Travel India and Beyond - Escape to India

Indore, India

2023-05-13T15:00:00.005-04:00

If you are planning a trip to India, you must see Indore. Indore is touted as the cleanest city in India. Well, I went to see for myself if all the hype was true, and guess what, it was true. I was so impressed with the city and the hospitality of the people, I had to share my feelings with the Media and the Mayor of the city. I've actually made several newspapers and media channels sharing my thoughts on Indore versus the USA.

Now a little history. Indore is the largest and most populous city in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. Indore is a city in west-central India. It’s known for the 7-story Rajwada Palace and the Lal Baag Palace, which date back to Indore’s 19th-century Holkar Dynasty. The Holkar Rulers are honored by a cluster of tombs and cenotaphs at Chhatri Baag. The night market Sarafa Bazar sells delicious street food. East is the Indo-Gothic Gandhi Hall and clock tower. The Jain temple Kanch Mandir has a mirrored mosaic interior. Indore is rich in history. It is a must see when travelling to India. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.

Copenhagen, Denmark

2020-02-20T06:46:00.001-05:00

Copenhagen is a large quaint city and I say that with love! It’s one of those cities that feels almost town-like in its appearance but with the buzz and vibrancy that matches any major capital city across Europe!

It’s also a city where you can visit one of the oldest Luna parks in the world, ride the waves of its famous waterways and gorge on delicious street food – all within one day.

Top tip: Prices for food here tend to be a high due to the volume of visitors, so take that into account if you plan on dining around here. I had a small cup of coffee at a 7-11 and it cost about 5.00 US dollars.

There are a many street food markets to visit in Copenhagen – each of which will ensure that you never run out of delicious opportunities to fill your tummy!

There are many ways to see the city of Copenhagen, with its waterways being one of the best! Board a boat and discover a whole new perspective of Copenhagen.

Every picture you’ll ever find of Copenhagen will include colorful houses. Take a wander around the area and enjoy some of the pretty little homes, cafes and shops that make up this part of town.

When traveling the metro please make sure you always have a valid ticket form one place to the next and also according to the timings. I was rushing back to get back to the airport and I could not find a machine so I jumped on the train. The police jump on the trains at stops to check tickets randomly and lucky me, I was one!

I was fined and received a bill to pay about 150.00 US dollars. They give you two weeks to go online and pay the fine. I never paid mine and most folks don't. They are privatized and not government so they can't lock you up and stop you from coming to Denmark. They will never see you again so the decision is yours.

Dublin & Belfast, Ireland

2017-04-17T17:22:00.001-04:00

One of the biggest tourist attractions, and one of my favorite, besides the Guinness Brewery is the Book of Kells. Visit Trinity College, one of the most famous universities in the world, built in the 16th century. Even if you don't like architecture, it's worth a visit to Science Gallery and the Library, where the Book of Kells, written around 800 AD, is housed. This 9th century gospel manuscript is one of the most visited spots in Dublin. Famous worldwide, this book brings visitors from all parts of the world to see this rare book in person. There are four volumes, with only two being viewed at a time.

The Book of Kells isn’t the only feature that comes with your ticket. Your purchase includes a tour of the Old Library; an incredible space that houses over 200,000 old books. The Library began with the founding of Trinity College in 1592. Other notorious spots are; The Dublin Castle, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Grafton Street for shoppers, and of course, Guinness at Temple Bar area. A day trip to Belfast is worth it. I became so interested in the division between North and South Ireland and all the IRA history. A trip to the IRA Museum was the highlight of the day.

Goa, Panaji, India

2016-10-16T14:11:00.000-04:00

Goa, the land of beaches, is the smallest state in India and yet the biggest tourist destination of the country. The beaches, the markets, and the natural beauty of this land on the west coast of India is what mesmerizes everyone.

Goa became part of the hippie hang-out during the 70's. Over the years though, Goa has become more hip than hippie. A blend of Portuguese and Indian influences, Goa’s unique history makes it a place much more than just beaches and parties.

Goa is distinctly divided into North Goa and South Goa. Arambol, Mandrem, Morjim, Vagator, Anjuna, Baga, Calangute, Candolim and Miramar are just some of the most popular beaches in Goa. I stayed in the north of Goa by Calangute Beach. It was rather a quiet area, which is why I picked this location in the first place. South Goa is noted as having quieter beaches, but I would assume it really matters on the area you choose.

I had to see Saint Alex Church which was right near my hotel. Then one day I took an entire tour of South Goa and visit all the famous sites and churches. Pictured below is me at Fort Aguada which everyone must see while in Goa. Although, I have been all over India, Goa was not my favorite place and highly unlikely I will visit Goa again. I enjoyed my stay, don't get me wrong, it was worth coming here because I had to see the Portuguese influence, learn the history, visit the famous temples, and of course, first and foremost, try the Goan food :-) but overall not my cup of tea, I found other places in India more to my liking.

Chandigarh, Union Territory, India

2016-09-03T17:03:00.001-04:00

Chandigarh, The City Beautiful as named, is the joint capital of Haryana and Punjab, is often regarded as a prime example of modern day India. Unparalleled in architecture and planning, the city provides an impressive standard of living. By combining the two important factors; modernization and preservation of nature, Chandigarh continues to be considered as one of the finest cities to live in India and also the secure atmosphere, high standards of living, and of course its' picturesque scenery.

Located at just 250 kms from Delhi, Chandigarh is also a favorite with tourists, and one of the most visited cities in India. One of the major interests lies in the history of the place which states Chandigarh to be the first planned city in independent India. People from India and around the world, flock to this great city, in large numbers to experience the true essence of India.

Prosperous, vibrant, and breath-taking are just a few words used to describe this city. The eye catching blue skies, and a backdrop of the mountains, magnifies the beauty of this much talked about city. Chandigarh is a major hub for shoppers and foodies, with some of the best high-end stores and outside bazaars, and don't forget all the great food in this city, makes this place a shoppers paradise.

Pictured here are pictures of me at Sukhna Lake, an artificial lake and a major attraction in Chandigarh. Sukhna Lake is a lively place where families often relax and rejuvenate with various fun activities like, renting boats to relax on the lake, and they have a small amusement park for kids and bumper cars for kids, and adults young at heart. Also Sector 17 is a must for shoppers. I love roaming around Sector 17.

Isha Foundation, Coimbatore, India

2016-04-24T13:02:00.000-04:00

Isha Foundation, founded by Sadhguru, is a volunteer-run, international nonprofit organization dedicated to cultivating human potential. The Foundation is a human service organization that recognizes the possibility of each person to empower another, restoring global community through inspiration and individual transformation.

Isha Foundation is operated by over 2 Million volunteers from more than 150 city-based centers spread worldwide. The Foundation is headquartered at Isha Yoga Center, set at the base of the Velliangiri Mountains in southern India, and at the Isha Institute of Inner Sciences on the spectacular Cumberland Plateau in middle Tennessee, USA.

Una, Himachal Pradesh, India

2015-11-02T10:43:00.000-05:00

Una, located in the beautiful state of Himachal Pradesh, Una is a mesmerizing town and an amazing scenic place to visit. It is one of the twelve districts of Himachal Pradesh, which was dissociated from the Hoshiarpur District of Punjab in 1972. Nestled beautifully at the base of the Shivalik ranges, it shares its boundary with Bilaspur, Kangra, Hamirpur and Hoshiarpur of Punjab. Una houses a fort, a historical fort and is believed to be the paternal home of Guru Nanak, the first guru of the Sikhs.

Una is a perfect place for nature lovers and a must visit place for those fond of scenic beauty. Una is full of mesmerizing sceneries and spots to relax and unwind. The picturesque view of the hills and its beauty is really enchanting. The city has been acknowledged as a major industrial center and has become a passage town for visitors going to the renowned city of Dharamshala or places such as Kullu, Jwalamukhi, Manali and Mcleodganj. Una is also noted as being “The Land of the Gods“. Here are some pictures of my recent holiday in Una.

Kowloon, Hong Kong

2015-10-10T10:31:00.000-04:00

Kowloon is quite the place for shoppers. There are numerous high-end name brand stores around the Tsim Sha Tsui end of the Kowloon peninsula, while busy and fascinating street markets feature at the Yau Ma Tei and Mong Kok areas at the other end of Nathan Road. Kowloon is the shoppers paradise.

The Kowloon Waterfront offers splendid views of the Hong Kong island shore and skyline. This is the best place to experience the classic view of Hong Kong, and nobody on their first trip here should miss out on strolling along this gorgeous waterfront.

Start at the Star Ferry terminal, and begin your walk by inspecting the historic clock tower which is all that remains of a railway station that once took colonial officials back to London via the Trans-Siberian railway. Upon arrival at the Star Ferry terminal in Tsim Sha Tsui, visitors can not help but be impressed by the enormous cruise liners parked in the heart of the city.

Tokyo & Kyoto, Japan

2015-09-10T12:00:00.000-04:00

When it comes to the things to do in Japan, most travelers have a list of major sights, shrines, parks, gardens, restaurants, and museums to explore, but Japan's unique culture is an attraction in itself and simply being immersed into the unfamiliar is the best experience of all. Upon getting lost frequently, no set planned agenda, it was an awesome experience to see the culture and the extremely humble Japanese people. It was difficult to get around because of the English is far and few, but the humbleness of the people when asking for help was incredible, as they tried to help with their minimum English as much as possible.

I stayed in Shinjuku, one of Tokyo's downtown areas. I like it for just wandering around and people-watching. There are lots of shopping and nightlife and a big park called Shinjuku Gyoen that’s cool to stroll through.

Don't miss Meiji Shrine. Meiji Jingu is one of the Japan's most popular shrines . In the first days of the New Year, the shrine regularly welcomes more than three million visitors for the year's first prayers, more than any other shrine or temple in the country.

The shrine is surrounded by a forest that covers an area of 700,000 square-meters, which consists of 120,000 trees of 365 different species, a forest within a city. Take a stroll through Yoyogi Park, which is adjacent to Meiji Shrine. Yogi Park has a variety of landscapes, from lawns with ponds and fountains, to flower gardens, to shady forest groves. From Shinjuku take the JR Yamanote Line direct to Harajuku Station.

If you have time and to expand outside of Tokyo, then go to Kyoto. It is noted for traditions and temples. It is charming with lots of parks also. I loved Kyoto much better then Tokyo, as it has a more wholesome feel to it.

If you don't know, Japan has a strict no drug policy, and you will be sent to jail if you are found with any, then kicked out the country and not let back in. This includes pharmaceutical drugs that are prescribed by your doctor and over the counter drugs. So check with the Japanese Embassy and email them about your prescription medications or any medications, if it is allowed in the country and how much.

The last thing you want when you arrive for your vacation is a search by customs and they find drugs that are not allowed and you are set behind bars and then kicked out of Japan. This is a serious matter in Japan and not to be taken lightly. Here is an email to send your inquiry. They are fast at replies, so better be safe then sorry; yakkan@mhlw.go.jp.

Delhi, Mumbai, Coimbatore, India

2015-04-12T14:45:00.000-04:00

Yet another trip to India ! I am really addicted to the atmosphere in India. It is like one big family. Nothing like the USA at all. I feel socially alive whenever I come to India. It ignites this flame inside of my soul and I awake from some coma. I love how all the people and animals are everywhere. People are helping other strangers with please and are happy to do so.

Whenever I need to awaken my spirit or rejuvenate my mind, I just jump on that big bird and fly to India. Literally and metaphorically I am flying. The feeling I get whenever I come to India is one where I feel complete; body, soul, and mind. I am so fortunate that I can come to India as frequently as I do. Without India in my life, I can not exist. India is the air I breathe, that keeps me alive. India is like one big conglomerate of different species, engaging and interacting with everyone like a universal family :-)

Amritsar, Punjab, India

2015-01-15T15:50:00.000-05:00

Amritsar, Punjab was one of the best experiences and times I have had in India. Amritsar, home to the Golden Temple, is one of the most ancient and intriguing cities of India. This is home to the Sikh Community and the gateway to Punjab. I was overwhelmed as I entered in the Golden Temple. The beauty of this temple was astonishing and a spiritual heaven. I could not believe all the people, it was jammed-pack, and I could see why. This is a definite must when you come to India.

After seeing the Golden Temple I headed on over to The Wagah Border. A quick overview of The Border. The Wagah Border lies between Amritsar in India and Lahore in Pakistan. The 1947 partition of India and Pakistan led to the marking of a long white line that defines the Wagah Border between the two neighbors, separated by two heavy gates on either side.

It is home to the Radcliffe Line, which is the demarcation between India and Pakistan and was drawn during the partition of India in 1947. The lowering of the flags ceremony, a daily military practice by the Border Security Force (BSF) and the Pakistan Rangers since 1959. This astounding ceremony takes place every evening before sunset.

The Wagah Border attracts crowds in record-breaking numbers. Shouts of patriotism, to the powerful show put up by the BSF and Pakistan Rangers, is a gripping experience. The show starts off with the playing of patriotic songs and remembering the brave soldiers who laid down their lives for the country. The crowd cheers on by calling out ‘Jai Hind’ and ‘Vande Mataram’, reciprocated with cries of ‘Pakistan Zindabad’ from the opposite side. The military marching throughout the show was completely awe-inspiring. I have attached below from my You Tube, a video I made from this trip to India.

Unforgettable !!! The Indian patriotic feeling was so overwhelming for me that I became so emotional and cried so much because I love India so much, My Motherland. The best show I have ever seen in my life. Wow, what a day, totally unforgettable. JAI HIND... HINDUSTAN ZINDABAD... HINDUSTAN ZINDABAD ... HINDUSTAN ZINDABAD !!!

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

2014-12-02T10:00:00.000-05:00

If you been to Dubai then Abu Dhabi is the spin-off city to Dubai. Dubai seems more happening and things to do, but definitely you must see Abu Dhabi when in Dubai. I went separate times and I love both these cities. Abu Dhabi to me seems more like home and a lot quainter then Dubai. Like Dubai; Abu Dhabi is exceptionally clean and safe. I was so impressed with the hospitality in Abu Dhabi.

Abu Dhabi is incredibly easy to get around. I stayed at the Premier Inn Abu Dhabi International Airport Hotel. It was connected to the airport by a short walk, and if you are here on a very short trip like I was, then this hotel is the perfect stay. Exceptional, immaculate hotel, with lots of amenities. The food was outstanding and so was the staff. You can get all the transportation you need at this hotel because of it’s easy access to the airport, which makes it a convenient hotel also.

If you prefer not to take a taxi, you can take the A-1 Bus and that will take you to all the main locations within Abu Dhabi. The A-1 Bus has many stops along the way, so I am sure one of your destinations will be on the list. Right outside the airport at Terminal 1, the buses come every 30 minutes.

When in Abu Dhabi head on over to Corniche. The Corniche is one of the famous tourist spots in Abu Dhabi, not just because of its location, but because of the beautiful greenery with cafes and restaurants dotting the shoreline. There is a public beach area and also a family area for those who like to bring their kids for some playtime on the beach.

Corniche is eight kilometers long which makes it a great if love to run, stroll or cycle. The beachfront is beautifully well-kept and there are numerous shops in the vicinity. If you love to watch the sunset then this is the place. After I seen Corniche, I walked down to see The Emirates Palace which is located at the southern end of the Corniche I arrived here in the evening, and it was all lit up and even the water fountains were raining with beautiful colors. Must see Emirates Palace when here and don't forget the Marina Mall.

Sydney, Australia

2014-11-01T12:47:00.000-04:00

Stunning Sydney ! I particular love relaxing at the harbor. The Circular Quay area, in my opinion, is very much the definition of Sydney for most part with the Harbor Bridge, Opera House, Museums, Botanical Gardens, all in close proximity of each other. Just like the Rocks ( an absolutely must and most visited place in Sydney) expect to spend a full day around this area to see as much as you can.

I was in Sydney for just a couple of days, and I totally love animals and definitely wanted to see the koalas bears and kangaroos since I was a child, so I decided to head on over to the Wildlife Sydney Zoo. It was a very nice but small zoo, and if you want you can have your picture taken next to the koala bears. One suggestion is to buy your tickets on the website and then can enter regardless of the timing on your ticket, you just need to go on the date you book to enter on only. Just show the reply on your mobile and in you go.

If you love architecture and high-end shopping then stroll on over to the Queen Victoria Building. The QVB one of the better shopping complexes. The building is amazingly beautiful and I strongly recommend taking a stroll just to capture the beauty of the architecture. These were my favorite and a must see in Sydney if you are only there for a few days. All sites are within walking distance so you can hop on foot to all the sites and get a little exercise. Happy Hopping :-)

Melbourne, Australia

2014-10-01T00:01:00.000-04:00

Melbourne has a really quaint, old-time feel to it. I started with the Royal Botanical Gardens for a stroll in the morning. It's a great place to unwind and relax. Thousands of plant species from all around the world are in this garden and this is a must see if you love nature. From the gardens I would then walk along the Yarra River to Federation Square. It is a lovely walk, and if you love to walk then I recommend walking, get some exercise, explore nature, and skip the transportation.

Federation Square is the hub of Melbourne where you will find all the cultural attractions, events, and other tourist experiences. Here you will find restaurants, bars and specialty stores galore ! So stroll up to Federation Square for all the main attractions in the central Melbourne area. I stopped by to see what all the craze was about Saint Paul's Cathedral. This Cathedral is stunning and I can see why all tourist were coming and going inside this cathedral.

Across the street is the famous Flinders Street Station, and right outside from the station is the City Circle Tram and it is free. There are many other stops to jump on the free tram also. It is a nice way to see the the central city of Melbourne. You must experience a ride on this heritage tram, so jump on-board for that nostalgic feel. There is an audio playing during the entire time that provides details of city's major attractions such as; the City Museum, Parliament House, Federation Square, and the Melbourne Aquarium, just to name a few.

My highlight of my Melbourne vacation was going to the Old Melbourne Gaol, meaning prison. I love this stuff, and with a degree in Criminal Justice, this is right up my ally. Walking through this historic prison you can go in the cell rooms of the many cellmates from through-out Australia and other countries around the world where they were found guilty of some crime in Australia. They have documentation in each cell of whom was housed their and what was their crime. After your walk through they have a police officer that takes a group through a reenactment of life as an inmate during that time and a tour of the history of the prison. That's all for now and a good day mates :-)

Auckland, New Zealand

2014-09-12T15:10:00.001-04:00

You can’t beat Auckland when it comes to stunning beaches, beautiful parks and tons of walking trails, the whole area is a nature lover’s paradise. Get outdoors and discover magnificent scenery and all the wildlife galore.

If you really enjoy scenic views and walking, then you will really enjoy your visit to Auckland. It passes over many of the city’s best panoramic views and some of it’s best parks. I walked most of the time to all my destinations when I arrived, except for heading to the Auckland Zoo which was quite a distance.

Mission Bay is a must, and a popular resort. From the main city point, Voyager Maritime Museum, walk Quay Street which leads into (changes) to Tamaki Drive to Mission Bay, and it is only about a one hour hike. The scenery is gorgeous and it hugs the coast along the harbor with breathe-taking views along the way.

Just for relaxation head to Aotea Square in downtown Auckland. It’s a large open triangular plaza surrounded by the historic town hall. Aotea Square is considered Auckland’s civic heart, with theaters and concert halls. There’s also an intriguing arch-type sculpture in the middle of the square (pictured below).

There are so many outside things to do in Auckland, the list goes on and on. I just seen a few major sites and one of them was the Auckland Zoo, that is a must. I have posted pictures of the main sites in Auckland I have seen. Pack some good sneakers or hiking shoes on your visit, your feet will thank you for it. Happy Hiking :-)

Delhi & Sonipat, India

2014-02-26T11:54:00.001-05:00

I love the cows so much, they put a big smile on my face. Awesome day petting, feeding and loving the cows. Gaushala in India, February 2014.

Sonipat, Haryana, India

2013-11-21T12:25:00.000-05:00

Sonipat also known as Sonepat, district of Haryana, and about 50 Km from Delhi, is surrounded by the River Yamuna on its eastern side. It is a nice place to visit if staying in nearby Delhi.

Being close to New Delhi, the place enjoyed special attention from Mughal rulers and the evidence of the same can be seen in the architectural structures present in the city. Sonipat visit is incomplete without a mention of its rich cultural and spiritual legacy. Temples, Mosque of Abdullah Nasir-ud-din and Khwaja Khizr Tomb are the famous tourist attractions worth visiting in the city.

The tomb of Khwaja Khizr houses the remains of the saint and son of Darya Khan who lived during the rule of Ibrahim Lodhi. The structure was built between 1522 and 1525 AD. The tomb stands on an elevated platform which can be accessed by a flight of steps.

Choki Dhani is the place to see and a must when coming to Sonipat. This place is awesome and I had the best time here. Chokhi Dhani Sonipat is set in an ethnic Rajasthani village theme. Chokhi Dhani has dining, live entertainment and camel rides. For a great evening Rajasthani style then you must come here. Live dance and music performances all through the evening is one of the major attractions at Chokhi Dhani Village. The magic show, puppet show, and the acrobats was all very entertaining.

For dinner, you entered a big hall where you are asked to sit on mattresses on the floor. There were several people who served the food. As soon as you sit down they start serving the food, and it did not stop. You are served somewhere around 15 to 20 dishes, there were so many different food dishes that I really can’t recollect extactly, but all traditional Rajasthani dishes. It felt homely, and I can’t remember the last time I had so much food before! My stomach was packed and I had a smile on my face from all the delicious, wonderful food. All pictures are from Choki Dhani, what an unforgettable, magical evening :-)))

Bangkok & Phuket Island, Thailand

2013-11-13T15:58:00.004-05:00

Bangkok is a cultural and spiritual place, with so much history and so many things to see and do; you hardly know where to start. From the night life, ritzy shopping malls, water sports, stunning temples, colorful festivals, mouth-watering delicacies, world class facilities, enchanting islands and beaches. Bangkok is one the top destinations to visit in the world, with different people coming from all different places around the globe, this place in one global mesh.

Just a few of the top, must-see spots in Bangkok:

Wat Arun meaning the Temple of Dawn. This temple is impressive and stunning, and one of the most recognized in Southeast Asia. Constructed during the first half of the 19th century, the ornate floral pattern decked out in glazed porcelain is stunning up close. It is decorated by bits of porcelain which had previously been used as ballast by boats coming to Bangkok from China. It was thrilling, but a little scary walking up the very steep stairs to the top, which gives a nice view of the Chao Phraya river. Another wonderful temple to see in Bangkok is Wat Pho. It is one of the most impressive, being the largest and oldest in Thailand.

The Grand Palace. The Grand Palace is where the kings of Thailand reside. It is full of luxury and majesty. Built in 1782 and for 150 years the home of the Thai King, the Royal court and the administrative seat of government, the Grand Palace continue to have visitors in awe with its beautiful architecture and intricate detail. Grand Palace is an absolute MUST, as it is an outstanding architectural achievement, which also houses the infamous Emerald Buddha. It is recommended that you do not wear shorts, but if you dress inappropriately, they have clothing you can rent during your tour.

Chinatown in Yaroawat. This Chinatown is packed with culture, full of market stalls and gold shops. During major festivities like the Chinese New Year and the Vegetarian Festival, Chinatown is a must visit. Also, don’t forget the Floating Market. The infamous market were the Thais sell their fresh produce on boats. The market is about 80 Kilometers outside of Bangkok. Everyday hundreds of boats crowd the market area. You will be able to travel around in a boat and see a little of Thai village life, although do remember that this is now a very famous excursion, so it will not be your normal Thai village.

National Museum. This museum which is within walking distance from the Grand Palace is one of the largest in Southeast Asia. The museum was once used as a palace and consists of several old yet beautiful buildings. The museum houses many artifacts found from all parts of the country, ranging from Neolithic, Sukhothai and Ayutthaya times, to modern Bangkok. The admission fee is 40 baht per person, and the museum is open everyday except Mondays, Tuesdays and National holidays, from 9 am to 4 pm.

Definitely visit one of the many beautiful islands of Thailand. I went to Phuket Island for two nights, it was a nice break from the bustling and banging Bangkok. My favorite part of Phuket Island was my Thai massage right on the beach J

Manilla, Philippines

2013-10-03T11:33:00.002-04:00

Manilla was nice, but to be honest, it was not one of my favorite travel destinations. As with most places and sights I have traveled, first impressions are the most important, and the first impression you receive of Manila is the humidity and traffic ! I thought

India

was bad with population and traffic jams, Manilla is just as bad.

The reason why I feel differently about India with its’ humidity, traffic jams and population, is because it is a different experience in India, a cultural experience. I fell in love with India because I fell in love with the culture and everything about India, it was so different, yet despite the similarities of the Philippines. It did not have that feel or culture like India, and definitely not the hospitality either.

Stepping out off the plane at the Nino Aquino International Airport you are hit by the thick dense air, the humidity is stifling. Make sure you travel in light clothes or change at the airport with the benefit of the air conditioning prior to exposing yourself to the humidity.

Once you have dealt with humidity, next is the mass of people. This should not really be a surprise considering Manila is one of the most populated cities in the world. I most say on a positive note, that most of the people were very friendly and courteous.

Manila has a lot to offer the tourist, some Manila attractions you really should not miss are:

~ Intramuros

~ Fort Santiago.

~ National Museum of the Philippines

~ Binondo/Chinatown

~ Manila Baywalk

~ Manila Bay Sunset

~ Shopping in Manila

~ Malate Church

~ Manila Cathedral

~ San Agustin Church

~ San Agustin Museum

~ Greenbelt Park

~ Manila Zoo

~ Cultural Center of the Philippines

If you are staying in Manila for any length of time then find some time to fly to one of the 7,000 enchanting islands.

Taipei, Taiwan

2013-09-18T14:52:00.001-04:00

Here I am in Taipei, Taiwan, in front of the famous Taipei 101 or otherwise called, The Taipei International Financial Center. Taipei 101 is not the king of the sky anymore. That is it was ranked officially as the world's tallest until the opening of the Burj Khalifa in Dubai in 2010.

You should plan at least half a day to visit the Taipei 101 building, so you get enough time to shop in the 101 mall, eat some of the food at the food courts and restaurants, and climb up to the observatory to enjoy spectacular views over the capital. The Taipei 101 tower is home to two observation decks on its 89th and 91th floors. The views from the top are breathtaking !

The Taipei 101 mall is a true shoppers’ paradise! There you will find some of the top brand names in the world, a Starbucks, lots of food options, with really decent food. I really enjoyed the food in Taipei, it was very fresh, tasty and interesting. Getting to the 101 is easy. Take the MRT (Taipei Metro) all the way to Sun Yat Sen Memorial Station, or City Hall Station in Xinyi District, from there, it’s a short 10-minute walk to the building.

I love Taipei, it was safe, friendly, and so easy to get around. Even if you are partially brain dead you can figure it out. The metro is super-easy friendly to use. I did not even have to ask questions or think about it, well, not really :P so I had no worries about getting lost in the city. Taipei is extremely hot and humid. Once I walked outside my hotel, within 2 minutes I was sweating like a pig. Don't let this fret you, Taipei is a beautiful place to visit, you don't want to miss out. Just pack some light clothes.

Another good thing to see in Taipei is the famous National Palace Museum. Even if you are not into museums or history, you can’t really visit Taipei and not go to the National Palace Museum. Renowned as one of the best museums in the world. The pre-eminent museum contains a vast collection of ancient art and relics that span over 8,000 years of history in China. From the Neolithic Age to the Qing Dynasty, the collection is comprehensive.

Another stop is The Taipei Zoo. I love animals so I had to visit the Zoo. If you visit Taipei with kids, you don’t want to miss this attraction. I am a kid at heart so I fitted right in. It is located right next to an MRT station, has two giant pandas, and tons of other cool animals and sights !

Mumbai, Maharashta, India

2013-06-16T16:25:00.002-04:00

Mumbai, my favorite place in India. I immediately fell in love with Mumbai when I arrived here. All my friends know that I love India so much, I call it my second home, my life, but, yeh hai Mumbai meri jaan. Mumbai was feeling so close to my heart, I was instantly smitten with Mumbai.

I stayed in the Colaba district, next to the Gateway of India. I love this area in Mumbai. Surrounded by water, nice restaurants, and so much shopping galore, if your a shopaholic. It is so friendly that it felt like everyone was family. So many nice people offering to help you if you have questions.

Most of Mumbai's attractions such as museums and the Gateway of India can be found in the downtown area of Colaba district. Marine Drive and Chowapatty Beach make for great strolling and are quite popular for vendor snacks and sunsets. When here, catch the boat across to Elephanta Island. It is about an hour journey across. When you arrive it is breathtaking. Your journey starts up many steps to the top where the views are magnificent, and the caves themselves are just as magnificent. There were many dogs and monkeys roaming around. I sat my bottle of water down to take a picture and a monkey came and stole my water bottle, so caution, watch your belongings. What a fantastic day to spend the day.

I am not into the nightlife scene, but if you are into nightlife, then Mumbai is a happening place with lots of bars and clubs. Many nightspots can be found inside the swanky hotels and around the Fort and Colaba areas. Mumbai also has a huge selection of shopping plazas, boutiques, and outdoor markets. You have everything right here at your disposal.

Don't forget to visit Juhu Beach. I took the train to Juhu Beach, a little nervous about getting lost, but I managed just fine. The trains are a fun and economical way to get around Mumbai. Mumbai is known for its beaches, and this beach is a must to visit. The waves touching your feet, the sinking sand, stalls selling edible food to satisfy your appetite, and of course, some fresh air. Soak in all the sun and waves and indulge in some delicious snacks. Another great way to spend your day in Mumbai.

I will definitely be coming back time and time again to Mumbai. Truly my favorite place in India to date. Oh Mumbai meri jaan. I miss Mumbai so much. Pictures of Elephanta Caves and Juhu Beach below :-)

Peru

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I have to admit I never gave Peru much thought to explore, my only desire was seeing Machu Picchu, which was high on my list of must see places. Frankly, I was unprepared with how beautiful and magnificent Peru is. The culture of Peru is by far one of the most diverse in South America. Thanks to the Andes mountains to the West and the Amazon River, Peruvians have been successful at preserving the culture of Peru for thousands of years. Even after the invasion by the Spanish Conquistadors, the ancient culture of Peru is still prominent today.

Peru has an interesting blend of both Inca and Spanish influences with it's art. Music within Peru dates back literally thousands of years, preserved by the local community, and the sounds are just magical. The culture of Peru is also diverse in the way of festivities. Peru celebrates many festivities a year, most of which are related to the Christian religion that was brought over by the Spanish Conquistadors, however, some ancient Inca celebrations are also still practiced. This blend of Christianity and the ancient beliefs are yet another example of the diversity of Peru.

First stop, Lima. The architecture in Lima is stunning. When coming here you must see Plaza de Armas. Once considered the heart of old Lima, this grand plaza features many important architectural monuments and buildings including a magnificent bronze fountain dating from 1650, the Archbishop's Palace and the Government Palace dating from 1924. Another place to see is Miraflores, it is one of the top tourist districts of Lima. The main hotels in this beautiful city are located by the Pacific ocean. Miraflores offers several amenities such as fine cuisine, fast food, casinos, handcrafts, antiques flea markets, cinemas, and much more. If like to shop you must go to Larcomar area, which is a mall that overlooks the ocean, offering a relaxing sunset.

Of course one comes to Peru for Machu Picchu. So next stop, Cusco. I loved it here. One of the best cities I have ever been too. Beauty balanced with charm in this almost fairy tale like town. Machu Picchu left me breathless and in awe. I was astound by the sites and history. In Cusco you will find a wide range of different tourist services such as hotels, restaurants, handicraft centers, bars and anything you want. Cusco is quite charming so spend a few nights here, you will not regret it. Cusco was much more enjoyable compared to Lima, just my opinion and I think you will agree also.

The way to get to Machu Picchu is by train from Cusco. The journey last about 4 hours until you reach Aguas Calientes, this is where you depart and have to take a bus that will take you to Machu Picchu, the addition ride is another 20 minutes. After sites seeing in Machu Picchu make some time to relax in Aguas Calientes before heading back. This is a lovely town with lots of outdoor vendors and restaurants.

When going to Machu Picchu book your train ticket and your entrance ticket to Machu Picchu in advance. They sell out fast during high-peak season. I went right before the high-peak season so I had no worries, but even at that, it was selling out fast, both train and entrance. Don’t take a chance, book it way before you leave on your trip to avoid the disappointment of coming to Peru and not seeing Machu Picchu. Book your rail thru Peru Rail at www.perurail.com and your Machu Picchu tickets at the official site at http://www.machupicchu.gob.pe/. I hope this helps your planning to visit Peru. Enjoy the ride :-)))

Kerala, India * The Backwaters *

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Kerala, one of my favorite destinations in India. I have been there several times and keep coming back. Kerala is nicknamed, “God's Own Country” and you can see why when you arrive in Kerala. Well-known for its lush greenery, waterfalls, and world famous backwaters. The backwaters in Kerala are lagoons and lakes parallel to the Arabian Sea. The backwaters are also quite popular for boat races.

Kerala is blessed with unmatched beauty and attractions among which the backwaters are a favorite and must do when you come. Kerala backwaters have greatly helped in the boom of Kerala tourism industry. For more information on Kerala, check out my previous postings on this site :-)

In this heavenly state of India, there are many picturesque backwater destinations among which Kumarakom, Alleppey, Cochin, Kuttanad, Kovalam, Kollam, Kottayam and Kasargod are very popular among tourists and are the prime backwater destinations in Kerala. Holidays in Kerala are incomplete without enjoying a houseboat over the beautiful backwaters. The houseboats come with a chef on board to serve you all your meals, so sit back, relax, eat and be merry, it is truly a memorable event of lifetime. The food is wonderful in Kerala, seems like everything about this place is heavenly :-)

Varkala, Kerala, India

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Varkala is a coastal town in the Thiruvananthapuram district situated in the state of Kerala. Varkala is the only place in southern Kerala where cliffs are found adjacent to the Arabian Sea. One of the most beautiful beaches I have ever been too. This place should not be missed if you are coming to India.

Varkala coast is stunning, and has an international culture, isolated from the rest of India. You will feel your not even in India, it is so diverse with many different cultures around the globe. From Italian café to German bakery to French pastries, this place caters to all. I decided to have an Indian lunch, so opt for some curd rice, and it was the best curd rice I have ever had.

Varkala is becoming the new “hippie beach” from the most populated Goa. It is slowly climbing the ladders of popularity among the various tourist destinations in India. With its largely uncrowded and isolated location, November to March is the ideal time to visit Varkala.

Varkala has many beautiful beaches other than the most famous Papanasanam, but the most developed and the best-favoured one is Papanasanam. It has all the restaurants and resorts around it. Lodging opportunities are plenty with home stays, budget hotels, and luxury resorts, spread around the area.

There are sightseeing options once you are in Varkala, from the Janardhana Swami Temple to the Kappil Lake, to the Ayurvedic resorts, and the Anjengo Fort, which is listed as the National Heritage site. Varkala is peaceful and serene, and if you want to sunbath or a walk on the virgin beaches, a mix of ethnic cuisines to enjoy, then Varkala is the place for you to come in India.

Rome, Italy

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Rome, I was completely impressed and fell in love with this historic city. Ancient ruins everywhere you walked. If you love history, you will definitely love this city, I love history, so of course I was in awe when I arrived. I stayed on Via Nazionale Street, this is a great location to stay at. It is only 20 minute walk to the Coliseum.

When I arrived at that Coliseum, I was taken back. Then walking around the Coliseum, I just had this incredible feeling. Wow, am I actually at the Coliseum ! What a feeling ! You learn about this in history class, but when you are actually at the Coliseum, the feeling is overwhelming. At least that is what it did to me. We all know the Coliseum is an oval-shaped amphitheater situated in the heart of Rome, and one of the most exclusive landmarks of Rome. The Coliseum had its foundation laid between 70 and 72 AD, the amphitheater was completed in the 80 AD. At the time of its construction, the Coliseum had the capacity of seating around 50,000 spectators. Initially, the amphitheater was used for holding gladiatorial contests and public spectacles, such as; animal hunts, executions, re-enactments of famous battles and dramas based on Classical mythology. The games played in the Coliseum are believed to have taken the lives of about 500,000 people and over a million wild animals. Just a little history facts I thought I throw in :-))) If you pass by the famous Trevi Fountain on your way to the Coliseum don’t forget to throw a coin in the fountain for good luck.

Another must see is the Roman Forum, wow, I was really blown away. I find the Roman Forum is one of the most fascinating attractions in Italy, and top ancient site to see. The Roman Forum or the Forum Romanum, was once the center of ancient Rome, the place where the Romans used to meet, do business, politics and shop. In 46BC Julius Caesar built a new forum because the old one was getting small for the growing population of the city. The Roman Forum today is an area of ruins of temples, arches and basilicas. Walking through this ancient city had me just as overwhelmed as the Coliseum. After seeing the Coliseum and the Roman Forum the same day, I was ready to relax and have some nice Italian wine.

Visiting the Vatican City and St. Peter’s Basilica is a one day event only you will need to spend out of your trip to Rome. The Vatican is its own independent state and the smallest independent country in the world. Regardless of your religion, you must visit the St. Peter’s Basilica. You will appreciate it immensely whether your Catholic or not. I waited in line for almost 1.5 hours. The line when I got there was never ending. It is worth the wait. I was utter blown away by the architecture. St Peter's is the most renowned work of Renaissance architecture and remains one of the largest churches in the world. St. Peter's basilica is regarded as one of the holiest Catholic sites. Enjoy the pasta and panini's when in Rome, it is really good. When you visited all the sites, just roam around Rome, you will feel you are Rome-ing back in time.