Beautiful Sri Lanka

Hi Guys!

So I had this sudden urge to write about my trip to fabulous Sri Lanka.

Initially, when I planned this trip with a friend of mine - yet another opportunity for a girly getaway - we thought of Sri Lanka because it was close to the UAE as well as easy on the wallet. Only later did I come to find out what a gem of a destination it is. Many people say it is like a mix of Goa and Kerala, though I haven’t been to both these gorgeous Indian cities, I’ve heard they are beautiful. Don’t worry; i shall get there soon enough and tell you all about it! ;)

Coming back to the Wonder of Asia as it’s called, we landed in Colombo and headed straight to Bentota which is about an hours’ drive away from the airport. We hired a car and a driver, which was way cheaper and faster than any other way to get around Sri Lanka. We booked both through a great place we found online called “Indigo Ocean Travels.” The plus side was that we got a tour guide for free - he had such a great knowledge of the country and culture and its history.

BENTOTA;

Well when it comes to travelling in style, I am famously known for trying to fit in a 5 star hotel in every destination, 4 stars are not a close second. It is only reluctantly, when I check my bank account and it isn’t very happy with me, do I settle for less. Teehee.

Taj Vivanta is located in Bentota, which is a sparsely populated beach in the Galle district, South of Colombo. From the minute we entered, the experience was wonderful, beautifully decorated entrance and the staff was super friendly. It was early morning so we headed straight to the breakfast buffet - starving, of course, unless you are one of those who enjoy flight meals. That is when I knew what love at first bite meant! Hot curries, made to order dosas and Uttapams (South Indian breakfast items) and a wonderful omelet station, baked beans, massive fruit spread, made the start perfect. Infact, food is a very very big thumbs up from my side - even the room service we ordered was lip smackingly dee-lish.

The rooms were spacious, beautiful yet simple and modern, white furniture, large windows and a rather scrumptious welcome basket. I suggest trying the Superior Room with Sea View. They do have an amazing pool and wasn’t crowded when we went so it felt like an extremely oversized bath tub with all the silly things we were doing there and amount of selfies we managed to take without people gawking.

And the “Jiva Spa” - WOW. It looked like they have made a spa in the middle of a beautiful rainforest and when we went for our massage it was drizzling; totally enjoyed their open air relaxation spaces. Raindrops keep falling on my head *sang that song in my head at the time* :D

From the hotel we made our journey to see the popular attractions of Galle - the Old Town, lighthouse and a popular photo op sea view; but unfortunately it was a public holiday so a lot of places were closed off. However, I have to tell you there was a really interesting clothes shop on our way to the Old Town, we entered to discover big brands at less than half the price! Next, Zara, Gap, Marks&Spencer, the works. We over loaded on everything and still ended up paying a quarter of the amount we would have in the stores. Travellers’ Tip - Go and Shop there.

KANDY;

It was time to pack our bags and head to the ever famous Kandy.

On the way, we stopped at the “Elephant Orphanage” to play, swim and hang out with the beauties as well as feed them - boy they do love their bananas! After that, we headed on to the spice market and met up with this amazing man who gave is a tour of all the pants and herbs and spices. He had the wordly knowledge when it came to pain relieving herbal medication and also explained what they mix for what problem. For example, arthritis, weight issues, heart conditions. I bought a bottle of Red Massage Oil for my mother’s knee pain, and, had to ask a friend to get two more when they went for a visit. It was THAT good.

After the wonderful day, we arrived at our hotel, Earl’s Regency, which was so regal looking and had such stunning vistas surrounding it - even the ride from Bentota to Kandy was breathtaking. Plus, it started raining to make it all the more lovely. Great pool, beautifully decorated antique looking rooms, clean and spacious with a balcony overlooking green mountains. Food here was above average - nothing to write home about though. But other plus points make it worth a stay.

From Kandy, we went to a really lovely Tea Plantation close to Nuwara Eliya. Learnt everything there was about the tea making process in the factory, with the help of the lovely tour guides. Also loaded up on a lot of tea packages, with different flavors and textures. It’s a good idea to buy some for giving away to friends and family back home.

Colombo;

For our last day, we decided to spend some time in Colombo, have a good lunch and shop a bit. Which is exactly what we ended up doing; after a scrumptious lunch of prawn curry and rice we went to a mall called ODEL. They had a rather extensive and great collection of snake skin handbags there - which we ended up splurging on. Apart from that, there’s lots of cute stuff there and I ended up buying some really fun beach bags - not expensive at all. And as all girls usually do - shopping made us lose track of time but we did end up making in time for our flight to the airport.

I hope my blog has helped you plan a trip to Sri Lanka, or at least motivated you to do so :D

Till my next memoirs of an adventure,

Cheerios & Happy Travelling!

Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa - Review

'Ello there mate!

Although I love travelling around the world and explore new countries and cultures, I must admit to having nearly stayed at lots and lots of UAE resorts for the much needed “Staycations." 

Just getting away from it all and not having to worry about the hassle of tickets, plane journeys, visas and the rest of the drama that goes with it. Let’s face it, you can’t really go on long haul destinations all the time – unless you’re Paris Hilton or Donald Trump – and have been blessed with bucket-loads of cash. 

So try taking a two to three day break right here, believe me you will love it!

Fujairah Rotana has always been my favorite resort when it comes to travelling with a group of friends or just to unwind from a stressful month.

Why I love It;

It’s beautiful, the staff is very welcoming and has made every visit of mine as comfortable as possible. The positive holiday vibe is always felt here with stunning vistas of birds, mountains, clouds and beach waves.

Accommodation;

I would highly recommend booking a classic ocean balcony suites – slightly more expensive than the others but right in front of the beach, and waking up to that every morning is a dream. Comfortable, just big enough to fit everything and very clean despite being right at the waterfront.

Food;

A great meal is not what this resort is generally known for. The breakfast buffet is very basic and the other buffets at the Mozaique restaurant are a bit strange – decent food but can be improved upon. Club sandwiches/ Pizzas at the Waves Beach Restaurant are a better option. The other facilities, however, more than make up for the disappointment.

Pool Bar;

I had to write about this! My most favourite part of the entire resort is their amazingly spacious and cutely made, extremely clean pool. Whether you want to sit on the underwater bar stools and have a few drinks while chatting or just grab a chilled soda to get away from the sun for a bit – it’s the most tranquil place to be. The staff at the “Tropicana Pool Bar” are always smiling, funny, and attentive and treat you like they've known you all their life!

Activities;

If you have managed to drag yourself out of the pool to try something different – head on to the Water Sports Club at the beach. Jet-Skiing is always super fun especially when you’re with a big group, but my favourite was the thrilling Parasailing ride. Once again the staff was witty and cheeky – and did things like throw me out of the next water sport activity "banana boat ride" just because they knew I have sea fright! Of course I was pulled out within seconds – but the scene caused  a few giggles and memories for my so called “friends” :p

The Zen Spa;

Imagine booking a two day staycation with your sister once, getting all excited, packing funky outfits and trying on swimsuits that look best on you to have a girl’s weekend away. Picture it? Now imagine this. All we did was go to the Spa and get a two hour massage, take a dip in the pool and sleep on our comfortable beds. 

Three days of only this. Bliss Bliss Bliss. 

So basically, the Zen Spa is one of the best ever, with the most authentic Thai massages in all of Fujairah - Go for it people!

Just like you…I have suddenly, right this minute, started feeling a few stress knots on my back and shoulders and may just be picking up the phone to book a spa session. Aaaah. Sound good?

Happy Staycationing Friends,

Till next time, Adios.

Istanbul Diaries

IT took me a long time to get over wanting to visit the traditional, every traveller’s checklist destinations such as Paris or London - and get excited about exploring the heart of Turkey - Istanbul. The lively and wonderful European destination that SHOULD be every wanderlusterers’ dream.

Why I Love Turkey;

Firstly, let me be honest with you. I’ve been born and brought up in the UAE - the city which mostly has only two seasons; “Summer” and “Not So Summer”. The weather is Istanbul, as soon as I arrived at Ataturk International Airport at the end of April, was something I just dreamt of. You know when it’s chilly and you need a jacket but just sunny enough to make you want to get Vitamin D rather than run away from the scorching sun. Apart from that - it’s rich historical architecture, extremely friendly Turkish people, beautiful scenery from beaches to mountains to the ever busy markets, bazaars, and undoubtedly some of the best cuisine you will ever taste, made me fall head over heels for it.

Places to Stay;        

I stayed at the Ritz Carlton, Istanbul, which is about a 15 minute walk to Taksim Square. Needless to say - the service was nothing short of being treated like royalty from the moment you step in. The rooms were comfortable, clean and the bathroom was lovely - strangely I do have a thing for big washrooms. The only downfall for me was the fact that there was no balcony or easy way to open the window for some fresh air, which can get a bit stuffy. Other than that, their breakfast buffet was good - not what one would expect in terms of variety and big spread - but everything that was available was tasty and freshly cooked. 

Their Spa is amazing and the "Turkish Hammam" will make you feel refreshed and energized. Must try the Hammam here if you stay. I give it a big thumbs up!

The hotel is, although, located at the end of a steep downhill walk - a warning if you’re travelling with unfit people, elderly folks or toddlers that you may have to carry.

In that case, stay at the Grand Hyatt or Divan Hotel which is a straight road near Taksim as well.

For my last day in Istanbul though, my sister and I decided to rent out a furnished apartment building called “Away Suites” which is was situated perfectly behind the noisy Taksim Square and was a 5 minute walk to everything around it. Clean and spacious as it was, the breakfast was a bit over-priced and the reception area was pretty much a desk with a computer on it, which did take us aback when we went for a check-in. However, if these things don’t bother you, do stay there. The manager, Orhan, is very sweet and is a one-man answer to all your problems or queries during your stay.

Things to Do:

There is so much to do in Istanbul, it can make you do a coin-flip to fit everything during your trip. The Grand Bazaar and Istiklal Street are a given - apart from that here is a list of my top five;

Hodjapasha Cultural Centre - This dance theater is located at the Historical Peninsula near the most popular tourist attractions such as the Blue Mosque on Cankurtaran Street. Unfortunately we had missed out on their most popular show called “The White Rose” which was a shame because people seemed to be asking if its CD was on sale! However, the one we saw “Rhythm of Dance” was amazing. Brilliant choreography, a glimpse of the harem culture during the Ottoman Empire era and very good looking performers, might I add ;p

Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia - The entire place surrounding these attractions has the most peaceful and calming vibe I have ever felt, especially since it’s always crowded with tourists as well as locals. Apart from architectural beauty, it may just be the most picturesque part of Istanbul. Just be careful of the clothes you wear if you want an inside tour of the Blue Mosque - which you must since it is so beautiful with colored glass windows and grand chandeliers. Appropriate attire and head scarves are a must - which you will conveniently be given for free if need be. Short dresses will be a complete no-no. As for the Hagia Sophia, what’s not to love about a place so rich in heritage; it was once a church, later a mosque and is now a museum. Take a guided tour if you, like me, are not a history buff and need to be reminded about what the Ottoman and Byzantine Era were all about.

Culinary Tour - Highly recommended! Being a foodie, this trip was definitely an interesting experience. We booked this online beforehand and met up with a group of people to begin our culinary journey at 9am. Guided by our excellent guide Albert - we walked from Basiktas coast to try out a few breakfast items and headed on to the Old Town which was a short ferry ride. The Asian side as it’s called, was very different from The European side of affairs. It was much quieter, cozier and had the most interesting cafes and roadside restaurants, where we were served Turkish delicacies. The Turks are amazingly proud of their heritage and Albert was boastful too along with being extremely informative not only about the cuisine but also Turkish culture, religions and how everything has changed over the years.

Bosphorus Cruise - Now listen up! Everyone will tell you to book a cruise where you will be taken along with a group of people to several tiny islands and have 20 mins to explore it - DON’T.  Just get in a cab or walk 20 mins from Taksim to get to a cornice or water side street called Harbiye, Omer Avni. Go to the cruise terminal and hop on one of the tour boats which cost 4 Turkish Liras one-way. We did that, and it was so much more fun, even though we go off at the wrong island called “Kinaliada.”LOL. It was the most beautiful little one where there were mostly locals and cars were not allowed, so you could see everyone riding bicycles. A beautiful café called “Jash” Istanbul was a good place to stop for a drink and freshen up - they also served us the best kebabs ever. Beware not to ask them for fish and chips though as you will end up with a plate of fried sardines with a side of fries. Hey, it’s their version of it; I’m not judging! You have the choice of getting in the ferry and go to a different island and explore all of them at your very own pace than be stuffed and stacked with a big group.

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Tickle Your Taste Buds - I cannot even begin to describe how rich in flavor the Turkish cuisine is. Doner Kebabs are the only thing you should be eating when in Istanbul. The stretch on Taksim square has a lot of doner shops - but my favourite was called “Taksim Doner” - how convenient :D

Apart from that their Adana Kebab is my top choice when it comes to come with the Iskender kebab a close second. Try to eat at roadside eateries - they have way better food which won’t burn a hole in your pocket. There are few vegetarian options as well like Eggplant curries, pastas, hommus, salads, various assortment of breads and cheese galore.

For dessert, there’s a new mantra for me. A Turkish ice-cream a day keeps the entire population of doctors’ away - unless you get a sugar high or have brain freeze! Teehee. My favorite was the local ice cream stand near the Blue Mosque called “Ottoman Turkish Ice-Cream” which was mouth-wateringly, foodgasmicly divine.

On this sweet note, that’s all from Istanbul folks - we shall meet soon in stories of my next escapade,

Till then, Hakuna Matata!

Sun-kissed Phuket - Amazing Thailand!

Swaadeeka fellow Wanderlusters!

Although I have been to many parts of Thailand – Bangkok, Pattaya, Chian Mai, Chiang Rai – my first and last love of the country will always be the island of Phuket. Dubbed as “Pearl of the Andaman Sea” it is your answer to your customized fun in the sun. 

The island’s biggest sin city is Patong, where you get everything from the crazy nightlife to relaxing f&B shacks with games galore, to adventurous water sports.

Places to Stay;

Now this really depends on what you are looking for in a holiday. For me, since I have been there more times than can count now, it’s been a mixed bag of wanting to relax, be right in the middle of the party scene or try as many tours and excursions possible.

If you’re looking to tap into Phuket’s affinity for luxury –try places like the Banyan Tree, Angsana Resort & Spa.

For those of you wanting to be right in the middle of the bustling nightlife try sticking close to Patong Beach in resorts such as Holiday Inn Express or Deevana Patong where I was…they’re both within 5 to 10 minutes of all the action where beachaholics sizzle off their hangovers and go-go girls play ping pong…without paddles that is.

Don’t think you’re compromising in luxury or a holiday feel here as the hotels are all top-notch with big clean rooms and a decent breakfast spread.

However, if you want to put your feet up in the sun, take swanky spa sessions, visit a less crowded beach with the kids and still be close enough to sneak out for a few drinks and catch the pub vibes – stay at Karon or Kamala Beach. Movenpick, Karon and Novotel, Karon are great and have good spas too, while in Kamala I suggest trying out the Blue Marine Resort & Spa or the Swissotel Resort.

How to Travel;

Well, after struggling and bargaining with Tuk-Tuk or rickshaw drivers during my first few trips to Phuket – I would suggest renting a motorbike if you can ride it. It will hardly cost you anything, around 300Baht per day, and is easily available all across Phuket, especially on the entire long stretch of Patong Beach. 

If you are going with family, renting a car is no biggies either although it may cost you a bit more, around 1000-1500Baht per day. But it is totally worth it if you want to have a couple of days to explore the entire island. Make sure you take the name and number of the person you are renting either one of the two from as well as picture of them – just in case. This is only for your satisfaction as although it is completely safe to handover your passport to them as guarantee, you may experience a bit of hesitation while doing so. Don’t worry, no one there wants to risk having a bad reputation and ruin their business for a passport and the owners are always available exactly where you last met them.

Tours & Excursions;

Bear in mind – everywhere you walk you will have a shop selling trips and tours and be trying to rope you in their kiosk area to make a sale. Don’t be over enthusiastic and book one right away. There are several and all competing fiercely for customers, so you always have the upper hand. One place I narrowed down to had a brochure which said the Phi Phi Island tour was 3200Baht per adult. I bargained and took it for 1400Baht per person! Yes, that is how much they’re out to loot you there. Phi Phi Island tour is a MUST. From the amazing boat ride, to fish feeding, stopping at different islands for snorkeling including the one where Leonardo Di Caprio’s “The Beach” was filmed. It is a small breathtakingly beautiful island with the clearest water ever like a large swimming pool!

Other than that, try the “Underwater Sea-Walk” – so much fun.

Food Paradise;

Whether you’re a vegetarian or meat lover there’s something for everyone in Phuket.

My best bet for trying out different cuisines is to let go of all inhibitions and try the most popular dish the country has to offer; having several reservations limit your avenue to new experiences. So, almost anywhere and everywhere the Pappaya Salad, Thai Green Curry, Thai Red Curry and Pad Thai will rock your world. You can also get vegetarian versions of these everywhere. Apart from this you have your usual McDonalds, some Arabic restaurants that also serve sheesha, and places like Hooters and Hard Rock Café.

One of the best places to go for Indian food outside of India is definitely the “Madras Café” right at the heart of Patong beach. Every single thing we ordered here was brilliant and you had a wide variety to choose from, the Idly (steamed rice cakes), Dosa (Crispy flat bread stuffed with potatoes), Fish curries and even Poppadums were dee-lish!

When it comes to dessert, I just could not stop having the “Mango Sticky Rice”. It will be the most refreshing bite you will ever have – especially if you’re travelling in the summer months when the mangoes are ripe and juicy. Please have this when you’re there – and sneak one for me in your suitcase if you can :p

Alright then, happy travelling fellas. Catch you soon in my next blog,

For now, Bon Voyage!

Live to Travel

Ola Amigos!

So this is my first blog ever,

I'm used to pouring my heart out on Facebook and sharing zillions of stories of my various escapades around the world with my friends - but this is a much better platform right?! My love for exploring the world actually started when i was 10 years old and i saw the Indian Bollywood movie called "Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge" -it had amazing scenery in the background whilst a young couple was falling in love in the beauty of Switzerland. It all seemed so magical at the time that i actually remembering  telling my mom i want to be a Travel Journalist in the future!

Have you ever read the book called "The Secret"? It talks all about how if you really want something bad - unconsciously your mind keeps helping you get it. This is probably why i started working at a radio station at the age of 17 as a freelance news reporter and have been doing journalistic work across UAE in several different radio stations for the past 12 years.

It is only recently that a friend told me to follow my heart and start my very own radio show - and encouraged by my boss it's now called 800 Friday between 7pm to 10pm on Radio Mirchi UAE.
Of course - it had to be based on my first love "Travel" and second love "Food". Combine the two and i'm literally in my very own heaven.
Going around the globe and experiencing different cultures and cuisines is what makes life adventerous :D

Keep hooked onto my page - many more blogs on the way of all the places i have been and YOU should to!