Travel

Paris was raining as I landed here, unlike Paris and quite like London, with showers drenching us unpredictably and sky a dull grey; while all I remember of Paris was colorful romantic skies. But the moment I sat in the ‘taxi’ for the hotel and entered the city, the fleeting sight of buildings brought me back the warmest thoughts and times when I had visited here for the first time.

And no sooner had I spent a night here, the sun smiled on us as we went to The Louvre and I immediately realized that I surely love this beautiful city, the very Parisian charm and touch to everything that shall not leave you untouched, leaving a soft memory and smile on your face when you reminisce it later.

Paris is a city that grows on you, it’s not what you see here, rather it’s what you experience here sometimes
I feel we live our life most passionately when we are traveling. Traveling leaves our senses more receptive and opens up our hearts and minds. (Remembering that jingle of Nescafe that was popular 20 years back when I was in college, open up…tataratatararra). And as I shuttle from old Paris to the new in no time in the metros, I shuttle the times when I first came here as a brand new polished, happy n affectionate wife to the times now when I travel as an independent, facially polished, an upgraded version of the woman in me; times certainly change you and hence does the experience and perception of the same city too.

There’s so much to do in Paris; there’s opera, theatre, moulin rouge shows, walks in the Tuileries gardens, there’s art on every street and corner and there are art lovers. And then there is the River Seine that flows through the heart of the city. A cruise of river Seine is a must if you wish to get some wonderful Instagrammable clicks of Eiffel tower and much more, specially the lover’s bridge where lovers have locked their love for eternity.

There’s also another lovers’ lock place in Old Paris right in front of the stairs of Sacre Couer Church and yes, I marked and locked my love for eternity there in the presence of skies and wind as the ether stood between us.

Like Thomas Jefferson said “A walk about Paris will provide lessons in history, beauty, and in the point of Life.”

Its an experience to really live the real Paris like as a Parisian would. When I say this I imply that apart from visiting the landmark places of historical importance or places that we associate Paris with, it is a cardinal crime if we don’t explore culture, art, music and theatre, the terrace cafes and the socializing importance they hold for a Parisian. You got to live like one, to inhale and breathe the love and romance that is in the air of Paris to really know what Paris is. It’s the city with pink skies, a city where there are streets that are abuzz with fashion, music, and artists.

Montmartre is one place anyone would love to go, its picturesque streets and the artists with their interpretation of the various seasons of this beautiful city are in every corner. And their inviting warm faces, yeah, Bonjour, you are certainly beautiful if you are in Paris. On this note, I wish to tell you how pretty I felt while getting my portrait done on the insistence of the artist and my family while the passers-by (art lovers) looked at the portrait and then me with such amicable expressions. Paris certainly makes you beautiful overnight.

The corner shops and their warm waffles and crepes and the smiles of people that could melt the icecreams, the inviting rich aroma of brewing coffee emanating from the cafes that buzz with the bees like the hum of well-dressed women as they indulge in never-ending chats and giggles, the musicians playing instrument & singing and unknowingly imparting a certain zing to your walk, the fashion boutiques invoking the fashionista in you, the impeccable theatrical performances that leave you awe-struck ( yes, art does leave me starstruck every time as though I saw it for the very first time); these are the experiences that you collect and live, Paris certainly leaves you intoxicated each time you go. It doth grow on you.

And then when we walk through the streets of old Paris we finally reach the top where the Sacre Couer church resides. Don’t forget to walk the stairs of this place which hover the most stunning view of the great city.

We all love this city for its Eiffel Tower, Versailles Palace, Louvre, Arc de Triomphe, Champ Elysses and the Notre Dame that is going through reconstruction for the damage that had happened recently. And I loved visiting The Latin Quarter for cheap eats and Saint Germain des Pres for Boutiques.

If you are a dog lover then you would Particularly enjoy watching the dogs that strut the streets of this fashion capital making an adorable and yet again a fashionable sight with various kinds of hair cuts, styles and hues and their outfits (omg, they are capable of giving a woman inferiority complex and any parent of a kid could take a cue or two on the upbringing part since people in France & Europe groom their pets really well).

I love Paris and each time I go, I see it in a different light. It changes colors like the lights of majestic towering Eiffel Tower and seals my heart with a very genuinely happy feel…yes, quoting Hemingway I must say Paris is a moveable feast !!

Anuja Pandey

in Travel

Goan Summers @ ITC Grand Goa!

April 24, 2019

We all have had some trips which have lent us with beautiful experiences & Fun times that always remain sealed in our heart❣ Well, the Goa trip accompanied by my co-blogger and partner in crime, Lucky. It was one of the best trips I have experienced for a long time. Goa implies loads of fun activity in sun and sand, beach and mimosas and what better company than your friend.

We stayed at ITC Grand Goa and the kind of Goa Fun we had was confined within the resort since ITC hotels happened to be an overload of luxury and comfort. ITC Grand Goa is an extremely luxurious and tropical getaway and offers a breath-taking view of the beach and lush greens which filled my heart with joy. The lavish accommodation we got was a well furnished and cozy suite with a personal patio, an outdoor rain shower, and a secret garden.

The mornings amidst these swaying coconut palms and shimmering lagoons and birds chirping in the resort naturally attracted my footsteps to the pristine Arossim beach. This beautiful resort with a blend of vintage and classical elegance made our trip truly an invigorating experience.

Most of the time was either utilized in the beach or the swimming pool. The multi-level swimming pool had a distinctive beauty of its own and it is supposedly one of the largest swimming pool in any of the resorts in Asia. The tropical climate, fizzy drinks, refreshing games, and water sports in the pool and Lucky’s bubbly and energetic company infused a fresh burst of energy.

ITC Grand Goa spoilt us for various choices. There was this exclusive cabana at the beachside and the staff especially organized an amazing afternoon for us. It was truly the most immersing experience of the Goan holiday as we were served some scrumptious smoked salmon with a touch of lemon sauce, butter garlic glazed prawns, spicy Goan kingfish and beer (cheers to Goa and Loftyspectrums!) While we absorbed the lively ambiance with the sound of beach waves, the ticklish feel of sand under the feet as we danced to the live music playing at the Royal Afghan and clinking the beer mugs, we inhaled a fresh breath of life, whiffing out all the negativities of life. We also did a host of water sports like parasailing and jet skiing.

The next day was all about physical wellness with the royal spa KayaKalp. The pavilion at the village square offers multiple dining options with marvelous Indian, international and Goan cuisine round the clock…there are nearly 6 restaurants there spoiling the guests with the choices. While the Royal Afghan at the beachside offers Goan and northern frontier food with grills and charcoals as you feast under a starlit sky. This is where I spent my noon in the Cabana totally pampered.

As they say, the best things are usually most unanticipated, I experienced the best while exploring and walking down the trails in this beautiful property with nature at its full swing. My best was this open to air, small yet stunning Shiv temple. The Maha Mrityunjay Chant was audible and I could see a beautiful Shivling ornamented by wildflowers. it was a moment I lived forever when I bathed lord Shiva with pure water where the Shivling stood unguarded by the so-called protectors of religion, green trees guarding and playing the canopy as I became one with him, washing off my pains.

ITC Hotels all around India is amazing as it captures the spirit of the city hence doing complete justice to its tourists who come to explore and experience the culture, food and the real glimpse of that city ( I have experienced it over time and over years with my stays at various places in the ITC Hotels). I got to experience the best of Goa while I stayed here- rejuvenated and refreshed

in Travel

Staycation at Shangri-La Fitness goals & health club

June 19, 2018

Shangri-La Hotel, Bengaluru

At Shangri-La Hotel, Bengaluru, health and wellness are more than just a short-term indulgence; they are a way of life. Keeping this in mind, the hotel’s level 3 was designed to be a fully equipped dedicated wellness floor that caters to all its guests’ health and wellness needs. It treats guests to a variety of experiences that takes them away from their busy schedules to an environment of peace, calm and healing.

Last weekend We had an opportunity to stay in this lavish property that is nestled in the heart of the city. We had an amazing time starting our Saturday with some exotic and delicious Mediterranean lunch at Caprese. The platter was delicious with cheese and meat along with exotic fruits and salads sprayed with aromatic olive oil. And yes, then I headed to room to take a siesta for after that I had to go ahead n work it out.

Hence it’s always a great idea to spend a weekend unwinding here, though in the heart of the city yet so relaxed and tranquil. And I chose to spend some quality time exercising and swimming, sleeping eating and repeating at Shangri-La.

This oasis of tranquillity features an outdoor temperature-controlled swimming pool and a hydro-thermal experience encompassing a steam bath, sauna and a Jacuzzi. The wellness floor also has a state-of-the-art gymnasium equipped with Technogym ARTIS and ARKE series, the unparalleled, highest-quality gym equipment. In addition, guests can benefit from personal training sessions tailored to their unique fitness requirements.

All the facilities of CHI, the spa and health club are nestled in one floor. This time my #staycation focussed on the physical training and a swim and then finally dinner in the room. When it’s Anuja coming for staycation she makes sure she goes for a spa session at CHI.

In addition to the CHI spa, the wellness floor has a 24-hour Health Club with a variety of cardio machines, including treadmills, cross trainers, upright bicycles, recumbent bicycles and stair masters, all with a touchscreen offering TV services and Internet connectivity, along with top-of- the-line equipment from Technogym’s Kinesis, ARKE and OMNIA series. Professional trainers provide guidance and ensure that training is conducted in a safe manner.

With the launch of Technogym’s “Wellness on the Go”, users are able to enjoy the wellness lifestyle wherever they are – in the gym, at home, at work or outdoors – and stay connected to their world and their training. With an integrated Android interface, users can work, give interviews and hold conference calls digitally while training.

Other facilities on the wellness floor include a sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi, relaxation room and a heated lounger. Also available is a kids’ pool and an outdoor pool, with a depth of 1.2 metres and a length of 25 metres, making it ideal for both leisure and training.

The swimming pool is open to in-house guests daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Non-residential guests may also access the pool and other facilities through yearly or half-yearly memberships.

Health Club membership is available for individual guests, couples, families of four (a couple with two children aged up to 16 years old) and for groups of five members or more. Swimming pool membership is available for individual guests and couples.

Guests may relax and rejuvenate at the CHI spa from 10 a.m. to 1 a.m. Non-resident guests may access the club from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day. The well-equipped gymnasium is available to in-house guests 24 hours daily.

Have u had a #staycation yet in this plush luxury hotel, if not then go ahead and book your weekend folks.

in Fashion, LifeStyle, Travel

Goa-A peek into a Digital nomad’s day

May 31, 2018

Merciless summers, heat waves and nowhere to hang out,unless its indoors. Mostly we all love to go to #Goa only in winters around December assuming that to be the best season, but I choose to go now too. Its undoubtedly harsh summers in India and one would wonder why Goa in this scorching heat. But, I a traveler, explorer and a travel writer say why not Goa in this season too.

Usually I love going to Goa all round the year since it has one or the other thing to offer an enthusiast any season of the year it might be. So why Goa?

Goa is lovely in summers too, and I particularly love to laze around in this season. If one wants a break free from daily monotony, then there’s nothing as interesting as being in Goa. You can do a lot of summer fun activities like parasailing, paragliding, motor biking, water biking if you are a sports lover. Although I’m not such an adventure lover and I love to be in the pool and bike around in the evenings. I love pool and biking.

So, this time we, Me n Lucky, were in Goa on the special invite of The Lalit Golf Resorts and Spa to spend a weekend there. It’s a beautiful property and we had a great time again. The amazing property of this golf resort offers all facilities along with some great spa and meditation classes with some amazing Balinese interiors that just makes one connect with oneself.

Here’s a sneak peek into how my day one looked like in Goa in THE LALIT RESORTS.

So, our room was a lavish suit with a dining space and as I opened the back side French doors of the room, they overlooked sprawling lawns and the blue swimming pool.

I slept till late in the morning and as I woke up some lavish breakfast was served in the room with hot coffee and freshly squeezed oranges (oh howI love these li’l pleasures of holidaying).

Soon after, we went and saw the beautiful bungalow in the property where the movie #golmaal has been shot. We made sure we click few pics here too.

After lunch we took a ride on bike around the property of The Lalit and then headed to the shacks towards the seashore and I spent some time doing my digital freelancing, content and checking mails while having plenty of fluids and keeping hydrated andenjoying the sunset. The sunset hour or the #goldenhour is amazing time to do photography.

While I was up to behaving like an unsocial, digitally addicted nomad, My co blogger, Lucky was in the sea water all noon doing some water sports.

The best thing about Goa tourism is that it’s cheap, unlike many other destinations and its westernized enough to keep your spirits high. The locals are lovely people and warm. You get some amazing food in Goa and specially at the Lalit, particularly if you are a seafood lover.

Finally, we jumped in the pool (the water baby we all are) and what’s the fun in summers if there’s no water, sun and tan, I love the bronzed-up glow the sun has imparted to my face and legs.

Goa is lovely in all seasons and it offers great food even if you are staying with some locals. The digital age makes it slightly easy for us to work from any part of the world specially if your job is such. It is safe for women travelers and is convenient. There’s no dull moment in Goa, there are lot of party places, eat outs and home stays that serve enticing local cuisine. The expats have their regular hang outs where one could go and chill, you could spend an entire month in a place like this. This was Goa for you-for a gypsy’s heart from a nomad’s diary.

I would also be putting up the vlog on my YouTube channel soon.

Thanks to the management team of The Lalit for such an amazing retreat. Totally rejuvenated…

=Outfit Details=
Black Dress – Zara
Violet top and knitted top – Camla Spain Swim wear – Marks & Spencer

Location courtesy @the Lalit goa

Yours Truly,
Anuja Pandey

in Fashion, Inspiration, LifeStyle, Music, Travel

The Island Of Happiness & Everything Fashion – Abu Dhabi

February 27, 2017

When it is about unbridled luxury and vision, it is synonymous with Abu Dhabi. As I head out in a taxi driven by a Pakistani chauffeur, I fled past the high rise glass and steel symbols of power. Then there was the glistening bevy of white yachts that were anchored on the emerald hued marina as if it were a ramp and the white beauties were making a statement.

Next, we headed to the Ferrari World as it holds a great spectacle with its various shows and rides.

We even got to visit the Yas Island that has the Yas Marina Circuit, that hosted the Formula One ‘Etihad Airways’ Abu Dhabi Grand Prix since 2009.

A must visit is the Emirates Palace Hotel, the second most expensive hotel in the world! And here, it’s all about the gold! In fact, we went there for an evening coffee and guess what? The coffee was served hot and dusted with gold flakes!

Abu Dhabi

The evening was reserved for the most dramatic and cultural extravaganza, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. The Mosque is the torch of cultural richness, beautifully created with minarets and tranquil Qubba; along with lavishly beautiful chandeliers. It is a beautiful work of grandeur and eye catching craftsmanship.

The floor adorned with marbles from all over the world and chandeliers from the Munich, Germany made the entire place look gorgeous and beautiful. The chandelier was made with crystals and the biggest of them is the second largest in any Mosque in the world and third largest in the world. This piece of art also has a staircase inside the chandelier which is used when it’s cleaned up.

The design of the Sheikh Zayed Mosque was been inspired by Persian, Mughal and Moorish mosque architecture, in particular the Badshahi Mosque in Lahore, Pakistan and the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, Morocco. These few were big & direct influences. In fact, the artisans from all over the world and materials contributed united the architectural world. It has one of the largest and lavish Iranian carpet.

Abu Dhabi

Getting to the party scene – we realised that it’s not just the West or other party destinations that make the wave. Instead the new party zones are booming here in Abu Dhabi & one such place is MAD in YAS Island.

Abu Dhabi

The Etihad airways was the official airline partner and sponsored the biggest fashion weeks around the world, including Mumbai, Milan, New York & London. They had the most tempting amenity bag and in fact, the flight attendants were in designer outfits, this shows the big way in which Abu Dhabi is launching itself as the biggest tourist destination.

Guggenheim is getting constructed with steel tubes and tunnels and will house the world’s most celebrated art. The giant saucer like museum is 95% completed and already boasts of housing arts like Titian’s Woman with a mirror, Da Vinci’s La Belle Ferronniere etc.

Abu Dhabi, in the coming generations will be known for some of the most important temples of culture, history or art that lie outside of London or Paris, New York.

Written by – Anuja Pandey

For more information – Visit Abu Dhabi

in Fashion, Music, Travel, Wellness & Beauty

Painting The Lakme Fashion Week Blue With – TrueBlue

February 20, 2017

When it’s Sachin Tendulkar who is launching his own clothing line it has to be with none other than the truly blue brand, True Blue!! After having spent so many years in blue and being the royal sportsman that he is, the clothes stand testament to every bit of the name.

It was few months back that this brand launched and I am totally delighted to have worn and sported this brand styling it my way at the Mecca of Fashion, Lakme Fashion Week’17!

Being a style blogger and stylist is definitely a job I love to do, and when it’s a brand that is your childhood idol then why won’t you jump with pride?

My Look For Day I

I chose to get styled in this light blue denims which were just so comfortable that they stayed snugged to my skin. It was like having a second skin! I styled this with Adidas Superstars’ white sneakers and tee.

And add to that the uber cool look I put on the slim fitting textured pewter blazer, amped the style quotient for its applique elbows.

My Look For Day II

The next day I chose to be the True Blue man. So I carried on with Navy Blue slim fitting bandh gala with metal buttons. I paired this look with my sneakers, taking my entire look to an uber cool style that fused everything together perfectly.

My Look For Grand Finale

It was as it should be, formal tuxedo with a kerchief and bow tie. I was set for the amazing grand finale when the breathtaking designs of Anita Dongre walked in. In fact, I carried a Hidesign laptop bag to complete my look.

A truly amazing time being styled for these luxury brands. Cheers for Lakmefashionweek and Loftyspectrums, and this uplifting association.

Written by- Ashish Dubey

Styled by- Ashish Dubey in collaboration with Truebluebrand and Adidas superstars

Event- Lakmefashionweek ’17

Venue- Jio Gardens

Photo credits- The Photo Tree

in Fashion, Inspiration, LifeStyle, Music, Travel, Wellness & Beauty

New Fashion Trends? Here’s Everything New We Saw At Lakme Fashion Week’17!

February 17, 2017

This spring a forceful feminist urge expressed a clash of contrasts that bloomed into some really beautiful new clothes. Lakme Fashion Week 2017 saw fluidity & movement in full force. The new fashion statements were all about feminine power in fact, this spring season’s Fashion Week in Mumbai made sure that it’s all about unconditional liberty. Besides, the shine in all of the designs, the themes powered by liberating music, fashion inspired women to they are; fearless & spontaneous. The designers showcased their designs which proved to be vivid, diverse; exhibiting colourful exuberance & explosive passion with a mix of ancient traditions. So, we can be sure to say that fashion trends really impacted the audience with a joy that had never been seen before.

I would quote Versace which is befitting this fashion week’s trends:

“THIS IS ALL ABOUT A WOMAN’S FREEDOM: FREEDOM OF MOVEMENT, FREEDOM OF ACTIVITY, FREEDOM TO FIGHT FOR HER IDEAS, FREEDOM TO BE WHOMEVER SHE WANTS TO BE.”

10 Reasons Why Donatella Versace Will Never Grow Old:

1. The collections showcased by most of the designers centred around fluidity, shimmers, sequins and crystals.

2. The colours were all pastel and white, peach and cream, starting from whites to beige.

3. Then the entire event concluded with shades of greys, this season’s pick! Yellow is the colour of the season so girls, yellow is the new black!!

4. Bold is the new beautiful. So sport quirky & wacky fashion.

5. Prints and applique ruled the fashion scene.

6. Even longer capes, over gowns or saris made the headlines!

7. The idea was to fuse laces with biker jackets while still holding onto the crystal!

8. While we went off shoulders, Bardot tops & cold shoulders still held on this season. In fact, bell sleeves and petal like sleeves made a comeback.

9. Metallic pants, or pleated skirts which fall till calf length were also showcased with great oppulence that turned out be a big shot this season.!

10. Makeup trends with electric blue eyes, peach lipsticks and wine, coffee, chocolate lip shades made sure we got exposed to our dormant ‘dark side’.

Gaurang paid surprise tribute to womanhood with mesmerising poetry written by him that brought me to tears. In fact, there was an ode to being a woman, beautiful & feminine. (I will be sharing the full video in case you like it). The curated show by #Ajio, #notwhatiwear. Further, #Kshitijkankaria, #undefined, #unlabeled & #untagged made sure that women remain bold, themselves and don’t fit into set of rules imposed on them. The shows with their unique concepts and themes were thought provoking, appealing to the senses & addressed social problems faced by women due to the ungrateful attitude of the people.

My next blog will be about the looks I sported with the brands that came up with my various looks this seasons.

Written by- Anuja Pandey

Thank you Lakme Fashion Week for a great time!

in Fashion, LifeStyle, Travel, Wellness & Beauty

Must Have Pants For This Month Of Love That You Cannot Overlook!

February 16, 2017

We are often quizzical about essentials one must own in their wardrobe. Either in terms of tops, dresses or pants. Trust me there is something called ‘must have in your wardrobe list’ that will make your life easy.

We have a list of essentials that will help you combat you from those ‘What to wear’ nightmares. What are they and where do you should head to shop?

Well, the list is right here and you should hit Shoppers Stop to get your hands on the latest and most amazing range of apparels.

Jeans

A blue and a black pair are an essential, it will make up to your everyday saver. High waist, low waist, skinny fit, boyfriend, or rugged there are several sorts in the market.

Pick whichever you feel most comfortable in, and they shall stay with you for a good period.

Formal Trousers

A finely tailored pair of trousers is a real must.

If you aren’t a boardroom glam? Yet, we suggest you on having at least one pair. You never know what life throws you across.

Leggings

It is a must-have!

Some like to keep it as a home wear, some wear it to the gym and some even like to experiment it with their everyday casual outfits. There is a multitude of options for leggings, we suggest you to at least own the basics black, white and grey.

Party Wear

Silk pants are a very convenient option when you don’t want to pick a skirt or a dress when heading to a party.

Hope this post answered a lot of questions regarding what you should have in your wardrobe and what you should not.

Feeling the urge to shop now? Well, stop by at the nearest Shoppers Stop store to get the best buys, you can also browse their collection online.

*Sponsored Post in association with Shoppers Stop

in Fashion, Inspiration, LifeStyle, Music, Travel

Swarovski- The perfect gift for your VALENTINE!!

February 11, 2017

The unique sparkle of its stones has distinguished Swarovski in the light of its competitors since 1895. Since its inception the brand has inspired generations of some of the world’s best designers, while infusing people’s lives with its ever sparkling glamour. From Marilyn Monroe to Madonna to Nicole to Bella Hadid, Swarovski crystals are the top choice of the many celebrities who have found a paramount source of dazzle & glamour in the beautifully carved crystals! Swarovski crystals have been used in creating some of the most beautiful gowns & costumes for celebrities since the early 1930’s!

Many a luxury designer and brand have collaborated with Swarovski to add that extra layer of pure beauty to their designs. Be it Roberto Cavalli or Jean Paul Gaultier or Jimmy Choo, almost every big designer has worked with Swarovski to create some of the most beautiful desing pieces! In fact, they even showcased their new cruise collection with a ‘crystallised banquet theme’ which was a feast not just the five senses but also to the heart & soul!

The idea behind the theme was that of a child jumping in delight as she enters a candy shop. Similarly, the Swarovski crystals’ opulence & finesse left us mesmerised! Further, the high fashion minimalism fed all our senses with some beautiful shine sparkle, while catering to our flights of fantasy & giving the imagination the freedom to love, play & break away from the daily doldrums!

So, add to that glamour a hint of subtle romance. In fact, I felt like the queen of the world despite being a fledgling – when I sported different looks every day at India’s biggest fashion week – among these shooting stars. Thank you so much Lakme Fashion Week for inviting us to the event, for we could experience fashion in the true sense of the word. More styled looks, more fashion updates coming your way, this is just the beginning!

Skincare courtesy- Skinlab by Dr. Jamuna Pai

Makeup & Hair- Lakme

Jwellery Courtesy- Swarovski

Styled by- Anuja Pandey

Photo credits- The Photo Tree

*Sponsored Post in association with Swarovski

in Travel

Dubai- city of dreams

January 27, 2017

When you talk of superlatives, when you speak about dazzling sun and sand, when the tallest and the largest or the first is the question, when you think of shopping festivals, then, of course, it is Dubai. With the tallest building, Burj Khalifa, which is being lighted in tricolour for the first time in history as a mark of honour to the largest democracy in the world, Dubai is surely a place to visit if you yet have not been there. And many of us who have been there go year and again to have an amazing family holiday.

Few things I suggest should be done when you are in Dubai are-

A desert safari when you go dune bashing, the inner child in you screaming, followed by an entertaining evening of acrobatics n belly dancing n some local food in the tents is not an unusual sight. But these days lots of resorts have started the trend of luxury tents in the desert when you get to spend a day there and the packages include desert safari, quadrabikng, food and cultural extravaganza.

Even if you have done it many a times yet a Visit to the tallest building, Burj Khalifa, gives you a thrill unmatched, each time you go. The beautiful view from top gives me a high like no other thing. And why not, who won’t want to view life when you are at the top!! The 124th floor, the selfie clicking young or old couples (love is ageless, timeless) is such a happy sight. This should be ideally followed by a musical fountain experience and dinner with your loved ones.

If there’s any city that takes shopping malls seriously then it’s Dubai. Not only do global brands flock this retail capital, but shoppers from all over the Middle East and beyond come to this place to appreciate the grandiose of the malls here. Here’s my pick of my favs-
a) Ibn Batuta Mall– is inspired by the Moroccan explorer Ibn Batuta and is the largest theme mall in the world.
b) Dubai Outlet Mall – This gives almost 30% to 90% discounts on the luxury brands and otherwise.
c) Mall of Emirates– This is known as the world’s first shopping resort and it keeps entertainment also as the priority for its shoppers who can enjoy a indoor ski or snowboarding or play with penguins.
d) Dubai Mall– in the heart of downtown housing the biggest brands is a delight to any shopper. This also is home to the world’s largest aquariums and aquatic zoo, the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo.
Madinat Jumeriah the Arabian resort – is the largest resort in Emirates and is a five star resort in Dubai. This was my personal favourite for the reason of its design. It’s designed to resemble an Arabic town and houses over 40 restaurants and pubs and lots to shop locally. This is just adjacent to Burj Al Arab and Wild wadi water park. It encompasses three boutique hotels.

Atlantis, the palm is UAE luxury hotel resort at the Palm Jumeriah and is known for its splendour, picturesque location. There’s no dearth of hotels when it comes to Dubai and similarly no stopping to shopping, but my principle is to make memories and capture good moments.

A walk down the Jumeriah beach or a good opera show makes a great time spent with your loved ones and family. Time to cherish things beyond materialism. When you are at Dubai you know food and spas are umpteen in no. The next blog would be on the Sheikh Zayed Mosque at Abu Dhabi, and next on food and spas. This one is a pick of my favourite instagrammable places one shan’t miss if they are in Dubai. Shopping can wait but time won’t.

Global village is another fantasy land with beautifully done sets of every country from Middle East, Asia and Europe, with their respective food, buzzing market of local produce, and happy faces. If one wants to have an overview of so many places at once then this should not be missed. The gandola rides in the water body gives a great feel. Dubai is surely a paradise for a traveller or a shopper, equally.

[Outfit Details]
My wardrobe curtesy- Forever New
Shoes- Cole Haan
My desert safari look– Guess Jeans
Superdry tees

in LifeStyle, Travel

Two days in the outback farm at Bannerghatta

November 1, 2016

Friends today is Karnataka Rajyotsava and I was born in this state and have spent a great amount of my early childhood in jungles and Mysore so I’m in love with namma Karnataka. This is my experience from my recent excursion and my photography of wild life in Bannerghatta .

It was a cold misty morning of the October. I along with my grandad were in front of the Toehold office waiting for the force traveller to arrive. As soon as it came, I hopped onto it. I stuffed my suitcase in the dickie and placed my bag pack in front of my seat. Soon the force traveller zoomed away, taking us past fields, villages and some vegetation. Soon we entered the gate of Bannerghatta or Ragihalli forest. We opened the window to get the aroma of the lush, green forest. We soon reached the Outback Farm.

Sandwiched between two hills, it was a haven for birds and wildlife. We soon entered the farm. It was a lovely, cozy farm with a small lake, three rooms, an activity centre, a kitchen and a really interesting bird hide. We were introduced to our rooms and were allowed to freshen up.

After an hour or so all of us collected in the activity centre. We were first introduced to the place by Phillip, our camp mentor. He talked to us about the flora, the fauna, the birds and the photography opportunities you would get in the farm and the surrounding forests of Bannerghatta. He told us about Bannerghatta being the closest forest to any major city to house elephants, leopards and tigers in the world. We then looked around for the signs of the animals and put up camera traps there hoping to catch a sight of a leopard, a porcupine or the elusive pangolin.

We later had our lunch and were ready to go for some bird photography. It was around 3 and the bird activity would start getting higher at the time of the day. We armed with our photography equipment headed towards the bird hide. The bird hide was kind of a shed which had holes on either side to put out our lens and transparent glass to look through. This helped us observe and shoot birds without disturbing them. We got to click photos of a variety of exotic birds. We saw many bulbuls, white eyes and munias. We were also lucky to see the rare tickellblue’s flycatcher and the white browed bulbul. I also got a chance to use Phillip’s huge 500mm lens. It was certainly one of a kind experience.

We later were ready for bonfire. The warmth of the bonfire gave us some relief from the cold nights of the October. We played many games, had our dinner and went to sleep. The next morning we woke up to the sounds of the birds. It was a new day and a fresh start to something new. It was morning and the best time to spot birds. Therefore we spent our time in the bird hide aiming to get a glimpse of a few more birds. We were this morning really lucky to get a glimpse of a mongoose.

We later had our breakfast and put on our baits. Yes, it was time for angling. I managed to catch a carpe. We released it back without harming it. After a while of fishing Phillip decided to take us to Tattekere or the ‘plate lake’. Why the name? It’s because the lake was flat, as flat as a plate, and in Kannada Tate is plate and Kere is lake. The lake was popularly known as the ‘Kabini of Bannerghatta’ due to the elephant activity here. After a time of clicking landscape pics of the lake we retreated to the farm and had our lunch.

After having lunch we rested to save our energy for the hike to the top of ‘Doddabetta’. Doddabetta had been Phillip’s favourite place in Bannerghatta and therefore he had decided to take us to the place. We left the farm at 4 in the evening. We started hike at 5 passing through evergreen forests, dry deciduous forests, elephant territories and leopard territories. We managed to spot a black capped oriole and tiger pug marks on our way up.We finally reached the top. The view from the top was amazing. We managed to spot a lot of birds at the top. We saw loads of swifts, raptors and swallows. We also spotted a lark and heard the calls of the elusive yellow- throated bulbul. We got amazing landscape shots. On our way back we managed to see a nightjar. I got amazing pics of it. We enjoyed our bonfire where we made and devoured our own s’mores. However it soon started pouring badly. We decided to call it a day. The night Phillip slept in our room as it was on the edge of the forest and a few were feeling scared to sleep alone. It was finally our last day which we spent angling. We also saw an olive keelback killing a fish. We soon bid goodbye to the farm, Phillip, Samantha and the Rosses. It was time to go back home with the amazing stories of our camp. It was a memorable experience which would remain in my memories forever.

I hope this Diwali you also realise what responsibilities you have towards your environment and how many birds and animals die due to noise and sound pollution. So let us keep safe our beautiful nature and the various wonderful spectrums of our Mother Nature. Jai Karnataka !!

Written and photographed by – Vedansh Pandey,
7 th grade student, NPS

Outback Farms

in Travel

CIRQUE DU SOLEIL

October 3, 2016

1 Comment

As you know I was in Canada for a while as I was visiting my brother there and he is a die hard fan of Cirque du soleil, which is a theatrical act and is extremely popular amongst any art and theatre connoisseurs all over the world. So he promised me that he would take me for one of the shows and he could somehow take time out from his very busy schedule for the show-date with me one of the days. I thoroughly enjoyed and was mesmerised by the performances of the young artists who were not only agile and quick in their moves but also so very expressive and eloquent when it came to love and romance enactment, it left me touched. The best part of going in Hardy’s ( my brother’s) August company was this that he told me so much about how this started and how with sheer hard work and vision of two people whose brainchild was this (they used to perform on streets way back), it is a grand success, being the largest theatrical producer in the world.

Having seen such a mesmerising show with the right company of somebody who went on throwing so much light, I had to blog and also vlog on it with whatever little I could make video of with my I phone, trying my best not to disrupt the focussed, brilliant act of the performers who were so passionately engrossed in their beautiful artistic showcase.

Cirque du Soleil ( “Circus of the Sun“) is a Canadian entertainment company. It is the largest theatrical producer in the world. Based in Montreal, Quebec, it was founded in Baie-Saint-Paul in 1984 by two former street performers, Guy Laliberté and Gilles Ste-Croix. Each show is a synthesis of circus styles from around the world, with its own central theme and storyline. Shows employ continuous live music, with performers rather than stagehands changing the props. After financial successes and failures in the late 1980s, Nouvelle Expérience was created – with the direction of Franco Dragone – which not only made Cirque du Soleil profitable by 1990, but allowed it to create new shows.

The company’s creations have received numerous prizes and distinctions,and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. In 2000, Cirque du Soleil was awarded the National Arts Centre Award, apart from many other renowned awards. In 2002, Cirque du Soleil was inducted into Canada’s Walk of Fame.

It’s style of incorporating emotional live music from the beginning to the end of the show and when the acts done by performers tell the story, and the extensive use of props and equipments which are used by artists not a technical crew, the movement of these props from stage to the the fact that no circus animals or rings are used, make it an exclusive, adrenaline gushing experience for most of the audience. The performers keep the audience so glued that the momentum of the storylines is never disrupted and you flow with it naturally, totally absorbed and one with the performers who usually are great at acrobatics and gymnastics and win your heart.

The multiple permanent Las Vegas shows alone play to more than 9,000 people a night, 5% of the city’s visitors, adding to the 90 million people who have experienced Cirque du Soleil’s shows worldwide.

THE CIRQUE DU SOLEIL FOR SPINAL CORD IMPLANTS (aim2walk)

So if you are a theatre fan then make sure to not to miss it as the real culture of any place can be learnt best through art and music and of course food. The plays, the storylines and the exuberant show of the skilled performers showcase the culture and history of a place usually. So make sure to watch it whether you are in Canada, or Las Vegas or Spain or any other place.

The fact that makes the audience so mesmerised and the magical impression sealed on our minds when we leave the show is not only the story of the play but the flexibility and strength of the performers. It’s almost surreal to see some of the positions the body can contort to.

💕💕 So be lofty as you cherish colourful spectrums of the art, history and culture with loftyspectrums 💕💕

in Fashion, Travel

Old historic Quebec : series 2

August 9, 2016