Mumbai’s Culinary World

I got my first chance to visit Mumbai through an official work. But somehow it turned out to be a one-day holiday trip for me. So I thought why not fully utilize the chance. As I had heard a lot about the culinary delight of the city, I was eager to explore it. The Mumbai food truly epitomizes the cultural diversity it boasts. The city once a small fishing village has now turned into a modern day cosmopolitan urban ecosystem. The financial hub of the country is known for its smorgasbord food. The culinary diversity is startling from Gujarati, Muslim, Parsi, Goan, South Indian and native Maharashtrian cuisine influences. I have heard a lot about the Parsi food. So I decided to invade a Parsi restaurant. Loved for their variety of cakes, the food there was delectable. The variety of cakes and non-vegetarian dishes like Mutton Berry Pulao, Fish Patra, will take you in a heavenly state.

With the time these Parsi restaurants finding it hard to survive with the time. If one is pure vegetarian he can opt out for a Gujarati Thali. Illustrious for its street food like Vada Pav, Behl Puri, Batata Vada and more, the food will completely engulf you. Due to little time constraint I was not able to fully explore the ocean of cuisine the city boasts. Next time I am going to visit with plenty of time by my side. I was so engrossed with the short trip that the next time I have decided to actually go for Maharashtra holiday packages to explore the stunning state.

The Historic Paranthe Wali Gali at Old Delhi

Delhi the capital beguiles the travellers with its wonderful amalgamation of old and new world. The city in the last one decade has changed considerably. Modern transport and infrastructure, the cosmopolitan historic city is changing quickly. But the city still dons its old avatar. People who want to get the glimpse of the Mughal era can land up in the Old Delhi area. Though chaotic and crowded the place top the list of favourite holiday spots in Delhi. The area once under the Mughal control still flaunts its rich medieval legacy. 

Foodies those who loves to savour spicy food, the place is full of old and traditional eateries. Among them the “Paranthe Wali Gali ", stands distinct. The Gali is prominent for its wide variety of stuffed paranthas. Most of the shops there are more than hundred years old. Apart from serving the delicious paratha, travellers could also relish traditional snacks like Namkeens and sweets. The cost of the parantha varies depending on the stuffing is filled. The street has several shops bragging and proud of their culinary extravaganza. The Delhi holiday packages are your gateway to experience the flavour and texture of the Delhi.

Mathura’s Famous Lathmaar Holi

For most of us the colourful and vibrant festival of Holi lasts for only a day. But if you want to see the festival at its epic, then head towards the town of Mathura. The festival there is celebrated much ahead of the usual date and lasts almost for one month. For me, Mathura ki Holi is all about enjoying the special Thandai or Bhang and immersing completely in the electrifying atmosphere. Holidaying in Mathura especially during the Holi will leave you with a lifetime memorable moments to cherish.

Apart from the vibrant atmosphere and amazing atmosphere, what startled me is the old age tradition of lathmaar (beating with sticks). The tradition is running between the women of Barsana and Nandgaon. According to the rituals, the women of Barsana beat the men of Nandgaon, with the heavy and long sticks while the men save themselves from the shield. Book Uttar Pradesh holiday packages and unveil the colourful festival in front of you. The revered Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan is a must visit. During Holi, the priest sprinkles the colours on devotes as blessing. In the evening don’t miss the Holika Dahan procession, decorated with idols of Lord Krishna and Radha. People in the procession also get dressed up in colourful attires resembling Radha and Krishna.

Hong Kong Shopper’s Guide for Tourists

Hong Kong’s towering skyline, vibrant culture along with traditional cuisines and the budding modern culture allures travellers from across the globe. Controlled by People’s Republic of China, is an autonomous region and is hailed as a shopper’s hot spot. The alleyways are enclosed by the glitzy high rises, and the place has emerged as a vital business hub. Numerous international brands have opened their outlets and arrays of products ranging from electronics, clothes, jewellery and luggage are all on a display. Apart hassle free shopping experience and galleries dealing in Asian and antique arts are in ample.

Bargaining – May Not the Best Option

Frankly speaking, bargaining is the story of past in Hong Kong, with glitzy mall lavished with international brands. Though many travellers those who had visited the destination advice that it is possible to bargain on individually owned shops. But now days bargaining might not prove to be the best options, mostly in cases of electronic items. You may able to bring the price half down, but the item may be missing vital components. Avail attractive and low coast holiday package to Hong Kong and experience all by yourself.

Be Well Informed

The golden rule, no matter what you are out there for shopping the best thing is to visit numerous shops and check the price of that particular product in the market. Sometime shoppers try to charge extra for certain product that do not carry price tags. Especially the markets around the area of Tsim Sha Tsui, is famous for their electronic good, but many of them do not carry price goods.

Warranty and Guarantee

Be sure that the goods which you are purchasing should carry an international warranty and guarantee. Many products in Hong Kong have the warrantee that is, valid there only, but if the product is from a well know brand you can exchange the warranty card and can get a one for your country. Wide range of customized group tour packages is available at TravelDuniya.

Antiques Hunting

The destination is famous for antique shopping and tourists can see numerous shops displaying various Chinese antique pieces. But for serious buyers reputed and well established auction shops are the best way to avoid themselves from getting cheated. The authentic paintings are sold through the licensed auction houses and most of the reputed auction houses are lined up along the Wyndham St and Hollywood Rd in Central and Sheung Wan. People looking for the famous traditional old Chinese handicraft they had to head towards the emporiums.

Merchandise

The playing field is divided for the luxury and high end brands, head towards the lavish malls such as IFC, Times Square in Causeway Bay, or Harbour City in Tsim Sha Sui. The Horizon Plaza, Ap Lei Chau, selling Parda items at discounted rates during the offseason. Apart there are local designers, who have opened their outlets, selling some cool stuffs. For those looking for some more affordable clothing are the individual shops and local brands like Giordano. People looking out for cheap and affordable clothes, Granville Road in Tsim Sha Tsui, and Cheung Sha Wan Road in Sham Shui Po are their desirable location.

Electronic and Computers

Best place to buy latest electronics goods and digital gadgets, but beware of the shopkeepers selling you second hand electronic items. The price may vary according to the brand, Wan Chai and the malls in the Sham Shui Po are the recommend places to buy your favourite electronic item.

Luggage and Leather Goods

Big names such as Louis Vuitton, Rimowa and Samsonite all here, the indigenous and locally produced products dealing in leather and luggage are also a best option to explore. Apart high quality of outdoor equipment, has in turn resulted in the proliferation of outdoor products selling shops.

Cameras and Watches

The best place to buy branded camera is the Stanley Street. It is advisable to buy a camera with a price tag, don’t get attractive buy small shoppers selling cheap camera without a price tag. Every big watch brand is available from Rolex to high standard diving watches.

Jewellers

The best option to buy it from a certify shops, as they will also give you a product authenticity certificate. If you are not sure then limit yourself to a small shopping. Jade Market, Yau Ma Tei is tempting, but try to control all shopping senses. Book Hong Kong and Macau holiday package and travel to the hot shopping spot.