The first thing you notice is that roles form almost immediately. No one assigns them, but everyone slips into one. There is the person who ends up planning everything, not because they want to, but because uncertainty makes them uncomfortable. Then comes the one who contributes nothing to the planning, yet develops strong opinions once you are actually there. Someone’s suitcase always suggests permanent relocation. Someone else arrives with only two T-shirts and a sense of confidence the rest secretly envy. There is also the traveller who genuinely enjoys a neatly colour-coded itinerary, treating the day’s schedule like a gentle mission plan. And without fail, there is the early riser who treats the holiday like a disciplined fitness retreat, baffling those who consider breakfast at 11am perfectly reasonable. These mismatched energies can be amusingly chaotic, but they also create a balance. Each person fills a gap the others did not realise was there.

Decision-making is where personalities truly emerge. Travelling removes the structure of routine, and without that structure, small choices feel oddly amplified. Picking a restaurant becomes a referendum. Choosing an activity becomes a responsibility no one wants because it carries the risk of collective disappointment. Even the logistics, the bills, the taxis, the tiny expenses no one wants to calculate, weave themselves into this dance. There is always someone who pays first to make things easier, someone quietly budgeting, and someone who treats the table without ceremony. These unspoken exchanges shape the day as much as the itinerary.

Then there is the emotional weather of the group, unpredictable and oddly revealing. Hunger, heat, lost sleep and overstimulation turn minor inconveniences into defining moments. A misplaced charger becomes a crisis. A wrong turn feels personal. At least one person will reach a point where they simply go quiet from sheer sensory overload. But there is another side to it. The friend who notices before anyone else, the one who slows the pace, offers water or suggests a break. Group trips expose the cracks, yes, but they also show who pays attention.

For all the friction and missteps, these trips tend to leave you with the moments that matter. The laughter, the silent negotiations, and the small adjustments everyone makes along the way all become part of the story. What stays with you is not the plan, but the shared effort to make it work.

Travelling together may not always bring people closer, but shared chaos often does.

The post The Unspoken Social Politics of Group Trips appeared first on Glam Magazine.

Northern Lights, Finland

High above the Arctic Circle, the night sky becomes a shifting canvas of green, violet and gold. Locals call it revontulet, the “fox fires”, after a Finnish legend that tells of an Arctic fox sweeping its tail across the snow and setting the sky alight. Whether you are watching from a glass igloo in Lapland or standing beneath a frozen horizon, the Northern Lights feel as though the universe itself has started to move.

Best time to see it: September to March, when the nights are longest and the skies clearest.

Petra, Jordan

Carved into rose-red cliffs, Petra feels like stepping into another century. Narrow canyons lead to the Treasury, its facade glowing gold in the desert sun, then softening to amber as the light fades. At night, over a thousand candles flicker along the Siq, turning the ancient city into a sea of light. It is history you do not just see. You feel it in the stillness between the stones.

Best time to visit: March to May or September to November, when the days are warm but not scorching and the desert light is at its most beautiful.

Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

Miles of dazzling white crust stretch far enough to blur the line between earth and sky. The world’s largest salt flat sits high in the Andes at over 3,600 metres altitude. When the rains come, it turns into a shimmering mirror that reflects clouds, mountains and travellers alike. When dry, it becomes a surreal white desert with hexagonal salt patterns glowing under an endless blue sky.

Best time to visit: For the mirror effect: December to April. For dry, crisp landscapes and clearer skies: May to November.

Machu Picchu, Peru

Hidden high in the Andes, Machu Picchu rises through clouds like a secret slowly revealing itself. Built in the fifteenth century and forgotten for centuries, the Incan citadel stands as both an architectural wonder and a spiritual refuge. The terraces, temples and stone paths feel perfectly in tune with the surrounding mountains. It is proof that humans once built with reverence rather than dominance.

Best time to visit: April to October, during the dry season when the skies are clear and trails are safe for hiking.

Bioluminescent Bays, Puerto Rico

On the island of Vieques, the ocean glows with every stroke of a paddle. The water flashes neon blue, alive with millions of microscopic dinoflagellates (a kind of plankton) that light up when disturbed. It feels like floating through a liquid galaxy, each movement igniting a trail of blue light that fades as quickly as it appears.

Best time to visit: December to early April, when rainfall is lowest and the water is clearest. Avoid full-moon nights for the brightest glow.

Cappadocia, Turkey

At sunrise, hundreds of hot-air balloons drift above a landscape shaped by ancient volcanoes and time. Valleys dip into soft curves, stone spires known as “fairy chimneys” rise in clusters and cave dwellings glow in early light. From inside the balloon, the world seems to slow. Villages shrink to dots, light spreads across the horizon and the silence feels endless.

Best time to visit: April to June and September to October, when the weather is mild and skies are clear enough for safe flights.

Serengeti, Tanzania

Every year, more than a million wildebeest and zebra move across the Serengeti Plains in one of nature’s greatest migrations. From June to July, the herds push north towards Kenya’s Maasai Mara, crossing rivers thick with crocodiles. By October and November, they return south as the rains begin and the rhythm of survival starts over again. The air fills with dust, the ground trembles beneath hooves and the horizon becomes a living tide of movement. It is the closest you will come to seeing the planet exactly as it was meant to be: wild, moving, alive.

Best time to visit: June to October for the dry season and the northbound migration, or January to February in the south when calves are born.

Waitomo Glowworm Caves, New Zealand

Deep beneath New Zealand’s North Island, a quiet river winds through limestone caves lit by thousands of glowworms. Their light is a soft blue, mirrored in the still water below and turning the darkness into a starlit sky. As the boat drifts forward, the cave ceiling seems to breathe above you.

Best time to visit: Although the caves are open year round, visiting in the Southern Hemisphere’s summer months (October to February) offers the warmest weather and easiest access.

Kyoto, Japan

Each spring, Kyoto turns into a blur of soft pink. Cherry blossoms line the Philosopher’s Path, drift over wooden bridges and settle on still temple ponds. It is busy but fleeting, the kind of beauty everyone stops for, even if only for a moment.

Best time to visit: Late March to mid-April, when the cherry blossoms (sakura) are in full bloom.

Hunza Valley, Pakistan

High in the Karakoram, Hunza seems carved from light and stone. It is a place where glaciers meet orchards and history lingers in the air. Rivers cut through apricot groves, turquoise lakes glint beneath snow-tipped peaks and the valley offers a rare blend of natural beauty and historical sites, from ancient forts to centuries-old trade routes once part of the Silk Road.

Best time to visit: April to October, when the roads are open and the valley shifts from spring blossom to autumn gold.

The post 10 Places Around the World That Feel Almost Unreal appeared first on Glam Magazine.

Here are five that never fail.

1. Walk on your first morning

Forget the checklist. Just walk. The first morning in a new place sets the rhythm for the days ahead. Skip the taxi, let yourself get a little lost, and notice what you would have missed from the car window.

2. Learn to say thank you

A simple phrase, spoken in the local language, changes how people see you and how you see them. It shows you are paying attention, that you came to connect, not just consume.

3. Carry a small notebook

The smell hits first: coffee, rain, or street food. Then the details fade fast if you do not write them down. Take five minutes at the end of each day to jot down what stood out: a sound, a street, a face.

4. Eat where it looks busy

Forget online reviews. Follow the locals. If the tables are full and the air smells right, you have probably found your best meal of the trip.

5. Keep one unplanned hour a day

Not every moment needs to be booked. Leave space to wander, to linger, to be surprised. It is often in those unscheduled hours that travel becomes something more than sightseeing.

A different way to see the world

Travel does not always need to be grand to be meaningful. Sometimes the smallest habits, such as the unplanned walk, the friendly word, or the meal that costs almost nothing, are what stay with you longest.

The post 5 Small Travel Habits Guaranteed to Make Every Trip Better appeared first on Glam Magazine.

From the coastlines of Asia to the quieter towns of Europe, these destinations prove that travel does not have to take a backseat to a turbulent economy. It only needs a little more intention and a fresh look at where you choose to go. Bookmark this one for your next travel list.

Sri Lanka: Where the Hills Meet the Sea

Few places change their scenery as quickly as Sri Lanka. One morning you are on a train weaving through emerald tea fields; by evening, you are watching waves break along the southern coast. Between them lie ancient citadels, colonial forts and forests where elephants cross quiet roads.

Start in Kandy, where temple bells echo through the mist, then head south to Ella for mountain light and waterfalls. Wander through Galle Fort’s cobbled lanes, or end your trip on the beaches of Mirissa and Unawatuna, where sunset and street food feel equally timeless.

Vietnam: The Rhythm of the Streets

Vietnam never stands still. The air hums with motorbikes, the scent of lemongrass and coffee, and the sound of vendors calling out orders in the morning rush.

Start in Hanoi, where colonial facades frame lakes and late-night cafés. Down south, Ho Chi Minh City hits a faster rhythm, all neon lights, rooftop views and markets spilling into the streets. Between them lies Hoi An, the country’s quiet heart, where paper lanterns drift over the river each night and time seems to soften.

Whether you travel by train, bus or boat, Vietnam rewards those who linger. The best moments are often found not in itineraries but in the rhythm of everyday life.

Albania: Europe’s Quiet, Affordable Secret

Albania feels like a secret the continent forgot to keep. The water along the Albanian Riviera is the same glassy blue as its famous neighbours, yet the towns here still move at their own pace. In Ksamil and Himarë, beaches curve gently into quiet coves framed by olive trees and clear, calm water.

Head inland to Berat, known as the City of a Thousand Windows, where whitewashed Ottoman houses climb the hillside toward a medieval citadel. Further north, the Accursed Mountains offer another kind of beauty with sharp peaks, wild trails and villages that seem untouched by time.

It is Europe, but softer around the edges, a place that feels both undiscovered and entirely its own.

The post 3 Budget-Friendly Destinations That Feel Anything But Cheap appeared first on Glam Magazine.

1. Hunza: Ease in Every Direction

Hunza has become one of Pakistan’s most trusted destinations. It is safe, scenic, and filled with a warmth that makes even first-time visitors feel at home. From Islamabad, it takes about an hour by air to Gilgit, followed by a two-and-a-half-hour drive through mountain valleys that look straight out of a painting.

For a local touch, stay in one of Hunza’s family-run lodges where hosts serve homemade apricot tea and share stories of life in the valley. Beyond the comfort, Hunza is rich in heritage. Altit and Baltit Forts stand as living reminders of centuries-old craftsmanship and mountain royalty. Wandering through the cobbled lanes of Karimabad or watching the sun set over Rakaposhi, you realise Hunza isn’t just beautiful, it has a way of staying with you.

Pro tip: Visit in March or April for cherry blossom season, when every branch turns pink and the whole valley feels alive again.

Best for: travellers seeking calm, culture, and crisp mountain air.

2. Skardu: Safe Adventure, Big Horizons

A one-hour flight from Islamabad brings you to Skardu, a valley of sapphire lakes and open skies that seem to stretch forever. Many travellers describe it as a place that widens perspective. The mountains humble you, then fill you with quiet awe.

Spend a day in the Deosai Plains, known as the “Land of Giants,” where the wind carries nothing but stillness and golden grass. For a stay that captures Skardu’s beauty, Shangrila Resort sits beside a heart-shaped lake, both serene and cinematic. It is the kind of place where comfort meets adventure, and both feel earned.

Best for: travellers looking for open horizons and quiet wonder.

3. Swat: A Gentle Step Into the Hills

Swat is where many rediscover their love for the road. It is a five- to six-hour drive from Islamabad, an easy journey that trades city noise for winding forests and the rush of river air. Once part of the ancient Gandhara civilisation, Swat still carries whispers of that history: Buddhist relics, stone ruins, and mountain villages shaped by time.

Take the chairlift up at Malam Jabba or linger by the Swat River at dusk. Either way, the valley rewards slow exploration. Stay in a guesthouse by the river, where mornings begin with parathas and soft mountain light spilling through the windows.

Best for: weekend breaks that mix history, comfort, and fresh air.

Before You Go

The north rewards curiosity and care in equal measure. Research your route, travel during daylight, and respect local customs. Hire local guides when you can, support small businesses, and leave every valley as pristine as you found it.

Overall pro tip: A good driver or guide can make your trip smoother and more memorable, turning long drives into stories and new places into lasting experiences.

Travel light, travel kind. The north’s beauty is best preserved when we leave it untouched.

The post 3 Mountain Escapes to Visit from Islamabad appeared first on Glam Magazine.

The class of ’75 from St Joseph’s Convent High School, held its 50th reunion recently. Our group of friends since school days were also present. While some of us live in Pakistan, many live abroad. Hence, planning the four-day reunion in Karachi was as much fun as the reunion itself, for the challenge was to pack the four days with sights and activities that even the Karachiites hadn’t seen or done in a long time.

We began day one, a Friday, with a coaster trip to our alma mater. We had coordinated with the school headmistress, Sister Margarette, who happened to have taught us too. Without anyone knowing, we had also invited our few favourite teachers to join us. Our group was as thrilled to see them as they were to see us. We took a tour of the magnificent institution, which thankfully looked largely the same as when we were in school, As it is a heritage building, with a few additions of new blocks on the premises.

After leaving the school we made our way to LuckyOne Mall, to show off the largest mall in South Asia to our visitors. We were received by their marketing department and given a guided tour of the whole mall. After partaking of lunch at the Food Court we were taken to Onederland, their amusement centre where we were treated to complimentary rides of our choice. If visiting the school hadn’t transported us to our childhood, whizzing down slides, bumping dodgem cars, and shrieking on roller coaster rides surely did!

Our next stop was Bahria Town, where we cruised through the immaculately laid out roads, and made strategic ‘international’ stops in front of the Eiffel Tower, and the Crookedest Street in the World, for photographs. After tea and ice cream at Murree Hills, we left to freshen up and then partake of an early dinner at the popular Kolachi, Do Darya, restaurant.

The next morning we started early to have brunch at the new Café Imran on the national highway. It must be said here that the long drives we had undertaken from day one turned out to be as much fun as the destinations themselves, for we transformed into giggly teenagers who burst into laughter at the smallest pretext. Laughter is indeed the best medicine, and we all felt rejuvenated despite our action-packed trips.

After brunch we set off for the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site, the 17th century Shah Jahan Mosque, in Thatta. It was a blazingly hot day but once you stood within its corridors, the ventilation, brick structure, and amazing architecture of the mosque kept us cool and comfortable. Our next stop was Koonj Farm at Gharo, where we stopped for tea.

The third morning we set off for our city tour. Starting with Mohatta Palace, which surprisingly many were visiting for the first time, we followed it up with the well-maintained Flagstaff House, now known as Quaid e Azam House, where a knowledgeable guide informed the visitors about the history of the artifacts and the rooms on display.

Frere Hall was next, but unfortunately, was closed, being a Sunday. Considering that Sundays are more feasible for families to visit such historical sites, one hopes that the management will re-think their weekly holidays and keep the venue open over the weekend, like the other heritage sites. In fact, at Flagstaff House we were happy to note that there were other visitors also, especially foreigners, and I am sure they must have also wanted to visit Frere Hall.

We then made our way to the heart of the city, beginning with the iconic Empress Market, notoriously used for executions in the days of the British Raj, which became one of the most popular shopping sites for groceries over the years. Our next stop was Karachi Metropolitan Corporation, the erstwhile Karachi Municipal Corporation, which is also closed on Sundays, but thanks to connections, we had managed to get not only an entry into the historic building, but also a guided tour, right up to the rooftop.

Our next destination was a short distance away – the Denso Hall Rahguzar, a landscaped Walking Street, created by Heritage Foundation in 2021. In the middle of what was once a busy, dirty, over-crowded, land-grabbed lane, with shops spilling over with their wares, and motorcyclists and pushcarts jostling for space amidst pedestrians this oasis became a model street designed to mitigate the negative impact of densification and environmental degradation in Karachi’s historic core. A living testament to the adage ‘If there is a will there is a way,’ this street, paved with terracotta tiles hand-made by women who used to beg for a living, has four Miyawaki forests in the centre of the street, offering a cool respite to passersby and shoppers.

Our last stop for our city tour was TDF Ghar, a Dawood Foundation project that has converted what was initially an old residence of a Hindu family into a museum-cum-café, retaining many of the antique artifacts that belonged to the family, and adding interesting elements for the benefit of the visitors. We had brunch there and then left for Sandspit to enjoy the cool, nay cold, sea breeze blowing over the Arabian Sea, as we devoured a live scrumptious barbecue dinner, and shared stories from our past that can only be shared among old friends, no matter after how long you may be meeting them.

Our last day had been left for shopping as no girls’ trip or outing can be complete without splurging on at least some souvenirs and gifts. So, after breakfast at Khudee, which supports Down’s syndrome children by providing them internships, the morning was spent going around Bohri Bazaar and Zainab Market, and the afternoon at Dolmen Mall, Clifton. Dinner was at Creek Walk in Phase VIII where everyone had a great time trying out different gastronomical delights of their choice.

The last item on this hectic four-day itinerary was watching a movie, bringing back childhood memories of sleepovers, and culminating the reunion on a high, nostalgic and sad note that the four days had whizzed by so quickly. But it left us all determined to reschedule a reunion, in five years this time – as we can’t afford to wait another 50 anymore!

The post Revisiting Karachi’s Interesting Places appeared first on Glam Magazine.

China, a land where ancient history meets modern marvels, welcomed me with open arms. From the futuristic skyline of Shanghai to the timeless beauty of the Great Wall, every stop in the journey felt like stepping into a different world. The sights, the people, and the flavours of this incredible country made it a trip to remember.

My adventure began in Beijing, a city where history whispers from every corner. Standing in the middle of the vast Tiananmen Square, one couldn’t help but feel humbled by its significance. A short walk away, the Forbidden City loomed before me—an imperial palace so grand that it felt Prince like stepping back in time. Wandering through its courtyards, I imagined the emperors, princes and concubines who once lived within its walls.

Of course, no trip to Beijing is complete without seeing the Great Wall. Choosing the Mutianyu section, which was both breathtaking and less crowded I climbed those steep stone steps and paused to take in the view-rolling green hills stretching as far as the eye could see. It was one of those moments that make you feel both small and connected to something much greater.

Next up was Shanghại a city of contrasts that perfectly blends the past and future. Walking along the Bund, I was struck by the different colonial-era buildings on one side and the sleek, modern skyscrapers on the other. Strolling through Yu Garden, a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city, delicate pavilions and koi-filled ponds made it easy to forget the hustle and bustle outside.

At night, I headed to the top of the Shanghai Tower and looking down at the sea of city lights felt like I was in a sci-fi movie. The energy of this place was infectious- fast paced, exciting and full of possibilities.

Xi’an was a history lover’s dream. The Terracotta Army was even more impressive in person than I had imagined. Seeing thousands of life-sized warriors standing in silent formation, each with unique facial expressions gave one the chills. I tried to picture the artisans painstakingly sculpting each one more than 2,000 years ago- an incredible feat of craftsmanship and devotion. Renting a bike I rode along the ancient city wall, one of the best preserved in China. The mix of old and new, with the city stretching out on either side, made for a surreal experience.

After the big cities, I wanted to see natural surroundings and there’s no better place than Guilin. Cruising down the Li River was like drifting through a traditional Chinese painting. Misty Karst Mountains towered over the water, their reflections creating a dreamlike effect. As we passed by fishermen on bamboo rafts, one couldn’t help but think this was one of the most beautiful places, I’d ever seen, unaffected by the rapid change in other areas.

Yangshuo, a small town nearby, was equally charming. Renting a bike I rode through rice fields, waving at friendly locals. The slower pace was a welcome change, giving time to a visitor to soak it all in.

Chengdu was all about two things: pandas and spicy food. At the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, I watched these adorable creatures laze around, munching on bamboo with zero urgency. It was impossible not to fall in love do with these gentle creatures.

Then came the Sichuan cuisine— bold, spicy and addictive. Braving a traditional hot pot experience, I dipped meats and vegetables into a bubbling, chili-filled broth. My mouth was on fire, but I couldn’t stop eating.

As my trip came to an end, I reflected on everything I had seen and experienced. China was more than just its famous landmarks—it was the warmth of the people, the flavours of the food, and the stories embedded in every ancient alley and modern skyscraper. This journey wasn’t just about places; it was about moments, feelings, and memories that would stay with me forever.

The post Exploring the Wonders of China appeared first on Glam Magazine.

Traveling has always been more than just sightseeing for me. It’s a way to connect, to understand and to find the heartbeat of a place. And Indonesia, this vast, island-studded country was calling me for an adventure. From the bustling cities to serene temples, sun-soaked beaches to ancient jungles, every corner seemed to whisper a story waiting to be heard. Here’s my journey through this magical land, one that left me with memories and lessons I’ll carry for a lifetime.

Jakarta

Touching down in Jakarta was like diving into a kaleidoscope of colours, sounds, and smells. This wasn’t just a normal city; it was an experience. As I wandered through Kota Tua, the Old Town, the colonial architecture stood as a reminder of the past era, contrasting sharply with the modern skyscrapers and lively street vendors around it. The National Monument (Monas) towered above the cityscape, offering a panoramic view that seemed to sum up Jakarta’s dynamic spirit.

Yogyakarta

After Jakarta’s energy, Yogyakarta known as Java’s cultural capital felt like stepping back in time. My journey here was all about exploring the city’s ancient temples, each carrying stories of devotion and craftsmanship. Standing before Borobudur, the largest Buddhist temple in the world, as the sunrise cast its golden glow over the stone stupas, was a mesmerizing experience. But Yogyakarta had more to offer. Prambanan, a Hindu temple complex dedicated to Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, was astonishing. The detailed carvings, each with a tale of gods and goddesses, spoke volumes about Indonesia’s rich culture.

Bali

After days of touring the temple and exploring the city, Bali was a welcome change, a place where time seemed to slow down. I spent my days wandering through Ubud’s Tegalalang Rice Terrace, a stunning green landscape sculpted by generations of farmers. Walking through the fields, I could hear the soft rustling of leaves and the distant hum of nature, a symphony of peace.

Visiting the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, where monkeys roamed freely there was something magical about watching them in a place that felt almost sacred. Uluwatu Temple is perched high on a cliff with waves crashing against the rocks below. As the sun set, I watched a traditional Kecak dance, the dancers’ rhythmic chanting echoed through adding an enchanting end to the day.

My last stop was Komodo Island, a place known not just for its beauty but for its remarkable inhabitants: the Komodo dragons. Walking on the island felt like stepping into a prehistoric world. Guided by a park ranger, I trailed behind him through the savannas and there I saw a Komodo dragon sunbathing by a tree. This creature is so ancient, it seemed like another era. The experience was thrilling, humbling, and a little nerve wracking. This wasn’t a zoo; it was their territory, and I was just a guest.

Pink Beach

Equally stunning were the beaches surrounding the island, especially the enchanting Pink Beach. Pink Beach truly lives up to its name, with soft sand tinted with a delicate pink presence of microscopic red organisms mixed with white sand. Swimming in the crystal clear waters here felt surreal, like stepping into a dream. I’ll treasure that memory as one of the highlights of my journey, a vivid reminder of the unique and diverse landscapes Indonesia has to offer.

The post Discovering Indonesia: A Personal Journey Through Islands and Culture appeared first on Glam Magazine.

Imagine a tiny island surrounded by a big, blue ocean!
Known as the jewel in the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka is a land of ancient history, vibrant culture and breathtaking landscape, creating an unforgettable experience for visitors. From mist-shrouded mountains and beaches to the astonishing scenic beauty, this island nation is a delight for travelers.

Nature in Sri Lanka comes as a breath of fresh air. With wild animals such as elephants and leopards running around forests and jungles, the Wilpattu Reserve stands out in the list. Elephants are abundant in the country and Colombo even has an elephant orphanage, which tourists love to visit. If you like plants and trees, Kandy’s Royal Botanical Garden is the place to be in with the largest tree spread on both sides and its branches supported by thick sticks. Nuwara Eliya on a height has lush green hills covered in tea bushes. And not to forget, the waterfall known as Hunas Falls is like giant showers from the sky. For a first-time visitor, it was indeed a treat to visit this island.

Not only did we see scenic beauty, we also had the opportunity to step back in time as we explored the traces of ancient civilizations that have left their mark on the island. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sigiriya, with its towering rock fortress, is a testament to the originality of Sri Lanka’s ancestors. Wandering through the ruins of Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura, once bustling capitals of mighty kingdoms, we marvelled at the intricately-carved temples and stupas that dot the landscape.

No visit to Sri Lanka is complete without a journey through lush green tea gardens. The scenic train ride through the rolling hills of Nuwara Eliya, where emerald-green tea plantations stretch as far as the eye can see, it is a treat to see a tea factory, witness the time-honoured process of tea production and savour a freshly brewed cup of Ceylon tea while soaking in breathtaking scenery.

Our next stopover was the pristine coastline; Sri Lanka boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. From the tranquil shores of Mirissa to the surf break of Arugam Bay, there’s a beach for every taste. Diving into the crystal-clear water of Hikkaduwa to explore vibrant coral reefs and unwinding on the soft sands of Trincomalee, the trip turned out to be a pure delight.

The country’s diverse religious landscape, reflected in its festivals and rituals, is another aspect that might catch your attention. We were lucky to witness the annual Esala Perahera in Kandy, which is a spectacular procession honouring the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha, featuring colourful parades, traditional music and elaborated costumes. Another one was the Tamil Thai Pongal Festival, where farmers celebrate the harvest season with prayers and feast, showcasing the importance of agriculture in Sri Lankan culture.

 

The most interesting part of the visit was the warmth and hospitality of the Sri Lankan people. From the bustling market of Colombo to the remote villages of the hill country, we were greeted with smiles and open arms, whether sharing meals with the local family or participating in a traditional ceremony. We were also enchanted by their leather goods, wood items and crockery and everyone in our group went on a buying spree.

Despite its rich cultural heritage and traditions, Sri Lanka has faced its recent share of challenges, including a decade long civil war that started in 1983 and ended in 2009, and natural disasters such as the 2004 tsunami. However, the resilience and spirit of its people have enabled the country to overcome adversity and emerge as a great tourist destination.

The post Discovering the Charms of Sri Lanka appeared first on Glam Magazine.

When my husband and I were planning a trip to the US, we roped in some of our friends to agree to meet up at a destination unexplored by any of us.

The destination we chose was the Smoky Mountains, located in Tennessee. My husband and I chose to drive there, stopping en route at Charlotte in North Carolina, four hours away, for the night. Determined not to miss the opportunity to see a new city, we checked into our hotel, Ballantine, and soon after made our way uptown. We had heard there were some amazing museums in Charlotte, but unfortunately by the time we reached their vicinity and finally found parking, most of the museums had closed. However, luckily, Mint Museum which was also on our to-see list was open, and we eagerly explored its galleries. Established in 1936 as North Carolina’s first art museum, The Mint Museum is a leading, innovative cultural institution of international art and design, boasting permanent collections of contemporary art, craft, ceramics and more.

Happy that we managed to get at least some time at the museum before it too shut down, we took a stroll in the uptown area, taking note of the many interesting museums this small city had to offer, and stopping to eat their famous Golden Cow Creamery ice cream, which was a bit disappointing, unfortunately.

We set off for the Smoky Mountains next morning. A scenic drive brought us to the cabin that had been booked atop the mountains by one of our friends, and being the first to arrive, from our group of seven we spent our time unpacking and exploring the amazing three-floor facility. We spent a relaxing night chatting till late and devouring the scrumptious food that the two couples had brought that could feed an army for a month!

The next morning, we left for downtown Gatlinburg, a happening, quaint, and touristy area with restaurants, activities and shops. We took a cable car ride to Anakeesta, an adventure park located on the Smoky Mountain range, and despite the heat, enjoyed our trek there. It is a lovely place to bring children to for the whole day, culminating with Lumina Village which only comes alive at night. Back on ground level, we made a beeline for Mexican Grill, and didn’t regret our choice as the food was scrumptious and plentiful, as is normally the case anywhere in the US.

 While we were still eating, it began to pour and discovered the reason behind Smoky Mountain’s name. As it started to pour a thick fog developed over the mountains giving the impression that the mountains were smoking!

The next morning, we set off for Pigeon Forge, which is nothing short of Las Vegas for children and families. With some attraction at literally every block and each so eye-catching that we wanted to visit them all. Finally, we decided to visit Titanic, a fantastic recreation of the ill-fated ship on its maiden voyage to the US, it had all of us engrossed in its interactive offerings by treating us as one of the passengers or crew members who were actually on board the ship that fatal night, while simultaneously providing us with a wealth of information about the creation of the unique ship, its beleaguered passengers, and the calamity they faced.

Returning to the cabin for a light lunch, we relaxed for a bit and then got dressed for a dinner show we had booked for later that day. The choices were plentiful, but most were again geared toward kids. Hence, we selected the one that had the most appeal for adults, the Hayfield and McCoy dinner show, especially as the one we would have all preferred – the Dolly Parton show as this was her hometown after all – was not being offered then. A fun, action-packed, farcical musical depicting the famous feud between cousins Hayfields and McCoys, it keeps you entertained while serving you all-you-can-eat Southern homestyle food. It was another story that some of us had to satiate ourselves with salad, mashed potatoes and corn on the cob, as the chicken was not halal.

We had kept the next day for exploring the Smoky Mountain National Park Drive as we felt we couldn’t possibly go back without at least hiking a bit in the mountains. So, we walked around the park, sat around the creek, and enjoyed the refreshing air before heading back home for lunch.

The night turned out to hold a triple treat for all of us. Not only did we spend a delightful time catching up with old friends, and eating delicious grilled fish, but the aroma from all the barbecuing on the balcony drew out a whole family of bears right under our cabin, in the forest below. As they looked up staring at us, we counted our blessings that we were at the height that we were, and took their videos. And then, to top it all, it was a blue moon night, so we saw the most amazing and rare sight from a vantage point. We couldn’t have asked for more!

The next morning, we packed up all our belongings – which seemed to be as much as when we had arrived despite consuming so much food – and made our way to the airport to drop off our friends and head back to our next destination.

The post Unforgettable Memories of Smoky Mountains appeared first on Glam Magazine.