tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-88929424358438848342024-03-19T13:58:06.612+05:30Vetti Kadhaikaapi, murukku and ghup shup!Deepa Iyerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05798361845125638686noreply@blogger.comBlogger80125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892942435843884834.post-63756918311590753112014-10-17T17:20:00.000+05:302014-10-17T17:20:12.737+05:30The proposal<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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It's been a few months since my life took a sharp upswing turn and I am sort of liking this. What's not to like when you can come home to the man you love! And with all festivals, friends and family, life is colorful and bright (literally).<br />
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As I settle into this routine of work and home, the hitherto befuddled brain slightly started to clear. These days, I find some time to sip my tea in the morning, sitting on the rope swing the husband so lovingly installed on the balcony. And I started wondering how exactly did I marry this man! Did he ask me to marry him? Oh I know proposals are so overrated but I am such a huge M&B fan and a die hard romantic. So it was only natural that I imagined a million ways he would ask me.<br />
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Long drawn words, flowers, going down on one knee, roses, candle light dinner, beaches, long drives, small notes, late night ice creams, looking into the eye and proclaiming endless love - all these and more remained a dream. His friends told me he was a romantic and I hoped for a long time. Yes, 3 years is sure a long time. So, one day I called to give him an ultimatum (of sorts) and even before I could utter a word, he says "I just told my dad that I've selected the girl I want to marry". My jaw dropped. This was absolutely not what I expected. No where near. One of life's mysteries I suppose.<br />
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A few weeks later, I asked him how certain he was that I wanted to marry him. He simply said "I know".<br />
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So yes, we are married now, for about 4 months, 9 days and a few hours. Life is blessed and I hope we stay this way.<br />
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<i>Psst: After all this time, I got flowers for the first time (on my birthday) and a couple of notes :) I am not complaining.</i><br />
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Deepa Iyerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05798361845125638686noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892942435843884834.post-25977741149253551052014-05-05T15:31:00.004+05:302014-05-05T15:31:39.152+05:30A - Z - Reflections<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
A big thank you to all the fellow bloggers and non bloggers who diligently read through my posts. I'd chosen a theme and it was fun blogging about the places I'd traveled or wanted to travel. Some posts garnered tremendous response, while few others went by with a few hits. This time around, I read a lot of stories, poems and some brilliant posts across the globe. It was yet again a fantastic experience. When I signed up for this challenge on a whim, I was quite skeptical of finishing this what with a lot of changes happening in life. But then, I am glad I did sign up and complete this for I now have read blogs that are simply poignant and wonderfully written.<br />
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Congratulations to all those who finished and look forward to seeing you all again next year same time. :)<br />
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Yay I survived. :) Cheers<br />
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Deepa Iyerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05798361845125638686noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892942435843884834.post-59926551030286918202014-04-30T15:19:00.005+05:302014-04-30T15:19:55.911+05:30Z for Zurich<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
What a wonderful journey through the challenge and a fitting last post - Zurich - one place that's most definitely on my wish list and because I've been promised that Lausanne will happen, am sure Zurich will too. I also want to do Zanzibar; perhaps later?<br />
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Zurich is commercial and residential and has nothing much to offer in terms of a nature lover's paradise; yet there's something about this city that's always captured my attention.<br />
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So, with that I end this year's challenge. The reflections post will be up later next week. Cheers to all those who pursued and completed the challenge.<br />
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Deepa Iyerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05798361845125638686noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892942435843884834.post-54737084032998630332014-04-29T09:44:00.001+05:302014-04-29T09:44:27.955+05:30Y for Yorkshire<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
We are nearing completion and I am exhausted from all the travel, although mighty excited because I now have a good bucket list :)<br />
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And now, we travel to the historic county and perhaps the biggest of them all in the North of England. Home to some beautiful national parks and cliffs and beaches, it's no wonder this place is nicknamed God's own county. Yorkshire also has plenty breweries and some have been active as early as the 12th century and in its hay days used to produce at least 60 barrels every 10 days. Beer anyone? :)<br />
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Deepa Iyerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05798361845125638686noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892942435843884834.post-33611596266837315022014-04-28T10:52:00.000+05:302014-04-28T10:52:04.048+05:30X for Xinjiapo<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Xinjiapo it's nothing but Singapore (<i>in Mandarin :) </i>)A country that's so near yet so far for me. Having heard a lot about this country from my friends and colleagues, I just hope I can plan a trip next year at least. I will write more after I travel because I am very sure I will. Travel, that is.<br />
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Any tips, pointers, off beat places in Singapore, suggestions - most welcome. Cheers<br />
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Deepa Iyerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05798361845125638686noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892942435843884834.post-86422351710328782492014-04-28T09:21:00.003+05:302014-04-28T09:21:44.687+05:30W for West Indies<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
It's been a mad mad week and all I want to do now is chill out. Take a break. Take a vacation. Counting days to my first long vacation in perhaps 10 years? Thanks to this challenge, I am at least virtually traveling.<br />
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Today it's West Indies (<i>that includes the Lucayan Archipelago</i>). For someone who prefers mountains, the last few posts have all been beaches that also have some amazing mountains :) I am not complaining at all.<br />
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The food is very similar to Indian / Arabian cuisine and derives a lot from local fresh produce, rice, coconut, beans and meat.<br />
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Not to mention that some of my favorite cricket players hail from the West Indies. :) :)<br />
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<i>Pics courtesy Wiki</i><br />
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Deepa Iyerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05798361845125638686noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892942435843884834.post-44861582209241906102014-04-25T10:40:00.000+05:302014-04-25T10:40:35.431+05:30V for Vanautu<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
As I googled for more places to add to my wishlist, I chanced upon Vanautu - a lovely little archipelago near Australia, in the South Pacific. I am not sure if I will ever visit this place, but by the looks of it, it has a lovely history and some great local fresh food. French and English are the official languages along with Bislama which is the national language.<br />
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What intrigued me most is the national dish - Lap Lap - a recipe made with taro paste and coconut milk and steamed in banana leaves. It's said that most food here is steamed and there's very little fried food. As I wondered if I can ever get to Vanautu by air as I am not too fond of traveling by sea, I did note that they have a cute little airport and is well-connected to Auckland, Australia, Japan and USA. There is hope after all.<br />
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<i>Pics courtesy Wiki</i><br />
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Deepa Iyerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05798361845125638686noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892942435843884834.post-43943232678103584512014-04-25T10:14:00.002+05:302014-04-25T10:14:35.481+05:30U for Uluru<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
The world's most beautiful natural sandstone formation in Central Australia is in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. This particular rock known as Ayers Rock is also a sacred entity for the aborigines and has a huge cultural significance. If I ever visit Australia (<i>yes it's on the wishlist</i>), I'd definitely want to visit Uluru.<br />
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Deepa Iyerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05798361845125638686noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892942435843884834.post-53102645353690531212014-04-25T09:55:00.000+05:302014-04-25T09:55:15.716+05:30T for Thailand<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
A country with a beautiful history and a very close neighbor to mine - Thailand. On my wishlist for a very long time now. Ruins and history on one side and some very modern buildings on the other side, mountains on one side and amazing beaches on the other, Thailand will make a picture perfect holiday destination.<br />
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<i>(Psst: Someone, please take note)</i><br />
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<i>Pics courtesy Wiki</i><br />
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Deepa Iyerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05798361845125638686noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892942435843884834.post-48277670197166259812014-04-22T10:34:00.003+05:302014-04-22T10:34:54.029+05:30S for Sikkim<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
When I started this challenge, I couldn't wait for the day when I'd be able to write this post. My best holiday till date - purely because of one thing - my love for mountains. From Chennai to Calcutta by train, from Calcutta to New Jalpaiguri, from there to Siliguri and from thereon a 5 hour curvy-winding-narrow-up-on-the-mountain-lane bus drive is how I reached Gangtok, the state capital.<br />
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The huge majestic snow capped mountains, sub zero temperatures, mild snowfall and just a few yards away - natural hot water springs is what I call nature's creativity. The gushing Teesta river to the north of Sikkim causes sheer excitement and goosebumps. As I go up the Nathula Pass and stand with the soldiers of the Indian army on the Indian border, what I see beyond is pure white - layers and layers of snow. The mountains beyond cast a beautiful image in contrast to the white snow and specks of miniature trees. I was misty eyed, not because of the cold, but because what I saw in front of me is an experience I shall never ever forget.<br />
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Some of the soldiers and I built a snowman and while we did that, they narrated a story.<br />
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There was a soldier by name Harbajhan Singh who once vanished in the glaciers. He appeared in the dreams of a fellow soldier and requested that they build a temple for him in the mountains as he was lost and he'll be able to find his way back. The Indian government acceded to this request and a Baba Mandir was built a few minutes trek down the snow capped mountains. The soldier had provided the Indian government with information on some infiltration before he missed his way in the mountains. It's believed that a prayer here keeps the soldiers safe during trying times. (<i>And I can't forget the hot sheera that was served here as prashad; I thought I died and went to heaven - snow capped mountains, mild chill and hot food - that's heaven for me</i>)<br />
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I stand up and salute these guys that stand there braving such fickle weather and loneliness and protect this country. They deserve all the love and respect that we can give them.<br />
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The other side Sikkim is relatively warm and is covered with tea estates and monasteries. In one of the monasteries in Gangtok, a wolf roams about freely and is regarded as a pet animal.<br />
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I missed the Gordungmar lake at 18000 ft as the weather became very fickle and I wasn't allowed to go there. Yumesang was picture perfect notwithstanding the fact that my jeep got stuck in the snow and required 2 strong people to move it out, else I wouldn't be here to write this post. :)<br />
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The local liquor made of millets steeped in hot water, is fun to drink. The local music and rock bands are simply the best.<br />
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And some visuals below (<i>all pics taken using my Sony 6 MP digital camera</i>)<br />
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Deepa Iyerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05798361845125638686noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892942435843884834.post-2768014584011923482014-04-21T13:46:00.001+05:302014-04-21T13:46:40.780+05:30R for Rameswaram<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
The southern tip of India that connects Sri Lanka, not only has a political significance but a very important historical / mythological significance. It is said that Lord Ram built a bridge from here to Sri Lanka to rescue his wife Sita who was abducted by Ravan. There are evidences to prove that this bridge (<i>Ram Setu</i>) indeed exists. A beautiful temple, lot of history and a brilliant beach - this place is definitely on my list. While Danushkoti was washed away in a cyclone, the temple still stands strong, a testimony to the brilliant architecture of our times.<br />
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<i>All pics courtesy Wikipedia</i><br />
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Deepa Iyerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05798361845125638686noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892942435843884834.post-20605921992100439192014-04-19T21:10:00.000+05:302014-04-19T21:10:46.226+05:30Q for Queensland<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I fell in love with Australia after watching the Masterchef series. While I am really not a fan of beach-y places, Queensland is one such place that has beaches on one side and mountains on the other. The Gold Coast, Great Barrier Reef, Sun Coast, the rain forests are some of the most popular tourist spots.<br />
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<i>PS: It's a very short piece today (as the day has been super busy and I hardly had time to breathe). Blog inspired by fellow blogger <a href="http://www.ourowncorner.com/poohsden/" target="_blank">Vinitha's </a>Queensland pics on twitter.</i><br />
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<i>Pics courtesy Wiki.</i><br />
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Deepa Iyerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05798361845125638686noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892942435843884834.post-22814230694129056072014-04-18T10:20:00.002+05:302014-04-18T10:20:18.712+05:30P for Pune<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I have been associated with this city for over 3 decades now; as they say, home is where the heart is; and my heart will always remain in Pune. A small city about 3 hours drive from Bombay, Pune is rich in culture, tradition and yet has a very modern outlook. I've spent quite some time here and have felt completely at home every time I step foot here.<br />
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A small airport where you walk across the runway to board a flight is managed by the Defense forces. The route to the airport is so scenic that you'd just want to walk your way reveling in the beauty of nature. A walk on MG Road, Camp and East Street gives an old world charm. Kayani Bakery makes the best shrewsbury biscuits. Shopping for groceries at Dorabjees, late night ice creams at Naturals, a cup of mint tea and a book at German Bakery, Double cheese omelette, bun maska and cutting chai at Vohuman's cafe, yummy dosas at Shekar's, the amazing bhakarwadis at Chitale, Dagudu seth Ganpati, shopping spree along Tulsi Bhag and Laxmi Road, a quiet visit to Kasba Ganpati, an evening at ABC Farms over a glass of wine, quiet homestays along the Mula river and Mulshi Dam - all this and so much more leaves me wanting to go back.<br />
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The T20 World Championships that we watched at a friend's place, a trip to Choki Dhani, a village themed resort, getting drenched in the rain, loitering around late in the night, crashing back at my place watching a funny movie - all these will forever remain fresh in my memory.<br />
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Hot summers, cold winters and insane monsoons is how I have experienced this city.<br />
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I miss my friends, I miss the city, I even my previous workplace; I can't wait for a change to go to Pune and spend a few days visiting all these places and revel in the memories.<br />
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This post is also dedicated to all those people that made my time in Pune so memorable that even after all these years I miss them and miss the place.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Choki Dhani - A Village Themed Resort</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIQ75X6UXVzpe-9OwPyPOp65GDEqcFNVWScXc_RFkPheCTPBSTF3-De3L6EBdqii0PMoZdQCERAQejWgJqNUZl-YOQdjNqbZ8lUssxIuJahYNVc64_07jTqg8QeZNVhfcwXKLkpxvqyBNv/s1600/DSC00899.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIQ75X6UXVzpe-9OwPyPOp65GDEqcFNVWScXc_RFkPheCTPBSTF3-De3L6EBdqii0PMoZdQCERAQejWgJqNUZl-YOQdjNqbZ8lUssxIuJahYNVc64_07jTqg8QeZNVhfcwXKLkpxvqyBNv/s1600/DSC00899.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Khadakvasla Dam</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nature Walk - Eco Village - Off Mulshi</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyUNO4a39rW6kwr-S1rob2P5oQqUlibcJqwkv9HeQS-KeZETHQ5Df3JMFtH8Ra3xiOjAGRtudX7Hzk19KQfkfqrgGqZnOCKybqpyHyurykXWmvFxehR4vwIghF_Oh0CzdHRmcR7cdd-hkF/s1600/DSC00986.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyUNO4a39rW6kwr-S1rob2P5oQqUlibcJqwkv9HeQS-KeZETHQ5Df3JMFtH8Ra3xiOjAGRtudX7Hzk19KQfkfqrgGqZnOCKybqpyHyurykXWmvFxehR4vwIghF_Oh0CzdHRmcR7cdd-hkF/s1600/DSC00986.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I miss this rowdy bunch</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And I miss my team</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">East Street Cafe, East Street</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4R1ax4rckrpqc68pUWc_JVi40X_SmYGFaBFhq5FxzPWAtn_aC9ZISN3znEagMy2N2bQIppDSzJNsaoW0NWCAi-N641TVUlXA6RIH53Tx7qcU4jm6kMkDymW1GeqSANJPFLwsboHSKq4RT/s1600/WhileTrekking.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4R1ax4rckrpqc68pUWc_JVi40X_SmYGFaBFhq5FxzPWAtn_aC9ZISN3znEagMy2N2bQIppDSzJNsaoW0NWCAi-N641TVUlXA6RIH53Tx7qcU4jm6kMkDymW1GeqSANJPFLwsboHSKq4RT/s1600/WhileTrekking.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A team trip to Ananda Valley</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBSu0F-YkI46rMQGOVLnPlZzgIrBEaG18KXHUCmuvHqaU649luLu4mFwRFNM_GtfEEBSpvTdzuCQA77T7fRMlryXIu_tsbEPolxuw7NDC3vTqILAAkwGiKS8ZJSEpHgCprD_JNEEO3JTJ8/s1600/EntireTeam.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBSu0F-YkI46rMQGOVLnPlZzgIrBEaG18KXHUCmuvHqaU649luLu4mFwRFNM_GtfEEBSpvTdzuCQA77T7fRMlryXIu_tsbEPolxuw7NDC3vTqILAAkwGiKS8ZJSEpHgCprD_JNEEO3JTJ8/s1600/EntireTeam.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oh yes, we eat all the time - celebrating Roshan's birthday!</td></tr>
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Deepa Iyerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05798361845125638686noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892942435843884834.post-10505487692690043352014-04-17T12:36:00.002+05:302014-04-17T12:36:47.075+05:30O for Ooty<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
One more hill station adding to my list of places traveled. Located in the Nilgiri hills and often known at Udagamandalam, this once pretty hill station is called the queen of hill stations. Ooty was the summer capital of the erstwhile Madras region, during the British Raj. (Even now, the place is beyond crowded during summer vacations)<br />
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Extremely well connected by roads and rail, my fondest memories of Ooty were staying in a beautiful little cottage owned by a relative and being bundled in layers of warm clothing as we had never seen such chill cweather, having lived in the hot and humid Chennai. I have some of the best Chocolates, Tea and fresh vegetables from this region. I haven't been here in decades now but I do hope I can go again and relive some old memories and make new ones.<br />
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From Ooty, it's easier to cover other places like Conoor, Top Slip, Coimbatore & Pykara Dam. Yes I want to go again. :)<br />
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<i>Pics courtesy Wikipedia</i><br />
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Deepa Iyerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05798361845125638686noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892942435843884834.post-9581575715587887012014-04-16T11:17:00.001+05:302014-04-16T11:17:46.104+05:30N for Nepal<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
One more mountain country for me to visit - Nepal - shares it border with India on one site and China on the other, a bit of Tibet on another side. Home to some of the important peaks including Mt Everest, Nepal has remained on the wishlist for a very long time now. Mountains, fields, valleys, lakes - this little country has it all. Despite being the birth place of Buddha, surprisingly this country practices Hinduism as it's main religion.<br />
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Now, I am already dreaming about a vacation to Nepal. Sigh!<br />
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Have you been to Nepal? How has your experience been? Must see places? Off beat trails?<br />
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<i>Wishlist: Norway, New Zealand, North Pole? </i><br />
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Deepa Iyerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05798361845125638686noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892942435843884834.post-28328851823137981332014-04-15T11:07:00.002+05:302014-04-15T11:07:34.408+05:30M for ManSarovar<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
If I ever want to do one thing in my life, it is this trip. While I don't care much about the religious importance, I want to do this for my love of mountains and the sheer excitement and adrenaline. The selection process is arduous; one has to be physically, medically and financially fit to undertake this long and tedious journey around the Mt Kailash. The 52 km trek is daunting and requires not just the physical stamina but expect the traveler to be in top mental condition. The climate and terrain is not easy; the trek is complicated and it's nothing short of a miracle to complete this journey.<br />
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Have you done this trek? What advise do you have for travelers like me? And how many of you want to join me for this if I do plan to go?<br />
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Merely thinking about this and looking at the image below gives me goosebumps. Har har Mahadev!<br />
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Deepa Iyerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05798361845125638686noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892942435843884834.post-9548033106625284832014-04-14T13:19:00.001+05:302014-04-14T13:19:04.073+05:30L for Lausanne<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
A beautiful French city overlooking Lake Geneva, that serves some of the best cheese fondue in a pretty chalet is a must visit for anyone that visits Switzerland. Obviously, I haven't been here as yet but is now going on the wishlist. A ferry ride across the lake takes you to France and when the weather is great, lot of picnic baskets crop up around the water front. Lausanne is the Olympic headquarters and you can see the clock ticking away marking the countdown to the next Olympics.<br />
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Perfect weather, amazing food and clean lifestyle - I wouldn't mind settling down here :)<br />
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<i>Wishlist: Ladakh, Leh</i><br />
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<i>All pics shot by S on recent work trip to Lausanne, Switzerland.</i><br />
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Deepa Iyerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05798361845125638686noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892942435843884834.post-83541494732076404682014-04-12T21:34:00.000+05:302014-04-12T21:34:56.042+05:30K for Kumbakonam<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
This very beautiful temple town south of TamilNadu has been one of my favorite places in the recent years. It's about 6 hours drive from Madras and boasts of some of the most breathtaking temples in this region. Even if you don't believe in temples or God, it's worth visiting the temples in this place simply for the way they've been designed and constructed. The huge praharams (courtyards) and pillars make for some quiet evenings to be spent in sync with oneself.<br />
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The etymology of the name Kumbakonam is quite interesting. It's said that the seed of the universe got displaced during one of the huge pralayams (<i>or massive destruction</i>) and finally chose to settle in this particular place. The Mahamaham festival (<i>conducted once every 12 years</i>) commemorates this.<br />
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Kumbakonam was ruled by the Cholas, followed by the Pandyas and later formed part of the Vijaynagara Empire ruled by Krishnadeva Raya. Post that, it was also ruled by the Nayaks and Marathas. There's a distinct impression of each of these kingdoms in this town.<br />
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The Airavatheswara Temple built by Rajaraja Chola is part of the World Heritage Sites. Swami Malai, Patteeswaram Durgai, Adhi Kumbeswarar Temple, Thirumangalakudi Sri Prana Naadeswarar Temple, Oppilliappan Kovil, Pratyankira Devi Temple, Tirunageswaram Temple, 9 temples for each of the planets are some of the famous temples around this area. To visit all the temples in this region, this one lifetime is not enough and I just wish some day I am able to visit most of the temples here.<br />
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The degree kaapi (<i>filter coffee</i>) is absolute bliss (<i>although beware of the fake kumbakonam degree coffee outlets that have now sprung up in every corner</i>). The bazaar streets are a shoppers delight, stainless steel, brass and bronze being the most sought after metals in this town.<br />
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From here, you can easily travel to other temple towns such as Tanjore, Chidambaram and Trichy.<br />
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What's your famous memory of this place?<br />
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<i>Wishlist: Kruger Park, Kashmir</i><br />
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Deepa Iyerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05798361845125638686noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892942435843884834.post-66374041750346459922014-04-11T09:20:00.000+05:302014-04-11T09:56:00.193+05:30J for Jodhpur<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I've always been fond of history (<i>though not from an exam perspective</i>). And I love palaces, walking through those long corridors and have always read cover to cover about kings and their kingdoms. I've seen the Mysore palace but I really want to visit this place during Dussera. The other city in India that has caught my fancy is Jodhpur. It's also known as the blue city (<i>while its cousin Jaipur is known as the pink city</i>) and is one of the top places to stay this year as listed by Lonely Planet.<br />
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Set amid the Thar desert, Jodhpur is the land of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dal_Bati_Churma" target="_blank">dal bhati churma</a> and a plethora of other desserts; food is one of the main reasons why one should visit Jodhpur. Jodhpuri suits and sandals have a place of their own in Indian traditional attire.<br />
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This place is on the wishlist along with Jaipur. The palaces have been now converted into huge luxury resorts and are popular destinations for those big fat Indian weddings. There will be a travelogue on this very soon (<i>not the wedding but Jodhpur</i>)<br />
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Deepa Iyerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05798361845125638686noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892942435843884834.post-41855234692499089902014-04-10T09:02:00.000+05:302014-04-10T09:02:09.706+05:30I for Indonesia<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
An archipelago towards the south east of Asia, consisting of over 13000 islands, including my favorite Bali, is going to be checked off my bucket list within the next year or two. The travelogue will be up as soon as I plan the trip. Keep watching this space :)<br />
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Wishlist: A whole <i>India</i> trip<br />
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Deepa Iyerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05798361845125638686noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892942435843884834.post-60423823532716239502014-04-09T10:17:00.000+05:302014-04-09T10:17:23.843+05:30Home Sweet Home<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Why is home figuring in a travel blog, that too midway? Simply because, even when you have the most luxurious vacation, there's nothing like coming back home to a hot cuppa and a cold shower. I love to travel, visit exotic locales, eat crazy food and do adrenaline pumping jumps but at the end of it all, the feeling of home, that battered couch, the old worn out pajamas and a mug of steaming coffee is what life is all about.<br />
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I've virtually now traveled 7 locations but I want to be back home and put my feet up. To gear up for the next whirlwind trip starting tomorrow :) To catch my breath, to get a feel of home, to know that there is this place that I can always come back to! Home.<br />
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Today is a pit stop at home.<br />
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Psst: Very soon, there's gonna be a new home :) Can't wait<br />
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<i>Wishlist: Hong Kong, Hawaii</i><br />
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Deepa Iyerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05798361845125638686noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892942435843884834.post-35079183414511236102014-04-08T10:47:00.001+05:302014-04-08T10:47:29.815+05:30Goaaaaa<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
An Indian holiday is never complete without Goa and it's indeed sad that I have never been to this place. I've spent approximately 2 hours in the sweltering heat of Goa in transit to Pune. Other than that, I am waiting for August where I might attend a beach wedding in Goa - a big fat Indian wedding. Yay!<br />
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My nearest Goa vacation was at this beautiful resort called Wildernest about 60 km from Panjim, on the Belgaum highway. It's definitely worth some vacation time. I will probably do a separate post on Goa once I do some vacation time there.<br />
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Susan: I am going to need all your help when I plan a Goa trip :) Do tell me all the off beat places and places where I get yumm food (<i>and drink</i>).<br />
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<i>Wishlist: Geneva</i><br />
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Deepa Iyerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05798361845125638686noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892942435843884834.post-78555321160300832352014-04-07T19:20:00.000+05:302014-04-07T19:20:08.958+05:30F for France<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
When I think France, I think wine and a laid back lifestyle. I don't want to do the usual run-of-the-mill French tour but do a few exotic places. I am going to let the pictures do the talking in this post<br />
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Champagne<br />
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Provence Lavender Fields<br />
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Loire Valley</div>
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French Alps (and the mountain love in me craves to see this at least once in my life)</div>
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Deepa Iyerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05798361845125638686noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892942435843884834.post-68627764409828221842014-04-05T20:58:00.000+05:302014-04-05T20:58:15.034+05:30E for Egypt<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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If there was one country in the world that I most definitely want to visit, it's Egypt. I am a sucker for history <i>(only when when they are not lessons in school and I have to take exams). </i>We learnt pyramids and pharaohs in school but it wasn't until much later that I started falling in love with all this. Most of the places I want to visit are because of books or movies. And this one is none the better.<br />
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If you have read <i>The Ancient Egypt</i> Series by Wilbur Smith, you'd know what I am talking about. The Nile, the pyramids, the beauty of the kings and queens, the spices, the flowers, the smell of valley, the sand, the desert, the camels and even the burial customs have intrigued me like no other. And of course, the food :)<br />
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What are the must see places in Egypt other than usual touristy places? Drop in your thoughts.<br />
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<i>Wishlist: How about a full Europe tour? :) </i><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aswan Dam, Nile, Egypt. Image courtesy: Wikipedia<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Macaroni Bechamel - Image courtesy - Wikipedia<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Umm Ali - The national dish of Egypt - Image courtesy: Wikipedia</td></tr>
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Deepa Iyerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05798361845125638686noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8892942435843884834.post-1921978921253642402014-04-04T09:04:00.000+05:302014-04-04T09:04:07.153+05:30D for Darjeeling<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I've traveled up North, to one of the extreme points of India but skipped Darjeeling. This is another hill station that I want to visit sometime soon. This sleepy little town developed sometime in the 19th century during the British Raj when tea plantations were established. The Darjeeling tea is one among the most popular international teas. This town is a eclectic blend of various cultures because it sits right there on top where it borders one culture too many - Nepal, Tibet, India & Bangla. Home to some of the famous public schools, this town boasts of some exclusive education, especially for expats and the rich and famous.<br />
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Considering I come from a hot place, I wouldn't pass up any opportunity to visit at a hill station. This one is just perfect in many ways, especially if you want to travel further north (<i>and more on that, in later blog posts</i>) And the hills are my favorite, always and forever. :)<br />
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Have you been to Darjeeling? What did you like or didn't like about this place?<br />
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<i>Wishlist: Delhi, Dubai</i><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image courtesy: Wikipedia</td></tr>
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Deepa Iyerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05798361845125638686noreply@blogger.com10