Top Reasons for an Indian Vacation

India is still one of the top vacation destinations in my book. It is therefore unfortunate that Mumbai was attacked by terrorists last 2008. The effect of this incident to tourists was immediate. Tourism was affected and people were looking closely if it was worth the risk to vacation in India. There are a couple reasons for an Indian vacation and hopefully for tourists who are having second thoughts, the following reasons might convince you otherwise.

India is one of the cradles of civilization with cultural heritage and traditions spanning for more than 5000 years. These traditions and culture today have been mixed with much modern ones resulting to unique combinations that visitors can surely find intriguing, exciting and enjoyable.

Even if you’re the type of person who is not as interested in cultural differences, experiencing India might change your perspective. If not your overall perception, be prepared to experience food that you have never tasted before. Just be prepared to keep a bottle of cold water handy because you might the spices too hot to bear. Famous Mughlai cuisine and well known exotic Naans and roti breads are always a treat. Not to mention the curries which one definitely must taste.

Shopping is another reason why one goes to India. The merchandises are very cheap and the choices are so many. Cloths and garments are among the more popular products. From garments with ethnic, colorful and intricate designs to hand woven or embroidered cotton and silk, the shopping experience rivals those of other popular shopping destinations in Asia like Hong Kong and Singapore. And if by chance you went to India near the Christmas season, you can have your Christmas shopping there with unique gifts you can get for your family and friends.

In case you’re not a shoppaholic nor are you that fond of culture and food, India still offers you with world famous tourist spots. The famous Taj Mahal is in India which is both an architectural marvel as well as a historical feat. If the Taj is not enough, the forts and palaces of Rajasthan would be a great place to be amazed. The craftsmanship is truly exquisite. Other destinations include the Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal, City Palace and the Ranthambore Fort, all equally unique and beautiful.

Enjoying Camel Safari in Rajasthan is also a good reason why travel to India. Experiencing the Thar desert on a camel is quite an experience. The smell of the camel might not be your thing but the overall experience is nothing like riding a sports vehicle through the desert. The safari covers villages which still hold to traditions which showcase the Rajasthan culture and lifestyle. The villages offer a break from the busy and crowded cities.

As if the above reasons are still not enough, visitors can enjoy their vacation either by taking a trip to one of best known beaches in the country or one of the mountain getaways. Or they could try both if they have the time and money for it. The sunset at Kanyakumari is simply magnificent and the Himalayan river and snow capped mountain ranges are a sight to see.

There are more reasons for an Indian vacation and those that you have read so far as but a tip of the iceberg. There might be a couple of reasons why India is not the best place to relax and enjoy but there seems to be a whole lot of good reasons why it is. You still need help deciding?

Sunny Indian Vacation

You always want to get an edge on everything you do that is why you give everything you can. You always to be on top yet there are times that your mind and body just gives in. This is just a hint that you have to take some time off and take it easy. It’s pretty obvious that you won’t be able to be as productive as you want to if you’re not in tip-top condition.

Now what I’m trying to say is that it’s high time to give yourself a break on go off with family and friends for a nice and well-deserved vacation. And thing that come into mind when vacation considerations are on the table is basking under the nice warmth feeling that beaches can only offer. With this in mind let’s move forward and take a look at how you can have a sunny Indian vacation.

When headed for India for cool and fun game under the sun look no further because Goa is the place to go. Goa is said to be the best vacation spot that the country has for beach lovers. Let’s take a moment a focus on the different beaches that is situated in the Goa area.

First up on the list is the Anjuna Beach which is considered to be as one of the most famed beaches in all of Goa. It showcases palm trees that are creatively innovated by fluorescent paintings. Anjuna Beach is known for a lot of things and one of them are the night parties particularly those that take place when the moon is full. People are seen dancing their way to fun and excitement while others just enjoy their laid back moments while indulging in Anjuna’s popular tropical fruit delights. This vacation spot does not only have the beach to brag because just right beside the waters is Anjuna’s well-documented flea market where you can shop to your heart’s content.

The Baga Beach is another Goa extravagance that you can go to. It offers a more tranquil and quiet mood with its beautiful sceneries which is best enjoyed when the sun is about to set. You can go off to a retreat house situates on top of a hill to have some moments of reflection and contemplation and when you feel like your vitality is up to full potential you can head off to other activities that the beach has to offer like fishing and water sports. The folks at the Baga Beach take pride in each meal that they serve to tourists and guests. There are a lot of establishments that offer tasty treats which are set out in different themes for families, friends, and couples.

If you’re looking for a get-away spot that has a little bit of mystical and mythical history then the Dona Paula is the place for you and your mates. Apart from the romantic sceneries and water sport spectacles this area has to offer it is surrounded by a great legend which is really the one that attracts guests into this beach area.

The Dona Paula is named in honor of Dona Paula de Menezes who is the daughter of a certain viceroy. Her story ended in a tragic death when her family disapproved of the love she shared with a poor fisherman. Another version of the legend is that the viceroy’s daughter was pushed off the cliff as a punishment for charming the Count of Alvor, Francisco de Tavora.

Now that you know a thing or two about Indian beach vacation make it a point to include it in your next adventure across the globe.

Spiritual Indian Vacation

No matter how you want to avoid being burned from all the jobs, tasks, and errands you take care for all the days of your life there will still come a time when your mind, body, and well your spirit just gently gives you s shrug indicating that rest is needed. You have a lot of options when choosing to retire away from the tiring routines of your daily profession or education.

You can either stay within the comforts of your beloved abode or venture into the outside and see the world in its beauty. You have the choice to go on a nature adventure and discover the wild aspects of your personality or you can just stay put and contemplate on your spirituality and substance. In lieu with this let’s take an Indian vacation towards a place of worship.

The Baha’i House of Worship which is designated to the Baha’i Faith of India houses about four million visitors annually. The English translation of its Arabic name is quite inviting which is the dawning place of the remembrances of God. The religious circle of the Baha’i aims to pursue developments that include issues in education, humanitarianism, science, and other relevant social facets in India particularly in its place of seat which is New Delhi.

According to standards of Baha’i literature Houses of Worship should be part of civic and municipal structures and should invite people from all walks of life without religious or ethnic discrimination. The Baha’i law is quite flexible in allowing people to experience the spirit of their House of Worship even if these individuals are not part of their religious community. But it should be noted that within the boundaries of the Baha’i faith structures only scriptures that depict the beliefs of the religion should be chanted or read. Choirs can be present within the vicinity but the use of musical instruments is not allowed. Moreover there should be no performance of rituals, ceremonies, and more importantly sermons.

There are specific architectural designs and patterns that are quite noticeable with Baha’i Houses of Worships. Domes are seen in all areas of the construction although it is not really required but the most essential things is that there should be the presence of a nine-sided circular figure in the form and pattern of the structure. It is emphasized as according to Baha’i scriptures that there should be no presence of images, pictures, and statues inside the Houses of Worship.

The plan followed by the construction regarding Baha’i faith is that there should be one undivided room and that the seats should be oriented facing the Shrine of Baha’u’llah in Akka, Israel. Houses of Worship found scattered across the globe may have similar characteristics but it is actually the exact location of each structure that defines its distinct characteristics and traits.

Furthermore the Baha’i literature makes it a point that Houses of Worship are situated within the folds of institutions that promote charity, education, and humanitarianism such as universities, elderly homes, and hospitals in order to cooperate with these groups and organizations in serving the community where they are located.

The Guardian of the Baha’i Faith in the person of Shoghi Effendi clearly states that it would be better if the both the Baha’i center and the House of Worship is located in the same area. He gives a great equation of the joining of worship and service in order to rid man’s society of all the negative things that have been plaguing it for so many years.

A vacation should not only be relaxing and enjoying more so it should be enriching and rewarding. So next time you plan to pack things up and go global check out the great Indian spirituality.

Sandy Retreat: An Indian Vacation

More and more tourists are discovering the wonders of having an Indian vacation and the wonder of Indian beaches.  India ranked 6th in the list in terms of price in  “The Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Report” released in 2007.  It is slowly becoming on of the top five hot spots in world.  

The beaches in India looked very irresistible with its fine, white sand, sea and the opportunity for water sports and other activities.  Aside from the pristine beaches, there are also some known locations that would offer different venues for recreation and other forms of entertainment that locals and foreign visitors would all like.

Nature has truly gifted India. Not only tourists would be able to experience fine, white sand but there are also backwaters ideal for romantic boat rides, crashing waves ideal for surfing, marine life which you can experience in diving and lava-rocked seas.   India, aside from its wonderful tourist spots, is also known for its top cuisine and this manifests on different kinds of cuisine that can be found in restaurants in Indian coasts.

Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh is a region in which eight of its twenty-three districts are close to the sea.  This region boasts its natural beauty pure and unspoiled by commercialism.  In this region, Beemunipatnam Beach can be found which is referred to as one of the safest and finest beaches in India.

Manginapudi Beach, also in this region, does not only offer scenic swimming coastline, but they would also include a port city which is very historical, a health resort and places great for picnics.  There are also beaches like the Mypad Beach which is ideal for romantic getaways and honeymoons.  If you are up for the adventure, Rishikonda Beach offers different activities like water skiing and wind surfing.

Karnataka

The beaches in Karnataka are very rewarding to visit, too.  The beach in Karnataka, just like Andhra Pradesh, is unspoilt which is part of its charm.  Most beaches in Karnataka are characterized by its peaceful waters and virgin shores just like Karwar Beach and  Malpe Beach.

There are also coastlines in Karnataka noted for its great views.  For example, the Bhatkal Beach is noted for its temples which can be seen on the top of the hills.  The Murudeshwar Beach has beautiful statues which adds to the beauty of the tourist attraction.

Kerala

Kerala beaches are an image of serenity with coconut palms lining the shores.  More and more tourists are being attracted with the clear blue waters and soft waves of the beaches in Kerala. There are small villages near the beach, these adds to the charm of the place making it a hospitable and warm recluse.   Aside from there are also other sights that can be seen, in Kumarakom Beach, there are migratory birds that frequent the coasts which are great for bird watching enthusiasts.

An add-on to Kerala beaches would be the fresh water rivers and lakes which make up the backwaters of Kerala.   There are also ports which can even give your beach vacation a historic touch.   The only drive-in beach in India can also be found in Kerala, the Muzhappilangad Beach.

Goa

No beach is more popular than the beaches in Goa.  Over the years, it has become the top beach destination in India.  The Anjuana beach is one of the international famous coastline which line with palm trees and popular for its full moon parties.   You can also experience shopping in Anjuana in its famous flea market. Bars and restaurants are also great attractions in Goa where they offer succulent dishes cooked out of fresh seafood.

The 70s and the 80s witnessed the popularity of the Calangute Beach.  Currently, it became the most commercial and busy resort in Goa.  If you prefer a quieter and less commercialized resort, there are smaller resorts in Bogmolo Beach, Pololem Beach and Vagator Beach.

In you are planning to have an beach escape for your Indian vacation, then there are numerous choices that would cater to your needs and your interests.  There are also family beaches in India which would be able t make your family busy and thoroughly happy. If it intends to be romantic or for your honeymoon, then looking for a romantic and secluded place in India is not impossible.

Regional Dishes You Can Try On Your Indian Vacation

Elusive to define, Indian food is consists of many regionally diverse dishes - all with their own way of cooking and ingredients. Indian food's sheer diversity promises your Indian vacation (India) deliciously rewarding. Pat Chapman, author of the book India: Food and Cooking describes India States and culinary regions:

1. Kashmir's extreme palate - Kashmiri food is typified by rich and aromatic meat and vegetable dishes. Meats are usually cooked in curd or milk which gives them a whitish colour and smooth texture.

2. Rajasthan - Rajasthani cuisine is least known in India. Because of limited fresh vegetables, fruits or fish, Rajasthanis make the most of cereals, pulses, spices and milk products.

3. Gujarat - Largely vegetarian and a major culinary region with a unique and abundant indigenous cuisine.  Guijarat food is the least spicy in India. The major ingredients in savoury dishes are yogurt and gram flour.

4. Maharashtra - The comercial capital Mumbai has some interesting dishes, including Parsee ones. Marashantran food was developed over the centuries as minor cuisine. Mild and delicately spiced, it uses tamarind and coconut sparingly in many of their dishes. The Parsee is a religious sect which has evolved in South-west central of India over the last 800 years.
Traditional Parsee food is marked by Persian origins. Parsee can eat pork, beef, lamb and shellfish.

5. Tiny Goa - Has unique cuisine influenced by the Portuguese which colonized this tiny state for 450 years. Modern Guan curries are characterized by a uniquely sour taste made by palm todi vinegar. Goans are mostly vegetarians and meat is confined on Sundays. They are required to have at least one meal with fish. Majority of dishes have two names: Goan and Portuguese. Majority of Goans are Catholic and some are Goans Hindu which use leass pepper, tamarind for souring and jaggery for sweetening. There are some Goan Muslim in the area and some dishes found in their home are Kashmiri.  

6. India’s Islands -  Remote and still tribal with a high reliance on fish.

7. Tamil Nadu - A major cuisine and India's oldest. Tamil Nadu's cuisine is largely rice-based and exclusively vegetarian.

8. Andhra Pradesh - Rich and delicious, Hyderabad has a prolific cuisine to match as it is used to be home to India's richest royal.

9. Orissa - Very industrialized state and not a culinary area. However, three recipes are known in this island: Charu or tamarind consomme, Bhoona Murgh or mild, dryish chicken curry and Baigan Burtha or smoky aubergine puree.

10. Uttaranchal - Savoury and robust, Delhi is the home to the rich dishes of the royal /moghuls and Lucknow to the Nawabs.

11. Bengal - This second oldest established cuisine is the only major culinary region here.

12. Assam - India's poorest states, home to many tribes, few recipes and the celebrated Assam tea.

13. Punjab - Many of its staple dishes have come to represent Indian food internationally. The main meals of Punjabi cuisine usually have hot rotis which will truly fire your palate while you’re in your Indian vacation (India). It also has dollops of unsalted butter, a bowl of dhal and a vegetable dish such as the favourite saas or aloo gobi, baigan bharta (roasted eggplant fried with onions and tomatoes) or aloo mattar ( a curry made with potatoes and green peas). Common ingredients of Punjab cuisine are paste of onions, garlic, ginger, chillies, tomatoes, cumin, garam masala, dried fenugreek leaves and kalonji.

Sources:

1. India: Food and Cooking by Pat Chapman

2. India by Joe Bindloss, Sarina Singh, James Bainbridge, Lindsay Brown, Mark Elliott, Stuart Butler