Jekyll2026-09-15T14:35:15+00:00https://roamingletters.com/feed.xmlRoamingLettersTravel stories, gear picks & honest recommendationsRoamingLettersOur 12-Night Bali Honeymoon Itinerary2026-09-13T18:30:00+00:002026-09-13T18:30:00+00:00https://roamingletters.com/bali-honeymoon-itineraryWe spent 12 nights in Bali this March for our honeymoon, and this is the exact plan we followed. The logic was simple: jungle and parties first, mountains next, then slow island days, and finally the cliffs near the airport so the last day is easy.
If you are planning your own trip, feel free to copy this as-is.
When we went: March 6 to March 18
Route: Ubud (3 nights) - Munduk (3 nights) - Nusa Lembongan (3 nights) - Uluwatu (3 nights)
🥗
Vegetarian? So are we.
We documented everything we ate on this trip - what to order and where to find it.
Three nights of jungle views, high-energy activities and shopping.
Day 1 (Mar 6): Arrival
1:30 PM: Landed at DPS airport, cleared immigration.
3:00 PM: Airport pickup, pre-booked on Klook (it was cheaper than Grab). Transfer to Ubud takes about 1.5 hours.
Evening: Check in and book a spa session at your villa or somewhere nearby - after the flight and the drive, you will want it. For dinner, we walked to a warung close to the villa. Some of the best local food we had all trip.
Day 2 (Mar 7): Art, shopping and the big night out
10:00 AM: Silver jewelry workshop. Pre-book one near Jl. Hanoman - you make your own ring or pendant and keep it.
1:00 PM: Shopping at Ubud Art Market - woven bags, macrame, wood carvings, textiles. Bargain, and take your time.
4:00 PM: Back to the villa for a nap. You will need it.
6:00 PM: Transfer to Canggu (1.5 hours).
The party: dinner at The Beach Love, then drinks and a lot of fun at Mexicola, Old Man’s after that, and late night at Sandbar.
2:00 AM: Driver takes you back to Ubud. You sleep in the car. Worth it.
Day 3 (Mar 8): Recovery and jungle mud
Morning: Sleep in. No alarms.
2:00 PM: ATV ride through the jungle around Tegallalang. Fun, muddy, and zero effort required, which is exactly what you want today.
Sunset: Head to Finns Beach Club for sunset and drinks.
Night: Back to the villa, pack your bags, and sleep as early as you can. Tomorrow starts at 2 AM.
Phase 2: Munduk - the misty mountains
Cooler air, waterfalls, and the quietest part of the trip.
Day 4 (Mar 9): The volcano and the move
2:00 AM: Pickup for the Mount Batur sunrise trek.
6:00 AM: Sunrise from the summit, breakfast at the top.
10:00 AM: Back at the Ubud villa. Shower, second breakfast, pack.
12:30 PM: Check out and drive to Munduk (2.5 hours).
3:30 PM: Check in and do nothing except sit by the infinity pool. The trek has earned you this.
Day 5 (Mar 10): The silent lake
Morning: Tamblingan Lake canoe tour - a private traditional canoe on a still lake, usually with mist. One of the most peaceful things we did all trip.
Afternoon: Red Coral Waterfall. An easy 15-minute walk, not a trek.
Day 6 (Mar 11): Dolphins at dawn
5:00 AM: Drive to Lovina (45 minutes).
6:00 AM: Dolphin watching on a private boat.
10:00 AM: Back in Munduk. Rest of the day is completely free.
Phase 3: Nusa Lembongan - island bliss
White sand, blue water, no agenda.
Day 7 (Mar 12): The ocean transfer
9:00 AM: Drive from Munduk to Sanur harbour (3 hours).
1:30 PM: Fast boat to Nusa Lembongan (30 minutes).
Sunset: Cocktails at The Deck or Ohana’s.
Day 8 (Mar 13): Manta rays and lagoons
Morning: Private boat to Manta Bay to snorkel with manta rays. Book this - it is the highlight of the island leg.
Afternoon: Rent a scooter or buggy, cross the Yellow Bridge, and visit the Blue Lagoon on Nusa Ceningan.
Day 9 (Mar 14): Total relaxation
All day: Sandy Bay Beach Club or Mushroom Bay. No plans, no timings. This day exists so the trip does not feel like a checklist.
Phase 4: Uluwatu - cliffs and the finale
Dramatic sunsets, surf culture, and an easy exit to the airport.
Day 10 (Mar 15): Southbound Sunday
11:00 AM: Boat back to Sanur, then Grab or Gojek to Uluwatu (1 hour).
Evening: Sunday sunset at Single Fin - the iconic cliff bar. Go early for a good spot.
Day 11 (Mar 16): Hidden beaches
Day: Thomas Beach (much quieter than Padang Padang) or Melasti Beach.
Dinner: Seafood BBQ at Jimbaran Bay, or a clifftop restaurant if you want to dress up once.
Day 12 (Mar 17): The cultural send-off
4:30 PM: Head to Uluwatu Temple.
6:00 PM: Kecak Fire Dance at sunset. Touristy, yes. Skippable, no.
Night: Farewell dinner.
Day 13 (Mar 18): Flight home
Morning: Sleep in, late brunch.
11:30 AM: Check out, Grab to the airport.
3:00 PM: Flight home.
The logistics that made it work
Transport
Airport pickup: Pre-book it on Klook. It worked out cheaper than Grab for us.
Long transfers: Pre-book a private driver for Ubud to Munduk and Munduk to Sanur. Expect around IDR 600k to 800k per day.
Short trips in Uluwatu and Sanur: Grab and Gojek work fine and cost a fraction of hotel taxis.
On the islands: Walk, rent a scooter, or take a golf cart buggy.
Boats
Sanur to Lembongan and back: book with Rocky Fast Cruise or D’Camel. The crossing takes about 30 minutes.
SIM and internet
Get your eSIM delivered to your hotel instead of buying an overpriced SIM at the airport. The airport wifi is good enough to book your cab and message the hotel, so you are covered until you check in.
Apps to download before you fly
Gojek / Grab for taxis and food delivery
Klook for the airport pickup and activity bookings
WhatsApp - every driver and hotel in Bali runs on it
Google Maps - download the offline map of Bali before your flight
One packing tip
Leave half a suitcase empty. Between the wood carvings from Ubud and everything else you pick up along the way, you will fill it. We speak from experience.
Questions about any leg of this route? Ask us on Instagram - we reply to every DM about Bali.
]]>RoamingLetters4 Must-Have Travel Essentials2026-06-04T18:30:00+00:002026-06-04T18:30:00+00:00https://roamingletters.com/four-must-have-travel-essentialsAfter years of traveling across different cities, countries, and terrains, my packing routine has become highly optimized. While some gear depends on the destination, there are four non-negotiable items I pack first on every single trip.
These items solve the biggest travel headaches: keeping documents secure, getting stable photos, keeping devices powered, and keeping toiletries clean and organized.
Whether you are traveling solo or in a group, getting photos where everyone is in the frame (with the background visible) can be challenging. Asking strangers often leads to blurry shots or bad angles. This extendable selfie stick with tripod stand and Bluetooth remote is the perfect photography assistant.
Using navigation, translating signs, taking photos, and looking up reviews drains your phone’s battery faster than normal. There is nothing worse than being stranded in an unfamiliar place with a dead phone. A high-capacity power bank is a crucial safety item.
20,000 mAh capacity that can charge most smartphones 4-5 times. Features fast charging, multiple input/output ports, and built-in protection against overheating.
Living out of a backpack or suitcase means constantly packing and unpacking. Toiletries can easily leak or get lost. A dedicated, water-resistant hanging toiletry bag keeps your items clean, visible, and organized, while keeping hotel counters clutter-free.
Water-resistant fabric, transparent compartments, and a sturdy 360-degree hook. Perfect for keeping shampoos, toothbrushes, and cosmetics organized and leak-proof.
When exploring airports, train stations, or busy city streets, you need quick access to your essentials without constantly taking off your backpack. A water-resistant crossbody sling bag keeps your phone, passport, cash, cards, and keys securely against your chest and within easy reach.
Lightweight, water-resistant shoulder bag with multiple zippered pockets. Perfect for securely carrying your phone, passport, currency, and travel documents on the go.
If you’re looking to upgrade your travel setup, start with these four essentials. They are durable, high-utility, and make a massive difference in how smoothly your trips run.
Happy packing! 🎒✈️
]]>RoamingLettersBudget Travel Essentials Under ₹20002024-10-11T18:30:00+00:002024-10-11T18:30:00+00:00https://roamingletters.com/budget-travel-essentialsNot all great travel gear has to be expensive. After years of travel, I’ve found that the most useful items are often the cheapest. Here are my top budget picks - all under ₹2000 on Amazon India - that I use on every trip.
Roll-up compression bags are the single best way to double your bag’s capacity. Perfect for bulky items like jackets and jeans. Squeeze the air out, and they shrink to half the size.
Airport security limits liquids to 100ml. Buy a set of leak-proof travel bottles and fill them with your regular products instead of buying overpriced travel-sized brands.
Economy flights. Noisy hostels. Bright hotel curtains. A good sleep mask is the cheapest productivity hack for travel - rest well and enjoy your days more.
Soft, plush fabric feels gentle against your skin. Adjustable strap fits any head size. Blocks light completely for deep rest during long flights or noisy hotel stays.
Underrated travel tool. Clip wet clothes to the outside of your bag to dry while walking. Attach your water bottle to your pack. Hook bags together. A set of aluminium carabiners adds endless utility at near-zero weight.
Medical help can be unreliable or expensive abroad. A compact first aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, ORS packets, and basic medication covers most minor travel incidents.
Fits in a side pocket. Contains the essentials: adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze, tape, tweezers. I've used mine across India and internationally.
Total cost of everything above: ₹1,950–₹4,200 depending on brands - but you’ll use these on every trip for years. The per-trip cost quickly becomes negligible.
Pro tip: Buy these 2-3 weeks before your trip so you have time to test them and return anything that doesn’t work for you.
Happy (budget) travels! 🌍✈️
]]>RoamingLetters9 Travel Gear Items I Never Fly Without2024-10-09T18:30:00+00:002024-10-09T18:30:00+00:00https://roamingletters.com/vietnam-travel-gearAfter spending 9 days across Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Hanoi, I learned quickly what gear earns its place in your bag - and what doesn’t. This is my definitive list of 9 travel essentials for any trip, honed through real experience.
The single most important decision you’ll make. Travel means humid weather, narrow streets, and moving between cities constantly. A carry-on-friendly 40-45L pack keeps you nimble - no checked baggage queues, no lost luggage risk.
You’ll be on boats, in caves, at waterfalls. Your phone won’t survive all of that. I shot the Golden Bridge at Ba Na Hills, kayaking in Ha Long Bay, and parasailing in Da Nang - all with an action camera.
Long train rides, overnight buses, all-day tourist spots - you will drain your phone. A 20,000 mAh bank charges my phone 4-5 times and also powers my camera.
Southeast Asia uses a mix of plug types. Vietnam uses Type A and C, but your hotel might have something different. A universal adapter eliminates all uncertainty.
The flight from Mumbai to Ho Chi Minh City is 6+ hours. Add the internal flights between cities, and you’re spending a lot of time in airplane seats. A good memory foam neck pillow is worth every rupee.
This sounds like overkill until you’ve lived out of a backpack for 9 days. Packing cubes mean you can find any item in 10 seconds, keep dirty and clean clothes separate, and actually use every inch of your bag.
Whether you’re on a boat or stuck in a sudden monsoon, your phone needs protection. I’ve submerged my waterproof pouch to 10m while snorkelling and had zero issues.
Whether you’re solo or in a group, a small flexible tripod gets you better shots than any stranger you hand your camera to. Mine got used every single day on my travels.
That’s the complete list. Every single item on this list earned its place through actual use - nothing here is hypothetical. If you’re heading out, start with the backpack and the power bank - everything else is secondary.
Happy travels! 🌏
]]>RoamingLettersPlanning an International Trip? Don’t Miss These Essential To-Dos2024-10-04T18:30:00+00:002024-10-04T18:30:00+00:00https://roamingletters.com/international-travel-checklist
Planning an international trip can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or taking your first big adventure abroad, it’s essential to cover all your bases before boarding that flight. To help you avoid any last-minute surprises, I’ve put together a detailed checklist of must-dos to ensure a smooth, worry-free trip.
Book Your Return Flight Tickets Early
This is the first and foremost thing to handle. Lock in your return flight tickets well in advance to avoid price hikes or sold-out flights. Having your return sorted not only gives you peace of mind but also helps with visa applications and overall travel planning.
Plan Your Domestic Travel Wisely
Whether it’s trains, buses, or domestic flights, make sure to pre-book your transport for internal travel within the country. Check baggage allowances carefully when booking domestic flights, especially if you’re travelling to multiple cities. Being aware of baggage policies can save you from unnecessary stress and costs later.
Pre-Book Hotels, Tours, and Key Attractions
It’s always smart to pre-book your accommodation and tours, especially during peak travel seasons. Research places of interest in advance and book the key attractions, tours, or activities to avoid disappointment on arrival. You wouldn’t want to miss out on iconic experiences due to last-minute unavailability!
Prepare a Detailed Itinerary
A well-planned itinerary is key to making the most of your time abroad. Include details of your flights, accommodations, tours, and other bookings. It doesn’t have to be set in stone, but having a general plan helps you stay organized and ensures you don’t miss any must-see spots.
Handle Your Visa on Your Own
Instead of going through third-party services like Thomas Cook, opt for a visa on arrival or an online visa if available. Doing it yourself can save money and reduce the hassle of dealing with middlemen. Plus, online visa applications are usually straightforward.
Get Good Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is non-negotiable! Check out platforms like Policybazaar for options and choose a policy that covers medical emergencies, cancellations, and any other travel hiccups. It’s better to be safe than sorry, especially when you’re far from home.
Forex Exchange - Carry Enough Currency
Exchange enough local currency before you fly out. It’s always a good idea to carry a little more than you think you’ll need - unexpected expenses can crop up, and having cash on hand saves the trouble of hunting for forex exchange counters or ATMs abroad.
Check the Weather and Pack Accordingly
Weather can make or break your trip, so make sure to check the forecast before you pack. Don’t forget to prepare for sudden weather changes too - extra layers, rain gear, or sun protection might come in handy depending on your destination.
Research Local Transport
Understand how to get around in your destination city. Is public transport more cost-effective, or should you rely on taxis or ride-sharing services? Researching this in advance will help you navigate the city with ease and within budget.
Sort Out Your Phone Connectivity
Staying connected while travelling is crucial. You can either buy an international SIM card or activate roaming on your existing number. Having an active phone will make navigating, staying in touch with family, and handling any travel-related apps much easier.
Pack Light and Smart
Avoid the temptation to over-pack. Carry only the things you know you’ll use, and leave behind unnecessary items like your laptop if you don’t need it for work. The lighter you pack, the easier it will be to move around, and you’ll also have space for any souvenirs you pick up!
Don’t Forget Travel Essentials
It’s the little things that can make or break your comfort while travelling. Pack essentials like extra pairs of socks, handkerchiefs, and a travel-sized bottle of shampoo or hand soap. If you’re taking a long flight, invest in a neck pillow for added comfort.
Invest in a Good Travel Bag
A sturdy, spacious bag is a travel must-have. Consider getting a rucksack if you’re planning to do a lot of moving around. Rucksacks are versatile, easy to carry, and perfect for both short trips and long hikes.
Carry a Camera Tripod
Whether you’re using a mobile phone or a DSLR, a tripod can help you capture stunning pictures without the blur. It’s particularly useful for solo travellers who want to snap a perfect shot without asking others for help.
Activate Your Debit/Credit Cards for International Use
Make sure your debit and credit cards are activated for international usage before you leave. This is crucial for emergencies when you might run out of local currency and need to make payments abroad.
With these essential steps checked off, you’re all set for a fantastic and stress-free international adventure! Happy travels!
]]>RoamingLettersExploring the Heart of Vietnam, One City at a Time!2024-10-01T18:30:00+00:002024-10-01T18:30:00+00:00https://roamingletters.com/vietnam
I can hardly believe it’s been a while since my incredible trip to Vietnam with three of my office buddies back in August 2019. The memories are still so vivid! We had the time of our lives exploring this beautiful country, filled with laughter, excitement, and, of course, mouth-watering food. Join me as I take you through our whirlwind adventure packed with unforgettable experiences!
Day 0: Journey to Ho Chi Minh City
Our adventure kicked off with an exciting flight from Mumbai to Ho Chi Minh City via Malaysian Airlines, with a quick stopover in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. It was a smooth connection - just one hour, so we didn’t even need a transit visa! To our surprise, we got upgraded to premium economy! The extra legroom and comfy seats made the long flight so much more enjoyable. And let’s not forget about the unlimited drinks! We settled in, enjoyed some snacks and refreshing beverages, and eagerly anticipated our arrival in Vietnam.
After a restful night (or as restful as it can be on a plane), we touched down in Ho Chi Minh City the next morning, buzzing with excitement for the adventures that awaited us!
Day 1: Hello Ho Chi Minh City!
After snagging an early check-in at our cosy Airbnb (totally worth the extra $10!), we freshened up and hit the streets. It was a bit rainy, but that didn’t dampen our spirits one bit!
First up was a local market, and wow - what a sensory overload! The colours, the smells, the hustle and bustle! We wandered around, soaking it all in and picking up some snacks for later.
Next, we made our way to the stunning Opera House. It was the perfect backdrop for some fun photos! Then it was off to Backpackers Street for dinner, where we indulged in some mouth-watering street food. Seriously, I could eat banh mi every day!
Pho - yummy dish
To end our first night, we hit Lush Club, where we danced the night away. The energy was infectious, and we had an absolute blast!
Day 2: More Ho Chi Minh City Fun
On Day 2, we started at Nha Trang Market, diving deeper into the local culture. The vibe was awesome, and we found some cool souvenirs to take home.
After that, we headed to the Bitexco Financial Tower. The views from the observation deck were jaw-dropping! We couldn’t resist snapping tons of pics with the city skyline in the background.
In the afternoon, we did a Heineken tour, where we learned about brewing and enjoyed some tasty samples. By the time we made it to the walking street, we were ready to explore more street food and soak in the lively atmosphere.
That night, we joined the bustling nightlife again, dancing and laughing until we could hardly keep our eyes open!
Day 3: History and a New Destination
Day three was all about diving deep into Vietnam’s rich history. We started our morning with a trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an extensive network of underground tunnels used during the Vietnam War. As we arrived, we were immediately struck by the dense jungle surrounding us, a stark contrast to the historical significance of the area.
Our guide shared fascinating stories about how these tunnels played a crucial role in the war, allowing soldiers to hide, travel, and launch surprise attacks. As we descended into the tunnels, the atmosphere shifted; it was a surreal experience to imagine what life was like for those who had lived there. Some of us even tried crawling through a section of the tunnels, which was both exhilarating and eye-opening!
After our tunnel exploration, we had the unique opportunity to shoot an M1 rifle at the shooting range on-site. The adrenaline rush was incredible! Hearing the loud bangs and feeling the power of the rifle in our hands brought a whole new level of understanding to the stories we had just heard. It was an unforgettable experience that added a thrilling twist to our historical day.
Once we had finished at Cu Chi Tunnels, we hopped on a flight to Da Nang, excited for the next leg of our adventure. As we took off, we reflected on the morning’s profound experiences, knowing we were about to embark on a different kind of exploration. Upon landing, we settled into our hotel, eager to unwind after a long day. After a quick refresh, we decided to venture out and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Da Nang.
That evening, we strolled along the Han River, taking in the beautiful views and vibrant lights. The city was buzzing with energy, and we couldn’t wait to see what Da Nang had in store for us in the coming days!
Day 4: Ba Na Hills Magic
Our fourth day was dedicated to the enchanting Ba Na Hills, a stunning destination known for its breathtaking views. We kicked off the day by taking a scenic cable car ride to reach Ba Na Hills. The ride was about 20 minutes long, offering mesmerizing panoramic views of the lush greenery and distant mountains that left us in awe!
Bana Hills Cable Car
Once we arrived, our first stop was the famed Golden Bridge. This stunning structure, held up by giant stone hands, provided us with incredible views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. We captured countless photos, feeling like we were in a fairytale as we soaked in the beauty around us!
Golden Bridge
After enjoying the views at the Golden Bridge, we made our way to Sun World Amusement Park, nestled in the mountains. It was a wonderland of attractions! We took our time wandering through the beautifully themed areas, riding thrilling roller coasters, and enjoying various fun rides. The laughter and excitement were contagious, and we felt like kids again!
Sun World Amusement Park
Later in the afternoon, we spent some time exploring the whimsical French village, complete with charming architecture and delightful gardens. The atmosphere was magical, and it was hard to believe we were still in Vietnam!
Day 5: Marble Mountains and Beachside Fun
On our final day in Da Nang, we started the afternoon by visiting the incredible Marble Mountains. We hiked up to admire the breathtaking views, explored the intricate caves and temples, and soaked in the serene atmosphere.
View from Marble Mountain
After our hike, we treated ourselves to some delicious Indian food for lunch. After days of Vietnamese cuisine, it was a comforting change that hit the spot!
With our bellies full, we headed to the beach for some thrilling parasailing. Floating above the sparkling waters and taking in the stunning coastline was absolutely unforgettable. The views were breathtaking, and it was the perfect adrenaline rush!
As the sun began to set, we strolled along the beach, admiring the vibrant night lights of the city and the spectacular Dragon Bridge, which illuminated the night sky in a dazzling display. The atmosphere was magical, and it was the perfect way to wrap up our adventure in Da Nang.
Day 6: Off to Hanoi
On our last day in Da Nang, we hopped on a flight to Hanoi, the capital city! As we landed, we were immediately swept up in the hustle and bustle of the city, where scooters seemed to outnumber people.
We spent the day exploring the vibrant streets, taking in the sights and sounds of this dynamic city. Our first stop was a cozy café where we tried some traditional Vietnamese coffee. The rich, bold flavour was a delightful pick-me-up!
Next, we caught an incredible water puppet show, a unique cultural experience that showcased traditional Vietnamese folklore. The performances were mesmerizing, and we loved every moment.
Afterwards, we headed to the city centre, where we explored a local market filled with all sorts of goodies. We picked up some last-minute souvenirs and tried a few more tasty snacks.
To wrap up our day, we visited the iconic Long Bien Bridge, soaking in the views of the Red River and watching the sunset over the water. It was the perfect end to an unforgettable trip!
Day 7: Boat Party in Ha Long Bay
Bright and early, we set off for an unforgettable boat party from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay. The stunning limestone islands surrounding us were a sight to behold!
Once we anchored, we had the chance to swim in the ocean. Even though none of us could swim, we still had a blast splashing around in the shallow waters and enjoying the breathtaking views. It was a memorable experience, with laughter echoing all around!
Ha Long Bay
That night, we stayed on a private island, where the fun continued with plenty of drinking games. The atmosphere was electric, and we all let loose, making some hilarious memories under the stars.
Day 8: Kayaking and Back to Hanoi
The next morning, we rose early for an exciting kayaking adventure through the fishing villages of Ha Long Bay. Paddling through the calm waters and taking in the stunning scenery was a highlight of the trip!
After our kayaking adventure, we cruised back to Hanoi, where we had some time to go street shopping. We scoured the markets for unique souvenirs to take back home, and of course, indulged in a few last bites of delicious street food!
Day 9: Departure Back to India
On our final day, we packed our bags and headed to the airport for our flight back to India. As we boarded the plane, we couldn’t help but reminisce about all the incredible moments we shared during our trip.
Final Thoughts
Travelling with friends made this trip even more special. Vietnam’s culture, food, and stunning landscapes stole our hearts, and we left wanting more. If you’re thinking about visiting Vietnam, go for it! You won’t regret it. Here’s to more adventures in the future! 🌏✈️❤️
]]>RoamingLettersCity of lakes from our big blue planet - Part 12020-08-14T18:30:00+00:002020-08-14T18:30:00+00:00https://roamingletters.com/udaipur
Have you ever felt like your head’s under 6 feet water and you are slowly running out of breath? Whenever I feel the water rising, I try to look up at the blue sky, and slowly swim to the shore.
At the beginning of my career, I nosedived an important interview which could have opened the doors to a permanent position at Morgan Stanley. This turned into a major setback, giving me sleepless nights. Frustrated, I decided to start swimming to the shore and took some time off to travel to Northeast India. But as Murphy’s Law prevailed, all the northeastern states were dueling with torrential rainfall and floods. Yet somehow, this solidified my resolve to briefly escape the gloom of the city life. As my favored destination battled the wrath of the rain gods, I decided to run off to the driest place in India. And ended up in this beautiful city of lakes, Udaipur. Without giving much thought or even research, I booked train tickets from Mumbai to Udaipur and back. The train time was about 16 hours on one side.
The planning
Well, most people get their itinerary sorted and then book the tickets accordingly, but I did the reverse of that. I booked the tickets and the started thinking about the itinerary. I wanted to try something different so thought of a road trip. My initial itinerary was:
Day 1: Reach Udaipur. Check-in to Zostel. Hire a bike and explore the city
Day 2: Ride to Jaisalmer. Spend the night
Day 3: Roam around the city. Leave for Pushkar
Day 4: Reach Pushkar. Roam around the city.
Day 5: Leave for Udaipur. Reach Udaipur before train leaves for Mumbai
Reaching each of these places takes a minimum of 10 hours, and now if Google Maps show you 10 hours, then that shall be the ultimate truth, isn’t it? And that’s where my naïve heart was wrong. As the voice of reason prevailed, I finally did my due diligence and found that it’s not possible to ride for that long without stopping, so got a reality check there. Also, even if I execute this, I won’t be able to explore the beautiful places I am visiting and that will be a shame. Hence, I decided to first reach Udaipur and then take it from there.
As far as packing is concerned, I packed a small backpack and decided to leave behind my DSLR as the weather forecast showed heavy rains all along the trip.
The journey
The 16-hour long journey was refreshing and filled me with exhilaration. It took me on a reverie of long drawn out thoughts about the present, the future and everything that fell in between. The train ride was inundated with gushes of heavy rains and scenes of the rain-washed western countryside. Halfway through, I left my seat and walked over to the coach entrance to stand by the open door. Water splashed across my face and I felt the cool wind ruffle through my hair. The feeling was that of pure and utter calmness. I spent a couple of hours there, wondering what life could be ahead of me after the trip ends. Will I have to relocate to my hometown and look for another job there, the thought was confounding.
View from the train
As my thoughts took me through every possible scenario, I realized I might not have the answers to these questions yet, but I will surely find them. The realization, once again, strengthened my belief in the saying “The road has all the answers”. It really does. I have tried it and it works. You see the whole world of possibilities in front of you, laid out, and you can think openly. That’s what I like about it. Whenever you think your head’s underwater, just take out some time and take a trip.
Upon reaching Udaipur, I took an auto-rickshaw a.k.a. tuk-tuk, to reach the city center, but the network was bad so google maps merrily abandoned me. I had to take the old school way of stopping and asking people for directions every few kilometers. I soon realized that locals were not familiar with Zostel, my abode for the next five days, which made finding the place an even tougher task. As I scampered my way through and reached the vicinity, it started raining again. I hurried to find temporary shelter and found so in front of a local shop. As I waited for the rain to slow down, I saw what the rain-drenched city had to offer. A whole street with local shops selling a plethora of antiques, shawls, and other fashion wear. A lot of tourists walking around in raincoats enjoying the rain while I stood under the shelter without any rain cover. I couldn’t do much but wait for the rain to slow down. Once it did, I started looking for my destination again. A few mins later I found the place and checked-in.
Home for next five days
Zostel - Udaipur is a charming little place. The place has a very warm and inviting vibe. It had a common playing room in the basement with a casual and cute setting: wall hangings and paintings, different types of pillows, seating space on the floor with a mattress, a small coffee table in the middle and loads of board games and card games to keep the guests occupied. And as if to add to the touch, a pool table at the side. Other than this there was also a cafe on the terrace to accommodate roughly 30 people. Attached to the cafe was another small entertainment room, it housed a couple of couches, some bean bags, a television, games like carom and to bring out the hidden artist in you, an acoustic guitar kept on one side of the room.
Hostel Decor
I had booked a bed in an eight-bed dorm room. The guy at the reception showed me the room and as I surveyed the room, I decided to pick up the upper bunk. There was just one more individual in the room other than me, a sweet young woman, roughly the same age as I am. We greeted each other and chatted for a while, discussing what we did for a living and what brought us to Udaipur. I found that she was interning with Zostel and had been staying there, all alone, for about a month at that point. I am sure she loved her own company because if I were in her place, I would have just lost my mind. Just the mere thought of having just myself and my thoughts for company felt pretty dire to me.
