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Cape Town is fondly known as the Mother City. A coming-together of African and French cultures, cuisines and landscapes, there’s nowhere quite like Cape Town, a singularly beautiful city crowned by the magnificent Table Mountain National Park. Cape Town has it all: from breathtaking scenery to historic architecture mixed with minimalist modern design. Its buzzing and busy harbors and streets house nightlife, its beautiful french aura, restaurants, hotels and its beaches and mountainous surroundings are a perfect place for a vacation. The city is set against the backdrop of the iconic Table Mountain and blue Table Bay, which famous for its seal population, penguins and great white sharks. Cape Town’s rich history, modern culture, and incredible attractions make it a true metropolis on the coast. If you’re making your vacation plans, it should be to Cape Town. Also generally our summers are their winters, and vice-versa As incredible as the city of Cape Town is, the wine farms nearby are equally worthy of a day or two of your time. You have to visit the wine yards. Cape Town may have incredible restaurants and museums, and some fascinating indoor activities, but to take full advantage of the city you’ll want to spend time outdoors. Few places to see in Cape town are: Table Mountain: It is a flat-topped mountain forming a prominent landmark overlooking the city. Whether it is covered in a blanket of moody clouds or showing off against a crisp cloudless blue sky, Table Mountain is always spectacular. Try to visit at the time when you can stay by the evening – because the view of the clouds is spectacular! Cape of Good Hope: The Cape of Good Hope is a rocky headland on the Atlantic coast of the Cape Peninsula in South Africa. Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden: The most beautiful garden in Africa, and one of the great botanical gardens in the world, a trip to Cape Town is not complete without a visit to explore it Boulders Beach: The beautiful Boulders Beach is one of Cape Town’s most visited beaches and the only place in the world where you get close to African Penguins. Cape Point: Cape Point is a promontory at the southeast corner of the Cape Peninsula, which is a mountainous and scenic landform. Table Mountain National Park: Table Mountain National Park is a unique and urban Western Cape Nature Reserve stretching from Signal Hill in the city to dramatic Cape Point. Lion’s Head: Looming above Cape Town and the surrounding ocean, Lion’s Head is an iconic piece of the city Constantia: The Constantia Wine Route is the most spectacular wine experience in the world, offering a unique blend of centuries-old established wine homesteads V & A Waterfront: Its a paradise with an excellent selection of cultural and historical sights Public Transportation might be a problem so better to hire a cab. Even Uber is a great option while in Cape Town. Go ahead and plan a trip to South Africa – trust me you will not regret! And yes, do not forget to comment! #whimsthatwoo #Capetowntravel #planatriptocapetown #shivanisingh #travelblogger

Innsbruck, the capital of Austria’s western state of Tyrol, is a colorful and picturesque city nestled in the Austrian Alps. They say ‘Past and future meet in the heart of the Alps – in Innsbruck’. Innsbruck sits right in the middle of a valley and it surrounded by enormous, snow-capped mountains. This is a city with endless views – it is a sight to behold! Its beautiful!! Coveted by empires and republics throughout its history, Innsbruck was the seat of the imperial court of Maximilian I by the end of the 15th century. The alpine scenery of Innsbruck together with its charming meadows set against snowy peaks is a sight to behold. Nestled amidst snow-capped mountains, the city of Innsbruck is spread out along the banks of the River Inn. The city is known for its Imperial and modern architecture, there are many beautiful seeing sights such as Goldenes Dachl – Golden Roof, Hofburg, Hofkirsche, St. Anne’s Column, Stadtturm, Triumphpforte, and Helblinghaus. Another amazing place to visit is Swarovski Crystal museum & showroom at Wattens – to look at the amazing collection of precision-cut lead crystal glass and other related products. You can admire and shop here to your heart’s delight, amongst the largest exhibits of the Swarovski Crystal collection. Innsbruck is located on the long, skinny tail of Austria that is right between Italy and Germany. If you have a car, in just 30 minutes you can be in either Germany or Italy (take an international driving license and hire a car and drive down through Europe!). If you are traveling by rail, the Innsbruck station connects European cities such as Venice, Munich, Salzburg, and Zurich. There is also an airport in Innsbruck. Let me list down few places that are must-see in this marvellous city! Altstadt von Innsbruck (Old town): With some of the buildings standing for over 500 years, the Altstadt is the old town centre of Innsbruck and stands as one of the main attractions. Innsbrucker Nordkettenbahnen: The Innsbrucker Nordkette is a cable car ride of 20 mins that takes you up to Nordkette. You need to see the amazing views of Innsbruck and the jaw dropping mountain scenery surrounding it. Swarovski Kristallwelten: The Swarovski Crystal World is a magical place and fills people with a sense of wonder and delight. This is a MUST-GO place when in Innsbruck! The Hofkirche and the Emperor’s Tomb: Innsbruck’s spectacular Court Church, the Hofkirche, was completed in 1563 in the local Late Gothic style. The Golden Roof: Located in the Altstadt part of Innsbruck, this is considered the cities most famous landmark. The striking roof canopy is made up of 2,738 gilded copper tiles while the lower balconies bear coast of arms relating to the Emperors historical territories. Maria-Theresien State: Located right in the middle of Innsbruck, this spot is one of the most brilliantly perfect sites in the Austrian city. You will find the area lined up with old houses from 16 and 17th centuries backed with a beautiful vista of mountains. Tyrolean State Museums: Tyrolean State museum is where you will get to know the history of Tyrol housing numerous works from the Gothic period. Walking Tour along the River Inn: Several interesting sights lie close to the beautiful riverbanks and esplanades of the River Inn Few other places are: The Hofburg, The Cathedral of St. James, The Nordkettenbahnen, Maria-Theresien Strasse, The Hofburg District, Ambras Palace, The Bergisel’s Olympic Legacy, Seefeld There are many options for stay in the city ranging from Luxury hotels to mid-range hotels. If you are looking for a budget hotel then there are many hotels just beside the river like Basic Hotel Innsbruck, Hotel Heimgartl and Pension Bistro. Trams make getting around the city quick, efficient and cheap. You do not have to worry about the transport! Austria is one of the best places to visit and enjoy in Europe and Innsbruck is its its heart and the amazing number of places you can see there makes it a perfect place! So, if you are planning a trip to Austria, do let me know in the comments section 🙂 #europetravel #howtoplanatriptoInnsbruckaustria #Innsbrucktravel #austriatravel #austria #Innsbruck #Travel

Paris the fashion capital of the world and also, capital to one of the most enchanting country: France. It is a major European city and a global center for art, fashion, gastronomy and culture. Paris is a dream – yep! I cannot describe it in any other words. From its wonderful monuments to its exceptional cuisine, it is a destination like no other. The city is aesthetic! Its marvellous architecture is breathtaking. Everything about this city is musical and magical: The museums, cafes, markets, beautiful gardens, designer boutiques, fashion and romance of the city. First let me tell you the places that you need to see in Paris. The city is filled with such beautiful architectures – trust me – there are soooo many of them unlike any other city. But there are few places that you cannot miss! Few of them are: Arc De Triomphe Champs Elysees Grand Palais Petit Palais National Assembly Alexander Bridge Concorde Square Magdalene Church Opera Garnier Louvre Palace Cite Island French Academy Sorbonne University Orsay Museum Church of the Invalides Military Academy Trocadero Square Palais De Chaillot Notre Dame Cathedral And off-course the most famous landmark of Paris, the Eiffel Tower: The cloud-piercing, wrought-iron structure. You have to climb up to get the a panoramic view of the city – It is so amazingly awesome! Do not miss it! The tower is built in 1889 and designed by the young engineer, Gustav Eiffel, the tower stands 324 metres (1,063 ft) tall. There are some stunning modern and contemporary icons, too, from the inside-out, industrial-style Centre Pompidou to the mur végétal (vertical garden) gracing the Musée du Quai Branly, the glass sails of the Fondation Louis Vuitton contemporary-art centre, and the gleaming steel egg-shaped concert venue La Seine Musicale. The night life is Paris is fabulous! You have to experience the glamour and lights of Paris in nights. Opt for the some Illumination Tour of Paris. There are many online travel agencies providing that. You cannot miss upon the dazzling illumination of the famous monuments and buildings of Paris at night. Specially Eiffel Tower! It is so romantic and enticing! Later, you can go for one of the most famous night shows in the world called Lido De Paris. This is the place to enjoy life like a true Parisian sipping a glass of champagne and enjoying scintillating performances. For staying, I would suggest to take an Air bnb. There are beautiful homes listed down on Air bnb – they are affordable and beautiful and will let you explore the authentic culture of Paris The city is more or less safe, just try not to indulge in frank conversations with strangers – that can be a little risky. Else, its a beautiful place – even to stroll around in the night on your own! The best time to visit France is in the spring (April to June) or fall (September to November) when there are fewer tourists, lower prices, and moderate temperatures. The summer months can be hot, crowded, and expensive. So, do leave a comment – if you plan a trip to Paris 🙂 #whattodoinparis #Europetarvel #whimsthatwoo #shivanisingh #paristravel #France #howtoplanatriptoparis #Travel

Switzerland – a landlocked country in the cultural and geographical centre of Europe. Renowned for its snow-capped Alps, lush green meadows and fresh water lakes, the prosperous country of Switzerland is blessed with a distinct character and dynamism. Lucerne is a beautiful city located at the northern tip of Lake Lucerne. It is a compact city in Switzerland known for its preserved medieval architecture and elegant historic buildings, sits amid snowcapped mountains. Lucerne is compact and easy to explore, with the old town and all the main sights within walking distance of the railway station. Lucerne is a city of town squares and churches. And if you are someone who loves mountain scenery and snow (like me), your search for a spectacular hill tops ends here. Lucerne is home to magnificent regional mountains,: Mt. Rigi, Mt. Pilatus, Mt. Titlis, and Jungfraujoch. Apart from the mountains (about which I will be writing separately), let me list down few places that are must-visit when you are in this town! Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge): The most magnificient sight in Lucerne is the Kapellbrücke, a covered wooden bridge running diagonally across the Reuss. Lake Lucerne Old Town: It is like a fairy-tale! The Old Town of Lucerne, on the right bank of the Reuss, still preserves many old burghers’ houses and little squares with fountains. Spreuerbrücke: This is the 2nd bridge in the town that has survived for centuries. Yep! It was built in 1406! Löwendenkmal (Lion Monument): It is a monument with a huge figure of a dying lion hewn from the face of the rock ledge. It commemorates the death of 26 officers and more than 700 troops of the Swiss Guards, mercenary soldiers who were killed while protecting King Louis XVI during the attack on the Tuileries in the French Revolution in 1792. Verkehrshaus der Schweiz (Swiss Transport Museum): Museggmauer & Türme (Town Walls and Towers) Museum Sammlung Rosengart (Rosengart Collection) Jesuit Church Hofkirche You can cover it all in one day! So, guess 2-days are enough to explore this town. You can also shop at the famous “Bucherer” for Swiss watches, jewelry and souvenirs. Its not cold in the afternoons so you can wear regular cloths, but evenings tend to get a bit chilly (even in summers) so always carry a jacket when going out! Do comment if you are planning to go to Switzerland! I will be happy to help 🙂 #switzerlandtravel #LucerneTravel #LucerneSwitzerland #howtoplanatriptoSwitzerland #traveldiaries #Switzerland

Switzerland: Is there a need for an introduction for this beautiful country? Its heaven on earth! Simple… I don’t think I can find any other adjective to describe it! Its gorgeous! Now this post is about Mt Titlis so will stick to that for now. Will write another post on Switzerland travel. So, Titlis is the highest mountain in the portion of the Uri Alps north of the Susten Pass. The adventurous journey to Mt. Titlis is one hair-raising and unforgettable 45 minutes long ride to the top, switching three different cable cars, the ride is nothing short of awe-inspiring as you’ll witness the scenery change from green meadows and scenic lakes to snow clad mountains. The last leg of the ride is on the famous Rotair, which is the world’s first revolving cable car that offers beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding glaciers, mountains and scenery. Once atop Mt. Titlis, what awaits visitors is breathtaking views of the Alps from either the sun terrace or from the famous “south face window” of the mountain. However, there’s more. There is a thrilling ride on the famous ‘Ice Flyer’ along with the snow park (weather permitting). It is  a lifetime experience. Things that you need to do there: Titlis Cliff Walk: Elevation 3,020 meters and a 500 meter drop: the thrill of crossing a bridge with these is not a joke man! It is spectacular hanging bridge. Crossing this suspension bridge requires nerves but it is one hell of an experience! Titlis ice flyer: You have to experience this! It is little scary but trust me, it will be one of the best experiences of your life. The view of the glacier crevasses is spectacular from the flyer! At more than 3’000 meters, a breathtaking view unfolds. Titlis Glacier Cave: The snow covered cave is beautifully done in a dim turquoise-blue light. Its a magical world of ice! This glacier cave forms the frosty heart of Titlis. The ice here is up to 5,000 years old. The cave’s 150-metre-long walkway descends ten metres below the surface of the glacier. The temperature inside the cave remains a frosty -1.5˚C. There is no extra charge for going into the caves and its open all the year round There are several shops and restaurants there so do not worry about anything. Several hiking trails start or end at the mid station of the cable car, Trübsee. One can walk to the Trübsee and combine that with a visit to the Titlis. In Summers specially, there are many activities that takes place near Trübsee. You can enjoy the spectacular zipline or rent a rowing boat to explore the Trübsee, the lake near the mid station. But please do the booking in advance for the activities. Few tips: Check the weather forecast beforehand as there is no point in going up there if the mountain is covered with clouds. Dress in multiple thick layers – it is very very cold there! Infact take an extra jacket with you. Note that it can be very windy at the top. Wear solid non-slippery shoes rather boots. Take along gloves, sun glasses and perhaps a winter sports hat. Keep atleast 2-3 hours to visit the Titlis. This does not include the time to get there. It’s either a day trip or half a day trip. The Titlis station is located at an altitude of 3000 mts! It is advisable to take things slow and sit down for a while in between activities. So, what are you waiting for? Plan your next trip to Switzerland now and do not forget to include Mt. Titlis in your itinerary! And yes, do comment and tell me about your trip 🙂

Brussels is Belgium’s capital and home to the European Union headquarters. Guess, the first thought that comes to mind when you visit Brussels is that it is very picturesque! And is filled with loads of delicious chocolates, beer and food. The city is filled with rich historic places and yet it is so modern. Brussels have striking architecture, especially around the Grand Place where there is guildhalls and the opulent Town Hall. Everything is within walking distance there: sublime art collections, impressive churches, shops, museums and everything! When you go away from the centre of the city, you find Art Nouveau buildings, and one of the best train museums in the world. Brussels is a beautiful city which is so majestic and yet, so quirky. Its Grand Place is surely one of the world’s most beautiful squares. It has beautiful and famous guild houses, the City Museum, the Town Hall, the house of the Dukes of Brabant, Manneken Pis – the symbol of Brussels, the Royal Palace, the Royal Park, the Palace of Justice, and the Museum of Fine Arts. BTW, Brussels is any foodie’s dream! Why? It has countless numbers of restaurants, hotels and bars. Now, what all to see in Brussels? Well, I am listing them down for you! Grand Place (Grote Markt): Right in the heart of Brussels Old Town, the city’s main plaza (known as Grand Place) is one of the best preserved in Europe. I guess, I have already mentioned so much about it already! Mannekin Pis: The statue of a little boy pissing, can be traced back to at least 1388. But nothing much is known about the origin of it. It is popularly referred to as the oldest citizen of Brussels. Saint-Michel Cathedral (Sint-Michiels Kathedraal): It is a Gothic Church, with such an impressive architecture that it rises majestically almost touching the clouds! Belgian Comic Strip Center: If you are a comic fan, you have to go to this place! This whole building is dedicated to the history of cartoons and comic strips. Lets not forget Brussels gave The Smurfs and Tintin to the world! Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts: It is one of the largest and best art galleries in the world. Atomium: Along with Manneken Pis, the Atomium is Brussels’ best-known landmark attraction. The building represents a molecule of iron magnified 165 million times, and was built as a temporary exhibit for Expo ’58. Mont des Arts: Its a place that inhibits as many as 10 museums. It comprises of an ambience that can’t be beaten, Mont De Arts is surely one of the top places to visit in Brussels for experiencing the best that this charming city has to offer. Notre-Dame du Sablon: It is generally considered one of the loveliest Late Gothic churches in Belgium. The interior of the church is breathtaking, in particular because of its marvellous stained glass. You have to see this Church to believe its beauty Parc du Cinquantenaire Well, The best time to visit Brussels is between May and mid October, the shoulder seasons. This city also experiences all four seasons, and rain is a possibility year-round. BTW, do not forget to try waffles, fries and beer when in Brussels! They are world-famous. #howtotraveltobrussels #Europetarvel #whimsthatwoo #BRUSSELS #BELGIUMTRAVEL #shivanisingh #whattodoinbrussels #Travel

It’s like trying to describe what you feel when you’re standing on the rim of the Grand Canyon or remembering your first love or the birth of your child. You have to be there to really know what it’s like. – Jack Schmitt I love traveling and you know it!… And that too if its a solo trip then I cant tell you the levels of my ecstasy! Last year in the month of September, I planned a trip to the US. Anyway, so I thought to write a post on one special part of my trip – visiting the Grand Canyon – South Rim! First of all, it is one of the most majestic and stunning things my eyes have ever witnessed. Trust me, it’s beautiful and definitely worth a visit. Anyway, let me directly jump to how I planned my trip So I planned my trip from New York. From New York, I took a flight to Phoenix with American Airlines and from Phoenix to Flagstaff. From Flagstaff airport, you need to book a cab (please pre-book it). I booked mine at Arizona Shuttle (https://www.arizonashuttle.com/) I wanted to stay a night in Flagstaff as I really wanted to experience the small town feel in US. So, I booked my room at La Quinta Inn & Suites Flagstaff through bookings.com and the place was so serene and beautiful that I cannot tell you. Next day at around 11 AM, I checked out and took a bus. There are frequent buses from this place to Grand Canyon – you need to take a pass for $25. I should also mention here that My credit card did not work at the swiping machine – just next to the hotel there was a place where there were machines to get the pass. I went to a shop nearby and asked them for help. They had the passes and gave me one in exchange for cash. They charged a fee of $10, which seems ok to me – given the conditions. Oh, I forgot to mention, I planned to visit the south rim because they say its the most beautiful one. So, in Grand Canyon, I booked a hotel called Xanterra Grand Canyon South Rim (https://www.grandcanyonlodges.com/who-we-are/about-xanterra/) I called them and booked it directly (well in advance). The price was $100 per night which I think is brilliant! It’s a very nice and a safe place to stay. Beautiful rooms they have which is like so close to nature that you would just want to spend all your life there. Inside the canyon, they have free buses to travel inside, Just grab a map and it will lead you to wherever you would want to travel. First day, I just wanted to see the space around – the forest etc. I explored that. Second day, I trekked a bit, I just went some 9-12 Kms down, enough to have a glimpse of Colorado river. Also because I was wearing my regular shoes and not trekking shoes. Few things to take care of: If you are planning to go down, till the bottom, please carry a good amount of water bottles. I carried 4 and trust me they were finished half way! Wear trekking shoes, it helps If you are not planning to go down, then I will suggest do not go beyond 10 Kms as trust me, going down is very very easy but coming back becomes really difficult, it happened with me! Most importantly, enjoy every view while trekking. Do not rush. Trust me, every frame from every inch of your walk is different and beautiful! Third day, I just wanted to soak in the beauty of Canyon so I woke up at 5, grabbed a book and went and sat on a very beautiful peak, where I could see the whole of the canyon. It was serene! It was a MOMENT of life While coming back, I booked a bus to Las Vegas via Grand Canyon Tour Company. Please carry your passport throughout. That was my grand moments in the Canyon!!! And I am surely going to visit that place again 🙂 Hope this post helps you in planning your trip and yes, do not forget to comment if you are planning a trip there #grandcanyon #howtoplanatriptograndcanyon #traveltousa #usatravelfromindia

Is the city safe??? What all places to see in the city? Bogotá is Colombia’s sprawling capital. The city is the heart of the country: an engaging and vibrant sophisticated urban cool place surrounded by chilly Andean peaks. Bogotá is a vibrant, lively city I couldn’t get enough of. The city is a safe place with easy an access to many hotels and restaurants. You should definitely take precautions with your belongings like any other place. The only thing is at nights try not to stroll around the city alone! And there are few areas that you should avoid visiting. If you take these few precautions, your stay in the city will be as smooth as staying in any other place. The city has a myriad of carefully preserved colonial buildings and is home to an excellent and stunning museums, restaurants, hotels, old houses that are as old as 300-year-old, and churches. Actually of you ask me, almost all of Bogotá’s traditional attractions are located in Bogota. The city is still battling with it reputations for drugs and crime, but you will see such a genuine attempt that the whole city is making towards the cause! You will see beautiful old houses to Bogotá’s Andes-hugging residential buildings – a beautiful amalgamation of old and urban cool! The city is filled with incredible history, art, an exciting food scene, a wild nightlife, and super welcoming people. When in Bogota, I will suggest few places that must-visit. I am listing them down: Gold MuseumMonserrate: The views of Bogota and the lush Andes Mountains from Monserrate are dramatically beautiful. You can have a complete view of Andes Mountains surrounding Bogota, and trust me, the view will leave you awestruck. A cable car or funicular train takes visitors to the top, where there’s a church that dates back to the 17th century, along with biblical sculptures around the grounds. The top of Monserrate has many cafes and shops. You can plan to shop for souvenir from this place. Definately plan to visit some museums because they are so enticing and colorful that you wouldnt regret visiting them. Some of them are: Botero Museum, Museo del Oro (Gold Museum) and Emerald Museaum Salt Cathedral: Located about an hour’s drive from the city in Zipaquirá, the Salt Cathedral is a Roman Catholic church that was built in the tunnels of an old salt mine. Explore La Candelaria: The city’s cultural epicenter is La Candelaria, the cobbled historic downtown which you cannot miss! It is Bogota’s vibrant heart, with landmarks like the colonial-era cathedral and neoclassical Capitol flanking Bolivar Plaza. Santuario Nuestra Señora del Carmen: It is a Gothic church located in La Candelaria. The church has a red-and-white striped pattern — both on the outside and inside — making it look like a giant candy cane. Simon Bolívar Metropolitan Park Wander Plaza Bolívar Laguna de Guatavita (Lake Guatavita) Parque 93 Gringo Tuesdays Usaquén Market Museo Santa Clara glesia de San Francisco Downtown: The best time of year to travel to Bogotá is probably during the months of December, January, February and March. These are the months when the weather is driest. April and May usually have the highest amounts of rain, with June and July following. December, January and February are traditionally the months when it rains the least. Bogotá is an edgy city with loads of petty crime, but you will love the atmosphere and vibe of the city. You will love the art, the museums and the food. The city has so much to offer travelers. Do not forget to leave a comment if you are planning to go to Bogota! I will be happy to help 🙂 Ciao! #travellingtobogota #latinamericatravel #traveltocolumbia #bogota #Travel #columbia #travelblog

Imagine you have only one day in Venice! How would you plan a perfect trip? Venice – the city of love, the city of canals! Also fondly called La Serenissima, Venice is built on 180 islands that are connected by over 400 bridges with hundreds of canals criss-crossing the town. For more than a thousand years, the city was one of the most enduring mercantile sea powers on Earth. Venice has a charm that no city has! I am sure “Love is in the air” phrase is somehow associated to this romantic city! You can imagine how beautiful a place would be if instead of roads, it relies on a series of waterways and canals. Very few cities can claim to have such an enticing beauty which comprises of everything: priceless art, history heritage, rich culture, and beautiful scenic views! But Venice has it all. This special city with its magical, spectacular and heavenly scenery is not just beautiful; it is magic! Yes, the city is a real magic: a city built on mud, sand and the slime of a difficult, inhospitable landscape. Imagine, how genius that person who would have been who articulated and built it! Anyway, I was in Venice for a day (yes!). If I had known before that the place is so charming, I would have definitely extended my trip. I am planning to go there once again – just for Venice (and thats the impact the city will have on you). Its a small city so you can definitely cover it all in one day – but with this city – it is not about just site-seeing – it is about experiencing their culture and exploring those narrow lanes with cute little cafes! If you have just one day, first thing you need to do in Venice is sail through in a special water taxi to the St. Marks Square, which is considered to be one of the world’s most beautiful squares with its boutiques, traditional cafes, and historic buildings. And it is also the main area in Venice! Its filled with history – and if you are a lover of history and old architectures like me then dude, you are there for a treat!!! Do not miss on: Bridge of Sighs The Ducale Palace St. Mark’s Basilica, The Clock tower The Murano Glass showroom Also, please spare sometime to stroll around the narrow and beautifully carved and decorated lanes of Venice! Please do it – you have an experience like none! The most beautiful bridge in all of Venice is the Rialto Bridge. It connects San Polo to the sestieri of San Marco, and it a treat to the eyes! Now, if you are staying there, then go for an evening of ballet or live music at Teatro La Fenice, which is a truly magnificent theatre. And if you’re interested in the history of Venice, a trip to either the Lace Museum or Fortuny Museum will take you through the complete journey that this place has covered since centuries. And no trip to Venice should be done without a trip to Ca’ d’Oro — a Venetian-Gothic palace that also happens to be home to Renaissance art. The best season to visit Venice is from May end to July. Though it will be very busy in this time of the summer but then its worth it! During winters, from Nov to Mar, there is a phenomenon called the acqua alta occurs in the city that floods few areas of Venice, and it can certainly disturb your trip! And if you’re looking to party during the Venice Carnival, then plan your trip in Feb. Go on, plan a trip to Venice and do not forget to tell me in the comments! #planatriptovenice #Europetarvel #Venicetravel #youhaveonlyonedayinVenice #Travel #travelblog

What all to do in Joburg? Is it safe? How to travel and what all to see! Johannesburg is the largest city in South Africa and is also the capital of the country. I was in Joburg (thats what I call the city with love – it still holds a part of my heart!), for around 6 months – yes! I was on a project there and was based there for few months. 6 months is actually a long time to know a city, to imbibe its culture, to understand its people and start loving the place. So, first let me tell you few important things you need to take care off if you are travelling to Johannesburg: It is largely safe (I never faced any isssues), but then when you hear it from local people – they will present you a different story. As a tourist, there are certain areas that you shouldnt wander to. The local transport is not that great and the best mode of transport is cab, which can prove to be really expensive. So, plan accordingly. If you are going there for few days – I will suggest to hire a cab in one shot for all those days or just get a car on rent (and do not forget to take International Driving License – you can apply it from here) Or just download Uber: its safer and cheaper than the local taxies Try to travel between December to the end of January or from July to September because the weather is really pleasant in these months. Rest of the year, the place is damn too cold! Roaming around (apart from main areas that I will list down) on foot is not recommended because the city is almost deserted at all times! You won’t see many people walking around. But having said that one of Johannesburg’s most interesting areas to explore on foot is the historic downtown area that is just so energetic and is filled with colourful street life that reflects the city’s cosmopolitan amalgamation of so many cultures: South African, European and pan-African influences. Now lets dive into the places that you are must-see in Johannesburg. Few of them are: Gold Reef City Montecasino: You cannot miss this place. It is a leisure complex designed like an Italian village, housing a casino, 2 theaters, cinemas and a mall. Johannesburg Zoo Mandela House Suncity Nelson Mandela Square: It is one of the busiest shopping hubs of South Africa. But it doesn’t end with shopping here. Its location being in the very center of the city makes it quite convenient and easy reachable spot for all. Try out some food in the local restaurants there. Soweto township: The town lies 20 kilometers southwest of Johannesburg and offers a journey into the soul of the fight for freedom. It was also the birthplace of the struggle for democracy. But please go with a local guide there. I will not suggest to fo there alone The Apartheid Museum Pilanesberg National Park Pretoria Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens These are few places that you should aim for while travelling to Johannesburg. Have a local guide – that would be helpful. The city is beautiful! Its just that it is too empty! Its so vacant that you can feel the void sometimes. The culture is nevertheless, amazing and colorful. I love the people there – literally! The city is for sure worth travelling and exploring once in a lifetime! Do leave a comment if you plan a trip to Johannesburg – I would love to help! #traveltosouthafrica #southafrica #howtotraveltojohannesburg #Travel #johannesburg

Hampi is an ancient city in the south Indian state of Karnataka. The place is filled with numerous magnificent ruined temple from the Vijayanagara Empire. It is located on the south bank of the River Tungabhadra and is around 300 kms from Bangalore and 371 kms from Hyderabad. Its proximity to the major cities in South India makes it very approachable and convinient. We travelled from Hyderabad and hired a mini-bus. Thats all – we had put in google maps and it took us around 7 hours to reach the place. We stayed in Sri Laxmi Golden Beach Resort and it was beautiful! Just behind the resort is the shore and you will totally love it. Even the resort is very rustic, raw and wonderful. Do not expect any luxuries – it is a place in the middle of the nature, just enjoy that! There are other good hotels as well like Kishkinda Heritage, Clarks Inn. But I will suggest to stay in a resort. And if you want to go for some adventure, Hampi is a great place to camp at. Matunga hill is one of such great spots in the city Places to see in Hampi: Vittala Temple Complex Virupaksha Temple: 7th century hindu temple and its a MUST-WATCH! Lakshmi Narsimha Temple Elephant Stables Monolithic Bull Queen’s Bath Balakrishna Temple Do not miss to watch the sunset at the hilltop Best time to visit Hampi is from August to March. The weather during this time stays very pleasant and makes it easy for the travelers to explore Hampi, otherwise the city can get really hot and uncomfortable. Also, will suggest to take enough cash with you needed to survive for your trip. Because there are hardly any ATMs (you may have to travel long distances for to find one) and there might be dearth of cash in them as well! So, if you want to have a smooth trip without huddles, carry cash 🙂 You can wear whatever you want there. But then, when you are going to temples – I will suggest to wear something not revealing. Also, take cotton light cloths – something with very easy-breezy fabric. The place is hot even in pleasant weather. Rest: cabs is the best mode of transport there – you can go wherever you want! Comment and do let me know if you are planning a trip to Hampi! I am here to help 🙂

A French colonial settlement in India until 1954 and now a Union Territory town bounded by the state of Tamil Nadu is at everybody’s list when it comes to travelling across India. It is a quaint and a picturesque little place. You can actually see everything there is to see in Pondicherry in just two days – trust me its that small. But then more days in a vacation never hurts. Right? If you have more time, you can just relax, enjoy, sip wine, sit on those beautiful unique rocky beaches and do nothing! In Pondicherry, you will find everything. By everything I mean, from yoga and meditation to shopping or just sitting by the beach, Pondicherry is an excellent place to visit and enjoy! The French had Pondicherry as their home for decades and you can see it even now in almost all parts of the city: the perpendicular streets, French style villas, colourful colonies and cute little cafes: they are all beautifully infused with the local south Indian culture! Let us discuss the travel part of the place. I went their with 2 friends and we stayed there for 5 days. The place is safe to travel alone! Completely safe. We used to travel in the nights on our own and it was a fantastic experience. You have many modes of transport, but I always preferred to use an auto – our own open AC rickshaws 🙂 When it comes to what to wear in Pondicherry. I will say when you are in the main city and going to a beach – wear anything that you want. You might get a stare or two, but then it is not that bad. It is definitely not like Goa, where nobody cares about cloths. Though I wish it was. Anyway, while going to a church or the old city, I would suggest you to wear something that is not very revealing. In old city, you might get uncomfortable when people stare at you – it happened with me. I went in a shorts and the feeling was not that great! So, while going for shooppong or any relihious place or in the old city – try to wear a normal dress or something that not too exposing! Now, coming to the places that are must-visit in Pondicherry! They are: Auroville Beaches: There are 4 main beaches: Promenade beach, Paradise beach, Auroville beach and Serenity beach. Promenade Beach is a must-visit! Churches: There are many churches in Pondicherry . I will suggest you to visit: Church of Our Lady of Angels, Sacred Heart Church, Dupleix Church, Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Immaculate Conception Cathedral These are the biggest and oldest churches in the city Aurobindo Ashram Old Lighthouse French War Memorial Ousteri Lake Gingee Fort Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam are the regional languages spoken in Pondicherry but the locals are quite familiar with the English. When I say Pondicherry is a must-visit place in India – I mean it. Its colors will take your breath away! Book your tickets now and drop a comment when done 🙂