All posts by Grace

About Grace

Once upon a time I was a backpacker, but these days a little more comfort is required and I'd like to share my journeys with you. I trust this blog will keep you informed and updated with the art of travel. May Grace be with you!

Coastal Udupi, Mangaluru and Back to Bangaluru Karnataka, India.

Sub Continent,

While Karnataka has long been celebrated for its hill stations, wildlife sanctuaries, regional cuisines and historical sites, its coastal tourism sector is now receiving unprecedented attention.

Ever been Sky Dining? Me either – until just recently.

If you’re seeking an exceptional dining experience, which will have you elated (quite literally), then SKY DINING is tailor-made to suit you and your adventurous guests.

SKY DINING is a unique concept that enables you and your loved ones to eat, drink and be merry at the height of 50 metres above ground level and it’ll be an affair to remember. The structure is supported by one crane, which houses people around the table and a staff of 4 people at its centre. The views of Trasi Beach near Udupi is mesmerising and although this might not be one of Karnataka’s usual sites of ancientness, it’s a drawcard amongst those exploring new activities.

Karnataka is emerging as a strong contender in the coastal tourism space, capturing attention with its pristine beaches, untouched landscapes and dynamic government-backed initiatives.

Honnavar is a scenic small town in Uttara Kannada with the magnificent Arabian Sea on one side and the mighty Western Ghats on the other. It’s often ignored by visitors travelling to Murudeshwara, Gokarna or Karwar. Easily accessible from Bangalore, Mangalore or Goa, Honnavar is known for its plethora of suspension bridges, waterfalls, coastal cuisine, hiking trails and mangrove forests.

Add Honnavar to a Shimoga or Udupi / Mangalore itinerary or just visit the area and explore the destination at a slow leisurely pace. 

If there’s a safe haven in regard to swimming, be rest assured there’s no shortage of beaches with lifeguards at the ready as the authorities are quite aware of people’s inability to stay afloat even when the water is calm. Look for coastal beaches with flags and safety in mind. Adhere to the rules and opening times of the coastal beaches which should be an experience of knowing you are in secure hands.

Lunchtime! A Thali platter cannot be passed by if it’s on the menu where your trip takes you. And known predominately for its veg option, it has a variety of accompaniments; mostly spicy. This will tantalise the most ardent chili, spice loving diner at any degree of the heat scale.

On the road again, the landscape is truly surrounded by an abundance of fast-growing forestation and fauna.

Small boats on the Sharavati Backwater are a must-do activity for anyone visiting Honnavar. The backwaters are formed by the Sharavati River which creates a labyrinth of waterways, islands and mangrove forests. A leisurely boat ride through these backwaters is a tranquil and scenic experience offering a glimpse of the rich biodiversity of the region.

Hasta Shilpa Heritage Village is located just 5.6 km from Udupi and 1.4 km from Manipal. The Village is a remarkable open-air museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing India’s rich cultural and architectural heritage. Established and managed by the Hasta Shilpa Trust, it stands as a testimony to India’s diverse traditions, craftsmanship and historic architecture.

An interesting and unique museum of which enthusiastic volunteers and staff carry on the traditions of Karnataka’s past along with some buildings from their neighbour Kerala.

An occupant of the Hasta Shilpa Heritage Village is this wooden structure of a bygone era, saved for restoration and is a real ‘show pony’ amongst the other residing artifacts.

Spanning an expansive area, the village boasts 18 fully restored heritage buildings including:

  • The 13th-century Harihara Mandir: A shrine that exemplifies ancient craftsmanship.
  • Traditional Houses: These include residences from Maharashtra, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka, highlighting the diversity of vernacular architecture.
  • Artifacts and Crafts: Rare tribal art from Bastar-Chhattisgarh, exquisite folk deities from South Canara, textiles, furniture, and ancient tools are on display, offering a window into India’s material culture.

Source: https://www.udupitourism.com/explore

As time goes by so do these clocks salvaged by passionate locals, also on show along with many other interesting household objects within the village’s compartmental displays just like this one.

The ancient temples of Udupi – there’s no need to panic as there’s a plethora of places of worship. India being predominately Hindu, there’s an easiness amongst other belief systems who coexist admirably.

Q. What is Udupi famous for?

A. The district of Udupi in Karnataka is known for its cuisine and is also famous by the name Lord Parashurama Kshetra which is popular for Kanakana Kindi.

Q. Which is the best time to visit Udupi?

A. The most ideal time to visit Udupi is considered to be the winter months between October and March.

Udupi Shri Krishna Temple is a well-known historic Hindu temple dedicated to Krishna and Dvaita Matha located in the city of Udupi. The Matha area resembles a living Aashram – a holy place for daily devotion and living.

Considered to be one of the most famous pilgrimage sites in South India, the Krishna Temple or the Udupi Sri Krishna Matha is quite a lengthy name associated with the worship of Lord Krishna. The fascinating idol of the Lord is adorned with jewels and a golden chariot.

What makes the temple unique, is its worshipping pattern. The prayers and process of the whole worship take place only through a silver-plated window with nine holes called the Navagraha Kitiki. Although we were able to visit this site, photographs were not permitted but definitely worthy of a visit regardless of your faith (or perhaps not having one?).

Cows are sacred and shoes off at all temples regardless of your status. Usually, larger temples offer a dedicated holding stall and is safe in my opinion. A small fee will be charged, although some people chance it and leave theirs at the entrance unattended.

Sanctity of the cow, in Hinduism is the belief that the cow is representative of divine and natural beneficence and should therefore be protected and venerated. The cow has also been associated with various deities, notably Shiva (whose steed is Nandi, a bull), Indra (closely associated with Kamadhenu, the wish-granting cow), Krishna (a cowherd in his youth) and goddesses in general (because of the maternal attributes of many of them).

Source: Britannica

Bling anyone? Here at the Krishna Temple it’s most definitely an eye opener.

Mangaluru (Mangalore) is a multi-cultural small city on the coast which is home to the Aloysious College.

Established in 1880, the College now deemed to be a university prides itself in its history of 144 years. Despite its status as a minority institution, the college has imparted high-quality education to all sections of society regardless of caste, colour or creed.

Continuing on, the St. Aloysius Chapel in Mangaluru was built by Jesuit missionaries in 1880 and its interiors painted by the Italian Jesuit Antonio Moscheni in 1899 during the Mangalore Mission in 1878. The Italian Jesuits played an important role in education, health, and social welfare of the Mangalorean Catholic community.

At the Bannergatta National Park we were excited to see young leopards playing like kittens. Luckily, we are not able to play with them, only a safe sightseeing distance from the enclosed jeeps provided by the Park authorities.

The Butterfly Park within the same National Park was a highlight seeing these large butterflies being released into the park – an enclosure set up for their protection with other rare species.

Back in Bangaluru, one of the largest ISKCON temples in the world, located at Hare Krishna Hill. This stone temple is constructed as per traditional Shilpa shastras (designs as mentioned in scriptures) in the Dravidian style of architecture. Go early, the queues are a conquest if you dare to venture later in the day

Bollywood has come to us. At the Convention Centre in Bangaluru we were treated to various regional groups who showed us their own unique style and cultural heritage through dance.

Dinner time never looked so fantastic after a day’s outing. Buffet style is popular for both veg and non-veg diners.

A stay at the Radisson Blu Atria Hotel in Bangaluru is located in the City Center with two restaurants, a full-service spa and an outdoor pool. Free in-room WiFi also in public areas and free valet parking are also provided. Additionally, a fitness centre, a bar/lounge and a snack bar/deli are onsite whereby there’s a full-screen TV so that you’re not missing any of the live cricket action. Conversation starter? Just ask a local bar tender how much they love losing to the Aussies … Ouch!

Heading back into Bangaluru on the outskirts is Bhagwan Hanuman Mandir Temple with a magnificent sunset which seems to epitomise the spirituality and faith of the Hindu faith.

Hospitality in India is always considered the best service one can provide. And to end the day, when asking for a G and T, mention cricket and you’ll be welcomed as an Aussie who can be identified – not as a foe, but someone of substantial grit and substance who can take on the mighty Indian’s prowess of their beloved sport.

But like all fascinating trips to India, Karnataka really was a pleasant surprise and so many hidden gems within the state. Left wondering why it had taken so long to discover this amazing treasure trove of goodies?

Bangaluru to Mangaluru and return after experiencing the scenic coastline, has been a fascinating and rewarding experience. There’s always something new to discover here without too much effort.

And as Schwarzenegger would say … “I’ll be back”.

Stay Calm in Karnataka, India.

Sub Continent, ,

The state of Karnataka being in the southern part of India attracts visitors due to its location enriched by coastal beauties, the Western Ghats and heaped in antiquity; the ruling dynasties left vivid evidence of their presence through architectural gems along with intricately detailed sculptures of those in power in a bygone era.

Although Karnataka has a varied and tumultuous historical beginning, it has become an easy-going, fun-loving sector of the subcontinent.

Get India into ya! As a first-time visitor to anywhere in the subcontinent a tour is a safe and secure way of ensuring your worries are put to rest. A group of approximately 15 passengers allows space and comfort. A much more desirable way of not having to compete for a window seat and taking the time to know the other members who are also wanting to know each other’s background and culture – as well as thoughts on India. A camaraderie of sorts … make new friends and acquaintances to enrich your travel experience.

The most ardent and robust agencies generally offer great value for money with itineraries that focus hard in matching their client’s expectations, but sometimes there’s an odd surprise thrown in too – at no extra cost. Remember this is India and you can take your “me, myself and I” out of your precious self and go with the flow. Afterall it’s what you can count on if you’re a seasoned traveller and not just a tourist.

Choose hotel locations which allow you to test out the shopping, along with the ease of transportation options which can always be a decider for those who are seeking a holiday without any stress and broaden their horizons.

Thanks to Jyoti for the photo.

Bangaluru the capital of the state of Karnataka has fast become one of the most likeable cities in India and considered one of the best airports amongst many Australians, especially as the flight from Sydney, Australia is direct with Qantas Airlines to the newly refurbished Kempegowda International.

Qantas passengers connecting to IndiGo with a QF codeshare flight number receive the same checked baggage allowance as their flight from Australia, as well as complimentary food and drinks. T1 and T2 are part of the same airport complex but designed to handle traffic efficiently, ensuring minimal hassle for passengers. The terminals are conveniently connected making transfers relatively straightforward.

There’s a myriad of choice with airlines and/or tour companies for onward travel. The options are endless within this state and holds no barriers when it comes to doing as much as you like or just relaxing with a Masala Chai Tea brewed to perfection whilst people watching the locals of their daily rituals. Or simply pondering your upcoming itinerary of mesmerising activities?

Whilst in Bangaluru, a visit to the Rangoli Gardens is a must-see with life-like figures which give scale and is a truly eye-catching experience. Here we were able to witness the sculpture of Ghandi who subsequently became known as Mahatma (the great soul) who adopted a policy of passive resistance (or satyagraha), to British Rule of the past.

Life in India and particularly to the regional areas, Rangoli Gardens situated at Jakkur is an authentic village, showcasing life as it was, filled with a restored rich culture in all forms and natural splendor. Here you’ll find a heritage of innumerable paintings, visuals and eco-parks crafted artistically by skilled staff. If you’re short on time and wanting to learn about the history, economy and living conditions within India from the past to the present, then this is a definite on your to-do list.

A pit stop and some morning tea at a roadhouse allowed us the chance to admire the first of many statues – later on there’s more on temples and interesting attractions within Karnataka.

Breakfast never looked so good. Traversing over the Western Ghats led us to an amazing viewpoint and overnight stay at the Trivik Spa and Resort.

The air quality here at this level is so fresh and clean it’s invigorating and the inspiration of simply walking for a bout of exercise is encouraging – even for the die hards who’ll find any excuse not to …

And for ‘High Tea’ a Banana Leaf experience of freshly made exquisite snacks with a view from the 23rd highest point in the Western Ghats. Surrounded by its own coffee plantation, the property maintains acres of highly sought-after beans, both locally and internationally. Now this is how Afternoon Tea should be every day …

And at the end of the day, we were rewarded with this superb vantage viewpoint at such a salubrious Spa and Resort.

The Trivik Resort and Spa offers clean, spacious accommodation with staff who deliver service and hospitality to the greatest of accolades. At Chikmagalur this property is an escape to a world above the clouds set at 5,400 feet (1,646 metres) above sea level with 41 elegantly designed suites with a choice of views starting with Mountain, Coffee, Garden and there’s also a Family configuration.

As groups arrive at various designated properties, more often than not you’ll be greeted by a local entourage of musicians who display their traditional song and dance of hand-me-down stories from the region.

Although the highway is undergoing a major transformation, the accommodation provided within the Western Ghats was always quality with spacious rooms and amenities.

Did someone say cooking class? States of India have their own particular dish and/or cuisine made from the surrounding localities. Here at Gamyam Ayurveda and Yoga Resort a fine effort was made using organic seasonal produce, showing us their own unique methods of cooking delectable goodies. Here at the Beach Hut an open-air cooking class was underway and yes right at the beach.

A tasty starter Pomfret Fish Tawa fried in ghee and a delicious coconut curry to accompany.

To begin with, the dough is patted out on a banana leaf as it releases the oils naturally into the mix adding an extra twist in flavour.

Whilst staying at the Gamyam Beach Retreat undoubtedly, it’s a fabulous location. A luxurious beachfront oasis nestled in the tranquil town of Kumta in the Konkan region of Karnataka. At the end of the cooking class a relaxing cool beverage along with the token-made snacks, we had time to unwind and take on all the amenities the resort had to offer such as a delicious buffet dinner of mixed cuisine offering both western and Indian.

Next stop we’ll explore the coastal regions of Udupi and Mangaluru. Stay tuned for the next blog post.

Castro Dei Volsci, Italy.

Europe,

La Locanda del Ruspante is a charming country farmhouse owned by a local family who take immense pride in their restoration of this beauty. Open for reservations, both international and domestic guests alike, it’s a perfect getaway for time-poor workers and those needing some true rest and relaxation.

The country house is a typical old stone building which has been carefully and completely renovated for guests to enjoy its ambience and serenity.

Castro dei Volsci is a municipality of approximately 4,702 inhabitants in the Province of Frosinone in the Italian region Lazio. It’s located about 90 kilometres southeast of Rome and about 14 kilometres southeast of Frosinone. An interesting medieval village only one hour south from Rome and one and half from Naples, it’s an easier choice of “getting away” rather than traipsing all the way to Tuscany if you’re short on time and wanting a similar experience.

It’s known as one of the Borghi piu belli d’Italia (“The most beautiful villages of Italy”).

A local train does service the regional townships, but the owners also offer transfers in their costings if Rome is your starting point.

Flowers on arrival – oh so romantic! Shown here is the idyllic top floor Suite Nonno Rocco.

Each of the six rooms are individual in style reminiscent of a by-gone amorous era. If you’re seeking a revival – this may be the answer. And each room has been outfitted using vintage furniture which immediately creates an intimate and cozy atmosphere including modern amenities such as air conditioning and a small fridge.

Elegant, serene gardens are the setting for a glorious stay, allowing guests to chill out any time of the day in this serendipitous courtyard. As the restaurant La Locanda del Ruspante is located across the street, let’s take a look at what’s on offer for the guests to partake in and perhaps enjoy the “fruits of one’s labor” foraging in the homestead’s garden and then participating in an authentic Italian cooking class.

Bums up and grab those lovingly home-grown vegies … bursting with fresh produce from the well-cared for garden adjacent to the restaurant and country house. And what’s really fantastic about staying at La Locanda is that the family-owned business includes cooking classes utilising these goodies.

First lesson – squeezing locally made olive oil and now readying ourselves for a masterclass in antipasto from an expert in-house Italian chef.

Yes, I’m quite adept in squirting olive oil in a wok-like frying pan. So far so good!

Our first cooking class progressed admirably with an antipasto in the making. This one was vegetarian with no meat products. There’s always a variation with this offering of delectable ingredients to suit all tastes of sumptuous Italian cuisine.

All bubbling away nicely and our chef kept an eye on our efforts to ensure all ingredients were at the right temperature and time to dish up.

Time out for a cuppa, a true Italian-made coffee is always welcome at any time. Thanks to our ladies who cared for us with this recharge, after which we were ready for the next phase of our culinary journey. Eating!

The end result. A mouth-watering array of fresh vegies from garden to plate. A well-earned feast of healthy accompaniments along with straight from the oven toasted bread.

This antipasto dish isn’t mine … ok I’m being honest. But La Locanda Restaurant offers a more extensive antipasto plate as part of their luncheon menu on Sundays for all foodies to enjoy. Especially if you’re a carnivore.

Next on our agenda (not all in one day) gnocchi and pasta with a rich creamy mushroom sauce smothered over our day’s output.

We were all very proud of ourselves, mastering our pasta class with an assortment of flour, egg and potato for the arduous gnocchi. These ingredients seem so simple, yet you soon realise chefs are truly renowned for their culinary skills in the kitchen. After lots of kneading, pushing and rolling it was worth the effort. No need for the gym this week.

We’ve already had our sensational cappuccino and pasta dish, so there can only be one item on the to-do list and that was our dessert …

Did someone say tiramisu? What a delight to finish off the day with some truly authentic Italian cuisine and it’s filled with spades of Mascarpone cheese and cream. Well, this is where the lessons finished but there’s a lot more to discover around Castro Dei Volsci.

Next blog post I’ll be showcasing some of the sightseeing and activities in and around the area of Castro Dei Volsci.

Senetan Villas in Ubud, Bali.

Asia, ,

I love Bali too, but once you’ve reached Ubud, you’ll really love Bali. Much quieter in comparison to Legian, Seminyak and Kuta along with interesting attractions and a peaceful ambience.

When you arrive in Ubud and your stay is a hidden gem, you kind of want to keep it that way. Lovely afternoon with a welcome brewed leaf tea, fruit platter and a traditional snack at the Senetan Villas which are approximately 30 minutes drive from Ubud town.

And, whilst enjoying your cuppa, the plausible view of the pool and manicured gardens within your own private villa is yes, all yours. Cooking facilities are available if not wanting to venture out in the evening giving choices for an inhouse soiree.

Spacious bedrooms with cool wooden features are indicative of stylish local Balinese decor. Private one and two bedrooms with a pool, the Senetan Villas offer great value for FIT, couples and families seeking a quiet space to wind down after a hectic Bali escapade of shopping, dining out and beach activities.

Wondering what could possibly be inside the wardrobe? Let’s see ….

My favourite as always. An outdoor rain shower and relaxing bath tub. What a treat with the Villa’s design making guests feel the private facilities have been created for a personal but holistic experience. There’s also dedicated Spa rooms which are near to all villas for that personalised treatment of any ailments which need attention.

Love spicy with some local produce? Try the restaurant for an evening of delightful cuisine, more traditional in flavour and the real drawcard is that you can ask for any dish to be spiced up or taken down a notch. Oh yeah, there’s fries too, they sneaked into the photo shoot.

Make sure the Body Cleansing Juice should be a beverage on your list to try out. The ingredients within has attributions of having potent antioxidant, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. Not only that, the fresh tangy taste leaves you wanting more of beetroot, cucumber, celery, spinach, honey and a splash of lime. Yummo!

Set on 1.64 acres, the grounds exude peace, calm and of course Australians love the serenity. When entering the property, you will be greeted by large trees which are quite rare. Senetan being within the lush forestation is a way of reconnecting with the natural environment of Bali’s interior landscape.

Ubud Town is 30 minutes from the Senetan Villas which offer a three times a day bus service for guests to explore nearby local shops and markets. The bus operates at specific times and will return to Senetan after dropping off.

If walking around nearby and just outside the Senetan Villas there’s rice paddy fields of which you can marvel close up at just how intricate the plantings are and how much labour that goes into producing one of the world’s greatest food staples.

And at the end of the day, there’s always the thought provoking appearance of an opulent closed door and wondering where you might end up if you walked a different path and through a different serendipitous door. But one thing is for certain, I’ll definitely return to this part of Bali. If seeking tranquility and relaxation, this area is definitely worthy of a well-deserved break away from traffic, airports and overwhelming technology.

The address for the Senetan Villas is Br. Penginyahan, DS. Puhu, 80571 Payangan, Indonesia.

Next stop some attractions and tourist sites around Ubud before heading to Sanur and back to the airport.

Bali’s Legian and Kuta Resorts and Spa.

Asia, ,

Adults only pool – why not? The Bali Mandira Beach Resort and Spa is directly across the street from all of the best-known Balinese beaches. At this property, you can have it all and more with a massive five acres of lush tropical gardens to relax and have your own piece of paradise within.

Legian is a suburban beach area on the west coast of Bali, just north of Kuta and south of Seminyak. One of the most popular areas of Bali, particularly for Australians who love value for money. And you can enjoy the experience of a rich culture mixed with superb customer service – which seems effortless for the locals who ensure your holiday is a keep-sake memory.

The bedrooms are comfortable with many having interconnecting room facilities as the Mandira is perfectly suited for families and large groups.

Compact and meticulously refilled each day, the amenities include water, tea and coffee with a lounge area to spread out and have your own home away from home.

The pool area particularly, is set up for families along with a replica of the beach; therefore a much safer option when small youngsters are non-stop on the go. Clean and calm there’s a always a chance of new mates being fostered in and around the sound of splashing water.

The Balinese are well renown for their superior child-minding skills and there’s a close eye continually kept on the pool to ensure everyone’s safety.

The Pool Bar. What can I say? if you don’t care much for splashing around yourself, you can soon throw a couple of ice cubes into a bevvy creating that sound of splashing some happiness into a glass of your favourite coolant.

Well if a swim-up pool bar has passed its expiry time, the balcony is always a place of refuge for a quieter time after a big day experiencing the pool, spa and Yoga classes. However, if you’re a keen socialite, try for an upgraded room type which allows entry into the Club Lounge facilities which include a Cocktail’s hour 4:00 to 5:00 pm daily served with some delectable snacks.

Whilst on the balcony enjoy your welcome gift when you arrive. And once that’s all finished, it’s time to say bye to the fun-filled Bali Mandira Beach Resort and Spa and move onto the next phase of a well-earnt holiday.

Checking out the Legian Beach area there’s a constant array of monuments and places of worship that entice the eye whilst having a stroll throughout the day – after all – can’t keep eating yummy food all day and not head for a some kind of workout.

Named after the Balinese word for ‘sweet and pleasant’, Legian Beach is a popular destination for sun worship, water sports and openly available for the public.

Swimming between the flags is a must. Along with Bali’s strong sun presence, be aware of Australia’s slip, slop and slap slogan, especially those of us with a fairer skin who need to cover up and protect against rays of a very hot sun … ouch!

The J4 Hotel is strategically located at central Legian whereby comfortable accommodation is offered featuring a rooftop outdoor swimming pool, an on-site restaurant and free WiFi which is available throughout the property.

Approximately 15 minutes from Ngurah Rai International Airport, it’s easy to access after a late arrival with check-in 24 hours a day. There’s very friendly staff on hand who instinctively know how to assist tired guests. The property also offers free on-site parking for guests who drive.

Welcoming guests with 190 air-conditioned rooms, in each the hotel provides a flat-screen satellite TV, safety deposit box and a seated area. The spacious rooms are fitted with soundproofing to ensure noise reduction and comfort. The private bathrooms have large overhead rain showers with free toiletries and slippers.

Umm Thai Beef Salad was made to perfection in Indonesia especially here at the J4 Hotel.

And what about the crispy pizza made freshly and delivered via room service after a late night’s outing of Bali’s Legian Street precinct. This hotel is conveniently located near popular bars, restaurants and shopping.

Talk about a variety of cuisine choices. There’s also a myriad of appetising Indian (and very healthy) vegetarian dishes to satisfy those hungry taste buds.

J4 Hotel’s rooftop outdoor swimming pool and the on-site restaurant are both on level 5. Hint: a great floor to afford you all the conveniences of swimming whilst enjoying a few bevvies, then proceed to devour a scrumptious meal. And here is the very kaleidoscope of superb sun rays mooching its way towards the end of the day’s activities.

Within the location of the pool, the restaurant is open for the evening’s a la carte menu and a breakfast buffet in the mornings. Make sure you book in the evening as the dinner along with drinks is a must to see the most amazing sunset over the relaxing pool area. No worries …

A cocktail or two while watching that sunset. What a way to finish off a hard day’s work of shopping, swimming and spa treatments reflecting on a treasure trove of memories whilst at the J4 Hotel in the Legian and Kuta area.

Coming up the next blog post exploring Bai’s Ubud in the hinterland.

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