Showing posts with label Traveler. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Traveler. Show all posts
10 Travel Essentials For Every Girl
Be it rain, snow or sunshine, none of us can do without at least one long, relaxed and well planned holiday. While some choose to travel solo, others may take off with their friends or family. In between our crazy work schedules and insane lifestyle, all of us can do with some time out. It can be for an adventurous trip, or a sunny day out at the beach! After all, we all swear by the saying that goes - "To travel is to live." Oh yes, indeed!
Every destination needs its own list of must haves. From your tropical swimsuit for a beach day or the perfect pair of boots that you may have kept aside for an afternoon surrounded by snow; we've all got our checklist full! In addition, all of us have got that 'One' important list of essentials, that we can't do without on any trip. Destinations may change, but these essentials clearly don't. Some items are always a must have. Of course, I've got mine too. A few HG products, some essentials here and there, and a few items that turn 'life savers' during a long trip! Here's my list of 10 travel essentials that I can't do without. PS: Don't forget to comment below with your favourites.
Travel Sized Skin Care Kit
Just coz' you are traveling doesn't mean that you skip a routine that you swear by. So, the next time you visit the beauty store, look out for travel sized kits or sample packets of the products that you use for CTM (cleansing, toning and moisturising). Also, it would be advisable that you carry a moisturiser that contains at least SPF 30 or more. Never leave your home without sunscreen!
Just coz' you are traveling doesn't mean that you skip a routine that you swear by. So, the next time you visit the beauty store, look out for travel sized kits or sample packets of the products that you use for CTM (cleansing, toning and moisturising). Also, it would be advisable that you carry a moisturiser that contains at least SPF 30 or more. Never leave your home without sunscreen!
Our Pick: Clinique 3-Step Intro / Travel Kit
Hand Sanitiser
Be it a road trip or bird watching, you gotta keep hygiene in mind! Especially around areas that have limited access to wash rooms or hand wash basins. You definitely don't wanna mess around with dirty hands on the dinner table, after a long day out. Hand sanitisers are a saviour, especially when you have to use public restrooms or eat at highway joints.
Be it a road trip or bird watching, you gotta keep hygiene in mind! Especially around areas that have limited access to wash rooms or hand wash basins. You definitely don't wanna mess around with dirty hands on the dinner table, after a long day out. Hand sanitisers are a saviour, especially when you have to use public restrooms or eat at highway joints.
Our Pick: Himalaya Pure Hands Hand Sanitiser
Refillable Travel Bottles
A moisturiser here, and a body lotion there. All of us have several everyday skin and hair care products that we can't do without. But, it's impossible to carry the full sized products, and most of them may not come in travel sized kits. That's when these tiny bottles come handy. Fill in with your product, and change the refill as per requirement on your next trip! I mostly use these bottles for my body lotion, shampoo and conditioner. It's all about traveling light, baby!
A moisturiser here, and a body lotion there. All of us have several everyday skin and hair care products that we can't do without. But, it's impossible to carry the full sized products, and most of them may not come in travel sized kits. That's when these tiny bottles come handy. Fill in with your product, and change the refill as per requirement on your next trip! I mostly use these bottles for my body lotion, shampoo and conditioner. It's all about traveling light, baby!
Make Up Kit
While traveling, I prefer using minimal products or choose to go with just the moisturiser and lip balm. It completely depends on my mood. But, I always carry a small make up bag, with some items that I swear by. Always have a good concealer, eye liner and lip balm / tint on you. These products are good enough to spruce up your look even on a dull day. If you've got space for more, add on a brow product and some mascara! Oh, and don't forget to make a statement with some cool make up pouch.
While traveling, I prefer using minimal products or choose to go with just the moisturiser and lip balm. It completely depends on my mood. But, I always carry a small make up bag, with some items that I swear by. Always have a good concealer, eye liner and lip balm / tint on you. These products are good enough to spruce up your look even on a dull day. If you've got space for more, add on a brow product and some mascara! Oh, and don't forget to make a statement with some cool make up pouch.
Facial Mist
One of my HG products! I never leave home for a long trip without this. A spritz of this and you feel refreshed, even on a hot, sultry summer afternoon. Perfect for humid summers and even monsoons.
One of my HG products! I never leave home for a long trip without this. A spritz of this and you feel refreshed, even on a hot, sultry summer afternoon. Perfect for humid summers and even monsoons.
Our Pick: Innisfree Green Tea Mineral Mist
Sunglasses
I usually carry two pairs, or sometimes three (especially during summer). I can do without a hat or my favourite baseball caps, but it is impossible to step out for a trip without a pair of cool sunglasses.
I usually carry two pairs, or sometimes three (especially during summer). I can do without a hat or my favourite baseball caps, but it is impossible to step out for a trip without a pair of cool sunglasses.
Facial Wipes
These multi-use wipes are super handy. From a make up wipe after a long day to taking off all the dirt and grime on your face, in between a road trip or simply using it to wipe your hands after a meal; facial wet wipes have fast become a must have for every travel bag! Can't do without it.
These multi-use wipes are super handy. From a make up wipe after a long day to taking off all the dirt and grime on your face, in between a road trip or simply using it to wipe your hands after a meal; facial wet wipes have fast become a must have for every travel bag! Can't do without it.
Toilet Seat Covers
We all know the condition of most public toilets. It becomes extremely difficult to find a proper rest room, especially during a road trip. While driving on the highway, you might end up finding one at a fuel station, but these restrooms do get tricky to use. Having a disposable toilet seat cover helps. Big time! You can also carry a small can of Toilet sanitiser spray for added protection and safety.
We all know the condition of most public toilets. It becomes extremely difficult to find a proper rest room, especially during a road trip. While driving on the highway, you might end up finding one at a fuel station, but these restrooms do get tricky to use. Having a disposable toilet seat cover helps. Big time! You can also carry a small can of Toilet sanitiser spray for added protection and safety.
Tampons / Sanitary Pad
You are out on a long road trip. Zooming past villages or areas that may have limited access to sanitary hygiene items. And what if it's time for your periods to arrive and say, 'Well, Hello girl! I am back.' Always remember - its important to have a back up and / or a solution ready for everything. Keep your tampon or choice of sanitary pad pack ready with you always. You never know when it might just be 'that time of the month' (additionally, using a tracker app definitely helps to plan and organise things in advance).
You are out on a long road trip. Zooming past villages or areas that may have limited access to sanitary hygiene items. And what if it's time for your periods to arrive and say, 'Well, Hello girl! I am back.' Always remember - its important to have a back up and / or a solution ready for everything. Keep your tampon or choice of sanitary pad pack ready with you always. You never know when it might just be 'that time of the month' (additionally, using a tracker app definitely helps to plan and organise things in advance).
Medicine / First Aid Kit
A habit that my Dad always swear by, and insists that I must too. Carrying your own small pouch of first aid / medicine always helps. Not every hotel may have one, and even a chemist may just get difficult to locate. Hence, a few basic items - including band aids, burn / wound cream like soframycin, small pain relief balm / cream / spray, paracetamol and prescribed medicines (if any) are a must.
A habit that my Dad always swear by, and insists that I must too. Carrying your own small pouch of first aid / medicine always helps. Not every hotel may have one, and even a chemist may just get difficult to locate. Hence, a few basic items - including band aids, burn / wound cream like soframycin, small pain relief balm / cream / spray, paracetamol and prescribed medicines (if any) are a must.
Bonus: Travel Charger - You definitely can't do without this one! Especially on long drives, trail walks or an entire day at the sanctuary. Basically, any place where you may not have access to a charging point for long. Forget pictures, it's an important item when it comes to any form of emergency (in order order to make a call or send across an SOS).
Do you have a Travel essentials list as well? Share some of your must haves with us.
Leave a comment below or Join the conversation on
Love,
The Dancebee
If Ganga does not survive, neither will we | Dia Mirza - Exclusive Interview
In an exclusive interview with Diary of a Dancebee, Dia Mirza talks to Priya Adivarekar about living her dream of exploring the Ganges, during an enchanting and adventurous trip across several states for a recently concluded television show. Excerpts from the conversation:
For actress Dia Mirza, the opportunity to host a show based on river Ganga was a dream come true. “My father travelled by land all the way from Germany to India in the 1970’s and I grew up listening to stories of how travel defined, inspired and influenced my parents lives and their life choices. So, in a way, travel is in my DNA. And, I have grown reading about the Ganges,” says the actress. Naturally, the moment she was offered the television show, Ganga - The Soul of India, she didn’t think twice and went on to live her dream of exploring the areas around the holy river. During the shoot, Mirza traveled through several towns along the majestic river, from Gomukh in the Himalayas to the Gangasagar delta where it meets the Bay of Bengal. “This was the most enchanting experience of my life. The Ganga is one of the greatest rivers of India. A river that carries stories of our history, and is a trajectory of our present and a measure of our future. The river, which feeds over 400 million people, cuts across Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal. There are so many aspects of the river that leave you feeling intrigued,” she said.
This was the most enchanting experience of my life. The Ganga is one of the greatest rivers of India.
A nature enthusiast and staunch environmentalist, Mirza enjoyed every bit of the shoot. For her, each day was filled with moments to cherish, be it crossing the raging youthful river, mountain climbing at Uttarkashi or dancing with the Santhal tribals of Sonajhuri. The trip also gave her a chance to make new discoveries. Mirza says, “I try and explore new places as much a possible. While it is wonderful to escape to a place of comfort that is familiar, I am always more excited about discovering new places. During this trip, It was fun to explore the Rajaji National Park near Haridwar, Parmarth Ashram, 'Beatles Cathedral’ or what used to be known as the Maharshi Mahesh Yogi Ashram in Rishikesh, HESCO near Dehradun, Mussourie, Devprayag, Sarnath, Shantiniketan among others.” From villages, towns, cities, art, culture, cuisine; this journey was all about discoveries for Mirza. The actress states that the people residing along the course of the Ganga are a reflection of India’s rich and diverse history and culture. For her, the locals, their lives, art forms, music, cuisine, craft all tell a story, that shows a glimpse of the past and even the future. She adds, “Modern and ancient, old and new; several facets of India can be discover along the Ganges.” Mirza also indulged in local cuisine during the shoot. Right from Kewpies in Kolkata, La Tavola Conte and Chotiwala in Rishikesh to home cooked meals by families in Allahabad and dhabas along the way. She sampled the best of both culinary worlds and for her, every food experience was delectable and delightful.
For a river that travels 2525 kms, the journey along is full of diverse experiences and unexpected weather changes. Right from -7degrees celsius at Gangotri to higher temperatures towards the Bay of Bengal, Mirza and her crew shot for the show through it all. Though the process got challenging during winter, Mirza admits that she enjoyed shooting in the cold weather, thanks to the breathtaking sight of snow covered mountains in the higher range. The shoot also gave her a chance to overcome her personal fears, as she indulged in adventure sports. She adds, “From jumping off a 80 metre high bridge on a bungee swing to white water rafting, I did it all. I have never done anything like this in any of my personal travel trips.”
From jumping off a 80 metre high bridge on a bungee swing to white water rafting, I did it all. I have never done anything like this in any of my personal travel trips.
Quiz her if the trip gave her little time to explore the place and more adventures at her own pace and she quickly responds, “If I were on a personal trip, I would have never been able to explore and discover as much as I did during this shoot. The extent of research done by the team and my own desire to weave in the powerful context of the nature and ecology of this river and how it directly impacts our lives may not have been perceivable, if I had set out to do this on my own.” Though, the actress does admit that she would love to visit the Ganges again, to spend some quality time in the forests of Uttarakhand and learn more about the Gangetic dolphins and the work being done to save them.
Ask her for tips as a first time Ganga explorer and she says, “Keep your heart and mind open to discover India and its rich culture along the course of the Ganges. Travel by road if you can, because the magic of slow travel, those memorable stops, conversations and the meals along the course are what will all contribute in making this journey truly special. Visit the historical sites, sample local handicraft, meet local musicians, discover the beauty of nature and the vibrant ecology that supports the river. Go, fall in love with Ganga,” is what she suggests. Well, so do we.
The extraordinary work being done by people to bring awareness to clean up the river, to weed out the apathy and to stir the conscience is incredible
Apart from the memorable moments and a chance to overcome her fears, the journey also left a strong impact on her mind. “Given how diverse the experience was, I got to meet many extraordinary human beings along the course of the river, who were shaping my impressions along the way. But, if I had to choose one experience that left me shaken, it has to be the sight of the alarmingly visible pollution of the river in Benaras. The muck, deplorable state of the water; everything hit me hard,” stated Mirza. But what gives her hope are the people on ground, who have resolved to change the future of the river. “The extraordinary work being done by people to bring awareness to clean up the river, to weed out the apathy and to stir the conscience is incredible,” she quips. As our conversation comes to a close, she makes an important point to create more awareness around saving the holy river - “Ganga is not just a river. It is the lifeblood of our existence. If Ganga does not survive, neither will we.”
Love,
The Dancebee
Postcards from Kolhapur (Part 2 - Shopping & Food) | Travel
In Part 1 of 'Postcards from Kolhapur', you saw pictures of the Palace, Zoo and I also told you about the Kolhapuri Misal, Mahalaxmi temple etc. In this post, we will talk about the Famous 'Chappal' galli and the 'Khau Galli' where a bhelpuri stall has earned the title of 'All India Special Bhel'.
After having a great time in the Palace and the Open zoo, we decided to go shopping. Kolhapur has some really amazing book stores. They stock up on rare titles in English, Marathi, Hindi and other languages, which are extremely difficult to find in Mumbai. When there is a bookshop around, my family knows that I will take time out to check out the titles and buy some books. I picked up some Marathi plays and novels, including some by P.L Deshpande.
When in Kolhapur, a trip to the Chappal market is a must! Every girl loves shopping for shoes, so do I. I love stocking up on different kinds of styles instead of sticking to just one. So after buying lots of books, we decided to head towards the 'Chappal' market to indulge in some more retail therapy.
The Chappal market is very popular. An entire lane is dedicated to shops that sell Kolhapuri chappals, mojris, sandals etc. Although the demand for original Kolhapuri chappals is low as they are expensive, these shops have also stocked up on imitations of these chappals, along with fancy mojris, sandals etc. During my last trip, I got myself the authentic Kolhapuri chappal. So this time, I wanted to opt for something different.
You see that 'peek-a-boo' of someone wearing a kolhapuri? That's my sister! She picked up some stuff as well. As for me, I picked 3 pairs. a pair of simple imitation kolhapuri, green flat tie ups and a colorful Mojri. Unfortunately, Monsoon is not the right time to wear them. So, I've kept them in my shoe rack waiting for the rains to end (I already have tons of outfit ideas).
Which one do you like the most?
Later, we picked up some jaggery and spices (Kolhapur is famous for both) and then, I wanted to try the famous Raja Bhau bhelpuri. I was told that each and every individual living in Kolhapur knows Rajabhau. He even has several Facebook pages dedicated to him. From the rickshaw guy to the Local gajra seller, everyone helped us with directions. My family members thought I've gone mad and kept telling me "Stop wasting time for a mere Bhelpuri". But I didn't listen to them, because experimenting is a hobby and I had to taste Rajabhau's bhel before leaving Kolhapur. Finally, we found the popular 'All India Special Bhel' stall in a busy lane called the 'Khau Galli'. You will get anything and everything in this 'Khau Galli'. People park their cars and bikes and enjoy the yummy food with their family and friends.
This shop opens at 4 pm, shuts at 2 am and is always crowded. Raja Bhau, the owner, cooks up bhel for all the customers with a big smile on his face. He is known not only for his Bhel, but also for his kind nature. Locals say that he is never angry, never makes a grumpy face and is always active. Rajabhau takes care of everything along with his son and a few other family members. You maybe wondering, what's so special about this Bhel! Take a look.
His bhel has a spicy flavour with some tangy twist. You get two varieties, one with farsan and one without it. Unlike the normal bhel, Rajabhau's bhel has a lot of spices and chutneys mixed together. You will see very few vegetables. Those who get a chance to eat it will know why it's different and tasty! They have family packs and special packs for children and another variety for take away. How cool is that? Me and my sister stood there for a good 15mins, after eating the bhel, to find out what keeps Rajabhau going all day long. I remember seeing him on Highway on my Plate (NDTV goodtimes) telling Rocky and Mayur, "Even if a customer comes at 2 am to eat something, he will get fresh bhel with a smile on my face. I am always happy!" I love this guy's attitude, so humble and modest. I wanted to talk to him and tell him that he is really doing a good job (and say thank you for the bhel) but after looking at the impatient crowd and Rajabhau running around doing his work, I decided to come back next time, only to talk to him.
True talent deserves compliments, right?
Just before leaving the 'Khau Galli', I noticed a small tiny room next to this stall. The man sitting inside was surrounded by a zillion onions. We were shocked to see this man cutting onions without shedding a tear or two. When we asked him about it, he said "Mee eka divsaat 30-50 kilo kaande kaapto hya bhel saatthi. Haa mazaa kaam aahe. Aata kay ashru padnaar, savay zhali aahe" (Translation: I cut 30-50 kilo onions everyday for the bhel. It's my job. Tears don't roll down anymore as I've got used to it). He was so happy and content with whatever he had. In this journey called life, you get inspired by so many people and for me, he was definitely one of them. We thanked him as a kind gesture and told him to take care.
Though we clicked 2-3 pictures, I like this picture the most! It's blurry, but his smile makes up for everything. Shopping, Pictures, Bhel and more.. The Kolhapur trip was wonderful! I had a great time in Kolhapur and all the wonderful moments brought a huge smile on my face. Not only because of the items that I got, but also because I met some wonderful, hardworking people, touched a piece of history and even clicked pictures of some adorable animals.
Now, it's time to announce the winner of our 'Style Icon' contest in collaboration with Golmaal Stores. First, I would like to thank all those who participated in this contest. We got a wonderful response and some fantastic answers. Some entries were considered invalid because they did not follow all the rules. It was difficult for us to choose a winner, but in the end, it's a contest and we have to take a decision.
The winner of the 'Style Icon' contest is.... Tanya Meghnani!
Congratulations!
Much Love!
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