Search Results

Month of Travel: August 2024 Where We Stayed: Taj Jai Mahal Palace “A royal palace, flute music in the breeze, horse-drawn rides, and Hawa Mahal views—Jaipur welcomed us with open arms and unforgettable charm.” Every city has a heartbeat. Jaipur’s? It sings with heritage, color, and royalty. We recently took a family trip to this stunning capital of Rajasthan, with my husband and our baby—and it felt like stepping into a painting filled with pink hues, timeless architecture, and warm-hearted hospitality. ⸻ 🏨 Our Royal Retreat: Taj Jai Mahal Palace We stayed at the Taj Jai Mahal Palace, and trust me, this wasn’t just a hotel—it was an experience.     •    The live flute melodies drifting through the gardens added a spiritual calm to our mornings.     •    Our evenings were filled with traditional puppet shows, loved equally by adults and our little one.     •    We enjoyed a horse-drawn carriage ride around the majestic lawns—a true royal throwback!     •    My favorite detail? The life-sized outdoor chess board—a beautiful nod to regal leisure.     •    And the food? Divine. Rajasthani thalis, global delicacies, and friendly staff who ensured even our baby’s preferences were taken care of with love. This palace-style hotel offered the perfect mix of luxury and culture, all while being baby-friendly and peaceful. ⸻ 🕌 Exploring Jaipur: A Living Canvas of Culture 📍 City Palace One of the grandest landmarks in Jaipur, City Palace had us in awe with its courtyards, intricate gates, and royal museum rooms. We opted for a golf-cart ride inside the palace—which I highly recommend if you’re visiting with a baby or elderly family members. It made exploring much easier and more comfortable, especially in the heat. 🌬️ Hawa Mahal The Hawa Mahal, with its honeycomb façade and pink sandstone charm, was straight out of a postcard. We even visited a café right in front of it—a popular Bollywood filming spot! The view of the palace from there was stunning, and sipping a chilled drink while gazing at history felt surreal. 🏰 Amer Fort (Amer Kila) Our visit to the majestic Amer Fort was like stepping into a fairytale carved in sandstone.     •    Located on a hilltop just outside the city, Amer Fort showcases Rajput architecture, mirror-adorned halls, and majestic courtyards.     •    The Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace) was particularly enchanting, with its sparkling ceilings and ancient royal feel.     •    We enjoyed walking through the fort’s vast chambers and open spaces—it felt like history came alive at every turn.     •    While the fort does require some walking, wide pathways and shaded spots made it manageable even with a baby. Car access to the top helped skip the steep climb, making it more accessible. It was a glimpse into Rajasthan’s regal past, and an unforgettable part of our Jaipur story. ⸻ 🌆 Why Jaipur is Called the Pink City You’ll immediately notice the warm pink-orange glow across most buildings. But here’s the story behind it:     •    In 1876, Maharaja Ram Singh had the entire city painted pink to welcome the Prince of Wales, as pink symbolizes hospitality.     •    Since then, Jaipur has preserved its pink charm, giving it a romantic, uniform appearance that’s both elegant and vibrant.     •    The blend of Rajput architecture and Mughal influence gives Jaipur a unique identity—where forts meet palaces, and tradition meets modernity. ⸻ 👶 Traveling with a Baby: Jaipur Tips     •    Most major attractions are stroller-friendly, but parts like Hawa Mahal require a bit of climbing—baby carriers are helpful.     •    People across Jaipur, especially hotel staff and locals, were warm and accommodating toward our baby. ⸻ 🚫 A Quick Note on Cleanliness While Jaipur stole our hearts, we did notice some areas of the city lacking in cleanliness, especially around local markets. However, that didn’t overshadow the rich experiences, beautiful people, and vibrant spirit that Jaipur offered at every turn. ⸻ 💗 Final Thoughts: A City of Colors, Culture & Connection Jaipur gave us giggles over kulfi, royal experiences in a palace, flute-filled sunrises, and baby cuddles under a pink sky. It felt both grounded in history and glowing with hospitality—a perfect blend for a family looking to create core memories. Because some cities don’t just get explored—they get imprinted on your heart. Youtube videos:- https://youtu.be/tPJZza-UHH0?si=2NY58xVwSFX-r_9o https://youtu.be/Qd3BOytjirA?si=AgidaM1ElXw-Hxax https://youtu.be/vEcZ3IBPAxQ?si=eogmCNF9qGGBARBi

“Born in Delhi, yet it took years (and a baby of my own) to truly explore India Gate—and the day turned out unforgettable in every way.” It’s funny how sometimes the most iconic places are the ones we end up exploring last. I was born in Delhi, yet had never visited India Gate with the eyes of someone who could remember it—until now. This trip wasn’t just about sightseeing. It was about sharing moments with my husband, baby, and sister, laughing through the heat, tasting something new, and feeling proud of our roots. ⸻ 🏛️ India Gate: A Monument of Honor & Memory We braved the scorching summer sun and made our way to India Gate, Delhi’s most recognized war memorial. Despite the heat trying to melt us, the grandeur of the monument made it all worth it. 🕊️ A Bit of History:     •    India Gate, designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, was built in 1931 as a tribute to the 84,000 Indian soldiers who lost their lives in World War I and the Afghan Wars.     •    The names of over 13,000 soldiers are inscribed on the arch.     •    Below the arch lies the Amar Jawan Jyoti—the eternal flame that burned in honor of unknown soldiers (now relocated to the National War Memorial nearby). Standing there, with my baby in my arms and family by my side, I felt a quiet reverence. This wasn’t just a monument—it was a space that carried stories of sacrifice, pride, and legacy. ⸻ 🌆 Connaught Place Vibes & A Japanese Culinary Twist Post India Gate, we escaped the heat and headed to the cooler corridors of Connaught Place (CP). Its colonial-era architecture, wide circles, and high-end shops make it one of Delhi’s liveliest hubs. 🍱 Mt. Fuji Restaurant: A Taste of Japan in Delhi My sister, a die-hard Japanese cuisine lover, had only one demand: “You’re trying Japanese food today!” So, off we went to Mt. Fuji, a well-known Japanese restaurant tucked in CP.     •    Everything was vegetarian (thankfully!) and surprisingly delightful.     •    We tried dishes like Veg Ramen, Sushi (yes, there’s veg sushi!), Teriyaki tofu, and sticky rice—and loved it.     •    The cozy ambiance, warm staff, and minimalist Japanese decor made the experience extra authentic. It was a food experiment we didn’t expect to enjoy as much as we did. A total win. ⸻ 👨‍👩‍👧 Simple Joys, Shared Moments What made the day truly special wasn’t just where we went—but who we went with.     •    We sweated and laughed through the sun at India Gate.     •    We experimented with chopsticks at Mt. Fuji.     •    We cracked jokes, told old stories, and created new ones—all while our baby watched in wide-eyed amusement. Sometimes, the best adventures are in your own city, with the right people and an open heart. ⸻ ✨ Final Thoughts This little Delhi outing reminded me that exploration doesn’t always require planes or passports. All it takes is the will to step out, appreciate what’s around you, and savor the experience with your loved ones. India Gate gave us pride, CP gave us flavor, and the whole day gave us memories worth bottling up forever.

Month of travel:  November 2023 Stay: Dusit Thani Krabi “From candlelit dinners on the shore to spotting Komodo dragons from our balcony—Krabi was a dream woven with love, nature, and music.” As part of our anniversary celebration, we headed to the tranquil shores of Krabi, Thailand—a destination where time slows down, the sea whispers peace, and every sunset feels personal. With our baby, my husband, and a close friend by our side, the journey felt not only luxurious but deeply soulful. ⸻ 🏨 Dusit Thani Krabi: Where Peace Meets Paradise Our sanctuary for this leg of the trip was the Dusit Thani Krabi Beach Resort, a haven that delivered more than just scenic views. Why Dusit Thani Stole Our Hearts:     •    🌊 Private beach access: Just a few barefoot steps and we were on golden sands.     •    🌳 Lush tropical gardens: Perfect for morning strolls with our baby in a stroller.     •    🦎 Wildlife from the balcony!: One morning, we even saw a Komodo dragon lazily basking near the trees—a rare and thrilling moment right from our room.     •    💆 The spa experience: We treated ourselves to a couple’s spa session and it was absolutely magical—from calming oils to the sound of waves in the background. Whether it was reading under palm trees or sipping fresh coconut water by the infinity pool, Dusit Thani offered the perfect blend of Thai hospitality and natural beauty. ⸻ 🌅 A Beachside Surprise to Remember One evening, our friend surprised us with something straight out of a movie—a dinner by the beach.     •    🌟 Soft lights hung like stars above us.     •    🎶 A gentle playlist set the mood—romantic, nostalgic, and upbeat.     •    🍽️ The food was beyond delicious, beautifully plated, and full of flavors (yes, they had vegetarian options too!).     •    💃 We danced barefoot in the sand, under the stars, laughing and soaking in the joy. It wasn’t just dinner—it was a celebration of togetherness, surprises, and soul-filled connections. ⸻ 🎬 Bollywood Glam in Krabi: Reel Moments For a Bollywood buff like me, this was the cherry on top: a song from Housefull 2 was filmed in Krabi! When we reached the same spot, I couldn’t resist. I made a reel at the exact filming location, feeling like I was in a movie myself. My joy was unfiltered—and that reel is now one of my favorites! ⸻ 👶 Traveling with a Baby: Calm, Clean & Easy     •    Resorts like Dusit Thani made everything stress-free: cribs, high chairs, and friendly staff.     •    Krabi’s laid-back vibe made it ideal for relaxed schedules, short day trips, and baby naps with ocean breezes.     •    We never felt rushed, and every experience could be savored slowly—as a family. ⸻ ✨ Final Thoughts: Why Krabi Feels Like a Secret Whispers Love Unlike its more crowded neighbors, Krabi is quiet, romantic, and incredibly family-friendly. It gave us the pause we needed after bustling city tours, and reminded us to celebrate small joys—like giggles under palm trees, spa-scented afternoons, and dancing with the ones we love. If you’re dreaming of peace, warmth, and a little bit of movie magic—Krabi is waiting with open arms.

Month of travel:  November 2023 Stay: Sheraton Hong Kong Places covered: Hong Kong and Macao/Macau “Cable cars, castles, and cute baby giggles—Hong Kong and Macau gave us magic with every step, even if our stomachs longed for home!” Some trips are about exploring the unknown; others are about ticking off long-awaited bucket-list dreams. This was both. With my husband, our baby, and a close friend, we embarked on a vibrant and energetic journey across Hong Kong and Macau—one packed with stunning sights, thrilling adventures, and yes, some food struggles too! ⸻ 🏙️ Where We Stayed: Sheraton Hong Kong Right in the heart of bustling Tsim Sha Tsui, we stayed at the Sheraton Hong Kong Hotel, which offered beautiful skyline views, smooth service, and easy access to major spots. Its proximity to Victoria Harbour and shopping districts made it a convenient choice, especially while traveling with a baby. ⸻ 🚠 Exploring Hong Kong: Culture, Lights & Dreams Despite having a little one with us, we managed to cover nearly everything on the Hong Kong checklist—with joy! 🌄 Ngong Ping Cable Cars & Big Buddha We took the scenic Ngong Ping 360 cable car, gliding over mountains and water toward the famous Tian Tan Buddha (Big Buddha). The serenity of the Po Lin Monastery and the grandeur of the statue made it a spiritual highlight. 🌆 Symphony of Lights At night, we witnessed the dazzling Symphony of Lights from the harbour—one of the world’s largest permanent light shows. The music, the skyline, and the reflections on water created a surreal moment. Our baby loved the lights! 🏰 Disneyland Magic No visit to Hong Kong is complete without Disneyland, especially with a child in tow! From whimsical parades to character meet-and-greets and gentle rides, it was a treat for both the baby and the adults. The joy on our little one’s face? Unforgettable. ⸻ 🇲🇴 A Quick Hop to Macau: A European Dreamscape in Asia Just a bus ride away, Macau welcomed us with an entirely different vibe—like stepping into a mini Europe. 🛍️ Apple Fan Alert! We visited the Apple Store in Macau, a highlight for my husband who’s a big Apple fan. With its cutting-edge design and exclusive gear, it was a techie’s paradise. 🏛️ Themed Hotels Like No Other Macau’s hotel game is strong—and surreal.     •    The Londoner Macau: Felt like we were walking through London’s streets.     •    The Parisian Macau: Complete with an Eiffel Tower replica.     •    The Venetian Macau: Grand canals and gondolas indoors, just like Venice.     •    The Persian-themed hotels: Luxurious, exotic, and full of intricate design. It was a visual delight, and a dream for photographers and explorers alike. ⸻ 🍜 The Food Challenge: Vegetarian Woes While the experiences were top-notch, finding vegetarian food in Hong Kong and Macau was a real challenge. Most eateries catered heavily to seafood and meat lovers. We often had to rely on:     •    Hotel-prepared veg meals     •    International chains like Subway, Pizza Hut     •    Carrying some ready-to-eat Indian snacks Pro tip: If you’re vegetarian, plan your meals ahead or consider packing instant mixes and essentials for ease. ⸻ 👶 Traveling with a Baby: What Worked Well     •    Well-connected public transport: MTRs and ferries were baby-stroller friendly.     •    Polite locals: People were courteous and often offered help seeing a baby in tow.     •    Clean, accessible baby care rooms: Especially at Disneyland and major malls. ⸻ ✨ Final Thoughts This trip was a mix of cultural immersion, fun theme park memories, stunning cityscapes, and a dash of European flair. While food was a hiccup, the warmth, efficiency, and beauty of Hong Kong and Macau made it a truly special family vacation. It’s a destination where east meets west, dreams meet reality, and little ones become tiny explorers.

Trip Type: Spontaneous Weekend Staycation Location: Bangalore, India Month of visit: October 2022 Stay: Taj West End Mood: Relaxed, Rejuvenating, Luxurious Sometimes, the best trips aren’t the ones you plan for weeks. They’re the spontaneous escapes that pull you out of your routine just when you need a break. That’s exactly how we ended up at the Taj West End in Bangalore—and what a refreshing decision it turned out to be! ⸻ 🛏️ The Taj West End: Where Time Slows Down Located right in the heart of Bangalore but worlds away from its urban hustle, Taj West End is a heritage property that blends colonial charm with five-star luxury. As soon as we entered the gates, the energy shifted. Towering rain trees, lush pathways, and chirping birds welcomed us into what felt like a private, tropical sanctuary. What started as a “Let’s just relax this weekend” turned into a mini-vacation filled with nature, great food, and warm hospitality. ⸻ 🌳 A Stay Amidst 20 Acres of Greenery This isn’t your typical city hotel. The Taj West End sits on 20 acres of sprawling greenery, with heritage walkways, lotus ponds, and secret garden corners that make it feel more like a nature retreat than a city stay. We spent hours just strolling through the gardens, sitting under age-old trees, and letting the calmness soak in. If you love nature, history, or simply a quiet place to think, this hotel is pure therapy. ⸻ 🍽️ Food That Touches the Soul The culinary experience at Taj West End was another highlight. Whether it was the lavish South Indian breakfast spread, the cozy tea lounge, or the decadent multi-course dinner at their fine-dining restaurants, every meal was a treat. What stood out? The attention to detail—fresh ingredients, perfectly balanced flavors, and service that made us feel truly special. We didn’t just eat, we indulged. ⸻ 🧘‍♀️ Peaceful Vibes & Slow Living What made this weekend so beautiful was the slowness of it all. No alarms, no traffic, no schedules. Just the rustle of leaves, the scent of fresh earth, and the comfort of a heritage room steeped in elegance. Taj West End encourages you to disconnect—to be rather than do. Whether you’re sipping chai on your private veranda or reading a book by the koi pond, every moment feels intentional. ⸻ 💡 Why Taj West End is Perfect for a Weekend Getaway ✅ Central yet Secluded     •    Located in the city, yet it feels like a hidden jungle oasis.     •    No long travel required—just check in and unwind. ✅ Heritage Meets Modern Comfort     •    Classic architecture, colonial vibes, and luxury amenities in one place.     •    Each room tells a story with its vintage decor and garden-facing views. ✅ Foodie Heaven     •    From Indian delicacies to global cuisine, the restaurants here know how to impress.     •    Perfect for romantic dinners, brunches, or even high tea with friends. ✅ Ideal for Every Mood     •    Whether you want a romantic couple escape, a solo refresh, or a calm family weekend, this place adapts to your vibe. ⸻ 📝 Final Thoughts: A Hidden Gem in the Garden City When city life starts to feel too fast, Taj West End offers a pause button. It reminded us that luxury isn’t always loud—it’s in the quiet elegance of heritage buildings, the kindness of the staff, and the magic of old trees whispering stories. So if you’re in or around Bangalore and feeling just a little bored or overwhelmed, trust us—this place will heal you. Book that weekend. You’ll thank yourself later.

Month of Travel: May 2025 Trip Type: Leisure Vacation (Couple + Friend Getaway) Accommodation:      •      Phi Phi Holiday Resort, Koh Phi Phi     •    Splash Beach Resort & Spa, Phuket There are trips you take… and then there are experiences that etch themselves into your memory like poetry on parchment. My recent getaway to Thailand—shared with my husband and a close friend—was one such unforgettable chapter, drenched in golden sunrises, salt-kissed breezes, and the calm rhythm of island life. ⸻ 🌅 Phi Phi Island: Where Magic Meets the Horizon Our first stop was the enchanting Phi Phi Island, nestled in the turquoise embrace of the Andaman Sea. We stayed at the Phi Phi Holiday Resort, a beautiful beachfront haven where time seemed to slow down with the waves. The sunrises and sunsets were nothing short of soul-stirring. Imagine waking up to a horizon dipped in hues of lavender and rose gold, and winding down with the sun melting into the sea. These moments alone made the trip worth it. 🐠 Scuba, Snorkels & Swings The waters of Phi Phi invited us to dive deep—literally. We ventured into the aquatic world with scuba diving and snorkeling, and were mesmerized by the underwater ballet of colorful corals and darting fish. For those moments, we were part of a different universe. When we weren’t underwater, we found joy in the simplest things: long beach walks, swinging on rope hammocks under palm trees, and just soaking in the blissful atmosphere. It was ssoooo lovely—yes, that’s exactly how it felt. ⸻ 🌊 Phuket Diaries: Splashing into Fun After basking in the tranquility of Phi Phi, we shifted gears and headed to Phuket for a change of pace. Our home there was the lively Splash Beach Resort and Spa, which—true to its name—boasted a water park right within the premises. Laughter echoed through the slides and pools as we let our inner children run wild. 🏖️ Exploring Patong & Beyond We carved out time to explore Patong Beach, the vibrant heart of Phuket. Its colorful streets, beachside cafes, and relaxed charm added a dash of spice to our otherwise serene trip. Wandering around the area, we soaked in the local culture, cuisine, and coastal vibes. ⸻ 💡 Travel Tips for Phi Phi & Phuket If you’re planning your own island adventure, here are a few tips to make it even more memorable: ✈️ Getting There & Around     •    Fly into Phuket International Airport for easy access to both Phuket and ferry transfers to Phi Phi.     •    Book your Phi Phi ferry tickets in advance—especially during peak seasons.     •    Stay at least 2 nights in Phi Phi to fully unwind and enjoy sunrise/sunset views. 🏝️ Accommodation Suggestions     •    Phi Phi Holiday Resort is ideal for romantic views and peaceful vibes.     •    For families or thrill-seekers, Splash Beach Resort & Spa in Phuket offers fun, comfort, and a full-fledged water park. 🐟 Activities to Try     •    Don’t miss scuba diving or snorkeling tours—you can spot vibrant coral reefs and marine life.     •    Spend time simply walking the beach or relaxing on the swings. These slower moments stay with you forever.     •    Explore Patong by foot—it’s safe, vibrant, and full of surprises. 🍽️ Food & Essentials     •    Try local Thai dishes like Pad Thai, Mango Sticky Rice, and fresh seafood by the beach.     •    Carry reef-safe sunscreen, light cotton clothing, flip-flops, and a dry bag for water activities.     •    Stay hydrated—Thailand’s heat can sneak up on you. 🧘‍♀️ Just for the Soul     •    Take time to disconnect—some areas in Phi Phi may not have perfect Wi-Fi, and that’s a blessing in disguise.     •    Watch at least one sunrise and one sunset in silence. Let the beauty of nature seep into you. ⸻ ❤️ The Afterglow of Island Bliss As I look back, this trip wasn’t just about ticking off destinations—it was a beautiful mosaic of shared laughter, nature’s splendor, and tranquil moments that I’ll carry with me forever. Phi Phi and Phuket, with their breathtaking beauty and warm charm, gave us memories that go far beyond photos. Would I go back? In a heartbeat. Until then, I’ll be reliving every sunset, every splash, and every swing in my dreams. ⸻