I hate to admit it, but I really don’t take holidays. But somehow, because I travel so much for work, if I like a place, I extend my trip by a couple of days. If at all I do take time off, I usually venture to London to spend time with family and friends. And even though it’s where I have spent most of my life, whenever I go back I behave like a complete tourist!
I always do a little research on the Internet before I go to a new place. I also check with friends who have been to that place and take tips from them.
This year I plan to spend some time in the States. It’s partly work-related, but I’m going to make sure I manage time off for a two-week holiday. New York is one of my favourite cities in the world. I love the fact that you can walk and explore the city, it has a fantastic energy and it is the perfect blend of cultures.
My mum is my favourite travel partner. We always have so much fun together. If not my mum, then I have a few friends who are also great fun to travel with. I have never gone backpacking as I’m not sure I’m ready to explore a new place alone just yet.
Last year, Istanbul was incredible and so was Chiang Mai. We visited museums, elephant orphanage and bazaars at both these places.
My ideal place for a vacation should have access to a beach and yet it would be a city. Even if an island seems appealing, I don’t think I would last too long without city life. One of my favourite countries in the world is Thailand because it, somehow, never disappoints me. I adore the culture, food, beautiful temples and nightlife. It’s so much fun to be in Bangkok, Chiang Mai or Phuket.
In fact, last month I went to Thailand twice. I’m all set to go again for a friend’s wedding in a couple of weeks. Despite the political troubles of the past year, Bangkok in particular is a tourist-friendly place. What I also love about it is that despite the hustle-bustle of city life, you can still relax. Be it trips to the wonderful spas or meditation sessions in the stunning temples, you can find time and space for yourself.
There is something magical about the beautiful island of Bali. Despite being inundated with tourists, it manages to retain its culture and it has a certain tranquility about it which I love.
Having already spoken about my love for Thailand, I must admit that the city which truly stole my heart last year was Istanbul.
The museums, mosques, churches, the Bosphorus are all striking. The incredible history of the region is fascinating and perhaps the most incredible aspect of the city is the way it blends the best of East and West. The nightlife is vibrant, the restaurants excellent, in fact the Zuma in Istanbul is outstanding. The hotels, shopping, weather and the warmth of the people, everything about the city in July was just perfect. The energy of Istanbul is infectious and I would love to visit it again and again. Reina and Angelique are two of the most spectacular nightclubs I’ve ever seen.
Thai cuisine is my favourite so I’m in heaven whenever I’m in Thailand. I love Som Tam, Thai curry, chicken with basil leaves, lemongrass.
I haven’t yet experimented with the street food and the creepy crawlies. That’s a bit too much for me, but I do love the banana rotis they make on the roads in little booths. They are delicious and the fruits in Thailand are simply the best.
If you haven’t ever been to Thailand it’s an absolute must as there are options for great shopping, food, sightseeing and beaches.