Travel
Take a Break : Your Guide to the hills of Northeast
FWD’s travel for the month of June 2015, Ronnie Kuriakose explores the green hills of Northeast
It was yet another scorching day in Delhi with the mercury rising past the figures that the weathermen had predicted. I had a spring in my step as I danced my way to the airport. I was headed for the quaint hills, the ageless forests, and the formidable ranges of India’s far corner, a region of rugged beauty, a weaving of cultures, climates, landscapes, and people – the North East. It was not a quest to seek inner peace atop Himalayan peaks watching glaciers melt into rivers that would soon find its way across Assam’s floodplains, nor was it a pilgrimage, to move mountains in the hopes of finding Tawang.On reaching Guwahati airport at ten on 24th April, I, having already decided on the flight that I am only going to explore Guwahati city on my last day here, proceeded to make arrangements for a straight journey to Shillong. I walked around, in and out of the many souvenir and travel stalls installed at the airport, waiting for the bus that would take to Guwahati. There, on reaching Paltan Bazar, I got on a sumo for a reasonable 170rps to Shillong, passing the Umiam Lake on the way and the Space Exploration Centre.
On reaching Shillong, I roamed around for a bit trying to find a good place to stay. Apparently, Police Bazaar is a good place to stay and right at the heart of Shillong from where you can get to any of the nearby places in ease. I stayed at Earle Holiday Home for a moderate 600rps a night for a hut. It was comfy. The service was brilliant, and I would recommend anyone going to the North East to stay here. I met some local lads who agreed to show me around for a cup of coffee. They took me, obviously, to a coffee shop – Café Shillong. But it proved to be a lot more than that. For the people there, it was a haven for pop-culture, sports, and music. We talked for hours. Coffee soon gave way to dinner and thoughtful conversations, as a storm brewed outside.It was drizzling when I first woke up on the 25th. The windows were laden with mist obscuring vision. Rain pattered steadily against it and on the roof. It was cold outside, but under the blankets I found warmth and the need to sleep again. It was not until after one that I woke up. It was still rainingand this time, a lot too loudly with occasional bursts of thunder.It was then that it dawned on me that I had forgotten to bring along my raincoat. I thus had to stay indoors until 3 watching the news as details of the Nepal earthquake poured in.At 4pm, I knew that I had stayed indoors long enough. I decided to head out for a bit, to stretch my legs, and hopefully, if the offices are not closed yet, gather some information. Luckily for me, the Meghalaya Tourism Office was only minutes away.
I collected several brochures and stopped at Delhi Mitra Hotel at Police Bazaar to inspect them more closely. Their must-have Cholee Bature however, prevented that from happening. The food was delicious, as all warm food is when the weather is this cold.I roamed around the market until well late into the evening, pointing at things and asking for its name. The winding roads soon took me to Don Bosco Square, and I found myself standing outside Café Shillong. I walked in to try one of their highly rated pork burgers and ended the meal with a thick slice of walnut cake and coffee. The manager, whose name I later learned, Dahun, sat down next to me – a solo-traveler clearly in distress. He helped me get some of the details right, and then later we sat talking about topics ranging from football, astronomy, and adventure. It was already very dark around 9 and there were not too many people on the road as I walked back to my hut. Shillong sleeps early, but I stayed awake for a bit longer trying to work out the logistics for the remainder of my days here, keeping a good eye on the news. On 26th, I woke up to the songs of the summer bird and found that the sun was not up yet. Far ahead in the distance, however, I could see the golden crown emerging from between the peaks where it had since yesterday nestled to sleep. I took a long walk again and found myself outside the city, in the great open lands. I strolled through goat trails that ran up the cliffs, crossed small streams that divided villages, and along fields that seemed to stretch to the far ends of the horizon.And it seemed right then to have a church there, at the end of the lane, where land and sky met. It was where I had planned to meet The Pariats. They introduced me to a couple of their friends, and together we attended an early service, singing songs in unison. There was no element of religion in it, but for a foreigner to the region, there was a lot of culture and utopian societal values to be observed here.After a gloriously satisfying morning, I made my way to Ward’s Lake where I paid a reasonable 60rps for an hour of boating. I had thoughtfully bought a newspaper along the way to read, andI did just that while peddling around in circles, annoying the many swans that made a home here. An hour passed fairly quickly, and I found myself walking up the hill to wash away any girth of humility and modesty that the church service had instilled in me. Engaging in a game of golf and rubbing shoulders with Shillong’s rich and powerful, clenching hard cigarettes and gulping down crude coffee.
Noni, the manager of Shillong Golf Club, is a stark contrast to the men that frequent the place with his calm, friendly demeanor. When the rain stoppedplay and any hopes of me getting myself known to the big shots here. I thanked him for his generosity and strolled back into the club where a plate of pork chops awaited me.On one of the brochures that I picked up the other day, I had learned that Meghalaya Tourism Board arranges Adventure Tours around Shillong every Monday and I, having already paid for it online for the tour on the 27th, hurried there just in time to board the bus.It left at 8 and headed straight for Mawkdok Valley View Point, where I did a bit of zip-lining. It was totally worth the high price. We then headed to Eco Park where several streams converged until the end of the cliff and suddenly disappear underneath a layer of rocks. It is rightly called the Missing Waterfalls. There, atop the cliff, I saw the vast plains of Bangladesh. Next we headed to Maw-Sami Stalactites Cave. We were advised to not stay close as it gets very hard to breathe due to the lack of oxygen there. Seven Sisters waterfall was the next, majestic attraction that we went to, followed by Mot Trop Rock, considered by the locals to have formed around an evil giant’s basket. As it fell after the giant was killed by the people thereby getting him to eat a meal with nails and broken glass pieces. Thang Kha Rang Park was the next stop. It was also a fort built by the British as a vantage point for their operations here. We then headed to Cherrapunjee, where we spent the rest of our day, not before stopping at Ramkrishna Mission Museum for high tea. We came back rather late, and I had neither time nor energy to do anything, but fall asleep and that’s just what I did.
The next day, I boarded a bus back to Guwahati, not all the way but till Parowa Intersection, which is 10kms away from the city, from where I boarded a traveler to Tezpur. I reached Tezpur University where my friend had arranged accommodation for me. It was gloriously huge university, boasting of well-maintained gardens and infrastructure. I had only planned for a night’s stay here, but on learning that the university was having their cultural programs tomorrow, I booked for another night, and it was totally worth it. I had a chance to explore the museums inside the campus, make use of the sports facilities and even meet a few professors to indulge in insightful conversations on the culture here. I made my way to attend a short screening of the documentary, Mists of Maijlu followed by a Colloquim on Bihu – the Spring Festival of Assam. It was a delightful experience.I woke up early the next day and made my way further up north to Tawang. We drove around roads that snaked it way up mountains and along meadows atop cliffs until we reached the foothills of a mountain. Atop it I found, beneath layers of mist, the spires that made Tawang Monastery. It was a splendid sight. I stayed at the PWD Guest House courtesy of the office I met during my stay at Shillong. I slept that night to the sweet music of the cold winds as it brushed against slender pines. It was very peaceful, and the world that I knew seemed so very far away.The next morning, I availed the chopper service to get down to Guwahati quickly and roamed around the old town until it was time to board my flight. I travelled for travel’s sake, and it was worth it, inspiring me to travel for travel’s true purpose in the months to come.
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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