Top 5 ways to remain active during your travel

As avid travellers, everyone likes to make the most of their trips. It is very important to stay healthy while being active. When one is active and energetic, one can actually enjoy every moment spent during the trip. So it is very important to follow certain things that can help you excited throughout the trip. Certain little changes can actually create wonders in your activity levels. Although I have written a separate article on how to stay healthy while traveling but...

Here are Top 5 ways to remain active during your travel

1. During travel, since one has to walk a lot,ar running shoes of good quality or brand so that you are comfortable while walking.

2. Carry comfortable clothes that you are used to wearing so that there are no last minute problems that can otherwise take your more than half of attention rather than enjoying your trip.

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Nidhi KM

Walking with water all time to stay active

South Indian & coastal food @ Peninsular Kitchen

Peninsular Kitchen

Once my cousin had told me about Peninsular Kitchen. Me and my husband decided to go. Initially somehow I thought it would be like a normal south Indian restaurant in Delhi but then upon reading its menu, I realized, its an authentic South Indian restaurant offering the cuisine that one will actually get down south. When few years back I had gone to Bangalore, I realized there is so much to South Indian cuisine apart from just dosa , sambhar. Similar situation happened when I travelled to Kerala. In both the trips, I had actually experienced South Indian food.

Entrance of Peninsular Kitchen

In Delhi again until I started with Viharin.com, south Indian food to me was still Dosa Sambhar, vada, uttapam etc and limited only to few famous restaurants.

As we entered the Ambiance Mall, level 3, Peninsular Kitchen stood bold and strong at a very prime location surrounded with Republic Day celebrations. At the entrance, it was a very nice and comfortable seating arrangement depicting boats and sea waves. Furniture, walls and floor were very nicely jelling with each other to create a perfect ambiance for a nice dining experience. Soothing music was playing at the background. Light brown colour furniture added to the overall ambiance.

Ambiance

Seating

As we seated, we were greeted by owners, very lovely hosts Ms. Anshu and Mr. Gaurav Goel.who told us how while living in Mumbai, they had got fascinated with coastal and South Indian cuisine. Gaurav wanted to fulfill his dream to open a restaurant since his Hotel Management days. Anshu being from HR background combined with her culinary and creative skills joined hands with Gaurav to realize their dream in Delhi. Food totally inspired by South Indian and Coastal regions. In a way since they tried to touch cuisine of Peninsular region, hence the name Peninsular Kitchen.

Food at Peninsular Kitchen

As part of a welcome drink, we were offered salted buttermilk which was served in traditional Indian ceramic pots. I loved those lovely pots and the salted buttermilk. Pots specially took me to the historical era of 'khullars' in which ancient India used to have their drinks.Then we were served with Kokum Kadi. It was spicy but good.

Chutneys and salted buttermilk with chips

In a while we ordered Stir fried chicken, slow fried mutton, Chicken Chettinad and Kerala Fish fry. I loved stir tried chicken. It was delicious and nicely cooked. Chicken pieces melted in my mouth. This is a Kerala dish with a lot of Masala. A must try.

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Stir fried chicken

What I saw in Western group Temples Khajuraho!

Since my schooling days, I had read about Khajuraho temples. There have been ample T.V. shows focussing on Khajuraho temples. I had been always wanting to visit Khajuraho at least once in my life but it being in plains and having on inclination towards plains , never went to see Khajuraho. But in December when I learnt about IRCTC FAM trip to Varanasi, Khajuraho and Agra, I was happy and immediately said a big YES to the FAM trip.

Khajuraho Temples World Heritage Site

Khajuraho temples are one of the World Heritage Sites and draws a lot of visitors per month. At the entrance sprawling lawns welcomed us.

View near the entrance

First we heard story from the guide about the history of Khajuraho Temples. It was interesting to know that to increase the population of the town, such different and unique statues were made on the outer walls of these temples to spread the message. Yet another interesting fact was to understand that Tantrik people in historical times wanted to achieve salvation via certain methods.Point to note is that there are no such statues inside temples.

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Inside a temple

Beautifully done up temple

Hotel review Clarks, Khajuraho- India

When we reached from Khajuraho railway station to our hotel Clarks, it was a sigh of relief. The grand entry of Clark's elevated my spirits.

Along side of drive way were big sprawling gardens.

Since we visited there around 22nd of December Christmas decoration all around in lobby enchanted me. Santa Claus in the middle of lobby was luring kids to attractive gifts. In the front was a restaurant.

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Lobby at Clarks Khajuraho

Hotel Clarks

Valentines Day @ Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort

Thinking of visiting Bali, get more out of your Bali trip this Valentines. Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort, an award-winning resort located in the heart of Bali’s Kuta Beach, is offering several unique experiences for visitors and guests to celebrate Valentine’s Day in Bali-style. With a prime location near the Kuta Beachwalk and overlooking the stunning Bali Strait, Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort is the perfect getaway for a romantic weekend or a family vacation.

Infinity Pool Sunset

Located near renowned Kuta Beachwalk, close to shopping, dining and gorgeous beaches, this resort provides utmost convenience providing views of either the Indian Ocean or the resort’s lovely couryard.Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort offers three restaurants with distinctive cuisines , setting and views.

To celebrate the most romantic of holidays, Valentine’s Day, Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort is offering three romantic experiences for couples.  Spend an indulgent afternoon at Shine Spa, followed by dinner at Bene, the resort’s award-winning signature restaurant overlooking the ocean.

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Photos and content credits Sheraton Bali Kuta Resorts

Restaurant Review Ganpati Resort, Agra

After the nice trip starting Varanasi till Agra and Fatehpur, we were quite hungry and resorted to Ganpati Resort.

Ambiance at Ganpati Resort

Sprawling lawns welcomed us with a huge lobby providing way to a vast open air restaurant spread across acres of land. It was a beautiful landscaping with seating arrangements catering to various types of gathering. I loved the greenery around. Big buffet table was laid in front with a coffee and soup table on the side. It reminded me of farm house scene of movie 'Maine Pyar Kiya' .

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Lawns at Ganpati Resort

How to plan a trip to Khajuraho

Khajuraho Railway station

I had heard and read about Khajuraho since my childhood days and had always thought whether ever I would go there. Reason being Khajuraho is quite far from Delhi and places which are plain are quite less attractive for me. But still I wanted to visit Khajuraho at least once in my life to quench the curiosity of this world famous destination.

Khajuraho Air Port

When I heard about IRCTC Heritage Circuit Special Train providing Khajuraho as one of the destinations, I thought my wish had come true. I wanted to explore the place right away.

Since  Khajuraho is a world renowned destination, one needs to know how much time is necessary to spend there. 

Important things to see and do in Khajuraho

1. Eastern Group of Temples

2. Western Group of Temples

3. Shopping on the way to Western group of Temples

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Western group of Khajuraho temples

Authentic Thai cuisine at Neung Roi, Radisson Blu Plaza Delhi, Mahipalpur

Neung Roi Entrance, Photo credits Neung Roi

I had been longing to savour authentic Thai cuisine since long. I wasn't able to find a restaurant for the same. These days, the authenticity of cuisines of one destination is fading as many restaurants have joined the race of fusion food. When I got an invite to review Neung Roi – Radisson Blu Plaza Delhi’s newest Thai restaurant, I accepted the offer immediately.

Neung Roi means 100 in Thai and has been named after the 100oC East longitude, which runs through Thailand. It was an interesting meaning. 

Ambiance of Neung Roi

Neung Roi PDR, Photo crefits- Neung Roi

Beautifully decorated with exotic chandeliers and shades, the brown coloured furniture well pronounced the overall ambiance of the restaurant. Sophisticated ambiance with dim lights are perfect for a romantic meal or a confidential business meeting or a nice talking session with close ones. Atmosphere is peaceful and cosy. Entrance welcomes with a magnificent wall showcasing beautiful flowers and water around them. There is a separate dining area for private meals. In front is a transparent glass behind which is live kitchen.

Food

Neung Roi celebrates 'Sum Rap Thai' meaning  from four major culinary regions Isan, Lanna , South and the Central Plains. While Isan is known for spicy flavours, Lanna is for hot and salty dishes. South is renowned for seafood and fresh produce and Central plains are known for subtle and balanced cuisine.

Very first we were served with Miang Kham which means all food in one bite. It was on betle leaf filled with peanuts, fried onion thinly chopped and sauce. It was supposed to be had folded and in one go, to be able to savour all ingredients at once. I liked it because a.) It was healthy b.) It resonated with our traditional Indian Paan in the concept in terms of ingredients wrapped in leaf.

Miang Kham

We started with two exquisite variety of salads nicely presented and hygienically made. Each salad had distinctive flavour. Yam Som-O - Pomelo salad with crispy onion, garlic & palm sugar tamarind dressing. 

Yam Som-O Salad

Yam Mamuang- Raw mango salad with cashew nut and chopped onions. This was lusciously delectable. I just loved it. It was irresistible. Whenever I am in Neung Roi, this is going to be my first order.

Yam Mamuang

Starters started with Tod Man Khao Pod- Corn fritter with sweet chilli sauce which was delicious and oil free and precise on crispiness.

Tod Man Khao Pod

Gai Yang- Grilled chicken with coriander roots & roasted chilli sauce was my favourite as the chicken was tender and juicy alone with being crispy. It had appropriate blend of spices creating a flavour that was toothsome for my taste buds.

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Gai Yang

Celebrate Valentines Day @ Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech

In today's fast world, who does not want to spend time with loved ones! One of the strong reasons to escape from busy lives is to be away from hussle bussle and routine work. What if you get a superb offer from Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech?

Well, if you get to spend your precious moments at a place filled with 10,000 rises and Atlas mountains at the background, won't it be an experience of lifetime? Mesmerizing Arabian Nights with utter luxury and comfort will make a memorable stay.Ideal for couples seeking a romantic getaway.

Marrakech-villa-mandarin-pool-terrace-01

Package at Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech

Special treats include breakfast for two in the privacy of guests’ villa or suite, a romantic dinner at restaurant Mes’Lalla and an Aromatherapy Spa experience in a double cabin.

The Romantic Escape is priced from EUR 750 based on double occupancy, and includes:

·         Breakfast in bed for two in the privacy of your villa or suite

·         One four course romantic dinner at restaurant Mes’Lalla, prepared by acclaimed chef Meryem Cherkaoui for two people, including two cocktails

·         A one-and-a-half hour Aromatherapy Spa treatment for two in a double spa suite

·         A romantic welcome in your villa or suite, including a bottle of Veuve Clicquot Brut Champagne and special delicacies

·         Round trip transfer from Marrakech Menara Airport

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Restaurant review- Penthouse GK-I, Delhi

Penthouse as the name suggests is a Three storied building with partial open terrace on the top. The restaurant being located in the happening market of GK 1 stands prominently. I was invited to review the same.

Penthouse Image- Photo credits Penthouse

Ambiance

1st and 2nd floor were nicely done up with brownish furniture and hanging lights creating an aura for a romantic and sophisticated dinner time. Top floor was the place where media review event was held. It being January, was quite pleasant and nice in the open air. At the entrance was bar. The rest of section was divided into enclosed area and hope area. Small tables were laid with high chairs.

Penthouse - Photo credits Penthouse

Food and drinks at Penthouse

When it came to food, I tasted Chicken Tikka Trio served with three different sauces. I liked chicken as well as sauces. Amritsari fish which was very soft and juicy and also had a perfect taste.

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Amritsari Machchhi on top and Chicken Tikka Trio

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What you can experience at Sarnath Museum in Varanasi

Sarnath Museum

As part of package by IRCTC Heritage Circuit Special Train, we visited Sarnath Museum. This museum was one of its kind. It had a grand entry, was neat and clean and one could see enormous footfall. 

To the left of gate was Sarnath Museum shop that had good and quality stuff. There were souvenirs, stoles, India's National Emblem, Buddha mini statues and a lot of interesting stuff.

We were not allowed to take cameras inside. So , I deposited my purse and camer in safe.

In museum many Buddha Statues were displayed. This museum was built with the intention to display excavations from the Archaeological Site of Sarnath.

Most of statues were broken as found during excavations. The museum had about 6,800 sculptures and artifacts.

Where to shop near Sarnath Museum

Outside Sarnath Museum is a long and massive market of street side vendors selling souvenirs. One must buy stuff from there. Its a good market and stuff needs to be bargained. One will get a lot of variety in terms of Buddha mini sculptures, art and craft stuff, lucky charms, key chains, our National Emblem mini sculptures and many more. One can easily spend minimum one hour shopping there.

Art and craft stuff

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Pecans, life rejuvenating nuts from USA

Pecans

Due to hectic lifestyles including sitting jobs for more than eight hours, travelling in cars and least priority to exercises, yoga and other fitness regimes, people are just glued to their laptops, TVs or smart phones. So, to provide a healthy future to ourselves and our future generations, it is very important to start working towards the cause now.

Pecans in their shell

Along with inculcating healthy eating habits like inclusion of fruits, curd and proteins in our diet, we should also add dry fruits. Mostly all dry fruits are rich in anti oxidants and help in one or the other system of our body. Through recent research, scientists have discovered many positive benefits of Pecans.

Pecans care relished tree-nuts by American natives since centuries. They provide strong nutrient value like minerals and vitamins. Pecans are regarded as highest amongst all nuts. They are one of the highest provider of anti oxidants thus helping in reducing the risk of cancer, coronary heart disease and neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s.

Apart from good buttery taste, Pecans are blessed with below crucial health benefiting properties

1. Pecans have the highest antioxidant content of any nut.Presence of Oleic acid and Phenolic antioxidants helps in reduction of coronary strokes and other artery related diseases.

2. Pecans contain more than 19 vitamins and minerals including Vitamin A, Vitamin E, Colic acid, Calcium, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Potassium, several B Vitamins and Zinc.

3. Pecans are cholesterol free and naturally sodium free and can add to the total cholesterol reduction by 16%

4. Just one ounce of pecans has more zinc- an important nutrient for proper growth and strong immunity – than a 5 ounce piece of skinless chicken (typically a good source of zinc)

5. Pecans can be frozen and refrozen for at least two years without loss of flavor or texture.

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Visit to Dhamekh Stupa Sarnath Varanasi- India

Entrance at Dhamekh Stupa

One of the other crucial site to be visited as part of Varanasi tour is Dhamekh Stupa.

Beautiful tree at the entrance

Dhamekh Stupa is the point in Deer Park where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. This site is estimated to house about 1500 priests with wells. The site was destroyed by invaders and is currently under excavation. The site is under the Archaeological society of India.

Dhamekh Stupa complex

At the entrance, there were huge gardens. Very neat and clean with seating at certain places. I was amazed to see similar structures all over. There were small sections as if it was a room to some during older times. Everywhere there were stairs leading up to open space clearly indicating some inhabitants in the site long ago.

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Place of first Sermon for Buddha

Sarnath Temple at Varanasi

I had read about Sarnath Temple during my school days as part of history subject. So had always silently wished if ever I would be able to visit Sarnath. My wish was granted by IRCTC's heritage Circuit Special train. I felt very happy upon hearing the news about my visit to Sarnath Temple.

Positive notes by Buddha

How to reach Sarnath Temple

Sarnath is 13 kms from Varanasi. We reached Varanasi by train. On the station, our buses were already parked and waiting for us. It took about half an hour to reach the temple. One can even hire cabs outside the station.

Preachings of Buddha

My experience at Sarnath Temple

As I entered, I could feel a lot of positive vibes.There was a walk way to reach the temple. Many boards were containing Buddhist preachings. We took off our shoes and headed inside. There was a hollow dome like structure. The temple was very neat and clean. Floors were shining. One could easily meditate there.

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