SUMMER SUITCASE ESSENTIALS!

Whether it is a beach-side destination or a mountain sojourn, as you prepare to head for your summer vacation with Kesari Tours, here’s a guide to your vacation wardrobe…

Before you start thinking about what to pack, read up on the weather forecast for your holiday destination. Knowing what you will be doing each day will also help you plan your outfits as opposed to randomly chucking stuff into your suitcase!

Choose breathable fabrics such as cotton, linen and rayon. Remember, white and light coloured shades reflect the sun and keep you cool.

For a 7-day trip consider packing 7 tops, 3 pairs of pants, and at least 3 pairs of socks if you’re wearing sneakers. For a beach holiday, you could cut down on the pants and substitute with denim, cotton or printed shorts. Ladies, you could tote a couple of relaxed, loose style dresses, which are easy to wear.

Whether the hills of Mussoorie or the slopes of Switzerland, avoid the bulky coats! Instead, opt for knitwear in neutral shades which can be worn with a variety of outfits. If it’s cold, add a layer, if the activity has you warming up, slip a layer off.

If you must carry a light jacket or cardigan for cool evenings, simply wear it to travel in.

A stole/ scarf doubles up for protection against both the sun and post-sunset nippiness.

One or two night-suits nighties should be sufficient for a week.

Two sets of swimwear would be ideal for a beach vacation – you use one while the other dries. Pick styles that suit your body shape and fit you perfectly.

Wear your closed-toe shoes to travel in. Carry along flip-flops, sandals or sliders. Avoid high heels – they are not ideal for cobblestone streets or sandy beaches. Trainers are great for sight-seeing and gym routines. For a dressier dinner, opt for pointy flats or chic sandals.

If you’re carrying a sunhat, just wear it on the flight or buy one when you reach your destination.

Carry a classic pair of sunglasses, with a good UV filter.

Avoid taking your most expensive jewellery with you. Carry simple, non-expensive stuff including a flashier pair of earrings for party nights.

As far as bags go, consider a simple beach bag to carry beach essentials, a cross-body bag which is ideal for sight-seeing and for carrying along your money and debit cards, and maybe a clutch for evenings at the bar!

Your vanity kit can include sunscreen, shower gel, deodorant, razors, tweezers, shampoo and conditioner, hair bands, a hairbrush, lip balm with SPF and first aid supplies.

Shine on, happy traveller!

TOP 5 MUST VISIT NIGHTLIFE SPOTS IN NEW YORK

Think of nightlife and the undisputed queen is New York. You don’t have to be a regular on a club-hopping spree to enjoy the electrifying entertainment options the city of New York offers when you visit it. Experience the chic cocktail bars, spend time with your friends at cozy dive bars, or spend a romantic date at a popular dance bar and lounge.

Here are 5 nightlife options where you can drink, dance and listen to music when you are in New York

Red Hook Bait and Tackle: 

Think of nightlife and the undisputed queen is New York. You don’t have to be a regular on a club-hopping spree to enjoy the electrifying entertainment options the city of New York offers when you visit it. Experience the chic cocktail bars, spend time with your friends at cozy dive bars, or spend a romantic date at a popular dance bar and lounge.

McGettigan’s:

With a tagline that proudly says, ‘The Modern Irish Experience’ – get a taste of Irish food, sports, culture, and live music at Herald Square in Manhattan. McGettigan’s Pub was first opened in 1960 in Ireland. Over the years this Irish Pub has become known for its strong heritage and hospitality the world over.

Keuka Kafe: 

Named after Keuka Lake in the Finger Lakes region this Kafe offers a careful selection of local and international wines along with a cheese menu and meat platters. Pick one of their sumptuous hot and cold sandwiches, and salads. Try their small plates of grilled chorizo or salmon ceviche. This restaurant in forest hills Queens is a must-visit for wine lovers.

The Bell House:

Head over to 149, 7^th Street Brooklyn if you are looking to de-stress and rock is your go-to music option. This new bar and concert hall set up in a restored 1920 warehouse with dark wood accessories, a traditional stage with red velvet curtains and chandeliers is home to new indie acts and rock concerts.

Edi & the Wolf:

Experience an authentic wine tavern right in East Village in Manhattan. Modelled after an Austrian heuriger, this cozy bar is the perfect venue for a date night. Select from a variety of small plates or shared plates of baby back ribs with mustard and pickle. For the main course, you can choose from steak, sea bass, schnitzel and more. Indulge your sweet tooth and taste buds with a cheese plate or Linzer torte.

TRY THESE AUTHENTIC CHINESE DISHES, OR YOU WILL MISS OUT ON EXPERIENCES

China is a nation that’s home to various fantastic, appetising dishes. You know of Bō Cài Miàn (Spinach noodles), or the Peking duck. But you are still worried about what you can have when in China? You ‘ve heard of several horror stories and don’t want something like that to happen with you.

Well, look at some amazing foods that you can definitely try when you are travelling to China.

Bō Cài Miàn – Spinach Noodles:

Spinach noodles is a traditional Chinese food item that is made from scratch in most restaurants and street joints.

Served with a tomato based sauce topped with potato, egg, chilli or carrots and more. Some allow for toppings you desire.When in Xi’an, in Central China this is a must try.

Peking Duck:

Beijing’s claim to fame the Peking Duck is a must try. It is considered one of the yummiest dishes in China.

Tender duck pieces with crusty skin are served with a sauce.

If you want authentic, then try having it enfolded in a pancake with scallions, cucumber and hoisin sauce.

La Zi Ji: Spicy Fried Chicken

Sounds funny, isn’t it? But it’s a popular dish in the Sichuan province in China. If you don’t mind the heat, then this spicy hot La Zi Ji is just what you need.

Chicken breast pieces are fried and then garnished with chilli, pepper, and sesame, which add taste and lots of flavour to it.

Ròu Jiā Mó – Chinese Burger

Of course, it is not a burger you are so fond of having at home. But, this Chinese version is a delicious alternative you can try.

Originally found in Shaanxi province, this burger is pulled or shredded meat, most often it is pork stuffed in doughy flatbread buns.

It’s now available pretty much everywhere in China.

You Tiao – Chinese Cruller or Churros

Fond of doughnuts or churros, then you should taste the Chinese version.

Served as a garnish with rice congee, these You Tiao are also stuffed at times.

A typical breakfast dish, they are long strips of deep fried dough that are a little salty and are paired with soy milk or plain milk with sugar.

Remember, check for the ingredients in the dish if you are a vegetarian or don’t eat all types of meat. Doing so will help you maintain your preferences.

EXPERIENCE MOORISH HISTORY AT THE ALHAMBRA PALACE ON A TOUR TO SPAIN TODAY

Haven’t you ever wondered what a palace looked like in the medieval times, especially inEurope? Imagine if you were there to experience the splendour, the artistry and the sheer magnificence of the King’s abode in all its glory. Wow! A sight to behold for sure.

Since time-travel is not possible, you can walk these paths of history when you travel to Europe with Kesari Tours. Get a slice of all things medieval when you visit the Alhambra Palace –a UNESCO World Heritage site that is in Granada, Andalusia Spain.

The Alhambra Palace -a stronghold fortress and palace was built to reflect Moorish architecture in the 13^th century by Mohammed ben Al-Ahmar, who was the emirate of Granada then. The architecture of medieval age enchants visitors the world over with its exotic gardens and fountains. The fortress Alhambra derives its name from the sun-dried bricks of red colour that have been used to make the outer walls.

Built on a plateau overlooking the city of Granada mainly for military use, no king has ever lived in the Alhambra Palace. The construction of the palace began in 1238 and was completed in1358. This enchanting palace and fortress compound faced several incidents of defacement over the centuries by various invaders and rulers.

You will find the ‘Alcazaba’ meaning a citadel, which is the oldest part of the site made of massive outer walls, towers, and ramparts. Although not well maintained, it is a delight to move back in time while seeing the weather worn walls. Beyond the citadel is the Alhambra Palace and a little further inside is the Alhambra Alta i.e. the upper Alhambra where court officials and courtiers lived. The foremost tower of the fortress provides a panoramic view of the surrounding city of Granada; the Sierra Nevada’s and the Alcazaba.

 Don’t forget to visit the Hall of Ambassadors -a spacious grand reception room; the Sala de Los Abencerrajes, which is named after the last king of Granada, Boabdil and the Hall of Two Sisters i.e. Sala de las Dos Hermanas is known for its amazing stalactite work.

Experience the beauty of the open-air courtyard with its pools, fountains, incredible pillars and arches depicting the best of Moorish architecture. Enjoy this walk-through history with Kesari’sAll Europe tour today.

5 WEIRD BUT TASTY FOOD YOU HAVE TO TRY WHEN IN SINGAPORE THIS YEAR

Wow! It’s summer, when you start travelling again, to get rid of everyday stress, to enjoy new thrills and satiate that thirst for good food. So, where do think you can indulge your taste buds the best? Why? Singapore of course.

Ask most travellers, they will confirm that ‘Eating is the national passion’ in Singapore and Singaporeans pride themselves on their insatiable cravings. They say, “If you don’t put on weight, then you’ve done it all wrong.”

Dip into Singapore’s melting pot of food where you can eat like the kings, without burning a hole in your pocket. You can always have a satay or plate of noodles and a cold drink, but don’t you want to get adventurous? Experiment and try these weird but tasty foods in Singapore.

1. Soft-boiled eggs & Kaya Toast

If you are a fan of half-fry, then the Singapore version of soft-boiled eggs and Kaya toast is the one for you.

The Kaya toast is bread with a coconut spread and lots of melted butter.

Lip-smacking good, isn’t it?

2. Chwee Kway – Water Rice Cake

Looks a little strange, right? Don’t worry the taste should make you forget its strangeness.

Another breakfast alternate you must try despite how it looks is the Chwee Kway.It is steamed rice cake garnished with preserved radish and hot chilli. The flavour scales are off the chart.

3. Bak Kut Teh

Ages ago a starving beggar reached a small street stall selling pork and noodles.

He begged for food and the owner, though poor wanted to help. So, he boiled left-over pork bones with a few spices to make a soup. The rest, well, that’s why is a must have today.

4. Fried Carrot Cake

Fried carrot cake with no carrot in it. It’s a favourite with Singaporeans and Malaysians.

Made with fried eggs that are served with radish and white radish flour cake.

5. Popiah

Sounds strange, isn’t it? But it’s quite tasty. It’s a Singaporean version of the spring roll. A thin wafer stuffed with prawns, Chinese sausage, boiled eggs, sprouts, carrots, lettuce, and turnip served with sweet hoisin sauce.

You must try these foods and let us know what you think about it.

UP CLOSE & WILD!

The untamed beauty of the forest… the thrill of watching animals in all their natural splendor… the sights that will stay embedded in the mind for a lifetime! There’s little to beat an encounter with wildlife in the many reserves and parks across the world, with Kesari Tours.

Lion-watching in South Africa

The bushveld and savannah regions of South Africa are rich in a variety of famous wildlife. Travel with Kesari Tours and marvel at the sight of the Big Five – elephant, lion, rhino, leopard and buffalo – besides giraffe, hippo and even flocks of flamingos! Spottings are plentiful; Kruger National Park alone has over 10,000 elephants and 20,000 buffaloes. Savour the sight of beautiful leopards, the swift and lethal cheetah, wildebeest and zebra and even the rare white rhino. What more could one ask for!

Tiger-stalking in Uttarakhand

The tiger is the leading star at the Corbett National Park in Nainital district. The first Tiger Reserve started in India, it’s your best choice to spot the beautiful, powerful Royal Bengal Tiger in its untamed glory. Capture the sight of the magnificent Asiatic Elephant, the Asiatic Black Bear, the critically endangered Gharial and more, within the largest national park in India. You’ll never want to leave!

Antelope-admiring in Kenya

Kenya is blessed with vast protected areas such as the Nairobi National Park, Mt. Kenya, Kora National Park and Meru National Park. A visit with Kesari Tours brings you within touching distance of the Eland, the largest of the antelope in the savannah, which weighs around 600 kilograms! Large herds of wildebeest, zebra, impala and elephant make for an uplifting sight, as you safely watch the large and cranky hippo and the Cape buffalo from a distance!

Kangaroo-petting in Australia!

Kenya is blessed with vast protected areas such as the Nairobi National Park, Mt. Kenya, Kora National Park and Meru National Park. A visit with Kesari Tours brings you within touching distance of the Eland, the largest of the antelope in the savannah, which weighs around 600 kilograms! Large herds of wildebeest, zebra, impala and elephant make for an uplifting sight, as you safely watch the large and cranky hippo and the Cape buffalo from a distance!

5 BEST DESSERTS AROUND THE WORLD YOU MUST HAVE TODAY

Dessert! There are times when you simply crave them. No meal is complete without having a dessert and nothing enthralls like eating one of the best desserts around the world. Every country has its own version of a dessert from the fresh and tangy to sumptuous and decadent.

From Iceland’s popular dairy dessert, Skyr to Australian Lamingtons, read on to know the best desserts that people have been satiating their sweet tooth with for years around the world.

Dadar Gulung:

No, not the railway station Dadar or the staircase, it’s the Indonesian dessert -that is quite popular on the island of Java. It’s a green pancake roll made from pandanus leaves filled with coconut and sugar. You simply must have one!

Syrniki:

This soft cheesy treat, is a must have when you’re in Russia. It is a pancake made of quark – a dairy item made from cheese, with a sour cream texture is a favorite with Russians. These pancakes are fried and serve along with honey, or apple sauce, or strawberry jam or sour cream. Looks quite YUMMY!

Mochi:

When in Japan, do like the Japanese do and taste the Japanese mochi. It gets its name from mochigome, which is sticky rice ground into a paste and then shaped into small round balls. This sticky dessert can be had throughout the year but is often sold and eaten during the Japanese New Year. What’s more, you will find it is usually stuffed with an ice cream scoop.

Dragon Beard Candy:

Not to worry, it isn’t really dragon’s beard. This dessert is the conclusion of the handmade traditional art of China. Dragon Beard Candy, which looks like a cocoon, is made from maltose syrup and sugar, garnished with sesame seeds, coconut, and peanuts. Try it and you won’t be disappointed.

Lamingtons:

Can you stop at just one? They look delicious, don’t they? These typically Aussie cubes of vanilla sponge cake, dunked in chocolate icing and dusted with coconut are simply mouthwatering. They are at times stuffed with pannacotta or berry compote.

3 WAYS TO BE A BETTER TRAVELLER, THAN JUST A TOURIST

On the surface, both sound like the same thing, but Kesari Tours knows that there is a world of difference between a tourist and a traveler. While a tourist is mainly interested in clicking pictures of all the must-see sights, a traveler is more interested in experiencing a country and its culture from the inside. Being a tourist isn’t necessarily a bad thing but when you can return home richer with a wealth of travel experiences, it makes sense to be a traveler at heart.

Getting Familiar

So, you’re all set to discover Japan with Kesari Tours but what’s to stop you from beginning your voyage before you even set foot in the Land of the Rising Sun? Use the internet, guidebooks, libraries or the online forum to learn about Japan’s beautiful cities, imperial palaces, mountainous national parks and stunning shrines and temples. Do lay your hands on novels set in Japan (The Tale of Genji, Memoirs of a Geisha) or biographies of some of its renowned figures. Listen to local music and try picking up language basics, as well. As you become familiar with Japan and its unique culture, you will be even more in tune with life there when you arrive.

Savor the Experience

Travel is about relishing the myriad experiences. In order to fully enjoy the pleasure of discovering the vast and wonderful New Zealand, one needs to take it slow and easy. Rushing around trying to see all the sights is not the answer! Even as you take in NZ’s many attractions, its splendid lakes, glaciers, national parks and cities, do make time to sit at an art gallery musing over the paintings you like, or by a pond, watching people go about their lives. Spend time doing things that truly touch you, enliven you… and your vacation will be one to truly treasure.

Go Local

Traveling to the beautiful Himalayan kingdoms of Bhutan and Nepal and missing the chance to interact with its people would be a missed opportunity! Whether you are visiting ancient monasteries or touring the local bazaars with Kesari Tours, do make an effort to chat with the local people. They might not understand every word you say, but there’s a lot that a smile and a phrase book can communicate! Chatting with the locals and learning the way of life of these simple yet extraordinary human beings can be a very enriching experience.

A TRIP TO KASHMIR, TRULY A PARADISE ON EARTH

They say, “If there was heaven on earth – it is here, it is here”. We had heard so much about Kashmir-the jewel in India’s crown that we were very eager to visit this paradise. So, we looked up various options and finally decided to book with Kesari Tours to Kashmir this year.

There are no words to describe the excitement we felt and the day was finally here. We landed in Srinagar all gung-ho about beginning our sojourn. Our first pit stop was Hotel Akbar. The scenic road, fantastic climate, and the beautiful Dal Lake enthralled us with their beauty. We had really begun our journey on a good note.

Day 1: We reached our hotel and were taken to our rooms. In the evening, we were taken on a shikhara ride on the majestic Dal Lake, where we met the friendly and polite shikhara owner, Mr. Yusuf. The ride was fascinating. We purchased artistic Kashmiri jewelry from other houseboats moving around the lake.

Day 2: After a lavish and sumptuous breakfast, we were off to Sonmarg. Wow! There are undeniably no words to describe the view of majestic snowcapped mountains. We felt like minions out on a stroll. We had fun and how can we forget an amazing photo session. Though tired we were happy with the visit and dinner was super tasty.

Day 3: We set out for Gulmarg from Srinagar. The view at Gulmarg was enchanting. We went a little crazy with all the snow around. We were put up at the #HotelGrandMumtazResort. You must stay at the hotel for its amazing hospitality, lip-smacking food, and incredible scenic views. The Gondola ride was magnificent and is a must try when you visit.

We visited Pahalgam early in the morning on the last day of our trip and got a chance to visit an apple orchard. Though we did not find apples, the beauty, peace and lush surroundings made up for it.

        

 And then it was time to go back home. What a wonderful trip with Kesari! We are sure to book again for our next trip around.Thank you Kesari for this wonderful and a memorable experience, We Love Kashmir!

 

COOL ESCAPES THIS SUMMER!

Dreaming of a summer minus the sweat and the swelter? Switzerland doesn’t have to be the only answer! Our country is blessed with a range of destinations which stay blissfully cool all year round, even as temperatures in the metros hit hideous highs. What’s more, they won’t burn a hole in your pocket either! Here’s looking at four super cool destinations within India which you can escape to this summer, with Kesari Tours.

Shimla
Summer temperature: Minimum: 19°C & Maximum: 28°C
Set in the foothills of the mighty Himalayas, this once the summer capital of British India still retains its cool and quaint air. Visit this highly popular hill station with Kesari Tours and be smitten by Shimla’s forested hillsides, winding Mall road, bustling bazaars, gorgeous colonial architecture and, best of all, its glorious views of the snow-clad mountains. The ‘Queen of the Hills’ definitely deserves repeat visits, we say!

Nainital
Summer temperature: Minimum: 12°C & Maximum: 23°C
This Himalayan resort town in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, nestled around a pear-shaped lake, is surrounded by mountains. With Kesari Tours, you experience boating on the emerald waters of Naini Lake, enjoy the cable car ride up to the Snow View observation point for mountain viewing, and splash in the Kempty Falls. Love lakes? Then there’s simply no missing Bhimtal and Naukuchiatal, pristine waters amidst the hills that gladden the spirit.

Sikkim, Darjeeling
Summer temperature: Minimum: 13°C & Maximum: 28°C
Witness the mighty Mt Kanchenjunga, among the world’s highest peaks, with Kesari Tours. If the slopes surrounding Darjeeling are redolent with its distinctive tea plantations, Sikkim’s dramatic landscapes simply take the breath away. Wildflowers swaying in alpine meadows and prayer flags fluttering alongside hilltop monasteries… it’s easy to feel blessed to be alive.

Leh-Ladakh
Summer temperature: Minimum: 7°C & Maximum: 20°C
The name Ladakh translates as the ‘Land of High Passes’ and there are few places on earth that can equal its stark, stunning beauty. Extending from the Kunlun mountain range to the main Great Himalayas, Ladakh is dotted with ancient monasteries, crumbling palaces, and exquisite lakes. Experience the thrill of Leh district in Ladakh, one of the coldest deserts in the world, withKesari Tours. Heady and how!