Call Of The Hill Myna...

The majestic forts of central and north Tumakuru

2020-02-16T09:49:00.000-07:00

I was blessed to be born in Old Mysore region of Karnataka. This part of India is lucky to have been ruled by some of the most progressive regimes. The geographical landscape ranges from the dry eastern plains to the moist forests in Western Ghats. In between these two is the Closepet granite hill range, a chain of broken hills that run roughly north from Ramnagara near Bengaluru up to Hospet. Until the British subdued the biggest of threats to its existence in Indian sub-continent in 1799- the defeat and destruction of Tipu Sultan's 'Sultanat e Khudadad', most of these hills had garrisons of troops that depended on the fresh water streams that originated from the trapped granite and the steep cliffs that formed a natural defense against enemy attacks. Over the centuries many local chieftains built forts atop these hills, improvised by later rulers. The last layer of work on each of these fort was the handiwork of the father-son rulers of Mysore Kingdom Haidar Ali and Tipu Sultan. Aided by French engineering they were crafted to accommodate latest weapons of their age from multi-ton cannons to muskets as well as rockets, which the Kingdom of Mysore was famous for as well as withstand attacks by enemies using similar weapons. The district of Tumakuru which lies in the heart of Old Mysore Kingdom was formed in early 19th century. It incorporated places like Madhugiri, Devarayanadurga, Sira, Huliyurdurga, Makalidurga etc which were until then were themselves districts in the domain of the Wodeyars and Haidar-Tipu. The forts at almost all these places stand witness to the vagaries of man as well as nature. Like other power centres they may have been host to stories of bravery, treachery, nationalism, dreams and heart-breaks. Thankfully most of these forts in Tumakuru are remarkably well-preserved. They allow an insider peek into the daily routine of the men who manned them but also the lives of the kings who administered them. Particularly interesting is the top layer of brick and mortar, in some cases like Chennarayanadurga, just the red brick layer which makes it contrast against the dark blue winter sky which is a very pretty sight.

Towards the end of January 2020, I spent a couple of days driving around many forts in central and north Tumakuru District and the adjoining Anantapoor District in Andhra Pradesh, climbing a couple of them. Accompanying me was Mysore history nerd Nidhin George Olikara who came down from Shimoga to see these marvelous pieces of architecture. We started off from my ancestral home in downtown Tumakuru driving through the lush jungles of Devarayanadurga to the hill fort of the same name stopping along way to relish rotis with 'harya masale ki phal' (beef chops) cooked by my mom. Devarayanadurga peak is just a 20-minute drive from Tumakuru.

From Devarayanadurga we drove north to Koratagere along the newly constructed Dobbspet-Madhugiri stretch of the Kollegal - Pavagada State Highway. Stopping by for a quick coffee at an old friend's home in Koratagere, we drove to Chennarayanadurga and gazed many times at the beautiful fort.

From there we drove to Madhugiri and visited the Jamia Masjid, originally built during the reign of Tipu Sultan. Post lunch we hiked for a few minutes to the base of Madhugiri fort.

The next morning we packed out breakfast and drove Badavanahalli to the base of Bhasmangi Fort. We parked our car and scaled this beautiful hill fort in just about an hour.

The walk down was much quicker and we proceeded to the nearby Ratnagiri fort near Rolla.

From here we drove along the village and district roads to Midigeshi stopping by to see the beautiful fort having some tasty coconut water enroute.

From here we drove next to Madaksira along the Pavagada road.

We drove next to the beautiful Pavagada fort.

From Pavagada we drove to Nidugal or Nidugallu fort. This place is not to be confused with Nijagal betta near Dobbspete along the Tumakuru - Bengaluru stretch of NH4.

Sira was our final destination where we stopped by to pay a quick visit to the Sira Kasturi Rangappa Nayaka Fort as well as the Jamia Masjid and Mallik Rehan Dargah.

Overall this was an amazing trip.

Delicious Mutton Biryani from Old Mysore region

2019-11-27T20:37:00.002-07:00

Biryani is a dish that is supposed to have come to south Asia from Persia. Old Mysore region of Karnataka (erstwhile princely state of Mysore/ Mysore Kingdom) has its own version of this amazingly delicious dish.

Here is recipe for the region's mutton Biryani as prepared by my Begum (spouse). She has learnt it from her mother to whom this knowledge was passed on from her earlier generations.

INGREDIENTS
Mutton: 1 kg
Rice: Basmati 1.25 kg
Oil: 1.5 standard cups (apx. 350 ml)
Raw Garam Masala/ Spices: Strong flavoured,
- Cloves: 10 no.
- Cinnamon- 1 stick of 2 inch length
- Cardamom: 5 no.
Salt: According to taste
Onion: Medium sized, 4, sliced fine
Tomatoes: Medium sized, 5, sliced fine
Green chillies: Medium sized, 4
Red chilly powder: 2 tea spoons, Prefer Everest Thika as it gives colour to the Biryani
Ginger garlic paste: 9 table spoons
Lemon juice: Squeezed out from 1 medium sized lemon
Coriander: 1 handful
Mint: 20 leaves

COOKING METHOD
Container 1
Step 1: Wash rice, soak it in a container and keep it aside

Container 2 (preferably a pressure cooker)
Step 2: In a separate container add the garam masala in hot oil and stir till it emits noise/ crackles (apx. 30 seconds), .
Step 3: Slit the green chillies and add them to the hot oil, add few leaves of mint, stir for 30 seconds.
Step 4: Fry sliced onion in the above till it turns golden brown, stir, ensure it is not burnt.
Step 5: Add chopped coriander, stir for 30 seconds
Step 6: Add ginger garlic paste, stir fry for 30 seconds
Step 7: Add red chilly powder and stir fry for 2 minutes
Step 8: Add mutton. Mix contents thoroughly for just about 2 minutes as it cooks.
Step 9: Add sliced tomatoes, lemon juice and salt
Step 10: Pressure cook until semi-cooked/ near-cooked. This is 'Akhni'
Step 11: Remove oil floating on top of the 'Akhni' and store it separately, the quantity of this oil from 'Akhni' would be about 100-125 ml.

Container 3
Step 12: In a bigger container add twice the amount of water as compared to rice and heat till it boils

Container 1 (yes go back to the container in which you soaked the rice)
Step 13: Strain the wet rice off water

Container 3
Step 14: Add strained rice from container 1 into the boiling water
Step 15: Add salt, according to taste
Step 16: Cook rice until half-done
Step 17: Drain the water, divide rice into 2 equal portions, leave one half and remove the other

Step 18: Spread one half of the Akhni and meat over rice in this container as a layer and mix

Step 19: Spread other half of the rice over this
Step 20: Spread the remaining Akhni and meat over this rice and mix

Step 21: Spread mint leaves on top

Step 22: Spread Akhni oil (that you previously removed from container 3 and stored separately)
Step 22: Seal the container with either an aluminum foil or wet cloth and close it with its cap

Step 23: Cook on high flame for 5 minutes

Step 24: Turn the flame low and cook for 15 minutes till the rice is well cooked

Step 25: Remove container cover and check if the rice is well cooked. If rice is cooked enough let the container be on the stove for 10 more minutes

Your Old Mysore mutton biryani is cooked. Enjoy it with raitha, salad as per your taste : )

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Please leave a comment if you liked this recipe. I love to hear from readers.

Old Mysore Chicken Biryani - a recipe to happiness

2019-11-02T13:08:00.002-06:00

Biryani is said to have come all the way from Persia (modern day Iran) and evolved over the centuries. I am lucky to have been born in a house where the women folk have mastered the art of cooking the tastiest of Biryanis- the one cooked in Old Mysore region of peninsular India. Old Mysore region is the erstwhile independent Mysore Kingdom or the princely state of Mysore, that has its own distinct traditions, dialects and of course food. Here is recipe for the region's chicken Biryani as prepared by my Begum (spouse).

INGREDIENTS
Meat: Chicken 1 kg
Rice: Basmati 1.25 kg
Oil: 1.5 standard cups (apx. 350 ml)
Raw Garam Masala/ Spices: Strong flavoured,
- Cloves: 10 no.
- Cinnamon- 1 stick of 2 inch length
- Cardamom: 5 no.
Salt: According to taste.
Onion: Medium sized, 4, sliced fine
Tomatoes: Medium sized, 5, sliced fine
Green chillies: Medium sized, 4
Red chilly powder: 2 tea spoons, Prefer 'Everest Thika' brand as it gives colour to the Biryani
Ginger garlic paste: 9 table spoons
Lemon juice: Squeezed out from 1 medium sized lemon
Coriander: 1 handful
Mint: 20 leaves

COOKING METHOD
Container 1
Step 1: Wash rice, soak it in a container and keep it aside

Container 2 (preferably a pressure cooker)
Step 2: In a separate container add the garam masala in hot oil and stir till it emits noise/ crackles (apx. 30 seconds), .
Step 3: Slit the green chillies and add them to the hot oil, add few leaves of mint, stir for 30 seconds.
Step 4: Fry sliced onion in the above till it turns golden brown, stir, ensure it is not burnt.
Step 5: Add chopped coriander, stir for 30 seconds
Step 6: Add ginger garlic paste, stir fry for 30 seconds
Step 7: Add red chilly powder and stir fry for 2 minutes
Step 8: Add sliced tomatoes, cook at low flame till the contents become a paste/ until you see the oil separated from contents
Step 9: Add lemon juice followed immediately by salt and then chicken. Mix contents thoroughly for just about a minute
Step 10: Pressure cook until semi-cooked/ near-cooked. This is 'Akhni'
Step 11: Remove oil floating on top of the 'Akhni' and store it separately, the quantity of this oil from 'Akhni' would be about 100-125 ml.

Container 3
Step 12: In a bigger container add twice the amount of water as compared to rice and heat till it boils

Container 1 (yes go back to the container in which you soaked the rice)
Step 13: Strain the wet rice off water

Container 3
Step 14: Add strained rice from container 1 into the boiling water
Step 15: Add salt as per taste
Step 16: Cook rice until half done
Step 17: Drain the water, divide rice into 2 equal portions, leave one half and remove the other

Step 18: Spread one half of the Akhni and meat over rice in this container as a layer and mix
Step 19: Spread other half of the rice over this

Step 20: Spread the remaining Akhni and meat over this rice and mix
Step 21: Spread mint leaves on top
Step 22: Spread Akhni oil (that you previously removed from container 2 and stored separately)

Step 23: Seal the container with either an aluminum foil or wet cloth and close it with its cap

Step 24: Cook on high flame for 5 minutes
Step 25: Turn the flame low and cook for 15 minutes till the rice is well cooked
Step 26: Remove container cover and check if the rice is well cooked. If rice is cooked enough let the container be on the stove for 10 more minutes

Your Old Mysore chicken biryani is cooked. Enjoy it with raitha, salad as per your taste : )
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Please leave a comment if you found the recipe useful. I love to hear from readers.

'Namma Bengaluru' food in Calgary, western Canada

2019-10-26T23:27:00.000-06:00

I recently drove with family to Calgary from where I reside up north here in Canada's Alberta province. A few enquiries led me to 'Hot Plate' in Calgary north east, the desi hub of this beautiful city. I was told that the place was owned and operated by a lady from Bengaluru. A smile and a few pleasantries exchanged in Dakkani dialect and we were off to tasting a sumptuous buffet. Dilshad Aunty moved to Canada 6 years ago and from RT Nagar, Namma Bengaluru, to join her sons and their families. Apparently on her insistence they started a restaurant and have never looked back. Today this is one of the well-known restaurants of Calgary, the largest city of Alberta.

Coming to food, I usually ask the restaurant manager or the reception to help me taste their best dish/es. Dilshad Aunty asked us to get started with the buffet and said she would also serve us with other dishes in the kitchen. She exceeded what she had promised. Among the items 'Chiken leg and thigh' stood above the rest and reminded us of Mughlai chicken items served at places like Al Bek and Empire. The meat was tender and succulent. The spice and flavours were just right and the meat seemed to melt in mouth. Fish pakora was another item that we helped ourselves with more than once. The chicken biriyani was more of north-western India and Pakistani style. Here are a few pics from the visit.

'Bade ka sukka' - a traditional beef dish of India's Old Mysore region

2019-09-29T19:51:00.000-06:00

Bade ka sukka is a traditional south Indian beef dish from the Old Mysore region

Bade ka sukka or 'Dry beef' is a traditional Muslim beef dish of Old Mysore region*. It may surprise you that not all Muslims eat beef in Karnataka (or at least not all did when I was a kid in 1980s). I came from one such family. Beef was a rarity in my father's family in Tumakuru and his mom never touched it. Beef was considered a poor man's protein (being cheaper than fish, mutton and chicken) and people usually didn't like to be seen at a butcher shop selling beef (a shameful act that has thankfully changed today). My mom's family was opposite. They were from Bengaluru and were voracious beef eaters. My nani (maternal grand mom) and her daughters cooked some of the tastiest beef dishes. As some one who loved good food, I would relish every visit to my mom's family in Frazer Town. And each time I returned to Tumakuru, I craved for some beef. As teenagers we cousins would save money and visit the few hotels serving beef around Tumakuru town, often without telling our families. Among the most common dish and delicious dish was called Bade ka sukka in Dakkani dialect. It is cooked beef flavoured with traditional Indian spices, curry leaf and ginger as well as garlic among others.

Bade ka sukka beef dish under preparation in northern Canada in fall 2019

Moving to Canada in early 2000s I found beef to be as popular as chicken among the people and certainly more popular than goat or lamb meat. Canada is among the world's largest producers of beef. Easy accessibility meant I got to bring home and cook and more beef. And the interactions with colleagues and university mates from other countries particularly Pakistan and Afghanistan meant I learnt about more meat dishes including beef, the most popular of which is Lahori Nihari. But when it is time to eat beef that reminds me of home back in India, Bade ka sukka is what I fall back on, thanks to my better half who is an amazing cook.

Note:
*Old Mysore region is the part of modern day Karnataka state that remained as princely state of Mysore under British rule over India till 1947. The state was a remnant of the larger Mysore Kingdom that was broken up by the British after Mysore ruler Tipu Sultan died on the battlefield in May 1799.

Vancouver City to Calgary by road in mid-winter - A photo essay

2019-09-18T19:22:00.001-06:00

Edmonton to Vancouver City by road in mid-winter - A photo essay

2019-09-17T21:01:00.002-06:00

A picture series on the drive from Edmonton to Vancouver city in February 2019.

The spectacular Aurora borealis in Northern Alberta

2019-09-02T12:03:00.001-06:00

The Aurora borealis (Northern Lights) put up a spectacular show in the sky over Slave Lake town here in northern Alberta on Aug. 30-31, 2019. The phenomenon was visible right in the town despite the light pollution. I drove down to the adjoining Lesser Slave Lake Provincial Park, a little north of the town to take these pictures.

Aurora borealis and the Big Dipper over the Lesser Slave Lake

Aurora borealis and the Big Dipper starting to appear as the sun sets over the Lesser Slave Lake

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For more information about a destination, have a tourist destination or your property listed on this page or to buy an image please email the author at tumkurameen@gmail.com

A sea bird and seal paradise off Vancouver's coast- Sewell's Marina Howe Sound Sea Safari

2017-07-19T23:20:00.000-06:00

Vancouver is a city of spectacular beauty. The Pacific Coast here blends with the many snow capped mountains clothed with towering temperate rainforests. Streams fed by melting snow flowing down the mountains into the ocean are a sight to behold. Not surprisingly the area around the city is blessed with a variety of wildlife, including many aquatic life forms. One of the best ways to sight the aquatic wildlife is on a sea safari.

There are many companies with a long track record of safety and qualified wildlife biologists guiding guests during the safaris. One such company is Sewell Marina based at Howe Sound. I took the company's 2 hour Howe Sound Sea Safari in early July 2017 and had a wonderful time in the ocean, getting to see rare wildlife from close. The safari starts from Horseshoe and sails through a deep fjord (valley created by a retreating glacier) passing by many beautiful small islands including Christie Islet Bird Sanctuary and Anvil Island. The guide explains the area's human, natural and geological history stopping by at many places.

Here are a few pictures from the Sewell Marina Howe Sound Sea Safari

Horseshoe Bay village has the terminal to many of BC's ferries

Harbor seals resting near Christie Islet Bird Sanctuary

Harbor seals resting near Christie Islet Bird Sanctuary with a backdrop of temperate rainforests and snowy hills

A harbor seal near Christie Islet Bird Sanctuary

A harbor seal peeps from behind a glaucous-winged gull on Canada's Pacific Coast

Harbor seals pups near Christie Islet Bird Sanctuary in Canada's British Columbia

Harbor seals and glaucous-winged gull near Christie Islet Bird Sanctuary

Black oystercatcher at Christie Islet Bird Sanctuary

Bald eagle - Queen of Canadian waters

A bald eagle looks out

Bald eagle in flight

Great blue heron

Beautiful temperate rainforests lining Pacific Coast north of Vancouver City

The Sewell Marina departs at Horseshoe Bay village, north of Vancouver City

A street in Horseshoe Bay village

A view of the coast on the bus ride from Vancouver City's downtown to Horseshoe Bay village

A cyclist on the Lions Gate Bridge

North Vancouver as seen from Lions Gate Bridge

Tips:

Clothes: Wear warm clothing even in summer. Be prepared for the cold wind even on a sunny day. Sewell Marina provides you with a warm dress that also acts as a life jacket, which can be worn over your existing dress.

Photography gear: I would take decent pictures with my DSLR and 55-200mm lens. A higher focal length lens will be helpful to take close-ups of the rare wildlife, although some times the boat approaches the wildlife pretty close. Make sure you carry your gear in a water resistant bag to prevent the occasional wave from damaging it.

Here's a link to Sewell's Marina web page: http://www.sewellsmarina.com/

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Canadian Rockies from air - A photo essay

2017-07-19T22:55:00.001-06:00

Here are a few images I took during a flight from Vancouver International Airport to Edmonton city, which crosses the Canadian Rocky mountains.

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Halal restaurants of Downtown Vancouver, British Columbia

2017-03-06T08:32:00.000-07:00

Most halal foods have their origin in Asian and African countries. Restaurants offering halal food are a great way to explore exotic cuisine of these lands and get introduced to their eating traditions.

The picturesque city of Vancouver wedged between the Rocky Mountains and the Pacific Ocean in Canada's British Columbia province is a popular tourist destination. To most people who know Canada, this city offers warmer temperatures than the rest of the country. The city has also been ranked among the top 5 best cities to live across the globe in 2016.

I was in the city for three weeks in Jan.- Feb. 2017 for my training at Flight Centre for the position of International Travel Consultant. Like other major urban centres of the country Vancouver is a melting point for various cultures and ethnicity. It offers a variety of cuisines to satisfy different taste buds. As some one who prefers halal food, I explored the many restaurants offering this food in Vancouver's downtown. Here are my ratings for them.

1) Donair Town

Food portion: *****
Cuisine variety: ***
Taste: *****
Ambience: ****
Cleanliness: ****
Staff courtesy: ****
Price: *****

Located at Robson and Dawson, this probably has got the best halal food in Downtown Vancouver. Lots of meat and well grilled with the right quality and amount of spices. This is actually a Persian restaurant and the spices speak of it.

Google street map

2) Fez Cafe

Food portion: ****
Cuisine variety: *****
Taste: *****
Ambience: *****
Cleanliness: *****
Staff courtesy: *****
Price: ****
Google street map

This was the first time I tasted Algerian food. Located on Robson street, Fez Cafe is one of the cleaner halal restaurants offering excellent ambience to its guests. The restaurant has a variety of food which is supposed to originate in this North African nation. As I have never been to Algeria nor have I tasted food from this country, I can't comment on the originality of food. But I can vouch for the taste of the food which was absolutely tantalizing. The spices used were close to the many dishes I have tasted from the Arab world. The furniture and setting of the restaurant is very ethnic.

3) Green Leaf Salad Bar

Food portion: ****
Cuisine variety: *****
Taste: *****
Ambience: *****
Cleanliness: *****
Staff courtesy: *****
Price: *****
Google street map

This popular restaurant is located besides another popular food joint 'SushiGo' at Bute and Melville. Located a short distance from the Harbour Green Park, it offers a variety of ethnic Middle Eastern cuisine including falafel and hummus. The restaurant has a special lunch for each week day. It's better known for its salads though.

4) Baghdad Cafe

Food portion: ****
Cuisine variety: *****
Taste: ****
Ambience: *****
Cleanliness: ****
Staff courtesy: ****
Price: *****
Google street map

Apart from the variety of Middle Eastern food, the place offers a great ambience. It is a popular locale for many Arabs wanting a slice of the Arab world in Downtown Vancouver.

5) Babylon Cafe

Food portion: ****
Cuisine variety: ****
Taste: ****
Ambience: ****
Cleanliness: ****
Staff courtesy: ****
Price: *****
Google street map

This is a chain of restaurants and including a couple which are located in Downtown Vancouver. I ate at two of them- the one on Dawson Street and as well as the one on Robson Street. The food taste and portion at both is identical but the staff at the Robson Street store is more courteous.

Other restaurants:
There are a couple of other restaurants Persian and Turkish...that I unfortunately didn't get to try. Hope to visit them during my next visit to Vancouver. Insha Allah : )

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A visit to British Library, London,UK

2017-01-03T00:18:00.003-07:00

I fell in love with libraries of the Western world when I first visited University of Toronto's expansive Robarts Library in downtown Toronto where I took a few courses in mid-2000s. During the visit I laid hands on my life's first hard copy of 'Baburnama', the autobiography of Mohammad Zahiruddin Babur, founder of Moghul Empire. This re-triggered my high school interest in history that led to me to research the history of the erstwhile Mysore Kingdom. I started writing on various themes related to the erstwhile Mysore Kingdom for various publications- newspapers, popular magazines and my own blogs. The information was also used to further the cause of heritage education and conservation through Bengaluru by Foot, of which I am a co-founder with Mansoor Ali, an architect and another history and heritage buff. In tune with this need for continuous research I had been longing to visit the British Library, London, UK since a long time. I had the good fortune of spending a couple of days in London in November 2016 which I did to visit BL.

Here are a few images from the visit (and facts sourced from www.bl.uk):

A view of King's Cross St. Pancras station of London Tube, the nearest station to British Library

The historic St. Pancras hotel along the way to British Library from the London Underground

The walk to British Library from St. Pancras Underground station

Fallen maple leaves in the Autumn hue

Here are some facts* about the British Library at St. Pancras:

' - The largest public building constructed in the UK in the 20th century

- The basements extend to a depth of 24.5 metres

- A total floor area of over 112,000 sq metres spread over 14 floors - 9 above ground, 5 below

- 10 million bricks and 180,000 tonnes of concrete were needed to complete the building

- Awarded grade I listed building status in August 2015'

*Source: http://www.bl.uk/aboutus/quickinfo/facts/

The British Library at St. Pancras is 'the largest public building constructed in UK in 20th century'

Another view of British Library at St. Pancras

The library opens at 09:30 AM. Thankfully I reached the gates at 9 o' clock and saw a long line build behind me as I waited.

The staff at British Library are very cheerful and helping. My purpose of visiting London was fulfilled as I could lay my hands on the images and documents I was looking for.

The collection of Robert Arthur Ellis (1873-1962), Wesleyan Methodist Minister between 1898-1904 AD was donated to British Library, London by his son Arthur E Ellis. It contains rare images on south India, particularly Mysore Province, Nilgiris and Palni hills.

Here are a few other facts on British Library, quoting its website*:

' - The collection includes well over 150 million items, in most known languages

- 3 million new items are added every year

- The collections require over 625 km of shelves, and grows by 12 km every year

- If you see 5 items each day, it would take you over 80,000 years to see the whole of the collection

- We have on-site space for over 1,200 Readers

- Over 16,000 people use the collections each day (on site and online)

- Nearly 400,000 visit our Reading Rooms

- Over 100 million items have been supplied to users all over the world

- Material over 3,000 years old (Chinese oracle bones) - and today's newspapers

- Over 4 million maps'

*Source: http://www.bl.uk/aboutus/quickinfo/facts/

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'Akki Rotti'- A south Indian flat bread associated with childhood memories

2016-09-20T09:07:00.001-06:00

Curating walks for +Bengaluru Byfoot has given me an opportunity not only to travel to the various lesser known destinations in the region of the erstwhile Mysore province, but also to taste its various cuisines. And many of these food dishes bring back pleasant childhood memories. One such food is the 'Akki roti' or 'Chawal ki roti' as it is known in Dakkani dialect.

There are many types of 'rotis' or Indian flat bread that are prepared in India depending on the grains used to grind the flour. In the Old Mysore region, apart from the popular wheat roti made from wheat atta (flour) there are also the 'ragi' or finger millet (Eleusine coracana) roti, 'jowar' or sorghum or white millet roti and the 'akki' or rice roti. Jowar roti in Kannada language is known as 'Jwalada Rotti' and is more popular in northern parts of Karnataka state.

During my childhood as well as teenage days (1980s to mid-90s) I remember my dadi ma (paternal grand mother) preparing many different dishes as well as desserts. Among them was the Akki Rotti (Chawal ki Roti) or Rice Roti. During a recent drive to the former Moghul stronghold of Sira, a small town 50 km north of Tumakuru City, we stopped by the Kamath Upachar restaurant near the town located on the service road towards Tumakuru along the National Highway no: 4. I chanced upon this roti again. And the moment I tasted it, pleasant memories from the years gone by were brought alive. I had an American-French guest with me and he enjoyed the roti as much as I did.

Here's the link to the Kamath Upachar outlet where you can eat this roti:

https://goo.gl/maps/qYtJhT7W13L2

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For the love of good food: 'Taj Restaurant' @ Kunigal, Tumakuru Dist.

2016-08-25T04:41:00.001-06:00

At Bengaluru by Foot we go great lengths, in fact many miles, to try food so that our guests get to eat the tastiest of cuisines. On 24 Aug. 2016 we drove a couple of hours away from Bengaluru in search of a particular restaurant. We heard it serves amazing 'teetar fry' (fried partridges), 'bhuni naati murghi' (roasted country chicken), 'chote ka harya masala' (mutton green masala) and 'murghi pakote' (chicken wings). We found this place live up to its name as we jostled with fellow food lovers in search of food nirvana. Now we know where to stop on Bengaluru- Kunigal stretch of NH 48 the next time you want to eat that perfect Dakkani cuisine.

Taj Restaurant. It is located along the service road of NH48 exactly on the exit to Kunigal Town. Here it is on googlemaps.com https://goo.gl/maps/u5iW7SJLqJo

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For more information about a destination, have a tourist destination or your property listed on this page or to buy an image please email the author at tumkurameen@gmail.com

Ten reasons why you must visit Mikumi National Park from Dar es Salaam

2016-04-22T09:21:00.003-06:00

If there is one hidden natural wonder of Africa that one should not miss if one ever visits Dar es Salaam, it definitely has to be the Mikumi National Park located just under 300 km from Tanzania's financial capital.

HERE ARE 10 GOOD REASONS WHY ONE SHOULD VISIT THE PARK:

REASON 1: BIG GAME + DIVERSITY OF OTHER WILDLIFE

Mikumi is home to an amazing diversity of big game including 4 of the the famed big 5 of Africa- elephants, buffalos, lions and the leopard.

The Park also has a staggering diversity of lesser-wildlife/ small game and game birds, apart from the big game. It is a dream destination for bird lovers, with over 400 species to sight and photograph from. Apart from birds there are many species of insects and reptiles that roam here.

Big herds of zebra, impala, giraffe, wildebeast, wild buffalo are found in Mikumi National Park

A staggering 400 species of birds have been apparently recorded in Mikumi National Park, including residents like this beautiful Black-winged Red Bishop (Euplectes hordeaceus)

Among the reptiles gracing this park is the Nile monitor (Varanus niloticus)

REASON 2: GAME CONCENTRATIONS

The wild animal numbers here may not rival the spectacular concentrations of the parks near the Kenyan border like Serengeti or Ngorongoro, but the numbers are still amazing. If this is your first visit to Africa you are sure to be awed by the huge herds of herbivores in the safari areas of the Mkata Flood Plain.

The graceful impalas delight one throughout the long safari drive through the Mikumi National Park

Group of giraffes (referred to in English as 'tower') keep an eye on the visitors to the park

REASON 3: CONNECTED TO AFRICA'S BIGGEST GAME RESERVE

Mikumi National Park (circled in the below map) is connected to its south to the Seleous Game Reserve. Covering a land mass over 75,000 sq. km. Seleous is Africa's biggest Game Reserve and certainly the biggest protected area in Africa as well as being probably the largest Tropical terrestrial protected forest/ habitat on earth.

According to Tanzania National Parks Authority, the Park was gazetted in 1964 encompassing an of 1070 sq. km. It was extended to the current area of 3230 sq. km. in 1975. The park is the Tanzania's 5th largest NP.

Mikumi National Park (circled) is connected to its south to the Seleous Game Reserve

REASON 4: A NICE DRIVE ON AN ALL-WEATHER INTERNATIONAL HIGHWAY

A very good all-weather tarmac road, Highway No: A7 which goes beyond into the neighbouring country of Zambia connects the park to Dar through Morogoro the nearest city. Leave behind worries of a bad road or worrying about personal safety, which are often the prime concerns of tourists visiting African continent.

The all weather Tanzania-Zambia international highway from Morogoro city cuts through Mikumi National Park

REASON 5: NEAREST WILD 'SIMBA' FROM DAR

Mikumi National Park is probably the nearest place to view Simba, Swahili for lion. Prides of lions grace the grasslands here- wild and free. You can start off early from Dar, take a game ride in the park and be home in Dar the same evening.

A lioness prowls the grasslands of Mikumi National Park

REASON 6: EASY GAME VISIBILITY

What is the fun in listening to wildlife biologists telling us how rich a park is, if we don't get to see the same? If you are in a hurry to see big game, then look no further than Mikumi from Dar es Salaam. If you have kids or adults in the family who have watched African wildlife only on television, there is no better way to get a first-hand experience of the continent's wildlife than a visit to Mikumi National Park.

This impala like many other game in the park tolerate close approach

Mikumi National Park is probably the best destination to expose your little ones to African wilderness and its spectacular wildlife

Tourists can view the wildlife here at leisure

Mikumi National Park is home to many herds of African Elephant which can be easily seen here

REASON 7: ALL-WEATHER SAFARI ROADS

The all-weather safari roads mean you can take your vehicle on the game roads. For me the meaning of a dream safari is to start from home in my own vehicle and stopping in front of my favourite African animal.

One can choose between hiring a safari vehicle and preferring to drive one's own vehicle

REASON 8: A COMPLETE FAMILY EXPERIENCE

You can get off your safari vehicle at designated spots and get up-close with the natural environment here. Among such spots are the Hippo Pool and the tree house at the Baobab tree. Mikumi National Park captivates adults and children alike with the things and places it offers its visitors.

One can get off the safari vehicle at the Hippo pool to get a closer view of the hippos

Climbing up the tree house on Baobab tree

REASON 9: WIDE RANGE OF ACCOMMODATION

There are a host of restaurants and resorts that cater to a wide range of tourists visiting the park. One decent place to stay is the Mikumi Adventure Lodge. This place is just about a 150 metres from the highway immediately after exiting the park's southern entrance, a couple of kilometres from the small town of Mikumi.

A view of the cottages at Mikumi Adventure Lodge

REASON 10: A DRIVE THROUGH PICTURESQUE LANDSCAPES

The drive to Mikumi National Park is very scenic, particularly as one nears Morogoro City which is ringed by the rainforest clothed Udzungwa Mountains. It passes through a couple of big patches of forests before it enters the Mikumi Park.

Looking back on the Udzungwa Mountains near Morogoro City

The drive to Mikumi National Park from Dar es Salaam cuts through many woods

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Here are a few other posts on Mikumi National Park that may interest you:

1) Tanzania's Mikumi National Park- A safe haven for Africa's big game

2) The lesser known wildlife of Mikumi National Park, Tanzania

3) Drive to Mikumi National Park- the Great African Plains, from Dar es Salaam

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For more information about a destination, have a tourist destination or your property listed on this page or to buy an image please email the author at tumkurameen@gmail.com

Tanzania's Mikumi National Park- A safe haven for Africa's big game

2016-04-21T13:59:00.001-06:00

Mikumi National Park is tucked in a corner of Tanzania, far from the gaze of the well-known parks of the country like Serengeti and Kilimanjaro. The park is spread across an area of over 3,000 sq. km. Here are some images of the big game found in the park taken during a trip made to this park during Easter (March) 2016 vacations.

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Here are a few other posts on Mikumi National Park that may interest you:

1) Ten reasons why you must see Mikumi National Park from Dar es Salaam

2) The lesser known wildlife of Mikumi National Park, Tanzania

3) Drive to Mikumi National Park- the Great African Plains, from Dar es Salaam

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For more information about a destination, have a tourist destination or your property listed on this page or to buy an image please email the author at tumkurameen@gmail.com

The lesser known wildlife of Mikumi National Park, Tanzania

2016-04-18T09:55:00.000-06:00

Mikumi National Park is known for its variety of wildlife. The northern part of the park located in the Mkata flood plain is a favourite haunt of four of the big five of Africa- elephants, wild buffaloes, lion and the leopard. But hidden amidst these fairly common animals are an amazing array of creatures particularly the winged ones and the slithering ones.

During my visit to the park in March 2016, I documented some of the birds, insects and reptiles that I came across both on the main highway as well as the safari roads.

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Here are a few other posts on Mikumi National Park that may interest you:

1) Tanzania's Mikumi National Park- A safe haven for Africa's big game

2) Ten reasons why you must see Mikumi National Park from Dar es Salaam

3) Drive to Mikumi National Park- the Great African Plains, from Dar es Salaam

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For more information about a destination, have a tourist destination or your property listed on this page or to buy an image please email the author at tumkurameen@gmail.com

Drive to Mikumi National Park- the Great African Plains, from Dar es Salaam

2016-04-15T14:10:00.004-06:00

I had a chance to break free from the daily cycle of work in Dar es Salaam for a couple of days during the recent Easter long weekend of Tanzania. I drove down along the Tanzania - Zambia International Highway to Mikumi National Park, one of nature's many bounties bestowed upon this beautiful country and its welcoming people. The town of Mikumi, near which is the park's safari area, is located about 300 km from Dar, although the jungles of the park start about 45 km before the town when one is driving down from Dar.

Here is a collection of images of the drive to the park. This is first of a series of posts on my blog on this particular trip.

A giraffe statue at a petrol station just as one exits Dar es Salaam on the Morogoro road.

To see a larger map click here

This is a single road with many bends and sharp turns, where over taking is prohibited.

And a long week-end meant we had to follow the many vehicles ahead of us leaving no chance of overtaking.

One can see the plains for miles ahead as one approaches Chalinze town.

Watch out for the many speed limit sign posts as one drives into village limits. These are strictly implemented by the plentiful of cops all along the way. Heavy fines await those who break the limit.

The end of speed limit is shown on sign posts as one leaves the village limits.

Watch out for cyclists when there are no speed limits.

And then there are cow sign posts...

...followed by actual cows being herded by Masai tribesmen.

There are places where heavy trucks are supposed to stop, watch out for such places

No overtaking please!

More reasons to drive slow...

The drive gets lively as the mountains come nearer

Again, watch out for pedestrians along way

The lovely mountains seen through a clearing in vegetation along the road.

Agricultural fields as one approaches Morogoro city.

Beautiful landscape along way

The road remains single all along

An interesting Mosque minaret, which is different from what one sees in south Asia

The beautiful mountains distract your view

Fortunately one doesn't have to enter Morogoro to drive to Mikumi park as there is a highway by-passing the city.

Another way to figure out the end of the speed limit are sign posts cancelling names of the nearest village gone by

You can occasionally see people along way, wanting to hitch a ride.

I couldn't resist stopping and having a look at the beautiful mountains adjoining Morogoro town.

As one drives past Morogoro, one gets the chance to catch up on the lost time

As you approach the boundaries of Mikumi park, you come across a few villages that advertise their hand-crafted artefacts

And finally we enter the national park boundaries. There are strict speed limits as one leaves civilization to enter the land of Simba- the lion and Tembo- the elephant.

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Here are a few other posts on Mikumi National Park that may interest you:

1) Tanzania's Mikumi National Park- A safe haven for Africa's big game

2) The lesser known wildlife of Mikumi National Park, Tanzania

3) Ten reasons why you must see Mikumi National Park from Dar es Salaam

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For more information about a destination, have a tourist destination or your property listed on this page or to buy an image please email the author at tumkurameen@gmail.com

Stone Town, Zanzibar- Glimpses from a place frozen in time

2016-01-10T12:25:00.002-07:00

Tanzania is a country that stretches from the coast to Mt. Kilimanjaro, the tallest free standing mountain on Earth and the highest peak in Africa. Among the gems it has to showcase are a couple of archipelagos (group of islands) hidden somewhere the Indian Ocean. Located off Dar es Salaam, towards its north-east, the autonomous region of Zanzibar comprises of Pemba and surrounding islands as well as the archipelago comprising of Unjuga and surrounding islands. The city of Zanzibar is located in the later. These islands have a fascinating history enshrouded around them, particularly the city of Zanzibar. In the old part of Zanzibar city is the Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

A kid enjoying football on a Monday morning. This is what many people in Zanzibar do through the week. They take life as it comes and enjoy it every bit.

To see a larger map, click here

Here are glimpses of this scenic place from a couple of visits in November 2015.

One can travel to Zanzibar from Dar es Salaam either by Air or by Ferry. Here's a view of Dar city from air on the flight to Zanzibar.

A view from the restaurant at Serena Zanzibar

Relaxing at the restaurant of Serena Zanzibar

A glassware with delicate Arabic/ Mediterranean art work on display at Hyatt Zanzibar

The beach outside Hyatt Zanzibar, a star hotel, near the Zanzibar Port

Two-wheelers are a favourite mode of transport in Zanzibar

Many of the buildings and establishments at Zanzibar are over a century old. Here is one such building.

Another old establishment

Narrow streets characterise the Stone Town.

Another old building in one of the narrow streets

Hakuna Matata is a popular phrase in Swahili language. It roughly means 'Don't worry, be happy'. Thanks to the movie 'Lion King' the phrase was popularised outside the Swahili speaking parts of the world.

Tourism mementos for sale. Much of these come from China.

A shop selling mementos.

Stone Town is characterised by old buildings which are protected by the UNESCO World Heritage Tag

A view of the historic old Fort. It was symbolic as a seat of power by the Arabs changing hands multiple times before it became a heritage site.

Another view of the Old Fort, Stone Town, Zanzibar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Entrance to the Old Fort, Stone Town, Zanzibar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

A board explaining the World Heritage Site of Old Fort, Stone Town, Zanzibar

A board at the entrance to the Old Fort, Stone Town, Zanzibar

Brass knobs/ spikes on one of the doors at the entrance of Old Fort, Stone Town., Zanzibar

Decorative work on wood at the entrance of Old Fort, Stone Town., Zanzibar

Many modern buildings in Zanzibar have adopted the age old theme of wood designs giving the entire town a feel of being a place frozen in time. The above picture is from Serena Zanzibar, a 5-star hotel in Stone Town, Zanzibar.

A traditional wood door with brass knobs

A traditional wood door

Food is one of Zanzibar's major attraction. Here are a few dishes we ordered at Serena Zanzibar, a star hotel.

Prawns Chuku Chuku- fresh sea prawns garnished with spices and served with either steamed rice or mashed potato.
At #SerenaZanzibar.

Jacxon Evance is a waiter at Serena Zanzibar. A happy man, here he is wearing a traditional Zanzibar cap. This cap has its origins in Oman, which colonised Zanzibar for many decades.

A local walking along the beach

Beyond the closed doors lies freedom.

A yacht sailing as the sun sets

Locals enjoying the evening on a beach.

The locals and tourists blend very well in Zanzibar.

Boats anchoring at the end of day.

Yachts sailing past one of the many pristine beaches in Zanzibar

Locals use small boats to travel from one island to another and also to the mainland.

A traditional boat contrasts with modern vessels.

Boats during low tide as seen near Zanzibar Port

Placid ocean waters during low tide as seen from Hyatt Zanzibar.

One of the many islands that one gets to see as one flies to Zanzibar from Dar es Salaam

A view of the azure Indian ocean waters and coral reefs from a small plane.

When rays of sun hit the water around noon, one gets to enjoy the ocean's beauty flying overhead.

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For more information about a destination, have a tourist destination or your property listed on this page or to buy an image please email the author at tumkurameen@gmail.com

ASUS ZenPad 8.0 - Head above the rest in the world of tabs

2016-01-07T05:46:00.003-07:00

The ASUS ZenPad 8.0 Z380KL

In a world full of tabs, it is often a challenge to choose and ensure you have the best product. There are many factors that one needs to go through before deciding to buy one. Like me if you need a tab for multiple-purposes, I would recommend you to seriously consider buying the amazing ASUS ZenPad 8.0 Z380KL.

The ASUS ZenPad 8.0 Z380KL

Why did I want a tab?

I am a 40-year old blogger, PR pro and father of a toddler. Here are some of the reasons for me to buy a tab:

A) A device to help me Blog/ Write: As a serious blogger who is often on a plane, boat or foot, I need a machine that takes care of my blogging needs where ever I am and when ever I want.

B) A device for multi-functions: Whether I am at home or I am away, I often feel the need for an all-rounder- a device that takes care of my calling, documenting as well as storage needs.

C) A device for my family: As father of a 3-year old I need a device that I can use to share some quality time with my kid when ever he wants me to. And yes, I need it to show my wife the details of the in-fashion clothes that I come across on the net.

D) Music: I need music sometimes to get away from the crowds outside my doors. And I need a device that not just plays music but drives away the crowds from my mind space : )

Key reasons to buy ASUS ZenPad 8.0

The Asus ZenPad 8.0 in its packing

How to choose a tab and why I chose the ZenPad 8.0 Z380KL?

There are multiple factors that you need to consider before buying a tab. Here are some strong reasons for me to buy the ZenPad 8.0:

1) Brand position: The market today as you know is flooded by zillions of brands. While I don't demonise the ones that are new in the market, I personally look for brands that I can trust for product quality as well as after sales service. ASUS is one such brand, that is associated with durability and service with a smile. It also provides excellent after sales support across the major cities of India.

2) Past tradition of producing/ marketing similar products: ASUS has a long history of producing android devices and now tabs. The ZenPad 8.0 Z380KL is one such product in its long history of marketing similar devices.

3) Affordable price: I need everything a device has to offer and yes, I need it at an affordable price. The ASUS ZenPad 8.0 Z380KL is one such device. It is competitively priced vis a vis its nearest competitors, and far less priced than the much hyped iPad, while providing similar or more features.

4) Speed and storage: There is no fun in having a tablet that can't handle the latest websites, online games, online video calling or if can't store images from a holiday on a long week-end. The ASUS ZenPad 8.0 Z380KL provides solutions to many of these worries. It comes with a Qualcomm 64-bit Octa Core Processor (Quad 1.36GHz + Quad 1.0GHz) Snapdragon 610 (MSM8929), OpenGL ES 3.1+AEP support, Adreno 405 @500MHz. It has an in-built storage of 16GB and an additional 5GB ASUS Web Storage space for life. Interestingly in the 1st year you get an additional 11GB and a stunning 100GB of Google Drive space for 2 years. It comes with a 64-bit Dual Channel LPDDR3 2GB RAM memory.

5) Latest Technology: Once you are satisfied that a device will last long enough, look for the technology it incorporates. The ASUS ZenPad 8.0 Z380KL comes with the latest technology scoring very high on the specifications scale. Among others, it has the world’s first integration of DTS-HD Premium Sound, has 4G network compatibility and a high-definition screen with 76.5% viewing area. It runs a newly-designed ZenUI 2015 interface over the top of the Android 5.0 Lollipop OS (operating system) including Google’s own suite of apps.

6) Long lasting battery: You need a device that goes on and on despite you working on it for hours. ASUS ZenPad 8.0 Z380KL is one such device. It comes with a 4000mAh Lipolymer Battery which powers it for 10 hours.

ASUS ZenPad 8.0 Z380KL comes with a 4000mAh Lipolymer Battery which powers it for 10 hours.

A closer look at what's inside the box

7) Size: You need a tab that you can really carry around and use, whether it is on a holiday or at home. The ASUS ZenPad 8.0 Z380KL is a latest mainstream 8-inch tablet device that is very easy to carry around.

The ASUS ZenPad 8.0 in hand

8) Fast Wi-Fi and 4G: In this world of fast communications there is no point in sticking to something that is slow. I chose the ASUS ZenPad 8.0 Z380KL over the rest because it provides amazing internet access thanks to the 4G LTE technology, 3G DC-HSPA+ Fastest 3G Download speed up to 42 Mbps. I have used it's Wi-Fi at home and it works seamlessly. It has the GSM/WDMA Quad-Band for Worldwide Data Roaming and comes in 850/900/1900/2100MHz

9) Photos: The ASUS ZenPad 8.0 Z380KL comes with two PixelMaster cameras. While the Rear Camera is produces 8MP images and comes with auto-focussing, the Front Camera is 2MP. And if you want to take image on the go, the good news is that there is no shutter lag.

But what makes this tab stand apart is its technology behind taking pictures. The tab bridges the gap between a stand alone digital camera and a phone camera by miles. It offers amazing night time landscapes in low light. It merges four pixels into one super pixel which results in 400% brighter photos at night.

Some features of the cameras are: 15 effects modes in the Rear Camera and 8 on the Front one. These include Low Light mode, HDR (for better backlit images); Beautification (to improve portraits by adjusting the softness or brightness of the skin, eye size and cheek width); a Selfie mode with 140 degree Panorama if used with the front camera; Time Lapse; Time Rewind and Smart Remove, which deletes moving objects such as passers-by from the background of your shot.

The ASUS ZenPad 8.0 Z380KL offers awesome image creativity through its panoramic selfies of 140 degree wide-angle. Not just that, once the images are on the tab you can beautify the images at the touch of a button.

10) Communication: The ASUS ZenPad 8.0 Z380KL being an android device blends perfectly with the Google Os. With the ZenMotion you can create shortcuts through touch gestures which lets you open apps in an instant even when the display is off. Here are some such short-cuts: Pressing ‘c’ activates the Camera; ‘w’ = Browser; ‘e’ = Email. It's that simple!

11) Display: ASUS ZenPad 8.0 Z380KL comes with an amazing wide viewing angle of up to 178%. The screen display is 1280x800 HD of 189 pixels per inch.

The wide angle viewing of ASUS ZenPad 8.0

It comes with a 76.5% wide screen-to-body ratio. This is far ahead of many similar products in the market. It has a anti-fingerprint coating, so no worries about having to wipe the screen each time your child uses it. The 16:10 Aspect Ratio eliminates black bars on screen while watching movies and games. It offers a higher optical transparency 94% thanks to the ASUS TruVivid technology. Due to this watching videos is a pleasure as the tab offers very detailed images with sharper contrasts and rich colours.

The ASUS ZenPad 8.0 has a stunning display

12) Easy Reading: Thanks to the ASUS Tru2Life Outdoor Readable technology, the ASUS ZenPad 8.0 Z380KL can be used for outdoor reading. The device can differentiate the lighting conditions and automatically adjust the display for eacy reading even in bright sunlight. Also, the ASUS Bluelight Filter reduces the blue light emission by apx. 30% without disturbing the rest of the colour balance. All this contribute to more relaxed eyes.

The display of ASUS ZenPad 8.0 incorporates the latest eye-friendly features and technology

13) Music: If music interests you, then at this price look no further than ASUS ZenPad 8.0 Z380KL. For the first time ever in the world we have a tablet that comes with interchangeable rear elements where you can either add a longer lasting battery or get an integrated speaker within the protective tablet cover. It is also the world’s first tablet which integrates DTS-HD Premium Sound creating an immersive cinema-style experience with deep, rich bass and treble. A DTS-HD Premium Sound speaker is also built in to the CA81 ASUS Audio Cover. which is actually a six in one, that has four Main speakers, one Center and one Subwoofer. It delivers sound in an upward direction. It has six hours of battery life on its own.

The DTS-HD Premium Sound speaker cum cover of the Asus ZenPhone8.0 offers stunning audio

A close look at the innovative speaker cum cover of the Asus ZenPhone8.0

14) Style: Yes, I am concious of what I walk around with and I need a device that satisfies my style quotient. The ASUS ZenPad 8.0 Z380KL balances of grace and durability in a excellent way. Apart from the device itself, even the cases that it comes with are stylish offering you the options of full personalisation.

The tab's design has been influenced by its similarity to the way a clutch bag is carried. It comes with a stylish embossed leather pattern and clean lines. The 6mm slim bezel and rounded edges on it allow for a more comfortable grip and ergonomic holding position. The device comes in three different colour choices: Leather Black, Pearl White and Aurora Metallic and can be added with the ASUS Zen Clutch or one of five different coloured ASUS Zen Cases. You can change them to suit your taste or mood.

I enjoy the style quotient that comes along with the Asus ZenPhone8.0

15) Accessories: The ASUS ZenPad 8.0 Z380KL experience can be enhanced with its accessories-

ASUS Power Case (CB81) and ASUS Audio Cover (CA81).

The Asus ZenPhone8.0 in hand with its cover

A close look at the cover of the Asus ZenPhone8.0

Other reasons:

16) Social media and Built-in apps: Using social networks, apps, games and the internet is a breeze with the ASUS ZenPad 8.0 Z380KL. The tab's on-board apps can be used for quick editing, addition of effects and sharing on social media, cloud services or any linked devices.

The new ZenUI interface offers great customisation and personalisation. It has over 1,000 features and automatically receives 24/7 updates through the Google Play Store. ZenUI has 35 of its own apps.

A list of pre-installed Apps of Asus ZenPhone8.0

17) Movie making: If you want to go beyond the normal and make movies out of a tab, then the ASUS ZenPad 8.0 Z380KL allows you to use its pre-installed MiniMovie app. You can also make a Pro Slideshow in 1-2-3 Steps using the MiniMovie app

A gem of an island- Mbudya Island Marine Reserve, Tanzania

2015-11-26T11:30:00.000-07:00

A tropical beach at Mbudya island

Tanzania is a diverse land that ranges from the plains in the north near its border with Kenya; Hills and rainforests in the west; And, picturesque beaches along its coast in the east. Although people connect the country more with the plains of Serengeti National Park and its unending stream of animals migrating to Kenya as well as Mount Kilimanjaro- the tallest free standing mountain on earth, the country's numerous islands and the countless beaches are equally spectacular.

Fortunately for tourists, many of the country's islands are within a short distance which can be reached by boat or air in about half hour. One such island is Mbudya Island Marine Reserve. Located about 20 minutes away by boat from the popular Jangwani Sea Breeze resort, this is a tropical paradise within easy reach of Dar es Salaam.

Here are some images that I took during my visit to the place in November 2015.

A screenshot of Mbudya island from Google Maps.

The crystal clear water at Mbudya island.

The place is a popular trip for residents of Dar es Salaam

Tourists visit the island from Dar es Salaam in boats of various shapes and sizes.

The place is a popular trip for residents of Dar es Salaam

An empty sea shell

The scene is magical when the sun hits the water around noon

The place is a popular trip for residents of Dar es Salaam

The crystal clear water at Mbudya island.

The island is a marine reserve and has some amazing baobab trees (Adansonia) which can grow up to nearly 100 feet tall and 45 feet wide and live for well over a 1,000 years. They are well recognised by their swollen trunk which is due to them storing water. The baobab tree can store as much as 31,700 gallon (120,000 litres) of water to withstand drought conditions.

Boats of various shapes and sizes can be found at the island.

Location of the Mbudya island near Dar es Salaam, as seen on Google Maps

ZenFone 2 Laser: An amazing tool for travellers and photography lovers

2015-11-25T12:37:00.001-07:00

My early photographic gear
I got my first SLR camera way back in 1993 when my uncle from New Jersey, USA gifted me and my elder brother his Practica film-based SLR camera that had a 58mm Carl Zeiss lens attached to it. The camera changed the way I looked at the world. From from one film to another, from one lens to another and from one camera to another I started exploring the world of photography. I graduated to digital cameras in 2004 when I got myself a 4.1 pixel aim and shoot Samsung camera. The same year I got myself my first ever DLSR - Nikon D70s. This DSLR changed the way I took photographs for a long time. Suddenly there was no hassle of carrying and handling films and no worry about the time and cost of processing images. This continued till the age of mobile phones.

Graduating to a champion of a mobile phone camera- Zenfone 2 Laser
Although now I carry my DSLR to face every serious photography opportunity, I always felt the want of a better phone camera than the one present in my Samsung Galaxy Grand Duos in the absence of my DSLR. I have been writing for news papers since 1998 and have been a travel blogger for nearly a decade now. I was always in need of a camera that could compliment my writing skills.

I was in need of the right mobile phone that not only allowed me make clear voice calls, but also had to be a device that had used the latest 4G technology to help me browse the world of internet. But most importantly I needed a phone that would to a great extent fill the gap of me not having a DSLR handy. Fortunately for me I have been able to get a Zenfone 2 Laser. As they say, this phone is the real men among the boy phones out there. It not only allows 4g video calls but also has an amazing internet speed (up to 150 mbps download and 50 mbps upload speed). What's more? It has an awesome 2915 mAh battery that has a standby time up to 16 days, talk time up to 24 hours and allows web browsing (Wi-Fi) up to 12 hours! But as a photographer, nothing interests me more than its photography specifications. Some of its features are a straight competition even for a prosumer DSLR.

My new Zenfone 2 Laser (front view)

My new Zenfone 2 Laser (back view)

Some photo capabilities of Zenfone 2 Laser that have impressed me
- Front 5MP Camera f/2.0, 85° wide view lens
- Rear: 13MP Camera f/2.0, 5P Largan lens
- 0.03 second Laser Auto Focus
- Dual color real tone LED flash
- Super HDR for up to 400% better contrast photos
- Low Light mode for 400% brighter photos and videos
- 52MP photos with Super Resolution mode
- DSLR-like Manual mode
- 140° Selfie Panorama
- Real time Beautification
- MiniMovie / PhotoCollage / ZenCircle.

So how does Zenfone 2 Laser fare against the much hyped iPhone 6s Plus?
For those who wonder what the above features mean and where this phone stands vis a vis iPhone 6s Plus, here's a comparative chart. As you see, some of the features that come with this phone are better than what iPhone 6s Plus has to offer:

Here are some pictures taken with my new Zenfone 2 Laser:

A view of Hebbal lake, Bengaluru taken with my new Zenfone 2 Laser

Greenery at Hebbal lake, Bengaluru taken with my new Zenfone 2 Laser

A unique tree formation at Hebbal lake, Bengaluru taken with my new Zenfone 2 Laser

Greenery at Hebbal lake, Bengaluru taken with my new Zenfone 2 Laser

A zoomed in view of Hebbal lake, Bengaluru taken with my new Zenfone 2 Laser

A view of Hebbal lake, Bengaluru taken with my new Zenfone 2 Laser

Whether you are a passionate traveller who likes to see different places and needs a good camera phone to share or store your memories or whether you are some one who just likes to take pictures for fun, look no further than Zenfone 2 Laser. This phone beats the competition hands down not just on specifications but also in price.

For more details about please visit www.asus.com/in, call toll free 1800 2090 365 or like their FB page: http://facebook.com/ASUSIndia

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For more information about a destination, have a tourist destination or your property listed on this page or to buy an image please email the author at tumkurameen@gmail.com

Jangwani Sea Breeze Resort- Explore the beauty of Dar es Salaam's coastline

2015-11-22T12:16:00.001-07:00

'Karibu' for welcome. One of the most commonly words in Swahili.

The word Africa to most who have never visited this beautiful continent conjures a host of images in the mind- from the arid deserts to the vast plains teeming with wildlife. But what most don't know is that the cities of Africa teem with night life and its coasts are the spectacular by any standards that host many pristine beaches and corals.

Dar es Salaam is one such city whose coastline has some exotic beaches aptly supported by some very nice beach resorts. I had a chance to visit Jangwani Sea Breeze Resort earlier this month (Nov. 2015) and was impressed by its location as well as its hospitality. The resort, located to the north of Dar, is about 30 minutes drive (50 minutes during peak hours).

The resort has two clearly demarcated sections separated by a public road. The one adjoining the sea is the actual resort having a discotheque, swimming pool, hookah space, party hall and restaurant. The one away from the sea is the hotel with comfortable rooms.

There are two pools at the resort, one for the kids and the other for adults.

The sand beach at the resort.

Some prefer to play football than to swim

A view of the seafront. The receding tides leave behind a swath of sea vegetation which needs to be cleaned regularly.

Excursions to nearby islands.
The resort organises complimentary boat rides to the nearby islands - popular of which is the Mbudaya Marine Reserve. This island is a tropical paradise and just a 20 minute boat ride.

One of the boats that takes guests to the nearby Mbudya islands

View of the stone wall and anchorage area

Western tourists departing to Mbudya island in a boat engaged by the resort

An unnamed island that can be seen from the resort.

Visitors relaxing by the sea side during high tide.

Food is one of the highlights of this resort.

The resorts of the chefs have been around for many years and have mastered the art of cooking Indian food.

This particular chef is popular with the staff and guests. He is known for his Indian food cooking skills.

The other chef of the resort

Indian flat bread or chapati as it is called here

Jelly for the sweet-toothed

Fruit salad in a water melon case.

An outside view of the gym cum spa

The place has a colourful hookah/ sheesha lounge

A view of the hotel section of the resort

Entrance to the lodge section of the resort

A view of the sitting area of the beverages section.

External design of the common area of the rooms

View of the small pool in the hotel section. In the background are the new section that is being constructed to accommodate more guests.

View of the dining area

The resort has a conference are for business meetings.

Hakuna matata is a Swahili word which means 'Don't worry' or 'Take it easy'.

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Zanzibar archipelago as seen from a commercial flight

2015-10-21T02:39:00.004-06:00

A few images taken from a flight over Zanzibar archipelago, as it neared Dar es Salaam (Tanzania) from Doha (Qatar).

The azure coastline of Zanzibar as seen from the Doha - Dar es Salaam flight.

A screenshot from googlemaps showing location of Zanzibar archipelago in relation to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania https://www.google.co.tz/maps/@-5.8632711,38.8891983,9z

To the east of Dar es Salaam (Dar) are two main archipelagos (group of islands), the archipelago comprising of Pemba and other islands as well as the archipelago comprising of Unjuga and surrounding islands, which the city of Zanzibar island is located. Apart from being scenically beautiful, these islands have a rich human history as well, in particular Zanzibar.

I have moved to Dar for a few months. Any friend travelling to this lovely city and country (or needing a reason to travel here) is welcome to connect with me. Travellers who come across this blog are welcome to write to me for travel related information on Dar. My email is tumkurameen AT gmail.com

Pemba island as seen from the Doha - Dar es Salaam flight.

The archipelago around Pemba island as seen from the Doha - Dar es Salaam flight.

The azure coastline of Zanzibar as seen from the Doha - Dar es Salaam flight.

Lesser islands off the coast of Tanzania as seen from the Doha - Dar es Salaam flight.

Islands and the coast off Dar es Salaam, Tanzania as seen from a commercial flight.

The flight entering the main land

A view of the terrain as the flight approaches the Julius Nyerere International Airport at Dar es Salaam

Taxiing at the Julius Nyerere International Airport at Dar es Salaam

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Kutchi Memon Ramzan Iftar Dastarkhwan @ Bengaluru

2015-07-06T04:16:00.002-06:00

Here is a wonderful home-prepared Kutchi Memon dastarkhwan which was hosted at Fraser Town on 5 July 2015. A special thanks to Mansoor Ali, star food-walker and co-founder Bengaluru By Foot as well as Nadir Aslam, a foodie, for guiding us through the menu.

Most of these are prepared/ served as part of Razman month and normally not available otherwise. The concept of this dastwarkhwan, organised by 'Bengaluru by Foot' is to encourage people from all faiths and social group to gather as one for their common love- food. And in the process it helps people practising faiths other than Islam, to learn about the holy month of Ramzan with its traditions.

Here is what was served at the event:
Starters - to break the fast:
- Dry fruit Sherbat (pronounced 'Sharbat' in Mysore Dakkani dialect) peppered with Zaffran (saffron)
- Minced lamb meat 'Warqi somosas' ('Warq' means paper)
- Mutton brain pakoda
- Mutton shammi kabab
- Shikampur kabab
- Arabian dates

The starters (from front): Waqri samosas, shikhampur kababs, Arabian dates, Halwe ke puryian, Dry fruit Zaffran (saffron) sharbat.

Warqi samosas. 'Warq' in Urdu means paper.

Arabian dates

'Halwe ke puriyan'

Lamb brain pakodas. You will want to eat all of them!!!

Bengaluru by Foot's Ramzan Iftar party of Kutchi Memon Dastarkhan (cuisine) at Fraser Town.

Main course (all Kutchi Memon style):
- Wheat phulkas
- Green masala mutton chops (known in Dakkani language as 'Hare masale ki phaal')
- Lamb trotters (Paya)
- Chicken biryani with aloo
- Mutton Khichda
- Halwe ke puriyan
- Mutanjan
- Falooda.

Green masala mutton chops (known in Dakkani language as 'Hare masale ki phaal'). Prepared in Kutchi Memon style.

A close-up of green masala mutton chops (known in Dakkani language as 'Hare masale ki phaal'). Prepared in Kutchi Memon style.

Various gravies. Lamb trotters ('paya') is the second one from front.

'Mutton khichda'

Kutchi Memon style chicken biriyani.

Lamb trotters ('paya') in the foreground.

Falooda ice cream to end the Iftar party.

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