It was our second day in Beijing and it was the perfect time to truly discover this fascinating city. Fortunately, for most visitors, the seat of China’s cultural (imperial past) and political(revolution) history, is within walking distance of each other. It’s easy to plan a day of exhaustive walking and cultural assimilation. Although, it…
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We’d never recommend 8 days to explore a country, leave alone – China. And yet, we managed to squeeze Xian and Guilin, along with Beijing, in our China travel itinerary. I’d have to admit, and Basil will agree, although reluctantly, it’s not been one of our best planned trips. With few days in hand, we…
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I look at you all see the love there that’s sleeping While my guitar gently weeps I look at the floor and I see it needs sweeping Still my guitar gently weeps. I don’t know why nobody told you How to unfold your love I don’t know how someone controlled you They bought and sold…
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In April, we stayed collectively for a period of three weeks in China – clocking two weeks in Shanghai. I’m not sure if the time was sufficient to make me get a deeper understanding of the city, but, I’ve always felt the minute you choose to stay in an apartment over a hotel, scout for…
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Undoubtedly, Chinese cuisine is probably the most popular food globally. So, what does authentic Chinese food actually taste like? There seems to be a common belief that authentic Chinese cuisine is largely raw or bland – without a trace of spice. While there maybe some truth behind this misconception; it’s hard to categorise Chinese food into a…
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Shanghai seems to be rapidly competing to transform itself into a concrete jungle – with jagged skyscrapers – dominating its cityscape. Oddly enough, sandwiched in-between these grey zones are huge spaces of green. It wouldn’t be hard to find locals and expats spending their weekends strolling, cycling, jogging, paddle-boating or camping in the park. And…
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There’s much to explore, discover, and do in Shanghai. And the lights can totally change the appearance of a monument or building, making it worth it, to stay back till daylight fades away. There’s no real order of seeing these places, unless you’re walking or cycling. I’d suggest the metro to those who are crazy (like us)…
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Would a trip to China ever be complete without a visit to the ‘Great Wall of China’? We chose to hike up the section of the Great Wall at Mutianyu. Before noon, there are fewer tourists and the sun doesn’t shine as bright. The undulating steps take you through the circuitous mountain range – offering a…
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Venice beckons more than two days of exploration time. And yet, if you plan right, two days might just suffice. On our second day we headed to the island of Murano. Vaporetto services connect each island to another. Barring the afternoon sun – the journey is a fun ride. And wish as you may; it…
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After a whirlwind tour of Amsterdam, it was time to head to Venice. It might be faster and cheaper to fly between cities. However, the advantage of opting for the Euro-rail would be the picturesque scenery outside your window. Our train, starting from Paris, would pass through Switzerland in the morning. We woke-up early to…
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