All posts filed under: Featured

From the archives: The sisters visit Arunachal!

Published by Anita

Many, many years ago the intrepid Bora sisters took off to Arunachal Pradesh. At that time, it was a big deal to travel without guardians, but we were quite determined to make the trip happen. The parents had given up on us by then, I think. The journey to Tawang is a long and arduous one-day affair. And to add to the woes of women travellers – there are really no rest rooms enroute. But we still made it. By jeep, which is the most common mode of travel. The roads are extremely narrow and there are many places which are just wide enough for one vehicle. It still amazes me as to how people drive on these roads. The vehicle is usually bundled with around 8-9 passengers, to ensure that they make the most out of it. It was a good trip too – we visited the Tawang monastery. We trekked to a nunnery. Saw yaks for the first time. And young monks to be everywhere we went. And I think it was also …

Heady infusions at the MBar

Published by Anita

We’re getting options these days! From a place which people looked down on (you live where?), to a happening suburb, Whitefield has come a long way. In fact, today it’s a bit of a boast to say, “I live in Whitefield”. Not only do we have 5 malls within striking distance, we also have the Marriott, Whitefield in our backyard. I recently tried the brunch at the hotel and was quite impressed by the spread. This time around, it was to check out their lounge, Mbar and the impressive selection of cocktails they have on offer. Their secret behind the potent mix that goes into the cocktails – alcohol infused with different flavours and kept in large jars for around 3 months. So imagine a vodka infused with jalapenos, or a tequila and Malibu infused with pineapples, which looks and smells really heady. These infusions are then used to prepare their range of signature cocktails. A few of us had gathered around the table that Friday evening and the Food & Beverages Director, Vivin Kuriakose …

Olaulim Backyards: Where time stands still, but a lot can happen!

Published by Anita

They had me at Richard Parker! This cosy homestay, situated in a very quiet and serene part of Goa will transport you to another world all together. Away from the buzz and the humdrum, the noise and pollution of the city, it’s a relief as you step into what is literally a “backyard”! All around is just green as far as the eye can see. And a creek that lazily winds its way into the property completing the perfect picture. And fittingly, you know why this serene place is called Olaulim Backyards. Inhabited by a motley group of permanent residents (besides the hosts and their 2 kids) – three dogs, a pony, a donkey and a cat called Richard Parker – every moment is a delight. I was lucky to spend 3 days at Olaulim, in the peak of the monsoons and I don’t think I’ve seen Goa in a more beautiful season – bathed in rain, the countryside is a shade of green that you’ll never find in a concrete jungle. The roads are inviting, winding …

Into the deep blue

Published by Anita

When I got a chance to travel to the Philippines recently, I couldn’t resist fitting in a dive. After all, the beautiful blue green waters in this region are known for it’s marine life and Manila is well placed in terms of access to the sea. On a beautiful and sunny (and I should mention hot) Sunday, we set off on our road trip to Anilao, the primary diving area around a two and a half hour drive from Manila city. My colleague, who had also recently got a taste of the underwater thrill called diving agreed to take me to the dive site and also accompany me for the dive. We were also lucky to have another colleague who is a certified divemaster, leading the dives. The highway drive was pleasant and the road was good all the way through. It actually feels a little like the US since the road signs and the construction seems to be modeled on the US. However, the countryside, the trees and the houses had a distinctly Asian …

Dreaming of Darjeeling

Dreaming of Darjeeling!

Published by Anita

The temperatures are soaring. It’s hot and Bangalore these days could give Chennai some stiff competition on the heat front!  So if you (like me) are dreaming of cooler climes, do consider this lovely farmstay up in the beautiful hills of Darjeeling. Tathagata Farm is located in a cer­ti­fied organic vil­lage called Min­eral Spring which is an hour’s ride from Dar­jeel­ing town. If like ven­tur­ing off the beaten path, then I am sure you will love your stay here. At the backdrop of a very rural rustic life and greenery, Tathagata Farm is a space for travelers to be a part of an idyllic country experience. You could try your hands with tea making, learning local cuisine, cooking on firewood, backyard farming or just plucking veggies. With a view of the hills around, you could also just sit back, relax and sip on countless cups of the famed Darjeeling tea! The complete post is here on my Besthomestaysindia website. Related articles The Darjeeling Mountain Railways Organic Darjeeling Tea – Best for Your Health

Achilles tendon tear

The Achilles tendon tear injury: Getting back

Published by Anita

In August last year, I suffered from an Achilles tendon tear for which I had to undergo surgery. A few months ago, I wrote about being stuck in a (pink) cast. It was a frustrating time for me since I couldn’t do anything. Let alone cook myself a meal, clean or walk without getting really tired. I graduated from the cast and by December I was walking without the crutches. After around 2 weeks, I began physiotherapy for around 21 days to get back the range of motion in the ankle. However, the process of getting back to full recovery is a long and painful one. I hope this helps anyone who has sustained the injury. I think only those who have undergone the surgery and the rehabilitation process will understand the true nature of this injury, though I know it’s like stating the obvious. While there is no constant pain, there is always an underlying tightness in the area. It doesn’t feel quite right. It’s inflexible around the ankle area, the muscle has become …