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Goa: A Perfect Melange

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fwd life Goa A Perfect Melange (1)

Endowed with natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical legacy; Goa has much to offer for every kind of traveller

Words by: Maya Lalchandani     Photographs: ibis Styles Goa Calangute and Maya Lalchandani

Everybody wants to visit Goa. It is India’s premier destination for beaches, relaxation, casinos, the sea and the sand. Be it for family vacations, a romantic break or a conference, it is definitely a most sought after land for merrymakers. Just 750 steps away from Tivai Beach in North Goa is the ibis Styles Goa Calangute Hotel. It is perfectly located in the happening area of Candolim, being only a short drive away from the beautiful white sand beaches and popular nightspots. Just half hour away from the airport, it turns out that the property is the first ibis Styles in India, offering leisure and business facilities to the discerning traveller.

Full of life

The hotel is cheerful as one enters the colourful lobby housing a big fishing boat right next to the reception. The whole design element is very joyous and eclectic all over the property. Reaching in time for a wonderful high tea in their multi-cuisine restaurant – ‘Spice It’ – created a sense of belonging already. It has a peppy décor with a simplicity that allures you with the colours they have used. The restaurant includes an a la carte menu, and guests enjoy live music in the evenings. Stepping outside, I see that the 197 rooms are built in such a way that all their little balconies face the three pools that the property boasts of. I see a DJ playing music for the revellers in the pool as the hotel supports pool sports activities, even providing the guests with Go Pro cameras to capture their underwater antics. The highlight of the activities provided here includes bicycles and I personally availed of the Jeep transfers provided for the beach visit and for trekking around the town.

fwd life Goa A Perfect Melange (1)

The rooms are equipped with comfortable, bouncy, signature queen-sized beds with adjoining doors that families with children can use. But snoozing all day would not be on the agenda for Goa has so much to offer. All the amenities of a luxury hotel, like a tea and coffee maker, LED TV, in-room safe, free Wifi, digital air-conditioning, work desk, hair dryer, complimentary Bisleri water, and a mini bar can be found here. After a lovely dinner at the Spice It, I was off in my Jeep to the wonderful Saturday night markets at Arpora.

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Out and about

Listening to live original bands is a high point in these parts. The amazing array of local and interesting gifts tempts you to buy even if the pocket doesn’t allow. These flea markets have a way of making people come out and network with each other. Alternately, there is much more on offer, like visiting local restaurants and experiencing a slice of the nightlife that Goa is so famous for. The next morning, as I watched the sun rise from my side of the bed, I realised that a dip in the pool would be the most energetic way to kickstart the day. I then proceeded with the breakfast buffet that is held from 7am to 11am.

The agenda for the day was to check out the churches assigned to me. Exploring the Mae de dues Church (Saligao), was a breathtaking sight with gothic spires and pristine white walls, situated in the typical Goan countryside. The St Alex Church, standing guard since the 1500s, is quite the tourist spot for lovers of architecture and design. The attractions being located at a close proximity to the hotel, gives the guest a sense of comfort and ease to be able get back indoors for tea. The hotel provides complementary Jeep transfers to the nearby beaches.

fwd life Goa A Perfect Melange (4)

The ones worth mentioning are Tivai (0.75km), Baga (2.5km) and Candolim (2.8 km). I chose Tivai where the sands are pristine white. Sparsely inhabited, it also has beach patrol with lifeguards. A feeling of calm envelops you as you step close to the spliced waves. The sky seems to touch the sea. A couple of hours are spent till sundown. It is a perfect way to end the day. An early start the next day took me to the well-equipped fitness centre in the hotel. A breakfast of spicy potato and coconut curry served with a soft and fluffy pao welcomed me later. The non-vegetarian alternative is the pita-like soft bread called Poi, stuffed with Goa’s famous pork sausages – chorizo. The all-day restaurant serves international and local cuisines with equal zest.

The following day started with a trip to Fort Aguada and its lighthouse. It is a well-preserved 17th century Portuguese fort standing at the Sinquerim Beach, overlooking the sea. From there, one is transported to a world of tradition and culture where one is introduced to sculpture and contemporary art at the Subodh Kerkar Art Gallery in the Museum of Goa. Rested after a siesta, I walked around the hotel and saw many kids playing in the various sports areas offered to children. They played football, table tennis, pool volleyball, and trampoline while their parents watched them calmly resting on massage chairs. A conference was silently taking place in the areas reserved for business. The hotel provides spaces for three official meeting rooms, equipped with highspeed Wifi Internet access areas.

fwd life Goa A Perfect Melange (2)

Goa seems to have it all and ibis Styles is situated bang in the middle of it. One can find adventure in an array of water sports like parasailing, banana boats and jet skis, all at nearby Baga and Anjuna Beaches. Shoppers can delight at the Mapusa Market (local Goan breads, and spices), and the Tibetan Market. Do not rule out the dolphin rides (17km away) and the nearby casinos. Goa is not only about churches. The Mahamaya Kalika Temple close by and not to skip, the world famous Decades Bar at night are worth a visit. And that is just touching the tip of the iceberg of what Goa can actually offer you.

How to reach

By road: Candolim Stop
By rail: Madgaon Station
By air: Dabolim Airport, Goa International Airport

IBIS STYLES GOA CALANGUTE

Survey 166
Naikawaddo
Calangute Bardez
Goa – 403516
India
Tel +91 8323016000

Digital version : https://goo.gl/uLcXW6

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Travel Wellness: Staying Healthy and Fit While Exploring

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Travelling is an enriching experience that broadens horizons and creates lasting memories. However, maintaining your health and fitness while on the road can be a challenge. Whether you’re navigating busy city streets, lounging on a beach, or embarking on an adventure, staying well and fit is crucial for enjoying your travels to the fullest. Here are some practical tips to help you stay healthy and active while exploring new destinations.

Plan Your Travel Meals

Eating healthy while traveling can be challenging, but with a little planning, it’s entirely achievable. Research local cuisine before your trip and seek out restaurants or markets that offer nutritious options. Opt for meals that include plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. If you’re staying in a place with a kitchen, consider preparing some of your meals to maintain control over ingredients and portions.

Stay Hydrated

Travel can easily disrupt your hydration routine. Always carry a reusable water bottle and refill it regularly. Drinking enough water helps with digestion, energy levels, and overall well-being. If you’re traveling to a place with different water quality, consider bringing a portable water purifier or sticking to bottled water.

Incorporate Physical Activity

Finding time to exercise while traveling can be tough, but it’s essential for maintaining your fitness and energy levels. Here are a few ways to stay active:

  • Use Hotel Gyms: Many hotels offer fitness centers. Utilize these facilities to keep up with your workout routine.
  • Explore on Foot: Walking or biking around your destination not only provides exercise but also allows you to experience the city’s sights more intimately.
  • Outdoor Activities: Take advantage of local outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, or even a beach workout.

Maintain a Sleep Schedule

Traveling at first class. Flight with comfort. Pretty young woman sleeping in airplane.

Adjusting to new time zones can disrupt your sleep pattern, which affects overall health. Try to maintain a regular sleep schedule by setting consistent bedtimes and wake-up times. Creating a relaxing bedtime routine, such as reading or listening to calming music, can also help you wind down and improve sleep quality.

Practice Mindfulness and Stress Management

Travel can be exciting but also stressful. Incorporate mindfulness practices such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga to manage stress and maintain mental well-being. Many travel destinations offer wellness retreats or classes where you can participate in mindfulness activities.

Pack a Travel Health Kit

Prepare a travel health kit with essentials like vitamins, medications, and first-aid supplies. Include items such as hand sanitizer, travel-sized disinfectant wipes, and any prescription medications you may need. Having these on hand can help prevent illness and manage minor health issues.

Stay Active During Travel

Long flights or car rides can lead to stiffness and discomfort. Take breaks to stretch or walk around every few hours. Simple exercises like seated leg lifts, neck stretches, and shoulder rolls can help improve circulation and reduce muscle tension.

Adopt Local Wellness Practices

Explore and embrace local wellness practices and traditions. Whether it’s a traditional Thai massage, Japanese hot springs, or Ayurvedic treatments in India, incorporating local wellness practices can enhance your overall travel experience and contribute to your well-being.

 Avoid Overindulgence

While it’s tempting to indulge in local delicacies, moderation is key. Balance indulgent meals with healthier options and be mindful of portion sizes. Enjoying treats in moderation allows you to savor local flavors without compromising your health goals.

Stay Social and Connected

Social interactions and maintaining connections with loved ones can boost mental health and overall happiness. Make time to connect with fellow travelers, locals, or family and friends back home to keep your spirits high and your travel experience fulfilling.

By integrating these wellness tips into your travel routine, you can ensure a healthier and more enjoyable journey. Staying active, eating well, and managing stress will help you feel your best and make the most of your travel experiences. Safe travels and happy exploring!

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Real House of the Dragon Location You Want to Visit

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Returning to Westeros for the battle between the Blacks and Greens in “House of the Dragon” season two. A civil war within the House of Targaryen over who should inherit the Iron Throne is the subject of the television drama series, which is based on George R. R. Martin’s Fire & Blood and takes place two centuries before Game of Thrones. Along with other important members of the season one ensemble, Olivia Cooke as Alicent Hightower, Emma D’Arcy as Rhaenyra Targaryen, and Matt Smith as Daemon Targaryen are returning for the presently running second season.

We can’t wait to explore all of the amazing filming locations that this series has brought us. Considering how rich the universe is, it makes sense. Rather than depending solely on computer-generated scenery and soundstages, several of the actual filming locales contribute to the world of Westeros’ distinctive atmosphere.

Here, a guide to House of the Dragon filming locations you can visit:

Castleton, Derbyshire, England

In the first season of the show, Castleton, a village in high-peaked Derbyshire with one of the oldest lead mines, was transformed into The Vale of Arryn. Those who watch Game of Thrones would recall this as the location of House Arryn and the Eyrie, a stronghold where adversaries can be driven to their deaths via a moon portal. The region, which was once inhabited by Celtic people, is well-known for its traditional English hamlets and the limestone valley of Cave Dale, which is located inside the national park.

St. Michael’s Mount in Mount’s Bay, Cornwall, England

St. Michael’s Mount is a rocky tidal island with a 12th-century mediaeval church and a small, intimate village connected to the island of Marazion by a causeway that visitors can cross on foot during low tide. Blackwater Bay, a sizable body of water at Kings Landing’s edge, is home to House Velaryon, the fictional Driftmark of House of the Dragon, which is housed in the island’s main fortress. A prior appearance of Driftmark occurred in the Battle of the Blackwater in Game of Thrones.

La Calahorra, Granada, Spain

Reimagined as Pentos, one of the cities bordering the seas of Westeros, the imaginary continent at the heart of the world of Game of Thrones, is the municipality La Calahorra in eastern Granada. At the base of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, on the solitary hill in the region, lies a mediaeval fortress known as Castillo de La Calahorra, one of the region’s most iconic monuments. The exterior of the castle, which serves as the seat of House Targaryen on House of the Dragon, defies the rules of Gothic design, making it one of the first buildings in Spain to be influenced by the Renaissance between 1509 and 1512. Its exquisite split-level interior features a centre courtyard, four corner towers, and marble.

Cáceres, Extremadura, Spain

The province of Cáceres, in western Spain, is a veritable time capsule. Ancient structures that date back hundreds of years nevertheless look substantially the same, displaying a variety of architectural influences, such as Roman, Moorish, and Gothic. Several locations in the region were used to film the King’s Landing sequences, including the walled city of Plasencia in season one, Trujillo in season two, and the capital city of Cáceres in both seasons.

Bourne Wood in Farnham, England

Bourne Wood was the location of one of the largest fight scenes from season two of House of the Dragon. Large clearings in the forest make it perfect for expansive combat scenes and large film crews, while the absence of newer, more contemporary buildings or power lines gives the location a timeless sense. According to London Cult’s documentation, the forest was outfitted with a tent camp and certain areas were covered in artificial snow. The woodland is about an hour’s drive away, making the setting very handy for films like House of the Dragon that are headquartered out of the Warner Bros. Leavesden studio.

Gaztelugatxe, Basque Country, Spain

An island in Biscay called Gaztelugatxe has a hermitage that goes back to the tenth century. The iconic stone bridge was used for filming House of the Dragon. In season seven, the islet served as a stand-in for Dragonstone during filming for Game of Thrones. the location of the initial season’s encounter between Rhaenyra and her dragon on Dragonstone Bridge.

 

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Essential Summer Travel Bag Must-Haves

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As the summer sun beckons, it’s time to dust off your travel bags and embark on exciting adventures. Whether you’re jetting off to exotic destinations or exploring hidden gems closer to home, packing the right essentials can make all the difference in ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable journey. Join me as we explore the must-have items to pack in your travel bags for a memorable summer getaway.

Sun Protection Essentials:

Beat the heat and safeguard your skin from harmful UV rays with sun protection essentials. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen with a high SPF, sunglasses to shield your eyes, and a wide-brimmed hat for added protection. Additionally, lip balm with SPF and aloe vera gel can provide relief from sunburns and keep your lips hydrated.

Lightweight Clothing Options:

Embrace the spirit of summer with lightweight and breathable clothing options that keep you cool and comfortable on your travels. Pack versatile pieces such as cotton shirts, shorts, flowy dresses, and swimsuits for beach outings. Opt for wrinkle-resistant fabrics to minimize the need for ironing and save space in your luggage.

Hydration Essentials:

Stay hydrated on the go by packing a reusable water bottle in your travel bag. Fill it up whenever you have access to clean drinking water to quench your thirst and reduce plastic waste. Consider packing electrolyte packets or tablets to replenish lost minerals during outdoor activities or hot weather.

Travel-Friendly Toiletries:

Travel toiletries in clear plastic, quart-sized bag on white background

Streamline your toiletry bag with travel-sized essentials that meet TSA regulations and save space in your luggage. Pack items such as shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, and moisturizer in leak-proof containers. Don’t forget to include a compact travel towel and wet wipes for quick refreshment on the go.

Tech Gadgets and Accessories:

Capture unforgettable moments and stay connected with essential tech gadgets and accessories. Pack your smartphone, camera, or GoPro along with chargers, power banks, and adapters for international travel. Consider investing in a lightweight and portable Bluetooth speaker for impromptu beach parties or outdoor picnics.

First Aid Kit and Medications:

Home first aid kit on a blue background. The elements of the first aid kit are laid out on the table.

Be prepared for minor emergencies and health-related issues by packing a well-stocked first aid kit in your travel bag. Include items such as adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, antihistamines, and motion sickness tablets. Don’t forget to pack any prescription medications you may need during your trip.

With these essential items packed in your travel bag, you’re ready to embark on a summer adventure filled with unforgettable experiences and cherished memories. From sun protection essentials to tech gadgets and first aid supplies, being prepared for every situation ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey wherever your travels may take you. So, grab your bags, soak up the sun, and let the summer adventures begin!

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