, you’ll need to purchase a separate ticket for the Fujikyu Railway. By Bus Alternatively, buses run directly from Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal to Kawaguchiko Station. This option is slightly cheaper, costing around 2,000 yen one-way, and takes roughly 2 hours. Buses are frequent and comfortable, making them a popular choice for many travellers. Once you reach Kawachiko, the easiest option is to make use of the sightseeing buses to explore the nearby places. There are three main bus lines: Red, Green, and Blue, all departing from Kawaguchiko Station and you can purchase a one-day ticket to use them all for unlimited rides. Don’t forget to pick-up the map of the area from the tourist information centre as it has all the details you need to plan your day ahead. Arriving at Lake Kawaguchi-ko Our trip started a little before the main Kawaguchi-ko at Shimoyoshida. Stepping off the train at Shimoyoshida Station, we were immediately greeted by the crisp, fresh air and stunning views of Mount Fuji. In fact, on a clear day you can greet Fujisan from the train itself, as the mountain starts appearing as you are approaching your destination, so glue yourself to the window seats! Depending on the time of year, the area around Lake Kawaguchi-ko transforms dramatically: Spring: Cherry blossoms frame Mount Fuji, creating an ethereal pink hue. Autumn: The fall foliage paints the landscape in vibrant reds, yellows and oranges. Exploring the Area There are plenty of sightseeing options and activities to do in the area. Read along to see what all we did and I will also share few more options that you can check out on your trip. 1. Arakurayama Sengen Park and Chureito Pagoda: We started our trip by visiting the Arakurayama Sengen Park, home to the Chureito Pagoda. To visit this park you need to get down at Shimoyoshida station on Fujikyu Railway line (30 mins before Kawaguchi-ko station) and just follow the sign boards and walk down to the entrance of the park. This park offers an unobstructed view of Mt. Fuji, overlooking Fujiyoshida City. It is renowned for its stunning views of Mount Fuji, especially when framed with the iconic vermillion Chureito Pagoda. After a small hike to the top (approximately 400 steps), you will reach an observation deck from where you can get a picture perfect view. The steep climb is worth the breathtaking view from the top. Also the path is lined with cherry blossoms and maple trees that creates a beautiful foliage scene both in spring and autumn and it should take your attention away from your burning thighs. Chureito Pagoda is a five-storied pagoda that is part of the Arakura Sengen Shrine. Built in 1963, it was constructed as a peace memorial. 2.Oshino Hakkai : Oshino Hakkai is a set of eight ponds in Oshino, a small village near Kawaguchi. The specialty of these ponds is that they get their water directly from the melted snow of Mount Fuji, filtered through porous layers of lava over a period of 80 years, resulting in crystal-clear spring water. Once here, do not miss to accept the challenge to dip your hands in the freezing cold water for 30 seconds in one of the ponds. Highlights: 3. Oshino Shinobi no Sato: Oshino Ninja village It is a theme park dedicated to the legendary ninjas of Japan. Oshino Village has a rich history that dates back to the Edo period. The ninja village is designed to recreate the atmosphere of a traditional ninja training ground, offering visitors a glimpse into the secretive and intriguing world of ninjas. Ninja experience: Oshino Ninja Village offers a variety of ninja-themed activities. Ninja Shows and Performances: Daily

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To India With Love…

3 Comments / Destinations, India / Preeti

Dear India, I feel immense pride and happiness to call you home. You are every traveler’s dream, and I am fortunate to be born in this amazing country. India you are a land of contrasts, surprises and wonder where ancient and modern coexist in perfect harmony. The Indian tourism board’s tagline says, “Incredible India”. And indeed, I don’t think any other word can do justice to my beautiful country. Foreigners often ask me, where should we travel in India during our trip? And this is the most difficult question to answer. Because it is such a diverse and fascinating country that has something to offer to every traveler. From the bustling streets of metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad to the calm of the villages and towns in every state. Mighty snow-capped mountains and valleys of Himachal, Uttarakhand and Kashmir to sun-kissed beaches of Kerala, Goa and Andaman. From pristine lakes of Ladakh, cascading waterfalls of Meghalaya, to arid deserts of Rajasthan, forests and national parks bustling with wildlife, India is a land of breathtaking landscapes. If you are looking for adventures, there are numerous treks in the Himalayas, white water rafting and Bungee jumping in Rishikesh, scuba diving in islands of Andaman and Lakshadweep, Umling La pass in Ladhak is the world’s highest motorable road. For the culturally curious, India offers the ultimate adventure. India is where you will find the world’s oldest continually inhabited city of Varanasi on the banks of river Ganga. Ancient temples of Tamil Nadu and Hampi, majestic forts of Maharashtra, palaces of Rajasthan, caves of Ajanta and Ellora and many other UNESCO World Heritage Sites are a window into its rich history. The vibrant festivals, colourful dressing, diverse languages combined with variety of music, dance, art, unique customs and traditions and welcoming locals reflect India’s rich culture. India is undeniably a food lovers paradise with its flavourful and assorted cuisine bursting with aromatic spices and regional delicacies. From the curries and Naan in the North to Idlis and Dosas in the south to the countless street food and desserts, India is a culinary delight. India is a huge country with 28 states and 8 union territories, each having its own culture, language and identity. It is not wrong to say that each state is like a country, such is the diversity at every corner and we Indians embrace this diversity as we discover something new each time we visit a new part of the country. On your trip to India, you can choose to explore one state at a time or combine 3-4 depending on your duration. Generally all the places are very well connected by roads, railways and domestic flights. You can choose to stay in luxurious resorts, affordable hotels, comfortable Airbnbs or humble home stays. Furthermore, if you are a bag packer, India has chains of amazing hostels as well. India offers an array of experiences for all who seek to immerse themselves in its magic It is a country that captivates the senses and nourishes the soul. This is a place that must be seen to be believed and journey through India will stay with you forever and its memories will last for a lifetime. No wonder I developed love for travel as my introduction to travel was done through all these amazing places right from a very young age. Thanks to my parents for that. So far, I have traveled to 13 states and 3 union territories which I feel is less compared to what India has to offer and I intend to travel more here. So, stay tuned to read more blogs from India as I explore more of my home.

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To Thailand With Love…

Leave a Comment / Destinations, Thailand / Preeti

Oh Thailand, you were a fresh breeze of rejuvenating holiday amidst the tumultuous Covid-19 pandemic. I will always remember you as a savior and escape during those tough times. My trip to Thailand was one of the most unplanned and impromptu trips of my life. It all started when the travel restrictions were lifted towards the end of 2021. We had just returned to India after almost 2.5 years. And when it was time to head back to the Philippines, omicron variant led to new travel restrictions. Hence, we could not travel directly to Philippines from India. At that time Thailand was still open for tourists, so we decided to spend a week in Thailand before continuing to the Philippines. Keeping the Covid protocols in mind, we decided not to travel to any other islands and cities and made most of this trip by exploring Bangkok and its surroundings while experiencing the magic of Thailand’s rich culture. Bangkok, the bustling capital, is a city that never sleeps. Known for its vibrant street life, cultural landmarks, and luxurious experiences, Bangkok offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a solo traveler seeking adventure, a family looking for fun activities, or a luxury traveler wanting to indulge, Bangkok has it all. I think Thailand is the perfect place to indulge in some luxury, and we decided to do exactly that by making Marriot as our home for a week in Bangkok. I highly recommend staying in Marriot when in Bangkok for the lovely service, and stunning rooftop views and excellent food. This trip was extra special as it was my first time traveling in business class and of course loved every bit of the pampering! Our trip started by meeting few friends and spending some good time pub-hopping. When in Bangkok visiting and admiring the grandeur of intricate Thai architecture should be on top of your list. You can experience this by exploring the stunning complexes of Grand Palace and Temple of Emerald Buddha. You can also cruise through the Chao Phraya river to reach Wat Arun also known as the temple of Dawn. I am in awe of Thai architecture and its rich history! Just two hours from Bangkok, we decided to visit Pattaya because no vacation is complete without some vitamin sea! A day trip to Thailand’s unique floating markets such as Damnoen Saduak and train market gave a glimpse of the local life! Thailand is a shopper’s paradise, so we didn’t miss out on the markets and shopping malls. Icon Siam was one the most amazing malls I visited. We enjoyed our evenings on the rooftops overlooking the Bangkok skyline while sipping on cocktails and savouring my favourite Pad Thai! We all know how relaxing a Thai massage can be, so we absolutely did not miss our spa days. While getting my nails done at a salon and chatting with the staff, they recommended me to visit Muang Boran- The ancient city. This turned out to be one of the most unique things I did on my trip, and I will share more about this in my next blog. With its great hospitality and welcoming locals, Thailand has so much more to offer and lots to explored! I can’t wait to go back and experience its diverse nature, culture, landscapes, islands, beaches and more! But for now, wait for my next blog on how to spend a week in Bangkok.

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To Turkey With Love…

To Australia With Love…

2 Comments / Australia, Destinations / Preeti

Australia, you were a beautiful surprise and I had an unforgettable journey exploring you. I read somewhere, Australia is a land of vastness and wonder. A place so extensive that exploring a new part of it every day for a lifetime would still leave areas untouched. And I was able to experience this on our trip to Australia! This immense land down under offers endless roads. Just keep driving, but you will hardly worry about it as your destinations will never disappoint you. From soaking in the vibrant cosmopolitan cities of Sydney and Brisbane, visiting iconic landmarks such as the Opera House, Harbor Bridge, and Sydney cricket stadium, and relishing on some exotic delicacies and wines to walking in the rainforests where dinosaurs walked, exploring secluded beaches, doing a picnic by a lake side and self-driving a boat in the backwaters of Sunshine Coast, such assorted were our experiences. On this trip, we explored Sydney and Brisbane and it’s neighbouring towns. However, the highlight of our trip was a road trip from Sydney to Brisbane. We drove across New South Wales and reached Queensland while exploring the cozy towns and experiencing the slow lives and chilled-out vibes of Aussies. Australia is a continent overflowing with natural wonders just waiting to be explored. You will find pristine beaches, majestic national parks with stunning hiking trails, and scenic headlands overlooking unbelievable views almost at every corner. Australia is gifted with unique native and diverse wildlife! Imagine Kangaroos hopping around on a lovely beach, cute koalas hanging around on trees, and giraffes standing tall in the middle of a bustling city or spotting whales and dolphins in the vast oceans! For me, Australia was a sweet surprise as it turned out to be completely opposite to what I had imagined. I imagined Australian cities like any other big metro cities, congested with skyscrapers, traffic, and people! But it was nothing like that and was such a delight. I cannot wait to go back, and explore this captivating faraway land more. A big shoutout and thank you to our friends in Australia for hosting us and taking us around to their favourite spots. You also made our planning much easier. Stay tuned for more blogs from Australia. I plan to share unique things to do in Sydney and Brisbane. I will also share a detailed itinerary of our epic road trip, where we traveled 2500 km through 2 states and 9 towns in 6 days.

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To Philippines With Love…

1 Comment / Destinations, Philippines / Preeti

Dear Philippines, you are a tropical wonderland of stunning islands and powdery white sand beaches, a hidden gem of southeast Asia that is waiting to be explored! I am glad to call you home for the past seven years and it has been nothing short of an incredible experience. Despite having a full-time job, living here is like a long vacation, thanks to the numerous places to be explored. I am fortunate to discover every part of this beautiful country, one day at a time! A trip to the Philippines is perfect for anyone looking to escape the daily grind and treat themselves to a rejuvenating island getaway. Here, you will find options for adventure, relaxation, and total immersion into island life. With over 7,000 islands to choose from, the Philippines is a beach lover’s dream come true. From its chaotic capital, Manila, and crumbling colonial towns to island-hopping and volcanic vistas, the Philippines offers history, culture, nature, and adventures in spades. Each island has its own unique charm and endless options for unique vacation activities. And that is why the tag line of Philippines is- It’s more fun in the Philippines! Island hopping is the most popular day activity here! You start from a main island and visit various islands, coves, lagoons, coral gardens. You can do water activities like-Snorkeling and diving through coral reefs that are teeming with diverse marine life or even shipwrecks. Swim with whale-sharks and sea turtles or try your hand at surfing or cliff jumping! You can also choose kayaking through secluded coves or a good swim at hidden lagoons. I discovered two of the most unique activities after coming to the Philippines. Canyoneering through gorgeous waterfalls and hiking the volcanoes to find the most pristine crater lakes. Don’t worry if you prefer relaxation over adventure, you can spend your days lounging on secluded beaches under the sun and go island hopping with the local boats and friendly boatmen! Sip buko juice aka coconut water or San Mig Light beer or relish the delicious mangoes and yellow watermelons on the picture-perfect beaches. From luxurious island resorts, comfortable Airbnbs to houseboats, glamping, camping, treehouses, cottages, Kubos (beach huts) you can choose your perfect abode. Did you know that several Philippine islands and beaches, like Boracay, Palawan, and Siargao have been consistently named as the best in the world? So why not come and see for yourself! Beyond the beauty and adventures this country offers, the Filipinos’ warmth and hospitality is a reason itself to visit. They are the friendliest and fun-loving people with a culture of respect for everyone. In the Philippines, every visitor is greeted as ma’am or sir. And you can address them as “kuyas” and “ates” with love, translating to elder brother and sister respectively. In fact, the Philippines is often ranked as the friendliest and happiest country in Asia. This reason alone will make you feel like Philippines is your home away from home. My explorations in the Philippines began the very next day I landed in November 2017, and since then there has been no stopping! My first trip was to the stunning island of Boracay and have traveled to Cebu, El Nido, Coron, Mindoro islands and from North to South of the Luzon Island- the largest Island of the Philippines. Having traveled extensively here, I have plenty of amazing experiences to share. From secluded islands to weekend gateways and unique stay options. So, stay tuned as loads of Philippines content is going to come your way. For some reason the Philippines is not on the bucket list for many, but I can say you are missing out a lot by not planning a trip to the Philippines. However, the positive side is that this incredible country is not exploited by over-tourism. You can literally have an entire island to yourself to spend a whole day amidst nowhere. A vacation in the Philippines is your ultimate island escape to make lifelong memories. The only hard part is going to be leaving! So, Mabuhay to the Philippines! Cliff Jump at Kawasan falls, Cebu

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Preeti