Travel
Relax, unwind and rejuvenate at a hideaway in the Western Ghats
Why the hills of Kerala offer the perfect getaway for rest, relaxation and rejuvenation
Words by Maya Lalchandani Photographs from Carmelia Haven Plantation Resort and Spa
Was Kerala just named God’s Own Country? Or did they just build it into one? One has to travel there to find out. The South of India has a flavour quite unlike anything that people will ever get to know. Kerala is filled with more than just the romantic backwaters that people have made it famous for. There are also virgin beaches, chilly mountains, and wild tropical jungles to be explored. Let’s not forget that this multicultural land is filled with vibrant art forms, festivals, and Ayurveda, and is gifted with the abundance of Mother Nature.
The winding way to the hills
Nestled in the Western Ghats, Kerala has now become famous for its Plantation Tourism. The- Carmelia Haven Plantation Resort and Spa, is one such property that belonged to the Jose family (the Cardamom Kings of that area). Here, one can be one with nature, adding trekking, fishing, swimming, bamboo rafting, and elephant rides and many other recreations to the experience. A view of the lakes, waterfalls, mountains and fragrance from the spice trees all around create the magic for a picture perfect setting! And so on to Kumily and then Vandanmedu making way towards a verdant cardamom plantation. The air is crisp and the clouds are inviting, the roads are winding, leading all through a tropical forest landscape. Waterfalls dot the way as afterthoughts, being part of a returning monsoon amidst the lush green scenery. This eco-chic resort comes into view after a 23 km drive from the Periyar National Park (Thekkady).
Wide Vistas from Comfy Nooks
Widely spread over acres, one steps happily into the slickly done lobby, giving the guest a sense of comfort and simplicity. Buggies take on the transfer through the leisure area, passing through some suites and villas along the way. Gazebos are sighted on the manicured lawns and the unsuspecting guest is taken through an area of beauty that would later act as a refuge for their digital needs. The property follows its eco friendliness by not encouraging WiFi in the rooms thus promoting a semi detoxification of sorts. The accommodation offers deluxe rooms, deluxe cottages, tree houses, jacuzzi villas and even a cave room. Every accommodation is equipped with flat TVs, kettles, mini-fridges, etc. If the guest is looking for an old favourite – the balcony, the veranda or a hot tub, the resort makes sure that it offers that as well.
Cradled in Nature
The tree houses are the perfect choice for the eager honeymooners and the avid nature lover. Built on stilts, they reach out into the dense foliage, plunging the guest into a world of the birds and the bees. All the cottages and the villas are all vast and elegantly furnished and have access to the leisure areas. The Cave room stands apart from the others and is built like an underground cellar, appropriate for people who love their privacy and who find their peace in seclusion. The nicest aspect of the resort is that it keeps nature in mind and works well with it, offering solar power and encouraging low wattage with old fashioned lanterns everywhere, taking into account the radiant foliage all around. A curious combination of scents and smells envelop the area. The mix is clove, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg jostling with oranges, mangosteen, jackfruit, rambutan, butter fruit, papaya and rose apple.
A Resort Catering to All Tastes
In-house activities include tennis, swimming, books in the library, culture shows and tribal dances. Outdoor activities include trekking, guided plantation walks, cardamom factory tour, and fishing. The children-friendly resort has a kid’s park and also has a very active games room. Kolumban, the multi cuisine restaurant, proves to be the focal point of the stay as it offers the guest multi cuisine, but room service can also be enjoyed as a luxury. Buffet and A’la Carte with recipes from the Syrian Christians from the region are welcome. Nattukoottam, a 300 seater takes care of all the conference facilities. Kerala without ayurveda is not Kerala. The Rithgeham Ayurvedic Spa offers holistic healthcare that encourages physical, mental and spiritual harmony. Non-invasive and non-toxic treatments are used as an alternative therapy. Kerala’s equable climate and the presence of abundant forests, herbs and plants aid treatments to be successful. The following treatments are helpful – anti obesity, stress management, rejuvenate and detox, Panchakarma, Back pain, Slipped disc, Spondylitis, Migraines and Sinusitis. Yoga and meditation enhance the whole holiday.
Out and About
Round and about the plantation resort is Vandanmedu, a village in the Idukki District, an area ideal for sighting wildlife, trekking and a spot of fishing. Anamudi, being the highest peak in India, south of the Himalayas, is right there. The Periyar Tiger reserve in Thekkady is also open to nature and wildlife lovers, for an adventurous stint. Kailasam, which is exceptionally beautiful, is part of the Carmelia Haven terrain, full of tea and cardamom plantations. A trip through a teaprocessing factory and a trip to see how cardamoms are readied through a smokehouse procedure creates some unforgettable memories. The Idukki Arch Dam is just 32 kms away from Carmelia, and has the Periyar River happily flowing through it. The Carmelia Haven Plantation resort is situated amongst all this finery, beckoning to the eager tourist, making a promise of calmness.
Recommended Travel Wear
Winter: Mid – October – Mid – February | Woollens
Summer: March – May | Cotton
Monsoon: June – August | Jackets/ Wind-shielders/ Umbrellas
Resort Details
Carmelia Haven Plantation Resort and Spa
Vandanmedu,
Thekkady
Idukki-685551
Tel – +914868270252
www.carmeliahaven.com
Travel
Travel Wellness: Staying Healthy and Fit While Exploring
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
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!
Travel
Real House of the Dragon Location You Want to Visit
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.
Travel
Essential Summer Travel Bag Must-Haves
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:
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:
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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