tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30163297002627209772024-03-19T01:48:47.457-07:00the foodietrailsa lipsmacking journey through life. Food, travel and lifestyle stories. the foodietrailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852630301342089274noreply@blogger.comBlogger170125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3016329700262720977.post-29959097464801397312023-06-18T22:13:00.003-07:002023-06-18T22:27:09.919-07:00The Foodie trails to Vietnam <p> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="background: white; color: #222222;">Vietnam, it had never been on our top 20 countries to visit,
but it broke through the other countries, when in 2022, almost everyone from
India was heading to Vietnam.Economic times said that there was a 51% rise in
Indian tourists in the first 10 months of 2022. and while we went to Spain in
2022 ( here is my <a href="http://www.thefoodietrails.com/2022/11/the-foodie-trails-to-spain-travel.html" target="_blank">SPAIN BLOG</a> ) , the Fear of Missing out and the general curiosity
around Vietnam increased.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="background: white; color: #222222;">And so, in May 2023, we headed to this little Asian country ,
which I can only describe as Sensational. It is literally a sensorial overload.
I think if I had to describe the place it would be ‘water’ for me, just so many
different water bodies, each so different, from the Jade coloured Hong Kiem
lake in Hanoi, to the emerald waters of Halong Bay, to the flickering silk
lanterns and boat ride on Thu Bon river Hoi-an, to the Grand Saigon River Ho Chi
Minh, and the expansive Mekong river Delta . and the second word would be ‘coffee’
, I have done a post on the coffees in Vietnam on my Instagram page, because
coffee is literally a lifeline and a way of life in Vietnam. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg2idupqV0oi70YpPmct1oOGhnC9ilrvtPNzPTPD6yj7xTzvrxHHpWL35oU2SLY0yl2EiuSG51xx5LtKt-r5pUOQbsn6LDQgurl-vmPg8xjucZAPXk16eIAwGgFyC3GtuF56RzQvA3w68VN96REhNeTCdzGtQKIykwKe0W-luDzPc8S1JNhzf47XBbMd4/s1280/IMG-20230528-WA0061-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg2idupqV0oi70YpPmct1oOGhnC9ilrvtPNzPTPD6yj7xTzvrxHHpWL35oU2SLY0yl2EiuSG51xx5LtKt-r5pUOQbsn6LDQgurl-vmPg8xjucZAPXk16eIAwGgFyC3GtuF56RzQvA3w68VN96REhNeTCdzGtQKIykwKe0W-luDzPc8S1JNhzf47XBbMd4/s320/IMG-20230528-WA0061-01.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="background: white; color: #222222;"><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="background: white; color: #222222;">Here is our Itinerary and travel blog. Aswell as a few tips
on what you want to look out for, while planning your own Vietnam trip.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="background: white; color: #222222;">Day 1</span></b><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="background: white; color: #222222;"> -: Hanoi. We spent the day walking around Old
Quarter and it was a beautiful way to begin the holiday. Not rushed, very
soulful. We first went to the Hong Kiem lake where we were caught in a flash
rain , and found the Vietnamese hats <i>non la</i> were super efficient. The
lake itself has an interesting story of the sacred lake turtle that gave one of
it's claws to a King in the form of a sword to fight a war. Once the king won
the war, he came to the lake to return the magic sword, this the lake is also
called lake of restored sword. There is pagoda in the middle of the lake
dedicated to the sacred turtle.</span><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="color: #222222;"><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" />
<span style="background: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; float: none; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Then we went to the Note coffee cafe , which is 4
story building with paper sticker notes on every surface, with letters from all
around the world. It's such a happy vibe place.</span></span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" />
<span style="background: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; float: none; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">We decided to have lunch at the train street, but
the cafes at train street did not have lunch items. Very picturesque spot. And
you need to get 1 drink per person to enter the train street road. See all my
reels from the place using hashtag #thefoodietrailstovietnam</span></span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" />
<span style="background: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; float: none; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">We had lunch at MET restaurant,and would highly
recommend it. Vegetarian options available, also the pho and chicken curry were
delicious.</span></span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" />
<span style="background: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; float: none; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">At. Night we went to Beer street, and being a
Friday the place was buzzing. The seats are low, the beer cheap, the food
passable.</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Grb63DNJccYucv_F_Opae8o5tlIXZyft2fGkvWO5fNpA9MaIATNqr3wzAlW85GVyLy1bQv1KwN3RR7gB8hEJ2-Qnwa8xpUimKJ4EO6Cj9UD3LVXIy35jYBTpGbYmYYklTnW5VdJYdCiGMLcLSQEwTLPy1bQjUHPqnlMkdAoaUnxVWk5-zaeHSjkW57E/s4080/PXL_20230527_120818597.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4080" data-original-width="3072" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Grb63DNJccYucv_F_Opae8o5tlIXZyft2fGkvWO5fNpA9MaIATNqr3wzAlW85GVyLy1bQv1KwN3RR7gB8hEJ2-Qnwa8xpUimKJ4EO6Cj9UD3LVXIy35jYBTpGbYmYYklTnW5VdJYdCiGMLcLSQEwTLPy1bQjUHPqnlMkdAoaUnxVWk5-zaeHSjkW57E/s320/PXL_20230527_120818597.jpg" width="241" /></a></div><br /><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="color: #222222;"><br />
<b><span style="background: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; float: none; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Day 2</span></span></b><span style="background: white;">-
We started the day with hop on hop off city tour of Hanoi. Which was a waste of
money. Big tip ,if you plan on visiting the west lake Pagoda, or the Ho chi
Minh museum then wear long pants or skirts. No knees or sleeveless allowed. We
visited a gorgeous cafe called Bancong in Old Quarter which is like a flower
shop . The best part of the day was the Water puppet show. One hour of live
music, cultural story, and puppets, kids friendly, it's for 100 VND, and a 50
VND for audio guide. Dinner was at a insta worthy places called coffee club
near the Hong Kiem lake , great views of the night life near the lake. On
weekends the entire street is a walking street and there were live dancing and
night kite flying.</span> <o:p></o:p></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoxeNaPi-lUOEB7eAA2Xnk-xOf_vOyAWytmwrcI308j3MA0LnXcK-bY0hwY6jQSH1pBm_CyG8RKdqctzmRdho24EpiXLM7PxFdZQ6z_UMg8--MJ5ZG5qDAHIOaNgtIF4RaJyBxb5IuB5wjBXSqRNF8RXoEwHLcN9mm3pxgEO16maHyYL-T4ZWCRCul_yA/s4080/PXL_20230528_133442288.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4080" data-original-width="3072" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoxeNaPi-lUOEB7eAA2Xnk-xOf_vOyAWytmwrcI308j3MA0LnXcK-bY0hwY6jQSH1pBm_CyG8RKdqctzmRdho24EpiXLM7PxFdZQ6z_UMg8--MJ5ZG5qDAHIOaNgtIF4RaJyBxb5IuB5wjBXSqRNF8RXoEwHLcN9mm3pxgEO16maHyYL-T4ZWCRCul_yA/s320/PXL_20230528_133442288.jpg" width="241" /></a></div><br /><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="color: #222222;"><br />
<b><span style="background: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; float: none; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Day 3</span></span></b><span style="background: white;">- Checkout
from Hanoi and we set out at 8 am for Halong Bay. We set sail on the Paradise
Elegance 2 . A 2 day 1 night stay on the Natural Wonder if the World. On check
in we had a grand lunch, for vegetarians they even had extensive custom-made
dishes. Our first stop was a pearl farm and Kayaking on the bay. One of best
experiences to be surrounded by the natural wonder if the world and Kayaking
with my son. Our next stop was Ti top island which has a 400 step steep climb
to see a panoramic view of the Halong Bay area. There is also a small beach to
enjoy. Once back on the ship we had happy hours from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm which
is really value for </span></span><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="mso-no-proof: yes;">mo</span><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="background: white; color: #222222;">ney since it is but 1 get 1 drinks. The best
thing is that you can buy the drinks and keep it for dinner. Our dinner was a
sit down five course meal with our very attentive Butler Sam. We had a salad of
smoked salmon, a seafood bisque, a grilled seabass, beef tenderloin and an ice
cream dessert. The night ended with us fishing for squids.</span> Tip, yes you
can do a day tour of Halong bay, but if you have the time and money, the
overnight stay cruise is a great experience. <o:p></o:p><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="color: #222222;"><br />
<b><span style="background: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; float: none; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Day 4 </span></span></b><span style="background: white;">- woke up to a session of Taichi on the sun deck of
paradise Elegance with fellow cruisers from Korea, Laos,Japan, followed by a
cave trek into the Surprise Cave. 700 steps into the cave with stalactites
and stalagmites. We returned to a lavish breakfast and then checkout from the
cruise liner. The cruise gets you back to Halong Bay port by 10:30 am and then
it is about a 2-3 hour journey back to Hanoi that means by 1 pm we were at
Hanoi airport. We had a flight from Hanoi to Danang that day. We chose a flight
at 6 pm just to be safe , and I would recommend you get a flight at around 3 pm
from Hanoi, to save some time. By the time we landed in Danang, took a taxi to
our Airbnb in Hoi-an it was night and we just about managed the last dinner at
an Indian restaurant in Hoi-an old quarter.</span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS0uvoVEXAULLNOB0Xr0xy6KA6wLi57YWVE5lUX7cyKkJgvOgGf2Hidhmy7ytBxc7a6y5E083lYYVTvp9OFItA7ZWp0xO-ezXenoPMkqm4Wct--v85O7zp4DswZf_1VXtZq4umzC95v_yjEj9-Y3egdFlogpFMnKdwWVefWvH2QYrhPgkYmi9G_7fJl4M/s4080/PXL_20230529_062059599.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4080" data-original-width="3072" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS0uvoVEXAULLNOB0Xr0xy6KA6wLi57YWVE5lUX7cyKkJgvOgGf2Hidhmy7ytBxc7a6y5E083lYYVTvp9OFItA7ZWp0xO-ezXenoPMkqm4Wct--v85O7zp4DswZf_1VXtZq4umzC95v_yjEj9-Y3egdFlogpFMnKdwWVefWvH2QYrhPgkYmi9G_7fJl4M/s320/PXL_20230529_062059599.jpg" width="241" /></a></div><br /><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="color: #222222;"><br />
<b><span style="background: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; float: none; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Day 5</span></span></b><span style="background: white;"> -
We were staying at a cute Airbnb in outskirts of Hoi-an. They had cycles for us
to ride around paddy fields, also a swimming pool to laze in. We hired bikes
for the day ( highly recommend) and chose to ride around Hoi-an old quarter.
The Old Quarter is one of the places that survived the bombing from the Vietnam
war and it has buildings and township that transports you to another land. I
would highly recommend you find a place to stay in old quarter. Take a ticket
to the old quarter. In 120 VND you get to choose any 5 attractions you want to
experience in Old Quarter. Number 1 for us was the Cantonese Assembly hall with
the dragon fountain, the Faifo coffee house is a must for the view from the
terrace , the MOT herbal tea is literally the most instagrammed place and the
herbal tea was just for 16 VND, Hoi-an also has the best Banh Mi in Vietnam,
and ofcourse the linen and clothes shops are such fun. The evening we spent
riding down the river Thu Bon in Hoian, the lanterns on the boats, the paper
lamps in the river, the lanterns on the bridge, and all along the streets, just
makes Hoian the absolutely Magical place from any fairytale. 3 years back I had
written a bucket list of wishes, one of which was to see a flying lantern
festival, and this is the closest to that. The wishlist also had see the 7
wonders of the world, and Halong Bay is considered one of the Natural 7 wonders
of the world. To have 2 things ticket off my bucket list in 2 days was all that
a girl could wish for. The night life, the live music, the foot massages, yes I
could go back to Vietnam just to visit Hoi-an.</span> Top tip, the clothes and
artifacts and souvenirs are best bought at Hoi-an , they are the cheapest as
well as the best quality here, rather than Hanoi or Ho chi Minh.<o:p></o:p></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="color: #222222;"><br />
<b><span style="background: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; float: none; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Day 6</span></span></b><span style="background: white;"> -
Another brilliant day spent in Bana hills. The place is a Marvel of Human architecture,
and I don't just mean the Golden Bridge. They have medieval castles, and entire
hill sides converted into Pagodas and Japanese Gardens, and some of the world's
longest cable cars, and the alpine cruiser which is a self drive roller
coaster. Each turn and side is an insta-worthy view. We reached at around 9 am
and left by around 6 pm. Most people rush back at 3 pm. Don't. Wait for the
crowds to receed by 3-4 pm.</span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="color: #222222;"><br />
<b><span style="background: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; float: none; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Day 7</span></span></b><span style="background: white;">-
we left Hoi-an drove to Danang to catch the flight for Ho chi Minh City. Ho chi
Minh city felt like just another big city, and honestly was the least favourite
of our 3 city destinations. We stayed in a High rise Air BNB in District 3
Saigon Royal . But a better decision would be to stay in District 1. Everything
is touristy, accessible and walkable from District 1. District 3 had more
locals staying and they were not the friendly locals like Hanoi and Hoi-an ,
they were the busy, mind your own business, city dwellers, with little patience
and concern for Tourists. So stay in District 1. The places to visit would be
Nguyen street and Bui Vien walking street. A few beautiful parks in the
neighbourhood, a Saigon River cruise and that's about it.</span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="color: #222222;"><br />
<b><span style="background: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; float: none; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Day 8</span></span></b><span style="background: white;"> -
we had an option for Mekong delta river cruise, or Cu-Chi tunnel day trip or a
combination of both. We chose to do the Mekong river cruise. The tour starts at
7:30 and we return by 4:30 pm which is definitely a day well spent, since Ho
chi Minh doesn't have much to do in the city. Lunch is included in the day
trips. It's a beautiful Eco tourism. A different aspect of Vietnam.</span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCKKHvaFDuUFZNqxnxi0K3cC-O4CDfzdEWzehLdCy--e4EO59z7BM5PDm_6TGujC2Mt0IBAlwgZT_lo5VmZKAkIVMgHGwqDQ62f448sg6SSW8AC0eWLWeF8uWnO_T2HtMl-mLyxNA0MpN7wJxQHcucYJyUGDEi8FDNHCG6F5kLOFGst7uIBloR7fzH_6I/s4080/PXL_20230529_062258141.MP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4080" data-original-width="3072" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCKKHvaFDuUFZNqxnxi0K3cC-O4CDfzdEWzehLdCy--e4EO59z7BM5PDm_6TGujC2Mt0IBAlwgZT_lo5VmZKAkIVMgHGwqDQ62f448sg6SSW8AC0eWLWeF8uWnO_T2HtMl-mLyxNA0MpN7wJxQHcucYJyUGDEi8FDNHCG6F5kLOFGst7uIBloR7fzH_6I/s320/PXL_20230529_062258141.MP.jpg" width="241" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFrvBEkNZZ9hLEe1rqlW8IU2sZ0uJRHCZ8zarmGsRSKhYxf64PPh2NTeg-hG2aHdPQ7HbBoNOseGCahYwo95ema3eGci8Q8kwFQufrhPae7RmlenGFWXmd3tIiY9YNWXavYxgcXK5--ImplNX_wOcGihqbBwzZjKgbg9D-99Iad2fC098ikUiwU1gnJ3k/s4080/PXL_20230527_074458861.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4080" data-original-width="3072" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFrvBEkNZZ9hLEe1rqlW8IU2sZ0uJRHCZ8zarmGsRSKhYxf64PPh2NTeg-hG2aHdPQ7HbBoNOseGCahYwo95ema3eGci8Q8kwFQufrhPae7RmlenGFWXmd3tIiY9YNWXavYxgcXK5--ImplNX_wOcGihqbBwzZjKgbg9D-99Iad2fC098ikUiwU1gnJ3k/s320/PXL_20230527_074458861.jpg" width="241" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="color: #222222;"><br />
<b><span style="background: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; float: none; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Day 9 </span></span></b><span style="background: white;">-
Our last day, and we started the day with a visit to the War remnants museum
which is a must see, infact the only must do in Ho chi Minh city. It closes by
5:30 pm so go in the morning and yes take the audio guide it has amazingly
nuanced stories. Can easily spend 1-2 hours here.We then tried visiting another
beautiful place called the pink church, totally insta worthy, but they were
closed on Saturday and Sunday ! Honestly, we could have reduced half a day in
Ho chi Minh, and added a day to Hanoi. That way we could have visited Ninh
Binh, a day trip from Hanoi. <o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="background: white; color: #222222;">Stay recommendations – Hanoi ( old quarter ), Hoi-an ( Old
town, near river) , Ho Chi Minh ( District 1 )<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="background: white; color: #222222;">Hotel or Air BNB – advantages of hotel are, that breakfast is
included, rooms are cleaned each day, someone at reception to always guide you.
in the air bnb in Hoi-an we had a very attentive host, but in Ho chi minh there
was no host present, and we had to fend and figure out everything on our own. But
air BNB’s definitely give you more unique travel experiences than hotels, and
are excellent for big groups with children. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="background: white; color: #222222;">Food in Vietnam – Pho, definitely more Pho. And rice paper
rolls, spring rolls, bun cha, seafood in Ho chi minh and Halong bay, street
food and Banh ni in Hoi-an. Beer everywhere. Vietnamese Pizza was such a let down. And smoke
icecream another let down. We also tried some snake wine and yes, that shock
value reel has crossed 110 K views. Go check #thefoodietrailstovietnam for more
<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="background: white; color: #222222;">Souvenirs- if you like oils and acrylic paintings, Hanoi is
your place. Amazing works of art. And coffee definitely, also a Phin coffee
filter. I brought back a lot of pho, and Vietnamese sauces, and we are
recreating some of the dishes at home. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="background: white; color: #222222;">So my perfect Vietnam itinerary would be <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="background: white; color: #222222;">Day 1- Hanoi<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="background: white; color: #222222;">Day 2- Ninh Binh<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="background: white; color: #222222;">Day 3- Halong bay <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="background: white; color: #222222;">Day 4 – halong bay to Hoi-an/danang<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="background: white; color: #222222;">Day 5- Hoi-an day and night tour<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="background: white; color: #222222;">Day 6- Bana hills, plus night hoi-an<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="background: white; color: #222222;">Day 7- Ho-chi minh do the war museum before 5 pm<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="background: white; color: #222222;">Day 8- Mekong river <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="background: white; color: #222222;">If you have just 3 days to visit Vietnam or less – do only
Hoi-an , bana hills and Danang. Flight to Danang airport. This gives you the
best mix of culture and fun.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="background: white; color: #222222;">I hope this blog gave you lots of inspiration to make Vietnam
one of your holiday destinations for the future. Do write to me on my Instagram
page @thefoodietrails for any questions, also to watch the detailed highlights
and video reels and posts using hashtag #thefoodietrailstovietnam <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="background: white; color: #222222;">This year 2023 we have already gone to Meghalaya and here is our <a href="http://www.thefoodietrails.com/2023/04/the-foodie-trails-to-meghalaya.html" target="_blank">Meghalaya Travel Post </a></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLEGLbyZw0BBhEvmbvrCVCqkVt4SQZdpdIfsgHMmKQ0YNTnF6FA4-yeZhxVF3LABA65J1tkqJ1n22CTqg4d9tPWrZ-fUYh9ajOvtU9TYcQjBg3WGlM3pbwCPxeF4vu4_XIT9dIAmynlraRgaZ2yvv6a3ZIXxxGyMLdj0a3FN4TjeyV6ffuMEa33JyYT_o/s1024/IMG-20230528-WA0055.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLEGLbyZw0BBhEvmbvrCVCqkVt4SQZdpdIfsgHMmKQ0YNTnF6FA4-yeZhxVF3LABA65J1tkqJ1n22CTqg4d9tPWrZ-fUYh9ajOvtU9TYcQjBg3WGlM3pbwCPxeF4vu4_XIT9dIAmynlraRgaZ2yvv6a3ZIXxxGyMLdj0a3FN4TjeyV6ffuMEa33JyYT_o/s320/IMG-20230528-WA0055.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCRVY1O8EEJ_2layWmgcKiXXHgt_3ZeCxF0o0g3CYfP17eyxbT-K7secIw8bgMBBHanCjrLmqWVNaVW-1eLUCidJaaR1FNbQOGrqehCiPTRCGj4nvQI-aq8zoZCB_16PUlR0aMc31LYo1uauzBohp32qbGxWlrlKtb3FWi04K0vaRsD818RLMgdgdFirw/s1600/IMG-20230529-WA0003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCRVY1O8EEJ_2layWmgcKiXXHgt_3ZeCxF0o0g3CYfP17eyxbT-K7secIw8bgMBBHanCjrLmqWVNaVW-1eLUCidJaaR1FNbQOGrqehCiPTRCGj4nvQI-aq8zoZCB_16PUlR0aMc31LYo1uauzBohp32qbGxWlrlKtb3FWi04K0vaRsD818RLMgdgdFirw/s320/IMG-20230529-WA0003.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0OgJ8j97g3VflRICDf1lkQ_T1wuhXwuQHy1acoyIGZb_TDaNmJwVlh02-Tf24o4TYZlRlpy-sfaoh1p4mcrWrRQDj5kya5PSKvWycpqlQHcc-me6Ld1sR-6rewy0ImrW1ajy9xaKw6FzykkoN65Sl9buu0LgCn8CDgUITcQyTij8nLWLkApwNVyIUeJA/s4080/PXL_20230527_071859238.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4080" data-original-width="3072" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0OgJ8j97g3VflRICDf1lkQ_T1wuhXwuQHy1acoyIGZb_TDaNmJwVlh02-Tf24o4TYZlRlpy-sfaoh1p4mcrWrRQDj5kya5PSKvWycpqlQHcc-me6Ld1sR-6rewy0ImrW1ajy9xaKw6FzykkoN65Sl9buu0LgCn8CDgUITcQyTij8nLWLkApwNVyIUeJA/s320/PXL_20230527_071859238.jpg" width="241" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>the foodietrailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852630301342089274noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3016329700262720977.post-53591360586941119702023-04-12T22:35:00.001-07:002023-04-12T22:35:39.084-07:00The foodie trails to Meghalaya <p> </p><p class="MsoNormal">We travelled to Shillong on 20 Feb 2023 to 26 Feb 2023 , but
in reality we had been planning this trip from December 2021 . <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">After 2 years of Covid, we had finally decided that the
entire extended family, including all cousins, aunts , uncles would travel to
Shillong, Meghalaya and Kaziranga on Feb 2022. But as life would have it,
another wave of Omicron came crashing into us on January 2022, with everyone
getting ill, we feared another lockdown and cancelled our tickets. That year,
Shreysht had a lesson called ‘trip to Shillong ‘ in his second standard text
book, and all of 2022, I kept thinking of the missed trip to Shillong, even
though we travelled to Dehradun, Mussourie, Rishikesh, Haridwar, Benaras, Pune,
Imagicaa, Spain in 2022. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">So exactly a year later, same travel dates,in 2023, we three of us,
planned a small family trip to Shillong. It felt like meeting a friend. A
friend who we had planned to meet, many times, but plans never go through, and
then we meet many other people, but the friend is always at the back of our
mind, and then finally one day – we meet the friend. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Here is the travel itinerary of Meghalaya <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">20 Feb -Reach Guwahati at noon, have lunch and drive to
Cherapunjee ( 5 hour journey) . Stop at Umiam lake on the route for a boat
ride. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">21 Feb- Do a 7 hour trek to the double decker root bridge,
blue lagoon, and rainbow waterfalls in Cherapunjee. Stay over night in Cherapunjee.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">22 Feb- checkout from Cherapunjee, do a day trip to Mawsmai
caves, Arwah Caves, Wei Sawdong waterfalls, and then drive to Shillong. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">23 Feb- travel to visit Dawki river, visit cleanest village
Mawlynnong , single root bridge in Riwai. Drive back to Shillong.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">24 Feb- Shillong city tour, we visited Lady hydari zoo and
park, Ward lake, Don Bosco Museum, Cathedral of Mary help of Christians. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">25 Feb- Shillong peak, elephant waterfalls, sacred forest,
Laitlum view point . back to Shillong.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">26 Feb – drive from Shillong to Guwahati, some shopping at
market, caught afternoon flight back. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Things that I would change:<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">We should have stayed overnight in Cherapunjee on 22 , and
gone to Dawki from cherapunjee itself, it is closer, rather than travel from
Shillong. We should have not over extended ourselves to visit Laitlum on the
last day, it was a very long journey since we got a lot of traffic on the way
back. The re3ason why we did cherapunjee before Shillong was because we did not
want an overnight stay in Guwahati, but if you want to stay in Guwahati you can
do the other way around, Shillong first, then cherapunjee, then stay in
Guwahati. We could have easily avoided the 25 Feb itinerary, and maybe tried to
get Kaziranga in. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Things we loved the most :<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">The day trip in Cherapunjee when we saw the caves. They are
the most magnificent caves in India. Truly proper caves, with so many inroads
and walking , it was amazing, plus the wei sawdong waterfall that day was
fabulous.. The day trip to Shillong day when we went to ward lake and zoo, it
was a much needed respite from continuously on the road, a very restful fun
day, even the don bosco museum was intresting. The 7 hour trek to Rainbow
falls, it was a trek of a lifetime. I really enjoyed the sacred forest aswell, reminded me of the movie Kantara.<o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGHlVHucEtL6ddsHIkj5ljr2WYIhPjEIkXzE0cCJPwH0MhljdK-tK-Gcb-IxQN13xe0uV4YCKCtoiBtlTqyMnSI4scCswAByadffJGUzpkMO_FbryxVeQDIRr3b11I1Fq6nlb6n5zrZlOYrQHZSSwGGOn2WdV4NCTo8Grz8WECyh67rpqEOfz01NYC/s1600/IMG-20230221-WA0011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGHlVHucEtL6ddsHIkj5ljr2WYIhPjEIkXzE0cCJPwH0MhljdK-tK-Gcb-IxQN13xe0uV4YCKCtoiBtlTqyMnSI4scCswAByadffJGUzpkMO_FbryxVeQDIRr3b11I1Fq6nlb6n5zrZlOYrQHZSSwGGOn2WdV4NCTo8Grz8WECyh67rpqEOfz01NYC/s320/IMG-20230221-WA0011.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>A few notes on doing the 7 hour trek :<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Definitely attempt it if you are physically able.It takes 1
hour to climb down to the double decker bridge, you can see that, and return
too, return will take you 2 hours of steep climb. It takes 45minutes from the
root bridge to the blue lagoon, and another 45 minutes to the rainbow falls.
Both are stunning. Pace yourself. Leave early at 8 am for the trek. You don’t
necessarily need a guide, it’s a straight route. You can stay in local homes at
the rainbow falls, or at root bridge overnight, if you feel unable to climb
back. If you can’t then the best option is the single root bridge in riwai,
near mawlynnong, beautiful and accessible. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>A few notes on cafes of Shillong :<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">We went to them all, as a foodie it was on my bucket list. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Café Shillong : try the thukpa, the chilly pork
, the burgers.The best Thukpa I have had anywhere, everything from the noodles
to the broth. They have live music on some nights. It is a really small place
for such a popular destination. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Café Dylan : such a cool place, amazing décor,
and the burgers and fried chicken and the chilli hot chocolate are great. There
is a all in one chocolate dessert with 4 desserts if you have compny for that,
try it. Everything from the ceiling made of painted canvases, to the walls made
of a dancefloor tiles, everything is art and history here.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Café ML 05: This is also owned by the same
company that owns café Dylan, and this one is a bike and car themed café. The
food is a little more finger food, like maggi and momos, highway bike crowd.
But a very cool seating cum lounge area, especially for people traveling on the
highway to Shillong and cherapunjee. The chilli hot chocolate, the pizza, and
the barbeque pork were our favourites.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Dejavu: This Chinese Asian food restaurant is
the most popular restaurant in all of Shillong, we had to make it here on day 1
in Shillong, and we were not disappointed, there was live music, there was good
fried rice, and fried chicken. But all the pork dishes unfortunately were
disappointing. We had seen rave reviews of the pork dishes, but all of them
were too fatty. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Our stays<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">We stayed in San Naela in Cherapunjee, basic enough, the
food was not so great, we preferred having Maggi honestly, the breakfasts were
nice. The only great point is that they have a play area and park so its great
for kids. Other wise nothing great. Our Shillong hotel was terrible, another
sad recommendation by MMT, this was the second time Make my trip let us down in
hotel bookings after Spain. I need to learn from my mistakes ! Shillong has so
many really nice, centrally located places, choose something near ward lake, or
near <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Travel :<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">We had a driver and car that picked us up at Guwahati
airport, and after 7 days dropped us at the airport, that was extremely
convenient. Travel was not an issue, considering we had so much time on the
road. Booking a car for the entire trip was a good suggestion by MMT. There are
ways to book this at the Guwahati airport itself, but here is our drivers
number aswell, Jitumoni Das +918486719017 , +918402909254 .<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Travel to Meghalaya in February: <o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">The best time to travel is undoubtedly November, since it
has just finished raining, the waterfalls are full, it’s not raining, and thee
cherry blossoms are in bloom. The advantages of February is lesser crowds,
clearer waters, we had rainfall on 2 days which was great because then there
was a little water in the waterfalls, and the trees looked verdant green, but
because of the rainfall the river Dawki was not as clear. Don’t travel from Mid
March to October, apparently , because it rains a lot, and many places are
either covered in clouds so you can’t see the view points or are too wet and
slippery to trek in.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Hope this post helps you plan your own trip to Shillong ,
Meghalaya . do follow my instagraam hashtag #thefoodietrailstomeghalaya for
more reels and posts. <o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeYMPLUQKh9GTO0b1uVSB7lBUmxqRV5vr-eND5DM4PVj060qpCA7DVZQfWGglo-IEqWF8cl3uzCTXmT_ngAwe_8uTuiGmka_xEaPV6qhHv1eBGrFhRyncgl3T52zfshmT17TCpHDagKh0IPoJvtjbgmhycBMAfkFDGNxCBHRU91lgMamQV50n28MNG/s1500/IMG-20230303-WA0009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1125" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeYMPLUQKh9GTO0b1uVSB7lBUmxqRV5vr-eND5DM4PVj060qpCA7DVZQfWGglo-IEqWF8cl3uzCTXmT_ngAwe_8uTuiGmka_xEaPV6qhHv1eBGrFhRyncgl3T52zfshmT17TCpHDagKh0IPoJvtjbgmhycBMAfkFDGNxCBHRU91lgMamQV50n28MNG/s320/IMG-20230303-WA0009.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>the foodietrailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852630301342089274noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3016329700262720977.post-41794742541104783252022-11-03T18:42:00.003-07:002022-11-03T19:25:57.543-07:00The foodie trails to Spain (travel itinerary of 9 days in Madrid, Valencia, Barcelona )<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal">In October 2022 we decided to finally step foot on foreign
soil – after two years of COVID pandemic. Here is a detailed itinerary of the
places we visited and the experiences, hope this helps you plan your own
holiday well.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">COVID regulations:<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Spain needed a compulsory 3 vaccines certificate, so we got
our booster vaccinations and the certificate. The certificate was only required
at Immigration. No certificate was required for our 7 year old. On return,
however Govt of India needed a RT PCR for my son, and we had to get an RT PCR
done in Barcelona. The best way is to google RTPCR centers at your destination,
or to ask the pharmacies in the city to guide you to a centre. The RTPCR cost
49 Euros. If you have vaccination certificates no need for RTPCR.<o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVHLIxKaIm-Ck6Zfxd2UpzdeEj58jUTy6DFSIsiu8903iZlvErj4wEsMB86KbT4-dc-FCbNHOc_O0fEIdj1XJ_FYjjd8Ajqqqn5ndsEZc-yKeilsVEWLQLuE_LZNAi6F1OLLNUywJUUxwfdyidWtbclcm8UgT4gmUdWMJSidYtD_aMWDBRRiHKU20p/s1600/IMG-20221102-WA0014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="721" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVHLIxKaIm-Ck6Zfxd2UpzdeEj58jUTy6DFSIsiu8903iZlvErj4wEsMB86KbT4-dc-FCbNHOc_O0fEIdj1XJ_FYjjd8Ajqqqn5ndsEZc-yKeilsVEWLQLuE_LZNAi6F1OLLNUywJUUxwfdyidWtbclcm8UgT4gmUdWMJSidYtD_aMWDBRRiHKU20p/s320/IMG-20221102-WA0014.jpg" width="144" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Spain itinerary overview :<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Arrive at Madrid , 3 nights in Madrid <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Travel by train to, Valencia (2 hour train journey from Madrid
), 3 nights in Valencia<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Travel by train to Barcelona (2.5 Hour train journey from
Valencia), 3 nights in Barcelona<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">The Hotels and train tickets were prebooked on Make my trip
and while I don’t recommend the hotels that we stayed at, I do recommend the
train travel. The trains are clean, fast, comfortable free wifi and provide a
scenic journey to the next destination. There is a basic bag screening which
takes 5 minutes at train station. No need to book flights within Spain, it will
take longer and more cumbersome.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Madrid itinerary <o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">We travelled from Madrid airport to our Hotel by taxi at the
airport, while Uber is also available, Taxi is faster and same cost. They have
a cap of 4 persons to a car. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Once at hotel ask for the map of Madrid, infact each of the
cities had their maps at the hotel receptions making travel very convenient. And
we travelled using the Metro train. The main stations are Atocha and Sol. Atocha
is also the station where we get the train to Valencia, the station closest to
the Yellow bus tours and to the meeting point for our travel to Toledo and
Segovia. Sol station is close to the city center, night clubs, Gran Via road,
shopping and sight seeing. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Day 1 Madrid<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We took the metro to
Sol, and visited the San Miguel food market, Tapas, sangrias and local food. Also
the Gran via road has all the top fashion houses and malls. Perfect to see the
city vibes. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Day 2 Madrid<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We did a day tour of
the city via Yellow bus tours. Yellow bus tours is a 2 hour panoramic city
tour, they have a guide who talk you through the sights, you cannot get off the
bus in the 2 hours. This is different from a Hop on Hop off bus. A hop on-Hop
off bus is preferrable, visit 3 places definitely – the Madrid castle one of
the largest castles in western Europe, The Bull fighting arena one of the only
places in the world where bull fights are still seen and one of the grandest
bull fighting arenas in the world bull fighting season is March to October so
you can book tickets to watch, and Park Retiro which is UNESCO heritage centre 128
hectares and 15000 trees, also has lots of monuments, buildings and parks
within the park, plus a lake for boating. Would recommend ‘steak burger’
restaurant for their premium steaks, ‘san gines’ for churros, and la Polleria
for the Instagram waffles. <o:p></o:p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWqTst8wlcJA5FDsBh9d19AgWlAovXhvrP9AL_KSrzpLt4YyxQDXn_fMBJwsYgQRvMx7M3tV9FfhzC0fiAsT4il8Yav5a-66EQ91JiqXtP13i_HP-ICUEYhEaa0XtX42sqUTBXWCplXPzqKmFFxSMuY9lVCFKAsCHoI2l4j9e8a_4InJcnKuXDsW9H/s1280/IMG-20221010-WA0018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWqTst8wlcJA5FDsBh9d19AgWlAovXhvrP9AL_KSrzpLt4YyxQDXn_fMBJwsYgQRvMx7M3tV9FfhzC0fiAsT4il8Yav5a-66EQ91JiqXtP13i_HP-ICUEYhEaa0XtX42sqUTBXWCplXPzqKmFFxSMuY9lVCFKAsCHoI2l4j9e8a_4InJcnKuXDsW9H/s320/IMG-20221010-WA0018.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">metros and buses every where , accesible tourism</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgetoyiTflD_A2tGZ_gWemnkW-JTkSJbkoqXAYXrFwE99UprYS7Rm9GbsmfPFTrD0q086P8GfwhLuQBB7kdb_VJkepqpYxXwUjHxXff4n7N_FzMpGsjSQDE_xBfXBdJhl5TaidVD0_6LK6KnlRZ1KwWzOyvuOPJ7UNpiJ1leyKbgd2Spy9tWO8Q1PTo/s1280/IMG-20221010-WA0043.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgetoyiTflD_A2tGZ_gWemnkW-JTkSJbkoqXAYXrFwE99UprYS7Rm9GbsmfPFTrD0q086P8GfwhLuQBB7kdb_VJkepqpYxXwUjHxXff4n7N_FzMpGsjSQDE_xBfXBdJhl5TaidVD0_6LK6KnlRZ1KwWzOyvuOPJ7UNpiJ1leyKbgd2Spy9tWO8Q1PTo/s320/IMG-20221010-WA0043.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">steak burger on Gran via road</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Day 3 Madrid<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">We did a half day tour of Toledo and a half day tour of
Segovia, from Madrid via yellow bus tours. Toledo is about 1 hour by bus from Madrid,
and then we return to Madrid and travel another 1.5 hours by bus to Segovia. We
went by the yellow city bus tour. Highly recommend both the destinations. Toledo
is stunning, like a scene out of Arabian nights, a Middle-eastern Muslim inspired
city with winding roads, built on a hill, and you can lose yourself for hours
in this magical medieval place. We spent way too much time in a sword and
damask shop, would recommend you discover the city instead. If you can take a
full day tour of just Toledo, or better still stay a day or two in Toledo to
catch the night scenes. We left Toledo at 1 pm (had a mere 4 hours of Toledo),
to head for Segovia , Segovia has the Roman aqueduct 2000 years old, an Alcazar
castle and the grand cathedral. Segovia has a lot of history as well. I would a
full day tour here aswell. Both places have a lot of history the Muslim and
Modejar (muslims converted to Christianity), and Jewish influence. The bus
journey was comfortable and our guide was excellent, both Spanish and English guides
available.<o:p></o:p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitM7KnJyV1WValOWrcDZ0jti1LpI5KZpMMByRL1ZpPP5f14Yk_lAxAKXTjE37vyZxBn6U0UT1wxi2bw71k-ycjStz91894vpTzpCfj6mimH5emQQ2g9GMNJLGY0FOInTFEcMz4ppdET9Ug1NkZ1cuT-lRBpnJL4zcRD-mR969ZTldccyPsGd-f1Uj7/s1280/IMG-20221022-WA0043.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitM7KnJyV1WValOWrcDZ0jti1LpI5KZpMMByRL1ZpPP5f14Yk_lAxAKXTjE37vyZxBn6U0UT1wxi2bw71k-ycjStz91894vpTzpCfj6mimH5emQQ2g9GMNJLGY0FOInTFEcMz4ppdET9Ug1NkZ1cuT-lRBpnJL4zcRD-mR969ZTldccyPsGd-f1Uj7/s320/IMG-20221022-WA0043.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the alcazar in Segovia</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnglGeKVZWk-v4l5V4Xq1nqIyxK7Mqsx13IrqGLQj2agFBjgtRY75KDr9ccaQ5UPlXmoTx_K2XK3PBOrbjeP6im-WDowpX9oaWqxg-E8_gFX2H0O_n6l-clRDtudkYYrbRroKv1DnaQapcvu1vLL6QfX9g89Qk7rxTu0svzZP9zjG9lnv1zvUsJeXB/s1024/IMG-20221012-WA0047.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="722" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnglGeKVZWk-v4l5V4Xq1nqIyxK7Mqsx13IrqGLQj2agFBjgtRY75KDr9ccaQ5UPlXmoTx_K2XK3PBOrbjeP6im-WDowpX9oaWqxg-E8_gFX2H0O_n6l-clRDtudkYYrbRroKv1DnaQapcvu1vLL6QfX9g89Qk7rxTu0svzZP9zjG9lnv1zvUsJeXB/s320/IMG-20221012-WA0047.jpg" width="226" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">roman aqueduct in Segovia</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Day 4 travel from Madrid to Valencia by Train. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Day 1 Valencia <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Unfortunately because of the bookings by Make my trip we found
oourselves staying outside of Valencia near the airport ! This meant it used to
take us a minimum of 40 minutes to reach city center (Plaza Espanya is the most
popular bus/metro station) , and multiple bus and metro changes to get to any
of our destinations. Big mistake! Please please stay near the Valencia old city
(near plaza espanya), or closer to the beach (playa something). We stayed in a
place called Bonnaire, which had a mall close to us, since each night we needed
to come back to Bonnaire by 10 , we spent most evenings, perusing the Bonnaire
mall. The largest Mall in Valencia with 120 shops, and lots of eateries. Would
recommend the 100 Montaditos restaurant in the mall, for beer on tap and tapas.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Day 1 Valencia <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">We reached on a National holiday and all malls, and market
were closed. We headed to the beach in Valencia. One of the busiest beaches in
Spain playa, Valencia is the nearest port to Ibiza and if you travel here in
the summer, you will get to see the true Valencia playa beauty, but early October
was not bad. Since we come from Goa, we are used to seeing the sunset over the
sea, but since Valencia is on the east coast, the sunset is over the houses.
Valencia is THE BEST PLACE to try Paella.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The national dish of Spain
originated from Valencia, and the best Paella places are to be found lining the
beaches (playa). All Paella dishes are made after the order is placed and when
we finally sat at one of the highly recommended Paella places, the waiting was
too much with a 40 minutes waiting time, since we had changed two metros and a
bus to get to the place, and had a deadline to catch our last bus- we missed
out on dining by the beach. I know it was just a meal- but it is a learning
experience to not trust ‘tour guides like make-my-trip’ to book hotels.<o:p></o:p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6GF64-qhYkljjSl8KfyrKj6AuYnV_0KjJXsrrs0Wh0YetQSu8SkBo0YhqmFP4qw3GC9kqXVE9hsNGBbaPIR3zlFB-3cacMwhWbIkSjd7KQbLg2uFRL-xaub8sxqML60n-lxDHGwIDr4vag0Wp4uquuDImdLnvELzAxnPFTbbIKKQPUIzhcXNTeF40/s1500/IMG-20221012-WA0075.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1125" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6GF64-qhYkljjSl8KfyrKj6AuYnV_0KjJXsrrs0Wh0YetQSu8SkBo0YhqmFP4qw3GC9kqXVE9hsNGBbaPIR3zlFB-3cacMwhWbIkSjd7KQbLg2uFRL-xaub8sxqML60n-lxDHGwIDr4vag0Wp4uquuDImdLnvELzAxnPFTbbIKKQPUIzhcXNTeF40/s320/IMG-20221012-WA0075.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">fideua - paella with noodles/pasta</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLjciCS09ymOHGAmJ2VIwRQzBb7k23O7gSCwm8XdwNVc-mTBxCniXmr2nweQEP3dgIZu7I4VXRQ7qPhSt9_sqjviez8nzI2La68cunyzwwgJxJbWTOrEBJZAl7epKCOFjaIL_vRREo91F-N1I7zJMvsH_HVkJL_KAQRBj6geW0uPJDRkyknFsoql3b/s1500/IMG-20221012-WA0079.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="1500" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLjciCS09ymOHGAmJ2VIwRQzBb7k23O7gSCwm8XdwNVc-mTBxCniXmr2nweQEP3dgIZu7I4VXRQ7qPhSt9_sqjviez8nzI2La68cunyzwwgJxJbWTOrEBJZAl7epKCOFjaIL_vRREo91F-N1I7zJMvsH_HVkJL_KAQRBj6geW0uPJDRkyknFsoql3b/s320/IMG-20221012-WA0079.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the beach at Valencia </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNb1I2KHzZiJ7g29oiec_SEVi_1mBPbTuha8N4jI2hhSx_dK0U-VAfufRROpNU-Z7tWftfvR5r2yEdHCQjEl_B3Ip2lirmS2f_0uDD6RKPFyPgg_VUvPME9PWdVWLzIKscr3-DpxmWr2f4bLedQNjMnVOvAMAhAGQfk-TUZJ5dyg00F3CSYx6J0aIR/s1280/IMG-20221012-WA0081.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNb1I2KHzZiJ7g29oiec_SEVi_1mBPbTuha8N4jI2hhSx_dK0U-VAfufRROpNU-Z7tWftfvR5r2yEdHCQjEl_B3Ip2lirmS2f_0uDD6RKPFyPgg_VUvPME9PWdVWLzIKscr3-DpxmWr2f4bLedQNjMnVOvAMAhAGQfk-TUZJ5dyg00F3CSYx6J0aIR/s320/IMG-20221012-WA0081.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">wearing the colours of spain in spain, also beer on tap at 100 montaditos</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Day 2 Valencia <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">We spent the day in the arts and sciences city of Valencia. They
have 6 buildings,the entire complex is known as one of the 12 treasures of
Spain.It houses the largest under water world in Europe with <i>Oceanographic</i>,
a Massive interactive science city museum which resembles the skeleton of a
whale, and IMAX cinema and planetarium <i>L hemispheric</i> built like a human
eye. This place is sci-fi at its best. We took some 400 pictures and videos on
this day and a pass cost 42 euros per person. Just brilliant.. Plus we reached
the place by just changing 2 buses. Buses were the preferred mode of transport
rather than metros in Valencia, bus number 95 goes to oceanographic. So ask
around for the bus map, also google bus routes. We also had a very easy travel
card, that saved us a lot on travel each day, so in any city, just go to the
train/metro station and ask for the trave card. Available at airports aswell. <o:p></o:p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikJW5ieoNttQrFU7EBo2JDb93nFZU4QjLEAAWeoPVTXTgjl252070pbkXTKxJZRlo0kEzCluc1bo-FT5Pi8JIlVcr0lEZ0c0K8lqA5-17-Njv7Oo-hoMJVzS0oSrMTNO5lSdMszL7k5WoYyKa8Mg_qg9dG5oxTovGScMClOUWsZrCjGBEcKA-lETW2/s1280/IMG-20221014-WA0013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikJW5ieoNttQrFU7EBo2JDb93nFZU4QjLEAAWeoPVTXTgjl252070pbkXTKxJZRlo0kEzCluc1bo-FT5Pi8JIlVcr0lEZ0c0K8lqA5-17-Njv7Oo-hoMJVzS0oSrMTNO5lSdMszL7k5WoYyKa8Mg_qg9dG5oxTovGScMClOUWsZrCjGBEcKA-lETW2/s320/IMG-20221014-WA0013.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXt7gASiHTeqY1rzy34GsL37rCXMgcsGO7RUJzlVl8-Y1HXbe6Xvt_aOIf1kZ-PkEtYia8IsGvrkx9AO0B75TKUWFUsTf8_tBrrFuHG1As9CXecsGiWUl_G3p12XfkYTnEVTH7_4jRNv1JHUY3wPQIzj14PiVd6cfVAwO2Q8hZKi5ShiEWdg8etulA/s1280/IMG-20221014-WA0023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXt7gASiHTeqY1rzy34GsL37rCXMgcsGO7RUJzlVl8-Y1HXbe6Xvt_aOIf1kZ-PkEtYia8IsGvrkx9AO0B75TKUWFUsTf8_tBrrFuHG1As9CXecsGiWUl_G3p12XfkYTnEVTH7_4jRNv1JHUY3wPQIzj14PiVd6cfVAwO2Q8hZKi5ShiEWdg8etulA/s320/IMG-20221014-WA0023.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">oceanographic</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo6uFY-NEQMl5swkl8nkNCLo_wogCY6pVdUhNHSqlX4xg5fyilpkDGCeCZ6HTAnG5iEYaL-PU72jpPZwZxydr_pzQncUPY_pYi6pcvh2-8zpRnvQ4_WfwqP4kUn0gnrzF1jGCtN8nLw3vEy8N2xUWuyu69b8Cpz-GP7rN13n_KmOw9foV3nToZ8nRk/s1280/IMG-20221014-WA0034.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo6uFY-NEQMl5swkl8nkNCLo_wogCY6pVdUhNHSqlX4xg5fyilpkDGCeCZ6HTAnG5iEYaL-PU72jpPZwZxydr_pzQncUPY_pYi6pcvh2-8zpRnvQ4_WfwqP4kUn0gnrzF1jGCtN8nLw3vEy8N2xUWuyu69b8Cpz-GP7rN13n_KmOw9foV3nToZ8nRk/s320/IMG-20221014-WA0034.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">pics at the art and science city</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Day 3 Valencia<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">We had a pre booked hopon-hopoff bus tour of Valencia this
day. Hop on hop off is an excellenct idea if you plan on going to the beach (as
I mentioned it is really far and out of the way), but if you plan on visiting
the art science center it is a waste, since you will be spending the entire day
at one place, and also if you plan on spending time in Valencia old town . Valencia
old city has no cars or buses allowed that means no hop on-hop off buses within
this place. Places to visit within the old city are plenty, there are guided
tours for the entire old city, walking tours, and cycle tours. The Valencia
cathedral that houses the famous Holy Grail the chalise from which Jesus drank
his last sips is breathtaking (take the guided tour it is worth it) special significance
if you are pregnant or hoping to conceive , the Valencia mercado central is one
of largest enclosed markets in western Europe (closes at 3 pm), the La Lonja
next to the market is a free entry Unesco monument, apparently we can climb the
144 steps to get a panoramic view of the old city, but it was closed on the day
we went. The Iglesia San Nicholas church, and a meal at the Plaza de la Virgen
and the Neptune fountain were all highlights of the old town. We finally had
our Paella over looking the Valencia cathedral and it was everything we had
hoped for. We had the traditional Valencia paella with chicken, rabbit and
chorizos, we also had the sea food paella, and a vegetarian paella. Also sangrias.<o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY5s9PlCNS00toNrRHO12fy7XrQf4vveCMJ70jgyqmutrQQq9M3IbGQ7ap0vwcnHkI-mU5-GjEQ357adqKvmbwXMSLS8FSGD_v5g2KZPK8TG1ORtnftPru-OFafHaYmKTxMywphAEa_sLun_Wn4eP5BX_3zELUN8j9yVonkO-uJOkE_wf75xtjc6d6/s1280/IMG-20221012-WA0083.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY5s9PlCNS00toNrRHO12fy7XrQf4vveCMJ70jgyqmutrQQq9M3IbGQ7ap0vwcnHkI-mU5-GjEQ357adqKvmbwXMSLS8FSGD_v5g2KZPK8TG1ORtnftPru-OFafHaYmKTxMywphAEa_sLun_Wn4eP5BX_3zELUN8j9yVonkO-uJOkE_wf75xtjc6d6/s320/IMG-20221012-WA0083.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidyYP4DuKiNhaP9DbvMduzFKUQ4pC-LePZDzzdyyZgntg-NtW-bSr6R3G_9U3qGL7N5LW0OOpUXrAdAOQMvxFRMLI06fjLm2aJW92wkOkMAML8U6HCz2XpdMxVK1oqqSVk1Dy4-M532n-QXirNFR1IT4pO8X6oYhuOplZcTWmUnfD_P83gsQooMWEv/s1280/IMG-20221015-WA0005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidyYP4DuKiNhaP9DbvMduzFKUQ4pC-LePZDzzdyyZgntg-NtW-bSr6R3G_9U3qGL7N5LW0OOpUXrAdAOQMvxFRMLI06fjLm2aJW92wkOkMAML8U6HCz2XpdMxVK1oqqSVk1Dy4-M532n-QXirNFR1IT4pO8X6oYhuOplZcTWmUnfD_P83gsQooMWEv/s320/IMG-20221015-WA0005.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Day 4 travel from Valencia to Barcelona scenic train journey
by the Spanish sea side.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Day 1 Barcelona <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">We spend each of the first days understanding the metro and
the bus stations. In Barcelona you need either the travel card or pay by card,
no cash is accepted on buses, and so we chose to the card. Buses were the best
way to travel. Barcelona has a lot of the places extremely well located around
two bus stops /metro stops. Plaza Catalunia and Plaza Espanya. Take any
bus/metro to Plaza Catalunya. Day 1 we walked down La Rambla road conveniently located
along plaza Catalunya. We also attended a Flamenco dance performance.We went to
Flamenco Barcelona SL, close to plaza Catalunya, they have shows every 2 hours
, show lasts 1 hour 15 min, no food provided and at 20 euros this was the most
economical. (shows in Madrid started at 35 euros) this show has certificate of
excellence from trip advisor, has extremely high ratings, and children watch
free/discounted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Must experience once.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Day 2 Barcelona<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">We did a hop on hop off tour of Barcelona, and this audio
tour was much much better than the Valencia hop on hop off. (I do not recommend
the hop on hop off tour guide of Valencia, waste of money and time) but
Barcelona was very enjoyable. We got off at Park Guell which was underwhelming,
over crowded, and miss-able. It does not exemplify Gaudi’s best work, for which
I would recommend La Pedrera (read next). We also went to the Football club of Barcelona,
and it was super fun to take pictures outside the building. Since we had done a
tour of the stadium and museum in 2013, we didn’t repeat it, but you should
visit if you have not done it before. We also visited the marines, and the
Barcelona Cathedral and all the beautiful lanes around Gothic part of
Barcelona. No cars/buses are allowed in this region between La Rambla and Via Laetana
, and this place has narrow walking lanes, picturesque shops, cheaper eateries,
a very enjoyable walking discovery, with live musicians, and street performers
and art museums.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Day 3 Barcelona <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">We spent the morning soaking in the magnificence of Sagrada
Familia, and Casa Mila or La Pedrera. This was our second time visiting Sagrada
Familia, we had visited in 2013 dec, and in the past 9 years a few new
additions have been made, but more than that there is a proper system for
tickets, we get to fix a time and buy the tickets. You don’t need to stand in
serpentine queues for half a day to get in! You can even buy the tickets online!
We bought it outside the cathedral at an additional cost of 2 euros, since our
online booking was not happening. But it is still very convenient. You get a
free downloadable audio guide. This time we also went to La Pedrera, the last
time we were cash strapped youngsters who found the ticket too expensive, also
we had just 12 hours to explore Barcelona the last time around. This time we
were really able to understand more about Gaudi and his work and workings
inside the La Pedrera building.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Sagrada familia
has very little of Gaudi’s original work, and much of what has been built, is
over the past 96 years since Gaudi’s death! So the real genius is in the la Pedrera
building- La Pedrera means a stone quarry or stack of stone, people used to joke
that it looks like a haphazhard pile of stones, but from an attic shaped like a
whales spine, and glass reptiles and warriors on the undulating roof and the butterfly
wing gate at the entrance, everything in this building has Nature and meaning. That
is why even though people criticised the building when it was made, and made
fun of Gaudi, the entire city of Barcelona is literally a celebration of Gaudi
a century after his death. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Day 4 : Early morning flight from Barcelona back to India.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Over view of our holiday.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Well just recollecting and writing this holiday guide has
brought back vivid memories and if you found just reading all of this
overwhelming, believe me the sights, sounds, stories, tastes and experiences
will leave your senses overwhelmed. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">But, since we had 3 days each in the places we had a very
enjoyable pace, and a deep understanding of each place. There is a lot of
walking, with each day we were walking over 20000 steps. The roads are not like
cobblestone roads of Italy so it is much easier to walk in Spain, all signs are
in English, but people don’t speak much English. All hotels, restaurant
managers, and major stores have English speaking staff so you can ask them. All
metros have someone who knows English, most bus drivers do not know English. When
in doubt ask locals/ other tourists for help. We were told Barcelona is filled
with thiefs and pick pockets, we thankfully did not face such experiences. Of all
the places we visited, Toledo and Segovia were the perfect European castle
experience, Valencia is the perfect east meets west experience, Madrid had the
most local city flavour, Barcelona was the most touristy and welcoming. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Food wise lots of Sangria (fruits and red wine), churros
(doughnut type stick desserts), tapas (small bar eats with drinks our favourite
were tortillas, patatas bravas, gambas and calamari fritters, pollo croquettes)
, jamon(smoked meat), paella (one pot rice dish), and try the local Mercados
(markets) for seasonal local products. And try the fixed meal combos, which
give you a starter, mains, dessert at a fixed price. All malls and most
shopping places close on Sundays and national holidays.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">For more : follow my Instagram page @thefoodietrails for
pictures from our trip it is under insta highlights.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Search for my posts with the hashtag #thefoodietrailstospain
#shreyshtinspain on Instagram <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2J99GIqQjqxdAAfMB710ZTSOMmhS4ykjWYPIw2GgXVpwpZnHqdeTfQbveLUVJ03CJJMlbB-E3eRcTvik9oGGwBQj2gke7ND8DVbOel_QMaO4d1A9kADVAlX8Qc7DGkWqsfsQy5pJAMXtyxRo_AlFCUrnhbsx1tIVBRQKSKn2D-O8CUfXojs4lvPx6/s1280/IMG-20221010-WA0054.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2J99GIqQjqxdAAfMB710ZTSOMmhS4ykjWYPIw2GgXVpwpZnHqdeTfQbveLUVJ03CJJMlbB-E3eRcTvik9oGGwBQj2gke7ND8DVbOel_QMaO4d1A9kADVAlX8Qc7DGkWqsfsQy5pJAMXtyxRo_AlFCUrnhbsx1tIVBRQKSKn2D-O8CUfXojs4lvPx6/s320/IMG-20221010-WA0054.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">breakfast tortillas loaded spanish omlettes</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXEtRRHQFtuecQKepS7KuWk-CSeT0AzkRNUc90Bglk7n-STw9W3PHfSfeQkNrQvwKm4gW3qkszDfw5X91Ve2R8oDZVsblDO9qJycnLwiA6XpzAFNarryldPxedBdIoely961UUCSHlBCkIgmw7E7Zfrz7LMHJIPoa_Z8ZRzKPzySZbFVghfpD-F08O/s1280/IMG-20221015-WA0003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXEtRRHQFtuecQKepS7KuWk-CSeT0AzkRNUc90Bglk7n-STw9W3PHfSfeQkNrQvwKm4gW3qkszDfw5X91Ve2R8oDZVsblDO9qJycnLwiA6XpzAFNarryldPxedBdIoely961UUCSHlBCkIgmw7E7Zfrz7LMHJIPoa_Z8ZRzKPzySZbFVghfpD-F08O/s320/IMG-20221015-WA0003.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">paella !</td></tr></tbody></table><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihF9Op5oUQpH81CzSuhHesZDRVwteTfnmX2ni1yvozRePNbmNGUkXCt7xr9GSLZCqKtT5NGLDeLeKdZYEabKCBKKhFWdw4vjxWD_AfUn8X6SXgIFEz2pBa81QXhs5jkvhjL2LGKsJHdkcVJWlOdEBmk-rHc8twTfmmJb7KYtOLZEt-Zn8JvUalRku3/s1280/IMG-20221015-WA0004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihF9Op5oUQpH81CzSuhHesZDRVwteTfnmX2ni1yvozRePNbmNGUkXCt7xr9GSLZCqKtT5NGLDeLeKdZYEabKCBKKhFWdw4vjxWD_AfUn8X6SXgIFEz2pBa81QXhs5jkvhjL2LGKsJHdkcVJWlOdEBmk-rHc8twTfmmJb7KYtOLZEt-Zn8JvUalRku3/s320/IMG-20221015-WA0004.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC5X5Vt6ySMYFnCZzwZKjJzVx_Omv3hXW1tCwMl_6Wm7OM-TA0ba5KImy68-FLY_AaA-DgFS4iVTn5m0ush1ovyAyaJ6tecyfKOTjoIXH3K3jAaNkH21q0BE1lZpCWZxdduHSxDZ1fOAdIrFPRLxD3fhO1PugotPMyTTm-zx2uIOn8-oXSUuqkNByQ/s1280/IMG-20221015-WA0009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC5X5Vt6ySMYFnCZzwZKjJzVx_Omv3hXW1tCwMl_6Wm7OM-TA0ba5KImy68-FLY_AaA-DgFS4iVTn5m0ush1ovyAyaJ6tecyfKOTjoIXH3K3jAaNkH21q0BE1lZpCWZxdduHSxDZ1fOAdIrFPRLxD3fhO1PugotPMyTTm-zx2uIOn8-oXSUuqkNByQ/s320/IMG-20221015-WA0009.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_mfJ-_OX-l4kwJ3OfDtt1kiBIvqOpX2EHlSf1vaZFJCS0sPYtMDWai-DyRdiCgqwVNkhAYzkaCPT9FrUGcBVxm2zEFHD5k6tFgpqsePahexFqO1stReeMz5KGoO132dvdcEF9OflSAGUHQWUCMhab-Wsseb25ubxna98pO1lKzm28t2RKA-rp2Rpt/s1280/IMG-20221015-WA0010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_mfJ-_OX-l4kwJ3OfDtt1kiBIvqOpX2EHlSf1vaZFJCS0sPYtMDWai-DyRdiCgqwVNkhAYzkaCPT9FrUGcBVxm2zEFHD5k6tFgpqsePahexFqO1stReeMz5KGoO132dvdcEF9OflSAGUHQWUCMhab-Wsseb25ubxna98pO1lKzm28t2RKA-rp2Rpt/s320/IMG-20221015-WA0010.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">audio guided tours everywhere</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhylZy1WYhQrADnosuCnxkb0Oc17yilHVwZIrR4YhNGjGe-ZWI2I1m2eey2MkQCJEVYztHIn9UuI-9Im5J4c13vqgI1sP_3XhmP8IY22d6lVBGiMxpX8Y5uQxa-Q8sZ3mO9yqfljKQJAU22quLV5jf7S9xylQxr6VKH1TC41dV3GYo5_1NjEC-NEZmm/s1280/IMG-20221015-WA0027.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhylZy1WYhQrADnosuCnxkb0Oc17yilHVwZIrR4YhNGjGe-ZWI2I1m2eey2MkQCJEVYztHIn9UuI-9Im5J4c13vqgI1sP_3XhmP8IY22d6lVBGiMxpX8Y5uQxa-Q8sZ3mO9yqfljKQJAU22quLV5jf7S9xylQxr6VKH1TC41dV3GYo5_1NjEC-NEZmm/s320/IMG-20221015-WA0027.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the pretty neptune fountain in Valencia</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0iHO4ZNQvPJ1CVtn-fC5D0OiYGP_MtLVyNO4sjPSlJrAqI_wcVpuUdMn-0ELJwfVPiTArGld1BVtJAhgaTZ5vd_-v48xSvJMstdUD45ZeKl9XhBH-pF-fXp2a1zvQs8AQjdxBFixK7yFgkgfUEMHXHnQmew2HAYOl3_QbpX1eilzNZ06wQKHdIC-P/s1500/IMG-20221017-WA0000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1125" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0iHO4ZNQvPJ1CVtn-fC5D0OiYGP_MtLVyNO4sjPSlJrAqI_wcVpuUdMn-0ELJwfVPiTArGld1BVtJAhgaTZ5vd_-v48xSvJMstdUD45ZeKl9XhBH-pF-fXp2a1zvQs8AQjdxBFixK7yFgkgfUEMHXHnQmew2HAYOl3_QbpX1eilzNZ06wQKHdIC-P/s320/IMG-20221017-WA0000.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">camp nou in Barcelona</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT2zfDaGT0vmtQ7KZYAtOOjchnFdZgFS5auCqqS5ZJKwT-nZfYC9UKBRPJ7japR5rHM3BuXVdOLuCPfAVDPshYwDYWKZQKv-HO8Wm1H-77IgemBB3PnhD4mZkackQ5RDgXe1wLv3oOM-Ep24H2ILfReou_cnzxKFu05gQ8puZ0s55mLzAIfwrcHMOJ/s1500/IMG-20221018-WA0008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1125" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT2zfDaGT0vmtQ7KZYAtOOjchnFdZgFS5auCqqS5ZJKwT-nZfYC9UKBRPJ7japR5rHM3BuXVdOLuCPfAVDPshYwDYWKZQKv-HO8Wm1H-77IgemBB3PnhD4mZkackQ5RDgXe1wLv3oOM-Ep24H2ILfReou_cnzxKFu05gQ8puZ0s55mLzAIfwrcHMOJ/s320/IMG-20221018-WA0008.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The bay area in Barcelona</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUqjm-9eiDw8q5seKNgUDey3Hwq7OZ5KZ7WxHWC7fUDw6sfOFekbvhAGeIusOfA4-dWwS2QxkCkVGivxqKKu5PxjXtMriRoYrqbL1i55XOO-7cyy3nf0QOESt_loFLDDZ0qUYBz0DKhUsWq7pAMie7Rac6kNUyDRBR-OLI_S5DhFKfzkhOWxagrpgc/s1600/IMG-20221022-WA0037.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUqjm-9eiDw8q5seKNgUDey3Hwq7OZ5KZ7WxHWC7fUDw6sfOFekbvhAGeIusOfA4-dWwS2QxkCkVGivxqKKu5PxjXtMriRoYrqbL1i55XOO-7cyy3nf0QOESt_loFLDDZ0qUYBz0DKhUsWq7pAMie7Rac6kNUyDRBR-OLI_S5DhFKfzkhOWxagrpgc/s320/IMG-20221022-WA0037.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Night life in Madrid</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKNyNkAJI_U9iR1uZFY_nC7m9ztmWp2V8P8AdKwQ1QtM_B99xFLsTVQLW8HEC8ByHJ83anqrjhkfajdUFeXDQKnvvPriVjtIw1WsSTHUntvTThAuAelYNcEj8i6g-Mm4FLv0EXMTQxKW3dpuYscxyI0oM00IoF12yWIQrkHoEUFLcEDwTZJnk0TVL8/s1280/IMG-20221022-WA0045.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKNyNkAJI_U9iR1uZFY_nC7m9ztmWp2V8P8AdKwQ1QtM_B99xFLsTVQLW8HEC8ByHJ83anqrjhkfajdUFeXDQKnvvPriVjtIw1WsSTHUntvTThAuAelYNcEj8i6g-Mm4FLv0EXMTQxKW3dpuYscxyI0oM00IoF12yWIQrkHoEUFLcEDwTZJnk0TVL8/s320/IMG-20221022-WA0045.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSXDAxqSbdtmsaqP-1qYvpkS-oW0O7qaG4E8hhqqxN_wasgr1zUihq-fCiqZCt7yhtSlGiU64HNKq7TMG-LrPrmM5rGUz41sGHXpOSgBHLa131MkmKYppSJeh-GBuCNT45UUH0qhUno3EYtgAmWJN800zAhZ-fRTJAOKaBevM7udQCMVfvukx2TXiG/s1280/IMG-20221023-WA0010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSXDAxqSbdtmsaqP-1qYvpkS-oW0O7qaG4E8hhqqxN_wasgr1zUihq-fCiqZCt7yhtSlGiU64HNKq7TMG-LrPrmM5rGUz41sGHXpOSgBHLa131MkmKYppSJeh-GBuCNT45UUH0qhUno3EYtgAmWJN800zAhZ-fRTJAOKaBevM7udQCMVfvukx2TXiG/s320/IMG-20221023-WA0010.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLZz0byAz-j3NiwC2DVDM4Vx9O0V0J6vQudH7eNZSGc1uZ5L4MujBe-R9vE0Z-1Bza0L5xMFK3fkb_kXgcMVE3c2qH-5gum1PoB0CTDlsmr77ek7Emv_i_M3QRmwgkhMAe5oBCU4kaO9rjTwwxB1E-uhbcOzcSrk8XH1hzao8CunZmeHOFMPpn2hgg/s1280/IMG-20221023-WA0011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLZz0byAz-j3NiwC2DVDM4Vx9O0V0J6vQudH7eNZSGc1uZ5L4MujBe-R9vE0Z-1Bza0L5xMFK3fkb_kXgcMVE3c2qH-5gum1PoB0CTDlsmr77ek7Emv_i_M3QRmwgkhMAe5oBCU4kaO9rjTwwxB1E-uhbcOzcSrk8XH1hzao8CunZmeHOFMPpn2hgg/s320/IMG-20221023-WA0011.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHNk3frlLNwAqz98dnULWpNIaJ-7EuEN3b65dU2KvLvTDHK7PWg0mIzc6UCBEigwbr97ApJEsuKvrlHOADhDxaVXrQFhIi1h_FoTGGjtN8x3KUUZGoRHcMHqIC2p1oGm7vT83zKdBpoDkJXRUWGdBcxLcWXLxviGYrFwSjcP5ulyM9kd8PWlctcb90/s1280/IMG-20221102-WA0009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHNk3frlLNwAqz98dnULWpNIaJ-7EuEN3b65dU2KvLvTDHK7PWg0mIzc6UCBEigwbr97ApJEsuKvrlHOADhDxaVXrQFhIi1h_FoTGGjtN8x3KUUZGoRHcMHqIC2p1oGm7vT83zKdBpoDkJXRUWGdBcxLcWXLxviGYrFwSjcP5ulyM9kd8PWlctcb90/s320/IMG-20221102-WA0009.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">patatas bravas and meat balls tapas</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC0mNWaKjdllM-4khHQ32buFj4fbfXCg1QRNmpjc__pWTP1UDIURB9WL_WqhwNP8v6kgqMZRbSUOb-nJT3a9eslc9Tgp_3L-Owfdf3zbOf3tAgq0scXF1qcpdFDwSYf8Y02N2iNDJYzp8Q1mcS1MgYLn7ClU1uqDA-n-Lr91hOUEEBZSDE_vKRKy2Z/s1280/IMG-20221102-WA0011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="577" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC0mNWaKjdllM-4khHQ32buFj4fbfXCg1QRNmpjc__pWTP1UDIURB9WL_WqhwNP8v6kgqMZRbSUOb-nJT3a9eslc9Tgp_3L-Owfdf3zbOf3tAgq0scXF1qcpdFDwSYf8Y02N2iNDJYzp8Q1mcS1MgYLn7ClU1uqDA-n-Lr91hOUEEBZSDE_vKRKy2Z/s320/IMG-20221102-WA0011.jpg" width="144" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">park guell barcelona</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p>the foodietrailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852630301342089274noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3016329700262720977.post-87378630703849064702022-05-21T22:21:00.001-07:002022-05-21T22:21:28.092-07:00Summer vacation to Imagica Theme park and Imagicaa water world <p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiToEdMMdwH6yZM7O7HXA7SNHKUz_R6HA2arPEDni-CUdYW7bBQSA1EV6SIKFQ-6jatNyzEw7ucMs0_GUCML_47G1XgtVJwwaAbY5VV77ZzZzeQmL299wy_xMu7B8oaruBVUbkHyVvyToTbnOYqwkT5D5NLCof0f3Aqgk45tlD9Zh_0Ap5_PgdeZ2kP/s1600/IMG-20220504-WA0015-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiToEdMMdwH6yZM7O7HXA7SNHKUz_R6HA2arPEDni-CUdYW7bBQSA1EV6SIKFQ-6jatNyzEw7ucMs0_GUCML_47G1XgtVJwwaAbY5VV77ZzZzeQmL299wy_xMu7B8oaruBVUbkHyVvyToTbnOYqwkT5D5NLCof0f3Aqgk45tlD9Zh_0Ap5_PgdeZ2kP/s320/IMG-20220504-WA0015-01.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Summer vacation to Imagicaa 2022<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">After 2 summer vacations spent in COVID lockdown, it was
time to reclaim the ‘high point of childhood ‘, and we did it in style by
spending 2 days in Imagica theme park, and 2 nights at the adjacent Novotel
Imagica.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Why Imagica?<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">I have had a huge fascination for the gorgeous theme parks
of the world, be it Disney land, or Lego land, or Singapore’s Sentosa Island
with Universal studios. And ever since Shreysht was born, I wanted to take him
to these theme parks, and fulfil my own curiosity.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And, Imagica is the
best option for a theme park in India, also, since my parents live in Pune, it
was a short 2 hour ride to the park (Imagica is in Khopoli, outskirts of
Mumbai, and an inter city drive from Pune) It has both a Theme park and a water
park. And even though we chose summer to go, they have lots of greenery and shade
places especially the water park, there are indoor rides, even some of the queues
are in air conditioned rooms, and it was very comfortable even in the Height of
May.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">We went to Singapore when Shreysht was 3.5 years old, and he
enjoyed as much as a 3 three and half can, but now that he is six and half, he
had a much more exciting time, and we did too. <o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5nOrqIHatPG0jy6uBexA9Qh364Tk0w3lGZOojiYV1aePP0-ZrG5gg4uNrl-QPSwu_GArnirfGka4l70jNilrpjHs0iGawezS_b6a-CGWlo43INKtJ9mYD62z7tBP7sC30y051I5KAcwCl2LVPKSx6y5YJLZNk-36_PJYoXGjguIeattJNZwi30yts/s1349/IMG-20220503-WA0012-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1349" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5nOrqIHatPG0jy6uBexA9Qh364Tk0w3lGZOojiYV1aePP0-ZrG5gg4uNrl-QPSwu_GArnirfGka4l70jNilrpjHs0iGawezS_b6a-CGWlo43INKtJ9mYD62z7tBP7sC30y051I5KAcwCl2LVPKSx6y5YJLZNk-36_PJYoXGjguIeattJNZwi30yts/s320/IMG-20220503-WA0012-01.jpeg" width="285" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Why stay at Novotel Imagica ?<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->If you are traveling from around the country (other
than Pune, Mumbai ) I would highly recommend you stay at Imagica Novotel. The
theme park and the water park, each take a day each to complete, and so doing
one of them on two consecutive days, with an overnight stay at a 4 star hotel
absolutely adjacent to the park is the best way to maximise your time and
experience of the theme parks. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Even if you stay in pune/Mumbai, but are
traveling with kids to the park, and do not have your own vehicle to drive to
the theme park, I would say , stay overnight at the hotel. The theme park, and
the water park are both very extensive , tiring , funfilled days, which extract
every ounce of your enthusiasm, and none of us had the mental bandwidth, not to
mention physical capacity to drive back in city traffic to any home. With the
Novotel, we could go back to our room, regresh and rejuvenate, and then head
down to an extensive dinner buffet. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->The stay at the imagica, comes with attractive
options for the theme park entries, as well as a breakfast buffet. They also
have free stay for children under 10, and special rates for senior citizens. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->A cheaper option would be other hotels near by,
or an air bnb style option near the Theme park, but to really indulge in the
immersive experience , we chose the Novotel. And not just one night, but we
chose 2 nights, so that we were rested after both days of the theme park.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->ONE MAJOR TIP – check in is at 2 pm, and check
out at 11 am. For some reason, we thought we have to check in before going to
the park! You do not need to do that, you can bring your bags in early, head to
the park at 10:30 am and check- in later. Or you can checkout and then head to
the other park. <o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihATuBCxTA4eRRGHVhYsMTh-b2gRyammGFrHI_JAfIHuiY7lwuWkgRpWnUztROQIHTISTQRrLry5C06xBVF6uoV78B97Jg0MtvvHZLIKAd3hqjHTm1OqrbgT-fqqo3Z8v82uXMc4XxbPM45PwARaEz9Dc4n7Fg5F3VobhVzTzMPeGkd2KZQ02Hp37x/s960/FB_IMG_1653194012211.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihATuBCxTA4eRRGHVhYsMTh-b2gRyammGFrHI_JAfIHuiY7lwuWkgRpWnUztROQIHTISTQRrLry5C06xBVF6uoV78B97Jg0MtvvHZLIKAd3hqjHTm1OqrbgT-fqqo3Z8v82uXMc4XxbPM45PwARaEz9Dc4n7Fg5F3VobhVzTzMPeGkd2KZQ02Hp37x/s320/FB_IMG_1653194012211.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>A note on the food at Novotel Imagica, it was excellent. The 4 buffet meals we had here, 2 breakfasts (included in charges) and 2 dinner buffets were all very thoughtfully planned, not repetitive and extremely well prepared as a food blogger, I was in food heaven, and yet have no food pictures because i used to not carry my phone for meals. a chance for me to be more mindful with the food, and be with my family.<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbzNPPwxv2OfjiU9ixSZ1IqxvSEgD8XlkupD7LidI-ZnGgR25qjIp0_SqicX8IeZY7pF91SluAJQqfZfbBzhKoIbe9PnKY3j6bh8u_VBrqbvN7Ci7sHzf-gGecQrhrFCwMquRs_Y0gw00uZuL0BrhE7iK51yVhxpTCtsE3c4YiDSkfPomEuQY4_si6/s1280/IMG-20220504-WA0007-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbzNPPwxv2OfjiU9ixSZ1IqxvSEgD8XlkupD7LidI-ZnGgR25qjIp0_SqicX8IeZY7pF91SluAJQqfZfbBzhKoIbe9PnKY3j6bh8u_VBrqbvN7Ci7sHzf-gGecQrhrFCwMquRs_Y0gw00uZuL0BrhE7iK51yVhxpTCtsE3c4YiDSkfPomEuQY4_si6/s320/IMG-20220504-WA0007-01.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div><br /><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">More about the Imagica park <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->There is the Imagica theme park with 35
attractions, the water park with 14 rides , and a snow world that has a
different entry and charges. The theme park has special rates on Tuesdays, and
the water park has special rates on Wednesdays , so if you plan to visit both
then a Tuesday +Wednesday would be the most value for money. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->There is a height cut off on most rides , one of
3 feet 1 inch , and 4 feet 4 inch. If you have a child and two parents, then
there is a special entry where the second parent does not have to stand in the
line a second time.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->On extremely busy days you can upgrade your
tickets to beat the lines. But we made the mistake of taking these upgrades on
a day it was not busy. You can upgrade at any time during your visit to theme
park, these upgrade shops are outside every popular ride, and you can decide if
you want to upgrade if the lines are especially long any time of the day. Even
if you have the upgrade pass, you get to do the rides only once using the pass,
that means the second time you do the ride, you still have to stand in the long
queue. The upgrade does not mean unlimited access. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->The indoor rides shut down by 5 pm, so it is best
to start the morning with these rides, namely all the indoor shows (motion box
theatre, cinema 360, I for India, Mr India , detective bow wow show ) , and
also the indoor rides (our favourites were Ali baba and Rajasaurus ) . The
outdoor rides are open till 6:30. Ask the attendants, when the ride will close.
Also, start with the furthest rides from the entrance first, before the crowds
come. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Four scary rides for thrill seakers – the Nitro
, the scream machine, the dare to drop, and deep space, all need a height
requirement of 4.4 feet. But, if you have a high on thrill child, then Gold
rush and Rajasaurus have height cut off of 3 feet 1 inch and provide ample
screams aswell.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->You get the pictures for Rs 300 it is online
pictures. Which makes it convenient to get the entire set. <o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRRTOj3iWtZ-T7vvLK9pEAJ2T5BMbgASsJ6txd9X47LOR7I1E7F2Tm0ekCZaeHF-YqhapW4avfMWeFu35t8W-soB27PWmM-IenfauThOBy6PWZeqwJoKHOHj-h1hSk5_eH5CQ9ZNP1kKHrDjb6fCEKBvA6Uwd2HAeYF_03HOwYxGEVKp6licHjRsE7/s676/DSC_0853%20(1)-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="534" data-original-width="676" height="253" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRRTOj3iWtZ-T7vvLK9pEAJ2T5BMbgASsJ6txd9X47LOR7I1E7F2Tm0ekCZaeHF-YqhapW4avfMWeFu35t8W-soB27PWmM-IenfauThOBy6PWZeqwJoKHOHj-h1hSk5_eH5CQ9ZNP1kKHrDjb6fCEKBvA6Uwd2HAeYF_03HOwYxGEVKp6licHjRsE7/s320/DSC_0853%20(1)-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh4hS-YFpUDBgBNzgerpwaGAQkdjb5ALzdiXtqYVy7I-_M815bY0MPS_DX3V9P3DWfJZy_SgVjki2bOb_OZ0J_jWp7zXg8ZrYIy-7Ql06HlQIaS6OObjiXDDN-4Vinr5XdQuh0LHncsso08E-y4zIQffzeNU83C0gmPIzbkEdt5K1V34PiEGoM93Ba/s826/FB_IMG_1653194026988-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="826" data-original-width="711" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh4hS-YFpUDBgBNzgerpwaGAQkdjb5ALzdiXtqYVy7I-_M815bY0MPS_DX3V9P3DWfJZy_SgVjki2bOb_OZ0J_jWp7zXg8ZrYIy-7Ql06HlQIaS6OObjiXDDN-4Vinr5XdQuh0LHncsso08E-y4zIQffzeNU83C0gmPIzbkEdt5K1V34PiEGoM93Ba/s320/FB_IMG_1653194026988-01.jpeg" width="275" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Water park – as mentioned earlier, we mis-timed
our entry, and went to the park after checkin, at 2:30 pm, and were told the
park would close at 5 pm. Thankfully for us, the park was crowded that day, on
crowded days, they keep the park open till 6:30. They have lockers to keep
bags, no towels are provided, so carry your own, dry fit wear or swim suits are
a must, carry a waterproof ziplock for your phone if you want to take it into
the park, there are shoe racks to keep your slippers outside the rides so
please don’t try and walk bare foot around the park. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Food and water was surprisingly allowed inside
the park! This is a blessing if you have young children, water is easily
fillable in the many drinking water kiosks, even the snacks available in the
park are at MRP and not at a hiked price! The restaurants and eateries are all
very affordable. We liked the pizza place near the wave pool and rain dance
area in the Imagica water park for eating. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A super
cool tip to win you some freebies – so at the entry you are given a raffle
ticket. Most people do not fill this raffle ticket, because they don’t have
apen, or they are in a hurry to get to the games, but fill this lucky draw
ticket and drop it in the souvenir store at the beginning. Every evening they
choose 3 winners from the theme park and 3 from the water park. There is a high
chance you will win. We did ! we got third prize on the day we went to water
park.<o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhldLKsSUTl6Ht-cpD8OIYcTtgMXs_8owTExmeAsrQxgtSJkusf2Yu7n4sItHzhB_JMkjC3gcuDTPQ2Q-o3uHTzmViQ6oVgHkaXVv_OQNjoncL9mwIb8heV39H3LevFbk3vaDvQiyCiYkbrSVSShJ81Zr_dg_b4sb19jV1_TNo9n65hLFMlZMtGCzZ8/s960/FB_IMG_1653193979732.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhldLKsSUTl6Ht-cpD8OIYcTtgMXs_8owTExmeAsrQxgtSJkusf2Yu7n4sItHzhB_JMkjC3gcuDTPQ2Q-o3uHTzmViQ6oVgHkaXVv_OQNjoncL9mwIb8heV39H3LevFbk3vaDvQiyCiYkbrSVSShJ81Zr_dg_b4sb19jV1_TNo9n65hLFMlZMtGCzZ8/s320/FB_IMG_1653193979732.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1_fqOa_EPWx77FJo1XxW50TqTpx6338LdtDI7MW6N-HS9GPlVTKvLJeIeuZKf7vgcRPJD5CT3tEZnRvWZd-cQHvJ-oc7W70dFR_NxGCqKtHccZSg0IEuuoxJ0UwdMfj4dVANLnzqJoJ2M-tvcL7nFXGhJ1s2-ugPqor6XPXZkMzu80P_vpU8U0k94/s1280/PhotoGrid_1651628092364.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1_fqOa_EPWx77FJo1XxW50TqTpx6338LdtDI7MW6N-HS9GPlVTKvLJeIeuZKf7vgcRPJD5CT3tEZnRvWZd-cQHvJ-oc7W70dFR_NxGCqKtHccZSg0IEuuoxJ0UwdMfj4dVANLnzqJoJ2M-tvcL7nFXGhJ1s2-ugPqor6XPXZkMzu80P_vpU8U0k94/s320/PhotoGrid_1651628092364.jpg" width="180" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Can you do both water park and theme park in the
same day… not recommended. Choose 2 days. Infact as we were allowed 2 days, we
asked specifically if we could go from one to the other. But there is a 5
minute bus travel (inhouse buses) from one to the other, you cannot wear wet
clothes from the water park to the theme park, and it truly does take a day to
do justice to any of them.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->The night parade , happens in the theme park
after 7 pm. Even if you went to the water park, you get free access into the
theme park for the parade, it has all the characters from the park, like Mr
India and even snow white and seven dwarfs, also some very talented acrobats. It
is definitely worth a watch.try and get a place near the pirate ship to get the
best views. <o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4jX9Go2Zbe1Q0usfgelHQUwxBlIaPKYzkOGAARHFTaFfv8bNFMiKDt2qmQUtQuWfZUyCZiFZQxBSJtYtVD2n93s3chMV20S9D7IeqSrqw-VHJ_F_TgRw0r8txRfIZFvhOPpxyMJOZjwRECSHII6XchFc6FRvZiRqtxCeHQ5B6T4_x6y_81YWD3q_r/s1280/PhotoGrid_1651684162769.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4jX9Go2Zbe1Q0usfgelHQUwxBlIaPKYzkOGAARHFTaFfv8bNFMiKDt2qmQUtQuWfZUyCZiFZQxBSJtYtVD2n93s3chMV20S9D7IeqSrqw-VHJ_F_TgRw0r8txRfIZFvhOPpxyMJOZjwRECSHII6XchFc6FRvZiRqtxCeHQ5B6T4_x6y_81YWD3q_r/s320/PhotoGrid_1651684162769.jpg" width="180" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18.0pt;">Final words <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18.0pt;">It is a real feat to make such a
theme park in India, and keep it running well. Yes the park opens late (10:30 )
and closes by 5 pm (indoor rides and water park )- 6:30 pm <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(outside rides ). But that is for the safety
checks, they do diligent safety checks of the rides, multiple times. They need
to check there aren’t anyone in the park after hours, they need to check the
rowdy crowds, the staff is courteous, helpful and we need to extend that
respect to them aswell. The park is really value for money, for all that it
offers, including lifetime memories.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> want to watch more of our shenanigans in Imagica? </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p>Here are few links to my instagram reels from Imagica</o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.instagram.com/reel/CdM7yiMjZPi/?igshid%3DYmMyMTA2M2Y%3D&source=gmail&ust=1653283217892000&usg=AOvVaw3ZH3i_hI9yH0kHm-2e4UAB" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CdM7yiMjZPi/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=" mcafee_aps="true" style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/<wbr></wbr>reel/CdM7yiMjZPi/?igshid=<wbr></wbr>YmMyMTA2M2Y=</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"> </span></p><div dir="auto" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></div><div dir="auto" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">.</div><div dir="auto" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></div><div dir="auto" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.instagram.com/reel/CdHisrfqlKz/?igshid%3DYmMyMTA2M2Y%3D&source=gmail&ust=1653283217892000&usg=AOvVaw2gzCAz7UIxPd1vKooaHsKq" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CdHisrfqlKz/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=" mcafee_aps="true" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/<wbr></wbr>reel/CdHisrfqlKz/?igshid=<wbr></wbr>YmMyMTA2M2Y=</a></div><div dir="auto" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></div><div dir="auto" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">.</div><div dir="auto" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></div><div dir="auto" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.instagram.com/reel/CdJNtc0D5J2/?igshid%3DYmMyMTA2M2Y%3D&source=gmail&ust=1653283217892000&usg=AOvVaw34M9_-MOYWloVsY5GBvJSV" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CdJNtc0D5J2/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=" mcafee_aps="true" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/<wbr></wbr>reel/CdJNtc0D5J2/?igshid=<wbr></wbr>YmMyMTA2M2Y=</a></div></div>the foodietrailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852630301342089274noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3016329700262720977.post-63860309849350432872021-11-10T19:28:00.002-08:002021-11-11T20:50:48.220-08:00The foodie trails to Jodhpur <p> </p><p class="MsoNormal">Diwali of 2021 , we decided to go to Jodhpur on a family
trip, COVID restrictions were just easing up, it was school holidays, great
weather as well, and we had not been on a family vacation in 2 years, and so my
parents, brother, my husband and Shreysht, my son, all of us met in Jodhpur.<o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglqZS_QLpBX3Hf2-B5ph0QLF09p7SquSIWAB7RpFeMK0fJeUvh6qQ5mTr2qiXSiIu3VPo2d70WCutWxDLRbCTe0F01gB2OCZsE4BA4Jb0W9aSxojg8NVWorW7EsORzOFfeoiBCBqEr0NE/s1280/IMG-20211107-WA0028-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="962" data-original-width="1280" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglqZS_QLpBX3Hf2-B5ph0QLF09p7SquSIWAB7RpFeMK0fJeUvh6qQ5mTr2qiXSiIu3VPo2d70WCutWxDLRbCTe0F01gB2OCZsE4BA4Jb0W9aSxojg8NVWorW7EsORzOFfeoiBCBqEr0NE/s320/IMG-20211107-WA0028-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">How to get there? Jodhpur has an airport, which makes flying
into the city easy. But you can also take a train, or make a road trip to
Jodhpur. The roads too are excellent because of Golden quadrilateral of
National highways. We came in by flight from 3 different cities, and then
travelled within the city in auto rickshaws, and drove to Osian in a hired
Innova.so, all travel options available.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Where to stay? We stayed in an Air BNB property in Old
Jodhpur city , it was an old haveli property called Casa de Jodhpur , with 5
rooms. You can book each room individually, and then I would recommend you take
the Maharani sa or the Yuvraj sa rooms. We chose to book the entire 5 rooms,
and have the whole haveli to ourselves, which made safety and covid precautions
easier for us, also we had the privacy of the entire terrace to ourselves.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">There are many hotel and hostel options, and if you want a
good mix of night life plus heritage experience, I would suggest look for
hotels around the step well, or Turji ka Jhalra. Pretty close to the Clock
tower and the step well, it offers arty cafes to chill, nice shopping options,
and some of the best views of the Mehrangarh fort at night, as well as the blue
city , the Umaid bhavan at a distance. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">What to visit?<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">So we had about 4 days and this is what we did <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Day one on arrival we went to Pachetia hill – this is the
most instagrammed stretch of Jodhpur, a walking street, lined by blue walls,
and coloured paintings on both sides, The entire stretch is a photo op, and
once you reach the top, the view of the city is amazing, we happened to go here
on Diwali night, and every house was lit, this also leads to sunset point, so
it a good idea to head out in the evening for Pachetiya hill. There are 2
temples on the way, and they add to the cultural walk aswell.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Dinner was near the step well .<o:p></o:p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyL-_tBVyXFmqn01GR3Eac5HZP9RWOYsQl44WU3XPdtQ2TH7m46X1YgiLsrTfa25fpCIsqu-3zlv-uRd6TFWy1KxxLB7wJrwtb0q7Lve6mV5KsKjxGeI-CVpwRkiw5EcPDEuYjdvV9VRw/s1114/IMG-20211105-WA0010-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1114" data-original-width="807" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyL-_tBVyXFmqn01GR3Eac5HZP9RWOYsQl44WU3XPdtQ2TH7m46X1YgiLsrTfa25fpCIsqu-3zlv-uRd6TFWy1KxxLB7wJrwtb0q7Lve6mV5KsKjxGeI-CVpwRkiw5EcPDEuYjdvV9VRw/s320/IMG-20211105-WA0010-01.jpeg" width="232" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">walking the streets of Jodhpur </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Day two we covered Mehrangarh fort, Jaswant Thada and the
behind side of Mehrangarh fort, where all the blue houses are , called
Navchokiya- Mehrangarh fort has three cafes, we ate in two of them, one for
breakfast including samosa, dhokla and mirchi vada, and another for lunch of
mutton thali and dal bati churma . would definitely recommend the lunch café-
it clean, hospitable, and good quality. After lunch we headed to Jaswant Thada
, about 1.5 km from Mehrangarh fort, we completely forgot to see the batman
movie shooting place, but it is fairly close by, so ask about it at the
entrance of mehrangarh fort. The ziplining is also available, and is 90 minutes
long, we didn’t do the ziplining , but I hear it is exciting.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">We spent the evening and dinner at the step well area again.<o:p></o:p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieUVQChLnGQG4L6NQ9161qIr678Cn0wa3WTyo1VZ48dNzPpr42RusP_xhHAv3N9SChT5G96_GhsWM0WgVTfCFD1lUh1cVNMEFum9d225zYKol3J8-7fQrGHzRBGsD4WsoJf2ozKMyB6sc/s960/IMG-20211106-WA0002-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="823" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieUVQChLnGQG4L6NQ9161qIr678Cn0wa3WTyo1VZ48dNzPpr42RusP_xhHAv3N9SChT5G96_GhsWM0WgVTfCFD1lUh1cVNMEFum9d225zYKol3J8-7fQrGHzRBGsD4WsoJf2ozKMyB6sc/s320/IMG-20211106-WA0002-01.jpeg" width="274" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">picture at mehrangarh fort</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Day 3 we went hired an Innova and drove to Ummaid bhavan
palace the current residence of the king Gaj singh 2 of jodhpur, part of it is
a hotel, and not for tourists, a small section of the museum is open to
tourists, followed by Mandore gardens ( a beautiful garden filled with The
garden is a part of the more massive Mehrangarh Fort, and also houses the
famous Hall of Heroes and the temple of Three Hundred Million Gods. The garden
also has a Government Museum, which is full of artefacts and old relics. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">The most striking feature of the garden is the gorgeous cenotaphs
or 'dewals' that can be found spread all across the Mandore Gardens.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Mandore is 9 km from Jodhpur, and while here I would
recommend going to Bal Samand Lake palace. The palace and the lake is closed to
outsiders, not staying or dining at the Bal Samand lake palace resort. But, the
lake and the palace grounds are truly worth the visit, and we had a gorgeous
meal of laal maas and Rajasthani chicken tikkas at the Bal Samand on day 4 . <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Now, back to Day 3 when we drove onwards from Mandore to
Osian (70 km away) for a camel ride in the dessert, and a meal at a local
dessert village home. The village people were extremely hospitable, the camel
ride was the most exciting part of our holiday. The reason why this dessert trip
is different from the ones in Jaisalmer or Jaipur, is that these are not staged
or fancy, they don’t have music, and rajasthani dancers, it is more real and
raw, with us having raw peanuts, from their farms, we saw them feeding their
cattle some bajra rotis, my son played with the village kids, and we sat around
a bonfire in their house courtyard. It was like a slice out of their everyday
life. The food of fresh bajra rotis, ker sangria from the nearby trees, and
ghee from their cattle was a hearty heartful meal. <o:p></o:p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid15N338PZp3vAL4CMeH9EI3-2j1GMTugvqwDQilqVvYZh1GD6G-Xw8GMQBk1CyDRBEbUYpMR__4FEsm2Ei0kNdX_ZpUtPHBQZks-aRoE4QtWMWEb_UV6z5UwJ1iG04Ysl4SueHsXgRZc/s2619/IMG_20211106_190803-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2619" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid15N338PZp3vAL4CMeH9EI3-2j1GMTugvqwDQilqVvYZh1GD6G-Xw8GMQBk1CyDRBEbUYpMR__4FEsm2Ei0kNdX_ZpUtPHBQZks-aRoE4QtWMWEb_UV6z5UwJ1iG04Ysl4SueHsXgRZc/w178-h320/IMG_20211106_190803-01.jpeg" width="178" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">meal at Osian village home </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Day 4 – We had been going on daily breakfast trails,
discovering the local snacks, but we went to Janta sweet house on the ghanta ghar
road for breakfast, and it soon became our favourite. On day 4 we did all our
shopping, some of the nicer shops, and government sanctioned handicraft stores
are in this area. We bought leheriya suits, lehengas, kurtas, jodhpuri jutis,
and mirror work hand bags. Colourful leheriya and bandhani duppatas, and even Rajasthani
puppets. Day 4 we went to Bal Samand lake palace for lunch , and had a lovely
time discovering the gorgeous palace gardens and lake. The evening was again around
the step well area. <o:p></o:p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0gslw9GnGfdkvt5w_ENs5ikQ-5dr5Gg8Eu05GSspVw74i7xDW2BFFzCPks0XimXXxB_bpGFIxkKoYu14K_R2ZYgRWghTVt23-CvX8tpIU3Huz8vGaNNJCxuL_HLsVof_NGiqHHV25Tx4/s1500/IMG-20211107-WA0038-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1125" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0gslw9GnGfdkvt5w_ENs5ikQ-5dr5Gg8Eu05GSspVw74i7xDW2BFFzCPks0XimXXxB_bpGFIxkKoYu14K_R2ZYgRWghTVt23-CvX8tpIU3Huz8vGaNNJCxuL_HLsVof_NGiqHHV25Tx4/s320/IMG-20211107-WA0038-01.jpeg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">picture at Bal Samand Lake palace</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0q446eT7C6MWTNJs6FVJRetxC7aqNcZyGQ3I9HJ6gqpZy0VYLvR_b9JMhWxzGcjc6AlTcJrxyn88J0UJOztcbBB1NK0us_evSxdQJnsFEYqtck9IFdLGrdYT6MS1GlwJYaIa8hj6vQjs/s720/PhotoGrid_1636628205015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0q446eT7C6MWTNJs6FVJRetxC7aqNcZyGQ3I9HJ6gqpZy0VYLvR_b9JMhWxzGcjc6AlTcJrxyn88J0UJOztcbBB1NK0us_evSxdQJnsFEYqtck9IFdLGrdYT6MS1GlwJYaIa8hj6vQjs/s320/PhotoGrid_1636628205015.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">food with royalty, pictures at Mehrangarh cafe, in Mehrangarh fort</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Day 5 – we ate breakfast at Janta sweethome, and did some
last day shopping, packed Ghevars for home from janta sweets, a custom that almost
everyone visiting jodhpur does. And then headed for the airport. Take satleast
2 hours at the airport, since the serpentine queues and limited staff at the
airport.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">What to eat in Jodhpur ? <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Jalebi – Motu Jalebi wala , old city<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Dhee ke kachori – Narayan mishtan<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Gulab Jamun – Chaturbhuj Gulab Jamun <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Samosa and mirch vada – Shahi samosa <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Malai Ghevar, lassi, chaas, pyaaz kachori and dahi chutney
samosa (dahi chutrney absolutely anything ) – Janta sweet home <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Rajasthani thali – mehrangarh fort café – they give a non
veg version of thali with mutton /chicken, 3 types of rotis like makki , bajra
and plain roti. Also the shahi thali at Bal samand lake palace . Ker sangria, gate
ki sabji, lasun chutney and bajra rotis are what marks a complete Rajasthani thali.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Dal Bati churma – no visit to Rajasthan is complete without
the dal bati churma. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Kabuli – While Rajasthan has a rich Rajput food culture. Kabuli,
is a Mughal Rajasthani cuisine, hailing from Kabul , Afghanistan, a rich
vegetarian biryani, with nuts, and dry fruits, and redolent with spices. This
dish is super delicious, extremely filling, and has some interesting history. If
there was ever a concept of vegetarian biryani, this would be it. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Special mention to mirch vada – combine the Maharashtrian vada
pav, vada with it’s spicy potato mix, and the mirchi bhajji, long green chilli,
and you have a green chilli, stuffed with spicy potato, covered in besan and
deep fried. The mirchi vada, appealed to the Punekar in me ! <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Laal Maas – the laal
maas ( red mutton) was even more difficult to find than the blue houses in
Jodhpur, a lot of places were pure vegetarian, and a few others had dubious
versions of laal maas, we liked the one from Open house café , near Turji ka
jhalra, and the one at Bal Samand. <o:p></o:p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjINC5VDLs7Wc7qnI60LNpKbRdiNty3DJy8ol8lRM2m_AkHEeuIUN0bdmh8Gt6eRaePlxuJiLCNOcvXsmuA7O3Gs7SBD-W5P7lZfSKFFGO6Z_erATIpO5g1vvFNEHQdoKcNzBe-qgFNiKE/s2048/IMG_20211107_151213-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1583" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjINC5VDLs7Wc7qnI60LNpKbRdiNty3DJy8ol8lRM2m_AkHEeuIUN0bdmh8Gt6eRaePlxuJiLCNOcvXsmuA7O3Gs7SBD-W5P7lZfSKFFGO6Z_erATIpO5g1vvFNEHQdoKcNzBe-qgFNiKE/s320/IMG_20211107_151213-01.jpeg" width="247" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">laal maas and rajasthani style chicken curry, at bal Samand lake palace</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Last words – Spend time walking the streets, of Jodhpur,
also wear colourful clothes as well as blues to match the walls, the weather is
dry and hot, so hydrate yourself often. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Want
to see more ? d=follow the hasthtag #thefoodietrailstojodhpur to see reels/posts
and more , also I have an instastory highlights on Jodhpur on my Instagram @thefoodietrails
, so go check that out.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD437M_3joUD06fZmH-oWkYlCM7Mthg0NVh5thF872VJ5Wt1EOW9syhUcs6rwsNf6YmcTQ-gotzsOQ6_M7Z0vU1z1lkosrBkeH0_IxOxcPnoYlMgFbQjJ2LYsUOFDxHntRr4NQtSKso4g/s2048/IMG_20211105_221951-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1303" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD437M_3joUD06fZmH-oWkYlCM7Mthg0NVh5thF872VJ5Wt1EOW9syhUcs6rwsNf6YmcTQ-gotzsOQ6_M7Z0vU1z1lkosrBkeH0_IxOxcPnoYlMgFbQjJ2LYsUOFDxHntRr4NQtSKso4g/s320/IMG_20211105_221951-01.jpeg" width="204" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">laal maas ay open house cafe, near the step well</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>the foodietrailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852630301342089274noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3016329700262720977.post-45549963465598713442021-02-17T20:21:00.001-08:002021-02-17T20:21:32.541-08:00In pursuit of Hampiness : Goa to Hampi road trip <p class="MsoNormal">It has been almost a year since I stepped out of my home
state of Goa, since the COVID pandemic. I’ll agree that there are worse places
to get stuck at home, than Goa, and yet, the wanderlust bug finally crawled
under my skin, and I was ready for our ‘first vacation since lockdown’, and we
decided to go to Hampi.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Hampi is a place in Karnataka, a neighbouring state, and
about 360 Km from my place, that is about an 8 and a half hour road trip. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Reasons why I chose Hampi as my first vacation spot.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->It is not too far, and I didn’t want to yet take
a flight out anywhere, haven’t been on a flight in a year, and I am still
warming up to the idea of ‘non essential plane travel’. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->The fact that it was our own car, gave me much
comfort in terms of cleanliness, and travelling with a kid.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Hampi is not a place, it is a vibe ! Ok, I had
heard this phrase so many times before, that I had to roll my eyes at it, until
I actually saw Hampi. Hampi is definitely, not a singular place, it is an
entire sprawling space filled with 3000 ancient ruins, dating back to the 14 th
century , spread over 4100 hectares of land. And because it is a UNESCO world
heritage site, nothing can be built, destroyed or removed from here. You can
literally climb the highest mountain here and yet see nothing but ancient
civilization, no modern buildings, malls, or structures around. ( pictures,
posts, and reels, and videos on @thefoodietrails Instagram page)<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Hampi has these cool stone hills, I can’t
explain, it looks like nature constructed these giant , stone cairns. A cairn
is the stacked pile of stones, you can find them in Leh Ladakh, or in Hawaii,
or just about any place with flat stackable stones. People believe that
stacking a pile of stones, helps wishes come true, so, imagine an entire area
filled with giant natural cairns, that’s what Hampi reminded me of. Not to
mention it is easy and fun climbing these rock structures. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Hampi has some amazing temples and structures to
visit, it has a religious side, as well as a leisure side, with rock climbing,
treks, boating in a lake, and walks in paddy fields. So, a well rounded
vacation spot with much to do.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->And finally, it was a short trip of just 2 days
for us, as we could not afford a longer vacation.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Now, that you are convinced that Hampi is worth visiting,
here is my itinerary, which I meticulously planned and executed.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->We left on a Friday afternoon, after I had
finished my morning OPD clinic. We set out at 2 pm, should have reached by
10:30 -11 pm , but we stopped at Hubli for dinner, which was 5 hours away from
Goa, and reached Hampi at 1 am that night, since we could not find a dining
destination in Hubli. We finally ate at Kamat’s near the bus stand in Hubli.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Hampi has a river run right through, and most of
the temples, structures of visit, as well as the main town is on one side of
the river, the other side is also known as the island side, and this side has
the Sanapur lake, the Anjaneya hill temple, and the cottages . we stayed on the
island side, which is prettier, more fun and chill, has a night life which is
absolutely missing on the temple side, not to mention alcohol and
non-vegetarian food, which is looked down upon on the Temple side of Hampi.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Now the only way to cross to the island side is
via ferry ( closes at 5 pm , starts at 7 am) , or the bridge which is 40 min
drive away. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Next morning Saturday – we parked our car on the
island side of the ferry, crossed over to the temple side via a extremely short
ferry ride ( cost rs 20 per person), and hired a day trip auto rickshaw.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->A day trip Auto rickshaw, will take you to all
the popular destinations, make a pit stop for lunch, and drop you back at the
ferry point by 5 pm. I would recommend starting your day trip at 7:30 , after
you have seen the temple elephant Lakshmi have her daily ceremonial bath, which
is quite close to the ferry point itself. The ferry point is right on the banks
of the Virupaksha temple, but our guide said NOT to start with the temple as
our first day trip destination, since mornings are extremely crowded at the temple.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->So here is the circuit that we took for our
sight-seeing, if you plan to do it without a auto, and drive yourself around. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle"> Krishna temple, Narasimha and Badavalinga
complex, underground Shiva temple, Watch tower, Lotus mahal complex with the
elephant stables, Nahanavami dibba complex with the pushkarni , lunch break,
Vittala temple complex with the stone chariot and king’s balance, ending at
Virupaksha temple and surrounding Hampi market. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">We started at around 10 am and ended at 5
pm.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle"> ( we
paid Rs 1500, which included a tip for
the driver and guide)<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Once we crossed back to the island side, we had
planned to catch the sunset from sunset point on top of Hanuman temple, but
they were close at 5 pm, because of a recent Cheetah scare, and so we headed to
Sanapur lake.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle"> You
can get a Coracle ride (cost Rs 900 to 1200 )<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Hills and treks: There are two major hill
temples, one is on the temple side known as Matanga hill, it is lovely at
sunset, but since it was on the temple side, and we had a ferry at 5 pm, we had
to miss this one. The other is the Anjaneya temple hill the birth place of
Hanuman , on the island side, great for sunrise , but recently opens only at 8
am, so we went there post 8 am on Sunday.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Sunday – we drove down to the Sanapur waterfall
before breakfast, a hidden little spot, back for a breakfast, and headed to
Anjaneya temple and climbed 575 steps to the top. Climbing the Bajrangi temple,
on Valentine’s day, with highly energised bachelors from Bajrangi dals chanting
jai shri ram; I found it really cute. For those not in the know, Shri Hanuman,
or the monkey God, is the patron God of bachelor men. <span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol-ext; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji";">😊</span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Where we stayed ?<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">I had booked a home stay, but they called to say that they
were sold out, and I had to get my money refunded from goibibo, and last minute
rebooking of places. Luckily we found a lovely cottage on Agoda. It is called
Tutti cottages. There are many cottages on the island side. Also, nice hotels too.
Chooses wisely since after 6 , Hampi is a mostly in your stay place. Our place
had a jam session, and bonfire night on Saturday night, and we had Pizza and
thukpa . the breakfast place was among paddy fields, so idyllic. The rooms are
very basic , blow away bamboo cottages, but shreysht had a blast thinking that
we stayed in such makeshift homes ( just like in three little pigs story).<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">What to wear ?<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">It is fairly cold at night, and considering the weather and
wind enters our porous bamboo cottages. Also the days are sunny. We went in February,
one of the nicer times to go. And yet, I would recommend hat, sunglasses,
sunscreen, something that covers your shoulders and knees ( some temples insist
) and good walking shoes. The first day, we walked 16000 steps on my fitness
tracker !<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">The next day we walked up 575 fairly steep steps.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">When to travel ?<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Definitely November to February, or and if there is any
music or cultural festival in Hampi. Some people have travelled in the rains as
well, but I suspect the islnd side is closed, especially these cottage huts,
and the rocks might be slippery to climb. Summers scorching, rains torrential,
so avoid those months.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Return :<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">On Sunday, we just did the Anjaneya hill temple, drove to Hospet.
We had plans of a fancy lunch at this lovely place called Evolve back, but you
need prior bookings for meals here, and it is a place for guests only.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">We stopped to spend an hour discovering the Tungabhadra dam
at Hospet, and it is highly recommended, they have a massive Dam project, with
light and fountain shows in the evening ( we went in the afternoon), children’s
park, a Japanese garden, and it has a Rs 30 parking charge, and a Rs 20 bus ride
up the hill ( I think it’s called vaikunth hill) , it is all very massive and
magnificent.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Summary itinerary <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Friday : leave Goa for Hampi, stop at Hubli<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Saturday : day trip of Hampi , temple side . <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Sunday : 3 hour sightseeing of island side Hampi, lunch at
Hospet with visit to Tungabhadra dam, drive back to Goa. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">A 2 ½ day round trip.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><p>Instagram posts : How we made a travel journal of our trip
for a 5 year old. Pictures and posts of what we ate, and fun reels of our travel.
@thefoodietrails @Shrasesbyshreysht </p>the foodietrailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852630301342089274noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3016329700262720977.post-39823093625494006762020-04-08T22:24:00.003-07:002020-04-08T22:38:29.409-07:00A Journey within; the only kind of travel itinerary during the Covid 19 lockdown <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
It started with our Summer vacation to Turkey getting
cancelled as a contagious virus was doing its rounds , and very soon domestic
flights got cancelled and even getting out of our own houses to take a walk
around the neighbourhood was fraught with dangers of contracting Covid 19.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Since all roads leading outwards were closed, I decided to
take my wanderlust to the next level, I decided to take the Journey Within. I
had heard marvellous tales of how it looked, the galaxies of the soul, the
ocean of treasures waiting to be discovered. I was excited! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But how does one take that journey within? There wasn’t a
flight or a train schedule I could refer to. There were, however, multiple
travel agents, waiting to take me on this wondrous journey. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
First I tried the easiest route to self discovery; sleep. It
was a journey I had taken many times before, and with a few expert tips from
the sleep experts via Ted Talks and articles on the ‘power of sleep’, I was
sure to unlock the secrets of the soul through sleep. The secret, they said,
lay in the deep sleep, and the slow spindle sleep, and the REM sleep, and it
was a matter of tapping into the Theta and Delta waves, to ride the journey to
Neverland. So, I started sleeping with Binaural beats. Binaural means related
to both ears. when music of two different frequencies is played in either ear,
for example a 200 hz, and a 210 hz, a new frequency is created within the
inferior colliculus , at 10 Hz. This frequency is not actually heard in the
music, but is created within the body and the brain, due to the disparity in
the frequency. Binaural beats are supposed to cure everything from anxiety to
insomnia, and promote a sense of bliss.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgScTf4e6DToiL0lNO2czsv7M112hAsCYb94kp7YHoagKICEZdyM-kedMuCrNgpyWvphmUtwyzmUtQ2bKDzHtIDZeP26tpQ6VyvHMKkA4-w8_0FX8Jd67rJvfcSCBQ0eyT7IDYZbXOufdo/s1600/binaural-beats-brainwave-states.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="324" data-original-width="600" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgScTf4e6DToiL0lNO2czsv7M112hAsCYb94kp7YHoagKICEZdyM-kedMuCrNgpyWvphmUtwyzmUtQ2bKDzHtIDZeP26tpQ6VyvHMKkA4-w8_0FX8Jd67rJvfcSCBQ0eyT7IDYZbXOufdo/s400/binaural-beats-brainwave-states.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the journey within, quarantined travel blogger</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Youtube, my preferred travel planner, next suggested, I try
Chakra healing.Chakras are the centers of life force or energy within the body .We
have 7 Chakras in our body, starting from the root chakra meant for grounding
and safety, to the highest chakra which was a direct connection to the
universal spirit. There were multiple ways of balancing the Chakras, from
guided meditation, to visualising the colours red, orange, yellow, green, sky
blue and purple for each of the chakras, to listening to singing bowls and
meditating with crystals, and intentional chanting. Words like ‘I am safe, I am
life, I am will, I am compassion, I am creation, I am awake and I am .’ Chakra
meditations on Youtube were as short as 7 minutes with 1 minute for each
chakra, to ones which were 7 hours long with 1 hour each for each Chakra. I
found the 35 minutes a day, spending 5 minutes per chakra was the most
sustainable practice for me. <o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiil_JODt8z1nX9i2vvrYFcN_CraREbHC2lQs3NQ-4d4JH3PY-a-wsRK_Ah83exyGFqE51avzvRdeRVIJT0ze6CpwVURjADNSKIVu-MKu1AGd1BgFOh63exDwZBzUAwRF-BAaPlYKecf9Q/s1600/What-Is-Chakra-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="630" data-original-width="700" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiil_JODt8z1nX9i2vvrYFcN_CraREbHC2lQs3NQ-4d4JH3PY-a-wsRK_Ah83exyGFqE51avzvRdeRVIJT0ze6CpwVURjADNSKIVu-MKu1AGd1BgFOh63exDwZBzUAwRF-BAaPlYKecf9Q/s400/What-Is-Chakra-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">colourful vistas, on my journey within</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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From a journey which required me to sleep, to a journey
within which required me to sit still, I then moved to a soul-travel option
which required me to actually move.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The idea was to move from your mind and brain to a more
visceral, more intuitive energy, which required the body to take over. Shamanic
shaking ,or quaking was the exact opposite of thecalm relaxation of the previous
two,, here words like ‘ecstatic expression’ and ‘heightened arousal’ were used.
It was more difficult than the others, I realised, since here, it expected me
to do something. I saw that my mind wandered less. There was no scope of the
mid to wander, when your arms were flapping like a bird, your hips gyrating and
your feet stomping to a primal African beat. I pranced like a monkey on sugar
high, and all things considered , while I am not sure what insights I got about
me, I felt elated.More reading suggested that shaking has been a form of
connecting with a higher being, among Oshoites, Caribbean shakers, bushmen,
shamans, Australian aborigines, Japanese Seiki Jutsu. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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From the ancient Indian wisdom of balancing Chakras, I
decided to try the ancient Chinese wisdom of balancing my masculine and
feminine energies, namely my Yin and Yang. Yin the feminine powers and the Yang
,masculine powers, reside in each one of us. it is a dynamic equilibrium, never
still, sometimes we are the receiver, sometimes the giver, sometimes the
intuitive , other times the logical. I relised, just like the chakras, if the
Yin Yang energies are not in balance, then it leads to discord in the physical
and mental state of the person, but also discord in the relationships with the outside
world. Balancing yin yang meant doing a lot of internal questioning,
journaling, some qigong exercises, and nutrition.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh1Ki8KQzz6IjHGW2bYuCv5MXSNaUGeItw9wprl_6PUj2LynTvE7Fx_WBNhvx0MrCsEkMhScQh-4CT1ddG5o_ylvuxG8ZKoDvR5np4KclcMwBxo9-L3X0-WIJkAz9MeweCS_9cglVXzxU/s1600/MASCULINE-ENERGIES1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh1Ki8KQzz6IjHGW2bYuCv5MXSNaUGeItw9wprl_6PUj2LynTvE7Fx_WBNhvx0MrCsEkMhScQh-4CT1ddG5o_ylvuxG8ZKoDvR5np4KclcMwBxo9-L3X0-WIJkAz9MeweCS_9cglVXzxU/s400/MASCULINE-ENERGIES1.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">balancing the masculine and feminine </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I know at this point you are wondering if I found my Moksha
in the times of Covid 19 quarantine. What I do realise is that going on a
spiritual journey, is about the actual practice. Just the way you cannot travel
to Italy, via a food and travel show on Tv, or via scrolling through your
instagram. In the same way, your journey within, will look and feel different
from the journey of other holistic healers.<o:p></o:p></div>
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From all of these I also realised , that the journey within,
like all other travels, is not about the destination, it is about the journey.
With no end goal, infact with no idea what the final destination looked like, I
had merely decided to try various lanes, and tracks and wooded pathways ; all
leading inwards. How much deeper could I go? Which path seemed the best one?
Which one would take me there? How would the outside world look once I reached
my final destination of soul searching? I didn’t know all the answers, and
maybe tour guides in the form of gurus and masters might help me get there
faster, but to find your own path, as Robert Frost said, might make all the
difference. One thing is for sure, there is not just one way to the
destination, and the journey too is as beautiful as the destination.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Which ones do I still do <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>now? I do them all, I have found that each of
the different meditative states, whether it is sitting in stillness, or
listening to music beats, chants, or movement based meditation, or even
meditation in sleep, each of them brought either calm, or insight or elation or
relaxation. And each have a place in my life. Also, we are still in lockdown
phase, and I have decided to keep searching for new eclectic pathways to the
Journey within. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br /></div>
the foodietrailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852630301342089274noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3016329700262720977.post-17783113794149248892019-10-17T19:08:00.000-07:002019-10-18T19:12:49.188-07:00First timers guide to Ziro Music Festival <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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One fine day, while browsing through Instagram, I saw a
sponsored ad about the Ziro music festival. And in less than a month from that
click bait, I found myself travelling for the very first time to North east of
India, for my very first camping trip, the very first time I was carrying a
back pack, and the very first time I was attending stay on site Music festival.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjH1J5fOBIG9vo7MkLlUsXJLhtiaVqFXgSee3AF2Q8drBGf6S2_m8NSZc-uq-0tNnDEeOhn9DtO5kloUVsV9fy6HDNWuaK6eJIxLvgCekL0ZvgYGaw0-zLR86_ZfhJVFZBjBwX0YT-b6g/s1600/IMG_20190927_165938__01-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="925" data-original-width="1600" height="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjH1J5fOBIG9vo7MkLlUsXJLhtiaVqFXgSee3AF2Q8drBGf6S2_m8NSZc-uq-0tNnDEeOhn9DtO5kloUVsV9fy6HDNWuaK6eJIxLvgCekL0ZvgYGaw0-zLR86_ZfhJVFZBjBwX0YT-b6g/s320/IMG_20190927_165938__01-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Ziro, is a village in the valleys of Arunachal Pradesh . To
get there one must reach Guwahati, then take an overnight train to Nagarlagun (
train leaves Guwahati at 9 pm and reaches Nagarlagun at around 5 am) and then a
5-6 hour journey along bumpy winding roads through hills and valleys, until you
see fields of golden rice fields ready for harvesting. <o:p></o:p><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIRJRf6TiKatB4JLLfbz9EeWH58FSXSNbI-OmAzhMoQtx035YYsHS4W99La4AoWJqNQXANDX-nzj1V-iXtNGViaYyaH5waNdby6KvF-VdPk1PpOyFms1T-4r2SypXsd8KW7HbH03n_9FQ/s1600/IMG_20190926_072417-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="986" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIRJRf6TiKatB4JLLfbz9EeWH58FSXSNbI-OmAzhMoQtx035YYsHS4W99La4AoWJqNQXANDX-nzj1V-iXtNGViaYyaH5waNdby6KvF-VdPk1PpOyFms1T-4r2SypXsd8KW7HbH03n_9FQ/s320/IMG_20190926_072417-01.jpeg" width="197" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bumpy roads, picturesque views . Nagalagun to Ziro</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb4KnF7eMCGnaVnQVgEo0upgH8IXJG9WM3ERvZcNSiBka5Z5WGZ2ED5BvbSgs8O_IIXkVZs9CqdRf4mmEFB9-3xp55_kez4rw00Pdzft2cSuAWcO4WSfpMuPJM1ta83bkZ4Aq-_R4_UZg/s1600/IMG_20190927_163205-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="970" data-original-width="1600" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb4KnF7eMCGnaVnQVgEo0upgH8IXJG9WM3ERvZcNSiBka5Z5WGZ2ED5BvbSgs8O_IIXkVZs9CqdRf4mmEFB9-3xp55_kez4rw00Pdzft2cSuAWcO4WSfpMuPJM1ta83bkZ4Aq-_R4_UZg/s320/IMG_20190927_163205-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The very first glimpse of Ziro; breathtaking.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The Music festival itself is an open air music festival,
with a day stage and a night stage. The day stage begins at 2 in the afternoon,
but you have local talents who perform through the morning from 11 am onwards.
The night stage begins at 6 pm and goes on till around 10 pm or slightly later.
<o:p></o:p></div>
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Once you reach Ziro , you have three stay options of stay .
Hotels, of which I noticed the Ziro Palace Inn was the closest , situated a
mere 4 minutes from the festival venue. The second is homestays, of which there
are few but I met some fun , feisty and enterprising young Arunachali girls and
boys, who I hope can change the Homestay scene in years to come. And the third,
most popular stay option is camping. In camping too, you can choose to pitch your
own tent, the PYOT area is again 5 minutes from the festival venue, you can
watch the stage from your tent ! or for newbies like me, you can opt for pre
organised camping experience . ours was called Experience destination.<o:p></o:p><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8T0G2JTvliocGgDd3cOa2xhyN7IEPbwQEt_rkc4nJHBm3EkJJ_hGTb901A8Jb5ilKd0QTM0KdtsfIABwu96UFk_53mi9NJ9JxVDoAa-wRo_9Ojfr3qNPzqPI1CmWO8diNDRnASJWtRZs/s1600/IMG_20190926_141842-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="913" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8T0G2JTvliocGgDd3cOa2xhyN7IEPbwQEt_rkc4nJHBm3EkJJ_hGTb901A8Jb5ilKd0QTM0KdtsfIABwu96UFk_53mi9NJ9JxVDoAa-wRo_9Ojfr3qNPzqPI1CmWO8diNDRnASJWtRZs/s320/IMG_20190926_141842-01.jpeg" width="182" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Life is nothing if not a series of adventures.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IN;">The first timers guide to backpacking.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IN;">Soon after I
booked our trip to Ziro, i realised I had never packed a back pack before. I
read a lot of blogs on how to pack a back pack, what to pack for a camping trip
, how to hoist a backpack on your back, and how to take off a backpack without
injuring yourself. I decided to do some back strengthening exercises for
added measure, I mean to carry all that weight on your shoulders ! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IN;">So here's
what I learnt . <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IN;">1. Along
with back exercises, do some core strengthening workout.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IN;">2. This
particular blog was very helpful on how to pack a back so as to have the centre
of gravity right in the centre of the backpack. <a href="https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/loading-backpack.html">CLICK HERE</a><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IN;">and can I add my two camping essentials - a battery charged power bank , and micellar water ( i didnt need to wash my face for 7 days. micellar water has micelles suspended in soft water, and removes dust, grime, makeup, and keeps skin 90 % hydrated without any facewash or rinsing! save water guys, also if its good enough for the french it's good for you. It doesnt cost much google it)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IN;">3. Having
been to Ziro, i can attest, carrying a backpack is not a hundred percent
necessary. You aren’t really required to hike with your backpack. The journey
is from Guwahati airport to Guwahati railway station, then a train journey,
then a car journey, and the car drops you almost to your campsite. The walk
would be a mere 5 minutes to your tent. and then the bag stays in the tent up
until you leave. if you are ok hauling a small suitcase and a small carry bag,
for 5-10 min you should be fine . Infact some people were carrying suitcases
which were smaller than our backpacks ! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBPdvo5LW_8wdW2c2zXM5CBlS48rbq3d1Ru6BldEPNAdTKemCP4Muo7O5yXiRW5nkVID1AyHxowMLPl-sNw2dCAJguqWoQkQw3G8GVOAiWlOQbou72VuwlYucLPJGp56u_24NHPsCxFp0/s1600/IMG_20190930_103702-02.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="990" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBPdvo5LW_8wdW2c2zXM5CBlS48rbq3d1Ru6BldEPNAdTKemCP4Muo7O5yXiRW5nkVID1AyHxowMLPl-sNw2dCAJguqWoQkQw3G8GVOAiWlOQbou72VuwlYucLPJGp56u_24NHPsCxFp0/s320/IMG_20190930_103702-02.jpeg" width="197" /></a></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IN;">First timers guide to staying in a tent.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IN;">My first
thought s when I entered my tent was - Boy am I glad I don't suffer from
claustrophobia ! Ours was what is called a three man tent, but there is NO WAY three
grown men would be able to be comfortable in there. And in the tent were our
backpacks and, as the clothes and other paraphernalia started to unravel, the
place got smaller. Here's what I learnt from my first tent experience.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IN;">1. It gets
fairly dark in a tent. Carry a torch, or better still, carry the battery
operated lamp for 360 degree lighting unlike a torch which gives light only in
one direction. For more charm carry battery operated string of lights to hang
inside your tent. ( especially if you plan to spend quality time in your tent)
We just came came to sleep in our tents in the wee hours of the morning, not
having cozy cute tents meant we spend more time hanging around the common area
and made more friends. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IN;">2. I
wouldn't call myself particularly queemish , but , the fact that my backpack
had been lying on the floor of the train, under a sleeper class bunker during
the journey, and now lay inches away from my face - had me tossing in my sleep.
There is no way out of it, your backpack , your muddied shoes , all of it will
be within a space smaller than a queen size bed, and shall be shared by another
person and their belongings. So, I highly recommend carrying a foldable
waterproof shoe bag, in which you can pack up your shoes and keep outside the
tent ! Beware of leeches and such, so see that the shoe bag ( even a dustbin
bag works ) is closed tightly. For the backpack too you can cover with a sheet,
to cordon off the area you sleep from the area that has your belongings. Having
all of it hidden behind a clean sheet will make the tent look bigger too.
Here's another suggestion - carry a one man tent, which is a really small tent,
pitch it near your tent and put ALL your belongings in there ! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IN;">3. Keep your
tent dry at all times ! it really rains a lot at Ziro during the music festival
time. having foliage or undergrowth around our tent kept the ground really dry
around our tent ( unlike other campsites) something like pine needles and
bamboo don’t absorb water and keep the area really dry , apparently it’s
because they are are taxonomically grass , was what one of the veteran campers
explained). Just lay down some foliage around your tent. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8czQC6V61Hp8aCnnhutZLqU5pcCVn34BGEOjVYJ8tP7bBW-VO1TDXzqCz6w8lGagjez-zUfURRmDxm622ezi30rhC4e_J7OJ-4ItjB57Ou-gdLuOxhaPo_ddBu_pSA5y_X0mrG3fh8yI/s1600/IMG_20190926_154825-02.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="904" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8czQC6V61Hp8aCnnhutZLqU5pcCVn34BGEOjVYJ8tP7bBW-VO1TDXzqCz6w8lGagjez-zUfURRmDxm622ezi30rhC4e_J7OJ-4ItjB57Ou-gdLuOxhaPo_ddBu_pSA5y_X0mrG3fh8yI/s320/IMG_20190926_154825-02.jpeg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">acting all boss babe outside our tent, when in actual, I really dont think I can repeat this 'once in a life time experience'.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IN;">First timers guide to Ziro.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IN;">The neighbouring
villages and town is a treat to walk around. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IN;">We went on a
Village walk and it was the most magical day. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IN;">We walked
through golden paddy fields, fringed with dark green pines , topped with purple
hills in the background and a sky which was a pantone cerulean. And it was all
around, 360 degrees , no picture can do it justice, not even Panoramas. And
then it started to drizzle, and the clouds came down. Stunningly beautiful
! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IN;">We went to
the home of an Apatani tribal woman. I think my happy vibes rubbed off on her
and she wanted me to sing with her. We sang Lucky Ali's Oh Sanam , since Lucky
Ali would be performing later that evening at the Music festival. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IN;">Don’t forget
to visit the weekly market, which happens only on a Saturday , where vendors
from neighboring villages come set shop for a day. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IN;">They also
have fishing in paddy fields tours but I didn't want to need to have a bath, so
avoided that. Also bicycle rides and ATB rides from town . <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IN;">They have
some beautiful view points and even a lake with Boating nearby. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9iCrXP0852G1ZDLw2sxYPAp1HItfCiJfyWyciK0kABtOMXhEWXJMj3akiZJgNzMmfFi0iJ9-zpygsvbMzkCdZ0RMLqm40i-cTAidzVtojOTGfs1ohugdmFPHu-T86sIXKQqkeCutuW90/s1600/IMG_20190928_124558-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="972" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9iCrXP0852G1ZDLw2sxYPAp1HItfCiJfyWyciK0kABtOMXhEWXJMj3akiZJgNzMmfFi0iJ9-zpygsvbMzkCdZ0RMLqm40i-cTAidzVtojOTGfs1ohugdmFPHu-T86sIXKQqkeCutuW90/s320/IMG_20190928_124558-01.jpeg" width="194" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The walk through the fields in the rain is surreal</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhczaXEa52L6iR9TtfBZpVB6iuuPPdVk7qVVmno8e1lD70ZZI7jTAB76ooWjkpuvIQQrWQhZTPhXnzVheLDC0F5EmYJFpOgdd4NSFx6oQMY2Ujv7wsXWnCXMrPm1bcVn0VgS3fcJBj8BXs/s1600/IMG_20190928_140231-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1045" data-original-width="1600" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhczaXEa52L6iR9TtfBZpVB6iuuPPdVk7qVVmno8e1lD70ZZI7jTAB76ooWjkpuvIQQrWQhZTPhXnzVheLDC0F5EmYJFpOgdd4NSFx6oQMY2Ujv7wsXWnCXMrPm1bcVn0VgS3fcJBj8BXs/s320/IMG_20190928_140231-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Simple , but so hospitable. The Apatani village woman even gifted me a pumpkin as a gift.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYCTBthYGHAiPtkF5VnEHJ_LFI9TeEsU1lDYwEoaJAqH5rgMPwWZAxpU3sOBYkljUE9EpACN8Rdx5u0KiPDZAU7qpakeTW2mxsVCora9uWxtWsxpz5buazwPAZuTKnHI-Hbb1lKLO6FR0/s1600/IMG_20190930_111942-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="730" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYCTBthYGHAiPtkF5VnEHJ_LFI9TeEsU1lDYwEoaJAqH5rgMPwWZAxpU3sOBYkljUE9EpACN8Rdx5u0KiPDZAU7qpakeTW2mxsVCora9uWxtWsxpz5buazwPAZuTKnHI-Hbb1lKLO6FR0/s320/IMG_20190930_111942-01.jpeg" width="145" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a slight 6 km detour, took us to the lovely sico lake.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhax_wmf-4279VoALmx9upBUNsbHgzxdE0ZJpjTRdD9wqhZqqzwZUhluqUDhl5KsrOvQm2TxS8Uz_tDRcgp7yzZ8_SpOsZmd8PJdetZXTWuguhJiAKEVH11LtoXuYuzVHo5YPTGQsu4NoA/s1600/IMG_20190930_112207-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="734" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhax_wmf-4279VoALmx9upBUNsbHgzxdE0ZJpjTRdD9wqhZqqzwZUhluqUDhl5KsrOvQm2TxS8Uz_tDRcgp7yzZ8_SpOsZmd8PJdetZXTWuguhJiAKEVH11LtoXuYuzVHo5YPTGQsu4NoA/s320/IMG_20190930_112207-01.jpeg" width="145" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Boating at Sico lake.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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</div>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IN;"><br /></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IN;">First timers Guide to Ziro Music Fest<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IN;">So, there
were two things on my mind – What do I wear ? and What do I get to eat ? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IN;">So, every
one will insist on gum boots, because the rains get fairly mucky (We even made
up a muck grading system from 1 t0 10, humour helps when you are slipping and
sliding through water logged mud ). So, boots. The most comfortable ones were
the Decathlon ones , is what I found out from all ziro goers. I ofcourse spray
painted mine , and then stuck stickers on them for added measure. The paint
didn’t dry completely, so I stuck some of the foliage from around my tent
aswell. You can buy boots at the town near Ziro as well, or an Amazon ( as I
did ) but, decathlon ones were the best, according to everyone. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IN;">Because the
boots keep your feet cozy, you can easily wear shorts /skirts , without feeling
cold. Carry a shrug/ jacket for later in the evening. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IN;">Here I’d
like to add a word about the locals – who are absolute fashionistas. They would
beat any Instagramming fashion blogger hollow with their sense of style. Think
neon pants with Aubergine crossbacks with matching hair, or Maroon sundress
with tan coloured boots, even the girl at the help desk wore a white faux fur
lined jacket, and olive green pants. These girls were dancing and jumping heels!
Such an inspiration.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Boys, get a nice jacket, a colourful muffler (both to wear
and to share ), glow in the dark tees with funky messages (always conversation
starters).<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvrk7z4p3klb4BKOQIZEe3Oax18sCL2qfPexDlHixGH2-9cRShwWgzQr-5eVVBxZJt8mu5nRFuxw8L6gDdEsG2rOZaY69f_XIMo5URVs_7COmNv9KvlUirsUjkfii4b0ApAmRHh3vJB14/s1600/IMG_20190928_150330-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="977" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvrk7z4p3klb4BKOQIZEe3Oax18sCL2qfPexDlHixGH2-9cRShwWgzQr-5eVVBxZJt8mu5nRFuxw8L6gDdEsG2rOZaY69f_XIMo5URVs_7COmNv9KvlUirsUjkfii4b0ApAmRHh3vJB14/s320/IMG_20190928_150330-01.jpeg" width="195" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We went shopping at the local village market, and bought a local shrug, and kajal. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Now, the food . First
timers guide to eating snails, silkworms, frogs and grasshoppers.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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First off, let me tell you, that I am all about bio
diversity and conservation of nature, I wear Ahimsa saris which are silk saris
made with cultured silkworms treated humanely. And, I would never have frogs in
Goa (where it is endangered and Government protected, I have tons of posts on
NOT eating Jumping chicken in Goa !), but, when in the North East , do as the
North East. Let’s start with snails, escargot is fairly popular the world
round, we had the ones freshly caught from the paddy fields, by our own
campers, so major foraging points there, also talk about farm to table ! They
taste a lot like Tisryo, the mussels I had for the first time in Goa, bit
chewy. Next up, silkworms, they were my favourite, they taste like the yolks of
hard boiled eggs, not the over boiled crumbly variety, but the really nice
flavourful , creamy and yet firm egg yolks. Delish! Frogs then, umm, the
variety we had were fried to a crisp, and they honestly tasted like nothing,
but texturally were just like potato chips, they should have just sprinkled
them with some sour cream and onion flavouring, or even chaat masala.
Grasshoppers, and what a joy these were. We were actually asked if we wanted to
eat them live! Hilarious! Nervous laughs all around, but what’s life without a
little adventure. So, while most of the grasshoppers were deep fried, sprinkled
with chatpata masala, and served with a side of an amazing smashed green chilli
chutney , some of the grasshoppers were tried while they could still move. As
the locals explained, they were not actually fully alive, because it’s not like
they could hop off your plate, but they moved their legs around. It sounds like
something out of fear factor, it felt like something out of fear factor. I had
it, and I couldn’t get myself to chew fast enough, so that I don’t feel moving
legs in my mouth. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Ah, moving on. Yes, there is normal food for the less
adventurous. There was even a Korean food counter – Mahsitssoya, Khamsamida ! I
practiced my Hangul. The roadside stalls and multiple restaurants along the
path from camp to festival grounds were a treat aswell. <o:p></o:p><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6vNV1rvH1p1flg78Zuc_FHgyfVpi2k-RO52pZXBU5QqSeq5InxLJ1HDIRGimFqrTVBeeeitYCqVWqKtqHT51os1UngbHQnm2xEPf6XFUjwXx57PvsIiJ8X1QNT0C3Sp3SppMPlzD1Zc0/s1600/IMG_20190926_152242-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1003" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6vNV1rvH1p1flg78Zuc_FHgyfVpi2k-RO52pZXBU5QqSeq5InxLJ1HDIRGimFqrTVBeeeitYCqVWqKtqHT51os1UngbHQnm2xEPf6XFUjwXx57PvsIiJ8X1QNT0C3Sp3SppMPlzD1Zc0/s320/IMG_20190926_152242-01.jpeg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Apong; the fermented rice wine, served in hollowed bamboo glasses. We had so many, it was almosta water substitute.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW_fAkr6qSjdhKOFPx2wxufjuUJZ6b4BFYb8HMJBeEiTAfhfP1nvTOMcMGsPpr74FiyF2Ruh7USdhI15IQlJN8ZO7nsja27TJ3j1Z_P_C1SZvNMPWaoD1an135rWIcvOxRDNbLbRnjXIg/s1600/IMG_20190926_193111-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="977" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW_fAkr6qSjdhKOFPx2wxufjuUJZ6b4BFYb8HMJBeEiTAfhfP1nvTOMcMGsPpr74FiyF2Ruh7USdhI15IQlJN8ZO7nsja27TJ3j1Z_P_C1SZvNMPWaoD1an135rWIcvOxRDNbLbRnjXIg/s320/IMG_20190926_193111-01.jpeg" width="195" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">sun dried and fried frogs.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibnZEPOMJq0UAXP0RR1V-6dvXq-xOKgAhkxeu6ycyWNExoEC12urCU9j6cD5aROhWsgqJ25VEd-GD9lpeeZsFfvrZKZZeELIXRn7Yz7BYGTeQHAMvuRW7b7TOKyhyphenhyphen1ax2884hQBa1Ik7w/s1600/IMG_20190927_085406-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1054" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibnZEPOMJq0UAXP0RR1V-6dvXq-xOKgAhkxeu6ycyWNExoEC12urCU9j6cD5aROhWsgqJ25VEd-GD9lpeeZsFfvrZKZZeELIXRn7Yz7BYGTeQHAMvuRW7b7TOKyhyphenhyphen1ax2884hQBa1Ik7w/s320/IMG_20190927_085406-01.jpeg" width="210" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">nothing like paratha and pickle in the hills. campsite food was excellent . experience destination</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtxuympO674sTisrsygM0xW1wmGj8d3tzE6Powrm4sSETHgum7tQTeuKwBiRhN7Gs6J6JGy6VKqg6XsvyEZptlAXEfzGhkVn8LwfvFPular-9vLWmX0d1Do0WbX3FxaD5Jp07oH_RzblY/s1600/IMG_20190927_185152-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="1600" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtxuympO674sTisrsygM0xW1wmGj8d3tzE6Powrm4sSETHgum7tQTeuKwBiRhN7Gs6J6JGy6VKqg6XsvyEZptlAXEfzGhkVn8LwfvFPular-9vLWmX0d1Do0WbX3FxaD5Jp07oH_RzblY/s320/IMG_20190927_185152-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">BBQ pork, served witha a side of Apong</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhifxW4kGICo3eDT3LnJiRr3OQgDHu5ZacjSbdRwoC5HxUZaPTMTHaOUa5JHG1cGO12flywtnx-2mRT4AUP1g1_3YjCXCT5NTRtlbHXxShyBwZllhqq8J2OSOnVd6dW6KvQDVezkf_UP6U/s1600/IMG_20190927_185530-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1112" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhifxW4kGICo3eDT3LnJiRr3OQgDHu5ZacjSbdRwoC5HxUZaPTMTHaOUa5JHG1cGO12flywtnx-2mRT4AUP1g1_3YjCXCT5NTRtlbHXxShyBwZllhqq8J2OSOnVd6dW6KvQDVezkf_UP6U/s320/IMG_20190927_185530-01.jpeg" width="222" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii0VN-V1UoS935MDoXhpM5Pnoxi-8DbYLnIz1ig2pkJPWnZjle3_OGevh4sq3jdJ7ljz7j3H3gQDFr55-X86UzXylAFdAySN2bypMOm_Idg0d2Eyop0IspO79U_S04Jxro1bV9YVvDlNI/s1600/IMG_20190927_191136-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1086" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii0VN-V1UoS935MDoXhpM5Pnoxi-8DbYLnIz1ig2pkJPWnZjle3_OGevh4sq3jdJ7ljz7j3H3gQDFr55-X86UzXylAFdAySN2bypMOm_Idg0d2Eyop0IspO79U_S04Jxro1bV9YVvDlNI/s320/IMG_20190927_191136-01.jpeg" width="217" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">live and fried grasshoppers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPH021jwFYS4wycgr5lK-fuAkaK4qbql0vCRQMzCkbPqMqf1RZ9zOpEx16QSguOobV9fn2Y9CoXWKmCFGnUjCG6GGYOMvON9qJFofs-9akUfI44KAmj_B4bBn1Jwy3_-V3tLJ1KaRSfEg/s1600/IMG_20190927_211805-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1216" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPH021jwFYS4wycgr5lK-fuAkaK4qbql0vCRQMzCkbPqMqf1RZ9zOpEx16QSguOobV9fn2Y9CoXWKmCFGnUjCG6GGYOMvON9qJFofs-9akUfI44KAmj_B4bBn1Jwy3_-V3tLJ1KaRSfEg/s320/IMG_20190927_211805-01.jpeg" width="243" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">silkworms</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb7O6c1wOENPuHpXpNTv-f-iwykaJLwMCq5KALEj8D8mm-6cm_pC2CfP1UdpRT23jOM0mckC2J5xvBfRM826-xeuzdMT7p9Cs6zS5_zRnp9yfrF03uOEmN2dqhZa4-AhsNejj8SCBhA1I/s1600/IMG_20190928_094630-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="933" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb7O6c1wOENPuHpXpNTv-f-iwykaJLwMCq5KALEj8D8mm-6cm_pC2CfP1UdpRT23jOM0mckC2J5xvBfRM826-xeuzdMT7p9Cs6zS5_zRnp9yfrF03uOEmN2dqhZa4-AhsNejj8SCBhA1I/s320/IMG_20190928_094630-01.jpeg" width="186" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">chole bhature , campsite food .</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMxzBhKgUhmA7QQ9kt5BKQbjY8erOgL4bCWHFYiyAOFXbKs6uUIadjVgSTBmXoiL4tLTiOyqrAFCfvxAHnOF2yALgNZuUt1_GeM8I06TVRw1HR8QnrgY2VL2pZrqd9sawfTwySG9Ko6-8/s1600/IMG_20190928_151808-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="963" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMxzBhKgUhmA7QQ9kt5BKQbjY8erOgL4bCWHFYiyAOFXbKs6uUIadjVgSTBmXoiL4tLTiOyqrAFCfvxAHnOF2yALgNZuUt1_GeM8I06TVRw1HR8QnrgY2VL2pZrqd9sawfTwySG9Ko6-8/s320/IMG_20190928_151808-01.jpeg" width="192" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">lots and lots of momos</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs7gUwb7lCpueDhCHblFre3aj-Ydr79fGv0qMWxPzT04ptOq4qejAG0naBgxe1DggpQCXVQk179d0jnhgDvXEMouR6qdzrC7MPwEhkVBcAUxm3T20iOq7iJNeLwW6X_QibEulnzyK5HrU/s1600/IMG_20190928_231211-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1135" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs7gUwb7lCpueDhCHblFre3aj-Ydr79fGv0qMWxPzT04ptOq4qejAG0naBgxe1DggpQCXVQk179d0jnhgDvXEMouR6qdzrC7MPwEhkVBcAUxm3T20iOq7iJNeLwW6X_QibEulnzyK5HrU/s320/IMG_20190928_231211-01.jpeg" width="226" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">snails</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">First timers guide to
leaving your kid at home.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Up until now, I have always been a mom travel blogger, I
travel everywhere with my kid. I believe, every place is child-friendly, they
may not be parent friendly! As in, it’s fun for kids everywhere, but it’s us
parents who can’t handle kids in certain dangerous places. So, here’s what I
did to assuage my mom guilt. I left 7 surprise gifts for him, for the 7 days I
wouldn’t be there. Simple gifts, from tiffin snacks, to things he could share
with his friends. He also enjoyed painting and decorating my boots, and was
very proud when I sent him pictures of me wearing the boots. Also, I tried to
take videos which I thought he would enjoy, like camping tent ( thankyou peppa
pig), hot air balloon, wriggly worms etc, and sent them whenever there was
internet. Do not promise that you will call at a particular time, network is
patchy, and you don’t want to break a promise you made. When I returned, his
first words when he saw me were “ Mama I got Boo Boo ( hurt ) and showed me the
scratch on his feet. “ , I replied with “ mama got Boo Boo too” and showed him
my blisters and leech marks on my feet. That thrilled him to bits , if you have
boys, they will LOVE it! For the next three days he put bandaid on every
blister and leech mark. He never once complained about me not being there. Kids,
they really are troopers. So, mama, don’t feel guilty for having the time of
your life. <o:p></o:p><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH7FK-tWZ0wTMAjkALO_6ZR1L5_bsEhjNjuWU7TBmTTiqrGk_sRw5QvOq_hDhajV_0J6CuHJhS0DelIrG5xyRrLDcJ4sBOkTQ2V4lpUfWZD8s_5LPLTiZZYABKUnhbxosHTOSvfIUgzD8/s1600/IMG_20190927_173152-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1165" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH7FK-tWZ0wTMAjkALO_6ZR1L5_bsEhjNjuWU7TBmTTiqrGk_sRw5QvOq_hDhajV_0J6CuHJhS0DelIrG5xyRrLDcJ4sBOkTQ2V4lpUfWZD8s_5LPLTiZZYABKUnhbxosHTOSvfIUgzD8/s320/IMG_20190927_173152-01.jpeg" width="233" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZY1h8SL_I-X82VLQBScN9OqgzOj9kZFbvfd1or9tSX3r3rCI0r8IvHGoOf1GSoPrwC5zOSNgpq4csgu_lC-ka6euLV8yrQYdT7KVhdoewJ6hYYmEbwDVNxcO0jKcMUImSMk-mCnt5ZSs/s1600/IMG_20190924_164317-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1326" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZY1h8SL_I-X82VLQBScN9OqgzOj9kZFbvfd1or9tSX3r3rCI0r8IvHGoOf1GSoPrwC5zOSNgpq4csgu_lC-ka6euLV8yrQYdT7KVhdoewJ6hYYmEbwDVNxcO0jKcMUImSMk-mCnt5ZSs/s320/IMG_20190924_164317-01.jpeg" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the famous yellow boots. Someone actually asked me if they were Thanos' boots. Infinity boots ?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Now, for the last
bit- the MUSIC.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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I know you are thinking, 2000 words in, she is writing about
a music festival, and no word on the music. It’s because I <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>wanted to keep the best for the last. I think,
the one thing that most influenced me about ziro was that I came back with a
whole new playlist of songs I listen to now. There was music everywhere, and
all the time. Eclectic bands playing everything from Classical Indian, to indigenious
musical instrumentals, to psychedelic trance, to genres I had never heard
before, bands from Japan , Korea and Lithuania, and then you had the campers
having impromptu gigs into the wee hours of the morning, and then mornings when
campers would plug in their playlist on the speakers. May be I was in a
particularly receptive state, but the universe seemed to speak to me through
the music during this trip. And that’s my one tip, keep an open mind. Listen to
every genre. I went back and googled most of the artists, and now follow many of
their music on spotify, and we are even dancing for a wedding sangeet to one of
the Indie bands I heard at the festival. It completely depends on you, how much
you take from an experience, just like in life. I was impressed by all the
musicians who sang and played their own musical instruments at the camp, so if
you do, carry your harmonica, guitar, mandolin. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOVuRa4b5d1oDp3AGXPEra6UrtsOOGh55MTZyMh-fjDWAThlsb7FHYr4sOQcOc7I-zFi4jCvZ0_Egb5WRTaDAPLeXgF08kNxbxuLwkeQiteOFrzGppPhFM-aNWd57W1JdWKXFfW2FeQ6o/s1600/IMG_20190929_210741-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1112" data-original-width="1600" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOVuRa4b5d1oDp3AGXPEra6UrtsOOGh55MTZyMh-fjDWAThlsb7FHYr4sOQcOc7I-zFi4jCvZ0_Egb5WRTaDAPLeXgF08kNxbxuLwkeQiteOFrzGppPhFM-aNWd57W1JdWKXFfW2FeQ6o/s320/IMG_20190929_210741-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Party like the locals !</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Seeing my increased interest <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>in Music, my Instagram algorithm suggested I
buy a Kalimba, an African musical instrument. Instagram , had suggested I go
for Ziro music festival, I think that was a good suggestion, so I went ahead
and bought a Kalimba. It’s on its way! <o:p></o:p><br />
if you wish to read more ( and there's a lot more - find my hashtag on insta #foodietrailstonortheast )</div>
<br /></div>
the foodietrailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852630301342089274noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3016329700262720977.post-48581026081057166082019-09-21T22:13:00.002-07:002019-09-21T23:41:17.980-07:00How to write about unfamiliar cuisine : Let's write about food <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Writing about unfamiliar cuisine : Let’s write about food <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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In December of 2017, I started a series of posts on food
writing for Indian food writers with the hashtag #indianfoodwriting. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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You can read the 4 previous posts <o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<a href="http://thefoodietrails.com/2017/11/lets-write-about-food-celebrating.html">Why I started the Indian food writing series </a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.thefoodietrails.com/2017/12/how-to-write-food-blogs-with-universal.html">how to write restaurant reviews </a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.thefoodietrails.com/2017/12/find-your-unique-food-blogging-voice.html">How to find your unique food writing voice </a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.thefoodietrails.com/2017/12/4-tips-on-enhancing-your-food-pictures.html">how to write better instagram captions</a><br />
<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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I am bringing the theme of food writing back on my blog with
this post on writing about unfamiliar cuisine, with insider tips from some of
India’s favourite food bloggers. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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The Indian food sceneriao in the last couple of years has
undergone a slight paradigm shift. We have started exploring a lot of
indigenious Indian cuisines, regional cuisines are making a bang with their
pop-ups. The other fact is that we are exploring exotic international cuisine,
and it is no more clubbed into the broad categories of Continenetal and
Chinese, but now we have Italian recipes based on region like Tuscany and
Campania, and exotic cuisine like Israeli or Argentinian cuisine. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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As food bloggers, we are some of the first to try these
cuisines, when a restaurant decides to showcase a new cuisine. A lot of recipe
food bloggers are exploring foreign recipes on their blogs. Many food and
travel bloggers introduce new and unique dishes to their readers from their
travels. So, what are the points to remember when trying unfamiliar cuisine for
the first time, and how to write about unfamiliar cuisine?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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I asked a few of my foodie friends and this is what we came
up with. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Scroll down to the end for easy pointers, for those who don’t
like to read too much text. Continue reading for the unabridged version<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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First, do not tell the chef, or Home chef serving the dish
that ‘This is too spicy/sour/sweet.’ Remember, they are the expert in that
cuisine, and maybe the dish is supposed to taste that way. You may say ‘ it is
too spicy for my taste’, but the first tip I would like to share is –<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">be appreciative of the cuisine, and that
way the chef will be more inclined to share more about the cuisine. <o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Some dishes taste better in their unique combinations, like
Thai green curry with Jasmine rice, can you have it with bread/roti/ friedrice?
Sure, you can, but <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">when trying an
unfamiliar cuisine for the first time, try and have it in the most authentic,
old school way it was meant to be had</b>, to get the complete experience of
the combination. Disha Khurana from @aperfectfusion shares her process when
attending food tastings “ Say you are attendng a Russian food tasting, your key
search words on google or Pinterest would be Russian recipes, Russian desserts,
and even major produce that grows in Russia too, as most age old recipes are a
result of the produce that is available. These help me form a few questions for
the chef before hand.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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I remember the first time I went to Rajasthan and tried Dal
Batti Churma, I broke pieces of the batti and dipped it in the dal, then ate a
bite of the churma. That brings me to the next point that , some dishes have
unique ways of enjoying them, like the bati or the ball dough is supposed to be
crushed and mixed with the dal. So, <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">don’t
feel embarrassed to either ask other diners, or even the wait staff on how to
best eat it.</b> From experience, I have seen that the wait staff are hesitant
to point out these to a guest. In foreign countries it could be because of the
language barrier, and in India too, if you ask the wait staff their standard
answer is,“ <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">You can have it anyway you
like</i>.” That is not all that helpful is it? <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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On our trip to Rome, I youtubed the best way to eat pasta,
even though India has a lot of Italian restaurants, but is there a particular
way to have pasta, twirl it on a fork perhaps, and what is the best way to
enjoy Pizzas ? Watching Italians eat Pasta became my favourite travel past
time.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">So, if you are writing about a particular food, try and find out what
is the best combination to have it with, and any unique way to enjoy it. <o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><br /></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Food and travel blogger Roxanne Bamboat of @thetinytaster
shares “<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Research as well as my own
experiences play a role in my food writing. If I have been to said
country/region before, then I draw a lot from it. Also If I am not sure about
something, I make that clear in my writing. I don’t have much faith in
Wikipedia, but I trust talking to chefs and other people whose taste I trust.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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When restaurants have tastings for unique food cuisines,
many tend to serve it in a thali format, that allows multiple dishes to be savoured,
and also the visual appeal of seeing a whole gamut of colours and flavours in
one plate, is very instagram friendly and satisfying to the senses. What is
nice to remember is <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">that there is
generally a sequence to tasting these dishes, just like coursed meals in
international cuisine.</b> For example in Bengali cuisine of Durga pujo
Bhog,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the tart date and tomato chutney
is had after the main course and before the dessert of payesh<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>, and acts as a palate cleanser. You can have
it at the beginning, but <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">the right
sequence of eating a meal, helps the food tell its own unique story. And this
is something you want to experience first hand to share with your readers
later.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></div>
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If you are travelling to a new place whether within India or
outside of India, as food and travel bloggers<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">, visiting the local markets add a fascinating dimension to your food
experience in a foreign land. </b>From spices to vegetables, there are many
interesting food stories to unravel and share with your readers. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Delving into an
unfamiliar ingredient or spice, can help you write about a particular cuisine
better</b>. Be it the different fermented foods of Korea, or the different
olive oils of Italy.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Purabi Naha, who shares international food recipes on her
blog <a href="http://www.cosmopolitancurrymania.com/">www.cosmopolitancurrymania.com</a>
, and also is an avid traveller shares<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“
I gather information from google, old newspaper articles, facebook threads,
also watch IGTV and youtube recipe videos. Sometimes I go the extra mile to
speak to home-cooks whenever I visit a foreign land. Strangers share the recipe
secrets with me happily.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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While ordering at a restaurant serving unfamiliar cuisine,
here is what I do. Take a quick look around at the most popular dish ordered at
the place, in an Italian restaurant it was this red and white dish, which we
came to know was the house special Gnocchi. And while gnocchi has never been my
favourite Italian dish, I was glad we ordered it that day. The second tip is to
do a quick search of Trip advisor/instagram tags of that place, and see what
people have previously eaten there. Look for the asterisk of ‘chefs special’ on
the menu itself. While I wait for my meal, I always do a quick read on
Wikipedia about the dish, like I did when I first ate Bibimbap. Things like how
to mix the dish, any particular order of eating it, what are the best
condiments to eat it with. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Many foodies prefer to be surprised by the experience. They
love to try a cuisine without any previous pre conceived notions. They let
their own tastebuds guide them . <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jade
from @thatgoangirl shares “I usually don’t write about a new cuisine, or talk to
the chef if it’s the first time I’m trying it. I try and make sense of the
flavours , and find words to describe them myself. And then I watch videos, or
do a little research on the ingredients, so that the next time I try it, I am a
little more familiar. I try not to talk to anyone, because I’m an introvert. If
I am writing about the second time I am tasting a cuisine, I mention about the
first time I tried the cuisine in my article.” <o:p></o:p></div>
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Sometimes you come across a cuisine which is very similar to
Indian cuisine, for me that was Mexican cuisine. The first time I had a
burrito, I exclaimed this is just like rajma rice, wrapped in a roti! And
that’s exactly what I wrote. Enchiladas were like Indian Gujiyas , and my
Dominican republic blog post is all about how similar cuisines from half way
across the world are to us<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">. Making
unfamiliar cuisine more acceptable and familiar for our readers, is part of a
food bloggers job, so drawing on similarities between different regional
dishes, or even international dishes is a way to entice your readers to try
something new.</b>Vernika Awal from <a href="http://www.delectablereveries.com/">www.delectablereveries.com</a>
shares “ I make sure to study before a meal… what fascinates me is how in India
we all use some similar basic spices in all kitchens and come up with different
flavours based on the geography.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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The last point is, about bringing your own identity and life
experiences into play while writing about foreign cuisine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How a Native Australian will write about
Australian cuisine, will be very different from a first generation immigrant to
Australia, and also from a tourist visiting Australia for the first time. Stay
authentic to your palate, because many of your readers , follow you for your
take on the food, and not necessarily for a Wikipedia narration of your
experience. Mudra Keswani from www.thesuperchatori.com shares “Bhopal being a
small city .. it was extremely difficult to learn new things, it’s when I was
doing my trainingwith Marriott that I learnt from people in the food industry.
Doing the food tastings, and the chefs explaining the dishes to me was valuable
experience.I hosted 8-9 chinese food festivals and learnt that the cuisine is
huge in itself, for example Cantonese is very different from Sichuan."<o:p></o:p></div>
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Now, a bonus point. When writing about a foreign cuisine, try
and pepper your writing with words and phrases from that language. What is the
word for spicy in Malyalam? What is the word for cheesy in Italian? Is there a
particular word to describe good Kimchi in Korean ? don’t be afraid to use
words like ‘chatpata’ , and ‘masaaledar’ in your Indian writing. In Bengali the
pungent flavours of Mustard, that seem to rise like heat<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and come out as steam from your ears and your
nostrils , is called ‘jhaanj’ . and if all else fails, do not forget to show
your appreciation to the chef as well as in your writing, by using the word for
delicious in the local language, badhiya hai in UP, to wadiya hai in Punjab,
chaan aahe in Maharashtra , to bareh asa in Konkani , to ‘mah sit ssoyo’ in
Korean .<o:p></o:p></div>
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As promised here are some pointers.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Don’t be judgemental of the cuisine, go with an
open mind.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Read up about the basics of the cuisine, the
major industries and food ingredients of the cuisine, a simple google search or
even looking at pictures on pinterest or instagram will help you to anticipate
what the food will look like, and take better pictures, write better.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->If visiting a new place, try and visit the local
market, or even supermarkets.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Don’t be embarrassed to ask question. To the
chef, to your foodie friends who have tried the cuisine before, or even talking
to locals .<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Read blogs, see youtube videos , after you have
tried the cuisine, or visited a place, or before writing your own recipe, to
see what has already been said.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">6.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->How is the food eaten, what is the best food
pairings with it, are there any cultural or traditional customs to the meal/food,
any interesting trivia about how the dish was first created. Anything to make
the cuisine come alive for your readers.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">7.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Use simple, familiar words to describe your
experience. Many of your readers /watchers may never have tried the cuisine
too, so make it a little more familiar for them.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">8.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Stay true to your own palate, if it is not
something you would have again, or if it is something which is too slimy, gamy,
smelly for you, share your experience, because most of your followers want to
know your authentic experience, but never diss a cuisine. Remember to be
respectful of the place and people serving you.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">9.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->If you are attending a restaurant tasting, or
writing a recipe, but have visited the place before, or have tried the cuisine
before, draw on your previous experiences to make your writing more layered.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">10.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Use local words. Unfamiliar words paired with
unfamiliar cuisine, adds to the exotic feel of your writing. Also being able to
say delicious in the local language will earn you brownie points from the
people who served you. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Hope you enjoyed this article and found it useful. Do like,
share and comment. And feel free to read the other food writing posts under
#indianfoodwriting. Lets write about food !<o:p></o:p></div>
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the foodietrailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852630301342089274noreply@blogger.com83tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3016329700262720977.post-90222665759704065442019-04-14T22:03:00.001-07:002019-04-26T00:48:25.477-07:00Summer Holiday in Kenilworth Goa<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Summer vacations in Goa is a fantastic way to spend some quality time together as a family. as a mom and travel blogger, I get a lot of requests for suggestions for places to stay in Goa.<br />
The reason why I recommend Kenilworth resort and spa in South Goa are plenty .<br />
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first off, it is a beach side property. in the summer heat, you dont want to be travelling long distances to get to the beach, and also even a half an hour at the beach in mid morning is enough , having a beach side property allows you to go to the beach multiple times in the day. a morning walk, and then mid morning water frolic, a sunset picnic.<br />
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The beach near Kenilworth is a 'live beach'where you can sea real sea creatures. because of the uneven sand at the beach, pockets of sea water form litlle beach ponds, and we were able to see small live fishes, moving starfishes and crabs and even wriggling sea shells . all of which was very fascinating for my son.<br />
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The next must have at a summer vacation destination is a swimming pool. the swimming pool at Kenilworth is the second largest in the state, it has a water slide as well! and plunge pool bar where we enjoyed colourful drinks.<br />
we loved that the pool is near the kids outdoor play park. and between swims, he could get up and go and plaay in the sand pit, or play on the swings and slides. Even though the property is very extensive , the fact that all the leisure activities are well clubbed together was a boon for a parent.<br />
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Another thing that I look for in a summer vacation destination is indoor play area. Goan summers can be extremely trying, and i loved the kids play room at Kenilworth. with so many books, toys and activities to choose from my son had a great time there. they have a baby sitter there as well, so if you wish you can leave your child there as well. i was pretty engrossed in putting together a puzzle at the kids area myself, and loved just hanging out and being a child with my son.<br />
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Dining Options are an important criteria while choosing a summer vacation in Goa. while we love to explore the state of Goa, during summers I realise that the heat can be too much, and more often you might find yourself dining at the inhouse restaurants in the resort itself.<br />
Kenilworth has a number of dining options. The 24 hour coffee shop, they even have a poolside dining making it convenient to sip and dip, also they have an award winning italian restaurant called Salute, named after the Italian word for cheers.<br />
This place does fabulous Pizzas, and every kid loves that, we had the 4 flavoured pizza , which made it really convenient to try various flavours, also it suits kids as well, since they may want multiple different toppings. we started of with a basket of bread , and grilled fish for my son, and we indulged in wines and proscitto . I know the picture quality on the meals is not great, but that's a fault of the lighting and you just have to take my word for it when i say, it is one of the more authentic Italian dining experiences in Goa, and the meats and produce is really top quality here.<br />
Chef Davide was cheerful and hospitable, and delightful with my son. they got along like a house on fire, and chef Davide shared his vision of making Salute an easy dining experience loved by people of all ages, especially kids.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigPpPDESkF5WohLu2hq32RISg74DyW416oPvuAHlICEl50p_KeIsDH2dfGDlI2Xt1PlZ8gZ-919jAiJa8-XTrqz2Al03sj4i7ZB8f3pavcEm8BfaKg0jtiitLKqHYLFjnxzGwkaxKfkNE/s1600/Snapseed+%25283%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1355" data-original-width="1600" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigPpPDESkF5WohLu2hq32RISg74DyW416oPvuAHlICEl50p_KeIsDH2dfGDlI2Xt1PlZ8gZ-919jAiJa8-XTrqz2Al03sj4i7ZB8f3pavcEm8BfaKg0jtiitLKqHYLFjnxzGwkaxKfkNE/s320/Snapseed+%25283%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_zpZkkwT-gdAE_d_9wKv0kpizg7PFxCI9oC6I-GDx5sP4VfCr6i-L7yfuV0Eybu5Z1dzPM6enFuBSpxgBUkuiUQsR7lcOYaCZh2GLB-OhUwO3KZe6puGjp3LXbnR2kxLkJFB3U0yoBN4/s1600/IMG_0679.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_zpZkkwT-gdAE_d_9wKv0kpizg7PFxCI9oC6I-GDx5sP4VfCr6i-L7yfuV0Eybu5Z1dzPM6enFuBSpxgBUkuiUQsR7lcOYaCZh2GLB-OhUwO3KZe6puGjp3LXbnR2kxLkJFB3U0yoBN4/s400/IMG_0679.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chef Davide of Salute, Italian dining restaurant at Kenilworth resort and spa , Goa</td></tr>
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One of the highlights of summer vacations is getting up late in mornings, and while they have a breakfast served till late at the dining room, i loved getting the kids specials right to our rooms. This picture of breakfast in bed with dad and son sleeping, is one of my favourites. its in contrast to all the other lifestyle bloggers who post #breakfastinbed, and how it changes once you have kids.<br />
Kenilworth has a new wing of rooms, and these rooms have especially great views from the rooms. the balconies are well appinted with a view of the sea, and honestly , you could spend all morning just having breakfast in your room.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1SSB-XimTeCqEBeJA8-0rvml5P4qk9quB_A7rCeRDzqy5yttC2Qf7q_Z9COoeQkEEEgfSelPo6rC3lgudTOW7I-MAagvPGTSHs0ZFVlMP-D5hq93ua-3uzPR2mZw2MdZgkWxBEwMEsRI/s1600/IMG_0711.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="902" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1SSB-XimTeCqEBeJA8-0rvml5P4qk9quB_A7rCeRDzqy5yttC2Qf7q_Z9COoeQkEEEgfSelPo6rC3lgudTOW7I-MAagvPGTSHs0ZFVlMP-D5hq93ua-3uzPR2mZw2MdZgkWxBEwMEsRI/s400/IMG_0711.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
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Not only did we have breakfast in bed, but we also stayed in the air conditioned luxury of our rooms, binge watched TV and ordered room service for lunch. The fish and chips was extremely well done, and we had goan fish curry rice, papad and salad to make it a fun family meal for three while we watched movies on TV.<br />
Spending a lazy afternoon indoors, is what my idea of a great sunday summer vacation is. vacations can be tiring for parents, with kids on high energy and i always feel I need a vactaion , after my son's vacations are over.<br />
I appreciate that at Kenilworth, there are multiple entertainment options for kids, an outdoor chess area, cycling , archery , swimming, they even have a dance floor... and not needing to step out of the comfort of the resort is a huge plus while choosing a place to stay.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTr6zQn0rEI9a4tik8DvydK7X1JmeGwoOull0PgoLlKGEagspyq53loXhfd81T3n02L11ZH7g5xVUkMVVqi2Pmo9suL8D0G6aDRjwceRrzI1fF9aZD-AUKM0DtNoVFf4Fbs1o8pQFhzSA/s1600/IMG_0729.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTr6zQn0rEI9a4tik8DvydK7X1JmeGwoOull0PgoLlKGEagspyq53loXhfd81T3n02L11ZH7g5xVUkMVVqi2Pmo9suL8D0G6aDRjwceRrzI1fF9aZD-AUKM0DtNoVFf4Fbs1o8pQFhzSA/s400/IMG_0729.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">room service that is prompt, delicious and served in style at Kenilworth resort and spa</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9UKIa7YmbKEyXvFyo_aD5z-HB7g-CMDBUWJQxLAvQ72tLDkqcoqORrMs12e4Yr7DwmPSEehU-MNc2f16kcQpdWQRUQ9-wGEkJZQIkpbguI6kVzklFOEdYfGz7FwB2fpwOtxyDGz-JNzM/s1600/IMG_0781.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9UKIa7YmbKEyXvFyo_aD5z-HB7g-CMDBUWJQxLAvQ72tLDkqcoqORrMs12e4Yr7DwmPSEehU-MNc2f16kcQpdWQRUQ9-wGEkJZQIkpbguI6kVzklFOEdYfGz7FwB2fpwOtxyDGz-JNzM/s320/IMG_0781.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">windows that overlook the sea and gardens</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlNKi6-svs27qZVVnx_KBIP8ZryQo7gvB1Lh4sncpLadv-m4YwUPXCOqImJyjodwS8atqiNus_pV9aTZ1L8QGjR9Km3oCmZcIsi_Mbsg7zhaZjPCCgQwY_ZXfcmLRBeE58oPv6-vcdS7g/s1600/IMG_0749.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlNKi6-svs27qZVVnx_KBIP8ZryQo7gvB1Lh4sncpLadv-m4YwUPXCOqImJyjodwS8atqiNus_pV9aTZ1L8QGjR9Km3oCmZcIsi_Mbsg7zhaZjPCCgQwY_ZXfcmLRBeE58oPv6-vcdS7g/s320/IMG_0749.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">attention to detail. check out the crab towel art.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Y_rBu-ZE9l42SGcwK9MyhlNZXD_JcG7vYUFvHrh2QIbuyeW0GA2xc9JJWiAFRXn118mji5-xSC0-jhpT5VTojL8eW5OoysDwtM5t_DSJpssXFL6dVhZA3sZF4yePX0wKJYPMvAD9RkU/s1600/Snapseed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Y_rBu-ZE9l42SGcwK9MyhlNZXD_JcG7vYUFvHrh2QIbuyeW0GA2xc9JJWiAFRXn118mji5-xSC0-jhpT5VTojL8eW5OoysDwtM5t_DSJpssXFL6dVhZA3sZF4yePX0wKJYPMvAD9RkU/s320/Snapseed.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCC_gigFwjQ5oIwJNzsLy7dTECH6fgscrm2HKYpDJsaWTC1sQNwoeiUUU56Lif9QFkiE8WRfbr1gd-zjXVOgnk2gsCDn0D5T3rYsrP001qIQRmNFIQj1K_GCPkRfGdIFbJv_YF5DKPrW0/s1600/IMG_0793.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCC_gigFwjQ5oIwJNzsLy7dTECH6fgscrm2HKYpDJsaWTC1sQNwoeiUUU56Lif9QFkiE8WRfbr1gd-zjXVOgnk2gsCDn0D5T3rYsrP001qIQRmNFIQj1K_GCPkRfGdIFbJv_YF5DKPrW0/s320/IMG_0793.jpg" width="240" /></a><br />
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another fun summer time indoor activity is making bubble baths, no not for romantic or even leisurely soaks. bubble baths are super fun for kids, and you can make bubble snowmen, or even bubble castles or just have a splashing good time in the room itself . and the best part, mommy doesnt need to clean up afterwards (thankyou housekeeping) </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQYVmttAqFzcTYaQHyvGQNI-jcY8hLJrEYDSeL6BFHSH4YVlkJFzKC90cn_76YA0wTALL59uNcAT_I08GDv9PlAn5_5tAAwNf4lhFSTF4A3uolNp6HRTiaEyBpk9SLSX8d8krFgMFAUMU/s1600/IMG_0794.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQYVmttAqFzcTYaQHyvGQNI-jcY8hLJrEYDSeL6BFHSH4YVlkJFzKC90cn_76YA0wTALL59uNcAT_I08GDv9PlAn5_5tAAwNf4lhFSTF4A3uolNp6HRTiaEyBpk9SLSX8d8krFgMFAUMU/s400/IMG_0794.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsqiQ7M5Gd5ToQnHdS9rwIyQwOSwRXsg17idesrbhMBEU7jUg0AFv1jjKl7qg1Up_FJkMCaw-HKR2LUpjPgxSRVZK2Qpt1Ihhjq_tNlhAOTgc2mCy7X5IpvJdmv6bRWTisU2LIZEdEe8Y/s1600/IMG_0796.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsqiQ7M5Gd5ToQnHdS9rwIyQwOSwRXsg17idesrbhMBEU7jUg0AFv1jjKl7qg1Up_FJkMCaw-HKR2LUpjPgxSRVZK2Qpt1Ihhjq_tNlhAOTgc2mCy7X5IpvJdmv6bRWTisU2LIZEdEe8Y/s400/IMG_0796.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">our stay was made extra special and comfortable by Suman from the front desk office.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_9tq-clv3uJ57hU-q7sMoJEN7HWV7WMP6A223IcAreMTN344sFXZUmgTqLHFHNnD8YWWOO8ur7k-v7vV2qBshH3iyR7lXdvfoAPpwpQPskNHBWfmfL2G0sm004cl4OerhllEbW3lVr-U/s1600/IMG_0832.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_9tq-clv3uJ57hU-q7sMoJEN7HWV7WMP6A223IcAreMTN344sFXZUmgTqLHFHNnD8YWWOO8ur7k-v7vV2qBshH3iyR7lXdvfoAPpwpQPskNHBWfmfL2G0sm004cl4OerhllEbW3lVr-U/s400/IMG_0832.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxdEtPR_tcnOQMlNhq8ZbU_vM-VdWstDy-2w7APyc-W80HfVUiB3_HYxKfr7gX0cT07MMMe5haPURc5wHsfXIwFhQ9aP7LWDnU7rDSKDpdUwlxrw0YI_YzWEYohUsmybOW7ORyArbObZw/s1600/IMG_1137.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxdEtPR_tcnOQMlNhq8ZbU_vM-VdWstDy-2w7APyc-W80HfVUiB3_HYxKfr7gX0cT07MMMe5haPURc5wHsfXIwFhQ9aP7LWDnU7rDSKDpdUwlxrw0YI_YzWEYohUsmybOW7ORyArbObZw/s400/IMG_1137.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">breakfasts are equal parts healthy and sinful. breakfast donuts , smoothie bowls , fruits and fruit juices.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW46v7B9CLm_wrXEZjpRvEBqVMgffUWbMgtot4RHFg3whteFS7K5kKM_aj_GP7rm1hHmeTjnwoVw_TX-M5SmSmVXoGr1Lwk_EnILbTI_ZcJvtynKMiY1hh_p51hgY5oBnwRSVsZs3G_n8/s1600/Snapseed+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW46v7B9CLm_wrXEZjpRvEBqVMgffUWbMgtot4RHFg3whteFS7K5kKM_aj_GP7rm1hHmeTjnwoVw_TX-M5SmSmVXoGr1Lwk_EnILbTI_ZcJvtynKMiY1hh_p51hgY5oBnwRSVsZs3G_n8/s400/Snapseed+%25281%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">want to pack up a beach side picnic to watch the sunset ? kenilworth does it in style</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisPq2w3puok7aqzFOXSXY2jMXQYTEDRUl7YQwJD9wIyk0iULqPtg543Dzm5H5ffgvulw8e_vLN3glFtM8uBnb-LsOVPHeYtK0q6K-TtA1VbpRq8KeqU-TkOdMqPhyphenhyphenisZYKrF3Q2WiEmA8/s1600/Snapseed+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisPq2w3puok7aqzFOXSXY2jMXQYTEDRUl7YQwJD9wIyk0iULqPtg543Dzm5H5ffgvulw8e_vLN3glFtM8uBnb-LsOVPHeYtK0q6K-TtA1VbpRq8KeqU-TkOdMqPhyphenhyphenisZYKrF3Q2WiEmA8/s400/Snapseed+%25282%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">summer vacations are not just a wonderful opportunity to spend quality time with your child, but also with your spouse. with a luxurious inhouse Spa option, at Kenilworth, you can opt for foot massages by the pool, and keep one eye on your children as they enjoy the play ground and swimming pool. both of which we were able to watch over , even as we enjoyed some we time.</td></tr>
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Thankyou for joining us on a virtual tour of our holiday. top reasons to recommend Kenilworth for a summer vacation in Goa ; proximity to beach, indoor play area, large swimming pool with water slide, outdoor play ground, outdoor activities like cycling and archery and cricket on the sprawling gardens, wonderful hospitality, lots of eating options. you literally dont need to step out to experience all the things of a perfect beach holiday.<br />
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the foodietrailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852630301342089274noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3016329700262720977.post-91392424713422524012018-12-20T20:10:00.000-08:002018-12-20T20:10:05.664-08:00Christmas Cake memories and a simple recipe<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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For the longest time , I didn’t associate the traditional
Christmas cake with a Christian celebration, but an Armed Forces celebration.
Part of it was because I grew up as an Army kid, travelling around the country,
as my father got posted from Delhi to Punjab, to Maharashtra. And no matter
what part of the country we were, we would always have Christmas cake. It all
begins during Diwali. Again, I am not sure if it’s an Armed Forces tradition,
or just a North Indian tradition (because I don’t see much of it now that I
live in Maharashtra and Goa ), but people loved gifting boxes of dry fruits
along with an equally large box of fire crackers. The fire crackers were sent
back, since we didn’t burst them , green Diwali and all, the pistas were devoured
even before the wrapping came of the other dry fruits. An Army Diwali <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>means not just one box of dry fruits, or two,
but entire regiments and battalions of dry fruit boxes. And so at Diwali, my
mother would get all the left over dry fruits chopped, and soak them in Rum and
Brandy bought from the Army Canteen. So you see, the two main ingredients of
baking a Christmas cake; rum and dry fruits were present in abundance in almost
every Armed Forces home. Also the entire chopping of what seemed kilos of dry fruits
needed an army of workers, again something which was a privilege we enjoyed in
the defence colonies. It’s easy to see, why I thought Christmas cakes was
something of an Army/Navy /Airforce tradition rather than belonging to a
religious celebration.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In the Armed forces, people of different region and religion
, all seem to be mixed and moved around the country like a bag of pot -pourri,
and all that you have in the end is a fairly homogenous group of odds and ends.
And so here we were, Bengali hindu Brahmins, baking the most fragrant and
indulgent Christmas cake, a recipe my mum learnt from another Armed Forces
wife. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Cut to now, and it’s been over 15 years since my father left
the Army, and yet , year after year, Ma makes <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>5 , sometimes 6 batches of Christmas cake, the
prep for which begins at Diwali, and the cakes begin baking by first week of
December all the way to mid January, depending on who needs to be gifted the
cakes. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Even after baking them, the cakes are carefully wrapped in
silver foil to keep the aromas in, and lovingly watered with rum every few
days. There is a Bengali word they use for it ‘cake Moje jabe’ , I guess it
means the cake will mature, or marinate in its juices. And in the last 16 years
that I have been out of home ( I left home at 18 to stay in the medical college
hostel, and then various hostels across the country , Goa and Madurai) but I
have always received my Christmas cake , wrapped in silver foil and a red
ribbon. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This year too, one of my mother’s patients who live in the
UK, but come visiting their home in Goa every year, decided to fly down to Pune
,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>to show their daughter to my Ma, who
is a paediatrician in Pune. And Ma handed over my Christmas cake to her, to
deliver it to me in Goa. Didn’t I tell you, this cake has travelled to places.
Its travelled to Kolkata, and Dhanbad, and places overseas like Dubai,
Mauritius , Canada, wherever her friends and family are. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Christmas cake recipe, however , I have never tried
making myself. It’s like Santa; we never told our parents, we knew they were
Santa, because that would just take the magic out of it. If I start making my
own cake, Ma might stop sending me hers, and part of the magic of Christmas is
the gift of Giving, I don’t want to take that gift away from her!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However , I do make Christmas cake pops from
ma’s Christmas cake.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The cake, unlike the
store bought Christmas cakes, is thrice as studded with dryfruits than an
average cake. So as one goes to slice a piece, the knife invariably hits a
candied orange, veers off track, then hits a walnut and then skids off another
route, until you end up with a craggy piece of cake and lots of crumbly cake
bits. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Now here is a short and simple recipe for Christmas cake
pops. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Crumble Christmas cake, or gather all the crumbly bits
together and make little balls of them, add a little condensed milk/honey to
bind if needed. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Melt dark chcoclate, add a little butter for gloss, add
cinnamon powder , nutmeg powder and ginger powder to the chocolate mix. And
what I love to add is oil based orange essence, and a few candied oranges . the
smells and flavours of Christmas cake should reflect in your chocolate coating.
I melt my chocolate in the microwave, going 20 seconds bursts until melted, but
you can do it over a double boiler.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Now drizzle the chocolate over the cake balls, or if you are
feeling fairly dangerous, you can stick a lollypop stick in the cake pops and
roll it in melted chocolate. But I warn you the christamas cake is more dense
and heavy than an average cake pop, and you’ll only drop it in the melted
chcoclate. <o:p></o:p></div>
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These cake pops would have been the revamped version of rum
balls I presume. But funny thing, while we were allowed to have Christmas cake
matured in rum , we weren’t allowed to have Rumballs as a kid! <o:p></o:p></div>
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Recipe also of candied Orange peel.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Peel oranges,sundry the peels for a few days. In a pan take
½ a cup water, bring to boil, add ½ cup sugar, add the diced dried orange
peels. Simmer till sugar syrup evaporates. Keep in an airtight container. <o:p></o:p></div>
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the foodietrailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852630301342089274noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3016329700262720977.post-51532003509320720892018-12-09T05:31:00.000-08:002018-12-12T20:28:29.414-08:00How to plan a beach picnic in Goa<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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It was our five year wedding anniversary , and living in Goa, i wanted to do something special .</div>
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while many opt for a destination wedding in Goa, living in Goa, meant we had a chance at a 'destination' ever afte beach picnic, is a great idea in Goa, especially given the fabulous weather from November to February. </div>
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Given that I am a planner and list maker, planning a beach picnic, was not the mere task of packing a basket and headingout the door. </div>
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here is my checklist of things to consider while planning a beach picnic.<br />
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first: I decided to check on how the world of instagram was planning their picnics, and so i did a quick hashtag search of #beachpicnic and #picniconthebeach. you can even pinterest your way around this one, or even google up some images. </div>
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Second , decide which <span class="il">beach</span> , both sandy and Rocky <span class="il">beaches</span> work well , but choose one which is not over crowded. Beaches like Calangute and Baga can get super crowded, and you dont want a sea of gawkers, while ypou attempt a romantic-ish beach picnic. choose from Morjim and upwards, or Uttorda and betalbatim southwards.</div>
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Choose time of day, it depends on the tide. Choose a receding tide time, you don’t want to have waves wash away your <span class="il">picnic</span> ! a quick word with the lifeguard or the shack owner at the beach will give you an idea if the tide is receeding or rising.</div>
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I prefer one hour before sunset. The golden hour prior to sunset is perfect for a high tea <span class="il">picnic</span>. Also as the lights dim, you can place tea lights or candles in jars, or put torches into the sand for an extended <span class="il">picnic</span>. but if you want an afternoon , mid day picnic, try and carry an umbrella, or pay a price and get one from the beach shacks, though they can be very huffy about it. buy a few drinks from them and they might agree. </div>
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Get lots of towels and blankets, not just the one to lay down, but enough to wipe yourself after. The sand gets everywhere. </div>
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Get lots of <span class="il">beach</span> bags. No plastic bags please! They look ghastly! But you need bags for the food drinks, to keep <span class="il">beach</span> ball n play things, n cutlery n food.Try wicker baskets, or large beach bags which you can fold around the edges to make baskets ( like i did).</div>
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The wind can make the <span class="il">beach</span> mat fly, so find weights at each end. Think pineapples or coconut shells or <span class="il">beach</span> rocks as weights. or even buckets filled with sand and a candle lit within it. try the battery operated candles, the wind cant blow those off.</div>
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Next is the food, think mini sandwiches, mini burgers, cookies, everything finger food. Nothing too fancy and needs cutlery. nothing which make your hand dirty either. i quite like the idea of keema biryani, or something else which tastes good even if not piping hot. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvNv0JrYt5P_F2L8DoFFGk5e98HZN9wi5UX_uZwK3_03cJR8R-5lCM-Y9YnE37dcx5L0WctGvY4_eBW5O7Z6L9pflV6VuxYGZkftapYj_-81Yt2iCGF2BIoinY8tA7MLh5xaDz30mOe7U/s1600/beach+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="716" data-original-width="520" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvNv0JrYt5P_F2L8DoFFGk5e98HZN9wi5UX_uZwK3_03cJR8R-5lCM-Y9YnE37dcx5L0WctGvY4_eBW5O7Z6L9pflV6VuxYGZkftapYj_-81Yt2iCGF2BIoinY8tA7MLh5xaDz30mOe7U/s400/beach+1.jpg" width="290" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">bespoke, personalised desserts with our names on it, a cheese cake, a fruit tart and brownies, all with our nicknames. personalised luxury at Kenilworth Resort and Spa , Goa</td></tr>
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Add a snack, main course and a dessert . Three courses add excitement . it can be a simple case of tea with biscuits, followed by a light sandwich, followed by donuts . the surprise element as different courses come out of the beach bags is great. i know some people like to barbeque atthe beach, but honestly, some beaches dont allow it, it can be difficult to put up, and the food takes longer to cook. </div>
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Drinks, in Goa carrying alcohol is prohibited on the <span class="il">beach</span>. Carry cans if you wish. A flask of tea is perfect and even canned juices in fancy glasses. Mix alcohol in the fruit juices and you won’t get in trouble with the <span class="il">beach</span> guards. try mocktails and premixes, and colourful cocktails. bottles of wine however, might get you in trouble with the authorities. </div>
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Entertainment : think Music, play it on your phone or a portable device. sand making buckets , or even a beach ball is fun. carry a book if you are having a picnic by yourself.</div>
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Last but not the least. Pick up everything when you leave! </div>
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Hope you had fun reading this quick guide to packing a beach picnic. let me know if you have ever been on a beach picnic before. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A huge round of thanks to the Food and beverage team and the housekeeping team at Kenilworth Goa.<br /><br />We set up this beach picnic in Uttorda beach, the Kenilworth resort has multiple F an B options and one of them is the 24 hour coffee shop which can help you pack your own picnic lunches, which you can enjoy by their poolside, the second largest pool in Goa, which also haas a sunk in Bar. Some delicious surprises are planned for their christmas brunch as well as New Years eve dinner, so do go check those out as a grand celebration before the year ends.<br /><br /></td></tr>
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the foodietrailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852630301342089274noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3016329700262720977.post-16130203009941676082018-10-29T22:06:00.000-07:002018-10-29T22:11:44.522-07:0010 best Food Souvenirs from Goa <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Goa on my plate presents the 10 best food souvenirs to take
back home from Goa. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Even before I made Goa my home, I was a student studying at
the medical college here. That meant taking back food gifts from Goa everytime
I went home. and even now , when friends and family visit Goa we love gifting
foodie souvenirs to them, food souvenirs instantly transport you back to the
place.<o:p></o:p></div>
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With Diwali round the corner, and a lot of travellers
visiting Goa, what better way to celebrate than to Gift Food items from Goa? I have curated a list of sweet and savory treats from goa, which bring a slice of Goa to your plates back home.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Notice the Goa Mario Miranda Lampshade, the Mario Miranda Market scene painting on the wall? now bringing Goan flavour, not just to my home, but also Goa themed tee shirt and Goa on my plate cotton shopping bag! </td></tr>
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So what makes a great food souvenir? One that instantly
reminds you of the place, so it should be unique to that place, second, it
should be something you really enjoyed having on your trip to Goa, so don’t buy
things just because they are unique if you don’t like the taste of them, and
third, something that travels well and stays fresh for long journeys.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Keeping these in mind, I have made a list of food souvenirs,
both common and uncommon, from Goa.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Goa food souvenirs to take back home .</td></tr>
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</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Cashews: <o:p></o:p></div>
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Storage (6 months or more, can refrigerate)<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>literally
everyone who comes to Goa must return with cashews. Cashews both salted and
plain can be used in multiple dishes, the roasted variety stay fresh for many
days. Its loved by kids to adults, it can be a nifty snack when you have
delayed flights on your trip back from Goa, and pair really well with alcoholic
drinks. Cashew shops and ‘cashew depots’ are multiple at all the busstops and
touristy spots in Goa, so no dearth of the shops, also many of the other food
souvenirs can be picked up there as well.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Bebinca: <o:p></o:p></div>
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Storage (expiry mentioned on the box, can
be refrigerated once opened)<o:p></o:p></div>
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This Layered baked dessert made of eggs,
flour, jaggery and lots of ghee, is a favourite for tourists and locals alike.
Each layer is cooked individually, and a minimum of 7 layers are present in a
bebinca. Don’t eat it layer wise though! Slice a piece which has a little of
each layer, to feel the different textures of bebinca. An interesting origin
story of Bebinca is that it was invented by nuns in Portugal, where they used
the egg whites to starch their uniforms and the egg yolks would go to waste.
That’s when they came up with bebinca and pasteis de nata, desserts that use up
the egg yolks ! serve bebinca with vanilla icecream, and sprinkle with the
cashews you bought , and serve to guests back home. and everyone will be
transported to Goa!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Port wine: <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
Storage (can store over a year)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
Port wine is not like regular wine. First
off it doesn’t have a high alcohol content, infact many don’t even consider
them to have any alcohol, its just fermented juice. Its pretty sweet so can be
had by anyone , and is pretty cheap at Rs 100 a bottle mostly! What I love to
use it in is for cooking though, add it in chicken curry and let it reduce and
you have a fuller, richer fruity flavour. Add to any tomato based curry dish I
would say, be it keema, or ragout, or mutton, or pasta sauce. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Cafreal Masala: <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
Storage ( expiry mentioned, store in fridge
once opened)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
This one is one of the many typical Goan
masalas one gets in the state. Cafreal was brought by the Portuguese, from
their African colonies. It is green, herby, and is fragrant with spices. It
pairs well with potatoes, paneer, chicken and fish and is one of the most
versatile pastes. Just smear and bake or fry. It also works well with spinach
soups, or spinach curries, and I make it all the time at home, to add oomph to
my green Indian curries of coriander and mint. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Feni:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
Storage (stores upto a year)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
This local liquor made of cashews is
interesting, but again not for everyone, because it smells quite strong, and
has a fairly high alcohol content. But, take a small souvenir size bottle back.
It works well with lemon and fizzy drinks like limca. Also a nice marinade for
meats. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">6.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Chocolate cake from café central:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
Storage ( stays good for a day or two of
travel , finish soon)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
Reason to add this on the list. First, its
pretty famous and well loved amongst locals in goa. Second, its eggless ( for vegetarians),
its nut free ( for nut allergies) and is moist and travels well. there have
been times we have devoured the entire cake even before our flight took off
from goa. Even now, we gift it to our friends and they love it!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">7.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Chcocolate fudge cookies from cremaux :<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
Storage ( expiry mentioned, but stays good
upto 10 days or more, can refrigerate, and microwave before consuming , but
stays good in airtight container aswell)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
There was a time when I thought these fudge
chocolate deserved to be Goa’s number one food souvenir above cashews!! Infact
this one is a must have , must take, must eat. For every chocoholic out there,
you want to take back these for them.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
8.chorizo sausage : Goan Pork sausages,
that are chunky, packed with loads of spices, and are almost like a pickled
version of regular sausages, because they don’t need refrigeration when
packaged. They stay good for months, they taste great in a curry, in sausage
pulao, I cook it with Jaggery and top it on donuts even! Very versatile, easy
to carry back home, quintessentially Goan, makes this on the list of best goan
foodie gifts.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
9. Rainbow cookies from mog: This one was is
for the instagrammers, also for the kids. These rainbow coloured cookies put
one instantly in the happy holiday mood. Thay make for pretty pictures, they
cost just 100 rs per pretty packaging, last for a month since baking, are a
neutral vanilla butter flavour, and are available year round at the bake store
in Margao. Have a neice obsessed with unicorns, or a gay couple friend
holidaying in Goa? (Goa is the number one Indian destination for Gay couples
BTW) get them these.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
10. Fish: I know this one is a surprise,
but even I was surprised at the number of people packing fish from Goa off to
their homes. Reaason? Many Goans live in cities like Bangalore, Pune,
Hyderabad, working outside the state. For them , nothing says home like fish. And
contrary to belief, fish travels fairly well when frozen, and fresh fish doesn’t
smell, also I know of a really good place that does individually frozen fish ,
so its not stuck to each other, and with the travel time so much reduced by
air travel, cooked fish dishes, or fresh frozen fiah are extremely popular food souvenirs
from Goa.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">
With this list, I have tried to bring the
local Goan flavour, along with practicalities of gifting, like availability
throughout the year, longish expiry, and clean hygienic packaging. Hope this
helps. Here are a few more Goa centric Blog posts if you are travelling to Goa.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.thefoodietrails.com/2017/10/narkasur-goan-kids-favourite-demon.html">Diwali Narakasur celebration in Goa</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.thefoodietrails.com/2018/03/spring-time-in-goa-shigmotsav.html">spring Shigmotsav festival in Goa</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.thefoodietrails.com/2018/06/cafes-of-goa-monsoon-trail.html">cafes of Goa </a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.thefoodietrails.com/2018/09/goa-walking-food-tour-goa-on-my-plate.html">Goa food walking tour </a></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhidlIAkTzgsfJTemw4wKKLMeuWIienZ-aQFxGwy-ZL55vfOt-bTiijt3h3QKAq8lZmYjFFLXDUUwNwryNcEvpn3TuMocnSuBepEB1y0u3ir7m9AVy1GGpcdihkrcfmYHfWmOq9kpSSe6M/s1600/goa+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1056" data-original-width="792" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhidlIAkTzgsfJTemw4wKKLMeuWIienZ-aQFxGwy-ZL55vfOt-bTiijt3h3QKAq8lZmYjFFLXDUUwNwryNcEvpn3TuMocnSuBepEB1y0u3ir7m9AVy1GGpcdihkrcfmYHfWmOq9kpSSe6M/s400/goa+3.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Goa foodie gifts . Hope you had fun reading this post. do share it with your friends and comment.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br /></div>
<br /></div>
the foodietrailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852630301342089274noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3016329700262720977.post-5194272218779156602018-10-24T21:16:00.001-07:002018-10-24T22:10:43.075-07:00A visit to Kumartuli during Durga Puja, a unique Kolkata experience<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Kumartuli , the potters precinct in North Kolkata is where
the Gods and Goddesses are created. We all know that Ma Durga comes from Mount
Kailash, but it is here in the narrow lanes of Kumartuli, and at the hands of
the potters whose last names are ‘pal’ is where she takes shape.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Images of half painted Ma Durgas and potters hands deftly
carving out the Goddesses eyes , were images I had often seen and admired on
social media as well as magazines. The potters at Kumartuli not only make the
idols for the city of Kolkata , but also export the idols to durga Pujos around
the world, from Australia to USA, and even to Dubai, almost every NRI Bengali
pujo gets its Pujo Protima from Kumartuli.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB64XVZHZFO7ZSX0ALRY7LqZkvoYV8viK7Paw3M74x0IK9wADnpqpzqYHSOtl4PS70IhiiFeDsIoMHEuN60tawZZvjD8c4QEL_lubN-YZPJj4kRV4UQhAvnp9753JAOYUGR_J8hUP9sjI/s1600/k+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB64XVZHZFO7ZSX0ALRY7LqZkvoYV8viK7Paw3M74x0IK9wADnpqpzqYHSOtl4PS70IhiiFeDsIoMHEuN60tawZZvjD8c4QEL_lubN-YZPJj4kRV4UQhAvnp9753JAOYUGR_J8hUP9sjI/s400/k+1.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">come , join me on a walk through Kumartuli </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But, the idols of Ma Durga and her children
are made before Durga pujo, so is it still worth while visiting Kumartuli once
Durga pujo has begun?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yes, it is ! Read on to find out how we saw the creators,
the craft and the creation , all at Kumartulli, this Durga Pujo.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">A brief history of
Kumartulli<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After the british colonisation of Bengal and India, in 1757
after the Battle of Plassey , Holwell, under the oeders from Directors of the
British East India Company, allotted separate districts to the company’s
workmen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thus, suriparah – place of wine
sellers, chuttarparah – place of carpenters, Coomartolly – place for potters.
It is this Coomartolly that later became kumartuli or kumartulli.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mostt of the artisans and workers from these districts
dwindled or vanished with the rise of the Marwari settlements and the coming in
of Burrabazar. Except for the potters. The potters, who up until then were
making clay pots and pans using the clay from the river bed of Hooghly , took
to making the idols of Gods and Goddesses for the neighbouring mansions around
Kumartulii.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Kumartulli was home to a number of renoened homes during the
Bengal renaissance, like Nandram Sen the first collector of Kolkata in 1700,
and Gobindram Mitter who had a sprawling house spread over 16 acres. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
These famous houses of Kolkata , along with several other
ancestral homes, got their Pujo Protimas made by the artisans of Kumartuli, and
then many community pujos also supported them, and today the artists and
artisans of Kumartuli have a life long association with puja around the world.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI4b-qXEWpNqbXrm4Ukn5wWt3EuvdwWPSOMDVVFqz28u1DTCAbZREe7x3Ic4SXZiUL3vB7kC-c0ZgzPD0QLX2nRRplSxK8vYlZ_Fl-InQcwHwhxvVsqcoc7C4I5pJRPHR6XCq9i1v4f9c/s1600/k+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI4b-qXEWpNqbXrm4Ukn5wWt3EuvdwWPSOMDVVFqz28u1DTCAbZREe7x3Ic4SXZiUL3vB7kC-c0ZgzPD0QLX2nRRplSxK8vYlZ_Fl-InQcwHwhxvVsqcoc7C4I5pJRPHR6XCq9i1v4f9c/s400/k+3.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the creation and the creator. different avatars of Shakti</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjxrBfTUSpVXBvbPfd_KDBIb3IPJrS-kxG6fCZOqP64JmpFR1DMWUaAX6-WOlil_BmqeSokuc5c4YFsyhQixhbUtz_RyHHM1oP1CjculmRc03BExesn4nVRVVWRHhhU6sipOTGyc0KVNM/s1600/k+16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjxrBfTUSpVXBvbPfd_KDBIb3IPJrS-kxG6fCZOqP64JmpFR1DMWUaAX6-WOlil_BmqeSokuc5c4YFsyhQixhbUtz_RyHHM1oP1CjculmRc03BExesn4nVRVVWRHhhU6sipOTGyc0KVNM/s400/k+16.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kumartuli is a photographers haven , these large green doors were calling to be photographed, and me in my pink n orange gamcha sari worn the traditional shadharon bengali style couldnt help being photographed.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCEPZlHRIjEtixdG2rBQAmcpTbYZ6895-fJpk1rtDgqWe71GQZoHzVamAMyro02NlkK1totr2SgH6d9v-7ukfXvShcZBDze7NyXC0K1Ci-h0JyBtGe184wIaZA0OjTTNRuov5OaPlY4DU/s1600/k+17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCEPZlHRIjEtixdG2rBQAmcpTbYZ6895-fJpk1rtDgqWe71GQZoHzVamAMyro02NlkK1totr2SgH6d9v-7ukfXvShcZBDze7NyXC0K1Ci-h0JyBtGe184wIaZA0OjTTNRuov5OaPlY4DU/s400/k+17.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">half finished dieties at Kumartuli</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUU59tgx5hC-aNwqRlpM2lDwLIWOoPHEl2mYCXltdU6P6yfgI5JcnYaKNEHLP9Tr5PLX_K0Rp7wOGIfQV8C-pEHl3CCFg_z0X2Qp72TH-gqc5_XYpEXY4oIwOZXWOGmwAgAkgpXGlNhl0/s1600/k+19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUU59tgx5hC-aNwqRlpM2lDwLIWOoPHEl2mYCXltdU6P6yfgI5JcnYaKNEHLP9Tr5PLX_K0Rp7wOGIfQV8C-pEHl3CCFg_z0X2Qp72TH-gqc5_XYpEXY4oIwOZXWOGmwAgAkgpXGlNhl0/s400/k+19.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Turn left here, to be transported to an ethereal land of calm amongst the chaos, the potters lane in Kumartuli during Durga Pujo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">What you can expect
to see at Kumartuli during Durga Pujo<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
While it is true that Kumartuli is most famous for the
Pratimas and the pandals they create for Durga Pujo, they also make the
protimas of Lakshmi for Lakshmi Puja which is celebrated in West Bengal 7 days
after Saptami. And so you will see half finished idols of Lakshmi, or even
completely dressed and decked idols of Lakhsmi depending on which day of Durga
Pujo you visit Kumartuli. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We also saw the beginnings of the making of Ma Kali, for the
Kali pujo which would be on the night of Diwali. The dynamic Ma Kali idol,
complete with a garland of beheaded heads, and a hand dangling around her waist
make for eyecatching visuals.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You can also see the artists and workers hard att work, or
just catching a siesta . A peep into their world and you see the simple life
they lead, among their creations, a two storey house being held up by a half
finished idol, or the remnants of discarded pratimas, which didn’t make the cut
to the standards of perfection these Kumars put their work to. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Apart from this , Kumartuli, as I said is home to some of
the old world rich Bengalis, and just a walk down the many lanes of Kumartuli
gives you a glimpse of the glory of yesteryears, the aristocratic charm of
Kolkata is best seen here , as the homes are still well preserved . we didn’t
have much time to explore because the place is teeming with people, but there
are so many lanes and roads and narrow passage ways in this place that it is
easy to lose yourself here.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The residents of Kumartulli make idols for the entire city,
and for most of the pujos around the world, so you can imagine the idols that
their own pujo pandals would have.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We visited two pujo pandals in Kumartulli and the art and
ethos of both of them were mesmerising.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0sn_I0-QXeGYUShBNOdW1jFjoonlxdMcWK66aOeB0Fg57Hj_iFEEXjUNel2VfSRggfH9bqMAGRNjRlyNs-8xWd6A-LzY-ocnPNhOQUmcKE620WaK3_ZNPKStDA7p7MrHmWEekSh2CxZI/s1600/k+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0sn_I0-QXeGYUShBNOdW1jFjoonlxdMcWK66aOeB0Fg57Hj_iFEEXjUNel2VfSRggfH9bqMAGRNjRlyNs-8xWd6A-LzY-ocnPNhOQUmcKE620WaK3_ZNPKStDA7p7MrHmWEekSh2CxZI/s400/k+2.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">idols of Lakshmi, ready for Lokhi pujo, which falls on Sharad purnima, or kojagiri purnima. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7j_E1TUMowSsCEEHY_nBYkhjlCqVzs7hf08Lk1sUQuEijI8GB8oWiI3WmbsT6QGb6b8aVwVyKPA4qVIHWccx2LI8HnALz81sTsm3LuDQkIvP6IaXjS-oPi03AREKCBq9LVf6s9SCx99M/s1600/k+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7j_E1TUMowSsCEEHY_nBYkhjlCqVzs7hf08Lk1sUQuEijI8GB8oWiI3WmbsT6QGb6b8aVwVyKPA4qVIHWccx2LI8HnALz81sTsm3LuDQkIvP6IaXjS-oPi03AREKCBq9LVf6s9SCx99M/s400/k+4.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">idols of Ma Kali, with her Garland of heads makes for dramatic visula at Kumartuli</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ma Durga on a Boat , one of the Pandal Protimas at Kumartuli</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA2zQo2whfh5cHTQ5EV62soBJRlzbwF55kIHuL0x1eeGnHxt1flnpe8aJK4NoYjkPwiLgeS7s-W84npDOyY801EM2Agrl-mKMCC3ldiY3JPX_xubL67AwCQiBFjrC21B-M8Y4fpIFQano/s1600/k+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA2zQo2whfh5cHTQ5EV62soBJRlzbwF55kIHuL0x1eeGnHxt1flnpe8aJK4NoYjkPwiLgeS7s-W84npDOyY801EM2Agrl-mKMCC3ldiY3JPX_xubL67AwCQiBFjrC21B-M8Y4fpIFQano/s400/k+6.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Large eyed South East Asian influences in this Ma Durga Protima at Kumartuli</td></tr>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">How to get to
Kumartuli<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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We went by our own car, but taking a taxi or Uber/Ola is the
best way since parking is a hassle during the crowded days of pujo. Otherwise,
buses and trains go to Kumartuli. The nearest railway station is the Sovabazar
Metro. Sovabazar Launch Ghat (alongside the Ganges river) is also close by.
Taking a walk to the riverbank is worthwhile, as you'll get to see old Gothic
& Victorian style mansions. From there you can get a boat back to central
Kolkata. You don’t need special passes to go there, but its best you respect
the people who live and work there,so if they ask not to take pictures, don’t.
the place was surprisingly clean when we went. <o:p></o:p><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kumartuli , a unique experience during Durga Pujo</td></tr>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">A unique experience<o:p></o:p></b><br />
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The chaos and cacophony is an integral part of Durga Pujo in Kolkata, but once in Kumartuli, we took a left, and then a sharp right behind a house, and all of a sudden were trasnsported to an ethereal world; where Gods and their creations, idols and their creators lived. It’s quiet here, so quiet that some of the potters were sleeping. While in the pandals we were all jostling for space, here in the potters lanes of Kumartuli we were the only family. The feeling that this is where it all begins, the planning and creation of the idols, for Saraswati puja, for Lakshmi Puja, for Gurga puja and Kali puja, is truly an other worldly experience.<o:p></o:p><br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"></b><br />
Just outside of the pujo pandal are food stalls selling everything a Bengali foodies heart desires . the foodietrails couldnt end a travel blog post without mentioning food :)</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHZny6Qy3IxEsytNKEid4e8M86HgC5vReODF08jv7moLNdrvSs_tKhcLI07v1VqdOZ6RsswFB7feST4i0VsOpFPkATrgLzdb_Fr0vsqek5S6ohDdfgcXPGZ088_0zkNpelKd9xVZjFFus/s1600/k+8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1278" data-original-width="720" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHZny6Qy3IxEsytNKEid4e8M86HgC5vReODF08jv7moLNdrvSs_tKhcLI07v1VqdOZ6RsswFB7feST4i0VsOpFPkATrgLzdb_Fr0vsqek5S6ohDdfgcXPGZ088_0zkNpelKd9xVZjFFus/s400/k+8.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">kolkata meetha paan ; must have the foodietrails recommends</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_LPcdZCIO3qRQAn-yMUqkSKJz2bV2yAE-mwx9G1p7TUQpgpfFrAgzqbaYziuoKwL2E6w7eYPUELCU8BkrIugI7h8LHgTi7G5Hjq3tWf1Af8gLhhjswbxs3OaZRcqmLXHY6TcA_oCjK6Q/s1600/k+9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1056" data-original-width="792" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_LPcdZCIO3qRQAn-yMUqkSKJz2bV2yAE-mwx9G1p7TUQpgpfFrAgzqbaYziuoKwL2E6w7eYPUELCU8BkrIugI7h8LHgTi7G5Hjq3tWf1Af8gLhhjswbxs3OaZRcqmLXHY6TcA_oCjK6Q/s400/k+9.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">phuchka , must have kolkata street food. the foodietrails recommends</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cheene badam , peanuts dry roasted over sand. kolkata street food must have</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">mutton biryani, with a side of potato. kolkata street food must have</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivCLaiCxe8nyTi394co47j9yR1rbE7oc3O6p1eJuiU-0ymfYEp-v4amm4LQpvX08Qnu2xUZJubwruurruUluGKYNQ9hyyL34rew-5PIl_CR4dAv9jrOmopvypa6dx8MSG6KTGZRaj3RPw/s1600/k+13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivCLaiCxe8nyTi394co47j9yR1rbE7oc3O6p1eJuiU-0ymfYEp-v4amm4LQpvX08Qnu2xUZJubwruurruUluGKYNQ9hyyL34rew-5PIl_CR4dAv9jrOmopvypa6dx8MSG6KTGZRaj3RPw/s400/k+13.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">egg chicken roll, must have kolkata street food. the foodietrails recommends</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz2Uf0POZc5t31J4ZrUlmatxhHuaWYEZoYjM2XyhGGWUrktEJ9y6SFT-DmwpxGjG5z4nwUvW9bEsSZGVuNxuEit2d3fJ7fO-6pjk2r8f2TnEL9GL_OITEEBw4eMZBwAF0PSZHV6ssWge8/s1600/k+14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz2Uf0POZc5t31J4ZrUlmatxhHuaWYEZoYjM2XyhGGWUrktEJ9y6SFT-DmwpxGjG5z4nwUvW9bEsSZGVuNxuEit2d3fJ7fO-6pjk2r8f2TnEL9GL_OITEEBw4eMZBwAF0PSZHV6ssWge8/s400/k+14.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">chowmein and kochuri, must have street food in Kolkata. the foodietrails recommends.<br />
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the foodietrailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852630301342089274noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3016329700262720977.post-56921146833518385612018-10-09T05:05:00.003-07:002018-10-09T08:20:55.680-07:00ghugni recipe #bloggersdurgapujo, a vegetarian Bengali recipe <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<b>Ghugni :a step by step pictorial recipe.</b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghRj-Kef_ybxXtbTokoOpvtwaTjqyXOprgyyBelcHgpUYv4Hroxgx5Cphg4s0jgQBMtfbDDDj3GIAcaY3ozEaZMGJfsnBDgyVXDpRxyEH9n7RALq-_ik0gsPqGE_dr7JrRcIFNrxuKh-0/s1600/MVHJE6438.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghRj-Kef_ybxXtbTokoOpvtwaTjqyXOprgyyBelcHgpUYv4Hroxgx5Cphg4s0jgQBMtfbDDDj3GIAcaY3ozEaZMGJfsnBDgyVXDpRxyEH9n7RALq-_ik0gsPqGE_dr7JrRcIFNrxuKh-0/s400/MVHJE6438.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">ghugni : Durga pujo staple at home</td></tr>
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If there is one food I associate with Durga Pujo , other than pujor bhog ofcourse, it is Ghugni.<br />
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There are at least five good reasons why Ghugni should be on
your menu; it a vegetarian dish, it is made from simple pantry staples like
dried white peas, it is super tasty , it’s a great party snack in canapés, it is
an authentic Bengali street food dish so you can boast to friends that you know a Bengali
dish which doesn’t involve fish. <o:p></o:p><br />
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But, I am getting ahead of myself. I need to tell you why I
love ghugni so much.<o:p></o:p><br />
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During Durga Pujo we binge on a lot of non veg. we love to
eat out from the numerous stalls, and its an unending menu of kosha mangsho,
chicken roll, chicken lollypop, chowmien, and prawn chops. <o:p></o:p><br />
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But, on Ashthami we fast. <o:p></o:p><br />
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And then after pushpanjali prayers, we eat fruits. <o:p></o:p><br />
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And then the rest of the day we eat vegetarian.<o:p></o:p><br />
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That’s the only part my dad has ever been strict about; no
non veg on Ashthami. Now , given that the street stalls are all teeming with
mouth watering delicacies. It made sense that we eat at home, before we
ventured into Pandal hopping on Ashthami. <o:p></o:p><br />
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Thus, came the ghugni eating prior to setting out from home.
<o:p></o:p><br />
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We would eat a bowl of ghugni chaat, before we set out for
our evening pujo protima outings. For lunch we had bhog, which is always veg,
and we were sorted, but for dinner… we always had ghugni.<o:p></o:p><br />
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And that was not the end of it.<o:p></o:p><br />
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On Vijaya Dashami, which is Dussehra in most parts of India,
we have guests home after Visarjan. And that day we have lots of amazing food
at home, which does include mutton and also an elaborate table of Bengali
Mishti’s ranging from rosogulla, to kheer kadam. But we also have Ghugni. Why?
Because it pairs really well with indian food, its vegetarian and we might have
vegetarian friends over for food, and also because ghugni is an anytime snack.
Someone comes home in the afternoon, or early evening, or late in the night,
ghugni practically can be had anytime. <o:p></o:p><br />
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That’s not all!<o:p></o:p><br />
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we even had it for people visitingus for Diwali aswell . It has always been our fool proof 'guests dish' for vegetarian guests, and people who love non-veg, relish it too.<br />
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Ghugni is a popular street side food as well, and you can
get it on your train journeys in the Bengal UP trains.<o:p></o:p><br />
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And that’s why I love it; street food, which is also travel
food, which is also festive food, which is also ‘guests at home ‘food. How does
one dish go from so many different occasions? How is it so well accepted from
the hands of a street side vendor, as well, as from the hands of a homely<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>mum?<br />
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This is the wonder of this simple
staple. How to make ghugni you ask ? <o:p></o:p><br />
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Well, here is the recipe. <o:p></o:p><br />
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Its pictorial , so just follow along<o:p></o:p><br />
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Take dried white peas/ vatana and soak in water
over night.<o:p></o:p><br />
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Boil the overnight soaked peas with a little
salt, and a little hing. <o:p></o:p><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN2yTNjccmSpQKPi71lX80teb330H9TyNPXgCvD7kz9DLGF1rpG4Q-2tlmezYcm7a01SCsijDrT4q25n38XM0lTNQKTE0JILkAo-YEzyffh-js-rebzHxnbtu0ASmJSgf3EAE6aoMq2mg/s1600/PIMQE3667.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN2yTNjccmSpQKPi71lX80teb330H9TyNPXgCvD7kz9DLGF1rpG4Q-2tlmezYcm7a01SCsijDrT4q25n38XM0lTNQKTE0JILkAo-YEzyffh-js-rebzHxnbtu0ASmJSgf3EAE6aoMq2mg/s320/PIMQE3667.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Grate one onion, one tomato, and a teaspoon
worth of garlic and ginger.<o:p></o:p><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXWLdtoi00NCtKxIpPvQF5muqOhn6a6JN_7bepmVoxhHK86M4mkwgcAsdxp6u3ergR1cOP1KwQwXF0tGXIZDNOFEZaNuajVK74p8d0S5GPq90g2vepAYsa-MOt_KMD0HQZFOB6zXWmiTk/s1600/NNDHE9756.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXWLdtoi00NCtKxIpPvQF5muqOhn6a6JN_7bepmVoxhHK86M4mkwgcAsdxp6u3ergR1cOP1KwQwXF0tGXIZDNOFEZaNuajVK74p8d0S5GPq90g2vepAYsa-MOt_KMD0HQZFOB6zXWmiTk/s320/NNDHE9756.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Keep ½ teaspoon of turmeric , red chilli powder,
jeera powder, coriander seed powder, garam masala powder. Ready.<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXDOEfOoZRLytJA4KTohgo48SJ8ZkiwZi6_3WnFHQVpI-gFRhaIy2QaRSqQW9furxIX7BVGMjvU6Mo-_QaVdV_Za9jiAexShWAqPquG2iuypv84zwdSYx6TT1Jo2OzCNp3FY-UO_EVGgA/s1600/VWTME8833.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXDOEfOoZRLytJA4KTohgo48SJ8ZkiwZi6_3WnFHQVpI-gFRhaIy2QaRSqQW9furxIX7BVGMjvU6Mo-_QaVdV_Za9jiAexShWAqPquG2iuypv84zwdSYx6TT1Jo2OzCNp3FY-UO_EVGgA/s320/VWTME8833.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Now fry the onion in some oil first.<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0YjUUhqBrK7baUNTsqnECcMmrIVP8a3ASmd15JB1_jqgXVUJ7OJ9OpJ2xUmuZxKjaTXbKCDo94VP-nhFa2WTJqIyL0YKt3R1reoKPcy-lZWM-ihq6BmY1Ovf49cz14aueBq5wnW-or4A/s1600/IMG_8428.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0YjUUhqBrK7baUNTsqnECcMmrIVP8a3ASmd15JB1_jqgXVUJ7OJ9OpJ2xUmuZxKjaTXbKCDo94VP-nhFa2WTJqIyL0YKt3R1reoKPcy-lZWM-ihq6BmY1Ovf49cz14aueBq5wnW-or4A/s320/IMG_8428.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">6.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Then add the ginger garlic paste.<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAFdjV6DWQlcJB1pbyZG6c5GEd0ipHK9GTnmID8mlXA9U8Y8nbsU_GQjPX8h88kZb7J07rzjhAY546qbF23yTIF0ipaSmRMpvdpIZySirtIZ4NlVqEQgKEWxjmWq7jrVOyPooralzxsMs/s1600/IMG_8430.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAFdjV6DWQlcJB1pbyZG6c5GEd0ipHK9GTnmID8mlXA9U8Y8nbsU_GQjPX8h88kZb7J07rzjhAY546qbF23yTIF0ipaSmRMpvdpIZySirtIZ4NlVqEQgKEWxjmWq7jrVOyPooralzxsMs/s320/IMG_8430.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">7.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Then add the tomato, only once the onion and
ginger garlic are cooked well.<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUCYcwZBnAVGkK4ugjBxgmjH5614MvPm4EnxT2E2OZCJ24kOYV1fVOsm5PMvOL0EblKz-i14jSrJty1xBIW_1k2ZRuZgdWA-rBXQGvgiA4Nrq7cUogJsm4UKi7QbiqzwhaaI5ULRW6S7k/s1600/IMG_8432.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUCYcwZBnAVGkK4ugjBxgmjH5614MvPm4EnxT2E2OZCJ24kOYV1fVOsm5PMvOL0EblKz-i14jSrJty1xBIW_1k2ZRuZgdWA-rBXQGvgiA4Nrq7cUogJsm4UKi7QbiqzwhaaI5ULRW6S7k/s320/IMG_8432.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">8.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Add all the powder masalas, and cook the onion-tomato paste till it is dangerously deliciously dark.<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWWlQ5greSlpKFqm12RLaMIgVO1WwPmwtILJtJ0gchuc6IKOR9lW7D-ylVk_ZvqdW3CuXiLsaU2Nm5sAp9905miAJd9YblV81WsKzGbckmH2qcZFq54WOHzrP6C67OQNFSjH4IbnT8W24/s1600/IMG_8433.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWWlQ5greSlpKFqm12RLaMIgVO1WwPmwtILJtJ0gchuc6IKOR9lW7D-ylVk_ZvqdW3CuXiLsaU2Nm5sAp9905miAJd9YblV81WsKzGbckmH2qcZFq54WOHzrP6C67OQNFSjH4IbnT8W24/s320/IMG_8433.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">9.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Then add the creamy boiled peas. <o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUGCd7V_YgePJ0uusDv74hXJa3EyJ5jokv8x02NAfJHKXBR3UU4NxC5mNVXEI5-54kekkw9BZSWf7W3qh8qwuayLoXl4nWArlS8DiR3PyOZtetvgFsI53IZ8mYfZnYeDeAmttzw3RC3Fo/s1600/IMG_8436.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUGCd7V_YgePJ0uusDv74hXJa3EyJ5jokv8x02NAfJHKXBR3UU4NxC5mNVXEI5-54kekkw9BZSWf7W3qh8qwuayLoXl4nWArlS8DiR3PyOZtetvgFsI53IZ8mYfZnYeDeAmttzw3RC3Fo/s320/IMG_8436.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">10.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Now add salt to taste<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEti1IK0do7hZGpOPtkYYV8PP1lMBE411A1k0o_VMQ1CyGrk8daNiwAJHJKsQXVYQ3IKGnlzo8hTV-MXCl_5G4YHGeKBpqKEx41ABXniD7srWl8C6MxZEBXHYjWI_4cbbEYSrQA3mkmzA/s1600/IMG_8437.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEti1IK0do7hZGpOPtkYYV8PP1lMBE411A1k0o_VMQ1CyGrk8daNiwAJHJKsQXVYQ3IKGnlzo8hTV-MXCl_5G4YHGeKBpqKEx41ABXniD7srWl8C6MxZEBXHYjWI_4cbbEYSrQA3mkmzA/s320/IMG_8437.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">11.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Add pulp of tamarind (soak tamarinds in some hot
water) use said water along with the tamarind pulp. <o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1EEF7F1cvF5vYfB8wVF06811LryL4e4WDfu5YPiT5zP0ja2IbBowOvFFSdVNByQSyoJ1sG5OQu01clSFPKz4khJrMD_ICxYEPbZ3fbUDJviPCZNICvuhNRF5llnXzD-goBN_2Q8Vnlbc/s1600/IMG_8438.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1EEF7F1cvF5vYfB8wVF06811LryL4e4WDfu5YPiT5zP0ja2IbBowOvFFSdVNByQSyoJ1sG5OQu01clSFPKz4khJrMD_ICxYEPbZ3fbUDJviPCZNICvuhNRF5llnXzD-goBN_2Q8Vnlbc/s320/IMG_8438.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">12.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Let cook on low heat, until most of the water
evaporates.<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifVQvT1OlXoB2Qlx65vulXgdejaTK-b5XZ6Gwgt1zT1OAsTdfeX6fnWDjq-9KsEV_WvXo3VfHKQ3CBdhSK8lk9IUDatcZTh3jESiCWp7838p7QgT0EyQu3YE2zkFw4L-OnbqVSTUGeHng/s1600/IMG_8439.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifVQvT1OlXoB2Qlx65vulXgdejaTK-b5XZ6Gwgt1zT1OAsTdfeX6fnWDjq-9KsEV_WvXo3VfHKQ3CBdhSK8lk9IUDatcZTh3jESiCWp7838p7QgT0EyQu3YE2zkFw4L-OnbqVSTUGeHng/s320/IMG_8439.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">13.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->You can either serve it quite dry , or a little
watery if you plan to have it with chapatti or rice. We generally have it
without any accompaniment.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">14.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Fry off some slivers of coconut in coconut oil.
To add that textural crunch, and milt sweetness of coconuts. <o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ21O69dJVw_JnpJpEuN5nfedYaJajQ9b89josl6_bgsC_Rpr6ez-dRfoK3uDNYKlNY7HZPt8ASrxFbmceXgq0bV1lKSxiGdW8Bm7sOfbZsGdYAPkE7-GFsRCZSUenRch8XnlnUCJtD2s/s1600/IMG_8440.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ21O69dJVw_JnpJpEuN5nfedYaJajQ9b89josl6_bgsC_Rpr6ez-dRfoK3uDNYKlNY7HZPt8ASrxFbmceXgq0bV1lKSxiGdW8Bm7sOfbZsGdYAPkE7-GFsRCZSUenRch8XnlnUCJtD2s/s320/IMG_8440.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Ghugni is spicy, salty, tangy, and creamy from the boiled
peas, and crunchy from the fried coconuts and the toppings, and just served
with chopped onion, or crunchy sev, and even pomegranates if you feel like, add
roasted peanuts if you feeling like it, squeeze of lime if you don’t mind and
extra tang, sprinkle chopped coriander and mint on top to make it look pretty
and more herby. <o:p></o:p><br />
don't hesitate to substitute dry mangoes for the tamarind, or chaat masala, or use pre soaked tinned peas, or coconut flakes instead of pieces, in short, play around, and make this recipe your own.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ghugni is what will make all your vegetarian dinners a hit,
you never again need to worry what to serve your vegetarian friends. <o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIZN6rogaPKWTajPEPidGZGZyfp5vUin6PrdT8-Yx8wjd9xwBeX1ztcRPVgj_wW8AtJ09EVLZSiKhzmNEPJDy9k74LvEOGrSuFr_MVt8Ro_XuwgtKGjdMt04-fAGNJ9e8JDfThUn8J-bY/s1600/KUFGE3142.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIZN6rogaPKWTajPEPidGZGZyfp5vUin6PrdT8-Yx8wjd9xwBeX1ztcRPVgj_wW8AtJ09EVLZSiKhzmNEPJDy9k74LvEOGrSuFr_MVt8Ro_XuwgtKGjdMt04-fAGNJ9e8JDfThUn8J-bY/s400/KUFGE3142.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ghugni : bengali vegetarian dish with white peas.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At home , I started making it for special occasions only.
and then it escalated to us having ghugni every week. I am guessing you will
be making this every week as well. it's that simple, fast and addictive. <o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
This year too, like last year, I am celebrating Durga pujo, not just with my family, but my blogging family aswell. Last year we were 4 bloggers participating, and this year we are 19 bloggers strong, sharing Pujo memories, nostalgia, pujo from around the country, fashion, food and everything in between.<br />
Come join us by following the hashtag #bloggersdurgapujo on Fb, twitter, and instagram. and if you havent already to join my bengali language mini crash course by searching #bongtalk on facebook and instagram. :)<br />
<div class="post-header" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #313131; font-family: Merriweather, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin: 0px 0px 28px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span class="cat" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #bf9f5a; display: block; margin: 0px 0px 8px; padding: 0px;"><br /></span></div>
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<strong style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><u style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">List of Participating Bloggers</u></strong></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 22px; padding: 0px;">
Dr. Amrita Basu (Misra): <a href="https://healthwealthbridge.com/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #bf9f5a; cursor: pointer; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; transition: color 0.3s ease 0s;">https://healthwealthbridge.com</a></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 22px; padding: 0px;">
Anupriya Gupta: <a href="http://www.mommytincture.com/" rel="noopener" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #bf9f5a; cursor: pointer; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; transition: color 0.3s ease 0s;" target="_blank">https:////www.mommytincture</a></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 22px; padding: 0px;">
Esha Chakraborty: <a href="https://bookhippo.wordpress.com/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #bf9f5a; cursor: pointer; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; transition: color 0.3s ease 0s;">https://bookhippo.wordpress.com</a></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 22px; padding: 0px;">
Indrani Ghose: <a href="https://isharethese.com/" rel="noopener" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #bf9f5a; cursor: pointer; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; transition: color 0.3s ease 0s;" target="_blank">https://isharethese.com</a></div>
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Kapila Rattan Bhowmik: <a href="http://www.everylittlethinghappiness.com/" rel="noopener" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #bf9f5a; cursor: pointer; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; transition: color 0.3s ease 0s;" target="_blank">www.everylittlethinghappiness.com</a></div>
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Dr. Kuheli Bhattacharya: <a href="http://www.thefoodietrails.com/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #bf9f5a; cursor: pointer; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; transition: color 0.3s ease 0s;">http://www.thefoodietrails.com</a></div>
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Shalini Magdel Das: <a href="http://lostloveadventure.com/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #bf9f5a; cursor: pointer; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; transition: color 0.3s ease 0s;">http://lostloveadventure.com/</a></div>
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Sonia Chatterjee: <a href="https://soniasmusings.com/" rel="noopener" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #bf9f5a; cursor: pointer; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; transition: color 0.3s ease 0s;" target="_blank">https://soniasmusings.com</a></div>
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Soumosri and Utsab <a href="https://happilyfoodies.wordpress.com/" rel="nofollow" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #bf9f5a; cursor: pointer; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; transition: color 0.3s ease 0s;">https://happilyfoodies.wordpress.com/</a></div>
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Vasundhara Sarkar: <a href="https://vasundharasarkaris.wixsite.com/thesassyshimmer/blog" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #bf9f5a; cursor: pointer; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; transition: color 0.3s ease 0s;">https://vasundharasarkaris.wixsite.com/thesassyshimmer/blog</a></div>
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the foodietrailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852630301342089274noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3016329700262720977.post-1902806420748638772018-09-03T00:27:00.000-07:002018-09-05T21:48:07.342-07:00Goa walking food tour : Goa on my Plate<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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When I first started The Foodietrails Blog, it was to get to
experience a place and its culture and history, through the food that the
people of that place cooked, served and enjoyed. And to me nothing says
‘experience a place’ like walking the streets and eating local cuisine, aka a
food walking tour. <o:p></o:p></div>
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For years I had contemplated starting my own food walking
tour, and have written blogs on the same to help tourists and travellers get
more of a Goan experience on their travels.<o:p></o:p></div>
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And thus, I started my own Food and history walking tour in Goa , called ‘ Goa on my plate.’<br />
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Goa, unlike rest of India was never under British Rule, the Portuguese occupied Goa for over 4 centuries and another difference is that unlike rest of India which considers their occupants (Britishers) as unwelcome Rulers, many in Goa consider the Portuguese as ancestors. <o:p></o:p></div>
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For a lot of Goans this would be common knowledge, but for me it had been utterly fascinating and I was amazed at the twists of fate that had led to the Portuguese rule of Goa from 1510 to 1961. As an outsider who is now an insider, I have a unique outlook to what Goa means to me.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me in my official Goa on my plate T shirt</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The team from Thinkin'Culture outside Mary Immaculate Church , Panjim</td></tr>
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I was delighted and honoured to have been able to take a group of ten travellers from Nagpur in a food walking tour of Panjim, seeing some local street graffiti, some historical architectural monuments, and also eat some super local food.<o:p></o:p></div>
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From physically taking a large group of travellers through the city, showing them places of historical importance (like where the Portuguese landed for the first time in India, or where the famous battles were fought) , to taking into account all the dietary specifications of the people ( most of them ate no egg, even in cakes or desserts). A food walk was an immersive experience not just for the guests , but for me too.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Our meeting point was the Iconic Panjim Church or the ‘Our Lady of Immaculate conception ‘ church. But to my amazement, these guys had never heard or seen the church! They had only known Panjim for the Casinos !<o:p></o:p></div>
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The chapel turned Church has served as an Iconic backdrop for many Bollywood films (eg, Josh), and can be seen on many fridge magnets and keychains, but we went into the strategic location of the church, and the significance of the bell, which came from another historical church , the St Augustine’s church, which now lies in Ruins, but even the ruins have played scenic roles in films like Singham and others. The local touch was my telling them about the live naitevety scenes on the eve of Christmas with goats, Cows , ducks et al and last year the naitevety scene was created out of plastic bottles and plastic wastes.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Other interesting facts that we shared were;<o:p></o:p></div>
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Did you know that Vasco Da Gama had never come to – Vasco da Gama the port city in Goa ?<o:p></o:p></div>
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Did you know that Vasco Da Gama had actually never been to Goa ?<o:p></o:p></div>
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Did you know that Goa was never ordered to be captured by the King of Portugal, King Manuel, he had sent the Governor to capture only Hormuz , Aden and Malacca on his voyage?<o:p></o:p></div>
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And that when Governor of Portuguese state of India, Afonso de Albuquerque , had captured Goa, and for a short while afterwards, King Manuel had even contemplated giving up the colony of Goa back to the Indian subcontinent ?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">participants enjoying the local Goan flavours</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bespoke Food walking tours : Goa on my Plate</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhggdOToE9SE3sdBgwmT4sJ9inLOIUOB2vGNpRiZqowruEJSSVmvtVzMkumvWEh3KKFmgEsYxJRCF2LmgrErKClo5-eVmEbgpIIA-GgMamjxlDX1_KB1_tfjHq8NAJqxd_eGU2TjEeC5r0/s1600/IMG_6467.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhggdOToE9SE3sdBgwmT4sJ9inLOIUOB2vGNpRiZqowruEJSSVmvtVzMkumvWEh3KKFmgEsYxJRCF2LmgrErKClo5-eVmEbgpIIA-GgMamjxlDX1_KB1_tfjHq8NAJqxd_eGU2TjEeC5r0/s400/IMG_6467.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">selfies with the Nagpur team from Thinkin'Culture</td></tr>
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We walked along the some of the most colourful lanes in Goa, the Fontainhas area, and at in Iconic Goan Cafes serving local food inspired by the Portuguese, as well as neighbouring areas of Mangalore. We visited quaint cafes like the 31 January Confeitaria, the iconic Café Central, and the ever busy and almost a century old Café Bhonsle.<o:p></o:p></div>
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We discovered the graffiti work curated by Haneef Quereshi and his team from Street-art, St-art, India. The theme of most of their art work is how Goans perceive tourists and how tourists in turn perceive Goans, and it seemed apt since we were on a journey of discovery ourselves.<o:p></o:p></div>
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We walked down roads with historically significant dates like 18 june Road, and 31 January road, and we walked past places with interesting pasts like the Panjim General post office, and the Adil Shah Palace. And I shared how the Portuguese had indeed sailed in on their Caravelas into the river Mandovi and the summer palace of Adil shah was the first and the most important area captured by the Portuguese. It was here on these very streets that the Portuguese decided to fill the streets with chillies and hot spices that they were carrying as cargo, so that the enemy soldiers could not cross the spice laden streets.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWntAB4XWAP41ezyvkqKCPOELKK0mTurxsTk6joy9Ogze4B26d6xOCyEIo8hVzsxwabrdMDCPjsE-D8vE3JFgn9iILZ4ZSU-yxWHcJhs8nYyShZ6fymx7SDzVV1rHCRVOmNbmDugWCmtY/s1600/IMG_6468.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWntAB4XWAP41ezyvkqKCPOELKK0mTurxsTk6joy9Ogze4B26d6xOCyEIo8hVzsxwabrdMDCPjsE-D8vE3JFgn9iILZ4ZSU-yxWHcJhs8nYyShZ6fymx7SDzVV1rHCRVOmNbmDugWCmtY/s400/IMG_6468.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The team from Thinkin'Cuture discovering colourful lanes in Fontainhas</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The famed Goan Almi Mushroon, each leaf filled with Mushrooms were for Rs 400, these local wild mushrooms are like the Indian Truffle</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Discovering Local wall art in Panjim, with Goa on my Plate</td></tr>
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We ended our walk with the eggless dessert Serradura –translated into Saw dust Pudding because of the crushed Marie biscuits that are sprinkled on top of the condensed milk pudding, giving it a saw-dust like appearance. The Serradura was infact a popular dessert of Macau , which too was a Portuguese colony. And you can see the travel of influence through the food story here. There are many desserts which are famous and prevalent in Goa, and these make use of egg yolks, such as the Bebinca and <i>Pasteis de nata</i>. The use of egg yolks in desserts, have an interesting back story as well.<br />
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Since we didn’t have too many non-vegetarians on this leg of the food walk, we went to just one stop for the inimitable street food of Goa, the Ros omelette, which serves up a fresh fluffy omelette doused in spicy chicken Xacuti curry and topped with onions and lime wedges. Chicken and beef cutlets, mutton croquettes, prawn rissois and pork mince pies are other non-vegetarian Goan snacks that I hope to introduce to on other food walks.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Serradura</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHczHFaDIW1mJk7ffBLYUVgH42BkSp6RAKeKjKFdq-AqvufslUrbFGyWaFENMUKVtLyorZ8afts76hY_9FxgSCxg-6F64EAg5QWnVyArJEvR6lsCQzy-V9q0cIxjM6nLh-v-PkdYsL-gQ/s1600/IMG_6479.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHczHFaDIW1mJk7ffBLYUVgH42BkSp6RAKeKjKFdq-AqvufslUrbFGyWaFENMUKVtLyorZ8afts76hY_9FxgSCxg-6F64EAg5QWnVyArJEvR6lsCQzy-V9q0cIxjM6nLh-v-PkdYsL-gQ/s400/IMG_6479.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ros omlette , with Goa on my plate</td></tr>
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In Forensic medicine we call it Locard’s principle, that when
two objects come in contact, there is an exchange. In forensic medicine it is
the trace remains of blood and fingerprints, and when people meet it is often
an exchange of ideas and when cultures and countries meet there is an exchange
in trade, spices, food trends. With the food walk, I hope to be able to
educate, entertain and inspire people to experience Goa like they haven’t
before. Locard’s principle also suggests that the exchange is never one way,
and by taking my love of food from an online to an offline audience, I myself
have experienced Goa in a unique way, through the eyes of a traveller.<o:p></o:p></div>
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If you wish to join me on a food walk around panjim email me on :</div>
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thefoodietrails@gmail.com</div>
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the foodietrailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852630301342089274noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3016329700262720977.post-77363844137102251112018-06-21T11:04:00.002-07:002018-06-21T11:04:56.508-07:00The fantastic 5 Sunday brunch at Park Hyatt Goa<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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This father’s day, we made it a family event at the
fantastic five brunch at Park Hyatt and I realised it was the perfect option
for families.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQP6V1hBTmCyEcDyjGIAKMtTSkKEkAioZyShsbSCBjD3uOlt2AK9J1O7G8JYywUJ9Tbwvpm1efpL7ncum2o8jnprnuZAdxNFZYCmJCVYRGZ29wVetnnaXZvj5MDWM3XaK2DLu2Aqg1DB4/s1600/IMG_5129.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQP6V1hBTmCyEcDyjGIAKMtTSkKEkAioZyShsbSCBjD3uOlt2AK9J1O7G8JYywUJ9Tbwvpm1efpL7ncum2o8jnprnuZAdxNFZYCmJCVYRGZ29wVetnnaXZvj5MDWM3XaK2DLu2Aqg1DB4/s400/IMG_5129.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Hum Paanch series at Park Hyatt Goa, for Rs 1400 for a non alcoholic brunch, a treat for the entire family</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The chicken cutlet pao got a five star upgrade, with chicken kismoor, lime wedges and lasun pickle</td></tr>
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Our family is a melting pot of food preferences ; while my mother in law is all about experimenting and experiencing anything that she doesn’t cook at home, my father –in- law prefers the home cooked Goan staples of rice and curries. The husband is keen on healthy grills and dry meats, I am all about the indulgent desserts and cheese boards.<br />
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So when Park Hyatt Resor and Spa announced the launch of their 5 distinct culinary experiences, in the form of their 5 speciality restaurants coming together under one massive epicurean experience, I knew it was the perfect fit for the two fathers for father’s day.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My mother-in law eating fancy exotic cuisine, which she got to try for the first time at the buffet, love to giove them new experiences. and my father-in law happy to have the simple Goan red rice and Goan baked breads and the familiar Goan cuisine</td></tr>
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The brunch is not your average, multi cuisine spread, or
even dining in a multi cuisine restaurant, because this is about 5 distinct
kitchens, 5 separate teams taking care of the cuisine they do best.<o:p></o:p></div>
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And so Casa Sarita, the Goan Soeciality restaurant morphed
into the Goan Priestess, Da Luigi the Italian speciality restaurant morphed
into the Italian Empress, Palms the sea facing grill speciality restaurant came
dressed as the sea food emperor, Masala the Indian speciality restaurant became
the Indian Magician, and village café turned into the street style star.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">couldnt get enough of tthese white chocolate and almond rocks topped with a sugar coated rose petal, which my son thought were jujubes :)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The cheese and charcuterie grazing platter, a sight to behold.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The gorgeous Park Hyatt property, which offered father's day games art art work for kids, play area and bonding activities and plenty of open spaces to run around.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The customary mom and baby cup of cheers with our tea cups.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">couldn't help posing with this beauty</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Each of these desserts signified us as a family, the flamboyant blue and white with a base of brownie is me, the clean classic chocolate bar , the husband, and that adorable tart which stole my heart has got to be the apple of my eye, my son.<br /><br />The fantastic five brunch is a first of it's kind concept meal by the resort, and I think it's a fantastic move, in that it showcases each of the speciality offerings in a stellar manner. we loved the prawns grilled on open flame, the chicken dimsums , and the tava mutton in this monsoon season, and judging by the fantastic turnout of people, this concept biffet lunch is going to be a sizzling success all through the rainy season.<br />If you cant make up your mind if you want fish curry rice, or a grilled chcken and roast potato kind of meal, or a wok tossed noodles and creamy pasta dish, then decide to have it all at the newly launched sunday brunch for the monsoon season at Park Hyatt. do call in advance and book your tables though, because this one is extremely popular . <br /></td></tr>
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the foodietrailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852630301342089274noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3016329700262720977.post-27142014036789938362018-06-13T09:46:00.000-07:002018-06-21T11:06:58.477-07:00Cafes of Goa : Monsoon Trail<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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So you plan on visiting Goa in the rains, but still want to
visit quirky and cute places, with instagrammable food, which is good for you,
also meet other people, collaborate on projects and soak in the artsy vibe of
Goa in the monsoons. <o:p></o:p></div>
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This post is just for you!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Three cafés which are open during the monsoon season in Goa,
where you can come in to dry yourself off, do a spot of shopping even, eat some
gorgeous food, and who knows even make a local connection . <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: large;">The project Café , Assagao.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></b><br />
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Imagine a 130 year old Portuguese Villa housing a lifestyle
experience space, with Food, design, retail, and gallery space. The restaurant/café
within this art gallery like space, serves up some vibrant and fresh salad,
like the fig and blue cheese crumble salad we loved, and also south east Asian
cuisine like a thai green curry. But we loved their rendition of Serradura the
most, with dessicated coconut crumble, and creamy biscuity bits to add to the
wonder. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Project Cafe , Goa </td></tr>
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<b>What’s exciting?</b> The outdoor café which is inspired by Bismarckia leaves, notice the leaves marked on the concrete tables, and a giant mural on the wall of the tree as well.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhshS-nznCfS0rSCVVz7WzRNXfHem0CqwIx-LHXGyeCfPYkjUrkBq1lanIPcaKJIwre8AGKLEAgjmMXAkDT-bfst5xZ7atxfq5iW66gc6w64CRMb9hAjUJ-z0klUTOaEz_rsjUBsSNS25Q/s1600/IMG_E4997.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="748" data-original-width="640" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhshS-nznCfS0rSCVVz7WzRNXfHem0CqwIx-LHXGyeCfPYkjUrkBq1lanIPcaKJIwre8AGKLEAgjmMXAkDT-bfst5xZ7atxfq5iW66gc6w64CRMb9hAjUJ-z0klUTOaEz_rsjUBsSNS25Q/s1600/IMG_E4997.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">watercolour workshop with Allen Shaw, the project cafe Goa</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCR4qOy5j-sjfeeQugMtHtfe97uFtdfUDIDmiS15_mCzhjopXAkmWve89EnmhBWbavoy-RrcOS8XXxu-6RSbYGU1gqT5mLQTpeXNegz3ffIFPuFl4XRzENrHEZXeJQ2yYpnjlwudNRJxE/s1600/IMG_E4998.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="759" data-original-width="640" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCR4qOy5j-sjfeeQugMtHtfe97uFtdfUDIDmiS15_mCzhjopXAkmWve89EnmhBWbavoy-RrcOS8XXxu-6RSbYGU1gqT5mLQTpeXNegz3ffIFPuFl4XRzENrHEZXeJQ2yYpnjlwudNRJxE/s1600/IMG_E4998.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The famed blue cheese and fig salad , worth the hype , the project cafe , Goa</td></tr>
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<b>Millennial travel goals:</b> The project café loves to collaborate with skilled travellers, and we have attended a pop up with a travelling chef couple from Lisbon, as well as a watercolour travel journalist from Berlin, and a visit to project café could lead to connecting with interesting people from around the world doing interesting things on the sphere of art, design , food and more. Infact you can reach out to them if YOU want to do a workshop or an exhibition as well.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdbbqEKAqrktY_Ar_nX8PItnPQ3puY1N2w9Mp9OugHXIRYDfZqszR60BiT2Z9ZV2PT8flVtroyu_Z_7p866S9W4M7YbLRzJzjDObxAwumZ11m5CK57OMvrkT4Srem-ceT_bNgueNX7wjw/s1600/IMG_E5003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="749" data-original-width="639" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdbbqEKAqrktY_Ar_nX8PItnPQ3puY1N2w9Mp9OugHXIRYDfZqszR60BiT2Z9ZV2PT8flVtroyu_Z_7p866S9W4M7YbLRzJzjDObxAwumZ11m5CK57OMvrkT4Srem-ceT_bNgueNX7wjw/s400/IMG_E5003.JPG" width="341" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dinner Pop up with Travelling chefs Tony Santos and Marta fernandes from Lisbon, The Project Cafe , Goa</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Artjuna, Anjuna</span></b>.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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A café restaurant which believes in Organic food, enough to
not serve any chicken or meats, because they may not be sourced from organic
farms. But trust me, you don’t miss the meats. They do serve fish, and the tuna
and avocado salad is amazing. Between instagram worthy smoothies and shakes,
and fresh organic sourdough bread and gluten free banana cakes, there is much
to choose from. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF-vg39XS969UA0tjC3q7IHM7xJfmRr1kLwoLThuXySZb0Ehwk3DqGZZujRdp4oRaZSmFQLIk8KdeMYkJ9hcSDahHG8JRsmGYRv4cw11ZwPy3BYGGQWS6ypu1eoziR3ctU2acJboSSk90/s1600/IMG_E5004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="637" height="372" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF-vg39XS969UA0tjC3q7IHM7xJfmRr1kLwoLThuXySZb0Ehwk3DqGZZujRdp4oRaZSmFQLIk8KdeMYkJ9hcSDahHG8JRsmGYRv4cw11ZwPy3BYGGQWS6ypu1eoziR3ctU2acJboSSk90/s400/IMG_E5004.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Artjuna, Anjuna, Cafes of Goa. Of Mezze platters and instagrammable salads</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYj5eYCf-xUcWyp4nCpn5wGSe0N5tR3GmCaMauRProzQDTpqfgvhR1aIeauTC-OkksdUAX0EZxJKLiUdoUVgNdbOrPLU-OfjWTaMTleNpmAWZIR7mKohEaXIOX6v1Fqc-X8fLMZxMvHhk/s1600/IMG_E5005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="592" data-original-width="630" height="375" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYj5eYCf-xUcWyp4nCpn5wGSe0N5tR3GmCaMauRProzQDTpqfgvhR1aIeauTC-OkksdUAX0EZxJKLiUdoUVgNdbOrPLU-OfjWTaMTleNpmAWZIR7mKohEaXIOX6v1Fqc-X8fLMZxMvHhk/s400/IMG_E5005.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">when smoothies and salads are bae, head to Artjuna, Anjuna</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBDQbHHG0XUt6bkCCBA9mlXitsjE1cIJFsplKk5-1poW-OfBjuuM52ryMjihWy94w-Yx9mHwedWL_Rk69O4rIzmp55N3D9RKmM4_4J3mBkWm8brKHkk9_-OGTOgWgoEN5yron8_zRXmsY/s1600/IMG_2011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBDQbHHG0XUt6bkCCBA9mlXitsjE1cIJFsplKk5-1poW-OfBjuuM52ryMjihWy94w-Yx9mHwedWL_Rk69O4rIzmp55N3D9RKmM4_4J3mBkWm8brKHkk9_-OGTOgWgoEN5yron8_zRXmsY/s400/IMG_2011.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">treehouse playarea, artjuna</td></tr>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Whats exciting? </b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All through monsoon, you have movie nights, and also there is a lovely book library overflowing with books, so that you can cozy up in a chair with a book, and watch as the rain washes of the beautiful green trees in the area. Kids also have a tree climbing play area, and a place to enjoy nature and the monsoons while you can keep a watchful eye from your cozy corner.<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Millennial travel goals</b>: A large Yoga and pilates area, a mixed martial arts area, a shop filled with quaint India inspired curios and jewellery, which is all very affordably priced to take back as souvenirs from your travels. Most of the belts and handbags are made in house, and are all unique bespoke pieces.<o:p></o:p><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The book library, artjuna, Anjuna</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0KnT_s0SQ0d7xVHYwEFtAOmej8Ko9fPLb1BTfUTH_FkOF8JYVVpKz2p0aDc1Cu5-DIcyHJ9hwrPfrOTqVlKvLPUHG8t60Zr4eEZXIh9kkTUTnZH0a87h9vkc0TPT35sb92wkCqqTN37A/s1600/IMG_2036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0KnT_s0SQ0d7xVHYwEFtAOmej8Ko9fPLb1BTfUTH_FkOF8JYVVpKz2p0aDc1Cu5-DIcyHJ9hwrPfrOTqVlKvLPUHG8t60Zr4eEZXIh9kkTUTnZH0a87h9vkc0TPT35sb92wkCqqTN37A/s320/IMG_2036.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shakshuka , at Artjuna, Goa</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Natti’s Naturals, Anjuna</span></b>.</span><o:p></o:p><br />
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A white Goan Potuguese home, nestled in a wooded garden, is
home to one of the more popular natural food movements in North Goa.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A menu teaming with breakfast bowls and
healthy superfoods, like Kombucha, acai berry smoothies, granola trail mixes,
not to mention lactose free nut milks, and gluten free desserts which will have
you weak at the knees, but healthy in heart and gut.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL5o4ZPmMqaaOObpEpq77ix8z_CQqflaclBqnUU76e7LwNisfdLGW6Wzmh0WelPl2wt84j_VSfK21xXDUGq56BnqJgq6c8YsMY78EcjYIQgmZoZmwCXgdKLfLw-33VuaF14_r7Dv4kgPQ/s1600/IMG_4885.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL5o4ZPmMqaaOObpEpq77ix8z_CQqflaclBqnUU76e7LwNisfdLGW6Wzmh0WelPl2wt84j_VSfK21xXDUGq56BnqJgq6c8YsMY78EcjYIQgmZoZmwCXgdKLfLw-33VuaF14_r7Dv4kgPQ/s400/IMG_4885.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Natti's naturals, Goa</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLRZzJq0PauLzfjK-rFrCwiTRi1RwOy1YxptTh3hxzDb2WwOhSaydfx91NpJHjqVr1bcvXYbWVvOFTTUd6pXvdnPVdE_xArIZ5u7c4yQqh6fwMvlMC-rMrjeggwJS42zPRoYDR3I_9NhI/s1600/IMG_4888.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLRZzJq0PauLzfjK-rFrCwiTRi1RwOy1YxptTh3hxzDb2WwOhSaydfx91NpJHjqVr1bcvXYbWVvOFTTUd6pXvdnPVdE_xArIZ5u7c4yQqh6fwMvlMC-rMrjeggwJS42zPRoYDR3I_9NhI/s400/IMG_4888.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">ecofriendly soaps, using natural soap berry, reetha</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvJZZMnwe49AG4UDRSKRaYGD3fzinpeKK8NlOeD-LqINQYI6n9Y1jasNiQlelgpdCQBNKFRAQNadw-dP6Q3EDFe8c638YnWNqlhWThR-2D1wwzfVPJH1LK_K72ppCo0TG0gcJfc02Y3w8/s1600/IMG_4895.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvJZZMnwe49AG4UDRSKRaYGD3fzinpeKK8NlOeD-LqINQYI6n9Y1jasNiQlelgpdCQBNKFRAQNadw-dP6Q3EDFe8c638YnWNqlhWThR-2D1wwzfVPJH1LK_K72ppCo0TG0gcJfc02Y3w8/s400/IMG_4895.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">quinoa salad, acai berry smoothie bowl, kombucha , hummus falafel mezze platter. <br />
all so instagramable and all so deliciously good for you. </td></tr>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">What’s exciting?</b> An Natural food <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>store, which even has environment friendly detergent soaps for your clothes and home washing purposes. Throwback to Indian ethos of care and nurture, they store and sell, unique health foods like apple cider vinegar from Himachali apples, and organic indian spices an oils and organic milled grains, apart from your nuts , and granola trail mixes.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Millennial travel Goals</b> : At the time we went, young Caroline from Canada was painting a magical garden of cornflowers and dragonflies on the dried leaf walls of Natti’s Natural. A chance to work and share your skill, while you travel and experience a country , is an exciting prospect to the millennial traveller. And we loved connecting and interacting with this effervescent soul who was visiting India to learn Yoga.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Millenial traveller , Caroline, with her artowork in the background, Natti's Naturals</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLQT4LL_J1bT1qsRosYMOMYgcR9v_4v6wrhCyT15UtqxgWOxExzJb-4Li44ielFb2FsIIZ9mVE4oFrAZC3YBA9YMngqg0uxeXhf2tmrtuIQMaVbDt09MmjUzXUA5M0bg-vQQo7o1kMRdo/s1600/IMG_4908.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLQT4LL_J1bT1qsRosYMOMYgcR9v_4v6wrhCyT15UtqxgWOxExzJb-4Li44ielFb2FsIIZ9mVE4oFrAZC3YBA9YMngqg0uxeXhf2tmrtuIQMaVbDt09MmjUzXUA5M0bg-vQQo7o1kMRdo/s400/IMG_4908.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gluten free chocolate cake and Banana cake with organic honey, Natti's Naturals</td></tr>
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Monsoons are the perfect time to travel to Goa if you are
looking for the offbeat, the economical, the slow paced travel. If you are
looking for an immersive travel and food experience , then I hope this post
helps you get the most from your #monsoonsingoa experience, also if you are a
local Goan, then this would be the best time for you to get to know the hippy
chic travel lifestyle of the world travellers and what makes Goa such a hotspot
for millennial travellers. <o:p></o:p></div>
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If you liked this post, I would really appreciate that you
shared it on your social media. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Also follow me on Instagram <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>@thefoodietrails on facebook page
@thefoodietrails and if you do visit the places do tag me and use the hashtag
#goafoodietrails<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></div>
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Want to read more?<o:p></o:p></div>
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Read the foodies guide to the <a href="http://www.thefoodietrails.com/2017/09/the-foodie-explains-goan-fish-thali.html">Goan Fish Thali</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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Read the three <a href="http://www.thefoodietrails.com/2017/02/the-three-best-times-to-visit-goa-and.html">Best times to visit Goa</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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the foodietrailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852630301342089274noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3016329700262720977.post-45234485601095801612018-06-03T08:47:00.000-07:002018-06-03T09:20:55.494-07:00The number one food trend for 2018 , Godrej food trends 2018 #GFTR2018<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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The <a href="http://www.vikhrolicucina.com/godrej-food-trends-report">Godrej Food Trends Report</a> is out,which is a detailed analysis of what to expect in the food industry in India this year; from pop up restaurants, to celebration of millets, from ethnic food ingredients to Buddha bowls, there is a lot that we can look forward to in 2018.But as we reach the half mark of 2018, when I look back on the last 5 months, the food trend for
2018 that I find most exciting is <b>Mindful eating</b>.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyLy70x8uaTyzFZK-uON94SIaJx-24XtUP-3E9FGrBlTDTycN7UM1ZfYXxjbM2BfEZqEo4FCEdtfWtmJwlngExJY3HG6MKz-KgLJpK8UGrQI6w1OSbJdDtcnHzaG9mkWai3W2T2xG7V2M/s1600/IMG_4640.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="648" data-original-width="640" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyLy70x8uaTyzFZK-uON94SIaJx-24XtUP-3E9FGrBlTDTycN7UM1ZfYXxjbM2BfEZqEo4FCEdtfWtmJwlngExJY3HG6MKz-KgLJpK8UGrQI6w1OSbJdDtcnHzaG9mkWai3W2T2xG7V2M/s400/IMG_4640.PNG" width="395" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Godrej Food trends Report 2018 #GFTR2018</td></tr>
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It makes sense that
India, the land of Yoga and Ayurveda, and body and mind consciousness, should
not only adopt mindfulness in food, but also embrace it as a way of life. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">So what is Mindfulness in food?</i></b> Being Mindful is knowing what
you are eating, where is it coming from, how is it grown, who made it and how,
and finally giving the food the respect and losing yourself to the five senses
while eating your food, and being thankful for the food we have.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Let’s start from the beginning; being aware where your food
comes from: A lot of food influencers have taken to growing their own
vegetables and herbs, and I do think that given the ease of planters and
balcony greens, that can very well be the way to go. But, baby steps. Many of
us working professionals <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>may not have
the time or the patience to do our own vegetable gardens, but step out once a
week to your neighbourhood vegetable vendor. Touch, feel, prod and smell your
produce. I found myself doing just that when I went Mango shopping, I felt for
the softness and piability of the mangoes, I judged them by their colour and
checked for bruises and cuts, and then finally held them up for a glorious
whiff of sun ripened mangoes. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">The entire
sensational experience of touch, sight, smell before actually tasting is where
the mindfulness lies.<o:p></o:p></i><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Choosing mangoes, an exercise in Mindfulness </td></tr>
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How is our food being produced?: I think this is the part
Indians struggle with most. We love to visualise fields of mustard with Shahrukh
Khan and Kajol dancing, but we dissociate with the farmer who grows the food. <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">In fact, the dissociation from our food is
even more when it comes to the animals we eat</b>. <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">We love our butter chicken, but we don’t want to be drawn into the
controversy of how they are bred.</b> One of my Easter lunch spread had the picture of a suckling on the
stuffed pig platter. People don’t mind eating sausages and bacon, but the fact
that it is an actual animal produce disturbs them. I eat all meats, and I love
the western approach of giving dignity and respect to the shepherd who grazes
them, to the butchers and even the chefs who work extensively with meats. There
are countless travel and food shows which are now taking us on virtual tours of
farmlands in Australia, and Butcheries in France, but not one which shows us
the Tabelas of Punjab. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">If we need to
embrace food, we truly need to embrace the where, who and what of food. <o:p></o:p></i><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-JMZQ61yVLJlh6l_t2x4U9-4aK5E3Bu39G471H6iuzy5xd7xzpP2_e2aSYro2N1AZIEOq2k3C1J50sUYSG2SNj2zYOPt_L8H3uTStQSRB2bmMsqZrzM8jwB2gLsSBzWu_3ImKbgHhe0U/s1600/IMG_E4652.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="553" data-original-width="640" height="345" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-JMZQ61yVLJlh6l_t2x4U9-4aK5E3Bu39G471H6iuzy5xd7xzpP2_e2aSYro2N1AZIEOq2k3C1J50sUYSG2SNj2zYOPt_L8H3uTStQSRB2bmMsqZrzM8jwB2gLsSBzWu_3ImKbgHhe0U/s400/IMG_E4652.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Knowing , acknowledging and respecting the source of your food, mindful eating, #GFTR2018</td></tr>
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Next up is Mindfulness about who is making the food: Raise
your hand if you make your food everyday. Raise your hand if you cook for your
entire family, everyday. Raise your hand if you feel like an under-appreciated
mom. There is a reason why Ma-ke-haath-ka khana is such a big thing. No yearly
trend report can take away that blissful joy of ‘my mom cooks the best’. And a
lot of brands have jumped on the bandwagon of celebrating the ‘MOM’ , be it
cooking oils, to fast food brands, <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">from
cornflakes to mayonnaise everyone has a yummy mummy prepping breakfast, tiffin
or checking up on her husbands calorie count.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will be honest, I
am a doctor, I work out of home, and while I plan every meal of the house, I do
not cook every meal. But that doesn’t mean it isn’t healthy and tasty, and it
does stem from age old family recipes. But, sometimes spending time rustling up
a meal, is just the therapy I need after a day at work. Making salads, or
adjusting the spices in a dish, or tossing up a fried rice in the wok, I don’t
know how many of you have cooked for yourself or for family, but try it. And
better still , involve the kids. Right now we make imaginary food for everyone
at the park, using play sand, and <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">being
mindful that kitchen is not the only place for a woman, and that the kitchen
belongs to an entire family, and the entire family can come together not just
to eat, but also to cook</i>, I feel will go a long way in promoting
mindfulness and well being. Having open kitchens, where a kitchen connects
directly to the dining hall, I think takes the cooking out of the kitchen and
helps others see the entire preparation of dishes.<o:p></o:p></div>
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And finally the eating of food: By now you might have
guessed from the 700 odd words above, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that
I believe that Mindfulness in eating food, doesn’t just lie in eating it.</i>
But, one of the greatest joys of life, is that every now and then you have to
slow down and savour a meal. But how many of us have rushed through our meals
on our way to work, binge eaten in front of the TV, or netflixed our meals, not
even realising what we ate. Guess, the biggest advantage of eating your food
mindfully, is that you feel satiated much faster, and that translates to eating
lesser<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">. Eating slowly, admiring the long
grains of basmati, deeply inhaling the smell of fresh ghee, and even eatin</i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">g
with your hands to really feel the texture of food, all help immersing yourself
in the eating experience</i>. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Who knew mindfulness could be your next step to health and
weightloss.<o:p></o:p><br />
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But first one word
about giving thanks. Not a traditional Indian concept, but since many of us
have been brought up in Catholic schools, where a prayer before meals is
mandatory, why not adopt it in our own way? I first noticed this when one day
my son, returned from school, and just folded his hands and said <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">“Thankyou God for this food”.</b> I don’t
know how much he understands about God or thankfulness , especially since we
haven’t introduced the concept of God to him, and sometimes he returns without
eating his school tiffin ( so much for thankfulness) , but I think it’s a habit
worth inculcating.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf4IZiquIjA6egWXJTnsundS87hFzSky6s4nUPizXZqD1GBW1AeNMPaAQ1DZkMU0uiAX1of9Mqu4dtZ3VV8qsDn2UaSGWcTv3RWm1idIH36UaNYJidIehKiP7bVIgk-r-_hzVkWlb_Xe8/s1600/IMG_E4343.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="640" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf4IZiquIjA6egWXJTnsundS87hFzSky6s4nUPizXZqD1GBW1AeNMPaAQ1DZkMU0uiAX1of9Mqu4dtZ3VV8qsDn2UaSGWcTv3RWm1idIH36UaNYJidIehKiP7bVIgk-r-_hzVkWlb_Xe8/s400/IMG_E4343.JPG" width="281" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inculcating Thankfulness, Mindful eating<br />#GFTR2018</td></tr>
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Mindfulness while eating out: I think nothing can be more
satisfying than a mindful meal eaten at a restaurant. Think about it, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">one of the key ways of eating mindfully is
having a dedicated place of cooking your meals and also eating them</i>. And so
eating at the dining table promotes more mindfulness, rather than eating
infront of the TV. Now imagine that you actually get dressed to EAT, drive a
car to a place to EAT, be seated in a place particularly designed so that you
ENJOY YOUR MEALS, everyone from the wait-staff to the chef to the cutlery on
the table is there to make your meal a memorable experience. Leave the phone,
connect with your food, connect with the people making and serving the food,
and mostly connect with the person you are there with to savour the food. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">To be able to have someone who celebrates
your love for food as much as you , is a treasure all unto itself.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-I9lKFUZp6Gw3YKq6mppNb9pIaRhPydG4zuswcbZcdQJMGR7k7gowzSjwYXMS4jWvc1O6CtQpddc1V7Zby0NKX4urbfOnz9hLhBlBXQ58-oL5sdWgRydEJb0WpYtvG1lvbweH0-l03lA/s1600/NOMOE6674.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-I9lKFUZp6Gw3YKq6mppNb9pIaRhPydG4zuswcbZcdQJMGR7k7gowzSjwYXMS4jWvc1O6CtQpddc1V7Zby0NKX4urbfOnz9hLhBlBXQ58-oL5sdWgRydEJb0WpYtvG1lvbweH0-l03lA/s400/NOMOE6674.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">mindfulness while eating out and food blogging #GFTR2018</td></tr>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Mindfulness as a food
blogger</b> : If you have read this far, I am guessing, either you really love
your food , in which case HIGH FIVE, or are a food blogger , in which case hug
from your tribe. <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">As a food blogger
taking food pictures can seem contra-intuitive to mindfulness, but it actually
isn’t.</b> Seeing how the light hits the food, and how the colours contrast on
the plate, how the butter chicken looks even better with the dollop of cream,
and food styling using the ingredients in the dish, means you are actually
celebrating the food in front of you. But a word of caution , celebrate food,
not just the pictures . <o:p></o:p><br />
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Even while eating, us food bloggers need to know that much
more about textures, interplay of flavours, food combinations and so much more.
I am constantly trying to identify the spices, or how a particular cooking
technique affects the overall dish whether it is char grilling or smoking a
dish, or cooking in a water bath. Without mindfulness, that isn’t possible.<o:p></o:p><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgos6j8cpMyhjIl0CwHiK1vsCSs2WtnTmH1L5K_amMTn0bQKOjMHMF8MyLZQkWI8u0-9EGUG8RSFLzWri_531sXjb6elhwvR7ZZDBgqSWjSRSW9Q70RoFftyq1xDYXSl0xb8T-LsdmytzQ/s1600/IMG_E4347.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="751" data-original-width="640" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgos6j8cpMyhjIl0CwHiK1vsCSs2WtnTmH1L5K_amMTn0bQKOjMHMF8MyLZQkWI8u0-9EGUG8RSFLzWri_531sXjb6elhwvR7ZZDBgqSWjSRSW9Q70RoFftyq1xDYXSl0xb8T-LsdmytzQ/s400/IMG_E4347.JPG" width="340" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baby led weaning, this is my son at 9 months eating a carrot beetroot whole wheat cake ( yes I celebrated monthly birthdays). Baby led weaning, and sitting in a dedicaated high cahir are ways of starting a mindful eating practice for kids.</td></tr>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">And finally,
mindfulness for kids !<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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It starts as young as breast feeding and then weaning. While
enough has been said, and written about breastfeeding, and I am a huge believer
in it, not much is said about a baby’s first foods. Baby led weaning simply
means that let the baby decided what they want to eat, and not to give mashed
purees, it also means they start to grab and eat early, they chew their food
better, and it means better hand eye coordination and better understanding of
food texture, rather than having everything mashed and watery.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Second tip would be
to make child sit in a high chair, rather than running after the child during
feeding time. It means they have a dedicated place to eat, just like adults.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And third, is don’t
feed with the Tv mobile on, something a lot of parents do. Yes, its more work
getting them to eat food, more mess too, since the kid is effectively feeding
themselves, but you can raise mindful eaters at a young age.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Taking your kid to the vegetable market is another great way
to make them aware of food, also imaginary play and actual cooking with kids is
all part of mindfulness. <o:p></o:p></div>
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That brings us to the end of why I think Mindfulness is the
Number one trend of 2018 and going forth. It encompasses everything right from
production to consumption of food, you can introduce it in simple ways in your
daily life, and learn to love food more, and it can help you lose weight too if
that is what you choose to do, and connecting with food with all your senses
not just your taste buds, elevating the experience of eating, whether at home
or outside. <o:p></o:p><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgMSmwDX4R7BVHMFQSlc3aED70UxPPX-daOZ_i_YYyoUtoHCgFJH6gfOvDD34JTe0pu4nJ4cSVx1S60S4LoLcm27CJSEsyTu9fTnUP-1rT2nDR8Y_Nxh7D0-diQdouVWVH5f5Z-OBHI8Y/s1600/IMG_E4341.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="889" data-original-width="640" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgMSmwDX4R7BVHMFQSlc3aED70UxPPX-daOZ_i_YYyoUtoHCgFJH6gfOvDD34JTe0pu4nJ4cSVx1S60S4LoLcm27CJSEsyTu9fTnUP-1rT2nDR8Y_Nxh7D0-diQdouVWVH5f5Z-OBHI8Y/s400/IMG_E4341.JPG" width="287" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hope you enjoyed our playful take on Mindful eating</td></tr>
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This post is a part of the Godrej Food Trends blogging contest hosted by <a href="https://fashionablefoodz.com/godrej-food-trends-2018-contest/">Fashionable Foodz</a> in association with <a href="http://vikhrolicucina.com/">Vikhroli Cucina</a> and should not be repurposed, republished or used otherwise. the content herein is owned by the blogger. Godrej food trends blogging contest, Fashionablefoodz or Godrej is not responsible for any kind of infringement caused.</div>
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the foodietrailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852630301342089274noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3016329700262720977.post-79557440160420441692018-05-28T06:30:00.000-07:002018-05-28T07:08:25.328-07:00Goa on my plate : Diva restaurant by Chef Ritu Dalmia<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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When a famous celebrity chef opens her flagship restaurant
in your tiny state, you as a foodie are excited at the prospect, and when Chef
Ritu Dalmia opens her famous Diva line of Italian restaurants for the first
time outside Delhi after famously stating once that she would never open a Diva
restaurant outside of Delhi , you are positively thrilled.<o:p></o:p><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVsULZo8MRgDzHn3dtf3dNBLnqkqw1Nvwfl4grOebIW96v9BOLXIi2eTsR5HvyNGTawlmF3XLRYoHT5HZxKWvosnFnykEjV6RmRV8P99l-_Tioe5HkeEmXGYZwft9-y_RaR8mx9ZRRbi4/s1600/IMG_4265.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVsULZo8MRgDzHn3dtf3dNBLnqkqw1Nvwfl4grOebIW96v9BOLXIi2eTsR5HvyNGTawlmF3XLRYoHT5HZxKWvosnFnykEjV6RmRV8P99l-_Tioe5HkeEmXGYZwft9-y_RaR8mx9ZRRbi4/s400/IMG_4265.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Diva restaurant , Goa</td></tr>
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Chef Ritu Dalmia’s reason for opening Diva in Goa is because
she loves Goa, but as a foodie I think she made a very good choice. with a
number of good Italian home style restaurants, regional cuisines of Italy being
highlighted as well as Italian chefs in starred restaurants who bring their
Nonna’s recipes with them , Goa has been exposed to world class Italian cuisine
, and would receive Diva with open arms.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Diva restaurant is located in a new-ish resort in North Goa,
called Andores resort, in Tivai Waddo Calangute. A verdant green property
fringed with palms, the restaurant itself is by the swimming pool and the large
glass windows allow natural light to stream in.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Chef Dalmia , who incidentally also has a restaurant in
Milan called ‘Cittamani’ which serves Innovative Indian cuisine using Italian
ingredients also has influences of Goa, and her Delhi restaurant Diva spiced
has uses of Kokum and Coconut. While these may not be part of an Italian
cooking , Chef has been known to incorporate fresh local ingredients true to
the season in her menus, and that’s what I am most looking forward to.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The tasting menu in true Italian style, started with an
antipasti,went on to the first course a primi, and a second course secondi and
then desserts, also how can we forget pizzas!<o:p></o:p></div>
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For the Anti Pasti, we had a refreshing tartare of cubed
beetroots and green apple with a zingy lime mustard dressing, as well as a more
subtle prawn salad with graceful fennel shavings and orange segments. I think
this course set Diva apart instantly. Each mini cube of beetroot and apple were
painstakingly sliced and similar across all the plates, the flavour
combinations as well as the precision knife work were both impeccable.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Diva restaurant, Calangute , the Anti Pasti</td></tr>
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Then came the Pasta dishes. For the vegetarians there was a
mozarella filled gnocchi, tossed in a simple marinare style sauce. I liked it,
but thought the mozzarella filling converted the traditional bite sized gnocchi
to more of a mouthful. I personally like my gnocchi smaller and more swimming
in sauce . To read about my three favourite Pasta meals from my trip to Rome <a href="http://www.thefoodietrails.com/2014/01/italian-food-trail-rome.html">READ HERE</a>.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_ElZoK32jPoItrrOHeussnW60ybfILmM_rAw7Ia5sxThyHJ-wdzoS48tllTBryROd6-uD830aihVLBRUDBYLxL8WEEpDU9naJj81FhewIL3j5N4P9RzWRrfVO-kpPJ7YqQV1gbbRQroA/s1600/IMG_4269.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_ElZoK32jPoItrrOHeussnW60ybfILmM_rAw7Ia5sxThyHJ-wdzoS48tllTBryROd6-uD830aihVLBRUDBYLxL8WEEpDU9naJj81FhewIL3j5N4P9RzWRrfVO-kpPJ7YqQV1gbbRQroA/s400/IMG_4269.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Each Raviolo was perfection , Diva restaurant , Goa</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPEb3FNyc2bM5f1rgoK8nVA6r99CBIluaodxs9lp5qsBB4wkVYof89c205oIhTVAZfQ4AqR12mVn3bcYUGaDXktnfgOhadFsZ7cWeEmUU0_TJOgtGdVr7nP5oMJM7KowfmGUUgapU_Jo4/s1600/IMG_4271.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPEb3FNyc2bM5f1rgoK8nVA6r99CBIluaodxs9lp5qsBB4wkVYof89c205oIhTVAZfQ4AqR12mVn3bcYUGaDXktnfgOhadFsZ7cWeEmUU0_TJOgtGdVr7nP5oMJM7KowfmGUUgapU_Jo4/s400/IMG_4271.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gnocchi , Diva restaurant, Goa</td></tr>
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But, the minced lamb Ravioli stole my heart! As a rule,
whenever I visit an Italian restaurant, I order ravioli. Why? Because that’s
when you know if they make their own in house pasta , at least in India. There is
so much more complexity and technique required in making raviloli, like the
stuffing, the pasta rolling itself and the sauce, and at Diva the spiced lamb
with a onion and rosemary infused puree was sublime. I didn’t check the menu,
but if they make tortellini’s then that’s what I will have next time, because
those too really judge the depth of creativity and precision of a Italian
restaurant.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The secondi, or what is considered the Maincourse was potato
roulades with a grilled veggies, and beaten chicken breast with lime and
peppercorn and baby roast potatoes. I wasn’t very impressed by the
presentation, nor the flavours. To be fair, these were tasting portions and I
wouldn’t judge plating on such small portions, a valiant effort with the
painted stroke of beetroot sauce on the side. I agree it added drama, but my
chicken was dry and I was scraping the beetroot sauce for some relief. My
favourite parts were the grilled baby potatoes and the onion segments. It
needed more of the dipping sauce or a jus. <o:p></o:p><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisq0Xs0rhNGzdk_-r4YYQpxHN8xGypdLIskAbYVKy53kx6-EAzGU5Hrop9yjfFLq_eEzu02NkfIMslaL8nO5UcWovEGVwWnWm_fTNNy5lbVuK9I5DMP7gXRQSFdXrcWK6pWUEFjqma3ME/s1600/IMG_4272.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisq0Xs0rhNGzdk_-r4YYQpxHN8xGypdLIskAbYVKy53kx6-EAzGU5Hrop9yjfFLq_eEzu02NkfIMslaL8nO5UcWovEGVwWnWm_fTNNy5lbVuK9I5DMP7gXRQSFdXrcWK6pWUEFjqma3ME/s400/IMG_4272.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">grilled chicken, Diva restaurant Goa</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghTkzY9UnJVg1ofxxjIv-8WIQWoie_fFfeDEKpXi0pjcxNAeiLigPID79P_YP1zXrTrGcttBsQ0qQCpQSdIUcvDZyhcJuBIlOLIF7yhJN_NBpBbUAUv4oWjDGXwHujJKCcSbjKcFjAzJA/s1600/IMG_4275.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghTkzY9UnJVg1ofxxjIv-8WIQWoie_fFfeDEKpXi0pjcxNAeiLigPID79P_YP1zXrTrGcttBsQ0qQCpQSdIUcvDZyhcJuBIlOLIF7yhJN_NBpBbUAUv4oWjDGXwHujJKCcSbjKcFjAzJA/s400/IMG_4275.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Diva restaurant, Goa</td></tr>
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Now for what you have been waiting for , the Pizza. We were
served four classic combinations, the Margherita (Chef Dalmia’s favourite
choice), Verde with pesto, pine nuts, fresh rocket leaves and moxarella ( my
favourite and highly recommended), Sabine with salami red peppers and red
onions ( the most photogenic and also for those who enjoy spicy pizza) and the Cotto with cooked ham, olives mozzarella and parmesan (this one was a meat
lovers paradise, generous helping of ham on the pizza).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6ZD35aOLnIwij0hYd9vVKiOixrX9DbYa-I6wjCuPFn1YHb4-01A8a3cxBk1YCuRe0Pg76RB2lNOkb5uD_AJY_AfFWV9mu7-RQTxnYAJ2XuQE8TC0D0L0ZPNqPmAdMyJETttLY15ZP-es/s1600/IMG_4267.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6ZD35aOLnIwij0hYd9vVKiOixrX9DbYa-I6wjCuPFn1YHb4-01A8a3cxBk1YCuRe0Pg76RB2lNOkb5uD_AJY_AfFWV9mu7-RQTxnYAJ2XuQE8TC0D0L0ZPNqPmAdMyJETttLY15ZP-es/s320/IMG_4267.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Yes, the pizza is
decidedly good here, but don’t take my word for it, Diva was chosen among the
70 best restaurants with a pizzeria in the world, and the jury consisted of
Italian embassies around the world and the restorazione Italiana Magazine. <o:p></o:p></div>
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And now for the desserts. I can hear you guys saying “Basta
Basta !” I can’t take it anymore, but I promise this is the last for now.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWfD8JLCP90p9yJXzM-kuhz5bXF74YGRis9ph-OawGMMVgDPI5UwESfyVyFqBlOFfvVKe9juP7cWxAbuENe04XY4gMsULpCp4Dbq-jydwqf6_H-XahGCkneD9-amlFHUc58v8vt27mxM8/s1600/IMG_4276.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWfD8JLCP90p9yJXzM-kuhz5bXF74YGRis9ph-OawGMMVgDPI5UwESfyVyFqBlOFfvVKe9juP7cWxAbuENe04XY4gMsULpCp4Dbq-jydwqf6_H-XahGCkneD9-amlFHUc58v8vt27mxM8/s400/IMG_4276.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the tiramisu , and the art devicting Ravioli. </td></tr>
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One of the best chocolate torte, it was a miracle how
something so crumbly and moist could hold its shape on the plate, because on
the tongue it melted into a gooey mess of chocolatey flavours. The Tiramisu
valiantly held its own against the scene stealer torte. Diminutive in a shot
glass, it still managed to pack a punch with the amount of coffee that it had,
it is deceptively benign looking but delivers on taste.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaF8tLJ7igFKNjGeud04CBSrNXTksOIw7yL5pkql3bdYt79HsSs3yZApNTopsAEnjVMccuvDj3HHwYvUYD9inc83-61iK3kxE3DKCWyqtX_ZpPUmVIcBQ6oVhyphenhyphenUGjuURaUT-Eu43SLkrg/s1600/IMG_4278.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaF8tLJ7igFKNjGeud04CBSrNXTksOIw7yL5pkql3bdYt79HsSs3yZApNTopsAEnjVMccuvDj3HHwYvUYD9inc83-61iK3kxE3DKCWyqtX_ZpPUmVIcBQ6oVhyphenhyphenUGjuURaUT-Eu43SLkrg/s400/IMG_4278.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pasta Art , Aradhana Seth for Diva , Goa</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVlbP0pESbnC40lPwVmQzQqfCoJUe03wrJkSMXd3kaFWCmctLBQ5Qw6XE9SUKEypP2cDtrEdnsNiBz2OjIX43YlKgoL018oC3Rh-O2WxqnQVyP2Rxd3Kwghyt05fZnxv9zFbDN6-Z0IHc/s1600/IMG_4279.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVlbP0pESbnC40lPwVmQzQqfCoJUe03wrJkSMXd3kaFWCmctLBQ5Qw6XE9SUKEypP2cDtrEdnsNiBz2OjIX43YlKgoL018oC3Rh-O2WxqnQVyP2Rxd3Kwghyt05fZnxv9zFbDN6-Z0IHc/s400/IMG_4279.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Can you guess the various Pasta patterns ? Art by Aradhana Seth, for Diva restaurant Goa</td></tr>
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Apart from the food, I was also taken up by the eclectic
artwork in the place, done by Aradhana Seth, with the use of black and white
abstract images to depict pastas of various shapes, and using an old Italian
magazine to create mosaic art along with dry pasta , as well as geometric
patterns to depict herbs and spices. The creativity had clearly emanated from
the kitchens to the walls.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Head to Diva restaurant now open in Goa, situated in
Calangute, open all 7 days of the week, for lunch and dinner during the monsoon
season of Goa ( which is now) and soon have more hours of service come next
tourist season. It’s a bit tricky to find, but put Andores resort or Diva
restaurant on google and you should be fine. Indoor seating with pretty
surroundings are a bonus, parking is present in the resort itself. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Liked this article?<o:p></o:p></div>
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Read <a href="http://www.thefoodietrails.com/2014/04/in-conversation-with-david-rocco-dolce.html">The foodietrails in conversation with famous Italian celebrity chef David Rocco</a>.<o:p></o:p></div>
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also read <a href="http://www.thefoodietrails.com/2014/01/italian-food-trail-rome.html">The best Pizzas of Rome , and Italian food journey</a>.<o:p></o:p><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Diva restaurant Goa</td></tr>
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the foodietrailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852630301342089274noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3016329700262720977.post-70450412686911181332018-05-22T05:21:00.000-07:002018-05-22T05:21:15.891-07:00Travelling with a toddler to Le Meridien Goa <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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This mother’s day was made even more special when Le
Meredien , Calangute , decided to host three of us mom travel bloggers in Goa.
What we came away with was memories, some great mommy bonding, and the big
bonus was the children got along famously aswell.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpJGSSxVl34bXftWZaaXJakevb8AFdNUPLQeRwAuFKUkss93sruJP64acBeYAfC8f7V2d_sPzILG0bpCCV383hwrEbwUOlpYTycscTkTL9WpweJ3owTK5OVWFQ7p0llPcGywIBmU7OmsI/s1600/IMG_3758.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpJGSSxVl34bXftWZaaXJakevb8AFdNUPLQeRwAuFKUkss93sruJP64acBeYAfC8f7V2d_sPzILG0bpCCV383hwrEbwUOlpYTycscTkTL9WpweJ3owTK5OVWFQ7p0llPcGywIBmU7OmsI/s400/IMG_3758.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Le meridien Goa , staycation in Goa, </td></tr>
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We were welcomed into their plush rooms, overlooking a Mango
tree laden with blush coloured Mangoes, as well as a large sized chess board.
What immediately caught my attention, was the clever use of space within the
room. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Using a different pattern on the wall paper and the rug
under the circular sofa, the helped create lounging zones in the room. The
circular bed was our favourite spot, sturdy enough for jumping on, comfortable
high backs to see TV from, or gaze out of the room at the unseasonal rain pattering
on Mangalorean roofs.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Le Meridien Goa, this one was one of the little alcoved sitting areas in the room, one of three such areas. </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Interesting Houndstooth pattern to depict the native Kunbi tribe of Goa</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The change in wall paper , to distinguish this beautiful round bed/sofa perfect loung area. Le Meridien Goa</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Art work depicting the St Augustine's church ruins , Le Meridien Goa</td></tr>
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The art in the room was inspired by the Kunbi tribe , their
checked kunbi saris and the typical brass jewellery. <o:p></o:p></div>
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There were 4 different places where kids can
read/lounge/jump/ play/ sleep in depending on how big your kid is. For shreyu,
he was immensely taken up by the cupboard, where he decided to open up a shop
selling imaginary Poppins and lollipops.<o:p></o:p></div>
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But he also had real chocolate lollipops as part of his
welcome treat, and the cute dessert in a jar, with miniature slippers, starfish
and I was blown away by the attention to detail and the painstaking
craftsmanship of the F and B team . <o:p></o:p></div>
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Next up was éclair decorations. Eclairs are the French
inspiration that the Lemeridien draws from its origins. And more than the kids
it was the mothers who enjoyed the éclair making at the signature coffee shop
of le meridian, which doubles as a bar by night. We were explained that each
Meridien property has a unique éclair to themselves and here it was the Mango
and cashew ones. But honestly , we have been to Meridien Mahabaleshwar and
Pune, but haad never experienced this part of the hospitality.(do ask about the
eclairs if you ever visit a meridian property) . another unique part of the
meridian properties is the art in the hotel which is unique to the place.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">we enjoyed getting messy with whipped cream</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mom Ruchi , and I making the most of edible creative eclairs, Le meridien Goa</td></tr>
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One thing I always maintain, no destination or hotel is not
child friendly, kids find everything fascinating, the question is the property
‘parent friendly’.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The balconies and the absence of child locks on the doors (
he was easily able to open the doors , the absence of any latch in the
bathrooms ( a pet peeve of mine in almost all hotels , because children just
don’t seem to understand privacy. ) <o:p></o:p></div>
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The pros were ofcourse the circular bed/sofa, as well as
ample room to run around in the room, also that there is ample cupboard space,
because while travelling with a toddler, we carry their universe with them.
From his toilet seat to his favourite blanket make it to the travel list.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The swimming pool.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">unbridled joy of childhood.\, Le meridien Goa</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn-wyt0aIHqWDOQYw1HCoHFhXICsXph0DEdxAfic7shhY-AYcHLvXWwLfHOaD1q0cGaoW2PX9UDtwZZL5Zl60ToHUXLbfda1NMut3Rls4XfPrY5-4zOwzIqYXzzFCGMdsYzx5rV0ok7GM/s1600/IMG_3965.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn-wyt0aIHqWDOQYw1HCoHFhXICsXph0DEdxAfic7shhY-AYcHLvXWwLfHOaD1q0cGaoW2PX9UDtwZZL5Zl60ToHUXLbfda1NMut3Rls4XfPrY5-4zOwzIqYXzzFCGMdsYzx5rV0ok7GM/s320/IMG_3965.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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The kids club<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">that happiness cant be faked . </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chess with Dad, at the kids club, Le Meridien Goa</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhELkkpvB7LgjmGXS55EeHJd1AHbUWGSnoB0UkrYQVEtwa_VeaNtDrAhyphenhyphenBdXmj7Df4K1ZDcoyY2k0lZfxaH4sgX4aBCRogc6yP4wVj2kjOwds59FnGyrAGtcWh6LedaczWvI939q8V0lFE/s1600/IMG_3876.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhELkkpvB7LgjmGXS55EeHJd1AHbUWGSnoB0UkrYQVEtwa_VeaNtDrAhyphenhyphenBdXmj7Df4K1ZDcoyY2k0lZfxaH4sgX4aBCRogc6yP4wVj2kjOwds59FnGyrAGtcWh6LedaczWvI939q8V0lFE/s400/IMG_3876.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">chess with mama. Le Meridien Goa. wonder woman and super man a DC comic special twinning for mothers day.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj79MxJtQlKpzuSclzoLMAoOrjSyMnZ6ynVjmRxyg6dfKKcfsNrj7siLjcMMnJnStGQKOPzZ76SEG_QNHk2iIjtCJKvoLyY2xFkMBimguvHr3hV3gU2pGWt5x1JT4kmPp405kF5OcGRCog/s1600/IMG_4028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1463" data-original-width="1600" height="365" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj79MxJtQlKpzuSclzoLMAoOrjSyMnZ6ynVjmRxyg6dfKKcfsNrj7siLjcMMnJnStGQKOPzZ76SEG_QNHk2iIjtCJKvoLyY2xFkMBimguvHr3hV3gU2pGWt5x1JT4kmPp405kF5OcGRCog/s400/IMG_4028.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beach fun at Le Meridien Goa</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFSsEok0rAVRvSn7vDYfzOKLVK9l0V363Z2okBg3Dm3ShKQqdTqbwa5CXL_KKzkOIvyBKL4mkbIrOEHyU4mLNk6ojSW9GrrvhFHqRRRQCIZKdE2wzIo08uBfW63qM_LzPSYV4UbnFWNCE/s1600/IMG_4030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFSsEok0rAVRvSn7vDYfzOKLVK9l0V363Z2okBg3Dm3ShKQqdTqbwa5CXL_KKzkOIvyBKL4mkbIrOEHyU4mLNk6ojSW9GrrvhFHqRRRQCIZKdE2wzIo08uBfW63qM_LzPSYV4UbnFWNCE/s400/IMG_4030.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Twinning in our Mothers day T shirts </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ0G8PnZXkBq3e3KdVTY0oPzZLAf7cWPqePbJJylw3ZiZivTnwe895upHa9Rm2l9votu9q1aVqHIq_p6ntkpZTKmAlGTn8_KciYzmvZ8zvoukc4MeVrAGlGOSo7fVkoEB_aSY5cIzr_lM/s1600/IMG_4071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ0G8PnZXkBq3e3KdVTY0oPzZLAf7cWPqePbJJylw3ZiZivTnwe895upHa9Rm2l9votu9q1aVqHIq_p6ntkpZTKmAlGTn8_KciYzmvZ8zvoukc4MeVrAGlGOSo7fVkoEB_aSY5cIzr_lM/s400/IMG_4071.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kids club Le Meridien Goa</td></tr>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
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<div class="MsoNormal">
The food <o:p></o:p></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXcdPcsSACvR-PWPQraCOBicE8nS4rbQq_ZZpLO6vt-iYcP9z3mj8h-ydlW7AUypCfP7fcqhSMhaP2_SnYhFjGN0_LCVa4KPwxhSnRqD-XHz1lL-QT4OHnIDW19z9lTQ-DscW-ZkFd-ds/s1600/IMG_3796.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXcdPcsSACvR-PWPQraCOBicE8nS4rbQq_ZZpLO6vt-iYcP9z3mj8h-ydlW7AUypCfP7fcqhSMhaP2_SnYhFjGN0_LCVa4KPwxhSnRqD-XHz1lL-QT4OHnIDW19z9lTQ-DscW-ZkFd-ds/s400/IMG_3796.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cold Coffee at the coffee shop at Le Meridien Goa</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW6gFhz3Aj1a-1KpDiqHdjuxEVFqH1CHDYswJqLP60IS72i-OXRKH_yj6vii8IwI_CcjBZQkYqkcNy_IzV4gP-u-Eeo_9NYFoBvtXemmksCfCV7wpzNP9FIXn1-LUY18tFwDm38eF8k-w/s1600/IMG_3840.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW6gFhz3Aj1a-1KpDiqHdjuxEVFqH1CHDYswJqLP60IS72i-OXRKH_yj6vii8IwI_CcjBZQkYqkcNy_IzV4gP-u-Eeo_9NYFoBvtXemmksCfCV7wpzNP9FIXn1-LUY18tFwDm38eF8k-w/s400/IMG_3840.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">dinner at Jazz and grills Le meridien Goa, for detailed describtion and review do check out my instagram check the hashtag #vacaywithlemeridiengoa</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5or8gDOhnVOqlkusiQKfCglfFVOQ3BGXU0lODHGmYHunjlBL1OSj-5RZR-i_hZp47evd84H0Wqsl6K9C3omteckNX_lVeS2tSBFxQmUmpbSOqrhXdh50Vabrl9xlgZjmR_a2MxTEzvSU/s1600/IMG_3850.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5or8gDOhnVOqlkusiQKfCglfFVOQ3BGXU0lODHGmYHunjlBL1OSj-5RZR-i_hZp47evd84H0Wqsl6K9C3omteckNX_lVeS2tSBFxQmUmpbSOqrhXdh50Vabrl9xlgZjmR_a2MxTEzvSU/s400/IMG_3850.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">grilled recheado chicken , at Jazz and grills, Le Meridien Goa.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj83x2rkcoz6K8TOqxsso80UtMJqCN6-g2Aa-uZ_ITwlyfYh9vxCcQ_8PONF7kX7AD9uQHdXCj_MhnfMiOQQES5eD6BirzWlDdHe4Jtl8lDeW_8ZNBG1IndpXT2HBxUC-hMWVrYbPlcOCk/s1600/IMG_3855.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj83x2rkcoz6K8TOqxsso80UtMJqCN6-g2Aa-uZ_ITwlyfYh9vxCcQ_8PONF7kX7AD9uQHdXCj_MhnfMiOQQES5eD6BirzWlDdHe4Jtl8lDeW_8ZNBG1IndpXT2HBxUC-hMWVrYbPlcOCk/s400/IMG_3855.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">vreme brulle and chocolate brownie, match made in Heaven, Le meridien Goa</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWxTR898vlcn2hpF1tEuwnRQi8aRVEUn3YKcas8LadC5f87dV4OnCe4fWIofrA97XxM4oyrRweZ7cf2nC6PVrDs1OM59nNd-61z8t7yIVE6VFwODguCMpkJObk5WyNNS6ArY1ZSzvu4AE/s1600/IMG_3860.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWxTR898vlcn2hpF1tEuwnRQi8aRVEUn3YKcas8LadC5f87dV4OnCe4fWIofrA97XxM4oyrRweZ7cf2nC6PVrDs1OM59nNd-61z8t7yIVE6VFwODguCMpkJObk5WyNNS6ArY1ZSzvu4AE/s400/IMG_3860.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">enjoying our Morning cuppa , Le meridien Goa</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuBNFtstLv9V1-7hSyPP9QUSBVnm_jUM3i3jqwpHbCRfeZI_zmx6wcSfcN7ByiwEZ7i5yCYeT8c1zzHDWLG6MUD9uxudsQ9aiuxSHif238sBoLC7izIVqjc1urstT1i6hxEryCpHyeMS8/s1600/IMG_3864.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuBNFtstLv9V1-7hSyPP9QUSBVnm_jUM3i3jqwpHbCRfeZI_zmx6wcSfcN7ByiwEZ7i5yCYeT8c1zzHDWLG6MUD9uxudsQ9aiuxSHif238sBoLC7izIVqjc1urstT1i6hxEryCpHyeMS8/s400/IMG_3864.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Twinning in our disney mickey night shirts , mother's day special</td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtCl7JzTfF-_KqNPYlcePX2EnwFAmoNgGoz0b56VQh2iSrFa6pMBtN_jNKAKsJziOE8wcrtqRiAxm1VnQDDQ8BohjUgOdOOgq7cvMXmEKVu2cx7R26zIYTre7EIs5kYXsEyCSl8Glut-A/s1600/IMG_3885.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtCl7JzTfF-_KqNPYlcePX2EnwFAmoNgGoz0b56VQh2iSrFa6pMBtN_jNKAKsJziOE8wcrtqRiAxm1VnQDDQ8BohjUgOdOOgq7cvMXmEKVu2cx7R26zIYTre7EIs5kYXsEyCSl8Glut-A/s400/IMG_3885.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmHzxsMwQV7EhaDRvsZ_vNCtBI5QSvj2cknCjlmFPaxkG9gYRmuFqRgvQRb8Wrj8ZPw2LygXrxe9ZuhvpKW96P4i8NASUhUaASeae4q8O8Tlr8L4ld_mGm7sD678UJCcgu7BR9l0DP2Hw/s1600/IMG_3890.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmHzxsMwQV7EhaDRvsZ_vNCtBI5QSvj2cknCjlmFPaxkG9gYRmuFqRgvQRb8Wrj8ZPw2LygXrxe9ZuhvpKW96P4i8NASUhUaASeae4q8O8Tlr8L4ld_mGm7sD678UJCcgu7BR9l0DP2Hw/s400/IMG_3890.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">poached eggs, served on a bed of Goa prawn curry. for full review and more details. come check out my Instagram @thefoodietrails, use hashtag #vacaywithlemeridiengoa</td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj90ZqZ_B9V97gii7o8kOnZaHt_flpglQZ3tTPrHSyS7ZVGSCRNcWE7_xyVpc6GHPuP1KPSWzZMJ5_HdVceNNjvYZviWxu3NARa6xNUNG53A2xVW4HegX_PgffVs0cAvno_gr_boWgSXXU/s1600/IMG_3893.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj90ZqZ_B9V97gii7o8kOnZaHt_flpglQZ3tTPrHSyS7ZVGSCRNcWE7_xyVpc6GHPuP1KPSWzZMJ5_HdVceNNjvYZviWxu3NARa6xNUNG53A2xVW4HegX_PgffVs0cAvno_gr_boWgSXXU/s320/IMG_3893.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxc-2JvTiWorzCqUOOVeD6NbCS_9zhRjDUHCzO5c5FnTQ23BAMxMxHs9mpH60Z70aQNUqYXyKy5wWlFoFdTqa4_eCIAFRP5tEpeNEHl3jqTMkNh6vH2ENWUbpfq1NXn14dbDVyhxkgHZI/s1600/IMG_3981.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxc-2JvTiWorzCqUOOVeD6NbCS_9zhRjDUHCzO5c5FnTQ23BAMxMxHs9mpH60Z70aQNUqYXyKy5wWlFoFdTqa4_eCIAFRP5tEpeNEHl3jqTMkNh6vH2ENWUbpfq1NXn14dbDVyhxkgHZI/s400/IMG_3981.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">you know a hotel loves its moms, when they have a coffee machine in the room.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJwLZZzjxxRg15Qs_YQpHxtytfEz37XBRrahj3RB06flngTpCH5wq8GDA2crWIs6E25FvSWKkNN0SP7SnpNMd6SSCfcN6PHoaCXNFIJkm_arr_qtwknbFV2xom9mmCtvkS23NgzgApLKg/s1600/IMG_4003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJwLZZzjxxRg15Qs_YQpHxtytfEz37XBRrahj3RB06flngTpCH5wq8GDA2crWIs6E25FvSWKkNN0SP7SnpNMd6SSCfcN6PHoaCXNFIJkm_arr_qtwknbFV2xom9mmCtvkS23NgzgApLKg/s400/IMG_4003.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">... and candy jars for kids</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisHZFqYmBlKmqMLX_0ILSac0FP56DAd-IVk9kV4YCyBmf1uhTm3EhwV1HF6HgwPOdMmprePnXXO58rvYc-7GV1fOOEwC30JiwUbuGn1EmN1kjKQ7qsNj0C6xMU_jBo68TdAkCtr5GdFWE/s1600/IMG_4012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisHZFqYmBlKmqMLX_0ILSac0FP56DAd-IVk9kV4YCyBmf1uhTm3EhwV1HF6HgwPOdMmprePnXXO58rvYc-7GV1fOOEwC30JiwUbuGn1EmN1kjKQ7qsNj0C6xMU_jBo68TdAkCtr5GdFWE/s400/IMG_4012.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mothers day special body painting, his first Dinosaur</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyvdNNurAd9AvFwjUNBXSOZMhbiLCMAyiJUqCBVvN8efcdZOwoq-pvRc07hCzaJHRVGR8Z-tFsSx90ft0ESNSg6EzatmoyiXUvc5hvXroHmyO9PLVWbIIIuHQahinBsL24st-EY-kE5Uc/s1600/IMG_4015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyvdNNurAd9AvFwjUNBXSOZMhbiLCMAyiJUqCBVvN8efcdZOwoq-pvRc07hCzaJHRVGR8Z-tFsSx90ft0ESNSg6EzatmoyiXUvc5hvXroHmyO9PLVWbIIIuHQahinBsL24st-EY-kE5Uc/s400/IMG_4015.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">and then he attempted making a dinosaur aswell</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtfkbN1CaqMiXsx5alM8pZcwPwTtmX6GHALQMlhMPQMaCcTq4P2KIz1z4eYXca9WKrreOnrUD94qwRbdEkdxB7aNV44g4_6Pb04JYCZmybsZWywaTbnQ9YYrntp0Ks7IrEdnMAtfE8EnM/s1600/IMG_4018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtfkbN1CaqMiXsx5alM8pZcwPwTtmX6GHALQMlhMPQMaCcTq4P2KIz1z4eYXca9WKrreOnrUD94qwRbdEkdxB7aNV44g4_6Pb04JYCZmybsZWywaTbnQ9YYrntp0Ks7IrEdnMAtfE8EnM/s400/IMG_4018.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This special mother's day Menu was a culmination of all the chefs favourite meals as a kid. from fried rice to roast chicken , the menu had it all, for more details, follow me on my instagram handle where I have detailed posts on the food, @thefoodietrails, le Meredien Goa</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTE9I6P8kphCZpgWdstNSo3nbbFzUBJpQ9msTbee07Uw0xkG1DDgub5en2xXCFHcFBplj38oZYQfVXf6TInk5Zep7dPzjxVxQ5d9SdFRk7LrtkIG_73wcyh1_Ehv3NAW1FkbT3r0zoN4c/s1600/IMG_4068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTE9I6P8kphCZpgWdstNSo3nbbFzUBJpQ9msTbee07Uw0xkG1DDgub5en2xXCFHcFBplj38oZYQfVXf6TInk5Zep7dPzjxVxQ5d9SdFRk7LrtkIG_73wcyh1_Ehv3NAW1FkbT3r0zoN4c/s400/IMG_4068.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The have one of the most extensive juice bars for breakfast and everything from cucumber to beetroot can be juiced to your liking. le meredien Goa. follow me on my Instagram @thefoodietrails for detailed food posts. #vacaywithlemerediengoa</td></tr>
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The destination:<o:p></o:p></div>
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Calangute is a tourist hub, convenient to visit the beach,
shopping for moms , very nice salons and spas within walking distance, and
every possible cuisine within a stones throw away. <o:p></o:p></div>
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We loved our mom bloggers retreat to Le meridian, made more
exciting by the fact that Ruchi with her daughter Ivanka and Avantika with her
son Panav were part of it. Both the kids were within 10 months range of
Shreysht which made the bonding between the kids heartwarming to watch. From
running between chairs with Panav, to discussing the virtues of sitting in the
back seat with Ivanka, the babies had as good a time as the mommies, and that’s
the best gift for a mother on Mother’s day.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_a4djC2ll4Ju8bAaIxvwLEBJNl8XOg72CCPnbfhgCB0ojTXU-QPCRfUtHuniTuTm3caaUKnbkVel0Gbi4lvBdKVdDj4QjfIk7aEZPuFrAaVSG3lm9sMP_ILSoE_MzEAeZPl0ZwQ4dnBQ/s1600/IMG_3834.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1487" data-original-width="1600" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_a4djC2ll4Ju8bAaIxvwLEBJNl8XOg72CCPnbfhgCB0ojTXU-QPCRfUtHuniTuTm3caaUKnbkVel0Gbi4lvBdKVdDj4QjfIk7aEZPuFrAaVSG3lm9sMP_ILSoE_MzEAeZPl0ZwQ4dnBQ/s320/IMG_3834.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">happy family times , le meredien Goa</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisp63K7QdfHG97PnFbd_fOca6tDl6yvQm15dNVB84uORN8hiiuwTTdx5_-k9F-lR9sD1i40QjAR3tGvSx0ztCOK4XrSBmAlLlMFCIJ8aMP_R6ziGFPtLu1RPDgYhhrsfRSbtsPXJcZojI/s1600/IMG_4020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisp63K7QdfHG97PnFbd_fOca6tDl6yvQm15dNVB84uORN8hiiuwTTdx5_-k9F-lR9sD1i40QjAR3tGvSx0ztCOK4XrSBmAlLlMFCIJ8aMP_R6ziGFPtLu1RPDgYhhrsfRSbtsPXJcZojI/s400/IMG_4020.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Mom's tribe Avantika, me and Ruchi </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPxqa8FasJh75AhI6am6PshrTfPe3IYuM33mvc7uizaKG-zKoyKuf87kejfi2jTxz2MYy9R2FsSA4EKQliwB0FiKWrP_fV0tIKoI0dOHp8ILMtUU4zARrlTw_BBuPmHBOdA9UNhu47Fu8/s1600/IMG_4043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPxqa8FasJh75AhI6am6PshrTfPe3IYuM33mvc7uizaKG-zKoyKuf87kejfi2jTxz2MYy9R2FsSA4EKQliwB0FiKWrP_fV0tIKoI0dOHp8ILMtUU4zARrlTw_BBuPmHBOdA9UNhu47Fu8/s400/IMG_4043.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">memories at Calangute beach</td></tr>
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the foodietrailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852630301342089274noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3016329700262720977.post-47841038397201252102018-04-16T22:22:00.000-07:002018-04-16T22:27:41.362-07:00Body positivity ; how to dress according to your body shape<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Body positivity , is not about coming to terms with what’s
‘not OK ‘ with your body, but actually celebrating what is fantastic about it.
And with that in mind I teamed up with praan.t a collection by Monika Chordia
and my fellow fabulous bloggers , Flexcia Dsouza and Shruti Haldankar to bring
forth a body beautiful post. <o:p></o:p></div>
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To dress according to your body type has always been a bit
of a missed opportunity , atleast for me. But after years of watching style
shows and makeover shows on Television, I have managed to glean some
information. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtrbzD5ZmXrKIlO8JE8dDUrsHQaWHCK3IRpqPuPZBzZvoH1Px47BTpiuoc3OfDQUZYPb1VLwMliRgH5S_m9cgpUa_m0t3bRKBX4dYHOmvr4zT5WB-GwLEXMvzT53jJOnlAxTKyxG5fgEY/s1600/IMG_2828.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1236" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtrbzD5ZmXrKIlO8JE8dDUrsHQaWHCK3IRpqPuPZBzZvoH1Px47BTpiuoc3OfDQUZYPb1VLwMliRgH5S_m9cgpUa_m0t3bRKBX4dYHOmvr4zT5WB-GwLEXMvzT53jJOnlAxTKyxG5fgEY/s320/IMG_2828.JPG" width="247" /></a></div>
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First, don’t fight your body shape, find it. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Where do you carry the most weight, or which is the part of
you that you do not like, but more importantly, what is your best parts, or
what is it that you should be highlighting.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwDyBcLi-y6ik059I3Q4Z-SxnyWMwtKKwmqSzLx_OVBjIkediocHxVQwcDHT0fdcH0UcPkP-uEpd7mKMCVHot1vHuXbx23muny3mrYW2EZ3G_ngziMx2-CYvFTIbUcV8LU5WkeMuXqEdM/s1600/IMG_2824.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1065" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwDyBcLi-y6ik059I3Q4Z-SxnyWMwtKKwmqSzLx_OVBjIkediocHxVQwcDHT0fdcH0UcPkP-uEpd7mKMCVHot1vHuXbx23muny3mrYW2EZ3G_ngziMx2-CYvFTIbUcV8LU5WkeMuXqEdM/s320/IMG_2824.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJqVEqDRCwbFjzW2lLds-OqrkLSn85_y1YusE_lhAlwgolotshp26LkMr9FZb6G0f8bUkz9WBYJrT3mb2hLd0V_s2vSkiZ1P2nefKQa455-D_zkyYifFpxVxILJ49eqzLBxSokbRtnlQU/s1600/IMG_2825.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1065" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJqVEqDRCwbFjzW2lLds-OqrkLSn85_y1YusE_lhAlwgolotshp26LkMr9FZb6G0f8bUkz9WBYJrT3mb2hLd0V_s2vSkiZ1P2nefKQa455-D_zkyYifFpxVxILJ49eqzLBxSokbRtnlQU/s320/IMG_2825.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF-I3GiBCx3XWNcOKoMQ5bLcnb96fCtCF61WqQ-nXYYtQpY_1cTGa57JIaslEzv7A_ABPK7Lvlbk2UUwhBX58TL5anb_6s0LVqdZkVW-1d5WBb7uHylUs5j7t4jX-nfzBibSdZfFEnOuE/s1600/IMG_2834.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1065" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF-I3GiBCx3XWNcOKoMQ5bLcnb96fCtCF61WqQ-nXYYtQpY_1cTGa57JIaslEzv7A_ABPK7Lvlbk2UUwhBX58TL5anb_6s0LVqdZkVW-1d5WBb7uHylUs5j7t4jX-nfzBibSdZfFEnOuE/s320/IMG_2834.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
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I am a classic apple shape, I have slim arms and legs and an
ill defined waist. And so I went for this A line shift dress, which had pleats
at the shoulder and at the helm. I would love to accesorise it with a neckpiece
which is a long V, a slim chain with a statement piece which ends at the
narrowest part of my waist or a a little higher. V necks, or neckpieces are
perfect for apple shapes. Since this dress in Kala cotton has self vertical
stripes, it is slimming, and the pleats at the shoulders add detailing on the
shoulders, and the pleats at the hem give it a girly touch, both detailings
take the eyes away from the ‘problem area’ the waist, and draw attention to
arms. I love that it is sleeveless, since my arms are slim , and I wish the
helm was shorter to show off legs.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Kala cotton , which grows in the dry and arid Bhuj region,
has a very low carbon foot print, it requires little water to grow, and since
the colours used are natural dyes, they require less water to dye. All in all
an environment friendly piece.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Nfzjjvmrgw1WhkiFw6tkfiW514yXFXoyaOJMfcWoPWnjlqiXTjaxYngm_oN__WP01mEN6EU1UZVHY2osgpu7Yy-mz-x2As1RPHvTPFcbGo9lfUYefWVruFIX46_AEsKkqoFYyMYVcxc/s1600/IMG_2830.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1237" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Nfzjjvmrgw1WhkiFw6tkfiW514yXFXoyaOJMfcWoPWnjlqiXTjaxYngm_oN__WP01mEN6EU1UZVHY2osgpu7Yy-mz-x2As1RPHvTPFcbGo9lfUYefWVruFIX46_AEsKkqoFYyMYVcxc/s320/IMG_2830.JPG" width="247" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8XwzQJdPNPqz4nfsO0jvinD04x3cz6A_3Q6psqbaGDk1MOZFcCWMEC48z7mBd1oduYKnjRKSFI6Qg5jPSOjbnCs1dbj7vZgZXJsiXZbybzS8TJ1iQ9bSrFVj03xsKtULlU9lK2ENnLr8/s1600/IMG_2838.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1065" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8XwzQJdPNPqz4nfsO0jvinD04x3cz6A_3Q6psqbaGDk1MOZFcCWMEC48z7mBd1oduYKnjRKSFI6Qg5jPSOjbnCs1dbj7vZgZXJsiXZbybzS8TJ1iQ9bSrFVj03xsKtULlU9lK2ENnLr8/s320/IMG_2838.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
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My second outfit was a indigo blue pant suit in Khadi Matka,
with a high low seam to the top, and culottes ending mid calf with cute pompom
detailing. The high low hem is very fun, and again draws attention away from
the waist. Since it is sleeveless, it allows the shoulders and arms to show,
while still not hugging at the waist. The pants end above the ankle, and since
classic apple shapes have narrow ankles and wrists, it is a flattering cut. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Flexcia on the other hand is a pear shape, with a wonderful
structured torso, while legs and calves are generally thicker. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh266HAHDwZqzrpO4PsfnKGR_sfPY5d8k2YaBzCAQwcjmpqJzN_0UiKGsCD8ojgtvL5ajdwTpNKb9XBs73YvJCRbPgme4jjfSQHNcGyMDyosT8W9CELOtOGzad-9FQZyk5tB6B3jgzEpzQ/s1600/IMG_2868.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh266HAHDwZqzrpO4PsfnKGR_sfPY5d8k2YaBzCAQwcjmpqJzN_0UiKGsCD8ojgtvL5ajdwTpNKb9XBs73YvJCRbPgme4jjfSQHNcGyMDyosT8W9CELOtOGzad-9FQZyk5tB6B3jgzEpzQ/s320/IMG_2868.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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She wore a beautiful black long gown, with an interesting
bottle green bolero jacket. The jacket helps balance her top half and her
bottom half, and the streamlined floor length dress accentuates her hips,
without drawing attention to the legs.<o:p></o:p></div>
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For her second look she tried the very edgy and an absolute
show stopper, the pleated top and bottoms. Notice how the pants, though fitted
at the hips, flair at the knee, thus helping balance her top half and bottom
half. Since she has no problem showing off her narrow waist and small torso,
the pleated top is a strong accompaniment.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Shruti is a small hourglass, she has beautifully balanced
top and bottom halves, and the only danger is to make her look too skinny.
Clothes which help fill her out, yet narrow at the waist are perfect for her.
Designer Monika’s clothes with their pleats and flairs are perfect on her. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisEYdYQOHra-W4TDwoeiGaJdlhYiAwctkItzn1vxdTc16jMQVwJHHJW8PYW52tYYyyUhbKhqfU5mDQ8qF0l9AbDmVdozdbpBblM7yjRVnvVoPczZFY2-5_AOhoBN1r0QcPiu2H7PbJNcc/s1600/IMG_2870.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisEYdYQOHra-W4TDwoeiGaJdlhYiAwctkItzn1vxdTc16jMQVwJHHJW8PYW52tYYyyUhbKhqfU5mDQ8qF0l9AbDmVdozdbpBblM7yjRVnvVoPczZFY2-5_AOhoBN1r0QcPiu2H7PbJNcc/s320/IMG_2870.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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For her first look she wears a dress in indigo blue, which
with a fitted top silhouette, flairs with stiff pleats at the bottom, helping
add volume to Shruti. Her second look was a two piece dip dye from Bhuj, the
flaired cullotes, and the relaxed fit top were cinched at the waist , so while
they maintained their focus on her waist, they filled out her top and bottom
halves.<o:p></o:p></div>
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What was my absolute favourite?<o:p></o:p></div>
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My favourite was what Monika herself was wearing a shift
dress, so perfect for the apple shape, I would steal it! It showed off her
legs, it had girly details on the wrists and neck, and the vertical self
design; love love love.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Sheetal Pai Kane, who was hosting the exhibition at Panjim,
Goa , looked stunning in a kala cotton long dress with asymmetric pleats.
Sheetal a perfect medium hourglass, could have carried off absolutely anything
on the racks, because the hourglass is an absolute designers dream!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD2ofEWUZ2D9INER_1XbDjHE9pd7JC13DjX2ovGaMkYaUbPFAbPBYg0kBbF8fYIRnkuJPH7ZrVLuoXY64Omo-DAi2K3vsTQ5xLxtSZsmUI03EPn4CzooAUa-_I4Es4e4M0FfHpNWJVHs0/s1600/IMG_2596.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD2ofEWUZ2D9INER_1XbDjHE9pd7JC13DjX2ovGaMkYaUbPFAbPBYg0kBbF8fYIRnkuJPH7ZrVLuoXY64Omo-DAi2K3vsTQ5xLxtSZsmUI03EPn4CzooAUa-_I4Es4e4M0FfHpNWJVHs0/s400/IMG_2596.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Take home tips :<o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-indent: -18pt;">
1.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span>Apple shape : Accentuate arms and legs. Accentuate with accessories to cinch waist. Be bold and body positive !<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -18pt;">
2.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span>Pear shape: Accentuate narrow waist, balance your shoulders to match your bottom half. Take focus away from hips. Be bold and body beautiful !<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="text-indent: -18pt;">
3.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span>Rectangle or small hourglass: accentuate narrow hips, build layers or volume on top and bottom half. Be bold and body positive!<o:p></o:p></div>
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To know more about praan.t and their new collection featuring kala cotton from Bhuf, and khadi Matka from Bengal , reach out to them on their FB page @praan.t , and Instagram page @praan.t.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsHlu053JNMyDq0BgQuOrMNKQg2wDsD3HqdCdO09TEEKi2Zfpfjvjh2a6V7IyibM97-5m-yQdOG2HHE1rXs57ECFciIJOQxLhlgYK_yQyHqmiutx31ImLFbjXBGplgb9-kiTEtv7LhLmk/s1600/IMG_2829.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsHlu053JNMyDq0BgQuOrMNKQg2wDsD3HqdCdO09TEEKi2Zfpfjvjh2a6V7IyibM97-5m-yQdOG2HHE1rXs57ECFciIJOQxLhlgYK_yQyHqmiutx31ImLFbjXBGplgb9-kiTEtv7LhLmk/s320/IMG_2829.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">body love , with #foodiegoesfashionable</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Liked this post ?<o:p></o:p></div>
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You might also like : <o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.thefoodietrails.com/2017/09/travel-stories-from-my-jewellery-box.html">Jewellery I bought on my travels</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.thefoodietrails.com/2016/09/the-day-we-met-hillary-clinton-kim.html">The day I met Kim Kardashian </a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.thefoodietrails.com/2017/05/travel-kit-tips-from-wanderlust-women.html">real women share Their travel makeup tips </a><br />
<br /></div>
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For more of my food, travel and fashion posts , follow my
instagram @thefoodietrails, fb Page @thefoodietrails twitter @kuheli1 . <o:p></o:p></div>
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#foodiegoesfashionable<o:p></o:p></div>
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To collaborate with me on body positivity fashion posts
email me on <a href="mailto:thefoodietrails@gmail.com">thefoodietrails@gmail.com</a>
<o:p></o:p></div>
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Also a warm shoutout to my partners in crime ; Flexcia on
instagram @flexcia_dsouza <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and Shruti on
instagram @shruti_theurbanista .<o:p></o:p></div>
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the foodietrailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852630301342089274noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3016329700262720977.post-68556805773776926572018-03-17T07:41:00.001-07:002018-03-18T20:11:43.425-07:00Spring time in Goa : Shigmotsav <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Spring or Phagun according to Indian calendar is a month of Intense celebration in India.<br />
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Food and festivities is a heady mix, and one which I have revisited time and again, be it <a href="http://www.thefoodietrails.com/2013/05/foodie-trailchithirai-thiruvizha.html">Chitirai Thiruvizha in Madurai</a>, or Durga Pujo in Kolkata, but when it comes to Goa, the festivals are so unique that they deserve entire blog posts.<br />
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I have written three posts on Carnival celebrations in the state, and two posts on Diwali celebrations <a href="http://www.thefoodietrails.com/2017/10/narkasur-goan-kids-favourite-demon.html">DIWALI IN GOA with Narkasur</a>, and now another well kept secret of the state, Shigmotsav.<br />
Shigmo, is a rural festival previously celebrated only in the villages of Goa, but when the Carnival celebrations gained popularity in the state, with the Government backing it as a tourist attraction, the Hindus in the state demanded equal awareness about the Shigmo festival and thus started the festivities in the cities aswell.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQpeVyBFO2sy8RDDes3U0r8RlwnHcq3WFhkWYs6e1FHCstXvYcaGuaIQCuP7IeUBC8FruFv-ENYJk7vPFHaqND86IP9J5KCblCxiPh7iYB_MH-FdHtrBZ8jIwhW93iY2bd3p37I1jM_Dk/s1600/IMG_1663.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="948" data-original-width="1600" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQpeVyBFO2sy8RDDes3U0r8RlwnHcq3WFhkWYs6e1FHCstXvYcaGuaIQCuP7IeUBC8FruFv-ENYJk7vPFHaqND86IP9J5KCblCxiPh7iYB_MH-FdHtrBZ8jIwhW93iY2bd3p37I1jM_Dk/s400/IMG_1663.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shigmotsav, the festival celebrating Phagun weather in Goa<br />
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Starting on the day before Holi, pretty much like the Holika Dahan across the country, Shigmotsav also begins in similar fashion in the villages of Goa, especially the ones in the extreme south like Canacona, because this was the seat of the Hindu community in Goa, especially during the time of the Portuguese colonisation. Ponda is another Hindu heartland and Shigmo festivities are close to the residents of the area, but by now the festivities are seen across the state.</div>
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But as a tourist /traveller to Goa what can you expect?</div>
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Fancy dress processions with Indian Mythology , larger than life grand floats depicting Indian mythology, and an elaborate and beautifully in sync parade with drummers, and dancers. The parades happen in every city and town of Goa, and start from the saturday after Holi and continue till Gudi Padwa. from Phagun to Chaitra month this turn of season festival is a profusion of colours. </div>
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The best part is the parades, where you can introduce your children to Indian Mythology in a fun interactive manner, be it selfies with Vishnu and Yamaraj, or a larger than life floating Hanuman procession in search of sanjeevani.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk78MoESsb-Lp5GddIU775rJidUlkF-wQuMYkOXKVk-h9qvGW1S71X-8cQLvrxAQhCu6_vc5BjN7UqCw-ITJiAgNQB6bRA0_0mgr8UKKU2ssHk7dLamUyuhZMKkQMgjFgZtsau7EBygpQ/s1600/IMG_1045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1300" data-original-width="1600" height="323" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk78MoESsb-Lp5GddIU775rJidUlkF-wQuMYkOXKVk-h9qvGW1S71X-8cQLvrxAQhCu6_vc5BjN7UqCw-ITJiAgNQB6bRA0_0mgr8UKKU2ssHk7dLamUyuhZMKkQMgjFgZtsau7EBygpQ/s400/IMG_1045.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Holi celebrations at Grand Hyatt Goa</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-nJFrZlrabdDFZkEMGhkhjN4nZBSx02r_m5tZfXkAzph-HP5CThDIk2RUd-0_2V0TUJmFbZYMhe0IOJBbVbC8zYh_bppfUwGJcu9TGo2EUPzRNwbKB4u3wkv8MIzIwu0QFIfGsb_Cb7I/s1600/IMG_1046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-nJFrZlrabdDFZkEMGhkhjN4nZBSx02r_m5tZfXkAzph-HP5CThDIk2RUd-0_2V0TUJmFbZYMhe0IOJBbVbC8zYh_bppfUwGJcu9TGo2EUPzRNwbKB4u3wkv8MIzIwu0QFIfGsb_Cb7I/s400/IMG_1046.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">colours of spring, gulalotsav</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnaMQXqMrJEWZFO2EuA7-pJ3V8A3g9l2mllaORRv55uqOn50jqSTTxPhw5n-HOdU5nqx3F34P9bdqv8ysRm9x3IqqL82jKRxiwgfa35IBalQPauqpwiNHfPgVoYCnAkiUoa4MFHYxkJSg/s1600/IMG_1487.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1278" data-original-width="720" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnaMQXqMrJEWZFO2EuA7-pJ3V8A3g9l2mllaORRv55uqOn50jqSTTxPhw5n-HOdU5nqx3F34P9bdqv8ysRm9x3IqqL82jKRxiwgfa35IBalQPauqpwiNHfPgVoYCnAkiUoa4MFHYxkJSg/s400/IMG_1487.JPG" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I like my pinks , yellows and oranges as candy floss</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA8TVW6z5OGkWLoVfwKKlX2P61V8uMGMdAQUXEiabmx8CJiuNY9kcoVfLAdXPzggx3ZDlGhM3WtGu9A37IdbRln14OvutBs-YrAH_zD0KPLe93Hn2IjSUqi-7ZEXNoDD3Z0BdxT7ze_R8/s1600/IMG_1495.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA8TVW6z5OGkWLoVfwKKlX2P61V8uMGMdAQUXEiabmx8CJiuNY9kcoVfLAdXPzggx3ZDlGhM3WtGu9A37IdbRln14OvutBs-YrAH_zD0KPLe93Hn2IjSUqi-7ZEXNoDD3Z0BdxT7ze_R8/s400/IMG_1495.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shigmo means taking selfies with Lord Vishnu on the streets</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvof0u_P0hh87rvJxitgZ3Mu6T3nkiZ_KSoqJhptPHsfXqBd86egmFdNyra7l7fiPanX2X2iCUoMr1F5oVOBeYlrfC53EBtjzT3KrLmpHtAy_5vi3JYh2gFlKlWrUcRiV-tEpVsiBmpFg/s1600/IMG_1498.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1278" data-original-width="720" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvof0u_P0hh87rvJxitgZ3Mu6T3nkiZ_KSoqJhptPHsfXqBd86egmFdNyra7l7fiPanX2X2iCUoMr1F5oVOBeYlrfC53EBtjzT3KrLmpHtAy_5vi3JYh2gFlKlWrUcRiV-tEpVsiBmpFg/s400/IMG_1498.JPG" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Insta stories of what we ate while enjoying the floats in Shigmo</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0vzSkThv6nou5lh3OuvCdgm1Tj2KgwD38fJpxiKfOl92EUezHTf8yt1u5UV9TZ1HvvzgwAtN2cG5w1UFvF-t2-ht6juWnQ6duEqaVazdNOC703kJrvyuWmaCxhgaus1KIfiJj2TLoiL4/s1600/IMG_1506.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0vzSkThv6nou5lh3OuvCdgm1Tj2KgwD38fJpxiKfOl92EUezHTf8yt1u5UV9TZ1HvvzgwAtN2cG5w1UFvF-t2-ht6juWnQ6duEqaVazdNOC703kJrvyuWmaCxhgaus1KIfiJj2TLoiL4/s400/IMG_1506.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">getting his balcony seat to the show, enjoying shigmotsav on Daddy's shoulder and eating popcorn</td></tr>
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Food ofcourse is never far from our celebrations, candyfloss, chocolate icecream and popcorn were part of our Shigmo parade munchies, and fafda Jalebi and Thandai were part of the Holi celebrations, followed by Puranpoli and shrikhand on Gudi Padwa.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJdM7zNdYK7W1CkXhSJBot79LP7rEFYeYRaK9j2MF_mZc09RxDPNEGDrw1LQFLXe7QTdfBhYgiVBsKPgU_qvcWMFMQuW-tc5nF7FqSprHTexDZeZeGzoyWgJZL_aXixN8Wyscu-m0dYak/s1600/IMG_1054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJdM7zNdYK7W1CkXhSJBot79LP7rEFYeYRaK9j2MF_mZc09RxDPNEGDrw1LQFLXe7QTdfBhYgiVBsKPgU_qvcWMFMQuW-tc5nF7FqSprHTexDZeZeGzoyWgJZL_aXixN8Wyscu-m0dYak/s400/IMG_1054.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">our festivities are always interspersed with food, be it Popcorn and icecream during the night float parade of Shigmo or the Holi celebrations with Jalebi and Thandai.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0a7lcF0GdN6QZCzuXq-Dd9tN4-ZTLrUchkugdfJnqkWk85pz2sIcRD6DaqC4SJorU1g8q8TVZtTf4pkBDvUTSKWEii42LRb2NZ0HqWIJDgM1xpoMhOGhHdxUcsjJB5rsqTd4VMc1aqLw/s1600/IMG_1068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1598" data-original-width="1600" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0a7lcF0GdN6QZCzuXq-Dd9tN4-ZTLrUchkugdfJnqkWk85pz2sIcRD6DaqC4SJorU1g8q8TVZtTf4pkBDvUTSKWEii42LRb2NZ0HqWIJDgM1xpoMhOGhHdxUcsjJB5rsqTd4VMc1aqLw/s400/IMG_1068.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thandai served in Clay pots, at a 5 star beach resort in Goa, Holi celebrations done in style at Grand Hyatt Goa</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfAZrw7r6tTSwzBhDgq2u-Vfia5RM606DDKpLCRxrJaKRVOdh1B17X8mJM23Xb9z637ujfEMF8H0Q3bu7ICq3ZoJACPDD86OQ6XW-9XPozORRGkEwJfGzQkWeC9v2lEaGuRvh7KhwMMu4/s1600/IMG_1516.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfAZrw7r6tTSwzBhDgq2u-Vfia5RM606DDKpLCRxrJaKRVOdh1B17X8mJM23Xb9z637ujfEMF8H0Q3bu7ICq3ZoJACPDD86OQ6XW-9XPozORRGkEwJfGzQkWeC9v2lEaGuRvh7KhwMMu4/s400/IMG_1516.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the ghode modni is by far my favourite part of the procession during Shigmo</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvSXnfaCMGIsvd-t3RdwYnBXZ4ljQmJDblERAu9_V7VtJfgyn9HZiVW_m-tMpsK8ot18R0BwXi0LJVGoh8DiDc9mrkhInl3HgwzGI7PAAfO2mhvdMolB3Z6W7NeCuUEc5n7GVrGF_vv9M/s1600/IMG_1525.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvSXnfaCMGIsvd-t3RdwYnBXZ4ljQmJDblERAu9_V7VtJfgyn9HZiVW_m-tMpsK8ot18R0BwXi0LJVGoh8DiDc9mrkhInl3HgwzGI7PAAfO2mhvdMolB3Z6W7NeCuUEc5n7GVrGF_vv9M/s400/IMG_1525.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">getting to be part of the processions and interacting with the participants was a real treat. tip to attending the festivities, head to the start of the procession, where the crowds are thin, and the participants are al geared up and raring to start their procession.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqdKdIkg4Q2Zn4kmz6YzK-m9idv9koiaTt5IIT6xbC50JVcu5mHzdasUcLzCgSzKEN4lBpD6kBHx3g_RW_G2t7JjlQC-7_FlyVnOrrArzJ_1lJJ7vQg54yGNzEYgzzTFVBk1T5BFo4hT0/s1600/IMG_1530.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqdKdIkg4Q2Zn4kmz6YzK-m9idv9koiaTt5IIT6xbC50JVcu5mHzdasUcLzCgSzKEN4lBpD6kBHx3g_RW_G2t7JjlQC-7_FlyVnOrrArzJ_1lJJ7vQg54yGNzEYgzzTFVBk1T5BFo4hT0/s400/IMG_1530.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My husband's name is Pawan, and Lord Hanuman is also called the 'son of Pawan' , here is the father with two of his son's , both figurative and real :)</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnZSX4NlCjDUJQvl9Mr-g6iuqu8BeARuCrcf4nwQKYsXTW17zP9ba0UqQjvmYmcZV9UNLW_EetzSudGsntHT16I5DW4xelaoYGcPB4FQSDnYW2hCd2J7ZCdlRBVgJA73hQR1ISmAYY4m4/s1600/IMG_1534.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnZSX4NlCjDUJQvl9Mr-g6iuqu8BeARuCrcf4nwQKYsXTW17zP9ba0UqQjvmYmcZV9UNLW_EetzSudGsntHT16I5DW4xelaoYGcPB4FQSDnYW2hCd2J7ZCdlRBVgJA73hQR1ISmAYY4m4/s400/IMG_1534.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just as Lord Hanuman took off on his flight to gather sanjeevani, we got another cute father son, family pic</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM-sja_tmztlpHarBiqQNHXJnLM6YhLKZF95KCv4DAazY5ZaFQnnCd2TkfSsE2rQ_U-1nZmUq2G3gSv4Y-4nbwg3Fr2EzG-6cuNJn9nSBkwjlcowJTez_wDOAxhk8yWsMTZr1ONL09-hQ/s1600/IMG_1536.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM-sja_tmztlpHarBiqQNHXJnLM6YhLKZF95KCv4DAazY5ZaFQnnCd2TkfSsE2rQ_U-1nZmUq2G3gSv4Y-4nbwg3Fr2EzG-6cuNJn9nSBkwjlcowJTez_wDOAxhk8yWsMTZr1ONL09-hQ/s400/IMG_1536.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">and me thumsuping while Ravana sets off on his rampages, to be fair, I do think he was a misunderstood man, and really a romantic at heart. The mythology is after all open to interpretation.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx0QbyZjEoHyAp5QRpmBrp92cpZbjXNoa2uofjdfFGR4iMO4ad-9DHYr3JolemzIXrw5a1jQ8O0LKsxwno-TXxHE54pwVJbBxyhaZuCbOuAs10jckmKbnzZbALRzvnu1NhRLTVQclzL8s/s1600/IMG_1537.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx0QbyZjEoHyAp5QRpmBrp92cpZbjXNoa2uofjdfFGR4iMO4ad-9DHYr3JolemzIXrw5a1jQ8O0LKsxwno-TXxHE54pwVJbBxyhaZuCbOuAs10jckmKbnzZbALRzvnu1NhRLTVQclzL8s/s400/IMG_1537.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a car filled with masks and costumes</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0P9VqEb7Xz_00WBFGbJ7Y_xLNF_6yLklDEgCmOdkYcR-IVgBucF7oXvBu2XOZDLKSfCcB0k7xrrKJNM1ORBBe0766Q8RGXGRckunzX_zF0_LgqhzDMDgcZubvSw7198op4gk_BFp-YxM/s1600/IMG_1543.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0P9VqEb7Xz_00WBFGbJ7Y_xLNF_6yLklDEgCmOdkYcR-IVgBucF7oXvBu2XOZDLKSfCcB0k7xrrKJNM1ORBBe0766Q8RGXGRckunzX_zF0_LgqhzDMDgcZubvSw7198op4gk_BFp-YxM/s400/IMG_1543.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is my favourite picture from the festivities. well , after the picture with Vishnu ofcourse</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0lfMVh27lJSi34MduYshpmcHco17ynUQhSZIDQLxmOXKUJMwBQ1JXlwie-1TP-RlfnFSO1NqJoa6oCdos-zOz4OmaKn_XBg9v-OFoVEkaciyn6wMbIupd6d0DzTYuZjqfqPRNvPWeuUk/s1600/IMG_1547.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0lfMVh27lJSi34MduYshpmcHco17ynUQhSZIDQLxmOXKUJMwBQ1JXlwie-1TP-RlfnFSO1NqJoa6oCdos-zOz4OmaKn_XBg9v-OFoVEkaciyn6wMbIupd6d0DzTYuZjqfqPRNvPWeuUk/s400/IMG_1547.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">and then we went and got ourselves a selfie with Yamaraj.Note the skull necklace.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj03tPl4YLznlYAuxGkI-QKjmRcZCeWQ26Klj-2xavXPIyRvVdg7HWAtd5hMh0DiZdH_7koIkdNXPIiVlW_mkw9veFoCXHPpbJoPNn2iS46XITccOVShODlhlF2xXiIOpzosmUaM-9TDrE/s1600/IMG_1548.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj03tPl4YLznlYAuxGkI-QKjmRcZCeWQ26Klj-2xavXPIyRvVdg7HWAtd5hMh0DiZdH_7koIkdNXPIiVlW_mkw9veFoCXHPpbJoPNn2iS46XITccOVShODlhlF2xXiIOpzosmUaM-9TDrE/s400/IMG_1548.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here it is my favourite picture !</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYp00Cm3ZpicjLFnXoUgmaMxymd_S-IcD3-3jxX8c4Jo5hYvO97pouuh2gcXKQikGNg3TaPlITdXNOFyc-7S9tDY1za-O8x4GSRQfb-kR4WrPhXrkFL-ghrdVE40_sBan2mHwAF_ybsrA/s1600/IMG_1081.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYp00Cm3ZpicjLFnXoUgmaMxymd_S-IcD3-3jxX8c4Jo5hYvO97pouuh2gcXKQikGNg3TaPlITdXNOFyc-7S9tDY1za-O8x4GSRQfb-kR4WrPhXrkFL-ghrdVE40_sBan2mHwAF_ybsrA/s400/IMG_1081.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Balam pichkari; my son's pichkari acted as food styling props for holi</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2kFG8zgg406HagmedVloByOtgJLjckOSIQRLPi2lNzXpfzqbxHYpGg5rWV62A-L0ydakhcGGF6zi-cAqB3DyY6-dF_LNKuzThWuVAMhE_kJgmn1s3w2hgL9RfYI9VeZ7Mo1eEV8JYa_g/s1600/IMG_1097.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2kFG8zgg406HagmedVloByOtgJLjckOSIQRLPi2lNzXpfzqbxHYpGg5rWV62A-L0ydakhcGGF6zi-cAqB3DyY6-dF_LNKuzThWuVAMhE_kJgmn1s3w2hgL9RfYI9VeZ7Mo1eEV8JYa_g/s400/IMG_1097.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the perfect blend of sweet and savoury, jalebi and fafdaa.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho9d3ypVlopqZ9s1Wlm3B1m6oYTVHfNJnAKNp7meL-nAKTydpprJpd-VSWTbbAwh-coZkTlljfFMNhwuAqh8WSIa_BLmMqqWlt44NB6MKoTWyK_qsF2AY5W0-6hwF4W98PrdZcqnSx6_c/s1600/IMG_1709.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho9d3ypVlopqZ9s1Wlm3B1m6oYTVHfNJnAKNp7meL-nAKTydpprJpd-VSWTbbAwh-coZkTlljfFMNhwuAqh8WSIa_BLmMqqWlt44NB6MKoTWyK_qsF2AY5W0-6hwF4W98PrdZcqnSx6_c/s400/IMG_1709.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The sweet beginning to the New year with Puranpoli and shrikhand.</td></tr>
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I hope the pictures have enticed you to come join in next years Shigmo festivities, and immerse yourself in a truly Indian experience. In a country where Agriculture and Mythology are an intrinsic part of life Shigmo is a celebration of both.<br />
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here are some of my other festival and food related posts<br />
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<a href="http://www.thefoodietrails.com/2017/09/the-foodie-eexplains-durga-pujo-bhog.html">Durga Pujo Bhog</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.thefoodietrails.com/2017/09/7-lessons-i-learnt-from-durga-puja-as.html">Durga Pujo</a> as a Kid<br />
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<a href="http://www.thefoodietrails.com/2018/02/top-tips-to-attending-carnival-in-goa.html">Carnival in Goa</a><br />
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the foodietrailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852630301342089274noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3016329700262720977.post-6725676125553086642018-03-07T17:04:00.003-08:002018-03-07T17:10:38.286-08:00Women In the Kitchen ; Sonia Patil <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">March , the month when we celebrate women, more than we celebrate them through the year. Honestly , I had never heard of "women's place is in the kitchen" adage while I was growing up; my mother is a doctor, and my aunts are doctors and professionals. And yet , I didn't see many women in professional kitchens either. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">This month I turn my focus on women in professional kitchens. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Meet Sonia Patil, someone I haven't met face to face, but I discovered her on Social Media. She is spunky , and opinionated (read below interview to find out), but more than that, she has dreams, and isn't afraid to work hard to achieve them.With a scholarship to Le Cordon Bleu, Australia, this girl is set to go places, and I am happy to feature her in my "women in the Kitchen" series. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">No matter what field you are in, no matter what gender, and whether you work in a domestic kitchen or a professional one; it's important to have dreams, and the determination to go after them.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP4exqZyunPIXEFqyGUWex64UfeunZCibL5YdTB7c1xfVPzXaGW9ufSL0hBDqtoS8rFI0EY0spm31H61mMN1_WvwYBiIY8PiGt4330Z67-Z_IaaHU4RwOC9ZT0fD2k0IiLErn0fywfshc/s1600/IMG_1311.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP4exqZyunPIXEFqyGUWex64UfeunZCibL5YdTB7c1xfVPzXaGW9ufSL0hBDqtoS8rFI0EY0spm31H61mMN1_WvwYBiIY8PiGt4330Z67-Z_IaaHU4RwOC9ZT0fD2k0IiLErn0fywfshc/s400/IMG_1311.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I am <b><i>Sonia Manoj Patil</i></b>. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I've recently completed
a 3 year B.Sc in Hospitality and Hotel Administration from the Institute of
Hotel Management, Catering Technology and Applied Nutrition, Goa, and have just
begun my specialisation in culinary arts with a 2.3 year Advanced Diploma of
Hospitality Management in Commercial Cookery from Le Cordon Bleu, Melbourne. <br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><i><b>Your Goa connection? </b></i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Born and brought up in
Goa with a Maharashtrian father and Kannadiga mother, who were also raised in Goa,
leading to an amalgamation of food cultures in our very home. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b><i>Your food philosophy? </i></b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">I've noticed that in
this industry, animal products and meat are valued so much, with restaurants
wanting to serve the freshest seafood, poultry, meat, even if sometimes it is
required to present the guest with a live creature, for them to be allowed a
choice at which creature they want to sentence to death. This often occurs with
seafood. The methods of killing are often not humane, with live crab and
lobster often being boiled alive in a pot, rattling and trying to climb out and
escape, with the crab even detaching its claws/pincers from its body. The
correct method would be to allow it to go into hibernation in a blast chiller
or freezer before boiling it, but as this takes time and restaurants want to
present live seafood to a consumer, it is not enforced. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">I am no vegetarian
myself, but I do believe in mercy and ethical methods of butchery, even though
we'd all agree that there is nothing ethical about murder. But if we are to
choose what we eat, let us choose consciously. Let us understand that every
piece of meat, every cut, was once a part of a much larger live animal that
lived, breathed and birthed, just like us. Let us respect the animals we choose
to consume, believe in humane killing and try to enforce it, and not waste
meat, and food in general. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">From cuddling baby lambs
to frenching a lamb rack; if I ever think too much about what it is that I
really do in my profession, it stings. But it's a choice I've made and a job I
must perform until I am independent and financially stable enough to make my
own decisions about what I choose to cook. Nevertheless, be a conscious
consumer and respect the animal you eat, and protect it from being tortured,
murdered unethically and harmed. That's the least we can do in times where it
seems as if we've lost all our humanity. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhomUWbnDZRYjsZfcSF2LxeoZEl0xIIpSg0wCyToQcm7P02yPGYVKKGlsDoc9Txpx03D_frgWrEtoTvq1p_v2siL-4llf3zpLHLVcOipTT9p1l1sHfAA-VnYcT5iGdf1JG9-LXYwDFmUQ8/s1600/IMG_1313.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="761" data-original-width="761" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhomUWbnDZRYjsZfcSF2LxeoZEl0xIIpSg0wCyToQcm7P02yPGYVKKGlsDoc9Txpx03D_frgWrEtoTvq1p_v2siL-4llf3zpLHLVcOipTT9p1l1sHfAA-VnYcT5iGdf1JG9-LXYwDFmUQ8/s400/IMG_1313.PNG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I have quite a lot I
believe in. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Firstly; always have an
intense hunger to learn; experiment; stay open to new ideas; share your
knowledge. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Secondly; you can never
do enough research; never study enough about food. There are no finite
boundaries; no limits to how one can play around with ingredients and what one
can do with them. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Thirdly; making food
look beautiful is just as important as making it taste good, and vice versa.
One eats with their eyes first, and if the food looks spectacular, it fools the
mind into believing that it tastes spectacular, thus ensuring that the eater's
taste buds are coaxed into enjoying the food even more than they would have if
the food looked mediocre. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Fourthly; I have four
tips to planning a good dish: Flavour, Texture, Colour, Aroma. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Finally; being an
organised cook will save you so much time and allow you to work faster and give
you better results. Cleanliness is extremely important. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b><i>Have you ever felt that
being a woman in the kitchen has worked in your favour or to your
disadvantage? </i></b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">There are no men and
women in a kitchen. Everyone has to be tough, and everyone needs to work just
as hard. Yet, in the kitchens of restaurants and hotels in India, being a woman
is a huge disadvantage because not every male cook is literate. They usually take
up a cooks job because it pays well enough for them to keep their family fed,
and doesn't require much education, only skill, which comes with experience and
rigorous training. They don't often see women in professional kitchens and they
work long hours, which results in many untoward incidents such as verbal and
physical harassment and molestation. I have had a fair share of experiences
myself and I think that this is one of the reasons why many women choose not to
work in professional kitchens in India. I feel that a thorough character check
should be conducted before hiring staff, and compulsory moral education should
be provided. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b><i>Where do you see
yourself 5 years from now? </i></b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I take every day as it
comes even though I plan major goals years in advance. I've met my 7th std goal
of studying at Le Cordon Bleu, 1.5 months ago. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Five years from now, I
hope to be cooking better food than I do at this moment; working a restaurant
kitchen job that makes me happy, and learning something new every day. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b><i>What is your best career
moment? </i></b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Winning the Endeavour
Vocational Education and Training Scholarship by the Australian Government,
which sponsored so much of my education here in Le Cordon Bleu, and made me a
part of a select group of high achievers here in Australia. It was the best
career moment for me as it made all the years of studying hard to get good
scores worth it, and now allows me the freedom to work without pay if I choose
to, only because I am backed up financially, and independently. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b><i>What is your worst
career moment? </i></b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Every time I have to
present a dish that I have not been able to put my 100% into because of making
stupid errors and ill judgement. Every time I paint a picture in my head and do
not manage to get that up, and every time I do not perform to someone's
expectations and let them down. I am a little bit of a perfectionist and even
though I do not physically "practice", cooking something, I tend to
ensure that I have done my research, looked at atleast 50 pictures, compared variations
in recipes as well as plating styles, cooked it a couple of times in my head,
and sometimes in my dreams too. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB17U_LeeCkG20uLRQMhU91uFun9X-k-ODMCnuqtMNozuTlXkzib4zDhd5KW0ividXR9PGmSUsKDhPAuWti36EoSH3XVhix9JuOq9XNmd8Agfyl7iBtvA-ShAk0DuwdtVolBEnV6nrNAg/s1600/IMG_1312.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1428" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB17U_LeeCkG20uLRQMhU91uFun9X-k-ODMCnuqtMNozuTlXkzib4zDhd5KW0ividXR9PGmSUsKDhPAuWti36EoSH3XVhix9JuOq9XNmd8Agfyl7iBtvA-ShAk0DuwdtVolBEnV6nrNAg/s400/IMG_1312.PNG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b><i>Rapid fire ( first word
that comes to your mind) </i></b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b>Goa</b> :Land of my
favourite food. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b>Fish</b> :Masala Rawa Fry,
Curry, Recheado, Parra, Kismoor; can't live without them! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b>Chef life</b> : Pretty
tough, but so worth it! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b>Mentor</b> :Met so many
cooks who taught me so much. Can't name just one. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b>Favourite celebrity
chef</b>: Gordon Ramsey of course! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b>Fav woman chef:</b>
Honestly, don't really have one. Most of the ones I know and follow are
celebrity chefs or authors. But the tastiest food I've eaten, is what Mum
cooks, and I think that qualifies her to be my favourite woman chef. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b>Fav junk food</b>: Burgers
with a meat overload, wedges, extra crispy bacon on the side and an aerated
beverage to wash it all down. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b>Fav healthy snack</b>: I
usually eat whatever I feel like eating at that moment, without worrying about
calories and nutrition. But if I have to mention a favourite healthy snack, it
would have to be hummus. Just a big bowl of warm creamy hummus, with olive oil
drizzled over the top. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It's interesting for me to see an age old vocation, which was always considered a "woman's job" actually being taken as a highly skilled and a competitive profession.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I have previously celebrated Home Chefs.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">and you can read those blog articles by clicking on the links below.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.thefoodietrails.com/2015/07/the-rise-of-home-chef.html">Home chefs of Pune</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.thefoodietrails.com/2016/06/goa-on-my-plate-aaichi-ranchikud.html">aaichi Ranchikud</a></span><br />
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the foodietrailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852630301342089274noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3016329700262720977.post-62303055754964201842018-03-07T01:01:00.000-08:002018-03-07T01:01:04.140-08:00Eating according to your Zodiac sign, at Vivanta by Taj , Panjim<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Zodiac signs and the sunsigns have always fascinated me.
More during my college days than now, but I remember us medical college
students, followers of science and of a rational mind, acting like every other
giddy college girl, as we read deep into the night from our Linda Goodman ‘Love
signs ‘ book. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I can see all of you nodding your head in agreement, because
whether we believe in it or not, all of us have tried to see if we are indeed
star struck lovers, or star crossed lovers. <o:p></o:p></div>
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And so it was fascinating to go for the Zodiac themed lunch
at Vivanta by Taj, Panjim. The husband ofcourse is a complete non believer, and
yet it was an interesting for him too, which is a big plus. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I am a Virgo, and my husband a Gemini, and if you are into
the stars and moons, you will realise that these sunsigns are like chalk and
cheese, and we realised just how much at the lunch.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The team at Taj Vivanta , Panjim, has worked exceedingly
hard on this menu. <o:p></o:p></div>
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First they did extensive research into not only what each
sun sign likes to eat, but also what is good for them to eat.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqVV_AHytd3HZcD3W86bOIsh3QmsAZgwOCVuBJ97CQoZ0tTgbnfAUhb9djYuwTQEQwDm_shP9NU2oH8PgFxzx6tn8vDZacyIz54GxsA7NiY-sssTTJHdmUr8-EybLBwC0bIPs5x7oiOLI/s1600/IMG_0870.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqVV_AHytd3HZcD3W86bOIsh3QmsAZgwOCVuBJ97CQoZ0tTgbnfAUhb9djYuwTQEQwDm_shP9NU2oH8PgFxzx6tn8vDZacyIz54GxsA7NiY-sssTTJHdmUr8-EybLBwC0bIPs5x7oiOLI/s320/IMG_0870.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Then they realised there was a lot of overlap within sunsigns, but they decided to still make clearly defined menus for each of the
sun signs. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Then they set out to make three coursed meals for each
sunsign, and the courses were seamlessly following not only the sunsigns, but
also the cuisines. So if you got a soup of makai aur akhrot ka shorba ( corn
and walnut soup), it was followed by either a vegetarian Mewa malai kofta or a
non vegetarian Nihari Gosht served with peas pulao and tandoori rotis, and
followed by a dessert of Anjeer Badaam ka Halwa. (Menu for cancerians)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Or like the Pisceans , they got a Goan meal of Caldo verde,
shrimp curry, goan rice , xacuti and kismoor, followed by a dessert of a Goan
dessert sampler platter, and coconut gelato (yumm!) <o:p></o:p></div>
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SO if you decided that you don’t like/or don’t want to eat
the meal assigned to your star sign, you can choose from any of the 12 fixed
meal combinations! I would have probably opted for the Piscean meal, but we ate
according to what our stars dictated, and we were not disappointed.<o:p></o:p></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha4LQVh1IOrHepJ-FieM61DEOdxwMISCPpzx3ISBLrhymUgwZQw0IEYzxM43ftBfbrWe92KUMqM_tgoKR75Kom4oSqvbu2Go1swITjYTKnQgwJ_FJB9jNEzyvDvK6fB-GCtjB_MKibr-A/s1600/IMG_0855.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha4LQVh1IOrHepJ-FieM61DEOdxwMISCPpzx3ISBLrhymUgwZQw0IEYzxM43ftBfbrWe92KUMqM_tgoKR75Kom4oSqvbu2Go1swITjYTKnQgwJ_FJB9jNEzyvDvK6fB-GCtjB_MKibr-A/s320/IMG_0855.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">i swapped my soup for my favourite, Tum Kha</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZJxiTC5CsYbkV7QvP5pfrOhN8YjXB13LiDTT0QyOPzD4Ke9Em4bm5wg-87K_UsvMcjEeP7Vg9SYk13P50LsldBXPmnfCV9XfV9dAHryJ91xxqiGcUnhFa_kENzja0P919a1yCd2UqyCU/s1600/IMG_0856.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1057" data-original-width="1600" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZJxiTC5CsYbkV7QvP5pfrOhN8YjXB13LiDTT0QyOPzD4Ke9Em4bm5wg-87K_UsvMcjEeP7Vg9SYk13P50LsldBXPmnfCV9XfV9dAHryJ91xxqiGcUnhFa_kENzja0P919a1yCd2UqyCU/s400/IMG_0856.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a cold Gazpacho soup and Tapas were part of the Gemini menu</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisv5xx_csm5_UxTlEB-6Yotp9XaGLOIardkgFB6zs94jE0yFq_JE4GuJal4mqQotxwOHa4VCTze_uPWOEvvrBY7Dh8Vp_ND3doEi8uurQJAzTD2T3nG4-wsNX0Gjktn-LQXq3oNXoi1M4/s1600/IMG_0858.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisv5xx_csm5_UxTlEB-6Yotp9XaGLOIardkgFB6zs94jE0yFq_JE4GuJal4mqQotxwOHa4VCTze_uPWOEvvrBY7Dh8Vp_ND3doEi8uurQJAzTD2T3nG4-wsNX0Gjktn-LQXq3oNXoi1M4/s400/IMG_0858.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The snapper with Arugula salad was perfect, part of the Virgo Menu, it made me believe in zodiac signs even more</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyCQ7IPJpQi9JRptX7R1_4KOqNzEI41UD9oNmLSI_UYfcM_HpHi2gh7d0rwh6aL5gBFjlGn_9CzR9rqzYLFvuupSK-3Yhkvq9NRHVd8PWOg3C8veIAEa0jgePFmqu1wIQpqIJ_PFg0u14/s1600/IMG_0864.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyCQ7IPJpQi9JRptX7R1_4KOqNzEI41UD9oNmLSI_UYfcM_HpHi2gh7d0rwh6aL5gBFjlGn_9CzR9rqzYLFvuupSK-3Yhkvq9NRHVd8PWOg3C8veIAEa0jgePFmqu1wIQpqIJ_PFg0u14/s400/IMG_0864.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a tiramisu cake and fresh fruits like kiwis and figs, part of the Virgo Menu</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2YIMGS7xskvAPXviNcBzX62eYNRLzJo3LxC3hH4Y1ZLOf_eOvj6Il-jJUnA1QQuGC46l_ZqmYN7Us0YEF9IqwPMMC96kX9S0B8F6_p5w_gRShTjgOot_TYMW1Tj0HOcWLa7Am8KP3LT4/s1600/IMG_0865.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2YIMGS7xskvAPXviNcBzX62eYNRLzJo3LxC3hH4Y1ZLOf_eOvj6Il-jJUnA1QQuGC46l_ZqmYN7Us0YEF9IqwPMMC96kX9S0B8F6_p5w_gRShTjgOot_TYMW1Tj0HOcWLa7Am8KP3LT4/s400/IMG_0865.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a warm bread and butter pudding along with creme anglaise, part of the Gemini menu</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDYYQaPIosB9NMCnPO3_lj9DD5MX-JRJvbq9qAzAWVIhXMd7sBtDSjIpOVQSQzZoWncpV0A7L3HwKn26w4CU0AdnjIQPwtdYEi3J4-NreI5kghZ1qh7NfjF15dzqpJDg733lussNRVj94/s1600/IMG_0866.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDYYQaPIosB9NMCnPO3_lj9DD5MX-JRJvbq9qAzAWVIhXMd7sBtDSjIpOVQSQzZoWncpV0A7L3HwKn26w4CU0AdnjIQPwtdYEi3J4-NreI5kghZ1qh7NfjF15dzqpJDg733lussNRVj94/s400/IMG_0866.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a flourlesss chocolate cake with almond meal, part of my son's Leo menu </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9YDuWhp2pmQKWqjTVaDSgRl4Kp9H9GJ-0a3-dpL97qN8FgJDpYCSw0TQhCLJG6phYM0d0bqbLpbruweao4e8sVv1pfd57VDLtZylemAmnyZrGeamaN5_ef_wrnyHz9jSH60ESMusXGMk/s1600/IMG_0869.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9YDuWhp2pmQKWqjTVaDSgRl4Kp9H9GJ-0a3-dpL97qN8FgJDpYCSw0TQhCLJG6phYM0d0bqbLpbruweao4e8sVv1pfd57VDLtZylemAmnyZrGeamaN5_ef_wrnyHz9jSH60ESMusXGMk/s400/IMG_0869.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chef Sahil, the man behind the stellar menu. brilliant conceptualisation and execution</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPWKb7nk7XqWY5WmECDPPO3cBmbBpi4BKuyjTYkJgEpnR53KTmp8huuXfPRUZRBtlbHHhl9xlNLeHjPa5_LRGAsIscOJSVCBL_fxdoWy2fTbyMUsNBN_JrliutnY3ZxNGz4T_y_gQ5QjU/s1600/IMG_1264.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPWKb7nk7XqWY5WmECDPPO3cBmbBpi4BKuyjTYkJgEpnR53KTmp8huuXfPRUZRBtlbHHhl9xlNLeHjPa5_LRGAsIscOJSVCBL_fxdoWy2fTbyMUsNBN_JrliutnY3ZxNGz4T_y_gQ5QjU/s400/IMG_1264.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All 12 Menus, if you ever olan on visiting</td></tr>
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The zodiac festival was on till the 4 th of March, but depending on the interesst shown by patrons, they can be tempted to redo the festival again.<br />
It was one of the more cohesive and complete food festivals, in terms of concept, ex3ecution and presentation, as well as food flavours.<br />
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the foodietrailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11852630301342089274noreply@blogger.com3