Monsoon Experiences in Sri Lanka, with Kids: A 10 Day Itinerary with Wildlife Safari, Beach Stay, Jungle Resort, Heritage Tours & More

July 9, 2018

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To be honest, I was quite apprehensive about planning a trip to Sri Lanka in the rainy season. But the more I read about it online, the more hooked I became as website after website recommended it in every season, including rainy. This was a family holiday, so the onus of searching for things to do, planning and creating an itinerary that also kept my husband and our 9-year-old son entertained, fell on me. Judging by the smiles and laughter along the way, I think I did pass with flying colours.

Depending on your interests, Sri Lanka has lots to offer. Lush green hills, tea estates, waterfalls, religious places, heritage sites (though we left the cultural triangle for our next visit), wildlife and jungle experiences, beautiful and stunning beaches and much more. Here is a 10-Day Itinerary for Sri Lanka with Kids based on our travel experience.

Day 1: Colombo

We flew into Colombo and spent the night, leaving the sightseeing for the return trip.

Day 2, 3 & 4: Ella

A very scenic drive from Colombo to Nuwara Eliya

We hired a chauffeur driven car for our 10-day trip and it was a wise decision, one I would highly recommend. The journey from Colombo to Ella Via Nuwara Eliya is long but scenic. We crossed lovely tea gardens and waterfalls on our way (the journey from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya is a delight). Even though the distance is just 230 kms, the driver drove at 45 km/h. “Safety first”, he said, when I asked him to drive faster, silencing me for the trip.

When you are out with kids, the first thing you need for the trip to go smoothly is a happy and busy kid. Ella offered plenty of fun opportunities for our son. While planning the trip to Sri Lanka, I couldn’t decide between Ella Jungle Resort and 98 Acres for our stay, so we decided to split our stay between the two.

Ella Jungle Resort, Sri Lanka with Kids Itinerary

Ella Jungle Resort (Image credit: Ella Jungle Resort’s website)

Ella Rope Climbing, Sri Lanka with Kids Itinerary

Plenty of supervised activities at Ella Jungle Resort

Ella Jungle Resort offers an amazing experiental stay. A stay here is probably what paradise must feel like; imagine waking up to the sound of a river flowing just outside your room. To get to the resort, you need to park your vehicles outside and use the resort transportation – a jeep – to reach inside. There’s also a small stretch of 400 meters that must be crossed in a cable car, offering further excitement to the kids. Our son exclaimed that our adventure had started even before we reached the actual resort.

Spread over 200 acres, Ella Jungle Resort has beautiful rooms overlooking the Kirindi Oya River. There are several activities offered here – waterfall adventures, high rope course, low rope course, zipper line, toddy tapper’s walk and monkey rope – all thrilling experiences available right on the resort premises. The activities are all assisted to give reassurance to nervous parents (like your’s truly).

There are 5 waterfalls inside the resort, we trekked 50 minutes to one of them. While we were at it, we also did some rock climbing and diving. (More on Ella Jungle Resort soon).

98 Acres Resort & Spa (Image credit: 98 Acres’ website)

Swimming away our worries at 98 Acres Resort & Spa

Sad as we were when out stay here ended, we were also excited to move on from the fabulous experiential stay at Ella Jungle Resort to a luxury stay at 98 Acres Resort and Spa. Pure luxury, the resort boasts of spacious rooms, a delightful restaurant and a pool. Add to that the exquisite country side, breathtaking views and exciting nature trails, and you’ve got the recipe for a memorable stay.

Day 5: Yala

Yala Safari | Sri Lanka with Kids Itinerary

Ready for our first Wildlife Safari: What an incredible experience

As we got ready to trade the luxury at 98 Acres for a Wildlife Safari and stay at Cinnamon Wild Yala, we remembered that none of us had been to a safari before. Needless to say, Yala was something we were eagerly looking forward to and it did not disappoint. Yala combines a conservative nature reserve with a national park. The park has a protected area of nearly 130,000 hectares of land consisting of light forests, scrubs, grasslands, tanks and lagoons.

Yala is home to 44 varieties of mammals and 215 bird species. Among its more famous residents are the world’s biggest concentration of leopards, majestic elephants, sloth bears, sambars, jackals, spotted deer, peacocks and crocodiles.

We were lucky enough to spot several animals – we saw elephants, peacocks, deer, wild boars, crocodiles, numerous birds and, last but not the least, a leopard. Sighting a leopard was the most important thing on my son’s list and having seen one raised the success rating of our trip, ensuring that we did not have to bear a petulant kid for the rest of the trip.

Days 6 & 7: Tangalle

Madala Villas Tangale | Sri Lanka with Kids Itinerary

Coffee with a view at Mandala Villas, Tangalle

The infinity pool (Image credit: Mandala Villas’ website)

Next up, a Beach Stay at Mandala Villas in Tangalle, South Sri Lanka. Mandala Villas is a great choice if you want to get away from the crowds. This boutique property lies next to a quiet beach in a protected corner of the island. The nearly-deserted beach with lovely green waters was a treat for us. This wonderful property that is run by Russians offers only 5 spacious villas and everything was just perfect.

Also worth a mention is the huge infinity pool, right next to the ocean, which together translated into oodles of family fun. As it was high tide in South Sri Lanka, we played hours at end with the waves and I just can’t explain how surreal the experience was. Standing on the beach waiting for the next wave to roll in is an experience refreshing and serene, one that reminds you of the joy the little things can bring.

Days 8 & 9: Hikkaduwa & Bentota via Galle

: Galle Lighthouse, inside Galle Fort

: Buddhist Temple in Galle

We decided to take the coastal route from Tangalle back to Colombo, and stop en-route at Galle, Hikkaduwa and Bentota. The coastal drive is beautiful and affords spectacular views along the way.

The town of Galle, with a interesting history, definitely deserves a visit. Founded in the 16th century, Galle was overtaken by Portuguese seamen washed ashore by a storm. The Dutch took over in 1640, and in the 18^th century, the British arrived and took over the fortified city that the Dutch had built. Today the Galle Fort is still alive and vibrant. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and thus sees a fair amount of tourist traffic.

Also worth a visit is the Sea Turtle Hatchery Centre Mahamodara, in Galle. Word of warning – there are several turtle hatcheries (and other animal tourism) in Sri Lanka that unfortunately, do not follow ethical practices. Please do your research and visit an ethical one – a quick TripAdvisor search should do it. At Sea Turtle Hatchery Mahamodara, you can see rescued and rehabilitated turtles being well cared for. We also got to see lots of baby turtles, the babies and recovered turtles are released back into the sea. We had a great chat with the lady who runs the place, she seemed passionate and genuinely interested in the well-being of the turtles.

We stayed the night at Villa Saffron, a lovely boutique hotel in Hikkaduwa. If you’re into water-spots, you can also choose to halt or stay at Bentota. Depending on when you travel, whale-watching is a popular activity as well. You can choose to do it at Mirissa near Galle but we didn’t get to because of the high-tide.

Day 10: Colombo

On our last day in Sri Lanka, we drove back to Colombo, where we visited Barefoot and the Noritake factory outlet. Barefoot is a multi-designer experience that spans not just apparel, lifestyle goods and crafts, but also engages you with musicians and artists. Noritake, on the other hand, is renowned the world over for its fine tableware. Though the kids might not be too fascinated with all of this, but you could indulge yourself in these guilty pleasures before you leave this wonderful island country.

If you ask me what our favourite thing to do on the trip was, well, to each their own. While my top pick would be the stay and experiences at Mandala Villas, Tangalle; my husband was awed more by Ella Jungle Resort. As for my son, it really was a no-brainer — The Yala Safari with the leopard sighting!

Know Before you Go:

Taxi drivers and tour guides in Sri Lanka will often push you to visit places where they get a commission from. We were told by the turtle Hatchery that our driver called them and asked them to charge for our son (kids are normally free) and pass that commission on to him. The driver also took us to a couple of other places which we did not like, I later realised the reason. I would recommend you do your research well and make a list of places you’d like to visit instead of letting the guide/driver run the show. You can always tip them handsomely.
The service levels and standards wherever we stayed were impeccable.

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8 Things to Do on a Laid-back Trip to Chennai, India

May 29, 2018

Shore Temple, Mamallapuram

I admit it. Chennai wasn’t chosen because we wanted to visit Chennai but because we wanted to stay at ITC Grand Chola. But then, the city does have its perks. We planned a vacation centred around just our hotel stay and weren’t too keen on venturing out with the kids, and the sun shining down as warmly as it was. Once there though, there was enough to endear the city to us and turn it into something that I would recommend. An old city where the modern jostles for space with the ancient, flyovers reach out above alleyways and bazars that seem to have been there since ages, connecting two very different faces of the city seamlessly.

We stayed a night at the Radisson Blu in Chennai’s heart and two nights at The ITC Grand Chola. While we were expecting luxury at Chola, Radisson didn’t disappoint either and was a luxurious stay as well, not to mention comparatively much more pocket friendly. So apart from lazing around in the hotels, here are 8 Things to Do on a Laid-back Trip to Chennai, India that don’t require any degree of ambition to accomplish.

1. Stay at ITC Grand Chola, Chennai

ITC Grand Chola - Things to Do in Chennai India

ITC Grand Chola (Image credit: ITC Grand Chola’s FB page)

The epitome of luxury and great hospitality, ITC Grand Chola is in a class of its own. Opulent decor, rich in luxuries and amenities, and a huge property in the heart of the city; it is everything you would want from a hotel. From the many dining options, each with enough standing to draw crowds on its own merit, to the spa and swimming pools, a stay here is sans any cutting of corners. All out, indulgent luxury. Read more about ITC Grand Chola Chennai – Opulent Luxury in a Palatial Hotel.

ITC Grand Chola: No. 63, Mount Road, Guindy, Chennai- 600032, Tamil Nadu, India. P: +9144 2220 0000

2. Gorge at The Great Kebab Factory, Chennai

Whip up an appetite and if there is a place in Chennai where you can eat like there is no tomorrow, it is The Great Kebab Factory at The Radisson. You will be served mouth-watering kababs in seven different styles – roasted on the tandoor, on a sighri, shallow-fried in a tawa, a mahi tawa, deep-fried in a kadhai, steamed in pots or grilled on a stone. They start by putting in front of you an assortment of chutneys. We were served varied fruits, salads, Subz Galouti Kebab, Paneer Firdosi, Kamal Kakdi ke Goolar Kebab, Pudina Ananas and more just for starters (they claim to have about 450 kebabs on offer, of which they serve a few and keep rotating!). Each and every snack was an entirely different flavour and the only thing I didn’t want a second helping of was the Paneer, possibly because I am not a big fan of paneer. For mains, if you still have the appetite, there is a fragrant Awadhi Subz Biryani, Awadhi Paneer Masala, Aloo Bhey Ki Subzi, Dal Awadhi & THE Dal Factory (the only thing I tried in mains as I was too full, though everyone liked other dishes as well, this was the most recommended and I was completely sold on it). Do keep some space for the desserts. The Shahi Tukda was average, the Kesari Phirni delicious and the Paan Ice Cream stole the show. An absolute must.

The Great Kebab Factory: Radisson Blu, 2, Ethiraj Salai, C-in-C Road, Egmore, Chennai. P: 044 30257999

3. Shop at Nalli Sarees

While in Chennai, a visit to Nalli is still a must. Nalli Sarees has many branches all over Chennai, pick the closest. The one we visited was spread over many floors and had a huge variety of not just sarees but dress material as well. A feast for the eyes, these would make for great gifts too. If you’re not a shopper, go for the experience.

4. Get a Dose of History at Mamallapuram

If you plan on visiting Pondicherry, on the way to or back you can stop at Mamallapuram. If you’re a history buff, you’ll probably want to plan a trip here anyway. Mamallapuram, or Mahabalipuram, is a town known for its temples and monuments built in the 7th and 8th centuries. If you’re short on time, even driving through the place is a good idea to admire the ancient archeological sites that are adjacent to the road. The seafront Shore Temple comprises 3 ornate granite shrines. The caves or Seven Pagodas here are believed to be from the time of Mahabharata and look impressive even from a distance. Krishna’s Butter Ball is a massive boulder perched on a small hill, that has been there since ages. [And here are 10 Things to Do in Pondicherry (Puducherry) India]

5. A Chettinad Meal at Hotel Guru

On our way back from Pondicherry to Chennai, we stopped at Hotel Guru in Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram). It was one of the most memorable meals on the trip, as we really enjoyed our traditional Chettinad Meal the traditional way, i.e. eating with our hands. Okay, I admit, I could only go so far before I had to resort to using a spoon, but at least I tried! The meal was served on a banana leaf, to add on to the authenticity. Comprising of Rasam, Sambhar, Rice, Papad and Vegetables, it was a mouth-watering meal with Seviyan Kheer and Buttermilk served at the end of the meal. The Fresh Pineapple Juice that we had tasted so fresh that it was akin to drinking juice from a pineapple still attached to the tree.

Hotel Guru: ECR, 603104 Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu, India. P: 093846 24046

6. Dosas, Idlis, Sambhar, Filter Coffee & More

Are you not dying for a belly full of vadas, idlis, dosas and more! Ratna Cafe serves great authentic South Indian Breakfast (comes recommended after a walk on the Marina Beach) and the Sambhar that they serve in buckets is simply the best. For the best South Indian Coffee, head to the award winning Sangeetha Restaurant. If you are not prone to tummy trouble while travelling, the Fruit Shop on Greams Road offers the yummiest juices, shakes, smoothies and exotic ice cream based fruit shakes, with the Mango Shake being top of the tops.

Ratna Cafe: 255, Triplicane High Road, Triplicane, Chennai | 240, Kilpauk Garden Road, Kilpauk, Chennai | South Mada Street, Alamelu Manga Puram, Sankarapuram, Mylapore, Chennai. P: 044 2848 7181

7. Local Fruit

The freshest pineapples, coconut water, mangoes and melons greeted us wherever we went. As we stepped out of Nalli during our stay in Chennai, we spotted a vendor selling a fruit that seemed to attract a lot of locals and gave it a try. I had never had jackfruit before (nope, not kidding, we don’t get them where I’m from) and thought it tasted somewhat like a mellow mango. Locally known as Palapalam, look for it piled along roadsides and dig in.

8. The Beaches in Chennai

If you are visiting the coastal region, a visit to the beach is on top of the list (unless you decide to go my way, and decide you just don’t want to swap the luxury of the hotel with sun and sand). Chennai has a few beautiful beaches, some more crowded than the others. The Marina Beach is 13 km long and the second longest beach in the world. It lies towards the eastern side of the city and the scenic beauty here is a big draw. Historically, the most important port used to be the Covelong Beach which stretches along the Coromandal Coast. With water sports, palm tree lined views and white sand, it is a wonderful place to visit. The most popular among the young crowd and also as a night destination is the Elliot or Besant Nagar Beach. It is closer to the city and less crowded. The Ashtalakshmi Temple built on sand and the Velankkani Shrine are very popular here.

10 Things to Do in Pondicherry (Puducherry) India

May 16, 2018

Puducherry is a quiet little town on the southern coast of India, with a visible French Heritage, quaint little colonial buildings and unpoilt beaches. The Union Territory of Puducherry comprises of four coastal regions namely Puducherry, Karaikal, Mahe and Yanam, the city of Puducherry being the Capital of this Union Territory.

Puducherry had been on my to-do list for forever. I am a big Goa-fan and had heard that like the Portuguese colonial vibe that still permeates Goa, Pondy (as Puducherry, the erstwhile Pondicherry, is fondly called) retains its French charm. And not to mention the pictures I had seen and things I had read on the internet. So we planned a trip to Pondicherry and Chennai – Chennai, I must confess, was an afterthought, which actually turned out to be where we spent more time due to logistical reasons. Short on time, and with a very laid-back itinerary in hand, we set out with kids to explore these two cities down south (India).

So, whether or not you are big on experiences, there are a few things that you would want to do when in Pondy. Three kids between two families, here is what we managed to catch and highly recommend.

1. Pondicherry’s Abundant French Cafés

What's more French than Macaroons? At Baker Street Cafe, Pondicherry

What’s more French than Macaroons? (Image credit: Baker Street’s FB page)

I admit that the promise of French food in India, does sound questionable. However, Pondicherry having been a French colony and due to the presence of French quarters with a lot of expat population, abounds in French Cafés that serve French as well as Fusion French dishes.

Our first stop in Pondy for lunch was Les Chefs café in White Town. Tucked in a corner of the sleepy town, the cafe serves up gems like Vegetable Bamboo Biryani, Spinach Ravioli and a rich Brownie with Ice cream – not really French food, but yummy nonetheless.

For breakfast the next morning, we visited Baker Street, thanks to recommendations online and by the locals. A quaint cafe, Baker Street is surely worth a visit. You will be surprised with the variety on offer and everything is fresh. A host of breads, Panini, Sandwiches, Quiches, Pizzas, Tortillas, Burgers, Lasagne and much more. And did we mention the desserts… We ordered a Vegetable Lasagne and a Pesto Panini, along with a Strawberry Shake and Cold Coffee. While none of the items was big on presentation, it was a lesson in why not to judge a book by its cover. Each and every bite and sip we took seated at our croissant shaped table was heavenly. The Chocolate Eclair is a specialty and it doesn’t disappoint.

Les Chefs: No 27, Yanam Vengadachalam Pillai Street,Pondicherry – 605001. P:(+91) 7338775757
Baker Street: Bussy Street, 605001 Pondichéri, Puducherry, India. P: 0413 645 8888

2. Auroville

Matrimandir, Auroville

Sweltering heat aside, the trek to Matrimandir, Auroville, could have been quite pleasant in better weather. Auroville is an experimental community 10 km from Pondy, founded in 1968 by spiritual leader Mirra Alfassa, the then Executive President of the Sri Aurobindo Society to propagate the vision of Sri Aurobindo. Matrimandir is a spherical golden temple, that looked much like a Ferrero Rocher to me. The Botanical Gardens around it are magnificent. If you wish to go inside the temple, you may be required to make bookings in person. For details, refer here.

3. Sri Aurobindo Ashram

Located in the lovely White Town, Sri Aurobindo Ashram is a landmark in Puducherry. It is a silence zone where noise of any kind is discouraged. The white marble samadhis (tombs of Sri Aurobindo) in the tree shaded courtyard have devotees and visitors meditating around it. As serene as it can get, it will be the quietest (possibly, most peaceful) half an hour you would spend in a while.

4. Temples

Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple in Puducherry

There are a few temples you can visit while in Pondicherry. A few steps away from Sri Aurobindo Ashram is the Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple. Nestled in an alleyway, its approach belies its beauty. It is considered auspicious to bring new vehicles here for blessings of Lord Ganesha. The vibrant detailing in the temple starts outside with a very impressive roof mural. The paintings and sculptures of Gods and Goddesses inside are detailed and beautiful.

Other popular temples in Pondicherry include Sri Gokilambal Thirukameshwara Temple (also referred to as Villianur Temple) and Kamatchiamman Temple.

5. Raj Nivas

Raj Nivas, Pondicherry

Raj Nivas translates to Government House. The mansion which is a harmonious blend of French and Indian style architecture, is an iconic building in Pondicherry. The site was once the location of the Hotel de la Compagnie (the French trading company that ruled in Puducherry from its first settlement in 1674 until the French government took over in 1769) and is now the Lieutenant Governor’s residence. Raj Nivas is not open to the general public except on certain days.

You can however, admire the magnificent white building from the imposing gates, that give you an indication of the grandeur within.

6. Pondicherry Botanical Gardens

We didn’t really take a tour inside the Botanical Garden as the kids were tired with all the walking but the place did seem inviting, lush green and vibrant with people from all walks of life. The Botanical Gardens in Puducherry were laid out in 1826 in ornate French style, with pruned trees, beautiful flower beds and gravel lined paths and fountains, including musical fountains. The gardens also offer toy train rides, so these are a great bet for families with children.

7. Night Stroll by the Promenade Avenue

The Promenade beach is a rocky beach and makes for a surreal sight during the day. But come nighttime, there is no vehicular traffic and nothing to stand between the sights you want to admire and you. Take in the beautiful French windows across the road, the majestic Mahatma Gandhi Statue, Joan of Arc’s statue, the old Light House, the remains of an old pier and a host of eateries to choose from.

8. Dinner at Bay of Buddha

Bay of Buddha: The open terrace restaurant at The Promenade, Pondicherry

Bay of Buddha: The open terrace restaurant at The Promenade (Image credit: The Promenade’s FB Page)

Delicious Pan-Asian cuisine with fantastic views at Bay of Buddha Pondicherry

Delicious Pan-Asian cuisine with fantastic views (Image credit: The Promenade’s FB Page)

Nothing beats the views and food at Bay of Buddha, located on the terrace of The Promenade (by Hidesign). They have a nice varied menu, so take your pick – we were impressed with the Mapo Tofu (Chinese Szechwan pepper tossed tofu with soya sauce and scallions) that we had with Jasmine Rice, and the moreish Holy Basil Cheese Cake (Basil flavoured Ricotta Cake). The open terrace restaurant serves world cuisine and the lit-up views of the beach side area are a sight.

Bay of Buddha: Goubert Ave, White Town, Puducherry, 605001. P: 0413 222 7750

9. A Cemetery

Because why not! There is unmissable serenity, a treasure trove of lovingly carved crosses, poetic epitaphs and humbling sculptures that make it worth a visit. Reading some of the inscriptions, such as that of a teacher who dedicated her life to bettering that of her students or that on a family tomb which underlined the desire to be together in afterlife, one gets a sense of mortality and how important it is to make the most of our time.

10. Shop or Window Shop

The small stores that line the town are a treat for the shopoholics. Beautiful sculptures and artefacts make for a wonderful browsing experience. These stores are sure to offer some wonderful finds that are good as knick-knacks, mementos and presents for friends back home.

Also Read:
8 Things to Do on a Laid-Back Trip to Chennai, India
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Top 7 Things to do in the Pink City of Jaipur, India
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Hong Kong with Kids: A Complete Family Travel Guide

January 25, 2018

Hong Kong with Kids, Hong Kong Family Travel

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Nicknamed the ‘Pearl of the Orient’ Hong Kong has a very impressive growth story – from a tiny fishing village to a buzzing and exciting cosmopolitan metropolis. It is a city that has retained the old-world charm while catering to the persuasive needs of changing economy. Owing to the fusion of the eastern and western cultures, I have often heard the term ‘Asia’s world city’ being associated with it.

HK has always been a country that has confused me as a traveler. The towering skyscrapers, ‘the pace of a jet place’ lifestyle, small residential areas, the dense population – though these have always intrigued me, they’ve also made me wonder if I would enjoy a vacation there.

Well, I ultimately ended up not having to make that decision at all, as my daughter made it for me. A few months prior to her birthday, our 4-year-old sat me down and had a rather ‘serious’ talk with me about how the only thing she wanted as a present was a trip to Disneyland. We also had parents visiting then who seemed as excited at the thought of exploring the melting pot, and of course, of indulging the grandchild! And thus began mission ‘Vacation Hong Kong’.

Travel Planning Guide

Best time to visit

The weather is typically mild through the year. However, the autumn season i.e. October to early December is the best time to visit HK. The summers can be quite humid and the winters quite chilly so pack wisely if you wish to travel in those months.

Immigration requirements

Nationals from over 170 countries enjoy a visa-free stay in HK for periods ranging from 14-90 days. However, please note that beginning January 2017, Indian passport holders will need to pre-register on the government site to avail the free 14 day visit visa. Singapore passport holders can stay visa-free in HK for up to 90 days.

Currency

Hong Kong Dollar or HKD which is pegged at 7.81 HKD to 1 USD or 6 HKD to 1 SGD (as of January 2018). There are several currency exchange counters across the city which are open till late. Many ATMS also accept international cards to dispense money.

Electricity

The standard electrical voltage in Hong Kong is 220 volts AC, 50Hz

Transportation

The public transportation is the lifeline of the country. The land transport consists of the Mass Transit Railway (MTR), buses, trams and taxis. The city also has ferry services between HK and the outlying islands.

Octopus

Octopus is a must have accessory in HK. This contactless smart card is a one-stop solution that works as a payment system on all modes of public transport (including MTR, buses, trams and ferries), shops, department stores, supermarkets, fast-food and retail outlets, bookstores, convenience stores, cinemas, public swimming pools, car parks etc. I highly recommend loaning a card and staying hassle free through the trip. The On-Loan Octopus card is a rechargeable stored value card that is perfect for tourists. There are differential rates for adults, senior citizens and children so ensure you get the right one. The card can be returned at customer service centres to reclaim your deposit. Click here for more info about Octopus.

Also Read: San Francisco with Kids: A 4-Day Itinerary
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Where to Stay

Both hotels and Airbnb are popular options to stay. We prefer Airbnb for the extra space, especially while travelling in a group and/or with kids. Here is a listing of the popular areas to stay in. We chose an Airbnb apartment in Wan Chai and it was very convenient in terms of accessibility.

Hong Kong Island – Central / Wan Chai / Admirality

Close to business district
Centrally located in terms of transport hubs
Close to high end shopping outlet

Kowloon / Tsim Sha Tsui

Close to dining options
Adjacent to street markets

What to Do: My Pick of Top Attractions

Disney Land

: The ‘Disney’ fever and excitement catching on

: I’m a fan Mickey, look I even wear a Mickey watch!

Having a kid along means planning to spend 2 days at the wonderland. However, I must admit the excitement is contagious – we were a happy bunch of 30 somethings and 60 somethings, being led by a 4-year-old on a trip to relive our fairy tale fantasies. From the photo opportunities to the themed rides to the lovely cheerful staff and the carnival that brought the whole fantasy world alive, it was a truly a trip that got etched in our memories and made each one of us that kid we would again love to be.

Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car (& Lantau Village)

The spectacular ride offers you breathtaking views of the mystical blue seas and the lush green mountain scape

The biggest sitting Buddha built outdoor

Nope, not backpacking through Europe, that’s just the kid’s stuff for the day

This spectacular 25-minute ride offers you a breathtaking view of the mystical blue seas and the lush green mountain scape. The cable car takes you to Lantau village which also houses the Po Lin Monastery and The Big Buddha. The Big Buddha is is the biggest sitting Buddha statue built outdoor. The monastery also has an interesting path called the ‘Wisdom Path’ which encourages the devotees to chant the heart sutra in Chinese. The Monastery also serves delicious vegetarian meals for a nominal fee and gives you a true flavor of the local cuisine – subtly flavored yet delicious. This trip can be quite surreal and takes you to a zone where modern times and experiences seem to be intermittently forgotten.

Also Read: Sanya, China with Kids: 5 Reasons to Choose Sanya for your next Getaway
Also Read: Top 7 Things to Do in the Pink City, Jaipur

Victoria Peak

View from Victoria Peak

The Victoria Peak is the highest point of Hong Kong at an altitude of 522 feet and is the perfect vantage point to get a bird’s eye view of the island. The scenery evolves from the buzzing high rise buildings and busy harbor to the night where the twinkling lights and patterns leave you mesmerized. The peak station also houses the Madam Tussauds Museum featuring over 100 celebrities in their waxed best.

The best and most effective way to reach Victoria Peak is by tram. The exciting 1.4 km long journey in a colonial styled tram gives you ample opportunity to explore the city from varying heights. The tram can get incredibly busy during peak times so buying tickets ahead of time maybe a good idea.

Victoria Harbour

The skyline around this small bay boasts of two of the twenty tallest buildings in the world

The harbour is an important landmark since the British empire and plays an important part in trade today too. It hosts the city’s skyscrapers and business district and is a pretty sight in the evenings. The skyline boasts of two of the twenty tallest buildings in the world around the small bay. The Star Ferry is a fabulous way to discover the coastline and is exciting for the kids too.

Hong Kong grows on you. Although I found it too fast paced for a holiday, I did feel a certain connection and almost started missing it as soon as my plane took off. It is a unique experience – smaller spaces, crowded roads, a MTR system which is older than modern Singapore; complemented by the bustling business district, high end boutiques and cosmopolitan population. So, put on your most comfortable walking shoes, do your research on packing well, get your itinerary right and get set to enjoy the happening city that is Hong Kong. And of course, if you need help planning your trip, email us.

Sanya, China with Kids: 5 Reasons to Pick Sanya (as an Alternative to Phuket) for your Next Getaway

January 16, 2018

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If you’re anything like me, or like anyone else in Singapore, you’ve probably done Phuket to death by now. And Krabi. And Koh Samui. And Bali. You probably get the drift.

Having been lustily eyeing the 2017 October Deepawali holidays for a while, I wanted to break the everyday rut and go someplace that was off-beat, yet right for a family vacation. So, for our 4-day family break, Sanya, China it was!

Situated on the southernmost tip of China, in Hainan Province, Sanya is a noted tourist destination with mountains, rivers and the beautiful sea views. If you are into watching international beauty pageants, you might remember Sanya as the location of tens of pageants over the last decade or two, including the Miss World and Miss Universe pageants. Just recently, Miss World 2017 was held here.

Sanya offers a well-rounded experience with ample culture, vibrant nature, sea side lounging and much more, making it a famous tourist destination, especially among the Chinese and Russians. It is, in fact, so popular with the Russians that more people in Sanya speak Russian than English!

So, if you are not already looking up flights to Sanya, here are 5 cinching reasons why you should.

1. Short, Cheap Flights

Jetstar offers a direct flight to Sanya, twice a week which operates only on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Hop on to the early-morning flight on Saturday and get 3 full days to relax and explore Sanya. To get a bonus day, choose the Tuesday flight like we did.

The flights was short and cheap, with under four hours of travel time (outbound flight – 4 hours & return flight – 3), which is comparable to that for Phuket or Krabi, and shorter than Bali from Singapore, and cost us less than S$200 per head.

2. Beach Fun (Pool Fun, Kids’ Club & Family Activities)

Beach Fun

Enjoying a gorgeous sunrise

Family Fun! Let’s go for a ride.

The “Hawaii of the East” doesn’t disappoint. And at Yalong Bay, you can see why. An extremely scenic coastal area of Sanya, Yalong Bay has beautiful beaches, upscale Hotels & Resorts and a relatively serene scene. Anywhere you choose to stay, it’s removed from the noise and crowds of Sanya Bay (another area for beach fun). Although the hotels and restaurants are priced higher (perhaps overpriced) than other parts of Sanya, the less crowded, quieter beach with white sand and clean waters is just right for you and the kids as well.

Get your thrill-fill of water sports, scuba diving or surfing at Wuzhizhou Island that also has beautiful coral reefs.

Or just laze around your hotel’s beach, especially if you’re the “thank you, but I would rather just lounge around” kind. Our hotel offered an awesome pool, a decent Kids’ Club and there were activities to keep kids busy all day long. The beach was good enough and the views from our room, at sunrise were gorgeous.

3. Nature

Welcome to Yanoda Rainforest – The entrance

Natural beauty galore at Yanoda

(Natural) Beauty and the (Fake) Beast

My trio enjoying the views

Hopping accross a bridge

At Yanoda Rainforest, nature lovers can go for half-a-day of trekking, rock-climbing a waterfall or zip lining (think several times bigger than Megazip in Sentosa). Pricey at CNY 165 (approx. S$34), the fee includes entry plus cost of a shuttle bus – the bus only takes you to the first point from where you have to walk, but with kids in tow, it makes sense to spend that extra bit. Once inside, be prepared to dish out another CNY 300 (approx. S$62) for the ‘battery car’. *Note for animal lovers: There is a bird show at Yanoda and animal photography with macaws and peacocks. I’m hoping that those birds were rehabilitated but I haven’t been able to find appropriate information. So please do your research before you go.

Sweeping views of Sanya from Louhuitou Park

View of Phoenix Island from Louhuitou Park

: At Louhuitou Park

Luhuitou Park is another nice place to visit while you’re in Sanya. The entrance is not pricey and I would recommend Luhuitou over Yanoda any day, if you’re travelling with young kids. In Luhuitou, I recommend paying the extra CNY 15 (approx. S$3) for the shuttle ride up and down. The shuttle drops you at a mid-point from where you walk up and enjoy the views. Once at the top, you can either take the stairs down or slide down (CNY 15) all the way down to the shuttle point. My husband and the twins enjoyed sliding down while I had to climb down the stairs since our youngest wasn’t allowed on the slide. It is absolutely worth the nice views and pictures of Sanya that you get from the top.

4. Culture

Binlang Ethnic Village

Binlang Ethnic Village (or Bing Lang Gu) is rich in history and culture of the Li ethnic minority. Unfortunately, we missed seeing this as we did not account enough time into our day-trip. Binglanggu is just 5 minutes away from the Yanoda Rainforest and we had planned to do both on our one day-trip. However, as we left the hotel a bit late in the morning and Yanoda took more time than we anticipated, we reached Binglangu just before closing time. That meant we had to return without visiting it.

If I had to do it again with kids, I would definitely pick Binglanggu over Yanoda or do both by planning better.

Inside the village are aboriginal themed museums, Miao Song and Cultural Performances. You can experience Li and Miao food and wine, and their lifestyle. If you’re in the mood for some light adventure, they’ve got a Zipline too.

The 108m-high Guan Yin bronze statue, Nanshan Temple, Sanya

The 108m-high Guan Yin bronze statue, viewed from the plane

Nanshan Temple, Sanya

Another place to visit is the Nanshan Temple complex where a 108m-high Guan Yin bronze statue rises on an artificial island. Once again, we missed this because of a poorly planned day (it was really far from where we stayed), but it is one of the main attractions in Sanya, so try not to. If you need help planning out your trip, email me.

5. Digital Detox

I’ve had friends tell me about the no-electronics rule in Telunas Resort. Sanya doesn’t have any such rule, but a lot of stuff doesn’t work – think Google, Google Maps, Facebook – so it’s a forced detox. We survived and spent a lot of family time together. So, I’m definitely counting this as a plus, at least, after the first day when you get a bit used to it.

Also Read: A Family Friendly Guide to Hong Kong
Also Read: San Francisco with Kids: 4-Day Itinerary

Hits & Misses and How to Convert Misses into Hits

Though Sanya is a great place to visit, there are things that you might not be prepared for and it would help to be informed. Here are a few things that stumped us till we found a way through (or around) –

Distances: Sanya is quite big. So, depending on where you are staying, some places might take upto an hour to get to. We had to choose between the Nanshan Temple and Yanoda Rainforest because both were an hour away from our resort, in opposite directions.

Beat the Stress: Check out TripAdvisor before you go. Decide beforehand what all you want to see and do, and plan an itinerary accordingly. I cannot stress this enough – check out Google Maps and plot locations before you go, because I still have no idea what replaces Google Maps in China. If you need help planning out your trip, email me.

Language: I’ve travelled to my fair share of non-English speaking countries and I’ve lived in Taiwan and in China (Shanghai, for 2 years). But nothing prepared me for this. No one, and I mean no one, speaks English (ok, maybe 3-4 people do). You can hope they do at the hotels in the Yalong Bay area, but they do not at the Anantara where we stayed.

Beat the Stress: Bing Translator comes to your rescue. It actually works great. We had entire conversations using the Bing translator. And, everyone in Sanya seemed to be prepped to whip out their phones and open the translator too.

Forced Digital Detox: Google doesn’t work in China. Yup, I was as shocked as you are! That means Google Maps doesn’t work either. Wanna get on Facebook and tell all your friends this? Don’t bother – Facebook doesn’t work either. I was told that WhatsApp should work, but it definitely didn’t work on my phone.

Beat the Stress: Not the end of the world guys! Acceptance is key. Acceptance and Bing. Use Bing search engine. Use Bing Translator. Accept that your friends will be okay even if they don’t see your picture on FB for 4 days. And as far as WhatsApp goes, it worked on hubby’s phone whenever he used Data Roaming – so, get a good data plan from Starhub and you’ll survive. Just.

Veg Food: Vegetarianism still seems to be rare in China (except for vegetarian restaurants catering to Buddhist vegetarians), so finding good vegetarian food won’t be easy.

Beat the Stress: If you’re the kind of vegetarian who doesn’t want fish sauce in their food, you might be better off eating non-local. You should be able to get vegetarian pizza and pasta in upscale hotels. Pizza Hut has a few veg options on the menu too. I had to practically go hungry the first day, but once we figured out Bing translator, we were able to get a few veg dishes at the hotel as well. They happily made the fried rice sans egg, and the pork was replaced by carrots in the fried noodles.

So, before your next long weekend passes away while you keep making plans, head to Sanya and leave all your worries behind. And don’t forget the Bing Translator though.

7 Things to Do in Bali – The Best Sights, Beaches and Eats

November 15, 2017

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There are varied reasons why people are drawn to the Indonesian island of Bali. Ever since Eat Pray Love released, every woman wants to follow the footsteps of Elizabeth Gilbert (both the author, and Julia Roberts as Gilbert) in her journey of self-discovery. Like it or not, you can’t go very far in Bali without finding references to the book and the movie, and make you wonder if there is a way to experience Bali in a different way.

Well, I am not really a movie buff, so I haven’t watched Eat Pray Love but I have read the book. So, in a way, while I had read about Bali, this was my first visit. Coupled with the fact that I had just finished reading a book about Mata Hari and her time in Java (fictional and otherwise), I really wanted to experience Indonesia firsthand. Though Bali is very different from the other Indonesian Islands, the tropical feel and cultural references were a big draw.

So, my husband and I set out to seek our share of enlightenment. Here is my recommendation for things you must tick off your list. If you’re headed to Bali for a short getaway, you won’t be able to do it all, so take your pick. *Note: The prices in the article are mentioned in Singapore Dollars for your convenience. They have been converted from IDR and are correct as of Nov’17.

1. Relax at the Islands and Beaches

Enjoying the Glass-Bottom Boar Ride in Bali

Enjoying the Glass-Bottom Boat Ride

Beaches and Beach Resorts! The biggest draw for those looking for a short getaway to Bali, from Singapore, and rightly so.

In Bali, there are a lot of sandy and rocky beaches. Choose the beach that catches your fancy, book yourself into a nice hotel or resort, indulge your love for surfing and water sports at a fraction of the price that you might pay in another corner of the world.

If you don’t really care much for adventure and sports, a stroll in the evening by the Jimbaran Bay comes with perks of food and beer. You can watch planes flying in to Ngura Rai International Airport and feel like a kid with no worries.

Lush green Mangroves at Nusa lembongan

Take a trip to Nusa Lembongan off the coast from Sanur. We booked our transfer from the hotel to the island and back with Rocky Fast Cruise for S$67. A forty-minute ferry ride away from Sanur, as you approach the island, it is impossible not to be awed by the clarity of the sea water. Ride to the other side on a pickup truck and a boat will take you to the magnificent mangroves. A romantic escape, the beautiful trees on either side and the clear waters you ride through make it a surreal memory you will revisit frequently.

We also went on a tour in the glass-bottom boat and missed our kids dearly. The amazing variety of marine life we could actually see due to the crystal- clear waters is impressive, something kids would absolutely love. For both the Mangrove Tour and the Glass-Bottom Boat Tour, the prices are not very steep and you can easily cover both activities for S$80, including the return trip to the ferry in the pickup. So instead of going with a group, I suggest hiring a private boat, all to yourself.

When on Lembongan, make sure you have a meal at one of the cafés overlooking Dream Beach and ace the photo-op by the fascinating Devil’s Tear. Devil’s Tear is a rock formation jutting out into the sea and can be reached by walking for a few minutes north of Dream Beach, on the southwestern coast of Lembongan. The waves crashing into the side of the island give rise to water plumes several feet high that spray you with sea water. We stayed there for about an hour, would have stayed longer but for the risk of missing our ferry.

2. Visit the Temples and Attractions

Magnificent Views from Uluwatu Temple, Bali

Even if you don’t want to see many temples, Tanah Lot and Pura Lahur Uluwatu (popularly known as Uluwatu Temple) still make the cut. Not only for the historical, religious and cultural significance, but also because they are spectacular. With tales abounding about the temples that any taxi driver you choose to commute with will narrate with varying degrees of similarity, you don’t really need a guide (unless it is something you really want to do or are there for a month-long break).

Tanah Lot is not possible to reach after high tide sets in, and makes for a picture postcard place to take oodles of digital memories back.

Uluwatu Temple, in complete contrast, is perched atop a cliff and affords magnificent views of the ocean. What some might consider a nuisance, I thought was an applause worthy performance by monkeys. Every five minutes they would run off with sunglasses and bags with temple keepers in tow, trying to recover the goods through a series of entertaining antics.

The Ubud Palace, where the royal family resides was another attraction we saw. It was nice, yet we found it a bit underwhelming and humble for royalty. If you’re staying for more than a couple of days, the Goa Gajah caves might be more visit-worthy. Also known as the Elephant Caves, these are not just a popular tourist attraction, they are also an important archeological site in Bedulu village close to Ubud. The entrance is through the open mouth of a stone demon.

If you’re looking to get a peek into the local ways, an interesting place to visit might be the Penglipuran Village. The beautiful place in East Bali is known for its well-preserved heritage. There are well maintained gardens and a stone paved street runs through the centre of the village with arched entrance gates in front of houses. Walk through the village and maybe visit a household.

Also Read: Vegetarian Food Trail in Jaipur on a Short Trip
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3. Pamper Yourself at the Spas

Small Cafeteria at Amo Spa – Perfect for enjoying some post-massage treats

Balinese massage is renowned the world over and being in Bali is definitely a good enough excuse to relax with a good massage. I know you already knew this. So, I’ll tell you a couple of great places to get that much needed pampering.

Amo Spa is tucked in on the side of a busy street and once you enter, it opens up into a much wider space. The old-world charm of the place with beautiful chandeliers is perfect for relaxing. While waiting for the massage to begin, I was pleasantly surprised that there was an in-house cafe where I could order a chilled bottle of Bintang with peanuts. We chose a 90-minute Foot Massage for around S$23. On the way-out, you can browse through the handbags and knick knacks on offer.

For our second session of pampering, we decided to indulge at the L’OCCITANE Mango Tree Spa with a 60-minute couple’s Balinese Massage for approx S$ 120 per person. The interiors of the bamboo treehouse are painted a dull gold, and the mango tree spa room is just the place to unwind. The sound of the river flowing by and the massage itself made for a rejuvenating experience. Highly recommended.

Amo Spa: Jalan Petitenget 100x, Seminyak , Kuta , Bali – Indonesia 80361. P: +62 361 473 7943
Kupu Kupu Barong Villas & Tree Spa by L’Occitane: Jl. Kedewatan, Ubud 80571, Bali, Indonesia. P: (62) 361-3701033/975478

4. Shop Till You Drop

Don’t expect to find malls here and you won’t be disappointed. At one of the coffee plantations in Pecatu, pick up cocoa powder or Kopi Luwak for back home and also as gifts. On the way to Ubud, make a stop at Celuk to see how silver jewellery is made by hand. We stopped at UC Silver which had a huge showroom with a tempting array of silver jewellery and articles. At Gianyar, see how Batik is made and shop for some too.

In Ubud, paintings are the top-buy. Contemporary, traditional and everything in between, there is a huge variety and you will be spoilt for choice. Ubud is supposedly the cultural hub of Bali, and I thought the paintings and artwork alone justify that. As you cross Pasar Ubud, you might find yourself intrigued by the colourful bottle openers which are in fact wooden phalluses of varying sizes. Don’t be alarmed, you haven’t veered off into a shady region but phalluses have a deeper religious significance in the area.

UC Silver: Jalan Raya Batubulan, Gg. Candrametu No. 2, Batubulan, Gianyar, Bali 80582 – Indonesia. P: +62.361.461511 / +62.361.461800
Batik Factories: Jalan Gianyar, Indonesia

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5. Take in the Island’s Natural Beauty

Amazing views of Rice Terraces wherever you go

There is so much natural beauty in Bali that even the tiny island seems quite huge when you wish to explore all its facets. The terraced rice fields that you see pretty much everywhere, make for delightful scenery. If you want to sit and enjoy the views, stop at a café next to a paddy field and indulge in lunch and some rice wine.

The Kintamani area is in the central highlands of Bali consisting of three villages. If you are visiting the rice fields in central Bali, the Kintamani volcano or Mount Batur is a must visit spectacular place that is known the world over for its unparalleled views at sun rise. Although you have to start the trek really early in the morning to make it in time, it is absolutely worth it.

6. Enjoy a Cultural Performace

You haven’t really seen the soul of Bali till you have seen the Barong dance. A dance that tells a traditional story, it is a fierce performance revolving around a fight between good and evil. The dancers act out mythology, which is a surreal mix of myth and history. The impressive masks and costumes that the dancers wear are a part of the experience and are considered sacred. Many hotels and resorts arrange for you to visit one of the places where a performance is scheduled. Alternatively, there are other performances/dances you can enjoy such as the Fire Dance.

7. The Food & Drinks

Outstanding! I’m not entirely sure why Balinese food is not more famous. It is about as vibrant as the people, the flora and fauna, the costumes and the culture. Full of flavour, piquant and colourful – what’s not to love? Our dinner at Merah Putih, a Tasting Menu, was heavenly. While lunch at Made’s Warung was good, the desserts at Made Manis were absolutely fantastic. To try the world’s most expensive coffe – Kopi Luwak – head to Bukit Sari Pecatu Agrotourism enroute to Uluwatu Temple.

Among our most memorable time in Bali was the evening we spent at El Kabron where we were serenaded by a welcome glass of Moët & Chandon, followed by delicacies we could not find a fault with.

The legendary Potato Head Beach Club in Seminyak, with its eclectic decor and relaxed ambience houses Kaum, where we had authentic Indonesian cuisine inspired by tribal cooking. A wonderful and indulgent meal, it was finished with a sinful chocolate dessert. Our Bird’s Nest breakfast at Kupu Kupu Barong – which is counted among the Top 50 World’s Most Amazing Restaurants With Spectacular Views and 32 Restaurants with Spectacular Views was the highlight of our trip. For a detailed review of food in Bali, read here.

With so much to offer, Bali is a complete holiday destination which you can visit many times over and still not experience it fully.

Vegetarian Dining in Bali – A Foodaholic’s Guide

November 15, 2017

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I am not sure why Balinese food is so underrated. It is about as vibrant as the people, the flora and fauna, the costumes and the culture. Full of flavour, piquant and colourful; what’s not to love? In one word – outstanding!

I’m a foodie anyway, but once we started exploring the food scene in Bali, sightseeing took a back seat and our recent trip became a culinary adventure.

Here are a few vegetarian meals that stood out during our 5D/4N stay in Bali. Hope you enjoy Vegetarian Dining in Bali, Indonesia as much as I did. *Please note that the prices mentioned have been converted from IDR to SGD, and are correct as of September 2017.

Day 1

Dinner at Merah Putih

By the evening of the day we landed in Bali, we were dead tired given that we had been travelling for what seemed like an eternity (think 5-hour car ride from Chandigarh to Delhi, followed by a 5.5-hour flight to Kuala Lumpur, and then a 3 hour flight to Denpasar, excluding lay over time). However, we knew that time was short and we had to pack it in on the first day itself if we really wanted to see it all. No regrets given our gastronomic experience at Merah Putih.

We were shown our table at Merah Putih amidst tall columns and landscaped indoor gardens. An eco-friendly, sustainable and very chic restaurant, it claims to use no groundwater and relies on harvested and purified rain water. What delighted me further was their vegetarian menu – you get to choose from traditional or contemporary Balinese Fare.

I ordered Bak Pao Perkedel (Vegetable fritter steamed bun, rendang aioli, cucumber; S$3) and ‘Pangsit’ Jamur (Open mushroom dumpling, coconut, straw mushrooms; S$4), from the Taste Menu. Both dishes were a scrumptious mix of flavours. To follow these, we ordered Kembang Kol (Chargrilled cauliflower salad, tempe, coconut) and an assortment Sambal (S$4.5) with a portion of Steamed Balinese red & white rice. The Sambal was excellent for I like my food fiery. The highlight, though, were the cocktails – Lychee Hibiscus Martini, Dragonfruit Martini and Kaffir Lime Crush. Not too sweet and so many wonderful flavours – simply delightful.

Merah Putih: Jl. Petitenget No.100x, Kerobokan, Bali, Indonesia 80361. P: (+62 361) 8465950

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Day 2

Lunch at Made’s Warung & Dessert at Made Manis

Courtyard at Made’s Warung

When in Bali, don’t ignore Made’s Warung, which has branches all over Bali. We visited the Seminyak outlet and loved the Balinese feel and decor. Although it has a separate vegetarian menu, exersice caution as the veg menu includes dishes that use shrimp paste, chicken stock, etc. The good thing is that it is all mentioned in the menu (even dishes that contain dairy are mentioned), so you won’t end up eating something you shouldn’t. You can choose from a variety of Salads, Japanese Tempura, Vegetarian Sushi, Tofu Burger, Vegetarian Sandwiches, Pasta, Ravioli, Stuffed Tofu Vegetables and basic Vegetarian Indonesian Rice and Noodles. Pair it with Bintang (the local beer), and there really isn’t much to complain about. I had the Vegetarian Spring Rolls and they were really yummy and came with a delightful sweet and sour dip. The Glass Noodles, though, were not that great.

Dark Chocolate Cream Puff & Strawberry Cheesecake, Made Manis, Bali

Dark Chocolate Cream Puff & Strawberry Cheesecake Gelato

Hankering for dessert? Made’s Warung has a dessert parlour in the compound too – Made Manis. A chic gelataria, it offers a variety of gelato, along with cream puffs, macaroons and waffles. After much deliberation, I decided on Strawberry Cheesecake Gelato and a Dark Chocolate Cream Puff. While Made’s Warung might not be a dream destination for vegetarians, Made Manis is indeed a wonderful one for those with a sweet tooth.

Made’s Warung: Jl. Raya Seminyak, Seminyak, Bali. P: (+62 361) 732130

Coffee at Bukit Sari Pecatu Agrotourism

Pegged as the world’s most expensive coffee, Kopi Luwak, may not appeal to the weak-hearterd. Given that it is extracted from beans that have been digested by a civet cat, it is essentially encased in poo to begin with. Yea, get that! After a thorough wash, drying and roasting, it comes to its world class stature. Even then, I had to steel myself and not think about the ‘process’ as I thought it important to experience something so highly rated the world over. I count it as one of my biggest achievements!

At Bukit Sari Pecatu Agrotourism, not only can you drink twelve types of tea, coffee and chocolate but also understand the process of making it, from the plant to the cup. You don’t have to pay anything unless you want to try the Kopi Luwak (S$5). If you can overcome the hesitation, it does taste real good. In fact, a batch that I got home tasted even better once brewed nicely. Apart from the star attraction, the Red Ginger Tea, the Vanilla Coffee and Cocoa Spices were also very good. It makes for a great place to stop by on way to the Uluwatu Temple.

Bukit Sari Pecatu Agrotourism: Jl. Raya Uluwatu, Desa Pecatu, Km 5 Pura Uluwatu, Kab. Badung – Denpasar, Bali 80361. P : +62 82-146-442-745

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Drinks & Nibbles at El Kabron

Bar at El Kabron

Sinfully delicious Petit Fours

Having mulled over going and not going to the famed Rock Bar, we decided we could use some help from a local. Florence, from our hotel staff said that although the Rock Bar is indeed a great spot to watch the sunset, it is not worth the wait times of at least 1-1.5 hours. She recommended El Kabron – a Spanish restaurant, done up in Mediterranean style – instead, as a nicer and less crowded, but no less impressive place. I can’t thank her enough for that!

On her advise we booked ourselves a spot on the VIP Balcony Lounge at the Cliff Club. Although it calls for S$65 per guest pre-booking charge, it is well-worth it since the booking fee is inclusive of a welcome glass of Moët & Chandon and S$30 credit towards Food & Beverage. You also get an El Kabron Gift, pool/towel service and access to whole venue. The cost is further justified given the view, the awesome food, delightful drinks and cheerful service. Remember that they take the last booking for that area at 4:30 pm. After that, you can try your luck, but I’m pretty sure you won’t be able to find a spot on the balcony.

We started our evening by ordering some appetisers to go with our champagne and drinks. El Kabron caters to dietary requirements of all kinds, including vegan. I chose the Couscous Vegetal, Setas En Tempura Y Esparragos (S$7.5) which was a super nice vegetarian cous-cous taboulé, tempura battered mushrooms and green asparagus with romesco. We also ordered a Margherita and a Mojito (S$1.2 each, haha) which were good as well, perfectly complementing the sun as it put up a colourful display while setting. As you probably know by now, meal time or not, it is always dessert time for me; so France “Petit Fours” (Cheese cake, Sacher, Triple Chocolate Brownies, Macaroons, Almond Financiers and Coffee-Chocolate Truffle, S$9.5) it was. Each item on the platter was a masterpiece, nothing I could find a fault with.

If gazing into the sunset by the sea with a glass of champagne with your SO, while enjoying delightful treats, is not your idea of an evening well spent, I am not sure what to recommend.

El Kabron: Spanish Restaurant & Cliff Club, Jl. Pantai Cemongkak, Pecatu Bali 80361 – Indonesia. P: +62 85100803416

Day 3

Lunch at Cafe Pandan

On our trip to Nusa Lembongan (read more about it here), we dined at the Café Pandan on Dream Beach. Although, the food here is good, it isn’t the highlight here, the view is. I recommend going here for that view. Rolling white waves in a brilliant blue sea crash against the rocks are a sight to behold. Still, as our lunch was still not yet ticked off, we ordered a Basic Margherita and a Garlic Bread, with a Fresh Avocado Juice which was to die for. Another delight on the island was the coconut water; fresh, and ample in each coconut – one reason why we lost our appetite for lunch.

Cafe Pandan: Nusa Lembongan, Dream Beach, Bali, Indonesia. P: +62-81338 737344

Dinner at Kaum

70% Tabanan Bali Chocolate, Potato Head Beach Club, Seminyak, Bali

70% Tabanan Bali Chocolate (Chocolate Marquise, Mousse and Fudge Brownie)

Dinner the same day was booked at the legendary Potato Head Beach Club in Seminyak. The decor is eclectic and the ambience very relaxed. We had our dinner at Kaum, which serves authentic Indonesian cuisine inspired by tribal cooking. Overlooking the club and the beach, we chose to sit outside. I ordered the hearty Nasi Goreng Sayur (S$12) which was wok-fried rice with assorted vegetables & green chilli paste – yummy.

In a mood to lounge around for a while as the vibe of the place was simply great, we headed to the sitting area overlooking the pool on the lower level. There, you guessed it, I ordered a dessert. The 70% Tabanan Bali Chocolate (Chocolate Marquise, Mousse and Fudge Brownie, S$7.5) was a piece of art to look at and a treat for the chocolate lover in me, sinfully indulgent. Judge me if you want, but I really don’t do portion control when it comes to desserts and am happiest that way.

Kaum: Potato Head Beach Club, Jl. Petitenget No. 51 Seminyak, Bali 83061. P: +62 (361) 473 7979

Day 4

Quick Lunch at Daily Baguette

Around Ubud Place, we ate a really nice Vegetable Panini (S$7) at the Daily Baguette which is a very popular Italian bakery that delivers breads, croissants and more, all over Bali. And the mandatory gelato (actually three different scoops) at Gelato Secrets. Not a proper sit down lunch but the perfect carry-around meal for window shopping around the arty area.

Daily Baguette: Jalan Raya, Ubud (in front of Puri Lukisan). P: +62-812-3666-2680

High Tea & Dinner at LA View, Followed by Awesome Room Service at Kupu Kupu Barong

At Kupu Kupu Barong, we were in time for high tea where we were served Mango Juice and Hot chocolate at the LA View Restaurant. Also on offer were petit fours which though elaborate, did not do anything for my tastebuds – a big let down. By dinner time, we couldn’t muster enough courage to venture out even to eat at the hotel restaurants and we committed the ultimate sin – room service. But we absolutely did not regret it. The Indian chef rustled up a yummy Paneer Parantha (cottage cheese stuffed shallow fried flatbread). And how could I call it a day without ordering in a Chocolate platter with an assortment of chocolate treats. Good to eat, but not memorable.

LA View Restaurant: Kupu Kupu Barong Villas & Tree Spa by L’Occitane, Kedewatan P.O. Box 7 Ubud, Kedewatan, Ubud, Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia. P: +62 361 975 478

Day 5

Breakfast at Bird’s Nest

Probably the best meal with a view on our Bali trip was the breakfast at Bird’s Nest, Kupu Kupu Barong (S$20 additional when having at Bird’s Nest, instead of the breakfast included in package), which is counted among the Top 50 World’s Most Amazing Restaurants With Spectacular Views and 32 Restaurants with Spectacular Views. A romantic setting made of twigs that gave the feeling of being perched atop a tree. Overlooking the Ayung River and a vast expanse of trees, the chirping of the birds brought a surreal quality to the entire experience. A romantic cosy setting for two, you need to book it well in advance. They serve all three meals here, so you can take your pick. We thought breakfast would afford us great views which won’t be possible at night and would be too warm during lunch time. A dedicated but inconspicuous server made sure we got what we wanted without intruding on our privacy.

I was served an assortment of Croissants and Breads with varied Spreads (including Chocolate!), Mixed Cut Fruit in Juice, Fresh Juice, Strawberry Yoghurt, a Grilled Sandwich and Fresh Strawberries with Cream & Sugar. The most delightful part of the meal was that everything was very fresh. The strawberry yoghurt did not come out of a box but was fresh strawberries in yoghurt sweetened delicately with honey. The sandwich wasn’t weighed down by mayo but had crunchy, fresh vegetables. The sweet strawberries dipped in cream and sugar was my last morsel in Bali and left a taste I could go back to relive.

Bird’s Nest: Kupu Kupu Barong Villas & Tree Spa by L’Occitane, Kedewatan P.O. Box 7 Ubud, Kedewatan, Ubud, Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia. P: +62 361 975 478

Tip: The most important tip I can leave you with is to remember to feast on a gelato every time you see a gelateria along the way :).

Vegetarian Food Trail in Jaipur, on a Short Getaway

October 25, 2017

Cutting Chai with Tadka Maggi at Tapri - The Tea House

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So, this is your second trip to Jaipur, which means that you’ve already seen the city and its top attractions. Perhaps, then, its time to explore Jaipur’s food scene. Or maybe, like me, you are just driven by the desire to try good eats world-over. I for one, would happily pick food over all else, especially local food in a world famous foodie destination like Jaipur. Besides, who wouldn’t be tempted by the thought of flavourful, delicious and aromatic Rajasthani meals?

So, if you’re a foodie, join me on this vegetarian food trail in Jaipur, over a short 2-day trip.

Day 1

After grabbing a quick sandwich at the hotel, we set out to explore the vegetarian food scene in Jaipur.

4:30 PM Kachori Cravings

Mildly spiced & crispy Onion stuffed Kachori at Sardarji Kachori

After much debate as to where to go for the best Kachori, we headed to Sardarji Kachori, which was highly recommended by friends and locals. Not a pretentious place, so if you’re big on ambience, now is the time to stop thinking about going there. The only thing they concentrate on is the in-house specialty – Kachori, which is a stuffed, spicy, fried puff pastry. We ordered a Kachori and Samosa, both came with a sweet and sour chutney that was a cross between tamarind and mint chutneys. While both were good, the crisp kachori, with its mildly spiced onion stuffing was a clear winner.

Where: Sardarji’s Kachori and Lassi, Shop 31, Opposite Mayur Complex, Nehru Bazaar, MI Road, Jaipur. P: +91 141 2312233, +91 9610000110

5:30 PM The ‘Anokhi’ Experience

Looking longingly at the delicious looking eats at Anokhi Cafe

: Anokhi Cafe’s rustic interiors

: Moist, indulgent Banana Cake

With both shopping and eating on our mind, we found ourselves at Anokhi – a boutique showroom for contemporary crafted textiles – in C Scheme, a posh area in Jaipur. After browsing through the elegant collection at Anokhi, we sat down at the adjacent Anokhi Cafe. Fresh, seasonal and organic produce form the basis of food here, which also means the menu keeps changing. The big plus is that it is all vegetarian. As we had already had quite a bit to eat, we could just admire the Pita Platter, the Pizzas, Hummus Plate served with Flatbread, Stir Fries, Creamy Pasta All’arabiata, French Bread Panini, Stuffed Focaccia, Savoury Muffins and Cheesecakes sitting in the display window. We finally settled down with a Banana Cake with Mascarpone Cream and Caramel, that was topped with cream cheese icing. The cake was heaven on a plate, moist, sweet and indulgent. Can’t recommend it highly enough.

Where: Anokhi Cafe, C 11, 2nd Floor, KK Square, C Scheme, Jaipur. P: +91 141 4007245

Also Read: Vegetarian Dining at a Haveli in Jaipur – Royal Heritage Haveli
Also Read: A charming getaway – Royal Heritage Haveli, Jaipur

6:30 PM Tip, Tap, Tapri

Tapri - The Tea House with quirky accents & chic interiors

Tea time, Tapri time! The Tea House with quirky accents & chic interiors

Cutting Chai with Tadka Maggi at Tapri – The Tea House

: Cutting Chai, Tadka Maggi, Window Seating, Quirky Accents, Corn Bhel: Tapri – The Tea House is a must-visit in Jaipur

Tea time, Tapri time! Tapri was pegged as a must visit, with everyone from Jaipur having harped on about how it is THE place to go to. We were definitely enamoured by the cosy, chic interiors and the quirky accents at Tapri – The Tea House. After a 45-minute wait, we finally got a table by the window. The rain continued unabated and called for more tea.

The Cutting Chai (strong, milky, spiced tea) came in a chic, retro metal kettle paired with the childhood favourite ‘Parle-G’ (glucose biscuits). To go with the sharp, refreshing taste of the tea, we asked for the most popular dish on the menu – Tadka Maggi (instant Maggi noodles tempred with Indian spices). I can swear I haven’t had better Maggi. We also tried the Corn Bhel (not on the menu), which was good but not fabulous. The overdose of corn was a bit much for me. Despite craving the desserts on offer, we had no stomach for anything more and finally decided to head back to the hotel.

Where: Tapri Central, B4 E, 3rd Floor, Surana Jewellers, Opposite Central Park, C Scheme, Jaipur. P: +91 141 2360245, 141 4011713

9:00 PM Finally, a Royal Thali

Mains, Maharani Thali

: Accompaniments with Thali

: Appetizers, The Maharani Thali

: Desserts, Maharani Thali

After an hour’s rest at the hotel, we had an incomparably regal meal (complimentary) at The Swapna Mahal in The Raj Palace. After the day’s gluttony, my friend and I decided to share one Maharani Thali (Queen’s platter) between the two of us. The Maharani Thali is not a Rajasthani Thali but a thali with dishes from menus of various royal principalities. After sumptuous starters – Haryali Seekh Kebab (green vegetables, aromatics and a melange of spices on skewers) and Vegetable Gulabi Kebab (beetroot kebab), we actually started looking forward to our indulgent meal. It lived up to the name and did in fact befit a queen with many dishes in the main course apart from the salad, raita, breads and biryani. Most of the items were good, with the Royal Nepalese Potato being a particularly striking preparation. We wound up the meal with a choice of Fruit, Ice Cream and a very special Shahi Jamun, also a part of the thali.

Where: The Swapna Mahal @ The Raj Palace, Jorawer Singh Gate, Amer Road, Jaipur (302002) INDIA. P: + 91-141-2634077 / 2634078/ 2634011

Day 2

After the previous day’s gluttony, we decided to go “lighter” on day 2, but were hugely unsuccessful.

9:00 AM Punjab meets Chennai, in Rajasthan

As our Rajasthan sojourn had already turned into a varied eating jaunt, it was just as well that our breakfast at the Royal Lounge consisted of a very North-Indian Dal Parantha and a very South-Indian Masala Dosa. The Dal Parantha was delicious but what we really missed was a dollop of homemade butter. The Dosa was tasty and came with a Sambhar (lentil curry with vegetables) that I couldn’t have enough of.

The Royal Lounge: The Raj Palace, Jorawer Singh Gate, Amer Road, Jaipur (302002) INDIA. P: + 91-141-2634077 / 2634078/ 2634011

Also Read: Dine Like Royalty at Samode Haveli, Jaipur
Also Read: Best Shopping Haunts in Jaipur

1 PM Really Rajasthani at Rawat

Dal Baati Churma Thali at Rawat Sweets, Jaipur

Instead of Rawat Sweets, we headed to the adjacent Rawat Restaurant which is their newer eatry with ample seating. We were greeted by a jolly good fellow who insisted we call him Motu Uncle (aka Fatty Uncle). He happily served us the Dal Bati Churma (cooked lentils served with deep fried balls of flour, clarified butter and jaggery) Thali that we ordered, and a Gatta Curry (chickpea flour dumplings in gravy) which we did not. The Gatta Curry was so good that we polished it off and ordered another. The Thali had three types of Bati – Plain, Masala (spiced) and Mawa (sweet); three types of Churma – Plain, Besan (chickpea flour) and Gulab (rose); Dal (lentils), Kadhi (chick pea flour curry), Rice, Papad and a delicious fried green chilly. The winners were the Masala Bati and Plain Churma. I didn’t really care for the Dal or the Kadhi and ended up polishing off the rice with Gatta Curry. Here are some other lip-smacking veg eats in Jaipur.

: Creamy, buttery, thick Lassi at Rawat

: Sugar syrup soaked Mawa Kachori at Rawat

At Rawat, we also tried the Mirchi Vada, which was a stand-out dish that we got packed for family back home; and the Onion Kachori, which was also excellent, much better than Sardarji’s kachori. The Mawa Kachori though was a big disappointment – soaked in sugar syrup, the dry fruit stuffed Kachori would have done better without so much syrup. When everything tasted so good, we decided to try out the Makhniya Lassi (i.e. buttery lassi) as well. It was more like a dessert than a Lassi – super sweet and thick to the point you could eat it with a spoon. Not to my liking but I am sure hardcore Lassi connoisseurs would love it.

Where: Rawat Restaurant, Opposite Polovictory Cinema, Station Road, Sindhi Camp, Jaipur. P: +91 9829013157, +91 9799720190

2:30 PM For the Love of Paan

Another place that was much recommended, Prem Paan Bhandar, where we got the Sweet Special Paan (one each to eat and a dozen to takeaway back home – they actually have special packing for takeaway in flight, but it is still recommended you pack it in layers of newspaper to avoid any leakage that did happen to us). The paan (betel leaf with areca nut) was very different from ones I have had till now. The leaf was very tender, the stuffing not very sweet and in all made for a refreshing experience. Must have! Here are some other lip-smacking veg eats in Jaipur.

Where: Prem Paan Bhandar, Ajmeri Gate, M I Road, Near Petrol Pump, Jaipur. P: +91 141-3302066, 2364525

4:00 PM Ice Ice Baby

Kulfi Falooda at Jal Mahal

Jal Mahal is a very old and talked about ice cream parlour. They have ice creams in a range of fruity flavours, sugar-free ice creams, kulfi (Indian ice cream), ice cream pizzas and ice cream cakes. We tried the Fresh Sitafal (custard apple) & Jamun (Java plum) Ice Cream Scoops, along with a small Faluda (made from mixing rose syrup, vermicelli, sweet basil seeds, and pieces of jelly with milk, often topped off with a scoop of ice cream). The Ice Creams were good but I have surely had better. The kulfi was excellent but was doused in too much faluda. Though it was not bad at all, it did not live up to the hype.

Where: Jal Mahal, 85, MI Road, Jaipur. P: +91 141 2373520, +91 9829220365

7:30 PM More Rajasthani Punch

Drool-worthy Makki ki Roti & Gatta Curry at Niro’s

We decided to end the day with a light dinner at Niro’s – a quaint restaurant with an old world charm. The menu was extensive and looked very inviting. After much debate we again ordered the Gatta Curry, this time with Makki ki Roti (corn flatbread). Their Gatta Curry was an entirely different style from Rawat’s, it had a creamier gravy with soft gatta pieces in it. The roti was perfectly cooked – crisp, yet melt in the mouth. Great meal to end a great trip!

Where: Niro’s, Panch Batti, MI Road, Jaipur. P: +91 141 2374493, 141 2218520

After these sumptuous meals, we could happily bid our vegetarian food trail in Jaipur Goodbye. Until next time!

Related Articles:

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Bali Vegan Festival 2017 at Ubud (6-8 Oct)

September 13, 2017

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Bali Vegan Festival 2017

A shout out to all vegans who might be travelling to Bali in October! It’s time to gear up for the 3rd Annual Bali Vegan Festival 2017. And for those who aren’t around Bali during that time, doesn’t it just boost your morale when you read about events like these?

The Bali Vegan Festival is an annual 3-day event held at Paradiso Ubud and the surrounding area from 6-8 October, 2017. It celebrates animals, the environment and the earth and is a great event for vegans and those who are exploring a vegan lifestyle. The festival aims to inspire, educate and enlighten people regarding an alternative way of living.

The festival will be held at the Paradiso Ubud, which is a one-of a kind space in Bali that boasts of the world’s first organic vegetarian & vegan cinema. Paradiso is adjacent to Earth Café & Market, Bali’s original organic plant-based eatery.

The Bali Vegan Festival partners with Taksu Spa for internationally trained and accredited massage by wellness and beauty practitioners. It also has two healthy eating restaurants and multiple yoga spaces that are centrally located, but away from city’s buzz.

The Bali Vegan Festival was established by Down To Earth Bali in 2015 to inspire people to choose a healthier, compassionate, ethical lifestyle through plant based eating.

Also Read: Vegan Sources of Protein: Add Plant-Based Protein to Your Diet
Also Read: 11 Best Vegetarian & Vegan Restaurants in San Francisco

Bali Vegan Festival 2017 – What to Expect

There shall be expert education, cooking demos, talks, fantastic vegan products and community discussions to expand the plant-based community and spread the message of one peaceful world through nutrition. The Vegan Festival features food and drinks from local restaurants in Ubud, and further afield in Seminyak and Canggu.

Past festivals have featured a children’s circus, family-friendly films and documentaries, art and craft workshops, children’s yoga and all-ages entertainment.

Entry to the main part of the festival is free; while talks, workshops and classes all made as accessible as possible for all the community to enjoy. Tickets to talks, workshops, cooking classes and screenings are available here. Tickets will also be available for purchase at Paradiso Ubud. A Day Pass Ticket is IDR600,000 (approx S$68) and a 3 Day Pass is IDR1,700,000 (approx S$180).

For more information and details about the event and the line-up of speakers, check out Bali Vegan Festival’s website.

Bali Vegan Festival: Paradiso Ubud, Jl. Goutama Selatan, Ubud – Bali, Indonesia

Category: Asia

Day 1: Colombo

Day 2, 3 & 4: Ella

Day 5: Yala

Days 6 & 7: Tangalle

Days 8 & 9: Hikkaduwa & Bentota via Galle

Day 10: Colombo

Know Before you Go:

1. Stay at ITC Grand Chola, Chennai

2. Gorge at The Great Kebab Factory, Chennai

3. Shop at Nalli Sarees

4. Get a Dose of History at Mamallapuram

5. A Chettinad Meal at Hotel Guru

6. Dosas, Idlis, Sambhar, Filter Coffee & More

7. Local Fruit

8. The Beaches in Chennai

1. Pondicherry’s Abundant French Cafés

2. Auroville

3. Sri Aurobindo Ashram

4. Temples

5. Raj Nivas

6. Pondicherry Botanical Gardens

7. Night Stroll by the Promenade Avenue

8. Dinner at Bay of Buddha

9. A Cemetery

10. Shop or Window Shop

Travel Planning Guide

Best time to visit

Immigration requirements

Currency

Electricity

Transportation

Octopus

Where to Stay

Hong Kong Island – Central / Wan Chai / Admirality

Kowloon / Tsim Sha Tsui

What to Do: My Pick of Top Attractions

Disney Land

Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car (& Lantau Village)

Victoria Peak

Victoria Harbour

1. Short, Cheap Flights

2. Beach Fun (Pool Fun, Kids’ Club & Family Activities)

3. Nature

4. Culture

5. Digital Detox

Hits & Misses and How to Convert Misses into Hits

1. Relax at the Islands and Beaches

2. Visit the Temples and Attractions

3. Pamper Yourself at the Spas

4. Shop Till You Drop

5. Take in the Island’s Natural Beauty

6. Enjoy a Cultural Performace

7. The Food & Drinks

Day 1

Dinner at Merah Putih

Day 2

Lunch at Made’s Warung & Dessert at Made Manis

Coffee at Bukit Sari Pecatu Agrotourism

Drinks & Nibbles at El Kabron

Day 3

Lunch at Cafe Pandan

Dinner at Kaum

Day 4

Quick Lunch at Daily Baguette

High Tea & Dinner at LA View, Followed by Awesome Room Service at Kupu Kupu Barong

Day 5

Breakfast at Bird’s Nest

Day 1

4:30 PM Kachori Cravings

5:30 PM The ‘Anokhi’ Experience

6:30 PM Tip, Tap, Tapri

9:00 PM Finally, a Royal Thali

Day 2

9:00 AM Punjab meets Chennai, in Rajasthan

1 PM Really Rajasthani at Rawat

2:30 PM For the Love of Paan

4:00 PM Ice Ice Baby

7:30 PM More Rajasthani Punch

Bali Vegan Festival 2017 – What to Expect