Tattlers Diary

                                       Part two – Spiti Valley

Spiti valley has been on my bucket list for a long time, even before I visited Leh. This time, from Sangla we headed towards an adventurous road trip to Spiti.  This is a very long drive from Sangla valley nearly 10 hours, and we were told the roads are not good, I wondered if they will be worse than what we already did till Sangla. We started quite early in the morning for our destination – Kaza in Spiti valley.

On the way to Kaza, I was spell bound to see some breathtaking views, the changing scenery every few minutes. Every time we saw these landscapes I kept thinking if it was real, they looked so perfectly painted except that they were so real.  As we drove on those treacherous roads, we did not spot any civilization for miles and miles. That moment I was reminded again of the reason that makes me love these road trips, they give you so much time with yourself.  In all those places I started to feel that we were the only ones on this planet, somehow gave me a sense of freedom and alienated me from the rest of the world. The landscape keeps changing and you never seem to be able to absorb the magnificence. I could not resist from stopping the car every few minutes to click some astonishing photographs.

Being in the rain shadow area and at such a high altitude the sun is very strong, with extremely chilly winds. The narrow roads scared me at so many places, felt like we were driving right at the edge surrounded by gigantic mountains. We reached the cold mountain desert around evening and were amazed to see the scantily populated town of Kaza at 14,000feet. Due to the altitude, we faced some breathing issues and slight headache but was manageable with lot of water intake.

Kaza is a very small beautiful settlement amidst massive mountains. Standing right there soaking in the first view of the valley, it looked picture perfect. There are a lot of hotels around with basic amenities and home stays are also a very popular option here especially if you want to experience the local life.  But, let me tell you and this is definitely worth a mention we booked ourselves at Hotel Deyzor. Did not expect, this warm wonderful treat nestled in the cold mountains.  This hotel was such a pleasant surprise. Managed by a young guy called Karan Bedi, he proved to be a great help to make our stay memorable at Kaza. Extremely hospitable environment, mouth watering food, cosy rooms – all I can say is the place is done up very tastefully and has a certain charm to it. Good food and a great place to stay makes the travel much more enjoyable.

As we ventured out the next day to explore the market place and the nearby villages we observed how the raw beauty of Kaza is still untouched and non-commercialised. You will not see a lot of typical tourists in this area, only travellers/bikers seeking out for adventure and who enjoy such terrains. Interacting with the locals in the area made me realise the simple way they live their life. Kaza gets electricity only for a few hours during the day and is mostly run on solar power. There is a BSNL tower but no other mobile network works in this area. So, this place really takes you back in time which surely felt incredible. It seems like a very different world out there, as they say this is Himalayas best kept secret. Considering the valley is covered in snow for most part of the year, the locals are forced to the confines of their households and through the year in summer time prepare themselves as they stock up on all essentials such as food, water, groceries etc. in their houses. Imagine their wants and needs is still that basic in life.

It is truly a world within a world, disconnected from the world we live in and still connected with each other.

An attempt to capture the magnificence & beauty in my lens...Pictures and more! 

Yes, this is the road to spiti!

On way to Spiti....

Finally, welcome to Kaza

                                     Part One : Sangla Valley 

I have not been a fan of road trips during my early years of travelling but after having done a few I started to enjoy them and now I am addicted to doing at least one every quarter. Over the years I have realised, how such trips challenge you, make you grow as an individual with varied experiences by meeting different people from all over the country.

Having been to Ladakh a couple of times, I already am an aficionado of gigantic mountains and the raw beauty of nature. So this time, we headed to Sangla Valley. This takes about two days from Delhi by road. To avoid the immense traffic jams, start early in the morning from Delhi. Till about hundred kilometres after crossing Shimla you will get paved roads and not too much traffic once you cross Narkanda.

This is the road quality close to 100 kms after crossing Narkanda

On way Narkanda view 

Another beautiful hill station on way Kalpa

Almost after a few hundred kilometres from Shimla, road conditions are really bad. Considered to be one of the deadliest highways in India NH22, you experience narrow, broken roads, diversions and deep scary gorges. I kept thinking of the paved roads we left behind and when will I get a chance of seeing that again. Roads are extremely narrow, one vehicle can pass at one time and at certain points it feels like you are right on top of a mountain and all you see is a deep ravine on the other side. I saw a bus full of people stuck at a point like this and it sure looked scary. The driver had to off load all the passengers and with much difficulty passed the point. 

NH22. The road that takes you to Sangla

And the bus that was stuck. It was really close

So, moving on, we reached Sangla around evening and it was raining which made it quite cold. Having made no prior bookings, as we were approaching Sangla, we quickly started scanning trip advisor for good resort options. Banjara camps & retreat was rated as the most popular resort, we dialled to check for availability of tents and were pleasantly surprised as the voice on the other side said ‘yes, one tent is available.’ Happy moment, could not ask for more that time! Once we reached the resort, dumped our bags in the lavish tents and stepped out to gaze at the beautiful valley covered with clouds. We looked around and everything was so gorgeous that it made us forget all the tiredness of the travel. The one thing we craved the most that time was a hot cup of tea and as we were served chai, we sat outside munching the delicious cookies sipping tea enjoying the perfect weather. We were told by the manager at the resort that this is perhaps the busiest time of year for them and luckily enough we found a tent for us. The resort is located on the banks of Baspa River, close enough for us to hear the sound of water in the calm & peace of the place. I could not wait for the next morning to walk to the river and plant myself alongside the running water in the sun with a book in my hand. It is that feeling which I absolutely love.

Sangla is known for apple orchards and we saw one right next to the resort. We were there around June, so hardly saw any apples on the trees. We were told that the best time to see apples is from late July till September. There is not much to do in the valley and that is the best part. Though, for you to discover the lesser known Himalayas there are trekking/ hiking tours, rock climbing, rappelling, river crossing etc. that you can opt for or can explore some nearby villages on foot. We went to Chitkul which is a small village and is a couple of hours drive from Sangla. This is the last inhabited village near the Indo-China border and attracts a lot of tourists. As they say ‘Indian roads end here.’ The place witnesses a lot of snowfall, so the resort wraps up all tents by end of October and they re-open only around April time.  

To just sum it up, loved & enjoyed every bit of this place towering mountains around, the Baspa River, rich flora and fauna. It’s nature by your side. But, this is not the end of the journey only the beginning. 

So, Stay Tuned!

Sangla washed in rain and covered with clouds

The plush tents

Sun comes out giving a perfect view of the snow capped mountains and everything green

The Apple orchards

Baspa River

This creature was soaking in the view as well

Before the summer  sets in & the breeze gets warmer, we decided to visit Goa. Tired of the daily madness of work, deadlines, traffic snarls - ah typical life in a metro story! All we needed was some peace and quiet. While Goa is not exactly that if you are in North but South Goa has some beautiful places to help you rejuvenate. Our destination in Goa was Park Hyatt, one more time. Serene, private, and a rather clean beach, a superb swimming pool and lush green lawns  - Park Hyatt is where I find my nirvana. To add to the experience is the spa, mouthwatering food, and the tastefully done restaurants that include the sea-side restaurant right at the beach. It all comes together to create that mesmerising experience.

Here's a tour - 

The Beach

Park Hyatt Resort & Spa

The swimming pool

Sunset

Well, Goa spoils me every time I love spending my days at the beach or at the pool taking occasional dips in the water, reading a good book  and detoxifying with a mojito and salad. Evenings to me are about long walks at the beach as the sun goes down and dinner at one of the open air restaurants at the hotel binging on some gastronomical delights.

It is that time of the year again, where you see water everywhere. Yes, it’s officially monsoon in Delhi and rest of the country. While I am not a huge fan of rains especially in Delhi as it reminds me of water logging, huge traffic jams and chaotic roads. This season to me is best enjoyed far far away from the city. But, what to do when you are in the city and need to look your best at work, college, outing with friends, dates and all the special occasions. 

Well, here’s a quick dressing guide for this rainy season - 

Hair Care - Humidity levels are high thus time of year that have an adverse impact on your hair & scalp. So, try to keep your hair dry as much as possible. Tone down on your hair styling products and stick to mild shampoo & conditioners only. Shorter hair cuts are better and manageable but if you love your long locks, go for hair braids & buns for a very chic & stylish look 

Bun it up...Image courtesy Pinterest 

Make up - To me, minimalist make up is the key to looking pretty this season. Use only the basics - a good sunscreen which is a must to protect your skin tone even if the sun is not shining, go for a water proof kajal and liner and complete your look with a hint of lip gloss. To glam up your evening look add a dash of eye shadow and mascara. 

Clothes - Ditch the denims in the rains. Try out some fancy frills - rompers, polka dot dresses, floral printed jumpsuits, skirts, ankle length pants. Pair them up with light fabric tops. Mix and match your colors but try to avoid white. If you must wear white, be confident enough to pull it off

Footwear - While I am personally a huge fan of high heels, but for the rainy season strappy sandals & flip flops are a must. They are extremely comfortable to sail through the water logged streets. Please make sure to have your nails painted to avoid getting them dirty. To add some punk and style wear anklets with the flats

Accessories - Complete your look by adding some interesting accessories such as link chains, hoops, colorful handbag and hair bands. Oh and an absolute must have is a funky printed umbrella or a raincoat

I have picked up some looks from Pinterest. Check them out.....

I love quick weekend getaways, two quiet days away from the maddening city is always a welcome thought for me. I am sure everyone loves the idea of staycations. I love everything fancy, luxe and a lot of pampering for most of my holidays. So, in this post I bring to you two perfect locations for you to unwind and totally fall in love with everything around. Everyone  craving for some me time or family time or a romantic getaway, head right here –

ITC Grand Bharat, Manesar

If you are not in a mood to drive for more than an hour from Delhi, ITC Grand Bharat is the most luxurious option right in Manesar for you. Being the first luxury property by ITC, it takes luxury to all new heights. This is India’s first all suite luxury retreat. So that means, it has only suites (100) + four palatial presidential villas and no regualar rooms. The place is all about uber luxury and visual grandeur. As you spot the property amidst the Aravalli range, it looks picture perfect. I remember as the car pulled closer to the vast extensive property, I felt I am about to enter some film set.

This retreat introduced me to a new era of ‘unhurried luxury’; where time just stops. What that meant to me was, not having to wake up in morning worried that I might miss breakfast, cos well for all you lazy folks Grand Bharat has an all day breakfast menu. Yes, wake up whenever you like and just order breakfast any time of the day. No buffets, so just go to any of the restaurants and a hot meal will be served on your table. I was delighted by the gourmet experiences that include the ‘Aravali Pavilion’ (3-meal period restaurant) showcasing Modern India Mosaics, ‘The India Room’ (debuting Creative European Classics), the ‘Peacock Bar’ for amazing cocktail indulgences and ‘Apas Promenade’ (featuring regional specialties). Oh and while you are at it, please try the Cheese soufflé at India room. It’s the best I have ever had.

Like I said, it is all about luxury at this retreat – it has a 27-hole Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course,   signature Kaya Kalp spa and various bespoke services to make this the most memorable stay for you. I also tried my hand at Golf, with zero knowledge of the game, to begin with I was patiently taught by the coach to hold the club. I did decent though by striking a putt an hour into the game.

Go to ITC Grand Bharat to experience pure luxury and indulgence.

The retreat

Bedroom at the suite

Living room at the suite

Terrace area at the suite

Treatment room at Kaya Kalp spa

View of the Golf course

The Tree of Life Resort & Spa, Kukas, Jaipur

For all those who are happy to drive for four – five hours from Delhi, an absolute must visit near Jaipur is The Tree of Life. Away from the main highway and half hour before Jaipur, you will find this property nestled among a vast forest cover. As we drove closer, I spotted just too many trees and pretty pink tombs of the resort. It was a splendid soothing sight.

The resort is done aesthetically and has luxury villas with either a pool or a garden view. We booked the villa with the pool, so I could just dip in the water and enjoy the perfect weather. I was mesmerized looking at our villa, located independently atop a tiny hill; it was huge – living room, a bedroom, walk in wardrobe and the pool right outside. When I say indulgence, it is never complete to me without a good relaxing spa. The best part here was that we got the couple spa in our villa near the pool. They have the spa beds placed there and if you wish you are welcome to get the spa at your villa instead of the spa centre at the resort. No extra charges for this luxury. So a total thumbs up to this!

This is totally one of the resorts, which will give you absolutely no reason to step out. I enjoyed taking walks around, sitting and looking at the sunset in extreme calm and serenity. Everything around was so green, it will make you feel so close to nature. To make it perfect, they have a delectable menu that has some mouth watering preparations. Like I said, this is luxury so if you do not want Ala Carte, the Chef will visit you at your villa to discuss dinner options that he can cook as per your desire. Marvellous ain’t it.

Highly recommended for a weekend stay.

 The Villa

Living room in the villa

The bedroom in the villa

Private pool at the villa

Private spa beds at the villa

The resort

Infinity Pool at the resort

Once you are done with all things flashy at Vegas, it’s time to hit the road for some fresh air.  We made a day trip to Arizona from Vegas to check out America’s most popular tourist destination – The Grand Canyon.

Here’s how to make the most of a short trip to Arizona –

·       Hoover Dam – On way to the Grand Canyon we made a brief stop at Hoover. First reaction - Okay, this is really huge! As we climbed atop the dam, I kept wondering how this mammoth structure was built. We took a walk right at the top which is along the Arizona/Nevada Stateline for some astonishing views of the depth of the dam. I was intrigued to see the construction of this dam and kept bombarding our tour guide with a lot of questions that is when he mentioned something very interesting that the amount of concrete that was used in building the dam was enough to pave a road stretching from San Francisco to New York City. One can only imagine or see it to believe it.

 ·       Grand Canyon – More than any other destination, this is one place every tourist wants to explore around Vegas. This is around five hours drive from the strip. You can leave your car behind and hop on to the Parks shuttle that will take you to some majestic viewpoints at the Canyon. I was in awe from the moment we reached. Truly, if you have to describe nature’s grandiosity on planet earth, it is this place that does that best. You see spectacular panoramic views from every point at the north rim. I was amazed to see rocks hanging at precarious angles. As I tried to look down, the mere depth & scale scared me and I could hardly move. From certain points you can see the Colorado River running down below, but from some others I bet you can hardly look down.

 ·       Hiking/camping – To be able to explore the real beauty of this rock formation, you must hike it out. Superb views, stunning formations and just nature are reasons enough for you to venture into the rocky depths

 ·       Helicopter tours – Highly recommended at the Grand Canyon.  It’s the feeling of soaring so high above the masterpiece and then gently dipping lower  between the rocky columns that is pure ecstatic

 ·       Grand Canyon skywalk – This is a glass floored walk right above from where you can spot the Colorado River. Try to not hold to the railing, so you feel the edginess of walking over a glass at the Canyon.  Though, I did find this a little overhyped. You can skip this if you wish.  To avoid the crowds, walk around to quieter places and enjoy the splendour of nature

Hoover Dam

Stunning Grand Canyon

Las Vegas has always been on the top of my travel bucket list. And, I finally got the chance to visit Vegas this year. Expectations were huge, having heard and read so much about the city. When I reached I was able to relate to all the stories I had been listening about Vegas for all these years. 

 As the plane prepared to touch down at Vegas, all we could spot were lights everywhere in the city. Tall buildings lit up, lots of sparkling colours. Excitement started building up more as I spotted the tall green building from the plane that was MGM Grand the hotel we planned to stay. 

 It was late in the night by the time we landed but the place looked so vibrant and alive even at that hour. On our way to the hotel, I was thrilled looking around, my head was popping out of the window as the chatty driver kept filling us in about things to do while in Vegas. It looked like a carnival of sorts’ on the road. The idea of a hotel lobby was totally redefined for me. It was huge, nothing like I had ever seen before. It’s the energy you feel as you enter the hotel. Imagine entering a dazzling disco-lit world, casinos spread all over and centerpeice of the elegant lobby was a huge gold lion. I suddenly realised there was a unique hypnotising aroma, which seemed like a heady combination of perfumes, smoke, alcohol. I saw some really happy drunk faces all around. 

Well, I was finally in Vegas. 

 Our Hotel, MGM Grand was right at the strip, so all we had to do was step out and experience the city. As many must be aware, of the famous ‘The Las Vegas Strip’, and for those who don’t it is a 4 mile, glittering corridor that is flanked by massive casinos – hotels – nightclubs – theatres. At any time, be it day or night you will see people flocking at the strip. Trust me, this city never sleeps and even if you decide to stay in the hotel glued to one of the poker tables & your drinks, you will no longer be able to differentiate between night & day. Most exciting experience gambling, it was my first time. And yes, I won at Roulette almost 11 times of what i put in. Well, keep guessing that is a secret I will never reveal. 

I went crazy just looking at the number of people all around – dressed up ready to party. Oh, i spotted something very interesting on the roads - oversized ‘Souvenir cups’ and almost everyone was carrying one, sipping alcholol I assume. Sure, it might sound tacky as hell, but I found it difficult to resist the fun of holding one myself. And yes, while you are at it, make sure it is huge, so huge that people will doubt you can finish it without getting alcohol poisoning or whatever it is you decide to drink. 

 The most awesome bit is that all hotels are interconnected and have some great casinos & clubs, so all you gotta do is hop from one place to another. While cabs are easily available, the fun is in walking around to soak in the experience but that is only if the heels you are walking in are not killing you. I was awestruck looking at all the limousines moving around at the strip, considering I hardly have spotted any in Delhi. 

 While we were strolling at night, around Bellagio we witnessed the much talked about Bellagio fountain show. I was swept away by this breathtaking union of water, music and light. It just amazed me how this spectacular water feature was conceived to romance your senses. Perfectly choreographed, the show will flirt with you as you stand there. You can catch a glimpse every 15 mins. I remember we just stood there and saw it again and again for a long long time. 

You know apart from clubs, casinos - something that you must most definitely check out are the shows in Vegas. After gambling, this is what I wanted to do, we watched ‘Absinthe’ at Caesar Palace and believe you me if you want to watch one show, make it this one. It is set up in a very cosy tented ambience and everything just happens five feet away – Daring feats of strength & balance, wild acts that are both exotic and erotic. I have just one word to describe this – BRILLIANT. 

 In Vegas, you always feel there is so much to do and so little time or so I felt. 

Well, check out what happens at ‘The sin city’

So, in my last post I mentioned of all the hot spots in San Francisico. This time, let me tell you of some amazing destinations that are just a few  hours drive from SF - Napa valley,Yosemite national park, Berkely, Santa Cruz, Lake Tahoe among many others.

My favourite being  Napa and this is what I will share with you in this post. While in San Francisco, do make a day trip to Napa Valley for the most exquisite wineries.  All i will say is spectacular views, world’s best wineries, stunning architecture, gardens and great food. Here, you will see some of the most stylish tasting rooms both inside and outside. Also, for some great views do visit the hilltop wineries.

There are enough and many wineries in Napa, so take your pick. Winery tour is a great way to learn about the area and know how the wine is made. Though honestly, some of these names you hear can be quite overwhelming considering California has a vast variety of grapes that are grown.  Some important ones to remember and these are mainly what I tasted at Napa are - Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, the Bordeaux varietals of Malbec, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot.

I went around doing a lot of clicking. Check out the pictures and see if you like what you see:  

Travel Tip: Guided bus tours are always more helpful and insightful. Plus, you don’t want to be driving with all the wine tastings  

Today I bring to you my travel diaries from the west coast. I was in San Francisco a few months back, known to be one of the best cities of the world it has so much to offer for one and all. I lost my heart to this city, which has an amazing charm. Just strolling around the streets of San Francisco is a top thing to do on any visit to the city, with the steep hills rewarding the slog up them and fine views of the beautiful architecture and the breathtaking bay. To make the most of your stay, ensure you hit the hottest spots while in the bay area – Here is my top 5 from San Francisco. 

Alcatraz Island – One of the most interesting destinations the city has to offer, 19th century military fortress. Take a ferry ride to the island, a guided tour of the cells and enjoy the most stunning views of San Francisco skyline

Golden Gate Bridge – Most iconic structure of the city, not to be missed. Spotted from a distance, and to get a real sense of the grandeur & beauty of this bridge walk along or bike its 1.7 mile span

Pier 39 – Fisherman’s Wharf is a place you will find in every travel guide of the city. A totally must visit for a true spirit of the city. Bustling with people at all times, musicians playing soulful tracks as you walk by enjoying the beautiful weather. Eat, play, shop or just stand by the bay and enjoy the scenery.  Sea lions is a major attraction, check out the lazy animal soaking up the sun if any while at Pier 39

Cable cars – No visit to the city is complete without travelling in the oldest manually operated cable cars. Hop on to one from Powell Street that will take you right up to Fisherman’s Wharf. Make it a point to stand right in front, to enjoy the uphill and down ride and witness an absolutely stunning city

Union Square – For all the shopaholics, this is the place to be from all your luxury labels like Valentino, Armani, Louis Vuitton, Burberry to the high street brands like H&M, Zara, A&F to stores such as Bloomingdales, Barney’s  you just have it all here. Union Square also boasts of the biggest Macy’s in USA, with eight floors dedicated only to women. Ladies, you now know what i mean. So well, i understood the meaning of ‘shop till you drop’ literally at Union square. After you are done with all your shopping, there are some amazing restaurants in the area. Cafe’s in Union Square have the best to offer be it Italian, Thai or Japanese. And if you are craving for Indian, there are quite a few options to explore. So, shop and eat to your heart’s content at Union Square

Are you the kind who avoids travelling during monsoon? Well, time to re-think. Travelling during monsoons is quite pocket friendly with all the discounts by hotels & on air fares. Plus, with lesser tourists around, you can be sure of enjoying a leisurely holiday.

My love for beaches is eternal. Two of my very favourite beach vacations in India are Goa and Kerala. No surprises there! However, what I did not realize is that how rains make the sea look ‘oh so gorgeous’. Yes, well we all have read or heard about Mumbai rains at some point mostly the way monsoons in Mumbai are shown in movies. But, let’s not compare this one.

Goa – The eternal love story

Goa - one of my favourite holiday destination, tops my list for a beach vacation. I have always visited Goa around Feb as that makes for a perfect weather to enjoy the city. Except for this time when i decided to explore the city during rains. We stayed at Vivanta by Taj Holiday Village in North Goa this time around. An otherwise touristy destination, with the city bustling with people from across the globe, monsoon season is relatively quiet. Rains in Goa are a magical experience. Though, something you must avoid are the water sports, for obvious reasons in the sea in this season. But, to make the best of this time take long walks on the beach as you witness the skies turning grey looking so magnificent, trekking up forts, bird watching.

This is a also great time to let your hair loose at the popular nightclubs in Goa, which in this season are free of the long queues.

As they say, there is no bad time or season to visit Goa. Enjoy the picturesque city during rains. Happy Viewing!  

Vagator beach

Road to Vagator

Trek to the fort in North Goa

View of the sea from the hotel’s restaurant

Everything green at the hotel

Re-defining Kerala in rains

Truly ‘Gods own country’ as it is rightly called. This was my second visit to Kerala, purely dedicated to experience rains. So, we decided to visit Kovalam which has amazing beaches and the gorgeous backwaters. We made our bookings for a three day stay at The Leela, Kovalam, one of the oldest Leela properties in the country. The best part of staying in this resort was that the sea could be seen right from our cottage and the private beach of the hotel made it ideal so there was no need to step outside of the property.

Lots to experience during rains in Kerala, enjoy the authentic south Indian cuisine, some great walks by the beach, and visit to the waterfalls. Trust me, the rain simply adds to the greenery and beauty of Kerala making it picture perfect. This is also the best time to indulge in ayurvedic spa treatments to heal your mind and body.

Vacation in Kerala during rains is sheer bliss as i have tried to capture with my pictures. Enjoy!

Way to the private beach

Rains and the sea

Bright sunny day and clear blue waters

Sunset at the beach and different shades of the skies