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Goa on a Shoestring: Our Family Budget Adventure Begins! (Episode 1: Smooth Start & Calangute's First Impression)

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  Goa! The very name conjures images of sun-kissed beaches, vibrant nightlife, and a laid-back vibe. But can you truly experience the magic of Goa without breaking the bank, especially with a family group? That was the challenge my family and I set for ourselves. Join us on a day-by-day account of our budget-friendly escapade, starting right from the bustling platforms of Ernakulam! Day 1: The Duronto Comfort, Regal Welcome, & Calangute's First Glimpse Our Goan adventure officially kicked off from  Ernakulam Junction Railway Station . The excitement was palpable as our group of six – me, my wife, my father and mother, and my uncle and aunt – boarded the ERS-NZM Duronto Express. We had thoughtfully booked  3AC coaches , ensuring a comfortable overnight journey. Adding to the convenience, we had also  pre-booked food  for the train journey, making the travel part entirely hassle-free. The Duronto promised to whisk us away from the Kerala rains to the Goan ...

Travel Vlog: Exploring Kerala, Mangalore, Udupi, Kollur Mookambika, Murudeshwar, and Malpe Beach

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Day 1: Journey from Kerala to Mangalore Our journey begins in Kerala, where we set off in the early morning to the vibrant city of Mangalore. Kerala, with its lush green landscapes and serene backwaters, is always a treat, but today, our sights are set further north. The road trip itself is a visual delight. We cruised through stretches of coconut trees, paddy fields, and small coastal towns. After a few hours of driving, we reached Mangalore, a bustling port city in Karnataka. We decided to take it easy on the first day and wandered around the city, visiting local markets and enjoying some delicious Mangalorean seafood. Day 2: Udupi – A Spiritual and Culinary Haven The next morning, we made our way to Udupi, a short 1-hour drive from Mangalore. Udupi is famous for its Sri Krishna Temple, and it was the perfect spot to begin the day with some spiritual peace. The architecture of the temple is stunning, and we were lucky to witness the morning pooja (prayer), which was a deeply calming ...

Exploring the Enchanting Backwaters of Kerala: A Journey Through Serenity

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     Nestled along the southwestern coast of India, Kerala is famously known as "God's Own Country" for its lush greenery, pristine beaches, and diverse landscapes. Among its many treasures, the Kerala backwaters stand out as one of the most serene and unique travel experiences in the world. A network of interconnected rivers, lakes, and canals meandering through picturesque villages, the backwaters offer a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.   What Are the Kerala Backwaters? The Kerala backwaters are a labyrinthine network of brackish lagoons and lakes lying parallel to the Arabian Sea. Spanning about 900 kilometers, this aquatic wonderland is made up of five large lakes linked by a series of canals, both man-made and natural, and is fed by 38 rivers. These waters form an integral part of life in Kerala, serving as transport routes, sources of livelihood, and a hub of local culture.   Houseboat Cruises: The Quintessential Backwa...

A Scenic Road Trip to Mysuru via Coimbatore-Mettupalayam-Sathyamangalam Forest

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 If you're planning a road trip from Coimbatore to Mysuru, the scenic route through Mettupalayam and Sathyamangalam Forest will treat you to an exhilarating blend of winding roads, forested landscapes, and vibrant flower farms. Here's a glimpse of our weekend getaway, complete with cozy stays, local flavors, and charming attractions.   The Journey Begins: Coimbatore to Mysuru We set off from Coimbatore, heading toward Mysuru via Mettupalayam and the beautiful Sathyamangalam Forest. This route is famous for its hairpin bends, offering panoramic views of lush greenery as you drive through the cool, misty air. The Sathyamangalam Forest is a highlight of the journey, home to rich wildlife, thick foliage, and winding mountain roads that make the drive exciting and adventurous. Stay at Ginger Hotel, Mysuru  Once we reached Mysuru, we checked into    Ginger Hotel   , a comfortable and decently priced accommodation perfect for travelers looking for a rela...

Mysore Palace Night Tour: A Glimpse of Royal Grandeur in the Glow of Lights

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      Nestled in the heart of Mysuru, the    Mysore Palace , or Amba Vilas Palace, stands as an iconic symbol of the city’s royal heritage. While it is captivating during the day, the palace at night is nothing short of magical. Bathed in golden light, the illuminated Mysore Palace draws thousands of visitors who come to experience its grandeur in the evening. Embarking on a Mysore Palace night tour is like stepping into a royal dream, where history, architecture, and light come together in perfect harmony.   The Majesty of the Illuminated Palace   Every Sunday, national holidays, and during the annual Dasara festival, the Mysore Palace comes alive with an impressive display of over 100,000 incandescent bulbs. The sight of the sprawling structure illuminated against the night sky is awe-inspiring. The sheer scale of the palace, combined with its intricate architectural details, shines brighter under the evening lights, showcasing the royal l...