Water is the driving force of all nature.
                                                                That rush and your will power!,
                                                                     Image Source: VerticalBug

It's interesting to know the growth of Adventure Sports in India.While some of the sports are relatively new,read my article on Huffington Post "Top 10 Adventure Sports in India you missed last time" and you'd be surprised on the various options we have now including Skydiving and Heli Skiing.With the rise of adventure sports enthusiasts,a rise in new ways and new techniques are highlighted.One such exciting new Sport is Canyoning.You can't call Canyoning all new,because of its similarity to Waterfall Rappelling. However,there are differences,and there are regions which caters to beginners and professionals alike.

Canyoning/Canyoneering is an exciting sport,a cross between abseiling or rappelling & caving into waterfalls. Canyoning is a combination of fun activities including sliding in water, jumping into the pool of water, passing through narrow passages. Let's check what wikipedia says with regards to abseiling and rappelling and Canyoning:

Abseiling (from German abseilen, meaning "to rope down"), also called rappelling, is the controlled descent down a rock face using a rope.Canyoning (known as canyoneering in the U.S. and Australia) is traveling in canyons using a variety of techniques that may include other outdoor activities such as walking, scrambling, climbing, jumping, abseiling (rapelling), and/or swimming.

In simple words,While canyoning is similar to waterfall rappelling, there is a slight difference wherein it involves scaling down an entire mountain from the top while waterfall rappelling is done mainly from a height of 100 feet. While in waterfall rappelling, you descend the rock attached to a harness, there are times in canyoning when you can slide down the rope.

Canyoning is mostly done is remote and rugged regions and of course India has lot of scope for Canyoning in established regions along with regions which has recently come up.

Who can do it? Canyoning Fitness Levels

There are Canyons with different grades suitable from beginners to advanced skill level. For beginners level canyons there are No specific skill requirement.  You will be given training on abseiling or rappelling before you will be asked to enter the canyon.For more moderate to difficult grade canyon  swimming is required.

Canyoning in Manali,India

Manali valley is abundant in rivers & waterfalls. The canyon is situated in Vashist on the Kroni river. For the medium canyon (grade III / IV) a 40 min walk will take you to your starting point high above the village, with a descent of aprox 3 hrs. The second canyon grade( IV/V) takes 2 hrs to go up & aprox 5 hrs to come back down. It starts with an 80m drop !!!Canyons are located around Manali and both Himalayan Extreme Center and Top Rock Adventures (TRA) organize Canyoning in Manali.

Canyoning in Uttarakhand,India

Canyoning is organised near the Neer Gaddu waterfalls at Rishikesh.RiverRain Adventures authorized by Uttarakhand Tourism Board organizers Canyoning in Rishikesh.Resorts in Rishikesh also offer canyoning facilities around their site; one of them is Elephant Brook Resort.Canyoning in Rishikesh would roughly cost you around Rs 2000 - 2500.

Canyoning in Maharashtra,India

Canyoning can be attempted at the Sandan Valley in the Bhandardara region and Ulhas Valley in the Karjat region of Maharashtra while Waterfall rappelling can be tried at Bekare in Karjat, Vihigaon and Naghotne as well as in Kolad and Bhivpuri in Maharashtra. Jungle Lore organizes waterfall rapelling in Maharashtra whereas Nature Knights organizes Canyoning in Maharashtra.

Canyoning in Goa,India

Goa Jungle Adventure operate fully guided jungle Canyoning trips from Palolem, Goa, for both beginners and experts. Call them or visit Casa Fiesta in the evening for further information or to try Canyoning in Goa.They have plenty of Canyoning sites depending on your grade of Canyoning.Sonnare is one such site.Poshvine also has Canyoning tours in Goa.

Canyoning in Karnataka

Canyoning can also be done in Dandeli at Sathkonda Canyon.his activity is carried out inside the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary. Requires reasonable fitness and a head for heights.

While I haven't tried Canyoning yet,I think it is my bucket list for the next year.Have you tried Canyoning before?If yes,how was your experience like and if no,then why not?Wish you all a very happy x-mas,may Santa flood you all with wonderful gifts of your choice.

  From the Ramayana to the National Epic of Thailand,Oh Yes! Ramayana does exist in Thai folklore                                                      and in many ways,Thailand is quite similar to India
                                                                               yet very different.        
                                                       To know more:  Thailand Official Website               

Sawadee Kha,welcome to the land of happy smiling faces.Guess where I have been all the time,while you were missing me?Thailand it is,my second time but I feel like I hadn't known Thailand until now.While Thai Curry has also been my favorite,it was no less than a surprise that red,green and yellow curry are not the only choice we have like what we are used to believe in India.It was an alternative way of travelling Thailand.Thailand which is not Pattaya or Phuket and I am glad it wasn't Pattaya and Phuket.It is what Thailand really is.Into the most basic "Land of massive temples,kick boxing,waterfalls,cooking Thai Food,staying in a river camp,cycling and offering food to the monks,and of course shopping!".It was an year end soul cleanse in December with colors,cultures,history and adventures in Thailand.

"Sometimes its strange and you may not understand us.But the Thai people,we can smile and laugh all the time.Sometimes we know it's bad behavior to laugh at something but its our nature to always laugh before whatever has happened.Like when you see the kid's fall under,we laugh first but we know.Because we believe when you laugh the crisis is getting  better.Because we also believe if a kid fall and you scream they will stop and they will cry and they might think it's a serious thing they have to cry.But if you smile,they feel ok "its not that bad,I should not cry" they get stunned a little bit and then they laugh - Says Poom,happily smiling with enthusiasm.

Here's a quick photo essay before we discuss about visas,where to stay,how to plan,travel video and etc in the upcoming Blogpost. And if you have been to Thailand,you have to share a story.I am sure,for those just back from Pattaya,the stories are going to be strange,sweet or wild(You know what I mean!) but if you haven't explored Thailand as we did,you are missing the real Thailand the way It is supposed to be explored ;)

Dear Friends,


                        Video Recording in the middle of the street  for #Thailand Travel Video
                                               
Today For some Reason I feel like not writing about the places I go to,but on how lucky or rather not so lucky I have been.And with so many mails on how to be like me,I feel like just penning down my thoughts as it comes by.I would love,if you could add in your generous(straight from the heart) thoughts.I would also love if you choose to disagree with the way I live my life,but that wouldn't stop me from dreaming the way I want it to be.And it goes like..

                                                The tree which refuses to die in #Thailand
                                         Why don't we listen to our heart than our mind?

Life is all about choices
I remember long back
Folks told me,why don't you choose a safe career
And I had only one answer "That it has bored me for 4.5 years"
And now it is my time
I remember folks told me,
That love is for fun and marriage is serious
You have got to lose people to strengthen your bond
I chose to be with people who I had a bond
Why break some,to make one.
I remember my parents doubting my choice
Of career or of love
While they had little faith
Ain't every parent like that
I remember folks told me to be careful
For each bad memory I have,there are 100's of good ones
Replacing every moment.
For every person who think I have been lucky
Can you survive a 365 days fever and still smile?
Can you live with reports,diseases
And still pretend you have got all the strength in the world
And move with everything happens is for good.
Yes,I have been ill throughout the year
It was the toughest year of my life
But dat didn't stop me for venturing into 5 countries
Lucky I am to those and grateful to those
who had faith in me
Things did change,I had mood swings,
I talk less,fears which I can't define
At times I felt really weak
But slowly and slowly I am gaining the confidence
to win over my illness,to be me again.
Thankful to the new friends I made
Thankful to the contests I won
Thankful to the new experiences I have got
Thankful to the mistakes I made
Thankful to the old people who messed me up
Thankful to the happy new year ahead
Live with me
And you would know it's not easy
But nothing is..
I have heard people speaking of problems
When they have none,actually.
It's just missed opportunities
Or lack of positive attitude.
The only way to live is now,
If you love someone,tell them
Don't wait for a yes or a no
If you want to be someone
Don't wait for the money to come
Rather take a risk and be who you are
Time goes on
It wouldn't stop
But as long as you love what you do
Is what matters
If you love a person,be with them
If you do not love a person,leave
If you like something,grab
If you want something,express
If you wish something,pray
But do not just pray 
For more luck
Pray that you have the confidence
To plan and do what you want
Then unplan and make it happen
Life is simple
We,make it complicated
Thinking about things which might never happen
Than about things which should.
We,as Indians,most of us,including me
I come from a humble family
I can't splurge in millions
But I still can get a small
Maple syrup for my friend next door
I hardly take money from my hubby
I know he has his own dreams and so do I
We work sometimes together
Sometimes not so together
But we are still very much together
I don't like competing
I am good or you are good
Is not what I believe in
I believe as long as we are not harmful
We all are good.
You wouldn't believe when I started a blog
2 years back.
I didn't know what was a blog
I didn't know how to make it beautiful
I didn't know the codes either
I didn't know I had the courage
To stand in the middle of the road
and Speak to people
Or stand in the middle of the road
With the tripod and speak 
All I knew is I wanted to help people
out there,to figure out how to travel
On their own,and let them know
About people behind sports
and voila! Everything fitted in
Just as I thought it would be
I don't think I am successful even yet
But I am satisfied
With the work I do
How many of us are,really!
And not just to gain some random SEO
or a ranking or even money
It's a fine balance
Between what you want and what you are
And without losing respect
And your own sense of self
Is what is making me
Everyday,Every time,Every now.
For every person who has been bad with me
I wish them luck dat they can be gud to others
For every person who is good with me
They are safe in my heart
For every person who has warned me
I say them thanks
But also wish that they get the courage
To leap forward with their dreams
I believe in fairy tales
And they do happen for real
What do you call falling in love at first sight
Or winning something just out of the blue
Or songs playing somewhere far but your choice
There is magic everywhere
All you have to do is
Seize it tightly with both your hands
And not let it go..
Because once you do
It will be part of somebody's else dream
and you will have to wait.
But even then,
Time goes on
Life goes on
There will always be scope for
More new people,more new love
More new opportunities,more new you
More new all the good things in the world
Because what goes around comes around
If it is worth it
So have faith
In your dreams and people you love
But more importantly,
Have faith  in you!
Because the magic you create
Is the magic you are worth of - Anki S.

Ankionthemove Congrats Dubai for World Expo 2020 Win!
Previous Post on Dubai Abu Dhabi and Dubai PhotoEssay
Dubai All Posts
To know more : Visit Abu Dhabi Official Tourism Website

How To Get Dubai Visa[Official Website Click Here]


                  Me in Sheikh Zayed Mosque,Abu Dhabi,Where Blessings Shower Every Hour

I somehow wonder why on Internet we don't have many site that help us with visas. It's just us,searching in the whole Google network, or asking our friends or friends of friends to guide us through. Dubai was one such case.Although the process was simple,we decided to not take a risk and pre-query "Marhaba Services" who we have had heard from one of our friend that they guide you in the best way possible for Dubai. So we , took all our documents,and took the help of Marhaba Services who were very confident of our passports(UK & US stamped) and said that we will get in three days flat if approved,which we got over mail.I would highly recommend them, but now that I know what is required and what isn't, may be I can guide you through.Also,with Emirates Airlines you get assistance on visa.We couldn't book Emirates because our time didn't match,however,to avail visa assistance you can also follow up with them(I have heard they are the best airline to Dubai but never got a chance to fly in them sadly). Similarly , with low cost but convenient airline Air Arabia.However,in both cases your return journey should be by a single carrier i.e to and fro by Emirates or to and from by Air Arabia.

• A Tourist Single Entry Visa would ideally cost INR 6300  and is valid for 58 days from date of issue(Stay 28+2 days)
• You can also avail 96 Hours visa only Dubai which costs INR 4800 and is valid for 58 days from date of issue and is for 96 hours only.

What You Require for Dubai Visa

• Your passport(Mandatory)
• Return and Onward Journey Tickets(Mandatory)
• US/UK visa stamped copy(optional)
• 4.3 x 5.5 cms photo(Mandatory)
• Application Form(Mandatory)
• Proof of Stay (Optional - Booking.com is highly recommended:Read reviews before you book)
• Proof of Sufficient Funds to cover travel(IT returns etc)(Mandatory)

You may or may not require everything as stated above,but to avoid rejections its best to carry all documents as per checklist. The checklist changes from time to time, so please keep a track of what all is required currently.

Currency of UAE

UAE Dirham(AED) = INR 17(Current Rate)

Best Time To Visit

Year round but November to March is pleasant weather

Best Budget Places To Stay In Abu Dhabi & Dubai

Al Diar Dana Hotel , Abu Dhabi ( AED 300 Double Room,INR 5100) : Huge Spacious Rooms for its price
Al Diar Mina Hotel , Abu Dhabi ( $ 54 Double Room , INR 3294) : Lonely Planet Recommended
Dubai Youth Hostel , Dubai ( INR 2018 )

Best Mode of Conveyance

Similar to Many other cities in the world,Dubai and Abu Dhabi also has Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour which is very convenient and easy to avail.As a backpacker,I had used it in Scotland and found them to be immensely helpful(No more taking taxis from point A to point B unless it's an emergency).

Package or No Package / Flights we Opted For

Since we were on our own tour with friends,we chose to go without package.However looking at the options we have the MakeMyTrip Dubai package with Airfare looks like a good option.As the individual airfares itself cost somewhere around 16-25k(The lowest is Oman Air with 18k Airfare return).We chose Air Arabia to Shahjah as the timings were perfect for us(Leaving at 2 ,reaching at 5) and chose to board a bus from Sharjah to Abu Dhabi(AED 40 , 1 Hour).While return,we chose services of Qatar.Qatar Airways is one of my favorite Airline,I know I can never go wrong with Qatar...the leg space is adequate,the food on board is awesome and even the services of the crew are at par. Air Arabia however has pay for check in luggage if not prior notified about the luggage(Please read) you carry. Fortunately we had done so..

The Spectacular Sunrise of Abu Dhabi Airport


                                         The dawn shines over the tall monument in front of airport

I talked about my landing with lights in my last blog-post. Little did I say about my exit from the airport. It so happened that I was busy purchasing local sim card at the airport to activate my cellphone with a local number(Don't forget to do that,the roaming charges will burn your pocket),and just then I saw an orange hue outside.The dawn was slowly shining over a tall monument just outside the airport.I took out my Camera. and there goes Click Click. How beautiful can a sunrise be..Slowly and patiently I got into by bus from Sharjah to Abu Dhabi not knowing what lies ahead.What lies ahead was no less than a wonder. It started with heap of scattered sand on both sides and a broad road on which my bus was treading at its own speed. Moving ahead,moving on. And then came sea on one side and another. Sea?Deep Blue Sea?Sea with a backdrop of sand, sand playing with sea. Every moment Every second, I felt like taking pictures,but the window of my bus had dirty grey lines playing spoilsport. Even then I could manage to take some interesting snap shots.Would you like to see one?

            On the way..I told you the bus had dirty windows,but isn't this a great road to drive along.

Abu Dhabi First Glimpse

The rugged sand with endless sea took a smooth sophisticated way at the Corniche . Corniche is a road that winds along the side of a steep coast.It looked like I would love to walk there forever,or may be have a cuppa of Hot Turkish Coffee in one hand and admire the coastline.Talking of Turkish Coffee,the moment I arrived at Abu Dhabi Airport, I saw a small counter with Tea, Coffee, Turkish Coffee etc as Menu.Happily I gave him AED 10 and to that I had my first sip of the Turkish Coffee. It can be said in one word "Either you would like it,or you would abhor it - There's nothing that comes in between".It has a sharp bitter taste with tinge or flavors of spices.It reminded me of Kahwa in Kashmir to some extent only if it was made on Coffee. I added sugar, bitter isn't my favorite and so the sweetness with bitterness and flavors of spices was just what I wanted.

Sheikh Zayed Mosque : Where Blessings Shower Every Hour



The peace in us is enlightened with a soul connection of true spirits,of blessings,of all things good.I,cherish each moment from the entry to the exit to the grand Mosque where I wore an Abaya for the first time.It is simple,we have changing rooms,they give the Abayas to be worn over your own dress and voila! You are one of them.The sacredness that you feel at that moment,the oneness is no where else to be found.It is as if,we all are one.We all bow down to the same God and hence the blessings are all ours to be together happily shared with one another.I went inside,with a smiling face not knowing how beautiful it was inside.The carpet spread over was a single weave,the natural light shining as if giving a positive Omen.The mosque was a wonder,the water in front of the mosque added to the beauty while the intricate work on its door,its walls and everywhere was spectacular.

What To Wear In Abu Dhabi/Dubai

Respecting the culture,it is essential to wear little conservative clothing but that doesn't mean you have to be dressed in layers of clothing.I didn't find unusual stares in the whole of Abu Dhabi or Dubai or Sharjah;anything below knee is acceptable or an inch or two above too is acceptable.No transparent clothing,No ultra revealing clothes.As long as it is modest,it is acceptable.In Mosque there are dress codes,but you dress yourself for the occasion in the changing rooms.In Desert Safari in Dubai you can wear shorts also.In Malls too,the instructions are written to be dressed appropriately and no PDA:Public Displays of Affection and as long as you wear clothes you are comfortable in and its modest,shouldn't be a problem.As I said,I didn't find unusual stares anywhere.For Old Dubai Gold Souk area,wear clothes which are below knee or preferably full length.

                             Ankionthemove Congrats Dubai for World Expo 2020 Win!


Let me share with you all a secret.I wasn't very excited before going to Dubai,all I knew was "It is Dubai where many people transit from one airport to another" or go for another Desert Safari and fortunately this mindset of mine took a U-turn when my AirArabia flight slowly landed in the glittering lights of night in Sharjah!Never had I imagined in my dreams that Abu Dhabi and Dubai would be so beautiful ,that people are so nice,that conservativeness open arms for the new generation so effortlessly,that 6 lanes aren't always highways and beaches are not always for Maldives or Mauritius but Dubai too.It, what I thought was boring and lackadaisical initially when in India,was indeed a destination worth exploring not just as a transit but may be at-least for 6 days.I plan to go there twice,if given a chance,I think my 5 days visit was way too less now.Isn't that what happens when you fall in love with a place.


 Let me ask you once "Have you been to Abu Dhabi and Dubai and have spend some time there,slowly smoking the Shisha or watching rapidly moving Ferraris.What do you like most?"

         Wearing an abaya,my memories of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi are priceless

You all must have noticed,that I took a break.Not replying to comments,not even writing a blog post for a week. Abu Dhabi and Dubai was the trip I had planned (rather my friends had planned for me) sans internet sans mobile connectivity.Sometimes,it is essential to take a real break,don't you think so?(And what better place than Dubai?With the nation celebrating its win on World Expo 2020,we witnessed a series of flags,spectacular lighting,and Dubai International Parachuting Championship too.So well,the stories are about to start,but let me tell you this time we don't have a video(I wasn't on work trip :) so I took pictures wherever I felt and not wherever I was supposed to).I was wondering if my blog TRP would go down,but I still have 700+ hits a day,not slowing down to somewhere 100 as I took a break.

                                                                       Dubai, Where the sea is blue...

I willingly was on a vacation,a real vacation with friends.The vacation I was dreaming of..So let me tempt you with the beautiful pictures above and as we go further I help you with visas,where to eat,where to shop,what to wear,and where to enjoy the most.And oh! If you want,you can also add your suggestions which will be put across in the blog post..Let people know how beautiful this place is :).

It is in those vivid colored Mosaic & Ottoman Lamps I fell in love with, almost instantly. My affair with Turkey begins with a pause; stopping by a warm ambiance of romantic intrigue of sparkling lights and friendly banter. Early this year, during my visit to India International Trade Fair 2013 in New Delhi I got a quick glimpse of mini-Turkey in exotic Lamps, Carpets and Nazar boncuğu(Turkish Evil Eye Protection).Turkey is one of those destinations that will affect anyone for the rest of their life - no other destination offers perfection without trying too hard - no wonder why it is slowly and gradually becoming everyone's first choice, including mine. Soaked in the mysteries of what lies behind such an extensive use of evil eye in the Fair ,I was gifted an evil eye "I think you like it, said he, and you may just have it. It brings good luck and protects from all bad things. Good Luck to you lady"

                                        Those sparkles that took my heart away @ IITF

That stuck out a conversation, a long conversation on how culturally rich Turkey is and how deeply connected we all are and why I should visit the country very very soon. Taken aback by surprise by his humble gesture and friendliness, I decided that one day this place would be mine. Of course, that day till date never came, but every time I think of Turkey it is those moments of friendly ,culturally traditionally, rich land I imagine on a backdrop of Hot air balloons flying in the sky giving eternal a whole new meaning.

  As if I am some Aladin, lost in the land of Gold and Underground and happy to be lost forever.

There are no doubts as there are surely million reasons to visit Turkey but my reason is just one. I want to visit Turkey because I am in love with its vibrancy of Colors and Feelings which as of now I am virtually admiring through Google. So first, I take you to my definition through Colors,I wish could be mine:

1)Blue - The Blue Mosque To The Mediterranean Coast To The Evil Eye 

Every wish begins with a prayer. The blue tiles adorning the walls of its interior, the blue Mosque at Istanbul is the most famous and most beautiful one. The cascading domes dominate the Skyline of Istanbul and when in Turkey faith will take precedence for me. With the blessings of Allah(God) and with the protection of the evil eye ,I take a long peaceful walk along the Turquoise Coast of Turkey scattered and sprinkled with fine-sand .I love beaches and with Turkey offering 1577 km of pristine coastline there can be no better location. Even though Turkey has amazing coastline, it still isn't’t recognized as a coastal beach destination and with my trip when I bring back stories people will know there so much more to Turkey than they know. For sandy beach and clear water, Oludeniz would be my choice , for beaches with activity Bodrum will be.I might also decide to take a cruise from one of the starting or end point as Bodrum, Marmaris, Fethiye or Demre.

2)Multihue - Kilim(Carpets) To Turkish Delights To Belly Dance To Spices

Turkey is a heaven for carpets, man or machine made. Although ,I wouldn't be buying the original which I have heard is expensive ,that wouldn't stop me from admiring the priceless work of art and I have heard Grand Bazaar is the place to be. You will find range of lanterns and lamps galore in Istanbul, Kusadasi, and Cappadocia and a souvenir when I head back is going to be a lamp. The expansive cuisine of Turkey goes way beyond kebabs and takes in Middle Eastern and central Asian influences. So to fulfil my gastronomical desires with exotic fusion of spices and real food, I might just gain a kg or two when coming back. I also plan to learn a dish or two to cook here for my whole family so a visit to Spice Bazaar,Istanbul would be must.The gypsy and the ever young belly dance mesmerises men and women alike. So when in Turkey,a visit to belly dance, learning belly dance or simply enjoying the folk dance will add to my fantastic night outs.

3)White - The Cotton Castle 'Pamukkale'

The Bollywood movie "Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani" and the song "Kaese Bataye Kyun" and my Google search for the place started. Initially I thought it was a self-created set, but when I searched "It was for real,yes,Pamukkale".One of the destinations I admire and wonder how artistic Nature is.Pamukkale, meaning "cotton castle" in Turkish,is both, a magical and spectacular natural site, unique in the world with cascading layers of pure white mountain chiseled to create steps. It’s not ice nor salt and is actually a summer landscape with hot springs, crusted with calcium deposits. On my list since I told you when :).

And there is more, marvel at painted churches chiseled into rock, descend into underground cities, walk through ancient towns, where else than Turkey?So my feelings couldn't wait to experience these:

4) The surreal Fairy chimneys of Cappadocia and Hot Air Balloons

Soaring between the rock formations in the deep valleys of Cappadocia,admiring the breathtaking lunarscape like a dream, is the ride over the hot Air Balloon in Cappadocia. This is one wish,I have kept it aside just for Turkey,if it has to be hot air ballooning,it can't be any other but Turkey. There is another more relaxed way to admire Cappadocia.Drinking black tea with the Turks,and making friends, which for Turkey is a land of friendly people, wouldn't be difficult at all or to end it on a highly musical note watch an array of Turkic/Ottoman folk dances. Awesome isn't it?

5) Ancient Roman streets of Ephesus

Turkey's historical highlights and natural wonders are stunning. Step back in time and explore the ruins.

6)Snow-capped peak of Mt Ararat

Until I did a google search,I didn't know that "In spring, you can go skiing on the mountains and after a couple of hours of drive, you can go swimming in the Mediterranean Sea (near Antalya)."When you are in the water you can watch the mighty snow-covered peaks of the Taurus Mountains."Imagine! Isn't that like a dream.Well,It is,and it is said that the Bolu mountains are beautiful and so is the Mt. Ararat.

7)The Göreme Open Air Museum, and World War I sites in Gallipoli and the city of Troy

The battles fascinate me,and so with the ruins of ancient city Troy situated on a hill,my trip to Göreme Open Air Museum, and World War I sites in Gallipoli and the city of Troy would be well - worth worthy.

8)Experience Turkish Bath "Hammam"

Recently during one of my trips to a spa in Scotland,I told one of my travel writer friend, isn't this awesome, and the one word she said was "Try Turkish Hammam" It spoke millions of good things in a three letter confident answer, so a refreshing and enjoyable visit to the Hammam will end up my list to do's and I would return all hale and hearty to India and share my stories with you all.

It is indeed fascinating how old blends with the new retaining the culture as it is and presenting it to the world in the form like never before.Turkey fascinates me because it has got the best of both worlds, there’s something to learn, there’s something to see,there's something to feel and hopefully many interesting and friendly people to meet. And so,with 8 reasons covered and millions yet to uncover,Turkey is all I need and all I dream. For now and forever.

 "This post is an entry in the "Million Stories" Contest sponsored by the Turkish Embassy, India."

Last week,if you remember I told you about "5 WAYS TO EXPLORE GLASGOW DURING COMMONWEALTH GAMES 2014" and now I have 5 more nearby places to end the post with.I am sure,by the time I leave,you must be already in love with the place and some of you already are I guess.Scotland for sure,is beyond the greens.And today I take you to some of the fascinating islands,sea planes,amusement park in a hotel and much much more.Are you ready?

                        Visit: People Make Glasgow , Visit Scotland to know more


                                                 Tanned but Enjoying every moment of my stay :)

Watch my self-narrated Travel Video for an added extra glimpse

6)Scotland and The Islands



There are roughly 700 islands on the coast of Scotland and about 400 inhabited islands.The Isles of
Barra and Vatersay are the most Southerly inhabited islands in the Outer Hebrides and the most Westerly in the U.K. White Sandy beaches and beautiful scenery mixed with a rich history and a strong community spirit are only some of the reasons that Barra and Vatersay won The Best Island Community, Best Scottish Community and Best UK Community Awards at the 2008 Calor Village of The Year awards.  You can get to the Isle of Barra by air(from Glasgow) or by ferry.Take a
boat trip to the islands in the Firth of Forth like Bass Rock, Craigleith and Inchcolm to see beautiful
wildlife such as seals and puffins.Skye, the world's favorite island was recently voted '4th best island in the world by National Geographic magazine' .

7)The Golf Courses And the Walking Trails


                                                                      Loch Lomond Golf Course + Spa

There are so many amazing Golf courses in Scotland where you can play,even the municipal Golf Courses are great.The best however is St. Andrews and it is because Some golf pilgrimages are prohibitively expensive to be a regular pleasure, or too exclusive to be more than a fantasy. But for golfers armed with a sense of history and a valid passport, the promise of golf is realized at St. Andrews.Scotland has phenomenal walks not just in the city of Glasgow but around the city as well,almost everywhere in Scotland.There are umpteen number of Sports in Scotland including Skiing and Cycling.If nature is your first love,Scotland should be your muse.

8)The Sterling Castle

For generations Scotland’s royalty gathered at Stirling Castle to revel in its impressive buildings,
superb sculptures, fine craftsmanship and beautiful gardens. Today Visitors can do the same Highlights include The Great Hall, Chapel Royal, Regimental Museum of the Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders, The Great Kitchens and Tapestry Studio . Guided tours of the castle help bring its rich and colorful past to life in vivid detail. Audio tours in six languages are available and a free guided tour of Argyll’s Lodging, one of Europe’s finest surviving 17th-century townhouses, is also included
in the entry price.

9)Camping And Dance



Ceilidh meaning "a visit" is an informal party played by Ceilidh Band and is very energetic and great
fun.Dances are fast and a large of number people gather and form loops and circles while dancing.I did my first Ceilidh in Sterling Castle,I still remember the energy of the dance was in sync with the
enjoyment of dancing.Don't worry about learning the dance as you would be explained just before the dance starts.If you fancy a dance on a Friday evening - Why not head to Sloans at Argyll Street for a ceilidh in Glasgow.The entry starts £9/6.Edinburgh Ceilidh Club in Edinburgh is another great place to learn and enjoy Ceilidh every Tuesday.



If you fancy camping in Scotland,the near about perfect scenery and amazing raw coastline provides
adequate scope to soak in the rugged beauty of nature. Sandyhills Bay has a superb, long, sandy beach
on its doorstep, making it ideal spot for a fun, family holiday beside the sea. Choose to stay in one
of the luxury, two or three bedroom, fully equipped self-catering caravans and you can enjoy a stress-
free break and stunning views over the bay - all you need to bring is bed linen and towels and, of course, food. Bryameadow Farm Caravan situated in Orkney is a comfortable, homely caravan is ideally situated for trout fishing, bird watching, walking and visiting archaeological and historical sites.To know more about Camping Sites:Click Here

10)Loch Lomond Adventure,Spa and Stay


Cameron House Hotel at Loch Lomond is legendary Scottish hospitality at its very finest and very warmest. The world-renowned bonnie banks of Loch Lomond conjure images of a majestic world of heather-dappled glens and roaring open fires. What better place to watch the theater of the Highlands unfold than from Cameron House. Find your true love here. Whether it be fine dining, loch cruises, championship standard golf, spa breaks or simply chilling out,its the best place to be at.Take a journey to the Carrick Spa,delight your senses with beauty and tranquility in series of pools and sauna.

                                                Guess what it is ! Well..umm...eh..A bat

Have an elegant Boat House dinner or play golf on stunning greens with majestic highland backdrops.And then fly 5000 feet in a sea plane,with a view of majestic loch and highlands ending the fun in the windswept,breathless cruise from crest to crest and island to island.Awesome isn't it?To top it all take a ramble in the woods,experience the wilderness for almost 2 hours,exploring flora and fauna and the walking trails.

With this,my journey to Scotland is over.Next I take you to,what I bought from there in my Style Blog,and you are going to love it.Skirts for 5 pounds anyone :) ?? Guys leaving for Dubai in 2 days,any suggestions?

Selamat Datang Ke Malaysia.Behold the green spaces ,walk in the riot of night markets, in the backdrop of shining twin towers,a wonder world of birds,banana leaf dining and awe-inspiring Batu Caves.Where else than Malaysia?
 
 Kuala Lumpur is one of Asia's most enticing destinations-To me,a destination I haven't explored so far.A destination which is my mind since Air Asia started.A destination many chose to go and bring back happy memories from,a destination which is still part of my dream but I know that day is not far when I cover the lengths and breadth of Kuala Lumpur and bring back inspiring stories to you all.

 I wasn't born a nomad.The urge to break free and understand different cultures made me what I am today - A vibrant blogger who blogs about destinations she is passionate about.There have been times when I fell in love with a place and letting go then was a nightmare.There are other times,when I fancy going to a place,and come up with a list of what I dream to do when there.One such list is right here,based on Google and word of mouth.I know for sure I am already infatuated with the list,all I have to do now is pack my bags and leave! Yes,Air Asia with you and me is going to be my next journey.

/ *All the pictures below are self-made*/

 1)The Iconic Petronas Twin Towers :



 It's grand,isn't it?Although Petronas Twin Towers is no longer the highest building in the world, but it’s still holding two world records as the tallest twin building and the highest sky bridge in the world. And a visit to Kuala Lumpur will be incomplete without visiting the Petronas Twin Towers.Air Asia might just be  flying over the twin towers,and with a view so majestic,I might decide to be a part of it the first thing I do after I collect my luggage from the checkout counter or rather in my dreams when in plane I jump ,float in the clouds,and glide slowly over the towers,not forgetting to click my picture every moment.

 2)Shop Till I Drop : 

                             Who ever said Money can't buy happiness,simply didn't know where to shop.

 Everytime I think of Malaysia,its either Twin towers or Shopping that comes first in my mind,and then of course the Malaysian Curry.With so many options tempting and teasing every girl to spurge than save,I will choose to follow my heart.It is my habit to bring back small little things from every country I visit.I love impulsive shopping and with plenty of options,I know its going to be fun.Electronics in Malaysia are often cheaper than in the US and Europe and that means more Cameras more Laptops to bring back :).Batik is a fabric on which wax is used to create patterns on the cloth, that's then dyed with different colored dyes to produce gorgeous designs. Malaysian batik fabric, in bolts, pieces or even made into clothing and accessories, is available at markets, handicraft stores and shopping malls and I am sure not going to miss the Batik factory tour to learn the basics.And then there are Malay Snacks at
Chow Kit where we get ice sweets wrapped in banana leaves or curry puffs.My family and friends would love to have it.Taking in its current artsy-craftsy pulse is the central market and Bukit Bintang is the shopping district of KL and there's Jalan Petaling market,a night market which promises visitors plenty of sight,sound and food.So when I come back,I will have twice as luggage as I would have bought in,and I would happily surrender to the magical shopping experience KL provides.

3)Sips And Spoonfuls And Street Food

                            The Malaysian Cuisine is a delicacy I would to soak myself in.


Nasi Lemak (rice cook with coconut milk), Dim Sum and Roti Canai are most popular food of Kuala Lumpur.Restaurants at Bukit Bintang, Bangsar and Jalan Imbi provide the best of breakfast while Jalan Alor, China Town and Kampung Baru  provide great night food.Banana Leaf Dining is another simple pleasures of life I would love to experience where I soak the flavors of Malaysia and slurp heapings of rice, dal and the delicious Malaysian Curry.And when I taste the curry,I am going to bring back the recipes too,yes! I love being with the locals,and what cookbooks can never provide,a sweet and humble experience with the local Malaysian will.

4)Birds And Fireflies



                                                Aha! Birds,the flying walking talking Birds

"World's largest free-flight walk-in aviary," KL Bird Park is also in my todo list.The birds will fly,can It be mine? A personal experience on chasing birds to feeding them will uplift my spirits and so will the fireflies.Watching Fireflies can be done at night at Kuala Selangor Fireflies Park situated 70km to North of Kuala Lumpur.I miss the fireflies,they used to be when I was a kid here in India,and now they are going to be when I fly to Kuala Lumpur.They say they take you on a boat and you get surrounded by Fireflies,isn't that like a dream.

5)Batu Caves

                                     Batu Caves and my Camera never stopped clicking :)



The Stunning Natural Caverns,Batu Caves is a limestone hill, which has a series of caves and cave temples.A steep 272 step climb up, this gets my instant thumbs up.And like thousand of devotees,considered Sacred for Hindu's in Malaysia,I will wish that I get to come back to this amazing country not once,or twice but many many times.

Thank you all.Wish me luck and do not forget to  check Air Asia's “ World’s Best Online Travel Fair” and travel to places,places you have dreamt about only till now.

                       Skydiving In India - When 10,000 Feet Was Just Another Number!


                                                   If you surrender to the wind, you can ride it.
             Spreading the word of Happy Skies:Next Camp 28th Nov 2013 - March 2014,Mysore
                                        Skyriders Official Website: http://www.skydivinginindia.com/
                                                         Skyriders FB Page: Skyriders on FB

3000 ... 4000 ... 5000 .. 6000 ...And it was getting colder but my smile never stopped.8000 .. 9000 ... 10000 .And we took our positions,I took my front foot forward and we jumped.




I,Ankita Sinha has Skydived,not there or anywhere but in India.It was a moment of thrill which can't be expressed,a moment of fall which took away all my past pain and insecurities in a jiffy,a moment of seduction with the clouds.Unforgettable,yes! Unbelievable,yes! Was I scared,No . Was I screaming with joy,every moment :) .Will I do it again? Every time I get a chance for sure.




Not many know,that I work for Skyriders who conduct Skydiving in India and I consider myself lucky to be working with the team for last one year.In the last one year,due to travel assignments of my blog,I couldn't manage to visit a single camp.Sometimes,I felt pity on me which my friends took it as I was scared.I knew from the start the day I will jump,it will change my life and it did.The best 4 days of my life where I met batches of students all set for their Solo Dives and Tandem Dives,danced in the Airport premises,watched a Spicejet plane arrive as close as possible to where I was,had Malabar fish fry just outside the airport,watched Ramleela,Danced in the Mall,had best time with 21 year old Fashion Photographer turned Skydiving Photographer Hari and posed in the fields,understood a little bit of "Roger" and etc with Captain Harshit who flew the plane brilliantly and understood with Ales and Rajan (instructors) that living on edge for years is so much fun and was barely without internet for 4 days. Ales was from Czech,a country I want to go very very soon and to my surprise he said to me,he like it more in India here.Dr,Aanchal my manager is cool as cucumber,and thanks to my team that I never felt even a single bit of uneasiness when going for my first dive.

                          Don't be afraid of falling out of the plane, you are dressed for the occasion.

My First Dive,doesn't begin with a plan.It begins with a question.Do you wanna dive?I was asked.And I said.Now?And half an hour later I dived.Rewind,and you'll see me travelling all the way from Bangalore to Mysore just to be with my team for next 4 days,may be Skydive on the 4th day,when my work is over.But this was quick.I came,I dived,and I saw others dive.My hair,was a little messy due to travel,but the jumpsuit was fitting perfectly to me. Ales gave me instructions on how to position in the plane,and when to jump,when to open your arms,when to lift your legs etc.



We also had Nariyal Pani,just for fun.Well,I was wondering these things can never happen abroad?Can it?Well,yes I was lucky again.The ground instruction was followed by in the plane on the ground once more.And then the plane took off...

                                                              At 10,000 feet nothing else matters.

3000 ... 4000 ... 5000 .. 6000 ...And it was getting colder but my smile never stopped.8000 .. 9000 ... 10000 .And we took our positions,I took my front foot forward and we jumped.In the plane,was just one feeling of letting go of not fear but my past.This year,to me has been turbulent.Felt ill for almost a year with diseases I wouldn't have ever thought of,was deceived and cheated by my own people,and still survived.But the pain was still there somewhere in my heart,and the moment I jumped,every feeling of sadness disappeared and was filled up with what is going to come.What was coming was a wide array of clouds,we were falling rapidly,they said the parachute opens after 40 secs of free fall. But 40 seconds looked like forever.Those clouds,I used to admire every time I used to travel,was just beneath me.Those clouds of hope filling me with laughter.I remember not stopping to scream with joy and laugh even for a minute.I remember swearing to god,this is the best thing I have ever done.The parachute opened after we descended 5k feet,and slowly and steadily we landed which was followed by loops and 360 degree turns in the air midway.My ears where closed when I reached,but that happens when you fall from 10k feet.

Yes,Skydiving is the best thing I have ever done till date.People ask me difference between Paragliding,Parasailing and Skydiving.And I just have once answer,to each his own but to me Skydiving gave me that high which none other Adventure Sport ever gave me before :) not even Scuba- Diving.

We have two more interesting posts from blogger Shrinidhi who has experienced a Tandem Skydive recently and here are the links:

Enidhi- My Skydiving Experience And Photos at Mysore 
Enidhi:Skydiving in India,Is It Expensive?

                                         The sky is not the limit — the ground is - With my team and students

The next 10 students came in for their Solo Dive Training.It was interesting to see so many adventure enthusiasts now willing to trust the equipment and safety procedures we follow.Ask me,it has been a challenge to convince people "Everyone has the same question,how safe is it here".Things have changed,and so has the mindset.Conducting Skydiving for last 2 years in India has been a task for my manager,the permissions ain't that easy to get unless we ensure student safety and sometimes the people who jump don't care but we have to care for them.

                                      Shweta Gopinath Shares her first Solo Static Line Experience

It's as if a relation of "being cared for" that we have decided to follow path of.It's a mutual friendly interaction we follow,so that people know yes,it is an adventure sport,but yes,they can do it.It was interesting to meet and interact and even dance with Vinay,Indrajit,Anil,Sunil,Lokesh etc and know what inspired them to come for the sport.Next day,they were all ready in those red jumpsuits.

With their gear,we turn by turn watched everybody's landing,tracking their movements mid air and giving them directions on radio signals. Kaup Rajesh Shetty , a diver with us says

The overall Experience of Sky Diving by Alliance Adventure Club.Myself Kaup Rajesh Shetty (Sr.Law Officer) Alliance University. A simple and cool guy who never did unusual and crazy thing in his whole life so far. Always thought of doing something which I never done and which are funny, crazy and enjoyable but due to responsibility and the other commitments I was lacking behind of such activities.I have received a mail from Philip Stanly Sir about the skydiving adventure sports couple of weeks ago. Prior to this I neither had any experience of such adventure sports nor had any idea but have a craze of doing such in order to have experience the fear of death at close juncture.I requested Philips sir to join me as a part of that team and we all set to go for skydiving. On 15-11-2013 as planned Morning 4.30 am we all (Myself, Philip sir, Manoj and Kiran) set to go for venue i.e Mysore Airport. I had lot of fear in my mind but expectation to experience the same. We left the university at around 5.00 am in morning and reached the venue around 7.30 am. At venue we met our co-ordinator Ms.Ankita and the training instructor Mr.Rajan (an ex- army) and very good friend of Philip Sir. Mr.Rajan is a very much humble and kind hearted person it was a pleasure meeting a person like him. Even I met couple of guys over there those who came for skydiving as like me and not had much interaction with them as I thought to be myself separate.

On 15-11-2013 our training got started for static jump. There was a two kind of jump tandem and Static. In tandem an instructor will accompany you with 12000 feet height whereas in static where no trainer will accompany you and the height will be 3500 feet. Mr.Rajan is a highly experienced and did more than 2500 jumps in his 25 years of skydiving career.

We did our self-introductory part and soon after around 20 minutes I saw a guy with a big mustache joined us by name Sunil. I thought he might be from Indian Air force trainee or any military personnel but next day I realize that he is not in army but had experience of skydiving prior to this.

Our friend Manoj, who came for tandem Jump gone for his jump as the weather condition was good and clear as one of the trainer accompany him during the jump, so he don’t require any preparation and training. We all did our training part and went for lunch even then also I never mingle with others much. We all sit together for lunch and had veg and chicken fried rice and came back to airport. Mr.Manoj who completed his jump and way back to Bangalore but our training session again started after lunch and went up to 6.pm in evening then our organizer informed us about the dance party in one of the mall in Mysore but because of shy and tiredness I stayed back and refused to be a part of it and way back to hotel, later I thought to join but it was quite late.

We are trained whole day about the operating the canopy, its function, safety, how to handle pressure, what to do in emergency and how to land.Though it seems enjoyable when others are jumping but in reality I was very much tensed and fear of falling of 3500 feet. We keep on memorizing the tactics and recalling the information what Mr.Rajan has taught. After finishing 1st day we came back to the The Lotus Inn, hotel where myself and Philip stanly Sir exchanging my fear and his experience of skydiving.The next day i.e on 16-11-2013 we left our lodge at around 8.30am without having breakfast as we need to reach the venue at early morning. The experienced the real fear when we reach the Airport and when it came to my turn of jumping. I and my friend Mr.Kiran fully dressed up and set to board the Aircraft in smile with lot of fear inside. Even then I was acting like a fully confident but god only knows what is going on inside my heart but I don’t want to show the fear so that the other shouldn’t feel that I am coward but I know for first time everybody feels the same. I was then taken as many snap which I never took in my whole life at a time so far. By that point of time I was mingled with others and had fun and had some good conversation. The time finally arises when aircraft started to take off I was totally blank and started praying all my favourite god and goddesses to help me out from this fear. The aircraft window open and I was made to sit on board next to pilot and there was no proper handle to hold inside the aircraft though my trainer is holding me tightly I was quite uncomfortable inside the aircraft. Anyhow I made my mind clear to sit and stay back. When the aircraft reaches 1000 feet my heart beat were reached its maximum, no all is well if I down direct to hell. The weather was also chill and even my heart is also become cold but still kept calm. When the aircraft reached 3500 feet my trainer started count down and told me to get ready to go out but actually I was not willing to go out. The time finally arrived when aircraft reached 3800 feet the trainer told the pilot to cut down the speed and told me to get ready. I came out with shivering hand and both the legs also got shivering and reached the Aircraft wing.

I was totally shivering and broke down with cold and fear and my trainer told me to leave the plane but actually I was not willing to and at the end with hope and prayer I left the aircraft. I totally forgot what he taught me during the training that what to do soon after the jump for 5 seconds (i.e count 1thousand, 2 thousand…3….4….5 thousand check there square and steer) and I was coming down very fast. My canopy got open but not fully as cable got twisted and uncontrollable. I got radio instruction to pull the right toggle to open but I was unable to do so as it got twisted, then I saw upward and I came to know it because of twist I unable to control, then I thought to release the main and go for reserve canopy but unless they give instruction I stopped myself from doing so and then made myself turn and clear the twist got control, I shouted with happy that finally I am under control of canopy and vis-à-vis that point of time I actually lost 1200 feet and I reached 2600 feet by then I got appreciation from the radio instructor and did as per their instruction. My heart felt relaxed and worry about the landing. In an about 2 minute I reached 300 feet about to land. I was in actual target point and landed safely with minor scratches as common. The moment I landed I myself decided that I will do it again with more perfection and confidence and I will land safely with no fear.

I am very much thankful toMr.Rajan Sir, Dr.anchal, Hari for his beautiful photography, mehtha, ankita, Ravi(Organisers) and especially Mr.Philip Sir who accompanied, supported and guided all through with spirit thank you sir.

With regards,
KAUP RAJESH SHETTY

                                          After the jump with my team - This happens only in India :)

Personally,I would love everyone to be up in the air and to experience every moment me and Rajesh has experienced.But it wouldn't be possible without your help.Yes! Readers,yes travelers your help.So spread the word to as many people as possible "Not Many Still Know That It Happens in India" and our main aim is to help everyone experience it.I will be mailing all the bloggers the details on Skydiving and I would love if you could help us spread the word in any way possible :)

And yes,we are just done with Camp in Mysore,and we take a break of 10 days,and we are starting off again from 28th Nov onward till March 2014.

Every weekend from then on we will have Static Jumps and every day Tandem.The charges remain the same ;

Static Line(16500 (training,jump,log) + 500(Camera) Tandem(25000 on weekdays,and 27.5 on weekends + 4000(video).

To book visit SkydivinginIndia.com or write to skydiving@kakinienterprises.com or call at 09986703994 or even drop a comment :)

We have around 10k followers on Facebook,and it is there,you can check all the lovely pictures and videos of previous dives :)

To know more about types of Skydives,Previous Skydives,etc check the link.And I'll be heading to Dubai in a week's time,any suggestions folks?