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Showing posts from October, 2023

Chiang Mai and Samoeng Circuit, Thailand

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The city close to nature, foodies’ paradise, grand temples of intricate architecture, dotted with quaint villages and a scenic mountain road circling through villages, jungles, waterfalls, and farms, Chiang Mai is a balanced blend of urban life and peace of mind. I stayed in a homestay run by a very courteous couple in one of the by-lanes close to the Old City. Pancakes cooked by the host were so delicious that I made them my regular breakfast every morning. I explored the Old City and night market for 2 days and dedicated the rest of the days to traveling to nearby villages and completing the scenic drive of the Samoeng Circuit. Wat Chedi Luang Varaviharn The Old City, walled on four sides, is the most happening place in Chiang Mai, bustling with cafes, restaurants, pubs, street food carts (one of them being Michelin Star!), hotels, tourists, and not to forget grand temples, and there are lots of them, each one equally beautiful in its own way and charming. The most popular among them...

Vineyards of India, Nashik

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  Imagine embarking on a wine tasting journey through the rolling lush green hills where the landscapes evoke the same charm of Napa Valley's picturesque vineyards and the rolling green hills reminiscent of Tuscany's famous wine regions. In this travelogue, we will explore Nashik which is all of it and much more. India boasts an ancient winemaking tradition that dates back to 6000 BC, establishing it as one of the world's oldest wine-producing regions. This rich heritage gave rise to a range of ingenious techniques resulting in a diverse array of wines, including Sura (crafted from rice, barley, and herbs), Madhu (a honey-based mead), Phalapaka (crafted from locally sourced grapes, pomegranates, and other tropical fruits), and Draksha. However, it was the British colonial influence that introduced European varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Chenin Blanc. This infusion of European techniques and indigenous practices laid the foundation for contemporary winemak...