Bangkok for the repeat visitor
There are many offbeat things to do in Bangkok for those who are visiting it again. You probably saw all the temples during your first visit, so this time, why not do something different?
Club Mahindra Kandaghat: White-washed beauty
It was late evening by the time we reached Club Mahindra Kandaghat, a grand-looking garden resort complex protected by filigree gates. The temperature was around 11 degrees and the cold breeze made itself known to me despite my warm jacket. Club Mahindra Kandaghat is spread over what seems like a mountain in itself and there are many uphill climbs along storybook lanes to be had. We undertook one such mini journey in the dense darkness of the wintry night. Down in the lawns, the weather seemed even chillier. But our hearts warmed at the sight of the pretty private table nestled in a corner, covered with myriad delicacies like cookies, tarts, cakes and fruits.
Vero Cibo: Novotel Goa Resort & Spa’s new bistro & bar
It’s not just mountains and temples that are awash with ‘good vibes’. It’s also places like the idyllic, gorgeous and uber luxurious Novotel Goa Resort & Spa at Candolim. An infinity pool against the backdrop of lush coconut trees and grassy green lawns, a state-of-art play area at the reception and the newly opened bistro …
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Ibis Styles Goa Calangute: Affordable, inimitable chic
In a seaside state-town that is dotted with shacks, villas, homestays and five-star hotels, Ibis Styles Goa Calangute comes as a breath of fresh air. It is a stylish yet affordable three-star resort in the heart of North Goa.
Pune reminiscences
Two years in Pune, at an age when my personality was evolving and I soaked up new experiences like a sponge, have given me a fair idea about the city’s draws and limitations. Tucked away in the resort-like environment of FLAME (Foundation for Liberal and Management Education), I looked forward to weekends with the enthusiasm of a bushy-tailed 21-year-old. Solo or accompanied by a friend, I’d board the bus to the city and look forward to movies, lunches, shopping, pampering and exploration.
Experience Agra, the Mughal way
The world famous Taj Mahal may have put Agra on the map for tourists but truth be told, this ancient city is alive with many other atmospheric monuments and mausoleums. Shrouded in the legacy of the Mughal Era, they carry almost as heavy a weight of mystical history as the Taj. For starters, Agra Fort and the nearby Fatehpur Sikri are two other UNESCO World Heritage Sites, though not parts of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Although best known for its reign under Akbar, Agra was mentioned even in the much older Mahabharata.
Papacream, Mumbai: Sweet heaven
I have an on again, off again relationship with ice-creams thanks to my sensitive throat. Never a great fan of simplistic, puritan ice-creams, I am more enthused by ice-cream in combination with crunchier, chunkier, warmer elements like waffles, chocolate cake and cookies. This is why Papacream works for me. They don’t just serve ice-cream. They serve complete dishes using ice-cream as the protagonist. The exception to this rule is of course the Belgian chocolate ice-cream which I recommend you have as is, in a cup or waffle cone just for its pure perfection.
The world’s most expensive but beautiful countries
The trouble with beauty is that it does not exist merely in cities that are affordable or accessible. Stunning marvels are flung across varied corners of the globe, many of which are far beyond our means. And yet, the travel-loving heart wants what it wants, even if means taking a personal loan for travel, just to make the next big trip a reality. So without much ado, here are the five most expensive but also very beautiful countries, according to Numbeo’s Cost of Living Index.
LeEco Le 2 review: A true winner
At 5.5 inches, the phone fit perfectly in my palm and I was pleased with the HD display, on par with phones that are priced much higher. Le 2 is priced at Rs 11,999 (even lower if you get it during the online sales) but its specifications match those of more expensive models. A 16 MP back and 8 MP front camera, 3 GB RAM, 32 GB ROM, 3000 mAh battery and Android Marshmallow OS are just some of the highlights.
Maharashtra Nature Park
The monsoons have been abundant this year and the vegetation has ripened to a deep shade of green. There are no other visitors on this Sunday and the silent paths between the woods echo our footsteps. After speaking briefly to the librarian and perusing the books and displays on the biodiversity of the park, we begin our trail.