Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka is a very busy city. The buildings hold few remains and ruins of colonial buildings and some are transformed into malls and tourist attractions. The food here is mostly seasoned with only salt and pepper. The conurbation holds many beaches. It will be delightful if you book your hotel room near some beach. If you are a surfer you are good to go surfing on the beach house you are staying in.

1. Gangaramaya Temple

This is one of the oldest temples in Sri Lanka built around the 19th century. It is the most visited temple, situated near Lake Beira. The architecture is stupendous. You are requested to go into the temple with bare feet and if you wish you can try their customary clothes. One part of the temple holds artifacts that kings and queens used, old cars, cameras, house interiors and other interesting things. You will be able to find more if you take a closer look.

2. Old Parliament Building

The old parliament building owning to the government of Sri Lanka was built and opened in 1930. The building was designed by a Scottish architect. It is situated very close to the Galle Face Green. The building is well maintained and preserved.

3. Galle face green

The Galle Face Green is a stretch of the five-hectare urban park near the coastal side of the heart of Colombo. It was much larger than it is now. It was first laid in 1859 for the purpose to play golf and other games. In recent times it is used by people and tourists. The beach is not crowded and you can find smashing kites and it is a big mood to fly the kite on the ample piece of land.

Keerthana R

Canberra is the capital of Australia ,which is placed in the heart of Australia. It’s viable to most of the population and surrounded by immense agriculture . It is best ,if you want to experience a typical hot weather. The place rotates with different climatic condition and seasons , and the view of Lakes are icing on the cake.

Travel by airways is by far the best option and cheap with respect to time period ,upon any other mode of transportation.

There are good amount of hotels with different rating and comfort. One can choose their residence on their choice of priority.The Country is well developed with better facilities in all the hotels .”Ovolo Nishi ” is of my personal experience .

New Parliament House is the marvel of modern architecture .It was replacement for the old parliament house and is too good in its architecture. The colorful appearance is so pleasing to eye.”Lake Burley Griffin” is too beautiful and is centered ,surrounded by top things to visit in Canberra like the National library, National gallery and National Museum. The Australian National Botanical Garden is another learning sector about plants and Mother nature. These are the place to visit for sure.

This Country of Australia is filled with lot of motivation on parliament and social sector with complete knowledge. You guys must visit this place . Hope you are visiting this holiday 🙂

-Yashee R Jain

The chettinad mansion is one of several old palatial homes converted into a heritage hotel. They were built by men who once traded in everything from salt to gems, with countries like Burma, Malaysia and Singapore. But in the mid-20^th centuries, most chettiar families moved to cities such as Chennai. Their homes were left in the custody of caretakers, who maintained them for those rare occasions such as weddings or Pongal, the tamil harvest festival, when the family comes to visit.

The Periya Veedu in Athangudi is exceptionally beautiful and well-maintained. Every surface in this mansion gleams, from the Spanish tiles on the roof, to the teak pillars from Burma, stained-glass windows from Italy and murals painted above the pillars. Usually open to visitors between 9 a.m to 4 p.m. The entry tickets cost around Rs.100 per person. Pallathur, Devakottai and Kothamangalam villages are also known for grand mansions and are within 50km radius from Karaikudi.

Like the most of the big Chettinad mansions, the Ayiram Jannal Veedu and Chettinad Palace are also very grand and magnificent but unfortunately visitors are not allowed to enter, so you can catch a glimpse of the palace from outside.

The fifth-century Pillayarpatti Temple is not be missed. Venerated as Karpaga Vinayakar, it is considered the most significant of the nine important shrines to Ganesha and Shiva in this region.

Besides the famous Chettinad chicken, the region is known for its flavourful and spicy cuisine. Their breakfast includes paniyaram with variety of chutneys and idiyappam. Try other local delicacies and the special of the day in your hotel.

Buy cotton Sungudi saris straight off the loom. The local tie-and-dye technique of this area is used to weave Sungudi and Kandangi saris in soft cotton. And you can also do antique shopping at the main markets in Karaikudi. You will learn about the rich history of the wares they are selling.

We can reach Karaikudi by taking a train or flight to Madurai and hire a cab or auto and reach your destination. The journey takes less than one and half hours and the road conditions are very good. While exploring other towns you can travel through local bus which is very frequent like there is a bus coming for every 5 mins.

The best time to visit would be from December to early March before the summer, the climate at this time would be moderate compared to other seasons of the year.

-Nandhitha.S

Jammu and Kashmir ,the “paradise on earth”, is the real heaven at the top of India. The snow-capped mountains,handicrafts by Kashmir’s local ,slaves us to gaze the Kashmir.

GULMORG IS IDEAL PLACE IN INDIA, THAT ADDS EXTRA BEAUTY TO KASHMIR. THE BEST TIME TO VISIT DEC- WHOLE SUMMER. SKIING COSTS AROUND Rs.28,000. I WOULD SUGGEST GULMORG AS THE PERFECT SPOT TO SPEND YOUR SUMMER VACATION.

VAISHNAVI DEVI MANDIR IS ONE OF THE CAVE TEMPLES IN INDIA. THE BEST EXPERIENCE IS TRAVELLING OVER THE DONKEY, ON THE WAY TO TEMPLE, THAT I STILL REMEMBER. VAISHNAVO MANDIR ALSO OFFERS A HELICOPTER TRAVEL .

SHIKARA RIDE IS THE MOST PLEASURABLE VIEW AT CRYSTAL CLEAR LAKE. THIS RIDE GIVES AN EXTERNAL BEAUTY TO KASHMIR .RIDE FAIR IS ALMOST Rs.300-500. THE PEOPLE WOULD SELL IN A SMALL WOODEN BOAT ,STONED ORNAMENTS RESEMBLING THE UNIQUENESS OF KASHMIR, WHERE THE TOURISTERS WOULD LOVE TO SHOP DURING BOATING

G SHAILAJA

A VISIT TO MYSORE MAY TAKE TO THE AGES OF WODEYAR DYNASTY. MYSORE OCCUPIES THE SOUTHERN PART OF KARNATAKA. MYSORE OFFERS MYRIAD OF PLACES TO VISIT, BUT I HAD TO TAKE UP WITH ONE DAY TRIP GLANCING AT THE IMPORTANT VIEWS OF MYSURU .

MYSORE PALACE SIGNIFIES THE ROYAL RESIDENCE OF KINGDOMS IN SOUTH . VISITING MYSORE IN SUMMER SHOWS THE UNIQUENESS OF PALACE. PEOPLE WHO ARE INTRESTED IN INDIAN CULTURE SHOULD DEFINITELY VISIT THIS PLACE DURING NAVARATRI FESTIVAL, IT RESEMBLES THE BEAUTY OF INDIAN CULTURE.

ST.PHILOMENA’S CHURCH IS THE MOST STUNNING CHURCH I EVER VISITED. IT STANDS AS A EVERLASTING TRIBUTE TO ROMAN CATHOLICS. THERE IS” NO ENTRY FEE” TO VISIT SUCH IDYLLIC.

AS MYSURU COMES TOWARDS SOUTHERN PART,IT CARRIES A TYPICAL SOUTH INDIAN CUSINE. MYSURU IA BEEN A PARADISE FOR VEGETARIANS, WHERE THEY PARTICULARLY PREPARE A BRAHMIN THALI(WITHOUT GINGER,ONION…).MYSORE BY NAME ITSELF FAMOUS FOR THE MOST FAVOURITE SWEET MYSORE PAK.

G SHAILAJA

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Paris is an exotic place to visit in Europe. Paris has its own way style and ethnic way of architecture. French cultural facts and day to day life makes sure to have a soulful view of Paris. Eiffel petit Louvre is quiet affordable and suggestable place to stay,it is placed nearer to airport and takes a 10 minutes walk to Eiffel Tower

THE VERY FIRST PLACE I WISHED TO VISIT WAS EIFFEL TOWER. IT IS ACTUALLY A WONDERFUL LANDMARK IN PARIS .WHEN IT COMES TO ARCHITECTURE ITS SIMPLY CLASSIC. IT IS BETTER TO BOOK THE TICKETS WELL BEFORE TO AVOID THE QUEUE &TO HAVE A BLASTING EXPERIENCE FOR 2-HOURS. THEY MAKE SURE TO HAVE A COOL VISIT TILL THREE FLOORS

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LOUVRE MUSEUM SPANS OVER 7000 YEARS ,THIS ATTRACTS WITH THE ARTWORKS OF 35,000. PEOPLE WHO ARE QUIET INTRESTED IN WESTERN CULTURE & HISTORY ,THIS PLACE WOULD SATISFY YOU. MAKE SURE THAT THE CHILDREN OF AGE 0-17 WOULD WALK IN FREE AND ON FRIDAYS ALL AGE GROUPS ARE ALLOWED FREE

MONTMARTRE IS THE GREATEST HILL,IN THE NORTHERN SECTION OF THE CITY. IT BARES A CHURCH SAINT PIERRE DE MONTMARTRE, WHITE DOMED BASILICA PF SACRECOEUR. THOSE WHO WANT TO VISIT THIS PLACE MAKE SURE WITH THE FAIRS ORELSE CARRY PARIS PASS TO EXPERIENCE THIS ARTISTIC HISTORY AT ZERO COST

G SHAILAJA

Place where you feel heavenly, SWITZERLAND. It’s mountainous, providing homes to numerous lakes and villages. High altitude will urge you to climb those alps. Chocolates,watches are renowned with the Banking sector as their finance. Swiss (Switzerland’s )knifes can be bought as sovereign ,mesmerizing with the designs and artwork on it.

1)Way to Switzerland:

Airway is better option on waterway i.e) cruise , financially and time period-vise ,as it takes 8-10 days in cruise whereas, it takes few hours to reach Switzerland by flight . If you want peaceful and calm travel ,definitely opt for waterways.

2)Where to stay:

Hotels in Zurich are preferred for residing . I opted “Thessoni” Hotel which was quite comfortable and near to central Zurich,yet calm. It is ideal Location to stay from where you can easily travel to central Switzerland , by passing the city. There are more hotels that you can choose , depending upon you priorities.

3)What to Eat:

To all the Cheese loving people, you are gonna increase your weight eating those delicious food with different type and flavor of cheese.” Cheese fondue ” will water your mouth ,”Malakoff”( Crispy cheese Balls) will add amazing taste and “Raclette”will crave you. These are the typical dishes to be experienced. “Rosti” has a separate fan base.

4)Where to Visit:

As said that ,Switzerland is full of Mountains, there are truly amazing alps with different altitude.” Mt. titlis” is 3,238 meters above the sea level. The mountain is full of ice and cold wind with extraordinary weather. “Jungfrau ” is another alp with 4,158 meters above the sea level ,which is the top of Swiss . Glacier 3000, Lion monument, Lake lucerne cruise,Rhine falls and Black Forest are other places to visit. Swiss miniature gives a brief of Switzerland. Don’t miss any of the above places,seriously.

5)Activities:

Snow sliding is very famous as activity. It needs proper guidance to actually slide . If you don’t know it, there are professionals to teach you. But definitely try it once. Cable car at the top of the mountains are available to get the most and complete view of Swiss with enhanced beauty.

Switzerland is sure sure place to visit to experience mountains which we miss in our daily life. Those houses and food , activities and forest will be all upon you,once you visit this lovely place. I hope you are booking your tickets right away 🙂

-Yashee R Jain

India’s official ‘pink city’, there is much more to Rajasthan’s capital than its pink-red coloured buildings and historic splendour. This place is surrounded by its chaotic streets amidst the colourful markets. A part of the Golden triangle, this is a must visit destination.

Grand palaces, majestic rooms and mighty fortresses make Jaipur a welcome place despite its bustling city atmosphere. Don’t miss to look out for camels strolling through Jaipur’s busy streets as you visit around the place. We made sure to visit Rajasthan’s village atmosphere and cultural show thanks to Chowki Dhani we could we taste their flavour of taste. It’s a model village resort in Jaipur without any typical chaos. Being here is the best way to imbibe in you the essence of Rajasthan the noise, spicy food and the wonderful colours.

The Hawa mahal is Jaipur’s most iconic landmark. Within its chambers, hidden from public view, the women of the royal house would secretly observe the activities on the street, through the palace’s latticework openings.

Then the Amber fort is undeniable. Perched on a hilltop, this fort is simply impressive – both in terms of size and architecture. The archways lead to expansive chambers, featuring hand-painted and mirror worked ceilings and walls. The light and sound show conducted in the evening is a must watch.

Moving on to the City palace, built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh, the city palace depicts the typical Rajput style architecture, with layers of chambers and halls. Till now a part of the palace remains the residence of the royal family.

And lastly we went to the Jantar Mantar. It is an astronomical observation site. Among the 20 instruments found at this UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the largest sundial in the world. Not to forget the local bazaars of Jaipur are teeming with things to buy from clothes to shoes, from home furnishing to handicrafts and from spices to jewellery and pottery…. There isn’t anything you won’t love. So don’t forget to carry your purse with you!

The best time to visit or to travel Rajasthan would be between September and April. In this weather you can feel the cool breeze brushing over your shoulders as you walk through the city. Though summer essentially from April is rather warm and temperatures actually go up as high as 45 degrees in May and June.

– Nandhitha.S

It is a city in the hills of central Sri Lanka. It’s the most inviting and aesthetic hill station I’ve ever been to. The climate was clement and forbearing. I had a room booked opposite to the race ground and I would suggest you the same, seeing that the view is exquisite in the mornings especially when horse races on the way.

The places I visited in nuwara eliya

1.nuwara eliya race coarse ground

The horse riding shows are the best here and when races are not conducted they let go on a pony ride. The individuality in these pony rides is that every pony here has a unique crest and tail. I would suggest you, to be careful of the fair prices and not to be bamboozled.

2. Mackwoods Tea Museum

This is one of the best places to educate yourself with knowledge about tea. The staff members show you different types of tea leaves. You can also tour around the whole place; each floor explains the steps involved in making tea. I would recommend you to get yourself a tea tin, you can pick your favorite by tasting the sample they provide you.

3. regal THEATRe

The cultural show had a cultural dance that was practiced and portrayed for the audience. After visiting this you can also visit the lake near the theatre and there are a lot of souvenir shops available to gift it to your loved ones.

Keerthana R

ITALY, said to be one among the historic Country in the world also has amazing architecture more enhanced by the Churches .The play of those designs on Churches captivates and attracts ones eyes with never ending motivation. My visit to Italy was extraordinary ,visiting Rome, Milan ,Vatican city,Venice and The leaning tower of Pisa ( one among seven wonders). I wish to visit it again with more time period.

1.WAY TO ITALY:

Italy is located in southern Europe . Italy to the south ,consist of entirety of the Italian Peninsular , mostly surrounded by water . Transportation feasible is through Airways . My flight was via Doha having 15-18 hours of Travel from Chennai, India.

2. WHERE TO RESIDE:

There are good rated Hotels all over the country but most viable in Rome was “Alba Hotel Torre Maura” with 3.1 ratings and affordable one.”Hotel Crignano” in Florence has a rating of 3.5 and completely comfortable place. The hotel is air conditioned and has a garden with swimming pool beside it with a typical local restaurant. Only few km from the city center of Lucca,railway and motorway.

3. FOOD TO HAVE:

I’m sure you would love this place for food. the pizzas and pastas will tempt you and they are just yummy. Pasta is served as appetizer and not as main course. Soups and Rice are other option for starters. The main course consist of chicken,meat and fish at times. Its quite difficult for you,if you prefer only vegetarian . Pizzas in Venice are yum too.

4. MUST VISIT PLACES:

In Rome, watch the Elevator Show, Vatican Museum with full of antiques ,Michelangelo’s frescoes and famous Pieta, the last Judgement, Sistine chapel, St. peter’s Basilica. Tiber river,Roman Forum, Trevi Fountain, and The Colosseum. The History of Colosseum being that it was a war ring , where animals fought. Though its half in its architecture ,its natural from inside.

Florence,was overwhelming with “Leaning Tower of Pisa”. The place was enhanced with green surroundings which made the place even more photogenic. Also visit, statue of Miracles,Baptistery and Cathedral.

Then , next to my most favorite VENICE. Water taxis are available from the land. Visit Saint Mark’s Square where execution use to take place,Glass factory and Bridge of Sighs. Buildings are colorful and vibrant. Don’t forget the GONDOLA RIDE, I tell you .Its the best among ALL.

Milan , THE FASHION WORLD . There are too Many showrooms of top brands including Zara and Lush.This place is meant for shopping lovers.

One among The finest Place to visit, Trust me. The History is vast that you will not feel like ending it Abrupt. You will get fascinated to know more about the place and its a sure place to visit , hope its in you bucket list as it was to me. DO VISIT ;).

-Yashee R Jain