Taipei, Taiwan

Here I am in Taipei, Taiwan, in front of the famous Taipei 101 or otherwise called, The Taipei International Financial Center.  Taipei 101 is not the king of the sky anymore.  That is it was ranked officially as the world's tallest until the opening of the Burj Khalifa in Dubai in 2010.

You should plan at least half a day to visit the Taipei 101 building, so you get enough time to shop in the 101 mall, eat some of the food at the food courts and restaurants, and climb up to the observatory to enjoy spectacular views over the capital.  The Taipei 101 tower is home to two observation decks on its 89th and 91th floors. The views from the top are breathtaking !

The Taipei 101 mall is a true shoppers’ paradise!  There you will find some of the top brand names in the world, a Starbucks, lots of food options, with really decent food.  I really enjoyed the food in Taipei, it was very fresh, tasty and interesting.  Getting to the 101 is easy. Take the MRT (Taipei Metro) all the way to Sun Yat Sen Memorial Station, or City Hall Station in Xinyi District, from there, it’s a short 10-minute walk to the building.

I love Taipei, it was safe, friendly, and so easy to get around.  Even if you are partially brain dead you can figure it out.  The metro is super-easy friendly to use.  I did not even have to ask questions or think about it, well, not really :P so I had no worries about getting lost in the city.  Taipei is extremely hot and humid.  Once I walked outside my hotel, within 2 minutes I was sweating like a pig.  Don't let this fret you, Taipei is a beautiful place to visit, you don't want to miss out.  Just pack some light clothes. 

Another good thing to see in Taipei is the famous National Palace Museum.  Even if you are not into museums or history, you can’t really visit Taipei and not go to the National Palace Museum. Renowned as one of the best museums in the world.  The pre-eminent museum contains a vast collection of ancient art and relics that span over 8,000 years of history in China. From the Neolithic Age to the Qing Dynasty, the collection is comprehensive.

Another stop is The Taipei Zoo. I love animals so I had to visit the Zoo.  If you visit Taipei with kids, you don’t want to miss this attraction. I am a kid at heart so I fitted right in.  It is located right next to an MRT station, has two giant pandas, and tons of other cool animals and sights !

Mumbai, Maharashta, India

Mumbai, my favorite place in India.  I immediately fell in love with Mumbai when I arrived here.  All my friends know that I love India so much, I call it my second home, my life, but, yeh hai Mumbai meri jaan.  Mumbai was feeling so close to my heart, I was instantly smitten with Mumbai.

I stayed in the Colaba district, next to the Gateway of India.  I love this area in Mumbai.  Surrounded by water, nice restaurants, and so much shopping galore, if your a shopaholic.  It is so friendly that it felt like everyone was family.  So many nice people offering to help you if you have questions.

Most of Mumbai's attractions such as museums and the Gateway of India can be found in the downtown area of Colaba district.  Marine Drive and Chowapatty Beach make for great strolling and are quite popular for vendor snacks and sunsets. When here, catch the boat across to Elephanta Island.  It is about an hour journey across.  When you arrive it is breathtaking.  Your journey starts up many steps to the top where the views are magnificent, and the caves themselves are just as magnificent.  There were many dogs and monkeys roaming around.  I sat my bottle of water down to take a picture and a monkey came and stole my water bottle, so caution, watch your belongings.  What a fantastic day to spend the day.

I am not into the nightlife scene, but if you are into nightlife, then Mumbai is a happening place with lots of bars and clubs. Many nightspots can be found inside the swanky hotels and around the Fort and Colaba areas.  Mumbai also has a huge selection of shopping plazas, boutiques, and outdoor markets.  You have everything right here at your disposal.

Don't forget to visit Juhu Beach.  I took the train to Juhu Beach, a little nervous about getting lost, but I managed just fine. The trains are a fun and economical way to get around Mumbai.  Mumbai is known for its beaches, and this beach is a must to visit. The waves touching your feet, the sinking sand, stalls selling edible food to satisfy your appetite, and of course, some fresh air.  Soak in all the sun and waves and indulge in some delicious snacks.  Another great way to spend your day in Mumbai.

I will definitely be coming back time and time again to Mumbai.  Truly my favorite place in India to date.  Oh Mumbai meri jaan.  I miss Mumbai so much.  Pictures of Elephanta Caves and Juhu Beach below :-)

Peru

I have to admit I never gave Peru much thought to explore, my only desire was seeing Machu Picchu, which was high on my list of must see places.  Frankly, I was unprepared with how beautiful and magnificent Peru is.  The culture of Peru is by far one of the most diverse in South America.  Thanks to the Andes mountains to the West and the Amazon River, Peruvians have been successful at preserving the culture of Peru for thousands of years.  Even after the invasion by the Spanish Conquistadors, the ancient culture of Peru is still prominent today.

Peru has an interesting blend of both Inca and Spanish influences with it's art.  Music within Peru dates back literally thousands of years, preserved by the local community, and the sounds are just magical.  The culture of Peru is also diverse in the way of festivities.  Peru celebrates many festivities a year, most of which are related to the Christian religion that was brought over by the Spanish Conquistadors, however, some ancient Inca celebrations are also still practiced.  This blend of Christianity and the ancient beliefs are yet another example of the diversity of Peru.

First stop, Lima.  The architecture in Lima is stunning.  When coming here you must see Plaza de Armas.  Once considered the heart of old Lima, this grand plaza features many important architectural monuments and buildings including a magnificent bronze fountain dating from 1650, the Archbishop's Palace and the Government Palace dating from 1924.  Another place to see is Miraflores, it is one of the top tourist districts of Lima.  The main hotels in this beautiful city are located by the Pacific ocean.  Miraflores offers several amenities such as fine cuisine, fast food, casinos, handcrafts, antiques flea markets, cinemas, and much more.  If like to shop you must go to Larcomar area, which is a mall that overlooks the ocean, offering a relaxing sunset.

Of course one comes to Peru for Machu Picchu.  So next stop, Cusco.  I loved it here.  One of the best cities I have ever been too.  Beauty balanced with charm in this almost fairy tale like town.  Machu Picchu left me breathless and in awe.  I was astound by the sites and history.  In Cusco you will find a wide range of different tourist services such as hotels, restaurants, handicraft centers, bars and anything you want.  Cusco is quite charming so spend a few nights here, you will not regret it.  Cusco was much more enjoyable compared to Lima, just my opinion and I think you will agree also.

The way to get to Machu Picchu is by train from Cusco.  The journey last about 4 hours until you reach Aguas Calientes, this is where you depart and have to take a bus that will take you to Machu Picchu, the addition ride is another 20 minutes.   After sites seeing in Machu Picchu make some time to relax in Aguas Calientes before heading back.  This is a lovely town with lots of outdoor vendors and restaurants.

When going to Machu Picchu book your train ticket and your entrance ticket to Machu Picchu in advance.  They sell out fast during high-peak season.  I went right before the high-peak season so I had no worries, but even at that, it was selling out fast, both train and entrance.  Don’t take a chance, book it way before you leave on your trip to avoid the disappointment of coming to Peru and not seeing Machu Picchu.  Book your rail thru Peru Rail at www.perurail.com and your Machu Picchu tickets at the official site at http://www.machupicchu.gob.pe/.  I hope this helps your planning to visit Peru.  Enjoy the ride :-)))

Kerala, India * The Backwaters *

Kerala, one of my favorite destinations in India.  I have been there several times and keep coming back.   Kerala is nicknamed, “God's Own Country” and you can see why when you arrive in Kerala.  Well-known for its lush greenery, waterfalls, and world famous backwaters.  The backwaters in Kerala are lagoons and lakes parallel to the Arabian Sea.  The backwaters are also quite popular for boat races.

Kerala is blessed with unmatched beauty and attractions among which the backwaters are a favorite and must do when you come.  Kerala backwaters have greatly helped in the boom of Kerala tourism industry.  For more information on Kerala, check out my previous postings on this site :-)

In this heavenly state of India, there are many picturesque backwater destinations among which Kumarakom, Alleppey, Cochin, Kuttanad, Kovalam, Kollam, Kottayam and Kasargod are very popular among tourists and are the prime backwater destinations in Kerala.   Holidays in Kerala are incomplete without enjoying a houseboat over the beautiful backwaters.  The houseboats come with a chef on board to serve you all your meals, so sit back, relax, eat and be merry, it is truly a memorable event of lifetime.  The food is wonderful in Kerala, seems like everything about this place is heavenly :-)

Varkala, Kerala, India

Varkala is a coastal town in the Thiruvananthapuram district situated in the state of Kerala.  Varkala is the only place in southern Kerala where cliffs are found adjacent to the Arabian Sea.  One of the most beautiful beaches I have ever been too.  This place should not be missed if you are coming to India.

Varkala coast is stunning, and has an international culture, isolated from the rest of India.  You will feel your not even in India, it is so diverse with many different cultures around the globe.  From Italian café to German bakery to French pastries, this place caters to all.  I decided to have an Indian lunch, so opt for some curd rice, and it was the best curd rice I have ever had.

Varkala is becoming the new “hippie beach” from the most populated Goa.   It is slowly climbing the ladders of popularity among the various tourist destinations in India.  With its largely uncrowded and isolated location, November to March is the ideal time to visit Varkala.

Varkala has many beautiful beaches other than the most famous Papanasanam, but the most developed and the best-favoured one is Papanasanam.  It has all the restaurants and resorts around it.  Lodging opportunities are plenty with home stays, budget hotels, and luxury resorts, spread around the area.

There are sightseeing options once you are in Varkala, from the Janardhana Swami Temple to the Kappil Lake, to the Ayurvedic resorts, and the Anjengo Fort, which is listed as the National Heritage site.  Varkala is peaceful and serene, and if you want to sunbath or a walk on the virgin beaches, a mix of ethnic cuisines to enjoy, then Varkala is the place for you to come in India.

Rome, Italy

Rome, I was completely impressed and fell in love with this historic city.  Ancient ruins everywhere you walked.  If you love history, you will definitely love this city, I love history, so of course I was in awe when I arrived.  I stayed on Via Nazionale Street, this is a great location to stay at.  It is only 20 minute walk to the Coliseum.

When I arrived at that Coliseum, I was taken back.  Then walking around the Coliseum, I just had this incredible feeling.  Wow, am I actually at the Coliseum !   What a feeling !  You learn about this in history class, but when you are actually at the Coliseum, the feeling is overwhelming.  At least that is what it did to me.  We all know the Coliseum is an oval-shaped amphitheater situated in the heart of Rome, and one of the most exclusive landmarks of Rome.  The Coliseum had its foundation laid between 70 and 72 AD,  the amphitheater was completed in the 80 AD.  At the time of its construction, the Coliseum had the capacity of seating around 50,000 spectators. Initially, the amphitheater was used for holding gladiatorial contests and public spectacles, such as; animal hunts, executions, re-enactments of famous battles and dramas based on Classical mythology.  The games played in the Coliseum are believed to have taken the lives of about 500,000 people and over a million wild animals.  Just a little history facts I thought I throw in :-)))  If you pass by the famous Trevi Fountain on your way to the Coliseum don’t forget to throw a coin in the fountain for good luck.

Another must see is the Roman Forum, wow, I was really blown away.  I find the Roman Forum is one of the most fascinating attractions in Italy, and top ancient site to see.   The Roman Forum or the Forum Romanum, was once the center of ancient Rome, the place where the Romans used to meet, do business, politics and shop.  In 46BC Julius Caesar built a new forum because the old one was getting small for the growing population of the city.  The Roman Forum today is an area of ruins of temples, arches and basilicas.  Walking through this ancient city had me just as overwhelmed as the Coliseum.  After seeing the Coliseum and the Roman Forum the same day, I was ready to relax and have some nice Italian wine.

Visiting the Vatican City and St. Peter’s Basilica is a one day event only you will need to spend out of your trip to Rome.  The Vatican is its own independent state and the smallest independent country in the world.  Regardless of your religion, you must visit the St. Peter’s Basilica.  You will appreciate it immensely whether your Catholic or not.  I waited in line for almost 1.5 hours.  The line when I got there was never ending.  It is worth the wait.  I was utter blown away by the architecture.  St Peter's is the most renowned work of Renaissance architecture and remains one of the largest churches in the world.  St. Peter's basilica is regarded as one of the holiest Catholic sites.  Enjoy the pasta and panini's when in Rome, it is really good.  When you visited all the sites, just roam around Rome, you will feel you are Rome-ing  back in time. 

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is beautiful, beautiful, beautiful.  This city is really coming alive with activities and people dancing all around at the water front having a good time.  I also noticed people were dressed in costumes in the stores and around the city.  I still don't know why,  but maybe they just like to dress up in costumes.  When you come here try the tapas.  There are many tapas bars, and all vary in prices from inexpensive to expensive, so check first.  This is the common staple in Barcelona.

For the traveler, Barcelona offers a wide variety of attractions and things to do, perfect for sightseeing and shopaholics.  From the narrow streets of the Gothic Quarter, to the beautiful parks overlooking the city, here is a list of some things you should see when visiting Barcelona.

La Rambla: This wide avenue is one of the main arteries that runs through the city, and features many shops and department stores, as well as a large number of street performers and flocks of people. The excitement of this street is unparalleled within the city, and among the shops are bakeries, restaurants and more.  I stayed in this area, this a good place to get a hotel.  I would recommend staying in this area because  it is near PlazaCatalunya, the main bus stop that takes you to and from the airport.
Plaza Catalunya:  This large, round plaza at the end of La Rambla is always full of people and pigeons.  Located exactly at the heart of the city, this square, with its beautiful fountains, is a great place to get a cup of coffee and relax.  Again, if you stay in La Rambla area, this is the square where the main bus stops are.
Sagrada Familia: For both the first-time visitor and the experienced traveler, Sagrada Familia is an unforgettable sight. Designed by the famous architect Gaudi, the cathedral is still unfinished, but the intricate details of the arches and towers, and the stunning tile work and carvings on the façade of the building are unique in architecture.
Park Guell: Another vista over the rooftops of Barcelona, Park Guell was intended to be a paradise retreat for the rich and famous of the city before being turned into a public park.
Barrio Gotico: The narrow streets of the Gothic Quarter, in the center of Barcelona are a wonderful place to shop and explore. Filled with tiny cafes and unique bars, and full of life, this area is another lively section in the city.
Picasso Museum: Rated as possibly one of the best museum in Barcelona, this collection offers an amazing glimpse into the works of one of the most famous painters of all time. From his early works to his discovery of modernism and cubism, the museum follow Pablo Picasso's journey as an artist.
Olympic Harbor: Built for the famous 1992 Olympic Games, which took place in Barcelona, the Olympic Harbor is a beautifully-designed waterfront, complete with boardwalks and parks. Full of walkers and people during the day, and dance clubs and restaurants at night, this area always has something to see and do.

You will be amazed with the architecture in Barcelona.  One of the most beautiful cities I have been too.  And don't forget try the tapas !