Life Unpacked

People travel for myriad reasons- sometimes to soak in the culture, sometimes to unwind from their daily grind, sometimes to celebrate occasions, and sometimes just to see what's out there. The trip I undertook to Goa earlier this year is a testimony to the fact that if the reason to travel does not align amongst the travel companions, the sojourn could end up being a disaster. Every coin has two sides they say. Goa, on one side, for me, ended up being a synonym for perfectly lush green paddy fields, quaint Portuguese homesteads, idyllic beaches, and heart-melting hospitality. But, on the other, became a reminder of squabbles between my companions for every damn thing! Take my advice folks: always align the reason for travel before taking the plunge. Anyway, the reason I am writing this post is to document the bright side of the moon, which is- my journey to and the adventures in the charmer called Goa, back in January! Yes, I am that quick. Getting There

Nestled amidst the high rises in the posh locality of Malabar Hill, lies an oasis of calm and tranquil which instantly transports one to the holy ghats at Varanasi. Yes, I am talking about Banganga Tank. You see, vacation makes me do crazy things; I have been digging up the photo albums on my computer all day today. And that is when I came across the pictures I clicked when I went on a photo walk to Banganga Tank last summer. Time surely does fly by! Anyway, the point I am trying to make here is that there are several gems in Mumbai (I prefer Bombay, honestly). Every little pocket in this city has the power to induce the feel of some faraway land, no kidding. Banganga Tank happens to be one of those gems- perfect to spend an evening at.  Stepping down the steps leading to the tank is where the journey begins- the rustic and unshapely steps flanked by narrow lanes and tiny temples on both the side is enough to make you feel that you are no longer in the hustling and bustli

Chef Vikas Khanna, a proud Punjabi, once mentioned that there always ensues a fight at a Punjabi wedding regarding who gets the leg piece of Chicken Tandoori! Hence, it is quite natural to assume that Punjabis are hard-core foodies. And why wouldn't they be? Punjab is hailed as the land of abundance and Punjabis as the most vibrant lot. The theme-based decor at the entrance Backpacking through Punjab is on my bucket-list; experiencing the lush countryside made famous by DDLJ and savouring the langar at The Golden Temple has been a dream since, forever now. So when I got a chance to sample the delicacies of this glorious land as a part of the ongoing Baisakhi Food Festival at Nawab Saheb restaurant, right here in Mumbai, I could not pass up the opportunity. The rustic yet refined table setting I happened to be the first of the invited diners to arrive for the dinner service, yet, it wasn't awkward in the least bit! The theme-based decor and the live performan