Travel
Stairway to Heaven : A Journey to Ladakh
Shafts of sunlight wake you up from a much needed slumber that was brought upon by a crazy work schedule and the vanishing weekends in between. You look outside, and are momentarily stymied by this…
…the sight of hundreds of snow capped peaks, stretching as far as the eye can see. The Mountain Kingdom awaits, and you catch your breath, only to lose it again as you land in the pleasantly cold Kushok Bakula Rinpoche airport. That’s how my ten day tryst with Ladakh began.
We arrived at the lovely Hotel Gawaling International, a proud and quiet oasis in the little town of Leh, with an impressive backdrop of majestic mountains and a little creek that in the mornings almost dry, gushed forth in the evenings. Little hotels may lack fancy accouterments, but they make up for it with unabashedly warm service, and an enthusiasm we soon discovered was characteristic of the Ladakhi soul.
The rest of the day was spent acclimatizing; if that’s what you call mimicking a sloth bear before hibernation. On a serious note, most of Ladakh averages a height of about 12000 feet above sea level (carry altitude sickness tablets with you) and the overzealous traveler would do well to spend the first day in bed. Prepare to have little to no cellphone coverage at all. No complaints though, not when you have soup, momos and Jenga blocks for company.
Enroute to Khardung La
The northern frontier is best seen in the summer months of June and July, when there is enough sun to take a dip in the Indus and traipse around the monasteries that dot this land, but also enough Jack Frost in the air to keep some chilly winds and snow flakes swirling around you as you climb higher and higher, searching for those treacherous high passes the land is named after ( La Dakh, land of high passes).
Khardung La, easily one of the world’s highest motorable roads, is a must, even if you do get snowed in for four hours (we did). In such times, take comfort in the stories your amiable driver will tell you. Better yet, ask your travel guide his story, and he will tell you how he is actually saving up to go to France someday. Let him chip into your conversation about the meaning of life and all the while, know that you are high above most people anywhere in the world(literally).
Head back to Leh after your adventures, for this charming town has much culture and love to offer. Shanti Stupa is the Buddhist answer to a stress buster. Instead of letting your hair down and sipping cosmos, let the winds caress your tresses as you scarf down some Tibetan butter tea. Walk into the Leh palace, and let the ageing paint, wood, and dust stir a feeling of deep seated imperialism in you. Buy turquoise jewelry, pashmina shawls or apricots if you’re a keen shopper. Visit a monastery, spin the prayer wheels of dharma, and let your sins escape into the mountains. If you’re lucky, you will sight little Llamas, boy monks robed in maroon that are schooled on the temple grounds.
Wheels of Dharma
Shanti Stupa, an Indo Japanese token for peace
Speaking of schools, trivia alert: the school featured in the 3 Idiots movie is worth a quick look – Drukpa White Lotus School in Ladakh is famous all over the world, for its award winning sustainable and eco friendly design. Besides, who wouldn’t want to play basketball in a playground encircled by the Himalayas? This place is witnessing quite the wave of education and reform. A dear friend swears by an educational NGO called SECMOL in the village of Phey, some twenty kilometers from Leh, so if you have the luxury of time, you might want to investigate, if only to applaud the spirit of the little pink faced cherubs in these schools.
If you have a day to spare, make for the camping grounds in Nubra Valley. The journey alone is enchanting. I’ve always loved wild landscapes, and the ride didn’t disappoint. Sudden sandstorms chase your heels, rogue waterfalls beckon, and amidst bare stone, there is that sudden emerald lagoon, blazing trails of green. Keep your windows rolled down, and if you squint hard enough, you can spot some native wildlife-gorgeous horses, furry marmuks, even Bactrian camels. These camels once carried trade along the historic Silk Route from Central Asia into India. They now ship tourist upstarts like yours truly and indulge in the occasional photoshoot.
Nubra Valley from afar
Mystique Meadows, one of the camps at the Valley.
I’ve saved the best for the last – a slice of heaven the locals call Pangong Tso. Nestled in land that is both India and China, the lake is exquisite, almost something out of Tolkien’s world. When the wind and clouds are just right, it is a mirror, with the endless skies reflected to create a heady view. Lofty mountains stand guard over this precious pool, their peaks at once chocolate, beige, sawdust, and every other color you can think of. This is my favorite thing about the trip-that I could throw my head back anywhere, and the skyline would be anything but buildings and neon signs.
Pangong Tso.
When I was there, I sought refuge in the lakeside Martsemik Camp for the night so I could get me some more shutterbug time in the morning, when the light is just right. Resigned to hiding under layers of sweaters and chaddars, I was more than surprised when the staff braved their way to my tent, armed with heating pads for my bed. It is the little things, truly, that count. Why then, should we indulge the giant hotel chains that threaten to quash these thriving tourism industries with all their monstrous commercialism? Why indeed.
A little more wanderlust will lead you to the Indus Zanskar confluence in central Ladakh, where you can ride the rapids. Pick a route and a grade (Beginner to challenger) and before you know it, you’re riding through valleys and little hamlets singing some Denver while you drift. Jump out of the raft and into the river during the last leg, and swim along…even if it leaves you with chattering teeth and aching muscles, the adrenaline will have been worth it.
Is Ladakh an easy trip to make? Surely not, but the locals will shell out some Zen wisdom ,tell you to let go of inhibition, and let Nature lead the way. As for me, it was my Indian Winterfell summer, and by Jove, I’d love to do it all again sometime.
Travel
Discover extraordinary places and enjoy unique experiences
Exploring extraordinary places and having unique experiences are pleasures everyone wants to enjoy. There are many wonderful places to visit around the world, accessible with the right preparation and proper support. These destinations offer exceptional tourist services, are within your reach, and are waiting for you to discover them!
Travelling is one of the most enriching experiences a person can have. It allows you to discover new cultures, stunning landscapes, and moments that remain etched in your memory forever. If you are planning your holidays or a delightful weekend getaway with your partner, family, or friends, you’re surely considering all the options available to you. There are many excellent tourist destinations worth visiting.
Exploring unique destinations like the beaches of Tenerife, luxury villas in Sardinia, and The Mora Resort in Zanzibar are wonderful options to consider—not only for the breathtaking views but also for the high-quality services you’ll find there.
The unforgettable beaches of Tenerife
Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, is famous for its extraordinary golden and black sand beaches, formed by volcanic activity. It’s a paradise for sun and sea lovers, as well as those seeking adventure and water activities. From surfing at Playa de las Americas to diving in the crystal-clear waters of Los Cristianos, Tenerife offers a wide range of experiences to suit all tastes.
There are some Good Tenerife beaches that you’re sure to fall in love with as soon as you arrive. All you need to do is plan well, check your possible routes, and, for added convenience, hire the services of a reliable taxi agency to take you across this coastal haven.
With access to transportation, you can visit any of the wonderful and paradisiacal beaches in this magnificent corner of the world. Simply coordinate the itinerary with the taxi you hire and get ready to enjoy one of the best experiences of your life—it’s certain to be a great help.
Luxury villas in Sardinia
Sardinia, an Italian island in the Mediterranean, is known for its stunning landscapes and exclusivity. The villas Sardinia offer a unique accommodation experience, combining modern comfort with the island’s natural beauty. These luxury villas, many located on the famous Smeralda coast, boast panoramic sea views, private pools, and direct access to private beaches.
These villas are the favourite spot for affluent individuals seeking tranquillity, beauty, comfort, and adventure all in one place, where you can spend unforgettable days surrounded by opulence in a setting full of style and sophistication—everything you deserve on your holiday.
To find the villa you want, it is advisable to seek the help of a good estate agency to assist you in finding a rental property for your holiday. Fortunately, there are excellent options for luxury villas in Sardinia that you can check out on the recommended portal and book straight away to ensure your perfect holiday spot.
The Mora Resort in Zanzibar
Zanzibar, an archipelago off the coast of Tanzania, is renowned for its beautiful white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. The Mora Resort, located right on one of its most stunning beaches, offers luxurious experiences and relaxation in a paradisiacal setting. This resort blends traditional Zanzibar architecture with modern amenities, set in a unique and welcoming environment.
Guests can enjoy activities such as snorkelling, diving, and boat trips, while exploring the rich marine life and coral reefs of the area. In addition, the resort offers spa and wellness treatments, allowing visitors to relax and rejuvenate in a tranquil and beautiful setting. The cuisine at this resort is another highlight. Its restaurants offer exquisite fusions of local and international flavours, using fresh, high-quality ingredients.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable holiday, Zanzibar is an excellent option, and The Mora offers an unforgettable stay to make your trip even more special.
In conclusion, whether you’re seeking relaxation on the golden sands of Tenerife, indulging in the luxury of Sardinia’s villas, or immersing yourself in the paradise of Zanzibar’s The Mora Resort, these exceptional destinations promise unforgettable experiences. With the right preparation, each journey will leave you with lasting memories, making your travels truly extraordinary.
Travel
Enjoy a luxury holiday in Zanzibar
On the coast of Tanzania lies Zanzibar, a dream destination that promises an unparalleled and exotic experience for tourists seeking relaxation. If you’re considering visiting this stunning location, there’s no better way to do so than by staying at the luxurious The Mora hotel.
In Zanzibar, The Mora hotel can be found on the beautiful Muyuni Beach, where it stands out for offering an environment full of comfort, exclusivity, and luxury. This five-star resort is ideal for those looking to enjoy a unique and comfortable lodging experience in a paradisiacal setting.
At this prestigious hotel, you’ll find a wide range of services and entertainment activities suited to all ages and preferences. With private pools, gourmet restaurants, a luxury spa, evening entertainment, a kids’ club, and much more, The Mora proves it has something for everyone, making it an essential destination if you’re exploring Zanzibar.
The Mora: an unmatched luxury experience
The Mora resort Zanzibar is strategically located on Muyuni Beach, renowned for its beautiful landscapes, white sands, and turquoise waters. Here, guests have the opportunity to experience unparalleled luxury, combining elegantly designed and comfortable rooms with stunning panoramic views of the sea.
The Mora also offers an extensive and diverse dining experience. In its restaurants, you can savour exquisite local cuisine as well as eclectic international dishes. Additionally, you can enjoy your meals in the elegant dining areas of the restaurants, by the pool, or on the beach.
Beyond the unmatched luxury and comfort of The Mora, the hotel also provides a wide array of activities and entertainment. For water enthusiasts, there are various aquatic sports such as paddleboarding, diving, and snorkelling. Meanwhile, those who prefer land-based activities can enjoy a wide variety of cultural excursions.
Promotions and benefits
The Mora offers various options to suit different budgets without compromising on comfort or luxury. Additionally, you can always find The Mora promotions on their official website, including exclusive plans for families and couples, as well as discounts for special days and early bookings. Although prices may vary by season, there will be options available that offer greater affordability.
Furthermore, The Mora is known for its exceptional customer service. Once you arrive at the resort, the staff will be available 24/7 to handle any requests and resolve any doubts or issues that may arise.
Moreover, The Mora is not only distinguished by providing a luxury experience and extensive amenities but also by its strong commitment to sustainability and respect for the environment. This commitment is reflected in the implementation of numerous ecological practices and support for the local community’s development.
What to Do in Zanzibar
If you decide to stay at the stunning The Mora hotel, the next step is to explore everything Zanzibar has to offer. Among the key places to visit, Stone Town stands out as the island’s historic and cultural centre, where you can admire its breathtaking monuments and buildings.
Simultaneously, Zanzibar is an ideal destination for all water activities enthusiasts. It’s no surprise that you can partake in a wide range of aquatic activities, such as diving in the beautiful nearby coral reefs, swimming with dolphins, relaxing sunset cruises, or visiting the turtle aquarium. You’ll also find an extensive range of majestic beaches to suit all tastes. Muyuni Beach, where The Mora is located, is one of the standout options. However, you can also find other beaches like Kendwa and Nungwi, which offer a livelier environment, or Paje and Jambiani, which provide a more tranquil setting.
In conclusion, choosing The Mora for your stay in Zanzibar ensures an unforgettable luxury experience amidst one of the most breathtaking settings on earth. With its exquisite accommodations, diverse dining options, and an array of activities designed for relaxation and adventure, The Mora offers everything you need for a perfect getaway. Coupled with its commitment to sustainability and exceptional customer service, your stay at The Mora will not only be a lavish retreat but also a meaningful contribution to the local community and environment. Embrace the magic of Zanzibar and let The Mora elevate your holiday to new heights of comfort and elegance.
Europe
Barcelona and Athens: cities that will leave an everlasting impression
Finding the ideal destination for a holiday or a good long weekend can be challenging without access to many alternative options. Luckily, there are cities that need no introduction to know that they hold the solution; such is the case with Barcelona, in Spain, and Athens, in Greece, which you should always have at the top of your list of potential places to visit.
Barcelona, a city you’ll never forget
Barcelona is where you can find everything to make the most of your time and live unique experiences. Just go online and search for a city guide of Barcelona to review everything and start planning your trip.
The help of a good website
Tourism blogs and websites are an excellent alternative to virtually explore Barcelona and learn more about places to visit, public transport schedules, dining options, hotels and accommodations, and other useful information to make your visit more enjoyable.
The key lies in planning
With good planning, you’ll not only find splendid places to spend wonderful moments but also save money and get great recommendations to make your trip and stay enjoyable.
Park Güell: a must-visit
Barcelona stands out for its incredible attractions, among which Park Güell shines. Just read more about this interesting place to fall in love with it and make this visit mandatory.
What is Park Güell?
It’s one of Barcelona’s most emblematic places, designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudí. Originally conceived as a housing development and later converted into a public park.
Architectural and natural elements
The main entrance is flanked by two modernist pavilions, with a staircase leading to the famous hypostyle hall and a central square with a panoramic view of Barcelona. Additionally, it features over 17 hectares of gardens, viaducts, and winding paths, integrating architecture with the natural landscape.
Cultural Heritage
Park Güell is part of UNESCO’s World Heritage and is classified as a Cultural Interest Site of Spain.
Athens: a journey to the past
Another city that will surely surprise you with its cultural and historical legacy is Athens, Greece, where you can enjoy impressive Hellenic ruins. It’s advisable to visit an Athens travel guide on the internet before you go to learn about everything and better organise your visit.
Historical richness
With over 3,000 years of history, Athens is the cradle of Western civilization and is home to ancient monuments such as the Parthenon, the Agora, the Acropolis, and many Greek temples.
Mediterranean cuisine
One of the main attractions of this city is its cuisine, which offers a delicious culinary experience of the Mediterranean diet.
Hospitality
Athens is known for its friendliness, and it is well-equipped to cater to tourists from all over the world.
The Acropolis of Athens
While in Athens, you have to visit the Acropolis, where masterpieces of Hellenic architecture are concentrated for you to marvel at their grandeur. Keep in mind that it is a highly visited site, so you should book now to secure access for your visit.
Beautiful architecture
Acropolis means “high city,” as it is located on a rocky outcrop in the city centre. Here you’ll find several iconic buildings from Athens’ golden age (479 – 431 BC), such as the Parthenon, the Propylaea, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena.
Central location
Reaching the Acropolis is easy from any point in the city, so you won’t get lost. From there, you’ll have panoramic views of the city spreading out at your feet.
In conclusion, Barcelona and Athens stand as timeless destinations offering an enchanting blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. Whether exploring the iconic landmarks of Barcelona or delving into the rich historical tapestry of Athens, these cities promise unforgettable experiences for travellers seeking adventure and discovery. With careful planning and the aid of modern resources, embarking on a journey to these vibrant metropolises ensures a truly memorable escape.
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